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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.
A one-year-nine-month-old girl, Veda Paresh from Ratnagiri, set a national record by becoming the youngest child to swim 100 meters. She completed four laps in 10 minutes and 8 seconds at a municipal pool, earning recognition from the India Book of Records. Another young swimmer, 10-year-old Aanvi Suvarna, recently swam 17 km in open water.
Telangana and Google launched the first Google for Startups Hub at Hyderabad’s T-Hub to support AI-focused startups. The hub will offer year-long free coworking space, expert mentoring, global market access, and programmes for women and young entrepreneurs. The initiative aims to strengthen Telangana’s innovation ecosystem and help startups scale with advanced AI.
Raghuram Rajan said US tariffs on India were not due to Russian oil but India’s refusal to support Donald Trump’s claim that he brokered peace with Pakistan. Pakistan backed Trump and received lower tariffs. His remarks sparked strong online backlash, with many accusing him of misrepresenting India’s stance and defending US actions.
During Lok Sabha discussions on electoral reforms, Rahul Gandhi challenged Amit Shah to a debate on alleged vote theft. Shah retorted that he alone decides his speech, accusing Gandhi of creating a false narrative. He cited three historical “vote chori” cases, targeting Congress leaders, including Nehru, Indira, and Sonia Gandhi.
Rail tickets in India remain highly affordable, costing only 5–10% of fares in developed countries, Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said. Last year, Indian Railways provided a ₹60,000 crore subsidy to keep prices low. Vaishnaw added that India offers cheaper train travel even compared to neighboring nations, benefiting millions of passengers nationwide.