Amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan, Vice President Vance urges de-escalation but rules out US intervention, stressing limits of American influence and risks of nuclear conflict.
Washington DC [US], May 9:
US Vice President JD Vance has stated that the ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan is “fundamentally none of America’s business,” emphasizing that the United States cannot and will not get directly involved in the crisis.
In an interview with Fox News, Vance made it clear that while the US supports de-escalation and peace between the two nuclear-armed nations, it lacks the power to control their decisions.
“India has its gripes with Pakistan, and Pakistan has responded to India. What we can do is try to encourage both sides to de-escalate, but we are not going to interfere. This conflict is fundamentally none of our business and doesn’t affect America’s ability to control it,” Vance said.
Acknowledging the global concerns about potential nuclear conflict, the Vice President said the United States remains committed to preventing escalation but will only act through diplomatic channels.
“We are concerned any time nuclear powers engage in conflict. Our message — and that of Secretary Rubio and the President — is clear: this must de-escalate quickly. But we can’t make either country lay down their arms,” he added.
Vance noted that the U.S. cannot force a resolution, and it is ultimately up to the leadership in India and Pakistan to avoid a broader regional war or nuclear escalation.
“The role of the US here is diplomacy. Cooler heads in both countries must prevail. A nuclear war would be disastrous, and we don’t believe it will happen, but the risk is real,” he said.
Separately, US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce confirmed on Thursday that Secretary of State Marco Rubio is actively engaged in ensuring tensions do not worsen. During a press briefing, she reiterated the importance of continued communication with both nations.
“We are in close contact with both India and Pakistan and are focused on preventing any further escalation. Diplomatic engagement is ongoing and crucial,” Bruce stated.
As cross-border hostilities intensify, the US remains on the sidelines — urging restraint but recognizing the limitations of its reach in South Asia’s complex geopolitical dynamics.