India news: Putin hails Delhi ties, Trump calls Modi 'good friend'

Article excerpt

Vladimir Putin assured India that its deepening ties with the United States won't damage relations with Russia, while Donald Trump described his relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi as strong. The competing overtures underscore India's delicate diplomatic balancing act as it maintains partnerships with both Washington and Moscow amid rising geopolitical tensions. Putin's statement came as India navigates complex trade relationships and security arrangements with multiple powers. Trump's remarks emphasized personal warmth with Modi, a dynamic that has characterized U.S.-India relations in recent years.