India once united US policymakers like few issues. For nearly three decades, US presidents of both parties courted New Delhi as an emerging ally, politely overlooking disagreements for the sake of larger goals.

Donald Trump has abruptly changed that.

The US administration on Wednesday slapped 50 percent tariffs on many Indian products as Trump seeks to punish India for buying oil from Russia.

India was a Cold War partner of Moscow but since the 1990s US leaders have hoped for a joint front with fellow democracy India in the face of the rise of China, seen by Washington as its top long-term adversary.

In striking timing, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi heads to China this weekend, the latest meeting between the world's two most populous nations as they explore areas of common ground

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