US President Donald Trump on Wednesday reiterated his claim that he personally helped defuse escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. Speaking during a joint press conference with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Trump credited his diplomatic efforts and trade negotiations with both nations for preventing a potential conflict.
“If you take a look at what we just did with Pakistan and India, we settled that whole thing,” Trump declared. “I think I settled it through trade. We’re doing a big deal with India. We’re doing a big deal with Pakistan.”
Trump also commented on the intensity of the situation before his alleged intervention, saying, “Somebody had to be the last one to shoot. But the shooting was getting worse and worse.” He further added, “I hate to say we got it settled, and then two days later something happens and they say, it’s Trump’s fault.”
Praises Leaders of Both Nations
Trump lauded the leadership in both countries, saying, “Pakistan has some excellent people and a great leader. And India my friend Modi he’s a great guy. I called them both. We just did something good.” In response, Ramaphosa acknowledged, “Modi, mutual friend.” Trump replied, “He’s a great guy, and I called them both. It’s something good.”
This is not the first time Trump has claimed credit for de-escalating tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbours. After the ceasefire, he wrote on Truth Social, “After a long night of talks mediated by the United States, I am pleased to announce that India and Pakistan have agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire. Congratulations to both countries on using common sense and great intelligence.”
India Firmly Denies US Role in Ceasefire
However, Indian officials have consistently rejected claims of US involvement. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified that the ceasefire understanding resulted from direct talks between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of India and Pakistan.
“The trade issue did not come up in any discussions with Washington during the conflict,” the MEA stated, refuting Trump’s linkage of trade deals to peace efforts.
The ceasefire followed India’s retaliatory precision strikes under Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, which left 26 civilians dead.
