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)

U.S. President Donald Trump has renewed threats of sanctions against Russia amid the absence of a peace deal in Ukraine. Speaking at a campaign event, Trump criticized Moscow’s continued military aggression and warned of “severe economic consequences” if hostilities persist. He emphasized that sanctions would target key sectors of Russia’s economy and could be escalated if diplomatic efforts fail. Trump’s remarks come as international pressure mounts for a resolution to the prolonged conflict. Despite previous sanctions under his administration, Trump claimed new measures would be “unprecedented in scope.” The Kremlin has yet to respond officially, while European leaders cautiously welcomed the renewed U.S. stance. (PC: Responsible Statecraft & CNN)

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)

In a dramatic twist to the Dharmasthala mass burial case, the key whistleblower, a former sanitation worker was arrested for allegedly furnishing false evidence and misleading Karnataka’s Special Investigation Team. He had claimed to have buried 70–80 bodies between 1998 and 2014, but police found only one male skeleton at the identified sites. The skull he initially presented was revealed to be fake. He faces charges of perjury and will be produced before a magistrate. Despite denying any intent to malign the temple, he alleged that many victims showed signs of sexual assault. His claims are now under intense scrutiny. (PC: India Today & NDTV)

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.

On National Space Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and ISRO unveiled India’s expansive space roadmap, including Chandrayaan-4, a Venus Orbiter Mission, and the Bharatiya Antriksh Station (BAS) by 2035. The first BAS module will launch by 2028, with full operations by 2035. A Moon sample return mission is planned by 2040, alongside development of a Next Generation Launcher (NGL). PM Modi praised India’s historic lunar and Martian achievements and urged youth to join the astronaut pool. He highlighted technological strides in semi-cryogenic engines and electric propulsion, and celebrated initiatives like the Space Hackathon and Robotics Challenge. India aims to match global space agencies in deep space exploration and interplanetary missions. (PC: Jagran Josh & PTI)

Just days after being named in India’s Asia Cup squad, Shubman Gill has reportedly fallen ill, casting doubt over his participation in a major upcoming BCCI tournament. Gill, who was expected to lead the side, is currently under medical observation. His sudden health setback has raised concerns within the team management, especially given his recent form and leadership role. The BCCI is closely monitoring the situation and may announce a replacement if Gill is ruled out. This development comes at a critical juncture for India’s tournament preparations, potentially impacting team dynamics and strategy. Fans and selectors alike await further updates on his recovery. (PC: NDTV)

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)