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President Donald Trump’s push to Senate Republicans for abolishing the 60-vote filibuster rule in order to reopen the shuttered government without Democratic votes is facing a firm resistance from his own party leaders, a rarity for the president in his second term so far. In late-night social media posts on Thursday, Trump wrote, “It is now time for the Republicans to play their ‘TRUMP CARD,’ and go for what is called the Nuclear Option—Get rid of the Filibuster, and get rid of it, NOW!” &nbsp;“Well, now WE are in power, and if we did what we should be doing, it would IMMEDIATELY end this ridiculous, Country destroying ‘SHUT DOWN.’” However, the top two Republican leaders in Congress are showing no interest in taking the unprecedented step of ending the legislative filibuster.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-usha-has-no-plans-to-convert-jd-vance-clarifies-after-backlash-over-his-remarks-on-wife-s-faith-1761930050390">‘Usha has no plans to convert…’: JD Vance clarifies after backlash over his remarks on wife’s faith</a>&nbsp;In perhaps the clearest possible signal to the White House that Senate Majority Leader John Thune would not change Senate rules to end the already 31-day stalemate, a spokesman said the Republican leader remained unmoved.“Leader Thune’s position on the importance of the legislative filibuster is unchanged,” Thune spokesperson Ryan Wrasse said.Even House Speaker Mike Johnson—who rarely breaks with Trump in public—was cautious about keeping the filibuster intact.&nbsp;<h2>‘Filibuster a very important safeguard’: Speaker Mike Johnson</h2>&nbsp;“The filibuster has traditionally been used as a very important safeguard,” Johnson said, noting that his opinion is “not relevant” since it is a Senate-only issue. But he warned that Democrats would use the move to pass extreme measures the next time they control the upper chamber and said that Trump’s late-night Truth Social post on the filibuster was an “expression of the president’s anger at this situation.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-thwarted-potential-terrorist-attack-during-halloween-weekend-kash-patel-1761922083111">FBI thwarted ‘potential terrorist attack’ during Halloween weekend, arrests tied to international terrorism: Report</a>&nbsp;Senate Republican leaders have been candid in their support for the 60-vote rule to pass most bills.&nbsp;&nbsp;The new Majority Leader, John Thune, had promised shortly after the 2024 election that the legislative filibuster would remain unchanged on his watch.&nbsp;<h2>‘Power changes hands, but principles shouldn’t’</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;In a post on X, Sen. John Curtis, R-Utah, said on Friday that he was a “firm no” on getting rid of the filibuster. “The filibuster forces us to find common ground in the Senate,” Curtis said. “Power changes hands, but principles shouldn’t. I’m a firm no on eliminating it.”The talk about the filibuster started on Capitol Hill even before Trump’s comments when Sen. Bernie Moreno, R-Ohio, appeared on Fox News soon after the shutdown started and urged his party to eliminate the filibuster.However, various Republican leaders have voiced opposition to the move, including Moreno’s fellow Ohio senator.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jd-vance-says-he-hopes-his-wife-usha-a-hindu-converts-to-christianity-eventually-1761835421337">JD Vance says he hopes his wife Usha, a Hindu, converts to Christianity eventually</a> Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., who asserted that he would resign from the Senate on the same day if Republicans abolish the filibuster, said he doesn’t expect it to be nixed. He recalled that Trump wanted the GOP to eliminate the 60-vote threshold in his first presidential term also in order to pass his agenda.“We stood firm there. “I can’t imagine anybody changing now,” Tillis said earlier.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slashes-refugee-cap-to-7-500-mostly-for-afrikaners-in-huge-cut-from-biden-era-1761850616227">Trump sets refugee cap at record low of 7,500, mostly for Afrikaners, in huge cut from Biden era</a>&nbsp;The filibuster rule is unique to the Senate, and it gives the minority the power to block a bill from coming up for a vote as long as at least 41 senators oppose it. Since one party rarely wins more than 60 seats, proponents have argued that the filibuster encourages compromise and makes it more difficult to enact massive partisan reforms.&nbsp;WATCH: How the White House runs during a US shutdown<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-the-white-house-runs-during-a-us-shutdown-1761932278848/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-the-white-house-runs-during-a-us-shutdown-1761932278848/embed</a>&nbsp;

Senate Republican leaders have been candid in their support for the 60-vote rule to pass most bills. The new Majority Leader, John Thune, had promised shortly after the 2024 election that the legislative filibuster would remain unchanged on his watch.

President Donald Trump’s push to Senate Republicans for abolishing the 60-vote filibuster rule in order to reopen the shuttered government without Democratic votes is facing a firm resistance from his own party leaders, a rarity for the president in his second term so far. In late-night social media posts on Thursday, Trump wrote, “It is now time for the Republicans to play their ‘TRUMP CARD,’ and go for what is called the Nuclear Option—Get rid of the Filibuster, and get rid of it, NOW!” “Well, now WE are in power, and if we did what we should be doing, it would IMMEDIATELY end this ridiculous, Country destroying ‘SHUT DOWN.’” However, the top two Republican leaders in Congress are showing no interest in taking the unprecedented step of ending the legislative filibuster. Also Read: ‘Usha has no plans to convert…’: JD Vance clarifies after backlash over his remarks on wife’s faith In perhaps the clearest possible signal to the White House that Senate Majority Leader John Thune would not change Senate rules to end the already 31-day stalemate, a spokesman said the Republican leader remained unmoved. “Leader Thune’s position on the importance of the legislative filibuster is unchanged,” Thune spokesperson Ryan Wrasse said. Even House Speaker Mike Johnson—who rarely breaks with Trump in public—was cautious about keeping the filibuster intact. ‘Filibuster a very important safeguard’: Speaker Mike Johnson “The filibuster has traditionally been used as a very important safeguard,” Johnson said, noting that his opinion is “not relevant” since it is a Senate-only issue. But he warned that Democrats would use the move to pass extreme measures the next time they control the upper chamber and said that Trump’s late-night Truth Social post on the filibuster was an “expression of the president’s anger at this situation.” Also Read: FBI thwarted ‘potential terrorist attack’ during Halloween weekend, arrests tied to international terrorism: Report Senate Republican leaders have been candid in their support for the 60-vote rule to pass most bills. The new Majority Leader, John Thune, had promised shortly after the 2024 election that the legislative filibuster would remain unchanged on his watch. ‘Power changes hands, but principles shouldn’t’ In a post on X, Sen. John Curtis, R-Utah, said on Friday that he was a “firm no” on getting rid of the filibuster. “The filibuster forces us to find common ground in the Senate,” Curtis said. “Power changes hands, but principles shouldn’t. I’m a firm no on eliminating it.” The talk about the filibuster started on Capitol Hill even before Trump’s comments when Sen. Bernie Moreno, R-Ohio, appeared on Fox News soon after the shutdown started and urged his party to eliminate the filibuster. However, various Republican leaders have voiced opposition to the move, including Moreno’s fellow Ohio senator. Also Read: JD Vance says he hopes his wife Usha, a Hindu, converts to Christianity eventually Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., who asserted that he would resign from the Senate on the same day if Republicans abolish the filibuster, said he doesn’t expect it to be nixed. He recalled that Trump wanted the GOP to eliminate the 60-vote threshold in his first presidential term also in order to pass his agenda. “We stood firm there. “I can’t imagine anybody changing now,” Tillis said earlier. Also Read: Trump sets refugee cap at record low of 7,500, mostly for Afrikaners, in huge cut from Biden era The filibuster rule is unique to the Senate, and it gives the minority the power to block a bill from coming up for a vote as long as at least 41 senators oppose it. Since one party rarely wins more than 60 seats, proponents have argued that the filibuster encourages compromise and makes it more difficult to enact massive partisan reforms. WATCH: How the White House runs during a US shutdown https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-the-white-house-runs-during-a-us-shutdown-1761932278848/embed

Senate Republican leaders have been candid in their support for the 60-vote rule to pass most bills. The new Majority Leader, John Thune, had promised shortly after the 2024 election that the legislative filibuster would remain unchanged on his watch.

Several Republican leaders reject Trump’s call to abolish Senate filibuster

A US federal judge on Friday ordered the Trump administration to provide emergency funding for a food aid program threatened with closure by the month-long government shutdown, court documents showed. John J. McConnell, of Rhode Island, told the Department of Agriculture it must tap a $5 billion contingency fund to continue paying the benefits, which offer vital help to 42 million low-income Americans struggling with grocery bills.&nbsp;This is a developing story, more to follow

 John J. McConnell, of Rhode Island, told the Department of Agriculture it must tap a $5 billion contingency fund to continue paying the benefits, which offer vital help to 42 million low-income Americans struggling with grocery bills.

A US federal judge on Friday ordered the Trump administration to provide emergency funding for a food aid program threatened with closure by the month-long government shutdown, court documents showed. John J. McConnell, of Rhode Island, told the Department of Agriculture it must tap a $5 billion contingency fund to continue paying the benefits, which offer vital help to 42 million low-income Americans struggling with grocery bills. This is a developing story, more to follow

&nbsp;John J. McConnell, of Rhode Island, told the Department of Agriculture it must tap a $5 billion contingency fund to continue paying the benefits, which offer vital help to 42 million low-income Americans struggling with grocery bills.

US judge orders Trump to keep food aid flowing during shutdown

US Vice President JD Vance on Friday rejected criticism that he had thrown the religion of his wife, Usha Vance, under the bus in public and defended his remarks about her Hindu faith, saying she is “not a Christian and has no plans to convert.” After being criticised severely on social media for his comments, Vance responded with a strongly worded post on X and called the backlash against his comments “disgusting” and accused his critics of “anti-Christian bigotry”. “What a disgusting comment, and it’s hardly been the only one along these lines,” Vance wrote, responding to social media users who accused him of disrespecting his wife’s religion.“First off, the question was from a person seemingly to my left, about my interfaith marriage. I’m a public figure, and people are curious, and I wasn’t going to avoid the question.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-thwarted-potential-terrorist-attack-during-halloween-weekend-kash-patel-1761922083111">FBI thwarted ‘potential terrorist attack’ during Halloween weekend, arrests tied to international terrorism: Report</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">What a disgusting comment, and it&#39;s hardly been the only one along these lines. First off, the question was from a person seemingly to my left, about my interfaith marriage. I&#39;m a public figure, and people are curious, and I wasn&#39;t going to avoid the question. Second, my… <a href="https://t.co/JOzN7WAg3A">https://t.co/JOzN7WAg3A</a>&mdash; JD Vance (@JDVance) <a href="https://twitter.com/JDVance/status/1984274352112599123?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;The response followed intense criticism over his recent remarks at an event, where he said he hoped his wife, Usha, shares his Christian faith eventually. Vance’s comments drew a backlash online for being dismissive of Usha’s Hindu background.&nbsp;<h2>‘Regardless, I’ll continue to love and support her and…’</h2>&nbsp;Defending himself in the post, Vance wrote, “She is not a Christian and has no plans to convert, but like many people in an interfaith marriage, or any interfaith relationship, I hope she may one day see things as I do.”“Regardless, I’ll continue to love and support her and talk to her about faith and life and everything else, because she’s my wife,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jd-vance-says-he-hopes-his-wife-usha-a-hindu-converts-to-christianity-eventually-1761835421337">JD Vance says he hopes his wife Usha, a Hindu, converts to Christianity eventually</a> Speaking at a Turning Point USA event at the University of Mississippi, the vice president had said that he hoped his wife, Usha, who was raised Hindu, would one day embrace Christianity.“Most Sundays she will come with me to church. Do I hope eventually that she is somehow moved by the same thing that I was moved in by church? Yeah, I honestly do wish that,” he had said.&nbsp;Asked during the event whether he hoped his wife would eventually “come to Christ”, Vance replied that faith was deeply personal and that differences in belief had never created conflict in their marriage.“But if she doesn’t, then God says everybody has free will, and so that doesn’t cause a problem for me. That’s something you work out with your friends, with your family, with the person that you love,” he had added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slashes-refugee-cap-to-7-500-mostly-for-afrikaners-in-huge-cut-from-biden-era-1761850616227">Trump sets refugee cap at record low of 7,500, mostly for Afrikaners, in huge cut from Biden era</a><h2>‘Posts like this wreak anti-Christian bigotry’</h2>&nbsp;He further emphasised in his clarification that it was Usha who had inspired him to reconnect with his Christian faith. “My wife, as I said at the TPUSA, is the most amazing blessing I have in my life. She herself encouraged me to reengage with my faith many years ago,” Vance said, and went on to condemn what he described as growing prejudice against Christians.“Posts like this wreak anti-Christian bigotry,” he wrote.“Yes, Christians have beliefs. And yes, those beliefs have many consequences, one of which is that we want to share them with other people. That is a completely normal thing, and anyone who’s telling you otherwise has an agenda.”

Defending himself in the post, US Vice President JD Vance said that his wife, Usha, is not a Christian and has no plans to convert, and added that regardless of the faith, he will continue to love and support her and talk to her about faith and life and everything else.

US Vice President JD Vance on Friday rejected criticism that he had thrown the religion of his wife, Usha Vance, under the bus in public and defended his remarks about her Hindu faith, saying she is “not a Christian and has no plans to convert.” After being criticised severely on social media for his comments, Vance responded with a strongly worded post on X and called the backlash against his comments “disgusting” and accused his critics of “anti-Christian bigotry”. “What a disgusting comment, and it’s hardly been the only one along these lines,” Vance wrote, responding to social media users who accused him of disrespecting his wife’s religion. “First off, the question was from a person seemingly to my left, about my interfaith marriage. I’m a public figure, and people are curious, and I wasn’t going to avoid the question.” Also Read: FBI thwarted ‘potential terrorist attack’ during Halloween weekend, arrests tied to international terrorism: Report

Defending himself in the post, US Vice President JD Vance said that his wife, Usha, is not a Christian and has no plans to convert, and added that regardless of the faith, he will continue to love and support her and talk to her about faith and life and everything else.

