India and the United States are talking the language of friendship again, but the question is whether the relationship is becoming more equal or simply more transactional. After months of tariff disputes, disagreements over Russian oil and the controversy surrounding President Donald Trump’s claims of having stopped the India-Pakistan conflict in May 2025, Washington is now signalling that a long-pending trade agreement could finally be within reach.The timing is significant. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit to India this week, his meetings with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his outreach to business leaders have revived hopes of a breakthrough. Rubio has described the agreement as “incredibly close”, saying that the two sides are weeks, rather than months, away from finalising it. Trump, too, has said that the countries are “pretty close” to a deal, although he has indicated that it will be different from other agreements Washington has concluded. This is encouraging, but India has heard optimistic signals before. The real test will be the terms of the agreement, not the enthusiasm with which it is announced.

Pressure first, partnership later?Trump’s approach to diplomacy is increasingly familiar. He creates pressure through tariffs, public statements and threats, then presents the prospect of a negotiated settlement as an opportunity that the other side should not miss.

Last year, the US heavily imposed tariffs on Indian goods, still hurting the business companies, more so when additional tariffs linked to New Delhi’s purchase of Russian oil were imposed. The move definitely affected Indian exporters and created uncertainty among businesses. It also raised questions about the reliability of a strategic partner that had for years encouraged India to strengthen economic, strategic and defence ties with Washington, which India followed dutifully.

India should definitely be worried not only about tariffs but also about the uncertainty surrounding the US’s fluctuating decisions or pressure tactics. Any relationship or trade needs trust to plan investments and exports, however difficult the negotiations be. However, if access to the American market can suddenly become a tool to put pressure on India, it naturally raises eyebrows and concerns. The US........

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