Trump's Bonhomie With Asim Munir & Shehbaz Sharif: A Message To Modi?
Trump’s sudden praise for Pakistan sparks debate. Ex-Ambassador Rakesh Sood explains how this shift challenges India’s U.S. strategy in a changing global order.
At a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former U.S. President Donald Trump surprised many by unveiling a new Gaza peace plan — and, in a sudden twist, showering praise on Pakistan and its Army Chief, Asim Munir. His remarks raised questions about the shifting dynamics of U.S. policy in South Asia, especially in light of recent meetings with Pakistan’s leadership and new visa initiatives involving India.
In a detailed conversation hosted by journalist Barkha Dutt at The Quorum Club, Gurgaon, former Indian Ambassador Rakesh Sood broke down Trump’s unpredictable approach. Ambassador Sood explained that while earlier U.S. administrations viewed India as a long-term strategic partner, Trump’s outlook remains largely transactional, focusing more on deals and tariffs than on alliances or shared democratic values.
He pointed out that India’s past assumptions — such as support from the diaspora or continuity in U.S. policy — no longer hold under Trump. His foreign policy, Sood noted, is guided by “America First” economics rather than geopolitical balance. Tariffs imposed on China, Europe, or even India show that Trump sees all relationships through a trade lens.
Ambassador Sood also highlighted how personalized diplomacy has replaced long-term strategy. Media narratives often exaggerate personal chemistry between leaders like Modi and Trump, while ignoring the institutional groundwork essential for stable ties.
Concluding the discussion, Barkha Dutt observed that India must now reassess its engagement strategy with Washington — focusing less on personal rapport and more on institutional depth to protect its strategic interests.
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