New Delhi: US President Donald Trump has claimed that five fighter jets were shot down during the recent military conflict between India and Pakistan.
He made the remark at a private dinner with Republican lawmakers at the White House. However, Trump did not mention whether the jets belonged to India or Pakistan.
Focus Returns to Operation Sindoor
Trump’s statement has once again brought attention to Operation Sindoor, India’s military response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.
The attack killed 26 people, including tourists. In response, India launched air and missile strikes, which lasted for four days.
Pakistan’s Claims and Lack of Proof
Pakistan has claimed that it shot down Indian jets, including three Rafale fighters, and also captured Indian pilots during the operation. However, Pakistan has not provided any evidence to support these claims.
India’s Response and Losses
India has not given full details about its losses. But after the ceasefire, General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff, did admit that India lost some aircraft. He rejected Pakistan’s claim that six Indian jets were destroyed.
He also explained how India quickly changed tactics, corrected early mistakes, and carried out successful precision strikes deep inside Pakistan.
India has clearly stated that no Rafale jets were lost, and no Indian pilots were captured.
French Company Denies Rafale Loss
On June 15, Eric Trappier, CEO of Dassault Aviation (which makes the Rafale), said Pakistan’s claims were false.
Trump Claims US Helped Broker Ceasefire
Trump also said that the May 10 ceasefire was possible because of US diplomatic efforts. But India has strongly disputed this claim, saying the issue was solved bilaterally, without any foreign country’s involvement.
India Rejects US Role in Crisis Resolution
Indian officials have rejected Trump’s version, saying the US did not pressure India over trade to end the conflict. They maintain that the crisis was handled directly between India and Pakistan.
Details of Operation Sindoor
Operation Sindoor began on May 7, involving coordinated strikes by the Indian Air Force, Army, and Navy.
Over the next three days, India targeted what it described as terror camps and military positions in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
On May 11, Air Marshal A.K. Bharti confirmed that all Indian pilots had returned safely.
