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US President Donald Trump announced that the United States had seized an oil tanker off Venezuela as tensions with President Nicolas Maduro escalate. The move marks another effort by Washington to pressure Maduro’s government. Maduro has already faced US narco-terrorism charges, further straining relations between the two countries.
Polling officially started in Dasturabad, Kaddam, Khanapur, Lakshmandand, Mamad, and Pembi mandals from 7 am to 1 pm, providing voters ample time and opportunity to cast their ballots. Authorities deployed extensive police security to ensure a completely peaceful and incident-free voting process. Vote counting is scheduled to commence promptly at 2 pm.
Polling officially opened in Chilpur, Ghanpur (Station), Raghunathapalli, and Zaffargadh mandals from 7 am to 1 pm, with authorities closely monitoring to ensure smooth and orderly voting. Heavy police deployment was arranged to prevent any untoward incidents at polling stations. Votes will be counted at 2 pm, after which the winners will be announced.
Kerala has started the second and final phase of local body elections across seven districts, continuing until 6 PM. Over 1.53 crore voters will choose representatives for 12,931 wards in 604 local bodies, with 38,994 candidates in the fray. Enhanced security, 18,274 polling stations, and live webcasting at sensitive booths ensure peaceful voting.
The first phase of Telangana Gram Panchayat elections begins now, December 11, 2025, from 7 AM to 1 PM, with vote counting starting at 2 PM. Over 5.61 lakh voters will determine the outcome for the 12,960 candidates contesting 3,834 Sarpanch posts, while 65,455 candidates vie for 27,628 Wards. Female voters (2,878,159) outnumber males (2,741,070).
Trump again criticized Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, urging a more “realistic” approach to the war and questioning delayed elections. His comments followed calls with European leaders seeking a joint meet on Ukraine. Zelenskyy rejected Trump’s claims, insisting election decisions rest with Ukrainians and expressing readiness to hold a vote.
US President Donald Trump said he exchanged “pretty strong words” with European leaders on Ukraine, warning weekend talks could waste time amid disputes over a US peace plan. Trump criticized Ukraine’s Zelensky for not reviewing the plan, while Kyiv sent an updated draft. The comments highlight growing US-Europe rifts over the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Italian Deputy PM Antonio Tajani hailed his meeting with PM Modi as “very positive,” citing strong India-Italy ties. He expressed optimism on the IMEC project and noted improved West Asia conditions, praising India’s role in Russia-Ukraine dialogue. Tajani also invited Modi to Italy in 2026 and affirmed both nations’ to advance IMEC.
The US Federal Reserve cut interest rates for the third time this year, lowering them to 3.50-3.75%, citing rising labour-market risks despite high inflation. The decision exposed divisions, with three officials dissenting. The Fed signalled at least one more cut next year, raised its 2026 growth forecast, and slightly trimmed inflation expectations.
US President Donald Trump slammed media reports questioning his health, calling them “seditious, perhaps even treasonous.” In a lengthy Truth Social post, the 79-year-old criticized The New York Times for suggesting he is slowing down. Trump insisted he works hardest, aced medical and cognitive tests, and accused the outlet of biased, fake reporting.
Trump unveiled his million-dollar “gold card” program, offering legal residency and a citizenship path to wealthy applicants. He said the initiative, replacing the EB-5 visa, would attract top global talent and generate major revenue for the US govt. Officials noted strict vetting and emphasized Trump’s goal of admitting skilled immigrants.
The CBI has filed a charge sheet against Chinese nationals Wan Jun and Li Anming, alleged masterminds of the ₹1,000 crore HPZ Token scam. They created shell companies to run fake investment and loan apps, laundering money through payment aggregators. The syndicate operated from abroad, with 30 entities and individuals named in the charge sheet.
SpaceX CEO Elon Musk said Starlink is preparing to serve India, posting, “Looking forward to serving India!” after Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia met Starlink VP Lauren Dreyer in New Delhi. Scindia said satellite tech will boost last-mile connectivity and support PM Modi’s digital vision, extending high-speed internet to remote and underserved regions.
Bolivian authorities arrested former President Arce on embezzlement allegations, Vice-President Edman Lara announced in a TikTok video. Lara praised police for the detention, which comes just a month after conservative President Rodrigo Paz ended two decades of socialist rule. A spokesperson confirmed the message was posted on Lara’s official account.
Telangana’s first phase of gram panchayat elections will happen today, Dec 11, covering 4,236 panchayats and 37,562 polling stations. Over 56 lakh voters, including 28.7 lakh women, will vote. Around 70,000 polling staff are deployed. Counting starts at 2 PM, with results declared the same day. Some sarpanches and members will elect unanimously.