Sergio Gor, a longtime aide of US President Donald Trump, has been nominated to be the next US Ambassador to India. The decision was made during a period of strained relations between Washington and India. Trade tariffs, oil purchases from Russia, and concerns over China have already added friction to the relationship.
Trump announced the nomination on Friday through his social media platform TruthSocial. He described Gor as a “great friend, who has been at my side for many years.” Gor currently leads Trump’s presidential personnel office and has worked closely with him for years, including running a pro-Trump political action committee.
The appointment is still subject to approval by the US Senate. Until then, Gor will continue his current role. Trump also said Gor would serve as Special Envoy for South and Central Asian Affairs, overseeing relations with countries like Pakistan, Afghanistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh.
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“For the most populous Region in the World, it is important that I have someone I can fully trust to deliver on my Agenda,” Trump said.
Why the Timing Matters?
The timing of this nomination is seen as crucial. The post of US Ambassador to India has been vacant since January 2025, when Eric Garcetti left. The absence of an ambassador slowed down talks on trade and other critical issues.
The announcement also comes soon after Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited India and ahead of PM Narendra Modi’s meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Analysts believe Trump’s move is also aimed at balancing India-China relations.
A full-time US Ambassador in New Delhi is seen as essential to smooth differences, send clear messages, and manage the strategic partnership.
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Strength in Proximity
Many experts welcomed Gor’s nomination because of his close personal relationship with Trump. Steve Bannon, Trump’s former chief strategist, called it a “positive sign for India.” He added, “If I’m [Prime Minister Narendra] Modi in India…I couldn’t think of a better pick.”
Gor’s closeness to Trump could give India direct access to the US President’s inner circle — something seen as an advantage at a time when Washington appears to be tilting towards Pakistan.
Concerns Over the ‘Dual Role’
At the same time, Gor’s dual role has raised concerns. As Ambassador to India and Special Envoy for South and Central Asia, Gor would also deal with Pakistan, Afghanistan, and other neighbouring countries.
Former Indian foreign secretary Kanwal Sibal criticized the move. “It’s the first time that a US ambassador to India is also a Special Envoy for South and Central Asian affairs…This means he will be consulting and coordinating with other US ambassadors in the region to develop a more integrated approach,” he warned. Many fear this could lead to India and Pakistan being “re-hyphenated” in US policy.
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A Throwback to the Past?
Experts compared the move to the Obama-era appointment of Richard Holbrooke as Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan. At that time, India strongly objected to being linked with Pakistan in US diplomacy.
Brahma Chellaney, an international affairs scholar, said, “Trump waited over seven months — until US-India ties had sunk to a new low — to name an ambassador to India. By doubling the nominee’s role…America weakens its own hand by reducing India from a global partner to a South Asian player.”
Others, like Michael Kugelman, believe the dual role could signal Washington’s focus on India by giving New Delhi a stronger voice in regional matters. For now, Sergio Gor’s confirmation lies with the US Senate. His appointment could shape the next phase of US-India relations.
