Another diplomatic blow to India; Trump pens letter to Khalistan movement leader

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has written a letter to Khalistan Referrendum movement’s spokesperson Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.

Pannun is also the leader and counsel of the pro-Khalistan organisation, Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), who shared a copy of Trump’s letter on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).

The move holds special importance because it comes merely weeks before the Khalistan Referendum Voting, scheduled to take place in Washington DC on August 17.

The letter outlines President Trump’s views on national security, trade policy, and US foreign relations. Trump states in the letter, “I put my citizens, my nation and my values first,” and adds, “When America is safe, the world will be safe.”

The Indian government designated Pannun a terrorist in 2020 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. The letter from Trump has drawn attention due to its timing and the ongoing international discourse around the Khalistan movement, which calls for a separate Sikh state.

All efforts by India to crush the Khalistan movement at the international level have failed. Many international organisations, including the United Nations, have not fully recognized India’s position on this issue.

Now this letter is another major proof of India’s failed diplomatic strategy and the global resonance of the Khalistan movement. So far, President Trump has already claimed a ceasefire between Pakistan and India 27 times.

Trump’s recent letter, as shared by Pannun, highlights issues including defense spending, tariffs, and policies based on what he describes as American values. He also reiterated a commitment to national security and foreign policy aligned with US interests. “As President, I am committed to protecting the values that make us Americans,” the letter said.

The contents of the letter also include decisions related to US foreign policy, military preparedness, and global aid. Neither the US State Department nor Indian officials have publicly commented on the letter’s implications.

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