India's Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, says he has had an 'insightful' exchange with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of a summit in China. The two leaders spent 45 minutes inside the Russian leader's car - after which Modi posted a picture of their journey alongside the compliment to Putin. 'They were at home... They felt comfortable there, and that's why they continued the conversation,' Putin's spokesman stated.

This meeting came after close interactions between the leaders as they attended the Shanghai Co-operation Organisation summit, which is being interpreted as a strong counter to US President Donald Trump's policies and American influence worldwide.

Trump has recently imposed steep tariffs of 50% on goods from India, a punitive measure against Delhi's ongoing purchases of Russian oil and arms. As a critical strategic partner for the US in the Indo-Pacific region, India's continued camaraderie with Russia raises questions about its diplomatic stance amid rising tensions with Washington.

With President Xi Jinping playing host to the summit, Modi's meeting with Putin is viewed as an important moment in the evolving geopolitical landscape, especially as discussions about peace efforts regarding the ongoing Ukraine conflict remain pressing.