In a reaffirmation of Indo-US relations, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday stated that India and the United States continue to maintain a "comprehensive global strategic partnership" despite recent tensions and policy differences.

Addressing the media, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "India and the United States share a comprehensive global strategic partnership anchored in shared interests, democratic values, and robust people-to-people ties." He added that the relationship has withstood transitions and challenges and is expected to progress further. "We remain focused on the substantive agenda that our two countries have committed to and are confident that the relationship will continue to move forward."

Jaiswal also underlined the growing defence cooperation between the two nations. "India-US defence ties remain strong and have only grown stronger in recent years. There is clear potential for this partnership to expand under the India-US COMPACT for the 21st century," he said, while clarifying that India's defence procurement decisions are based purely on national security considerations.

These remarks come amid reports that India has turned down the US offer to acquire advanced F-35 fighter jets, allegedly in response to President Donald Trump’s move to impose a 25% tariff on Indian goods. The tension is also linked to India's continued purchase of Russian oil and defence equipment.

When questioned about Trump's criticism of India’s ties with Moscow, Jaiswal firmly responded, "India’s bilateral relationships stand on their own merit and should not be seen from the prism of a third country. Our relationship with Russia is steady and time-tested."

On the issue of some Indian companies allegedly ceasing procurement of Russian oil, Jaiswal clarified that the government is not aware of such developments. "You are aware of our broad approach to energy sourcing. We assess the global situation and act accordingly. We have no specific information on that matter," he stated.