US President Donald Trump held an extended telephone conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday, engaging in wide-ranging discussions that touched on trade ties, energy cooperation, agricultural purchases, and several pressing geopolitical concerns, according to remarks shared by the American leader. Posting about the exchange on his social media platform, Trump described the dialogue as “excellent,” emphasizing that the call was both lengthy and substantive. He

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday welcomed a significant reduction in tariffs on Indian exports to the United States following an announcement by US President Donald Trump that the two countries had reached a bilateral trade agreement aimed at lowering reciprocal duties. Under the new arrangement, tariffs on Made in India products entering the US market will be reduced to 18%, marking a notable shift in trade relations between the two major economies. The agreement also provide

In a significant development affecting global trade and energy policy, United States President Donald Trump announced a bilateral trade agreement with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi following a direct telephone conversation on Monday. According to an official post shared by the US Ambassador to India on social media, the leaders discussed a range of strategic and economic issues, culminating in an accord that reduces key economic barriers between the two countries. In his publi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a conversation with Venezuela’s Acting President Delcy Rodríguez, reaffirming India’s intention to deepen and expand cooperation across multiple sectors. The discussion marks a significant diplomatic engagement nearly a month after former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was removed from power and taken into United States custody following a high-profile military operation. In a message shared on social media, Modi said both sides

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that Ukraine expects to become a member of the European Union in 2027, underlining that a clear accession timeline must be part of any future peace agreement. Speaking during a joint press conference with the presidents of Lithuania and Poland in Vilnius on Tuesday, Zelenskyy stressed that a fixed date for EU membership would serve as a crucial security guarantee for Ukraine and reduce the risk of political or procedural delays in the accession process. The president said that Ukraine’s integration into the European Union is not only a strategic objective for Kyiv but also an essential element of long-term stability for the continent. According to Zelenskyy, a defined accession date would reinforce confidence among international partners and help anchor Ukraine firmly within Europe’s political, economic, and security framework at a time when the country continues to face sustained military pressure from Russia. Zelenskyy also held a telephone conversation with Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker, during which the two leaders discussed Ukraine’s path toward EU membership and the worsening energy situation caused by repeated Russian attacks. Ukraine’s energy infrastructure has been targeted extensively in recent months, resulting in widespread disruptions to electricity and heating supplies across several regions. In a statement shared on social media, Zelenskyy said the daily strikes on energy facilities were aimed at leaving millions of Ukrainians without basic services, particularly during critical periods. He welcomed Austria’s recent decision to allocate financial assistance to support Ukraine’s energy sector, calling the move an important signal of solidarity. The discussion also covered additional measures that could help stabilize and protect Ukraine’s power system against ongoing attacks. Beyond energy concerns, Zelenskyy briefed the Austrian chancellor on recent trilateral discussions involving Ukrainian, American, and Russian representatives that took place in the United Arab Emirates. Those talks, he noted, focused primarily on military matters and potential security guarantees, reflecting continued diplomatic efforts to address the broader conflict. Reiterating his position on European integration, Zelenskyy said that Ukraine’s EU membership would strengthen not only national security but also Europe’s collective resilience. He argued that Ukraine brings significant security, technological, and economic capabilities that would contribute positively to the European Union as a whole. For this reason, he emphasized the importance of setting 2027 as a concrete target and expressed confidence that partner nations would support this goal. Zelenskyy also extended an invitation to Chancellor Stocker to visit Ukraine for in-person discussions, signaling Kyiv’s intention to maintain active diplomatic engagement despite the ongoing war. Meanwhile, Russian attacks continued to take a toll on civilians. Ukrainian regional authorities reported multiple fatalities following drone strikes and shelling in several areas. In the southern port city of Odesa, a drone barrage resulted in two deaths and left dozens of people injured. In eastern Donetsk region, a couple aged 45 and 48 were killed in the city of Sloviansk, while a 58-year-old resident was killed in a drone strike on a home in the Zaporizhzhia region. Another civilian, a 72-year-old woman, died in her home in the southern Kherson region as a result of shelling. As the conflict persists, Ukrainian officials continue to frame EU accession as a central pillar of the country’s future security and recovery, linking political integration with Europe to broader efforts to end the war and rebuild national resilience.

