Modi Reaffirms US-India Friendship Amid Tariff Tensions and Shifting Global Alliances

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has strengthened the strong character of the India-US relationship, terming them "very positive and forward-looking," despite recent tensions which have been fueled by spectacular hikes in tariffs levied by President Donald Trump.

America has just put a 50% tariff on Indian imports on the grounds that India continues to purchase Russian oil. The step as part of a comprehensive trade policy has strained bilateral ties and invited protests in India, with calls for boycotts of US brands.

Trump's assertion that "we are losing India and Russia to the deepest, darkest China" after the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit fueled the speculation. Modi, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Chinese President Xi Jinping were photographed together at the summit, generating speculation about shifting alliances.

Despite all these advances, both leaders have spoken about their individual chemistry. Trump stated, "I will always be friends with Modi," and Modi responded with much gratitude for Trump's statements and affirming the strategic partnership between the two nations.

India’s External Affairs Minister highlighted Modi’s commitment to maintaining strong ties with the US, even as trade negotiations remain unresolved. Analysts suggest that while the relationship is under pressure, neither side has given up on reconciliation.

The situation underscores the complex interplay between diplomacy, trade, and global geopolitics, with India navigating its role among major powers while preserving its strategic autonomy.