Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday during his two-day visit to the USA, marking their first meeting since Trump’s return to office on January 20. However, a particular moment from their joint press conference has gained traction on social media. Trump appeared to dodge a question about anti-India activities in the US by attributing his inability to understand the reporter to their “accent.”
Trump Dismisses Question, Citing Reporter’s Accent
During the press conference, an Indian journalist raised concerns about anti-India activities in the US, directing the question to President Trump in the presence of PM Modi. Trump initially claimed he couldn’t hear the question and responded, “You’re gonna have to go louder…”
When the reporter attempted to ask again, Trump remarked, “I can’t understand a word he’s saying. It’s the accent, it’s a little bit tough for me.”
https://twitter.com/i/status/1890180503900418342
Trump: I can’t understand a word you’re saying pic.twitter.com/FJVpvhqRDE
— Acyn (@Acyn) February 13, 2025
Not the First Time
This is not the first instance of Trump making such remarks. Just last week, during a press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, he made a similar comment to a female journalist from Afghanistan. “It’s a beautiful voice and a beautiful accent. The only problem is I can’t understand a word you’re saying. But, but I just say this—good luck, live in peace,” Trump had said.
Trump: I can’t understand a word you’re saying pic.twitter.com/FJVpvhqRDE
— Acyn (@Acyn) February 13, 2025
PM Modi’s US Visit Highlights
PM Modi began his US visit by meeting Michael Waltz, the National Security Advisor, on Thursday. Later, he met tech billionaire Elon Musk at the Blair House, where he is being hosted. Pictures of Modi interacting with Musk’s son, X, have since gone viral on social media. The Prime Minister also engaged with Republican leader and Indian-American entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy.
At the White House, Trump warmly greeted Modi with a hug, telling him, “We missed you, we missed you a lot.” The two leaders then proceeded with discussions on bilateral relations and other strategic issues.
