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The Philippines’ ambassador to India, Josel F. Ignacio, has described the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile deal as a game-changer that delivers “real credible deterrence” for the archipelago nation amid rising territorial challenges in the South China Sea. Josel F. Ignacio, speaking at ORF's "Diplomatic Diaries" pointed out that the acquisition supports the modernisation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and strengthens its territorial defence posture.&nbsp;“We are very pleased with how the BrahMos project with India is going. At this point, it bestows on us real credible deterrence, which is in sync with the kind of archipelagic defence we want to have,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-pakistan-prime-minister-imran-khan-dead-pakistani-journalist-s-claim-raises-serious-questions-about-his-health-1786534280781">Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan dead? Pakistani journalist’s claim raises serious questions about his health</a>&nbsp;The ambassador linked the missile system directly to Manila’s security concerns. “For us, the BrahMos acquisition supports the modernisation of our armed forces and bestows us with credible deterrence as we improve our territorial defence posture, especially amidst concerns like areas in the South China Sea.” The Philippines became India’s first export customer for the BrahMos, a joint Indo-Russian system known for its speed and precision. Ignacio noted that other Southeast Asian nations have since shown interest, following Manila’s lead. He described the deal as more than a simple arms purchase, but one that has elevated India’s standing. “What the BrahMos project has done is raise the profile of India for the Philippines defence establishment as a credible, reliable source of quality defence equipment.” Looking beyond hardware, Ignacio signalled interest in deeper industrial cooperation. “We are not just talking about buying equipment from India, but going beyond that, perhaps cooperating with India, which has a robust indigenous defence sector, to have a similar one in the Philippines, going by the Indian experience.” Defence ties now form a central pillar of the bilateral strategic partnership. “This is an important pillar for the strategic partnership. The BrahMos purchased by the Philippines is the most visible example,” he said. “It also marked a milestone in the emergence of India as a very trusted defence partner and exporter and source of defence equipment for the Philippines. Yet our defence cooperation extends well beyond just the BrahMos.” Indian systems are increasingly attractive, according to the ambassador. “India is sort of higher on our horizon in our minds, when it comes to looking at possible sources for procurement of technologies. Indian technologies, indigenous missiles and weaponry, have proven their worth as reliable, and cost-effective.”

Philippines Ambassador Josel F. Ignacio said the BrahMos missile deal with India provides “real credible deterrence” for Manila while strengthening its territorial defence and deepening India-Philippines defence cooperation amid South China Sea tensions.

The Philippines’ ambassador to India, Josel F. Ignacio, has described the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile deal as a game-changer that delivers “real credible deterrence” for the archipelago nation amid rising territorial challenges in the South China Sea. Josel F. Ignacio, speaking at ORF's "Diplomatic Diaries" pointed out that the acquisition supports the modernisation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and strengthens its territorial defence posture. “We are very pleased with how the BrahMos project with India is going. At this point, it bestows on us real credible deterrence, which is in sync with the kind of archipelagic defence we want to have,” he said. Also Read: Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan dead? Pakistani journalist’s claim raises serious questions about his health The ambassador linked the missile system directly to Manila’s security concerns. “For us, the BrahMos acquisition supports the modernisation of our armed forces and bestows us with credible deterrence as we improve our territorial defence posture, especially amidst concerns like areas in the South China Sea.” The Philippines became India’s first export customer for the BrahMos, a joint Indo-Russian system known for its speed and precision. Ignacio noted that other Southeast Asian nations have since shown interest, following Manila’s lead. He described the deal as more than a simple arms purchase, but one that has elevated India’s standing. “What the BrahMos project has done is raise the profile of India for the Philippines defence establishment as a credible, reliable source of quality defence equipment.” Looking beyond hardware, Ignacio signalled interest in deeper industrial cooperation. “We are not just talking about buying equipment from India, but going beyond that, perhaps cooperating with India, which has a robust indigenous defence sector, to have a similar one in the Philippines, going by the Indian experience.” Defence ties now form a central pillar of the bilateral strategic partnership. “This is an important pillar for the strategic partnership. The BrahMos purchased by the Philippines is the most visible example,” he said. “It also marked a milestone in the emergence of India as a very trusted defence partner and exporter and source of defence equipment for the Philippines. Yet our defence cooperation extends well beyond just the BrahMos.” Indian systems are increasingly attractive, according to the ambassador. “India is sort of higher on our horizon in our minds, when it comes to looking at possible sources for procurement of technologies. Indian technologies, indigenous missiles and weaponry, have proven their worth as reliable, and cost-effective.”

Philippines Ambassador Josel F. Ignacio said the BrahMos missile deal with India provides “real credible deterrence” for Manila while strengthening its territorial defence and deepening India-Philippines defence cooperation amid South China Sea tensions.

Philippines Ambassador Ignacio calls BrahMos deal ‘real credible deterrence’ amid South China Sea tensions

Russia is contemplating a railway link to the Indian Ocean and India. In an interview with TASS news agency, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin said, “A rail link to the Indian Ocean should also be explored. Risks related to the Bosphorus and the Strait of Hormuz might require alternative routes.&nbsp;He said that the potential routes could pass through Turkmenistan, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, and that any corridor providing connectivity to India would be considered “viable.”&nbsp;The proposal comes amid disruptions to maritime trade through the Strait of Hormuz following the West Asia conflict.&nbsp;<h2>But why is Russia proposing to open a rail link to India?</h2>&nbsp;<ul><li>Russian trade with India currently depends heavily on maritime routes. The proposed rail route aims to reduce dependence on the key waterways Bosphorus and Strait of Hormuz, which can be impacted by geopolitical crises</li><li>A rail route gives Moscow alternate route to reach markets in India and the wider Global South without facing major Western sanctions and shipping, logistics constraints it has been subjected too since 2022, after it launched an attack on Ukraine. This will reduce Russia's dependence on &nbsp;Western-controlled maritime infrastructure to a large extent&nbsp;</li><li>India and Russia's commitment to expanding transport links and increasing cargo movement through the INSTC requires reducing transportation time and cost</li><li>A rail corridor is going to help Russia build stronger economic connections with Iran, Central Asia and South Asia. It will connect Russian producers to Indian consumers and create new logistics hubs along the way</li><li>So, in simple terms Russia wants a "land bridge" to India so that if shipping through the Hormuz and Bosphorus becomes expensive, dangerous or politically complicated, it has an alternative to ship Russian goods to the Indian Ocean</li></ul>&nbsp;Though the proposal appears to be a solution, building the rail link would not be easy due to severe geopolitical challenges, given the security situation in Afghanistan and the complex regional relationships among the countries involved.&nbsp;

A rail route gives Moscow alternate route to reach markets in India and the wider Global South without facing major Western sanctions and shipping, logistics constraints it has been subjected too since 2022, after it launched an attack on Ukraine.

Russia is contemplating a railway link to the Indian Ocean and India. In an interview with TASS news agency, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin said, “A rail link to the Indian Ocean should also be explored. Risks related to the Bosphorus and the Strait of Hormuz might require alternative routes. He said that the potential routes could pass through Turkmenistan, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, and that any corridor providing connectivity to India would be considered “viable.” The proposal comes amid disruptions to maritime trade through the Strait of Hormuz following the West Asia conflict. But why is Russia proposing to open a rail link to India? Russian trade with India currently depends heavily on maritime routes. The proposed rail route aims to reduce dependence on the key waterways Bosphorus and Strait of Hormuz, which can be impacted by geopolitical crises A rail route gives Moscow alternate route to reach markets in India and the wider Global South without facing major Western sanctions and shipping, logistics constraints it has been subjected too since 2022, after it launched an attack on Ukraine. This will reduce Russia's dependence on Western-controlled maritime infrastructure to a large extent India and Russia's commitment to expanding transport links and increasing cargo movement through the INSTC requires reducing transportation time and cost A rail corridor is going to help Russia build stronger economic connections with Iran, Central Asia and South Asia. It will connect Russian producers to Indian consumers and create new logistics hubs along the way So, in simple terms Russia wants a "land bridge" to India so that if shipping through the Hormuz and Bosphorus becomes expensive, dangerous or politically complicated, it has an alternative to ship Russian goods to the Indian Ocean Though the proposal appears to be a solution, building the rail link would not be easy due to severe geopolitical challenges, given the security situation in Afghanistan and the complex regional relationships among the countries involved.

A rail route gives Moscow alternate route to reach markets in India and the wider Global South without facing major Western sanctions and shipping, logistics constraints it has been subjected too since 2022, after it launched an attack on Ukraine.

Why is Russia proposing a rail link to India? WION Decodes its impact on trade of both countries

A white jade bridge stretching into the clouds, towering heavenly palaces with tall, curved roofs, and cranes flying between temples that float on clouds. That’s a visual display of heaven for you, the twist being that this heaven has a traditional Chinese look, and is made in China. From the architecture of palaces and temples to flowing robes, the Chinese aesthetics is palpable everywhere. And why not, as it is an AI-generated video of heaven made by a Chinese man.&nbsp;&nbsp;The AI-generated video of less than a minute has been shared online by viewers across the world and has garnered more than 5 million views across social platforms in less than four days.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">What does the Chinese heaven look like? The owner of an optical shop in China went viral with an AI-generated video of “Chinese-style heaven”. <a href="https://t.co/X1gFrJxnyV">pic.twitter.com/X1gFrJxnyV</a>&mdash; Chinese Embassy in Ireland (@ChinaEmbIreland) <a href="https://x.com/ChinaEmbIreland/status/2087094892891701615?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;Most social media users assumed it to be a creation of a film studio or a professional 3D animation team. In reality, it has been created by an optical shop owner named Qi Guang, who learned AI image and video generation on his own over two years, making best use of the spare time he had when there were no customers.&nbsp;<h2>New trend ‘handcraft’ economy spreading in China</h2>&nbsp;Qi Guang’s overnight fame is not an isolated internet success story. A new trend, named the ‘handcraft’ economy is spreading in China. It is used to describe the process of bringing ideas to fruition by hand on a small scale while using simple tools and relying on individual skill or manual labour rather than industrial production lines.&nbsp;The hashtag ‘Hand-Crafting Everything’ has surpassed 100 million views on Chinese social media.Solo developers are launching AI-powered tools in app stores, competing directly with products backed by tech giants. The low cost, high creative freedom, and fragmented workflow are redefining entrepreneurship.&nbsp;Few viewers of Qi Guang’s viral celestial video could make out it wasn’t a creation of a studio but had been crafted after hundreds of discarded attempts.&nbsp;<h2>Creator Qi Guang had a fascination for mythology</h2>&nbsp;Qi Guang told the Global Times that he had a fascination for everything grand and ethereal in Chinese mythology and envisioned the celestial palaces and floating realms mentioned in the ancient texts.&nbsp;“I realised AI could break down the barriers for ordinary people. The images I had held in my mind for so long could finally become visible,” Qi Guang said.&nbsp;He started learning text-to-image and image-to-video conversion on AI tools.&nbsp;The creation of the now viral video was far more painstaking. Qiguang first conceptualised images, the overall atmosphere and camera movement.&nbsp;<h2>‘Had to tweak prompts innumerable times’</h2>&nbsp;Then he generated high-quality static images for each frame by using an AI image generation tool, for which he had to tweak his prompts innumerable times to get the architectural details, colours, lighting and composition he wanted. Next, he fed the selected images into AI video-generation models to add dynamic lens effects. After tedious editing and merging clips, he finally picked music to match the mood.&nbsp;“AI frequently produces garbled architecture, deformed figures, or unnatural motion,” Qi Guang said."You envision something perfect in your mind, but after dozens of generations, you still haven't transformed your vision into reality."&nbsp;“You can begin with just one person and a single computer, turning ideas directly into content or products. Heavy upfront investment disappears, yet every tedious task, every round of trial and error, falls solely on the creator,” Qi Guang said.

This AI-generated video of less than a minute has been shared online by viewers across the world and has garnered more than 5 million views across social platforms in less than four days. Most social media users assumed it to be a creation of a film studio or a professional 3D animation team.

A white jade bridge stretching into the clouds, towering heavenly palaces with tall, curved roofs, and cranes flying between temples that float on clouds. That’s a visual display of heaven for you, the twist being that this heaven has a traditional Chinese look, and is made in China. From the architecture of palaces and temples to flowing robes, the Chinese aesthetics is palpable everywhere. And why not, as it is an AI-generated video of heaven made by a Chinese man. The AI-generated video of less than a minute has been shared online by viewers across the world and has garnered more than 5 million views across social platforms in less than four days.

The AI-generated video of less than a minute has been shared online by viewers across the world and has garnered more than 5 million views across social platforms in less than four days. Most social media users assumed it to be a creation of a film studio or a professional 3D animation team.

Heaven – Made in China: Optical shop owner learns AI painstakingly, gets fame as video goes viral

Former Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji died on Wednesday at the age of 97 in Beijing. According to Chinese News agency Xinhua, he died of an unspecified illness at around 11:06 am in local time. Chinese state media honoured him in an obituary as a "loyal communist fighter" and an "outstanding leader," remembering his life as one of "revolution, struggle, and glory."&nbsp;He is widely regarded as the “free-marketeer” among the Chinese Communist Party and had been purged twice under Mao Zedong for criticising irrational economic planning. Western media celebrates him as a neo-liberal stalwart in the CCP who brought China into the World Trade Organisation in 2002 through gruelling negotiations. But he was more of a statist rather than a capitalist. He is widely recognised as the chief architect of modern Chinese state capitalism, shifting the country away from a traditional Soviet-style planned economy. He introduced the policy of "Zhuge Fangxiao", which meant selling off or closing smaller, inefficient local factories and moving local tax powers to the central government. He pushed government enterprises to act like a private one, to show profitability and punished those who failed to do so. He is remembered in China as a tough, pragmatic leader who delivered double-digit growth and rarely minced his words.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/robert-gilman-released-russia-trump-putin-talks-1786469490294">Former US Marine Robert Gilman released by Russia without prisoner swap</a>His four volumes of speeches, which came out in 2011, had shocking references to "tofu dregs" flood dykes built by "parasites", and erring bankers labelled as "half-wits". It became a bestseller in the country. "Our country faces many potential crises that could ​erupt at any time," Zhu said early in 1998 as he was becoming the premier. “Ordinary people are discontent about us in many ways. Especially, there is corruption among officials, the gulf between rich and poor, and the way some local officials act like tyrants.” It provides a window into the deeper anxieties coursing through China as it approached a transition that ushered in Xi Jinping as leader.Zhu's tenure was not an unalloyed success. He was praised for fostering economic hyper-growth, but criticised for leaving structural imbalances, local debt issues, and factory closure fallout for his successors. However, the massive, state-controlled monopolies Zhu preserved formed the exact foundation that President Xi Jinping later used to strengthen state control over the economy.&nbsp;

Zhu Rongji dies, former Chinese premier Zhu Rongji, Zhu Rongji economic reforms, China state capitalism, Zhu Rongji WTO, China economy, Chinese Communist Party, Zhu Rongji legacy, Xi Jinping, China economic reforms

Former Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji died on Wednesday at the age of 97 in Beijing. According to Chinese News agency Xinhua, he died of an unspecified illness at around 11:06 am in local time. Chinese state media honoured him in an obituary as a "loyal communist fighter" and an "outstanding leader," remembering his life as one of "revolution, struggle, and glory." He is widely regarded as the “free-marketeer” among the Chinese Communist Party and had been purged twice under Mao Zedong for criticising irrational economic planning. Western media celebrates him as a neo-liberal stalwart in the CCP who brought China into the World Trade Organisation in 2002 through gruelling negotiations. But he was more of a statist rather than a capitalist. He is widely recognised as the chief architect of modern Chinese state capitalism, shifting the country away from a traditional Soviet-style planned economy. He introduced the policy of "Zhuge Fangxiao", which meant selling off or closing smaller, inefficient local factories and moving local tax powers to the central government. He pushed government enterprises to act like a private one, to show profitability and punished those who failed to do so. He is remembered in China as a tough, pragmatic leader who delivered double-digit growth and rarely minced his words. Also Read: Former US Marine Robert Gilman released by Russia without prisoner swap His four volumes of speeches, which came out in 2011, had shocking references to "tofu dregs" flood dykes built by "parasites", and erring bankers labelled as "half-wits". It became a bestseller in the country. "Our country faces many potential crises that could erupt at any time," Zhu said early in 1998 as he was becoming the premier. “Ordinary people are discontent about us in many ways. Especially, there is corruption among officials, the gulf between rich and poor, and the way some local officials act like tyrants.” It provides a window into the deeper anxieties coursing through China as it approached a transition that ushered in Xi Jinping as leader. Zhu's tenure was not an unalloyed success. He was praised for fostering economic hyper-growth, but criticised for leaving structural imbalances, local debt issues, and factory closure fallout for his successors. However, the massive, state-controlled monopolies Zhu preserved formed the exact foundation that President Xi Jinping later used to strengthen state control over the economy.

