Former US President Donald Trump has publicly disclosed a strain in his otherwise cordial relationship with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, attributing it to Washington's imposition of high tariffs on Indian goods. The remarks were made during his address at the House Republicans' Retreat held at the Kennedy Center on Tuesday.
Trump's Candid Remarks on Tariffs and Modi
In his speech, Trump stated that while he shares a "very good relationship" with PM Modi, the Indian leader is "not happy with me". The root cause, according to Trump, is the significant tariffs levied by the United States due to India's continued purchase of oil from Russia amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. "I have a very good relationship with PM Modi, but he is not happy with me as India is paying high tariffs," Trump said.
He further explained that the situation is now improving as India has "reduced it very substantially, buying oil from Russia". The US had imposed an initial 25 per cent tariff, followed by an additional 25 per cent, viewing such oil purchases as indirectly supporting Russia's war efforts. These comments came just a day after Trump warned of potential further tariffs if New Delhi did not address his concerns regarding Russian oil imports.
India's Response and the Apache Helicopter Deal
Trump's narrative suggested that PM Modi sought to appease him. "They wanted to make me happy, basically. Modi is a very good man; he is a good guy. He knew I was not happy, and it was important to make me happy," he claimed. However, it is crucial to note that India has previously rejected Trump's assertion that PM Modi assured him New Delhi would stop buying Russian oil, clarifying that no such conversation ever took place.
In a related development, Trump also highlighted a defence procurement issue, stating that India has been waiting for five years for the delivery of Apache attack helicopters. "We're changing it. We're changing it. India ordered 68 Apaches," he announced, indicating a push to expedite the long-pending deal.
Broader Context and International Dynamics
During his wide-ranging address, Trump championed his tariff policies, claiming the US economy benefits from the duties he imposed on several nations. His comments on India and Russia emerge at a time when he has positioned himself as a potential mediator in the Russia-Ukraine war, having engaged with both President Vladimir Putin and President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Simultaneously, in a significant policy shift, the United States, for the first time, has backed security guarantees for Ukraine. At a key meeting in Paris on Tuesday, leaders from European nations, Canada, and US representatives pledged to provide Kyiv with equipment, training, and multi-domain support to deter future Russian aggression.
The interplay of trade, diplomacy, and defence continues to define the complex relationship between the US and India, with Trump's latest remarks shedding light on the pressures and negotiations happening behind the scenes.
