Trump to visit Texas as GOP Senate primary race intensifies
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump is expected to travel to Texas on Friday, timing his visit with the final day of early voting and just days before the state’s closely watched Republican primary. The trip, confirmed by a White House official, will take place in Corpus Christi, although specific details about the event have not yet been publicly released. State Representative Stan Gerdes said the announcement prompted him to move a previously scheduled campaign appearance with
Trump to visit Texas as GOP Senate primary race intensifies
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump is expected to travel to Texas on Friday, timing his visit with the final day of early voting and just days before the state’s closely watched Republican primary. The trip, confirmed by a White House official, will take place in Corpus Christi, although specific details about the event have not yet been publicly released. State Representative Stan Gerdes said the announcement prompted him to move a previously scheduled campaign appearance with
San Jose policy on police identification remains in effect despite federal ruling
San Jose officials say the city’s efforts to regulate immigration enforcement activities remain firmly in place, even as a recent federal court decision temporarily paused a related California law. Local leaders emphasized that the ruling does not weaken San Jose’s existing requirements for law enforcement officers to clearly identify themselves while on duty. The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals issued a decision Thursday that put California’s No Vigilantes Act on hold pending
San Jose policy on police identification remains in effect despite federal ruling
San Jose officials say the city’s efforts to regulate immigration enforcement activities remain firmly in place, even as a recent federal court decision temporarily paused a related California law. Local leaders emphasized that the ruling does not weaken San Jose’s existing requirements for law enforcement officers to clearly identify themselves while on duty. The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals issued a decision Thursday that put California’s No Vigilantes Act on hold pending
JCP&L crews restore power as outages drop after major blizzard
JCP&L has deployed more than 2,500 linework personnel across its service region as the utility continues efforts to restore electricity following a powerful winter blizzard that caused widespread outages. Officials reported that the number of customers without power has dropped to about 15,000, marking significant progress in the restoration campaign. Crews remain heavily focused on OceanCo, where the storm brought down more than 60 trees and damaged critical infrastructure. Utility crew
JCP&L crews restore power as outages drop after major blizzard
JCP&L has deployed more than 2,500 linework personnel across its service region as the utility continues efforts to restore electricity following a powerful winter blizzard that caused widespread outages. Officials reported that the number of customers without power has dropped to about 15,000, marking significant progress in the restoration campaign. Crews remain heavily focused on OceanCo, where the storm brought down more than 60 trees and damaged critical infrastructure. Utility crew
Pawan Kalyan Addresses Jagan's Role in Tirumala Laddu Adulteration Controversy in Assembly
In a heated discussion in the Andhra Pradesh Assembly today, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding the alleged ghee adulteration in Tirumala Laddus. Kalyan emphasized that while he did not directly blame the previous Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy for the adulteration, the responsibility lies with the TTD governing body and its allocated board. Kalyan clarified that he never accused Jagan personally of being behind the adulteration. Howev
Pawan Kalyan Addresses Jagan's Role in Tirumala Laddu Adulteration Controversy in Assembly
In a heated discussion in the Andhra Pradesh Assembly today, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding the alleged ghee adulteration in Tirumala Laddus. Kalyan emphasized that while he did not directly blame the previous Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy for the adulteration, the responsibility lies with the TTD governing body and its allocated board. Kalyan clarified that he never accused Jagan personally of being behind the adulteration. Howev
Rashmika and Vijay's Wedding Festivities Begin with Pool Party and Elegant Dinner
