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President Donald Trump has repeatedly made claims over the years about what he saw, did and experienced during and after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. As the 25th anniversary of 9/11 approaches, he offered another account on Tuesday while honouring first responders at the White House. Trump said he had taken workers from his organization to the World Trade Center site after the attacks and described a moment when two firefighters allegedly carried him away because they feared a nearby building was about to collapse.&nbsp;The account may contain elements of events that occurred in the chaotic days following the attacks. However, Trump has not provided evidence establishing that the specific incident involving the firefighters occurred as he described it. Some elements of his account are also misleading. Trump was at Trump Tower in Midtown Manhattan when the attacks occurred, several miles from the World Trade Center. There is no public evidence showing that he was inside the building he identified as the ‘US Steel building’ when firefighters allegedly carried him away.&nbsp;The White House did not provide evidence or additional details when asked to substantiate Trump's account. An unsigned Tuesday email from the White House said, “He was a private citizen at the time, not everything he did was documented.” Later on Tuesday, spokesperson Davis Ingle criticised media coverage of Trump's remarks.&nbsp;“President Trump spent the morning paying tribute to the heroic first responders who laid down their lives in service to others in the September 11th attacks and honouring their incredible families. The President was relaying his experience of a city reeling immediately after and in the days and weeks after the horrific attacks, and the fact that the failing legacy media is using this to try to attack him is a disgrace and yet another reason why Americans’ trust in the media is at an all-time low,” Ingle said.&nbsp;Here is what Trump said and what the available evidence shows.<h2>What Trump said</h2>Speaking at the White House, Trump described his involvement in the aftermath of the attacks and said he brought workers to the site. “For nine months, rescue and recovery crews worked day and night on the site. I want to just thank my people; I took a lot of my me(n), I was building a big building in New York, and I took the whole crew down there right after this happened,” he said. &nbsp;“And they were, they had no hesitation, everybody went down with me. We went down, it was a big group of people. Wasn’t too much we could do, I’ll be honest, it was, you know, it was raw, and nobody’s seen anything like it, ever. We had other buildings; the United States Steel building was creaking, really creaking, and we thought it was going to fall down; the truth is it creaked a lot, it creaked. It still creaks. But it never came down, and I re(member), I’ll never forget two firemen. We thought it was coming down on top of us, and two firemen, big, strong guys, and I’m not the smallest guy in the world, they grabbed me under the arms, said, ‘Gotta get out of here.’ And they literally lifted me up. This is not easy to do. I’m big. They lifted me up and they started running with me. I said, ‘Fellas, I can run myself.’ But they were amazing, but they thought it was coming down; it didn’t come down. US Steel.” The statement raises several questions about when and where the alleged incident occurred.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-launches-missile-barrage-at-jordan-captures-most-mysterious-us-underwater-toy-in-hormuz-oil-prices-rise-1788913994388">Iran launches missile barrage at Jordan, captures 'most mysterious US underwater toy' in Hormuz; oil prices rise</a><h2>Trump was not near the World Trade Center when the attacks started</h2>Trump did not specify precisely when the firefighters allegedly carried him away. However, his description that he went to Ground Zero ‘right after this happened’ could leave the impression that the incident occurred on September 11. Available accounts establish that Trump was at Trump Tower in Midtown Manhattan when the attacks took place. He was therefore several miles from the World Trade Center at the time of the attacks.&nbsp;A former Trump Organization executive told Politico in 2016 that Trump did not do much out of the ordinary that day. Trump's own previous version of the firefighter story provides additional context. In 2016, he said the alleged incident happened a couple of days after the attacks rather than on the day itself. That distinction matters because it places the claim in the period after the initial attacks, when evacuations and fears about damaged buildings were occurring around Lower Manhattan.<h2>No public evidence places Trump inside the ‘US Steel building’</h2>Trump referred to a building he called the ‘United States Steel building’, saying it was ‘creaking’ and that people feared it could collapse. The building is better known as One Liberty Plaza. In 2001, it was located immediately across from the World Trade Center complex. There is no public evidence establishing that Trump was inside One Liberty Plaza during the alleged incident with the firefighters. Two days after the attacks, Trump was interviewed outdoors in the general vicinity of Ground Zero. Trump's 2016 account also differed in an important way from Tuesday's wording. At that time, he said the building that appeared to be in danger of collapsing was "not so far from us," indicating that he was not necessarily inside the building itself.<h2>Watch what Trump said here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Trump claims he was basically lifted out of the rubble on 9/11: &quot;Two fireman, big strong guys, they grabbed me under the arms -- &#39;got to get our of here!&#39; -- and they literally lifted me up, and they started running with me.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/63k48q7o4d">pic.twitter.com/63k48q7o4d</a>&mdash; Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) <a href="https://x.com/atrupar/status/2097340939740037395?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>There were genuine fears about One Liberty Plaza</h2>The absence of evidence supporting Trump's specific account does not mean that concerns about One Liberty Plaza were fabricated. In the days following the attacks, there were fears that the building could collapse. Building officials said it was structurally sound, but rescue workers and journalists were evacuated from the building on September 12, 2001, amid concerns.&nbsp;The Washington Post also reported that rescue workers were rushed away from the building again on September 14. Trump himself described the atmosphere around Ground Zero during an NBC interview on September 13, 2001. “Every few minutes, a whistle would go off and everybody would just run, because you have all the buildings around it, which are in such a weakened state that people just don’t know. And so they just have to take off, and then they come back, and they’re working under 50-story buildings that you don’t know if they’re going to fall down. So it’s a terrible thing for the workers and it’s a terrible thing for the world, really.”&nbsp;That account demonstrates that people working around Ground Zero faced genuine uncertainty and periodic evacuations. It is therefore possible that Trump experienced or witnessed one of those moments of panic. But there is no public evidence establishing that firefighters physically lifted him and ran with him as he described Tuesday. Trump also did not tell NBC during the September 13 interview that he himself had been carried away by firefighters.<h2>No public evidence confirms Trump's claimed rescue crew</h2>Trump's Tuesday remarks also referenced taking "the whole crew" to Ground Zero after the attacks. He did not explicitly say Tuesday that the workers participated in clearing rubble or carrying out rescue operations. However, Trump has made broader claims in previous years about sending workers to Ground Zero and helping with the recovery effort. He has not publicly produced evidence establishing those claims, including his previous assertion that he had sent a group of roughly 100 workers to the site.&nbsp;Richard Alles, a retired New York Fire Department official who was a battalion chief on 9/11, said in 2019 that he did not recall seeing Trump at the site during the recovery operation. “I spent many months there myself, and I never witnessed him,” Richard Alles, a retired New York Fire Department official who was a battalion chief on 9/11 and who attended a Trump White House event in 2019, told The New York Times in 2019. Alles also told PolitiFact in 2019 that a group of 100 workers would have generated records because people working at the site were operating under the supervision of emergency authorities.&nbsp;There were contemporary reports of Trump interacting with police officers and volunteers near the World Trade Center site. The Associated Press reported in 2016 that news accounts from the days after 9/11 included references to Trump giving high-fives to police officers and volunteers heading toward the World Trade Center. Those reports, however, do not establish Trump's broader claims about organizing or deploying a large rescue and recovery crew.<h2>What about Trump's claim that the building "still creaks"?</h2>Trump also said the building ‘still creaks’. There is no public evidence supporting that claim. One Liberty Plaza reopened in October 2001, less than two months after the attacks. The building has continued operating as an office property. The fact that the building survived the attacks and reopened does not establish that it "still creaks" in the manner Trump described.<h2>So what is the truth?</h2>Unsubstantiated and misleading. Trump's latest story contains elements that are consistent with the documented chaos and evacuation fears around Lower Manhattan in the days following 9/11. There were genuine concerns about damaged buildings, including One Liberty Plaza, and workers at Ground Zero were periodically evacuated.&nbsp;However, there is no public evidence confirming Trump's specific claim that two firefighters physically lifted him under the arms and carried him away because they believed a building was about to collapse. Trump was also not at the World Trade Center when the attacks occurred, and his own earlier account placed the alleged firefighter incident several days after September 11.&nbsp;Likewise, there is no publicly available evidence establishing his broader claims that he organized a large crew to participate in rescue and recovery operations at Ground Zero. The available record therefore supports the existence of a dangerous and uncertain environment around Ground Zero, but it does not substantiate the specific details of Trump's latest account.

Fact-checking Donald Trump’s latest 9/11 claims about firefighters, Ground Zero, One Liberty Plaza and rescue work, separating documented facts from unproven assertions

President Donald Trump has repeatedly made claims over the years about what he saw, did and experienced during and after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. As the 25th anniversary of 9/11 approaches, he offered another account on Tuesday while honouring first responders at the White House. Trump said he had taken workers from his organization to the World Trade Center site after the attacks and described a moment when two firefighters allegedly carried him away because they feared a nearby building was about to collapse. The account may contain elements of events that occurred in the chaotic days following the attacks. However, Trump has not provided evidence establishing that the specific incident involving the firefighters occurred as he described it. Some elements of his account are also misleading. Trump was at Trump Tower in Midtown Manhattan when the attacks occurred, several miles from the World Trade Center. There is no public evidence showing that he was inside the building he identified as the ‘US Steel building’ when firefighters allegedly carried him away. The White House did not provide evidence or additional details when asked to substantiate Trump's account. An unsigned Tuesday email from the White House said, “He was a private citizen at the time, not everything he did was documented.” Later on Tuesday, spokesperson Davis Ingle criticised media coverage of Trump's remarks. “President Trump spent the morning paying tribute to the heroic first responders who laid down their lives in service to others in the September 11th attacks and honouring their incredible families. The President was relaying his experience of a city reeling immediately after and in the days and weeks after the horrific attacks, and the fact that the failing legacy media is using this to try to attack him is a disgrace and yet another reason why Americans’ trust in the media is at an all-time low,” Ingle said. Here is what Trump said and what the available evidence shows. What Trump said Speaking at the White House, Trump described his involvement in the aftermath of the attacks and said he brought workers to the site. “For nine months, rescue and recovery crews worked day and night on the site. I want to just thank my people; I took a lot of my me(n), I was building a big building in New York, and I took the whole crew down there right after this happened,” he said. “And they were, they had no hesitation, everybody went down with me. We went down, it was a big group of people. Wasn’t too much we could do, I’ll be honest, it was, you know, it was raw, and nobody’s seen anything like it, ever. We had other buildings; the United States Steel building was creaking, really creaking, and we thought it was going to fall down; the truth is it creaked a lot, it creaked. It still creaks. But it never came down, and I re(member), I’ll never forget two firemen. We thought it was coming down on top of us, and two firemen, big, strong guys, and I’m not the smallest guy in the world, they grabbed me under the arms, said, ‘Gotta get out of here.’ And they literally lifted me up. This is not easy to do. I’m big. They lifted me up and they started running with me. I said, ‘Fellas, I can run myself.’ But they were amazing, but they thought it was coming down; it didn’t come down. US Steel.” The statement raises several questions about when and where the alleged incident occurred. Also Read: Iran launches missile barrage at Jordan, captures 'most mysterious US underwater toy' in Hormuz; oil prices rise Trump was not near the World Trade Center when the attacks started Trump did not specify precisely when the firefighters allegedly carried him away. However, his description that he went to Ground Zero ‘right after this happened’ could leave the impression that the incident occurred on September 11. Available accounts establish that Trump was at Trump Tower in Midtown Manhattan when the attacks took place. He was therefore several miles from the World Trade Center at the time of the attacks. A former Trump Organization executive told Politico in 2016 that Trump did not do much out of the ordinary that day. Trump's own previous version of the firefighter story provides additional context. In 2016, he said the alleged incident happened a couple of days after the attacks rather than on the day itself. That distinction matters because it places the claim in the period after the initial attacks, when evacuations and fears about damaged buildings were occurring around Lower Manhattan. No public evidence places Trump inside the ‘US Steel building’ Trump referred to a building he called the ‘United States Steel building’, saying it was ‘creaking’ and that people feared it could collapse. The building is better known as One Liberty Plaza. In 2001, it was located immediately across from the World Trade Center complex. There is no public evidence establishing that Trump was inside One Liberty Plaza during the alleged incident with the firefighters. Two days after the attacks, Trump was interviewed outdoors in the general vicinity of Ground Zero. Trump's 2016 account also differed in an important way from Tuesday's wording. At that time, he said the building that appeared to be in danger of collapsing was "not so far from us," indicating that he was not necessarily inside the building itself. Watch what Trump said here

Donald Trump’s latest 9/11 account claims firefighters carried him from danger, but public evidence does not substantiate key parts of the story

Trump claims firefighters carried him to safety on 9/11: What actually happened

The UK government has inaugurated a community-built digital connectivity hub in Siun, Obafemi Owode local government area of Ogun State, as part of efforts to close Nigeria's digital divide and expand internet access in underserved areas. The Siun Community Self-Built Connectivity Hub, commissioned on September 2, 2026, is one of ten such facilities being supported nationwide under the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's (FCDO) Digital Access Programme. The project is implemented by the Initiative for Digital Inclusion (IDI), and is designed to be community-built, community-owned and community-managed to ensure long-term sustainability.&nbsp;Built with locally sourced materials and powered by sustainable energy, the hub will offer residents reliable internet access, digital skills training, and a shared space for entrepreneurship, education and community learning. Speaking at the inauguration, Grace Bell, First Secretary for Economic Partnership at the FCDO, said the hub reflected the strength of community ownership in driving sustainable digital transformation, noting that empowering communities to identify their own challenges and co-create solutions makes such transformation more inclusive and impactful.&nbsp;HRM Oba Lawrence Odeyinka, the Olu of Siun, whose leadership helped mobilise local participation throughout the hub's design and construction, said the facility would equip youths and market women with skills needed for the 21st century, describing it as a symbol of what communities can achieve by working together. Representing HRM Oba Dr. Michael Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, CFR, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Prof. Ajao Adenekan said the inauguration marked the opening of new opportunities for the community, not merely a new building.&nbsp;The Siun hub joins similar UK-backed connectivity centres already running in Kaduna, Kwara, Abia and Ogun States, which have provided internet access and digital literacy training to underserved populations. The digital access programme forms part of the UK's broader partnership with Nigeria to promote digital inclusion, policy reform and economic opportunity through connectivity investment.

UK government inaugurates a community-built digital hub in Siun, Ogun State, expanding internet access, digital skills and opportunities

The UK government has inaugurated a community-built digital connectivity hub in Siun, Obafemi Owode local government area of Ogun State, as part of efforts to close Nigeria's digital divide and expand internet access in underserved areas. The Siun Community Self-Built Connectivity Hub, commissioned on September 2, 2026, is one of ten such facilities being supported nationwide under the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's (FCDO) Digital Access Programme. The project is implemented by the Initiative for Digital Inclusion (IDI), and is designed to be community-built, community-owned and community-managed to ensure long-term sustainability. Built with locally sourced materials and powered by sustainable energy, the hub will offer residents reliable internet access, digital skills training, and a shared space for entrepreneurship, education and community learning. Speaking at the inauguration, Grace Bell, First Secretary for Economic Partnership at the FCDO, said the hub reflected the strength of community ownership in driving sustainable digital transformation, noting that empowering communities to identify their own challenges and co-create solutions makes such transformation more inclusive and impactful. HRM Oba Lawrence Odeyinka, the Olu of Siun, whose leadership helped mobilise local participation throughout the hub's design and construction, said the facility would equip youths and market women with skills needed for the 21st century, describing it as a symbol of what communities can achieve by working together. Representing HRM Oba Dr. Michael Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, CFR, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Prof. Ajao Adenekan said the inauguration marked the opening of new opportunities for the community, not merely a new building. The Siun hub joins similar UK-backed connectivity centres already running in Kaduna, Kwara, Abia and Ogun States, which have provided internet access and digital literacy training to underserved populations. The digital access programme forms part of the UK's broader partnership with Nigeria to promote digital inclusion, policy reform and economic opportunity through connectivity investment.

UK inaugurates a community-built digital hub in Siun, Ogun State, expanding internet access, digital skills and economic opportunities for residents

UK opens digital connectivity hub in Siun to bridge Nigeria’s digital divide

Escalating the trade war with Canada, US President Donald Trump announced a ban on several Canadian products including alcoholic beverages, motorcycles and dairy products from import on Tuesday (Sep 8). He also ordered federal agencies to stop buying Canadian products through the government's main purchasing catalogue until Ottawa provides equal market access to American businesses and farmers. The import bans will go into effect on September 29 and were published on the White House's website. The directive regarding purchase of Canadian products will immediately begin and the General Services Administration (GSA) and the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) have been ordered to remove Canadian goods from federal purchasing channels. This came after Canada's retaliatory tariffs on US goods ‌took effect after midnight on Tuesday.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/foolish-to-fight-trump-admin-escalates-trade-war-warning-to-canada-after-talks-breakdown-1787500955103">‘Foolish to fight’: Trump admin escalates trade war warning to Canada after talks breakdown</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260909/image-1788917110954.png"></figure>A seemingly angry Trump, in a post on Truth Social, accused Canada of unfair trade practices, claiming that Canadian federal and local governments block American small businesses from selling to their public sector while its companies enjoy open access to US government contracts. "Everyone knows that Canada doesn’t let our Great Dairy Farmers sell into the Canadian Market, and that the only reason Canada makes Autos is because of previous disastrous Trade Agreements while other Presidents were in Office," Trump wrote. Declaring a policy of "NO RECIPROCITY – NO ACCESS!", President Trump stated that Canadian goods will remain banned from US government supply lists until Ottawa grants equal market access to American businesses and farmers. "I am hereby directing the GSA, working with the USTR, to take all necessary steps to REMOVE Canadian-origin products from GSA’s Multiple Award Schedules unless Canada restores full and fair reciprocity for American Farmers and Companies. Those schedules account for more than 50 BILLION DOLLARS a year," Trump added. As Trump went on a rant, he also slammed the former US President Joe Biden-led administration for its stance towards Canada&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/trump-carney-hold-fresh-talks-as-canada-faces-50-us-tariffs-1787305534270">Trump, Carney hold fresh talks as Canada faces 50% US tariffs</a> Meanwhile, Canada's retaliatory tariffs targeting US merchandise officially came into force shortly after midnight on Tuesday, as Prime Minister Mark Carney ramped up economic measures against the nation's primary trading partner following the breakdown of bilateral negotiations last month, deepening a prolonged 18-month trade dispute.&nbsp; The United States has levied heavy 50% tariffs on roughly $20 billion worth of Canadian imports. Canada implemented retaliatory tariffs ranging from 15% to 50% on roughly $20 billion USD worth of American products. &nbsp;

US President Donald Trump has ordered US agencies to stop buying Canadian products and announced import bans on Canadian alcohol, motorcycles and dairy goods, escalating the trade war with Ottawa after Canada imposed retaliatory tariffs on US imports.

Escalating the trade war with Canada, US President Donald Trump announced a ban on several Canadian products including alcoholic beverages, motorcycles and dairy products from import on Tuesday (Sep 8). He also ordered federal agencies to stop buying Canadian products through the government's main purchasing catalogue until Ottawa provides equal market access to American businesses and farmers. The import bans will go into effect on September 29 and were published on the White House's website. The directive regarding purchase of Canadian products will immediately begin and the General Services Administration (GSA) and the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) have been ordered to remove Canadian goods from federal purchasing channels. This came after Canada's retaliatory tariffs on US goods ‌took effect after midnight on Tuesday. Also Read: ‘Foolish to fight’: Trump admin escalates trade war warning to Canada after talks breakdown A seemingly angry Trump, in a post on Truth Social, accused Canada of unfair trade practices, claiming that Canadian federal and local governments block American small businesses from selling to their public sector while its companies enjoy open access to US government contracts. "Everyone knows that Canada doesn’t let our Great Dairy Farmers sell into the Canadian Market, and that the only reason Canada makes Autos is because of previous disastrous Trade Agreements while other Presidents were in Office," Trump wrote. Declaring a policy of "NO RECIPROCITY – NO ACCESS!", President Trump stated that Canadian goods will remain banned from US government supply lists until Ottawa grants equal market access to American businesses and farmers. "I am hereby directing the GSA, working with the USTR, to take all necessary steps to REMOVE Canadian-origin products from GSA’s Multiple Award Schedules unless Canada restores full and fair reciprocity for American Farmers and Companies. Those schedules account for more than 50 BILLION DOLLARS a year," Trump added. As Trump went on a rant, he also slammed the former US President Joe Biden-led administration for its stance towards Canada Also Read: Trump, Carney hold fresh talks as Canada faces 50% US tariffs Meanwhile, Canada's retaliatory tariffs targeting US merchandise officially came into force shortly after midnight on Tuesday, as Prime Minister Mark Carney ramped up economic measures against the nation's primary trading partner following the breakdown of bilateral negotiations last month, deepening a prolonged 18-month trade dispute. The United States has levied heavy 50% tariffs on roughly $20 billion worth of Canadian imports. Canada implemented retaliatory tariffs ranging from 15% to 50% on roughly $20 billion USD worth of American products.

