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US President Donald Trump claimed that up to five fighter jets were shot down during the recent military clash between India and Pakistan, triggered by an April attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
Speaking at a White House dinner with Republican lawmakers, Trump said tensions eased only after a ceasefire in May. “Planes were being shot out of the air, four or five, but I think five jets were downed,” he stated, offering no further details.
Pakistan claimed it shot down six Indian jets in air-to-air combat. In contrast, India’s highest-top general admitted early air losses but said New Delhi gained the upper hand before the ceasefire took effect three days later.
Trump has repeatedly taken credit for brokering the ceasefire, which he announced on May 10 via social media following US talks with sides. However, India disputed this, maintaining that New Delhi and Islamabad should resolve issues bilaterally without foreign mediation.
The April attack on IIOJK killed 26 and sparked heavy fighting. India blamed Pakistan, but Islamabad denied involvement and called for a neutral investigation.
On May 7, Indian jets struck multiple targets in Pakistan. The strikes triggered a deadly exchange involving fighter jets, missiles, drones, and artillery until both countries agreed to a ceasefire.
