In a rare and significant diplomatic gesture, Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally received Russian President Vladimir Putin upon his arrival at New Delhi's Palam Airport on Thursday evening. The move, which breaks from standard protocol, underscores the enduring strength and strategic importance of the India-Russia relationship, particularly in the current geopolitical climate.
President Putin's two-day state visit for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit marks his first trip to India since Russia’s military action in Ukraine began in February 2022.
Upon deplaning, President Putin was greeted warmly by PM Modi with a tight handshake and a customary hug. The two leaders then departed together in the same car for the Prime Minister's official residence, 7 Lok Kalyan Marg, where PM Modi hosted a private dinner in the Russian President's honour.
PM Narendra Modi tweets, "Delighted to welcome my friend, President Putin to India. Looking forward to our interactions later this evening and tomorrow. India-Russia friendship is a time-tested one that has greatly benefitted our people." pic.twitter.com/nDkp3Ek7wz
— ANI (@ANI) December 4, 2025
High Stakes Summit
The visit, which comes amid mounting pressure from the US and Europe on New Delhi to reduce its energy and defense engagement with Moscow, is expected to be closely watched by global powers. Ahead of the visit, multiple European envoys had reportedly urged India to use its influence with Putin to help bring the Ukraine conflict to an end.
The main bilateral discussions, scheduled for Friday, December 5, at Hyderabad House, are expected to focus on several high-stakes issues:
Defense Cooperation: Expediting the delivery of the remaining S-400 air defence system units and discussing future joint military projects.
Trade and Energy: Finding mechanisms to insulate bilateral trade from external sanctions pressure, increasing Indian exports to address the trade deficit, and securing India’s large-scale procurement of Russian crude oil.
Strategic Agreements: Signing multiple agreements across sectors like shipping, healthcare, fertilizers, and a potential agreement facilitating the movement of Indian workers to Russia.
The personal welcome by PM Modi sends a clear message about India's commitment to its "time-tested" strategic partnership with Russia, as both nations aim to deepen economic and strategic cooperation in a rapidly evolving multipolar world.
