The re-election of Donald Trump as U.S. President has stirred diverse reactions worldwide. India, a key partner in America’s Indo-Pacific strategy, has shown distinct views on this outcome. Recent surveys offer a snapshot into Indian public opinion, underscoring how India perceives Trump’s impact on bilateral relations, global stability, and America’s international standing.
In a NewsX exclusive, Editor-in-Chief Rishabh Gulati breaks down the India perspective on Trump’s win and its impact on global dynamics and explores the feedback from the Indian citizens, political analysts and experts on the republican president’s second term.
1. Indian Sentiment on Trump’s 2024 Win:
Very Happy – 58%
Neutral – 9%
Very Unhappy – 11%
Doesn’t Matter Who Won – 22%
A striking 58% of Indians expressed happiness over Trump’s victory, a sentiment shaped by Trump’s past policies perceived as favorable to India. His stance on China, for example, has aligned with India’s interests in curbing Beijing’s influence. For many Indians, Trump is seen as a pragmatic leader who prioritizes strategic interests, resonating well with India’s own diplomatic outlook. A minority, however, remains neutral or indifferent, possibly reflecting skepticism about U.S. consistency in foreign policy.
2. Will Trump Improve India-U.S. Ties?
Yes – 76%
No – 21%
Can’t Say – 3%
India’s optimism in Trump’s second term largely hinges on his record of strengthening India-U.S. ties during his first presidency. With 76% of respondents anticipating better relations, many Indians believe Trump’s return could fortify strategic and defense partnerships, particularly under the Quad alliance. The 21% who expressed doubts may recall past unpredictability in Trump’s international diplomacy, although they remain a smaller segment.
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3. Trump’s Role in the Ukraine Conflict:
Yes – 72%
No – 22%
Can’t Say – 6%
With the Ukraine crisis central to global security concerns, 72% of Indian respondents express confidence that Trump could play a role in resolving the war. This belief likely stems from Trump’s willingness to confront global issues head-on, including pressure to negotiate peace. However, the 22% who are skeptical may view Trump’s diplomacy as too erratic to facilitate meaningful peace.
4. How Indians View America:
Excellent – 29%
Good – 41%
Poor – 21%
Can’t Say – 9%
Indians remain generally positive about America’s global image, with 70% rating it as either “Good” or “Excellent.” The 21% who rated it as “Poor” likely consider U.S. domestic divisions and international policies that have impacted its global reputation. However, the majority viewpoint underscores a favorable perception of America’s influence, reinforced by its cultural and technological appeal.
5. India’s Preferred International Partner:
U.S. – 29%
Russia – 51%
China – 8%
UK – 12%
Interestingly, Russia continues to be India’s preferred ally, with 51% seeing Moscow as a more reliable friend than Washington. This sentiment likely reflects India’s historical defense and energy ties with Russia. Nevertheless, the U.S. retains a significant 29% of support, highlighting that despite competition, America remains a close partner. China’s low rating at 8% underscores strained relations with India, while the UK’s 12% signals India’s perception of Britain as a moderate but secondary ally.
The Indian Perspective on Trump’s Victory
Donald Trump’s return to the White House is met with optimism in India, especially regarding his potential to reinforce India-U.S. ties. With high approval of Trump’s re-election and faith in his role as a strategic partner, India looks forward to a strengthened alliance. However, the preference for Russia as a closer friend suggests that while India appreciates U.S. support, it still values its longstanding ties with Moscow.
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