Will PM Modi meet Trump amid tariff tension? Will he visit the US at this time?

Amid the ongoing tariff tension between the US and India, PM Modi may meet US President Donald Trump. In fact, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) summit is going to be held in New York in September 2025. If reports are to be believed, there is a possibility of a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump on this tour.

If this meeting takes place, it will be the second meeting of the two leaders in seven months. PM Modi last visited the White House in February. During Trump’s first term, personal warmth was seen between the two leaders. At the same time, in the second term, there has been a strain in relations over tariff and trade issues.

PM Modi will meet Trump amid tariff tension! India-US Relations

Negotiations have been going on for a long time on a bilateral trade agreement between India and the US. But India’s stance on the agriculture and dairy sector has hindered this agreement. Meanwhile, the Trump administration imposed a 25% tariff on Indian products. An additional 25% duty was also added for buying oil from Russia. That is, the total tariff became 50%.

Half of these duties have come into effect from August 7. The rest will come into effect from August 27. In such a situation, high-level talks between the two countries have intensified. So that a solution can be reached before the deadline. This issue is not limited to trade only. Rather, it is also presenting a picture of the growing conflict between America’s economic security and India’s global trade interests.

Russia-Ukraine war and America’s displeasure

India’s purchase of oil from Russia amid the Ukraine war is a major concern for Washington. America says that this gives Moscow economic support to continue the war. President Trump has increased pressure on it to reduce imports from India.

Hoping that economic pressure will force Russia to end the war. India retaliated by saying that American companies themselves are buying uranium, chemicals and fertilizers from Russia. America’s attitude on this issue is quite frank. This statement has further deepened the diplomatic tension between the two countries.

Further strategy and Putin-Trump meeting

India will be keeping a close eye on the meeting between President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin on August 15. Possible ways to end the Ukraine war that has been going on for more than three years may be discussed. In this discussion, India can prepare a diplomatic strategy keeping in mind its energy and trade interests. This is not just a geopolitical event but can also be an opportunity for India to play its cards right on the global stage.