Overview
- Russian President Vladimir Putin made a state visit to New Delhi at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s invitation, producing highly visible images unusual for a leader facing an ICC warrant and Western sanctions.
- Modi broke protocol by greeting Putin on the tarmac, exchanging an embrace, sharing a single car to 7 Lok Kalyan Marg, and hosting a private dinner.
- Talks are centered on reinforcing defense ties and technology transfer, continuing purchases of discounted Russian oil, and expanding bilateral trade.
- Western governments, including European diplomats in India, expressed irritation at the warm reception, reflecting concern over Russia’s international standing.
- Commentary frames the visit as a deliberate assertion of Indian strategic autonomy and a signal of a more multipolar order in which Russia remains a partner for rising powers.