Trump reminisces about his meeting with India’s Modi

President Donald Trump of the United States shared details of a meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, revealing that Modi requested permission to meet with him.

Speaking at the House GOP Member Retreat, Trump discussed the ongoing demand for the U.S.-made Apache helicopters, noting India has been waiting five years for these military aircraft.

Trump mentioned that India ordered 68 Apache helicopters, and recalled that Modi approached him with a request: “Sir, may I see you please?” Trump responded simply, “Yes.”

The president also acknowledged that Modi wasn’t entirely pleased with him due to tariffs imposed by Washington on India for buying Russian oil.

“I have a very good relationship with him. He’s not thrilled because of the tariffs we’ve put on, mainly because they’re not purchasing as much Russian oil—they’re buying less now, but they have reduced their purchases significantly,” Trump explained.

Additionally, Trump highlighted that the U.S. has imposed a 50% tariff on Indian goods, including a 25% tariff on Russian oil imports.

On Sunday, Trump indicated that the U.S. could escalate tariffs further if India does not comply with American demands to reduce its Russian oil purchases.

“Modi knew I was upset, and it was important to make me happy,” Trump added.

In response to a question about India’s Russian oil purchases, Trump stated, “Trade relations matter, and we can raise tariffs on them very quickly if needed.”

Last year, the U.S. doubled import tariffs on Indian exports to 50 as a penalty for India’s significant Russian oil imports. Despite these high tariffs, India’s exports to the U.S. increased notably in November.