Putin and Trump Address India-Pakistan Tensions
Russian President Vladimir Putin and former US President Donald Trump recently held a phone conversation that included discussion of the ongoing India-Pakistan conflict. According to a Kremlin aide, the ceasefire was reportedly achieved through Trump’s personal involvement, though no further details were disclosed regarding the nature or timing of his role.
Trump’s Claims and India’s Military Diplomacy
Trump has previously asserted that he played a significant part in de-escalating tensions between India and Pakistan during his presidency. However, Indian officials attribute the stoppage of hostilities to direct military engagements. The Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) from both countries coordinated the ceasefire following a series of cross-border clashes in early May.
Timeline of the Recent Conflict
- The conflict was triggered by a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam.
- In response, India conducted precision strikes on terrorist camps within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on May 7.
- Pakistan retaliated with aerial attacks targeting Indian military bases over the next three days.
- Strong military responses on both sides kept tensions high.
- A mutual understanding to cease operations was reportedly reached on May 10 through DGMO-level negotiations.
Diplomatic Engagements in Moscow
In parallel, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif sought the intervention of Russia in easing the conflict, delivering a letter to President Putin via his aide during a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Pakistan expressed willingness to engage in negotiations under Russian mediation.
Simultaneously, India dispatched a multi-party parliamentary delegation to Moscow. Led by DMK MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, the delegation secured strong backing from Russian authorities for India’s firm stance against Pakistan-based terrorism.
Underlying Diplomatic Rivalry
This diplomatic exchange in Moscow underscores the persistent mistrust between India and Pakistan amid high-stakes regional tensions involving nuclear powers. The contrasting approaches by both nations in seeking support highlight the complex geopolitical dynamics at play.
