Narendra Modi cuddles up to Vladimir Putin in Moscow

FOR TWO and a bit years India has walked a tightrope when it comes to Russia. Indian officials have refused to condemn its invasion of Ukraine, citing a history of close ties with the Kremlin, as well as India’s need for cheap Russian weapons and oil. At the same time, India has tried to avoid Western criticism by consistently calling for peace, and by presenting itself as a trusted partner for the West in its efforts to manage China’s rise.

Up to now this approach has paid off. But it came under unusual scrutiny when India’s prime minister, Narendra Modi, visited Moscow from July 8th to 9th—his first trip to Russia since 2019. Mr Modi was filmed bear-hugging Russia’s president, Vladimir Putin, before touring his residence in a golf cart, sharing a private dinner and watching a display by performers on horseback.