US President Donald Trump called Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday to extend warm birthday wishes. “Thank you, my friend, President Trump, for your phone call and warm greetings on my 75th birthday,” Modi posted on X, expressing gratitude for Trump’s gesture.
Thank you, my friend, President Trump, for your phone call and warm greetings on my 75th birthday. Like you, I am also fully committed to taking the India-US Comprehensive and Global Partnership to new heights. We support your initiatives towards a peaceful resolution of the…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 16, 2025
During the conversation, the two leaders also discussed the India-US relationship and the ongoing war in Ukraine. Modi offered his support to Trump’s efforts to mediate in the conflict.
“Like you, I am also fully committed to taking the India-US Comprehensive and Global Partnership to new heights. We support your initiatives towards a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict,” Modi stated.
Trade Talks Coincide with Leaders’ Call
The phone call came just hours after trade delegations from both countries met in New Delhi.
The US delegation was headed by Brendan Lynch, the Assistant US Trade Representative for South and Central Asia. Both sides described the discussions as “positive,” signaling possible progress in addressing ongoing trade disputes.
Trump Describes Conversation as “Wonderful”
Later, Trump shared details of the conversation on Truth Social, calling it a “wonderful phone call.”
“Just had a wonderful phone call with my friend, Prime Minister Narendra Modi. I wished him a very Happy Birthday! He is doing a tremendous job. Narendra: Thank you for your support on ending the War between Russia and Ukraine!” Trump wrote.
Trump also expressed gratitude for Modi’s backing of his peace efforts in Ukraine.
Strains in India-US Relations
The call took place at a sensitive time in India-US relations. In recent months, Trump and his aides have criticized India sharply, targeting issues like high tariffs and purchases of Russian oil.
He imposed 50 percent tariffs on Indian goods — including 25 percent reciprocal tariffs and 25 percent punitive tariffs tied to Russian oil imports.
Additionally, Trump’s moves on Kashmir, his outreach to Pakistan, and actions like Operation Sindoor have strained ties further, pushing the relationship to its lowest point in years. Observers say these policies have undermined decades of bipartisan progress in strengthening India-US ties since the Cold War.
India’s Response and Strategy
Despite Trump’s aggressive stance, India avoided escalation. The Modi government focused on diplomacy by engaging with the US and seeking trade deals with other partners, such as the European Union and South American countries, to mitigate the fallout of Trump’s tariffs. India’s strategy aimed to preserve dialogue while defending its own interests.
Signs of a Shift in Trump’s Approach
Recently, Trump has softened his tone toward India. He has praised Modi on several occasions and expressed a willingness to improve ties, even while continuing to raise concerns over tariffs.
This birthday call and his appreciative comments indicate that Trump may be attempting to repair the relationship with India, signaling a possible reset in the months ahead.
