US President Donald Trump has altered his stance on India, praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi as “a great friend” just a day after remarking that India and Russia had been “lost to the deepest and darkest China.” The sudden change in tone reflects a notable shift in Trump’s approach to India following recent developments in international diplomacy.
Trump’s initial criticism had drawn attention after the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, where India, China, and Russia displayed a public show of cordiality. A widely shared video of PM Modi, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Chinese President Xi Jinping forming a close circle sparked commentary across global media, prompting Trump’s earlier swipe.
In his latest statement, however, Trump acknowledged the longstanding friendship and cooperation between India and the United States. The reversal signals an attempt to maintain positive diplomatic optics with New Delhi while balancing concerns over China’s growing influence in Asia.
Analysts note that the U-turn underscores the complexities of US-India-China relations, highlighting the delicate balancing act in global diplomacy. While Trump’s initial critique focused on strategic and economic alignments, his subsequent praise aims to reaffirm personal rapport with PM Modi and support ongoing bilateral ties.
Observers suggest this episode demonstrates the impact of high-profile summits and media coverage on international statements. The SCO summit not only showcased shared interests among major powers but also emphasized the importance of clear messaging in global geopolitics.
Trump’s shift in tone may also be interpreted as a broader recognition of India’s strategic significance in Asia and its role as a key partner for the United States amidst rising tensions with China. The friendly remarks are likely to be welcomed by Indian officials, reinforcing the importance of sustained diplomatic engagement.
In essence, within 24 hours, Trump’s comments moved from criticism to commendation, reflecting both the evolving dynamics of international relations and the sensitive nature of statements regarding major Asian economies.
