It Is a Blow to Historic Ties and the Spirit of Global Friendship
In a surprising development, former U.S. President Donald Trump has once again taken center stage by proposing steep tariff hikes on Indian goods, citing trade imbalances and protection of American industries. While this is not the first time Trump has targeted India during his political career, the move has stirred deep emotions across India, where many still remember the friendly gestures shared between both nations in recent years.
A Friendship Put to Test
The U.S. and India have shared a complex yet cooperative relationship for decades. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, that relationship appeared to deepen, especially when Trump and Modi shared the stage at the iconic “Howdy, Modi” event in Houston in 2019. This massive rally, attended by over 50,000 people, showcased the strength of U.S.-India ties. Modi even campaigned subtly in favor of Trump during the 2020 elections, and later extended a grand invitation to Trump for a state visit to India in 2020, resulting in the much-publicized “Namaste Trump” rally in Ahmedabad.
However, those warm memories seem forgotten. Trump's aggressive stance today has left many Indians wondering: Has America forgotten who stood by them?
India’s Long-Standing Bond with Russia
India has always valued peace and diplomacy, seeking to build strong partnerships globally while maintaining its independent foreign policy. Russia, formerly the Soviet Union, has been India’s time-tested friend since the Cold War era. From defense to energy, Russia has supported India in critical times.
Now, in a twist of irony, India has released reports indicating that the U.S. itself has been purchasing energy and materials from Russia—even as it criticizes others for the same. The Indian government subtly pointed out this hypocrisy, reminding the world that loyal friends are those who stand by you in danger, not just in diplomacy.
A Wake-Up Call from the West
Despite India’s admiration for European values, technology, and development, Europe too has not lived up to expectations recently. As the geopolitical landscape shifts, the West seems more interested in imposing rules than building mutual partnerships. Sanctions, tariff wars, and trade restrictions have become tools of dominance rather than diplomacy.
What Indians Want: Respect and Peace
At the heart of all this, Indians desire peace, prosperity, and fair global partnerships. India doesn’t want to choose sides in a new Cold War. Instead, it seeks recognition for its balanced stance, democratic strength, and commitment to global harmony.
Tariffs and pressure tactics might serve short-term political interests, but they erode long-term goodwill. India’s message is simple: We don’t forget friends who stood with us in the storm—and we don’t appreciate those who forget us when the storm is over.
