'No One Needed to Persuade Us...’ Shashi Tharoor Doesn't Mince Words on Donald Trump, India and Ceasefire

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, currently leading a delegation in the US, addressed the delicate issue of ceasefire talks involving India and Pakistan. Speaking from Brasilia, Brazil, he emphasized that India’s decision to stop military actions was never about needing persuasion from any external powers, including the American presidency.

'No One Needed to Persuade Us...’ Shashi Tharoor Doesn't Mince Words on Donald Trump, India and Ceasefire

#WATCH | Brasilia, Brazil | "We have enormous respect for the American presidency, and we will speak with that respect in mind. But broadly speaking, our understanding is a bit different... No one needed to persuade us to stop. We had already said to stop. If there was any… pic.twitter.com/U89ZvCTvfw

— ANI (@ANI) June 3, 2025

“We have enormous respect for the American presidency, and we will speak with that respect in mind. But broadly speaking, our understanding is a bit different... No one needed to persuade us to stop. We had already said to stop,” Tharoor clarified. He added that if anyone required persuasion, it would have been Pakistan, not India.

Tharoor Reiterated India's Position 

Tharoor reiterated India’s position since the conflict began on May 7, stating, “We had consistently said from the very beginning that we are not interested in prolonging the conflict. This is not the opening salvo in some sort of war. All it is is retribution against the terrorists, period.” He pointed out that India only reacted in response to Pakistan’s actions, emphasizing a focus on development rather than war.

The delegation’s visit to the US marks the final leg of their diplomatic efforts amid ongoing tensions, aiming to explain India’s stance clearly to international stakeholders.

This candid explanation sheds light on India’s approach toward conflict resolution and its commitment to peace without compromising on national security interests.