Russian President Vladimir Putin touched down at Air Force Station Palam in New Delhi, kicking off his two-day state visit to India. He arrived aboard his specially modified presidential aircraft, the Ilyushin Il-96-300PU, often dubbed the “Flying Kremlin.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi received him, part of the standard protocol for a visit of this magnitude. In a notable break from protocl, PM Modi was personally present at the airport to welcome Russian President Vladimir Putin, a gesture underscoring the significance of the visit.
Soon after landing, he is scheduled for a private dinner hosted by Narendra Modi at his official residence, highlighting the warmth and personal rapport between the two leaders.
#WATCH | Russian President Vladimir Putin lands in Delhi; Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives him at the airport
President Putin is on a two-day State visit to India. He will hold the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit with PM Narendra Modi in Delhi on December 5
(Source: DD) pic.twitter.com/wFcL9of7Eg
— ANI (@ANI) December 4, 2025
Tight Security, Grand Arrival of Putin— What the Capital Looks Like
New Delhi is under a tight security blanket. Authorities have deployed a multi-layered security ring involving central agencies, local police, and Russian protective detail. Routes are sanitized; traffic is heavily regulated; and special surveillance measures are in place.
From the moment his plane landed, every movement was closely tracked to ensure both safety and minimal disruption. The level of coordination reflects the sensitivity of the visit, especially given global geopolitical tensions and the international spotlight on this visit.
Why Putin’s Visit Matters — Beyond Ceremonial Optics
This visit isn’t just ceremonial. It marks the first time Putin has set foot in India since the Ukraine war began in 2022 — making it a significant diplomatic overture.
In the coming two days, talks between India and Russia are expected to cover a wide-ranging agenda — defence cooperation, energy ties, trade, and strategic global issues. Both nations see this as a chance to reinforce their “special and privileged strategic partnership.”
Given the global context — shifting alliances, economic pressures, and evolving security challenges — this visit could shape India-Russia relations for years to come.
A High-Stakes Visit Under the Spotlight
Putin’s arrival in India aboard the Flying Kremlin is more than an arrival; it’s a signal. A signal that Moscow and New Delhi intend to reinvigorate ties, coordinate strategically, and navigate a turbulent global landscape together.
With heavy security, diplomatic fanfare, and a packed agenda ahead, this two-day visit could chart a new direction in bilateral cooperation — with implications far beyond borders.