The highly anticipated wedding celebrations of Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda have officially commenced. The couple, who have kept their pre-wedding events intimate and modern, shared exclusive glimpses of the early festivities on social media, revealing a delightful mix of fun, relaxation, and sophistication. Their celebrations kicked off with a lively poolside party, where close friends joined in to set a cheerful tone for the days ahead. The couple also made sure to capture the mo
Rashmika and Vijay's Wedding Festivities Begin with Pool Party and Elegant Dinner
The highly anticipated wedding celebrations of Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda have officially commenced. The couple, who have kept their pre-wedding events intimate and modern, shared exclusive glimpses of the early festivities on social media, revealing a delightful mix of fun, relaxation, and sophistication. Their celebrations kicked off with a lively poolside party, where close friends joined in to set a cheerful tone for the days ahead. The couple also made sure to capture the mo
Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda's Udaipur Wedding: Haldi, Mehndi, and Sangeet Details
Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda are set to begin their highly anticipated wedding celebrations in Udaipur on February 24, 2026. The couple, known for their roles in the South Indian film industry, will host all their pre-wedding ceremonies at the luxurious ITC Mementos Udaipur, a venue famous for its regal charm and stunning views of the lake. The first event of the celebrations will be the intimate mehndi ceremony, scheduled for February 24. Close family members and friends
Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda's Udaipur Wedding: Haldi, Mehndi, and Sangeet Details
Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda are set to begin their highly anticipated wedding celebrations in Udaipur on February 24, 2026. The couple, known for their roles in the South Indian film industry, will host all their pre-wedding ceremonies at the luxurious ITC Mementos Udaipur, a venue famous for its regal charm and stunning views of the lake. The first event of the celebrations will be the intimate mehndi ceremony, scheduled for February 24. Close family members and friends
Congress Demands 45 Seats from DMK in Tamil Nadu Ahead of 2026 Assembly Elections
The deadlock over seat-sharing negotiations between Congress and the DMK in Tamil Nadu has continued, with the Congress formally requesting 45 Assembly seats for the 2026 polls. This demand, conveyed during a meeting between Congress general secretary KC Venugopal, senior leader TS Singh Deo, and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, is based on an internal review of the Congress’s performance in the 2021 Assembly elections. According to Congress, the request stems from a strategic analysis
Congress Demands 45 Seats from DMK in Tamil Nadu Ahead of 2026 Assembly Elections
The deadlock over seat-sharing negotiations between Congress and the DMK in Tamil Nadu has continued, with the Congress formally requesting 45 Assembly seats for the 2026 polls. This demand, conveyed during a meeting between Congress general secretary KC Venugopal, senior leader TS Singh Deo, and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, is based on an internal review of the Congress’s performance in the 2021 Assembly elections. According to Congress, the request stems from a strategic analysis
Shikhar Dhawan Denies False Personal Life Claims After Second Marriage to Sophie Shine
Shikhar Dhawan, the former Indian cricketer, has responded strongly to false rumors circulating about his personal life following his second marriage to Sophie Shine. The controversy started after a viral social media post claimed that Dhawan had said his ex-wife, Aesha Dhawan, once told him that no one would marry him after their separation. The post suggested that Dhawan’s remarriage was his way of proving her wrong. However, Dhawan firmly denied making such statements, calling the claims
Shikhar Dhawan Denies False Personal Life Claims After Second Marriage to Sophie Shine
Shikhar Dhawan, the former Indian cricketer, has responded strongly to false rumors circulating about his personal life following his second marriage to Sophie Shine. The controversy started after a viral social media post claimed that Dhawan had said his ex-wife, Aesha Dhawan, once told him that no one would marry him after their separation. The post suggested that Dhawan’s remarriage was his way of proving her wrong. However, Dhawan firmly denied making such statements, calling the claims
DC Water says Potomac sewage spill remains contained despite storms
