Donald Trump has voiced his concerns about the evolving dynamics between India, Russia, and China, particularly in light of the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump stated, "Looks like we've lost India and Russia to deepest, darkest, China. May they have a long and prosperous future together!". He also shared a photograph of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The summit in Tianjin featured a moment where Modi and Putin were seen interacting closely with Xi, sparking discussions about a potential shift in global politics and growing unity among nations that have experienced increasing friction with the United States.

The former President's statement has ignited debate regarding a possible realignment in global politics, especially after the SCO summit where Modi and Putin were seen interacting closely with Xi. The SCO, initially a security forum aimed at countering U.S. influence in Central Asia, has grown in significance. At the Tianjin summit, the three leaders spoke positively about their countries' relationships, even though each nation is at odds with the U.S. on various issues, mainly concerning the war in Ukraine and trade.

In response to Trump's remarks, Indian External Affairs Ministry spokesman Randhir Jaiswal declined to comment directly during a press conference in New Delhi. However, Jaiswal affirmed the importance of the relationship between the United States and India, emphasizing that "This relationship between the United States and India is very important for us". He further stated that both countries share a comprehensive global strategic partnership rooted in shared interests, democratic values, and strong people-to-people connections.

Trump's concerns come amid existing trade tensions between the U.S. and India. The U.S. has imposed significant tariffs on Indian imports, some in response to India's purchase of Russian oil. New Delhi has deemed these tariffs "unfair". Trump's administration had previously imposed a 25 percent tariff on India concerning trade barriers faced by American firms.

U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick echoed Trump's sentiment, urging India to "stop being a part of BRICS," a group of emerging nations that includes Brazil, Russia, China, and South Africa. Lutnick suggested that India needs to choose a side, either supporting the U.S. and the dollar or facing the consequences, such as a 50% tariff. He anticipates that India will eventually return to the table to negotiate a deal with the U.S.

Despite these tensions, India maintains that its relationship with the U.S. is strong and based on mutual interests and democratic values. The Ministry of External Affairs has stated that India's relationships with other countries are independent and should not be viewed through the lens of a third country. India emphasizes that Modi's visit to Tianjin was to attend the SCO summit, where he also held bilateral meetings with Xi and Putin. India views the SCO as a platform to mend relations with China and strengthen its partnership with Russia.