‘Usha has no plans to convert…’: JD Vance clarifies after backlash over his remarks on wife’s faith

On Thursday (Oct 30), New York City has been experienced torrential rain and has been reeling from extensive flooding. The storm drenched the city with record rainfall. The highest rainfall in more than 100 years was recorded in Central Park. LaGuardia and Newark airports also broke previous records. Flooded streets were a common sight coupled with gusty winds, the phenomenon brought down trees in the surrounding areas. The storm has claimed at least two lives in Brooklyn and Upper Manhattan. The bodies of two men were found in a flooded basement.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/what-is-artificial-rain-know-the-complete-cloud-seeding-process-benefits-and-side-effects-1761629978214">Delhi artificial rain today? What is cloud seeding, its benefits and side effects — All details here</a>&nbsp;The body of a 39-year-old man was recovered by a scuba team after firefighters received a call of a person trapped in the flooded basement of a three-storey townhouse in Brooklyn, as reported by news outlet KSBY. Three major airports in the city have also been impacted due to the heavy downpour. Preliminary reports mentioned 45.7 mm of rainfall, exceeding its record of 41.7mm, which was set in 1917. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/weather-system-in-bay-of-bengal-to-intensify-heavy-very-heavy-rainfall-warning-issued-1761044743122">Weather system in Bay of Bengal to intensify, heavy-very heavy rainfall warning issued</a>&nbsp;"We all know that climate change has brought us these crazy rainstorms that our infrastructure was never designed to deal with. The four most intense storms in New York City's history have taken place in the last four years. Yesterday, what caused all the flooding is the fact that we had 1 inch of rain in 10 minutes," explained DEP Commissioner Rohit Aggarwall as quoted in news outlet CBS.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Flooded streets were a common sight; coupled with gusty winds, the phenomenon brought down trees in the surrounding areas.

On Thursday (Oct 30), New York City has been experienced torrential rain and has been reeling from extensive flooding. The storm drenched the city with record rainfall. The highest rainfall in more than 100 years was recorded in Central Park. LaGuardia and Newark airports also broke previous records. Flooded streets were a common sight coupled with gusty winds, the phenomenon brought down trees in the surrounding areas. The storm has claimed at least two lives in Brooklyn and Upper Manhattan. The bodies of two men were found in a flooded basement. Also read: Delhi artificial rain today? What is cloud seeding, its benefits and side effects — All details here The body of a 39-year-old man was recovered by a scuba team after firefighters received a call of a person trapped in the flooded basement of a three-storey townhouse in Brooklyn, as reported by news outlet KSBY. Three major airports in the city have also been impacted due to the heavy downpour. Preliminary reports mentioned 45.7 mm of rainfall, exceeding its record of 41.7mm, which was set in 1917. Also read: Weather system in Bay of Bengal to intensify, heavy-very heavy rainfall warning issued "We all know that climate change has brought us these crazy rainstorms that our infrastructure was never designed to deal with. The four most intense storms in New York City's history have taken place in the last four years. Yesterday, what caused all the flooding is the fact that we had 1 inch of rain in 10 minutes," explained DEP Commissioner Rohit Aggarwall as quoted in news outlet CBS.

Flooded streets were a common sight; coupled with gusty winds, the phenomenon brought down trees in the surrounding areas.

Storm shatters New York City, while Central Park records highest rainfall in over 100 years

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel said on Friday that the federal agency thwarted a potential terrorist attack over Halloween weekend and arrested several suspects in Michigan. The arrests made in Michigan are tied to international terrorism, said a Fox News report, citing a top federal law enforcement source. In a post on X early Friday, Patel said, “This morning the FBI thwarted a potential terrorist attack and arrested multiple subjects in Michigan who were allegedly plotting a violent attack over Halloween weekend. More details to come.” “Thanks to the men and women of FBI and law enforcement everywhere standing guard 24/7 and crushing our mission to defend the homeland.” Federal Bureau of Investigation is the primary federal law enforcement agency in the US and is also the domestic intelligence and security service.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jd-vance-says-he-hopes-his-wife-usha-a-hindu-converts-to-christianity-eventually-1761835421337">JD Vance says he hopes his wife Usha, a Hindu, converts to Christianity eventually</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">This morning the FBI thwarted a potential terrorist attack and arrested multiple subjects in Michigan who were allegedly plotting a violent attack over Halloween weekend. More details to come. Thanks to the men and women of FBI and law enforcement everywhere standing guard 24/7…&mdash; FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) <a href="https://twitter.com/FBIDirectorKash/status/1984222011158102097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In a statement to Fox News, Patel said the quick response prevented a potentially tragic situation from unfolding.“Through swift action and close coordination with our local partners, a potential act of terror was stopped before it could unfold,” Patel said. “The vigilance of this FBI prevented what could have been a tragic attack—and thanks to their dedication, Michigan will have a safe and happy Halloween.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slashes-refugee-cap-to-7-500-mostly-for-afrikaners-in-huge-cut-from-biden-era-1761850616227">Trump sets refugee cap at record low of 7,500, mostly for Afrikaners, in huge cut from Biden era</a>&nbsp;FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino also praised the operation and called it an example of proactive law enforcement that saves lives."This is what real law enforcement looks like—proactive, relentless, and focused on saving lives," Bongino said in a statement to Fox.&nbsp;The FBI’s Detroit field office confirmed that “the FBI in Michigan were present in the cities of Dearborn and Inkster this morning conducting law enforcement activities,” spokesperson Jordan Hall told CNN. “There is no current threat to public safety.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sheesh-mahal-2-0-bjp-accuses-arvind-kejriwal-of-building-mansion-in-chandigarh-with-punjab-funds-1761913105950">Sheesh Mahal 2.0: BJP accuses Arvind Kejriwal of building mansion in Chandigarh with Punjab funds</a>&nbsp;In a post on Facebook, the police department in Dearborn, a city west of Detroit, said the FBI had conducted operations in Dearborn early Friday.&nbsp;The Dearborn Police Department said it “has been made aware that the FBI conducted operations in the City of Dearborn earlier this morning.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-cricket-captain-mohd-azharuddin-sworn-in-as-minister-in-telangana-1761917339878">Former Indian cricket captain Mohammad Azharuddin sworn in as minister in Telangana</a>&nbsp;“We want to assure our residents that there is no threat to the community at this time,” the police department said.&nbsp;WATCH: Flu Season 2025: UK Braces for Worst Flu Epidemic in a Decade | DISPATCH | WION<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/flu-season-2025-uk-braces-for-worst-flu-epidemic-in-a-decade-dispatch-wion-1761920631486/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/flu-season-2025-uk-braces-for-worst-flu-epidemic-in-a-decade-dispatch-wion-1761920631486/embed</a>&nbsp;

The Dearborn Police Department said it has been made aware that the FBI conducted operations in the City of Dearborn earlier Friday morning. In a post on Facebook, the police department in Dearborn, a city west of Detroit, assured residents that there is no threat to the community.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel said on Friday that the federal agency thwarted a potential terrorist attack over Halloween weekend and arrested several suspects in Michigan. The arrests made in Michigan are tied to international terrorism, said a Fox News report, citing a top federal law enforcement source. In a post on X early Friday, Patel said, “This morning the FBI thwarted a potential terrorist attack and arrested multiple subjects in Michigan who were allegedly plotting a violent attack over Halloween weekend. More details to come.” “Thanks to the men and women of FBI and law enforcement everywhere standing guard 24/7 and crushing our mission to defend the homeland.” Federal Bureau of Investigation is the primary federal law enforcement agency in the US and is also the domestic intelligence and security service. Also Read: JD Vance says he hopes his wife Usha, a Hindu, converts to Christianity eventually

The Dearborn Police Department said it has been made aware that the FBI conducted operations in the City of Dearborn earlier Friday morning. In a post on Facebook, the police department in Dearborn, a city west of Detroit, assured residents that there is no threat to the community.

FBI thwarted ‘potential terrorist attack’ during Halloween weekend, arrests tied to international terrorism: Report

Michael Webber, an ex-British sergeant major, has been sentenced to six months of jail term for charges of sexual assault at the court martial centre in Bulford. He assaulted a 19-year-old soldier, Jaysley Beck, who killed herself as the investigators failed to probe the case. Webber left the army and had assaulted Beck during a training exercise in Hampshire in July 2021. “Jaysley did everything right. She reported the assault immediately, not once but twice. Her chain of command failed her,” said Leighann McCready, the deceased’s mother, told news outlet Guardian.&nbsp;“The justice system shouldn’t work like this – whether civilian or military. It shouldn’t depend upon a grieving family pressing at every stage for investigations that should have been conducted right at the start when Jaysley first reported what had happened to her," she added.

Michael Webber assaulted a 19-year-old soldier, Jaysley Beck, who killed herself as the investigators failed to probe the case. Webber left the army and had assaulted Beck during a training exercise in Hampshire in July 2021.

Michael Webber, an ex-British sergeant major, has been sentenced to six months of jail term for charges of sexual assault at the court martial centre in Bulford. He assaulted a 19-year-old soldier, Jaysley Beck, who killed herself as the investigators failed to probe the case. Webber left the army and had assaulted Beck during a training exercise in Hampshire in July 2021. “Jaysley did everything right. She reported the assault immediately, not once but twice. Her chain of command failed her,” said Leighann McCready, the deceased’s mother, told news outlet Guardian. “The justice system shouldn’t work like this – whether civilian or military. It shouldn’t depend upon a grieving family pressing at every stage for investigations that should have been conducted right at the start when Jaysley first reported what had happened to her," she added.

Michael Webber assaulted a 19-year-old soldier, Jaysley Beck, who killed herself as the investigators failed to probe the case. Webber left the army and had assaulted Beck during a training exercise in Hampshire in July 2021.

Ex-British sergeant major sentenced for sexually assaulting 19-year-old soldier, who later killed herself

With 2025 declared as the ‘Year of Reforms’ by the Ministry of Defence (MoD), India is forming Rudra brigades and Bhairav battalions to restructure the Indian Army. These changes, along with new technology upgrades and training systems, aim to prepare the Army for modern warfare and face threats from China and Pakistan. However, implementing these reforms faces some challenges and risks of escalation.&nbsp;In the past decade, China and Pakistan have worked to strengthen their positions against India, especially along the Line of Control (LoC) and the Line of Actual Control (LAC). After India reorganised Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, both countries built a closer partnership against New Delhi. Under Xi Jinping, China has become more aggressive in its territorial disputes, often using force or military threats to push its claims.&nbsp;The Chinese Army (PLA) has created new flashpoints along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) over the past decade. It has had multiple clashes with the Indian Army, including in Depsang (2013), Chumar (2014), Burtse (2015), Doklam (2017), Galwan and Naku La (2020), and most recently at the Yangtse ridge in 2022 during border talks.&nbsp;These actions were part of the Chinese Army’s ‘salami slicing’ strategy, which means slowly taking small pieces of territory step by step to change borders without starting a full-scale war. This creates a situation India must accept as a fact. However, the Indian Army and government responded firmly, sending more troops to stay fully prepared along the LAC.&nbsp;The Chinese Army’s repeated attempts to pressure India have taught important lessons and led to new military strategies to deal with such threats. At the same time, Pakistan has become more daring, using terror groups as part of its larger plan to challenge India’s defence strategy.&nbsp;In simple terms, the actions of Pakistan’s army and China’s PLA are meant to pressure and limit the Indian Army’s moves. Because of this, India’s military leaders now see the need to rethink and adjust their strategies to deal with these challenges more effectively.&nbsp;The Indian Army is changing its strategy to deal with China and Pakistan more effectively. It is now building stronger offensive capabilities against the Chinese Army (PLA) to create a “deterrence by punishment” strategy, meaning any attack would invite a strong counter-response. This new approach was clearly seen during the Operation Kailash Ranges in 2020, when the Indian Army captured two key mountain positions — Rezang La and Rechin La — on the southern bank of Pangong Tso Lake.&nbsp;This move gave the Indian Army a strong tactical advantage over the Chinese Army (PLA) and helped it gain the upper hand in border talks, as Indian troops could overlook the Moldo garrison on the northern side of Pangong Tso Lake. This success also encouraged military leaders to plan more offensive and strategic options for the future.The formation of the Bhairav and Rudra brigades is part of India’s effort to build a stronger deterrence against its two main rivals, China and Pakistan. This plan aims to create new military strategies and doctrines to deal with China’s “fait accompli” tactics — which means creating a situation on the ground that others are forced to accept as a fact, without direct confrontation.&nbsp;Designed as fast and flexible combat units, these battalions are based on the earlier idea of Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs), first introduced by General Bipin Rawat, India’s late Chief of Defence Staff. This marks a shift in focus from Pakistan to tackling the growing challenge from China.&nbsp;The Rudra battalions build on small Ghatak platoons — special assault teams trained for high-risk missions like raids and close combat — to create lean, fast, and tougher units. Designed like brigades, they can carry out offensive raids inside enemy territory and inflict higher costs on any attacker. Their main goal is to deter serious incursions along India’s borders by being quick, flexible, and always ready to strike.&nbsp;Rudra brigades and Bhairav battalions are built to work together—infantry, tanks, artillery and drones—so they can quickly capture small, clear objectives without huge troop movements. To face Pakistan’s asymmetric nuclear strategy (using Tactical Nuclear Weapons — small nukes meant for battlefield use), these lean forces offer a safer, measured option instead of sending a massive corps. They aim to do the job fast, limit escalation, and reduce the risk of nuclear or wider war while still imposing costs on any attacker.&nbsp;Along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), India keeps the Mountain Strike Corps (MSC) for large-scale wars. The Bhairav battalions, however, give a smaller, flexible, and less-escalatory option to meet Chinese pressure. They are designed to respond quickly, push back limited coercion, and manage tactical escalation without triggering full-scale conflict.The army must plan how and when to send reinforcements so any escalation is met quickly and correctly; this planning should be built into everyday doctrine and operational plans so commanders know when to act and how to avoid a larger war.&nbsp;As India modernises its military planning and adjusts to a no-war, no-peace situation, it must take a major precaution — to balance innovation with caution, ensuring that new strategies don’t lead to unintended escalation or instability.India is reorganising the Army to form Rudra brigades and Bhairav battalions. These new units make the force quicker and stronger, giving it a clear deterrent (to stop enemies) and the ability to push back if needed against China and Pakistan.&nbsp;Against both China and Pakistan, these forces are designed to deter threats and, if needed, compel action. In simple terms, deterrence and compellence are two sides of the same strategy — coercion, where one side uses strength and pressure to prevent or force the other to act. In simple terms, this Army reorganisation shows strong political will and a readiness to take risks by military leaders to face ongoing threats. It is designed to handle any rise in conflict—big or small—through controlled and balanced use of force.

