India won't accept third-party mediation with Pakistan, Modi tells Trump

NEW DELHI: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has explicitly informed US President Donald Trump that the ceasefire between India and Pakistan in May was the result of direct military talks, with no involvement or mediation by the United States, Indian diplomatic sources. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated in a press briefing that during a meeting, Modi “clearly emphasized” to Trump that there was no discussion on India-U.S. trade agreements or US mediation during the period of the ceasefire. This clarification comes amid ongoing claims by Pakistan’s leadership, with Islamabad's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar denying allegations that Washington played a mediating role in the truce. Dar emphasized that Pakistan acted independently to de-escalate the conflict, contradicting reports of U.S.-brokered negotiations. The May conflict, which lasted four days, saw heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, both nuclear-armed neighbors. The Indian government maintains that the resolution was achieved through direct military diplomacy, dismissing suggestions of external mediation. As tensions in the region persist, officials continue to emphasize the importance of direct dialogue and regional stability, with India reaffirming its stance against external interference in bilateral disputes.