US president Donald Trump on Friday nominated Sergio Gor as both Ambassador to India. Beyond this, the Trump aide has been given the resposibility of Special Envoy for South and Central Asia. The dual role has raised questions with experts calling that Washington is reviving the long-criticized “India-Pakistan hyphenation” in its foreign policy.
Traditionally, US administrations have sought to “de-hyphenate” ties with India and Pakistan, treating each relationship independently rather than grouping them into a single strategic framework. Gor’s dual mandate, however, is being seen as a possible reversal of that approach.
Experts Point Out India-Pakistan Hyphenation
The appointment places oversight of key regional flashpoints – including Pakistan and Afghanistan – under the purview of the US Embassy in New Delhi. Analysts warn this could blur the lines between Washington’s bilateral engagement with India and its regional strategy.
Also Read: Who is Sergio Gor? Donald Trump Picks Close Political Aide As US Ambassador To India
Michael Kugelman, a noted South Asia expert, in an X post, suggested that concentrating both responsibilities in Delhi may revive the practice of bundling India and Pakistan into a single policy basket.
“If Gor is confirmed as ambassador to India and also serves in the special envoy role, then it would appear that India-Pakistan hyphenation is back. Another view: The US is signaling the importance of ties w/India by having the special envoy for two key regions be posted in Delhi,” Kugelman wrote.
If Gor is confirmed as ambassador to India and also serves in the special envoy role, then it would appear that India-Pakistan hyphenation is back. Another view: The US is signaling the importance of ties w/India by having the special envoy for two key regions be posted in Delhi. https://t.co/cQxLWJH0FC
— Michael Kugelman (@MichaelKugelman) August 22, 2025
Clear Hyphenation
Others, however, interpret the move differently. By placing a trusted Trump confidant in New Delhi – one with direct access to the US president – Washington may be signaling a stronger commitment to India as its anchor in Asia.
“As I see it, getting a hard-core MAGA insider as the envoy, who has Trump’s ear, gives India access to Trump,” senior journalist Sreemoy Talukdar posted on X.
As I see it, getting a hard core MAGA insider as the envoy, who has Trump’s ear, gives India access to Trump.
That said, if he’s the minder for both India and Pakistan, then it’s a clear hyphenation and portend of things to come.
Also, Gor is a loyalist. Not a technocrat. https://t.co/8v17p2bvud— Sreemoy Talukdar (@sreemoytalukdar) August 22, 2025
“That said, if he’s the minder for both India and Pakistan, then it’s a clear hyphenation and a portent of things to come. Also, Gor is a loyalist. Not a technocrat.”
Sergio Gor – A Controversial Figure
Gor’s personal and political background adds another layer of significance. Born in Soviet Uzbekistan and partly raised in Malta, he entered US politics through Senator Rand Paul before emerging as a key figure in Donald Trump’s political orbit.
Praised for his unwavering loyalty, Gor has also been embroiled in controversies, including high-profile internal clashes. Among them was a reported feud with Elon Musk, who later publicly labeled him “a snake.”
Also Read: Trump Picks Sergio Gor As Ambassador To India – Why Did Elon Musk Once Call Him A ‘Snake’?
Zubair Amin is a Senior Journalist at NewsX with over seven years of experience in reporting and editorial work. He has written for leading national and international publications, including Foreign Policy Magazine, Al Jazeera, The Economic Times, The Indian Express, The Wire, Article 14, Mongabay, News9, among others. His primary focus is on international affairs, with a strong interest in US politics and policy. He also writes on West Asia, Indian polity, and constitutional issues. Zubair tweets at zubaiyr.amin
