In a surprising turn of events, former U.S. President Donald Trump has seemingly backtracked on his recent criticisms of India, expressing renewed admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and emphasizing the "special relationship" between the two countries. This comes just a day after Trump suggested that the U.S. had "lost" India to China, following Modi's participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin.

On Friday, September 5, 2025, Trump stated, "I'll always be friends with (Narendra) Modi… He's a great Prime Minister… But India and the United States have a special relationship. There's nothing to worry about. We just have moments on occasion". He also addressed his earlier post on Truth Social, clarifying that he doesn't believe the U.S. has lost India and Russia to China.

However, Trump also voiced his continued disappointment with India's oil purchases from Russia, a point of contention that has strained relations between the two nations. "I've been very disappointed that India would be buying so much oil from Russia, and I let them know that. We put a very big tariff on India, 50% tariff, a very high tariff," he said. This tariff, one of the highest imposed by the Trump administration, reflects the U.S.'s displeasure with India's energy policy.

Despite these disagreements, Trump maintained a positive tone regarding his personal relationship with Modi, stating, "I get along very well with (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi, he's great. He was here a couple of months ago". This sentiment echoes previous instances where Trump lauded Modi as a "smart man" and a "good friend".

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has also weighed in on the matter, emphasizing the importance of the India-U.S. strategic partnership. MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, "This relationship between the United States and India is very important for us. Both our countries share a comprehensive global strategic partnership, anchored in our shared interests, democratic values, and robust people-to-people ties". He added that the partnership has "weathered several transitions and challenges" and that India remains focused on its substantive agenda with the U.S.

Trump's recent remarks and the MEA's response highlight the complex dynamics at play in the India-U.S. relationship. While personal rapport between leaders and shared strategic interests provide a strong foundation, disagreements over trade, energy policy, and geopolitical alignment can create friction.

The apparent shift in Trump's stance towards India raises questions about the future trajectory of the relationship. Some analysts believe that Trump's "America First" approach prioritizes U.S. national interests above all else, leading to a transactional approach to foreign policy. Others suggest that Trump's comments may be aimed at pressuring India to reduce its reliance on Russian oil and increase its engagement with the U.S. on trade and other issues.

It remains to be seen whether this latest U-turn signals a genuine effort to reset relations or a temporary reprieve in a period of heightened tension. The India-U.S. relationship has proven resilient in the past, navigating various challenges and transitions. However, the current climate of global uncertainty and shifting alliances will undoubtedly test the strength and adaptability of this important partnership.