Did Trump Really Stop a Nuclear Conflict by Using Trade?

Synopsis
In a bold assertion, President Trump claims he leveraged trade to halt escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, averting a potential nuclear disaster. Discover how diplomatic efforts and economic incentives played a crucial role in achieving peace in this volatile region.
Key Takeaways
- Trade can be an effective diplomatic tool for conflict resolution.
- Both nations displayed leadership and wisdom in recognizing the seriousness of the situation.
- The ceasefire may lead to increased economic cooperation between India and Pakistan.
- Preventing a nuclear conflict is a significant diplomatic achievement.
- Ongoing negotiations between the US, India, and Pakistan are crucial for future relations.
Washington, May 12 (NationPress) - President Donald Trump stated on Monday that he utilized the potential for trade with the United States to convince India and Pakistan to cease their hostilities last week, which he suggested could have escalated into a nuclear conflict.
The US President praised the leaders of both nations for their "wisdom" and "fortitude" in recognizing the seriousness of the situation and halting the violence.
On Saturday, Trump declared a ceasefire in the military conflict between India and Pakistan that followed an attack on April 22 by a terrorist organization linked to Pakistan, resulting in the deaths of 26 tourists in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam.
"Come on, we're going to engage in significant trade with you guys," President Trump remarked during a news conference at the White House before his trip to Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar in West Asia.
"Let's put an end to this. Let's put an end to this. If you cease hostilities, we will proceed with trade. If you do not cease, there will be no trade. We are poised to engage in substantial trade with both Pakistan and India. Negotiations with India are ongoing, and we will soon commence talks with Pakistan," he elaborated.
No specifics were provided regarding how the Trump administration proposed the trade offer in this context. India and the US are currently engaged in discussions regarding a bilateral trade agreement, and both parties have expressed optimism about reaching an early accord, a stark contrast to 2019 when talks faltered during Trump’s first term.
"We averted a nuclear conflict," President Trump asserted. While there is no evidence that either nation was on the brink of deploying nuclear weapons, he emphasized, "I believe it could have led to a catastrophic nuclear war, potentially resulting in millions of casualties. I take great pride in that achievement."
During the briefing, the US President stated, "My administration facilitated a complete and immediate ceasefire, which I believe could be permanent, between India and Pakistan, effectively concluding a perilous conflict involving two nations with vast nuclear arsenals, which was escalating dangerously and seemed bound to continue."
"I am proud to announce that the leadership of both India and Pakistan displayed unwavering strength, but also the wisdom and courage to comprehend the seriousness of the situation," he concluded.