After what could arguably be described as a fruitful visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the United States earlier this month, it seems that President Donald Trump is still targeting India. Reportedly, Trump has accused the allocation of $21 million for voter turnout in India as a “kickback scheme.”
“And $21 million for voter turnout in India. Why are we caring about India turnout? We got enough problems. We want our own turnout, don’t we? Can you imagine all that money going to India? I wonder what they think when they get it. Now, it’s a kickback scheme. You know, it’s not like they get it and they spend, they kick it back to the people that send it. I would say in many cases, many of these cases, anytime you have no idea what we’re talking about, that means there’s a kickback because nobody has any idea what’s going on there,” he said.
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Reportedly, India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) echoed these claims, alleging the funds were used to support “deep-state assets” in India.
In February 2025, Modi visited the U.S. for a high-profile meeting with President Trump. The discussions focused on strengthening the U.S.-India strategic partnership, with a special emphasis on defense, trade, and technology.
One of the key topics was the enhancement of defense cooperation, including the potential sale of advanced F-35 jets to India as part of a ten-year defense collaboration agreement. The two leaders also discussed ways to reduce the U.S. trade deficit with India, with Trump advocating for measures like raising tariffs.
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While the meeting was largely focused on economic and strategic interests, it notably did not touch on human rights issues or the treatment of minorities in India, a topic that has been a point of contention in U.S.-India relations. The visit underscored the growing influence of the bilateral partnership.
Though Modi and the BJP claim that the meeting was fruitful, Trump still plans on imposing reciprocal tariffs on India. His stance on India does not seem to have softened if one pays attention to his recent rhetoric.