When tensions flared between India and Pakistan, many around the world held their breath. It was a delicate situation, and any misstep could have had grave consequences. At that critical moment, then-U.S. President Donald Trump stepped in—not with force, but with diplomacy. His intervention helped cool down a potentially explosive conflict. Regardless of one's politics, this was a noteworthy contribution to peace and stability in the region.
And yet, from the Indian establishment, there was a conspicuous silence. Trump, characteristically forthright, later remarked that he felt India hadn’t shown enough appreciation for his efforts. While some may dismiss that as ego, I find it quite understandable. Gratitude is not a weakness. A simple acknowledgment—publicly or diplomatically—could have signaled goodwill, maturity, and respect for a gesture that was ultimately in India’s own interest.
After all, he wasn’t asking for money or concessions—just a “thank you.” That’s not a tall order. Leaders, like the rest of us, want to feel that their efforts are seen and valued. In international diplomacy, such small courtesies matter. As someone who resonates with Trump’s blunt and transactional style, I see his point clearly. More than that—I understand the way he thinks extremely well. When he says he doesn’t "want to hurt anyone," he actually means it—once you begin to understand the world as he does. A few words of appreciation might have gone a long way toward strengthening the relationship between two powerful democracies.
Indeed, if there’s one thing I can say with confidence, it’s that I understand people.