Donald Trump Praises PM Modi, Repeats India-Pakistan Ceasefire Claim

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has once again made headlines with his remarks on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing him as the “nicest looking guy.” Speaking at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) business luncheon in Seoul, South Korea, Trump also repeated his earlier claim that he personally intervened to help de-escalate tensions between India and Pakistan earlier this year.

Trump’s Praise for PM Modi

During his address, Trump lauded the Indian Prime Minister, calling him not just a strong leader but also a “nice guy” with a great personality. “I like Modi — he’s the nicest looking guy, always confident, always smiling,” Trump said to a room of business leaders and diplomats. His comments drew laughter from the audience but quickly turned serious as he shifted to his claims of diplomatic intervention in South Asia.

Trump’s Claim of Mediating India-Pakistan Ceasefire

Trump asserted that he played a personal role in preventing what he described as a “potential war” between India and Pakistan in May 2025. According to him, both countries were on the brink of armed conflict, and he used “trade influence and negotiation” to persuade leaders on both sides to agree to a ceasefire. “We had to use some leverage, some trade pressure — but it worked,” Trump claimed.

India and Pakistan Yet to Comment

As of now, neither New Delhi nor Islamabad has officially commented on Trump’s latest claim. In previous instances, both governments have denied any external mediation, maintaining that all bilateral issues are resolved through direct dialogue under the Shimla Agreement and Lahore Declaration frameworks.

Trump’s History of Bold Diplomatic Assertions

This is not the first time Trump has made such statements regarding South Asia. During his presidency, he repeatedly offered to “mediate” between India and Pakistan over the Kashmir issue, though the Indian government firmly rejected the offer. Trump’s latest comments appear consistent with his style of highlighting personal involvement in high-profile global matters.

PM Modi and Trump’s Relationship

The relationship between Modi and Trump has long been publicly cordial. During Trump’s 2020 visit to India, the two leaders shared a stage at the ‘Namaste Trump’ rally in Ahmedabad, where they exchanged glowing compliments. Trump had previously referred to Modi as a “great friend” and “a very tough negotiator.” The recent remarks continue that streak of mutual appreciation — though with Trump’s characteristic flair for showmanship.

APEC Speech Draws Global Attention

Trump’s remarks came during a luncheon session of APEC, where he spoke about global trade, U.S. economic influence in Asia, and his vision for “peace through strength.” While most of his speech focused on economics, his reference to India and Pakistan drew immediate international attention. Media outlets across Asia quickly picked up the story, with hashtags like #TrumpModi and #IndiaPakistanCeasefire trending on social media.

Fact-Check: What Happened in May 2025

In May this year, reports did surface of increased tensions along the Line of Control (LoC) between India and Pakistan, with limited cross-border firing. However, Indian and Pakistani military officials described the incidents as “routine exchanges,” not a full-blown confrontation. There is no public record or official acknowledgment of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire during that period.

Analysts React to Trump’s Statement

Foreign policy experts have reacted cautiously to Trump’s comments. Dr. Anita Menon, a South Asia analyst based in Singapore, said, “Trump’s remarks seem consistent with his tendency to claim personal credit for diplomatic developments. However, without verification from India or Pakistan, it’s best viewed as political rhetoric rather than historical fact.”

A Familiar Pattern Ahead of U.S. Elections

Observers note that Trump’s latest remarks come as he continues to position himself strongly in the U.S. presidential race. His references to international diplomacy — especially with popular world leaders like Modi — are seen as part of his strategy to project global influence and leadership experience.

Conclusion

Whether or not Trump actually played a role in easing India-Pakistan tensions remains unclear, but his comments have once again stirred debate and drawn global headlines. His praise for Prime Minister Modi — calling him the “nicest looking guy” — may have been light-hearted, but it reflects the ongoing camaraderie between the two leaders. For now, both India and Pakistan have chosen silence, while Trump’s statement continues to ripple through diplomatic circles and international media alike.