French media: After the deterioration of India-US relations, India's "true moment of choice" seems to be getting closer
France's Le Monde published an article on Friday analyzing the difficult situation of Indian Prime Minister Modi in his international cooperation strategy.
India-US mutual trust has sharply declined
Over the past two decades, India-US relations have gradually warmed up, forming a strategic partnership. However, since the start of Trump's second term, bilateral trust has sharply declined. The United States imposed punitive tariffs on India, criticized India for purchasing Russian oil, and openly favored Pakistan in South Asian geopolitics, which Indian public opinion views as a "betrayal." In response, Modi not only restored traditional military and energy cooperation with Russia but also actively repaired relations with China, sending a signal that "India will not submit to the United States." This gesture appeals to domestic nationalist sentiments in India.
India's strategic flexibility and limitations
Le Monde from France stated that just before arriving in Tianjin, Modi made a special visit to Japan, reiterating the joint commitment of India and Japan to maintain a "free and open Indo-Pacific," which is clearly a response to rivals. At the same time, India continues to maintain cooperation with Europe, hoping to promote free trade negotiations with the EU. In terms of geopolitics, India interacts with the "Western bloc," while at the same time it has to seek visibility in multilateral platforms led by Russia and China.
The problem is that this strategic flexibility also reveals India's limitations. As a global population superpower and an emerging economic power, India hopes to be seen as a "civilization-type country" that can represent the interests of the "Global South." But in reality, it lacks sufficient economic scale to counter China and lacks stable military alliances to balance pressure. Between the three major powers of the United States, Russia, and China, India is more like a medium-sized ship drifting in turbulent waters: it wants to maintain its independent course, yet it is inevitably swept along by the tides.
Strategic turning point
Le Monde from France believes that in a way, Trump's tough policies have pushed India to a strategic turning point. If Washington continues to ignore New Delhi's core concerns, India may be forced to further approach America's competitors.
In the wave of multipolarity, India is striving to seek an independent identity that does not rely on any major power. However, despite possessing nuclear weapons, it is neither a core member of a traditional great power alliance nor can it completely detach itself from America's security framework. In this geopolitical landscape full of opportunities and crises, New Delhi seems to be approaching its "true moment of choice" more closely. At that time, India must answer: will it continue to waver between the great powers, or will it decisively take sides, bearing the risks and responsibilities that come with it?
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1842483073951834/
Statement: The article represents the views of the author.