Sudden U.S. Shift Toward Pakistan: What Went Wrong?
Over the past two weeks, a noticeable shift has emerged in U.S. foreign policy under President Trump—one that tilts unexpectedly toward Pakistan. This change has left India puzzled, especially given the strong goodwill fostered since Trump’s inauguration on January 20. During Prime Minister Modi’s February visit to the White House, Trump referred to him as “my friend Modi,” and both sides were working toward an ambitious, tariff-free trade agreement aimed at reaching $500 billion in bilateral trade by 2030—a potential model for future global trade. In addition President Trump’s stated policy of freeing America from the Chinese manufacturing prowess and bringing it back home, India fitted well as an alternative manufacturing destination to cut Chinese import cash flow significantly. That is all well and good and had India’s support.
But everything changed on April 22, when a Pakistan-based terror group attacked Kashmir, killing 26 Hindu tourists in broad daylight. Surprisingly, most Western nations, including the U.S., were slow and muted in condemning the atrocity. India responded with a long-overdue airstrike on May 7, targeting the terror group’s headquarters and dealing a decisive blow to them.
Pakistan’s military retaliated, triggering four days of escalating conflict. Initially, U.S. Vice President JD Vance distanced America from the situation, calling it a bilateral conflict. However, following India’s successful strikes against the Pakistani Air Force, the U.S. tone shifted significantly—unexpectedly favouring Pakistan.
This pivot was amplified by Western media, which began echoing exaggerated narratives of Pakistani success, despite its air force—equipped with Chinese weapons—suffering heavy losses. These stories, seemingly endorsed by Western governments, added insult to injury for India. In fact, untested Chinese military hardware failed miserably which probably would enhance the American military planners in South China Sea as and when Chinese become too ambitious and attack Taiwan.
India, shocked by this sudden reversal in U.S. mood, is now searching for answers. Theories include:
1. A newfound U.S. strategic interest in Pakistan
2.Pakistani promises of significant geopolitical value
3. Western unease over India’s rising global influence
4. A false report of a nuclear incident influencing U.S. response
After more than a decade of careful diplomacy, India finds itself at a low point in relations with the U.S. The trade deal now hangs in the balance, and a major diplomatic effort will be needed to restore trust and realign strategic interests.
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