India Denies Trump's Trade Leverage Claim in Ceasefire; Military Remains on Alert
Following intense hostilities and 'Operation Sindoor', India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire. India refuted US President Trump's assertion that trade leverage secured the truce, clarifying discussions with the US centered on the operation, not trade. Indian military officials confirmed all bases are operational and prepared. Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of both nations also communicated via hotline. Precautionary measures included flight cancellations and school closures in border areas.
Unpacked:
The hostilities were triggered by a terrorist attack on April 22, 2025, near Pahalgam in Indian-administered Kashmir, which killed 28 civilians. India accused Pakistan-backed militants of carrying out the attack, leading to military operations and escalated tensions.
'Operation Sindoor' was an Indian military operation launched as a retaliatory measure following the April 22 attack in Kashmir. India alleged that Pakistan was behind the attack, and the operation was intended to target militant infrastructure and deter further cross-border terrorism.
Yes, shortly after the ceasefire announcement, both sides accused each other of violations, including cross-border firing and drone sightings. However, by May 11, reports indicated that serious violations had ceased and the situation in many affected areas had stabilized.
India clarified that discussions with the US focused on military operations and the security situation, not on trade. India rejected President Trump's assertion that trade leverage played a role in securing the ceasefire, emphasizing that the truce was reached through military and diplomatic channels.