Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sought to downplay the recent rift with US President Donald Trump, saying that ties between the two countries remain “very positive.”
Modi’s comments come after Trump sparked speculation of a deepening rift between the two longtime allies by remarking that India, alongside Russia, seems to have been “lost” to China.
“Deeply appreciate and fully reciprocate President Trump’s sentiments and positive assessment of our ties,” Modi said in a statement posted on X. “India and the US have a very positive and forward-looking comprehensive and global strategic partnership.”
The rift between the two countries emerged after the Trump administration imposed tariffs of up to 50 percent on Indian imports, accusing New Delhi of fueling Moscow’s deadly attacks on Ukraine by purchasing Russian oil.
Trump also expressed frustration at India’s rejection of his offer to broker peace between Pakistan and India following the worst conflict in decades between the nuclear-armed neighbors in May.
When asked about his remarks on India being “lost” to China, Trump downplayed his earlier statement, saying he didn’t think the US had lost India to China. “I’ve been very disappointed that India would be buying so much oil…from Russia.
And I let them know that,” Trump said. “I will always be friends with Modi…India and the United States have a special relationship. There is nothing to worry about.”
The recent strain on US-India relations has sparked concerns about the future of their strategic partnership. Despite the tensions, both countries have a long history of cooperation, particularly in the areas of defense and trade.
However, the imposition of tariffs by the Trump administration has raised questions about the sustainability of their relationship.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs has responded sharply to the US tariffs, calling them “unjustified and unreasonable.”
The Indian government has also emphasized its commitment to protecting its national interests and economic security. “India will take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security,” the statement concluded.
Experts believe that India is unlikely to stop buying Russian oil to please the US, given its strategic interests and energy needs. The future of US-India relations remains uncertain, with the relationship hanging in the balance.
Despite the challenges, both countries have invested in a high-maintenance partnership for pragmatic reasons, seeing each other as useful to their own priorities.