US President Donald Trump has phoned Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to extend early birthday wishes, describing him as “a good friend” and thanking him for cooperation on efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war.
The call came on the eve of Modi’s 75th birthday, in what is being viewed as an attempt to inject warmth back into Washington–New Delhi ties that have recently been strained by trade tensions.
On Tuesday, the same day as the call, trade representatives of both countries held their first round of talks in New Delhi aimed at reaching a bilateral agreement. India’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry said the discussions were “positive” and focused on expediting a deal beneficial to both sides. The US embassy also confirmed that Deputy US Trade Representative Brendan Lynch met with Indian Commerce Ministry Special Secretary Rajesh Agarwal to discuss next steps.
Relations have been unsettled in recent months after Trump imposed an additional 50 percent tariff on Indian goods, citing New Delhi’s continued purchase of Russian oil. He warned that tougher sanctions could follow unless India cut trade with Moscow, claiming that buying Russian oil indirectly finances the war in Ukraine.
New Delhi, however, has stood firm. Modi has repeatedly stated that India will not compromise its national interests. Despite multiple rounds of talks in Washington, no breakthrough had been reached until the latest discussions in Delhi.
After the call, Trump wrote on Truth Social: “Had a wonderful phone conversation with my friend Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Wished him a happy birthday. He is doing an incredible job. Thank you for your support in ending the Russia-Ukraine war!”
Modi responded on X, thanking Trump for the wishes and stressing his commitment to strengthening India–US ties. “We support your initiative for a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine crisis,” he wrote.
The twin developments — a conciliatory call from Trump and the resumption of trade negotiations — are being seen as steps toward reviving the once-close partnership between the two nations.
