Trump Repeats Claim of Brokering India-Pakistan Peace Deal: India Disputes Foreign Mediation

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Trump’s Statement and Context

On May 14, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump once again claimed credit for easing tensions between India and Pakistan after the two countries edged toward conflict following a terror attack in Kashmir. Speaking to reporters during a regional diplomatic visit, Trump said,

“My administration brokered a historic ceasefire between India and Pakistan. I told them—let's have peace and do some trade instead.”

Trump had earlier hinted that trade incentives and American diplomatic influence led to the de-escalation. He also praised his team, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance, for playing key roles in the process.

India’s Firm Rebuttal

In response, Indian officials restated that the ceasefire was a result of internal strategic decisions and not due to any third-party influence.

"No foreign power brokered any agreement. India's national security and foreign affairs decisions remain sovereign," a senior official told The Economic Times.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a national address, warned Pakistan that continued support for cross-border terrorism would lead to resumed military action, reinforcing the narrative that India acted on its own terms.

Political Reaction in India

The Indian National Congress questioned the silence of the ruling BJP government on Trump’s repeated claims. Taking a jibe, Congress posted on X (formerly Twitter):

“Ameriki papa ne war rukwadi? Does India no longer speak for itself?”

Party leaders demanded clarity from External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and sought a formal rebuttal to what they called “a repeated undermining of India’s independent global stance.”

Background: What Happened in May 2025

Tensions between India and Pakistan surged after a deadly terror attack in Indian-administered Kashmir on April 22, allegedly carried out by Pakistan-based militants. India responded with targeted airstrikes on May 7, heightening fears of broader conflict.

Following this, reports suggest backchannel diplomacy intensified, with the United States engaging both nations. A ceasefire was agreed upon by May 10, though the specifics remain undisclosed.

Final Thoughts:

While President Trump continues to project his foreign policy achievements ahead of the U.S. presidential election, India's insistence on autonomy in its diplomatic and military decisions paints a different picture. The broader implications of this narrative tug-of-war could influence regional geopolitics and bilateral relations moving forward.