Russian President Vladimir Putin is getting the red carpet treatment in New Delhi, where he arrived today for his first state visit since Russian’s invasion of Ukraine in 2002. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted Putin at the airport with one of his customary bear hugs before escorting him to a private dinner at Modi’s residence.
Beyond the displays of bonhomie, the two leaders are expected to sign a slew of deals that expand their countries’ already close military and commercial ties. But the visit also carries important symbolism as Modi and Putin look for ways to demonstrate their strategic autonomy vis-à-vis the West.
Modi’s government has denounced U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to impose 50 percent tariffs on the country earlier this year, half of which were punishment for India’s purchases of Russian oil despite the war in Ukraine. While officials have hinted that Washington and New Delhi are close to a deal to resolve the dispute, Modi still views his meeting with Putin as an important chance to reinforce India’s longstanding strategy of multi-alignment.