In simple terms, the actions of Pakistan’s army and China’s PLA are meant to pressure and limit the Indian Army’s moves. Because of this, India’s military leaders now see the need to rethink and adjust their strategies to deal with these challenges more effectively.

With 2025 declared as the ‘Year of Reforms’ by the Ministry of Defence (MoD), India is forming Rudra brigades and Bhairav battalions to restructure the Indian Army. These changes, along with new technology upgrades and training systems, aim to prepare the Army for modern warfare and face threats from China and Pakistan. However, implementing these reforms faces some challenges and risks of escalation. In the past decade, China and Pakistan have worked to strengthen their positions against India, especially along the Line of Control (LoC) and the Line of Actual Control (LAC). After India reorganised Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, both countries built a closer partnership against New Delhi. Under Xi Jinping, China has become more aggressive in its territorial disputes, often using force or military threats to push its claims. The Chinese Army (PLA) has created new flashpoints along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) over the past decade. It has had multiple clashes with the Indian Army, including in Depsang (2013), Chumar (2014), Burtse (2015), Doklam (2017), Galwan and Naku La (2020), and most recently at the Yangtse ridge in 2022 during border talks. These actions were part of the Chinese Army’s ‘salami slicing’ strategy, which means slowly taking small pieces of territory step by step to change borders without starting a full-scale war. This creates a situation India must accept as a fact. However, the Indian Army and government responded firmly, sending more troops to stay fully prepared along the LAC. The Chinese Army’s repeated attempts to pressure India have taught important lessons and led to new military strategies to deal with such threats. At the same time, Pakistan has become more daring, using terror groups as part of its larger plan to challenge India’s defence strategy. In simple terms, the actions of Pakistan’s army and China’s PLA are meant to pressure and limit the Indian Army’s moves. Because of this, India’s military leaders now see the need to rethink and adjust their strategies to deal with these challenges more effectively. The Indian Army is changing its strategy to deal with China and Pakistan more effectively. It is now building stronger offensive capabilities against the Chinese Army (PLA) to create a “deterrence by punishment” strategy, meaning any attack would invite a strong counter-response. This new approach was clearly seen during the Operation Kailash Ranges in 2020, when the Indian Army captured two key mountain positions — Rezang La and Rechin La — on the southern bank of Pangong Tso Lake. This move gave the Indian Army a strong tactical advantage over the Chinese Army (PLA) and helped it gain the upper hand in border talks, as Indian troops could overlook the Moldo garrison on the northern side of Pangong Tso Lake. This success also encouraged military leaders to plan more offensive and strategic options for the future. The formation of the Bhairav and Rudra brigades is part of India’s effort to build a stronger deterrence against its two main rivals, China and Pakistan. This plan aims to create new military strategies and doctrines to deal with China’s “fait accompli” tactics — which means creating a situation on the ground that others are forced to accept as a fact, without direct confrontation. Designed as fast and flexible combat units, these battalions are based on the earlier idea of Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs), first introduced by General Bipin Rawat, India’s late Chief of Defence Staff. This marks a shift in focus from Pakistan to tackling the growing challenge from China. The Rudra battalions build on small Ghatak platoons — special assault teams trained for high-risk missions like raids and close combat — to create lean, fast, and tougher units. Designed like brigades, they can carry out offensive raids inside enemy territory and inflict higher costs on any attacker. Their main goal is to deter serious incursions along India’s borders by being quick, flexible, and always ready to strike. Rudra brigades and Bhairav battalions are built to work together—infantry, tanks, artillery and drones—so they can quickly capture small, clear objectives without huge troop movements. To face Pakistan’s asymmetric nuclear strategy (using Tactical Nuclear Weapons — small nukes meant for battlefield use), these lean forces offer a safer, measured option instead of sending a massive corps. They aim to do the job fast, limit escalation, and reduce the risk of nuclear or wider war while still imposing costs on any attacker. Along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), India keeps the Mountain Strike Corps (MSC) for large-scale wars. The Bhairav battalions, however, give a smaller, flexible, and less-escalatory option to meet Chinese pressure. They are designed to respond quickly, push back limited coercion, and manage tactical escalation without triggering full-scale conflict. The army must plan how and when to send reinforcements so any escalation is met quickly and correctly; this planning should be built into everyday doctrine and operational plans so commanders know when to act and how to avoid a larger war. As India modernises its military planning and adjusts to a no-war, no-peace situation, it must take a major precaution — to balance innovation with caution, ensuring that new strategies don’t lead to unintended escalation or instability. India is reorganising the Army to form Rudra brigades and Bhairav battalions. These new units make the force quicker and stronger, giving it a clear deterrent (to stop enemies) and the ability to push back if needed against China and Pakistan. Against both China and Pakistan, these forces are designed to deter threats and, if needed, compel action. In simple terms, deterrence and compellence are two sides of the same strategy — coercion, where one side uses strength and pressure to prevent or force the other to act. In simple terms, this Army reorganisation shows strong political will and a readiness to take risks by military leaders to face ongoing threats. It is designed to handle any rise in conflict—big or small—through controlled and balanced use of force.

In simple terms, the actions of Pakistan’s army and China’s PLA are meant to pressure and limit the Indian Army’s moves. Because of this, India’s military leaders now see the need to rethink and adjust their strategies to deal with these challenges more effectively.

India's new war machine: Can Rudra and Bhairav Brigades tame China and Pakistan?

Prince Andrew is no longer a prince. The erstwhile Duke of York will now be known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, as his alleged scandalous past has caught up with him—particularly due to a voice from the grave: Virginia Giuffre, who claimed during her life, and again in her posthumous book, that she was a victim of sex trafficking involving the now-former British royal. The favourite child of the late Queen Elizabeth II, the 65-year-old former fighter pilot went from playboy to the poster boy of disgrace. At the height of his fame, Andrew was seen as a modern royal—glamorous, global, and entrepreneurial. But today, his daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, stand embarrassed by the actions of their father. This is his story:<h2>The life of Prince Andrew: Privilege and pomp</h2>Prince Andrew Albert Christian Edward was born on 19 February 1960 at Buckingham Palace. The third child—and second son—of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, he was known for his charm and energy.He joined the Royal Navy in 1979 and served as a helicopter pilot during the 1982 Falklands War, flying dangerous missions that earned him recognition as a war hero. Andrew rose to the rank of lieutenant commander by 1992 and retired from active duty in 2001, later receiving honorary promotions up to vice admiral. That same year, Andrew was appointed the UK’s Special Representative for International Trade and Investment, promoting British business abroad, particularly in Asia and the Middle East.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/major-royal-move-king-charles-strips-andrew-of-titles-1761893567672/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/major-royal-move-king-charles-strips-andrew-of-titles-1761893567672/embed</a>His 1986 marriage to Sarah Ferguson at Westminster Abbey was a global spectacle, but the relationship was rocked by scandals and infidelity. The couple divorced in 1996 but remained close, continuing to share the Royal Lodge in Windsor.&nbsp;<h2>A Royal Scandal: How Epstein friendship ruined Andrew</h2>Andrew’s associations were controversial even in the early 2000s, particularly his dealings with authoritarian regimes such as Muammar Gaddafi’s Libya. But his friendship with the late sex offender and financier Jeffrey Epstein became his ultimate undoing.The two met around 1999 through Ghislaine Maxwell, a London socialite and Epstein’s then-girlfriend. According to public records, Andrew visited Epstein’s properties in New York, Palm Beach, and the Caribbean. The association continued even after Epstein’s 2008 conviction for sex offences. Andrew hosted Epstein and Maxwell at Windsor Castle in 2006 and stayed at Epstein’s Manhattan mansion in 2010, supposedly to “end” their friendship. Later emails, however, revealed continued contact. Epstein also paid £15,000 towards Sarah Ferguson’s debts.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/king-charles-strips-prince-andrew-of-all-royal-titles-orders-him-out-of-windsor-home-1761872104652">King Charles strips Prince Andrew of all royal titles, orders him to vacate Windsor castle</a><h2>Virginia Giuffre: The woman who brought down Prince Andrew, in life and after death</h2>In 2014, Virginia Giuffre, one of Epstein’s sex trafficking victims, publicly accused Andrew of sexually abusing her. The abuse, she claimed, took place after she was a trafficked as a 17-year-old in London, New York, and on Epstein’s private island in the Virgin Islands. A now-infamous photo showed Andrew with his arm around Giuffre’s waist, with Maxwell smiling beside them.In public remarks, including a disastrous 2019 BBC interview, Andrew claimed to have “no recollection” of Giuffre and denied all allegations. His bizarre justifications—including a medical condition preventing him from sweating and an alibi involving a visit to Pizza Express—only made matters worse. Sponsors withdrew support, and within days, he stepped down from public duties.Giuffre’s pursuit of justice continued. She sued Andrew in 2021 for sexual assault, and after failing to have the case dismissed, he settled out of court in February 2022 for a reported £12 million without admitting guilt. The late Queen stripped him of military roles, royal patronages, and the use of “His Royal Highness.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/where-will-be-prince-andrew-s-next-residence-after-royal-lodge-exit-1761898950853">Where will be Prince Andrew's next residence after Royal lodge exit?</a><h2>Epstein file disclosures: The brother king takes action</h2>In early 2025, new Epstein files released by US authorities, followed by leaked emails in which Andrew urged Epstein to stay in touch and promised to “play again,” reignited public outrage. Fresh misconduct claims emerged, and the final blow came from Giuffre’s posthumous memoir, Nobody’s Girl, which described Andrew as having treated her “like property.”On October 17, Andrew relinquished his ducal titles. &nbsp;Facing mounting political and public pressure, King Charles III acted to protect the monarchy’s integrity. On Friday (Oct 31), the king formally removed his brother's “Prince” title and HRH style by royal warrant, ordering him to vacate his royal residence.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/princess-beatrice-and-princess-eugenie-are-reportedly-not-in-the-uk-amid-prince-andrew-s-royal-title-drama-1761883624744">Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie are reportedly not in the UK amid Prince Andrew’s royal title drama</a>Once a decorated naval officer and royal hero, Andrew’s swift decline into a disgraced commoner marks one of the most dramatic royal downfalls in modern British history. His legacy will now be that of an enduring cautionary tale of power, misused privilege and accountability.&nbsp;

Prince Andrew, new name Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, now holds no official role or privileges. The former Duke of York has been evicted from Royal Lodge. Two dead people - sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein and his victim Virginia Gueffre- caused the downfall of the former British royal. But how?

Prince Andrew is no longer a prince. The erstwhile Duke of York will now be known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, as his alleged scandalous past has caught up with him—particularly due to a voice from the grave: Virginia Giuffre, who claimed during her life, and again in her posthumous book, that she was a victim of sex trafficking involving the now-former British royal. The favourite child of the late Queen Elizabeth II, the 65-year-old former fighter pilot went from playboy to the poster boy of disgrace. At the height of his fame, Andrew was seen as a modern royal—glamorous, global, and entrepreneurial. But today, his daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, stand embarrassed by the actions of their father. This is his story: The life of Prince Andrew: Privilege and pomp Prince Andrew Albert Christian Edward was born on 19 February 1960 at Buckingham Palace. The third child—and second son—of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, he was known for his charm and energy. He joined the Royal Navy in 1979 and served as a helicopter pilot during the 1982 Falklands War, flying dangerous missions that earned him recognition as a war hero. Andrew rose to the rank of lieutenant commander by 1992 and retired from active duty in 2001, later receiving honorary promotions up to vice admiral. That same year, Andrew was appointed the UK’s Special Representative for International Trade and Investment, promoting British business abroad, particularly in Asia and the Middle East. https://www.wionews.com/videos/major-royal-move-king-charles-strips-andrew-of-titles-1761893567672/embed His 1986 marriage to Sarah Ferguson at Westminster Abbey was a global spectacle, but the relationship was rocked by scandals and infidelity. The couple divorced in 1996 but remained close, continuing to share the Royal Lodge in Windsor. A Royal Scandal: How Epstein friendship ruined Andrew Andrew’s associations were controversial even in the early 2000s, particularly his dealings with authoritarian regimes such as Muammar Gaddafi’s Libya. But his friendship with the late sex offender and financier Jeffrey Epstein became his ultimate undoing. The two met around 1999 through Ghislaine Maxwell, a London socialite and Epstein’s then-girlfriend. According to public records, Andrew visited Epstein’s properties in New York, Palm Beach, and the Caribbean. The association continued even after Epstein’s 2008 conviction for sex offences. Andrew hosted Epstein and Maxwell at Windsor Castle in 2006 and stayed at Epstein’s Manhattan mansion in 2010, supposedly to “end” their friendship. Later emails, however, revealed continued contact. Epstein also paid £15,000 towards Sarah Ferguson’s debts. Also read: King Charles strips Prince Andrew of all royal titles, orders him to vacate Windsor castle Virginia Giuffre: The woman who brought down Prince Andrew, in life and after death In 2014, Virginia Giuffre, one of Epstein’s sex trafficking victims, publicly accused Andrew of sexually abusing her. The abuse, she claimed, took place after she was a trafficked as a 17-year-old in London, New York, and on Epstein’s private island in the Virgin Islands. A now-infamous photo showed Andrew with his arm around Giuffre’s waist, with Maxwell smiling beside them. In public remarks, including a disastrous 2019 BBC interview, Andrew claimed to have “no recollection” of Giuffre and denied all allegations. His bizarre justifications—including a medical condition preventing him from sweating and an alibi involving a visit to Pizza Express—only made matters worse. Sponsors withdrew support, and within days, he stepped down from public duties. Giuffre’s pursuit of justice continued. She sued Andrew in 2021 for sexual assault, and after failing to have the case dismissed, he settled out of court in February 2022 for a reported £12 million without admitting guilt. The late Queen stripped him of military roles, royal patronages, and the use of “His Royal Highness.” Also read: Where will be Prince Andrew's next residence after Royal lodge exit? Epstein file disclosures: The brother king takes action In early 2025, new Epstein files released by US authorities, followed by leaked emails in which Andrew urged Epstein to stay in touch and promised to “play again,” reignited public outrage. Fresh misconduct claims emerged, and the final blow came from Giuffre’s posthumous memoir, Nobody’s Girl, which described Andrew as having treated her “like property.” On October 17, Andrew relinquished his ducal titles. Facing mounting political and public pressure, King Charles III acted to protect the monarchy’s integrity. On Friday (Oct 31), the king formally removed his brother's “Prince” title and HRH style by royal warrant, ordering him to vacate his royal residence. Also read: Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie are reportedly not in the UK amid Prince Andrew’s royal title drama Once a decorated naval officer and royal hero, Andrew’s swift decline into a disgraced commoner marks one of the most dramatic royal downfalls in modern British history. His legacy will now be that of an enduring cautionary tale of power, misused privilege and accountability.

