US President Donald Trump voiced optimism about the future of India–US trade ties, praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi and describing him as a trusted friend.
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday expressed confidence about the trajectory of India–US trade relations, lauding Prime Minister Narendra Modi and indicating positive prospects for a bilateral agreement.
Talking to Moneycontrol on the proposed India–US trade deal, Trump said he held Modi in high esteem and referred to him as a personal friend.
Expressing confidence in the outcome of the talks, he said he respected the Indian Prime Minister and was certain that the two countries would reach a favourable agreement.
🚨🚨 Moneycontrol Mega Exclusive | “I have great respect for your Prime Minister. He’s a fantastic man and a friend of mine… We are going to have a good deal.”
~ US President Donald Trump tells @chandrarsrikant on the sidelines of #Davos2026, expressing optimism over an… pic.twitter.com/TWGkOnhnrA
— Moneycontrol (@moneycontrolcom) January 21, 2026
Earlier this month, Trump publicly linked India’s trade treatment to its purchases of Russian oil, claiming New Delhi had reduced imports in response to US pressure.
“They wanted to make me happy,” Trump said at the time, adding, “Basically, Modi is a very good man. He knew I was not happy, and it was important to make me happy.”
Trump warned that India could face swift trade consequences if it failed to align with Washington’s position on Russian energy.
“We do trade, and we can raise tariffs on them very quickly,” he said, adding, “And it would be very bad for them.”
New Delhi has denied giving assurances that it would curb Russian oil imports, maintaining that its energy decisions are guided by national interest and price stability.
Trade ties between India and the United States remain under significant strain. The Donald Trump administration currently imposes tariffs totalling 50% on most Indian exports, including penalties linked to India’s continued engagement with Russia and its participation in the BRICS grouping.
India has responded cautiously, introducing retaliatory duties on selected US agricultural imports. Key sticking points remain unresolved as the White House continues to press India to open its agricultural markets further- a sensitive issue for New Delhi, which views farm protections as non-negotiable. At the same time, Trump has continued to link tariff relief to India’s energy policy, warning that further penalties could follow if Russian oil purchases continue.
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