In a fresh assertion that has reignited debate across diplomatic and political circles, US President Donald Trump claimed that he personally prevented a nuclear confrontation between India and Pakistan by threatening both nations with a 350% tariff on trade. Trump stated that following his warning, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called him to say, “We’re done, we’re not going to war.” The claim, repeated multiple times by Trump in recent months, has been consistently denied by India, which maintains that no third-party intervention was involved in de-escalating tensions.
Trump’s Claim in Detail
Speaking at the US-Saudi Investment Forum, Trump elaborated on his version of events:
- He alleged that India and Pakistan were on the brink of nuclear war during the military conflict in May 2025.
- He claimed to have threatened both countries with a 350% tariff on all trade with the United States.
- According to Trump, both Modi and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif responded by backing down, with Modi allegedly calling to confirm that “we’re done.”
- Trump framed his intervention as part of his broader strategy of using economic leverage to settle disputes.
India’s Response
India has categorically denied any third-party involvement in its bilateral issues with Pakistan. Officials reiterated that:
- India’s position on no external mediation in India-Pakistan disputes remains unchanged.
- The de-escalation in May 2025 was managed through India’s own diplomatic and military channels.
- Trump’s repeated claims are viewed as political rhetoric rather than factual accounts.
Trump’s Claim vs India’s Position
| Aspect | Trump’s Claim | India’s Position | Pakistan’s Response |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cause of De-escalation | US tariff threat | India’s internal diplomacy | Acknowledged Trump’s role |
| Modi’s Call | Modi confirmed “we’re done” | India denies such call | Not officially confirmed |
| Tariff Threat | 350% on trade | No recognition of threat | Trump claims Sharif thanked him |
| Nuclear War Risk | Imminent | India says exaggerated | Pakistan acknowledges tensions |
Global Reactions
- Diplomatic Analysts: Many experts view Trump’s claim as exaggerated, noting that while tensions were high, nuclear escalation was unlikely.
- US Political Circles: Trump’s remarks are seen as part of his broader narrative of being a “deal-maker” who uses unconventional methods.
- International Media: Coverage has highlighted the contrast between Trump’s repeated claims and India’s firm denials.
Economic Angle: The 350% Tariff Threat
Trump’s mention of a 350% tariff is significant because:
- Such a tariff would effectively halt trade between the US and India/Pakistan.
- India is a major trading partner of the US, with bilateral trade exceeding $190 billion annually.
- Analysts argue that the threat was more rhetorical than practical, as imposing such tariffs would disrupt US businesses as well.
India-US Trade Snapshot (2024–2025)
| Category | Value (USD Billion) | Share of Total Trade |
|---|---|---|
| Goods Exports to US | 95 | 50% of India’s exports |
| Goods Imports from US | 65 | Machinery, defense, tech |
| Services Trade | 30 | IT, outsourcing |
| Total Bilateral Trade | 190 | Growing year-on-year |
Political Context
Trump’s claim comes amid his broader narrative of using economic leverage to settle conflicts worldwide. He has repeatedly stated that tariffs helped him “settle five of the eight wars” during his presidency. Critics argue that these claims are part of his campaign rhetoric, aimed at showcasing his unique approach to diplomacy compared to predecessors.
Implications for India-Pak Relations
While Trump’s claim may not align with India’s official position, it underscores the sensitivity of India-Pakistan relations:
- Border Tensions: Skirmishes along the Line of Control remain frequent.
- Diplomatic Stalemate: Talks between the two nations remain frozen.
- Global Attention: Any escalation draws immediate international concern due to nuclear capabilities.
Conclusion
Trump’s fresh claim that his 350% tariff threat forced India and Pakistan to back down has stirred global debate. While India firmly denies any external mediation, Trump continues to frame himself as the decisive factor in preventing war. The episode highlights the intersection of politics, diplomacy, and economic leverage in international relations, even as the truth of events remains contested.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available political statements and media reports. Readers are advised to follow official government releases for verified details.
