On Tuesday, September 16, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a phone call, marking a potential reset in relations between the two nations. The conversation occurred on the eve of PM Modi's 75th birthday.

Trump conveyed birthday greetings to Modi and commended him for doing a "tremendous job". Modi, in turn, thanked Trump and expressed his commitment to elevating the India-U.S. Comprehensive and Global Partnership to "new heights". Modi also voiced support for U.S. initiatives aimed at a peaceful resolution of the conflict in Ukraine. Trump acknowledged Modi's support in ending the Russia-Ukraine war.

The phone call is particularly significant as it represents the first direct conversation between the two leaders since the Trump administration imposed 50% tariffs on key Indian goods. This move had created a chill in bilateral relations. The call is seen as a thawing of diplomatic ties and comes amid renewed efforts to rebuild economic and trade bridges between India and the United States.

Notably, the conversation took place on the same day that senior trade officials from both countries met in New Delhi to discuss ways to revive stalled negotiations on a bilateral trade agreement. Both sides described the trade talks as "positive". Discussions included pathways for tariff reduction.

Despite the positive developments, some sticking points remain. One issue is Trump's stance against countries that purchase oil from Russia, with India being a major buyer. Another is India's reluctance to allow the free flow of American farm and dairy produce into its market, as PM Modi has pledged to protect the interests of Indian farmers.

The exchange between the two leaders occurred on social media as well. Trump posted on Truth Social, "Just had a wonderful phone call with my friend, Prime Minister Narendra Modi. I wished him a very Happy Birthday! He is doing a tremendous job. Narendra: Thank you for your support on ending the War between Russia and Ukraine!". Modi responded on X, "Thank you, my friend, President Trump, for your phone call and warm greetings on my 75th birthday. Like you, I am also fully committed to taking the India-US Comprehensive and Global Partnership to new heights. We support your initiatives towards a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict".