Modi’s India takes on Trump more openly, from ‘terrorism’ to tariffs

India has begun to express sharper public criticism of the United States, reflecting rising bilateral tensions under President Donald Trump’s administration. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar used an appearance in New York after the UN General Assembly to argue that Washington has been insensitive to India’s terrorism concerns, has warmed to Pakistan, and has pursued trade policies that disadvantage the Global South. Trade has emerged as a principal point of friction. Jaishankar noted differences in production and societal structures that complicate negotiations, and said there is only a roadmap rather than a concluded trade deal. Bilateral goods trade reached $149.1 billion in 2025, with India running a $58.4 billion surplus, and recent US measures — including a 10% global tariff and a law permitting up to 100% tariffs on countries buying Russian oil — have added strain. Security issues have also soured ties. New Delhi was displeased after President Trump repeatedly claimed credit for brokering a ceasefire during a four-day war with Pakistan in May last year, a conflict that followed an attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed 26 civilians. Jaishankar emphasized that terrorism-related concerns are especially sensitive for India, and that perceived third-party interference on Kashmir is unacceptable. The shift toward a more public posture comes amid domestic political pressure in India, where opponents accuse Prime Minister Narendra Modi of deferring to US demands. Modi and Trump held a telephone call described by Modi as "productive," but analysts say India's more forthright rhetoric signals a recalibration of how New Delhi manages disputes with Washington rather than the private, low-profile diplomacy it has historically preferred.