India’s Department of Posts has announced a temporary suspension of most postal services to the United States, effective August 25, 2025, in response to new U.S. customs regulations. Executive Order No. 14324, issued on July 30, withdraws the duty-free exemption for goods valued up to USD 800, subjecting all shipments to customs duties under the IEEPA framework starting August 29. Only letters, documents, and gift items valued up to USD 100 remain exempt. With critical duty-collection processes still undefined and air carriers unwilling to accept consignments, India Post urges affected customers to seek refunds and works to restore full service soon. (PC: The Times of India)

Amid escalating trade tensions, U.S. Congressman Michael Baumgartner told NDTV that President Donald Trump “respects India and Prime Minister Modi a lot”. Baumgartner expressed optimism that despite recent tariff hikes now exceeding 50% on Indian exports due to Russian oil purchases the two nations will reach a “successful conclusion.” He framed the tariffs as a sign of respect, suggesting America is “asking more of its friends.” Baumgartner also praised Indian Americans and called for deeper military and educational engagement. India has condemned the tariffs as “unfair and unreasonable,” with PM Modi affirming he won’t compromise on farmers’ and fishermen’s interests, even if it means “paying the price.” (PC: NDTV)

India’s Department of Posts has temporarily suspended all postal services to the United States following President Donald Trump’s imposition of steep tariffs on Indian goods. The move, announced on August 24, comes in response to a 50% tariff hike, including an additional 25% penalty linked to India’s continued purchase of Russian oil. New Delhi has condemned the tariffs as “unfair and unreasonable,” citing its energy needs and the absence of sanctions on Russian oil. The suspension affects all categories of mail, including commercial and personal parcels. This marks a sharp escalation in trade tensions, with diplomatic and logistical repercussions expected to unfold in the coming weeks.

President Donald Trump has nominated Sergio Gor, his longtime aide and current Director of the White House Presidential Personnel Office, as the next U.S. Ambassador to India. The announcement, made via Truth Social, comes amid rising trade tensions following punitive tariffs imposed on India. Gor will replace Eric Garcetti, who was recalled in January after Trump took office. Trump emphasized Gor’s loyalty and strategic importance, stating, “It is important that I have someone I can fully trust.” In addition to his ambassadorial role, Gor will serve as Special Envoy for South and Central Asian Affairs, signaling a broader diplomatic push in the region. (PC: NDTV)

External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar clarified that India was never consulted regarding its purchase of Russian oil before former U.S. President Donald Trump announced steep tariffs. On Saturday, Jaishankar stated that Trump’s decision to impose a 50% tariff on Indian goods—plus an additional 25% penalty linked to Russian oil imports—came without prior discussion. The move has sparked diplomatic concern, especially given India’s strategic energy ties with Russia. Jaishankar’s remarks underscore India’s position that its sovereign trade decisions should not be penalized unilaterally. The situation remains fluid, with further diplomatic responses expected. (PC: The CSR Universe & The Caravan)

India has extended its airspace closure to Pakistan-registered aircraft, including military and leased planes, until September 24, following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives. The original restriction, imposed on April 30, has been renewed monthly, with the latest NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) issued on August 22. Pakistan reciprocated with its own NOTAM on August 20, continuing its ban on Indian aircraft. These mutual airspace restrictions reflect escalating diplomatic tensions and are part of broader retaliatory measures. The Indian NOTAM specifies that Pakistani aircraft are barred until 11:59 PM UTC on September 23, equivalent to 5:30 AM IST on September 24. (PC: Reuters)

Facing steep U.S. tariffs and pressure over Russian oil imports, India is ramping up crude oil trade with Brazil, another country targeted by President Trump. Imports from Brazil surged 75% year-on-year in early 2025, making it India’s ninth-largest supplier. As Russian oil remains politically sensitive, Indian refiners are diversifying, with Brazil emerging as a key non-OPEC alternative. Diplomatic efforts between PM Modi and President Lula da Silva signal deeper energy ties, including collaboration on offshore exploration. Despite logistical hurdles and competition from West Asia and China, Brazil’s growing output and India’s strategic pivot may reshape global oil flows amid tariff tensions.

A tour bus returning to New York City from Niagara Falls crashed on Interstate 90 near Pembroke, about 40 km east of Buffalo, killing at least five and injuring several others. The bus carried 54 passengers, including individuals of Indian, Chinese, and Filipino descent, as well as children. The vehicle veered into the median and landed in a roadside ditch, ejecting passengers as windows burst. Authorities confirmed the driver survived and is cooperating with the investigation. Officials believe they understand the cause of the crash. The incident has sparked concern over highway safety and the vulnerability of international tourists traveling across U.S. roadways.(PC: X)

White House Personnel Director Sergio Gor has been nominated by Donald Trump as the next US Ambassador to India and Special Envoy for South and Central Asian Affairs. Gor, 38, expressed deep gratitude, calling it the “honour of my life.” Born in Soviet-era Uzbekistan, Gor moved to Malta, studied in the US, and rose through Republican ranks, working with Senator Rand Paul and Trump’s campaigns. Trump praised Gor’s loyalty and record-setting staffing achievements. Endorsements came from VP JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The nomination coincides with Trump’s imposition of a 50% tariff on India, including a 25% penalty for purchasing Russian oil. (PC: CNBC)

US President Donald Trump has appointed Sergio Gor as the next ambassador to India and special envoy for South and Central Asian Affairs. Gor, currently the White House personnel director, is a longtime Trump ally. He co-founded Winning Team Publishing with Donald Trump Jr. and has managed Trump’s campaign projects and Super PACs. Trump called Gor a “great friend” and said he trusted him to advance his agenda in the world’s most populous region. Gor thanked Trump for the honor, saying it would be the proudest moment of his career. He will succeed Eric Garcetti, pending Senate confirmation. (PC: India Today)