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 faces crucial Women's World Cup semifinal qualification battle after four matches as two wins, two losses left them precariously positioned. With Australia already qualified and England, South Africa advancing strongly, India competes in a three-horse race for two remaining semifinal spots against New Zealand. The simplest path: winning all three remaining matches (England, New Zealand, Bangladesh) guarantees 10 points and semifinal berth. Winning two matches, particularly beating New Zealand, suffices mathematically without NRR calculations. Even losing to England Sunday won't eliminate India if they defeat New Zealand. However, losing both England and New Zealand matches creates dependency on Pakistan and England beating New Zealand. The India-New Zealand clash becomes essentially a winner-takes-all contest. (PC: NDTV & Hindustan Times)

Ukrainian President Zelensky meets Trump Friday at the White House, seeking Tomahawk missiles capable of striking 2,500km into Russia. The meeting follows Trump's "very productive" call with Putin Thursday, where they agreed to face-to-face talks in Budapest within two weeks. Trump reversed his earlier openness, stating "we can't deplete" US Tomahawk stockpiles. High-level advisors will meet next week, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio leading American delegation. Russia launched massive overnight attacks that includes 28 ballistic missiles and 320 drones before the Trump-Putin call, exposing Moscow's "real attitude toward peace," Ukraine's ambassador stated. Trump-Putin relations improved since failed August Alaska summit, though comprehensive peace remains elusive. (PC: Reuters)

A 21-year-old junior student, Jeevan Gowda, was arrested for allegedly raping his senior in a men’s washroom at a private Bengaluru engineering college on October 10, 2025. The seventh-semester survivor reported the incident five days later after informing her parents. According to the FIR, the accused lured her near the architecture block during lunch, forcibly kissed her, dragged her into the washroom, locked the door, and raped her. He also took her phone when it rang. The accused is now in judicial custody, while the college has not issued a public statement. (PC: NDTV)    

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)  

Critical Pakistan-Taliban negotiations commence Friday in Doha with third-party mediation, addressing escalating cross-border tensions fueled by Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Pakistan's National Security Adviser Lt Gen Asim Malik and Afghan Taliban Defence Minister Mullah Yaqoob are expected to meet, with key ministers joining delegations. Discussions center on ceasefire extension, highlighting Pakistan's security vulnerabilities and military fatigue from TTP attacks in Khyber and Waziristan. Islamabad seeks concessions and counter-terrorism assurances while desperately attempting to stabilize its western frontier. Kabul aims to assert diplomatic legitimacy, leverage the crisis, and pressure Pakistan toward formal Taliban sovereignty recognition. The third-party mediation underscores severe bilateral relationship breakdown as both sides pursue divergent objectives.

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.

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. (PC: X)

President Trump cast doubt on supplying Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, citing concerns about depleting US stockpiles despite earlier suggestions he might provide them. Trump announced a second meeting with Putin in Budapest within two weeks, occurring before Friday's White House talks with Zelenskyy. The long-range Tomahawks, with 2,500km range, could reach Moscow, prompting Russian warnings of relationship destruction and major escalation. Trump acknowledged discussing the missiles with Putin, who opposes the transfer. Since 2022's invasion, Ukraine has repeatedly requested long-range capabilities for deep strikes inside Russia. Trump described Tomahawks as a "new step of aggression," stating "we can't deplete for our country" while keeping options open.

Delhi's air quality deteriorated for the fourth consecutive day Friday, recording an AQI of 242 in the 'poor' category, with some areas reaching 'very poor' levels above 301. Transport emissions contributed 18.7% of total pollution. Areas like Akshardham (369) and Bawana (310) showed particularly hazardous readings. The pollution coincides with approaching Diwali festivities and winter stubble burning in neighboring states. The Supreme Court permitted green firecrackers with time restrictions (6-7 AM, 8-10 PM) on a test basis. Delhi government pledged strict enforcement through designated sale locations and patrol teams. Experts warn vulnerable populations like infants, elderly, pregnant women, and those with respiratory conditions might face severe health risks as pollution levels continue rising. (PC: Hindustan Times)