US President Donald Trump on Sunday, 25 May 2025, declared his strong support for India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a surprise live video call at a New Delhi event marking the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence. Trump told attendees that the two nations have 'never been closer' and pledged unconditional backing to India.

What Trump Said

Joining the event via a live call, Trump addressed US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, US Secretary of State and acting National Security Advisor Marco Rubio, and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who were all present at the gathering.

'I just want to say hello to everybody. I love the Prime Minister. PM Modi is great; he is my friend,' Trump said during the call.

Addressing the Indian people directly, Trump added: 'I just wanna say you are great. We have never been closer to India, and India can count on me and our country 100 per cent. If they need any help, they know where to call.' He also claimed his administration was 'setting records' on the economy and stock market.

'Anything India wants, they will get. I am a big, big fan of Prime Minister Modi,' Trump said, before signing off.

Context: Rubio's Four-Day India Visit

Trump's remarks came during Secretary Rubio's four-day visit to India — the most senior US diplomatic engagement with New Delhi in recent months. Rubio also extended a formal invitation from Trump for PM Modi to visit the White House, underlining the personal dimension of the bilateral relationship.

The visit carries significant weight, coming amid months of friction between the two countries over tariffs and trade policies pursued by Washington. Observers view Rubio's presence in New Delhi as a deliberate effort to reassure India of US commitment and to accelerate negotiations on a comprehensive bilateral trade framework.

Trade Talks: Rubio Signals Progress

At a joint media briefing with EAM Jaishankar earlier on Sunday, Rubio expressed optimism about the trajectory of trade negotiations. 'We've made tremendous progress, and I think we're going to wind up with a trade agreement between the US and India that is going to be enduring and beneficial to both sides, while remaining sustainable in a way that addresses the national interests that we have,' he said.

Jaishankar's presence at both the bilateral briefing and the anniversary event signals New Delhi's intent to leverage the diplomatic moment fully.

What This Signals for India-US Ties

Trump's effusive language — rare in its directness — is notable given the broader context of US trade assertiveness under his administration. While Washington has imposed or threatened tariffs on several trading partners, Trump's public statements position India as a favoured partner. Notably, this is the second high-profile outreach to India within weeks, following earlier phone calls between Modi and Trump on regional security issues.

With a potential White House visit by Modi on the horizon and trade talks described as advancing, the coming weeks could prove decisive in shaping the next chapter of India-US strategic and economic engagement.