US President Donald Trump’s shifting stance on India has raised eyebrows, especially after the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam. While he initially expressed full support for India, his later comments suggested a more neutral approach. This inconsistency isn’t just limited to his rhetoric but extends to trade and diplomatic relations, where Trump’s actions often contradict his words.
After the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Trump made a strong statement:
“Modi has our full support.“
Sounds powerful, right? But just days later, he switched tunes:
“There’s great tension between Pakistan and India, but there always has been. They’ll figure it out one way or another.”
Wait… what?
So is Trump standing with India, or stepping aside? This article exposes how Trump’s words often sound supportive — but actions (and timing) tell a different story.
The Flip-Flop Pattern: From “Support” to “Sort It Out”
Let’s break it down:
- During crisis (like Pahalgam attack): He shows strong support, using words like “full support” for India and praising PM Modi.
- But when things cool down or get complicated (like global diplomacy or Pakistan pressure): He softens, shrugs it off, or plays neutral.
This isn’t just diplomatic language — it’s a pattern of calculated convenience.
Apple, Tariffs, and Self-Interest Diplomacy
Trump’s hypocrisy towards India isn’t just in politics — it’s in trade too.
- He threatened India with tariffs over issues like medical devices and tech.
- Yet, he also pushed for Apple to shift its manufacturing from China to India, praising India’s low labor costs and business potential.
So basically:
When it’s good for business, praise India.
When it’s about real support or international responsibility, back off.
That’s not friendship. That’s pure deal-making diplomacy.
Is This Hypocrisy Exclusive to India?
Mostly, yes — here’s why:
- With Israel: Trump went out of his way to support them, even moving the US embassy to Jerusalem.
- With Ukraine: Clear support, weapons, and aid (even if messy at times).
- With India: Praise in speeches, but no real stand when it matters. From Kashmir to cross-border terrorism, the US often chooses silence or neutral statements.
India is treated like a side character in a game where Trump wants to look powerful but not commit fully.
Why is Trump’s hypocrisy especially visible with India?
Because with India, Trump sees economic opportunity but not strategic urgency. Unlike NATO allies or conflict zones like Ukraine or Israel, where the US has military or ideological stakes, India is treated more like a “business partner” than a “strategic ally.” So Trump praises India when it benefits him (trade, tech, elections) — but avoids real support when it involves taking a stand (like against Pakistan or on terrorism).
The Psychology Behind It: Trump Plays to His Base
Trump knows that strong statements against terrorism or pro-Modi talk plays well with certain voter groups, especially Indian-Americans in swing states. But when it comes to actual policy?
It’s always “America First” — even if that means betraying an ally.
Should India Be More Cautious?
Yes. India needs to realise that American support — especially under leaders like Trump — is not emotional or ideological. It’s transactional.
We must ask:
- Are we just a backup manufacturing hub when China fails?
- Are we a market to dump US tech and products?
- Or are we a strategic ally who deserves consistent support?
Conclusion: Time to See Through the PR Game
Trump’s changing tones are not just about diplomacy — they reveal a deeper pattern of hypocrisy in how the US treats India. Friendship shouldn’t be based on convenience.
It’s time India starts reading between the lines.
