UPDATE: President Donald Trump delivered a controversial speech at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Gyeongju, South Korea, where he mimicked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with an exaggerated accent that left many in the audience stunned. The speech, which took place on July 12, 2023, featured a mix of bizarre compliments and alarming claims about international diplomacy.
Beginning his monologue, Trump stated, “I’ll tell you what, Prime Minister Modi is the nicest looking guy,” later adding that Modi seemed like someone “you’d like to have as your father.” The tone took a dramatic turn when Trump referred to Modi as “a killer” and “tough as hell,” before launching into a caricature of the Prime Minister’s negotiation style, declaring, “No, we will fight!”
In a moment of self-reflection, Trump exclaimed, “I said, ‘Whoa, is that the same man that I know?'” His performance raised eyebrows and sparked discussions on social media, with many questioning the appropriateness of his imitation.
Trump went on to take credit for mediating a tense situation between India and Pakistan, claiming his threat of imposing 250 percent tariffs on both nations was the reason for a recent ceasefire. “That’s a nice way of saying we don’t want to do business with you… and they understood that, and within 48 hours we had no war,” he boasted to the audience.
However, Trump’s assertions have faced pushback from Indian officials, who have consistently rejected his claims of playing a significant role in the conflict resolution. Reports indicate that Modi even opted to skip a previous summit to avoid Trump’s self-aggrandizing narratives.
As reactions pour in from around the world, the implications of Trump’s remarks raise questions about diplomatic relations in the region. Observers are keenly watching how these comments will impact U.S.-India relations moving forward.
This bizarre episode not only highlights Trump’s unconventional approach to diplomacy but also reflects the ongoing tension between national leaders on the world stage. The fallout from this speech could resonate far beyond the summit, as officials and citizens alike digest the implications of Trump’s rhetoric.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
