India (Commonwealth Union)_ US President Donald Trump hosted Diwali celebrations at the White House on Tuesday, offering warm wishes to Indian-Americans and the people of India. The event reflected both the cultural significance of the festival in American society and the strengthening ties between the United States and India. Speaking during the celebration, President Trump praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him a “great person” and a “great friend.” He said the two leaders had spoken earlier that day, discussing a range of topics, including trade, energy, and regional peace. “I just got off a call with your Prime Minister,” Trump said. “We had a great conversation about trade, something he’s very focused on. We also touched on keeping peace in the region, especially between India and Pakistan.”
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Trump noted that avoiding conflict in South Asia was a shared goal. “Having no wars is a good thing,” he added, suggesting that both leaders support dialogue over confrontation. Turning to the significance of Diwali, Trump spoke about the deeper meaning of the festival. “In a few moments, we’ll light the diya, which stands for the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil,” he said. “It’s a time to remember stories of overcoming adversity, of enemies defeated and freedom restored.” He went on to say the flame of the diya serves as a reminder for people everywhere “to follow the path of wisdom, to work hard, and to be grateful for the blessings in our lives.”
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After his remarks, Trump lit ceremonial lamps to mark the occasion. The event was attended by senior members of the administration, including FBI Director Kash Patel, ODNI Director Tulsi Gabbard, and White House Deputy Press Secretary Kush Desai. Also present were India’s Ambassador to the US Vinay Mohan Kwatra and the US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor. A group of influential Indian-American business leaders was also in attendance, reflecting the growing involvement of the Indian diaspora in fostering closer US-India relations.
Following their phone conversation, Prime Minister Modi thanked President Trump for his Diwali wishes. In a message posted on X, Modi expressed his appreciation and emphasized the strong bond between the two countries. “Thank you, President Trump, for your phone call and warm Diwali greetings,” Modi wrote. “On this festival of lights, may our two great democracies continue to illuminate the world with hope and stand united against terrorism in all its forms.” The two leaders also discussed India’s ongoing energy relationship with Russia, a topic that has become increasingly contentious in recent months.
Trump told reporters that Modi had reassured him about reducing India’s oil purchases from Russia. “He’s not going to buy much oil from Russia. He wants to see the war end, just like I do,” Trump said, referring to the conflict in Ukraine. Trump claimed that cutting back on Russian oil would help limit funding for Moscow’s military operations. This marks the second time in a week that Trump has publicly stated that India would scale back its Russian oil imports. On Sunday, he again referred to his conversation with Modi, warning that India could face additional tariffs if it continued buying crude from Russia.
Currently, about half of the 50% total tariffs on Indian goods exported to the US are tied to India’s Russian oil dealings. The Trump administration has recently added another 25% in tariffs, bringing the total to 50% on some goods, in an effort to pressure India to reduce energy ties with Russia. While Diwali celebrations at the White House carried a festive tone, the day also highlighted the growing complexity of global diplomacy, where trade, energy, and strategic alliances continue to intersect.
