Amid international scrutiny, both Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed their commitment to strengthening relations with Russia. Putin seized the opportunity to reaffirm Russia's role on the global stage while emphasizing the growing BRICS alliance.

During the gala dinner, Putin was seated between Modi and Xi, symbolizing Russia’s crucial role within the alliance. This summit marks the largest gathering of international leaders in Russia since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, taking place in the city of Kazan. Putin used the platform to assert the expanding BRICS coalition and to underscore Russia's determination to reshape the world order and counter Western attempts to isolate the Kremlin amid ongoing conflict.

Expanding Ties Between Russia, China, and India

Both Xi and Modi highlighted the importance of bolstering ties with Russia during their bilateral discussions. Xi emphasized the "deep friendship" between China and Russia, stating that it remains unaffected by global "chaos." Modi echoed these sentiments, noting that his recent visits to Russia illustrate the "close and deepening" relationship between the two countries. These affirmations reflect a commitment to collaboration despite rising geopolitical tensions.

Putin responded by reaffirming the strategic alliance with India, characterizing his relationship with Xi as one of "dear friends." Both leaders lauded Moscow's growing cooperation with their nations, with Modi acknowledging Russia's significance in India's diplomatic and economic strategies, while Xi described their partnership as "wide-ranging."

Strategic Alliances Amid the Ukraine Conflict

The relationship between China and Russia has evolved since the two nations announced a "no-limits friendship" shortly before the invasion of Ukraine. Since Xi's presidency began in 2012, he and Putin have met over 40 times, including recent meetings in Beijing and Kazakhstan during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit. These frequent interactions signal a shared commitment to countering American influence, especially given the turmoil surrounding Ukraine.

While Beijing positions itself as a neutral party capable of mediating disputes, the U.S. and its European allies have accused China of financially supporting Russia during the crisis. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov noted that Xi and Putin had extensive discussions regarding Ukraine during their meeting.

India’s Balancing Act in Global Relations

The United States has expressed concerns over the increasing cooperation between India and Russia, particularly in the energy sector. Despite the ongoing conflict, India has refrained from criticizing Russia and has abstained from key UN votes regarding the invasion. While Modi advocates for a peaceful resolution, he continues to maintain close ties with Moscow. Notably, India has been sourcing a significant portion of its oil from Russia, complicating its position in the global landscape.

Washington is also wary of New Delhi's intention to provide Russia access to restricted technologies. Although the Biden administration is becoming increasingly frustrated with India's stance, its broader strategy to counter China's influence in Asia limits its ability to pressure New Delhi.

Unity Among BRICS Members

The Kazan summit follows BRICS' announcement to expand its membership by adding six new countries during its 2023 summit in South Africa. Despite uncertainties surrounding Saudi Arabia and Argentina's withdrawal under new President Javier Milei, the gathering highlights the bloc's growing influence. During the summit, Putin is expected to meet with several key leaders, including Iran's Masoud Pezeshkian, South Africa's Cyril Ramaphosa, Egypt's Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, and Turkey's Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

While specific outcomes from the summit remain unclear, India's Oil Minister Hardeep Puri indicated that Modi's discussions in Russia are expected to yield positive results, particularly concerning energy transactions.