As Ukraine’s Zelensky agrees to meet Russia’s Putin in Turkey on Thursday, European leaders warn Moscow of new sanctions if it rejects an unconditional ceasefire. Trump may join the talks, while diplomatic efforts intensify. All parties, Kyiv, Moscow, Washington, and Europe, are pushing to shape the outcome of the Istanbul peace summit.
The US military spent over $21 million on 46 deportation flights from January 20 to April 8 during Trump’s second term. Senator Elizabeth Warren criticized the spending as wasteful and politically motivated. Each flight cost over $26,000 per hour. Trump’s immigration crackdown also includes troop deployments at the Mexico border.
The scheduled talks between the Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMO) of India and Pakistan have been postponed. Initially planned to begin at 12 noon today, the talks have now been rescheduled to 5 PM. The postponement has raised concerns, especially given the ongoing tension between the two nations.
The BJP will launch a campaign to highlight the achievements and objectives of Operation Sindoor amid opposition concerns. A press conference led by top leaders will outline the operation’s success. Planning took place at JP Nadda’s residence, with key ministers present. Ashwini Vaishnav also met PM Modi to align the communication strategy moving forward.
PM Modi extended greetings on Buddha Purnima, emphasizing Lord Buddha’s teachings of compassion and peace. He praised Buddha’s messages of truth, equality, and harmony, which guide humanity. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also shared his wishes, highlighting Buddha’s path of knowledge, compassion, and non-violence for global unity and peace.
A 5.5-magnitude earthquake struck Shigatse in Tibet today, according to the China Earthquake Administration (CEA). The quake occurred at a shallow depth of 10 km (6.2 miles). Emergency response teams have been dispatched to the affected area. No casualties have been reported so far, and authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
At least 262 Hajj pilgrims from Hyderabad have safely reached Mecca after completing a 10-day stay in Medina. This group marks the first batch of pilgrims from the city for this year’s Hajj. Their journey was coordinated by the Hajj Committee, whose Chairman expressed gratitude to the Saudi govt for providing all facilities.
In 2024, 2.75 lakh Indians visited Turkey, while 2.5 lakh traveled to Baku, Azerbaijan, for tourism. Indian tourists have had a significant impact on the local economies of both countries. 1. Between 2022 and 2024, Indian arrivals in Azerbaijan increased by 68%, with average stays of 4 to 6 days. In Turkey, the average Indian […]
Pakistan targeted civilian areas, including a school and medical centres, in Jammu, Kashmir, and Punjab using drones, loitering munitions, and fighter jets, Indian officials said. India condemned the attacks and retaliated by targeting only confirmed military assets while avoiding civilian harm despite repeated Pakistani provocations and air intrusions.
China has once again responded to the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. In a statement issued by its Foreign Ministry, Beijing emphasized that it is closely monitoring the situation and urged both nations to exercise restraint. China further advocated for resolving the issue through peaceful dialogue and diplomacy.
Omar Abdullah criticized the IMF for approving a $1 billion loan to Pakistan amidst rising tensions with India. He questioned how the loan would help de-escalate tensions when it essentially reimburses Pakistan for military actions in conflict zones. The loan is part of Pakistan’s $2.1 billion economic reform program under the Extended Fund Facility.
Amid escalating India-Pakistan tensions, Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh, issued a blackout advisory, urging residents to switch off all lights and limit travel at night to reduce risks of air attacks. The directive follows thwarted Pakistani drone strikes on 15 Indian cities. Citizens were asked to remain indoors and comply strictly for safety and security.
BJP leader G Janardhana Reddy has been disqualified as Karnataka MLA after his conviction in the Obulapuram Mining Company illegal mining case. A special CBI court sentenced him and three others to seven years in jail. His disqualification, effective May 6, 2025, includes a six-year post-release ban unless overturned by a higher court.
The PIB Fact Check unit clarified that social media claims of an airport entry ban are fake. No such government decision has been made. However, airlines, including Akasa Air, advised passengers to arrive three hours early due to enhanced security. Flyers must carry valid photo ID, limit cabin baggage, and expect secondary security checks.
US Congressman Ro Khanna called Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir a dictator and urged Islamabad not to retaliate after India’s Operation Sindoor targeted terror camps. Stressing de-escalation, Khanna cited the April 22 Pahalgam attack. He urged Pakistan to free Imran Khan and warned that retaliation would worsen tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbours.