Trump hints at India visit, says trade talks ‘going good’

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday that trade negotiations with India are progressing well and hinted at a possible visit to the country next year, as both nations work toward concluding a high-stakes trade agreement.

Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump described Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as “a friend” and “a great man,” praising what he claimed was India’s move to “largely stop buying oil from Russia.” The president has made similar assertions in recent weeks, though New Delhi has not confirmed such a shift.

Trump’s remarks come just months after his administration imposed 50% tariffs on Indian exports in August — including a 25% penalty tied to India’s purchases of Russian oil and military equipment. The U.S. president has repeatedly argued that such trade with Moscow helps fund Russia’s war in Ukraine, a claim India has firmly denied, citing its independent energy and defense policies.

Negotiations between Washington and New Delhi have intensified in recent months, as both sides seek to finalize a deal aimed at reducing tariffs and boosting bilateral trade. Trump expressed optimism about the talks, saying they were “going good.”

Asked about the possibility of visiting India, Trump said, “We will figure that out. I will go… Prime Minister Modi is a great man and I will be going.” While he did not provide a specific timeline, he suggested the visit could take place sometime next year.

Analysts say a successful trade deal and a potential visit would mark an important step in strengthening U.S.–India relations amid shifting global alliances and economic competition with China.