WASHINGTON — DC Water officials said recent snow and rain have not worsened contamination levels linked to the Potomac sewer line failure, even as crews confront new engineering hurdles and unresolved questions about how repair costs will be divided. The agency confirmed that Mayor Muriel Bowser previously sought full federal reimbursement for the sewer collapse under disaster aid provisions. However, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers indicated Monday that the current agreement cov
DC Water says Potomac sewage spill remains contained despite storms
WASHINGTON — DC Water officials said recent snow and rain have not worsened contamination levels linked to the Potomac sewer line failure, even as crews confront new engineering hurdles and unresolved questions about how repair costs will be divided. The agency confirmed that Mayor Muriel Bowser previously sought full federal reimbursement for the sewer collapse under disaster aid provisions. However, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers indicated Monday that the current agreement cov
New Jersey Transit to resume bus and rail services Tuesday morning
New Jersey Transit is preparing to restore bus and rail operations Tuesday morning, though officials caution that riders should expect modified service and potential delays. The announcement was made Monday evening by agency President and CEO Kris Kolluri, who outlined the phased return plan for commuters across the state. According to Kolluri, bus services are scheduled to begin running at 4 a.m. Tuesday. However, normal routing may not be fully in place, as some detours and delays could occur depending on overnight road conditions. TransitNJ officials are urging passengers to allow extra travel time during the morning commute and to monitor real-time updates before departing. Rail operations are expected to resume an hour later, beginning at 5 a.m., but the full network restoration depends on ongoing infrastructure work. Amtrak crews are working overnight on critical switch repairs within shared rail corridors. Kolluri noted that if the Amtrak work is not completed on schedule, certain lines may face continued disruptions. Specifically, the Raritan Valley Line and the North Jersey Coast Line could remain suspended, and the Northeast Corridor Line may be unable to make some local stops. Even where trains resume service, riders should anticipate a reduced timetable. Officials confirmed that all rail routes will operate under a modified weekend schedule for the time being. This temporary measure is intended to stabilize operations while crews complete remaining repairs and assess system conditions. Transit authorities emphasized that safety and reliability remain the top priorities as service gradually returns. Commuters across New Jersey are advised to check official travel alerts frequently and plan ahead for possible changes during the first day of resumed operations.
New Jersey Transit to resume bus and rail services Tuesday morning
New Jersey Transit is preparing to restore bus and rail operations Tuesday morning, though officials caution that riders should expect modified service and potential delays. The announcement was made Monday evening by agency President and CEO Kris Kolluri, who outlined the phased return plan for commuters across the state. According to Kolluri, bus services are scheduled to begin running at 4 a.m. Tuesday. However, normal routing may not be fully in place, as some detours and delays could occur depending on overnight road conditions. TransitNJ officials are urging passengers to allow extra travel time during the morning commute and to monitor real-time updates before departing. Rail operations are expected to resume an hour later, beginning at 5 a.m., but the full network restoration depends on ongoing infrastructure work. Amtrak crews are working overnight on critical switch repairs within shared rail corridors. Kolluri noted that if the Amtrak work is not completed on schedule, certain lines may face continued disruptions. Specifically, the Raritan Valley Line and the North Jersey Coast Line could remain suspended, and the Northeast Corridor Line may be unable to make some local stops. Even where trains resume service, riders should anticipate a reduced timetable. Officials confirmed that all rail routes will operate under a modified weekend schedule for the time being. This temporary measure is intended to stabilize operations while crews complete remaining repairs and assess system conditions. Transit authorities emphasized that safety and reliability remain the top priorities as service gradually returns. Commuters across New Jersey are advised to check official travel alerts frequently and plan ahead for possible changes during the first day of resumed operations.
