Trump says he thinks 5 jets were shot down in India-Pakistan hostilities

In a major diplomatic development, U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly confirmed that five fighter jets were shot down during the recent military clashes between Pakistan and India. Speaking to Republican lawmakers at the White House, Trump said the situation was “spiraling out of control” before he intervened to help stop the conflict.

“The situation was going from bad to worse,” he said. “I made sure the war stopped.”

Conflict Triggered by Kashmir Attack

Fighting between the two countries broke out on May 7, after India accused Pakistan of being behind a deadly assault in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which left 26 people dead. Pakistan denied involvement and called for an independent investigation. In response, India launched airstrikes, which prompted immediate retaliation from Pakistan.

Pakistan Downs Five Indian Jets

Reports suggest Pakistan shot down five Indian aircraft, including advanced Rafale jets, in what analysts called a show of air superiority. India has not officially confirmed the losses. The conflict also saw the use of drones, artillery fire, and naval movement, leading to significant damage, especially to Indian military assets.

US Urges Peace, Warns of Trade Fallout

Trump’s role in de-escalating the conflict became evident when the U.S. government warned both countries of potential economic consequences if the hostilities continued. According to media reports, Washington even threatened to suspend trade ties unless a ceasefire was declared.

The ceasefire was announced on May 10, three days after the clashes began. During this time, Trump held talks with the leadership of both countries and expressed willingness to help resolve the Kashmir issue.

“I will work with both of you to find a solution to Kashmir,” Trump said. “It’s a problem unresolved for a thousand years.”

Pakistan Supports Trump’s Nobel Nomination

Pakistan welcomed Trump’s efforts and formally nominated him for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar signed a letter to the Nobel Committee, calling Trump’s actions “extraordinary” in helping prevent a wider war.

“We commend President Trump’s effort to resolve the long-standing Kashmir issue and support his peace initiative,” said Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry.

India Rejects Mediation, Denies US Role

India, on the other hand, dismissed Trump’s claims, saying that Kashmir is a bilateral matter and refused any third-party mediation. New Delhi also denied that Trump played a role in the ceasefire.

Despite India’s position, Trump reiterated, “If both countries are ready, we will help. We stopped a war. Let’s now build peace.”

While opinions remain divided on the long-term impact, many observers believe Trump’s timely involvement played a key role in ending the conflict.