US President Donald Trump has extended birthday wishes to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi while praising his role in efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war, even as trade tensions continue to strain ties between Washington and New Delhi.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said he had a “wonderful” phone call with Modi. He thanked the Indian leader for his support in pushing for peace between Russia and Ukraine, calling Modi’s role “tremendous.”
The gesture comes at a time of friction after Trump raised tariffs on most Indian exports to 50% last month. The move was made in retaliation for India’s continued purchases of discounted Russian crude, which Washington argues are indirectly funding Moscow’s war. US officials have also accused Indian refiners of profiting from these imports, further worsening trade relations.
Despite the disputes, trade officials from both countries met in New Delhi on Tuesday. The US delegation, led by Brendan Lynch, Assistant Trade Representative for South and Central Asia, held discussions with Indian counterparts. According to India’s commerce ministry, the talks were “positive and forward-looking,” with both sides agreeing to push for an early conclusion of a mutually beneficial trade agreement.
However, challenges remain. India, one of the first countries to begin trade talks with Washington, has not yet secured a deal that would reduce tariff burdens. Exporters in India warn that higher duties are already leading to cancelled orders and risks to manufacturing jobs.
Analysts note that Trump’s decision to link tariffs with India’s Russian oil imports has made negotiations more complicated. Trade experts say progress will depend on Washington rolling back the additional 25% duty tied to oil purchases, without which a breakthrough may not be politically or economically possible.