Prince Andrew, new name Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, now holds no official role or privileges. The former Duke of York has been evicted from Royal Lodge. Two dead people - sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein and his victim Virginia Giuffre- caused the downfall of the former British royal. But how?

Downfall of Prince Andrew: End of Duke of York and the making of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor

The Nobel Prize in Physics went to three scientists this month for their pioneering work in quantum mechanics—but US President Donald Trump claims he also deserves some of the credit. In a post on Truth Social, Trump on Thursday (Oct 30) celebrated the award by quoting his Energy Secretary Chris Wright and suggesting that the win was tied to his administration’s focus on emerging technologies and thus "‘Trump 47 racks up his first Nobel Prize!!’".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-scores-another-nobel-peace-prize-nomination-this-time-from-japan-1761620702194">Trump scores another Nobel Peace prize nomination...this time from Japan</a><h2>What did Trump do to deserve the Nobel Physics prize?</h2>In his post, Trump quoted Wright as saying: "Chris Wright: 'A former Lawrence Berkeley National Lab scientist won the Nobel Prize in physics for work in Quantum physics. Quantum computing, along with AI and Fusion, are the three signature Trump science efforts. Trump 47 racks up his first Nobel Prize!!'."

The Nobel was awarded to John Clarke, 83, a British physicist formerly at the Department of Energy’s Berkeley Lab and now emeritus professor at UC Berkeley, along with Michel Devoret, 72, of Yale University, and John Martinis, 67, of the University of California, Santa Barbara. Their experiments from the mid-1980s paved the way for breakthroughs in quantum computing.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-nuclear-armed-bully-iran-blasts-trump-for-ordering-resumption-of-us-nuclear-tests-1761872971706">‘Nuclear-armed bully’: Iran blasts Trump for ordering resumption of US nuclear tests</a><h2>'Pathetic' Trump slammed for hogging credit</h2>Trump's self-congratulation drew swift criticism. California Governor Gavin Newsom, who in recent days has been engaged in a war of words with the POTUS, mocked him on X, writing, "The President of the United States is so upset about his failed campaign for a Nobel Prize that he’s now trying to claim someone else’s prize as his own. Pathetic".

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The President of the United States is so upset about his failed campaign for a Nobel Prize that he&#39;s now trying to claim someone else&#39;s prize as his own. Pathetic. <a href="https://t.co/KZnFohmxgY">https://t.co/KZnFohmxgY</a>&mdash; Governor Gavin Newsom (@CAgovernor) <a href="https://twitter.com/CAgovernor/status/1983997362164142229?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Nobel laureate dismisses Trump's claim</h2>Martinis dismissed Trump’s claim with a hint of humour. In a statement to the Daily Beast, the Nobel laureate said, "This work was done in 1985, so I suppose you should credit another Republican, Ronald Reagan." Still, he acknowledged that Trump’s administration has shown interest in quantum technology: "Trump has emphasised quantum computing is a priority for his administration, and I think everyone appreciates his support of this technology".&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump has claimed partial credit for this year’s Nobel Prize in Physics, posting on Truth Social: “Trump 47 racks up his first Nobel Prize!!”

The Nobel Prize in Physics went to three scientists this month for their pioneering work in quantum mechanics—but US President Donald Trump claims he also deserves some of the credit. In a post on Truth Social, Trump on Thursday (Oct 30) celebrated the award by quoting his Energy Secretary Chris Wright and suggesting that the win was tied to his administration’s focus on emerging technologies and thus "‘Trump 47 racks up his first Nobel Prize!!’". Also read | Trump scores another Nobel Peace prize nomination...this time from Japan What did Trump do to deserve the Nobel Physics prize? In his post, Trump quoted Wright as saying: "Chris Wright: 'A former Lawrence Berkeley National Lab scientist won the Nobel Prize in physics for work in Quantum physics. Quantum computing, along with AI and Fusion, are the three signature Trump science efforts. Trump 47 racks up his first Nobel Prize!!'."

US President Donald Trump has claimed partial credit for this year’s Nobel Prize in Physics, posting on Truth Social: “Trump 47 racks up his first Nobel Prize!!”

'Trump 47 racks up his first Nobel'?: President Donald Trump claims credit for Nobel Physics Prize

More than 700,000 people crowded St. Peter’s Square in Rome this month to witness a moment that might sound straight out of fiction — the canonisation of a former Satanic priest. On 19 Oct 2025, Pope Leo XIV officially declared Bartolo Longo, along with six others, a saint of the Catholic Church. For the faithful, it was a celebration of redemption. For everyone else, it was a reminder that some of the Church's most powerful stories begin in darkness.<h2>Who was Saint Bartolo Longo?</h2>Born in 1841 in Latiano, Italy, Bartolo Longo trained as a lawyer. After his father's death, Longo lost faith and turned toward the occult, engaging in extreme practices including fasting and even making a pact with the devil. According to Daily Mail, he plunged into séances, and was even "ordained" as a Satanic priest — until one night, he heard what he believed was his dead father’s voice: "Return to God."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/fact-check-did-obama-spend-376-million-to-build-a-basketball-court-at-the-white-house-1761638839164">Fact Check: Did Obama spend $376 million to build a basketball court at the White House?</a>Terrified, Longo confided in a close friend, Professor Vincenzo Pepe, who was appalled at how far he’d gone into Satanism. Pepe, as per the report, warned him that he was heading toward madness. These words reportedly jolted Longo into seeking help from a Dominican priest, Father Alberto Radente. What followed was a month-long process of confession and repentance that transformed his life. Longo renounced Satanism, took a vow of celibacy, and threw himself into service.<h2>Why was the former Satanic priest given sainthood?</h2>Bartolo Longo would then dedicate six years of his life to charitable work before taking a vow as a lay Dominican on the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary. He later founded the Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary in Pompeii, built orphanages for the children of prisoners, and spent years working with the poor and sick. He became known for walking the streets preaching against spiritualism. He even attended what was his last séance, where he declared, "I renounce spiritualism; it is nothing but a web of lies and deception."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-says-becoming-vp-to-return-to-white-house-would-be-too-cute-but-insists-i-d-be-allowed-to-1761632934601">Trump says becoming VP to return to White House would be 'too cute' but insists 'I’d be allowed to'. Watch</a>He died in 1926, remembered not for his sins but for his conversion — a man who went from invoking demons to building one of Italy’s most visited places of prayer. At his canonisation on October 19, Pope Leo said, "Today we have before us seven witnesses, the new Saints, who, with God's grace, kept the lamp of faith burning".

More than 700,000 people gathered at St. Peter’s Square to witness Pope Leo XIV canonise Bartolo Longo — once a Satanic priest, now a Catholic saint. Here's his wild story. 

More than 700,000 people crowded St. Peter’s Square in Rome this month to witness a moment that might sound straight out of fiction — the canonisation of a former Satanic priest. On 19 Oct 2025, Pope Leo XIV officially declared Bartolo Longo, along with six others, a saint of the Catholic Church. For the faithful, it was a celebration of redemption. For everyone else, it was a reminder that some of the Church's most powerful stories begin in darkness. Who was Saint Bartolo Longo? Born in 1841 in Latiano, Italy, Bartolo Longo trained as a lawyer. After his father's death, Longo lost faith and turned toward the occult, engaging in extreme practices including fasting and even making a pact with the devil. According to Daily Mail, he plunged into séances, and was even "ordained" as a Satanic priest — until one night, he heard what he believed was his dead father’s voice: "Return to God." Also read | Fact Check: Did Obama spend $376 million to build a basketball court at the White House? Terrified, Longo confided in a close friend, Professor Vincenzo Pepe, who was appalled at how far he’d gone into Satanism. Pepe, as per the report, warned him that he was heading toward madness. These words reportedly jolted Longo into seeking help from a Dominican priest, Father Alberto Radente. What followed was a month-long process of confession and repentance that transformed his life. Longo renounced Satanism, took a vow of celibacy, and threw himself into service. Why was the former Satanic priest given sainthood? Bartolo Longo would then dedicate six years of his life to charitable work before taking a vow as a lay Dominican on the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary. He later founded the Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary in Pompeii, built orphanages for the children of prisoners, and spent years working with the poor and sick. He became known for walking the streets preaching against spiritualism. He even attended what was his last séance, where he declared, "I renounce spiritualism; it is nothing but a web of lies and deception." Also read | Trump says becoming VP to return to White House would be 'too cute' but insists 'I’d be allowed to'. Watch He died in 1926, remembered not for his sins but for his conversion — a man who went from invoking demons to building one of Italy’s most visited places of prayer. At his canonisation on October 19, Pope Leo said, "Today we have before us seven witnesses, the new Saints, who, with God's grace, kept the lamp of faith burning".

More than 700,000 people gathered at St. Peter’s Square to witness Pope Leo XIV canonise Bartolo Longo — once a Satanic priest, now a Catholic saint. Here's his wild story.&nbsp;

From demon worshipper, to a man of God: Vatican makes former Satanic priest a Saint — The wild story of Bartolo Longo

There are strong signs of an inter-agency conflict underway. A bill in the US House of Representatives proposes shifting the lead of Federal Counter-Intelligence efforts from the FBI to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, by extension, a role for Tulsi Gabbard. FBI ‘strongly’ opposed such a move in a sharply worded letter to Congress.&nbsp;This is the second time the bureau has clashed with the Director of National Intelligence. Earlier, Joe Kent, the director of the counterterrorism centre, one of the closest advisors to Tulsi Gabbard, tried to access files related to the murder of Charlie Kirk and to investigate whether he had support from anyone else, a foreign power or another entity. FBI Director Kash Patel was troubled and believed Mr Kent was overstepping.&nbsp;This time around, it is about the Intelligence Authorisation Act, which proposes to overhaul counter-intelligence operations, elevating Gabbard's role from limited oversight and partial involvement to direct control of activities.The unclassified FBI letter obtained by the Times uses words like “vigorously disagrees with” and “strong objection,” expresses concern that it would cause “serious long-lasting” damage to national security. FBI asserted that it had a decade of experience in counterintelligence, and the DNI will push the agency through the labyrinth of bureaucracy. “Would a counterintelligence-related prosecution be considered an ‘activity’ that must receive approval from this new Director, outside of the current DOJ chain?" read the letter. "Would that give the new Director of the Counterintelligence Centre authority over the FBI/Attorney General for all counterintelligence investigations?”However, people in the intelligence community said that the letter is “a pre-emptive response" to a “deliberative process document" which is not final yet.&nbsp;On the one hand, this will diminish the statutory power of the FBI, which it holds over the counter-intelligence authority; on the other hand, this will give more authority to DNI (via Gabbard) to oversee the intelligence and law enforcement. The bill, if approved, will create a counter-intelligence czar. Officials argue that this was not the purpose of the creation of DNI, and the FBI argues that this could likely compromise operational integrity, due to possible confusion of jurisdiction between the DNI, the FBI and other organisations.&nbsp;“While our adversaries in the Chinese Communist Party, Russia, Iran and terrorist groups operate on a war footing against the United States, too often we have remained reactive, complacent and risk-averse,” said Senator Mark Warner.&nbsp;Moreover, there had been speculation within the intelligence community about Tulsi Gabbard, a senior fellow at the Middle East Institute called her views ‘so wildly fringe that her potential appointment as DNI is genuinely alarming’. Tulsi, an Iraq War veteran, had called the Syrian conflict “regime-change war” fueled by the West and viewed Russia and the Assad regime as legitimate defenders against an extremist uprising. These are some controversial opinions to hold, and now her push to investigate Charlie Kirk's death for foreign involvement does not make her a desirable figure within the US intelligence community. However, if the role of Gabbard becomes highly partisan or politicised, then institutional trust might erode.&nbsp;

A power struggle is brewing between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence over the counterintelligence efforts 

