US India relations remain strong as Modi responds to Trump jab

US India relations stay positive as Modi reaffirms partnership despite Trump’s remarks on China and Russia, highlighting strategic and global cooperation. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized that relations between India and the United States remain “very positive”, even after former US President Donald Trump’s recent comments sparked speculation of friction.

The statement came a day after Trump downplayed his earlier remarks suggesting that India had been “lost” to China and reaffirmed his personal friendship with Modi.

Modi’s Optimistic Outlook on US Partnership

In a message shared on X, Modi expressed gratitude toward Trump’s acknowledgment of their partnership.
He said India and the US enjoy a “forward-looking, comprehensive, and global strategic relationship” that continues to expand across defense, technology, and trade.

Despite political rhetoric, Modi’s reassurance signals New Delhi’s intention to maintain strong ties with Washington, especially as both nations seek to counterbalance China’s growing influence in Asia.

Trump’s “Lost to China” Comment Sparks Debate

Earlier this week, Trump stirred controversy by claiming that India and Russia appeared to be leaning closer to China after Modi joined Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin, China.

Trump wrote on social media: “Looks like we’ve lost India and Russia to deepest, darkest China. May they have a long and prosperous future together!”

However, when questioned later, Trump softened his stance, insisting he did not truly believe the US had lost India. He acknowledged disappointment over India’s continued oil imports from Russia but stressed his enduring friendship with Modi.

Trade Tensions and Tariff Strains

Strains in the relationship grew after the Trump administration imposed tariffs of up to 50% on Indian imports, accusing New Delhi of helping fund Russia’s war in Ukraine through discounted oil purchases.

India, however, has defended its position, arguing that energy security and national interests guide its foreign policy. Analysts say these tariffs could push India to diversify its trade partnerships further, especially with Asian and Middle Eastern allies.

Longstanding Bond Between Modi and Trump

Despite occasional friction, both leaders have enjoyed a strong personal bond since Trump’s first term. Their joint rallies in Houston (2019) and Ahmedabad (2020) highlighted the partnership between the two democracies.

Yet, disagreements remain, particularly on issues such as Kashmir, where India rejects any foreign mediation. Trump had previously irritated New Delhi by suggesting he played a role in easing tensions with Pakistan.

India’s Balancing Act: US, Russia, and China

Modi’s recent visit to China—his first in seven years—signals a careful balancing act in Indian diplomacy. By engaging with Russia and China through the SCO, India aims to preserve regional stability while maintaining strategic cooperation with the US.

This multipolar approach highlights New Delhi’s goal of strengthening its global influence without being tied exclusively to any one bloc.

What Lies Ahead for US-India Relations?

While Trump’s comments drew headlines, both nations remain bound by shared interests in defense, trade, and Indo-Pacific security. Experts suggest that US-India ties will likely withstand political noise, as both governments recognize the strategic necessity of cooperation against rising Chinese assertiveness.

For Modi, affirming a positive relationship with Washington reassures global investors and allies that India’s foreign policy will remain pragmatic and balanced.