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PM Modi Hugs Putin at Delhi Airport – Warmest Welcome After 3 Years | In Pics

New Delhi, December 4, 2025 (9:30 PM IST) – Breaking protocol and tradition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally reached Palam Technical Airport tonight to receive Russian President Vladimir Putin with a bear hug and big smile — marking the warmest diplomatic gesture between the two leaders in years.

Putin’s special aircraft touched down at 6:35 PM sharp. The moment the doors opened, PM Modi was waiting on the red carpet. The two leaders hugged twice, shook hands, and exchanged pleasantries before driving away together in the Prime Minister’s official BMW.

This is Vladimir Putin’s FIRST visit to India since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Iconic Moments in Pictures

Moment 1: Putin descends the stairs → Modi walks forward with open arms → Long, warm hug“Welcome my friend!” – PM Modi (as per lip readers)

Moment 2: Second hug + back pat → both leaders laughing and talking in Hindi-Russian mix

Moment 3: Both enter the same car – Putin in front passenger seat, Modi driving side (rare honour)

Moment 4: Motorcade leaves with full Z+ security – 50+ vehicle convoy

Full Schedule: 27-Hour Power Packed Visit

Tonight (Dec 4): Private dinner at 7 Lok Kalyan Marg (PM’s residence) – only interpreters & closest aides
Tomorrow Morning (Dec 5): Ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan forecourt
10:30 AM: Wreath laying at Rajghat (Mahatma Gandhi memorial)
11:30 AM – 2:30 PM: Restricted + Delegation-level talks at Hyderabad House
Key Topics: Defence deals (S-400, BrahMos), nuclear energy (Kudankulam 5-6), trade in rupees, Arctic cooperation, Su-57 jet talks
3:00 PM: Joint press statement
Evening: Putin departs