New Delhi | December 4, 2025

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives in Delhi this evening for a two-day state visit that carries heavy political, economic and defence weight for both countries. This trip, happening on the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is Putin’s first visit to India since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war and his first since 2021, making it one of the most closely watched diplomatic moments of the year.

Putin’s arrival also marks the 25th anniversary of the India–Russia strategic partnership and the 23rd annual summit between the two nations. Soon after landing, he will head to a private dinner hosted by PM Modi at the Prime Minister’s official residence, setting the tone for what officials describe as “confidential and regular” conversations.

On Friday morning, Putin will be welcomed with a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan, followed by a tri-services Guard of Honour. He will then visit Rajghat to pay tribute before heading to Hyderabad House for formal talks with PM Modi. These talks are expected to lead to major announcements and a joint media statement.

Putin is travelling with a high-level team including Russia’s defence, finance, agriculture, health, interior and transport ministers, along with the governor of the Russian Central Bank. Their presence signals that the visit will cover a wide range of issues across security, economy, trade, technology, cultural cooperation and long-term planning.

Both sides are expected to discuss India’s widening trade imbalance with Russia. Bilateral trade reached USD 63.6 billion in 2024, and Russia has proposed new mechanisms to protect financial cooperation from external pressure. One of the biggest outcomes may be the 2030 roadmap for economic partnership, covering energy, agriculture, media, infrastructure, health, space cooperation and transport links.

After their official meeting, PM Modi and President Putin will jointly address the India–Russia Business Forum at Bharat Mandapam, where new investment opportunities and industrial collaborations will be presented. People-to-people exchanges are also expected to be highlighted, with both countries seeing a steady rise in tourism.

Defence cooperation will be a key part of the discussions. India and Russia are set to review upgrades to the BrahMos missile programme, including lighter versions, longer-range models and air-launched variants. They are also expected to talk about India’s S-400 procurement plan, hypersonic projects and long-range air-to-air missiles. The BrahMos joint venture recently saw real-time deployment during Operation Sindoor and is now being exported, beginning with the Philippines.

The leaders will also take up major global issues and coordinate positions for platforms such as the UN, SCO, G20 and Brics. Russia is preparing to work closely with India as it takes on the Brics chairmanship in 2026.

President Droupadi Murmu will host a state banquet for Putin on Friday evening. Soon after the dinner, he will depart for Moscow, wrapping up a visit that could shape the next phase of India–Russia relations across defence, economy, and strategic cooperation.

 Putin Lands In India Today: What’s Behind This High-Stakes 2-Day Visit?

Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in Delhi for a two-day state visit, and the timing couldn’t be more interesting. This is his first trip to India since the war in Ukraine began, and it also marks 25 years of the India–Russia strategic partnership. His visit comes at the personal invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and both leaders are expected to open some major chapters in defence, trade, and long-term cooperation.

Putin landed on Thursday evening and headed straight to a private dinner with PM Modi. On Friday, he receives a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan, pays tribute at Rajghat, and then sits down for formal talks at Hyderabad House. After the discussions, the two leaders are likely to make some big announcements, including new agreements that could shape the next few years of the partnership.

He’s travelling with a high-powered team—Russia’s defence, finance, agriculture, health, interior, and transport ministers, plus the Central Bank Governor. The focus is expected to be on fixing the growing trade gap, pushing a 2030 economic roadmap, and strengthening cooperation in energy, agriculture, media, and technology.

A joint business forum will also take place, where Indian and Russian industries will explore fresh investment and manufacturing plans. People-to-people ties are growing too, with thousands travelling both ways each year.

Defence talks will be a major highlight. Both countries are set to review the next phases of the BrahMos project, including lighter air-launched versions and extended-range models. Discussions may also touch on hypersonic systems and more S-400 units.

The visit wraps up with a state banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu before Putin flies back to Moscow.