A reporter raised concerns regarding Indians experiencing racism online and cited a specific social media post involving United States President Donald Trump. Rubio stated that he did not understand the reference and initially believed the question concerned general online content.
“I do not know who he was talking about. I figured, I assumed that he was talking about people posting stuff online,” Rubio said. “I do not even know, some of those could be a troll, it could be a bot, I do not know. So that is why I asked him specifically, can you tell me what you are talking about and who you are talking about. He did not have a specific example.”
The reporter subsequently clarified that the reference was to a post by Trump in which India was described as a “hellhole.” Rubio responded that the journalist had been given an opportunity to provide details but had not done so.
“I gave that reporter a chance to tell me that, and he did not,” he said, adding that he had assumed the reference was to unspecified online content.
Rubio further defended the United States President, stating that Trump holds India in high regard and maintains strong support for Indian leadership. He noted that the administration’s diplomatic appointments reflected close ties between Washington and New Delhi.
“The president loves India. He is a big fan of Prime Minister Modi,” Rubio said, adding that he would not be present in India if the President did not support the relationship.
Addressing online discourse more broadly, Rubio remarked that social media platforms often contain offensive and baseless remarks originating from unidentified users.
“I am sure that there are people who have made comments online because every country in the world has stupid people,” he said. “People say inappropriate things all the time on social media in every country.”
He also emphasized the contribution of immigrants to the United States, stating that the nation has been strengthened by individuals who have assimilated and contributed significantly to American society.
The Ministry of External Affairs had earlier responded in April after Trump reshared a derogatory post by a podcaster describing India in offensive terms, stating that such remarks do not reflect the reality of India–United States relations, which are based on mutual respect and shared interests.
During his visit, Rubio met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Saturday. Following the meeting, both sides reviewed progress in bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors. Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed that India and the United States would continue working closely for global stability and shared interests.
The episode underscores the sensitivity surrounding public rhetoric, digital discourse, and the ongoing diplomatic balancing of India–United States relations amid rising scrutiny of online narratives.
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