US Imposes 25% Tariffs on India Amid Rising Diplomatic Tensions

Since Donald Trump returned to the White House as the 47th President of the United States, his administration initially emphasized a close relationship with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighted by high-profile meetings and public displays of camaraderie. However, recent developments have strained this relationship, including Trump's imposition of 25% tariffs on India and penalties related to India's purchase of Russian oil, as well as a perceived U.S. tilt toward Pakistan. These actions and Trump's critical social media posts about India's economy have caused unease in India and raised concerns among policy experts about the future of the strategic bilateral relationship. Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticized the Modi-Trump friendship as costly for India, pointing to tariff threats and international pressures as evidence that the relationship has deteriorated. Experts like former Indian Foreign Ministry adviser Ashok Malik describe this period as a testing time for India-U.S. relations, with the longstanding partnership facing significant challenges. Despite the tensions, the White House has not confirmed any strategic realignment with Pakistan, and the situation reflects frustration over slow trade negotiations rather than a shift in diplomatic priorities.