India reaffirmed on Thursday that its energy choices are guided by consumer interest, focusing on stable prices, secure supplies, and diversification. The statement came after former US President Donald Trump claimed Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured him that India would stop buying oil from Russia. The Ministry of External Affairs said India’s import policies are shaped by national interest and market stability. It did not confirm or deny Trump’s remarks. Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, criticised Modi for not rejecting the claim, alleging that India’s foreign policy was being influenced by Washington’s pressure. (PC: India Today)

US President Donald Trump praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him a “great man” who “loves Trump.” He quickly joked that he didn’t want to “ruin” Modi’s political career by saying that. Trump claimed Modi assured him that India would stop buying oil from Russia, calling it a major step in isolating Moscow over the Ukraine war. The comment came after US envoy-designate Sergio Gor met Modi in New Delhi on October 11. Tensions between the US and India had risen after Trump imposed high tariffs over Russian oil imports. The Indian government has not responded to Trump’s claims. (PC: India Today)

A 29-year-old woman has been arrested in Canada for spraying hate messages against Indians in Mississauga last month. The graffiti, found near a children’s park, included the words “Indian Rats.” Peel Regional Police said Freda Looker-Rilloraza has been charged with Mischief Over $5,000. She has been released on conditions and will appear in court later. Mississauga councillor Dipika Damerla said the arrest sends a strong message that hate will not be tolerated. Hate crimes against Indians have been rising in Canada, fueled by growing anti-immigrant feelings and economic struggles in the country. (PC: Reuters)

US President Donald Trump warned his envoy to India, "You better represent us, not them," while claiming credit for stopping eight wars in eight months using tariffs as leverage. Trump asserted he brokered India-Pakistan peace by threatening 200% tariffs unless hostilities ceased after seven aircraft were shot down. He claimed he spoke with PM Modi and Pakistan's Shehbaz Sharif, receiving a de-escalation call the next day. Trump defended himself as deserving the Nobel Peace Prize for "saving hundreds and millions of lives," calling tariffs his tool for stopping wars and making America a "kind nation." Sharif praised Trump's role, though India maintains peace came through direct DGMO-level military talks between the two nations. (PC: X)

India responded Thursday to US President Donald Trump's claim that Prime Minister Modi assured him of halting Russian oil purchases. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized safeguarding Indian consumer interests in volatile energy markets remains the priority, with import policies "guided entirely by this objective." Trump claimed Wednesday that Modi assured no more Russian oil purchases, though acknowledging the transition requires time. He praised Modi as "a friend" with remarkable political longevity. Trump's statement follows months after imposing up to 50% tariffs on Indian goods over Russian military and energy purchases. India maintains its energy decisions are guided by national interests and market conditions, not external pressure, while pursuing expanded US energy procurement.

Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif accused Afghanistan of fighting India's proxy war, alleging decisions are made in New Delhi, not Kabul. He claimed Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi made "plans" during his recent six-day India visit, officially focused on trade relations. This follows a 48-hour ceasefire between Afghanistan and Pakistan after intense cross-border clashes killed at least 58 Pakistani soldiers and numerous civilians. The truce began Wednesday evening, with both governments claiming the other requested it. Afghanistan accuses Pakistan of backing Islamic State's Khorasan wing, while Pakistan blames Kabul for harboring Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan. Recent violence followed Pakistani airstrikes in Kabul targeting TTP leaders, prompting Afghan retaliation along the Durand Line.

Brazil and India are strengthening ties to counter Trump's trade wars, with officials and executives meeting in New Delhi this week to triple their $12 billion partnership. Both nations face harsh 50% tariffs threatening economic growth. Brazilian Vice President Geraldo Alckmin leads a delegation exploring partnerships in agribusiness, biofuels, and defense. Trump's policies have pushed global realignments, including India-China thaw and Mercosur-EU deals. While Modi initially hesitated attending BRICS summit fearing US backlash, Lula's persuasion succeeded. India sends nearly one-fifth exports to America; Brazil sends 12%. Despite deepening cooperation, both remain dependent on US markets, selling similar products and relying heavily on China, limiting their ability to fully pivot away.

US President Donald Trump announced Wednesday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him India would stop purchasing Russian oil, calling it "a big step" toward isolating Moscow over Ukraine. Trump expressed dissatisfaction with India's Russian crude imports, which he believes fund Putin's war effort. New Delhi hasn't confirmed this claim. Trump praised Modi as "a great man" and friend, noting his long tenure and their strong relationship. India has defended Russian oil purchases as vital for energy security and economic stability, with Russian crude accounting for nearly one-third of total imports. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar previously criticized Western nations for questioning India's business decisions while themselves purchasing Indian refined products.

The US Supreme Court has rejected a case challenging the rule that allows spouses of H-1B visa holders, known as H-4 visa holders, to work in the US. The lawsuit by Save Jobs USA claimed the rule takes jobs from American workers. The court’s decision means H-4 holders can continue to work legally. Since 2015, over 258,000 H-4 dependents have received work permits, helping families and contributing to the US economy. The ruling provides relief and stability for thousands of skilled spouses, many of whom have strong careers and businesses in the US. (PC: X)

India's passport slipped to 85th position in the 2025 Henley Passport Index, granting visa-free access to 57 countries, down from 59 last year. Singapore leads globally with access to 193 destinations, followed by South Korea and Japan, showcasing Asia's travel dominance. The US dropped to 12th rank, its lowest-ever position, falling outside the top 10 for the first time in two decades. Americans access 180 destinations visa-free, but the US offers reciprocal access to only 46 countries, ranking 77th in openness. Among neighbors, Pakistan ranks 103rd (31 destinations), Bangladesh 100th (38), Nepal 101st (36), and Bhutan 92nd (50). Afghanistan remains weakest globally with 24 destinations. (PC: Pinterest)