India–Russia Summit, Rajghat Visit: Putin’s Full Day 2 Itinerary

After an eventful first day in New Delhi, Russian President Vladimir Putin begins the second day of his India visit on Friday, marking his first trip to the country since the outbreak of the Russia–Ukraine war. Putin arrived on Thursday evening and was received personally by Prime Minister Narendra Modi — a rare break from protocol — before the two leaders shared a car ride to the PM’s residence for a private dinner.

Putin and Modi will meet again today for the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit, with a packed schedule of engagements ahead.

Putin’s Day 2 Itinerary

Recap: What Happened on Day 1

In a gesture underscoring the importance of the visit, PM Modi personally welcomed Putin at Delhi’s Palam Technical Airport — a move that deviates from standard security protocol. The two leaders embraced warmly before driving together to 7, Lok Kalyan Marg for a private dinner. Their camaraderie drew attention, echoing their earlier car ride in Tianjin during the SCO Summit in August.

Putin’s visit comes at a sensitive time, as India navigates tense trade negotiations with the United States. Washington recently imposed sweeping 50% tariffs on Indian imports — half of them linked to India’s energy cooperation with Moscow — a move seen as an attempt to pressure Russia via India.

Responding to criticism of India’s purchase of Russian oil, Putin defended New Delhi’s position in an interview with India Today, stating:

“Why can India not buy fuel from Russia when the United States itself still buys nuclear fuel from us for its own nuclear power plants?”

With several strategic announcements expected later today, all eyes are on the Modi–Putin summit as the two nations seek to deepen their long-standing partnership amid a shifting geopolitical landscape.