US President Donald Trump marked Diwali at the White House, sharing details of his recent conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Trump asserted that PM Modi has committed to reducing India’s reliance on Russian oil and is keen to see the Ukraine war conclude. Speaking to reporters, Trump expressed his admiration for the Indian leader, referring to him as a ‘great person’ and a ‘great friend.’ The two leaders reportedly focused on trade during their recent discussion. Trump reiterated his previous assertion that he played a role in resolving the military standoff between India and Pakistan earlier this year, a claim that has been met with skepticism. As part of the Diwali observance, Trump participated in lighting a diya, interpreting its flame as a symbol of overcoming darkness, ignorance, and evil, signifying the victory of light, knowledge, and good. He touched upon the traditional narratives associated with Diwali, which often celebrate the vanquishing of adversaries and the liberation of the oppressed.
