New Delhi–Washington: Relations between India and the United States have reportedly worsened following a phone call between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 17 June 2025, according to a New York Times report. The conversation allegedly sparked anger from PM Modi and exposed growing tensions over US trade policies and diplomatic expectations.
The Controversial Call
During a 35-minute phone call, President Trump reportedly asked PM Modi to nominate Pakistan for a Nobel Prize, suggesting that India should follow suit. The request angered Modi, who reminded Trump that the India-Pakistan ceasefire had already been established independently, and that India would not act at America’s behest.
The report indicates that Modi was frustrated by what he perceived as meddling in India’s sovereign decisions, particularly regarding diplomacy with Pakistan.
Growing Trade Tensions
Weeks after the call, the Trump administration imposed 25% additional tariffs on Indian exports, bringing the total US tariff on India to 50%. This move coincided with India continuing Russian oil purchases, which had already angered Washington. Sources cited by the New York Times claim that the leaders have not had any further conversation since the June phone call.
Why Relations Deteriorated
The NYT report highlights that the phone call symbolized deeper strains:
-
Trump’s demand regarding the Nobel was seen as unacceptable interference by India.
-
US pressure on India over trade and energy policies further aggravated the situation.
-
The combination of diplomatic and economic pressures has strained bilateral trust, even though official Indo-US relations remain intact.
This revelation underscores ongoing challenges in the Indo-US relationship, with trade disputes, geopolitical interests, and differing approaches to Pakistan creating friction at the highest levels.
read more-“We Are Committed to Mutual Trust and Respect,” PM Modi Says in Meeting with Xi Jinping