There are strong signs of an inter-agency conflict underway. A bill in the US House of Representatives proposes shifting the lead of Federal Counter-Intelligence efforts from the FBI to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, by extension, a role for Tulsi Gabbard. FBI ‘strongly’ opposed such a move in a sharply worded letter to Congress. This is the second time the bureau has clashed with the Director of National Intelligence. Earlier, Joe Kent, the director of the counterterrorism centre, one of the closest advisors to Tulsi Gabbard, tried to access files related to the murder of Charlie Kirk and to investigate whether he had support from anyone else, a foreign power or another entity. FBI Director Kash Patel was troubled and believed Mr Kent was overstepping. This time around, it is about the Intelligence Authorisation Act, which proposes to overhaul counter-intelligence operations, elevating Gabbard's role from limited oversight and partial involvement to direct control of activities. The unclassified FBI letter obtained by the Times uses words like “vigorously disagrees with” and “strong objection,” expresses concern that it would cause “serious long-lasting” damage to national security. FBI asserted that it had a decade of experience in counterintelligence, and the DNI will push the agency through the labyrinth of bureaucracy. “Would a counterintelligence-related prosecution be considered an ‘activity’ that must receive approval from this new Director, outside of the current DOJ chain?" read the letter. "Would that give the new Director of the Counterintelligence Centre authority over the FBI/Attorney General for all counterintelligence investigations?” However, people in the intelligence community said that the letter is “a pre-emptive response" to a “deliberative process document" which is not final yet. On the one hand, this will diminish the statutory power of the FBI, which it holds over the counter-intelligence authority; on the other hand, this will give more authority to DNI (via Gabbard) to oversee the intelligence and law enforcement. The bill, if approved, will create a counter-intelligence czar. Officials argue that this was not the purpose of the creation of DNI, and the FBI argues that this could likely compromise operational integrity, due to possible confusion of jurisdiction between the DNI, the FBI and other organisations. “While our adversaries in the Chinese Communist Party, Russia, Iran and terrorist groups operate on a war footing against the United States, too often we have remained reactive, complacent and risk-averse,” said Senator Mark Warner. Moreover, there had been speculation within the intelligence community about Tulsi Gabbard, a senior fellow at the Middle East Institute called her views ‘so wildly fringe that her potential appointment as DNI is genuinely alarming’. Tulsi, an Iraq War veteran, had called the Syrian conflict “regime-change war” fueled by the West and viewed Russia and the Assad regime as legitimate defenders against an extremist uprising. These are some controversial opinions to hold, and now her push to investigate Charlie Kirk's death for foreign involvement does not make her a desirable figure within the US intelligence community. However, if the role of Gabbard becomes highly partisan or politicised, then institutional trust might erode.

A power struggle is brewing between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence over the counterintelligence efforts&nbsp;

FBI opposes House plan granting Tulsi Gabbard key counterintelligence role, signalling interagency rift

The planned meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin has been called off after Moscow presented a formal list of demands that US officials described as ‘maximalist’ in nature, according to reports from Reuters, citing the Financial Times. The summit, originally set for next month in Budapest, was meant to be part of renewed diplomatic efforts aimed at easing tensions between Washington and Moscow. However, US officials decided to cancel the event after reviewing Russia's conditions, which reportedly included major concessions on sanctions and recognition of Russia's territorial claims.&nbsp;As of now, the White House has not released an official statement regarding the cancellation. There had already been some skepticism surrounding the meeting after an unnamed US official stated earlier this week that there were 'no plans' for a Trump-Putin meeting "in the immediate future."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-odni-rift-tulsi-gabbard-counterintelligence-bill-1761887009287">FBI opposes House plan granting Tulsi Gabbard key counterintelligence role, signalling interagency rift</a>&nbsp;Recently, Trump admitted to feeling ‘frustrated’ with Putin, signaling a shift from his earlier remarks that his “personal chemistry” with the Russian leader could quickly bring an end to the war if he returned to the White House. Furthermore, Trump acknowledged last week that a high-level summit with Putin is unlikely in the near future, despite a senior Kremlin representative meeting with US officials in Florida to discuss potential solutions to the war in Ukraine. Trump added that he didn’t want to "waste his time" on such talks.&nbsp;The US president has spent months trying to mediate a peace agreement between the two countries, but progress has remained out of reach. Calling for an immediate end to the fighting, he suggested that Moscow should retain the areas it currently controls. Speaking to reporters in Florida earlier this month, Trump proposed that the front lines serve as the dividing boundary, arguing that “it’s too complicated” otherwise. He said both armies should halt operations, return home, and put an end to the bloodshed. Trump also acknowledged the possibility that Russian President Vladimir Putin could be manipulating him during his efforts to negotiate a settlement between Russia and Ukraine.

Trump-Putin meeting in Budapest cancelled after Washington gets Moscow memo on....

The planned meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin has been called off after Moscow presented a formal list of demands that US officials described as ‘maximalist’ in nature, according to reports from Reuters, citing the Financial Times. The summit, originally set for next month in Budapest, was meant to be part of renewed diplomatic efforts aimed at easing tensions between Washington and Moscow. However, US officials decided to cancel the event after reviewing Russia's conditions, which reportedly included major concessions on sanctions and recognition of Russia's territorial claims. As of now, the White House has not released an official statement regarding the cancellation. There had already been some skepticism surrounding the meeting after an unnamed US official stated earlier this week that there were 'no plans' for a Trump-Putin meeting "in the immediate future." Also Read: FBI opposes House plan granting Tulsi Gabbard key counterintelligence role, signalling interagency rift Recently, Trump admitted to feeling ‘frustrated’ with Putin, signaling a shift from his earlier remarks that his “personal chemistry” with the Russian leader could quickly bring an end to the war if he returned to the White House. Furthermore, Trump acknowledged last week that a high-level summit with Putin is unlikely in the near future, despite a senior Kremlin representative meeting with US officials in Florida to discuss potential solutions to the war in Ukraine. Trump added that he didn’t want to "waste his time" on such talks. The US president has spent months trying to mediate a peace agreement between the two countries, but progress has remained out of reach. Calling for an immediate end to the fighting, he suggested that Moscow should retain the areas it currently controls. Speaking to reporters in Florida earlier this month, Trump proposed that the front lines serve as the dividing boundary, arguing that “it’s too complicated” otherwise. He said both armies should halt operations, return home, and put an end to the bloodshed. Trump also acknowledged the possibility that Russian President Vladimir Putin could be manipulating him during his efforts to negotiate a settlement between Russia and Ukraine.

US cancels planned Trump-Putin summit after Russia’s firm stance on Ukraine. Trump says he won't meet Putin unless a peace deal is near

An Australian family with millions of online followers is moving to the UK to bypass a new social media restriction in their home country. Starting this December, Australia's groundbreaking law will prevent anyone under 16 from creating or maintaining social media accounts, including platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, and YouTube. The family, known as the ‘Empire Family’, consists of moms Beck and Bec Lea, along with their two children: Prezley, 17, and Charlotte, 14, who all actively share content about their daily lives. In a recent post, the family shared that they use the internet for positive purposes and that relocating to the United Kingdom will allow Charlotte to continue creating content without disruption.&nbsp;The social media ban in Australia aims to safeguard young people from the negative effects of online platforms. If social media companies fail to comply, they could face significant fines, potentially up to A$50 million ($32.5 million; £25.7 million). While details on enforcement are still unclear, the government is considering measures such as verifying age through official documents, parental approval, or facial recognition technology. These plans have raised concerns over privacy and the reliability of age verification systems.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-nuclear-option-what-is-a-filibuster-which-trump-wants-to-eliminate-in-us-senate-to-end-the-government-shutdown-1761889831298">'Nuclear Option': What is a filibuster, which Trump wants to eliminate in US Senate to end the government shutdown?</a>&nbsp;Initially, YouTube was exempt from the ban, but the Australian government reversed this decision, meaning teens under 16 will no longer be able to upload or interact with content on the platform, although they can still view videos. In a video explaining the family's decision to relocate from Perth to London, Beck emphasized that they do not oppose the law but feel that it’s unclear how the regulations will work in practice. She acknowledged the importance of protecting young people online but stressed the need for clarity in how the law will be implemented.&nbsp;Beck’s wife, Bec, also pointed out how much social media has evolved over the years and how many young people now use it to make a positive impact. The family is able to make the move because they hold dual Australian and British citizenship, and Charlotte recently switched to online schooling, which allows them to live anywhere. Charlotte, who posts as Charli, has gained a massive following: half a million subscribers on YouTube, over 300,000 fans on TikTok, and nearly 200,000 followers on Instagram, with her accounts managed by her parents.&nbsp;The family’s main platform is YouTube, where Prezley has 2.8 million subscribers and their joint account has 1.8 million followers. Their content mainly consists of makeup tutorials, gaming sessions, and family travel videos.

Why this family with millions of followers on social media is relocating to UK

An Australian family with millions of online followers is moving to the UK to bypass a new social media restriction in their home country. Starting this December, Australia's groundbreaking law will prevent anyone under 16 from creating or maintaining social media accounts, including platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, and YouTube. The family, known as the ‘Empire Family’, consists of moms Beck and Bec Lea, along with their two children: Prezley, 17, and Charlotte, 14, who all actively share content about their daily lives. In a recent post, the family shared that they use the internet for positive purposes and that relocating to the United Kingdom will allow Charlotte to continue creating content without disruption. The social media ban in Australia aims to safeguard young people from the negative effects of online platforms. If social media companies fail to comply, they could face significant fines, potentially up to A$50 million ($32.5 million; £25.7 million). While details on enforcement are still unclear, the government is considering measures such as verifying age through official documents, parental approval, or facial recognition technology. These plans have raised concerns over privacy and the reliability of age verification systems. Also Read: 'Nuclear Option': What is a filibuster, which Trump wants to eliminate in US Senate to end the government shutdown? Initially, YouTube was exempt from the ban, but the Australian government reversed this decision, meaning teens under 16 will no longer be able to upload or interact with content on the platform, although they can still view videos. In a video explaining the family's decision to relocate from Perth to London, Beck emphasized that they do not oppose the law but feel that it’s unclear how the regulations will work in practice. She acknowledged the importance of protecting young people online but stressed the need for clarity in how the law will be implemented. Beck’s wife, Bec, also pointed out how much social media has evolved over the years and how many young people now use it to make a positive impact. The family is able to make the move because they hold dual Australian and British citizenship, and Charlotte recently switched to online schooling, which allows them to live anywhere. Charlotte, who posts as Charli, has gained a massive following: half a million subscribers on YouTube, over 300,000 fans on TikTok, and nearly 200,000 followers on Instagram, with her accounts managed by her parents. The family’s main platform is YouTube, where Prezley has 2.8 million subscribers and their joint account has 1.8 million followers. Their content mainly consists of makeup tutorials, gaming sessions, and family travel videos.

The Empire Family, popular online influencers, are relocating to the UK to avoid their country's new social media ban for under-16s, allowing them to continue content creation

Why this family with millions of followers on social media is relocating to United Kingdom

US President Donald Trump has called on Senate Republicans to eliminate the filibuster in order to end the prolonged government shutdown that has lasted more than 30 days. Trump wanted the GOP to use the “nuclear option,” meaning rule changes to pass a Republican funding bill with a simple majority, and without Democratic support. Senate Democrats have been blocking Republican stopgap bills, leaving the upper chamber of the US Congress deadlocked. The Senate is expected to reconvene on November 3 to continue negotiations. The US government shutdown, which has led to the closure of several agencies and the non-payment of salaries, resulted from disputes over federal funding and the expiry of programmes such as tax credits.<h2>What is a filibuster?</h2>The filibuster is a procedural tactic used by lawmakers in the US Senate to block the passage of bills. It usually involves speechmaking that can last for 24 hours in some cases. This unique method is used only in the Senate and not in the House of Representatives, the lower house of the US Congress. One or more senators are usually deployed to delay or block a vote on legislation or nominations by extending debate indefinitely.Senate rules do not impose many limits on debate. Opponents use this loophole to prevent bills from advancing unless 60 senators vote for cloture, which ends debate and allows a vote. The continuous speaking on the floor, known as “talking filibusters,” is not always the method used, as the mere threat of extended debate is often enough to halt Senate business.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-trump-s-government-shutdown-changed-the-course-of-3i-atlas-tracking-1761788533316">How Trump’s government shutdown changed the course of 3I/ATLAS tracking</a>&nbsp;Filibuster advocates say it protects minority rights and promotes compromise. However, many critics of this practice consider it a waste of time that causes legislative gridlock. Historically, filibusters were used to block civil rights legislation and, in more recent decades, as a tool for both parties to block the passage of major bills.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/do-congress-members-get-paid-and-janitors-don-t-in-us-govt-shutdown-wion-fact-checks-1759337689803">Do Congress members get paid, and janitors don’t in US govt shutdown? WION fact checks</a><h2>Will the filibuster be stopped this time?</h2>In spite of Trump's urging, Senate Majority Leader John Thune and some other Republicans are opposed to ending filibuster. In their view, this would damage Senate traditions and invite future retaliation from Democrats.. While ending the filibuster could empower the majority for now, it could destabilise Senate norms and lead to greater partisanship in national policymaking.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-us-shutdown-why-is-it-happening-and-how-will-this-impact-americans-all-you-need-to-know-1759329160282">EXPLAINED US Government Shutdown: Why is it happening, and how will this impact Americans? All you need to know.</a><h2>How often was filibuster avoidance used?</h2>Filibuster avoidance was used in the past for judicial nominations—by Democrats in 2013 and Republicans in 2017. But it has never been used for general legislation such as budget measures.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-shutdown-food-aid-runs-dry-as-us-shutdown-hits-42-million-americans-1761724381372/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-shutdown-food-aid-runs-dry-as-us-shutdown-hits-42-million-americans-1761724381372/embed</a><h2>The origins of the filibuster</h2>The filibuster had an unintentional origin and is not something enshrined in the US Constitution. The first Senate rules in 1789 allowed unlimited debate and included a “previous question” motion that permitted a simple majority to end the debates. In 1806, Vice President Aaron Burr recommended removing this motion as redundant. His move inadvertently allowed endless debates. The term “filibuster” comes from words meaning “freebooter” or “pirate” and was widely used in the 1850s to describe obstructive tactics in the legislature.In 1841, Democrats delayed a Whig effort to charter a national bank. In 1917, after a filibuster prevented legislation to arm merchant ships during World War 1, the Senate adopted Rule XXII, creating the cloture process, which originally required a two-thirds vote. This threshold was reduced to three-fifths, or 60 votes, in 1975.&nbsp;

President Trump has urged Senate Republicans to scrap the filibuster amid a prolonged government shutdown. The move threatens to upend long-cherished Senate rules. What is a filibuster?

