Putin welcomes 'dear friend' Modi on his first visit to Russia since the Ukraine war.

Russian President Vladimir Putin warmly received India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Moscow, addressing him as his "dear friend" during Modi's first visit to Russia since the Ukrainian invasion. Putin greeted Modi at his Novo-Ogaryovo residence, where they engaged in informal discussions ahead of official talks scheduled at the Kremlin the following day.

During their meeting, Putin expressed his delight at Modi's visit, indicating a comfortable and cordial atmosphere. The Russian president treated Modi to tea, berries, and sweets, also taking him on a tour of the residence grounds using a motorized cart. Modi, in turn, shared his anticipation of deepening the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia, underscoring the mutual benefits of stronger bilateral ties.

Modi's visit comes amidst India's balancing act of maintaining traditional relations with Moscow while engaging more closely with Western nations. Russia remains a crucial supplier of oil and weaponry to India, particularly following sanctions imposed by Western countries in response to the Ukrainian conflict.