Donald Trump reaffirms India ties amid trade talks: ‘I am very close to Modi’
WASHINGTON : US President Donald Trump reaffirmed his close relationship with India and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi during a press conference on Thursday, highlighting a recent phone call made to the Indian leader on the eve of his 75th birthday.
“I am very close to India, I am very close to the PM of India. I spoke to him the other day. I wished him a happy Birthday. We have a very good relationship,” Trump said, emphasising the warmth and cooperation between the two nations.
Trump’s remarks came alongside his criticism of European countries continuing to purchase Russian oil, which he argued undermines international efforts to isolate Moscow amid ongoing conflicts.
Diplomatic backdrop
Trump made these comments during his visit to the United Kingdom, where he met British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Chequers, the prime minister’s country retreat. The visit included a ceremonial welcome at Windsor Castle by King Charles III and Queen Camilla, a state banquet, and the signing of a major US-UK science and technology agreement, underscoring the diplomatic pageantry of the trip.
US-India trade talks resume amid tensions over Russian oil purchases
Trade negotiations between the United States and India resumed this week, with both sides describing discussions as positive, as they seek to reset ties following a recent escalation over tariffs and Russian energy purchases.
Trump last month imposed a 50% import tariff on Indian goods, doubling the previous 25% rate. The move, according to Washington, aimed not only at countering India’s tariffs and trade barriers but also at penalizing New Delhi for continuing to buy Russian oil.
Russian oil purchases dispute
The purchase of Russian oil by India and China has drawn criticism from Ukraine and its allies, who argue that these imports undermine international sanctions intended to pressure Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war in Ukraine. Indian officials, however, defended the energy strategy, emphasizing that it will continue as long as Russian oil remains financially viable.
White House trade adviser Peter Navarro has stepped up pressure on India to halt its Russian oil imports. In recent weeks, Trump has also urged other allies, including Group of Seven nations, to increase sanctions on India and China, the two largest buyers of Russian energy.