As tensions between Russia and Ukraine continue to escalate, authorities in Ukraine reported that over 300 drones and 37 missiles were launched by Russia, targeting the country's energy infrastructure. 8 regions experienced blackouts and major energy companies were forced to halt operations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will request for more American-made air defenses and long-range missiles in a meeting with President Donald Trump, as the country continues to endure Russia's relentless attacks.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has announced plans for a new anti-drone system in response to ongoing fears of Russian aggression. The proposed "defence roadmap" includes measures such as improving Eastern borders and creating air and space shields. With several European countries facing airspace incursions, the EU is taking steps to be fully prepared for possible conflict by 2030. The announcement comes ahead of talks between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, with Trump indicating that the US could provide Ukraine with long-range missiles if the war in Ukraine continues.
As discussions continue about increasing energy procurement from America, India states its commitment to safeguarding the interests of Indian consumers amid the ongoing trade talks and tariffs imposed by the US. While there has been no confirmation of a direct conversation between Prime Minister Modi and President Trump on the matter, Indian officials affirm their willingness to diversify their energy portfolio and continue importing from the US. This comes as India seeks to mitigate potential challenges in the global energy market.
In a sweet and heartwarming video, Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli sends his team and fans into a frenzy as he posts a few glimpses of his team's departure for the upcoming Australian tour. The video serves as a reminder of the camaraderie, determination, and skill that makes team India one of the pre-eminent cricket teams in the world. With familiar faces in the mix and special reunions in the making, this video is sure to turn up the excitement for the upcoming challenge.
US President Donald Trump stated that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured him that India will stop purchasing oil from Russia, in a meeting with US ambassador-designate Sergio Gor and Modi. This comes after Trump's previous announcement of 25% tariffs on Indian exports to the US for India's continued purchase of Russian oil. However, India has not issued a response to Trump's remarks. This marks a potential strain on the already fraught trade ties between the US and India, as Trump puts trade negotiations on hold until the energy ties between India and Russia are resolved.
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif surprised many at the US-brokered Gaza Peace Summit with his unexpected announcement nominating former US President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize. Sharif praised Trump's "outstanding contributions" for stopping a potential conflict between India and Pakistan, leaving several leaders, including Italy's Giorgia Meloni, visibly taken aback. Meloni's candid reactions have garnered attention in the past, making her the subject of viral videos.
A flotilla attempting to deliver aid to Gaza has been intercepted by the Israeli military, including a ship carrying the well-known activist Greta Thunberg. The flotilla spokesperson has accused Israel of illegal attacks on unarmed humanitarian ships while Israel's foreign ministry maintains that all passengers, including Greta, are safe and healthy. Despite the interception of 30 boats, the Global Sumud Flotilla continues to sail towards Gaza in their mission to break the Israeli blockade.
Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand's first visit to India aims to enhance and expand the bilateral relationship between India and Canada. Prime Minister Modi and Anand discussed ways to strengthen cooperation in various sectors such as trade, technology, energy, agriculture, and people-to-people exchanges. This visit comes after PM Modi's productive meeting with Prime Minister Mark Carney during the G7 Summit earlier this year. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also held discussions with Anand to restore and reinvigorate the mechanisms necessary to advance the partnership between the two countries.
In a significant step towards easing tensions between Israel and Hamas, a second group of 13 Israeli hostages has been released and handed over to the International Committee of the Red Cross. These hostages were held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip since the 2023 conflict between the two countries. Their safe transfer to Israeli authorities marks a major milestone in the humanitarian arrangement under the recent ceasefire agreement. This development has brought great relief to the families of the hostages and signals a more stable situation in Gaza, closely monitored by the U.S. and regional leaders.
Lahore, Pakistan erupts in chaos and violence as members of the Tehreek-e-Labbaik party take to the streets to protest the alleged shooting and critical injury of their leader Saad Rizvi by Pakistani security forces. The TLP claims that over 180 protesters have been killed and over 1900 are critically injured in the clash, making it one of the deadliest protests in recent history. The situation is becoming increasingly tense as rumors spread about Rizvi's condition and protesters continue to demand justice for the pro-Palestine movement in Pakistan.