Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in New Delhi on Thursday evening for a crucial two-day visit aimed at giving new momentum to the eight-decade-old India–Russia partnership. His visit comes at a time when global geopolitics is undergoing sharp realignments and India’s ties with the United States are witnessing noticeable strain, lending the summit added strategic weight.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally welcomed Putin at Delhi’s Palam Airport. The two leaders exchanged a warm handshake and embraced before driving together in the same official vehicle—an unusual gesture reflecting the depth of their longstanding rapport.
The highlight of the visit will be the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit scheduled for Friday, where both leaders will take up several priority issues. Strengthening defence cooperation, protecting bilateral trade from geopolitical pressures, and exploring collaboration in small modular nuclear reactors are likely to dominate the discussions. Western capitals are expected to closely monitor the outcomes, given the evolving geopolitical landscape.
Putin’s 27-hour stay in the Indian capital includes a tightly packed schedule. On Friday morning, he will receive a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan, followed by summit-level talks at Hyderabad House where Prime Minister Modi will also host a working lunch for the Russian President and his high-level delegation.
The Russian leader is also scheduled to visit Rajghat to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi. Following the summit, both sides are expected to sign a series of agreements, particularly in trade and economic cooperation, reflecting efforts to deepen strategic and commercial engagement.
Another key element of Putin’s itinerary is the launch of a new India-focused television channel by Russia’s state-run broadcaster, seen as part of Moscow’s broader outreach to the Indian audience.
Later in the evening, President Droupadi Murmu will host a state banquet in Putin’s honour at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The Russian President is expected to depart from India at around 9 pm on Friday.
Putin’s visit marks a significant moment for bilateral relations, reaffirming the resilience of the India–Russia partnership in an increasingly fragmented world.
