According to a report by The New York Times, US-India relations have reached a new low after President Donald Trump canceled his planned visit to New Delhi for the upcoming Quad Summit. The decision highlights growing disagreements between Washington and New Delhi over trade, tariffs, and foreign policy issues.
Canceled Visit Fuels Speculation
The New York Times reported that President Trump had previously assured Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi of his attendance at the Quad Summit in November. However, officials familiar with his schedule have since confirmed that “Trump no longer has plans to visit India in the fall.” The White House has not yet issued a formal statement, and Indian officials have remained silent, further fueling speculation about the worsening ties.
Trade Disputes and Punitive Tariffs
At the center of the conflict are Washington’s significant tariffs on Indian exports, which have impacted industries worth over $48 billion, including textiles, leather, and food products. The Trump administration also imposed a 25% tariff on India’s imports of Russian oil, a move that analysts say appeared more punitive than strategic. Experts argue that the action was uniquely aimed at India rather than applying broader sanctions against all buyers of Russian hydrocarbons, raising questions about Washington’s motivations.
Tense Claims Anger Modi
The deteriorating relationship also stems from Trump’s repeated claims that he “solved” the four-day conflict between India and Pakistan in May. New Delhi has flatly denied these assertions, clarifying that the ceasefire was a direct agreement between the two neighbors, with no US mediation. During a tense phone call on June 17, Trump again told Modi that Pakistan was considering nominating him for the Nobel Peace Prize, suggesting that India should do the same. Modi reportedly bristled at the suggestion and reiterated that Washington played no role in ending the skirmish.
Uncertainty Surrounds Quad Summit
The Quad Summit in New Delhi was expected to bring together leaders from the US, Australia, Japan, and India. With Trump now pulling out, questions are being raised about the summit’s future and the overall strength of the Indo-Pacific alliance. Despite the strained relations, Washington has invited Modi to visit the US. However, reports suggest that the Indian leader has declined both the trip to Washington and a separate meeting with Trump on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Canada earlier this year.