US President Donald Trump has ordered US agencies to stop buying Canadian products and announced import bans on Canadian alcohol, motorcycles and dairy goods, escalating the trade war with Ottawa after Canada imposed retaliatory tariffs on US imports.

US-Canada trade war: Trump bans Canadian motorcycle, alcohol, dairy imports as retaliatory tariffs kick in

Days after devastating floods battered parts of Nepal, a 5.3-magnitude earthquake struck the country’s northwestern Mustang district on Tuesday night (Sep 8), with tremors felt in at least three neighbouring districts. According to official data from the National Centre of Seismology, the seismic activity occurred at 9:38 PM IST.&nbsp; The epicentre was recorded at latitude 29.022° N and longitude 83.978° E in northwestern Nepal. The event registered at a depth of 143 kilometres below the surface.&nbsp; Due to the relatively deep focus of the earthquake, surface impact was limited. No immediate casualties or major structural damage have been reported as the situation is being assessed.&nbsp; The earthquake occurred at 9.53 pm, with its epicentre at Lomanthang in Mustang, around 375 km northwest of Kathmandu, according to the National Earthquake Monitoring and Research Centre. Tremors were also felt in Manang, Dolpa and Myagdi districts.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/nepal-floods-drone-footage-shows-devighat-devastated-by-catastrophic-floods-1788851995966">Nepal Floods: Drone footage shows Devighat devastated by catastrophic floods</a>&nbsp;Nepal&nbsp;faced a catastrophic humanitarian crisis last month as flash flood Bhote Koshi River led to the death of 1,357 people with several missing even as search and rescue operations enter their fourteenth day. Nepal's economic losses from the flash floods are estimated at $2.56 billion in raw direct damages, with broader economic impacts and long-term recovery costs projected to soar between $4 billion and $7 billion, according to Reuters. Nepal Police informed that 1,366 casualties have been reported, while 4,077 individuals remain unaccounted for across the disaster zone. The official breakdown of recovered victims includes 533 men, 339 women, and 502 partial human remains. Out of the total recoveries made so far, police authorities have successfully verified and handed over 102 bodies to their families for final rites. To preserve unidentified remains safely, 1,147 bodies have been buried underground under strict forensic guidelines.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepal-floods-wion-crew-documents-extent-of-nepal-floods-devastation-1788864580930">Nepal floods: Wion crew documents extent of Nepal floods devastation</a>&nbsp;India is helping Nepal in rescue operation. Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava said Indian and Nepalese teams continued efforts to manually clear debris and mud from the Chilime tunnel. In a post on X, Srivastava said, “Chilime Tunnel Rescue Operation update: India and Nepal teams continued their efforts to manually clear the tunnel of debris and mud. To overcome the challenge posed by sloping tunnel teams have deployed HDPE pipes to ensure smooth movement inside the tunnel." He said work was also progressing on creating a temporary track from Syafrubesi to the tunnel portal through controlled blasting. (ANI)

A 5.3-magnitude earthquake struck Nepal’s northwestern Mustang district on Tuesday night, with the epicentre at Lomanthang. Tremors were felt in Manang, Dolpa and Myagdi days after devastating floods hit Rasuwa

Days after devastating floods battered parts of Nepal, a 5.3-magnitude earthquake struck the country’s northwestern Mustang district on Tuesday night (Sep 8), with tremors felt in at least three neighbouring districts. According to official data from the National Centre of Seismology, the seismic activity occurred at 9:38 PM IST. The epicentre was recorded at latitude 29.022° N and longitude 83.978° E in northwestern Nepal. The event registered at a depth of 143 kilometres below the surface. Due to the relatively deep focus of the earthquake, surface impact was limited. No immediate casualties or major structural damage have been reported as the situation is being assessed. The earthquake occurred at 9.53 pm, with its epicentre at Lomanthang in Mustang, around 375 km northwest of Kathmandu, according to the National Earthquake Monitoring and Research Centre. Tremors were also felt in Manang, Dolpa and Myagdi districts. Also Read: Nepal Floods: Drone footage shows Devighat devastated by catastrophic floods Nepal faced a catastrophic humanitarian crisis last month as flash flood Bhote Koshi River led to the death of 1,357 people with several missing even as search and rescue operations enter their fourteenth day. Nepal's economic losses from the flash floods are estimated at $2.56 billion in raw direct damages, with broader economic impacts and long-term recovery costs projected to soar between $4 billion and $7 billion, according to Reuters. Nepal Police informed that 1,366 casualties have been reported, while 4,077 individuals remain unaccounted for across the disaster zone. The official breakdown of recovered victims includes 533 men, 339 women, and 502 partial human remains. Out of the total recoveries made so far, police authorities have successfully verified and handed over 102 bodies to their families for final rites. To preserve unidentified remains safely, 1,147 bodies have been buried underground under strict forensic guidelines. Also Read: Nepal floods: Wion crew documents extent of Nepal floods devastation India is helping Nepal in rescue operation. Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava said Indian and Nepalese teams continued efforts to manually clear debris and mud from the Chilime tunnel. In a post on X, Srivastava said, “Chilime Tunnel Rescue Operation update: India and Nepal teams continued their efforts to manually clear the tunnel of debris and mud. To overcome the challenge posed by sloping tunnel teams have deployed HDPE pipes to ensure smooth movement inside the tunnel." He said work was also progressing on creating a temporary track from Syafrubesi to the tunnel portal through controlled blasting. (ANI)

A 5.3-magnitude earthquake struck Nepal’s northwestern Mustang district on Tuesday night, with the epicentre at Lomanthang. Tremors were felt in Manang, Dolpa and Myagdi days after devastating floods hit Rasuwa

5.3 magnitude earthquake strikes Nepal days after devastating floods

After US attack on Iranian ships, Iran retaliated by launching missiles at Jordan on Wednesday (Sep 9), saying it was targeting Muwaffaq Salti Air Base, a key facility used by US forces. In a statement, Iran's Revolutionary Guards said they "struck the American Al-Azraq base in Jordan with heavy missile strikes" in a "punitive operation", IRNA reported. Soon after, Jordan's army said it shot down 18 missiles from Iran. "Jordan's air defense systems engaged 20 ballistic missiles launched toward Jordanian territory, successfully intercepting and destroying 18 of them, while two missiles fell in unpopulated areas," the army said in a statement, adding that they came from Iran.&nbsp;WATCH VIDEO

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨 Breaking: Iran has launched what IRGC-linked outlets describe as its largest missile barrage since the 40-day war, targeting U.S. military positions in Jordan. Videos from Jordan show projectiles overhead. Iranian outlets claim cluster munitions were used and that Muwaffaq… <a href="https://t.co/DW9zwAMa6u">pic.twitter.com/DW9zwAMa6u</a>&mdash; Drop Site (@DropSiteNews) <a href="https://x.com/DropSiteNews/status/2097442450931425591?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/iran-to-announce-new-restricted-zone-in-the-gulf-top-security-official-says-1788756621453">Iran to announce new restricted zone in the Gulf</a>&nbsp;This comes after US forces struck five Iranian ⁠tankers linked to the IRGC on Tuesday (Sep 8) in response to Iran's attempted missile ⁠attacks on ⁠US Navy warship in the past two days, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said. US forces struck four crude oil carriers in the Gulf of Oman and one near Kharg Island in the Persian Gulf. It also cofirmed that the US ship had evaded the attempted attacks and was continuing to patrol regional waters, and no American personnel had been harmed. CENTCOM also said US forces instructed the crews of the vessels to abandon ship prior to striking.&nbsp;US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, during his trip to Colombia, warned Tehran that the US would respond every time Iran targeted its naval ships.“Iran continues to try to hit US naval ships and for every time they do that, or try to do that, they’re going to lose tankers,” he told reporters in Baranquilla.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">CENTCOM forces destroyed five Iranian crude oil carriers, Sept. 8, after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) targeted a U.S. Navy warship with ballistic missiles twice over the past two days. The U.S. warship successfully evaded the attempted Iranian attacks and… <a href="https://t.co/Gi8a2tloN1">pic.twitter.com/Gi8a2tloN1</a>&mdash; U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://x.com/CENTCOM/status/2097448820099711412?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Oil prices rise</h2>Meanwhile, as strikes and counter strikes began, oil prices jumped for the fourth straight session, gaining more than $1 in early trade on Wednesday after Iran launched ​fresh attacks on US military assets in Jordan. Brent crude futures rose $1.57, or 1.6%, to $99.49 a barrel by ​0001 GMT. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude was at $94.63 ​a barrel, up $1.60, or 1.72%.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/relations-continue-to-develop-iran-hails-india-ties-ahead-of-brics-summit-as-us-keeps-close-watch-1788847544834">'Relations continue to develop': Iran hails India ties ahead of BRICS Summit</a><h2>Iran says it captured US submarine drone in Strait of Hormuz</h2>Amid the attacks, IRGC also said that it has captured a US uncrewed submarine at the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian state media said the ​vessel was a Dive-LD, a large autonomous underwater vehicle built by ⁠California defense firm Anduril. The 19-foot (5.8-metre) submersible can carry out missions including mine ​countermeasures, seabed mapping, intelligence gathering and the inspection of underwater infrastructure such as cables ​and pipelines, the company has said. "We trapped one of the most modern, intelligent and unmanned submarines of the terrorist American army at the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz. This submersible is ​equipped with the latest technologies," the Revolutionary Guards Navy said in a statement ​carried by Iranian state media.&nbsp;In response, a Pentagon spokesperson said an underwater drone had “malfunctioned more than ‌a ⁠day ago.” "It was surveying regional waters in support of ongoing operations. The defective drone was an older model that neither collected sensitive data nor carried any classified sonar or radar equipment," the spokesperson said.<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260909/image-1788915299648.png"></figure>

Iran launched missiles at a US-linked base in Jordan, with Amman saying it intercepted 18 of 20 missiles. The US struck five IRGC-linked Iranian tankers, while Tehran claimed it captured a US submarine drone near the Strait of Hormuz.

After US attack on Iranian ships, Iran retaliated by launching missiles at Jordan on Wednesday (Sep 9), saying it was targeting Muwaffaq Salti Air Base, a key facility used by US forces. In a statement, Iran's Revolutionary Guards said they "struck the American Al-Azraq base in Jordan with heavy missile strikes" in a "punitive operation", IRNA reported. Soon after, Jordan's army said it shot down 18 missiles from Iran. "Jordan's air defense systems engaged 20 ballistic missiles launched toward Jordanian territory, successfully intercepting and destroying 18 of them, while two missiles fell in unpopulated areas," the army said in a statement, adding that they came from Iran. WATCH VIDEO

Iran launched missiles at a US-linked base in Jordan, with Amman saying it intercepted 18 of 20 missiles. The US struck five IRGC-linked Iranian tankers, while Tehran claimed it captured a US submarine drone near the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran launches missile barrage at Jordan, captures 'most mysterious US underwater toy' in Hormuz; oil prices rise

US forces struck multiple Iranian ⁠tankers linked to the IRGC on Tuesday in response to more attempted missile ⁠attacks on ⁠a US Navy warship, said a US official speaking on condition of anonymity.&nbsp;The US attacked several Iranian tankers, with local media reporting that crews have been evacuated.One ship was reportedly targeted off the shores of Kharg Island, reported local media, adding that the crew of the targeted vessels have been evacuated. Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency later confirmed that US forces attacked and struck an Iranian tanker off Kharg Island.&nbsp;Kharg Island is the most crucial point in the Strait of Hormuz. Before the war, 90 per cent of Iran’s oil exports were handled from the island, which is the heartland of Iranian oil exports.&nbsp;Another explosion was reported on an oil tanker near the Yekbani coast of Jask port, said Iranian state broadcaster IRIB, adding that the tanker’s crew were safely evacuated in the initial moments after the attack.&nbsp;Iran’s Fars news agency reported an explosion being heard in the southern Jask area off the Gulf of Oman and east of the Strait of Hormuz, after reports of earlier explosions on Kharg Island.&nbsp;<h2>IRGC warns crew of oil tankers near ports to leave the vessels immediately</h2>&nbsp;In response to the attacks, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Navy has warned crews of oil tankers near ports in Kuwait and Bahrain to immediately leave their vessels, saying the ships could be targeted in retaliation for US attacks on Iranian tankers.The warning, carried by Iranian state television, said the US military had targeted several Iranian oil tankers. It accused Kuwait and Bahrain of hosting US forces and assisting in the attacks.The Revolutionary Guard warned tanker crews to abandon their vessels whether they were at anchor or docked, saying they “will be targeted.”&nbsp;On Saturday, the US military struck three Iranian oil tankers after Navy warships were targeted with ballistic missiles, warning that it would, “if necessary, destroy Iran’s limited and exposed oil fleet.”&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Iran says it captured a US sea drone in the Strait of Hormuz</h2>&nbsp;Iranian forces captured a US Navy sea drone in the Strait of Hormuz, the country’s semiofficial state news agency said Tuesday.The news agency, Tasnim, posted a photo of the captured vessel on social media.&nbsp;US military officials acknowledged the incident on Tuesday but downplayed its significance, saying the drone was “defective” and lacked secretive technology.&nbsp;They said that one of its underwater drones “malfunctioned” more than a day earlier, after Iran said its forces captured an American unmanned submarine in the strategic Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;“An underwater drone operated by US forces malfunctioned more than a day ago. It was surveying regional waters in support of ongoing operations,” US Central Command spokesperson Captain Tim Hawkins said, without mentioning whether the device was seized by Iran.

One ship was reportedly targeted off the shores of Kharg Island, reported local media, adding that the crew of the targeted vessels have been evacuated. Another explosion was reported on an oil tanker near the Yekbani coast of Jask port, said Iranian state broadcaster IRIB.

US forces struck multiple Iranian ⁠tankers linked to the IRGC on Tuesday in response to more attempted missile ⁠attacks on ⁠a US Navy warship, said a US official speaking on condition of anonymity. The US attacked several Iranian tankers, with local media reporting that crews have been evacuated. One ship was reportedly targeted off the shores of Kharg Island, reported local media, adding that the crew of the targeted vessels have been evacuated. Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency later confirmed that US forces attacked and struck an Iranian tanker off Kharg Island. Kharg Island is the most crucial point in the Strait of Hormuz. Before the war, 90 per cent of Iran’s oil exports were handled from the island, which is the heartland of Iranian oil exports. Another explosion was reported on an oil tanker near the Yekbani coast of Jask port, said Iranian state broadcaster IRIB, adding that the tanker’s crew were safely evacuated in the initial moments after the attack. Iran’s Fars news agency reported an explosion being heard in the southern Jask area off the Gulf of Oman and east of the Strait of Hormuz, after reports of earlier explosions on Kharg Island. IRGC warns crew of oil tankers near ports to leave the vessels immediately In response to the attacks, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Navy has warned crews of oil tankers near ports in Kuwait and Bahrain to immediately leave their vessels, saying the ships could be targeted in retaliation for US attacks on Iranian tankers. The warning, carried by Iranian state television, said the US military had targeted several Iranian oil tankers. It accused Kuwait and Bahrain of hosting US forces and assisting in the attacks. The Revolutionary Guard warned tanker crews to abandon their vessels whether they were at anchor or docked, saying they “will be targeted.” On Saturday, the US military struck three Iranian oil tankers after Navy warships were targeted with ballistic missiles, warning that it would, “if necessary, destroy Iran’s limited and exposed oil fleet.” Iran says it captured a US sea drone in the Strait of Hormuz Iranian forces captured a US Navy sea drone in the Strait of Hormuz, the country’s semiofficial state news agency said Tuesday. The news agency, Tasnim, posted a photo of the captured vessel on social media. US military officials acknowledged the incident on Tuesday but downplayed its significance, saying the drone was “defective” and lacked secretive technology. They said that one of its underwater drones “malfunctioned” more than a day earlier, after Iran said its forces captured an American unmanned submarine in the strategic Strait of Hormuz. “An underwater drone operated by US forces malfunctioned more than a day ago. It was surveying regional waters in support of ongoing operations,” US Central Command spokesperson Captain Tim Hawkins said, without mentioning whether the device was seized by Iran.

One ship was reportedly targeted off the shores of Kharg Island, reported local media, adding that the crew of the targeted vessels have been evacuated. Another explosion was reported on an oil tanker near the Yekbani coast of Jask port, said Iranian state broadcaster IRIB.

US strikes Iranian tankers after missile attack attempts on warship; IRGC vows to retaliate

The rapid growth of BRICS has turned the grouping of nations into an increasingly influential alternative voice within the global order. BRICS has evolved considerably since its original grouping of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, and it now brings together 11 countries after including Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia. Besides, Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, Uzbekistan and Vietnam joined BRICS as partner countries in 2025, further increasing the grouping’s clout as it commands a substantial share of the world’s population and economic activity.&nbsp;&nbsp;It is notable that all five original BRICS members are also members of the G20. This gives BRICS members the ability to promote their priorities inside the G20 while coordinating separately among themselves.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>BRICS nations demand greater influence for developing countries in financial institutions</h2>&nbsp;BRICS members demand greater influence for developing countries in institutions like the International Monetary Fund and World Bank, while also supporting reforms of global governance.&nbsp;BRICS countries can coordinate on issues where their interests overlap, like reform of global financial institutions, greater representation for emerging economies, development finance, trade and the use of national currencies.&nbsp;As BRICS gathers momentum and bargaining power, one question is increasingly becoming significant. Diplomats and strategists are now analysing whether BRICS can emerge as an effective “bloc within a bloc” in the G20 Leaders Summit and present a distinct collective voice.&nbsp;<h2>G20 struggling to maintain consensus</h2>&nbsp;The probability of such a situation gains importance as the G20 itself is struggling to maintain consensus. The United States, which holds the 2026 G20 presidency, has placed economic growth, trade imbalances and other “America First” priorities high on the agenda.&nbsp;&nbsp;At a recent G20 finance ministers’ meeting in North Carolina, China objected to language on non-market policies and global trade imbalances and prevented a joint communiqué. As a result, the US issued a chair’s statement.&nbsp;China obstructed consensus on language concerning “non-market policies” aimed at addressing global trade imbalances. While 19 G20 members, including the US, EU, Japan, and India, agreed on the need to eliminate such practices, China opposed wording that targeted its economic strategies, thereby blocking a joint communiqué.However, China and Russia may see the G20 as an opportunity to challenge what they regard as an overly Western-dominated global economic order.&nbsp;&nbsp;The G20 continues to possess a major institutional advantage: it brings together the world's largest economies from both the developed and developing worlds.&nbsp;&nbsp;BRICS may evolve into a powerful negotiating bloc within the broader global system of G20, giving emerging economies greater leverage.&nbsp;If BRICS succeeds, the G20 may have to negotiate not simply with individual emerging powers, but with a more organised Global South coalition.

