India-US relations in 2025 have been marked by sharp contrasts, moving from public bonhomie to growing tensions under President Trump’s second term. While leaders emphasized the “special partnership,” trade disputes, strategic divergences, and US outreach to Pakistan tested the resilience of bilateral ties, raising questions about future cooperation.
India-US ties, once celebrated for shared democratic values and strategic alignment, faced significant challenges in 2025 under President Donald Trump’s second term. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s early visit to Washington sought to stabilize relations, but subsequent developments revealed widening gaps in trade, defense, and strategic coordination.
Key highlights from the announcement include
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Prime Minister Modi visited Washington in February 2025 to revive stalled trade talks and set a constructive agenda.
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Despite symbolic warmth, the US imposed tariffs of up to 50% on Indian goods, derailing trade negotiations.
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Washington’s $686 million F-16 upgrade package for Pakistan and financing of its mining projects raised concerns in New Delhi.
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The US launched Pax Silica, a coalition on semiconductor and AI supply chains, excluding India, signaling strategic sidelining.
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India rejected US claims of mediating between India and Pakistan, emphasizing its stance on bilateral sovereignty.
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Analysts note that India’s long-standing policy of strategic autonomy faces new tests amid Trump’s unpredictable approach.
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The partnership, once framed by shared democratic values, is increasingly shaped by transactional priorities.
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Experts warn that India must recalibrate its foreign policy to manage cooling ties while safeguarding national interests.
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Despite tensions, both governments continue to describe the relationship as “special,” highlighting enduring areas of cooperation.
The year 2025 underscored the fragility of India-US relations in the Trump 2.0 era. While public camaraderie between leaders remains, underlying disputes in trade and strategic alignment have created uncertainty. India’s challenge lies in balancing autonomy with engagement, ensuring its global relevance amid shifting US priorities.
Sources: WebIndia123, Tribune India, East Asia Forum, NewKerala, Frontline (The Hindu)
