A meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi started in Moscow on Tuesday.

The two leaders are expected to discuss developing their military and economic ties, as well as Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

India has maintained economic ties even after Russia began its invasion of Ukraine and has increased imports of Russian crude oil.

But Modi regards India's trade deficit with Russia as an issue to address. He is expected to ask Putin to discuss ways to correct the situation.

Putin apparently wants to seek Modi's understanding for Russia's position amid its deepening confrontation with the West over the prolonged invasion of Ukraine. India is regarded as one of the leaders of the group of emerging nations known as the Global South.

India and Russia have traditionally held friendly ties. New Delhi takes a neutral stance on Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.