There has been a vast change between Donald Trump’s first and second tenures in his approach to global issues. In his first tenure Trump termed China and Russia as his strategic rivals. His 2017 National Security Strategy mentioned, “China and Russia challenge American power, influence and interests, attempting to erode American security and prosperity.” He pushed for an enhanced role of the Quad, considering India as essential for containing China.

Trump’s then Secretary of State Rex Tillerson mentioned, “We need to collaborate with India to ensure that the Indo-Pacific is increasingly a place of peace, stability, and growing prosperity – so that it does not become a region of disorder, conflict and predatory economics.” This was expected to continue in Trump’s second term. Prime Minister Modi met Trump at the White House soon after he assumed office and the visit was claimed to be a success. The US government readout of the meeting said, “The leaders reaffirmed that a close partnership between the US and India is central to a free, open, peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.”

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It added, “The US appreciates India’s role as a developmental, humanitarian assistance and net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region.” Since then, a lot has changed. Trump’s emphasis has shifted towards trade deficits and the US mainland. His desperation for a Nobel peace award and his exalted ego have impacted his assessment. American allies have also not been spared from his trade battles, and are being considered trade adversaries. Talks are on hold with Canada while India, Europe and his Asian allies face high tariffs, unless they meet Trump’s terms and conditions. The highest tariffs presently are on........

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