Recent shifts in rhetoric from former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding India have sparked considerable discussion, with a former Indian diplomat suggesting that Trump has come to realize his initial strategy of expecting India to capitulate to his demands was misguided. K.P. Fabian, the former diplomat, made these remarks amidst Trump's recent softening of his stance on India-U.S. relations, which included calling the ties "very special" and reaffirming his friendship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Fabian critiqued Trump's earlier imposition of tariffs on Indian goods, labeling them as baseless and underestimating India's resolve. These tariffs included a 25% duty on Indian goods and an additional 25% duty on India's Russian oil purchases, effectively raising the total levies to 50%. Fabian even coined the term "Triple-T" – Trumped-up Trump Tariff – to describe these measures.

Despite these tariffs and earlier aggressive trade tactics, Trump seems to have shifted his approach. Speaking from the White House, Trump stated, "I always will. I'll always be friends with (PM) Modi. He's a great Prime Minister...But India and the United States have a very special relationship. There is nothing to worry about. We just have moments on occasion".

Prime Minister Modi responded to Trump's sentiments with warmth, affirming the "Comprehensive and Global Strategic Partnership" between the two nations. Modi conveyed his appreciation for Trump's positive assessment of their ties, reinforcing the forward-looking nature of the India-U.S. relationship.

Fabian acknowledged Modi's reciprocal gesture but cautioned against interpreting it as a sign of an imminent end to the "Triple-T". However, he asserted that Trump is likely beginning to understand that his initial expectation of India surrendering to pressure was incorrect.

Fabian emphasized India's position as a civilizational state that cannot be a mere follower of any other country. He stated that India seeks friendship and business opportunities with all nations but cannot be expected to take dictation. This sentiment echoes a broader view expressed by another former Indian diplomat, Jawed Ashraf, who argued against India aligning with any specific global power camp, emphasizing India's strength and independence in its external relations.