US Officials Stress Positive Trajectory in Ties With India Amid Short-Term Turbulence

US-India relations are experiencing a period of diplomatic ups and downs, but officials maintain that the partnership remains robust despite occasional public friction, according to ANI.

A senior State Department official acknowledged “turbulence” in the bilateral relationship, largely arising from mixed signals out of Washington. President Donald Trump’s outspoken remarks have contributed to perceptions of a “hot and cold” dynamic, but the official emphasised that the long-term trajectory is positive.

“The President is not shy about when he is frustrated with countries. You’ll see it on Truth Social. This is one of the most transparent administrations in history,” the official said. Despite blunt communications, the administration maintains that India is “a good friend and a partner of the future.”

High-level engagement continues to anchor the relationship. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, soon after taking office, met with the Quad grouping—the US, India, Japan, and Australia—before holding bilateral talks with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first foreign leaders to visit the White House after Trump’s inauguration.

“When you step back from this brief moment, and look at the relationship, it is really on a positive trajectory, and it’s only expanding,” the official noted.

Trade and energy disagreements have created friction. The US has imposed 50% tariffs on Indian imports and continues to press New Delhi to reduce Russian energy purchases, part of broader efforts to restrict Moscow’s war revenue. “The Russian oil issue was absolutely discussed, as it’s discussed in every single engagement we have,” the official said, referring to Rubio’s recent meeting with Jaishankar in New York.

Despite these challenges, personal diplomacy between Trump and PM Modi remains strong. The leaders held an “incredibly positive” phone call on Modi’s 75th birthday, and Trump’s aide Sergio Gor is being considered as the next ambassador to New Delhi, highlighting the relationship’s strategic importance.

Officials also indicated that further meetings, including a potential Quad Summit later this year or in early 2026, are expected, underscoring ongoing engagement and the long-term stability of US-India ties.