US President Donald Trump reaffirmed his enduring friendship with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing him as a “great Prime Minister” and assuring, “I’ll always be friends with Modi.” Speaking on the sidelines of ongoing tensions regarding trade and energy ties, Trump called the India-US relationship “very special” and downplayed fears of a diplomatic rift despite recent criticisms over India’s oil purchases from Russia.
Trump had earlier claimed that the US had “lost” India and Russia to China, sparking diplomatic concerns, but later softened his stance, emphasising his personal friendship with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Modi responded to Trump’s remarks by expressing that he “deeply appreciates and fully reciprocates” the US President’s positive assessment of India-US ties, calling the relationship “very positive and forward-looking.”
Trump’s Displeasure Over India’s Russian Oil Purchases
Donald Trump publicly criticised India’s decision to keep buying Russian oil amid escalating tensions over the Russia-Ukraine conflict. He stated, “I’ve been very disappointed that India would be buying so much oil, as you know, from Russia. And I let them know that. We put a very big tariff on India. 50 percent tariff, very high tariff.”
Trump’s comments extended to imposing significant economic pressure in an attempt to discourage India’s oil imports from Russia, which he argued contribute to funding Russia’s military activities. Despite this, Trump clarified that his criticism did not affect his view of Modi personally, stating, “I get along very well with Modi, as you know. He’s great. He was here a couple of months ago.”
Modi’s Response and the Status of India-US Relations
Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded to Trump’s mixed messages with grace and diplomacy. Taking to the social media platform X, Modi said, “Deeply appreciate and fully reciprocate President Trump’s sentiments and positive assessment of our ties. India and the US have a very positive and forward-looking Comprehensive and Global Strategic Partnership.”
Modi’s statement reinforced the strong diplomatic bonds between the two countries, even while acknowledging existing policy disagreements. India views its relationship with the US as a cornerstone of its foreign policy, focusing on cooperation in trade, defence, and strategic interests.
The Complex Geopolitical and Economic Background
India has become the world’s largest buyer of Russian crude oil, capitalising on discounted rates to support its growing energy needs amid global market uncertainties. The decision to continue imports has sparked criticism from the US, as Washington seeks to isolate Russia economically over its invasion of Ukraine. Indian officials, including Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, defend their stance, citing the economic necessity and affordability of Russian oil for India’s vast population.
Meanwhile, the US has imposed a 50 percent tariff on Indian goods to pressure New Delhi into reducing its reliance on Russia. This tariff affects a wide range of products and has created economic friction between the two countries, challenging the broader trade relationship that sees Indian exports to the US exceeding $87 billion.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The dynamics between India and the US underscore the complexity of international relations in a multipolar world. The Logical Indian advocates for respect and understanding between nations, recognising that countries must balance national interests amid competing geopolitical pressures.
While trade and policy disagreements are inevitable, they must not overshadow the larger goal of peaceful cooperation and mutual growth. Dialogues based on empathy, transparency, and shared commitment to global peace are vital. The Logical Indian encourages both India and the US to seek constructive engagement that respects their sovereign decisions while addressing global challenges collaboratively.
