Kejriwal singing and dancing to glory

A cordial exchange between Russian President Vladimir Putin and American architect Rodney Cook Jr. at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum highlighted cultural ties amid broader US-Russia tensions. Speaking during a session moderated by Geeta Mohan, Cook said St. Petersburg’s famed ballrooms, cathedrals and palaces had long influenced his architectural work, including the planned White House ballroom project.

Russian President Vladimir Putin underscored the enduring strategic partnership between Russia and India during a discussion on military and technical cooperation at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF). He noted that a substantial share of India's military equipment is of Russian origin, reflecting decades of close defence collaboration. Emphasising the trust between the two nations, Putin said their relationship extends beyond simple trade and arms sales. He cited the BrahMos supersonic missile as a successful example of joint research and development. Putin also revealed that Russia remains willing to sell its Su-57 fighter jet to India, despite an earlier joint development programme not materialising.

Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership and said under his leadership any threats of sanctions would boomerang.

Watch as Russian President Vladimir Putin responds to this and more at the St Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), which was moderated by India Today's Foreign Affairs Editor Geeta Mohan on Friday.