Former US President Donald Trump has stated that tariffs have bolstered America’s diplomatic and negotiating power. He reiterated his past claim that he resolved the conflict between India and Pakistan by threatening to impose significant tariffs on both nations. Trump made these remarks to reporters as he was departing for the Middle East on Sunday, aiming to facilitate the release of hostages from Gaza.
“Tariffs have given us diplomatic and negotiating strength,” Trump said. “I settled a few wars just based on tariffs. For example, between India and Pakistan. I said, If you guys want to fight a war and you have nuclear weapons, I am going to put big tariffs on you both, like 100 per cent, 150 per cent, and 200 per cent.”
He further explained his approach, stating, “I said I am putting tariffs. I had that thing settled in 24 hours. If I didn’t have tariffs, you could have never settled that war.”
It is worth noting that India has consistently refuted Washington’s assertion that Donald Trump played a role in brokering a ceasefire between New Delhi and Islamabad.