Trump and Modi Signal Thaw in Strained US-India Ties With Social Media Messages

Relations between the United States and India, which had sunk to their lowest point in years after Washington slapped steep tariffs on Indian exports, may be inching toward a reset. Both President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared conciliatory messages on social media this week, signaling renewed momentum in stalled trade talks.

Trump said he was “pleased to announce” that negotiations were continuing to address trade barriers between the two countries. He added that he looked forward to speaking soon with his “very good friend, Prime Minister Modi,” and expressed confidence the talks would reach a successful conclusion.

Modi, in his own message, described the US as a “close friend and natural partner.” He said trade discussions would “pave the way for unlocking the limitless potential of the India-US partnership” and confirmed that both sides were working to conclude negotiations quickly.

India and the US are close friends and natural partners. I am confident that our trade negotiations will pave the way for unlocking the limitless potential of the India-US partnership. Our teams are working to conclude these discussions at the earliest. I am also looking forward… pic.twitter.com/3K9hlJxWcl

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 10, 2025

The statements mark a sharp shift in tone after weeks of escalating tension. In late August, Trump imposed a 50 percent tariff on a wide range of Indian exports, citing India’s continued imports of Russian oil. The move rattled Indian markets, hit exporters in textiles, seafood, and jewelry, and prompted strong pushback from New Delhi, which defended its right to pursue energy security on its own terms.

Diplomatic analysts had warned that the tariff dispute, coupled with Trump’s public accusations that India was undermining sanctions on Moscow, threatened to undo two decades of steady progress in bilateral ties. India responded by deepening its outreach to Russia and China, raising questions about Washington’s long-term influence in the region.

The latest exchange between Trump and Modi suggests an effort to steady the relationship. Markets responded with cautious optimism, with Indian shares edging higher as the prospect of resumed talks eased immediate concerns.

For Washington, resolving trade friction with India remains important as it seeks to balance China’s rise in the Indo-Pacific. For New Delhi, maintaining access to the US market is critical for millions of export-driven jobs, even as it pursues a policy of strategic autonomy.

The tone from both leaders indicates pragmatism, but experts say rebuilding trust will take time. The coming weeks, as Trump and Modi prepare for direct talks, will test whether their words translate into meaningful compromise.