India’s US ties are once again under the spotlight as Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar delivered a sharp message to Europe. Speaking during his visit to Brussels, he asserted that India’s relationship with the US is led by strategy, not by whoever occupies the White House.
Moreover, he warned Europe against ignoring terrorism, saying it would eventually backfire. He pointed to past Western inaction on Pakistan to highlight global double standards.
India’s US ties won’t follow Trump
Asked if India trusts Trump, Jaishankar replied firmly: “It’s not about personality X or president Y.” He said India’s US ties remain strong because they serve national interests, not personalities. His comments come amid criticism that Trump-aligned officials haven’t taken a firm stance on Pakistan-backed terrorism, especially after the recent Pahalgam attack that killed Indian soldiers.
Jaishankar reminded the West of Osama bin Laden’s haven in Pakistan, asking, “Why did he feel secure living in a military town?” He warned Europe that turning a blind eye to terrorism today could backfire tomorrow.
West’s hypocrisy, China’s caution in focus
Jaishankar didn’t hold back on Europe’s past support for Pakistan. He reminded them that just months after India’s independence, Pakistan invaded Kashmir, and Western nations chose silence.
Today, those same countries push lofty international principles while refusing to reckon with their evasive histories. “Let’s have a great conversation about principles,” he said, “but first, reflect on your past.”
He also addressed Europe’s discomfort with India’s ties to Russia, urging consistency in their geopolitical critiques. Turning to China, Jaishankar emphasised the importance of India’s alliance with the US in light of international measures to lessen dependence on Beijing.
He highlights that all the companies are quickly moving data and supply chains to secure, reliable locations, prioritising long-term safety over efficiency, based on his conversations with European companies in India.