As BRICS gathers momentum and bargaining power, one question is increasingly becoming significant. Diplomats and strategists are now analysing whether BRICS can emerge as an effective “bloc within a bloc” in the G20 Leaders Summit and present a distinct collective voice.

The rapid growth of BRICS has turned the grouping of nations into an increasingly influential alternative voice within the global order. BRICS has evolved considerably since its original grouping of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, and it now brings together 11 countries after including Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia. Besides, Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, Uzbekistan and Vietnam joined BRICS as partner countries in 2025, further increasing the grouping’s clout as it commands a substantial share of the world’s population and economic activity. It is notable that all five original BRICS members are also members of the G20. This gives BRICS members the ability to promote their priorities inside the G20 while coordinating separately among themselves. BRICS nations demand greater influence for developing countries in financial institutions BRICS members demand greater influence for developing countries in institutions like the International Monetary Fund and World Bank, while also supporting reforms of global governance. BRICS countries can coordinate on issues where their interests overlap, like reform of global financial institutions, greater representation for emerging economies, development finance, trade and the use of national currencies. As BRICS gathers momentum and bargaining power, one question is increasingly becoming significant. Diplomats and strategists are now analysing whether BRICS can emerge as an effective “bloc within a bloc” in the G20 Leaders Summit and present a distinct collective voice. G20 struggling to maintain consensus The probability of such a situation gains importance as the G20 itself is struggling to maintain consensus. The United States, which holds the 2026 G20 presidency, has placed economic growth, trade imbalances and other “America First” priorities high on the agenda. At a recent G20 finance ministers’ meeting in North Carolina, China objected to language on non-market policies and global trade imbalances and prevented a joint communiqué. As a result, the US issued a chair’s statement. China obstructed consensus on language concerning “non-market policies” aimed at addressing global trade imbalances. While 19 G20 members, including the US, EU, Japan, and India, agreed on the need to eliminate such practices, China opposed wording that targeted its economic strategies, thereby blocking a joint communiqué. However, China and Russia may see the G20 as an opportunity to challenge what they regard as an overly Western-dominated global economic order. The G20 continues to possess a major institutional advantage: it brings together the world's largest economies from both the developed and developing worlds. BRICS may evolve into a powerful negotiating bloc within the broader global system of G20, giving emerging economies greater leverage. If BRICS succeeds, the G20 may have to negotiate not simply with individual emerging powers, but with a more organised Global South coalition.

As BRICS gathers momentum and bargaining power, one question is increasingly becoming significant. Diplomats and strategists are now analysing whether BRICS can emerge as an effective “bloc within a bloc” in the G20 Leaders Summit and present a distinct collective voice.

Will BRICS emerge as bloc within a bloc at Florida G20, flex its growing clout?

At a time when Ukraine is grappling, to contain Russia's advances on the battlefield, Corruption accusations continue to, haunt Zelensky's administration.Now, Ukraine's chief law enforcement officer, is at the centre of the country's latest graft scandal, who has been serving as Ukraine's prosecutor general since June last year, resigned over allegations of corruption.While describing the allegations as ‘completely unsubstantiated’, the official later stressed that he did not want, the prosecutor general's office to be used, as a tool in political confrontation.Over the weekend, investigators raided his office as part of an inquiry into a money laundering case.According to Ukraine's National Anti-Corruption Bureau, and Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office, a group in his office had received bribes, To protect fraudulent call centres, Running phone scams.This money had reportedly been used to buy valuables such as jewellery and expensive property.The agencies also claimed to have unearthed a safe with bundles of hundred dollar bills.While saying that they uncovered five members behind this, the agencies did not name them.In July last year, Ukraine's parliament passed a law putting these two anti-corruption bodies under, the direct authority of the prosecutor general.According to Zelensky, this was necessary to keep the agencies immune from Russian influence.However, he was forced to restore their independence, after thousands of people hit the streets In protest against the law.Zelensky's first major political shakeup, after the commencement of Russia's invasion, dates back to January 2023.At least 15 senior officials including regional governors and deputy governors resigned, In backdrop of corruption allegations.Back then, the Ukrainian president justified this move, citing that it was essential for the country's defence.In February 2024, Zelensky went one step further by, sacking the then commander-in-chief of the Armed forces Valeri Zaluzh-nyi Amid speculation of a rift between the two.In November 2025, Ukraine's justice minister German Galushchenko was dismissed after probe into a 100 million U.S. Dollar corruption scandal in the energy sector.In February this year, he was arrested at Poland's border while trying to flee the country.Energy minister Svitlana Hrynchuk was also sacked along with Galushchenko.This followed by the resignation of Zelensky's close aide and chief of staff Andriy Yermak, whose home was raided by anti-corruption agencies in connection With a money laundering case.But, corruption has not been the sole, reason for all ousters.In July this year, Zelensky dismissed Mykhailo Fedorov as the defence minister amid his call for an election and rift with the then armed forces chief Oleksandr Syrskyi.After days of widespread protests, Against Fedorov's removal, Zelensky also sacked Syrskyi.Last month, another high-ranking official Iryna Mudra was ousted due to corruption charges.Corruption has penetrated the defence sector as well.According to the New York Times, Ukraine lost about 1.2 billion dollars to Fraud, waste, and mismanagement in 2024, In defence procurement.The report claimed that seven of the country's ten largest Arms manufacturers received new contracts, Despite failure to fulfill previous contracts, Ongoing fraud investigations or arrest of Executives on corruption charges.In wake of this, It is amply clear that, Zelensky faces a tough challenge To set his own house in order....

Ukraine's prosecutor general Ruslan Kravchenko has resigned amid a corruption probe, adding to mounting pressure on President Volodymyr Zelensky's administration.

At a time when Ukraine is grappling, to contain Russia's advances on the battlefield, Corruption accusations continue to, haunt Zelensky's administration. Now, Ukraine's chief law enforcement officer, is at the centre of the country's latest graft scandal, who has been serving as Ukraine's prosecutor general since June last year, resigned over allegations of corruption. While describing the allegations as ‘completely unsubstantiated’, the official later stressed that he did not want, the prosecutor general's office to be used, as a tool in political confrontation. Over the weekend, investigators raided his office as part of an inquiry into a money laundering case. According to Ukraine's National Anti-Corruption Bureau, and Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office, a group in his office had received bribes, To protect fraudulent call centres, Running phone scams. This money had reportedly been used to buy valuables such as jewellery and expensive property. The agencies also claimed to have unearthed a safe with bundles of hundred dollar bills. While saying that they uncovered five members behind this, the agencies did not name them. In July last year, Ukraine's parliament passed a law putting these two anti-corruption bodies under, the direct authority of the prosecutor general. According to Zelensky, this was necessary to keep the agencies immune from Russian influence. However, he was forced to restore their independence, after thousands of people hit the streets In protest against the law. Zelensky's first major political shakeup, after the commencement of Russia's invasion, dates back to January 2023. At least 15 senior officials including regional governors and deputy governors resigned, In backdrop of corruption allegations. Back then, the Ukrainian president justified this move, citing that it was essential for the country's defence. In February 2024, Zelensky went one step further by, sacking the then commander-in-chief of the Armed forces Valeri Zaluzh-nyi Amid speculation of a rift between the two. In November 2025, Ukraine's justice minister German Galushchenko was dismissed after probe into a 100 million U.S. Dollar corruption scandal in the energy sector. In February this year, he was arrested at Poland's border while trying to flee the country. Energy minister Svitlana Hrynchuk was also sacked along with Galushchenko. This followed by the resignation of Zelensky's close aide and chief of staff Andriy Yermak, whose home was raided by anti-corruption agencies in connection With a money laundering case. But, corruption has not been the sole, reason for all ousters. In July this year, Zelensky dismissed Mykhailo Fedorov as the defence minister amid his call for an election and rift with the then armed forces chief Oleksandr Syrskyi. After days of widespread protests, Against Fedorov's removal, Zelensky also sacked Syrskyi. Last month, another high-ranking official Iryna Mudra was ousted due to corruption charges. Corruption has penetrated the defence sector as well. According to the New York Times, Ukraine lost about 1.2 billion dollars to Fraud, waste, and mismanagement in 2024, In defence procurement. The report claimed that seven of the country's ten largest Arms manufacturers received new contracts, Despite failure to fulfill previous contracts, Ongoing fraud investigations or arrest of Executives on corruption charges. In wake of this, It is amply clear that, Zelensky faces a tough challenge To set his own house in order....

Ukraine's prosecutor general Ruslan Kravchenko has resigned amid a corruption probe, adding to mounting pressure on President Volodymyr Zelensky's administration.

Gravitas | Fresh churn in Zelensky's team: Ukraine's prosecutor general quits amid corruption probe

The Iran war continues to affect global trade and energy supplies, with the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz creating growing concerns among countries that depend on the strategic waterway. South Korea, facing pressure from the United States to help secure the route, has now sent a fact-finding team to assess the situation.&nbsp;Seoul announced the move just days after saying it was considering deploying military assets to the Strait of Hormuz. South Korea’s Defence Ministry said the team would assess the regional situation and security conditions. However, it stressed that the mission does not necessarily mean that Seoul will deploy troops.&nbsp;South Korea has a major interest in restoring shipping through the waterway as it depends on the Strait of Hormuz for nearly 61 per cent of its crude oil imports. Tehran, however, has already warned Seoul that any military presence in the area would be viewed as direct support for the aggressor and could lead to serious consequences.&nbsp;The crisis has also raised concerns in Qatar, a key US ally and major energy exporter. Qatar has warned of an industrial catastrophe if the situation continues. Qatar’s Prime Minister Al Thani is currently visiting China as both countries seek to ease tensions in West Asia.&nbsp;Beijing and Doha are also pushing for safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. The waterway is crucial for China’s energy supplies and Qatar’s liquefied natural gas exports. Qatar’s Foreign Ministry said the region cannot accept the normalisation of a "no war, no peace" situation and called for diplomacy to resume.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-trump-hold-frank-one-hour-call-after-us-envoys-visit-moscow-kyiv-1788882870939">Putin, Trump hold ‘frank’ one hour call after US envoys visit Moscow, Kyiv</a>&nbsp;Shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has also dropped sharply amid the US-Iran conflict. Average daily traffic has fallen to its lowest level since May. Over the past 10 days, only around 10 ships have crossed the waterway on an average day.&nbsp;US Central Command has claimed that it redirected 94 commercial vessels travelling to or from Iranian ports as part of its blockade. Iran, meanwhile, has rejected US pressure and maintained that it will continue to defend its rights.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/qatar-warns-of-industrial-catastrophe-s-korea-sends-team-to-assess-hormuz-situation-1788888019632/embed&nbsp;Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran would continue its resistance until the aggressors regretted their actions. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf also warned that any US attack on Iran’s oil and natural gas infrastructure would trigger a reciprocal response.&nbsp;Tehran has also asserted its right to self-defence while warning against further escalation in the region. Iran has separately accused Canada of trying to appease the United States amid the two countries’ trade dispute.&nbsp;The accusation followed a joint statement by Canada’s foreign and finance ministers condemning Iran’s threats against vessels seeking to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. They urged Tehran to immediately stop what they described as destabilising activities in West Asia and its support for proxy groups.&nbsp;Iran rejected the Canadian allegations and accused Ottawa of distorting facts about the situation in the region. With Tehran also threatening a maritime exclusion zone in response to the US naval blockade, prospects for an immediate diplomatic breakthrough remain limited.

South Korea has sent a fact-finding team to assess security in the Strait of Hormuz as shipping traffic collapses amid the Iran-US conflict, while Qatar and China push for de-escalation and Tehran warns against military intervention.

The Iran war continues to affect global trade and energy supplies, with the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz creating growing concerns among countries that depend on the strategic waterway. South Korea, facing pressure from the United States to help secure the route, has now sent a fact-finding team to assess the situation. Seoul announced the move just days after saying it was considering deploying military assets to the Strait of Hormuz. South Korea’s Defence Ministry said the team would assess the regional situation and security conditions. However, it stressed that the mission does not necessarily mean that Seoul will deploy troops. South Korea has a major interest in restoring shipping through the waterway as it depends on the Strait of Hormuz for nearly 61 per cent of its crude oil imports. Tehran, however, has already warned Seoul that any military presence in the area would be viewed as direct support for the aggressor and could lead to serious consequences. The crisis has also raised concerns in Qatar, a key US ally and major energy exporter. Qatar has warned of an industrial catastrophe if the situation continues. Qatar’s Prime Minister Al Thani is currently visiting China as both countries seek to ease tensions in West Asia. Beijing and Doha are also pushing for safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. The waterway is crucial for China’s energy supplies and Qatar’s liquefied natural gas exports. Qatar’s Foreign Ministry said the region cannot accept the normalisation of a "no war, no peace" situation and called for diplomacy to resume. Also Read: Putin, Trump hold ‘frank’ one hour call after US envoys visit Moscow, Kyiv Shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has also dropped sharply amid the US-Iran conflict. Average daily traffic has fallen to its lowest level since May. Over the past 10 days, only around 10 ships have crossed the waterway on an average day. US Central Command has claimed that it redirected 94 commercial vessels travelling to or from Iranian ports as part of its blockade. Iran, meanwhile, has rejected US pressure and maintained that it will continue to defend its rights. https://www.wionews.com/videos/qatar-warns-of-industrial-catastrophe-s-korea-sends-team-to-assess-hormuz-situation-1788888019632/embed Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran would continue its resistance until the aggressors regretted their actions. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf also warned that any US attack on Iran’s oil and natural gas infrastructure would trigger a reciprocal response. Tehran has also asserted its right to self-defence while warning against further escalation in the region. Iran has separately accused Canada of trying to appease the United States amid the two countries’ trade dispute. The accusation followed a joint statement by Canada’s foreign and finance ministers condemning Iran’s threats against vessels seeking to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. They urged Tehran to immediately stop what they described as destabilising activities in West Asia and its support for proxy groups. Iran rejected the Canadian allegations and accused Ottawa of distorting facts about the situation in the region. With Tehran also threatening a maritime exclusion zone in response to the US naval blockade, prospects for an immediate diplomatic breakthrough remain limited.

South Korea has sent a fact-finding team to assess security in the Strait of Hormuz as shipping traffic collapses amid the Iran-US conflict, while Qatar and China push for de-escalation and Tehran warns against military intervention.

Qatar warns of ‘industrial catastrophe’, S Korea sends team to assess Hormuz situation | Gravitas

Beyond climate action, governance and economic cooperation, BRICS has grown into an important platform for strengthening people-to-people connections and building cultural bridges among its member countries. The grouping represents more than 45 per cent of the world’s population and uses its Cultural and People-to-People Exchange Pillar to promote greater interaction among communities.&nbsp;The cultural track works through the annual BRICS Culture Working Group sessions, dedicated arts and theatre festivals, and the annual meeting of BRICS Culture Ministers.&nbsp;During India’s BRICS Chairship, the 11th BRICS Culture Ministers’ Meeting was held in Bhopal on August 7. The meeting ended with the adoption of the Bhopal Declaration, which sets out a practical framework to deepen cultural cooperation among BRICS member states and partner countries.&nbsp;The declaration focuses on expanding cooperation in cultural and creative industries and the wider creative economy. It calls for countries to share methods, experiences and best practices while supporting creators and strengthening professional networks. It also seeks to expand market opportunities for artists and creative professionals through digital tools.&nbsp;The declaration also promotes cooperation on UNESCO multinational nominations, research into the origin and ownership of cultural objects, and the return and restitution of cultural property. It also proposes exploring artificial intelligence-based tools to help trace cultural property.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/brics-is-not-anti-west-it-s-just-challenging-the-west-s-monopoly-on-power-1788887405395">BRICS is not anti-West, it’s just challenging the West’s monopoly on power</a><h3>Protecting heritage and creators</h3>The Bhopal Declaration calls for greater efforts to protect Traditional Knowledge Systems and Traditional Cultural Expressions. It also encourages cooperation among museums, libraries and archives to preserve documentary heritage through digitisation and conservation.&nbsp;The declaration further focuses on protecting creators’ rights in the age of artificial intelligence. It calls for transparency and fair and equitable remuneration when copyrighted works are used in AI systems.India also announced a pilot initiative to create a Voluntary Artist Registry under the Culture Track. The initiative aims to support cultural exchanges, strengthen professional networks and create more opportunities for artists and creative practitioners across BRICS countries.&nbsp;The Culture Track also created space for bilateral discussions. Union Minister of Culture and the Secretary, Ministry of Culture, held meetings with representatives from participating countries. The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral cultural cooperation and identifying areas of mutual interest.<h3>India’s cultural heritage takes centre stage</h3>The cultural programme also allowed visiting delegations to explore India’s cultural and civilisational heritage.&nbsp;On August 5, delegates visited the Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya in Bhopal. Following the ministerial meeting, delegations are being taken to Sanchi to explore its important Buddhist heritage.&nbsp;A visit to Bhimbetka is scheduled for the morning of August 9. The site will allow participating delegations to experience India’s prehistoric rock shelters and ancient cultural heritage.&nbsp;Through these initiatives, the BRICS Culture Track seeks to bring people closer by creating opportunities for cultural exchange, cooperation and shared understanding beyond national borders.

BRICS is using its cultural track to strengthen people-to-people ties, promote cultural cooperation, protect shared heritage and create new opportunities for artists and creative communities across member countries.

Beyond climate action, governance and economic cooperation, BRICS has grown into an important platform for strengthening people-to-people connections and building cultural bridges among its member countries. The grouping represents more than 45 per cent of the world’s population and uses its Cultural and People-to-People Exchange Pillar to promote greater interaction among communities. The cultural track works through the annual BRICS Culture Working Group sessions, dedicated arts and theatre festivals, and the annual meeting of BRICS Culture Ministers. During India’s BRICS Chairship, the 11th BRICS Culture Ministers’ Meeting was held in Bhopal on August 7. The meeting ended with the adoption of the Bhopal Declaration, which sets out a practical framework to deepen cultural cooperation among BRICS member states and partner countries. The declaration focuses on expanding cooperation in cultural and creative industries and the wider creative economy. It calls for countries to share methods, experiences and best practices while supporting creators and strengthening professional networks. It also seeks to expand market opportunities for artists and creative professionals through digital tools. The declaration also promotes cooperation on UNESCO multinational nominations, research into the origin and ownership of cultural objects, and the return and restitution of cultural property. It also proposes exploring artificial intelligence-based tools to help trace cultural property. Also Read: BRICS is not anti-West, it’s just challenging the West’s monopoly on power Protecting heritage and creators The Bhopal Declaration calls for greater efforts to protect Traditional Knowledge Systems and Traditional Cultural Expressions. It also encourages cooperation among museums, libraries and archives to preserve documentary heritage through digitisation and conservation. The declaration further focuses on protecting creators’ rights in the age of artificial intelligence. It calls for transparency and fair and equitable remuneration when copyrighted works are used in AI systems. India also announced a pilot initiative to create a Voluntary Artist Registry under the Culture Track. The initiative aims to support cultural exchanges, strengthen professional networks and create more opportunities for artists and creative practitioners across BRICS countries. The Culture Track also created space for bilateral discussions. Union Minister of Culture and the Secretary, Ministry of Culture, held meetings with representatives from participating countries. The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral cultural cooperation and identifying areas of mutual interest. India’s cultural heritage takes centre stage The cultural programme also allowed visiting delegations to explore India’s cultural and civilisational heritage. On August 5, delegates visited the Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya in Bhopal. Following the ministerial meeting, delegations are being taken to Sanchi to explore its important Buddhist heritage. A visit to Bhimbetka is scheduled for the morning of August 9. The site will allow participating delegations to experience India’s prehistoric rock shelters and ancient cultural heritage. Through these initiatives, the BRICS Culture Track seeks to bring people closer by creating opportunities for cultural exchange, cooperation and shared understanding beyond national borders.

BRICS is using its cultural track to strengthen people-to-people ties, promote cultural cooperation, protect shared heritage and create new opportunities for artists and creative communities across member countries.

