MEA rejects Trump’s ceasefire and trade claims amidst tensions with Pakistan
PTC Web Desk: The Indian government on Tuesday categorically denied US President Donald Trump’s recent assertions that he brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan during a military standoff, allegedly in exchange for trade concessions. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) made it clear that trade was never part of the discussions between the two nations during the conflict.
Responding to media queries, the MEA stated that while Indian and US leaders were in contact during the escalating tensions, conversations were focused solely on the military developments. “Between May 7, when Operation Sindoor commenced, and May 10, when a ceasefire agreement was reached, discussions took place on the evolving security situation. At no point was trade mentioned,” the MEA said in an official release.
Donald Trump had earlier claimed credit for diffusing a near-war scenario between the nuclear-armed neighbours, stating that the US had facilitated an "immediate and full ceasefire." He further claimed that India and Pakistan were warned they would lose US trade benefits if they did not agree to de-escalate the situation.
Clarifying the events surrounding the ceasefire, the MEA emphasised that the agreement was negotiated directly between Indian and Pakistani military officials. “The date, timing, and wording of the understanding were finalised during a phone call between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) on May 10 at 3:35 pm,” the ministry noted. It added that the call was arranged following a request from the Pakistani High Commission at 12.37 pm, although initial technical issues delayed the hotline connection.
Underscoring India’s military response, the MEA stated, “Early on May 10, Indian forces launched a highly effective strike on key Pakistan air force bases. This compelled Pakistan to seek a halt to military activities. The cessation of hostilities was a direct result of Indian military pressure.”
The MEA also addressed the question of international involvement, asserting that India’s communication with global partners was consistent both publicly and privately. “India’s message was clear: we were targeting terror infrastructure in response to the April 22 attack. If Pakistan fired, India would respond. If Pakistan ceased fire, India would also hold fire,” the ministry added.
The same message was conveyed at the start of Operation Sindoor, though Pakistan did not initially respond in kind. “It’s natural that foreign leaders who were briefed by us may have relayed this to their Pakistani counterparts,” the MEA said, indicating that external actors may have only played a role in relaying India’s firm position.
- With inputs from agencies
