NEW DELHI (AP) — Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India and U.S. President Donald Trump have enjoyed a friendly relationship, marked by public displays of camaraderie. However, this bond seems to be facing a significant test.
Disagreements have surfaced, particularly around trade and foreign policy. Issues such as Trump’s tariffs on Indian goods and India’s ongoing oil purchases from Russia have created tension. Social media has played a role in these frictions, with Trump’s posts often stirring controversy. Policy experts are now questioning whether the close friendship between the two leaders can withstand these pressures. “This is a testing time for the relationship,” noted Ashok Malik, a former policy adviser in India’s Foreign Ministry.
Both political figures once publicly praised each other, but recent developments have clouded this rapport. Trump’s recent actions, like pushing for tariffs and making contentious comments about the Indian economy, have led to unease in New Delhi. His remarks that India is “buying massive amounts of Russian oil” exacerbate the situation. Such statements have stirred feelings of mistrust in India, as many in Modi’s administration feel the U.S. is losing sight of its strategic partnership with India.
These tensions were particularly highlighted after Trump imposed a 25% tariff on India, part of a broader strategy to recalibrate trade relationships. A White House official indicated that Trump’s frustration with the slow pace of negotiations is fueling his hardline approach. The reactions from India have been cautious. Instead of retaliatory threats, India’s commerce minister emphasized working towards a fair trade agreement.
Historically, U.S.-India relations have evolved over decades into a cooperation focused on shared democratic values and economic goals. However, as recent events unfold, they’re drawing comparisons to earlier tensions, particularly amid geopolitical disputes with Pakistan. Following military clashes between India and Pakistan earlier this year, Trump’s suggestions of mediating peace unsettled Modi, who has worked to isolate Pakistan diplomatically.
Adding to the strain is India’s continuing oil trade with Russia. Despite U.S. calls to sharply reduce these purchases, India’s actions seem to contradict those requests. As of now, India is the second-largest buyer of Russian oil, trailing only China. This oil diplomacy puts India in a tricky position, balancing between global pressures and its national interests. Acknowledging that trade ties are complex, experts warn that if this trade continues unchecked, it may lead to a significant dent in U.S.-India relations.
A recent survey revealed that 70% of Indians believe the U.S. remains a critical partner, but trust could erode if issues like tariffs and oil purchases are not addressed. Sreeram Sundar Chaulia, from New Delhi’s Jindal School of International Affairs, warns that Trump’s admiration for Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts is further complicating matters. “If significant energy deals develop between the U.S. and Pakistan, it could dent U.S.-India ties considerably,” he said.
As the situation continues to develop, both nations face a critical juncture. India has indicated it will defend its interests while striving to maintain a beneficial relationship with the U.S. However, how they navigate these turbulent waters remains to be seen.
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