Trump names loyalist Sergio Gor as US ambassador to India amid trade tensions

President Donald Trump has appointed his longtime ally and White House Personnel Director Sergio Gor as the next US Ambassador to India and Special Envoy for South and Central Asian Affairs, a move underscoring the administration's preference for loyal insiders in key diplomatic positions amid rising tensions with India. Gor, known more for his political organizing than diplomatic experience, played a central role in staffing thousands of administration positions and has been a close adviser to Trump for years. The appointment comes as US-India relations face strain due to trade disputes, including planned tariff increases on Indian goods and disagreements over India's purchase of Russian energy. Indian strategic experts have expressed unease about Gor's dual role, fearing it signals a reduction in the importance of bilateral ties by grouping India with Pakistan and other neighbors in a broader South Asia policy, potentially complicating the Indo-Pacific focus. Despite criticism, senior Trump administration officials, including Vice President JD Vance and key cabinet members, have praised Gor's loyalty, work ethic, and expected effectiveness in strengthening US-India relations. The nomination reflects Washington's ongoing effort to balance China's influence in the Indo-Pacific by deepening ties with India, even as diplomatic challenges persist.