BRICS cultural diplomacy: Building bridges between people and nations

Over the last decade, five countries have been quietly building over $40 billion alternative to the World Bank and the IMF-dominated global financial system: the New Development Bank or the BRICS Bank. The amount is modest when compared to the Bretton Woods Twins, but it's a project aimed at dismantling 80 years of financial control, creating a parallel system without replacing it.&nbsp;There is huge asymmetry in place; by the end of 2025, the National Development Bank has approved roughly $42.9 billion. The World Bank approves roughly $100 billion in every fiscal year. The New Development Bank has an authorised capital base of $100 billion. The World Bank has an authorised capital base of roughly $327 billion, while the IMF has a $646 billion quota base. Combined, the Bretton Woods System has roughly $1 trillion in capital base.But there are positive signs too; the New Development Bank has been around for just over a decade, and the Bretton Woods System has been there since the aftermath of the Second World War. It has grown from five founding members to eleven members. It has sanctioned development projects such as in India, the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut original rapid transit system; in China, an offshore wind power plant which generated over 1 billion kWh of carbon-free electricity in the first year; in Brazil, Pernambuco state expanded water supply and sanitation services, which benefits roughly $2 million people; and in South Africa, they are modernising the Durban port, a gateway to the African continent. It is more democratised, where every nation has an equal vote, despite China being a bigger economy and Brazil being comparatively smaller. Unlike the World Bank and IMF, where the US holds veto power with over 16 per cent of total voting rights. It does not seek harsh austerity measures, nor does it require structural and political change in exchange for loans to nations.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zohran-mamdani-170000-9-11-records-toxic-air-1788882722776">Zohran Mamdani releases 170,000 pages of 9/11 records, says officials misled New Yorkers over toxic air</a><h2>Can it help the Global South out of Western hegemony?</h2>Structurally, the New Development Bank is an extension of the same capitalist financial architecture that fuels the Bretton Woods System. It's not a radical break from the Western Hegemony; it is an extension of it. It is merely a scaled-up and pooled version of domestic development banks, copying the exact financial blueprint of the World Bank.But the real problem is that it is still dependent on dollar-based assets; it seeks finance from Wall Street and international capital markets for the majority of its bond issuances. Its credit rating is associated with Western credit agencies like Flich and S&amp;P. This is one of the reasons the bank had to freeze one of its founding members, Russia, following the Western sanctions in 2022 to maintain its credit rating of AA+.&nbsp;Under the leadership of President Dilma Rousseff, the NDB has grown its local currency lending portfolio to approximately 25 per cent and plans to achieve the 30 per cent mark by 2026. It actively issues bonds and uses local-currency financing such as the Chinese Yuan, Indian Rupee, and South African Rand to protect from US monetary policy shocks and exchange rate volatility. The position is somewhere between hegemony and autonomy. &nbsp;It is not breaking free but trying to build a more inclusive pipeline inside the existing global financial grid.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The New Development Bank, or BRICS Bank, has emerged as an alternative development finance institution, expanding local-currency lending while seeking to reduce dependence on the Western-dominated financial system.

Over the last decade, five countries have been quietly building over $40 billion alternative to the World Bank and the IMF-dominated global financial system: the New Development Bank or the BRICS Bank. The amount is modest when compared to the Bretton Woods Twins, but it's a project aimed at dismantling 80 years of financial control, creating a parallel system without replacing it. There is huge asymmetry in place; by the end of 2025, the National Development Bank has approved roughly $42.9 billion. The World Bank approves roughly $100 billion in every fiscal year. The New Development Bank has an authorised capital base of $100 billion. The World Bank has an authorised capital base of roughly $327 billion, while the IMF has a $646 billion quota base. Combined, the Bretton Woods System has roughly $1 trillion in capital base. But there are positive signs too; the New Development Bank has been around for just over a decade, and the Bretton Woods System has been there since the aftermath of the Second World War. It has grown from five founding members to eleven members. It has sanctioned development projects such as in India, the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut original rapid transit system; in China, an offshore wind power plant which generated over 1 billion kWh of carbon-free electricity in the first year; in Brazil, Pernambuco state expanded water supply and sanitation services, which benefits roughly $2 million people; and in South Africa, they are modernising the Durban port, a gateway to the African continent. It is more democratised, where every nation has an equal vote, despite China being a bigger economy and Brazil being comparatively smaller. Unlike the World Bank and IMF, where the US holds veto power with over 16 per cent of total voting rights. It does not seek harsh austerity measures, nor does it require structural and political change in exchange for loans to nations. Also Read: Zohran Mamdani releases 170,000 pages of 9/11 records, says officials misled New Yorkers over toxic air Can it help the Global South out of Western hegemony? Structurally, the New Development Bank is an extension of the same capitalist financial architecture that fuels the Bretton Woods System. It's not a radical break from the Western Hegemony; it is an extension of it. It is merely a scaled-up and pooled version of domestic development banks, copying the exact financial blueprint of the World Bank. But the real problem is that it is still dependent on dollar-based assets; it seeks finance from Wall Street and international capital markets for the majority of its bond issuances. Its credit rating is associated with Western credit agencies like Flich and S&P. This is one of the reasons the bank had to freeze one of its founding members, Russia, following the Western sanctions in 2022 to maintain its credit rating of AA+. Under the leadership of President Dilma Rousseff, the NDB has grown its local currency lending portfolio to approximately 25 per cent and plans to achieve the 30 per cent mark by 2026. It actively issues bonds and uses local-currency financing such as the Chinese Yuan, Indian Rupee, and South African Rand to protect from US monetary policy shocks and exchange rate volatility. The position is somewhere between hegemony and autonomy. It is not breaking free but trying to build a more inclusive pipeline inside the existing global financial grid.

The New Development Bank, or BRICS Bank, has emerged as an alternative development finance institution, expanding local-currency lending while seeking to reduce dependence on the Western-dominated financial system.

BRICS Bank: Can the New Development Bank challenge the World Bank and IMF?

Despite Asim Munir having unprecedented control over Pakistan's armed forces, the internal security situation is deteriorating.&nbsp;Balochistan continues to be on the boil, with the Balochistan Liberation Army claiming to have killed 52 Pakistani army personnel in a fresh offensive.&nbsp;BLA stated that these killings took place in 28 operations in the first seven days of September, and also resulting in injuries to multiple personnel.&nbsp;It also claimed to have seized vehicles, a large quantity of weapons and military equipment from Pak security forces.&nbsp;The outfit added that it shot dead an agent of Pakistan's military intelligence in Quetta for carrying out espionage for Munir's forces.&nbsp;As of now, Pakistan is yet to respond to this claim.&nbsp;BLA's assertion comes a day after Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti held a meeting with Pakistan's National Counter Terrorism Authority chief Major General Faisal Naseer.&nbsp;They discussed measures against terrorism, intelligence coordination and the overall law and order situation.&nbsp;Munir himself visited Quetta garrison over the weekend, where he was briefed on Balochistan's security situation and operational readiness.&nbsp;Last week, Pakistani military claimed to have killed 48 terrorists across Balochistan in a 72-hour period.&nbsp;Now, Pak military's actions are having a drastic impact on the ground.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bla-claims-killing-of-52-pak-army-personnel-in-balochistan-munir-s-crackdown-falters-1788887086649/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/bla-claims-killing-of-52-pak-army-personnel-in-balochistan-munir-s-crackdown-falters-1788887086649/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;According to the Balochistan Post, several families in Kech district have been compelled to abandon their ancestral homes.&nbsp;The report attributes this to intensified checks and curbs on people's movement by Pak security forces.&nbsp;It claimed that authorities have significantly increased the number of checkpoints with people being stopped after almost every kilometre.&nbsp;It has also been alleged that there is constant drone surveillance over homes, which has made it difficult for locals to remain in the area.&nbsp;While Munir's forces are unable to contain the growing attacks by the BLA, they are focusing on suppressing voice of civilians.&nbsp;On one hand, prominent human rights activists like Mahrang Baloch have been jailed, and on the other hand, Pakistan conducted aerial strikes on its own soil in August. This resulted in death of at least 30 innocent Baloch civilians.&nbsp;Baloch rebels have staged a number of attacks this year.&nbsp;In July, gunmen killed nine police officers in an attack on a checkpost at the Mangi Dam Project in Balochistan.&nbsp;Earlier in May, over 30 people were killed after a suicide bomber rammed an explosive-laden car into a train in Quetta, which was carrying Pakistani security personnel and their families.&nbsp;In this backdrop, it appears that the Pak military establishment's renewed push for new administrative units is also an attempt to help it gain a better foothold in volatile regions like Balochistan, where it has lost its writ to a great extent...

Asim Munir himself visited Quetta garrison over the weekend, where he was briefed on Balochistan's security situation and operational readiness. Last week, Pakistani military claimed to have killed 48 terrorists across Balochistan in a 72-hour period.

Despite Asim Munir having unprecedented control over Pakistan's armed forces, the internal security situation is deteriorating. Balochistan continues to be on the boil, with the Balochistan Liberation Army claiming to have killed 52 Pakistani army personnel in a fresh offensive. BLA stated that these killings took place in 28 operations in the first seven days of September, and also resulting in injuries to multiple personnel. It also claimed to have seized vehicles, a large quantity of weapons and military equipment from Pak security forces. The outfit added that it shot dead an agent of Pakistan's military intelligence in Quetta for carrying out espionage for Munir's forces. As of now, Pakistan is yet to respond to this claim. BLA's assertion comes a day after Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti held a meeting with Pakistan's National Counter Terrorism Authority chief Major General Faisal Naseer. They discussed measures against terrorism, intelligence coordination and the overall law and order situation. Munir himself visited Quetta garrison over the weekend, where he was briefed on Balochistan's security situation and operational readiness. Last week, Pakistani military claimed to have killed 48 terrorists across Balochistan in a 72-hour period. Now, Pak military's actions are having a drastic impact on the ground. https://www.wionews.com/videos/bla-claims-killing-of-52-pak-army-personnel-in-balochistan-munir-s-crackdown-falters-1788887086649/embed According to the Balochistan Post, several families in Kech district have been compelled to abandon their ancestral homes. The report attributes this to intensified checks and curbs on people's movement by Pak security forces. It claimed that authorities have significantly increased the number of checkpoints with people being stopped after almost every kilometre. It has also been alleged that there is constant drone surveillance over homes, which has made it difficult for locals to remain in the area. While Munir's forces are unable to contain the growing attacks by the BLA, they are focusing on suppressing voice of civilians. On one hand, prominent human rights activists like Mahrang Baloch have been jailed, and on the other hand, Pakistan conducted aerial strikes on its own soil in August. This resulted in death of at least 30 innocent Baloch civilians. Baloch rebels have staged a number of attacks this year. In July, gunmen killed nine police officers in an attack on a checkpost at the Mangi Dam Project in Balochistan. Earlier in May, over 30 people were killed after a suicide bomber rammed an explosive-laden car into a train in Quetta, which was carrying Pakistani security personnel and their families. In this backdrop, it appears that the Pak military establishment's renewed push for new administrative units is also an attempt to help it gain a better foothold in volatile regions like Balochistan, where it has lost its writ to a great extent...

Asim Munir himself visited Quetta garrison over the weekend, where he was briefed on Balochistan's security situation and operational readiness. Last week, Pakistani military claimed to have killed 48 terrorists across Balochistan in a 72-hour period.

BLA claims killing of 52 Pak army personnel in Balochistan, Munir’s crackdown falters | Gravitas

The countdown to the 18th BRICS Summit has begun.India's national capital is preparing for the arrival of global leaders at the high-stakes gathering, where countries at war, countries affected by war, and those pushing for peace will be under the same roof.What began as a BRIC summit in 2009 became BRICS with South Africa's inclusion in 2011.But in the last few years, BRICS has expanded exponentially, with Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the UAE joining in 2024. The latest country to join the grouping is Indonesia. With the exception of America and its Western allies, BRICS provides a counterbalance to Western hegemony over the global order.The rules of this new and emerging world order are no longer being drafted in Western capitals. Despite internal differences and disputes, BRICS provides a critical platform for convergence on shared interests, especially trade and the economy.Trump's tariff threats and wars in West Asia and Ukraine have left the Western consensus fractured. At the same time, countries like China and India are positioning themselves as stabilising forces.But there is a caveat. There is still a huge difference between what BRICS can be and what it really is. This untapped potential of the grouping can be realised if the member states manage to work out their differences.China and India have a border dispute to resolve; Saudi Arabia and the UAE have been dragged into the West Asia conflict. Iran and Russia have their own active wars to resolve.The internal power dynamics have certainly not stopped these countries from engaging on common interests. But can they move further without resolving these issues? That remains a big question.BRICS will bring together India, China and Russia once again after last month's SCO Summit.Increased diplomatic engagements and coordination on the bilateral front have revived speculation regarding the RIC trilateral. Russia is striving to revive the activities of the Russia-India-China troika.New Delhi, on the other hand, has shown cautious openness.BRICS nations are facing three big challenges, which boil down to one aspect: the economy.Tariffs, wars and energy — all of these affect the economy.The strings of all these issues are, one way or another, attached to Washington, where the Trump administration will be watching the summit very closely. China and India are the world's second-largest economy and fastest-growing major economy, respectively.Both countries are net importers of oil. The longer the Hormuz blockade continues, the greater will be the cost of energy.Then come tariffs. The US President's tariff onslaught has left countries searching for new markets, and the economic component of BRICS could come into play on this front.The grouping collectively represents 49.5 per cent of the global population, 40 per cent of world GDP and 26 per cent of global trade.Last year's BRICS declaration called for comprehensive UN reform, multilateral trade reform and inclusive governance, while strengthening the group's role as a platform for Global South solidarity.New Delhi has outlined four pillars for its BRICS chairship — resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability.The focus will be on strengthening economic resilience to navigate global uncertainties and deepening multilateral engagement through policy coordination, development finance and trade facilitation.When BRICS leaders gather in New Delhi on September 12 and 13, all eyes will be on how the forum positions itself in the wake of global challenges.More importantly, how countries position themselves within the group itself amid internal differences and disputes.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/role-of-brics-in-re-balancing-global-order-can-it-expand-scope-of-cooperation-1788883516936/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/role-of-brics-in-re-balancing-global-order-can-it-expand-scope-of-cooperation-1788883516936/embed</a>&nbsp;

The 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi will bring together major emerging economies as they navigate tariffs, wars, energy concerns and internal differences.

The countdown to the 18th BRICS Summit has begun. India's national capital is preparing for the arrival of global leaders at the high-stakes gathering, where countries at war, countries affected by war, and those pushing for peace will be under the same roof. What began as a BRIC summit in 2009 became BRICS with South Africa's inclusion in 2011. But in the last few years, BRICS has expanded exponentially, with Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the UAE joining in 2024. The latest country to join the grouping is Indonesia. With the exception of America and its Western allies, BRICS provides a counterbalance to Western hegemony over the global order. The rules of this new and emerging world order are no longer being drafted in Western capitals. Despite internal differences and disputes, BRICS provides a critical platform for convergence on shared interests, especially trade and the economy. Trump's tariff threats and wars in West Asia and Ukraine have left the Western consensus fractured. At the same time, countries like China and India are positioning themselves as stabilising forces. But there is a caveat. There is still a huge difference between what BRICS can be and what it really is. This untapped potential of the grouping can be realised if the member states manage to work out their differences. China and India have a border dispute to resolve; Saudi Arabia and the UAE have been dragged into the West Asia conflict. Iran and Russia have their own active wars to resolve. The internal power dynamics have certainly not stopped these countries from engaging on common interests. But can they move further without resolving these issues? That remains a big question. BRICS will bring together India, China and Russia once again after last month's SCO Summit. Increased diplomatic engagements and coordination on the bilateral front have revived speculation regarding the RIC trilateral. Russia is striving to revive the activities of the Russia-India-China troika. New Delhi, on the other hand, has shown cautious openness. BRICS nations are facing three big challenges, which boil down to one aspect: the economy. Tariffs, wars and energy — all of these affect the economy. The strings of all these issues are, one way or another, attached to Washington, where the Trump administration will be watching the summit very closely. China and India are the world's second-largest economy and fastest-growing major economy, respectively. Both countries are net importers of oil. The longer the Hormuz blockade continues, the greater will be the cost of energy. Then come tariffs. The US President's tariff onslaught has left countries searching for new markets, and the economic component of BRICS could come into play on this front. The grouping collectively represents 49.5 per cent of the global population, 40 per cent of world GDP and 26 per cent of global trade. Last year's BRICS declaration called for comprehensive UN reform, multilateral trade reform and inclusive governance, while strengthening the group's role as a platform for Global South solidarity. New Delhi has outlined four pillars for its BRICS chairship — resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability. The focus will be on strengthening economic resilience to navigate global uncertainties and deepening multilateral engagement through policy coordination, development finance and trade facilitation. When BRICS leaders gather in New Delhi on September 12 and 13, all eyes will be on how the forum positions itself in the wake of global challenges. More importantly, how countries position themselves within the group itself amid internal differences and disputes. https://www.wionews.com/videos/role-of-brics-in-re-balancing-global-order-can-it-expand-scope-of-cooperation-1788883516936/embed

The 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi will bring together major emerging economies as they navigate tariffs, wars, energy concerns and internal differences.

Race To Power: Can India, China and Russia bridge differences amid global crises?

French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Tuesday (September 08) warned that Israeli settlement activity in the occupied West Bank was hurting hopes for a two-state solution.&nbsp;In a joint statement, the three leaders criticised the expansion of settlements and the growing violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians.&nbsp;"Systematic settlement expansion in the West Bank, including the Government of Israel's latest decision to progress the E1 settlement, as well as the dramatic increase in settler violence, pose a direct and urgent threat to that vision for peace," the leaders said in a joint statement.&nbsp;The statement came after Israel ordered the closure of Britain's consulate in Jerusalem. Israel took the step in response to Western sanctions led by Britain over violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank.&nbsp;Israel also said it would remove British representatives from a centre overseeing the US-brokered ceasefire plan in Gaza. It further decided to block British training for Palestinian Authority forces and prevent 12 Britons, mainly members of parliament, from entering the country.&nbsp;The measures followed a decision by 12 countries, including Britain, Canada and France, to impose trade sanctions on Israeli settlements in the West Bank. The countries announced the move after a sharp rise in attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the occupied territory.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-warned-netanyahu-of-hamas-operation-days-before-october-7-attack-report-1788876455659">UAE warned Netanyahu of Hamas operation days before October 7 attack: Report</a>&nbsp;<h3>Israel hits back at Britain</h3>Israel strongly rejected the allegations made by Britain against Israeli settlers. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar also criticised British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband after he accused Israeli settlers of "ethnic cleansing" in the West Bank.&nbsp;"The accusations made today by the foreign secretary in the British Parliament were outrageous lies," Saar said.&nbsp;He described Britain's decision as interference in Israel's internal affairs and its electoral process ahead of the October 27 elections. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is campaigning on support for settlements in the West Bank.&nbsp;Saar said Israel would shut Britain's consulate in east Jerusalem, an area that Israel captured during the 1967 Six-Day War. Israel later annexed east Jerusalem and regards the city as its undivided capital."United Jerusalem is the capital of Israel and is under its full sovereignty," Saar said.&nbsp;“Any foreign activity in the area must be conducted through accepted and agreed channels and without violating Israel's sovereignty.”&nbsp;Israel exercises control over east Jerusalem, but most countries, including Britain, do not recognise Israeli sovereignty over the entire city.&nbsp;The United States is an exception. Under President Donald Trump, Washington moved its embassy to Jerusalem.&nbsp;Britain and most other countries that recognise Israel continue to maintain their embassies in Tel Aviv.

Israel has ordered the closure of Britain’s consulate in Jerusalem and imposed restrictions on British representatives after London backed sanctions against Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank.

