Facepalm! Donald Trump Reiterates ‘Stopped A War’ Claim

Prime Minister Narendra Modi clarified to US President Donald Trump that the recent ceasefire between India and Pakistan was achieved without any US mediation. Despite this, Trump reiterated his claim of having "stopped a war" between the two nuclear-armed nations. Modi emphasised that India has never accepted, nor will it ever accept, mediation in its disputes with Pakistan.

During a phone call initiated by Trump, Modi stated that discussions about an "India-US trade deal or US mediation" did not occur during the four-day conflict. However, Trump continued to assert his role in ending hostilities while speaking to reporters in Washington. He claimed the media had not covered his involvement adequately.

Trump's Claims and Indian Response

When questioned about his diplomatic goals for an upcoming meeting with Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir, Trump said, "I stopped the war between Pakistan and India." He credited Munir and Modi for their roles in halting the conflict. Trump expressed surprise at the lack of media coverage on his claimed intervention.

Trump added, "I stopped a war between Pakistan - I love Pakistan. I think Modi is a fantastic man, I spoke to him last night. We're going to make a trade deal with Modi of India." There was no immediate response from Indian officials regarding Trump's latest comments.

Official Statements and Reactions

Individuals familiar with the situation revealed that India's stance was communicated through foreign secretary Vikram Misri's statement on the conversation between Modi and Trump. One source noted that Trump "didn't mediate or play any role" in the ceasefire process.

The announcement of halted hostilities on May 10 by Trump did not sit well with New Delhi's official circles. This was followed by statements from both Pakistani officials and Misri in New Delhi. An American readout even described it as a US-brokered ceasefire.

Modi's Travel Plans and Trump's Meeting

During their phone conversation, Trump invited Modi to stop over in the US after leaving Canada, where he attended the G7 Summit outreach session. However, Modi declined due to prior commitments, including a scheduled visit to Croatia as part of a three-nation tour.

If accepted, Modi would have been in Washington simultaneously with Munir. Trump's Wednesday schedule included a lunch meeting with Munir at the White House's Cabinet Room. Such hosting of Pakistan Army chiefs by US presidents has been rare in recent decades.