Prime Minister Narendra Modi is reviving India’s traditional policy of nonalignment as relations with the United States deteriorate under President Donald Trump’s second term.
Modi was once seen as a close partner of Trump, but is now managing rising tensions over steep U.S. tariffs and criticism of India’s continued purchases of Russian oil.
This week, Modi joined Russian and Chinese leaders in a show of unity at a regional summit but skipped a Chinese military parade to avoid provoking voters at home concerned about Beijing’s military power.
Indian officials say the strategy is to avoid open confrontation with Washington while staying flexible to improve ties. The approach reflects India’s long-standing doctrine of engaging multiple powers without heavy reliance on one.
Analysts say Modi is navigating a careful balancing act aimed at preserving India’s global autonomy while containing political risks domestically.