French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Tuesday (September 08) warned that Israeli settlement activity in the occupied West Bank was hurting hopes for a two-state solution. In a joint statement, the three leaders criticised the expansion of settlements and the growing violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians. "Systematic settlement expansion in the West Bank, including the Government of Israel's latest decision to progress the E1 settlement, as well as the dramatic increase in settler violence, pose a direct and urgent threat to that vision for peace," the leaders said in a joint statement. The statement came after Israel ordered the closure of Britain's consulate in Jerusalem. Israel took the step in response to Western sanctions led by Britain over violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. Israel also said it would remove British representatives from a centre overseeing the US-brokered ceasefire plan in Gaza. It further decided to block British training for Palestinian Authority forces and prevent 12 Britons, mainly members of parliament, from entering the country. The measures followed a decision by 12 countries, including Britain, Canada and France, to impose trade sanctions on Israeli settlements in the West Bank. The countries announced the move after a sharp rise in attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the occupied territory. Also Read: UAE warned Netanyahu of Hamas operation days before October 7 attack: Report Israel hits back at Britain Israel strongly rejected the allegations made by Britain against Israeli settlers. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar also criticised British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband after he accused Israeli settlers of "ethnic cleansing" in the West Bank. "The accusations made today by the foreign secretary in the British Parliament were outrageous lies," Saar said. He described Britain's decision as interference in Israel's internal affairs and its electoral process ahead of the October 27 elections. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is campaigning on support for settlements in the West Bank. Saar said Israel would shut Britain's consulate in east Jerusalem, an area that Israel captured during the 1967 Six-Day War. Israel later annexed east Jerusalem and regards the city as its undivided capital. "United Jerusalem is the capital of Israel and is under its full sovereignty," Saar said. “Any foreign activity in the area must be conducted through accepted and agreed channels and without violating Israel's sovereignty.” Israel exercises control over east Jerusalem, but most countries, including Britain, do not recognise Israeli sovereignty over the entire city. The United States is an exception. Under President Donald Trump, Washington moved its embassy to Jerusalem. Britain and most other countries that recognise Israel continue to maintain their embassies in Tel Aviv.

Israel has ordered the closure of Britain’s consulate in Jerusalem and imposed restrictions on British representatives after London backed sanctions against Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank.

France, UK, Canada say Israeli settlements undermine two state solution; Israel shuts UK consulate over sanctions

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani has released more than 170,000 pages of internal records that show that officials misled people after the September 9, 2001 attacks. The recently disclosed files suggest that New York officials knew about the safety of the air around Ground Zero following the 9/11 attacks and deliberately “lied” to people.&nbsp;“People got sick because the leaders they trusted lied and told them they were safe to breathe in toxic air,” &nbsp;said Mamdani during a press conference, according to CNN.The move came as the US is set to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the al Qaeda hijackings of passenger planes and the attack on the World Trade Centre, which came crashing down. The attack also targeted The incident killed roughly 3000 people.&nbsp;According to 9/11 memorials, at least 140,000 people from all 50 states have enrolled in the World Trade Centre Health Program, and 49,000 have been diagnosed with certified WTC-related cancers.The documents contain a fraction of the air quality reports taken at Ground Zero, and internal memos. According to the NYT, which reviewed the documents before it was released by the Mamdani administration, Asbestos and other contaminants were found at above-acceptable levels in dust and air in part of Lower Manhattan, based on measurements taken by city agencies, the Environmental Protection Agency and privately contracted laboratories.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/un-correct-the-map-arunachal-pradesh-aksai-chin-1788877666758">UN 'Correct the Map' labels Arunachal Pradesh, Aksai Chin as 'claimed lines'</a>There were documents compiled by the Environmental Protection Agency which listed locations where asbestos and other contaminants were above Hazardous levels. This was consistent with reports prepared by the EPA for carcinogen and Benzene levels, which were spiking in the air around the towers' footprints. It also contained first-person accounts of the missteps taken by the officials while removing contaminants.&nbsp;The documents were recovered last year from government offices, stashed in 68 boxes. “There was poison in the air, and on the ground, and in the window sills, and in your air conditioners and covering your pets and your clothes, and it stayed there for months. Everyone knew. Now it’s very clear that the city knew as well,” said comedian John Stewart, who appears alongside Mamdani. John Stewart is a longtime advocate for increased transparency and resources for first responders and survivors.When asked about why there was a years-long delay in releasing the documents, whether there was a cover-up, Mamdani said, “This was multiple mayoral administrations refusing to release documents that New Yorkers were owed.”

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani has released over 170,000 pages of 9/11 records, alleging officials knew about toxic air at Ground Zero but misled the public.

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani has released more than 170,000 pages of internal records that show that officials misled people after the September 9, 2001 attacks. The recently disclosed files suggest that New York officials knew about the safety of the air around Ground Zero following the 9/11 attacks and deliberately “lied” to people. “People got sick because the leaders they trusted lied and told them they were safe to breathe in toxic air,” said Mamdani during a press conference, according to CNN. The move came as the US is set to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the al Qaeda hijackings of passenger planes and the attack on the World Trade Centre, which came crashing down. The attack also targeted The incident killed roughly 3000 people. According to 9/11 memorials, at least 140,000 people from all 50 states have enrolled in the World Trade Centre Health Program, and 49,000 have been diagnosed with certified WTC-related cancers. The documents contain a fraction of the air quality reports taken at Ground Zero, and internal memos. According to the NYT, which reviewed the documents before it was released by the Mamdani administration, Asbestos and other contaminants were found at above-acceptable levels in dust and air in part of Lower Manhattan, based on measurements taken by city agencies, the Environmental Protection Agency and privately contracted laboratories. Also Read: UN 'Correct the Map' labels Arunachal Pradesh, Aksai Chin as 'claimed lines' There were documents compiled by the Environmental Protection Agency which listed locations where asbestos and other contaminants were above Hazardous levels. This was consistent with reports prepared by the EPA for carcinogen and Benzene levels, which were spiking in the air around the towers' footprints. It also contained first-person accounts of the missteps taken by the officials while removing contaminants. The documents were recovered last year from government offices, stashed in 68 boxes. “There was poison in the air, and on the ground, and in the window sills, and in your air conditioners and covering your pets and your clothes, and it stayed there for months. Everyone knew. Now it’s very clear that the city knew as well,” said comedian John Stewart, who appears alongside Mamdani. John Stewart is a longtime advocate for increased transparency and resources for first responders and survivors. When asked about why there was a years-long delay in releasing the documents, whether there was a cover-up, Mamdani said, “This was multiple mayoral administrations refusing to release documents that New Yorkers were owed.”

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani has released over 170,000 pages of 9/11 records, alleging officials knew about toxic air at Ground Zero but misled the public.

Zohran Mamdani releases 170,000 pages of 9/11 records, says officials misled New Yorkers over toxic air

Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump spoke for about an hour on Tuesday (September 08) as Washington stepped up efforts to find a way to end the Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;The two leaders discussed the recent visits of US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to Moscow and Kyiv. The visits formed part of Trump's latest diplomatic effort to bring Russia and Ukraine closer to a possible peace agreement.&nbsp;Kremlin foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov described the conversation as "extremely frank". He said Putin and Trump "exchanged views on the outcome of the visits".<h3>Putin shares assessment of battlefield</h3>Ushakov said Putin gave Trump an "objective and detailed analysis" of the battlefield situation. The Russian president also explained what the United States could realistically do to help end the fighting quickly.&nbsp;Russia has continued to project confidence about its position in the war. Moscow has said its forces are advancing along the front and that its military goals remain unchanged.&nbsp;Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov earlier said Russia remained committed to achieving its military objectives and believed "victory is very close" on the battlefield.&nbsp;"We’re very confident in our military potential,” Peskov told reporters, while also saying Moscow wanted a peaceful solution and welcomed Trump's diplomatic efforts.&nbsp;The latest phone call comes as Washington seeks fresh momentum in peace efforts. However, major differences between Moscow and Kyiv remain unresolved.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-warned-netanyahu-of-hamas-operation-days-before-october-7-attack-report-1788876455659">UAE warned Netanyahu of Hamas operation days before October 7 attack: Report</a><h3>Putin denies plans to attack Europe</h3>Putin also told Trump that Russia had "no aggressive plans" towards Europe, according to Ushakov.The Kremlin has faced accusations over an alleged sabotage campaign targeting countries that support Ukraine. Moscow has rejected those accusations.&nbsp;"In view of the speculation regarding Russia's alleged hostile intentions towards European states, it was emphasised that we have absolutely no aggressive plans whatsoever towards Europe," Ushakov said.&nbsp;"The myths being spread about the Russian threat serve as a pretext for Europeans to ramp up support for Ukraine and their own military spending," he added.&nbsp;Concerns over Russia's intentions have also drawn attention in Washington. CIA chief John Ratcliffe made a surprise visit to Moscow in late August. US media reports said he warned Russia against attacking any NATO member.

Putin and Trump discussed the Ukraine war and recent US diplomatic efforts, while Russia maintained its battlefield confidence and Ukraine sought more US support for air defence.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump spoke for about an hour on Tuesday (September 08) as Washington stepped up efforts to find a way to end the Russia-Ukraine war. The two leaders discussed the recent visits of US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to Moscow and Kyiv. The visits formed part of Trump's latest diplomatic effort to bring Russia and Ukraine closer to a possible peace agreement. Kremlin foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov described the conversation as "extremely frank". He said Putin and Trump "exchanged views on the outcome of the visits". Putin shares assessment of battlefield Ushakov said Putin gave Trump an "objective and detailed analysis" of the battlefield situation. The Russian president also explained what the United States could realistically do to help end the fighting quickly. Russia has continued to project confidence about its position in the war. Moscow has said its forces are advancing along the front and that its military goals remain unchanged. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov earlier said Russia remained committed to achieving its military objectives and believed "victory is very close" on the battlefield. "We’re very confident in our military potential,” Peskov told reporters, while also saying Moscow wanted a peaceful solution and welcomed Trump's diplomatic efforts. The latest phone call comes as Washington seeks fresh momentum in peace efforts. However, major differences between Moscow and Kyiv remain unresolved. Also Read: UAE warned Netanyahu of Hamas operation days before October 7 attack: Report Putin denies plans to attack Europe Putin also told Trump that Russia had "no aggressive plans" towards Europe, according to Ushakov. The Kremlin has faced accusations over an alleged sabotage campaign targeting countries that support Ukraine. Moscow has rejected those accusations. "In view of the speculation regarding Russia's alleged hostile intentions towards European states, it was emphasised that we have absolutely no aggressive plans whatsoever towards Europe," Ushakov said. "The myths being spread about the Russian threat serve as a pretext for Europeans to ramp up support for Ukraine and their own military spending," he added. Concerns over Russia's intentions have also drawn attention in Washington. CIA chief John Ratcliffe made a surprise visit to Moscow in late August. US media reports said he warned Russia against attacking any NATO member.

Putin and Trump discussed the Ukraine war and recent US diplomatic efforts, while Russia maintained its battlefield confidence and Ukraine sought more US support for air defence.

Putin, Trump hold ‘frank’ one hour call after US envoys visit Moscow, Kyiv

Moscow threatened a “harsh and painful” retaliation to Hungary on Tuesday after Bucharest ordered 10 Russian diplomats to leave the country earlier in the day over their “unacceptable activities” it described as incompatible with their diplomatic status.Hungary’s expulsion order for 10 Russian diplomats marks a significant shift in Budapest’s approach to Russia.&nbsp;Hungarian Foreign Minister Anita Orbán said the Russian ambassador had been informed that the 10 diplomats had “engaged in activities in Hungary that are unacceptable for diplomats under the Vienna Convention”.&nbsp;Orbán, who is not related to former prime minister Viktor Orbán, did not disclose the specific activities or give a deadline for their departure. However, she stressed that Budapest was not seeking to sever ties with Moscow.&nbsp;“This decision protects Hungary’s security and sovereignty,” Orbán said. “It does not imply breaking off diplomatic relations with Russia. Hungary intends to continue the necessary dialogue, based on mutual respect and adherence to the rules.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pa-c-k-of-lies-pakistan-s-ai-victory-video-claims-hits-on-32-iaf-bases-8-aircraft-2-s-400s-and-indian-parliament-1788792189590">Pa(c)k of lies: Pakistan’s AI ‘victory’ video claims hits on 32 IAF bases, 8 aircraft, 2 S-400s and Indian Parliament</a><h2>‘We will defend our country’s sovereignty’: Hungary’s PM Magyar</h2>&nbsp;Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar defended his government’s decision to expel ten Russian diplomats from the country.&nbsp;In a brief statement, he said, “The Hungarian government has ordered ten diplomats from the Russian Embassy in Budapest to leave the country. They carried out activities in Hungary that are unacceptable for diplomats. We will defend our country’s sovereignty.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-distances-itself-from-eiffel-tower-row-during-baps-delegation-visit-says-it-s-a-matter-between-two-entities-1788872186768">India distances itself from Eiffel Tower row during BAPS delegation visit, says it’s a matter between two entities</a>&nbsp;The expulsions come after years of close ties between Hungary and Russia under former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who was swept out of power in April after 16 years in office. The Orban government maintained relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin even after Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Hungary continued purchasing Russian oil and gas and opposed some European Union measures against Moscow.&nbsp;Hungary had not publicly expelled Russian diplomats since 2018 and had sent none home after the Ukraine invasion, unlike several other European countries.&nbsp;<h2>‘Response to Russophobic lobby in Budapest will be harsh and painful’</h2>&nbsp;Reacting to the order, Russia’s foreign ministry warned of retaliation. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova told the TASS state news agency, “The response to the Russophobic lobby in Budapest will be harsh and painful.”&nbsp;&nbsp;After Orban’s ouster from power, the new Prime Minister Peter Magyar’s centre-right government has since stressed Hungary’s commitments to the European Union and NATO and pledged to rebuild trust with its allies.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/secret-reactor-in-syria-could-have-been-used-for-nuclear-weapons-says-iaea-after-finding-73-tonnes-of-natural-uranium-1788812570475">‘Secret reactor in Syria could have been used for nuclear weapons,’ says IAEA after finding 73 tonnes of natural uranium</a><h2>EU backs Hungary’s expulsion of Russian diplomats</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, the European Union supported Hungary’s decision to expel 10 Russian diplomats.&nbsp;&nbsp;The commission’s foreign affairs spokesperson Christian Wigand said, “We take note of Hungary’s legitimate decision. This is an expected reaction [given] Russia’s persistent campaign in using hybrid attacks against the EU and its member states.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/man-kills-wife-stores-her-severed-head-and-chopped-fingers-in-fridge-arrested-1788785818077">Man kills wife, stores her severed head and chopped fingers in fridge; arrested</a>&nbsp;“The European Union expresses its full solidarity with Hungary and reaffirms its support for the diplomatic and consular activities of all member states conducted in accordance with international law,” Wigand added.&nbsp;The European Union will continue to closely coordinate with Hungary and other member states, and remains committed to protecting the interests and the rights of EU citizens, he said further.

Hungarian Foreign Minister Anita Orbán said the Russian ambassador had been informed that the 10 diplomats “engaged in activities in Hungary that are unacceptable for diplomats under the Vienna Convention”. She, however, stressed that Budapest was not seeking to sever ties with Moscow.

Moscow threatened a “harsh and painful” retaliation to Hungary on Tuesday after Bucharest ordered 10 Russian diplomats to leave the country earlier in the day over their “unacceptable activities” it described as incompatible with their diplomatic status. Hungary’s expulsion order for 10 Russian diplomats marks a significant shift in Budapest’s approach to Russia. Hungarian Foreign Minister Anita Orbán said the Russian ambassador had been informed that the 10 diplomats had “engaged in activities in Hungary that are unacceptable for diplomats under the Vienna Convention”. Orbán, who is not related to former prime minister Viktor Orbán, did not disclose the specific activities or give a deadline for their departure. However, she stressed that Budapest was not seeking to sever ties with Moscow. “This decision protects Hungary’s security and sovereignty,” Orbán said. “It does not imply breaking off diplomatic relations with Russia. Hungary intends to continue the necessary dialogue, based on mutual respect and adherence to the rules.” Also Read: Pa(c)k of lies: Pakistan’s AI ‘victory’ video claims hits on 32 IAF bases, 8 aircraft, 2 S-400s and Indian Parliament ‘We will defend our country’s sovereignty’: Hungary’s PM Magyar Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar defended his government’s decision to expel ten Russian diplomats from the country. In a brief statement, he said, “The Hungarian government has ordered ten diplomats from the Russian Embassy in Budapest to leave the country. They carried out activities in Hungary that are unacceptable for diplomats. We will defend our country’s sovereignty.” Also Read: India distances itself from Eiffel Tower row during BAPS delegation visit, says it’s a matter between two entities The expulsions come after years of close ties between Hungary and Russia under former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who was swept out of power in April after 16 years in office. The Orban government maintained relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin even after Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Hungary continued purchasing Russian oil and gas and opposed some European Union measures against Moscow. Hungary had not publicly expelled Russian diplomats since 2018 and had sent none home after the Ukraine invasion, unlike several other European countries. ‘Response to Russophobic lobby in Budapest will be harsh and painful’ Reacting to the order, Russia’s foreign ministry warned of retaliation. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova told the TASS state news agency, “The response to the Russophobic lobby in Budapest will be harsh and painful.” After Orban’s ouster from power, the new Prime Minister Peter Magyar’s centre-right government has since stressed Hungary’s commitments to the European Union and NATO and pledged to rebuild trust with its allies. Also Read: ‘Secret reactor in Syria could have been used for nuclear weapons,’ says IAEA after finding 73 tonnes of natural uranium EU backs Hungary’s expulsion of Russian diplomats Meanwhile, the European Union supported Hungary’s decision to expel 10 Russian diplomats. The commission’s foreign affairs spokesperson Christian Wigand said, “We take note of Hungary’s legitimate decision. This is an expected reaction [given] Russia’s persistent campaign in using hybrid attacks against the EU and its member states.” Also Read: Man kills wife, stores her severed head and chopped fingers in fridge; arrested “The European Union expresses its full solidarity with Hungary and reaffirms its support for the diplomatic and consular activities of all member states conducted in accordance with international law,” Wigand added. The European Union will continue to closely coordinate with Hungary and other member states, and remains committed to protecting the interests and the rights of EU citizens, he said further.

Hungarian Foreign Minister Anita Orbán said the Russian ambassador had been informed that the 10 diplomats “engaged in activities in Hungary that are unacceptable for diplomats under the Vienna Convention”. She, however, stressed that Budapest was not seeking to sever ties with Moscow.

