In a surprising turn of global diplomacy, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that India and Pakistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire after days of intense cross-border fighting. The development came amid rising tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, with dozens dead and multiple cities along the border plunged into darkness due to power blackouts caused by missile strikes and drone attacks.
President Trump, taking to his Truth Social platform, expressed his commitment to enhancing trade relations with both countries, calling them “great nations.” He stated, “While not even discussed, I am going to increase trade, substantially, with both of these great Nations. Additionally, I will work with you both to see if, after a ‘thousand years,’ a solution can be arrived at concerning Kashmir. God Bless the leadership of India and Pakistan on a job well done!!!”
The ceasefire, reportedly brokered with significant diplomatic pressure from Washington, took effect late Saturday. By Sunday morning, relative calm had returned to the region, although sporadic artillery fire was still reported in some areas of Indian-administered Kashmir. Sirens in the Indian border city of Amritsar signaled the return to normal activities, while Pakistani officials confirmed limited overnight shelling in Bhimber with no reported casualties.
Tensions flared earlier in the week following a deadly attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam area, where 26 people were killed. The incident reignited long-standing hostilities between the two nations, both of which claim the Himalayan region in full but administer separate parts of it.
While both countries publicly committed to the ceasefire, accusations of truce violations emerged within hours of the agreement. Indian officials blamed Pakistan for renewed aggression, with the Indian military ordered to “deal strongly” with any further attacks. Pakistan, on the other hand, accused India of breaking the agreement and insisted it remained committed to peace.
Despite these setbacks, Trump praised the leaders of both countries for showing “strength, wisdom, and fortitude.” He emphasized that millions of lives were potentially saved by halting the violence and stated that the decision significantly enhances the legacy of both governments.
The White House reportedly played a behind-the-scenes role in pulling both sides back from the brink of war. As Trump hinted at a future resolution for the Kashmir conflict, his trade promises appear to be a key part of ensuring continued peace between the two nations.
The announcement sparked celebrations in several cities, including Hyderabad in Pakistan, where residents took to the streets to cheer the ceasefire. Meanwhile, funerals continued in Jammu, India, where government official Raj Kumar Thapa was laid to rest after being killed in the recent clashes.
Though fragile, the ceasefire marks a critical moment in India-Pakistan relations and could pave the way for renewed diplomatic efforts and economic cooperation — with the U.S. positioning itself as a key player in facilitating both.
