Russian President Vladimir V. Putin showcased his unconventional approach to diplomacy during a recent summit in China, where he engaged in informal discussions with world leaders from the comfort of his bulletproof state car. This unique diplomatic setting allowed for extended personal conversations, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India and Kim Jong-un, the leader of North Korea, both joining him in his Aurus limousine.
The unusual scenes unfolded over a three-day period in March 2024, as Putin utilized the vehicle to foster closer ties with key allies. On Monday, March 4, during a Eurasian summit meeting held in Tianjin, China, Modi and Putin enjoyed a 45-minute conversation that effectively broke away from traditional summit protocols. Their interaction, positioned as a spontaneous moment, was heavily publicized by the Kremlin, signaling a deliberate move to showcase unity amid shifting global dynamics.
On Wednesday, March 6, Kim Jong-un joined Putin for a ride from a banquet in Beijing to a state guesthouse, where they engaged in bilateral talks that reaffirmed the strengthening relationship between their countries. The Kremlin emphasized these encounters as vital in light of changing geopolitical pressures, particularly those stemming from policies enacted by President Donald Trump in the United States.
The choice of the Aurus limousine as a diplomatic tool reflects Putin’s strategic use of personal interactions to solidify alliances. According to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, this approach affords the Russian leader a “home court advantage,” allowing him to communicate more effectively in a familiar environment.
As world leaders waited for formal proceedings to commence, the informal chats within the limousine served to highlight the growing closeness between Russia, India, and North Korea. Both Modi and Kim’s rides with Putin illustrate a shift in international relations, driven by mutual interests and an increasing desire for collaboration among nations facing similar challenges.
Putin’s ‘limo diplomacy’ is more than just a unique style; it represents a calculated effort to enhance Russia’s influence on the global stage. By prioritizing personal engagement over conventional diplomatic protocols, Putin aims to reinforce his relationships with key partners in an increasingly complex international landscape.