India’s relationship with the US has come under strain, while Pakistan has gained diplomatic visibility. The shift first became apparent in May 2025, when President Trump announced he had secured a ceasefire between nuclear-armed India and Pakistan.
India’s Strained Relationship with the US
President Trump hit India with some of the steepest tariffs imposed on any major economy. Meanwhile, US sanctions pressure on Russian oil rattled energy import-dependent India, while disputes over H-1B visas added further strain.
Analysts say Trump’s America First agenda increasingly overshadowed the friendship Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had cultivated during Trump’s first term. India has maintained close ties with Israel while generally sticking to more measured messaging.
Pakistan’s Growing Diplomatic Profile
Pakistan has expanded its own diplomatic profile, complicating India’s campaign against its nuclear-armed rival. Pakistan’s prominent role in recent months highlighted how Islamabad has been more nimble in its diplomacy than India.
Pakistan’s growing regional relevance has been reflected in its strengthened ties with China, improved relations with regional partners like Bangladesh, and expanded security cooperation with Gulf states.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
