Washington, January 3, 2026 — Indian American Congressman Suhas Subramanyam has said that relations between India and the United States have suffered serious damage under President Donald Trump, warning that the strain is hurting both countries at a time when close cooperation is needed.
Speaking in an interview with IANS, Subramanyam said the current state of ties marks a clear shift from Trump’s earlier term, when relations with India had improved. He said the situation has worsened due to a mix of policy choices and personal disagreements, particularly involving Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
According to the congressman, trade actions such as tariffs have weakened economic links that took years to build. He said these steps have made it harder for businesses in both countries and have reduced trust between governments. Subramanyam added that the tone used by the administration on trade has further added to the strain.
He also warned that weaker ties with India could reduce the United States’ role in Asia. India, he said, remains one of Washington’s key long-term partners, especially as the US responds to China’s growing influence in the region. In his view, cutting back engagement with New Delhi would limit America’s ability to shape regional policies.
Subramanyam said there is broad support in Congress for closer ties with India, but executive decisions have slowed progress. He noted that lawmakers from both major parties continue to back cooperation in defense, trade, and technology, even as recent actions have created obstacles.
The congressman also raised concerns about US foreign policy more broadly, saying that several alliances have been strained in recent years. He said promises to reduce conflicts and improve global economic ties have not been met, and that trade disputes have left some allies uncertain about Washington’s direction.
Recent US government documents point to the importance of the relationship. The latest National Defense Authorization Act states that India and the United States have expanded defense, technology, and people-to-people ties over the past two decades with support from both governments. The law highlights cooperation in defense purchases, trade, and coordination in the Indo-Pacific.
A separate analysis by the Congressional Research Service notes that many US lawmakers see India as central to maintaining balance in Asia, particularly in relation to China. The report says that any prolonged slowdown in ties could have wider effects on regional stability.
Subramanyam said Congress will need to play a stronger role in repairing relationships that have weakened. He added that rebuilding trust with India will be important for both countries’ economic interests and for maintaining cooperation on global issues in the years ahead.
