Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in New Delhi on Thursday evening. This marked his first official diplomatic visit to India since the Russia-Ukraine war began.

Instead of following the usual formal process, Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally welcomed him at the Palam Technical Airport in Delhi. This was a rare and symbolic move. Soon after, both leaders travelled together in the same car, showing their strong relationship and mutual respect.

Schedule for Day Two of Putin’s India Visit

Putin’s second day in India is packed with key events and meetings. The official plan for Friday includes:

• 11:00 am – Ceremonial reception at Raj Bhavan

• 11:30 am – Wreath-laying ceremony at Rajghat

• 11:50 am – Meeting with PM Modi at Hyderabad House

• 1:50 pm – Press statements at Hyderabad House

• 3:40 pm – Participation in a business event

• 7:00 pm – Meeting with President Droupadi Murmu

• 9:00 pm – Departure

These events show the importance both countries are giving to this visit.

What Happened on the First Day

On the first day, PM Modi broke away from standard security protocol to personally receive Putin at the airport. The two leaders greeted each other warmly and embraced.

After that, they sat together in the same car and travelled to PM Modi’s residence at 7 Lok Kalyan Marg for a private dinner. During the ride, they were seen talking happily and laughing, reflecting a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.

This moment brought back memories of their earlier car ride together in Tianjin, China, in August during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. That moment had also shown the unique bond between the two leaders.

Timing of the Visit Is Politically Significant

Putin’s visit comes at a very sensitive time for global politics and trade.

India is currently in talks with the United States about trade relations. Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump has imposed heavy 50% tariffs on Indian imports. Out of this, half the duties were linked to India’s energy relationship with Russia.

Many experts believe this move was meant to put pressure on Russia to stop the war in Ukraine and to make India reduce its energy purchases from Moscow.

Putin Responds to Questions on India Buying Russian Energy

During his India visit, Putin openly questioned the criticism of India’s purchase of Russian fuel. He said that if the US can buy energy from Russia, then India also has that right.

He clearly stated in an interview, "As for India's purchase of energy resources from Russia, I would like to note and have already mentioned publicly this once, the United States itself still buys nuclear fuel from us for its own nuclear power plants," Putin said in an interview to India Today.

This statement directly pointed out the double standards in global energy politics.

Why This Visit Matters

Putin’s India trip is not just ceremonial. It carries strong diplomatic, economic, and strategic importance:

• It shows continued cooperation between India and Russia

• It sends a message amid rising pressure from Western nations

• It strengthens energy, defense, and business relations

• It highlights the personal rapport between Putin and Modi

Overall, this visit may play a key role in shaping future ties between the two nations and in influencing international diplomacy.