Zhu Rongji dies, former Chinese premier Zhu Rongji, Zhu Rongji economic reforms, China state capitalism, Zhu Rongji WTO, China economy, Chinese Communist Party, Zhu Rongji legacy, Xi Jinping, China economic reforms

Zhu Rongji dies at 97: How the former Chinese premier reshaped China’s economy

After Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief and former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan's speculated poor health was widely reported in the media and protests by Khan's family members and his party supporters, an unverified claim by Pakistani journalist Wajahat Saeed Khan that Imran Khan may have died in Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail has raised serious concerns.&nbsp;Wajahat, an Emmy-nominated journalist, now based in the US, &nbsp;in an interview claimed that “three senior military sources told him that Imran Khan is no longer with us".&nbsp;According to Wajahat, conversations with senior officials in the Army’s General Staff, Military Intelligence and C4I directorates, as well as a junior commissioned officer, all based at Army headquarters in Rawalpindi, was the base of his reporting.&nbsp;However, he noted that the sources in question were unable to independently verify the information. “Let’s be very clear. They did not confirm that Imran Khan is dead,” he said.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-respond-in-kind-putin-warns-europe-over-seizure-of-russian-vessels-1786531660603">'We will respond in kind': Putin warns Europe over seizure of Russian vessels</a>&nbsp;“Three senior GHQ-based officers have expressed this in different ways that Imran Khan is no longer with us, and that is the reason why the Pakistan Army and the Army Chief are keeping him away from the rest of the country... This is serious. I hope it is not true. It is not confirmed yet.... Three senior military sources fear that Imran Khan is no longer with us. They haven't seen anything with their own eyes, but they have heard things with their ears, said Wajahat in a video posted on YouTube on August 10.&nbsp;But the circumstances surrounding his detention have again intensified concerns as on Tuesday (Aug 11) Imran Khan's family and colleagues of his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party claimed they were not given permission to meet him amid concerns over his deteriorating health.&nbsp;Khan too has repeatedly claimed that authorities have prevented him from meeting his family members.&nbsp;Pakistani authorities are under immense pressure to establish his condition.<h2>Why is Imran Khan in Jail</h2>&nbsp;Imran Khan, 73, was jailed on August 5, 2023 and is serving a 14-year sentence in connection with the £190-million Al-Qadir Trust corruption case. His wife, Bushra Bibi, is also serving seven years jail term in the same case after being arrested in January last year. Both of them have challenged their convictions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wajahat, an Emmy-nominated journalist, now based in the US,  in an interview claimed that “three senior military sources told him that Imran Khan is no longer with us".

After Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief and former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan's speculated poor health was widely reported in the media and protests by Khan's family members and his party supporters, an unverified claim by Pakistani journalist Wajahat Saeed Khan that Imran Khan may have died in Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail has raised serious concerns. Wajahat, an Emmy-nominated journalist, now based in the US, in an interview claimed that “three senior military sources told him that Imran Khan is no longer with us". According to Wajahat, conversations with senior officials in the Army’s General Staff, Military Intelligence and C4I directorates, as well as a junior commissioned officer, all based at Army headquarters in Rawalpindi, was the base of his reporting. However, he noted that the sources in question were unable to independently verify the information. “Let’s be very clear. They did not confirm that Imran Khan is dead,” he said. ALSO READ: 'We will respond in kind': Putin warns Europe over seizure of Russian vessels “Three senior GHQ-based officers have expressed this in different ways that Imran Khan is no longer with us, and that is the reason why the Pakistan Army and the Army Chief are keeping him away from the rest of the country... This is serious. I hope it is not true. It is not confirmed yet.... Three senior military sources fear that Imran Khan is no longer with us. They haven't seen anything with their own eyes, but they have heard things with their ears, said Wajahat in a video posted on YouTube on August 10. But the circumstances surrounding his detention have again intensified concerns as on Tuesday (Aug 11) Imran Khan's family and colleagues of his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party claimed they were not given permission to meet him amid concerns over his deteriorating health. Khan too has repeatedly claimed that authorities have prevented him from meeting his family members. Pakistani authorities are under immense pressure to establish his condition. Why is Imran Khan in Jail Imran Khan, 73, was jailed on August 5, 2023 and is serving a 14-year sentence in connection with the £190-million Al-Qadir Trust corruption case. His wife, Bushra Bibi, is also serving seven years jail term in the same case after being arrested in January last year. Both of them have challenged their convictions.

Wajahat, an Emmy-nominated journalist, now based in the US, &nbsp;in an interview claimed that “three senior military sources told him that Imran Khan is no longer with us".

Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan dead? Pakistani journalist’s claim raises serious questions about his health

Former Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud has been appointed as an arbitrator by Russia in a high-stakes international arbitration tribunal hearing between Russia and Ukrainian-owned Oschadbank, according to a report by Global Arbitration Review cited by Bar and Bench. The case will be heard by a three-member arbitral tribunal.Costa Rican arbitrator and former trade minister Dyalá Jiménez will preside over the three-member tribunal. He was jointly selected by the presidents on either side. The third member is a Greek arbitrator, Stavros Brekoulakis and a professor at the National University of Singapore; he was appointed by Oschadbank.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/robert-gilman-released-russia-trump-putin-talks-1786469490294">Former US Marine Robert Gilman released by Russia without prisoner swap</a><h2>What is the dispute?</h2>The dispute is centred around Oschadbank's loss of hundreds of millions of dollars. It claims that it lost assets and operations in the Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Legal proceedings have been initiated under the 1998 Russia-Ukraine Bilateral Investment Treaty. Oschadbank initiated the proceedings after a notice of dispute served on Russia in July 2025 allegedly went unanswered by Moscow.&nbsp;<h2>Shift in Chandrachud's stance</h2>Justice Chandrachud previously declined approaches from Russia to serve as its arbitrator in treaty claims brought by &nbsp;German energy firm Wintershall Dea and Ukrainian utility Ukrenergo. He had previously stepped down from a designated appointing role at the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) after revealing initial communication from Russia.

Former CJI DY Chandrachud has been appointed as Russia’s arbitrator in a high-stakes treaty dispute with Ukraine’s Oschadbank.

Former Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud has been appointed as an arbitrator by Russia in a high-stakes international arbitration tribunal hearing between Russia and Ukrainian-owned Oschadbank, according to a report by Global Arbitration Review cited by Bar and Bench. The case will be heard by a three-member arbitral tribunal. Costa Rican arbitrator and former trade minister Dyalá Jiménez will preside over the three-member tribunal. He was jointly selected by the presidents on either side. The third member is a Greek arbitrator, Stavros Brekoulakis and a professor at the National University of Singapore; he was appointed by Oschadbank. Also Read: Former US Marine Robert Gilman released by Russia without prisoner swap What is the dispute? The dispute is centred around Oschadbank's loss of hundreds of millions of dollars. It claims that it lost assets and operations in the Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Legal proceedings have been initiated under the 1998 Russia-Ukraine Bilateral Investment Treaty. Oschadbank initiated the proceedings after a notice of dispute served on Russia in July 2025 allegedly went unanswered by Moscow. Shift in Chandrachud's stance Justice Chandrachud previously declined approaches from Russia to serve as its arbitrator in treaty claims brought by German energy firm Wintershall Dea and Ukrainian utility Ukrenergo. He had previously stepped down from a designated appointing role at the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) after revealing initial communication from Russia.

Former CJI DY Chandrachud has been appointed as Russia’s arbitrator in a high-stakes treaty dispute with Ukraine’s Oschadbank.

Former CJI DY Chandrachud appointed Russia’s arbitrator in Oschadbank dispute

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (Aug 12) warned that Russia would respond “in kind” if European countries seize Russian merchant vessels, as the European Union steps up pressure on Moscow’s so-called shadow fleet.The warning was reported by Russia’s state-run TASS news agency, which cited Putin as saying that any seizure of Russian vessels would amount to “piracy and banditry”.“And if this is actually put into practice, we will be forced to respond in kind,” Putin was quoted as saying.He also warned that any Russian retaliation would not necessarily be confined to the waters where Russian ships were seized.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/make-american-children-dead-again-internet-blasts-at-trump-over-his-child-vaccine-policy-1786442994886">‘Make American children dead again’: Internet blasts at Trump over his child vaccine policy</a>“It will happen wherever we deem it necessary and appropriate,” TASS quoted the Russian president as saying.The comments come as the EU intensifies measures targeting Russia’s shadow fleet, a term used for vessels suspected of helping Moscow evade Western sanctions, including restrictions on oil exports.The bloc has expanded sanctions against hundreds of vessels, while some European countries have detained ships and their crews for checks. Several governments have also indicated that they are considering tougher maritime enforcement measures against vessels suspected of sanctions evasion.Putin made the remarks while visiting Russia’s far eastern island of Sakhalin, where he was observing military exercises.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/living-dinosaurs-could-be-400-years-old-great-lakes-fish-may-have-astonishing-lifespan-1786442390734">‘Living dinosaurs’ could be 400 years old: Great Lakes fish may have astonishing lifespan</a>During his comments, he also accused NATO of expanding its presence in the Asia-Pacific region and contributing to growing tensions in the Arctic.“NATO is making inroads into the region, new military-political blocs are being formed, and new weapons systems that pose a threat to Russia are being deployed or are slated for deployment,” TASS quoted Putin as saying.The latest warning adds to tensions between Moscow and European countries over efforts to enforce sanctions and disrupt Russia’s maritime networks.

Russian President Vladimir Putin threatened to retaliate anywhere if European countries seize Russian shadow fleet ships enforcing oil sanctions, calling potential vessel detentions act of piracy and banditry.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (Aug 12) warned that Russia would respond “in kind” if European countries seize Russian merchant vessels, as the European Union steps up pressure on Moscow’s so-called shadow fleet. The warning was reported by Russia’s state-run TASS news agency, which cited Putin as saying that any seizure of Russian vessels would amount to “piracy and banditry”. “And if this is actually put into practice, we will be forced to respond in kind,” Putin was quoted as saying. He also warned that any Russian retaliation would not necessarily be confined to the waters where Russian ships were seized. Also read: ‘Make American children dead again’: Internet blasts at Trump over his child vaccine policy “It will happen wherever we deem it necessary and appropriate,” TASS quoted the Russian president as saying. The comments come as the EU intensifies measures targeting Russia’s shadow fleet, a term used for vessels suspected of helping Moscow evade Western sanctions, including restrictions on oil exports. The bloc has expanded sanctions against hundreds of vessels, while some European countries have detained ships and their crews for checks. Several governments have also indicated that they are considering tougher maritime enforcement measures against vessels suspected of sanctions evasion. Putin made the remarks while visiting Russia’s far eastern island of Sakhalin, where he was observing military exercises. Also read: ‘Living dinosaurs’ could be 400 years old: Great Lakes fish may have astonishing lifespan During his comments, he also accused NATO of expanding its presence in the Asia-Pacific region and contributing to growing tensions in the Arctic. “NATO is making inroads into the region, new military-political blocs are being formed, and new weapons systems that pose a threat to Russia are being deployed or are slated for deployment,” TASS quoted Putin as saying. The latest warning adds to tensions between Moscow and European countries over efforts to enforce sanctions and disrupt Russia’s maritime networks.

Russian President Vladimir Putin threatened to retaliate anywhere if European countries seize Russian shadow fleet ships enforcing oil sanctions, calling potential vessel detentions act of piracy and banditry.