US President Donald Trump has called on Senate Republicans to eliminate the filibuster in order to end the prolonged government shutdown that has lasted more than 30 days. Trump wanted the GOP to use the “nuclear option,” meaning rule changes to pass a Republican funding bill with a simple majority, and without Democratic support. Senate Democrats have been blocking Republican stopgap bills, leaving the upper chamber of the US Congress deadlocked. The Senate is expected to reconvene on November 3 to continue negotiations. The US government shutdown, which has led to the closure of several agencies and the non-payment of salaries, resulted from disputes over federal funding and the expiry of programmes such as tax credits. What is a filibuster? The filibuster is a procedural tactic used by lawmakers in the US Senate to block the passage of bills. It usually involves speechmaking that can last for 24 hours in some cases. This unique method is used only in the Senate and not in the House of Representatives, the lower house of the US Congress. One or more senators are usually deployed to delay or block a vote on legislation or nominations by extending debate indefinitely. Senate rules do not impose many limits on debate. Opponents use this loophole to prevent bills from advancing unless 60 senators vote for cloture, which ends debate and allows a vote. The continuous speaking on the floor, known as “talking filibusters,” is not always the method used, as the mere threat of extended debate is often enough to halt Senate business. Also read: How Trump’s government shutdown changed the course of 3I/ATLAS tracking Filibuster advocates say it protects minority rights and promotes compromise. However, many critics of this practice consider it a waste of time that causes legislative gridlock. Historically, filibusters were used to block civil rights legislation and, in more recent decades, as a tool for both parties to block the passage of major bills. Also read: Do Congress members get paid, and janitors don’t in US govt shutdown? WION fact checks Will the filibuster be stopped this time? In spite of Trump's urging, Senate Majority Leader John Thune and some other Republicans are opposed to ending filibuster. In their view, this would damage Senate traditions and invite future retaliation from Democrats.. While ending the filibuster could empower the majority for now, it could destabilise Senate norms and lead to greater partisanship in national policymaking. Also read: EXPLAINED US Government Shutdown: Why is it happening, and how will this impact Americans? All you need to know. How often was filibuster avoidance used? Filibuster avoidance was used in the past for judicial nominations—by Democrats in 2013 and Republicans in 2017. But it has never been used for general legislation such as budget measures. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-shutdown-food-aid-runs-dry-as-us-shutdown-hits-42-million-americans-1761724381372/embed The origins of the filibuster The filibuster had an unintentional origin and is not something enshrined in the US Constitution. The first Senate rules in 1789 allowed unlimited debate and included a “previous question” motion that permitted a simple majority to end the debates. In 1806, Vice President Aaron Burr recommended removing this motion as redundant. His move inadvertently allowed endless debates. The term “filibuster” comes from words meaning “freebooter” or “pirate” and was widely used in the 1850s to describe obstructive tactics in the legislature. In 1841, Democrats delayed a Whig effort to charter a national bank. In 1917, after a filibuster prevented legislation to arm merchant ships during World War 1, the Senate adopted Rule XXII, creating the cloture process, which originally required a two-thirds vote. This threshold was reduced to three-fifths, or 60 votes, in 1975.

President Trump has urged Senate Republicans to scrap the filibuster amid a prolonged government shutdown. The move threatens to upend long-cherished Senate rules. What is a filibuster?

'Nuclear Option': What is a filibuster, which Trump wants to eliminate in US Senate to end the government shutdown?

Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, daughters of Prince Andrew, are reportedly not in the UK. Their father’s royal title was stripped by his elder brother, King Charles, on Thursday, owing to his involvement in the Jeffrey Epstein scandal.&nbsp;Both Andrew and his estranged wife, Sara Ferguson, have given up their Duke and Duchess of York titles.Meanwhile, the couple’s two daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, have reportedly left the UK for separate trips.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Beatrice and Eugenie are not in the UK amid Royal drama</h2>According to reports, Eugenie was photographed with friends on a girls' trip in Paris. She and her friends were walking along the Seine with the Eiffel Tower visible in the background. Meanwhile, Beatrice jetted off to Saudi Arabia for the Future Investment Initiative, an event where high-level, global businesses meet to discuss innovation across tech and finance. Beatrice is not attending the event as a member of the Royal family but for US software company Afiniti, where she works as the vice president of partnerships and strategy.&nbsp;Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/king-charles-strips-prince-andrew-of-all-royal-titles-orders-him-out-of-windsor-home-1761872104652">King Charles strips Prince Andrew of all royal titles, orders him to vacate Windsor castle</a><h2>Prince Andrew asked to move out of Windsor estate</h2>Prince Andrew and Sara Ferguson have relinquished their respective Duke and Duchess of York titles. King Charles has also removed all other royal titles from his brother due to his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The King has also asked the former couple, who divorced in 1996 but still live together, to vacate their 30-room mansion, Royal Lodge, where he has lived for more than two decades, and relocate “to alternative private accommodation.”&nbsp;“Prince Andrew will now be known as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor,” the palace said in a statement.&nbsp;Earlier on October 18, as Andrew and Sarag were stripped of their Duke and Duchess titles, their daughters Beatrice and Eugenie both skipped a planned appearance at the inaugural Pink Ball at the British Museum.&nbsp;<h2>Will Beatrice and Eugenie retain their titles?</h2>&nbsp;Though their parents have lost their titles, Beatrice and Eugenie’s princess status and their respective places in the British line of succession will remain unaffected as they are daughters of the Queen’s son. Neither are working royals; Beatrice works at Afiniti, while Eugenie is a director at the Hauser &amp; Wirth art gallery.

Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, daughters of Prince Andrew, have quietly left the UK amid royal drama on separate trips. Their parents have been stripped off all royal titles due to their involvement in the Epstein scandal. 

Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, daughters of Prince Andrew, are reportedly not in the UK. Their father’s royal title was stripped by his elder brother, King Charles, on Thursday, owing to his involvement in the Jeffrey Epstein scandal. Both Andrew and his estranged wife, Sara Ferguson, have given up their Duke and Duchess of York titles. Meanwhile, the couple’s two daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, have reportedly left the UK for separate trips. Beatrice and Eugenie are not in the UK amid Royal drama According to reports, Eugenie was photographed with friends on a girls' trip in Paris. She and her friends were walking along the Seine with the Eiffel Tower visible in the background. Meanwhile, Beatrice jetted off to Saudi Arabia for the Future Investment Initiative, an event where high-level, global businesses meet to discuss innovation across tech and finance. Beatrice is not attending the event as a member of the Royal family but for US software company Afiniti, where she works as the vice president of partnerships and strategy. Read: King Charles strips Prince Andrew of all royal titles, orders him to vacate Windsor castle Prince Andrew asked to move out of Windsor estate Prince Andrew and Sara Ferguson have relinquished their respective Duke and Duchess of York titles. King Charles has also removed all other royal titles from his brother due to his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The King has also asked the former couple, who divorced in 1996 but still live together, to vacate their 30-room mansion, Royal Lodge, where he has lived for more than two decades, and relocate “to alternative private accommodation.” “Prince Andrew will now be known as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor,” the palace said in a statement. Earlier on October 18, as Andrew and Sarag were stripped of their Duke and Duchess titles, their daughters Beatrice and Eugenie both skipped a planned appearance at the inaugural Pink Ball at the British Museum. Will Beatrice and Eugenie retain their titles? Though their parents have lost their titles, Beatrice and Eugenie’s princess status and their respective places in the British line of succession will remain unaffected as they are daughters of the Queen’s son. Neither are working royals; Beatrice works at Afiniti, while Eugenie is a director at the Hauser & Wirth art gallery.

Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, daughters of Prince Andrew, have quietly left the UK amid royal drama on separate trips. Their parents have been stripped off all royal titles due to their involvement in Epstein scandal.&nbsp;

Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie are reportedly not in the UK amid Prince Andrew’s royal title drama

The Chinese Manned Space Agency(CMSA) announced on Thursday (30th Oct) that they would train two Pakistani astronauts, one of whom would later join the Chinese crew on a short-duration mission to China's Tiangong Space Station. This Pakistani astronaut, who would eventually be chosen for undertaking human spaceflight, would be the first foreign visitor to the Chinese Space Station. China is Pakistan's main backer when it comes to space technology.While the decades-old International Space Station is a multilateral effort that involves the US, Russia, Japan, Canada and Europe, China has been operating its own full-fledged Tiangong (literal meaning Heavenly Palace) space station since late 2022. Like the International Space Station, its Chinese counterpart serves as a lab that circles 400 km above the Earth, hosts a wide range of experiments and a permanent crew of astronauts.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-world-changing-threat-thousands-mysterious-underwater-ufos-spotted-near-us-shores-ex-navy-admiral-warns-1761547551599">'World-changing' threat? Thousands of mysterious underwater UFOs spotted near US shores; ex-Navy admiral warns...</a>"According to the plan, two selected Pakistani astronauts will undergo training along with Chinese astronauts. One of them will be scheduled to carry out a short-duration flight mission as a payload expert based on the mid-term plan for the Chinese space station and the cooperation process," announced Zhang Jingbo, spokesperson of the CMSA. During the mission, the astronaut, in addition to performing routine duties, will also conduct scientific experiments for Pakistan, it was revealed.Following the signing of a cooperation agreement between China and Pakistan in February this year, the official selection process for Pakistani astronauts has been launched, according to the CMSA spokesperson.China's astronaut selection process consists of three stages: preliminary selection, secondary selection, and final selection. In the case of the Pakistani astronaut, the preliminary stage is being carried out in Pakistan, while the secondary and final selections will take place in China, said the spokesperson.Preparations for the secondary selection phase are already underway, including training programs, teaching materials, training equipment, and logistical support for daily life during the training period.While Pakistan has a space agency by the name SUPARCO, its independent activities are very limited, and they do not possess spacefaring rockets. Most of Pakistan's satellites are built with assistance from China, and their launches are carried out on Chinese rockets from Chinese soil."We're proactive in selecting foreign astronauts to participate in flight missions to the Chinese space station, facilitating international cooperation and exchange. We welcome counterparts from all over the world to participate in Chinese space station expeditions," said Zhang Jingbo.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-like-watching-a-living-galaxy-unfurl-beneath-you-shubhanshu-shukla-shares-breathtaking-diwali-spectacle-of-india-from-space-station-watch-video-1761020335036">'Like watching a living galaxy unfurl beneath you': Shubhanshu Shukla shares breathtaking Diwali spectacle of India from space station. Watch video</a><h2>In 2025, an Indian astronaut flew to the International Space Station</h2>In June 2025, Indian Air Force Test Pilot, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, flew to the International Space Station(ISS) as part of the American Axiom-4 mission, on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and Crew Dragon craft. Shukla became the second Indian to fly to space, and he did so 41 years after the Soviet mission that carried India's Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma to the then Salyut-7 Soviet Space station.While Rakesh Sharma's mission was done during the nascent stage of the Indian Space Programme, Shukla's Axiom-4 flight is meant to serve as a precursor and training mission for India's own Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme. As part of Gaganyaan, India's space agency ISRO is working towards independently launching Indian astronauts on an Indian rocket and capsule to circle the earth, perform basic experiments within the capsule, and return safely for a splashdown landing. India hopes to accomplish Gaganyaan by the end of the decade, and also has long-term plans of building an independent space station.&nbsp;

"According to the plan, two selected Pakistani astronauts will undergo training along with Chinese astronauts," announced Zhang Jingbo, spokesperson of the Chinese Manned Space Agency (CMSA).

