Former United States National Security Adviser (NSA) John Bolton has sharply criticized former President Donald Trump’s handling of relations with India, claiming that the once-strong personal rapport between Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi has now faded. Speaking to British media, Bolton said that Trump’s tendency to view international diplomacy through the lens of personal friendship has left lasting damage on the India-US strategic partnership, which is now in a strained phase.

Bolton on the collapse of Trump-Modi rapport

Bolton noted that Trump and Modi once shared a “very good relationship personally,” but argued that such ties are now “gone.” He explained that while personal rapport may sometimes help world leaders in diplomacy, it cannot shield them from the consequences of poor policy decisions. His cautionary remarks extended to other world leaders, including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, warning them not to rely solely on personal chemistry with Trump.

Strains in India-US ties under Trump

The remarks come at a time when India-US relations are reported to be at their lowest point in two decades. Under Trump’s presidency, ties were marred by tariff disputes, harsh criticism of New Delhi’s policies, and a lack of alignment on key global issues. Bolton accused Trump’s White House of “setting US-India relations back decades”, claiming that the administration’s actions had weakened the foundation built over years of bipartisan efforts in Washington to bring India closer as a counterbalance to China’s growing influence.

He added that Trump’s policies had the unintended effect of pushing India closer to Russia and China, especially as Beijing tries to present itself as a global alternative to American leadership.

Tariffs and strategic consequences

One of Bolton’s strongest points of criticism was directed at Trump’s decision to impose tariffs on India, particularly linked to its purchase of Russian oil. He described the move as an “unforced error”, saying it drove New Delhi further into the orbit of the Beijing-Moscow axis. This, according to Bolton, has undone years of careful alignment aimed at integrating India into the broader US-led Indo-Pacific strategy.

He warned that while the damage is significant, there remains scope to correct course. However, he admitted that the present moment marks a “very bad phase” for India-US ties.

Broader criticism of Trump’s foreign policy

Bolton has been a consistent critic of Donald Trump since leaving his administration. He has frequently warned that Trump prioritizes personal relationships over structured diplomatic strategy, undermining the United States’ global standing. His latest comments coincided with the announcement of Trump’s upcoming UK visit from September 17 to 19, which has already drawn international attention.

Bolton under investigation

In parallel, Bolton himself is facing scrutiny at home. His Maryland residence and Washington office were recently searched by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) as part of a probe into the alleged mishandling of classified documents. While Bolton has not been formally charged, the investigation adds a layer of complexity to his ongoing public criticism of Trump.

Implications for India-US relations

Bolton’s remarks highlight the precarious state of India-US strategic ties, which have long been considered a cornerstone of efforts to balance China’s rise in Asia. Analysts believe that the reversal of bipartisan progress could have lasting consequences, particularly in areas such as trade, defense cooperation, and regional security.

For India, the perceived shift in Washington’s reliability may reinforce New Delhi’s cautious balancing act between the West, Russia, and China. Meanwhile, US policymakers will need to consider whether rebuilding trust with India can be prioritized in future administrations.

Conclusion

The Trump-Modi rapport, once celebrated as a symbol of strengthening ties between the two democracies, has, according to John Bolton, largely disappeared. With tariffs, diplomatic criticism, and policy missteps eroding the foundation of the partnership, the India-US relationship stands at a crossroads. Whether the next phase can restore bipartisan progress or further deepen strategic rifts remains to be seen.

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