Trump slams India’s trade with U.S. after Modi meets Putin and Xi

In early September 2025, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Tianjin, China, where he met with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. This meeting, Modi's first visit to China in seven years, showcased a symbolic unity among these three leaders, especially against the backdrop of escalating tensions with the United States over trade. During the summit, Xi condemned aggressive behavior by some nations, broadly interpreted as a criticism of U.S. foreign policy. Modi, in his messages, indicated India's desire to strengthen partnerships with China, positioning himself as a partner rather than a rival to Beijing. The summit took place soon after the implementation of new heavy tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Indian goods, which had heighted tensions between Washington and New Delhi. As President Donald Trump introduced a 50% tariff on Indian imports, he labeled the trade relationship as a "totally one-sided disaster," pointing out India's high tariffs on U.S. goods that hindered American businesses from competing in India. Trump further emphasized that while the U.S. is India's largest client, India has been largely selling to the U.S. without reciprocation, inviting scrutiny on India's trade practices. During the summit, Modi was observed sharing warm interactions with Putin and Xi, including a limousine ride with Putin. The congenial atmosphere and public displays of friendship raised concerns in Washington regarding India's pivot toward Russia and China amid deteriorating ties with the U.S. Analysts interpreted the gatherings as reflective of shifting global alliances, suggesting that India is reevaluating its partnership with the United States in light of Trump's tariffs and foreign policy stance. Although Modi expressed excitement about welcoming Putin to India later in the year, Trump's responses underscored a significant risk of alienating India further through his provocative trade policies. The broader implications of this summit suggest a potential realignment of power dynamics in global politics, with the SCO being seen as a viable alternative platform to challenge Western influence. By reaffirming ties with Russia and China, India may signal a strategic counterbalance to U.S. dominance. This could potentially set the stage for a significant geopolitical shift, as the leaders at the summit discussed shared interests in development and security, while aiming to redefine their roles in the global order, largely at the expense of Western-led frameworks.