Modi-Trump Bond: A Costly Friendship for India?
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s relationship with former US President Donald Trump, alleging it has proven financially detrimental to India. Ramesh’s critique, voiced on August 5, 2025, points to several instances where this “special bond” seemingly backfired.
He highlighted the threat of increased tariffs imposed during the Trump administration, impacting Indian exports significantly. Furthermore, Ramesh cited pressure exerted on India to curtail its purchases of Russian oil as another example of the downsides of the close relationship.
The Congress leader questioned the tangible benefits of this perceived closeness, especially in light of the recent deterioration in US-India relations. He also emphasized the emergence of a new geopolitical challenge involving a complex nexus of China, the United States, and Pakistan.
Ramesh’s remarks underscore a growing debate within India regarding the long-term implications of its foreign policy choices. The economic repercussions of past diplomatic decisions are now a matter of urgent national concern, particularly given the escalating global uncertainties.
