“I am very close to PM Modi and India, but I sanctioned them,” claims Donald Trump

During the state visit to the UK, President Donald Trump again claimed that he shares a very close relationship with PM Modi and India; he also received a warm message from PM Modi, but he imposed sanctions on India.

New Delhi: During a joint press conference with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on September 18, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that he is "very close to India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi." Trump explained that he recently called Modi to wish him on his 75th birthday, to which Modi responded with a "very beautiful message."

"I am very close to India. I am very close to Prime Minister Modi as well. I wished him a happy birthday," said President Donald Trump.

Op Sindoor: Pakistan refutes Trump’s claim; Says India rejected third-party mediation offer

Personal ties are strong, but trade tensions persist

Although Trump described his personal relationship with Modi as strong, he acknowledged that economic sanctions had to be imposed on India. He said, "Our relationship is good, but I imposed sanctions on them." The reason cited was India's purchase of oil from Russia, which has led the US to impose import duties of up to 50% on India.

The solution to ending the Russia-Ukraine war: Stop oil purchases

Trump insisted that if European and Asian countries, especially India and China, stop buying oil from Russia, Putin will have no choice but to abandon the war. He said, "If oil prices fall and Russia can't sell oil, they will have to compromise."

Claim of 'mediation' in the India-Pakistan conflict

Trump also claimed that he played a role in ending the conflict between India and Pakistan earlier this year (Operation Sindoor, following the Pulwama attack). According to him, "India and Pakistan are two nuclear-armed countries, and we were telling them that if they want to do business, they must first maintain peace."

However, the Indian government has repeatedly denied this claim and clarified that the ceasefire with Pakistan was reached through direct talks between Indian and Pakistani military officials, not through any third-party mediation.

Putin disappointed me, but Europe and NATO still buy Russian oil: Donald Trump

UK Visit and Technology Cooperation

Donald Trump and his wife, Melania Trump, were on a state visit to the UK, where they were invited by King Charles III to Windsor Castle. During the visit, Trump also spoke about promoting US-UK cooperation in areas such as AI and quantum technology.

Trump's statements make it clear that he wants to maintain a strong personal relationship with India, but the US will remain "tough" on issues such as trade and energy policy. His tough stance against Russia and claims of interference in India-Pakistan tensions could spark numerous international discussions.

For India, this situation demands a diplomatic balance, balancing its national interests with global partnerships.