Navigating Diplomacy: McMaster’s Reflections on US-India Ties During Trump Era

Former National Security Adviser H.R. McMaster discusses India-US relations amidst Chinese aggression, detailing his interactions with Indian counterparts during his tenure in the Trump administration. He highlights the complexities of India’s cautious diplomacy, influenced by fears of entrapment and abandonment. McMaster’s insights come from his book, 'At War With Ourselves.'

Former National Security Adviser H.R. McMaster shed light on the intricate dynamics of India-US relations during the Trump administration, attributing the increased cooperation to rising Chinese aggression. In his latest book, 'At War With Ourselves,' McMaster elaborates on his meetings with Indian officials such as Ajit Doval and Narendra Modi, underscoring the delicate balance between collaboration and apprehension.

McMaster recalls a poignant dinner with Ajit Doval before his dismissal in 2018, discussing strategic priorities and shared anxieties about the region's stability, particularly regarding Afghanistan and China's assertiveness. These interactions showcased India's dual fears of being entrapped in unwanted alliances and abandoned by the US.

The book describes McMaster's diplomatic tour in 2017 to Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India, where discussions with key figures like Prime Minister Modi and then-Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar emphasized mutual objectives and the importance of a free, open Indo-Pacific. McMaster also recounts President Trump's meetings with Modi, which aimed to solidify the bilateral relationship despite underlying tensions.

(With inputs from agencies.)