Vladimir Putin

The meeting between PM Modi and Putin assumes significance amid Trump's tariff 'penalty' heat on New Delhi over its continued oil trade with Moscow.

As the two heads of state held an informal meeting over a cup of tea at the official residence outside Moscow, Modi recollected the recent elections in his country, saying that "the people of India gave him a chance to serve the Motherland." "You have devoted your entire life to serving the Indian people, and they can feel it," Putin replied.

Kim greeted Putin at the airport, with the two internationally isolated leaders hugging on the red carpet, photographs in North Korean state media showed, underscoring the increasingly close relationship that has sparked concern in Seoul and Washington.

It is Putin's first trip abroad since his March re-election and the second in just over six months to China, an economic lifeline for Russia after the West hit it with sanctions over its invasion of Ukraine

The 71-year-old has ruled Russia since the turn of the century, securing a fresh six-year mandate in March after winning presidential elections devoid of all opposition

Tucker Carlson interview: President Vladimir Putin said, "Invading Ukraine was necessary to stop the country from threatening Russia by joining NATO," and denied that he had territorial ambitions across Europe, insisting he would "only send troops into neighbouring countries if attacked first"

He also invited global investments in the Northern Sea route.

The two countries describe their relationship as a "comprehensive strategic partnership" that has "no limits" on potential cooperation.