Washington DC: On Sunday, US President Donald Trump expressed his approval of the end of hostilities between India and Pakistan, stating that millions could have potentially perished without the establishment of peace. He was referring to the possibility of a nuclear disaster between the two countries.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump remarked, "I take great pride in the strong and consistently powerful leadership displayed by India and Pakistan for having the courage, insight, and determination to recognize that it was necessary to halt the ongoing aggression that could have resulted in the loss of countless lives and widespread destruction. Millions of innocent and good people could have been lost! Your bravery enhances your legacy significantly."
Trump maintained his assertion that the US played a role in facilitating peace and offered to mediate a resolution regarding Kashmir.
"I am proud that the USA contributed to helping you reach this momentous and courageous decision. Though it was not previously discussed, I will significantly increase trade with both of these great nations. Additionally, I will collaborate with both of you to see if, after 'a thousand years,' we can find a resolution about Kashmir. God Bless the leaders of India and Pakistan for a job well done!!!"
India has repeatedly dismissed any involvement from a third party regarding the Jammu and Kashmir issue and has clearly stated that the region is a vital part of India.
On Saturday, India minimized the role of the US in facilitating the agreement on the cessation of hostilities, clarifying that an understanding was achieved between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of the two nations.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that India has held a steady position against terrorism: "India and Pakistan have today come to an arrangement to stop the firing and military activity. India has consistently upheld a strong and unwavering stance against terrorism in all its forms and will maintain this approach."
Trump’s comments, along with those made earlier by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have faced backlash from the opposition Congress party.
Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh conveyed, "The Indian National Congress finds that the reference to a 'neutral site' by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio for dialogue between India and Pakistan raises numerous concerns. Have we reneged on the Simla Agreement? Have we allowed for third-party mediation? The Indian National Congress wishes to inquire if diplomatic paths between India and Pakistan are being reopened? What assurances have we sought and received?"
The Congress has also requested an all-party meeting on the issues following Operation SIndoor, during which India successfully targeted and destroyed nine terrorist sites in Pakistan.
