President Donald Trump has a special affinity for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India, according to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. In Washington on February 4, she unpacked a pivotal trade deal, framing it as a testament to the leaders’ robust personal connection and shared economic vision.
Central to the agreement is India’s move to end oil imports from Russia in favor of Venezuela. Russia claims no prior notice from India, and New Delhi remains silent so far. Leavitt boldly stated that Modi agreed to this shift and to procure oil from American or Venezuelan sources, yielding direct advantages for US interests.
The briefing spotlighted Trump’s unwavering tariff policies. ‘Our manufacturing sector is something the president cares about deeply, which is why he’s so dedicated,’ Leavitt said. Following direct talks with Modi, Trump secured commitments for $500 billion in Indian investments targeting transportation, energy, and agriculture.
Leavitt connected these wins to Trump’s broader agenda: ‘His tariff policy and economic plan are delivering results. By spurring manufacturing and investments, we’re creating jobs.’ Construction sector jobs have notably increased recently, a byproduct of Trump’s efforts to lure international capital homeward.
Reiterating the leaders’ chemistry, Leavitt noted, ‘President Trump particularly enjoys his ties with PM Modi and India.’ This warmth has facilitated breakthroughs, from energy realignments to investment booms.
The deal not only bolsters bilateral trade but also reinforces geopolitical alignments. As the US champions its manufacturing revival, partnerships like this with India pave the way for sustained growth and energy security.