At the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation CEO Summit in Busan, U.S. President Donald Trump dropped a major hint about an upcoming India–US trade deal, calling it “closer than ever.” In true Trump style, the speech swung from praise to provocation — lauding Prime Minister Narendra Modi as “a killer negotiator” and reviving his controversial claim of brokering peace between India and Pakistan after Operation Sindoor. The remarks triggered political debate in India, with Congress leader Jairam Ramesh questioning the PM’s silence and alleging U.S. pressure on trade talks. As Trump’s Asia tour unfolds, India watches carefully — determined to secure a deal that protects its national interests.

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