1 hour ago
Last Updated:January 21, 2026, 21:35 IST
On the trade deal, the US President exclusively told Moneycontrol, “We are going to have a good deal.”
US President Donald Trump with PM Modi. (Photo: Reuters/File)
US President Donald Trump praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi in remarks to News18’s sister publication Moneycontrol, delivering his only on-camera byte to an Indian journalist at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Calling PM Modi a close friend, Trump expressed confidence that India and the United States would reach a trade agreement.
“I have great respect for your Prime Minister. He’s a fantastic man and a friend of mine," Trump said.
The remarks come as Washington and New Delhi continue high-stakes negotiations aimed at resolving a prolonged trade standoff marked by tariffs, geopolitical tensions and disputes over energy and agriculture.
Trump’s comments struck a notably warm tone amid otherwise strained trade relations between the two countries. Asked directly about a potential trade agreement, the US President said simply, “We are going to have a good deal."
Russian Oil And Tariff Warnings
Earlier this month, Trump publicly linked India’s trade treatment to its purchases of Russian oil, claiming New Delhi had reduced imports in response to US pressure.
“They wanted to make me happy," Trump said at the time, adding, “Basically, Modi is a very good man. He knew I was not happy, and it was important to make me happy."
Trump warned that India could face swift trade consequences if it failed to align with Washington’s position on Russian energy.
“We do trade, and we can raise tariffs on them very quickly," he said, adding, “And it would be very bad for them."
New Delhi has denied giving assurances that it would curb Russian oil imports, maintaining that its energy decisions are guided by national interest and price stability.
India-US Trade Relationship Under Strain
Trade ties between India and the United States remain under significant strain. The Donald Trump administration currently imposes tariffs totalling 50% on most Indian exports, including penalties linked to India’s continued engagement with Russia and its participation in the BRICS grouping.
India has responded cautiously, introducing retaliatory duties on selected US agricultural imports. Key sticking points remain unresolved as the White House continues to press India to open its agricultural markets further- a sensitive issue for New Delhi, which views farm protections as non-negotiable. At the same time, Trump has continued to link tariff relief to India’s energy policy, warning that further penalties could follow if Russian oil purchases continue.
First Published:
January 21, 2026, 21:13 IST
News world 'He's A Fantastic Man': Trump Signals Trade Deal Momentum With India, Lauds 'Friend' PM Modi
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