Russian President Vladimir Putin kicked off his two-day state visit to India on December 4, landing at Delhi’s Palam Air Force Station where Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally greeted him with a warm embrace, underscoring the deep bond between the two nations. This marks Putin’s first trip to India since the onset of the Ukraine conflict, coinciding with the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit aimed at bolstering their special strategic partnership amid evolving global dynamics. The leaders shared an informal dinner at Modi’s residence, setting the stage for substantive discussions.

On December 5, the itinerary features a grand ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan, followed by Putin laying a wreath at Rajghat to honor Mahatma Gandhi. Delegation-level talks at Hyderabad House will cover key sectors like defence collaboration, including faster delivery of S-400 missile systems and upgrades to Su-30MKI jets, alongside energy security with offers of discounted crude oil supplies despite US sanctions pressures. Bilateral trade, which hit $68.7 billion last fiscal year, targets $100 billion by 2030, with India pushing to reduce its deficit through boosted exports.

President Droupadi Murmu will host Putin for a banquet at Rashtrapati Bhavan later, preceding his departure. Multiple pacts in trade, healthcare, culture, and media are anticipated, reflecting sustained cooperation since the 2000 Strategic Partnership declaration. Modi reiterated India’s commitment to peace through dialogue, while Putin assured steady fuel supplies, navigating challenges from Western tariffs and geopolitical strains.

This summit highlights India’s balanced diplomacy, maintaining historic Russia ties while advancing US and EU engagements, as both leaders address regional security, labour mobility, and small modular reactor projects for mutual growth.