Social Security repeatedly declares Dallas woman dead, halts benefits
A 94-year-old Dallas resident has been mistakenly declared dead by the Social Security Administration multiple times, creating ongoing financial hardship for her and her family. The latest error, recorded in December 2025, marks the fourth time since 2017 that Helen Cvik has been incorrectly listed as deceased despite being alive. According to her family, the repeated Social Security error has disrupted critical benefit payments needed to cover assisted living expenses, insurance premiums an
Social Security repeatedly declares Dallas woman dead, halts benefits
A 94-year-old Dallas resident has been mistakenly declared dead by the Social Security Administration multiple times, creating ongoing financial hardship for her and her family. The latest error, recorded in December 2025, marks the fourth time since 2017 that Helen Cvik has been incorrectly listed as deceased despite being alive. According to her family, the repeated Social Security error has disrupted critical benefit payments needed to cover assisted living expenses, insurance premiums an
Mark Carney to visit India to boost Canada-India ties
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced a high-profile visit to India as part of a broader Indo-Pacific tour, in what officials describe as a significant step toward revitalizing bilateral relations that have faced strain in recent years. The visit, scheduled from February 26 to March 7, 2026, will also include stops in Australia and Japan, reflecting Ottawa’s strategic focus on strengthening partnerships across the Indo-Pacific region. Carney’s itinerary begins in Mum
Mark Carney to visit India to boost Canada-India ties
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced a high-profile visit to India as part of a broader Indo-Pacific tour, in what officials describe as a significant step toward revitalizing bilateral relations that have faced strain in recent years. The visit, scheduled from February 26 to March 7, 2026, will also include stops in Australia and Japan, reflecting Ottawa’s strategic focus on strengthening partnerships across the Indo-Pacific region. Carney’s itinerary begins in Mum
Modi’s Israel visit to deepen defence and innovation ties, says envoy
Israel’s Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, on Monday expressed enthusiasm ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit, describing it as a significant step forward in strengthening India-Israel relations. The visit, scheduled for February 25, is expected to accelerate cooperation across defence, technology, and economic sectors, reflecting the growing depth of the strategic partnership between the two nations. In a video message shared on social media, Azar said Israel was l
Modi’s Israel visit to deepen defence and innovation ties, says envoy
Israel’s Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, on Monday expressed enthusiasm ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit, describing it as a significant step forward in strengthening India-Israel relations. The visit, scheduled for February 25, is expected to accelerate cooperation across defence, technology, and economic sectors, reflecting the growing depth of the strategic partnership between the two nations. In a video message shared on social media, Azar said Israel was l
Trump warns of higher tariffs as India delays Washington trade visit
United States President Donald Trump has issued a fresh warning to global trade partners, threatening significantly higher tariffs for countries he claims have taken advantage of the American economy for years. The remarks come amid heightened uncertainty following a recent Supreme Court ruling that has reshaped the administration’s tariff authority and complicated ongoing trade negotiations. In a post on Truth Social, Trump cautioned that any nation attempting to “play games” in the w
Trump warns of higher tariffs as India delays Washington trade visit
United States President Donald Trump has issued a fresh warning to global trade partners, threatening significantly higher tariffs for countries he claims have taken advantage of the American economy for years. The remarks come amid heightened uncertainty following a recent Supreme Court ruling that has reshaped the administration’s tariff authority and complicated ongoing trade negotiations. In a post on Truth Social, Trump cautioned that any nation attempting to “play games” in the w
India issues advisory for nationals amid ongoing violence in Mexico
India has issued a fresh advisory for its citizens residing in or travelling to Mexico following reports of ongoing clashes and heightened security operations in several regions of the country. The Indian Embassy in Mexico City released the alert on Sunday, urging Indian nationals to exercise extreme caution and limit their movement until the situation stabilizes. According to the advisory shared by the embassy, individuals currently in Jalisco state, including Puerto Vallarta, Chap
India issues advisory for nationals amid ongoing violence in Mexico
India has issued a fresh advisory for its citizens residing in or travelling to Mexico following reports of ongoing clashes and heightened security operations in several regions of the country. The Indian Embassy in Mexico City released the alert on Sunday, urging Indian nationals to exercise extreme caution and limit their movement until the situation stabilizes. According to the advisory shared by the embassy, individuals currently in Jalisco state, including Puerto Vallarta, Chap
FBI warns of sharp rise in ATM jackpotting attacks across US
