U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him that India would halt purchases of Russian oil, calling it a “big step” toward ending the Ukraine war. (news18.com) The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) promptly denied the assertion, stating no such conversation occurred. India emphasized that its energy import decisions are made to protect domestic interests amid a volatile energy market. The MEA also noted that the current U.S. administration is exploring avenues to deepen energy cooperation with India. (PC: AP)

A court in Antwerp, Belgium, has rejected Mehul Choksi’s appeal against extradition, upholding India’s request and deeming his prior arrest valid. Choksi, accused in a ₹13,000 crore bank fraud tied to Punjab National Bank, had claimed Antiguan citizenship and renunciation of Indian nationality. Indian authorities had given assurances to Belgium about his detention conditions. Though this is a major legal victory for India, Choksi still may appeal in higher courts, delaying his return. (PC: AP)  

Three Bangladeshi nationals were killed in Tripura after they attacked villagers during an attempted cattle theft, India said on Friday. The clash took place three kilometres inside Indian territory in Bidyabil village. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the attackers used sharp weapons and killed one Indian villager before locals fought back in self-defence. Bangladesh called the killings a “grave human rights violation” and demanded a transparent investigation. India rejected the charge, saying the men were illegal immigrants. Delhi also urged Dhaka to cooperate on building a border fence to stop cross-border smuggling. (PC: India Today)

A Belgian court has approved the extradition of fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi to India. The court in Antwerp said his arrest by Belgian police, based on India’s request, was valid. Choksi, accused of a ₹13,000 crore bank fraud, has been in a Belgian jail since April. He can still appeal the decision, so his return may take time. India assured Belgium that Choksi will be kept in Mumbai’s Arthur Road Jail under international human rights standards. Choksi claims he is an Antiguan citizen, but Indian officials say he remains an Indian wanted for major financial crimes. (PC: HT) 

India remains ineligible for the U.S. Diversity Visa (DV) lottery until at least 2029 due to high immigration volumes exceeding the program's threshold of 50,000 immigrants over five years. In 2022, India sent 127,010 immigrants, surpassing the combined totals of South America, Africa, and Europe. Consequently, India is disqualified from the DV-2026 lottery, with no eligibility through 2029. Alternative pathways, such as H-1B visa conversions, family sponsorships, EB visas, and asylum, are hindered by long backlogs and policy uncertainties, leaving Indian applicants with limited options for permanent U.S. residency. 

Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif sparked controversy claiming India "could play dirty at the border," asserting Pakistan is prepared for a "two-front war" amid Afghanistan tensions. Responding to provocations questions, Asif stated, "There are strong possibilities," confirming strategies exist but remaining secretive about details. Previously, he accused Afghanistan's Taliban government of "fighting a proxy war" for India, alleging "Kabul is fighting a proxy war for Delhi." His remarks followed a 48-hour ceasefire agreement between Islamabad and Kabul after deadly cross-border skirmishes killed dozens. Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of harboring Pakistani Taliban (TTP) terrorists claims Kabul denies. The statements ignore Pakistan's documented history of sponsoring terrorism regionally.

Former Australian PM Tony Abbott declared the 21st century belongs to India, predicting its Prime Minister could become "leader of the free world" in 40-50 years at NDTV World Summit 2025. Abbott called India a crucial "democratic counterweight" to China's hegemonic ambitions, citing three key advantages: democracy, rule of law, and English language. He criticized Trump's 25% tariff on India for Russian oil purchases while China, who is buying more escaped similar treatment. Abbott warned against underestimating China's Taiwan aggression, stating "weakness is provocative." He suggested Ukraine's invasion wouldn't have occurred if NATO membership existed. Abbott criticized historical US tilt toward "military dictatorship" Pakistan over democratic India during Cold War.

US singer Mary Millben defended PM Modi against Rahul Gandhi's allegations that Modi was "frightened of Trump" regarding Russian oil policy. Millben stated Modi "understands the long game" and his US diplomacy is strategic, asserting leaders prioritize national interests. She sharply criticized Gandhi, claiming he lacks leadership acumen and suggested he return to his "I hate India tour." The controversy erupted after Trump claimed Modi promised stopping Russian oil imports, a claim India's MEA firmly rejected, stating no telephonic conversation occurred. India emphasized safeguarding consumer interests in volatile energy markets through diversified sourcing. Russia's Ambassador supported India, confirming energy cooperation "remains aligned with national interests."

India has refuted U.S. President Donald Trump's assertion that Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed to halt purchases of Russian oil. Trump claimed Modi assured him the decision would be gradual, but Indian officials clarified no such conversation took place. Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, India has been one of the largest buyers of discounted Russian oil, prompting U.S. tariffs on Indian imports over concerns of funding Russia’s aggression. India maintains its focus on energy security and economic interests, highlighting the need for diverse, stable energy sources. (PC: AP)  

Russian content creator Iuliia Aslamova sparked Internet debate by revealing she pays her Bengaluru house help over Rs 45,000 monthly. Aslamova defended the salary, emphasizing loyalty, professionalism, and growth rewards. After interviewing 20 candidates, she hired a nanny, implementing corporate-style incentives including 10% annual hikes, KPI systems, and 1.7x salary increases for full-time work. She now provides driving license training for her employee. Aslamova argued loyalty stems from respect and opportunity, not exploitation. The viral post divided opinions as supporters praised her professional ethics while critics claimed excessive salaries distort market rates, making domestic help unaffordable for others. Some noted the amount exceeds tech fresher salaries at major IT companies.