US President Donald Trump has once again asserted that his administration played a decisive role in brokering peace between India and Pakistan, attributing the de-escalation of tensions to his personal diplomacy and ongoing trade negotiations with both countries.
Speaking at a joint press conference with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Trump stated that he “settled” the situation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours through trade deals. He emphasised his close relationships with the leaders of both India and Pakistan, describing Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as “a great guy” and Pakistan’s leader as “a great leader”.
Despite Trump’s repeated assertions, Indian officials have consistently denied any US role in brokering the ceasefire or linking trade negotiations to the de-escalation. India maintains that such matters are to be resolved bilaterally, without third-party involvement. The Indian government swiftly refuted Trump’s latest statement, reiterating its long-standing position on the issue.
The recent ceasefire followed a period of heightened hostilities after the Pahalgam terror attack on 22 April, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians. India responded with Operation Sindoor, targeting terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, which led to an escalation in cross-border violence, including drone incursions and artillery exchanges along the Line of Control.
