Putin Arrives in India for BRICS Summit and Modi Talks

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi on Friday for the 18th BRICS Summit, which India is hosting this year. His visit comes as New Delhi prepares to welcome leaders from BRICS member and partner countries for the two day meeting.

Putin was received at Delhi airport by Union Minister of State General VK Singh. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed the arrival and described India and Russia as close strategic partners with a long standing relationship.

A meeting between Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to be one of the key events of the Russian president’s visit. The two leaders are likely to review the progress of bilateral ties and discuss issues of strategic importance.

The Russia Ukraine war is also expected to figure prominently in their conversation. Moscow has indicated that Putin will brief Modi on the latest developments surrounding the conflict.

Defence cooperation could be another important subject during the talks. India and Russia have maintained extensive defence ties for decades, and both sides are expected to review ongoing cooperation as well as broader strategic issues.

The visit comes shortly after Modi and Putin met on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Bishkek. During that meeting, Modi stressed the need to move away from a prolonged cycle of conflict and work towards an end to the war.

India is holding the BRICS presidency in 2026 and will host the 18th summit in New Delhi on September 12 and 13. Leaders from member and partner countries are expected to discuss international and regional developments during the gathering.

For New Delhi, Putin’s visit also comes at a significant moment in India Russia relations. Despite changing global alignments and pressure surrounding the Ukraine conflict, both countries have continued their engagement in areas including defence, energy, trade and strategic cooperation.

The upcoming Modi Putin meeting is therefore expected to attract considerable attention. Besides bilateral matters, the two leaders are likely to exchange views on the changing global situation and other issues of mutual interest.