Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives in New Delhi today for a short but high-stakes two-day visit — a trip that’s drawing global attention amid shifting geopolitical realities, the Ukraine conflict, and India’s careful strategic balancing.
✈️ When is Putin Landing in Delhi?
Putin is expected to land in the capital sometime between 4:30 PM and 6:30 PM today (December 4). The schedule has a slight range because of security and flight-movement flexibility, but the arrival is confirmed for the early evening.
The moment he touches down, Putin will head straight for a private dinner with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the PM’s official residence, 7 Lok Kalyan Marg.
This is the same diplomatic courtesy Modi received during his Moscow visit earlier this year — and signals how personal ties play a major role in India-Russia relations.
🇮🇳 Day 2 (Dec 5): Packed Diplomatic Schedule
Putin’s second day in India is the core of the visit, featuring ceremonial events, strategic talks, and possible major agreements.
🕊️ 1. Tribute at Rajghat
Putin will begin the morning by visiting Rajghat to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi — a standard but symbolic gesture during state visits.
🏛️ 2. Ceremonial Welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan
He will then head to Rashtrapati Bhavan, where he will receive a ceremonial welcome, complete with the guard of honour and official reception by the President of India.
🤝 3. The Main Event: India–Russia Annual Summit
This is the heart of Putin’s trip.
Modi and Putin will sit down for the 23rd Annual India–Russia Summit, a tradition that has continued uninterrupted for decades.
Key areas expected to dominate the talks:
- Defence cooperation
- Energy trade
- Nuclear energy and space collaboration
- Mobility and skilled-labour agreements
- Possible economic corridor discussions
- Long-term oil supply frameworks
This year’s summit comes at a sensitive time internationally, making the dialogue even more significant.
🧑💼 4. India–Russia Business Forum
Putin will meet top business leaders from both nations. Deals and MoUs in oil, defence technology, diamonds, pharmaceuticals, and automotive exports may be announced.
🍽️ 5. State Banquet
The visit ends with a state banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu. Shortly after, Putin is expected to depart for Moscow.
🌍 Why This Visit Matters Globally
Putin’s India visit is not just ceremonial — it’s symbolic diplomacy in a turbulent world.
1. First Major Visit After the Ukraine War Shift
This is Putin’s most prominent bilateral visit since the Ukraine conflict reshaped global geopolitics. The world will be watching how India positions itself — balancing Western ties and its long-standing friendship with Russia.
2. India’s Strategic Balancing
India relies heavily on Russia for defence equipment and discounted crude oil, yet remains engaged with the US and Europe. Putin’s visit is a reminder that India continues its independent foreign policy — prioritizing national interest over global pressure.
3. Potential Big-Ticket Announcements
Energy, defence agreements, long-term crude contracts, and nuclear cooperation could all see fresh movement.
4. Signal of “Stable Partnership”
Despite global shifts, both countries consistently call their relationship a “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.”
This visit reinforces that continuity.
🌟 What It Means for India
- Cheaper oil supply could benefit India amid global uncertainties.
- Defence maintenance & logistics deals may strengthen India’s existing Russian-origin military systems.
- Trade diversification could give Indian exporters more access to the Russian market.
- Diplomatic image: India continues to maintain channels with all major global powers.
