Washington:U.S. President Donald Trump has once again praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him “a killer” and “tough as hell,” while repeating his claim that he personally brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan earlier this year.
Speaking at a public event, Trump said he used trade pressure to bring an end to the fighting between the two South Asian nations, threatening to impose tariffs of up to 250 percent on both countries unless they agreed to stop hostilities. He added that “within 24 hours, there was a peace deal,” and suggested that several aircraft were destroyed during the conflict.
The U.S. leader’s comments come months after India and Pakistan agreed to halt cross-border attacks following weeks of tension triggered by an attack in Indian-administered Kashmir in April. Trump said his administration’s intervention prevented a major regional war and praised Modi as a strong leader who “does not back down.”
India, however, has consistently denied any U.S. mediation in the ceasefire. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated in July that the decision to pause operations was entirely India’s own and not influenced by foreign pressure. He emphasized that India acted according to its strategic objectives and national interests.
Pakistan has offered a more mixed response, with some officials acknowledging diplomatic outreach by multiple countries, though no government has confirmed Trump’s specific involvement.
The remarks have drawn both attention and criticism in India, with opposition parties questioning Trump’s version of events and accusing him of exaggeration. Despite this, the U.S. president’s praise for Modi underscores the close personal rapport between the two leaders.
Trump also hinted that Washington is working on a new trade deal with New Delhi, calling India a vital partner in global trade and security. His administration has repeatedly emphasized strengthening ties with India as part of its broader strategy in the Indo-Pacific region.
While the ceasefire between India and Pakistan remains fragile, both sides have largely upheld the truce since May. However, occasional violations continue to be reported along the Line of Control, reflecting the deep-rooted tensions that persist between the two neighbors.