Donald Trump has softened his stance after suggesting the U.S. had "lost" India to China, stating, "I don't think we have". This comes after a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, where he featured a photo of Prime Minister Narendra Modi alongside Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, commenting, "Looks like we've lost India and Russia to deepest, darkest, China. May they have a long and prosperous future together!".

During a media session at the White House, Trump addressed his earlier remarks, expressing his disappointment with India's continued purchase of oil from Russia. He mentioned imposing a "very big tariff" of 50% on India. Despite these concerns, Trump affirmed his strong relationship with PM Modi, stating, "I get along very well with (PM) Modi, as you know". He also recalled Modi's visit to the White House a couple of months prior.

Trump recounted the press conference held in the Rose Garden during PM Modi's visit, humorously noting the wet grass and the subsequent decision to move future conferences to a different location. He also described PM Modi as a "great Prime Minister".

Even with his reservations about India's oil imports from Russia and the high tariffs, Trump insisted on the "very special relationship" between the U.S. and India, assuring that he and PM Modi will "always be friends".

In addition to Trump's comments, there have been other instances of intensified rhetoric against India. White House Advisor Peter Navarro reiterated accusations about India's high tariffs costing U.S. jobs, and Laura Loomer claimed the administration might block U.S. IT companies from outsourcing to Indian companies, though without providing evidence. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick suggested preconditions for improved relations, including India ceasing to buy Russian oil and ending its participation in BRICS.