U.S. President Donald Trump has escalated trade tensions by imposing a 50% tariff on Indian imports, citing India’s continued purchase of Russian oil amid the Ukraine conflict as a national security issue. The initial 25% tariff took effect on August 7, 2025, with an additional 25% tariff scheduled to begin on August 27. This move coincides with Trump’s warning that no further trade negotiations with India will occur until the tariff dispute is resolved. White …

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin engaged in a significant phone conversation focusing on deepening bilateral ties amidst US trade tensions, particularly regarding tariffs on oil imports. Modi expressed appreciation for Putin’s insights on the Ukraine situation and reaffirmed India’s commitment to a peaceful resolution to the conflict while emphasizing the importance of energy security for India’s population. This dialogue follows prior discussions held by India’s National Security Advisor with Putin, highlighting …

The Solomon Islands has announced it will exclude China, Taiwan, and the United States from the upcoming Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) summit scheduled for September 8-12, 2025, in Honiara. Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele cited the exclusion of non-member dialogue partners as part of a broader review of relations with the Pacific, aiming to limit participation to the 18 member nations only. This decision follows Beijing’s pressure to bar Taiwan, which Solomon Islands recognized until 2019 …

Cambodia and Thailand have agreed to a ceasefire regarding their long-standing border dispute, with ASEAN set to observe the arrangement. This decision follows a series of violent clashes that left numerous casualties and was influenced by economic pressures from the U.S., which threatened trade consequences if hostilities continued. Both nations have committed to regular communication and peaceful resolutions to their issues, with an immediate Regional Border Committee meeting planned. The U.S. has welcomed this development, …

Japanese warships made a historic visit to New Zealand’s capital, Wellington, for the first time in nearly 90 years, marking an effort to enhance strategic ties in the South Pacific amid increasing regional tensions. The JS Ise and JS Suzunami participated in joint exercises with Australia and New Zealand, highlighting Japan’s focus on a “free and open Indo-Pacific.” This visit follows Australia’s decision to collaborate closely with Japanese defense firms for its naval projects, showcasing …

India is facing a significant challenge following the U.S. decision to impose a 50% tariff on Indian exports, primarily in response to India’s continued purchase of Russian oil amid the Ukraine conflict. Indian officials, including Dammu Ravi from the Ministry of External Affairs, criticized the tariff as “unfair” and “unjustified,” asserting that it lacks logic and will not derail India’s industrial growth. In response, India is looking to diversify its trade partnerships, exploring new markets …

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has confirmed that preparations are underway for Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India, focusing on energy and defense cooperation amidst Western sanctions on Russia. Doval’s talks in Moscow emphasized the importance of India’s ongoing procurement of Russian crude oil, which reflects national interests despite tensions with the US. He is expected to advocate for the timely delivery of the remaining S-400 air defense systems, crucial for India’s strategic defense …

The UK’s charity sector watchdog has concluded that the display of Khalistan boards at the Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha in Slough does not violate political guidance for charities. This decision follows an investigation prompted by governance concerns regarding the gurdwara. The Charity Commission emphasized that after extensive review and consultations, the display of such political statements is permissible under the existing regulations. This ruling highlights ongoing tensions related to the Khalistan movement abroad, reflecting …

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss strengthening bilateral energy and defense ties, ahead of Putin’s upcoming visit to India. This meeting is particularly significant given recent geopolitical tensions, such as the U.S. imposing hefty tariffs on Indian goods linked to oil purchases from Russia. Doval’s engagement reflects India’s strategic commitment to maintaining strong relations with Russia, countering external pressures, and ensuring national security interests. Strengthening ties …