'We will respond in kind': Putin warns Europe over seizure of Russian vessels

An Air India pilot has reportedly tested positive for marijuana in a second, confirmatory drug test following an incident involving a Phuket-Delhi flight that suddenly lost around 300 feet of altitude last week.&nbsp;According to Reuters, the captain’s initial screening for psychoactive substances had produced a result requiring confirmatory laboratory testing. A source familiar with the matter later said the confirmatory test was positive for marijuana. The incident, involving an Airbus A320neo, injured 13 passengers and four crew members. The aircraft, carrying 137 passengers and eight crew members, landed safely in Delhi.&nbsp;The case has put renewed focus on how aviation authorities test pilots for alcohol and drugs, what happens after a positive result and how India compares with regulations in countries such as the US and UK.<h2>How might a pilot high on marijuana behave?</h2>Cannabis can affect several functions that are important for flying, including attention, decision-making, coordination, movement, memory and reaction time. The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention says recent cannabis use can slow reaction time and decision-making, impair coordination and distort perception. The National Institute on Drug Abuse similarly says marijuana can slow reaction time, impair judgement and reduce coordination.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-a320-lost-300-ft-after-triple-hydraulic-failures-autopilot-glitch-says-report-1786416224131">Air India A320 lost 300 ft after triple Hydraulic failures, autopilot glitch, claims report</a>&nbsp;A person who is acutely impaired may therefore show poor coordination, slower responses, difficulty concentrating, altered perception or impaired judgement. However, these effects can vary depending on factors including the amount of THC consumed and whether other substances were used.&nbsp;Importantly, a positive cannabis test does not by itself establish that a person was intoxicated or impaired at the exact time of a flight. Cannabis metabolites can remain detectable after the period of acute effects, and the relationship between a positive test and the level of impairment at a particular moment is not straightforward. The CDC has also cautioned that it is difficult to link the presence or concentration of THC to impairment in a person.<h2>How are pilots tested for alcohol and drugs before or after a flight?</h2>Alcohol and drug testing are handled differently because alcohol can be measured through breath or blood alcohol concentration, while drug screening generally involves biological samples and subsequent laboratory confirmation.&nbsp;IndiaUnder DGCA rules, flight crew members operating scheduled flights originating from India are required to undergo a pre-flight breath-analyser examination at the first departure airport during a flight duty period. If a crew member operates a flight without undergoing the test, the person is to be taken off the roster at the first point of landing, and the matter reported to the DGCA.&nbsp;USThe US has a more detailed statutory testing framework for aviation workers performing safety-sensitive functions. Under Federal Aviation Administration regulations contained in 14 CFR Part 120, covered aviation employers must conduct pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable-cause, return-to-duty and follow-up drug testing. Flight crew members are specifically included among safety-sensitive employees subject to the programme.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-loss-of-separation-inside-the-aviation-term-linked-to-trump-s-marine-one-1785992154201">What is ‘Loss of Separation’? Inside the aviation term linked to Trump’s Marine One</a>&nbsp;UKThe UK combines operator responsibilities, medical certification requirements and regulatory testing. The UK Civil Aviation Authority says commercial operators must have policies for preventing and detecting misuse of psychoactive substances among flight crew, cabin crew and other safety-sensitive personnel. The policy should include testing on initial employment and periodically on an unannounced basis.<h2>What are the DGCA rules for alcohol and drug testing of pilots in India?</h2>India has separate but complementary rules covering alcohol and psychoactive substances. Under Rule 24 of the Aircraft Rules, 1937, a person acting as a pilot or other operating crew member cannot consume alcohol, sedatives, narcotic or stimulant drugs within 12 hours before the commencement of a flight or during the flight. The rules also prohibit crew from being in a state of intoxication or having detectable blood alcohol while performing their duties.&nbsp;For alcohol, DGCA rules require pre-flight breath-analyser testing for flight crew and cabin crew on scheduled flights. The equipment and testing process are regulated, with confirmatory testing available when an initial result is positive. Positive or missed tests must be reported to the DGCA within 24 hours.<h2>How do countries such as the US and UK regulate drug and alcohol testing for pilots?</h2>There is a common principle across major aviation systems: pilots performing safety-sensitive duties must not be under the influence of alcohol or prohibited psychoactive substances. The US has a highly structured workplace testing system under FAA and Department of Transportation rules. It includes pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable-cause, return-to-duty and follow-up drug testing. A verified positive result prevents a pilot from performing safety-sensitive duties until the requirements for returning to duty are met.<h2>What happens to a pilot if found positive, and can the pilot lose the licence or face suspension?</h2>A positive screening result is generally not treated as the final result. A confirmatory test is conducted to establish whether the initial finding is valid. In India, a pilot with a non-negative drug screening result is removed from duty until confirmation. If the first confirmatory test is positive, the pilot is referred for de-addiction and rehabilitation and must subsequently test negative and obtain the required medical fitness clearance before returning to active duties.&nbsp;Repeat violations carry substantially tougher consequences. Under the DGCA’s psychoactive substance rules, a second confirmed positive can lead to a three-year suspension of the licence, while a third can result in cancellation.&nbsp;

Following an Air India flight incident, a pilot tested positive for marijuana. Global aviation authorities in India, the US, and UK enforce strict testing protocols, suspensions, and rehabilitation for pilots.



An Air India pilot has reportedly tested positive for marijuana in a second, confirmatory drug test following an incident involving a Phuket-Delhi flight that suddenly lost around 300 feet of altitude last week. According to Reuters, the captain’s initial screening for psychoactive substances had produced a result requiring confirmatory laboratory testing. A source familiar with the matter later said the confirmatory test was positive for marijuana. The incident, involving an Airbus A320neo, injured 13 passengers and four crew members. The aircraft, carrying 137 passengers and eight crew members, landed safely in Delhi. The case has put renewed focus on how aviation authorities test pilots for alcohol and drugs, what happens after a positive result and how India compares with regulations in countries such as the US and UK. How might a pilot high on marijuana behave? Cannabis can affect several functions that are important for flying, including attention, decision-making, coordination, movement, memory and reaction time. The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention says recent cannabis use can slow reaction time and decision-making, impair coordination and distort perception. The National Institute on Drug Abuse similarly says marijuana can slow reaction time, impair judgement and reduce coordination. Also read: Air India A320 lost 300 ft after triple Hydraulic failures, autopilot glitch, claims report A person who is acutely impaired may therefore show poor coordination, slower responses, difficulty concentrating, altered perception or impaired judgement. However, these effects can vary depending on factors including the amount of THC consumed and whether other substances were used. Importantly, a positive cannabis test does not by itself establish that a person was intoxicated or impaired at the exact time of a flight. Cannabis metabolites can remain detectable after the period of acute effects, and the relationship between a positive test and the level of impairment at a particular moment is not straightforward. The CDC has also cautioned that it is difficult to link the presence or concentration of THC to impairment in a person. How are pilots tested for alcohol and drugs before or after a flight? Alcohol and drug testing are handled differently because alcohol can be measured through breath or blood alcohol concentration, while drug screening generally involves biological samples and subsequent laboratory confirmation. India Under DGCA rules, flight crew members operating scheduled flights originating from India are required to undergo a pre-flight breath-analyser examination at the first departure airport during a flight duty period. If a crew member operates a flight without undergoing the test, the person is to be taken off the roster at the first point of landing, and the matter reported to the DGCA. US The US has a more detailed statutory testing framework for aviation workers performing safety-sensitive functions. Under Federal Aviation Administration regulations contained in 14 CFR Part 120, covered aviation employers must conduct pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable-cause, return-to-duty and follow-up drug testing. Flight crew members are specifically included among safety-sensitive employees subject to the programme. Also read: What is ‘Loss of Separation’? Inside the aviation term linked to Trump’s Marine One UK The UK combines operator responsibilities, medical certification requirements and regulatory testing. The UK Civil Aviation Authority says commercial operators must have policies for preventing and detecting misuse of psychoactive substances among flight crew, cabin crew and other safety-sensitive personnel. The policy should include testing on initial employment and periodically on an unannounced basis. What are the DGCA rules for alcohol and drug testing of pilots in India? India has separate but complementary rules covering alcohol and psychoactive substances. Under Rule 24 of the Aircraft Rules, 1937, a person acting as a pilot or other operating crew member cannot consume alcohol, sedatives, narcotic or stimulant drugs within 12 hours before the commencement of a flight or during the flight. The rules also prohibit crew from being in a state of intoxication or having detectable blood alcohol while performing their duties. For alcohol, DGCA rules require pre-flight breath-analyser testing for flight crew and cabin crew on scheduled flights. The equipment and testing process are regulated, with confirmatory testing available when an initial result is positive. Positive or missed tests must be reported to the DGCA within 24 hours. How do countries such as the US and UK regulate drug and alcohol testing for pilots? There is a common principle across major aviation systems: pilots performing safety-sensitive duties must not be under the influence of alcohol or prohibited psychoactive substances. The US has a highly structured workplace testing system under FAA and Department of Transportation rules. It includes pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable-cause, return-to-duty and follow-up drug testing. A verified positive result prevents a pilot from performing safety-sensitive duties until the requirements for returning to duty are met. What happens to a pilot if found positive, and can the pilot lose the licence or face suspension? A positive screening result is generally not treated as the final result. A confirmatory test is conducted to establish whether the initial finding is valid. In India, a pilot with a non-negative drug screening result is removed from duty until confirmation. If the first confirmatory test is positive, the pilot is referred for de-addiction and rehabilitation and must subsequently test negative and obtain the required medical fitness clearance before returning to active duties. Repeat violations carry substantially tougher consequences. Under the DGCA’s psychoactive substance rules, a second confirmed positive can lead to a three-year suspension of the licence, while a third can result in cancellation.

Following an Air India flight incident, a pilot tested positive for marijuana. Global aviation authorities in India, the US, and UK enforce strict testing protocols, suspensions, and rehabilitation for pilots.&nbsp;

Air India pilot tests positive for Marijuana again: Can a pilot fly after testing positive for drugs? India, US and UK rules explained

Several sailors on board the USS Abraham Lincoln have tried to jump from the ship in recent weeks, reports suggest. According to a report by Military Times, the extended deployment has wreaked havoc with the mental health of those on the ship, leading some of them to take the extreme step. More than 5,000 sailors and Marines have been deployed on the Abraham Lincoln since November last year. It was supposed to end in May, but the vessel has been supporting America's military actions in the Middle East.&nbsp;A woman named Annabelle Loma told the outlet that she received a call that her husband tried to go overboard the ship. She says his deployment was repeatedly overextended, after which he took the extreme step. He is now on medical hold, and she hasn't heard from the Navy since then.&nbsp;In another incident, a sailor stopped a shipmate from going overboard, his wife Maria Rodriguez said. The woman said that her husband saw the man preparing to jump, but called out to him in time and pulled him back onto the deck. He had luckily not gone to the other side. Three others heard the noise and reached the site. "He was just so thankful he was able to get to [the sailor] in time, to stop them from going overboard," Rodriguez said.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-knew-trump-s-exact-ankara-location-as-us-detected-missile-threat-against-air-force-one-report-1786503749706">Iran knew Trump’s exact Ankara location as US detected missile threat against Air Force One: Report</a>&nbsp;A report by Stars and Stripes on Tuesday mentioned a similar incident about a crew member who was about to jump overboard. Bystanders saved the man, and the entire crew was told about it via an announcement.<h2>Families speak about mental health issues of sailors aboard USS Abraham Lincoln</h2>Sailors on board the USS Abraham Lincoln are facing mental health issues because of the extended deployment. More than 200 people from their families recently met with acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao in San Diego to discuss the matter. Cao told them that the Navy is preparing the USS Theodore Roosevelt carrier strike group to relieve Lincoln.&nbsp;&nbsp;They also raised concerns about sailors’ mental health, exhaustion and safety, in a virtual meeting. Vice Adm. Joseph Cahill, commander of Naval Surface Forces, admitted that the extended deployment was affecting the health of the sailors.&nbsp;“We hear you loud and clear [regarding] the impact this has on families, on service members and the long-term ability of us to stand, sustain our forces’ health,” Cahill said, as per MS NOW. He assured the families that deployment-resilience counsellors and chaplains, and Human Factors Councils on board warships, review and check on anything afflicting the sailors and identify risks.The Navy has not revealed the exact number of sailors who tried to go overboard the ship.&nbsp;

Sailors and Marines on board USS Abraham Lincoln have been on deployment for more than eight months, and this is now affecting their mental health. Reports claim some of them have tried to jump overboard, according to families of those on the warship.

Several sailors on board the USS Abraham Lincoln have tried to jump from the ship in recent weeks, reports suggest. According to a report by Military Times, the extended deployment has wreaked havoc with the mental health of those on the ship, leading some of them to take the extreme step. More than 5,000 sailors and Marines have been deployed on the Abraham Lincoln since November last year. It was supposed to end in May, but the vessel has been supporting America's military actions in the Middle East. A woman named Annabelle Loma told the outlet that she received a call that her husband tried to go overboard the ship. She says his deployment was repeatedly overextended, after which he took the extreme step. He is now on medical hold, and she hasn't heard from the Navy since then. In another incident, a sailor stopped a shipmate from going overboard, his wife Maria Rodriguez said. The woman said that her husband saw the man preparing to jump, but called out to him in time and pulled him back onto the deck. He had luckily not gone to the other side. Three others heard the noise and reached the site. "He was just so thankful he was able to get to [the sailor] in time, to stop them from going overboard," Rodriguez said. Also Read: Iran knew Trump’s exact Ankara location as US detected missile threat against Air Force One: Report A report by Stars and Stripes on Tuesday mentioned a similar incident about a crew member who was about to jump overboard. Bystanders saved the man, and the entire crew was told about it via an announcement. Families speak about mental health issues of sailors aboard USS Abraham Lincoln Sailors on board the USS Abraham Lincoln are facing mental health issues because of the extended deployment. More than 200 people from their families recently met with acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao in San Diego to discuss the matter. Cao told them that the Navy is preparing the USS Theodore Roosevelt carrier strike group to relieve Lincoln. They also raised concerns about sailors’ mental health, exhaustion and safety, in a virtual meeting. Vice Adm. Joseph Cahill, commander of Naval Surface Forces, admitted that the extended deployment was affecting the health of the sailors. “We hear you loud and clear [regarding] the impact this has on families, on service members and the long-term ability of us to stand, sustain our forces’ health,” Cahill said, as per MS NOW. He assured the families that deployment-resilience counsellors and chaplains, and Human Factors Councils on board warships, review and check on anything afflicting the sailors and identify risks. The Navy has not revealed the exact number of sailors who tried to go overboard the ship.

Sailors and Marines on board USS Abraham Lincoln have been on deployment for more than eight months, and this is now affecting their mental health. Reports claim some of them have tried to jump overboard, according to families of those on the warship.

USS Abraham Lincoln sailors tried to jump from the warship, families say. Here's why

US President Donald Trump is under fire for his attempts to sell advance access to his posts on his social media platform Truth Social. He is facing lawsuits from two media organisations, according to reports from Bloomberg News. On August 12, Wednesday, independent news outlet The Intercept and the non-profit Freedom of the Press Foundation filed a joint lawsuit arguing that the conduct was "extraordinary, corrupt, and unconstitutional."

