Modi Joins Xi and Putin, Signalling Shifting Global Dynamics Amid U.S. Tariff Pressure

BEIJING – September 3, 2025 – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently engaged in a highly symbolic and notably cordial interaction with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, an event widely interpreted by global observers as a strategic message to the United States, particularly in the context of former President Donald Trump’s protectionist trade policies. The interaction, which included a moment of all three leaders reportedly holding hands, occurred during Modi’s first visit to China earlier this week, as reported by Axios on September 1.

The friendly overture comes at a pivotal moment, with India facing increasing pressure from potential tariffs and pointed criticism from former President Trump, who is widely seen as a strong contender for the U.S. presidency in 2028. This public display of unity among three major global powers underscores a potential recalibration of international alliances and a growing push towards a multipolar world order.

A Deliberate Message to Washington

The image of Modi, Xi, and Putin in such a visible display of camaraderie is far more than a mere photo opportunity. It signifies a deliberate attempt by these nations to project a united front against what they perceive as unilateral economic and diplomatic pressures. Axios highlighted that the "image of all three leaders literally holding hands is, at the very least, a symbolic blow to Trump," reflecting a broader sentiment among nations seeking alternatives to U.S.-led global frameworks.

For India, the outreach to Beijing and Moscow can be seen as a strategic hedge. While India has traditionally maintained strong ties with the West, particularly the U.S., the specter of renewed trade hostilities under a potential future Trump administration pushes New Delhi to diversify its diplomatic and economic partnerships. Modi's government, keen on protecting India's burgeoning economy and its strategic autonomy, appears to be exploring avenues that offer greater stability and predictability.

The Context of Trade and Geopolitics

The backdrop to this alignment is the ongoing tension surrounding international trade and global influence. Former President Trump’s previous tenure saw the imposition of tariffs on various goods, including those from India, often accompanied by strong rhetoric. These actions strained relationships and forced countries to re-evaluate their trade dependencies. The current interaction serves as a stark reminder that nations are actively seeking to build coalitions that can collectively resist such pressures.

China and Russia, both long-standing critics of U.S. foreign policy and economic dominance, welcome India’s closer engagement. For Beijing, a stronger partnership with India could mitigate some of the U.S.-led efforts to isolate China in the Indo-Pacific region. For Moscow, reinforcing ties with India and China further strengthens the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) and Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) blocs, presenting a robust counterweight to Western alliances like NATO and the G7.

India's Strategic Calculus

India's decision to visibly align with China and Russia, despite its own complex bilateral relationship with Beijing, indicates a deepening commitment to a foreign policy centered on strategic autonomy. New Delhi aims to navigate the intricate geopolitical landscape by maintaining relationships across different power blocs, rather than being solely aligned with one. This approach allows India to leverage its position as a rising global power, pursuing its national interests without being constrained by ideological affiliations.

Economically, closer ties with China and Russia could open up new trade corridors and investment opportunities, mitigating the impact of potential future Western sanctions or tariffs. Militarily, Russia remains a key defense partner for India, and continued engagement ensures access to critical military technology and equipment.

Broader Implications for Global Order

The meeting underscores a growing trend towards a multipolar world where power is distributed among multiple major poles rather than concentrated in one or two. This shift could lead to a more fragmented international system, characterized by competing blocs and regional alliances. While such a system might offer greater strategic flexibility for individual nations, it also carries the risk of increased geopolitical competition and reduced global cooperation on critical issues.

As the 2028 U.S. presidential election cycle draws closer, and the potential for a return to "America First" policies looms, countries worldwide are already adjusting their foreign policy strategies. Modi's embrace of Xi and Putin is a clear signal that India, alongside other major powers, is prepared to forge new pathways in international relations, reshaping the global order in the process.