Is India a 'Proud and Strong Nation' Facing New Directions Due to Trump's Policies?
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Synopsis
In a critical assessment, former US NSA Susan Rice calls India a 'proud and strong nation' potentially steering away from the US due to Trump's policies. As diplomatic ties seem to mend, this statement raises questions about the future of India-US relations.
Key Takeaways
- Susan Rice views India as a 'proud and strong nation'.
- Trump's policies may drive India away from the US.
- Recent phone calls suggest improving US-India relations.
- India is exploring its options with other global powers.
- Positive discussions have taken place despite criticisms.
Washington, Sep 16 (NationPress) Former US National Security Advisor (NSA) Susan Rice has referred to India as a “proud and strong nation” that might “take a different path” due to the policies of the Trump administration, which she deemed a “significant loss” for the United States.
During an event hosted by the Council on Foreign Relations, a prominent think tank, Rice criticized President Donald Trump’s attempt to claim credit for easing tensions between India and Pakistan, citing it as a primary factor in the deteriorating relationship with New Delhi.
“This situation seems driven more by personal grievances, as India did not enthusiastically accept the President's narrative about resolving the India-Pakistan conflict for reasons well understood by many of us. Consequently, we now observe India, a proud and strong nation, indicating a desire to forge a new direction. This is a substantial loss,” Rice articulated.
This commentary comes at a time when the India-US relationship appears to be improving. Recently, President Trump reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to convey birthday greetings for his 75th birthday.
In a post on X, Modi referred to Trump as his “friend” and expressed gratitude for the warm wishes.
“Thank you, my friend, President Trump, for your phone call and warm greetings on my 75th birthday. Like you, I am also fully committed to elevating the India-US Comprehensive and Global Partnership. We support your initiatives for a peaceful resolution of the conflict in Ukraine,” PM Modi stated.
Trump, in a post on Truth Social, described the call as “wonderful” and thanked Modi for his assistance in seeking to resolve the Ukraine conflict.
“Had a wonderful phone call with my friend, Prime Minister Narendra Modi. I wished him a very Happy Birthday! He is doing a tremendous job. Narendra: Thank you for your support in ending the War between Russia and Ukraine! President DJT,” he wrote.
The call coincided with discussions led by US Assistant Trade Representative for South and Central Asia Brendan Lynch with India’s chief trade negotiator and Ministry of Commerce and Industry Special Secretary Rajesh Agrawal in Delhi earlier on Tuesday.
Both parties described the talks as “positive.”
Despite this recent thaw, Rice expressed her disapproval of the Trump administration’s overall strategy toward India, suggesting it has “driven” the nation closer to China and Russia “in a matter of weeks.”
“What stood out during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation gathering was, among other things, India moving closer to Russia and China, with whom they had recently engaged in military confrontations,” she noted during the Washington event.
In an exclusive interview with IANS last week, Congresswoman Deborah Ross described Prime Minister Modi’s trip to China as a “strategic move” to convey to the United States that “he has alternatives.”
“I believe it was a wise decision, as he demonstrated that he has options,” she remarked.
Point of View
It’s important to highlight that while diplomatic relations between India and the US are currently experiencing a thaw, the underlying tensions stemming from policy differences cannot be overlooked. The focus should be on fostering mutual respect and understanding to ensure a stable partnership moving forward.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Susan Rice say about India's relationship with the US?
Susan Rice described India as a 'proud and strong nation' that might move in a different direction due to the Trump administration's policies, which she sees as a significant loss for the US.
How has the US-India relationship changed recently?
Despite past tensions, recent interactions between President Trump and Prime Minister Modi suggest a warming of relations, with discussions framed as 'positive' by both sides.
What are the implications of Rice's statements for US foreign policy?
Rice's comments indicate a need for the US to reassess its approach to India to avoid further distancing, particularly in light of India's growing ties with China and Russia.
