Russia has extended an invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit its Victory Day Parade on May 9, 2025, in Moscow. The occasion celebrates the 80th anniversary of the surrender of Nazi Germany in World War II. Although India has not formally announced the visit, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko has indicated that talks are in progress. This invitation comes at a time when there is a strengthening of India-Russia ties while global politics has become increasingly polarized.
For India, the Modi Russia Victory Day Parade 2025 is not just a ceremonial gesture. It symbolizes greater strategic convergence, increasing defense cooperation, and strong energy links that persist under Western pressure.
Military Relations Intensify with Symbolic Presence
India and Russia have continued to strengthen military cooperation. The two countries recently inked the Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Agreement (RELOS). The agreement enables their military forces to use each other’s bases for logistics and support—a significant step towards defense cooperation.
If PM Modi accepts the invitation, an Indian ceremonial unit could also participate in the Moscow parade. The move would indicate an increasing military relationship and one of a message of confidence between the two nations.
PM Modi had last visited Russia in July 2024, when he was engaged in long talks with President Vladimir Putin and invited him to visit India. That invitation remains active, reflecting steady diplomatic activity between the two leaders.
Energy, Trade, and Strategic Equilibrium
India-Russia trade reached over $65 billion in 2023–24, spurred primarily by Indian imports of Russian crude. With western sanctions constraining Russia’s trade abroad, India has become a pivotal partner. The two nations now want to increase their trade value to $100 billion by 2030.
Meanwhile, India has navigated a diplomatic tightrope. While the West has criticized Russia for its actions in Ukraine, New Delhi has stayed neutral. It keeps purchasing Russian oil, increasing trade, and holding strategic discussions—without aligning too closely with either camp.
The Modi Russia Victory Day Parade 2025 invitation underscores a historic and evolving relationship. PM Modi’s potential visit would reflect not only shared military and cultural ties but also India’s broader ambition to assert strategic autonomy. In an increasingly polarized world, India is carving out its own path—one that balances history, diplomacy, and national interest.