Trump sued over $100,000-a-month advance access to Truth Social posts

Jayme Leagh Franklin, who was standing beside Donald Trump during the signing of an executive order regarding childhood vaccine recommendations, has attracted the attention of netizens. People have been noticing her every movement and body posture, and have cooked up wild theories about her habit of holding her hand over her stomach. People online have nicknamed her “bobblehead” and “zapper”.&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;I’m just pregnant you weirdos 😂😭 &lt;a href="https://t.co/NG3tYyJmXy"&gt;https://t.co/NG3tYyJmXy&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; Jayme Leagh Franklin (@jaymefranklin16) &lt;a href="https://x.com/jaymefranklin16/status/2087396416670912601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;August 12, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jayme-leagh-franklin-zapper-theory-trump-pregnant-1786549063781">READ MORE</a>

Jayme Leagh Franklin explains why she was holding her stomach beside Trump: 'I’m just pregnant you weirdos'

Tatyana Kim, the founder of Wildberries, the Russian version of Amazon, is facing one of the biggest challenges of her professional career. She overcame her ex-husband, the father of her seven children and navigated wartime Kremlin politics. But now her empire is burning, billions of dollars going up in smoke.&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;The nominal owner of Wildberries, Tatyana Kim, admits that the marketplace is indeed selling military goods - but so what? Everyone does, she says. She also blames Ukraine for destabilizing Russian barbarian society. &lt;a href="https://t.co/rU3hkj6h42"&gt;pic.twitter.com/rU3hkj6h42&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; Mykhaïlo Golub (@golub) &lt;a href="https://x.com/golub/status/2083423355248455857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;August 1, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tatyana-kim-wildberries-ukraine-attacks-russia-ecommerce-crisis-1786544286632">READ MORE</a>

Russia’s richest woman Tatyana Kim under siege as Ukraine targets her Wildberries empire

A white jade bridge stretching into the clouds, towering heavenly palaces with tall, curved roofs, and cranes flying between temples that float on clouds. That’s a visual display of heaven for you, the twist being that this heaven has a traditional Chinese look, and is made in China. From the architecture of palaces and temples to flowing robes, the Chinese aesthetics is palpable everywhere. And why not, as it is an AI-generated video of heaven made by a Chinese man.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/heaven-made-in-china-optical-shop-owner-learns-ai-painstakingly-gets-fame-as-video-goes-viral-1786540438553">Click here to read full story</a>

The German government has approved a draft legislation aimed at lifting many restraints imposed on its spy agencies in the postwar period and giving it more powers as the country reels from two attacks in a month that have exposed serious security gaps. The move will reduce Berlin’s reliance on tips from its allies.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-gives-intelligence-services-broad-powers-amid-rising-hybrid-threats-security-lapses-1786548101127">Click here to read full story</a>

Germany gives intelligence services broad powers amid rising threats, security lapses

The Philippines’ ambassador to India, Josel F. Ignacio, speaking at ORF's "Diplomatic Diaries" pointed out that the acquisition supports the modernisation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and strengthens its territorial defence posture.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-ambassador-ignacio-calls-brahmos-deal-real-credible-deterrence-amid-south-china-sea-tensions-1786542995676">READ MORE</a>

Senior Iranian source told Reuters on Wednesday there have been no talks on extending a ceasefire between Iran and the U.S. under an interim deal. &nbsp;

Iran, Pakistan officials meet as Tehran says no progress on reviving interim US peace deal

Iran is working on the wording of an announcement regarding its ongoing talks with Oman, Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed Al Ansari said Tuesday.Iran and Oman have been in talks since late July over the navigation arrangements through the Strait of Hormuz.

Qatar says Iran drafting announcement on talks with Oman

A rail route gives Moscow alternate route to reach markets in India and the wider Global South without facing major Western sanctions and shipping, logistics constraints it has been subjected too since 2022, after it launched an attack on Ukraine.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-is-russia-proposing-a-rail-link-to-india-wion-decodes-its-impact-on-trade-for-both-countries-1786542296721">READ MORE</a>

Why is Russia proposing a rail link to India? WION Decodes its impact

After Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief and former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan's speculated poor health was widely reported in the media and protests by Khan's family members and his party supporters, an unverified claim by Pakistani journalist Wajahat Saeed Khan that Imran Khan may have died in Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail has raised serious concerns.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-pakistan-prime-minister-imran-khan-dead-pakistani-journalist-s-claim-raises-serious-questions-about-his-health-1786534280781">Click here to read more</a>

Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke on Wednesday announced that a similar protest on the lines of the student protest will begin soon, which he termed a "Season 2 of Jantar Mantar". Addressing a public meet, Dipke said, "Many people were commenting on Instagram about when Season 2 of 'Jantar-Mantar' will begin. I want to tell them that Season 2 of 'Jantar-Mantar' is going to start very soon." <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jantar-mantar-season-2-coming-soon-dipke-claims-cjp-was-denied-a-venue-for-meeting-amid-bjp-pressure-1786539252057">Read More</a>

‘Jantar-Mantar Season 2 soon’: Abhijeet Dipke signals fresh protest plans

Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Wednesday slammed the Opposition, while expressing deep frustration over the ongoing impasse in Parliament. Rijiju accused them of "running away" from a discussion that the government is eager to initiate. Rijiju termed the current situation "unprecedented" in a parliamentary democracy, noting that while the government is ready to provide answers, the Opposition is refusing to participate. "I am totally frustrated. For the first time in my life, I am witnessing a scenario where the government wants a discussion in Parliament, yet the opposition is running away from it. It is hard to imagine this, because in a parliamentary democracy, it is the opposition that demands a discussion while the government provides the answers," Rijiju told reporters. He further emphasised the reversal of traditional roles in the House, stating, "Here, however, the government itself is saying, 'we will hold a discussion and provide answers,' but the opposition refuses to listen. Can you imagine such a situation? It is not good for democracy. We have repeatedly stated our willingness to discuss the matter, yet they refuse to agree." Highlighting the government's efforts to break the deadlock, the Minister revealed that Union Home Minister Amit Shah has reached out to the Lok Sabha Speaker to intervene. "Consequently, the Home Minister was compelled to write another letter. The Home Minister wrote to the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, reiterating that we are ready for an open, extensive, and detailed discussion and asking him to persuade the opposition leaders to agree to it," Rijiju informed.

'I am totally frustrated': Kiren Rijiju slams Opposition over Parliament deadlock

Karnataka is bracing for a 12-hour bandh on August 13, but the state is unlikely to come to a complete standstill. Here is where disruption is most likely.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-bandh-tomorrow-what-s-open-what-s-closed-on-august-13-schools-transport-and-border-impact-decoded-1786518579218">Click here to read</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260812/image-1786518940637.jpg?rect=(0,263,5475,4101)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Karnataka Bandh tomorrow: What’s open, what’s closed on August 13? Schools, transport, and border impact decoded"></figure> &nbsp;

Karnataka Bandh on August 13: Will schools, banks, and hospitals remain open?

A water bottle, a makeshift microphone and a broken road — schoolchildren in Maharashtra are finding their own way to demand attention to civic problems. Forget television studios and professional microphones. For a group of schoolchildren in Maharashtra, a water bottle has become a tool for reporting. Students from Peglawadi and Gohirewadi in Trimbakeshwar have drawn attention to the poor condition of their local road by using a water bottle as a makeshift microphone. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-children-turn-water-bottles-into-microphones-to-highlight-broken-roads-cjp-reacts-video-1786515776188?fbclid=IwY2xjawTo9cdwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjExAHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4JPN-93xn5PaD6_l4cK6z4v2mMA3aX88upemJB6rCgpQZvY9ATcAE69elohA_aem_udRPJ0wgbdT128wn7D0CwA">WATCH VIDEO HERE</a>

Maharashtra children turn water bottles into microphones to highlight broken roads

Ace Indian shuttler PV Sindhu has backed the deployment of mimicry artists at the upcoming BWF World Championships 2026 to keep the monkeys away. The tournament, set to be played from August 17-23 at Indira Gandhi Stadium in New Delhi, has taken the unique measure of using artists to mimic the langur voices to keep the monkeys away from fans and the venue. The move has been laughed out at but Sindhu has come in support of it.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bwf-world-championships-pv-sindhu-cites-wimbledon-s-hawk-to-defend-monkey-control-plan-1786514612936">Read more</a>

PV Sindhu cites Wimbledon’s Hawk to defend monkey-control plan at BWF World Championships in New Delhi

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Aug 12) warned the Indian youth against social media trends and the shortcut culture of reels. Instead, he urged them to read autobiographies that offer lessons that can shape both character and an understanding of history. Speaking at the launch of former President Ram Nath Kovind’s autobiography, ‘Triumph of the Indian Republic: My Life, My Struggles’, Modi said the book could serve as an inspiration for future generations.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shortcuts-will-cut-you-short-pm-modi-urges-youth-to-look-beyond-social-media-reels-and-read-autobiographies-1786512120120">Read more.</a>

‘Shortcuts will cut you short’: PM Modi urges youth to look beyond social media reels and read autobiographies

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Aug 12) urged young people to avoid shortcuts and focus on hard work, saying that despite living in the age of social media reels and influencers, “a shortcut will cut you short.”“I would particularly like to urge the younger generation—we live in the age of 'Reels' and social media influencers. Even in this era of shortcuts, let us remember something often written at railway stations: A shortcut will cut you short,” he said.PM Modi added, “I would urge young people to read the autobiography of anyone they admire. An autobiography offers a unique perspective on the historical events of a specific era; the period covered in a biography brings one very close to history itself. That is why I sincerely hope that the hard work put in by Kovind ji proves beneficial to future generations and especially to the youth.”

PM Modi urges youth to avoid 'shortcuts' in the age of reels

White House trade adviser Peter Navarro has hit back at a wave of online criticism from Indians over his repeated attacks on India's trade policies and its continued purchase of Russian oil, saying he was effectively "firebombed" by the Indian community on the internet.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hid-in-catering-cart-to-board-secret-flight-from-turkey-amid-iran-threat-report-1786424530392">Click here to read</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260812/image-1786502328804.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Trump's trade adviser Peter Navarro slams Indians, claims they ‘firebombed’ him online over ‘Brahmins profiteering’ remark | WATCH"></figure>

Trump's trade adviser Peter Navarro slams Indians, claims they ‘firebombed’ him online over ‘Brahmins profiteering’ remark | WATCH

India on Tuesday (Aug 11) dismissed China’s reaction to its decision to rename 27 places in Arunachal Pradesh, saying the state remains an inalienable and integral part of the country. While addressing a regular press briefing, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that the fact os “self-evident.” The MEA also emphasised that matters related to border areas between India and China are considered the most serious, and the state of such affairs will reflect on their bilateral relations. Interestingly, the MEA on Aug 7 said that India and China held talks to assess the overall situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and also discussed issues related to boundary delimitation, border management and trans-border cooperation.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inalienable-part-of-our-country-india-responds-to-china-amid-row-over-naming-27-places-in-arunachal-pradesh-1786500900239">Read for more details.&nbsp;</a> &nbsp;

India responds to China amid row over naming 27 places in Arunachal Pradesh

The Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery merger continues to face delays due to back-to-back hurdles. The latest roadblock: 12 states moving to block the deal. The case has pushed back the closing timeline, and now Paramount studio head David Ellison is reportedly preparing to move the studio out of California if the deal isn’t finalised.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/david-ellison-will-move-paramount-out-of-california-if-states-continue-to-fight-1786502324540">Read here.&nbsp;</a>

David Ellison will move Paramount out of California if the merger doesn’t close by October, amid legal opposition from 12 states

Cristiano Ronaldo and his long-time partner Georgina Rodriguez married on Tuesday in a ceremony in the Portuguese resort of Cascais, said the football superstar's representatives. The wedding capped a decade-long relationship and came after days of intense media speculation in Portugal over the location and timing of the ceremony.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/portugese-star-cristiano-ronaldo-ties-knot-with-long-time-partner-georgina-rodriguez-1786503597694">Read here.&nbsp;</a>

Portugese star Cristiano Ronaldo ties knot with long-time partner Georgina Rodriguez

The Himachal Pradesh government has imposed a Widow and Orphan Cess of 60 paise per litre on petrol and high-speed diesel. The cess came into effect from midnight of August 11. The revenue generated from the revised cess will be used to support welfare of widows and orphaned children. The State Taxes and Excise Department issued a notification under Section 6-A of the Himachal Pradesh Value Added Tax Act, 2005, authorising the levy at the point of first sale of petrol and high-speed diesel in the state.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-state-imposes-widow-and-orphan-cess-on-petrol-diesel-what-it-means-1786504262473">Read here.&nbsp;</a>

Indian state imposes widow and orphan cess on petrol, diesel: What it means

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Aug 11) confirmed that he switched from Air Force One to a different plane during a recent summit in Turkey due to a "threat", saying that he does whatever Secret Service and the military advise him to do. The confirmation from Trump came just a day after reports about how the US President switched from the Qatar-gifted Boeing 747-8 to an older Air Force One, and then again made a secret switch to a smaller C-32A aircraft.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whatever-it-is-you-know-my-attitude-trump-confirms-switching-to-secret-flight-after-leaving-turkey-1786499985865">Know more.&nbsp;</a>

Trump confirms switching to secret flight after leaving Turkey

Taiwan has condemned a planned joint naval exercise between China and Indonesia near waters east of the island, calling it a “military provocation” on late Tuesday (Aug 11). It urged Beijing to “immediately stop this dangerous behaviour that undermines the status quo.” This comes after China’s defence ministry announced on Tuesday that a Chinese naval vessel and an Indonesian warship would conduct a “navigation exercise” in mid-August at a location east of Taiwan. The ministry did not specify the exact area where the drill would take place.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exercises-in-name-expansion-in-fact-taiwan-slams-planned-china-indonesia-drill-as-political-manipulation-1786507824356">Read the full story here.&nbsp;</a>

Taiwan slams planned China-Indonesia drill as ‘political manipulation’

Iranian operatives knew where US President Donald Trump was staying in Ankara, including the floor of the building where he was located, as US intelligence detected what officials described as a credible surface-to-air missile threat against Air Force One.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-knew-trump-s-exact-ankara-location-as-us-detected-missile-threat-against-air-force-one-report-1786503749706">Read full story here.</a>

Iran knew Trump’s exact Ankara location as US detected missile threat against Air Force One: Report

Cristiano Ronaldo and his long-time partner Georgina Rodriguez married on Tuesday in a ceremony in the Portuguese resort of Cascais, said the football superstar's representatives. Meanwhile in South Asia, India dismissed China’s reaction to renaming 27 Arunachal Pradesh places. 

Cristiano Ronaldo and his long-time partner Georgina Rodriguez married on Tuesday in a ceremony in the Portuguese resort of Cascais, said the football superstar's representatives. Meanwhile in South Asia, India dismissed China’s reaction to renaming 27 Arunachal Pradesh places.&nbsp;

Highlights: Trump sued over $100,000-a-month advance access to Truth Social posts | Top Stories 12 Aug, 2026

Taiwan has condemned a planned joint naval exercise between China and Indonesia near waters east of the island, calling it a “military provocation” on late Tuesday (Aug 11). It urged Beijing to “immediately stop this dangerous behaviour that undermines the status quo.” This comes after China’s defence ministry announced on Tuesday that a Chinese naval vessel and an Indonesian warship would conduct a “navigation exercise” in mid-August at a location east of Taiwan. The ministry did not specify the exact area where the drill would take place.Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council said Beijing was attempting to use the exercise to reinforce its claims over waters east of Taiwan. In a statement, it accused China of political manipulation through military activity.“This is, in reality, political manipulation, ‘exercises in name, expansion in fact’, aimed at creating a false impression before the international community that the Chinese communists have jurisdiction over waters east of Taiwan,” the council said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nuclear-weapons-are-absolute-evil-nagasaki-warns-world-on-81st-bombing-anniversary-1786267409413">‘Nuclear weapons are absolute evil’: Nagasaki warns world on 81st bombing anniversary</a>The announcement has drawn attention because China rarely conducts military exercises with foreign navies near Taiwan.Speaking in Taiwan’s parliament on Wednesday (Aug 12), military intelligence official Wu Tien-jen said the Indonesian warship was returning from Japan and was not believed to have been deployed specifically for joint operations with China. He said the vessel was about 70 to 80 nautical miles east of Taiwan.“Militarily this does not have a direct impact on Taiwan,” Wu said. “It has a geopolitical significance.”Taiwan’s foreign ministry said it had sought a “clarification” from Indonesia over its participation in the exercise.The development comes as Taiwan is holding its annual Han Kuang military drills, which simulate responses to a potential Chinese attack. Beijing has stepped up military and coast guard operations around Taiwan in recent months, while Taipei maintains that only the Taiwanese people can decide the island’s future.

