US President Donald Trump recounted a meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighting Modi’s request for a personal audience regarding the long-delayed delivery of US-made Apache helicopters. “India has been waiting for five years for the Apache helicopters,” Trump said, adding that Modi approached him with, “‘Sir, may I see you please?’ Yes,” to discuss the matter.
Read More: Trump warns India of higher tariffs over Russian oil purchases
Trump noted that while he maintains a good relationship with Modi, the Indian premier was “not that happy” due to US tariffs imposed on India over its Russian oil imports. Washington has levied 50% tariffs on Indian goods, including 25% linked specifically to oil purchases from Russia. Trump warned that tariffs could rise further if India does not comply with US demands to curb these imports.
“India ordered Apache helicopters and didn’t get them for 5 years. PM Modi came to me and said ‘Sir can I please see you?’ and I said yes,” claims U.S. President Donald Trump pic.twitter.com/TNNUpznnjd
— Shashank Mattoo (@MattooShashank) January 6, 2026
“I rejected US President Trump’s invitation just to come to the land of Mahaprabhu, Odisha.”
When he made this statement, they did not believe him. Instead, they attacked our Prime Minister.
Now Trump is blabbering anything to pressure India on the trade deal, and Pidis and… pic.twitter.com/3NqElNXpnL
— Lala (@FabulasGuy) January 7, 2026
The US president said India has since “reduced it very substantially” but emphasized the potential for quick tariff increases. Despite the tariffs, Trump acknowledged that trade between the two countries continues, and he reiterated his willingness to enforce additional penalties if necessary.
India had ordered 68 Apache helicopters from the US, a deal that has been delayed for several years amid diplomatic and logistical challenges. The delivery of these helicopters has been a point of negotiation between the two leaders, alongside broader trade and defense cooperation.
Read More: Modi to attend ASEAN summit virtually, ruling out Trump meeting
Trump’s remarks were delivered during a House GOP Member Retreat, where he reflected on his interactions with Modi and highlighted the ongoing trade dynamics between Washington and New Delhi, particularly in the context of Russian energy purchases and bilateral defense agreements.