U.S. condemns Kashmir terror attack, touts border security gains amid global diplomatic efforts

In a heartfelt moment during a press briefing on Thursday in Washington DC, U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce conveyed the nation condolences for the passing of Pope Francis, expressing solidarity with Catholics around the world.

“Secretary Marco Rubio is united in prayer with Catholics worldwide during this period of transition,” she said, underscoring the administration solidarity with global mourners.

The somber tone quickly transitioned into discussions on current international issues, with a strong emphasis on the United States’ commitment to global security and border control policies.

Bruce reiterated the U.S. condemnation of the violence, stating, “We pray for the lives lost and call for the perpetrators to be brought to justice.”

While India has accused Pakistan of involvement, Bruce declined to endorse the claims, noting the situation remains fluid and that the U.S. “is not taking a position on the status of Kashmir.”

A significant portion of the address highlighted the Trump administration border security achievements. Illegal crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border plummeted by 94% in March 2025 compared to the previous year, with a 99.5% drop in Darién Gap migrations.

Bruce credited “strong enforcement, regional partnerships, and clear deterrence” for the shift, adding that Panama reported “10 times more illegal aliens returning south than heading north.”

She urged regional governments to bolster security and accept deported nationals to sustain progress.

On the Russia-Ukraine war, Bruce emphasised the administration focus on ending the conflict through diplomacy.

While details of negotiations remain confidential, she cited President Trump recent social media post criticising Ukrainian President Volodymy  Zelenskyy refusal to discuss crimea status.

“This war is endable,” Bruce said, paraphrasing Secretary Rubio. “Both sides must agree to stop the carnage.”

The briefing also addressed Iran nuclear programme, with Bruce confirming “positive and constructive” talks in Oman led by U.S. envoy Michael Anton.

She avoided specifics but stressed the administration “bright line” against nuclear weapons.

Meanwhile, humanitarian aid to Gaza faced scrutiny. Bruce defended U.S. efforts to resume aid flows but sidestepped questions about pressuring Israel to lift its blockade, stating only the U.S. supports “safeguards to ensure assistance is not diverted by terrorist groups.”

Other topics included restructuring foreign aid programs like the Millennium Challenge Corporation, which Bruce framed as part of broader fiscal reforms. Questions on Iraq, Bangladesh, and Georgia were deferred for future updates.