New Delhi:Countering Opposition charge that Indian leadership accepted ceasefire with Pakistan during Operation Sindoor due to pressure from United States of America, External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishanakar on Monday underlined that between April 22 when Pahalgam terror attack took place to June 17, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had no conversation with US President Mr Donald Trump. He rejected all claims of ceasefire with trade linkages as claimed by Mr Trump saying at no stage such a thing was discussed.On the US role, the EAM, however, did mention that on May 9, US Vice President Mr J.D. Vance called PM to warn him of a “massive attack” from Pakistan side to which Mr Modi said India would retaliate accordingly if any such misadventure takes place.“That attack (from Pakistan) took place and our response was delivered with devastating impact,” EAM said in Lok Sabha while speaking on the discussion on Op Sindoor. “On 10 May we got a call (from the US) saying Pakistan is ready for a ceasefire. We said if that is so Pakistan should request us for this through the DGMO channel,” the minister said.EAM said several countries sent letters of support to India and several leaders called up to understand what was thinking of India. Mr Jaishankar also said the result of India’s diplomacy post-Pahalgam attack was that only three out of 190 nations opposed Operation Sindoor. “There was an overwhelming support that the country which has been attacked has the right to defend itself, he said.”We gave a common message that India was exercising its rights to defend itself. Targets are known. These are terrorist headquarters. No mediations will be accepted. We will not go down to nuke blackmail. We will not bow down to Pak attack. Pak must request for a ceasefire directly,” EAM said. He added 23 countries including Germany, France and Russia issued strong statements in favour of India and said they support India’s action of self defence.The EAM said Operation Sindoor is a new normal in how India responds to terror.
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