Moscow threatens ‘harsh’ retaliation after Hungary orders expulsion of 10 Russian diplomats

Around 10 days before Hamas launched its October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed reportedly spoke to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and warned him about a major operation being planned by Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar.&nbsp;The information, however, allegedly did not reach Israel's security leadership and Netanyahu did not take action based on the warning, according to a Haaretz report published on Tuesday.&nbsp;The report drew on a new book, “Kidnapped: 843 Days of Abandonment,” written by journalists Shlomi Eldar and Ruth Yuval. The authors based the book on conversations with dozens of people, including senior officials from Israel and other countries.<h3>UAE leader reportedly warned Netanyahu</h3>The report said three senior foreign officials later learned about the details of a 45-minute conversation between Netanyahu and bin Zayed, which took place in late September 2023.&nbsp;Haaretz also cited a Palestinian adviser to the Emirati president who had previously moved from Gaza to the UAE. The adviser claimed to have direct knowledge of the conversation.&nbsp;According to the adviser, bin Zayed told Netanyahu that Sinwar was preparing a major operation against Israel. He warned that the move could result in bloodshed, create instability across the region and put the Abraham Accords at risk.&nbsp;"The emir explained that, in his assessment, Sinwar was preparing for a major event," the adviser says. "He told Netanyahu that Israel should be ready. Concurrently, he recommended trying to find an economic solution for the Strip and calming the West Bank to prevent escalation," Haaretz quoted MBZ advisor on Palestine.&nbsp;The report said bin Zayed found Netanyahu's reaction unexpected. During the conversation, the Israeli prime minister reportedly appeared unconcerned and told the Emirati leader that Israel was closely monitoring developments in Gaza.&nbsp;Netanyahu reportedly said Hamas was more likely to launch an operation in the West Bank and assured bin Zayed that Israel was ready to deal with any situation.&nbsp;Hamas-led terrorists launched their cross-border attack on October 7, 2023. The assault killed 1,200 people in southern Israeli communities, most of them civilians, and resulted in 251 hostages being taken to Gaza. The attack triggered a wider conflict that spread to several parts of the Middle East.<h3>Warnings about Sinwar's plans</h3>The Haaretz report said the information available to bin Zayed originated from Sinwar. It said the Hamas leader had become frustrated in mid 2023 after negotiations over a possible Palestinian prisoner release deal with Israel failed to make progress.&nbsp;Earlier that year, Israel's Shin Bet and Hamas had opened a secret direct line for negotiations. According to the report, the talks came close to producing a major prisoner exchange agreement.The proposed deal still required approval from an Israeli ministerial committee before authorities could release the prisoners.&nbsp;Haaretz reported that Netanyahu repeatedly delayed calling the committee together. It suggested that the delay may have resulted "out of fear of reaching an agreement with Hamas, or perhaps out of fear of the reaction from his extremist partners in his new government."&nbsp;Officials from Shin Bet who were involved in the secret channel told the publication that Netanyahu had previously cited concerns that details of the talks could reach the media.&nbsp;"And so it got stuck week after week," the source said.&nbsp;As the delays continued, Sinwar reportedly issued increasingly serious warnings. In September 2023, he sent a message through an intermediary saying he was preparing a "zilzal," or earthquake.&nbsp;He later referred to his planned operation as "the mother of all surprises" and "a terrifying operation."&nbsp;The direct communication channel between Shin Bet and Hamas was also shut down around this period. According to the report, officials restored full activity on the channel in September 2024 as they tried to revive negotiations over the stalled hostage agreement.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-security-scare-fake-pmo-official-detained-at-nmacc-ahead-of-pm-modi-event-gun-recovered-1788867039783">Mumbai security scare: Fake PMO official detained at NMACC ahead of PM Modi event, gun recovered</a><h3>Security officials also issued warnings</h3>The warning from Sinwar reached Shin Bet on September 15, according to the report. Then Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar briefed Netanyahu about the information.&nbsp;Two days later, senior defence officials met to discuss the situation. Bar reportedly told them that Israel was "on a collision course" and urged the government to either launch a major offensive action or strengthen defensive measures in Gaza and the West Bank before the Jewish holidays.&nbsp;The meeting ended without a decision, according to the report.&nbsp;The UAE leadership later concluded that Israel had failed to respond adequately to the information, prompting bin Zayed to contact Netanyahu himself, the report claimed.&nbsp;The report also said Egyptian intelligence chief Abbas Kamel received similar information and called Netanyahu. Kamel reportedly warned the Israeli prime minister about "something unusual, a terrifying operation" being planned by Hamas.&nbsp;Netanyahu reportedly responded that Israel remained in control of the situation in Gaza. He also said Israel was directing its attention and troop deployments towards the West Bank.According to the report, Netanyahu did not disclose either of the warning calls during another security meeting held on October 1.<h3>Netanyahu's office rejects report</h3>Netanyahu's office strongly rejected the allegations made in the report and described them as an "absolute lie."&nbsp;"Prime Minister Netanyahu didn't speak to the president of the UAE during the period in question and received no warning from him," the Prime Minister's Office said in response to Haaretz.&nbsp;The Emirati president did not respond to Haaretz's request for comment.

The UAE president reportedly warned Netanyahu about Hamas' planned attack days before October 7, but Netanyahu allegedly failed to act on the warning or alert Israeli security chiefs.

Around 10 days before Hamas launched its October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed reportedly spoke to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and warned him about a major operation being planned by Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. The information, however, allegedly did not reach Israel's security leadership and Netanyahu did not take action based on the warning, according to a Haaretz report published on Tuesday. The report drew on a new book, “Kidnapped: 843 Days of Abandonment,” written by journalists Shlomi Eldar and Ruth Yuval. The authors based the book on conversations with dozens of people, including senior officials from Israel and other countries. UAE leader reportedly warned Netanyahu The report said three senior foreign officials later learned about the details of a 45-minute conversation between Netanyahu and bin Zayed, which took place in late September 2023. Haaretz also cited a Palestinian adviser to the Emirati president who had previously moved from Gaza to the UAE. The adviser claimed to have direct knowledge of the conversation. According to the adviser, bin Zayed told Netanyahu that Sinwar was preparing a major operation against Israel. He warned that the move could result in bloodshed, create instability across the region and put the Abraham Accords at risk. "The emir explained that, in his assessment, Sinwar was preparing for a major event," the adviser says. "He told Netanyahu that Israel should be ready. Concurrently, he recommended trying to find an economic solution for the Strip and calming the West Bank to prevent escalation," Haaretz quoted MBZ advisor on Palestine. The report said bin Zayed found Netanyahu's reaction unexpected. During the conversation, the Israeli prime minister reportedly appeared unconcerned and told the Emirati leader that Israel was closely monitoring developments in Gaza. Netanyahu reportedly said Hamas was more likely to launch an operation in the West Bank and assured bin Zayed that Israel was ready to deal with any situation. Hamas-led terrorists launched their cross-border attack on October 7, 2023. The assault killed 1,200 people in southern Israeli communities, most of them civilians, and resulted in 251 hostages being taken to Gaza. The attack triggered a wider conflict that spread to several parts of the Middle East. Warnings about Sinwar's plans The Haaretz report said the information available to bin Zayed originated from Sinwar. It said the Hamas leader had become frustrated in mid 2023 after negotiations over a possible Palestinian prisoner release deal with Israel failed to make progress. Earlier that year, Israel's Shin Bet and Hamas had opened a secret direct line for negotiations. According to the report, the talks came close to producing a major prisoner exchange agreement. The proposed deal still required approval from an Israeli ministerial committee before authorities could release the prisoners. Haaretz reported that Netanyahu repeatedly delayed calling the committee together. It suggested that the delay may have resulted "out of fear of reaching an agreement with Hamas, or perhaps out of fear of the reaction from his extremist partners in his new government." Officials from Shin Bet who were involved in the secret channel told the publication that Netanyahu had previously cited concerns that details of the talks could reach the media. "And so it got stuck week after week," the source said. As the delays continued, Sinwar reportedly issued increasingly serious warnings. In September 2023, he sent a message through an intermediary saying he was preparing a "zilzal," or earthquake. He later referred to his planned operation as "the mother of all surprises" and "a terrifying operation." The direct communication channel between Shin Bet and Hamas was also shut down around this period. According to the report, officials restored full activity on the channel in September 2024 as they tried to revive negotiations over the stalled hostage agreement. Also Read: Mumbai security scare: Fake PMO official detained at NMACC ahead of PM Modi event, gun recovered Security officials also issued warnings The warning from Sinwar reached Shin Bet on September 15, according to the report. Then Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar briefed Netanyahu about the information. Two days later, senior defence officials met to discuss the situation. Bar reportedly told them that Israel was "on a collision course" and urged the government to either launch a major offensive action or strengthen defensive measures in Gaza and the West Bank before the Jewish holidays. The meeting ended without a decision, according to the report. The UAE leadership later concluded that Israel had failed to respond adequately to the information, prompting bin Zayed to contact Netanyahu himself, the report claimed. The report also said Egyptian intelligence chief Abbas Kamel received similar information and called Netanyahu. Kamel reportedly warned the Israeli prime minister about "something unusual, a terrifying operation" being planned by Hamas. Netanyahu reportedly responded that Israel remained in control of the situation in Gaza. He also said Israel was directing its attention and troop deployments towards the West Bank. According to the report, Netanyahu did not disclose either of the warning calls during another security meeting held on October 1. Netanyahu's office rejects report Netanyahu's office strongly rejected the allegations made in the report and described them as an "absolute lie." "Prime Minister Netanyahu didn't speak to the president of the UAE during the period in question and received no warning from him," the Prime Minister's Office said in response to Haaretz. The Emirati president did not respond to Haaretz's request for comment.

The UAE president reportedly warned Netanyahu about Hamas' planned attack days before October 7, but Netanyahu allegedly failed to act on the warning or alert Israeli security chiefs.

UAE warned Netanyahu of Hamas operation days before October 7 attack: Report

Britain, France and Canada on Tuesday have announced an import ban on goods from illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. The ally nations are trying to reset their relationship with Israel and reaffirm their commitment to Palestinian statehood amid growing Israeli expansion and settler violence in the occupied West Bank.British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband told MPs that the British Government agrees that the Israeli expansion in the West Bank is unlawful and that "there is ethnic cleansing of Palestinians in areas of the West Bank,” adding that “all too often the Israeli government has turned a blind eye to this.”"Today we refuse to be bystanders to further suffering and to the ​destruction of the two-state solution," said Milliband. However, it is unclear how these sanctions will be effective and how the goods generated from the West Bank and Israel, those by Israeli settlers and Palestinian citizens, will be distinguished.&nbsp;He further added that Britain will act in coordination "with others in a broad international coalition,” adding that it will be joined by France and Canada.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alice-weidel-afd-leader-germany-politics-1788867439330">Who is Alice Weidel? The openly lesbian AfD leader driving Germany's far-right rise</a>In a post on the social media platform X, France’s Foreign Affairs Minister Jean-Noël Barrot said: “France will end trade with Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian Territories, along with 11 other countries that have made similar commitments.”“France cannot, through its trade, support a situation that threatens the security of both Israelis and Palestinians.”Israel reacted angrily to the coordinated sanctions from the UK, France and Canada. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called for the British Ambassador to East Jerusalem to be expelled, and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has asked Benjamin Netanyahu to close the British consulate in Jerusalem, which is accredited to the Palestinian Authority.&nbsp;Israeli President Isaac Herzog has accused the UK of interfering with the Israeli election. He said that the imposition of trade sanctions will be a “grave miscalculation, a decision that will fall on the wrong side of history.”While the US President Donald Trump has not reacted to these sanctions, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee has accused Britain of "Jew hate". He claimed that US states, especially Florida, might take trade actions against the UK.This comes just two weeks ahead of the United Nations General Assembly meeting of world leaders in New York.&nbsp;

Britain, France and Canada have announced import restrictions on goods from Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank amid rising settler violence.

Britain, France and Canada on Tuesday have announced an import ban on goods from illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. The ally nations are trying to reset their relationship with Israel and reaffirm their commitment to Palestinian statehood amid growing Israeli expansion and settler violence in the occupied West Bank. British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband told MPs that the British Government agrees that the Israeli expansion in the West Bank is unlawful and that "there is ethnic cleansing of Palestinians in areas of the West Bank,” adding that “all too often the Israeli government has turned a blind eye to this.” "Today we refuse to be bystanders to further suffering and to the destruction of the two-state solution," said Milliband. However, it is unclear how these sanctions will be effective and how the goods generated from the West Bank and Israel, those by Israeli settlers and Palestinian citizens, will be distinguished. He further added that Britain will act in coordination "with others in a broad international coalition,” adding that it will be joined by France and Canada. Also Read: Who is Alice Weidel? The openly lesbian AfD leader driving Germany's far-right rise In a post on the social media platform X, France’s Foreign Affairs Minister Jean-Noël Barrot said: “France will end trade with Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian Territories, along with 11 other countries that have made similar commitments.” “France cannot, through its trade, support a situation that threatens the security of both Israelis and Palestinians.” Israel reacted angrily to the coordinated sanctions from the UK, France and Canada. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called for the British Ambassador to East Jerusalem to be expelled, and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has asked Benjamin Netanyahu to close the British consulate in Jerusalem, which is accredited to the Palestinian Authority. Israeli President Isaac Herzog has accused the UK of interfering with the Israeli election. He said that the imposition of trade sanctions will be a “grave miscalculation, a decision that will fall on the wrong side of history.” While the US President Donald Trump has not reacted to these sanctions, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee has accused Britain of "Jew hate". He claimed that US states, especially Florida, might take trade actions against the UK. This comes just two weeks ahead of the United Nations General Assembly meeting of world leaders in New York.

Britain, France and Canada have announced import restrictions on goods from Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank amid rising settler violence.

UK, France and Canada ban imports from illegal Israeli settlements in West Bank

AfD, which secured a dramatic victory at the September 2026 Saxony-Anhalt state election, is driven by politics of anti-immigrant and anti-same-sex marriage, which are sometimes considered outright racist. Alice Weidel, the co-leader of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party who had been at the centre of the party's rise, has been a controversial figure, not because of her speeches but because of her homosexual identity.<h2>Who is Alice Weidel?</h2>The 45-year-old is married to a Sri Lankan-born woman, a filmmaker and is raising two children, primarily in Einsiedeln, Switzerland. Weidel described her upbringing as highly political. Her parents did not belong to any political party, but her grandfather was a prominent Nazi judge, according to the German newspaper Die Welt and her family was expelled from Silesia, now in Poland, after World War Two.&nbsp;She studied Business and economics and joined Goldman Sachs, grew bored and moved to China, where she learned Mandarin and got a doctorate in the Chinese pension system while working as a Business Consultant.She joined AfD in 2013 during the Eurozone bailout; her party opposed it vehemently. Soon, the party started to take more anti-immigration stances. Weidel modelled herself around the economic policies of the neoliberal British leader Margaret Thatcher and argued for a Brexit-style referendum on EU membership.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/peskov-russia-brics-transactions-national-currencies-1788862059036">BRICS 2026: Russia says over 90% of Russia-BRICS trade settled in national currencies</a>In 2016, the party shifted from conservative economic and immigration policies to a more neo-conservative position with the adoption of the Stuttgart Manifesto- the party's first formal manifesto. It identified family exclusively as a mother, father, and children. It introduced proposals such as stopping sexual diversity education in schools as “early sexualisation”. They formally declared opposition to full marriage equality.Alice's own sexual identity becomes paradoxical in AfD. The co-leader of an anti-immigrant and anti-LGBTQ+ party, AfD – with which the mainstream right in Germany is hesitant to associate – is herself homosexual and married to an immigrant.&nbsp;When confronted about why, as a lesbian woman, she is a member of a homophobic party, she said that because she is a lesbian and co-leader of AfD is a political message. According to her, violence against gays comes especially from ‘Muslim gangs’, they will provide safety to homosexuals by tackling the immigration problem.&nbsp;

Alice Weidel, AfD co-leader, has emerged as a key figure in Germany's far-right rise despite being openly lesbian and married to an immigrant.

AfD, which secured a dramatic victory at the September 2026 Saxony-Anhalt state election, is driven by politics of anti-immigrant and anti-same-sex marriage, which are sometimes considered outright racist. Alice Weidel, the co-leader of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party who had been at the centre of the party's rise, has been a controversial figure, not because of her speeches but because of her homosexual identity. Who is Alice Weidel? The 45-year-old is married to a Sri Lankan-born woman, a filmmaker and is raising two children, primarily in Einsiedeln, Switzerland. Weidel described her upbringing as highly political. Her parents did not belong to any political party, but her grandfather was a prominent Nazi judge, according to the German newspaper Die Welt and her family was expelled from Silesia, now in Poland, after World War Two. She studied Business and economics and joined Goldman Sachs, grew bored and moved to China, where she learned Mandarin and got a doctorate in the Chinese pension system while working as a Business Consultant. She joined AfD in 2013 during the Eurozone bailout; her party opposed it vehemently. Soon, the party started to take more anti-immigration stances. Weidel modelled herself around the economic policies of the neoliberal British leader Margaret Thatcher and argued for a Brexit-style referendum on EU membership. Also Read: BRICS 2026: Russia says over 90% of Russia-BRICS trade settled in national currencies In 2016, the party shifted from conservative economic and immigration policies to a more neo-conservative position with the adoption of the Stuttgart Manifesto- the party's first formal manifesto. It identified family exclusively as a mother, father, and children. It introduced proposals such as stopping sexual diversity education in schools as “early sexualisation”. They formally declared opposition to full marriage equality. Alice's own sexual identity becomes paradoxical in AfD. The co-leader of an anti-immigrant and anti-LGBTQ+ party, AfD – with which the mainstream right in Germany is hesitant to associate – is herself homosexual and married to an immigrant. When confronted about why, as a lesbian woman, she is a member of a homophobic party, she said that because she is a lesbian and co-leader of AfD is a political message. According to her, violence against gays comes especially from ‘Muslim gangs’, they will provide safety to homosexuals by tackling the immigration problem.

Alice Weidel, AfD co-leader, has emerged as a key figure in Germany's far-right rise despite being openly lesbian and married to an immigrant.

Who is Alice Weidel? The openly lesbian AfD leader driving Germany's far-right rise

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, speaking at the Sputnik India briefing, said that more than 90 per cent of the transactions between Russia and the BRICS countries are settled in their national currencies. He added that Moscow is not seeking de-dollarisation but accused some countries of using their currency as a political instrument.&nbsp;"We are not pursuing the goal of de-dollarisation. On the contrary, we are open to any possible payment method," Peskov said. He added that since the US does not allow Russia to use their currency, they use their own currency.“Since they don’t allow us to use their currencies, we use our own,” said Peskov, arguing that payment in national currencies is beneficial for all.&nbsp;Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Russian banks like VTB, Bank Rossiya, and Promsvyazbank have been cut off from the SWIFT network. Roughly $300 billion of Russia's foreign exchange reserves were frozen in the US and European countries' accounts. The US Treasury also imposed a ban on the Moscow Exchange and its national clearing centre. They effectively tried to cut Russia out of the global financial system. It made other countries anxious about potential vulnerability in the US-dominated global financial order. Even though the concept of de-dollarisation has been around for a long time, it started to amplify since 2022.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨BRICS countries are now conducting 90% of their transactions in national currencies, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov at Sputnik India briefing <a href="https://t.co/ko5pnwlSgG">pic.twitter.com/ko5pnwlSgG</a>&mdash; Sputnik (@SputnikInt) <a href="https://x.com/SputnikInt/status/2097242262782496775?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-man-lifts-scorpio-rooftop-crane-prevent-theft-1788802093797">Watch | Bihar man lifts Mahindra Scorpio onto rooftop with crane to prevent theft</a>Russia's statement indicates it is not directly pushing for de-dollarisation ideologically but implying that national currency settlements are a practical response to sanctions.&nbsp;Peskov also announced the creation of a BRICS grain exchange program, which can contribute to global food security. Russia said that it is continuing its dialogue with the countries concerned.His comments came ahead of the BRICS leaders' summit in New Delhi on September 12 and 13, where President Vladimir Putin is expected to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Peskov said that Putin and Modi share very close contact and discuss almost all sensitive issues together.Peskov also added that Russia 'highly appreciates' India's BRICS Chairmanship and said that the summit is expected to be successful.&nbsp;

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said more than 90% of Russia's transactions with BRICS countries are settled in national currencies.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, speaking at the Sputnik India briefing, said that more than 90 per cent of the transactions between Russia and the BRICS countries are settled in their national currencies. He added that Moscow is not seeking de-dollarisation but accused some countries of using their currency as a political instrument. "We are not pursuing the goal of de-dollarisation. On the contrary, we are open to any possible payment method," Peskov said. He added that since the US does not allow Russia to use their currency, they use their own currency. “Since they don’t allow us to use their currencies, we use our own,” said Peskov, arguing that payment in national currencies is beneficial for all. Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Russian banks like VTB, Bank Rossiya, and Promsvyazbank have been cut off from the SWIFT network. Roughly $300 billion of Russia's foreign exchange reserves were frozen in the US and European countries' accounts. The US Treasury also imposed a ban on the Moscow Exchange and its national clearing centre. They effectively tried to cut Russia out of the global financial system. It made other countries anxious about potential vulnerability in the US-dominated global financial order. Even though the concept of de-dollarisation has been around for a long time, it started to amplify since 2022.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said more than 90% of Russia's transactions with BRICS countries are settled in national currencies.

