U.S. President Donald Trump has walked back his earlier assertion of directly mediating a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, stating, “I don’t want to say I did, but I sure as hell helped settle the problem.” His remarks, made during a public event, suggest a more indirect role in easing tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
India Rejects Mediation Claims
India has categorically denied any foreign involvement in the ceasefire discussions, reaffirming that talks were held exclusively between the Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs) of both nations. The Indian government maintains that Pakistan initiated the ceasefire request following heavy losses in Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory strike after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.
Geopolitical Implications & U.S. Position
Trump’s revised stance comes amid growing scrutiny over his initial claim of brokering peace through trade incentives. While he hinted at encouraging economic cooperation, he stopped short of asserting formal mediation, adding, “I hope I don’t walk out of here and two days later find out that it’s not settled.”
India’s Firm Stand on Kashmir
India has consistently rejected third-party intervention in its disputes with Pakistan, emphasizing that the resolution of territorial conflicts must be bilateral. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reiterated that the outstanding matter remains Pakistan’s illegal occupation of Indian territory.
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