US President Donald Trump ignited controversy with a Truth Social post claiming the US has “lost” India and Russia to “deepest, darkest China” following the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit. The statement, made on September 5, 2025, has sparked debates about shifting global alliances and US foreign policy missteps.
The comment came after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Chinese President Xi Jinping appeared together at the SCO summit, signaling closer ties among the nations. Trump’s remarks criticized India’s purchase of Russian oil and suggested a new world order led by Beijing, raising concerns about the US’s standing in Asia. However, critics argue Trump’s own policies, including high tariffs and public criticism of India, have driven New Delhi toward multipolar alliances.
“Looks like we’ve lost India and Russia to deepest, darkest China. May they have a long and prosperous future together,” Trump wrote on Truth Social, as reported by multiple outlets. The statement followed his earlier attacks on India’s trade practices, including comments from his advisor Peter Navarro, who called India “arrogant” for asserting its right to buy oil from Russia.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs declined to comment on Trump’s remarks, stating it had “no comments to offer” on Friday. Analysts suggest Trump’s aggressive trade policies and rhetoric have strained US-India ties. “Trump’s tariffs and public criticism pushed India to hedge its bets with China and Russia,” said former US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on the Bulwark podcast.
Sushim Mukul, a geopolitical analyst, noted, “Trump’s failure to acknowledge his role in this shift is a critical oversight. His policies alienated key partners like India, which is now pursuing strategic autonomy.” India’s growing alignment with China and Russia, evident at the SCO summit, reflects its push for a multipolar world, experts say.
On X, reactions varied. One user, @hathyogi31, posted, “Trump’s tariff gamble backfired as India strengthens global standing,” reflecting sentiment that India’s moves are strategic rather than a loss. Another, @salah_shoaib, criticized Trump’s approach, stating, “India is the largest democracy in the world, and Trump’s attempt to bully Modi was a blunder.”
