Trump Calls PM Modi Among World’s Toughest Leaders, Highlights Strong India-US Partnership

Washington, June 2026 US President Donald Trump has described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as one of the toughest and most influential leaders in the world, underscoring the strength of both the India-US relationship and his personal rapport with the Indian leader. Trump’s remarks came in a newly published interview with Axios and were echoed during his recent bilateral meeting with PM Modi on the sidelines of the G7 Outreach Summit in Evian, France.

In the Axios interview, excerpts of which were released on Thursday, Trump identified Chinese President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi as two of the global leaders he admires most. While referring to Xi as “all business,” Trump characterized Modi as “a very tough cookie,” highlighting what he sees as the Indian leader’s strong negotiating abilities and political acumen.

The praise was consistent with Trump’s comments during his meeting with Modi in France, where the two leaders discussed a wide range of issues, including a proposed bilateral trade agreement, regional security, and geopolitical developments. When asked about the progress of trade negotiations between Washington and New Delhi, Trump expressed optimism while emphasizing Modi’s reputation as a formidable negotiator.

“We’re very close,” Trump said regarding the trade deal. “He’s a very tough negotiator, one of the toughest, actually.”

The US President went on to offer a colorful assessment of Modi’s leadership style, suggesting that the Indian Prime Minister’s calm and approachable public image masks a determined and highly effective political operator.

“You look at this man, he looks so nice, like an angel,” Trump remarked. “But he’s as tough as they come. He gets you by surprise.”

Throughout the meeting, Trump repeatedly linked India’s growing influence on the world stage to Modi’s leadership. Responding to a question about whether India could contribute to efforts aimed at stabilizing West Asia following the recent understanding between the United States and Iran, Trump said India’s role in global affairs continues to expand.

“I think India plays a big role in everything,” Trump said. “As long as he’s the leader, India is going to play a big role.”

Trump also highlighted the long-standing personal relationship he has developed with Modi over the years. Recalling major events such as the “Howdy Modi” gathering in Houston and his visit to India during his first presidential term, Trump described Modi as a trusted friend and valued partner.

“He’s been my friend for a long time now, and we’ve always had a great relationship,” Trump said.

Seeking to reassure Indian audiences about the future of bilateral ties, Trump stressed that India enjoys strong support within his administration.

“As long as I’m President, they have a great friend in the White House,” he said. “Everyone here has tremendous respect for India and tremendous respect for this man.”

The US President also spoke positively about defence and strategic cooperation between the two countries, describing India as one of America’s closest partners. He suggested that the relationship between Washington and New Delhi has reached unprecedented levels of cooperation.

“I think it’s a great relationship,” Trump said, adding that the two nations share deep strategic interests and common objectives.

In one of his most notable remarks, Trump indicated the depth of US commitment to India, saying, “If they were attacked, we would be there to help them.”

As the discussions concluded, Trump reiterated his belief that relations between the two countries are stronger than ever. He emphasized that the close personal understanding between the two leaders has played a significant role in strengthening bilateral ties.

“India can do anything they want with us. We have the best relationship,” Trump said. “We cannot be closer. Both him and I, and our nations. But it really starts with the two of us.”

Trump’s comments are significant because he has often placed considerable importance on personal diplomacy. His decision to rank Modi among the world leaders he most admires reflects the strategic importance he attaches to India and highlights the growing significance of the India-US partnership in global affairs.