In a dramatic series of statements, former US President Donald Trump has exhibited a stunning reversal in his stance towards India, oscillating between criticism and camaraderie, against the backdrop of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's diplomatic engagements at the SCO summit. The developments highlight the complex geopolitical and trade pressures facing India on the global stage.
From 'Sulking' to a Sudden 'U-Turn'
Initially, Donald Trump expressed clear displeasure, suggesting that the United States had "lost India to China." This comment was perceived as a reaction to India's multifaceted foreign policy and its engagements with other major powers. However, in a swift and notable pivot, Trump later asserted, "Modi & I will always be friends," marking a significant diplomatic U-turn that has captured international attention.
The context for this volatility is deeply rooted in recent global gatherings. Prime Minister Modi's participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, where he interacted with leaders like Russia's Vladimir Putin and China's Xi Jinping, appears to be a central trigger. The perceived "bonhomie" among these leaders at the forum seemingly unsettled Trump's trade advisers, with one reportedly expressing rage and calling the situation a "shame."
The Tariff Ultimatum Over Russian Oil
Amidst the diplomatic statements, a more concrete economic threat emerged. Trump, reacting to India's steadfast refusal to snub Russia or reject Russian oil imports, 'declared war' on trade by announcing a threat to slap an additional 25% in tariffs on Indian goods. Reports indicated that India's defiance on continuing Russian oil purchases angered the former President, leading to a stark 24-hour ultimatum demanding India "stop buying now, or..." face consequences.
Prime Minister Modi's response to such protectionist pressures was firm and articulated at the SCO summit itself. He criticized "selfish economies" and their policies, a remark widely interpreted as a pointed retort to Trump's tariff gambit. This exchange underscores the growing trade tensions and India's determination to safeguard its energy security and economic sovereignty.
Broader Regional Context and Incidents
These high-stakes international developments coincide with critical domestic and regional events. In a significant visit, PM Modi made his first trip to Jammu & Kashmir following the tragic Pahalgam terror attack. During this visit, he strongly accused Pakistan, stating "Pak attacked Kashmiriyat," reaffirming India's stance on cross-border terrorism.
Separately, a natural disaster struck Sikkim, where a landslide hit an Indian Army camp after the River Teesta swelled. The incident resulted in the tragic loss of three personnel, with six others reported missing. On the diplomatic front, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor mocked Pakistan's aspirations on Kashmir during a speech in Guyana, questioning their claims over the region.
Furthermore, in a related international update, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov declared that President Putin would not meet with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky, shocking Trump and adding another layer to the complex global power dynamics influencing these events.
Implications and the Road Ahead
The whirlwind of statements from Trump—encompassing sulking, making a U-turn, and issuing tariff threats—creates an atmosphere of uncertainty for India-US relations. It underscores the challenge India faces in balancing its strategic autonomy, exemplified by its participation in forums like the SCO and its energy imports from Russia, with its crucial partnership with the West.
Prime Minister Modi's unwavering rhetoric against "selfish economies" and terrorism, combined with his active multilateral diplomacy, signals India's confident and independent foreign policy path. The coming months will be critical in observing how these trade warnings materialize and whether the professed personal "friendship" between the two leaders can withstand the pressures of divergent geopolitical and economic interests.