BRICS 2026: Russia says  over 90% of Russia-BRICS trade settled in national currencies

BRICS summit is around the corner. Though defence is not an aspect of this grouping, one can't miss the fact that the summit, being held this weekend in Delhi, brings together some of the biggest military powers in the world. BRICS, comprising the 11 members Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, is mostly a political and diplomatic coordination forum. It does not have a collective defence structure comparable to NATO, and its members do not operate under a mutual-defence commitment. Yet its expansion has created an unusual concentration of military capabilities, defence industries, manpower, strategic geography and financial resources. Could they one day channel their energies together? While that's up to debate, here is a look at their defence industries and firepower.&nbsp;<h2>Russia: The military heavyweight of BRICS</h2>If one goes by the 2026 Global Firepower ranking, Russia is the strongest BRICS member, &nbsp;placed second globally, with a Power Index (PwrIndx) score of 0.0791. Its conventional military strength involves large land forces, extensive artillery and armoured inventories, a major air force and a powerful navy. Global Firepower estimated Russia's active military manpower at about 1.32 million. Its military-industrial complex also remains one of the world's largest, producing aircraft, air-defence systems, armoured vehicles, missiles, artillery and naval platforms.SIPRI estimates that Russia spent $190 billion on its military in 2025, equivalent to 7.5 per cent of its GDP. That made Russia the world's third-largest military spender.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-fronts-one-stage-russia-ukraine-and-west-asia-crises-shadow-brics-summit-1788855295609">Two fronts, one stage: Russia-Ukraine and West Asia crises shadow BRICS Summit</a><h2>China: Manpower, navy and industrial scale</h2>China ranks third globally in the 2026 Global Firepower assessment, with a PwrIndx of 0.0919.The People's Liberation Army has approximately 2.035 million personnel, making it the largest active military force among the BRICS members. China transformed itself into a major naval and aerospace power over the past decades, while rapidly expanding its missile capabilities and military-industrial production.Its navy fleet is now the world's largest by number of ships. As per SIPRI, China's military expenditure at $336 billion in 2025, second only to the United States.&nbsp;<h2>India: a major military and industrial power</h2>India ranks fourth in the world in the 2026 Global Firepower ranking, with a PwrIndx of 0.1346.At around 1.43 million, India has one of the world's largest armed forces. India is expanding its naval and air capabilities with new aircraft carriers, submarines, fighter aircraft, missiles, drones and indigenous defence systems.India is on course to become a significant defence manufacturer and exporter, as opposed to its earlier status as an importer.According to SIPRI, India's 2025 military expenditure stood at $92.1 billion, an 8.9 per cent on-year increase, which is also the world's fifth-highest military spending.Together, Russia, China and India occupy the second, third and fourth positions in the Global Firepower ranking, giving BRICS an extraordinary concentration of conventional military power.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-s-all-alignment-strategy-balancing-brics-quad-and-the-western-world-the-peacock-s-dance-from-non-aligned-to-all-aligned-1788855361925">India’s ‘all-alignment’ strategy: Balancing BRICS, Quad and the Western world</a><h2>Brazil: Latin America's military leader</h2>Brazil ranks 11th globally with a PwrIndx of 0.2374, making it the highest-ranked Latin American country.It has around 376,000 active personnel, backed by sizeable land, air and naval forces.&nbsp;Its submarine programme is important to its ambitions as a South Atlantic power.Brazil spent approximately $23.9 billion on its military in 2025, SIPRI data shows.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-security-summit-pm-modi-forces-unified-front-against-global-terrorism-1782272524557/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-security-summit-pm-modi-forces-unified-front-against-global-terrorism-1782272524557/embed</a><h2>Indonesia: An emerging maritime power</h2>Indonesia ranks 13th globally in Global Fire Power, with a PwrIndx of 0.2582. Its approximately 404,500 active personnel operate across one of the world's largest archipelagos, making its naval and air power particularly important.Indonesia's defence priorities are shaped by its geography that includes thousands of islands, critical sea lanes of communication, and a strategic position between the Indian and Pacific oceans.Its 2025 military expenditure was around $15 billion, according to SIPRI.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-summit-2026-should-the-bloc-grow-pakistan-bangladesh-among-aspirants-india-cautious-china-backs-expansion-1788850473062">BRICS Summit 2026: Should the bloc grow? Pakistan, Bangladesh among aspirants, India cautious, China backs expansion</a><h2>Iran: A veteran of asymmetric warfare</h2>Iran occupies 16th place globally, with a PwrIndx of 0.3199. Currently engaged in a conflict with US and Israel, Iran has around 610,000 active personnel. Iran's real capabilities are harder to capture through conventional rankings. The country has ballistic and cruise missiles, drones, air-defence systems and asymmetric naval warfare that has stood up to the US and Israel.Iran's military expenditure was estimated at $7.4 billion in 2025. But SIPRI noted that official figures almost certainly are understated because off-budget oil revenues are also used to finance military activities.<h2>Egypt: Africa's conventional military heavyweight</h2>Egypt, which ranks 19th globally, with a PwrIndx of 0.3651, &nbsp;has nearly 438,500 active personnel, along with significant reserves and paramilitary forces. Its arsenal includes tanks, artillery systems and aircraft, while its navy gives it an important position around the Mediterranean and Red Sea. The Suez Canal also gives Egypt a strategic edge that goes beyond its numerical military ranking.<h2>Saudi Arabia: Spending power meets advanced weaponry</h2>Saudi Arabia ranks 25th globally, with a PwrIndx of 0.4473. At roughly 247,000 active personnel, its armed forces are smaller than those of the largest BRICS militaries. Yet, they are equipped with sophisticated Western-made aircraft, armoured systems and air-defence capabilities.Money is a major part of Saudi military power, with SIPRI estimating that Riyadh spent $83.2 billion in 2025, making it the world's eighth-largest military spender and accounting for 6.5 per cent of its GDP.<h2>South Africa, Ethiopia and UAE: Not small players</h2>South Africa ranks 40th globally, with around 69,000 active personnel. It has a professional military with experience in peacekeeping and regional operations.Ethiopia, ranked 47th, has one of Africa's largest armies by manpower. It has around 503,000 active personnel. The United Arab Emirates, ranked 54th, is the smallest of the group in terms of manpower, with about 65,000 active personnel. But its military is highly modernised, with sophisticated aircraft, air-defence systems, special forces and experience in expeditionary operations.<h2>What if BRICS combined its military resources?</h2>This is a tantalising thought, though only a remote possibility, but the numbers become significant when one thinks about it. The 11 BRICS countries include three of the world's top four conventional military powers: Russia, China and India. Brazil and Indonesia are ranked among the global top 15. Iran and Egypt are inside the top 20. Their combined military expenditure is also enormous: China, Russia, India, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Indonesia and Iran alone account for roughly $747 billion.&nbsp;<h2>A word of caution: Adding the numbers does not create a military alliance</h2>The critical question is whether these countries could ever channel their military capabilities towards a common strategic goal. For now, there is little evidence of that happening.&nbsp;BRICS is largely an ‘informal’ mechanism, with no treaty, secretariat or regular bureaucracy backing it, let alone a military pact. Its decision-making is based on consensus. The group itself describes BRICS as a political and diplomatic coordination.<h2>BRICS members have competing interests, making military cooperation doubtful</h2>Despite recent normalisation efforts, India and China have an unresolved border dispute and competing strategic interests across the Indo-Pacific. Saudi Arabia and Iran have been traditional rivals in the Middle East. Egypt, Ethiopia and others have competing regional priorities in AfricaThis translates to enormous political barriers to turning BRICS' combined military strength into a single fighting force.<h2>Potential areas of cooperation for a silent, collective military giant &nbsp;</h2>Short of a military alliance, the BRICS countries could theoretically expand military-to-military dialogue, defence-industrial partnerships, joint research, exercises, logistics cooperation, satellite and space capabilities, drone technology, cyber capabilities and defence trade.BRICS does not need a unified army like NATO to become strategically consequential. Its members already possess huge manpower pools, major defence industries, nuclear powers, missile capabilities, large navies, strategic waterways, energy resources and growing technological capabilities.So what's the takeaway? If the question is whether BRICS could collectively rival a formal military alliance, the answer is no, as of now.But if it's whether BRICS contains enough military and industrial power to become a major defence-industrial and strategic network, the answer is: the ingredients are already there.The unresolved question is whether these 11 countries will ever find enough common strategic ground to put them together.

BRICS brings together three of the world's strongest conventional military powers - Russia, China and India. Could the 11-member bloc's vast defence industries and firepower ever fuel deeper strategic cooperation?

BRICS summit is around the corner. Though defence is not an aspect of this grouping, one can't miss the fact that the summit, being held this weekend in Delhi, brings together some of the biggest military powers in the world. BRICS, comprising the 11 members Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, is mostly a political and diplomatic coordination forum. It does not have a collective defence structure comparable to NATO, and its members do not operate under a mutual-defence commitment. Yet its expansion has created an unusual concentration of military capabilities, defence industries, manpower, strategic geography and financial resources. Could they one day channel their energies together? While that's up to debate, here is a look at their defence industries and firepower. Russia: The military heavyweight of BRICS If one goes by the 2026 Global Firepower ranking, Russia is the strongest BRICS member, placed second globally, with a Power Index (PwrIndx) score of 0.0791. Its conventional military strength involves large land forces, extensive artillery and armoured inventories, a major air force and a powerful navy. Global Firepower estimated Russia's active military manpower at about 1.32 million. Its military-industrial complex also remains one of the world's largest, producing aircraft, air-defence systems, armoured vehicles, missiles, artillery and naval platforms. SIPRI estimates that Russia spent $190 billion on its military in 2025, equivalent to 7.5 per cent of its GDP. That made Russia the world's third-largest military spender. Also read: Two fronts, one stage: Russia-Ukraine and West Asia crises shadow BRICS Summit China: Manpower, navy and industrial scale China ranks third globally in the 2026 Global Firepower assessment, with a PwrIndx of 0.0919. The People's Liberation Army has approximately 2.035 million personnel, making it the largest active military force among the BRICS members. China transformed itself into a major naval and aerospace power over the past decades, while rapidly expanding its missile capabilities and military-industrial production. Its navy fleet is now the world's largest by number of ships. As per SIPRI, China's military expenditure at $336 billion in 2025, second only to the United States. India: a major military and industrial power India ranks fourth in the world in the 2026 Global Firepower ranking, with a PwrIndx of 0.1346. At around 1.43 million, India has one of the world's largest armed forces. India is expanding its naval and air capabilities with new aircraft carriers, submarines, fighter aircraft, missiles, drones and indigenous defence systems. India is on course to become a significant defence manufacturer and exporter, as opposed to its earlier status as an importer. According to SIPRI, India's 2025 military expenditure stood at $92.1 billion, an 8.9 per cent on-year increase, which is also the world's fifth-highest military spending. Together, Russia, China and India occupy the second, third and fourth positions in the Global Firepower ranking, giving BRICS an extraordinary concentration of conventional military power. Also read: India’s ‘all-alignment’ strategy: Balancing BRICS, Quad and the Western world Brazil: Latin America's military leader Brazil ranks 11th globally with a PwrIndx of 0.2374, making it the highest-ranked Latin American country. It has around 376,000 active personnel, backed by sizeable land, air and naval forces. Its submarine programme is important to its ambitions as a South Atlantic power. Brazil spent approximately $23.9 billion on its military in 2025, SIPRI data shows. https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-security-summit-pm-modi-forces-unified-front-against-global-terrorism-1782272524557/embed Indonesia: An emerging maritime power Indonesia ranks 13th globally in Global Fire Power, with a PwrIndx of 0.2582. Its approximately 404,500 active personnel operate across one of the world's largest archipelagos, making its naval and air power particularly important. Indonesia's defence priorities are shaped by its geography that includes thousands of islands, critical sea lanes of communication, and a strategic position between the Indian and Pacific oceans. Its 2025 military expenditure was around $15 billion, according to SIPRI. Also read: BRICS Summit 2026: Should the bloc grow? Pakistan, Bangladesh among aspirants, India cautious, China backs expansion Iran: A veteran of asymmetric warfare Iran occupies 16th place globally, with a PwrIndx of 0.3199. Currently engaged in a conflict with US and Israel, Iran has around 610,000 active personnel. Iran's real capabilities are harder to capture through conventional rankings. The country has ballistic and cruise missiles, drones, air-defence systems and asymmetric naval warfare that has stood up to the US and Israel. Iran's military expenditure was estimated at $7.4 billion in 2025. But SIPRI noted that official figures almost certainly are understated because off-budget oil revenues are also used to finance military activities. Egypt: Africa's conventional military heavyweight Egypt, which ranks 19th globally, with a PwrIndx of 0.3651, has nearly 438,500 active personnel, along with significant reserves and paramilitary forces. Its arsenal includes tanks, artillery systems and aircraft, while its navy gives it an important position around the Mediterranean and Red Sea. The Suez Canal also gives Egypt a strategic edge that goes beyond its numerical military ranking. Saudi Arabia: Spending power meets advanced weaponry Saudi Arabia ranks 25th globally, with a PwrIndx of 0.4473. At roughly 247,000 active personnel, its armed forces are smaller than those of the largest BRICS militaries. Yet, they are equipped with sophisticated Western-made aircraft, armoured systems and air-defence capabilities. Money is a major part of Saudi military power, with SIPRI estimating that Riyadh spent $83.2 billion in 2025, making it the world's eighth-largest military spender and accounting for 6.5 per cent of its GDP. South Africa, Ethiopia and UAE: Not small players South Africa ranks 40th globally, with around 69,000 active personnel. It has a professional military with experience in peacekeeping and regional operations. Ethiopia, ranked 47th, has one of Africa's largest armies by manpower. It has around 503,000 active personnel. The United Arab Emirates, ranked 54th, is the smallest of the group in terms of manpower, with about 65,000 active personnel. But its military is highly modernised, with sophisticated aircraft, air-defence systems, special forces and experience in expeditionary operations. What if BRICS combined its military resources? This is a tantalising thought, though only a remote possibility, but the numbers become significant when one thinks about it. The 11 BRICS countries include three of the world's top four conventional military powers: Russia, China and India. Brazil and Indonesia are ranked among the global top 15. Iran and Egypt are inside the top 20. Their combined military expenditure is also enormous: China, Russia, India, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Indonesia and Iran alone account for roughly $747 billion. A word of caution: Adding the numbers does not create a military alliance The critical question is whether these countries could ever channel their military capabilities towards a common strategic goal. For now, there is little evidence of that happening. BRICS is largely an ‘informal’ mechanism, with no treaty, secretariat or regular bureaucracy backing it, let alone a military pact. Its decision-making is based on consensus. The group itself describes BRICS as a political and diplomatic coordination. BRICS members have competing interests, making military cooperation doubtful Despite recent normalisation efforts, India and China have an unresolved border dispute and competing strategic interests across the Indo-Pacific. Saudi Arabia and Iran have been traditional rivals in the Middle East. Egypt, Ethiopia and others have competing regional priorities in Africa This translates to enormous political barriers to turning BRICS' combined military strength into a single fighting force. Potential areas of cooperation for a silent, collective military giant Short of a military alliance, the BRICS countries could theoretically expand military-to-military dialogue, defence-industrial partnerships, joint research, exercises, logistics cooperation, satellite and space capabilities, drone technology, cyber capabilities and defence trade. BRICS does not need a unified army like NATO to become strategically consequential. Its members already possess huge manpower pools, major defence industries, nuclear powers, missile capabilities, large navies, strategic waterways, energy resources and growing technological capabilities. So what's the takeaway? If the question is whether BRICS could collectively rival a formal military alliance, the answer is no, as of now. But if it's whether BRICS contains enough military and industrial power to become a major defence-industrial and strategic network, the answer is: the ingredients are already there. The unresolved question is whether these 11 countries will ever find enough common strategic ground to put them together.

BRICS brings together three of the world's strongest conventional military powers - Russia, China and India. Could the 11-member bloc's vast defence industries and firepower ever fuel deeper strategic cooperation? A possibility or a far-fetched idea?

BRICS Fire Power: Defence is not an area of cooperation, but the bloc can pack a punch when it comes to collective military capabilities, spending

India is ready to host the BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 12–13, placing its foreign policy approach under the global spotlight. AsIndia chairs the group taking on a larger role in the Global South, it is also balancing its commitments within BRICS with deepening partnerships with the United States, Europe and other Western powers. From the Quad to growing engagement with the G7, India’s diplomacy has certainly shifted from non-alignment to multi-alignment.<h2>India’s two diplomatic tracks</h2>The two diplomatic tracks of India’s foreign policy can be understood by the fact that Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan in Aug and almost immediately transitioned into a host for BRICS Summit. Similarly in May, India hosted 11th Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting during which External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/relations-continue-to-develop-iran-hails-india-ties-ahead-of-brics-summit-as-us-keeps-close-watch-1788847544834">'Relations continue to develop': Iran hails India ties ahead of BRICS Summit</a>&nbsp;Within BRICS, India supports greater representation for the Global South and stronger economic cooperation. At the same time, New Delhi has been cautious about allowing the bloc to evolve into an explicitly anti-Western or anti-American platform. Through the Quad and other Western partnerships, India focuses heavily on maritime security, resilient supply chains, advanced technology and defence cooperation. These relationships are particularly important as India seeks to strengthen its position in the Indo-Pacific and respond to China's growing strategic influence.<h2>Why India’s ‘all-alignment’ works</h2>India has been clear that its multi-aligned approach is driven primarily by strategic autonomy and national interest rather than ideological loyalty to any particular power bloc. New Delhi seeks to maintain room for manoeuvre by engaging simultaneously with competing global powers. The best example for this is how India managed ties with Iran amid war with the US and how it kept ties with Russia as strong as before amid pressure from the Trump administration.&nbsp;&nbsp;Seeking to choke off funding for the Ukraine conflict, US President Donald Trump, earlier this year, targeted Moscow's top energy buyers—with India currently depending on Russia for roughly 43% to 48% of its total oil imports.India defended its procurement by emphasizing the economic reality of fueling a nation of 1.4 billion people. In official media briefings, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated: "Our national interest guides our energy purchases, and the imperative for us to meet the energy requirements of 1.4 billion people is what guides us, and that will continue to be our policy."&nbsp;&nbsp;However, to avoid being looked at as a country supporting Russia in its war against Ukraine, Prime Minister Modi during his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin told him that the war cannot be “endless.” “Every day spent in war sets humanity back, whereas every step taken towards peace fills humanity with new hope and enthusiasm. We must move away from endless war towards an end to the war. This is essential for the well-being of humanity. A peaceful resolution to all issues at the earliest is the call of humanity, and this is India’s message. Modi added that the “land of Gandhi and the land of Buddha share a single message: the path of peace," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-summit-2026-should-the-bloc-grow-pakistan-bangladesh-among-aspirants-india-cautious-china-backs-expansion-1788850473062">BRICS Summit 2026: Should the bloc grow?</a>&nbsp;This balancing act allows New Delhi to maintain dialogue with countries such as China and Russia while deepening its strategic partnerships with the US. Similar approach was taken as Iran-US war broke out in Mar this year. India explicitly declined to join the Washington-led coalition. Instead, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar pursued bilateral negotiations directly with Tehran to secure "safe passage" guarantees for Indian commercial shipping and mariners. Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued several precise statements explicitly calling for peace, de-escalation, and the absolute safeguarding of safe passage for commercial shipping. At the same time, speaking before the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) following multi-nation disruptions, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, strongly condemned attacks on commercial vessels in the Gulf.<h2>The Peacock’s Dance</h2>India’s foreign policy is therefore less about choosing one side and more about keeping multiple options open. New Delhi can work with Russia and China through BRICS while simultaneously partnering with the US, Japan and Australia through the Quad and engaging closely with Europe and the G7. This is the essence of India’s emerging “all-alignment”: not sitting on the fence, but using strategic autonomy to navigate a fragmented global order. While there are frictions that India faces while taking a balanced approach, it suits India's interest the best. As India hosts the BRICS Summit, the country’s diplomatic balancing act will be closely watched — particularly as BRICS seeks a greater role in the Global South while India deepens its commitments across the Western-led international system.&nbsp;

India’s foreign policy is shifting from traditional non-alignment to multi-alignment, as New Delhi balances BRICS and ties with Russia and China with growing partnerships with the US, Quad, Europe and G7. As India hosts BRICS 2026, its strategic autonomy faces a global test.

