- Donald Trump’s utterances cannot be taken for granted, but with more than a pinch of salt is obvious. This much is crystal clear for the global community. Ever since his ascension to the presidency for the second term, Donald Trump has been extremely predictable in being unpredictable over matters concerning tariffs as well as about diffusing ongoing conflicts around the world. His bombastic claims of stopping even precipitous conflicts, including between India and Pakistan, though refuted vehemently by the Indian leadership, have been too casual for one’s liking, belittling the position Trump holds. However, it hasn’t stopped him from continuing to claim credit for those events that might not have occurred in the first place.
PC: The Indian Express
- The Indian leadership, read as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has been unambiguous about the whole claims countering Trump by calling his bluff. The 50% tariff imposed on India hasn’t helped the relationship, even though Trump claims Modi is a great friend and India is a great country. A few calls between the two leaders have ensued, but the underlying tension remains. The latest Modi-Trump call on the occasion of Deepavali indicates both are keen to work together. Trump can flip. But a trade deal looks less unlikely. Thus, the post-Op Sindoor chill between Modi and Trump seems to be yielding before their old warmth. Given Trump’s mercurial nature, it would be a mistake to normalize ties between the natural partner nations without being apprehensive.
PC: Times of India
- Both the leaders have remained diplomatic while exchanging pleasantries on their social media handles, praising each other and the countries alike. The fact of the matter is that the 50% tariff and the talks on trade deals are still a work in progress. Of course, Trump has recently claimed that he discussed trade with Modi and is working on some great deals, among other things. As we know, in the last few months, the problem with Trump’s statements is that he often claims things without basis, such as his oft-repeated boast about negotiating the India-Pak ceasefire in May. After his Deepavali call, Trump has claimed Modi is not going to buy much oil from Russia. The Indian side has, meanwhile, expressed heartfelt appreciation for his call with usual pleasantries.
PC: India Today
- What should not be missed, though, is Modi’s mentioning that both countries stand united against terrorism in all its forms, which is a not-so-subtle hint at Trump’s new friends in Pakistan. Going by the look of things, both Modi and Trump have made up their minds to work together, with different goals. Of course, we know that Trump craves glory – Russia, Gaza – and Modi is intent on a trade deal and low tariffs, which are necessary to maintain exports to India’s biggest market. The original timeline for the deal was the fall of this year, and if it happens now, it will be on time and timely, because exports and manufacturing can do with a lift. Indeed, a thaw in the relationship between the two greatest democracies appears to be on the horizon. Fingers crossed.
