S. President Donald Trump softened his tone on India, describing Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “great friend” and calling bilateral ties “special,” even as Modi attended a major military parade in China.
The remarks came a day after Trump claimed on social media that the U.S. had “lost India and Russia to China.” Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump clarified that while he disagrees with Modi “at this particular moment,” he still values the friendship and considers him a strong leader.
Trump voiced concern over India’s ongoing oil trade with Russia and pointed to U.S. tariffs on Indian imports as another source of strain. He also mentioned progress in trade talks with other countries but criticized the European Union for regulatory hurdles.
For its part, India continues to carefully balance its foreign policy. Modi’s participation at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit alongside Russia and China is viewed as part of this strategy, while still maintaining close ties with Washington.
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