United States Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has accused European nations of indirectly financing Russia’s war in Ukraine by purchasing refined oil products originating from Russian crude processed in India. His remarks come amid ongoing geopolitical tensions over energy trade and sanctions linked to the conflict in Eastern Europe. In an interview aired on Sunday, Bessent alleged that while European leaders publicly condemn Russia’s actions in Ukraine, their trade practices ar

U.S. natural gas prices surged sharply on Monday, climbing above the $6 mark for the first time since late 2022, as a powerful winter storm swept across large portions of the country, straining energy systems and disrupting daily life for millions of Americans. The rally reflected mounting concerns over heating demand, power generation reliability, and supply disruptions amid one of the most severe cold snaps of the season. Natural gas futures for February delivery rose more than 18

Mikie Sherrill was inaugurated Tuesday as New Jersey’s 57th governor, marking a historic transition of leadership following a campaign that centered on rising costs, energy policy, and opposition to President Donald Trump’s economic agenda. The 54-year-old former Navy helicopter pilot and four-term congresswoman becomes only the second woman to serve as governor of the state, which is home to nearly 9.5 million residents. Sherrill secured a decisive victory in November over a Republican opponent endorsed by Trump, framing the election as a referendum on federal policies that she argued were driving up everyday expenses. Throughout her campaign, she placed particular emphasis on the impact of tariffs on consumer prices and pledged immediate action to address escalating utility rates. That promise was reflected in her first official acts as governor, as she signed executive orders declaring a freeze on utility rates and initiating steps to expand electricity production, including investments in solar and nuclear energy. Speaking at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark, Sherrill invoked the state’s role in the Revolutionary War and referenced grievances from the Declaration of Independence, drawing a sharp comparison between those historic complaints and her criticism of the current administration. She accused the president of overstepping constitutional authority through trade policies that, she said, benefited a narrow few while increasing costs for families and businesses. Sherrill emphasized that public office should be rooted in service to the public, a theme that resonated with supporters who formed the backbone of her winning coalition in urban centers such as Newark. Sherrill took the oath of office on a copy of the Constitution once owned by New Jersey’s first governor, underscoring the symbolic weight of the ceremony. While past inaugurations have featured artillery salutes along the Delaware River near the statehouse in Trenton, this year’s event included a ceremonial gun salute and a military helicopter flyover, reflecting both tradition and Sherrill’s own military background. She succeeds outgoing Democratic Governor Phil Murphy, who leaves office after two terms marked by a series of progressive policy initiatives. During his tenure, Murphy raised taxes on high-income earners, increased the minimum wage, expanded early childhood education, and fully funded the state workers’ pension system after years of underfunding. In his final news conference, Murphy said he had been in close contact with Sherrill during the transition and described his administration as having delivered on its campaign promises. However, Sherrill inherits a state budget that has grown significantly over the past several years, raising concerns about potential shortfalls if revenues decline. The budget also includes an ongoing commitment to a property tax relief program that remains unfunded beyond its initial phase, presenting an early fiscal challenge for the new administration. With Democrats maintaining control of both the governorship and the Legislature, Sherrill is expected to have a relatively favorable environment for advancing her agenda. Her inauguration coincides with a broader political moment, as attention begins to shift toward upcoming midterm elections. Party leaders hope that continued dissatisfaction with federal policies will influence key races across the country. An inaugural ball is scheduled for later Tuesday evening at the American Dream megamall in East Rutherford, concluding a day that formally ushers in a new chapter in New Jersey’s political leadership.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said he held a constructive and wide-ranging discussion with United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio, focusing on key areas of bilateral and strategic cooperation between the two countries. The conversation reflected the ongoing engagement between New Delhi and Washington as both sides continue to strengthen ties across multiple sectors of mutual interest. In a message shared on social media platform X, Jaishankar described the interaction as a “good conversation,” noting that the talks covered important subjects including trade, critical minerals, nuclear cooperation, defence collaboration and energy security. These areas have emerged as central pillars of the evolving India-US partnership, particularly in the context of shifting global economic and geopolitical dynamics. The discussion on trade and economic engagement comes at a time when both countries are exploring ways to deepen supply chain resilience and expand market access. Cooperation on critical minerals has gained added importance amid global efforts to secure resources essential for advanced manufacturing, clean energy technologies and strategic industries. Nuclear cooperation and defence ties were also part of the agenda, underscoring the growing convergence in security interests and technological collaboration. Energy cooperation featured prominently in the talks, reflecting shared priorities related to energy security, sustainability and long-term growth. India and the United States have increasingly worked together on conventional and clean energy initiatives, including efforts to address climate challenges while meeting rising energy demands. Jaishankar said both sides agreed to remain in close touch on these and other issues, signalling continuity in diplomatic engagement and policy coordination. The exchange highlights the emphasis placed by both governments on maintaining regular dialogue to address global challenges, regional stability and economic opportunities. The conversation forms part of ongoing diplomatic efforts to reinforce the strategic partnership between India and the United States, which continues to expand across political, economic and security domains.

