U.S. President Donald Trump has claimed that Pakistan shot down five Indian fighter jets during a period of heightened tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, leading to a serious risk of nuclear war. Speaking at a reception held in honor of Republican Senators at the White House, Trump said he personally intervened to de-escalate the crisis.

“It was an extremely sensitive situation,” Trump remarked. “Pakistan had shot down five Indian fighter jets, but India was in denial. I take pride in having prevented several major wars, and this was one of the most dangerous moments between two powerful nations.”

Trump added that had there been no timely intervention, the region could have been engulfed in nuclear conflict. “I spoke to the leadership of both countries and helped bring the situation under control,” he said.

The crisis traces back to a devastating attack in April 2025 in Pahalgam, Indian-occupied Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives. While the attackers remained unidentified, India swiftly blamed Pakistan without providing evidence. Pakistan not only firmly rejected the allegations but also offered full cooperation for a neutral and transparent investigation.

The United States condemned the Pahalgam attack but did not support India’s accusations against Pakistan, which showed that many countries around the world did not fully believe India’s side of the story.

Blinded by its arrogance, India imposed war on Pakistan on May 7. However, the Pakistan Air Force gave a swift and powerful response, shooting down six Indian fighter jets — including four advanced Rafale aircraft according to official military and government sources. The incident proved to be not just a military, but also a major diplomatic blow for India. To this day, India continues to avoid confirming the loss of its aircraft.

Western media also mentioned India’s claim that it had shot down Pakistani fighter jets. However, Pakistan strongly denied this, saying that not a single aircraft was lost. Islamabad also pointed out that India has never provided any solid proof to back up its claim.

After May 7, a full-scale war broke out between Pakistan and India, with both sides using fighter jets, drones, and heavy artillery. India suffered heavy losses in both lives and resources during the conflict, and was eventually forced to request U.S. mediation to bring the fighting to an end.