MoS Defence Sanjay Seth Meets President Putin, Thanks Russia for Supporting India’s Fight Against Terrorism
Image via ANI /X
In a significant diplomatic development, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth met Russian President Vladimir Putin during his official visit to Moscow to attend the 80th Victory Day celebrations, which mark the end of World War II in Russia.
Representing India at the high-profile event, Seth conveyed India’s gratitude for Russia’s steadfast support in the global fight against terrorism, especially in the wake of India's ongoing Operation Sindoor in response to the Pahalgam terror massacre.
“Grateful to Russia for Standing With India in Tough Times”
Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Seth posted:
“I am honoured to meet President Vladimir Putin during my visit to Russia. Represented India at the banquet organized on the occasion of the 80th Victory Day anniversary. Expressed gratitude for Russia's support in India's fight against terrorism led by Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji.”
Seth also shared photographs from his interaction with Putin and other key moments from the Victory Day commemoration.
Warm Reception in Moscow and Key Bilateral Talks
Sanjay Seth, who is also a BJP MP from Ranchi, arrived in Moscow on Thursday. Upon arrival, he was received by:
- Indian Ambassador to Russia Vinay Kumar, and
- Major General Oleg Moiseyev of the Russian Defence Ministry.
During his visit, the Minister held a bilateral meeting with Russian Deputy Defence Minister Colonel General Alexander Fomin. The two sides discussed military and technical cooperation between India and Russia.
“We had a productive discussion on further enhancing defence ties through existing institutional frameworks. India and Russia agreed to continue regular consultations and expand cooperation in view of the evolving global security landscape,” Seth said in a statement.
Defence Ties Amid Global and Regional Tensions
The meeting comes at a time when India is navigating increased regional tensions, especially after it launched Operation Sindoor—a military response to the Pahalgam attack that killed 26 civilians.
Originally, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh was scheduled to lead India’s delegation at the Victory Day celebrations. However, sources indicate his visit was cancelled due to the escalating India-Pakistan security situation.
Tribute to WWII Heroes at Moscow Memorial
Earlier in the day, Minister Seth participated in a solemn wreath-laying ceremony to honour the soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War II. The memorial event, a key part of Victory Day, brought together global leaders and defence dignitaries from across the world.
India-Russia Relations: A Strategic Defence Partnership
India and Russia share a long-standing strategic defence partnership, marked by strong military-technical cooperation and regular defence dialogues. The recent high-level meetings reaffirm both nations’ commitment to maintaining strong ties in a rapidly shifting global security environment.
Russia has been a consistent supporter of India's stance on counterterrorism, border security, and military modernization. The ongoing cooperation includes:
- Joint defence production
- Technology transfer agreements
- Regular defence consultations under institutional frameworks
Key Highlights of Sanjay Seth’s Moscow Visit:
- Attended Russia’s 80th Victory Day celebrations
- Met Russian President Vladimir Putin
- Thanked Russia for supporting India’s fight against terrorism
- Held bilateral talks with Russian Deputy Defence Minister
- Reaffirmed India-Russia commitment to strengthen military ties
- Paid tribute to World War II martyrs at Moscow memorial