Modi and Trump Review Ties Amid US Tariff Threats

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump held a telephonic conversation on September 30, 2026, to review bilateral cooperation in trade, defense, energy, and critical technologies. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership and discussed international efforts to advance global peace and security.

The call takes place as trade tensions rise following the US enactment of the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026. This legislation authorizes tariffs of up to 100 percent on countries purchasing Russian oil and gas, a measure that directly impacts India.

In response to these pressures, Indian Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal traveled to Milwaukee for the G20 Trade Ministers' Meeting to negotiate an interim trade deal with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. While External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has highlighted the complexities of the US tariff framework, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that the administration is planning a presidential visit to India in early 2027.