Washington/New Delhi: In a marked shift from his recent criticism, US President Donald Trump on Friday played down tensions with India, describing the bilateral bond as a “special relationship” and insisting there was “nothing to worry about” despite ongoing tariff disputes.
Asked whether he intended to reset ties with New Delhi, Trump replied, “I will always be friends with Modi. He is a great Prime Minister. I just don’t like what he is doing at this particular moment, but India and the United States have a special relationship. We just have moments on occasion.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi quickly responded on X (formerly Twitter), writing: “Deeply appreciate and fully reciprocate President Trump’s sentiments and positive assessment of our ties. India and the US share a very positive and forward-looking Comprehensive and Global Strategic Partnership.”
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.@realDonaldTrump @POTUS https://t.co/4hLo9wBpeF
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 6, 2025
Trump Softens Rhetoric, Calls India–US Ties “Special”
From Sarcasm to Softeners
The conciliatory remarks came just hours after Trump stirred controversy with a sarcastic Truth Social post claiming that the US had “lost India and Russia to the deepest, darkest China.” Sharing an image of Modi alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, Trump wrote: “Looks like we’ve lost India and Russia to the deepest, darkest China. May they have a long and prosperous future together!”
Tariff Tussle and Strategic Stakes
Trump’s mixed messaging reflects the strain in Washington–New Delhi relations. His administration, once hailed as India-friendly, had imposed steep 25% tariffs on Indian exports, citing high Indian duties on US goods and New Delhi’s purchase of discounted Russian oil amid the Ukraine war.
India, however, has stood firm. The government has reiterated that, like any major economy, it will safeguard its national interests and economic security. Modi has also made it clear that the country will not compromise on the interests of its farmers, fishermen, and livestock rearers.
