Key Points:
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Trump’s Praise for Pakistan & Trade Expansion
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Donald Trump described Pakistanis as “brilliant people” and expressed a desire to increase trade between the U.S. and Pakistan.
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He acknowledged limited current trade but emphasized the potential for stronger economic ties.
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Claims of Averting Nuclear War Between India and Pakistan
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Trump credited his administration’s behind-the-scenes diplomacy for de-escalating tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors.
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He claimed the situation was dangerously close to a nuclear exchange before his intervention.
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Criticism of India’s Trade Policies
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Trump labeled India as having “the highest tariffs in the world” but noted their willingness to reduce tariffs for the U.S.
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He framed trade as a tool for peace, using economic engagement to ease hostilities.
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Escalation & Ceasefire
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Tensions flared after an attack in IIOJK (April 22), leading to military exchanges, including missile strikes and downed jets.
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Pakistan retaliated with Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos, targeting Indian military installations.
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A ceasefire was brokered with U.S. involvement, though India downplayed external mediation.
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Diplomatic & Economic Strategy
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Trump positioned himself as a peacemaker, using trade as leverage to prevent conflict.
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He framed the resolution as a major diplomatic achievement, preventing a potential nuclear disaster.
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Conclusion
Donald Trump portrayed his administration’s intervention as critical in preventing a near-nuclear conflict between India and Pakistan, emphasizing trade as a peace-building tool. While Pakistan acknowledged U.S. mediation, India insisted on bilateral resolution. The episode highlights the volatile nature of Indo-Pak relations and the role of external diplomacy in crisis management. Trump’s remarks also reflect his broader strategy of leveraging economic ties to mitigate geopolitical tensions. However, the differing narratives from both nations underscore ongoing distrust, even after the ceasefire.