The Chinese Manned Space Agency(CMSA) announced on Thursday (30th Oct) that they would train two Pakistani astronauts, one of whom would later join the Chinese crew on a short-duration mission to China's Tiangong Space Station. This Pakistani astronaut, who would eventually be chosen for undertaking human spaceflight, would be the first foreign visitor to the Chinese Space Station. China is Pakistan's main backer when it comes to space technology. While the decades-old International Space Station is a multilateral effort that involves the US, Russia, Japan, Canada and Europe, China has been operating its own full-fledged Tiangong (literal meaning Heavenly Palace) space station since late 2022. Like the International Space Station, its Chinese counterpart serves as a lab that circles 400 km above the Earth, hosts a wide range of experiments and a permanent crew of astronauts. Also read | 'World-changing' threat? Thousands of mysterious underwater UFOs spotted near US shores; ex-Navy admiral warns... "According to the plan, two selected Pakistani astronauts will undergo training along with Chinese astronauts. One of them will be scheduled to carry out a short-duration flight mission as a payload expert based on the mid-term plan for the Chinese space station and the cooperation process," announced Zhang Jingbo, spokesperson of the CMSA. During the mission, the astronaut, in addition to performing routine duties, will also conduct scientific experiments for Pakistan, it was revealed. Following the signing of a cooperation agreement between China and Pakistan in February this year, the official selection process for Pakistani astronauts has been launched, according to the CMSA spokesperson. China's astronaut selection process consists of three stages: preliminary selection, secondary selection, and final selection. In the case of the Pakistani astronaut, the preliminary stage is being carried out in Pakistan, while the secondary and final selections will take place in China, said the spokesperson. Preparations for the secondary selection phase are already underway, including training programs, teaching materials, training equipment, and logistical support for daily life during the training period. While Pakistan has a space agency by the name SUPARCO, its independent activities are very limited, and they do not possess spacefaring rockets. Most of Pakistan's satellites are built with assistance from China, and their launches are carried out on Chinese rockets from Chinese soil. "We're proactive in selecting foreign astronauts to participate in flight missions to the Chinese space station, facilitating international cooperation and exchange. We welcome counterparts from all over the world to participate in Chinese space station expeditions," said Zhang Jingbo. Also read | 'Like watching a living galaxy unfurl beneath you': Shubhanshu Shukla shares breathtaking Diwali spectacle of India from space station. Watch video In 2025, an Indian astronaut flew to the International Space Station In June 2025, Indian Air Force Test Pilot, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, flew to the International Space Station(ISS) as part of the American Axiom-4 mission, on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and Crew Dragon craft. Shukla became the second Indian to fly to space, and he did so 41 years after the Soviet mission that carried India's Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma to the then Salyut-7 Soviet Space station. While Rakesh Sharma's mission was done during the nascent stage of the Indian Space Programme, Shukla's Axiom-4 flight is meant to serve as a precursor and training mission for India's own Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme. As part of Gaganyaan, India's space agency ISRO is working towards independently launching Indian astronauts on an Indian rocket and capsule to circle the earth, perform basic experiments within the capsule, and return safely for a splashdown landing. India hopes to accomplish Gaganyaan by the end of the decade, and also has long-term plans of building an independent space station.

"According to the plan, two selected Pakistani astronauts will undergo training along with Chinese astronauts," announced Zhang Jingbo, spokesperson of the Chinese Manned Space Agency (CMSA).

Pakistani astronaut to visit Chinese Space Station; to be first foreign visitor there

India and the United States on Friday (Oct 31) signed a new 10-year Defence Framework Agreement aimed at deepening military cooperation, joint production, and technology sharing between the two nations. The agreement was signed during a meeting between Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth. “I just met with @rajnathsingh to sign a 10-year U.S.-India Defense Framework,” Hegseth wrote on X. “This advances our defense partnership, a cornerstone for regional stability and deterrence. We're enhancing our coordination, info sharing, and tech cooperation. Our defense ties have never been stronger."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I just met with <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rajnathsingh</a> to sign a 10-year U.S.-India Defense Framework. This advances our defense partnership, a cornerstone for regional stability and deterrence. We&#39;re enhancing our coordination, info sharing, and tech cooperation. Our defense ties have never been… <a href="https://t.co/hPmkZdMDv2">pic.twitter.com/hPmkZdMDv2</a>&mdash; Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar/status/1984118246497243478?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-signs-deal-with-russia-to-build-passenger-jets-1761634607063">India signs deal with Russia to build passenger jets</a><h2>‘New chapter’ of India-US defence ties</h2>Meeting the US Secretary of War Hegseth in Kuala Lumpur, Indian Minister Rajnath Singh noted that with the vital 10-year Defence Framework Agreement, a “new chapter” of India-US defence ties has begun. He told Hegseth, "We have held telephonic conversations thrice. I am delighted to be meeting you in person on the sidelines of ADMM (ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting - Plus: ADMM-Plus). On this occasion, I feel a new chapter will begin today with the signing of the Defence Framework...I am confident that under your leadership, India-US relations will further strengthen..."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/refugees-no-longer-welcome-in-us-trump-slashes-intake-reserves-most-slots-for-white-south-africans-1761876942205">Refugees no longer welcome in US? Trump slashes intake, reserves most slots for white South Africans</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Defence Minister Rajnath Singh says, &quot;We have held telephonic conversations thrice. I am delighted to be meeting you in person on the sidelines of ADMM (ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting - Plus: ADMM-Plus). On this occasion, I feel a new chapter will begin today with the… <a href="https://t.co/SFovRKLdjI">https://t.co/SFovRKLdjI</a> <a href="https://t.co/slFgUCQgdR">pic.twitter.com/slFgUCQgdR</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1984126959438139806?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

BREAKING | India, US sign new 10-year Defence Framework to boost military cooperation

India and the United States on Friday (Oct 31) signed a new 10-year Defence Framework Agreement aimed at deepening military cooperation, joint production, and technology sharing between the two nations. The agreement was signed during a meeting between Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth. “I just met with @rajnathsingh to sign a 10-year U.S.-India Defense Framework,” Hegseth wrote on X. “This advances our defense partnership, a cornerstone for regional stability and deterrence. We're enhancing our coordination, info sharing, and tech cooperation. Our defense ties have never been stronger."

BREAKING | India, US sign new 10-year Defence Framework to boost military cooperation

'Our defense ties have never been stronger': India, US sign new 10-year Defence Framework to boost military cooperation

As of October 2025, a total of 2,790 Indian nationals have returned to India after being deported from the United States for staying there unlawfully, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday (October 30) during its weekly media briefing. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that these individuals were living in the US without meeting the legal criteria for stay. He emphasised that each case was thoroughly verified to ensure the individuals' Indian nationality before their repatriation.&nbsp;Jaiswal said that these deportations were conducted in accordance with established legal procedures between India and the United States. He further explained that the repatriation process followed due diplomatic protocols. The MEA also provided an update on the situation in the UK, stating that approximately 100 Indian nationals were deported this year after their citizenship was confirmed.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-you-sold-us-a-dream-now-you-jd-vance-sparks-controversy-on-immigration-and-faith-at-turning-point-event-1761876832668">'You sold us a dream, now you...': JD Vance sparks controversy on immigration and faith at Turning Point event</a>&nbsp;These actions are part of India's ongoing efforts, in collaboration with international partners, to manage migration issues effectively, especially amid a global rise in illegal border crossings and visa overstays. On a related note, data from US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) revealed a significant drop in the number of Indian nationals detained while attempting to enter the US illegally.&nbsp;&nbsp;Between October 2024 and September 2025, CBP arrested 34,146 individuals, a steep 62% decline from the 90,415 detentions as compared to the previous fiscal year. This decrease marks the lowest level of illegal entries by Indian nationals in the past four years, following a surge in irregular migration starting in 2021 due to economic uncertainties after the pandemic. This trend highlights a major shift in Indian migration patterns, showing a noticeable reduction in unlawful attempts to cross the US border.

'Illegally staying there’: 2,790 Indian nationals deported from US in 2025, says MEA; illegal border crossing drops to 62%

As of October 2025, a total of 2,790 Indian nationals have returned to India after being deported from the United States for staying there unlawfully, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday (October 30) during its weekly media briefing. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that these individuals were living in the US without meeting the legal criteria for stay. He emphasised that each case was thoroughly verified to ensure the individuals' Indian nationality before their repatriation. Jaiswal said that these deportations were conducted in accordance with established legal procedures between India and the United States. He further explained that the repatriation process followed due diplomatic protocols. The MEA also provided an update on the situation in the UK, stating that approximately 100 Indian nationals were deported this year after their citizenship was confirmed. Also Read: 'You sold us a dream, now you...': JD Vance sparks controversy on immigration and faith at Turning Point event These actions are part of India's ongoing efforts, in collaboration with international partners, to manage migration issues effectively, especially amid a global rise in illegal border crossings and visa overstays. On a related note, data from US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) revealed a significant drop in the number of Indian nationals detained while attempting to enter the US illegally. Between October 2024 and September 2025, CBP arrested 34,146 individuals, a steep 62% decline from the 90,415 detentions as compared to the previous fiscal year. This decrease marks the lowest level of illegal entries by Indian nationals in the past four years, following a surge in irregular migration starting in 2021 due to economic uncertainties after the pandemic. This trend highlights a major shift in Indian migration patterns, showing a noticeable reduction in unlawful attempts to cross the US border.

India has verified and repatriated 2,790 nationals from the US and 100 from the UK this year after deportations. US illegal Indian crossings fall by 62% in 2025

The Donald Trump administration on Thursday (Oct 30) announced a plan to drastically reduce the number of refugees who enter the United States annually. Under the new policy, the United States next year (in 2026) will accept just 7,500 refugees — the lowest in modern history — while giving priority to white South Africans. A White House memo released Thursday said the new policy would favour Afrikaners from South Africa and "other victims of illegal or unjust discrimination in their respective homelands." The move marks a sharp break from the Biden-era refugee policy, which admitted over 100,000 people annually.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/king-charles-strips-prince-andrew-of-all-royal-titles-orders-him-out-of-windsor-home-1761872104652">King Charles strips Prince Andrew of all royal titles, orders him out of Windsor castle</a><h2>Rights groups call it a ‘racially driven betrayal’ of America’s refugee ideals</h2>The document states that "admissions numbers shall primarily be allocated among Afrikaners from South Africa." However, the South African government has repeatedly denied that white citizens face persecution, calling such claims politically motivated.Trump has long taken a hardline stance on immigration, pushing mass deportations and suspending the US Refugee Admissions Program early in his first term. Still, he has carved out exceptions for white South Africans, describing their situation as a terrible case of "genocide," a claim widely dismissed by experts and South African authorities.A group of around 50 Afrikaners — descendants of the country’s early European settlers — was resettled in the US earlier this year under a special humanitarian program. Critics say the administration’s move undermines decades of US leadership on refugee protection. Aaron Reichlin-Melnick of the American Immigration Council called the new policy "a downfall for a crown jewel of America's international humanitarian programs."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-nuclear-armed-bully-iran-blasts-trump-for-ordering-resumption-of-us-nuclear-tests-1761872971706">‘Nuclear-armed bully’: Iran blasts Trump for ordering resumption of US nuclear tests</a>Krish O'Mara Vignarajah, head of Global Refuge, warned that narrowing the program to benefit one group "undermines the program's purpose as well as its credibility." She pointed out that "For more than four decades, the US refugee program has been a lifeline for families fleeing war, persecution, and repression," and that crises in Afghanistan, Venezuela, and Sudan continue to displace millions.According to AFP, White South Africans make up only about 7 per cent of South Africa’s population but remain far wealthier on average than the Black majority and still own most of the country’s farmland.<h2>Temporary Protected Status in danger?</h2>The Trump administration has also begun phasing out Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for citizens of Afghanistan, Haiti, and Venezuela — programs meant to shield those fleeing war or disasters from deportation.

The Trump administration has slashed the US refugee cap to 7,500 for 2026, the lowest ever, while giving priority to white South Africans. Rights groups slammed the move as racially driven, warning it betrays decades of US humanitarian policy. 

The Donald Trump administration on Thursday (Oct 30) announced a plan to drastically reduce the number of refugees who enter the United States annually. Under the new policy, the United States next year (in 2026) will accept just 7,500 refugees — the lowest in modern history — while giving priority to white South Africans. A White House memo released Thursday said the new policy would favour Afrikaners from South Africa and "other victims of illegal or unjust discrimination in their respective homelands." The move marks a sharp break from the Biden-era refugee policy, which admitted over 100,000 people annually. Also read | King Charles strips Prince Andrew of all royal titles, orders him out of Windsor castle Rights groups call it a ‘racially driven betrayal’ of America’s refugee ideals The document states that "admissions numbers shall primarily be allocated among Afrikaners from South Africa." However, the South African government has repeatedly denied that white citizens face persecution, calling such claims politically motivated. Trump has long taken a hardline stance on immigration, pushing mass deportations and suspending the US Refugee Admissions Program early in his first term. Still, he has carved out exceptions for white South Africans, describing their situation as a terrible case of "genocide," a claim widely dismissed by experts and South African authorities. A group of around 50 Afrikaners — descendants of the country’s early European settlers — was resettled in the US earlier this year under a special humanitarian program. Critics say the administration’s move undermines decades of US leadership on refugee protection. Aaron Reichlin-Melnick of the American Immigration Council called the new policy "a downfall for a crown jewel of America's international humanitarian programs." Also read | ‘Nuclear-armed bully’: Iran blasts Trump for ordering resumption of US nuclear tests Krish O'Mara Vignarajah, head of Global Refuge, warned that narrowing the program to benefit one group "undermines the program's purpose as well as its credibility." She pointed out that "For more than four decades, the US refugee program has been a lifeline for families fleeing war, persecution, and repression," and that crises in Afghanistan, Venezuela, and Sudan continue to displace millions. According to AFP, White South Africans make up only about 7 per cent of South Africa’s population but remain far wealthier on average than the Black majority and still own most of the country’s farmland. Temporary Protected Status in danger? The Trump administration has also begun phasing out Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for citizens of Afghanistan, Haiti, and Venezuela — programs meant to shield those fleeing war or disasters from deportation.

