Following a decisive 30-minute phone call between the two leaders on February 2, 2026, the United States has officially reduced its reciprocal tariff rate on India from 25&#37 to 18&#37, effective immediately. This move effectively scraps the 25&#37 "punitive duty" previously linked to India’s Russian oil purchases, signaling a major de-escalation in trade tensions. However, the deal comes with explosive claims from the White House. President Trump stated on Truth Social that PM Modi has agreed to HALT all future purchases of Russian oil, pivoting instead toward US and potentially Venezuelan energy. While PM Modi hailed the tariff cut as a victory for "Made in India," the Indian side has yet to explicitly confirm the Russian oil exit or the staggering $500 Billion purchase commitment claimed by Washington.

US President Donald Trump lashed out at an ABC News reporter during a White House event after being questioned about a $10 billion lawsuit involving the IRS and Treasury Department. The exchange unfolded as the reporter attempted to ask about the lawsuit, which was filed by Trump along with his two oldest sons. Instead of responding, the president dismissed the reporter, criticized her tone, and labeled ABC as “fake news” before moving on to another question.