In response to Trump’s claims, the MEA emphasized that the India-US relationship has “weathered many transitions and challenges” and remains anchored in shared interests and mutual respect.

“We have strong defence ties with the US which have been strengthening over the last several years,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said at his weekly press briefing. “There is potential for our defence partnership to grow further. We remain focused on the substantive agenda that both countries have committed to.”

Despite the latest tariff announcement, the ministry expressed confidence that bilateral ties would continue to progress. “We are confident our relationship with the United States will continue to move forward,” Jaiswal added.

The MEA also clarified that ties between two countries shouldn’t be seen from the prism of a third nation. “Ties with any country, and all the ties that we have with various countries, stand on their own merit and shouldn’t be seen through the prism of a third country,” Jaiswal said.

His remarks came days after Trump referenced India buying oil and military equipment from Russia as he announced 25 per cent tariffs plus penalties for India.