A series of cloudbursts in Uttarakhand, India resulted in flash floods and mudslides, causing widespread destruction in the high-altitude villages of Dharali and Sukhi Top. Authorities have confirmed four casualties so far and have been conducting rescue and relief operations in the affected regions with support from various organizations. Weather warnings have also been issued for more rainfall in the hill districts of the state, while the Indian Air Force stands ready to provide assistance once the weather conditions improve.
US President Donald Trump has issued an executive order imposing additional tariffs on goods from India and warning other countries of facing the same if they indirectly or directly import oil from Russia. Key importers of Russian oil include China, Turkey, and the European Union. The order came after envoy Steve Witkoff discussed the Russia-Ukraine war with President Vladimir Putin. The term "Russian Federation oil" is defined as crude oil or petroleum products regardless of the entity involved in production or sale.
With President Trump's Friday deadline for progress towards peace with Ukraine looming, Russian President Putin met with US envoy Steve Witkoff in Moscow. The two leaders were seen smiling in video footage of the meeting, but the stakes are high as Trump has threatened economic repercussions if progress is not made. Despite three rounds of peace talks, a ceasefire agreement has not been reached, and the Kremlin views the meeting with Witkoff as important and helpful in finding a resolution. Trump has not yet ordered any economic retaliation, but has said he will await the outcome of the talks before making a decision.
As we approach the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, we are reminded of the devastating consequences of war and the lasting impact it has on a community. The bombings left deep scars in Japan, both emotionally and physically, and efforts to recover and honor the victims are still ongoing. Let us take a moment to remember the victims and reflect on the lessons that can be learned from these tragic events.
On the 80th anniversary of the bombing of Hiroshima, thousands gathered to remember the lives lost and to call for an end to nuclear weapons. The mayor of Hiroshima issued a warning to global leaders about the continuing threat posed by nuclear warheads, as representatives from 120 countries gathered for the ceremony. Despite calls for disarmament, the U.S. and Russia still possess the majority of the world's nuclear weapons.
Uttar Pradesh's Anti-Terrorist Squad has detained two Indian nationals for their involvement in promoting anti-national and extremist ideologies through various social media platforms. The suspects, identified as Ajmal Ali and Dr. Usama Maj Sheikh, were found to have connections with Pakistani individuals and were promoting the Wahhabi ideology, with the aim of enforcing Sharia law in India. The police are investigating further while also verifying the authenticity of the suspects' education and employment.
Pope Leo XIV, during his visit to Bambino Gesù Hospital in Rome, made a surprise visit to 15-year-old Ignacio Gonzálvez, who had been urgently admitted due to collapsing during the Jubilee of Youth. Ignacio's family was comforted by the pontiff's prayers and words of encouragement, reminding them that they are made for heaven. The Holy Father also visited other patients in the hospital's oncology ward, spreading positive energy and hope.
As tensions continue to rise between Russia and the United States, special envoy Steve Witkoff has been urged to take a tougher stance with Russian President Vladimir Putin during their upcoming meeting. Despite President Trump's hopes for a diplomatic resolution, the White House is preparing for the possibility of implementing secondary sanctions on Russia. As Witkoff is briefed on Putin's motivations, the deadline for a deal approaches with no sign of progress. But while sanctions may not be inevitable, the administration is taking a firm stance in order to address Putin's ongoing aggression towards Ukraine.
A cloudburst in the Kheer Ganga river catchment area in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi district triggered massive flash floods in high-altitude villages on Tuesday, causing the death of four people. The Indian Army has deployed 150 personnel for rescue operations, and around 15-20 individuals have been successfully evacuated so far. Multiple teams, including ITBP and NDRF, have been directed to assist in the rescue efforts. Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami are closely monitoring the situation and ensuring all possible assistance to those affected. Sadly, around 10-12 people may be buried under the debris as videos from the area showed a devastating torrent of water washing away houses and hotels.
A cloudburst in the high altitude villages of Dharali and Sukhi Top in Uttarakhand has led to devastating flash floods, sweeping away houses, vehicles and even people. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah have taken stock of the situation, while the Indian Army continues rescue and relief operations. The state has issued helpline numbers and authorities remain on edge as more heavy rains are forecasted in the coming days. The Northern Railway (NR) has suspended all train operations in the affected area, adding to the chaos caused by the landslides and floods.