Trump Hails Modi as ‘A Great Man,’ Teases Possible Trip to India in 2026

US President Donald Trump has once again referred to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as “a great man,” affirming that trade discussions between India and the United States are “going well.” The American leader indicated he might make a trip to India next year, marking a significant step in bolstering the India-US alliance.

During a press conference at the White House, Trump shared that negotiations between Washington and New Delhi concerning an ambitious trade agreement are moving forward positively. He expressed his fondness for Prime Minister Modi, noting him as “a friend” and commending India’s initiative to “largely stop buying oil from Russia,” a remark he has reiterated often.

Previously, Trump imposed a 50% tariff on certain Indian imports, including a 25% surcharge concerning Russian oil and military supplies, justifying that these transactions indirectly fueled Moscow’s war efforts. India has countered these allegations, asserting that its oil purchases are driven by national priorities and economic considerations.

The US and India are in talks regarding a comprehensive trade agreement intended to enhance collaboration in technology, energy, and defense sectors. Trump emphasized how the two nations are “working together like never before,” adding, “Prime Minister Modi is a great man, and I will be going [to India]. We’ll figure that out soon enough.”

While Trump did not provide specific dates, he suggested that the visit could occur in 2026. His comments arrive amid uncertainty about his attendance at the forthcoming Quad Summit—a strategic dialogue involving the US, India, Japan, and Australia—scheduled to be hosted by India later this year. The Quad aims to bolster regional stability and enhance economic growth in the Indo-Pacific region.

Despite Trump’s claims regarding a reduction in Indian imports of Russian oil, recent statistics indicate a slight uptick in those imports for October, compared to September. India continues to be the second-largest buyer of Russian crude after China, with Russian oil accounting for nearly 40% of India’s total imports in 2024, a significant rise from just 3% in 2021.

India has persistently defended its oil procurement strategy, stressing the requirement for affordable energy to support its large population. The Indian government maintains that as a developing nation, it must prioritize its citizens' welfare while managing global diplomatic relationships.

In the meantime, the US is urging India to amplify its intake of American oil and gas. An official from India's Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas confirmed that both countries are engaged in “ongoing talks” to enhance energy collaboration and diversify India’s oil sources.

Despite previous tensions regarding oil from Russia, recent events indicate a revival of cooperative relations. Trump has mentioned maintaining regular contact with Prime Minister Modi, underscoring the mutual respect and shared vision for more robust bilateral ties.

In 2024, the United States emerged as India’s largest trading ally, with bilateral trade nearly reaching $190 billion. Both leaders aspire to more than double this number to $500 billion in the forthcoming years—a goal seen as feasible provided the upcoming trade agreement is successfully executed.

As Trump’s prospective visit to India garners attention, global analysts interpret it as a potential turning point in India-US relations, indicating a deeper strategic partnership between the two democracies.