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Trump signals progress in US-India trade talks, hints at 2026 visit
US President Donald Trump stated on Thursday that trade negotiations with India are "going good," while suggesting a potential visit to the country next year. Speaking at a White House press briefing, Trump praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as "a friend" and "a great man," reiterating his claim that India has "largely stopped buying oil from Russia"-a statement he has made repeatedly in recent weeks.
Trade tensions and tariffs
Trump imposed 50% tariffs on India in August, including a 25% penalty for purchasing Russian oil and arms, which he argues funds Moscow's war in Ukraine. Delhi has denied these allegations. The tariffs came amid broader efforts to finalize a high-stakes trade deal between the two nations this fall.
While trade talks had stalled for months due to India's continued Russian oil imports, recent discussions indicate a thaw in relations. However, India has not directly confirmed Trump's assertion about reducing imports. Preliminary data from Reuters in October showed a slight increase in Russian oil shipments to India compared to September, though major refiners in India and China have since cut purchases following new US sanctions on Russian producers.
India's oil imports and US pressure
India, the world's second-largest importer of Russian crude after China, sourced 35% to 40% of its oil from Russia in 2024-up from just 3% in 2021. Delhi has defended these purchases, citing the need to secure affordable energy for its population and pointing to Europe's ongoing oil trade with Russia as evidence of selective scrutiny.
The Trump administration has pushed India to diversify its energy imports, urging greater reliance on US oil and gas. An Indian government spokesperson previously noted that discussions with Washington were "ongoing," with the US expressing interest in deepening energy cooperation.
Diplomatic ties and future engagements
Trump's remarks also touched on a possible visit to India, though no timeline was specified. "We will figure that out, I will go... Prime Minister Modi is a great man and I will be going," he said, hinting at a 2026 trip. The announcement follows uncertainty over whether Trump will attend the Quad Summit, scheduled for November in India. The Quad-a strategic alliance of the US, India, Japan, and Australia-focuses on Indo-Pacific security and prosperity, but exact summit dates remain unconfirmed.
Despite past strains over India's Russian oil purchases, bilateral relations appear to be improving. Trump has emphasized frequent communication with Modi, and both leaders have publicly reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening US-India ties. In 2024, bilateral trade reached $190 billion, with ambitions to exceed $500 billion in the coming years.
"Supplies have stabilized, but conservation remains essential."
Donald Trump on US-India trade progress, November 7, 2025
