Four Calls, No Answer: Modi Refuses Trump
News Desk: Prime Minister Narendra Modi reportedly declined four phone calls from U.S. President Donald Trump in recent weeks, signalling New Delhi’s firm stance amid escalating tariff disputes between the two nations.
According to a German daily Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ), Trump attempted to reach Modi multiple times but received no response. The report interpreted Modi’s silence as both “an expression of anger and a display of caution.”
The episode comes against the backdrop of Washington’s decision to impose an additional 25% tariff on Indian exports, citing New Delhi’s continued purchase of Russian crude. Combined with an earlier 25% duty imposed over trade imbalances, Indian goods now face a hefty 50% levy in key sectors including textiles, gems and jewellery, auto parts, and seafood.
Despite the economic strain, Modi has reiterated that India will not compromise on the interests of farmers, small businesses, and traditional industries. Addressing a gathering in Ahmedabad, he declared:
From the land of Gandhi, I assure small entrepreneurs, shopkeepers, farmers, and animal keepers that their interests are paramount for me. No matter how much pressure comes, my government will never allow harm to their livelihood.”
India has already condemned Washington’s move as “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.” The new duties are scheduled to take effect from August 27, with U.S. officials ruling out any further extensions.
The standoff underscores a sharp downturn in India–U.S. ties, with New Delhi signalling it will not bend under external pressure—even if it means ignoring calls from the White House.
