In the middle of difficult trade negotiations and heightened tariff pressure from Washington, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump held what was described as a &ldquo;warm and engaging&rdquo; phone conversation on Thursday. The call came hours after senior trade officials concluded another round of discussions in Delhi to rescue the long-pending Indo-US trade agreement.
Both leaders reviewed the trajectory of bilateral relations and exchanged views on regional and global developments. Despite months of friction over steep US tariffs on Indian exports, the official readout from New Delhi refrained from mentioning these flashpoints, indicating a cautious diplomatic approach as India seeks concessions on key market-access issues.
The call took place a day after US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer remarked that Washington had received its &ldquo;best ever&rdquo; offer from India, even as he described New Delhi as a &ldquo;difficult nut to crack&rdquo;. The broader backdrop includes the Ukraine conflict, evolving global alignments, and shifting energy partnerships, particularly after Russia assured India of uninterrupted fuel supplies despite US pressure.
With US tariffs doubled earlier this year and India reluctant to open its markets to American farm products, negotiations remain delicate. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to advancing cooperation in technology, defence, energy, and strategic security under the India&ndash;US Compact, signalling intent to stabilise ties amid growing geopolitical uncertainty.

Modi–Trump Hold ‘Warm’ Call Amid Trade Push

India and US review ties as stalled trade talks and tariff tensions shadow discussions

Modi–Trump Hold ‘Warm’ Call Amid Trade Push

India and US review ties as stalled trade talks and tariff tensions shadow discussions

December 12, 2025 | 09:52 IST