India Can Count on Me 100%, Says Trump During Surprise Live Address at Bharat Mandapam

New Delhi: In a dramatic and unexpected moment during celebrations marking 250 years of American Independence at Bharat Mandapam, US President Donald Trump delivered a surprise live message praising India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the growing strategic ties between the two countries.

The surprise interaction unfolded when US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor connected Trump live over a phone call during the event, holding the phone to the microphone so the audience could hear the US President directly.

“I just want to say hello to everybody. I love the Prime Minister. Modi is great, he is my friend, and I just want to wish everybody a very good evening,” Trump said, drawing applause from the gathering.

Trump went on to strongly endorse the India-US partnership, saying, “I am a big, big fan of Prime Minister Modi. We have never been closer to India, and India can count on me 100 percent and our country.”

“If they ever need help, they know where to call — they call right here,” he added.

Trump Goes Into Overdrive With India Flattery: ‘Anything India Wants, They Get’

He was speaking via speakerphone after a series of damaging remarks about India that have caused backlash. pic.twitter.com/xlB61Xn9VV

— RT_India (@RT_India_news) May 25, 2026

Trump Praises Marco Rubio During Address

During his virtual remarks, Trump also showered praise on US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is currently visiting India to participate in the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.

Calling Rubio “the greatest,” Trump said the senior diplomat would be remembered as one of the most distinguished Secretaries of State in American history.

Rubio’s India visit comes at a strategically important moment as the Quad nations — India, the United States, Japan, and Australia — intensify diplomatic coordination on regional security, Indo-Pacific stability, and emerging geopolitical challenges.

Surprise Call Becomes Highlight of the Evening

The unexpected live address quickly became the centerpiece of the event, surprising diplomats, business leaders, and guests attending the celebration.

Trump’s remarks once again highlighted the close public rapport he shares with Prime Minister Modi, while also signaling Washington’s continued emphasis on strengthening ties with New Delhi amid shifting global alliances and strategic realignments in the Indo-Pacific region.

The event at Bharat Mandapam was attended by senior officials, diplomats, and industry representatives as part of celebrations commemorating America’s 250th Independence anniversary and the expanding India-US strategic partnership.