Russian President Vladimir Putin will travel to New Delhi to attend the BRICS Leaders' Summit on Sept. 12–13, 2026 [1].
The visit signals Moscow's intent to strengthen ties with India and other member nations while navigating a shifting global geopolitical landscape [2, 3].
A Kremlin aide said the president will participate in the event [1]. The summit will take place in the Indian capital, marking a significant diplomatic engagement for the Russian leader [4, 5].
This trip will be Putin's second visit to India within the same year [6]. The frequency of these visits underscores the strategic importance Russia places on its relationship with New Delhi as it seeks to maintain influence within the BRICS grouping [2, 3].
Reports indicate that a meeting between Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping is also planned during the summit [3]. Such high-level coordination between the two powers is a central component of the BRICS framework, which aims to provide an alternative to Western-led economic and political structures.
Russia's commitment to the bloc remains a priority for the Kremlin. By attending the summit in person, Putin intends to demonstrate that Russia remains a pivotal player in the Global South [2]. The New Delhi gathering will serve as a platform for the member states to discuss economic cooperation, and regional security issues.
“Russian President Vladimir Putin will travel to New Delhi to attend the BRICS Leaders' Summit”
Putin's return to India for a second time in 2026 highlights the critical role New Delhi plays as a diplomatic bridge for Russia. By prioritizing the BRICS summit, Moscow aims to counter international isolation and solidify a multi-polar world order that reduces reliance on Western financial and political systems.
