Putin’s India Visit Begins: First Interview, Big Talks, And A Packed Two-Day Schedule

Putin arrives in New Delhi today for a two-day visit, meeting PM Modi for key talks on defence, trade, Ukraine war and India-Russia ties, marking his first India trip since 2022. His interview to Indian media ahead of landing sets the tone for a high-stakes summit that carries major geopolitical weight.

Putin’s First Interview To Indian Media Raises Curiosity

The buzz started early when Putin gave his first interview to Indian media just hours before landing. The conversation touched the Ukraine war, global balance shifts, Donald Trump’s stance, and the role India plays now in bigger world decisions. The tone looked firm but also quite open, showing how he wants India to hear his side directly before the summit begins. The timing of this interview made many experts feel he aimed to shape the mood even before stepping off the plane.

Putin’s Arrival In New Delhi And Full Schedule Details

Putin lands in Delhi around early evening, with MEA sharing his itinerary beforehand. His first day stays short but intense, mainly due to the private dinner that PM Modi will host for him. This gesture mirrors the hospitality Putin offered Modi last year in Moscow, which gives this meeting a warm, careful signalling of mutual respect. By tomorrow morning, a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan will take place, adding the formal welcome that comes only on high-level state visits. The day after carries most official talks, but his arrival alone already sets a serious diplomatic stage.

Key Discussions Expected Between Modi And Putin

Talks between PM Modi and Putin are expected to go deep into defence, especially the S-400 systems and continued cooperation. Trade goals, including the $100 billion target, are also likely to see fresh pushes, since both sides feel the need to reduce delays that slowed after 2022. Regional issues may include Indo-Pacific shifts, Afghanistan, and energy routes that matter to both countries right now. With Ukraine still shaping world politics, Modi’s position as a balancing voice may also be discussed more openly in private than in public.

A Visit With Strong Symbolism And Strategic Weight

This visit comes after more than three years of no India trip by Putin, making it symbolic and strategic at the same time. Even with global pressure on Russia, India remains one of the few countries maintaining steady dialogue. The body language at the dinner tonight and tomorrow’s reception will say nearly as much as the formal joint statements. Many officials believe this meeting will underline that India prefers stable partnerships but also wants clarity on long-term security and economic assurances.

What This Means For India-Russia Relations Now

The visit shows both nations still see value in old ties but also recognise that the world around them looks very different from before. With new alliances forming everywhere, this summit could quietly decide the pace of the next decade of cooperation. For many observers, the simple fact that Putin chose India for such a detailed interview and first major Asian visit since the war reflects how important New Delhi stays for Moscow.