Trump Loyalist Sergio Gor Named US Ambassador to India, Oversees South Asia Relations Amid Tensions

President Donald Trump has nominated Sergio Gor, a longtime ally and trusted aide, as the next U.S. ambassador to India, a role that also includes overseeing relations with South and Central Asian countries, including Pakistan. Gor's appointment comes amid strained U.S.-India relations due to Trump's tariffs and trade disputes, and has sparked mixed reactions in India. Experts, including Alyssa Ayres of the Council on Foreign Relations, warn that combining the India and Pakistan portfolios risks diplomatic friction, as India traditionally resists being linked with Pakistan in such frameworks. Former White House official Lawrence Haas criticized the dual mandate as a sign that Trump may not prioritize the U.S.-India relationship, potentially offending Indian leaders. Supporters argue Gor's close personal relationship with Trump could help expedite resolving bilateral issues, though concerns persist over Gor's limited diplomatic experience and his ability to navigate complex regional geopolitics. This situation recalls a similar diplomatic challenge in 2009 when India opposed a combined envoy role under the Obama administration.