In a dramatic diplomatic sequence, former US President Donald Trump first expressed discontent over India's relations with China, only to perform a swift reversal, affirming his enduring friendship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This U-turn unfolded against the backdrop of significant geopolitical moves by India at the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, which have triggered a sharp reaction from Trump's camp, including threats of escalated tariffs.
Trump's Diplomatic Flip-Flop: From 'Sulking' to 'Friends Forever'
Donald Trump initially voiced frustration, suggesting the United States had "lost India to China." This comment reflected apparent unease over India's foreign policy trajectory. However, in a surprising pivot, Trump later declared, "Modi & I will always be friends," marking a stunning U-turn within a short timeframe. This reversal highlights the volatile nature of the discourse surrounding the strategic India-US relationship and its intersection with the complex US-China rivalry.
Modi's SCO Diplomacy and the US Backlash
The context for Trump's comments is deeply rooted in Prime Minister Modi's diplomatic engagements at the SCO summit. Modi held significant meetings with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, showcasing India's independent foreign policy stance. The perceived bonhomie among the leaders at the summit did not go unnoticed in Washington.
Following the summit, Trump's trade adviser publicly raged against the developments, labeling the situation a "shame" and accusing the SCO interactions of flipping the US's tariff strategy. In a significant escalation, Trump himself declared a trade war, announcing an additional 25% tariffs on certain goods. This punitive measure was directly linked to India's refusal to snub Putin and cease its import of Russian oil, with reports suggesting Delhi was given a 24-hour ultimatum to stop buying Russian oil or face consequences.
Domestic Front: Security and Sovereignty Assertions
Amidst the international friction, Prime Minister Modi addressed critical domestic issues. In his first visit to Jammu & Kashmir after the Pahalgam terror attack, he made a significant declaration, stating that Pakistan had attacked 'Kashmiriyat'—the region's unique ethos of harmony. He firmly rejected any external claims over the territory.
Separately, a tragic natural disaster struck Sikkim, where a landslide triggered by the swelling Teesta river hit an Indian Army camp. The incident resulted in three personnel killed and six missing, underscoring the challenges posed by extreme weather events.
Adding to the national discourse, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, during a speech in Guyana, mocked Pakistan's aspirations on Kashmir. He pointedly remarked that Pakistan "wants something they don't have," reinforcing India's firm stance on the issue.
Geopolitical Repercussions and India's Strategic Path
The confluence of events paints a picture of a India navigating a multipolar world with assertive independence. The US reaction, particularly from the Trump faction, underscores the tension between Washington's expectations and New Delhi's strategic autonomy, especially regarding relations with Russia and China. Modi's government continues to balance these global partnerships while firmly addressing security challenges and asserting sovereignty on the domestic front. The evolving situation suggests that India's diplomatic choices will remain a focal point of international scrutiny and reaction in the coming months.