Taiwan condemned a planned China-Indonesia naval drill near its east coast as “political manipulation” and a “military provocation,” warning Beijing against actions that undermine the status quo.

Taiwan has condemned a planned joint naval exercise between China and Indonesia near waters east of the island, calling it a “military provocation” on late Tuesday (Aug 11). It urged Beijing to “immediately stop this dangerous behaviour that undermines the status quo.” This comes after China’s defence ministry announced on Tuesday that a Chinese naval vessel and an Indonesian warship would conduct a “navigation exercise” in mid-August at a location east of Taiwan. The ministry did not specify the exact area where the drill would take place. Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council said Beijing was attempting to use the exercise to reinforce its claims over waters east of Taiwan. In a statement, it accused China of political manipulation through military activity. “This is, in reality, political manipulation, ‘exercises in name, expansion in fact’, aimed at creating a false impression before the international community that the Chinese communists have jurisdiction over waters east of Taiwan,” the council said. Also read | ‘Nuclear weapons are absolute evil’: Nagasaki warns world on 81st bombing anniversary The announcement has drawn attention because China rarely conducts military exercises with foreign navies near Taiwan. Speaking in Taiwan’s parliament on Wednesday (Aug 12), military intelligence official Wu Tien-jen said the Indonesian warship was returning from Japan and was not believed to have been deployed specifically for joint operations with China. He said the vessel was about 70 to 80 nautical miles east of Taiwan. “Militarily this does not have a direct impact on Taiwan,” Wu said. “It has a geopolitical significance.” Taiwan’s foreign ministry said it had sought a “clarification” from Indonesia over its participation in the exercise. The development comes as Taiwan is holding its annual Han Kuang military drills, which simulate responses to a potential Chinese attack. Beijing has stepped up military and coast guard operations around Taiwan in recent months, while Taipei maintains that only the Taiwanese people can decide the island’s future.

Taiwan condemned a planned China-Indonesia naval drill near its east coast as “political manipulation” and a “military provocation,” warning Beijing against actions that undermine the status quo.

‘Exercises in name, expansion in fact’: Taiwan slams planned China-Indonesia drill as ‘political manipulation’

Bangladesh’s central bank has granted telecom operator Banglalink a Payment Service Provider (PSP) licence, paving the way for the company to enter the country’s digital payments market with its new service, Mukto Pay.The licence was issued on August 11, according to a press release issued by Banglalink.Mukto Pay, a fully owned Banglalink service, will offer a range of digital payment solutions, including money transfers, merchant and e-commerce payments, utility and government bill payments, salaries and other disbursements, as well as other services approved by Bangladesh Bank.Banglalink said the service is aimed at making everyday digital transactions simpler, more secure, and more accessible, particularly for individuals, micro-merchants, and small businesses that remain unbanked or underserved by formal financial services.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/pay-13-000-and-reset-your-body-count-to-0-truth-behind-internet-s-bizarre-claim-1782750235454">‘Pay $13,000 and reset your body count to 0’: Truth behind internet’s bizarre claim</a>The telecom operator said Mukto Pay would use its nationwide connectivity, customer base and digital ecosystem to expand access to digital financial services across Bangladesh.According to Banglalink, the PSP licence is part of the company’s broader strategy, alongside its parent company VEON, to invest in and expand digital financial services in Bangladesh.The launch marks another step in Banglalink’s transition from a telecommunications company into a digital operator, with its services expanding beyond connectivity into digital and financial solutions. The company said the move would support the development of Bangladesh’s financial ecosystem and contribute to the country’s shift towards a cashless economy.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/331-lives-1-suitcase-bomb-air-india-flight-182-that-never-reached-london-1782237596709">331 lives, 1 suitcase bomb: Air India flight 182 that never reached London</a>Johan Buse, chief executive officer of Banglalink, said greater financial inclusion and a digital ecosystem would be essential for Bangladesh’s ambitions of building a cashless society and becoming a trillion-dollar economy.“Mukto Pay is an important step in that direction,” Buse said, adding that Banglalink aims to combine its nationwide reach and understanding of local customers with VEON’s digital expertise to make digital payments more accessible and relevant to everyday users.

Bangladesh Bank granted telecom operator Banglalink a Payment Service Provider licence for its Mukto Pay platform, expanding digital financial services to unbanked populations and supporting Bangladesh's cashless economy goals.

Bangladesh’s central bank has granted telecom operator Banglalink a Payment Service Provider (PSP) licence, paving the way for the company to enter the country’s digital payments market with its new service, Mukto Pay. The licence was issued on August 11, according to a press release issued by Banglalink. Mukto Pay, a fully owned Banglalink service, will offer a range of digital payment solutions, including money transfers, merchant and e-commerce payments, utility and government bill payments, salaries and other disbursements, as well as other services approved by Bangladesh Bank. Banglalink said the service is aimed at making everyday digital transactions simpler, more secure, and more accessible, particularly for individuals, micro-merchants, and small businesses that remain unbanked or underserved by formal financial services. Also read: ‘Pay $13,000 and reset your body count to 0’: Truth behind internet’s bizarre claim The telecom operator said Mukto Pay would use its nationwide connectivity, customer base and digital ecosystem to expand access to digital financial services across Bangladesh. According to Banglalink, the PSP licence is part of the company’s broader strategy, alongside its parent company VEON, to invest in and expand digital financial services in Bangladesh. The launch marks another step in Banglalink’s transition from a telecommunications company into a digital operator, with its services expanding beyond connectivity into digital and financial solutions. The company said the move would support the development of Bangladesh’s financial ecosystem and contribute to the country’s shift towards a cashless economy. Also read: 331 lives, 1 suitcase bomb: Air India flight 182 that never reached London Johan Buse, chief executive officer of Banglalink, said greater financial inclusion and a digital ecosystem would be essential for Bangladesh’s ambitions of building a cashless society and becoming a trillion-dollar economy. “Mukto Pay is an important step in that direction,” Buse said, adding that Banglalink aims to combine its nationwide reach and understanding of local customers with VEON’s digital expertise to make digital payments more accessible and relevant to everyday users.

Bangladesh Bank granted telecom operator Banglalink a Payment Service Provider licence for its Mukto Pay platform, expanding digital financial services to unbanked populations and supporting Bangladesh's cashless economy goals.&nbsp;

Banglalink gets Bangladesh Bank nod to enter digital payments market. All you need to know

Iranian operatives knew where US President Donald Trump was staying in Ankara, including the floor of the building where he was located, as US intelligence detected what officials described as a credible surface-to-air missile threat against Air Force One.&nbsp;The New York Times reported that the threat emerged as Trump was preparing to leave the Turkish capital on July 8, the final day of the NATO summit. US intelligence gathered multiple streams of information pointing to a specific threat involving a surface-to-air missile targeting Air Force One, according to US officials familiar with the intelligence who spoke to The New York Times on condition of anonymity.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hid-in-catering-cart-to-board-secret-flight-from-turkey-amid-iran-threat-report-1786424530392">Trump hid in catering cart to board secret flight from Turkey amid Iran threat: Report</a>&nbsp;The officials also said a person near the NATO summit had been seen carrying a shoulder-fired missile. The intelligence was considered serious enough for Trump and senior administration officials to carry out an elaborate decoy operation to get the president out of Turkey without revealing his actual movements.Trump initially boarded Air Force One in front of television cameras after saying he would use the older presidential aircraft “for old time’s sake”. He was then secretly moved to a smaller military aircraft.&nbsp;According to The Washington Post, Trump was transferred from Air Force One to a C-32A military aircraft, a modified Boeing 757 commonly used by the vice-president. The transfer was carried out with the help of an airport catering truck, which was raised to the aircraft’s level on the opposite side from where Trump had boarded, allowing him to leave without being seen.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/make-american-children-dead-again-internet-blasts-at-trump-over-his-child-vaccine-policy-1786442994886">‘Make American children dead again’: Internet blasts at Trump over his child vaccine policy</a>&nbsp;Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth boarded the C-32A separately via external stairs to make the departure appear routine, The Washington Post reported. Meanwhile, journalists and some White House staff remained aboard Air Force One and were reportedly instructed to keep the aircraft’s window shades closed. They were not informed that Trump had already left the plane.&nbsp;A pool producer travelling aboard the aircraft recalled an unusual instruction for members of the press to keep the shades down. A photographer who briefly opened one of the shades was quickly told to close it, with the request attributed to the Secret Service.

US intelligence uncovered a credible missile threat against Air Force One in Ankara, prompting a secret decoy operation where Donald Trump switched planes via a catering truck to leave Turkey safely.

Iranian operatives knew where US President Donald Trump was staying in Ankara, including the floor of the building where he was located, as US intelligence detected what officials described as a credible surface-to-air missile threat against Air Force One. The New York Times reported that the threat emerged as Trump was preparing to leave the Turkish capital on July 8, the final day of the NATO summit. US intelligence gathered multiple streams of information pointing to a specific threat involving a surface-to-air missile targeting Air Force One, according to US officials familiar with the intelligence who spoke to The New York Times on condition of anonymity. Also read: Trump hid in catering cart to board secret flight from Turkey amid Iran threat: Report The officials also said a person near the NATO summit had been seen carrying a shoulder-fired missile. The intelligence was considered serious enough for Trump and senior administration officials to carry out an elaborate decoy operation to get the president out of Turkey without revealing his actual movements. Trump initially boarded Air Force One in front of television cameras after saying he would use the older presidential aircraft “for old time’s sake”. He was then secretly moved to a smaller military aircraft. According to The Washington Post, Trump was transferred from Air Force One to a C-32A military aircraft, a modified Boeing 757 commonly used by the vice-president. The transfer was carried out with the help of an airport catering truck, which was raised to the aircraft’s level on the opposite side from where Trump had boarded, allowing him to leave without being seen. Also read: ‘Make American children dead again’: Internet blasts at Trump over his child vaccine policy Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth boarded the C-32A separately via external stairs to make the departure appear routine, The Washington Post reported. Meanwhile, journalists and some White House staff remained aboard Air Force One and were reportedly instructed to keep the aircraft’s window shades closed. They were not informed that Trump had already left the plane. A pool producer travelling aboard the aircraft recalled an unusual instruction for members of the press to keep the shades down. A photographer who briefly opened one of the shades was quickly told to close it, with the request attributed to the Secret Service.

US intelligence uncovered a credible missile threat against Air Force One in Ankara, prompting a secret decoy operation where Donald Trump switched planes via a catering truck to leave Turkey safely.

White House trade adviser Peter Navarro has hit back at a wave of online criticism from Indians over his repeated attacks on India's trade policies and its continued purchase of Russian oil, saying he was effectively "firebombed" by the Indian community on the internet.Talking to the press, Navarro insisted that US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have a "very good working relationship" and would resolve issues concerning the Russian oil-related tariff issue. He also claimed that “ I got actually firebombed by the Indian continent on the internet.”"All I would say to you, don't do that. That's not how we resolve problems here in America."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Breaking: &quot;I got actually firebombed by the Indian continent on the internet. All I would say to you, don&#39;t do that. That&#39;s not how we resolve problems here in America,&quot; says White House official Peter Navarro after getting trolled online for insulting statements about India <a href="https://t.co/iH2sHMOGWB">pic.twitter.com/iH2sHMOGWB</a>&mdash; Shashank Mattoo (@MattooShashank) <a href="https://x.com/MattooShashank/status/2087256767537246512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The remarks came after Navarro faced intense backlash over a series of comments targeting India, including his criticism of New Delhi's Russian oil purchases and high tariffs.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-trade-deal-with-india-is-very-very-close-what-s-holding-it-up-wion-decodes-1782280167960">US says trade deal with India is 'very, very close'. What's holding it up? | WION Decodes</a><h2>Navarro's 'Brahmins' remark sparked outrage</h2>One of Navarro's most controversial comments came in August 2025, when he accused "Brahmins" of profiteering from India's trade with Russia."Modi is a great leader. I don't understand why he's getting into bed with Putin and Xi when he's the biggest democracy in the world," Navarro had said on Fox News. "I would simply say to the Indian people, please, understand what is going on here, you got Brahmins profiteering at the expense of the Indian people."The comments triggered widespread condemnation in India, with critics accusing Navarro of reducing a complex economic and geopolitical relationship to stereotypes.Navarro had also described India as a "laundromat for the Kremlin" over its purchases of discounted Russian oil and repeatedly labelled the country the "Maharaja of tariffs".His remarks quickly became fodder for social media users, with Indians mocking his claims through memes and sarcastic posts. Some users even created images portraying Russian President Vladimir Putin as "Vladimir Pandey", while others joked about Brahmins conducting Hindu rituals using Russian oil.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/baba-vanga-s-2026-prophecy-2-predictions-already-came-true-3-terrifying-ones-remain-first-human-alien-contact-world-war-3-and-putin-s-exit-1786169922573">Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside</a><h2>'Keyboard minions' and Community Notes</h2>The online confrontation did not end there. Navarro later accused Indian users of acting as "keyboard minions" and claimed they were using X's Community Notes feature to bury what he called facts about India's trade policies.Several of Navarro's posts had been challenged with Community Notes, prompting him to accuse Indian users of trying to manipulate the platform. In a controversial poll on X, he even questioned whether the platform should present fact-checked Community Notes as comments. The poll backfired when roughly 75 to 79 per cent of respondents voted against his premise, and the post received a crowdsourced Community Note contradicting his claims.Despite that, Navarro continued to argue that India maintains some of the world's highest trade barriers and benefits heavily from access to American markets. The clash comes as Washington and New Delhi continue negotiations over tariffs and trade, even as President Donald Trump has maintained that he has a strong relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In 2025, Peter Navarro's attacks on India's trade policies and Russian oil purchases had triggered a fierce online backlash. Now, the Trump administration adviser says Indians went too far.  All you need to know.

White House trade adviser Peter Navarro has hit back at a wave of online criticism from Indians over his repeated attacks on India's trade policies and its continued purchase of Russian oil, saying he was effectively "firebombed" by the Indian community on the internet. Talking to the press, Navarro insisted that US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have a "very good working relationship" and would resolve issues concerning the Russian oil-related tariff issue. He also claimed that “ I got actually firebombed by the Indian continent on the internet.” "All I would say to you, don't do that. That's not how we resolve problems here in America."

