U.S. President Donald Trump, during his Middle East tour, claimed credit for brokering a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, urging both nations to focus on trade rather than nuclear weapons. He emphasized the need for peaceful exchanges, stating, “Let’s not trade nuclear missiles; let’s trade the things that you make so beautifully.” Trump also praised Secretary of State Marco Rubio for his role in the mediation efforts.
However, the Indian government swiftly refuted Trump’s assertions. A spokesperson clarified that trade was never discussed during talks with U.S. officials, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Secretary of State Rubio. India maintains that the ceasefire resulted from bilateral discussions and rejected Trump’s offer to mediate the Kashmir dispute. (AP News)
Pakistan, on the other hand, acknowledged Trump’s involvement, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stating that he played a “pivotal and paramount role” in facilitating the truce, alongside representatives from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Qatar, the UK, UN, and China. (Wikipedia)
The ceasefire, announced on May 10, 2025, followed intense cross-border fighting that began after a terrorist attack in Indian-administered Kashmir on April 22. The conflict led to significant casualties on both sides and raised fears of a broader war between the nuclear-armed neighbors. (Reuters, Wikipedia)
While the truce has been welcomed internationally, skepticism remains about its durability. Both India and Pakistan have accused each other of violating the ceasefire in the days following its announcement. (Wikipedia)
In summary, while President Trump’s call for trade over nuclear escalation resonates with broader peace efforts, the reality on the ground reflects a complex and ongoing diplomatic challenge.
