Volodymyr Zelensky said it is “disrespectful” that US envoys visited Moscow but not Kyiv. He referred to Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, who met Vladimir Putin several times. Zelensky said talks could happen in other countries if needed. Peace talks have slowed as US focus shifted to the Middle East. The war between Russia and Ukraine continues, with key issues still unresolved. Fighting and attacks are ongoing across regions. (PC: Getty Images)

Mohammadmiya Sethwala, a 28-year-old from Vadodara, faces deportation from the United Kingdom after his visa was rejected. He lost his wife and toddler in the Air India AI-171 crash in June 2025. Authorities asked him to leave by April 22. Sethwala has moved court to challenge the order. He said, “Returning to India will remind me of my loss.” His visa expired in January, and he could not secure a new one. He is currently staying with relatives and seeking support while dealing with grief and uncertainty about his future. (PC: AP)

Large parts of Manipur shut down after protests over recent killings. Two children died in a blast in Bishnupur, sparking anger. In a separate attack in Ukhrul, two civilians were killed when militants fired on a convoy. Women’s group Meira Paibis held rallies, demanding justice. During one protest, three people died in firing. Markets, schools, and transport remained closed in many areas. Lawyers also protested and sought a judicial probe. The Indian National Congress blamed the Centre and asked for talks and relief. Officials said cases will be handled by the National Investigation Agency. (PC: PTI)

At least 13 people were killed and over 40 injured in a blast at a fireworks unit in Thrissur, Kerala. The explosion happened in Mundathikode on Tuesday afternoon. Officials said summer heat and dry land may have worsened the fire. “Further explosions are possible,” a fire officer warned. Rescue teams rushed to the spot, and the injured were taken to hospitals. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said, “All medical help will be provided.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Rahul Gandhi expressed grief over the loss of lives.

Mallikarjun Kharge called Narendra Modi a “terrorist” during a press meet, sparking sharp reactions. He later clarified, saying, “I never said he is a terrorist. He is terrorising people and political parties.” Kharge said institutions like ED, CBI, and I-T are being misused. The Bharatiya Janata Party strongly criticised the remark and demanded an apology. Union Minister Piyush Goyal called it an insult to the Prime Minister and the people of India. The issue has triggered a fresh political row ahead of upcoming elections in Tamil Nadu.

Donald Trump said, “We don’t have that much time,” as he refused to extend the ceasefire with Iran. The ceasefire ends on Wednesday. Trump warned that attacks could restart if no deal is reached soon. He said the US military is ready. Talks may take place in Islamabad, led by JD Vance. Iran has not confirmed its participation and rejected threats. Tensions remain high. Oil prices have also risen due to concerns over the Strait of Hormuz and its impact on global supplies.

The Election Commission of India has set strict rules on two-wheelers in West Bengal before the Assembly polls. Bike rallies are banned. Riding bikes at night, from 6 pm to 6 am, is not allowed. During the day, pillion riding is also restricted. Only essential travel is allowed, like medical needs or school trips. On voting day, family members can ride together for voting. People must take police permission for any exemption. The rules aim to stop fear and ensure fair voting. Polling for the first phase will take place on April 23 across 152 constituencies.

The Trinamool Congress has criticised a large meeting of central armed police forces in Kolkata ahead of the Bengal Assembly election. Chiefs of CRPF, BSF, CISF, ITBP and SSB attended the gathering at Science City. TMC leaders said the scale of the meeting looked like plans for a “military-style takeover”. MP Mahua Moitra alleged forces were being moved from other sensitive areas to Bengal. Around 2.4 lakh central personnel have been deployed for the polls. Officials said the meeting was held to build a strong and technology-driven security plan for voting. (PC: India Today)

Former negotiators say fresh talks between the United States and Iran remain difficult because of deep mistrust and very different styles. Iran state media said no delegation had yet left for Pakistan for planned talks. Former US negotiator Wendy Sherman said, “You cannot do a negotiation with Iran in one day.” She noted the 2015 nuclear deal took about 18 months. Former adviser Rob Malley said Iran’s leaders are “stubborn and tenacious,” while trust is near an all-time low. Officials said Iran’s attendance depends on changes in US behaviour and positions. (PC: HT)

Mallikarjun Kharge sparked a political row after calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi a “terrorist” while attacking the AIADMK-BJP alliance ahead of the Tamil Nadu election. Speaking in Chennai, Kharge questioned why AIADMK had joined hands with Modi and the BJP. Later, he said he meant Modi “threatens” and “terrorises” opponents through central agencies. The Bharatiya Janata Party strongly criticised the remark. Union Minister Piyush Goyal asked Kharge to apologise. The controversy came days before Tamil Nadu votes on April 23. (PC: India Today)