In 2025, Peter Navarro's attacks on India's trade policies and Russian oil purchases had triggered a fierce online backlash. Now, the Trump administration adviser says Indians went too far. All you need to know.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Aug 11) confirmed that he switched from Air Force One to a different plane during a recent summit in Turkey due to a "threat", saying that he does whatever Secret Service and the military advise him to do. The confirmation from Trump came just a day after reports about how the US President switched from the Qatar-gifted Boeing 747-8 to an older Air Force One, and then again made a secret switch to a smaller C-32A aircraft.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-wants-new-pm-for-israel-us-president-calls-netanyahu-wartime-pm-but-does-not-endorse-him-1781056588263">Trump wants new PM for Israel? US president calls Netanyahu 'wartime PM', but does not endorse him</a><h2>What Trump said about plane swap?</h2>Despite the absence of an official statement from the White House or Trump about the switching of planes, the US President has now confirmed the move. Speaking to reporters after returning from Ohio, the US President said, “I go by Secret Service and the military. They wanted me to go on a different flight, a different plane... I do what they say... I guess there was a threat out there. I didn't really ask too much about it. I get a lot of threats.” Trump further said that he has several threats that the public does not know about, adding that any “consequential President has a lot of threats.” "Non-consequential Presidents don't get threatened, and I think I'm maybe the most consequential President." Regarding the threats, the US President said he doesn't worry about anything. "Whatever it is, you know my attitude? Whatever."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-gives-bizarre-explanation-on-if-he-would-wear-bulletproof-vest-following-whca-shooting-i-don-t-know-if-1777615772252">Trump gives bizarre explanation on if he would wear bulletproof vest following WHCA shooting: 'I don't know if...'</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">.<a href="https://x.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;I have a lot of threats that you don&#39;t know about. Any consequential President has a lot of threats. Non-consequential Presidents don&#39;t get threatened — and I think that I&#39;m maybe the most consequential President.&quot; 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/UBAPgiR4P8">https://t.co/UBAPgiR4P8</a> <a href="https://t.co/YKFQjmxN3V">pic.twitter.com/YKFQjmxN3V</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://x.com/RapidResponse47/status/2087346298403832235?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Last month, it was reported that Trump had to swap the Qatar-gifted jet for an older Boeing due to an alleged threat. However, a recent Washington Post report said that the US President switched planes once again, having been discreetly moved out of the older Air Force One in a catering container, which then transferred him to a smaller C-32A aircraft. The latest plane swap happened after the US and Israeli intelligence agencies detected a credible, imminent threat from Iranian-linked military forces or proxies planning to target Trump's aircraft. Specifically, there were concerns about a missile strike or an attack on his newly customized aircraft, which lacked advanced defense systems. In full view of media cameras, Trump boarded the Air Force One jet. However, according to a report by The Washington Post, minutes later, he was secretly moved via an airport catering truck to a smaller, unmarked C-32A military aircraft to fly to the UK. Iran's leadership, including Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, has vowed to avenge the killing of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei by killing Trump. &nbsp;

US President Donald Trump confirmed he switched planes during his recent Turkey summit after the Secret Service and military advised him to do so due to a suspected threat. Trump said he routinely follows security advice and receives numerous threats.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Aug 11) confirmed that he switched from Air Force One to a different plane during a recent summit in Turkey due to a "threat", saying that he does whatever Secret Service and the military advise him to do. The confirmation from Trump came just a day after reports about how the US President switched from the Qatar-gifted Boeing 747-8 to an older Air Force One, and then again made a secret switch to a smaller C-32A aircraft. Also Read: Trump wants new PM for Israel? US president calls Netanyahu 'wartime PM', but does not endorse him What Trump said about plane swap? Despite the absence of an official statement from the White House or Trump about the switching of planes, the US President has now confirmed the move. Speaking to reporters after returning from Ohio, the US President said, “I go by Secret Service and the military. They wanted me to go on a different flight, a different plane... I do what they say... I guess there was a threat out there. I didn't really ask too much about it. I get a lot of threats.” Trump further said that he has several threats that the public does not know about, adding that any “consequential President has a lot of threats.” "Non-consequential Presidents don't get threatened, and I think I'm maybe the most consequential President." Regarding the threats, the US President said he doesn't worry about anything. "Whatever it is, you know my attitude? Whatever." Also Read: Trump gives bizarre explanation on if he would wear bulletproof vest following WHCA shooting: 'I don't know if...'

US President Donald Trump confirmed he switched planes during his recent Turkey summit after the Secret Service and military advised him to do so due to a suspected threat. Trump said he routinely follows security advice and receives numerous threats.

'Whatever it is, you know my attitude...': Trump CONFIRMS switching to secret flight after leaving Turkey

WASHINGTON – For much of Israel’s turbulent history, most Americans viewed the Jewish state as a force for good, deserving to be the largest recipient of U.S. economic and military assistance in the world. That attitude is becoming history, according to public opinion surveys.&nbsp;One of the most striking came from Gallup, one of the world’s most respected polling firms, which tracked American sympathies for the main players in the Middle East conflict since 1921. Earlier this year, it found that for the first time, more Americans sympathise more with Palestinians than with Israelis – 41% to 38%. &nbsp;&nbsp;Other surveys have come to similar results, and experts agree that this shift points to a profound generational divide. Americans aged between 18 and 34 hold significantly more negative views than older generations. The figures: 53 percent sympathise more with Palestinians, 23 percent more with Israelis. &nbsp;&nbsp;The Washington-based Pew Research Center describes this as a record low for Israel support for this age group. This contrasts with 49 percent of older Americans (55 and older) favouring Israel and 31 percent for Palestinians. The pollsters note that this means that for the first time in decades, less than half of older Americans side with Israel.&nbsp;Those numbers stand in stark contrast with decades of a relationship so close that unquestioned support for Israel was one of the few issues in divided America on which, with very few exceptions, Democrats and Republicans agreed.&nbsp;The relationship had an auspicious start: U.S. President Harry Truman was the first foreign leader to recognise Israel when it declared independence on May 14, 1948. Truman issued a statement granting U.S. recognition of the new state just 11 minutes after its proclamation in Tel Aviv.&nbsp;Although the “special relationship” the two countries established proved durable for decades, much to the frustration of its hostile Arab neighbours, it now seems truly over.&nbsp;The most striking example of how much has changed is the fact that New York City, home to as many Jews as Jerusalem, has a mayor so critical of Israel that he threatened to arrest Israel’s Prime Minister when he visits New York for September’s U.N. General Assembly meeting. &nbsp;&nbsp;Mayor Zohran Mamdami, who took office in January, cited an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in 2024 on charges of war crimes committed by Israel in Gaza. Mamdami first issued the arrest threat when he was still campaigning to become mayor. He backed off 19 months later, saying the city had no legal authority to execute the arrest.&nbsp;A YouGov poll published in July found that 49 percent of Americans (68 percent Democrats, 55 percent Independents, and 24 percent Republicans) showed support for Mamdami’s arrest threat.&nbsp;More dissatisfaction with U.S. policies on Israel became apparent in Democratic primary races in advance of mid-term elections in November for the 435 seats in the House of Representatives. The one that made most headlines was in Michigan, where Abdul El-Sayed beat the pro-Israel Haley Stevens, who outspent her challenger by a 12-to1 margin.&nbsp;More than $31 million of her war chest came from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), the powerful pro-Israel lobby which has played a major role in past elections. &nbsp;&nbsp;What is the reason for the deep generational gap in views of Israel? Older Americans grew up with memories of the Holocaust still fresh. Israel was perceived as a beleaguered nation surrounded by hostile Arabs whose superior armies attacked the country twice, in the 1967 six-day war an again in 1973. &nbsp;&nbsp;Outgunned and outmanned, Israel won. Moshe Dayan, the eye-patched defence chief, became an internationally acclaimed hero for leading the David vs Goliath fight that ensured Israel’s survival and eventual role as the Middle East’s dominant military and economic power. &nbsp;&nbsp;Younger generations came of age during Israel’s occupation of land that had been slated to become a sovereign Palestinian state under a 1947 partition plan developed by the United Nations. But the “two-state” solution never became reality. The prolonged peace process of the 1990s failed, and the system Israel developed drew comparisons with South Africa’s Apartheid.&nbsp;An agreement to bring peace looks even more remote after the October 7, 2023 attack on southern Israeli communities by militants of Hamas, a Sunni Islamist group based in Gaza. The attackers broke through the border fence, killed 1,200 people, including hundreds attending a music festival, in an orgy of stomach-turning violence. Another 250 were abducted and taken as hostages to Gaza.&nbsp;Shifts in American public opinion were underway before the Hamas attack, but they sharpened when Israel struck back with a ferocious bombing campaign U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres described as collective punishment. It killed more than 73,000 Palestinians, according to local health authorities.&nbsp;Much of Gaza has been turned into fields of rubble, and the misery inflicted on civilians, livestreamed over social media for more than two years, has helped change perceptions even among committed backers of Israel.&nbsp;An anti-Israeli backlash has become a feature of U.S. domestic politics and will play a role in the mid-term elections. For years, calls for downgrading the relationships have come mainly from the political left, but recently prominent figures in the MAGA (Make America Great Again) sphere have spoken up, too.&nbsp;Once unthinkable for right-wingers like Tucker Carlson, Steve Bannon, and Marjory Taylor-Green, their arguments mirror those of the left – Israel is dragging the United States into foreign wars that suck up resources America should use at home.&nbsp;Dissent on the right also comes from citizens who feel U.S. President Donald Trump broke most of the promises that helped him win a second term at the White House. They included “No more foreign wars”. Instead, Trump started a war against Iran. No end to that conflict, now in its sixth month, is in sight.

The most striking example of how much has changed is the fact that New York City, home to as many Jews as Jerusalem, has a mayor so critical of Israel that he threatened to arrest Israel’s Prime Minister when he visits New York for September’s U.N. General Assembly meeting.  


WASHINGTON – For much of Israel’s turbulent history, most Americans viewed the Jewish state as a force for good, deserving to be the largest recipient of U.S. economic and military assistance in the world. That attitude is becoming history, according to public opinion surveys. One of the most striking came from Gallup, one of the world’s most respected polling firms, which tracked American sympathies for the main players in the Middle East conflict since 1921. Earlier this year, it found that for the first time, more Americans sympathise more with Palestinians than with Israelis – 41% to 38%. Other surveys have come to similar results, and experts agree that this shift points to a profound generational divide. Americans aged between 18 and 34 hold significantly more negative views than older generations. The figures: 53 percent sympathise more with Palestinians, 23 percent more with Israelis. The Washington-based Pew Research Center describes this as a record low for Israel support for this age group. This contrasts with 49 percent of older Americans (55 and older) favouring Israel and 31 percent for Palestinians. The pollsters note that this means that for the first time in decades, less than half of older Americans side with Israel. Those numbers stand in stark contrast with decades of a relationship so close that unquestioned support for Israel was one of the few issues in divided America on which, with very few exceptions, Democrats and Republicans agreed. The relationship had an auspicious start: U.S. President Harry Truman was the first foreign leader to recognise Israel when it declared independence on May 14, 1948. Truman issued a statement granting U.S. recognition of the new state just 11 minutes after its proclamation in Tel Aviv. Although the “special relationship” the two countries established proved durable for decades, much to the frustration of its hostile Arab neighbours, it now seems truly over. The most striking example of how much has changed is the fact that New York City, home to as many Jews as Jerusalem, has a mayor so critical of Israel that he threatened to arrest Israel’s Prime Minister when he visits New York for September’s U.N. General Assembly meeting. Mayor Zohran Mamdami, who took office in January, cited an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in 2024 on charges of war crimes committed by Israel in Gaza. Mamdami first issued the arrest threat when he was still campaigning to become mayor. He backed off 19 months later, saying the city had no legal authority to execute the arrest. A YouGov poll published in July found that 49 percent of Americans (68 percent Democrats, 55 percent Independents, and 24 percent Republicans) showed support for Mamdami’s arrest threat. More dissatisfaction with U.S. policies on Israel became apparent in Democratic primary races in advance of mid-term elections in November for the 435 seats in the House of Representatives. The one that made most headlines was in Michigan, where Abdul El-Sayed beat the pro-Israel Haley Stevens, who outspent her challenger by a 12-to1 margin. More than $31 million of her war chest came from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), the powerful pro-Israel lobby which has played a major role in past elections. What is the reason for the deep generational gap in views of Israel? Older Americans grew up with memories of the Holocaust still fresh. Israel was perceived as a beleaguered nation surrounded by hostile Arabs whose superior armies attacked the country twice, in the 1967 six-day war an again in 1973. Outgunned and outmanned, Israel won. Moshe Dayan, the eye-patched defence chief, became an internationally acclaimed hero for leading the David vs Goliath fight that ensured Israel’s survival and eventual role as the Middle East’s dominant military and economic power. Younger generations came of age during Israel’s occupation of land that had been slated to become a sovereign Palestinian state under a 1947 partition plan developed by the United Nations. But the “two-state” solution never became reality. The prolonged peace process of the 1990s failed, and the system Israel developed drew comparisons with South Africa’s Apartheid. An agreement to bring peace looks even more remote after the October 7, 2023 attack on southern Israeli communities by militants of Hamas, a Sunni Islamist group based in Gaza. The attackers broke through the border fence, killed 1,200 people, including hundreds attending a music festival, in an orgy of stomach-turning violence. Another 250 were abducted and taken as hostages to Gaza. Shifts in American public opinion were underway before the Hamas attack, but they sharpened when Israel struck back with a ferocious bombing campaign U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres described as collective punishment. It killed more than 73,000 Palestinians, according to local health authorities. Much of Gaza has been turned into fields of rubble, and the misery inflicted on civilians, livestreamed over social media for more than two years, has helped change perceptions even among committed backers of Israel. An anti-Israeli backlash has become a feature of U.S. domestic politics and will play a role in the mid-term elections. For years, calls for downgrading the relationships have come mainly from the political left, but recently prominent figures in the MAGA (Make America Great Again) sphere have spoken up, too. Once unthinkable for right-wingers like Tucker Carlson, Steve Bannon, and Marjory Taylor-Green, their arguments mirror those of the left – Israel is dragging the United States into foreign wars that suck up resources America should use at home. Dissent on the right also comes from citizens who feel U.S. President Donald Trump broke most of the promises that helped him win a second term at the White House. They included “No more foreign wars”. Instead, Trump started a war against Iran. No end to that conflict, now in its sixth month, is in sight.

