In a dramatic shift of stance, former US President Donald Trump has executed a significant U-turn regarding India's foreign policy and economic decisions, following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's diplomatic engagements at the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. This reversal comes after a period of public criticism from Trump and his advisers targeting India's continued purchase of Russian oil and its strategic interactions with leaders like Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping.
From 'Sulking' to Friendship: Trump's Diplomatic Reversal
Initial reactions from the Trump camp were sharply critical. Trump himself had expressed discontent, suggesting the United States had "lost India to China," a comment that highlighted his view of India's deepening ties with Beijing. His trade adviser escalated the rhetoric, framing the camaraderie between Modi, Putin, and Xi at the SCO summit as a direct challenge to US tariff strategies, using strong language like "SHAME" to condemn the perceived alignment.
The friction seemed to reach a boiling point when Trump responded to India's refusal to snub Moscow or reject Russian oil by declaring a trade 'war' and threatening to slap an additional 25% in tariffs. Reports even indicated that Delhi was given a 24-hour ultimatum to cease buying Russian oil or face consequences. This aggressive posture underscored the tension between Washington's demands and New Delhi's independent foreign policy.
Modi's Firm Stance at SCO and the Pahalgam Aftermath
Amid this international pressure, Prime Minister Modi maintained a firm course. At the SCO summit, he engaged directly with both President Putin of Russia and President Xi of China, a move interpreted as India's strategic "pivot" to safeguard its national interests. Modi also addressed economic protectionism, criticizing "selfish economies" in what was seen as a pointed response to Trump's tariff threats.
Concurrently, Modi made his first visit to Jammu & Kashmir following the tragic Pahalgam terror attack. During this visit, he made a significant declaration, stating that Pakistan had attacked 'Kashmiriyat'—the unique cultural ethos of the region. This reinforced India's stance on cross-border terrorism while domestic tragedy struck in Sikkim, where a landslide triggered by the swelling Teesta river hit an Army camp, killing 3 personnel and leaving 6 missing.
The Stunning U-Turn and Lasting Implications
In a remarkable turnaround, Donald Trump completely reversed his earlier criticism. He publicly stated, "Modi & I Will Always Be Friends," effectively resetting the narrative. This stunning U-turn suggests a recognition of India's indispensable geopolitical role and the complexities of its multi-aligned foreign policy.
The episode highlights a critical dynamic in global diplomacy: India's resolute commitment to an independent policy path, even under substantial pressure from a major ally like the United States. Modi's simultaneous diplomacy at the SCO, his firm messaging on Kashmir, and India's unwavering energy security needs collectively prompted a recalculation in Washington. The shift from ultimatums to assurances of enduring friendship marks a significant moment in Indo-US relations, demonstrating that strategic partnerships can withstand public disagreements when core national interests are clearly communicated and defended.
