On December 4, Russian ruler Putin is expected in New Delhi for the first time since the beginning of the invasion of Ukraine. India and Russia are linked by a long-standing friendship, but for the Modi administration, this state visit is not a matter of course. As the world's largest democracy and emerging world power, India must be concerned about its international reputation while keeping its own interests in relation to Russia in mind. For Putin, there is an opportunity in India to present himself on the international stage and demonstrate his ability to act