Washington, DC [US]: The United States has welcomed the decision by India and Pakistan to reach a ceasefire agreement following heightened tensions triggered by the Pahalgam terror attack. US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio played key roles in mediating the breakthrough.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Vice President Vance praised the collaborative diplomatic efforts, writing:
“Great work from the President’s team, especially Secretary Rubio. And my gratitude to the leaders of India and Pakistan for their hard work and willingness to engage in this ceasefire.“
The statement followed a detailed announcement by Secretary Rubio, who confirmed that both nations had agreed to halt all military operations—on land, at sea, and in the air—as part of a US-brokered de-escalation effort.
“Over the past 48 hours, VP Vance and I have engaged with senior Indian and Pakistani officials, including Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shehbaz Sharif, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir, and National Security Advisors Ajit Doval and Asim Malik,” Rubio said on X.
Rubio also confirmed that both countries had agreed to begin broader peace talks at a neutral location in the near future, saying:
“We commend Prime Ministers Modi and Sharif for their wisdom, prudence, and statesmanship in choosing the path of peace.“
India Reiterates Stance Against Terrorism
India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar echoed the sentiments in his own statement on X, confirming that an “understanding on stoppage of firing and military action” had been reached.
“India has consistently maintained a firm and uncompromising stance against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. It will continue to do so,” he wrote.
Global Diplomacy at Play
The ceasefire comes in the wake of rising hostilities between the nuclear-armed neighbours, which had sparked international concern. Former US President Donald Trump also weighed in, claiming a role in securing the truce.
Posting on Truth Social, Trump stated:
“After a long night of talks mediated by the United States, I am pleased to announce that India and Pakistan have agreed to a FULL AND IMMEDIATE CEASEFIRE. Congratulations to both countries on using Common Sense and Great Intelligence.“
Pakistan Endorses Agreement
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar officially confirmed the development, stating:
“Pakistan and India have agreed to a ceasefire with immediate effect. Pakistan has always strived for peace and security in the region without compromising on its sovereignty and territorial integrity.“
White House Credits Secretary Rubio for De-escalation
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt underlined Secretary Rubio’s active engagement with both nations’ leadership, emphasizing the US administration’s intent to “de-escalate the situation as quickly as possible.”
“He understands these are two countries that have been at odds with one another for decades, long before President Trump was here in the Oval Office,” Leavitt added.
What Lies Ahead
With the ceasefire in place, attention now turns to the upcoming peace talks, where India and Pakistan are expected to address a broader spectrum of bilateral concerns, including counter-terrorism, border management, and trade.