The Federal Bureau of Investigation has issued a nationwide alert to banks and financial institutions, warning of a significant rise in ATM jackpotting attacks, a form of cyber-enabled theft that forces machines to dispense cash without legitimate transactions. Authorities say the trend is accelerating, with financial losses mounting as criminal groups refine their techniques and expand operations across the United States. According to federal officials, nearly 1,900 ATM jackpotting incidents have been reported nationwide since 2020. More than 700 of those cases occurred in 2025 alone, resulting in losses exceeding $20 million. The sharp increase has prompted urgent calls for banks to strengthen ATM security controls, monitor suspicious activity more closely, and share threat intelligence with law enforcement. At the center of the surge is malware from the Ploutus family, a tool specifically designed to hijack ATM systems. Rather than targeting individual customer accounts, the malware attacks the machine’s internal software layer. It exploits the Extensions for Financial Services, or XFS, which normally manages how ATMs physically dispense cash. By injecting unauthorized commands into this layer, attackers can override standard authorization checks and trigger withdrawals without bank approval, card use, or customer credentials. Security analysts warn that once installed, the malware can give criminals direct control of the machine. Because many ATMs operate on widely used operating systems, the attack can often be adapted across different manufacturers with minimal modification. In many cases, cash-out operations can be completed within minutes, allowing perpetrators to leave before alerts are triggered or the machine runs empty. Investigators emphasize that physical access remains the most common entry point for these attacks. Criminals frequently use generic keys to open ATM cabinets and then deploy malware using one of two primary methods. In some incidents, the machine’s hard drive is removed, infected on a separate computer, and reinstalled. In others, the original drive is replaced entirely with a compromised device preloaded with malicious software. Because the malware operates independently of standard banking communications, it can dispense cash without interacting with customer accounts or triggering traditional fraud detection systems. Officials have outlined several warning signs that may indicate a compromised ATM, including unexpected door alerts outside maintenance windows, sudden low-cash notifications, unauthorized devices connected to the machine, missing or tampered hard drives, and machines abruptly marked out of service. Financial institutions are being urged to review physical security protocols, enhance monitoring of service patterns, and report suspicious activity promptly as part of a broader effort to contain the growing ATM cyberattack threat.
FBI warns of sharp rise in ATM jackpotting attacks across US
The Federal Bureau of Investigation has issued a nationwide alert to banks and financial institutions, warning of a significant rise in ATM jackpotting attacks, a form of cyber-enabled theft that forces machines to dispense cash without legitimate transactions. Authorities say the trend is accelerating, with financial losses mounting as criminal groups refine their techniques and expand operations across the United States. According to federal officials, nearly 1,900 ATM jackpotting incidents have been reported nationwide since 2020. More than 700 of those cases occurred in 2025 alone, resulting in losses exceeding $20 million. The sharp increase has prompted urgent calls for banks to strengthen ATM security controls, monitor suspicious activity more closely, and share threat intelligence with law enforcement. At the center of the surge is malware from the Ploutus family, a tool specifically designed to hijack ATM systems. Rather than targeting individual customer accounts, the malware attacks the machine’s internal software layer. It exploits the Extensions for Financial Services, or XFS, which normally manages how ATMs physically dispense cash. By injecting unauthorized commands into this layer, attackers can override standard authorization checks and trigger withdrawals without bank approval, card use, or customer credentials. Security analysts warn that once installed, the malware can give criminals direct control of the machine. Because many ATMs operate on widely used operating systems, the attack can often be adapted across different manufacturers with minimal modification. In many cases, cash-out operations can be completed within minutes, allowing perpetrators to leave before alerts are triggered or the machine runs empty. Investigators emphasize that physical access remains the most common entry point for these attacks. Criminals frequently use generic keys to open ATM cabinets and then deploy malware using one of two primary methods. In some incidents, the machine’s hard drive is removed, infected on a separate computer, and reinstalled. In others, the original drive is replaced entirely with a compromised device preloaded with malicious software. Because the malware operates independently of standard banking communications, it can dispense cash without interacting with customer accounts or triggering traditional fraud detection systems. Officials have outlined several warning signs that may indicate a compromised ATM, including unexpected door alerts outside maintenance windows, sudden low-cash notifications, unauthorized devices connected to the machine, missing or tampered hard drives, and machines abruptly marked out of service. Financial institutions are being urged to review physical security protocols, enhance monitoring of service patterns, and report suspicious activity promptly as part of a broader effort to contain the growing ATM cyberattack threat.
