On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi appeared on American scientist Lex Fridman’s podcast, where he shared his thoughts on a wide range of global issues, the Russia-Ukraine war, India-Pakistan relations, China and Xi Jinping, artificial intelligence, and especially the new US President Donald Trump.
The discussion reflected Modi’s perspective on foreign policy, international relations, and modern diplomacy. This article highlights India’s stance on global conflicts and Modi’s worldview.
Modi on Russia-Ukraine War and Peace
When asked how he would help establish peace between the warring nations, PM Modi responded, “I represent the country that is the land of Lord Buddha and Mahatma Gandhi. These great souls dedicated their teachings, words, actions, and behaviour entirely to peace.”
Indians, he said, do not seek strife or conflict but rather harmony. “India neither wages war against nature nor with nations. India stands for peace, and wherever India can act as a peacemaker, it has embraced that responsibility globally.”
Referring to the Russia-Ukraine war, he explained, “India has cordial relations with both Russia and Ukraine. I can tell Putin—this is not the era of war. At the same time, I can tell Zelensky in a friendly manner—no matter how many countries stand with you, there will never be a resolution on the battlefield. Resolution can only be achieved at the negotiating table.” He emphasized that discussions must involve both warring parties, as merely engaging with allies will bear no results.
PM Modi expressed optimism that the current global situation might favour a resolution. “I am optimistic about the situation, and it may bring meaningful and productive results in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.”
He also highlited the suffering caused by the prolonged war, and said, “The Global South has suffered the most. The world is grappling with fuel, food, and fertilizer crises due to this ongoing conflict. The global community desires a quick resolution and lasting peace. India is not neutral; India has a stance, and that stance is ‘peace.’”
Modi on Donald Trump
During the interview, PM Modi commended former US President Donald Trump for his unwavering dedication to his country, particularly in the wake of last year’s assassination attempt.
Recalling Trump’s resilience during the election campaign, Modi said, “When he was shot during the recent campaign, I saw the same resilient and determined President Trump—the one who walked hand-in-hand with me in that stadium. Even after being shot, he remained unwaveringly dedicated to America. His life was for his nation.”
Modi brought the similarity between Trump’s “America First” policy and his own “India First” approach, highlighting their mutual commitment to prioritizing national interests. He stated, “His reflection showed his America First spirit, just as I believe in Nation First. I stand for India first, and that’s why we connect so well. Across the world, politicians are often perceived through media narratives rather than personal interactions, and perhaps this third-party intervention is the real cause of tensions.”
He fondly recalled their meeting at the “Howdy Modi” event in Houston in 2019, where Trump sat in the audience while Modi spoke from the stage. “That was his humility. The President of the United States sitting in the audience while I spoke from the stage—it was a remarkable gesture on his part.”
Modi also recounted on Lex Fridman’s podcast how he spontaneously suggested a lap around the stadium to greet the Indian diaspora, and despite strict security protocols, Trump agreed without hesitation. “In American life, it’s almost impossible for the President to walk into a crowd of thousands, but without even a moment’s hesitation, he agreed and started walking with me. That moment was truly touching. It showed me that this man had courage. He made his own decisions but also trusted me at that moment.”
Reflecting on their long-standing friendship, Modi shared that even after Trump’s first term ended, their connection remained strong. “Whenever someone we both knew met him, and this happened dozens of times, he would say, ‘Modi is my friend; convey my regards.’ That kind of gesture is rare.”
Speaking about Trump’s second presidential bid, Modi observed, “I have seen President Trump both during his first term and now in his second run. This time, he seems far more prepared than before. He has a clear roadmap in his mind with well-defined steps leading toward his goals.”
Additionally, Modi mentioned his recent meetings with influential figures during his visit to the United States, including tech billionaire Elon Musk, US Vice President JD Vance, US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, and entrepreneur-politician Vivek Ramaswamy. He described his meeting with Elon Musk as particularly warm and friendly, noting that Musk was accompanied by his family and children.
PM Modi’s appearance on the Lex Fridman’s podcast provided deep insights into his understanding of global affairs, diplomacy, and leadership, reiterating India’s commitment to peace and strengthening international partnerships. His thoughts on these pressing issues shows his deep understanding of global affairs, practical knowledge of diplomacy and historical understanding of India.
