Trump Calls Modi 'Most Beautiful Man' Amidst Tensions Over Indian Sailor Deaths

Donald Trump labeled Narendra Modi the “most beautiful man” during a press conference, pledging unwavering support for the Indian Prime Minister amid rising tensions following the deaths of Indian seafarers in American military strikes. This comes just days after three Indian sailors were killed in attacks linked to US operations in the Gulf of Oman.

The two leaders met at the Group of Seven (G7) summit in France, marking their first in-person discussion in over 16 months. The backdrop of their meeting involved ongoing negotiations for a trade agreement and broader geopolitical concerns.

Trump's comments followed India's urgent call for the US to cease military strikes on shipping, which had already seen three attacks on Indian-crewed tankers. The US president's remarks came as he stood next to Modi in Évian-les-Bains, where he showered the Indian leader with personal compliments, emphasizing their relationship's strength.

“He is the most beautiful man, like an angel. He is a killer, he is a tough man. He loves Indian people and also loves US people,” Trump stated, further asserting that he would stand by Modi if anyone attacked him.

Modi did not take questions from the press, sticking to prepared statements while Trump answered a variety of inquiries on topics such as Ukraine and domestic politics. Since becoming prime minister in 2014, Modi has not faced questions at a solo press conference in India.

A Norwegian journalist recently gained attention for challenging Modi during his visit to Norway, questioning why he avoids press interactions. In 2025, Modi sidestepped a question regarding billionaire Gautam Adani’s fraud indictment during a joint press conference with Trump.

The deaths of the sailors marked the first casualties reported since a US blockade on Iran-linked shipping began on April 13, which involved American forces disabling eight ships and turning back over 100 others. Indian foreign ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal condemned the attacks, calling for dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace in the region.

Modi emphasized the safety of Indian seafarers operating in critical shipping routes like the Strait of Hormuz, stating their welfare is of “utmost importance.” He expressed hope that their safety would be prioritized once an agreement between Washington and Tehran is enacted.

India summoned the acting chief of the US mission twice this month following military strikes that resulted in the deaths of three Indian sailors. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar raised strong objections with Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding these incidents.

During his meeting with Modi, Trump highlighted India's growing influence internationally, particularly in West Asia. “I think India plays a big role in everything, including West Asia as long as Modi is PM,” he remarked.

Trump reiterated the security cooperation between the two nations, stating, “If they were attacked, we would be there to help them.” He clarified that while there is no formal contract, his commitment to assist India under Modi's leadership remains firm.

“As long as I am president, they have a great friend in the White House,” Trump declared, reinforcing his admiration for Modi's negotiating skills and political resilience.

At the summit, Trump again praised Modi's international standing, claiming “everyone here has tremendous respect for this man.”

The discussions between the leaders spanned trade, defense cooperation, energy security, critical minerals, visa policies, and developments in West Asia. Officials from both countries indicated ongoing talks regarding an interim trade agreement, with optimism about progress being expressed by both sides.

Trump has frequently underscored his personal rapport with Modi. Earlier this month, he congratulated him on becoming India’s longest-serving prime minister and described him as a strong and effective leader.

Before meeting Trump, Modi engaged with Antonio Costa, president of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission. He also conferred with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on trade, investment, defense, information technology, and circular economy cooperation.

Post-meeting, Modi stated: “The talks with Chancellor Merz were very fruitful. We discussed ways to further cement bilateral cooperation by working together in trade, investments, circular economy, defense, IT and more.”