Book reveals why Trump dismissed Vance’s idea of Indian peacekeepers in Ukraine

A new book on US President Donald Trump’s second presidency has revealed behind-the-scenes discussions inside the US administration over the Ukraine war, including a debate on whether countries like India and Saudi Arabia could contribute troops for a possible peacekeeping mission.

The book ‘Regime Change: Inside the Imperial Presidency of Donald Trump’, written by New York Times journalists Maggie Haberman and Jonathan Swan, claims that US Vice President JD Vance had suggested India and Saudi Arabia as possible options for a non-European peacekeeping force in Ukraine.

Vance’s opposition

The discussion, which took place during an Oval Office meeting on January 30, 2025, days after Trump returned to power, was led by retired US Army Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg. Kellogg was Trump’s special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, who presented a proposed framework titled ‘An America First Plan: Trump’s Historic Peace Deal for Russia-Ukraine.’

Also read: Jaishankar says India ‘selectively targeted’ over Ukraine conflict

According to the book, the plan involved a ceasefire arrangement where foreign troops could monitor the situation on the ground. While Kellogg’s proposal included possible involvement from European countries such as France, Britain and the Netherlands, Vance reportedly objected, arguing that NATO troops inside Ukraine could provoke Russia and escalate the conflict.

‘Indians won’t pay’

Seeking alternatives, Vance asked whether countries outside Europe could take part in such a mission. After National Security Advisor Michael Waltz agreed that a non-European force could be considered, Vance suggested India and Saudi Arabia.

The book claims Trump immediately dismissed the possibility of India’s involvement. “Trump chuckled,” the authors wrote, quoting him as saying: “The Indians won’t do that. They won’t pay for something like that.”

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The book also says Trump mentioned his personal equation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the discussion. According to the authors, Trump said Modi had a good relationship with him and “really liked him and wanted to visit,” but still argued that India would not contribute financially to such a mission.

Tariffs on India

Beyond the Ukraine discussions, India also came up during another White House conversation on tariffs. According to the book, while speaking to technology executives in March 2025, Trump criticised countries he claimed imposed high duties on US goods.

Discussing his push to bring manufacturing back to the US, Trump reportedly said companies that did not build factories in the US would face higher tariffs. He cited China and India as examples, claiming, “China tariffs us over 150 to 200 per cent, India 175 per cent.”

Also read: India seeks tariff advantage as fresh trade talks with US begin in New Delhi

The remarks came as Trump repeatedly pushed his “America First” trade policy, arguing that countries benefiting from the US market should provide greater access for American companies.

Trump-Modi relationship

The book’s revelations come amid continued focus on Trump’s relationship with Modi. During their meeting on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France, Trump praised Modi, describing him as a “very tough negotiator” while highlighting their close personal equation. Trump said Modi had a “great friend in the White House” and spoke highly of his leadership style, calling him “cool” and respected globally.

While referring to Modi’s public image, Trump said the Prime Minister may appear gentle but is extremely tough when it comes to negotiations and business. He also said the US would stand by India in times of need, stressing the strong partnership between the two countries under Modi’s leadership.