Tariffs and Chabahar: Is Trump Using Modi’s Praise to Mask Pressure on India?

International News: India-US relations remain tense. US President Donald Trump has imposed a 25 percent secondary tariff on India for its purchase of Russian oil. This brings the total US tariff on India to 50 percent, the highest on any country. This move has directly impacted Indian trade.

The Trump administration has also ended the exemption granted to India for the development of Iran's Chabahar port, posing a challenge to India's strategic Chabahar project.

Trump's Praise and Strategic Pressure

However, Trump is constantly praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He described Modi as a "very close friend" and "good working leader." On 17 September, he also congratulated Modi on his birthday.

Diplomatic expert Brahma Chellaney says that Trump's policy is a mix of flattery and pressure. Chellaney said, "Trump praises Modi, but the underlying motive is to maintain pressure on India and serve his own interests. This is not a simple friendship, but a strategic move."

Continuous Setbacks

Trump's second term has seen a decline in Indo-US relations. He first imposed a 25 percent tariff on Indian goods and now increased an additional 25 percent tariff on Russian oil purchases. In addition, visa rules for Indian IT professionals have also been tightened.

Toughness in the Midst of Friendship

Trump said at a press conference during the UK tour that he and Modi had good relations but did not withdraw from implementing the ban against India. Experts believe that this is the style of "Art of the Deal," which includes both the sweetness and economic pressure of relationships.

It is clear from this development that the balance of friendship and business interests between India and America still remains challenging.