Trump Claims He Stopped India-Pakistan Conflict Using Trade as Leverage
US President Donald Trump has claimed he prevented a war between India and Pakistan by using trade as leverage. Speaking at a dinner event, he asserted that he told both nuclear-armed nations he would halt trade if they fought, which he claims led them to de-escalate. Trump also suggested he deserves a Nobel Peace Prize for his role in "ending seven wars," a list that he said included the India-Pakistan conflict among others across the globe.
Unpacked:
No, Indian officials have repeatedly denied any third-party mediation or foreign intervention in their ceasefire with Pakistan, stating that their actions were independent and not influenced by US trade threats or diplomatic involvement.
Trump announced a 25% tariff on all goods imported from India starting August 1 and penalties for India’s purchases of Russian oil and military equipment. For Pakistan, tariffs were set at 19%, and he offered a new trade deal and assistance in developing oil reserves.
Operation Sindoor was India’s military response to an April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir that killed 26 people. The operation led to increased tensions with Pakistan and subsequent ceasefire discussions, but India insists its actions were non-escalatory and not influenced by outside pressure.
There is little evidence that Trump’s interventions resulted in a lasting resolution; while ceasefires have occurred, both countries have a long history of recurring tensions, and Indian officials deny US involvement in de-escalation. Most sources indicate his role was not decisive in changing the situation.