'Pakistan PM would have died... ': Donald Trump misspeaks in State of the Union address - what he meant
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
US President Donald Trump caused confusion during his State of the Union address when he appeared to claim that Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif would have died without Trump's intervention. While it was unclear if this was a deliberate statement, Trump emphasized his role in preventing a nuclear conflict between India and Pakistan, referencing praise from Sharif and suggesting he saved "35 million" lives by averting war.
The remarks came amid heightened military tensions between India and Pakistan following Operation Sindoor, a series of Indian airstrikes targeting crossborder terrorism. Trump has repeatedly asserted that his administration played a key role in bringing the two nuclear-armed nations to the negotiating table. However, India has rejected any suggestion of third-party mediation, framing the de-escalation as its own achievement.
Trump's comments highlight his self-portrayal as a peacemaker, particularly in high-stakes regions like South Asia. This narrative aligns with his broader foreign policy focus on ending conflicts and fostering cooperation, though it remains a point of contention with India, which views the situation as resolved through its own efforts. The statement underscores the ongoing geopolitical dynamics between these nations and raises questions about Trump's role in de-escalating tensions.
This incident reflects broader debates over US leadership in international diplomacy and the extent to which Trump's actions have influenced global stability. For readers interested in world affairs, it provides insight into how US-China relations shape regional security and the delicate balance of power in South Asia.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/25/2026