Twelve months of Trump 2.0 have transformed India-US ties from headline-grabbing warmth into a cautious, transactional relationship. Despite early promise, tariffs, immigration crackdowns, and public barbs strained ties. India faced sweeping US tariffs, accusations over Russian oil, and repeated claims by Trump of brokering peace with Pakistan. The deportation of thousands of Indians and radical changes to the H-1B visa system triggered public anger. As Washington tilted towards Islamabad, New Delhi quietly diversified its options, engaging more openly with Moscow and Beijing. While Trump declared the US had “lost India”, the reality is more complex. Defence cooperation remains intact, energy ties are expanding, and trade talks may resume. India has adjusted its stra