The most striking example of how much has changed is the fact that New York City, home to as many Jews as Jerusalem, has a mayor so critical of Israel that he threatened to arrest Israel’s Prime Minister when he visits New York for September’s U.N. General Assembly meeting. &nbsp;

Americans are falling out of love with Israel

North Korea fired a ballistic missile towards the Sea of Japan early Wednesday (Aug 12), South Korea's military said, just days before annual large-scale joint exercises between Seoul and Washington are due to begin. Japan also confirmed the launch, describing the object as a suspected ballistic missile, and saying the suspected ballistic missile had already fallen.The launch comes as tensions rise around the annual US-South Korea military drills, which Pyongyang has long condemned as preparations for an invasion.South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said the missile was launched from the Wonsan area at around 6 am. local time and travelled more than 700 kilometres before falling into waters off the country's east coast.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-s-kim-inspired-by-his-favourite-wannabe-dictator-trump-satellite-images-reveal-secret-makeover-of-9-luxury-compounds-1783741141942">North Korea's Kim inspired by his favourite wannabe 'dictator' Trump? Satellite images reveal secret makeover of 9 luxury compounds</a><h2>A warning ahead of US-South Korea drills?</h2>The timing of the launch is significant. The 11-day Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises are scheduled to begin on Monday and are designed to prepare US and South Korean forces for a potential conflict with North Korea.Pyongyang has repeatedly responded to similar exercises with missile launches, either before or after the drills. "North Korea has never simply let a South Korea-US joint military exercise pass without a response," Lim Eul-chul, a North Korea expert at Kyungnam University, told AFP. He said the launch appeared to signal that Pyongyang was closely monitoring the upcoming exercises and could carry out further provocations if it believes they are necessary.South Korea's national security office held an emergency meeting following the launch and called North Korea's recent missile tests "provocative acts", urging Pyongyang to stop them immediately.<h2>What are the Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises?</h2>The Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises will involve around 18,000 South Korean troops, along with US forces from the approximately 28,500 American personnel stationed in South Korea.US and South Korean commanders say this year's training will account for the battlefield experience North Korean troops have gained through their involvement in the Ukraine conflict. "North Korean soldiers have taken those lessons they learned there and brought them back to North Korea," Colonel Ryan Donald, spokesman for the US and South Korean Combined Forces Command, said Monday. "Our training accounts for that threat," he added.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/baba-vanga-s-2026-prophecy-2-predictions-already-came-true-3-terrifying-ones-remain-first-human-alien-contact-world-war-3-and-putin-s-exit-1786169922573">Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside</a><h2>Japan calls launch a threat</h2>The missile also comes amid growing tensions between North Korea and Japan. Japan's Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi described the launch as a "threat to peace and security in our region" and said Tokyo had lodged a strong protest with North Korea through diplomatic channels in Beijing.Pyongyang has recently accused Japan of remilitarising and transforming itself into what it described as a "war state".Japan has traditionally maintained a pacifist defence posture, but has increased military spending, strengthened defence partnerships, and deployed missile systems to islands closer to potential flashpoints. Koizumi said last week that Japan needed to strengthen its military with a "sense of urgency and crisis".

North Korea fired a ballistic missile towards the Sea of Japan days before major US-South Korea military drills, drawing a warning from Seoul and Japan.

North Korea fired a ballistic missile towards the Sea of Japan early Wednesday (Aug 12), South Korea's military said, just days before annual large-scale joint exercises between Seoul and Washington are due to begin. Japan also confirmed the launch, describing the object as a suspected ballistic missile, and saying the suspected ballistic missile had already fallen. The launch comes as tensions rise around the annual US-South Korea military drills, which Pyongyang has long condemned as preparations for an invasion. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said the missile was launched from the Wonsan area at around 6 am. local time and travelled more than 700 kilometres before falling into waters off the country's east coast. Also read | North Korea's Kim inspired by his favourite wannabe 'dictator' Trump? Satellite images reveal secret makeover of 9 luxury compounds A warning ahead of US-South Korea drills? The timing of the launch is significant. The 11-day Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises are scheduled to begin on Monday and are designed to prepare US and South Korean forces for a potential conflict with North Korea. Pyongyang has repeatedly responded to similar exercises with missile launches, either before or after the drills. "North Korea has never simply let a South Korea-US joint military exercise pass without a response," Lim Eul-chul, a North Korea expert at Kyungnam University, told AFP. He said the launch appeared to signal that Pyongyang was closely monitoring the upcoming exercises and could carry out further provocations if it believes they are necessary. South Korea's national security office held an emergency meeting following the launch and called North Korea's recent missile tests "provocative acts", urging Pyongyang to stop them immediately. What are the Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises? The Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises will involve around 18,000 South Korean troops, along with US forces from the approximately 28,500 American personnel stationed in South Korea. US and South Korean commanders say this year's training will account for the battlefield experience North Korean troops have gained through their involvement in the Ukraine conflict. "North Korean soldiers have taken those lessons they learned there and brought them back to North Korea," Colonel Ryan Donald, spokesman for the US and South Korean Combined Forces Command, said Monday. "Our training accounts for that threat," he added. Also read | Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside Japan calls launch a threat The missile also comes amid growing tensions between North Korea and Japan. Japan's Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi described the launch as a "threat to peace and security in our region" and said Tokyo had lodged a strong protest with North Korea through diplomatic channels in Beijing. Pyongyang has recently accused Japan of remilitarising and transforming itself into what it described as a "war state". Japan has traditionally maintained a pacifist defence posture, but has increased military spending, strengthened defence partnerships, and deployed missile systems to islands closer to potential flashpoints. Koizumi said last week that Japan needed to strengthen its military with a "sense of urgency and crisis".

North Korea has fired another ballistic missile, just days before major US-South Korea military drills. But the timing of the launch may be more significant than the missile itself. What is Pyongyang signalling?

'Provocative acts': North Korea fires ballistic missile ahead of US-South Korea Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises

At least 15 people were killed, and 27 others were reported missing after an overloaded ferry capsized on Zimbabwe's Lake Kariba on Tuesday (Aug 11), triggering a major search and rescue operation.<h2>What happened?</h2>According to Zimbabwe's national disaster management agency, 77 people survived the accident and reached a small island on the lake. Boats were being sent to the island to bring the survivors back to safety.The Civil Protection Unit, meanwhile, said the ferry was carrying far more passengers than its official capacity. Registered ticket sales showed 114 adults and five crew members were onboard. Authorities warned that the actual number could be higher because an unknown number of children, who were below the ticketing age, may also have been travelling on the boat. The ferry had a stated carrying capacity of just 90 people, reported AP.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-plays-king-in-house-of-the-dragon-game-of-thrones-style-ai-video-sparks-fresh-royal-backlash-1786426597876">Trump plays king in House of the Dragon-style AI video, sparks fresh 'royal' backlash | WATCH</a>&nbsp;<h2>Search operation launched</h2>Rescue teams were deployed across the vast lake following the accident, with boats searching for those still missing.Zimbabwe's state broadcaster ZBC showed footage of speedboats heading towards what appeared to be the overturned ferry, while a helicopter hovered over the area. An underwater search and rescue team was also deployed as authorities stepped up efforts to locate survivors and recover those who died.The Civil Protection Unit said it had recommended that the incident be officially declared a disaster.Earlier, Zimbabwean police confirmed that a rescue operation was underway but initially provided few details about the scale of the accident.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">At least 15 people were killed and 27 remain missing after an overcrowded ferry capsized on Zimbabwe’s Lake Kariba earlier today. Authorities said 77 people were rescued. Records showed at least 114 adult passengers and five crew members were aboard the vessel, which had a… <a href="https://t.co/N5ufqRtM8T">pic.twitter.com/N5ufqRtM8T</a>&mdash; Tabz (@TabzLIVE) <a href="https://x.com/TabzLIVE/status/2087283982509724122?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/baba-vanga-s-2026-prophecy-2-predictions-already-came-true-3-terrifying-ones-remain-first-human-alien-contact-world-war-3-and-putin-s-exit-1786169922573">Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside</a><h2>Ferry used by rural communities</h2>The ferry, identified as Mbuya Nehanda by social media posts, was reportedly being used by people from rural communities who travel along Lake Kariba to reach the town of Kariba. The journey normally takes around five hours.Local MP Mutsa Murombedzi shared a video that she said showed people waving goodbye to the ageing ferry as it began its journey. The footage also showed people on the shore expressing concern about whether the vessel would be able to withstand strong waves on the lake. The circumstances that caused the ferry to capsize remain unclear.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">📹 SECONDS FROM DISASTER: A video has emerged showing the rickety Mbuya Nehanda ferry setting sail on Lake Kariba shortly before it capsized today with 95 people officially reported to be on board. In the footage, a speaker expresses concern about a phenomenon known as the… <a href="https://t.co/o6MDUFDSmM">pic.twitter.com/o6MDUFDSmM</a>&mdash; ZimLive (@zimlive) <a href="https://x.com/zimlive/status/2087244999058473358?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>One of the world's largest man-made lakes</h2>Lake Kariba is one of Africa's largest lakes and the world's largest man-made lake by volume. It was created in the late 1950s and early 1960s after a dam was built across the Zambezi River. The huge reservoir stretches for more than 200 kilometres and reaches around 40 kilometres in width at some points.Lake Kariba is shared by Zimbabwe and neighbouring Zambia, with the international border running through the middle of the lake.&nbsp;

At least 15 people were killed and 27 remain missing after an overloaded ferry capsized on Zimbabwe's Lake Kariba, triggering a major rescue operation.

At least 15 people were killed, and 27 others were reported missing after an overloaded ferry capsized on Zimbabwe's Lake Kariba on Tuesday (Aug 11), triggering a major search and rescue operation. What happened? According to Zimbabwe's national disaster management agency, 77 people survived the accident and reached a small island on the lake. Boats were being sent to the island to bring the survivors back to safety. The Civil Protection Unit, meanwhile, said the ferry was carrying far more passengers than its official capacity. Registered ticket sales showed 114 adults and five crew members were onboard. Authorities warned that the actual number could be higher because an unknown number of children, who were below the ticketing age, may also have been travelling on the boat. The ferry had a stated carrying capacity of just 90 people, reported AP. Also read | Trump plays king in House of the Dragon-style AI video, sparks fresh 'royal' backlash | WATCH Search operation launched Rescue teams were deployed across the vast lake following the accident, with boats searching for those still missing. Zimbabwe's state broadcaster ZBC showed footage of speedboats heading towards what appeared to be the overturned ferry, while a helicopter hovered over the area. An underwater search and rescue team was also deployed as authorities stepped up efforts to locate survivors and recover those who died. The Civil Protection Unit said it had recommended that the incident be officially declared a disaster. Earlier, Zimbabwean police confirmed that a rescue operation was underway but initially provided few details about the scale of the accident.

At least 15 people have died and 27 are missing after an overloaded ferry capsized on Zimbabwe's Lake Kariba. At least 77 survivors reached a small island as rescue teams searched the vast lake for those still unaccounted for.

Zimbabwe ferry tragedy: 15 dead, 27 missing after overloaded boat capsizes on Lake Kariba

A Baloch separatist leader has renewed calls for international recognition of what he called the ‘Republic of Balochistan' and urged countries and global organisations to stop referring to the region as a province of Pakistan, as supporters marked Tuesday, August 11, as “Balochistan Independence Day”.&nbsp;&nbsp;In a message shared on X, Mir Yar Baloch appealed to the international community to recognise Balochistan as an independent country, saying the movement had entered a new phase focused on securing diplomatic and political recognition.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The Republic of Balochistan demands from the entire world that from this day onwards, instead of calling, writing or referring to Balochistan as a province of Pakistan, it should be written, read and called an independent country,” the statement said.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/11AugBalochistanIndependenceDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#11AugBalochistanIndependenceDay</a> <a href="https://t.co/iIZvxRJSTn">pic.twitter.com/iIZvxRJSTn</a>&mdash; Mir Yar Baloch (@miryar_baloch) <a href="https://x.com/miryar_baloch/status/2086894316220481540?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 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/world/astonished-the-world-iran-proved-it-s-tough-and-invincible-says-foreign-minister-abbas-araghchi-1786475605560">‘Astonished the world’: Iran proved it’s tough and invincible, says Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi</a>&nbsp;He also compared Pakistan to cancer while requesting moral support to continue for the people of Balochistan.&nbsp;“Moral support for the people of Balochistan must continue so that we can remove the cancer-like Pakistan from our land, Balochistan,” it said.&nbsp;<h2>Appeals members of UN, ASEAN, others to back global recognition</h2>&nbsp;The statement urged members of the United Nations, ASEAN, the African Union, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and European countries to support what it described as Balochistan’s independence.The group also thanked international media organisations, particularly those in India, along with researchers and think tanks, saying they had helped bring global attention to the Balochistan issue.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Breaking News, Indian media highlighted <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/BalochistanIndependenceDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BalochistanIndependenceDay</a> celebration in MEA&#39;s press briefing today. The Republic of Balochistan backs India’s MEA stance on human rights violations by Pakistan 11 August, 2026 The Republic of Balochistan welcomes and deeply… <a href="https://t.co/1KaSqlhj4A">pic.twitter.com/1KaSqlhj4A</a>&mdash; Mir Yar Baloch (@miryar_baloch) <a href="https://x.com/miryar_baloch/status/2087187278468878829?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-m-their-banker-trump-says-us-controls-tehran-s-frozen-assets-claims-iran-s-economy-in-severe-distress-1786471915812">‘I’m their banker’: Trump says US controls Tehran’s frozen assets, claims Iran’s economy in severe distress</a>&nbsp;It called for continued international “moral support” and said efforts were underway to unite different strands of the Baloch political leadership. The statement further said that an independent Balochistan would eventually establish its own passports, currency, media organisations, trade and commerce institutions and diplomatic missions.It also said the proposed republic would assume responsibility for its foreign policy, defence, economy and diplomacy.&nbsp;Also Read<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-helicopter-opens-fire-on-panama-flagged-ship-breaking-blockade-of-iran-1786456732550">: US helicopter opens fire on Panama-flagged ship ‘breaking blockade of Iran’</a>&nbsp;Mir Yar Baloch said the movement traces its claim to August 11, 1947, when Balochistan declared independence shortly before the Partition of British India. The statement said the campaign had moved beyond commemorating that date and was now focused on achieving international recognition.&nbsp;The statement also accused Pakistani authorities of trying to prevent the commemorations. It said that mobile and internet services had been suspended in several parts of Balochistan, but the claims could not be verified.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-turns-around-iran-s-demand-for-compensation-back-on-it-says-tehran-must-pay-for-those-killed-wounded-1786381999140">Trump turns around Iran’s demand for compensation back on it, says Tehran must pay for those killed, wounded</a>&nbsp;The group claimed that despite the alleged restrictions, supporters marked “Balochistan Independence Day” in different parts of the province.&nbsp;Meanwhile, authorities in Pakistan maintain that Balochistan is an integral part of the country and term armed groups operating in the province as security threats.

Mir Yar Baloch appealed to the international community to recognise Balochistan as an independent country, saying the movement had entered a new phase focused on securing diplomatic and political recognition. He also compared Pakistan to cancer.

A Baloch separatist leader has renewed calls for international recognition of what he called the ‘Republic of Balochistan' and urged countries and global organisations to stop referring to the region as a province of Pakistan, as supporters marked Tuesday, August 11, as “Balochistan Independence Day”. In a message shared on X, Mir Yar Baloch appealed to the international community to recognise Balochistan as an independent country, saying the movement had entered a new phase focused on securing diplomatic and political recognition. “The Republic of Balochistan demands from the entire world that from this day onwards, instead of calling, writing or referring to Balochistan as a province of Pakistan, it should be written, read and called an independent country,” the statement said.

