'Trump Has Chased Away India', US Rep Calls Out President's Degrading Moves Against India

US Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove has accused President Donald Trump of undermining Washington’s relationship with India by pushing new tariffs on Indian rice imports, arguing that his aggressive approach is damaging strategic ties during crucial trade negotiations. In a December 11, 2025 statement, Kamlager-Dove warned that Trump’s tariff push—expected to impose 25–60% duties—could raise food prices in the US and hurt exporters, including Louisiana’s rice farmers.

The dispute coincides with Under Secretary Allison Hooker’s visit to New Delhi from December 7–11 for talks on trade, technology, space cooperation, and boosting American exports. Foreign Affairs Expert Purnima Nath cautioned that such tariffs may “bully” India into retaliation, straining the $200 billion bilateral trade relationship.

Dhruva Jaishankar, Executive Director at ORF America, suggested the discussions are still centered on strengthening strategic alignment, including commercial partnerships and joint ventures. Meanwhile, Trump’s remarks at a December 8 event with farmers—promising protection for US agriculture through tougher tariff measures—risk further alienating India, a key Quad partner.