The United States sharply criticised Russia on Monday, January 12, for its use of a nuclear-capable Oreshnik ballistic missile in Ukraine, describing the launch as a dangerous and unjustified escalation of the ongoing conflict. The condemnation was delivered during an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council convened to address the latest developments in the war. Addressing the council, US Deputy Ambassador to the United Nations Tammy Bruce said Russia’s decision t

Sergio Gor formally assumed charge as the United States Ambassador to India on Monday, marking the beginning of a new diplomatic chapter between the two countries. Speaking shortly after taking office, Gor described the relationship between India and the United States as the most consequential global partnership of the century, underlining its growing importance across economic, strategic, and technological domains. He confirmed that fresh trade negotiations between the two sides are schedule

In a significant indication of easing tensions between Washington and Caracas, US President Donald Trump announced on Friday that he has cancelled a planned second wave of military attacks on Venezuela, citing the release of political prisoners and increased cooperation on rebuilding the country’s oil and gas sector. The decision follows recent developments that the US president described as constructive gestures by Venezuelan authorities aimed at de-escalation. Trump said the mov

Venezuela’s interim president Delcy Rodríguez has accused the United States of using allegations related to drug trafficking, democracy, and human rights as a pretext to pursue control over the country’s vast oil resources. Speaking before the Venezuelan Parliament, Rodríguez said that external pressure on the country has long been driven by energy interests rather than genuine political or humanitarian concerns, while emphasizing that Caracas remains open to energy cooperation based on

President Donald Trump on Wednesday signed an executive order directing the United States to withdraw from 66 international organisations and treaties, marking one of the most extensive reversals of US participation in global institutions in recent history. According to a White House memorandum, the administration determined that continued involvement in these bodies was contrary to the interests of the United States, citing concerns over sovereignty, ideological alignment, and financial comm

United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Wednesday that Washington holds significant leverage over Venezuela’s interim authorities and is preparing to execute a plan that would place control of the country’s oil exports firmly in US hands. Speaking to reporters on Capitol Hill, Rubio said the administration is finalising an arrangement to take possession of oil currently immobilised in Venezuela and sell it on global markets at full market prices. According to Rubio,

China on Wednesday strongly criticized reported United States demands aimed at reshaping Venezuela’s oil partnerships, calling the move an act of coercion that violates both national sovereignty and international law. Beijing’s response follows media reports that Washington has sought exclusive control over Venezuela’s oil sector as part of its political and economic engagement with the South American nation. Speaking at a regular press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spoke

