Trump Hails India-Pakistan Ceasefire, Pledges Trade Boost and Kashmir Talks

President Donald Trump has hailed a fragile ceasefire between India and Pakistan, promising a significant boost in trade with both nations following their agreement to halt hostilities. The deal, brokered with U.S. diplomatic muscle, comes after days of intense clashes involving missiles and drones, leaving dozens dead. Trump, in a Truth Social post, expressed optimism about resolving the long-standing Kashmir dispute, calling the ceasefire a "historic and heroic" step.

The ceasefire, effective Sunday, followed fierce fighting sparked by an attack on Hindus in Pahalgam, Kashmir, two weeks ago, which killed 26. Both nations, each controlling parts of Kashmir but claiming it in full, accused each other of violating the truce shortly after its announcement. India reported artillery fire in its Kashmir region hours after the deal, while Pakistan noted firing in Bhimber but no casualties.

Despite overnight tensions, calm prevailed by dawn. In Amritsar, India, sirens signaled a return to normalcy. Trump praised the leadership of both countries for averting a broader conflict that could have claimed millions of lives, emphasizing the U.S. role in facilitating the agreement.

Yet, the ceasefire’s durability remains uncertain. With three wars fought between India and Pakistan—two over Kashmir—the region’s volatility looms large. Trump’s trade pledge and diplomatic push signal a bold move to stabilize ties, but the path to lasting peace remains fraught.