Kathrine Frich
One of the world’s most closely watched leaders offered a rare look into his thinking during a recent encounter with India Today’s top editors.
Vladimir Putin’s first trip to India in four years provided a glimpse of the Russian president’s mindset, his self-image and the persona he projects on the global stage.
Questions of regret
India Today reported that the group’s Chairman and Editor-in-Chief Aroon Purie and Vice Chairperson and Executive Editor-in-Chief Kalli Purie met Putin in Moscow ahead of the visit.
Purie said he asked the Russian leader whether he regretted anything from his twenty-five years in power.
According to Purie, Putin paused briefly before responding: “I never look back.”
Purie described him as someone who appeared unwilling to acknowledge mistakes.
Behind the public image
India Today noted that the encounter contrasted sharply with Putin’s typical portrayal in Western media.
Purie said the president came across as measured, purposeful and confident in his interpretation of history and world affairs.
He added that Putin communicated with clarity and seemed intent on shaping how his positions were understood.
A softer impression
Kalli Purie also remarked on the unexpected tone of the meeting.
She said Putin appeared “friendly, amiable, and soft,” which differed from his hardline global reputation.
According to her, he showed interest in subjects that he is not usually associated with internationally, including environmental issues.
India visit context
The interview comes as Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to host Putin for a two-day visit.
India Today said that New Delhi and Moscow plan to reinforce a relationship that has endured despite significant Western pressure.
This includes steep tariffs imposed on India by US President Donald Trump, which raised duties on Indian imports of Russian energy to 50 percent.
Sources: India Today
