After India-Pakistan ceasefire, Trump pledges bigger trade ties and hints at Kashmir mediation

Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday offered to “substantially” increase trade with both India and Pakistan, shortly after the two countries agreed to a ceasefire following escalating cross-border tensions.

Taking to X, Trump praised the leadership of both nations for their decision to halt hostilities, which he said had the potential to prevent large-scale devastation.

“I am very proud of the strong and unwaveringly powerful leadership of India and Pakistan for having the strength, wisdom, and fortitude to fully know and understand that it was time to stop the current aggression that could have led to the death and destruction of so many, and so much. Millions of good and innocent people could have died!” Trump wrote.

“Your legacy is greatly enhanced by your brave actions. I am proud that the USA was able to help you arrive at this historic and heroic decision,” he added.

While the ceasefire agreement was formally announced by military officials in both countries, Trump’s statement signals a possible behind-the-scenes diplomatic role played by the United States in de-escalating the situation.

In a surprise addition to his post, Trump also pledged to expand economic ties with both nations, “While not even discussed, I am going to increase trade, substantially, with both of these great Nations.”

Beyond trade, Trump hinted at reviving efforts to mediate the decades-old Kashmir dispute, a sensitive issue that has historically drawn sharp reactions from India whenever third-party mediation is suggested.

“Additionally, I will work with you both to see if, after a ‘thousand years,’ a solution can be arrived at concerning Kashmir,” he wrote.