Mir Yar Baloch appealed to the international community to recognise Balochistan as an independent country, saying the movement had entered a new phase focused on securing diplomatic and political recognition. He also compared Pakistan to cancer.&nbsp;

Baloch leader thanks Indian media, announces push for recognition of ‘Republic of Balochistan’

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Tuesday that his country had “astonished the whole world” in the war against the United States and Israel and has proved that it is a “tough and invincible” power.&nbsp;Speaking to reporters, Araghchi said, “Our armed forces made tremendous sacrifices and managed to incapacitate and defeat what was ostensibly the largest army in the world. This is not a slogan; it is a reality that the entire world is acknowledging.”&nbsp;The foreign minister said that Iran has displayed deep resilience in the conflict.&nbsp;&nbsp;“In the recent war, it was the Islamic Republic of Iran that proved itself to the world and demonstrated that it is a resilient and invincible power,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-m-their-banker-trump-says-us-controls-tehran-s-frozen-assets-claims-iran-s-economy-in-severe-distress-1786471915812">‘I’m their banker’: Trump says US controls Tehran’s frozen assets, claims Iran’s economy in severe distress</a><h2>‘You Iranians have achieved something extraordinary’</h2>&nbsp;“I have heard this repeatedly from foreign ministers and officials from other countries: ‘You Iranians have achieved something extraordinary. You astonished the entire world.’ Those are their exact words,” Araghchi added.&nbsp;Iran has refused to back down on demands that the US end its blockade of Iranian ports, lift sanctions on the Islamic Republic, and fulfill other conditions before Tehran will consider reopening the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Also Read<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-helicopter-opens-fire-on-panama-flagged-ship-breaking-blockade-of-iran-1786456732550">: US helicopter opens fire on Panama-flagged ship ‘breaking blockade of Iran’</a>&nbsp;Iran effectively closed the strait after Israel and the US attacked the country on Feb. 28. The closure of the vital waterway through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s traded oil supplies passed before the war, and uncertainty around its future have kept energy prices a major focus of US politics ahead of the midterm elections in November.&nbsp;<h2>Pakistani interior minister meets Araghchi in Tehran</h2>&nbsp;Pakistan’s Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Tehran on Tuesday afternoon for talks.He also spoke to Iran’s Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni, state broadcaster IRIB reported.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-turns-around-iran-s-demand-for-compensation-back-on-it-says-tehran-must-pay-for-those-killed-wounded-1786381999140">Trump turns around Iran’s demand for compensation back on it, says Tehran must pay for those killed, wounded</a>&nbsp;Naqvi arrived in Tehran for talks with Iranian officials, as Pakistan has been mediating between the US and Iran alongside Oman and Qatar to try to bring the two sides to some sort of lasting peace agreement.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Pakistan’s defence minister Khawaja Asif told Bloomberg in Islamabad on Tuesday that the US and Iran are close to “some sort of an arrangement.”“Things are shaping up again in favour of a peace arrangement or a deal,” he said. “The signals in the last two three days are that we are close to some sort of an arrangement.”

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran has displayed deep resilience in the conflict and has demonstrated to the world that it is a resilient and invincible power. He added that foreign ministers and officials from other countries tell him that Tehran has astonished the world.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Tuesday that his country had “astonished the whole world” in the war against the United States and Israel and has proved that it is a “tough and invincible” power. Speaking to reporters, Araghchi said, “Our armed forces made tremendous sacrifices and managed to incapacitate and defeat what was ostensibly the largest army in the world. This is not a slogan; it is a reality that the entire world is acknowledging.” The foreign minister said that Iran has displayed deep resilience in the conflict. “In the recent war, it was the Islamic Republic of Iran that proved itself to the world and demonstrated that it is a resilient and invincible power,” he said. Also Read: ‘I’m their banker’: Trump says US controls Tehran’s frozen assets, claims Iran’s economy in severe distress ‘You Iranians have achieved something extraordinary’ “I have heard this repeatedly from foreign ministers and officials from other countries: ‘You Iranians have achieved something extraordinary. You astonished the entire world.’ Those are their exact words,” Araghchi added. Iran has refused to back down on demands that the US end its blockade of Iranian ports, lift sanctions on the Islamic Republic, and fulfill other conditions before Tehran will consider reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Also Read: US helicopter opens fire on Panama-flagged ship ‘breaking blockade of Iran’ Iran effectively closed the strait after Israel and the US attacked the country on Feb. 28. The closure of the vital waterway through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s traded oil supplies passed before the war, and uncertainty around its future have kept energy prices a major focus of US politics ahead of the midterm elections in November. Pakistani interior minister meets Araghchi in Tehran Pakistan’s Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Tehran on Tuesday afternoon for talks. He also spoke to Iran’s Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni, state broadcaster IRIB reported. Also Read: Trump turns around Iran’s demand for compensation back on it, says Tehran must pay for those killed, wounded Naqvi arrived in Tehran for talks with Iranian officials, as Pakistan has been mediating between the US and Iran alongside Oman and Qatar to try to bring the two sides to some sort of lasting peace agreement. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s defence minister Khawaja Asif told Bloomberg in Islamabad on Tuesday that the US and Iran are close to “some sort of an arrangement.” “Things are shaping up again in favour of a peace arrangement or a deal,” he said. “The signals in the last two three days are that we are close to some sort of an arrangement.”

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran has displayed deep resilience in the conflict and has demonstrated to the world that it is a resilient and invincible power. He added that foreign ministers and officials from other countries tell him that Tehran has astonished the world.

‘Astonished the world’: Iran proved it’s tough and invincible, says Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi

US President Donald Trump has said that he could either keep up economic pressure on Iran and allow its economy to deteriorate further or launch a major military strike, as he accused Tehran of being “devious negotiators”.&nbsp;&nbsp;Trump further said in an interview with Real America’s Voice that Iran’s economy is in severe distress and that he was “sort of negotiating” with Tehran.&nbsp;Trump said the US could continue with its current approach and allow Iran’s economy to deteriorate further.&nbsp;“Do what I’m doing now: just bop along and look how bad they’re doing,” he said, pointing to Iran’s economic difficulties.&nbsp;&nbsp;He said Iran was struggling to access borrowing and that the US had control over frozen Iranian assets.&nbsp;“We control their money, what they had, which is a lot,” Trump said in the phone interview. “We have total control of it. I’m their banker. I am their banker.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombia-earthquake-death-toll-rises-to-213-over-3-000-missing-rescuers-race-against-time-1786461025374">Colombia earthquake death toll rises to 213, over 3,000 missing; rescuers race against time</a><h2>‘Situation in Iran not sustainable,’ says Trump</h2>&nbsp;Trump claimed Iran’s economy was in severe distress, saying it was facing 300% inflation, a currency with “almost no value” and difficulties paying its soldiers. He also claimed Iranian troops were leaving, arguing that the situation was “not sustainable”.“They’ve got 300% inflation. They have no value. Their currency has almost no value. They are not paying their soldiers. Their soldiers are leaving. So just keep that going. It’s not sustainable,” he said.&nbsp;He outlined three possible approaches for ending the conflict: maintaining the current pressure and allowing Iran to fail economically, launching a severe military attack by hitting them “really, really hard”, or relying primarily on economic pressure.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-helicopter-opens-fire-on-panama-flagged-ship-breaking-blockade-of-iran-1786456732550">: US helicopter opens fire on Panama-flagged ship ‘breaking blockade of Iran’</a>&nbsp;Trump said economic pressure was already part of the US approach. Trump also accused Iranian officials of being “very devious negotiators”, claiming they would agree to something and then tell the media they had not done so.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘They are very devious negotiators’</h2>&nbsp;“You see, they are very devious negotiators because they’ll agree to something, then they’ll go out and tell the press that they did not do it. They’re very dishonest people,” the president said.&nbsp;Asked how the conflict could finally end, Trump said his main objective was to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. “I’m in this thing for one primary reason: that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said, claiming that US military action had already prevented Tehran from acquiring one.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-turns-around-iran-s-demand-for-compensation-back-on-it-says-tehran-must-pay-for-those-killed-wounded-1786381999140">Trump turns around Iran’s demand for compensation back on it, says Tehran must pay for those killed, wounded</a>&nbsp;Trump’s comments came as the conflict, which began in late February, continued to produce mixed signals over the prospects of a diplomatic settlement.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Rejects concerns over US ammunition supplies</h2>&nbsp;The president also rejected concerns over US ammunition supplies, saying the country was producing munitions at a rapid pace. “We’re fine with munitions,” Trump said, adding that the US was “building them like crazy”.&nbsp;Trump blamed former President Joe Biden for the lower stockpile, claiming Biden had provided $300 billion worth of weapons to Ukraine.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mojtaba-khamenei-appoints-iran-s-6-new-military-commanders-fills-up-vacant-posts-1786391474930">Mojtaba Khamenei appoints Iran’s 6 new military commanders, fills up vacant posts</a>&nbsp;Pakistan said on Tuesday that the US and Iran were close to “some sort” of agreement, while Qatar said talks on arrangements for the Strait of Hormuz had reached an advanced stage.&nbsp;Trump has repeatedly switched stances between threatening a major escalation of the conflict and suggesting that a peace deal could be close.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump said Iran is struggling to access borrowing and that the US had control over frozen Iranian assets. Trump further said that Iran’s economy was in severe distress, and was facing 300% inflation. He also claimed that Iranian troops were leaving.

US President Donald Trump has said that he could either keep up economic pressure on Iran and allow its economy to deteriorate further or launch a major military strike, as he accused Tehran of being “devious negotiators”. Trump further said in an interview with Real America’s Voice that Iran’s economy is in severe distress and that he was “sort of negotiating” with Tehran. Trump said the US could continue with its current approach and allow Iran’s economy to deteriorate further. “Do what I’m doing now: just bop along and look how bad they’re doing,” he said, pointing to Iran’s economic difficulties. He said Iran was struggling to access borrowing and that the US had control over frozen Iranian assets. “We control their money, what they had, which is a lot,” Trump said in the phone interview. “We have total control of it. I’m their banker. I am their banker.” Also Read: Colombia earthquake death toll rises to 213, over 3,000 missing; rescuers race against time ‘Situation in Iran not sustainable,’ says Trump Trump claimed Iran’s economy was in severe distress, saying it was facing 300% inflation, a currency with “almost no value” and difficulties paying its soldiers. He also claimed Iranian troops were leaving, arguing that the situation was “not sustainable”. “They’ve got 300% inflation. They have no value. Their currency has almost no value. They are not paying their soldiers. Their soldiers are leaving. So just keep that going. It’s not sustainable,” he said. He outlined three possible approaches for ending the conflict: maintaining the current pressure and allowing Iran to fail economically, launching a severe military attack by hitting them “really, really hard”, or relying primarily on economic pressure. Also Read: US helicopter opens fire on Panama-flagged ship ‘breaking blockade of Iran’ Trump said economic pressure was already part of the US approach. Trump also accused Iranian officials of being “very devious negotiators”, claiming they would agree to something and then tell the media they had not done so. ‘They are very devious negotiators’ “You see, they are very devious negotiators because they’ll agree to something, then they’ll go out and tell the press that they did not do it. They’re very dishonest people,” the president said. Asked how the conflict could finally end, Trump said his main objective was to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. “I’m in this thing for one primary reason: that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said, claiming that US military action had already prevented Tehran from acquiring one. Also Read: Trump turns around Iran’s demand for compensation back on it, says Tehran must pay for those killed, wounded Trump’s comments came as the conflict, which began in late February, continued to produce mixed signals over the prospects of a diplomatic settlement. Rejects concerns over US ammunition supplies The president also rejected concerns over US ammunition supplies, saying the country was producing munitions at a rapid pace. “We’re fine with munitions,” Trump said, adding that the US was “building them like crazy”. Trump blamed former President Joe Biden for the lower stockpile, claiming Biden had provided $300 billion worth of weapons to Ukraine. Also Read: Mojtaba Khamenei appoints Iran’s 6 new military commanders, fills up vacant posts Pakistan said on Tuesday that the US and Iran were close to “some sort” of agreement, while Qatar said talks on arrangements for the Strait of Hormuz had reached an advanced stage. Trump has repeatedly switched stances between threatening a major escalation of the conflict and suggesting that a peace deal could be close.

US President Donald Trump said Iran is struggling to access borrowing and that the US had control over frozen Iranian assets. Trump further said that Iran’s economy was in severe distress, and was facing 300% inflation. He also claimed that Iranian troops were leaving.

‘I’m their banker’: Trump says US controls Tehran’s frozen assets, claims Iran’s economy in severe distress

Former US Marine Robert Gilman has been released from Russian custody and is returning to the US. Russian President Vladimir Putin granted him a pardon on humanitarian grounds following intense weekend negotiations. Russia did not seek anything in return, making it highly unusual for modern geopolitics, where conflicting nations perform prisoner swap.Robert Gilman, 32, is expected to return to Andrews Air Force Base near Washington, DC, on Tuesday night, US President Donald Trump said in his Truth Social post.“After my discussions with President Vladimir Putin, Russia has agreed to release him, very much on a Humanitarian Basis. We appreciate this decision, and the fact that Russia asked for no one in return — No exchange took place. Robert will land at Andrews Air Force Base, in Washington, D.C., tonight, where my Representatives, some of whom are on the plane with him, will welcome Robert back to THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA!” wrote Trump.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-us-iran-some-sort-arrangement-hormuz-talks-1786463082330">Pakistan says US, Iran close to ‘some sort of arrangement’ despite shipping attacks</a>

Gilman was an English teacher and briefly served in the US Marine Corps from 2019 to 2020. According to Russian state media, he was arrested in January 2022 in Voronezh, Russia, after being accused of kicking a police officer while drunk on a train. He was later sentenced to four and a half years in prison, though his family has consistently denied the allegations against him. The sentence was later extended to 10 years due to alleged in-custody incidents.&nbsp;Robert's father, Vladimir Gilman, who emigrated to Massachusetts from Russia, wrote in an October 2024 Boston ⁠Globe op-ed that the charges were false and his son had fallen ill during the time of the incident. He had accidentally kicked the officer, who did not suffer any injury. The officer dropped the charges and did not present evidence at Gilman’s trial, he wrote.The exact condition of Gilman's health is unclear. His family told Reuters he had been transferred from a prison hospital to the psychiatric ward of a civilian emergency hospital in late June in a catatonic-like state that doctors assessed as a “dissociative stupor”.The US government has recently designated Gilman as wrongfully detained. Gilman is one of the 10 known Americans to be imprisoned by Russia.&nbsp;

Former US Marine Robert Gilman has been released from Russian custody after Vladimir Putin granted him a humanitarian pardon following talks with Donald Trump.

Former US Marine Robert Gilman has been released from Russian custody and is returning to the US. Russian President Vladimir Putin granted him a pardon on humanitarian grounds following intense weekend negotiations. Russia did not seek anything in return, making it highly unusual for modern geopolitics, where conflicting nations perform prisoner swap. Robert Gilman, 32, is expected to return to Andrews Air Force Base near Washington, DC, on Tuesday night, US President Donald Trump said in his Truth Social post. “After my discussions with President Vladimir Putin, Russia has agreed to release him, very much on a Humanitarian Basis. We appreciate this decision, and the fact that Russia asked for no one in return — No exchange took place. Robert will land at Andrews Air Force Base, in Washington, D.C., tonight, where my Representatives, some of whom are on the plane with him, will welcome Robert back to THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA!” wrote Trump. Also Read: Pakistan says US, Iran close to ‘some sort of arrangement’ despite shipping attacks

Former US Marine Robert Gilman has been released from Russian custody after Vladimir Putin granted him a humanitarian pardon following talks with Donald Trump.

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