New Delhi, December 7: Russian President Vladimir Putin began a two-day visit to India on Thursday, marking his first trip to the country since the start of the war in Ukraine, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally receiving him at Air Force Station Palam and hosting a private dinner at his official residence.
Putin’s arrival came as renewed diplomatic efforts to end the conflict in Ukraine gained momentum, with U.S. President Donald Trump engaging in fresh mediation attempts.
The Russian leader’s first engagement on Thursday evening was a closed-door dinner with Modi at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, officials said.
On Friday, Putin received a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan before visiting Rajghat, where he laid a wreath at the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi. The 23rd India–Russia annual summit began shortly before noon at Hyderabad House, followed by public statements from the two leaders.
Putin had last travelled to India in December 2021 for a brief summit, during which he did not address the media.
Later on Friday, the Russian president attended a business event at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. His visit concluded with a state banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Indian and Russian officials said the meetings focused on bilateral cooperation, regional security, and global geopolitical developments.
