US President Donald Trump participated in the Diwali festival celebrations by lighting lamps at the White House alongside Indian-American members of his administration and other community leaders. The event, known as the “Festival of Lights,” was attended by prominent figures, including FBI Director Kash Patel and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard.
During the ceremony, a traditional brass five-wick lamp was placed on a table adorned with flowers in front of the Resolute Desk. Trump emphasized the symbolic significance of Diwali, highlighting it as a representation of “the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.”
Prior to the festivities, Trump disclosed that he had a conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, primarily discussing trade matters. He extended warm wishes to the Indian community and reiterated the importance of trade in their dialogue. Trump also touched on regional peace, mentioning his encouragement for India and Pakistan to avoid conflicts.
Praising Modi as “a great person” and “a great friend,” Trump recalled their longstanding relationship. However, India has not confirmed Trump’s recent statements, especially regarding the cessation of Russian oil purchases following their alleged conversation.
Amidst trade tensions, Trump defended his trade policy with India, citing the imposition of tariffs on Indian goods in response to the Russian oil purchases. He claimed that tariffs played a crucial role in preventing potential conflicts, citing the example of averting a crisis between India and Pakistan through trade diplomacy.
Despite Trump’s assertions, India has denied his claims of brokering a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. Indian officials clarified that the ceasefire understanding was a result of direct communication between the two countries’ military operations leadership, without any external mediation.