'Friends, but not without friction': Trump admits tensions with PM Modi over tariffs, Russian oil trade
PTC Web Desk: US President Donald Trump has acknowledged strains in ties with India, admitting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is unhappy with Washington’s tough tariff regime, even as he insisted that personal relations between the two leaders remain strong.
Speaking at the House GOP Member Retreat on Tuesday, Trump said he shares a “very good relationship” with PM Modi but conceded that the Indian leader is displeased due to the high tariffs imposed by the US, particularly those linked to India’s continued purchases of Russian oil.
“I have a very good relationship with him. He’s not that happy with me because they’re paying a lot of tariffs now,” Trump said, adding that India has “very substantially” reduced its oil imports from Russia.
Trump claimed that PM Modi had personally sought a meeting with him amid the growing trade pressure, signalling the seriousness with which New Delhi views the issue.
Tariffs linked to Russian oil purchases
The US President has slapped a steep 50 per cent tariff on Indian goods, including a specific 25 per cent levy tied to India’s energy trade with Russia. The move is part of Washington’s broader strategy to discourage countries from continuing oil and gas transactions with Moscow amid the Ukraine conflict.
Trump has repeatedly warned that India could face even harsher economic measures if it does not further cut back its Russian oil imports.
“We could raise tariffs on India if they don’t help on the Russian oil issue,” Trump said earlier this week while speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, making it clear that trade penalties remain very much on the table.
Alongside trade tensions, Trump also touched upon defence cooperation, referring to India’s long-pending order for Apache attack helicopters. He said India has been waiting for several years for the deliveries and hinted at a possible breakthrough.
“We’re changing it. India ordered 68 Apaches,” Trump said, without offering details on timelines or revised terms.
Praise for PM Modi despite pressure
Despite the hardline stance, Trump struck a conciliatory tone towards the Indian Prime Minister, describing him as a “very good man” and a leader who understood Washington’s concerns.
“He knew I was not happy. It was important to make me happy,” Trump remarked, while reiterating that the US retains the ability to quickly escalate tariffs if required.
The comments come days after a telephonic conversation between Trump and PM Modi, during which both leaders emphasised the importance of sustaining momentum in bilateral trade and strategic cooperation, even as disagreements over tariffs and energy trade persist.
While the current phase reflects visible friction, both New Delhi and Washington have signalled their intent to keep channels open and continue negotiations aimed at reaching a broader understanding.
- With inputs from agencies
