PM Modi Outmaneuvers Trump While the World Falls Into His Traps, From Greenland to Venezuela

New Delhi: While U.S. President Donald Trump has continued to behave unpredictably during his second term—treating friends and foes alike with equal volatility—Prime Minister Narendra Modi anticipated the situation well in advance. Thanks to Modi’s strategic foresight, India’s relationship with the United States remains stronger than ever, even as many nations, from Greenland to Venezuela, have found themselves entangled in Trump’s political maneuvers.

Trump’s Global Maneuvers Raise Eyebrows
Trump’s approach has alarmed European leaders. His aggressive interest in Greenland and assertive dealings over Venezuela, including acquiring a Nobel Peace Prize-winning medal from an opposition leader there, demonstrate his high-risk, transactional style. European countries, which remained passive in Venezuela, were later penalized with additional tariffs when they opposed U.S. moves regarding Greenland. Analysts describe Trump’s methods as reminiscent of a cinematic villain—relentless in achieving his objectives, regardless of alliances or diplomatic norms.

PM Modi’s Strategic Silence and Calculated Moves
Modi’s diplomatic acumen proved decisive. While U.S.-India trade talks continued amidst Trump’s public posturing, the Prime Minister maintained strategic silence and exercised careful diplomacy. Modi rejected a personal invitation from Trump to Washington in a courteous manner, prioritizing India’s national interest. Behind the scenes, India maintained consistent communication through External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, ensuring trade negotiations continued without compromise.

India’s Measured Response Amid U.S. Tariffs and Global Tensions
Despite Trump imposing a 50% tariff on Indian oil imports while leaving Pakistan at just 19%, India responded with patience, refusing to react impulsively. When Trump dismissed India’s economy as a “dead economy,” Modi stayed focused on strengthening trade, boosting exports, and preparing alternative markets to maintain India’s leverage. Engagements with global leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, continued without disruption, signaling India’s independent diplomatic strategy.

Strategic Wins for India
India has also advanced historic discussions with the European Union on a Free Trade Agreement, set for announcement on January 27, being called the “Mother of All Deals.” Meanwhile, India imposed a 30% tariff on pulses imported from the U.S., reinforcing its policy of reciprocity without yielding to pressure. Modi’s careful diplomacy and proactive strategy ensured that India avoided falling into Trump’s traps, unlike several Western nations.

Conclusion: Modi’s Calculated Foresight Pays Off
While Trump’s unilateralism disrupted Europe and challenged global norms, India, under PM Modi, successfully navigated the turbulence. By anticipating Trump’s tactics, India safeguarded its trade interests, strengthened its global positioning, and maintained diplomatic autonomy—proving the effectiveness of measured strategy over impulsive reaction in international relations.