Russian President Vladimir Putin received a grand red carpet ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on December 5, 2025, marking the highlight of his two-day state visit at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s invitation.
President Droupadi Murmu and PM Modi greeted Putin, who arrived from Palam Air Force Station the previous evening, with full military honours including a guard of honour.
This 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit underscores the ‘Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership’ amid global tensions.
Post-ceremony, Putin headed to Rajghat to pay floral tribute at Mahatma Gandhi’s samadhi, followed by delegation-level talks with PM Modi at Hyderabad House focusing on defence, energy, trade, and military cooperation.
Expected agreements cover arms, oil imports, and self-reliance in defence production, as Russia remains India’s top weapons and crude oil supplier despite Western sanctions. PM Modi hosted a lunch, with a joint press statement and business meet with FICCI leaders planned before President Murmu’s banquet.
Putin’s first India visit in four years follows his recent US envoy meetings on Ukraine, highlighting New Delhi’s balancing act between Russia and Western partners. The summit reviews bilateral progress and regional issues, with Putin departing for Moscow at 9 PM after the banquet. India-Russia trade has surged, bolstered by discounted oil amid sanctions.