Kremlin Says Modi’s Airport Welcome Was a Complete Surprise as PM Breaks Protocol to Hug Putin and Drive Him to Private Dinner
In a striking display of personal diplomacy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi surprised Russian President Vladimir Putin on his arrival in New Delhi Thursday evening by personally receiving him at the Palam Technical Airport—a move the Kremlin later described as “warm and unexpected.”
According to officials in Moscow, the Russian delegation had no prior intimation that PM Modi himself would be present at the aircraft stairs, making the gesture stand out in the world of carefully choreographed state visits.
The Kremlin noted that Modi’s decision to greet Putin directly on the tarmac went beyond standard protocol typically reserved for ceremonial welcomes.
The decision was unexpected, and the Russian side had not been informed in advance,” the Kremlin said, appreciating the warmth behind the gesture.
A Hug, a Shared Car Ride, and a Private Dinner
As Putin stepped off the aircraft, Modi greeted him with a warm hug, signalling the strength of the long-standing India–Russia relationship despite shifting global geopolitical pressures.
The two leaders then travelled together in the same car, headed straight to the Prime Minister’s residence, where a private dinner had been organised for the Russian President, who arrived under extraordinary layers of security, described as unprecedented even by diplomatic standards.
The last time the leaders shared a car ride was during the SCO Summit in China, a moment widely circulated on social media.
PM Modi posted on X shortly after the arrival: Delighted to welcome my friend, President Putin, to India. Looking forward to our interactions later this evening and tomorrow. India–Russia friendship is a time-tested one that has greatly benefitted our people.”
Key Talks Ahead
On Friday, Modi and Putin will meet for the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit, focusing on strengthening cooperation in defence, energy, trade and mobility of skilled professionals.
Putin’s visit comes amid intensified Western efforts—led by the US and Europe—to push for a diplomatic end to the Russia–Ukraine conflict, putting India in a delicate position as it balances decades-old ties with Moscow and fast-growing strategic relations with Washington.
Critics cited by Associated Press argue that the visit could unsettle Western capitals and impact New Delhi’s negotiations with the European Union and the United States on crucial trade agreements.
Putin last visited India in December 2021, while Modi travelled to Moscow in 2024.
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