Putin Lands in New Delhi for BRICS Summit

Does Putin's New Delhi visit prove sanctions failed to isolate Russia or does BRICS pageantry mask a bloc split by its own quarrels?

Published 1 day ago

Putin Lands in New Delhi for BRICS Summit

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Above: Vladimir Putin arrives in New Delhi, India, on Sept. 11. Image credit: Contributor/Getty Images

The Spin

Pro-Russia narrative

Putin's arrival in New Delhi proves sanctions have failed to isolate Russia. Defense deals covering BrahMos upgrades, S-400 deliveries, and Su-57 jets, along with 40 investment projects and a $50 billion target, show this partnership delivers real value. Settling trade in national currencies fits a broader BRICS push to reduce reliance on Western financial systems while keeping energy, investment and technology flowing despite Western pressure.

The Economic Times Wionews RT Modern Diplomacy

Anti-Russia narrative

The BRICS pageantry gives Putin a stage, but not the global legitimacy Moscow wants. The bloc remains divided by disputes from Iran and the UAE to India-China mistrust, while foreign ministers already failed to agree on a joint statement. Membership offers Russia diplomatic company, not an escape from economic constraints or isolation. Modi telling Putin to move from endless war to an end to war undercuts Moscow's attempt to portray BRICS as an endorsement.