U.S. President Donald Trump announced he will meet Russian President Vladimir Putin on August 15, 2025, in Alaska to negotiate an end to the Ukraine war. Trump hinted at a controversial proposal involving a territorial swap, reportedly offering Russia parts of eastern Ukraine in exchange for a ceasefire. This will be the first U.S.–Russia summit on American soil since 1988 and Trump’s first in-person meeting with Putin since retaking office. The plan has drawn sharp criticism from Ukraine and Western allies, who oppose any concessions undermining Ukraine’s territorial integrity. (PC: India Today)

US President Donald Trump on Friday defended his sweeping tariffs, warning of a “1929-style Great Depression” if courts overturn them. Writing on Truth Social, Trump claimed tariffs have boosted the stock market and brought billions into US coffers. He said a court ruling against the measures would destroy “the wealth, strength, and power of America,” making recovery impossible. Since returning to office in January, Trump has imposed tariffs of 25%–50% on steel and other sectors, citing economic emergencies. He insisted the judicial system should have ruled earlier, warning the nation would never again see such economic “greatness” if tariffs fall. (PC: News18)

Union Minister Piyush Goyal, speaking at the Business Today India@100 Summit, declared India “will not bow down to anybody” amid global trade tensions, including US tariffs over Russian oil imports. Highlighting 6.5% growth and strong economic fundamentals, he predicted higher exports this year. Goyal announced the EFTA free trade agreement will start on October 1, bringing $100 billion investment and creating up to 50 lakh jobs. Rejecting claims of deglobalisation, he said India is restructuring trade ties while pursuing deals with multiple nations. He criticised Rahul Gandhi’s remarks on the economy, calling them “demeaning” and asserting India will always emerge victorious. (PC: India Today)

Germany has suspended military equipment exports to Israel that could be used in the Gaza Strip, Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced Friday. The move follows Israel’s plan to take control of Gaza City, which Berlin says makes it “increasingly difficult to understand” how the offensive would achieve disarming Hamas or freeing hostages. Merz stressed Israel now bears “greater responsibility” for aiding civilians and urged full access for UN and NGO relief operations. A UN-backed report warns famine is unfolding in Gaza. Berlin also cautioned Israel against further steps toward annexing the West Bank, signalling a rare policy shift from a close ally. (PC: NDTV)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he would “give PM Modi some advice on dealing with Trump, but privately,” calling both leaders his “terrific friends.” He described the US-India relationship as “very solid” and urged both nations to resolve the tariff dispute. Earlier this week, US President Donald Trump doubled tariffs on Indian exports to 50%, citing India’s continued imports of Russian crude oil. India condemned the move as “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable,” warning it could hurt sectors like textiles and marine exports. Modi vowed not to compromise on farmers’ and fishermen’s interests, saying he was ready to “pay the price.” (PC: X)

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Friday challenged Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi to either sign its declaration form, required for raising objections to the electoral roll, or apologise for his “absurd” voter theft allegations. Gandhi had claimed over 1 lakh fake voters in Bengaluru Central during the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Rejecting the demand, he said he had already taken an oath in Parliament. The ECI cited the Kamal Nath case, asserting legal procedures must be followed. It accused Gandhi of sensationalising the issue instead of using lawful channels, warning repeated disregard for court rulings undermines the electoral process. (PC: India Today)

On August 8, 2025, Al Jazeera reported that Israel’s security cabinet has approved a strategic plan to occupy Gaza City amid the ongoing conflict with Hamas. The decision, confirmed by multiple Israeli media outlets, marks a significant escalation in military operations. The plan reportedly includes deploying ground forces into central Gaza to dismantle Hamas’ command structures. While Israeli officials argue the move is necessary for national security and to weaken militant capabilities, critics warn it could worsen the humanitarian crisis and trigger broader regional instability. International observers have urged restraint and called for diplomatic alternatives. (PC: Al Jazeera)  

US President Donald Trump has imposed an additional 25% tariff on select Indian goods, raising total duties to as high as 50% effective 21 days after August 7. The move, linked to India’s continued purchase of Russian oil, will impact major export sectors like gems and jewellery, textiles, and some auto components. Industry bodies warn of severe disruption, with competing hubs like Turkey and Vietnam taxed less. Smartphones, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy products remain exempt. The US is India’s largest market for jewellery and textiles, with billions in annual exports. New Delhi has yet to announce its response to the tariffs. (PC: NDTV)

The US has doubled its reward to $50 million for information leading to the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, accusing him of being “one of the largest narco-traffickers in the world.” Attorney General Pam Bondi linked Maduro to drug smuggling operations involving Tren de Aragua and Mexico’s Sinaloa Cartel, claiming the DEA seized 30 tons of cocaine tied to him and associates. Venezuela’s Foreign Minister Yvan Gil dismissed the move as “political propaganda.” US charges against Maduro date back to Trump’s first term, alleging collaboration with Colombia’s Farc rebels. Maduro, in power since 2013, denies any direct involvement in drug trafficking. (PC: BBC)

Labour MP Mark Sewards has launched the UK’s first AI prototype of a British Member of Parliament to interact with constituents. Developed in collaboration with Neural Voice, “AI Mark” offers 24/7 support, allowing residents of Leeds South West and Morley to share concerns, seek help, and engage on policy issues. Sewards emphasized that the AI tool complements not replaces his work, aiming to strengthen connections between MPs and the public. All conversations are reviewed by his team for follow-up. While Sewards hailed the initiative as embracing the AI revolution, critics raised concerns over data privacy, reduced human contact, and accessibility for older citizens. The project remains a prototype and will evolve based on user feedback. (PC: X)