The United States has seized a Russia-flagged oil tanker in the North Atlantic, escalating enforcement of American sanctions and drawing attention to an unusual maritime confrontation involving Russian military assets. The vessel, originally known as Bella-1, was taken into custody on Wednesday following a coordinated operation by US civilian and military authorities acting under a federal court warrant. According to official statements, the seizure was carried out after the tanker

For decades, the United States has presented itself as a global guardian of democracy and international law, drawing legitimacy from its own origins in resistance to unchecked authority. Its constitutional structure was designed to restrain executive power, particularly in decisions involving war and foreign intervention. Yet the conduct of contemporary US foreign policy increasingly reflects a different reality, one in which strategic interests and economic leverage often shape moral languag

US President Donald Trump on Sunday, January 4, claimed that India has significantly reduced its purchases of Russian oil following the imposition of steep tariffs on Indian goods by Washington. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump said his administration’s decision to levy a 50 percent tariff had prompted a response from New Delhi, while also warning that the United States could escalate trade penalties further if necessary. Trump asserted that India’s leadership acted in respo

The United States has welcomed India’s newly enacted legislation on nuclear energy, describing it as a significant move toward strengthening bilateral cooperation in the civil nuclear and energy sectors. The response follows President Draupadi Murmu’s assent to the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India Bill, widely known as the SHANTI Bill, 2025, which introduces far-reaching changes to the country’s nuclear governance framework. In a statement shared on social media, the US Embassy in India said it viewed the new law as an important step toward a stronger energy security partnership and enhanced peaceful civil nuclear cooperation. The embassy added that the United States was prepared to engage with India on joint innovation and research and development initiatives across the energy sector, underscoring the strategic importance Washington places on collaboration in advanced and clean energy technologies. The SHANTI Act marks a decisive shift in India’s approach to civil nuclear power by replacing the Atomic Energy Act of 1962, a law that had remained largely unchanged for more than six decades. The updated framework seeks to modernize regulatory oversight, expand participation, and align India’s nuclear sector with contemporary global practices, while maintaining safety and security as central priorities. Among the most consequential reforms introduced by the new legislation is the opening of India’s civil nuclear sector to private participation for the first time. Until now, nuclear power generation and related activities were almost exclusively handled by state-owned enterprises. The move is expected to attract fresh investment, encourage innovation, and accelerate capacity building in a sector considered critical to India’s long-term energy security and climate commitments. The Act also grants statutory backing to the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board, strengthening its authority and independence. In addition, it outlines a structured licensing regime designed to bring clarity and predictability to approvals and compliance. To address disputes more efficiently, the legislation proposes the establishment of a specialized nuclear tribunal with jurisdiction over matters arising from the sector. Under the provisions of the SHANTI Act, licenses may be issued to a wide range of entities, including government departments, public sector bodies, government-controlled corporations, government companies, joint ventures involving such entities, as well as other companies or individuals expressly permitted by the central government through notification. This broader eligibility is intended to create a more inclusive and competitive ecosystem while retaining oversight through regulation. The US response to the legislation must also be seen in the context of the broader India–US civil nuclear relationship, which began nearly two decades ago with the announcement of a landmark cooperation initiative. That agreement ended India’s prolonged nuclear isolation and enabled civilian nuclear engagement despite New Delhi remaining outside the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, marking a major shift in bilateral relations and US policy. While the agreement reshaped strategic ties, its implementation faced delays over the years due to regulatory and legal complexities. Momentum picked up earlier this year when the US Department of Energy granted regulatory clearance to an American company to design and build nuclear reactors in India, a development widely seen as a breakthrough. With the enactment of the SHANTI Bill, both sides appear poised to build on that progress. The legislation provides a clearer regulatory pathway and signals India’s intent to expand its nuclear energy program, creating new opportunities for collaboration, investment, and technology exchange between the two countries in the years ahead.