New Delhi: The Congress party on Saturday criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi following remarks by US President Donald Trump expressing strong support for Pakistan during its escalating conflict with Afghanistan.
Reacting to Trump’s comments, Congress general secretary (communications) Jairam Ramesh said the American leader’s praise for Pakistan’s leadership reflects poorly on India’s diplomatic outreach. In a post on social media platform X, Ramesh described the development as a setback for what he termed “hug diplomacy,” a phrase often used by the opposition to mock Modi’s personal rapport with global leaders.
Trump had recently spoken positively about Pakistan’s political and military leadership while addressing the ongoing hostilities between Islamabad and Kabul. His remarks included appreciation for Pakistan’s Prime Minister and Army Chief, statements that have drawn attention in India’s political circles.
Ramesh also alluded to the April 22, 2025, terror attack in Pahalgam, which India has blamed on Pakistan-based elements. Without naming individuals directly, he suggested that Trump’s praise extended to figures whose earlier statements had contributed to tensions preceding that attack.
The Congress leader argued that the latest comments from Washington demonstrate that global powers, particularly the United States, are guided by strategic interests rather than personal equations between leaders. He added that the situation challenges the government’s projection of India’s growing global stature.
There has been no immediate response from the government to the Congress party’s remarks. Meanwhile, diplomatic observers note that US-Pakistan ties often fluctuate depending on regional security considerations, especially in the context of Afghanistan.
The exchange has once again brought foreign policy into the domestic political spotlight, with opposition leaders questioning the effectiveness of India’s international engagement strategy.
