Trump Calls Modi a ‘Friend’ After Months of Criticism; Modi Welcomes Remark

WASHINGTON/NEW DELHI: After repeatedly criticizing Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in recent months, U.S. President Donald Trump shifted his tone on Thursday, describing Modi as a “friend” and emphasizing the “special relationship” between the United States and India.

Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said, *“Modi will always remain a friend. There’s nothing to worry about — India and the U.S. share a special bond.”*

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the statement, issuing a message on social media platform X. *“I sincerely appreciate President Trump’s sentiments and his positive outlook on our relations. India and the U.S. enjoy a highly positive, long-standing global strategic partnership,”* Modi wrote.

Relations between Washington and New Delhi have been strained in recent months, particularly after India failed to finalize a trade deal with the U.S. In response, Trump imposed a 50% tariff on Indian goods, while frequently mentioning America’s potential role in easing tensions between India and Pakistan — a suggestion India has consistently rejected.

According to U.S. media, Trump even canceled a planned visit to India amid the trade rift. The situation gained further attention last week during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Tianjin, where Chinese President Xi Jinping was seen linking hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Modi in a symbolic show of unity.

Trump reacted on social media by sharing an image of the three leaders together, commenting: *“Looks like we have lost India and Russia to China’s deepest and darkest circle.”*