U.S. President Donald Trump has claimed that his administration played a key role in diffusing rising military tensions between India and Pakistan, stating that Washington pushed for a “full and immediate ceasefire” that prevented what he described as a potential nuclear catastrophe.

Addressing the situation, President Trump said the U.S. offered both nations trade incentives in exchange for halting hostilities. “We told them—look, we want to trade with you, but you need to stop. If you don't stop, there won’t be any trade,” Trump remarked.

He emphasized that trade talks were a major factor in de-escalation, adding that negotiations with India were ongoing and that similar discussions with Pakistan would follow. “They had several reasons to back down, but trade was a big one,” he noted.

According to Trump, the diplomatic push by his administration helped avoid a conflict that could have spiraled into a devastating nuclear war. “Millions could have died. I’m proud we stopped what could have been a terrible war,” he said.

Trump also praised the leadership of both nations, calling them “strong and wise” for choosing dialogue over aggression. “The leaders of India and Pakistan were firm and showed great understanding of the gravity of the situation,” he said.

The comments came just days after Trump publicly announced a ceasefire agreement between the two South Asian neighbours, even before either government had formally commented. However, India has refrained from using the word “ceasefire.” Sources in New Delhi maintain that the arrangement is more of a mutual “understanding” to pause military action, especially while Operation Sindoor remains active.