Preparations are underway for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to Russia, the Kremlin confirmed on Tuesday. However, specific dates have not been not disclosed yet.

PM Modi's prospective trip marks his first visit to Russia since Moscow initiated a full-scale military operation in Ukraine over two years ago, a move that strained relations between Russia and India.

"We are preparing for the visit. We will inform you in due course," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov informed reporters in response to queries regarding earlier reports from Indian and Russian media suggesting Modi's visit could occur in early July.

Russian President Vladimir Putin views India and Modi as potential allies in both diplomatic and economic spheres, despite the complexities introduced by Russia's actions in Ukraine.

During a meeting in September 2022 at a regional summit in Uzbekistan, Putin acknowledged Modi's concerns regarding the conflict, expressing Modi's desire for a swift resolution.

Earlier this year, India sought the release of its citizens reportedly stranded in Russian border towns and compelled into roles supporting the Russian military in Ukraine. India cautioned its citizens to avoid involvement in the conflict.

While not a steadfast supporter of Kyiv, India notably abstained from endorsing a joint communique at a recent peace summit in Switzerland that called for upholding Ukraine's territorial integrity in any potential peace settlement.

India has emerged as a significant purchaser of Russian oil, offering a crucial export market for Moscow following its isolation from traditional Western markets.

Modi, recently re-elected for a historic third term, last visited Russia in September 2019 for the India-Russia annual summit held in Vladivostok, a city in Russia's Far East.