Washington D.C. – Former U.S. President Donald Trump has sparked speculation about a potential visit to India next year after publicly praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Speaking at a White House press briefing on Thursday, Trump lauded Modi as "a great man and a friend," hinting at a possible trip to India as both nations aim to strengthen trade ties and reassess energy cooperation.

"He (PM Modi) largely stopped buying from Russia. And he is a friend of mine, and we speak. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a great man. He is a friend of mine, and he wants me to go there. We will figure that out, I will go… Prime Minister Modi is a great man and I will be going," Trump stated. When specifically asked if he planned to visit India next year, Trump responded, "It could be, yes". Later asked whether the visit could happen in 2026, the President responded, “It could be, yes".

However, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in New Delhi has remained tight-lipped about the possibility of a Trump visit. When questioned about Trump's remarks, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, "I have nothing to share on that".

Trump's comments come amidst ongoing discussions between India and the U.S. regarding trade and energy. Following Washington's decision to impose a 50% tariff, including an additional 25% duty, on India's purchase of Russian crude oil, trade negotiations have become central to the dialogue between the two countries. Earlier this week, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt affirmed President Trump's dedication to solidifying relations with India, mentioning his conversation with Prime Minister Modi during Diwali celebrations at the Oval Office.

In response to Trump's earlier claim that India had significantly reduced its import of Russian oil, the MEA reiterated that India's energy decisions are solely guided by national interests and consumer welfare, without succumbing to external pressures. Jaiswal emphasized India's position as a major oil and gas importer, clarifying that import policies are designed to protect the interests of Indian consumers amidst a volatile energy market. He further emphasized that India's approach focuses on maintaining stable prices and diversified energy supplies.

A potential visit would mark Trump's first trip to India since returning to the White House. In September 2024, Trump called PM Modi "fantastic" and described Indians as the "sharpest" and "top of their game", while also stating that India is a "big abuser" regarding import tariffs.