Putin Arrives in India for First Visit Since Russia–Ukraine Conflict Began

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi on Thursday for a short but closely watched official visit, marking his first trip to India since the start of the Russia–Ukraine war. Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted the Russian leader at the airport, signalling the importance New Delhi continues to place on its long-standing relationship with Moscow.

Putin is expected to remain in India for roughly 30 hours before returning to Moscow late Friday. His arrival follows that of several senior Russian officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov, Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Agriculture Minister Dmitry Petrov, who reached the Indian capital earlier in the week to prepare for the talks.

The visit comes at a time when India’s ties with the United States are under strain, placing renewed attention on how the Modi government balances its partnerships with major global powers. Indian officials say Friday’s summit between Modi and Putin is likely to focus on defence cooperation and efforts to protect bilateral trade from external geopolitical pressure.

The meeting also carries regional implications for Canada’s South Asian diaspora, including communities in British Columbia and Alberta, where discussions on global security and energy supplies continue to influence local economic and political conversations.