During an address in South Korea on Wednesday, former President Trump made an attempt to mimic an Indian accent while discussing India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi. This came as he recounted his role in mediating a ceasefire between India and Pakistan after a tense incident in May, which saw both nations exchanging projectiles over their border.
In his speech, Trump took credit for the diplomatic success, asserting that he prevented further escalation by threatening India with significant tariffs unless the hostilities ceased. He also lauded Modi, describing him as someone who appears amiable but is “tough as hell.”
To illustrate his intervention, Trump impersonated Modi’s voice, exclaiming, “No, we will fight!” in an accent aimed to mimic the Indian leader.
Trump expressed surprise at Modi’s assertiveness during their interactions. “I said, ‘Whoa, is that the same man that I know?’” he recounted, highlighting his astonishment at Modi’s bold stance.
The president claimed he was taken aback by his counterpart’s boldness.
“I said, ‘Whoa, is that the same man that I know?’” Trump said.
Modi has denied that Trump played a role in negotiating a truce between India and Pakistan, while Pakistan has credited the U.S. president for helping resolve the conflict.
Trump arrived in South Korea Tuesday night after spending the day in Japan. According to the Times of India, he told reporters there that “seven brand-new beautiful planes” were shot down during India’s clash with Pakistan, which hadn’t been reported anywhere else. Both sides acknowledged aerial engagements during that short conflict.
Trump is expected to meet with President Xi of the People’s Republic of China before returning to the White House Thursday to celebrate Halloween with the first lady.
