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India voices concerns publicly as ties with US strain
Published : Friday, 2 October, 2026 at 12:22 PM
Observer Online Report
Collected Photo
India is publicly voicing its concerns over key issues with the US, moving away from quiet diplomacy as friction deepens over trade, Russian oil, and Pakistan.
Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted the rising strain during an event in New York, calling certain US policies self-centered. He also questioned Washington's stance on Indian security concerns and cross-border terrorism from Pakistan.
Trade remains a major point of friction between the two nations. Bilateral trade reached nearly 149.1 billion dollars in 2025, with India holding a 58.4 billion dollar trade surplus.
Negotiations over a bilateral trade agreement continue but remain unfinished due to sharp differences over agricultural markets. While the US demands greater access to the Indian market, New Delhi continues to protect its agricultural sector.
US pressure over India's purchases of Russian crude oil has further increased tension. Despite Washington's threats of high tariffs and sanctions, Russia remains India's primary crude oil supplier.
Tensions escalated further following US involvement and statements by President Donald Trump after a four-day military conflict between India and Pakistan in May 2025. India strongly opposes third-party mediation on Kashmir and expresses unease over Washington's growing closeness with Islamabad.
Domestic political pressure also plays a role in New Delhi's firmer stance. Opposition parties claim the government is bowing to US pressure, making the issue politically sensitive ahead of crucial state elections.
Changes to the H-1B visa program for skilled Indian workers have added to India's frustration over US immigration policies. Jaishankar noted that a clash now exists between immigration policies and economic interests.
Despite the growing differences, neither side indicates a complete breakdown in relations. Researchers and diplomats suggest completing the pending trade agreement could restore stability to the bilateral partnership.
-SA
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Editor : Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury
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Published by the Editor on behalf of the Observer Ltd. from Globe Printers, 24/A, New Eskaton Road, Ramna, Dhaka.
Editorial, News and Commercial Offices : Aziz Bhaban (2nd floor), 93, Motijheel C/A, Dhaka-1000.
Phone: PABX- 41053001-06; Advertisement: 41053012; 01793317829, 01550707291, E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Online: email: [email protected] 41053014; 01550707297 Advertisement: 01550707296
