S. Jaishankar‘s Subtle Critique of Trump: The Impact of Tweets on Global Policy
New York, September 29, 2025 – During a recent panel discussion at the United Nations General Assembly, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar made headlines with remarks that appeared to indirectly critique former U.S. President Donald Trump. His comments came in the context of ongoing tensions surrounding U.S. tariffs on Indian imports and the rising costs associated with H-1B visa applications.
Context of the Remarks
Jaishankar’s comments were made during a session organized by the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) titled “At The Heart of Development: Aid, Trade & Technology.” This event took place against a backdrop of significant geopolitical shifts and economic uncertainties that have characterized recent years.
“A few months, weeks, and tweets make a difference,” Jaishankar stated, alluding to the unpredictable nature of international relations and trade policies that have become increasingly volatile. His remarks reflect a growing concern among global leaders about the impact of social media and public statements on diplomatic relations and economic stability.
The Unpredictability of Global Trade
Jaishankar elaborated on the current state of global trade, emphasizing that the world is experiencing heightened unpredictability. “It was very clear the world was moving towards much greater unpredictability, volatility, uncertainty,” he noted. This statement resonates with many observers who have witnessed the rapid changes in trade policies and international relations over the past few years.
The former U.S. administration’s approach to trade, particularly its imposition of tariffs and restrictions, has had far-reaching consequences. For India, the recent tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, along with increased fees for H-1B visa applications, have raised concerns about the future of bilateral relations. These policies have not only affected trade but have also impacted the Indian diaspora in the United States, which plays a crucial role in the tech industry.
The Need for Resilience in Supply Chains
Jaishankar’s comments also touched on the necessity for countries to adapt to these changes. He emphasized the importance of creating more resilient supply chains and diversifying production centers. “When we said let’s de-risk the world and hedge against uncertainty, it meant having more production centers, more resilient, redundant supply chains,” he explained.
This perspective aligns with a broader trend observed globally, where nations are increasingly looking to safeguard their economic interests amid rising geopolitical tensions. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted vulnerabilities in global supply chains, prompting countries to rethink their dependencies on single sources of production.
Protecting National Interests
In his remarks, Jaishankar underscored the imperative of protecting national interests in an era marked by global risks. “The central proposition in diplomacy and international relations is how to de-risk, hedge, and become more resilient,” he stated. This approach reflects a shift in diplomatic strategies, where countries are prioritizing their own economic stability while navigating complex international landscapes.
The concept of “de-risking” has gained traction in various sectors, from technology to agriculture, as nations seek to mitigate the impacts of external shocks. For India, this means not only diversifying its trade partners but also investing in domestic industries to reduce reliance on imports.
Historical Context and Comparisons
Jaishankar’s comments can be contextualized within a historical framework of U.S.-India relations. The partnership has evolved significantly since the Cold War, transitioning from a period of mutual suspicion to one of strategic collaboration. However, recent policy shifts have raised questions about the future trajectory of this relationship.
Comparatively, the U.S.-China relationship has also been marked by similar tensions, particularly in trade and technology. The trade war initiated by the Trump administration serves as a cautionary tale for India, highlighting the potential consequences of aggressive trade policies.
Conclusion
S. Jaishankar’s remarks at the UN General Assembly serve as a reminder of the intricate dynamics that define international relations today. As countries grapple with the challenges posed by unpredictability and volatility, the need for resilience and strategic foresight has never been more critical. The impact of social media and public statements on global policy cannot be underestimated, as evidenced by the ongoing shifts in U.S.-India relations.
In an era where “tweets make a difference,” the diplomatic landscape is evolving, and nations must adapt to safeguard their interests while fostering cooperation in an increasingly interconnected world.
