Blow to India as Trump writes letter to pro-Khalistan leader

NEW YORK (Dunya News) – US President Donald Trump has written a letter to Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a key figure of the pro-Khalistan organization "Sikhs for Justice."

The letter dated July 24 has reignited discussions around the global recognition of the Khalistan movement.

Pannun, who was declared a terrorist by the Indian government in 2020, received the letter at his residence in East Elmhurst, New York.

The letter, which highlights America’s foreign and domestic policies under Trump’s leadership, has been interpreted by observers as a major diplomatic setback for India.

The development is being hailed by pro-Khalistan supporters as symbolic recognition of their cause on the world stage.

In the letter, Trump affirmed that his administration is proudly advancing policy that “puts our citizens, our values, and our Nation first”.

“When our country is strong, the world is safe—and Americans are secure, prosperous, and free, providing a new era of peace and prosperity worldwide,” read the letter.

— Gurpatwant Singh Pannun (@SFJGenCounsel) July 28, 2025

Trump recalled that on the first day of his term—to protect our Nation’s strength, safety, and success—he signed an Executive Order directing his Secretary of State to ensure that all policies, programs, personnel, and operations at the Department of State defend America’s interests and champion the needs of the American people.

“I also ordered an immediate 90-day pause on foreign aid so my Administration can ensure that every American tax dollar spent on foreign assistance advances our interests, reflects our values, and safeguards our security.”

“As President, I will never stop fighting to protect and defend you and our homeland. Over the arc of the days of war, poverty, weakness—and I look forward with confidence and hope to usher in a new dawn of American liberty, prosperity, and peace,” he wrote.