Trump beats Putin: First to wish PM Modi on 75th birthday, signals stronger ties

U.S. President Donald Trump was the first world leader to call Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the eve of his 75th birthday, extending personal greetings that highlighted their close bond. Trump hailed Modi’s leadership, thanked him for backing efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war, and notably addressed him by first name on social media—a rare gesture he reserves for only a handful of leaders like Putin and Netanyahu. Hours later, Russian President Vladimir Putin also extended birthday wishes, praising Modi’s role in strengthening India-Russia relations.