US President Donald Trump said his relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi remains strong, but admitted that trade tensions have emerged over US tariffs linked to India’s purchase of Russian oil. Addressing the House GOP Member Retreat, Trump recalled discussions with Modi on defence cooperation, including India’s order of 68 Apache helicopters, as evidence of close ties. However, he noted that Modi was unhappy with the 50% tariffs imposed by Washington, which the US argues are aimed at discouraging India’s energy trade with Russia during the Ukraine conflict. Trump claimed India later reduced its oil imports to ease US concerns. He warned that tariffs could be raised further if New Delhi fails to address the issue. Trump defended the tariff strategy, saying it benefits the US economy while applying pressure on India over Russian oil.