Trump Calls Modi Bond ‘Very Close’ Amid Tariffs and Russia Oil Sanctions

Trump Emphasizes Personal Ties with Modi

On Thursday, September 18, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump disclosed that he is "very close" to India and shares a strong personal bond with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Talking to the media after his meeting with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Chequers, Trump said that he actually called Modi to wish him on his 75th birthday - a move that Modi acknowledged very warmly.

"We have a very good relationship, and he also released a nice statement. But I have sanctioned them," Trump said, illustrating a compromise between the two.

Tariff Dispute Marries Words and Lip Service

However, the Trump administration has been on the warpath against trade despite the conciliatory tone. U.S. tariffs on Indian products were increased from 25% to 50%, and on top of that, 25% additional duties were imposed unilaterally on India, referring to their sustained imports of Russian crude oil. The White House justifies these steps by pointing to the need to put pressure on Moscow, even as it concedes that India's energy decisions are dictated by the market.

Russia, Oil Prices, and Global Diplomacy

Trump once again gave out his version of the story that plunging oil prices would be the making of Russian President Vladimir Putin's departure from the war in Ukraine. "If the price of oil gets lower, Mr. Putin will have to exit. He won't have any option," Trump said. He also mentioned that the European countries and China were not exceptions, as they too were under sanctions for buying the products.

Flashback: Trump on India-Pakistan

In an amazing flashback, Trump reiterated that he mediated peace between India and Pakistan post-Operation Sindoor earlier this year. Both the nuclear-armed neighbors agreed to put an end to their hostilities, he said, because they wanted to get the benefits of U.S. trade. Yet, India has always denied the involvement of a third party, stating that the ceasefire was a direct negotiation between the military officials.

Symbolism Beyond Trade

Trump's statements come at a very defining moment when Washington is trying to reset its relations with New Delhi, balancing the strategic partnerships with the implementation of strict trade measures. His affectionate birthday call to Modi is an indication that there is still room for personal diplomacy even though the tariffs and sanctions cast a shadow over the relationship.

The U.S. leader left the U.K. with First Lady Melania Trump following his two-day state visit with King Charles III, thereby sending out mixed signals about India-U.S. ties.