Amid escalating trade tensions between New Delhi and Washington, a German newspaper has reported that Prime Minister Narendra Modi declined to answer four phone calls from US President Donald Trump in recent weeks. According to Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ), this was seen as a reflection of “the depth of Modi’s anger, but also his caution” over the ongoing tariff row.
The German daily further noted that Modi’s reluctance to engage with Trump highlights the seriousness of his displeasure at Washington’s trade measures. A Japanese publication, Nikkei Asia, also carried similar claims, stating that Modi’s avoidance of Trump’s calls has “heightened the US President’s frustration.”
The Tariff Dispute
Relations between the two countries have been strained since President Trump imposed steep tariffs on Indian exports, raising duties to 50 percent — the highest for any nation other than Brazil. The move included an additional 25 percent levy on India’s imports of Russian crude oil.
India, however, has maintained that it will firmly protect its national interests. Prime Minister Modi has repeatedly emphasized that the country will “never compromise” the welfare of its farmers, even in the face of mounting US pressure.
FAZ reported that India’s unwillingness to bow to Washington’s demands demonstrates a significant shift in New Delhi’s approach, with clear signs that Modi felt “insulted” by the US President’s policies.
Pakistan Factor
The German daily also highlighted another source of strain: Trump’s remarks about improving relations with Pakistan. Since May, the US President has claimed credit for mediating to reduce tensions between India and Pakistan — a statement India has firmly rejected. The reports suggest that Trump’s “showmanship and deal-driven diplomacy” have further strained ties with New Delhi.
China Angle
Analyst Mark Frazier, speaking to FAZ, said the US vision of positioning India as a central pillar in its Indo-Pacific strategy to contain China “is falling apart.” He argued that New Delhi never fully intended to side with Washington against Beijing. Instead, India and China share converging interests in expanding influence within global institutions.
Frazier also suggested that China’s investment and technology could support India’s industrial ambitions, while India could play an important role in boosting Beijing’s global geopolitical standing. “India’s shift is strategic, not merely a reaction to tariffs. With the US pulling back, India and China share interests in global influence and industrial growth,” he said.
Modi’s Upcoming China Visit
Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to visit China at the end of August to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. This will be his first visit to China in the current context and is being viewed as a move to ease tensions with Beijing, while closely monitoring the evolving dynamics of US-China relations.
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