Looks like we’ve lost India and Russia to China’s deepest darkness: Donald Trump

PNN International Desk | September 7, 2025

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Friday that following recent meetings, it appears India and Russia have tilted toward China. At a time when Beijing is working to establish a new global balance of power, Trump expressed his discontent over the stance of New Delhi and Moscow.

Sharing a photo of the three leaders together on social media, Trump wrote: “Looks like we’ve lost India and Russia to deepest, darkest China. May they have a long and prosperous future together.”

However, speaking to reporters later the same day, Trump clarified that he does not believe the U.S. has lost India. “I don’t think we have,” he said. “But I’ve been disappointed that India has been buying so much oil from Russia—and I let them know that.”

India’s foreign ministry declined to comment on the matter. China’s foreign ministry and Russian officials also did not provide immediate responses.

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, held in the Chinese port city of Tianjin, was attended by leaders from more than 20 non-Western countries, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

At the summit, Putin and Modi were seen walking hand-in-hand before joining Chinese President Xi Jinping for a photo together.

Although Trump voiced frustration over India’s actions, he praised Modi, saying: “I’ll always be friends with Modi. He’s a great prime minister. He’s excellent. I just don’t like what he’s doing at this particular moment. But India and the United States have a special relationship. There’s nothing to worry about.”

In response, Modi posted on social media: “Deeply appreciate and fully reciprocate President Trump’s sentiments and positive assessment of our ties. India and the United States share a forward-looking Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.”

Trump has long expressed disappointment over his inability to end the Russia-Ukraine war. More than three years after Moscow’s invasion, no resolution has been reached. Speaking at the White House on Thursday night, Trump said he plans to speak with President Putin soon.

Analysts suggest that the growing closeness between China, India, and Russia could reshape global geopolitics, posing fresh discomfort for the United States.

Source: Reuters