Ohio considers income tax break for religious donations under HB 444
Ohio lawmakers are advancing a proposal that would allow residents to claim state income tax deductions for qualifying church donations, arguing the move would bring Ohio policy in line with federal tax law while strengthening faith-based services across local communities. House Bill 444, also known as the Tithing Protection Act, was introduced last fall by Republican Rep. Josh Williams of Sylvania Township and Democratic Rep. Dontavius Jarrells of Columbus. The measure received its first he
Ohio considers income tax break for religious donations under HB 444
Ohio lawmakers are advancing a proposal that would allow residents to claim state income tax deductions for qualifying church donations, arguing the move would bring Ohio policy in line with federal tax law while strengthening faith-based services across local communities. House Bill 444, also known as the Tithing Protection Act, was introduced last fall by Republican Rep. Josh Williams of Sylvania Township and Democratic Rep. Dontavius Jarrells of Columbus. The measure received its first he
Armed man killed after breaching Trump’s Mar-a-Lago security zone
US Secret Service agents fatally shot an armed man who unlawfully entered the restricted perimeter surrounding President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida early Sunday morning, authorities confirmed. The incident prompted a swift response from both the Secret Service and the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, which assisted at the scene. According to officials, the individual, believed to be in his early 20s, approached the north gate of the West Palm Beach property c
Armed man killed after breaching Trump’s Mar-a-Lago security zone
US Secret Service agents fatally shot an armed man who unlawfully entered the restricted perimeter surrounding President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida early Sunday morning, authorities confirmed. The incident prompted a swift response from both the Secret Service and the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, which assisted at the scene. According to officials, the individual, believed to be in his early 20s, approached the north gate of the West Palm Beach property c
India studying impact after US court strikes down Trump tariffs
The Government of India on Saturday said it is closely examining recent developments in the United States after the US Supreme Court struck down former President Donald Trump’s sweeping global tariffs. The Commerce Ministry stated that officials are assessing the implications of both the court ruling and subsequent announcements made by the US administration. In its first formal reaction, the ministry confirmed it had taken note of the Supreme Court’s judgment delivered on Frida
India studying impact after US court strikes down Trump tariffs
The Government of India on Saturday said it is closely examining recent developments in the United States after the US Supreme Court struck down former President Donald Trump’s sweeping global tariffs. The Commerce Ministry stated that officials are assessing the implications of both the court ruling and subsequent announcements made by the US administration. In its first formal reaction, the ministry confirmed it had taken note of the Supreme Court’s judgment delivered on Frida
Top Court Limits Trump Tariff Powers Amid India-Russia Oil Dispute
The United States Supreme Court on Friday struck down a series of broad tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, ruling that the administration had exceeded its authority under federal law. In a closely watched 6–3 decision, the court determined that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act does not authorize the president to unilaterally impose sweeping duties on foreign imports, a finding that could have significant implications for future trade policy and executive power. The ruling addressed the legal limits of presidential authority under the IEEPA, a statute historically used to regulate economic activity during national emergencies. Writing for the majority, the court concluded that the law does not grant the executive branch the expansive tariff powers claimed by the administration. The decision effectively invalidates the contested measures and reinforces congressional oversight over major trade actions. In his dissent, Justice Brett Kavanaugh pointed to the administration’s use of tariffs as a tool of foreign policy leverage, including duties imposed on India over its purchases of Russian oil. He argued that the tariffs were part of sensitive international negotiations and should be viewed within the broader context of the president’s conduct of foreign affairs. Kavanaugh noted that the government had maintained the tariffs helped secure trade concessions from major partners such as China, the United Kingdom and Japan. According to the administration’s position, the measures were intended to open foreign markets to American businesses and support trade agreements valued in the trillions of dollars. The dissent specifically referenced the August 2025 decision to impose a 25 percent tariff on India for what the administration described as direct or indirect imports of Russian Federation oil. At the time, the