Donald Trump changes tune on India-Pakistan ceasefire

'I Don't Wanna Say I Did It, But I Helped': Trump Changes Tune on India-Pakistan Ceasefire

Initial Claim of Mediation

Following a ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, US President Donald Trump took to Truth Social claiming direct involvement in brokering peace after a deadly escalation triggered by a terrorist attack in Pahalgam.

"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."
— Donald Trump on Truth Social

He also praised US Senator Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance for their roles in the negotiations.

Later Statement in Qatar

However, speaking to US troops in Qatar, Trump appeared to moderate his stance.

"I don't wanna say I did but I sure as hell helped settle the problem between Pakistan and India..."
— Donald Trump, Qatar address

He also mentioned encouraging trade between the two nations as an alternative to conflict.

Indian and Pakistani soldiers at the border

India Strongly Denies US Mediation

India quickly refuted Trump's claims. The Ministry of External Affairs released a detailed statement rejecting the idea of any third-party mediation or trade-related leverage.

"Our relations and dealings with Pakistan will be strictly bilateral... The Prime Minister made it very clear that talks with Pakistan will be only on terror."
— S. Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs

Prime Minister Narendra Modi echoed this sentiment in an address to the nation.

"India will only engage with Pakistan on two issues: terrorism and the return of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir."
— PM Narendra Modi

Behind-the-Scenes Military Talks

According to India's Ministry of External Affairs, the ceasefire was the result of direct military-to-military communication between the Directors General of Military Operations of India and Pakistan. No third-party involvement or trade discussion occurred.

Directors General of Military Operations during ceasefire negotiations

Conclusion

While President Trump initially portrayed the ceasefire as a diplomatic triumph facilitated by his administration, official statements from India highlight a completely different narrative—one rooted in bilateral military channels without US mediation. The disparity underscores the complexity of international diplomacy and the sensitivities surrounding the India-Pakistan relationship.