Overview
- President Trump told reporters he will "always be friends" with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, called the India–U.S. relationship "special," and reaffirmed disappointment over India’s Russian oil buys alongside the 50% tariff decision.
- Hours after posting that the U.S. had "lost India and Russia to deepest, darkest China," Trump downplayed that claim, saying he does not believe the U.S. has lost India.
- Prime Minister Modi responded that he "deeply appreciates and fully reciprocates" Trump’s sentiments, describing a "very positive and forward-looking" comprehensive strategic partnership.
- Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick predicted India would return to trade talks "in a month or two," framing it as a likely attempt to make a deal with Trump.
- India has signaled it will continue purchasing Russian oil based on national interest, while New Delhi formally rejected inflammatory comments about India by White House trade adviser Peter Navarro.