When Vladimir Putin’s plane touches down in New Delhi this week, he will be met with the pomp and ceremony reserved for one of India’s most steadfast partners. Yet his host, Prime Narendra Modi, is simultaneously forging a deep strategic relationship with a key global rival: the United States.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia, underlining the close personal relationship between the leaders and their countries’ longtime friendship.

Russia and China have maintained close ties with Maduro, whom opposition parties and international observers say stole the 2018 election. The United States and a number of other governments have recognized Maduro’s opponent as Venezuela’s legitimate leader.