• Trump nominates Sergio Gor as US ambassador to India and special envoy for South Asian affairs.
• The nomination comes at a time of growing trade tensions between the US and India.
• Gor, currently a White House personnel director, has no prior diplomatic experience.
• Trump cites Gor's loyalty and trustworthiness in his announcement.
• Gor will replace Eric Garcetti, a Democratic appointee.

US President Donald Trump has nominated Sergio Gor, the current director of the White House Presidential Personnel Office, to be the next US ambassador to India, as well as a special envoy for South and Central Asian Affairs. Trump announced this decision on social media, expressing his trust in Gor by stating, “For the most populous Region in the World, it is important that I have someone I can fully trust to deliver on my Agenda.” Gor will remain in his current role until confirmed by the Senate, according to Indiatimes.

Gor's appointment comes during a period of increasingly strained US-India relations, marked by the Trump administration's plans to double tariffs on Indian imports to 50 percent due to trade disputes, including India's importation of Russian oil. Trump emphasized that Gor is “a great friend” and noted his experience working on his presidential campaigns and managing one of the largest pro-Trump Super PACs, according to South China Morning Post and TRT World.

Born in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Gor emigrated to the US in 1999 and has operated primarily within conservative political circles. Critics have noted his limited experience in foreign policy may pose challenges in this sensitive role, particularly as he replaces Eric Garcetti, a Democratic appointee. The administration faces hurdles not only in trade but also over energy issues and defense cooperation, according to Indiatimes and Indiatimes.