India is ready to host the BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 12–13, placing its foreign policy approach under the global spotlight. AsIndia chairs the group taking on a larger role in the Global South, it is also balancing its commitments within BRICS with deepening partnerships with the United States, Europe and other Western powers. From the Quad to growing engagement with the G7, India’s diplomacy has certainly shifted from non-alignment to multi-alignment. India’s two diplomatic tracks The two diplomatic tracks of India’s foreign policy can be understood by the fact that Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan in Aug and almost immediately transitioned into a host for BRICS Summit. Similarly in May, India hosted 11th Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting during which External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi. Also Read: 'Relations continue to develop': Iran hails India ties ahead of BRICS Summit Within BRICS, India supports greater representation for the Global South and stronger economic cooperation. At the same time, New Delhi has been cautious about allowing the bloc to evolve into an explicitly anti-Western or anti-American platform. Through the Quad and other Western partnerships, India focuses heavily on maritime security, resilient supply chains, advanced technology and defence cooperation. These relationships are particularly important as India seeks to strengthen its position in the Indo-Pacific and respond to China's growing strategic influence. Why India’s ‘all-alignment’ works India has been clear that its multi-aligned approach is driven primarily by strategic autonomy and national interest rather than ideological loyalty to any particular power bloc. New Delhi seeks to maintain room for manoeuvre by engaging simultaneously with competing global powers. The best example for this is how India managed ties with Iran amid war with the US and how it kept ties with Russia as strong as before amid pressure from the Trump administration. Seeking to choke off funding for the Ukraine conflict, US President Donald Trump, earlier this year, targeted Moscow's top energy buyers—with India currently depending on Russia for roughly 43% to 48% of its total oil imports.India defended its procurement by emphasizing the economic reality of fueling a nation of 1.4 billion people. In official media briefings, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated: "Our national interest guides our energy purchases, and the imperative for us to meet the energy requirements of 1.4 billion people is what guides us, and that will continue to be our policy." However, to avoid being looked at as a country supporting Russia in its war against Ukraine, Prime Minister Modi during his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin told him that the war cannot be “endless.” “Every day spent in war sets humanity back, whereas every step taken towards peace fills humanity with new hope and enthusiasm. We must move away from endless war towards an end to the war. This is essential for the well-being of humanity. A peaceful resolution to all issues at the earliest is the call of humanity, and this is India’s message. Modi added that the “land of Gandhi and the land of Buddha share a single message: the path of peace," he said. Also Read: BRICS Summit 2026: Should the bloc grow? This balancing act allows New Delhi to maintain dialogue with countries such as China and Russia while deepening its strategic partnerships with the US. Similar approach was taken as Iran-US war broke out in Mar this year. India explicitly declined to join the Washington-led coalition. Instead, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar pursued bilateral negotiations directly with Tehran to secure "safe passage" guarantees for Indian commercial shipping and mariners. Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued several precise statements explicitly calling for peace, de-escalation, and the absolute safeguarding of safe passage for commercial shipping. At the same time, speaking before the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) following multi-nation disruptions, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, strongly condemned attacks on commercial vessels in the Gulf. The Peacock’s Dance India’s foreign policy is therefore less about choosing one side and more about keeping multiple options open. New Delhi can work with Russia and China through BRICS while simultaneously partnering with the US, Japan and Australia through the Quad and engaging closely with Europe and the G7. This is the essence of India’s emerging “all-alignment”: not sitting on the fence, but using strategic autonomy to navigate a fragmented global order. While there are frictions that India faces while taking a balanced approach, it suits India's interest the best. As India hosts the BRICS Summit, the country’s diplomatic balancing act will be closely watched — particularly as BRICS seeks a greater role in the Global South while India deepens its commitments across the Western-led international system.

India’s foreign policy has shifted from traditional non-alignment to multi-alignment, as New Delhi balances BRICS and ties with Russia and China with growing partnerships with the US, Quad, Europe and G7. As India hosts BRICS 2026, its strategic autonomy faces a global test.

India’s ‘all-alignment’ strategy: Balancing BRICS, Quad and the Western world

Donald Trump may not be sitting at the BRICS table in New Delhi, but his shadow will be hard to miss. As India hosts the 18th BRICS Summit on September 12–13, the grouping meets at a moment when almost every major fault line in the global economy and geopolitics runs through Washington, from tariffs and trade wars to the US-Iran conflict, energy security, sanctions on Russia and the future of the dollar. And that makes the Delhi summit about much more than another gathering of emerging economies.&nbsp;The question is whether BRICS can merely discuss a changing world, or actually shape it. Trump's tariff policies have forced countries to rethink their dependence on the US market. His pressure on buyers of Russian energy has also put India and China in a difficult position, given their importance to Moscow's oil trade. At the same time, the US-Iran war and disruption around the Strait of Hormuz have turned energy security into an immediate economic concern for much of the Global South. For India, the stakes are particularly high.&nbsp;New Delhi wants BRICS to become a stronger platform for the Global South, while resisting the idea that the grouping should simply become an anti-American or anti-Western alliance. That balancing act is central to India's strategic autonomy. The irony is striking. BRICS was initially conceived largely as an economic grouping. Twenty years later, it has become a platform through which emerging powers are demanding a greater say in global governance, finance and international decision-making. The expanded grouping now represents a substantial share of the world's population and economy.&nbsp;But size is not the same as power, and numbers do not automatically translate into unity. China and India have competing strategic interests. Russia wants the grouping to challenge Western sanctions and financial dominance. Iran has its own expectations from BRICS amid the war with the US and Israel. Gulf members have to balance relations with Washington with their expanding ties with Beijing, Moscow and New Delhi. And then there is the question of the dollar.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brics-summit-2026-russia-says-putin-will-update-pm-modi-on-ukraine-conflict-during-their-meeting-on-friday-1788858646955">BRICS Summit 2026: Russia says Putin will update PM Modi on Ukraine conflict during their meeting</a>&nbsp;For years, BRICS members have discussed greater use of local currencies, alternative payment mechanisms and reducing dependence on Western-controlled financial systems. India, however, has remained cautious about turning BRICS into a vehicle for outright de-dollarisation. That distinction could matter enormously in Delhi. Does India want BRICS to confront America, or does it want BRICS to make the world less dependent on any one power? The answer could define India's presidency.&nbsp;There are already signs that economic questions will sit alongside the larger geopolitical conversation. India and China are expected to use the summit as another channel to address trade, technology imports and investment restrictions, while the broader BRICS agenda includes economic and financial cooperation. Meanwhile, the energy question cannot be separated from geopolitics. India's relationship with Russian oil has become a major point of friction with Washington. Yet India and Russia have continued to strengthen mechanisms for bilateral trade and payments, with Russian and Indian banks increasingly facilitating transactions in national currencies.&nbsp;So when Trump looks at BRICS, Washington is not simply looking at a diplomatic grouping. It is looking at India, China, Russia, Iran and major energy economies sitting around the same table, countries that collectively have the potential to reshape trade flows, energy markets and financial arrangements. But BRICS faces a fundamental test of its own. Can it produce a common position when its members have very different relationships with the US?&nbsp;Can it talk about a multipolar world without becoming another rigid geopolitical bloc? Can it push for reform of institutions such as the IMF, World Bank and UN while still delivering practical economic alternatives? And, perhaps most importantly, can India use the BRICS presidency to turn the Global South from a diplomatic slogan into a genuine centre of influence? The Delhi summit therefore comes at an unusually consequential moment.&nbsp;Trump's America is watching BRICS. But BRICS has an opportunity to look back, not necessarily with confrontation, but with a question of its own: If the world is becoming multipolar, who gets to write the rules? And in New Delhi, India wants to make sure the answer does not remain Washington alone. Current context: India is hosting the summit at Bharat Mandapam on September 12–13 under its 2026 theme of “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”

BRICS Summit 2026 faces Trump’s tariffs, wars, energy crisis and economic pressure. Can India lead BRICS and the Global South in challenging US power?

Donald Trump may not be sitting at the BRICS table in New Delhi, but his shadow will be hard to miss. As India hosts the 18th BRICS Summit on September 12–13, the grouping meets at a moment when almost every major fault line in the global economy and geopolitics runs through Washington, from tariffs and trade wars to the US-Iran conflict, energy security, sanctions on Russia and the future of the dollar. And that makes the Delhi summit about much more than another gathering of emerging economies. The question is whether BRICS can merely discuss a changing world, or actually shape it. Trump's tariff policies have forced countries to rethink their dependence on the US market. His pressure on buyers of Russian energy has also put India and China in a difficult position, given their importance to Moscow's oil trade. At the same time, the US-Iran war and disruption around the Strait of Hormuz have turned energy security into an immediate economic concern for much of the Global South. For India, the stakes are particularly high. New Delhi wants BRICS to become a stronger platform for the Global South, while resisting the idea that the grouping should simply become an anti-American or anti-Western alliance. That balancing act is central to India's strategic autonomy. The irony is striking. BRICS was initially conceived largely as an economic grouping. Twenty years later, it has become a platform through which emerging powers are demanding a greater say in global governance, finance and international decision-making. The expanded grouping now represents a substantial share of the world's population and economy. But size is not the same as power, and numbers do not automatically translate into unity. China and India have competing strategic interests. Russia wants the grouping to challenge Western sanctions and financial dominance. Iran has its own expectations from BRICS amid the war with the US and Israel. Gulf members have to balance relations with Washington with their expanding ties with Beijing, Moscow and New Delhi. And then there is the question of the dollar. Also Read: BRICS Summit 2026: Russia says Putin will update PM Modi on Ukraine conflict during their meeting For years, BRICS members have discussed greater use of local currencies, alternative payment mechanisms and reducing dependence on Western-controlled financial systems. India, however, has remained cautious about turning BRICS into a vehicle for outright de-dollarisation. That distinction could matter enormously in Delhi. Does India want BRICS to confront America, or does it want BRICS to make the world less dependent on any one power? The answer could define India's presidency. There are already signs that economic questions will sit alongside the larger geopolitical conversation. India and China are expected to use the summit as another channel to address trade, technology imports and investment restrictions, while the broader BRICS agenda includes economic and financial cooperation. Meanwhile, the energy question cannot be separated from geopolitics. India's relationship with Russian oil has become a major point of friction with Washington. Yet India and Russia have continued to strengthen mechanisms for bilateral trade and payments, with Russian and Indian banks increasingly facilitating transactions in national currencies. So when Trump looks at BRICS, Washington is not simply looking at a diplomatic grouping. It is looking at India, China, Russia, Iran and major energy economies sitting around the same table, countries that collectively have the potential to reshape trade flows, energy markets and financial arrangements. But BRICS faces a fundamental test of its own. Can it produce a common position when its members have very different relationships with the US? Can it talk about a multipolar world without becoming another rigid geopolitical bloc? Can it push for reform of institutions such as the IMF, World Bank and UN while still delivering practical economic alternatives? And, perhaps most importantly, can India use the BRICS presidency to turn the Global South from a diplomatic slogan into a genuine centre of influence? The Delhi summit therefore comes at an unusually consequential moment. Trump's America is watching BRICS. But BRICS has an opportunity to look back, not necessarily with confrontation, but with a question of its own: If the world is becoming multipolar, who gets to write the rules? And in New Delhi, India wants to make sure the answer does not remain Washington alone. Current context: India is hosting the summit at Bharat Mandapam on September 12–13 under its 2026 theme of “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”

Trump’s tariffs, wars, energy shocks and economic pressure loom over BRICS 2026. Can India lead the Global South in pushing back against US power?

BRICS Summit 2026: Trump must be watching amid pushbacks from member states on US tariffs, conflicts and energy trade

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit India as the BRICS Summit gets underway in New Delhi on September 12.Ahead of Putin’s visit, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the trip will provide an important opportunity for India and Russia to discuss bilateral relations and address key issues on their agenda.&nbsp;Speaking to reporters during a virtual briefing from Moscow, Peskov highlighted the close personal relationship between Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing their engagement as pragmatic and open. He said the visit could create new opportunities for cooperation between the two countries. "In a couple of days, President Putin will begin his India visit. You know that our two leaders, Indian and Russian leaders, are in a very close personal contact. contact. They are very pragmatic in their relationship, and they are as sincere as to be able to discuss in a very open and constructive way the most sensitive issues of our agenda and our bilateral relations. Of course, it opens additional horizons for our cooperation."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brics-summit-2026-from-delhi-to-g20-in-florida-is-india-emerging-as-the-voice-of-the-global-south-1788848244799">BRICS Summit 2026: From Delhi to G20 in Florida, is India emerging as the voice of the Global South?</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | On President Putin&#39;s upcoming visit to India, Dmitry Peskov, Spokesperson for the President of the Russian Federation, says, &quot;In a couple of days, President Putin will begin his visit to India. He will take part in the BRICS summit, and it will also be a significant time… <a href="https://t.co/mP1e9YZAk4">pic.twitter.com/mP1e9YZAk4</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2097249220747030947?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Peskov also expressed confidence in India’s ability to successfully host the summit and said Russia would continue supporting efforts to strengthen cooperation within the BRICS framework. "We have no doubt that the summit will be successful. Russia, we are doing our best to contribute to further development of BRICS cooperation in the three main pillars of our interaction. So, those are policy and security. economy and finance, and cultural and humanitarian contexts. So, we are supporting idea of inviting new countries to join different formats within BRICS," he added. His remarks come ahead of Putin’s India visit, with bilateral ties and broader BRICS cooperation expected to remain key areas of discussion during the summit.

Putin’s India visit for the BRICS Summit will focus on India-Russia ties, bilateral cooperation and strengthening BRICS across key sectors

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit India as the BRICS Summit gets underway in New Delhi on September 12. Ahead of Putin’s visit, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the trip will provide an important opportunity for India and Russia to discuss bilateral relations and address key issues on their agenda. Speaking to reporters during a virtual briefing from Moscow, Peskov highlighted the close personal relationship between Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing their engagement as pragmatic and open. He said the visit could create new opportunities for cooperation between the two countries. "In a couple of days, President Putin will begin his India visit. You know that our two leaders, Indian and Russian leaders, are in a very close personal contact. contact. They are very pragmatic in their relationship, and they are as sincere as to be able to discuss in a very open and constructive way the most sensitive issues of our agenda and our bilateral relations. Of course, it opens additional horizons for our cooperation." Also Read: BRICS Summit 2026: From Delhi to G20 in Florida, is India emerging as the voice of the Global South?

Putin’s India visit ahead of the BRICS Summit will focus on bilateral ties, cooperation and strengthening the grouping’s role across key sectors

BRICS Summit 2026: Russia says Putin will update PM Modi on Ukraine conflict during their meeting

As India prepares to host the 18th BRICS Summit on September 12, at Bharat Mandapam, the expanded geopolitical bloc faces its most critical diplomatic test to date. The summit brings together leaders from across the Global South under the theme "Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation, and Sustainability," yet the meeting is overshadowed by two simultaneous security crises involving major member states and key global powers.&nbsp;The bloc now sits at the intersection of two major war theatres: the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and escalating military confrontations involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to attend in person, marking his second visit to New Delhi in under a year. At the same time, Iranian leadership continues to urge BRICS partners to present a unified diplomatic front against Western military actions and economic sanctions.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-summit-2026-should-the-bloc-grow-pakistan-bangladesh-among-aspirants-india-cautious-china-backs-expansion-1788850473062"> BRICS Summit 2026: Should the bloc grow? Pakistan, Bangladesh among aspirants, India cautious, China backs expansion</a>&nbsp;The dual conflicts highlight deep structural contradictions within the group. Following its recent expansion which brought Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Ethiopia, and Indonesia into the fold alongside original members Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa BRICS now encompasses states with starkly divergent geopolitical alignments. While Moscow and Tehran seek to leverage the platform to actively counter Western pressure and foster non-dollar trade systems, other key members like India and the UAE maintain essential strategic, economic, and security relationships with Washington and Western nations.&nbsp;The broader economic impacts of these conflicts remain a core focus for the summit. Military disruptions near the Strait of Hormuz and broader West Asian volatility have rattled global energy markets, keeping crude oil prices hovering above $80 per barrel and threatening international maritime shipping lines. In response, the summit’s economic agenda emphasises building resilient global value chains, strengthening trade access for small businesses, and advancing cross-border payment mechanisms using local currencies and interconnected digital infrastructure to mitigate exposure to international supply shocks.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brics-summit-2026-from-delhi-to-g20-in-florida-is-india-emerging-as-the-voice-of-the-global-south-1788848244799">From Delhi to G20 in Florida, is India emerging as voice of the Global South?</a>&nbsp;For host nation India, the summit represents a delicate balancing act of strategic autonomy. New Delhi will be navigating internal ideological divisions while preserving the bloc’s core mandate as a constructive platform for multilateral governance reform and global economic stability. As world leaders convene, the gathering underscores how an expanded BRICS must manage the uneasy peace among its diverse membership while addressing the far-reaching spillovers of global warfare.

As geopolitical friction intensifies across Eurasia and the Middle East, the BRICS summit brings key global players together under one roof. Explore how the bloc attempts to broker diplomacy and manage an uneasy peace amidst the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and rising Iran-US-Israel tensions.

As India prepares to host the 18th BRICS Summit on September 12, at Bharat Mandapam, the expanded geopolitical bloc faces its most critical diplomatic test to date. The summit brings together leaders from across the Global South under the theme "Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation, and Sustainability," yet the meeting is overshadowed by two simultaneous security crises involving major member states and key global powers. The bloc now sits at the intersection of two major war theatres: the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and escalating military confrontations involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to attend in person, marking his second visit to New Delhi in under a year. At the same time, Iranian leadership continues to urge BRICS partners to present a unified diplomatic front against Western military actions and economic sanctions. Also read: BRICS Summit 2026: Should the bloc grow? Pakistan, Bangladesh among aspirants, India cautious, China backs expansion The dual conflicts highlight deep structural contradictions within the group. Following its recent expansion which brought Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Ethiopia, and Indonesia into the fold alongside original members Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa BRICS now encompasses states with starkly divergent geopolitical alignments. While Moscow and Tehran seek to leverage the platform to actively counter Western pressure and foster non-dollar trade systems, other key members like India and the UAE maintain essential strategic, economic, and security relationships with Washington and Western nations. The broader economic impacts of these conflicts remain a core focus for the summit. Military disruptions near the Strait of Hormuz and broader West Asian volatility have rattled global energy markets, keeping crude oil prices hovering above $80 per barrel and threatening international maritime shipping lines. In response, the summit’s economic agenda emphasises building resilient global value chains, strengthening trade access for small businesses, and advancing cross-border payment mechanisms using local currencies and interconnected digital infrastructure to mitigate exposure to international supply shocks. Also read: From Delhi to G20 in Florida, is India emerging as voice of the Global South? For host nation India, the summit represents a delicate balancing act of strategic autonomy. New Delhi will be navigating internal ideological divisions while preserving the bloc’s core mandate as a constructive platform for multilateral governance reform and global economic stability. As world leaders convene, the gathering underscores how an expanded BRICS must manage the uneasy peace among its diverse membership while addressing the far-reaching spillovers of global warfare.

As geopolitical friction intensifies across Eurasia and the Middle East, the BRICS summit brings key global players together under one roof. Explore how the bloc attempts to broker diplomacy and manage an uneasy peace amidst the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and rising Iran-US-Israel tensions.

Two fronts, one stage: Russia-Ukraine and West Asia crises shadow BRICS Summit

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