White House framed the move as part of broader efforts tied to geopolitical negotiations and energy security concerns. The tariffs included a reciprocal component initially set at 25 percent and later reduced to 18 percent. Kavanaugh further observed that the administration subsequently eased the India-specific penalties in February 2026 after the government reported that New Delhi had committed to halting purchases of Russian oil and to increasing imports of American energy products. He argued that such developments demonstrated the traditional diplomatic use of tariffs as leverage in complex international negotiations. Despite these arguments, the majority held that statutory limits must guide the exercise of executive power, even in matters touching on foreign affairs and national security. The court emphasized that significant economic measures with wide domestic consequences require clear authorization from Congress. The decision marks a notable judicial check on presidential trade authority and is likely to influence how future administrations deploy tariffs in pursuit of foreign policy objectives. Legal analysts say the ruling reinforces the principle that emergency economic powers cannot be broadly interpreted to reshape global trade relationships without explicit legislative backing. While the immediate policy effects remain to be fully assessed, the judgment underscores ongoing tensions between the executive branch’s flexibility in foreign affairs and the constitutional role of Congress in regulating commerce. The case is expected to shape debates over trade strategy, energy diplomacy and the scope of presidential economic powers in the years ahead.
Top Court Limits Trump Tariff Powers Amid India-Russia Oil Dispute
The United States Supreme Court on Friday struck down a series of broad tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, ruling that the administration had exceeded its authority under federal law. In a closely watched 6–3 decision, the court determined that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act does not authorize the president to unilaterally impose sweeping duties on foreign imports, a finding that could have significant implications for future trade policy and executive power. The ruling addressed the legal limits of presidential authority under the IEEPA, a statute historically used to regulate economic activity during national emergencies. Writing for the majority, the court concluded that the law does not grant the executive branch the expansive tariff powers claimed by the administration. The decision effectively invalidates the contested measures and reinforces congressional oversight over major trade actions. In his dissent, Justice Brett Kavanaugh pointed to the administration’s use of tariffs as a tool of foreign policy leverage, including duties imposed on India over its purchases of Russian oil. He argued that the tariffs were part of sensitive international negotiations and should be viewed within the broader context of the president’s conduct of foreign affairs. Kavanaugh noted that the government had maintained the tariffs helped secure trade concessions from major partners such as China, the United Kingdom and Japan. According to the administration’s position, the measures were intended to open foreign markets to American businesses and support trade agreements valued in the trillions of dollars. The dissent specifically referenced the August 2025 decision to impose a 25 percent tariff on India for what the administration described as direct or indirect imports of Russian Federation oil. At the time, the White House framed the move as part of broader efforts tied to geopolitical negotiations and energy security concerns. The tariffs included a reciprocal component initially set at 25 percent and later reduced to 18 percent. Kavanaugh further observed that the administration subsequently eased the India-specific penalties in February 2026 after the government reported that New Delhi had committed to halting purchases of Russian oil and to increasing imports of American energy products. He argued that such developments demonstrated the traditional diplomatic use of tariffs as leverage in complex international negotiations. Despite these arguments, the majority held that statutory limits must guide the exercise of executive power, even in matters touching on foreign affairs and national security. The court emphasized that significant economic measures with wide domestic consequences require clear authorization from Congress. The decision marks a notable judicial check on presidential trade authority and is likely to influence how future administrations deploy tariffs in pursuit of foreign policy objectives. Legal analysts say the ruling reinforces the principle that emergency economic powers cannot be broadly interpreted to reshape global trade relationships without explicit legislative backing. While the immediate policy effects remain to be fully assessed, the judgment underscores ongoing tensions between the executive branch’s flexibility in foreign affairs and the constitutional role of Congress in regulating commerce. The case is expected to shape debates over trade strategy, energy diplomacy and the scope of presidential economic powers in the years ahead.