The Trump administration has slashed the US refugee cap to 7,500 for 2026, the lowest ever, while giving priority to white South Africans. Rights groups slammed the move as racially driven, warning it betrays decades of US humanitarian policy.&nbsp;

Refugees no longer welcome in US? Trump slashes intake, reserves most slots for white South Africans

US Vice-President JD Vance found himself at the center of controversy on Thursday (October 30) following a public exchange at a Turning Point USA event. Vance’s comments about his wife’s Hindu faith and his stance on immigration sparked strong reactions after a pointed question from a woman believed to be of Indian descent.&nbsp;At the University of Mississippi event, the woman, wearing a bindi and shawl, challenged Vance on two key issues: immigration and religion. She first questioned Vance’s view on immigration, expressing frustration with his proposal to limit legal immigration into the US. She emphasised that immigrants like her, who had invested their youth and resources in building a life in America, were now being told they ‘don’t belong’. “You sold us a dream, and now you say we don't belong here?” she questioned.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-nuclear-armed-bully-iran-blasts-trump-for-ordering-resumption-of-us-nuclear-tests-1761872971706">‘Nuclear-armed bully’: Iran blasts Trump for ordering resumption of US nuclear tests</a>&nbsp;The conversation quickly shifted to religion when she asked how Vance was raising his children in a multi-religious household. She wanted to know how he balanced Christianity with his wife’s Hindu faith and how he was guiding their children in choosing a religion. She also asked why Christianity seemed essential to loving America, raising concerns about religious exclusivity in American identity.<h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Question: When you talk about too many immigrants here, when did you guys decide that number? Why did you sell us a dream? You made us spend our youth, our wealth in this country and gave us a dream. You don&#39;t owe us anything. We have worked hard for it. How can you as a vice… <a href="https://t.co/6rxqW0aWpZ">pic.twitter.com/6rxqW0aWpZ</a>&mdash; Acyn (@Acyn) <a href="https://twitter.com/Acyn/status/1983696187279733100?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Vance responded by discussing his relationship with his wife, Usha. He explained that while Usha is Hindu, he hopes she will one day embrace Christianity, as he has. “I believe in the Christian gospel, and I hope eventually my wife comes to see it the same way,” he said, acknowledging that Usha accompanies him to church most Sundays.&nbsp;The exchange was widely shared on social media, with many applauding the woman for her bold questioning, while others criticised Vance’s comments, especially regarding his hopes for his wife’s religious conversion. The event was part of a larger Turning Point USA initiative led by conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

'You sold us a dream, now you...': JD Vance sparks controversy on immigration and faith at Turning Point event

US Vice-President JD Vance found himself at the center of controversy on Thursday (October 30) following a public exchange at a Turning Point USA event. Vance’s comments about his wife’s Hindu faith and his stance on immigration sparked strong reactions after a pointed question from a woman believed to be of Indian descent. At the University of Mississippi event, the woman, wearing a bindi and shawl, challenged Vance on two key issues: immigration and religion. She first questioned Vance’s view on immigration, expressing frustration with his proposal to limit legal immigration into the US. She emphasised that immigrants like her, who had invested their youth and resources in building a life in America, were now being told they ‘don’t belong’. “You sold us a dream, and now you say we don't belong here?” she questioned. Also Read: ‘Nuclear-armed bully’: Iran blasts Trump for ordering resumption of US nuclear tests The conversation quickly shifted to religion when she asked how Vance was raising his children in a multi-religious household. She wanted to know how he balanced Christianity with his wife’s Hindu faith and how he was guiding their children in choosing a religion. She also asked why Christianity seemed essential to loving America, raising concerns about religious exclusivity in American identity. Watch the video here

JD Vance faces criticism after answering tough questions on immigration and religion, including his hope that his wife will embrace Christianity

Iran on Thursday (Oct 30) slammed US President Donald Trump’s surprise order to resume nuclear weapons testing, calling it a "regressive and irresponsible" move that threatens global stability. In a post on social media, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused Washington of hypocrisy. "A nuclear-armed bully is resuming testing of atomic weapons. The same bully has been demonising Iran's peaceful nuclear program," he said. Iran's reaction comes as Trump announced Wednesday that he had instructed the US Department of War to begin testing nuclear weapons "immediately," marking what would be the first American nuclear test in more than three decades.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/fact-check-did-obama-spend-376-million-to-build-a-basketball-court-at-the-white-house-1761638839164">Fact Check: Did Obama spend $376 million to build a basketball court at the White House?</a><h2>Iran slams 'regressive and irresponsible move'</h2>Labelling the US a "nuclear-armed bully," Agachi in his post called America's announcement of a resumption of nuclear tests "a regressive and irresponsible move and a serious threat to international peace and security".<h2>Why did the US resume nuclear testing?</h2>Trump's nuclear testing order came shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed Moscow had tested its nuclear-capable Burevestnik cruise missile and Poseidon underwater nuclear drone. Trump said his decision was in response to those developments, arguing that the US must keep pace with its rivals.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/explained-all-about-russia-s-burevestnik-the-nuclear-powered-cruise-missile-no-one-else-in-the-world-possesses-1761559531996">Explained: All about Russia's Burevestnik, the nuclear-powered cruise missile 'no one else in the world possesses'</a>The order came shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed Moscow had tested its nuclear-capable Burevestnik cruise missile and Poseidon underwater nuclear drone. Trump said his decision was in response to those developments, arguing that the US must keep pace with its rivals.In a Truth Social post, Trump said that the United States has more nuclear weapons than any other country. He claimed that he hates testing of nuclear weapons “because of the tremendous destructive power,” but said that he is ordering the tests because of the testing programs of other nations. "Russia is second, and China is a distant third, but will be even within 5 years. Because of other countries testing programs, I have instructed the Department of War to start testing our Nuclear Weapons on an equal basis. That process will begin immediately," he said in the post.<h2>When did the US last test nuclear weapons?</h2>The last US nuclear test, code-named Divider, took place in September 1992 in Nevada before a testing moratorium was imposed by then-President George H.W. Bush. &nbsp;

Iran slammed US President Donald Trump’s order to resume nuclear weapons testing, calling it “regressive and irresponsible.” Tehran’s foreign minister accused Washington of hypocrisy, saying the US demonises Iran’s peaceful program while it restarts tests.

Iran on Thursday (Oct 30) slammed US President Donald Trump’s surprise order to resume nuclear weapons testing, calling it a "regressive and irresponsible" move that threatens global stability. In a post on social media, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused Washington of hypocrisy. "A nuclear-armed bully is resuming testing of atomic weapons. The same bully has been demonising Iran's peaceful nuclear program," he said. Iran's reaction comes as Trump announced Wednesday that he had instructed the US Department of War to begin testing nuclear weapons "immediately," marking what would be the first American nuclear test in more than three decades. Also read | Fact Check: Did Obama spend $376 million to build a basketball court at the White House? Iran slams 'regressive and irresponsible move' Labelling the US a "nuclear-armed bully," Agachi in his post called America's announcement of a resumption of nuclear tests "a regressive and irresponsible move and a serious threat to international peace and security". Why did the US resume nuclear testing? Trump's nuclear testing order came shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed Moscow had tested its nuclear-capable Burevestnik cruise missile and Poseidon underwater nuclear drone. Trump said his decision was in response to those developments, arguing that the US must keep pace with its rivals. Also read | Explained: All about Russia's Burevestnik, the nuclear-powered cruise missile 'no one else in the world possesses' The order came shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed Moscow had tested its nuclear-capable Burevestnik cruise missile and Poseidon underwater nuclear drone. Trump said his decision was in response to those developments, arguing that the US must keep pace with its rivals. In a Truth Social post, Trump said that the United States has more nuclear weapons than any other country. He claimed that he hates testing of nuclear weapons “because of the tremendous destructive power,” but said that he is ordering the tests because of the testing programs of other nations. "Russia is second, and China is a distant third, but will be even within 5 years. Because of other countries testing programs, I have instructed the Department of War to start testing our Nuclear Weapons on an equal basis. That process will begin immediately," he said in the post. When did the US last test nuclear weapons? The last US nuclear test, code-named Divider, took place in September 1992 in Nevada before a testing moratorium was imposed by then-President George H.W. Bush.

Iran slammed US President Donald Trump’s order to resume nuclear weapons testing, calling it “regressive and irresponsible.” Tehran’s foreign minister accused Washington of hypocrisy, saying the US demonises Iran’s peaceful program while it restarts tests.

‘Nuclear-armed bully’: Iran blasts Trump for ordering resumption of US nuclear tests

King Charles III has stripped his younger brother, Prince Andrew, of all royal titles and ordered him to vacate his longtime residence on the Windsor estate, Buckingham Palace confirmed Thursday. The move marks the most decisive step yet in distancing the monarchy from the disgraced royal, who remains engulfed in the Jeffrey Epstein scandal. “Prince Andrew will now be known as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor,” the palace said in a statement, adding that Charles had initiated the formal process to remove his brother’s titles. Andrew, 65, has also been instructed to leave his home at the Royal Lodge, where he has lived for more than two decades, and relocate "to alternative private accommodation".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/fact-check-did-obama-spend-376-million-to-build-a-basketball-court-at-the-white-house-1761638839164">Fact Check: Did Obama spend $376 million to build a basketball court at the White House?</a><h2>Why now?</h2>The announcement follows a fresh wave of public anger after the posthumous release of Virginia Giuffre’s memoir, in which she detailed claims that she was trafficked by Epstein to have sex with Andrew when she was 17. Giuffre, who died by suicide in April at age 41, was one of Epstein's main accusers and had previously reached a multimillion-dollar settlement with Andrew in 2022 to end her civil lawsuit in the US."These censures are deemed necessary, notwithstanding the fact that he continues to deny the allegations against him," the palace said, emphasising that the King and Queen’s "thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse."Giuffre’s family welcomed the move, calling it a "victory" for her legacy. "Today, an ordinary American girl from an ordinary American family brought down a British prince with her truth and extraordinary courage," they said in a statement to the BBC. "Virginia Roberts Giuffre, our sister, a child when she was sexually assaulted by Andrew, never stopped fighting for accountability for what had happened to her and countless other survivors like her."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-33-000-pages-released-yet-they-re-heavily-redacted-full-transparency-or-just-a-pacifier-for-maga-1756890944032">Epstein files: 33,000 pages released, yet they're heavily redacted. 'Full transparency' or just a pacifier for MAGA?</a><h2>How did Prince Andrew react to King Charles' decision?</h2>Citing sources, AFP reports that Andrew did not contest the King’s decision and will move to Sandringham in Norfolk, funded privately by Charles. His ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, will make her own living arrangements. Even as Andrew loses his royal titles, his daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, will retain their royal titles.Public outrage has intensified in recent weeks amid reports that Andrew paid only minimal rent for his £30 million Royal Lodge residence under a favourable 2003 deal. The revelation, coupled with reports that he once hosted Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell, and Harvey Weinstein at the estate, has further tarnished his reputation. &nbsp;

King Charles III has stripped Prince Andrew of all royal titles and ordered him to vacate his longtime Windsor residence, Buckingham Palace confirmed. The move, tied to Andrew’s lingering Epstein scandal, marks Charles’ strongest effort yet to distance the monarchy from his disgraced brother.

King Charles III has stripped his younger brother, Prince Andrew, of all royal titles and ordered him to vacate his longtime residence on the Windsor estate, Buckingham Palace confirmed Thursday. The move marks the most decisive step yet in distancing the monarchy from the disgraced royal, who remains engulfed in the Jeffrey Epstein scandal. “Prince Andrew will now be known as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor,” the palace said in a statement, adding that Charles had initiated the formal process to remove his brother’s titles. Andrew, 65, has also been instructed to leave his home at the Royal Lodge, where he has lived for more than two decades, and relocate "to alternative private accommodation". Also read | Fact Check: Did Obama spend $376 million to build a basketball court at the White House? Why now? The announcement follows a fresh wave of public anger after the posthumous release of Virginia Giuffre’s memoir, in which she detailed claims that she was trafficked by Epstein to have sex with Andrew when she was 17. Giuffre, who died by suicide in April at age 41, was one of Epstein's main accusers and had previously reached a multimillion-dollar settlement with Andrew in 2022 to end her civil lawsuit in the US. "These censures are deemed necessary, notwithstanding the fact that he continues to deny the allegations against him," the palace said, emphasising that the King and Queen’s "thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse." Giuffre’s family welcomed the move, calling it a "victory" for her legacy. "Today, an ordinary American girl from an ordinary American family brought down a British prince with her truth and extraordinary courage," they said in a statement to the BBC. "Virginia Roberts Giuffre, our sister, a child when she was sexually assaulted by Andrew, never stopped fighting for accountability for what had happened to her and countless other survivors like her." Also read | Epstein files: 33,000 pages released, yet they're heavily redacted. 'Full transparency' or just a pacifier for MAGA? How did Prince Andrew react to King Charles' decision? Citing sources, AFP reports that Andrew did not contest the King’s decision and will move to Sandringham in Norfolk, funded privately by Charles. His ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, will make her own living arrangements. Even as Andrew loses his royal titles, his daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, will retain their royal titles. Public outrage has intensified in recent weeks amid reports that Andrew paid only minimal rent for his £30 million Royal Lodge residence under a favourable 2003 deal. The revelation, coupled with reports that he once hosted Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell, and Harvey Weinstein at the estate, has further tarnished his reputation.

King Charles III has stripped Prince Andrew of all royal titles and ordered him to vacate his longtime Windsor residence, Buckingham Palace confirmed. The move, tied to Andrew’s lingering Epstein scandal, marks Charles’ strongest effort yet to distance the monarchy from his disgraced brother.

King Charles strips Prince Andrew of all royal titles, orders him to vacate Windsor castle

Amid the ongoing tensions with Pakistan, the Minister of Interior of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, Khalifa Sirajuddin Haqqani, told Islamabad that the clashes with the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) are "their own matter" and have nothing to do with Kabul. He questions why the matter was "imposed" on the Taliban. This came referring to the ongoing negotiations between Afghanistan and Pakistan."The talks that were held in Doha under the leadership of Mawlawi Yaqoob Mujahid, and now the ono=going negotiations in Türkiye. What we don't understand is if the problem is your own and you are capable of solving it, then why is it being imposed on us?" Haqqani said."We want to clarify to our fellow citizes regarding the TTP that in response to the statements made by them, all of our responsible officials except for Zabiullah Mujahid have remained silent," he added.What's happening?A massive clash erupted between Pakistan and Afghanistan forces at multiple border areas of the countries. Both sides claimed they had captured and destroyed border posts. The Taliban administration’s spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, said at least 58 Pakistani soldiers were killed in “retaliatory” attacks on Saturday (October 11). This came two days after two blasts happened in Afghanistan. The tensions between the two nations are being called the worst border clashes in recent years.Meanwhile, the Pakistani authorities claimed that their 23 soldiers were killed while the Islamabad forces killed 200 Taliban and affiliated “terrorists”. The Taliban government has accused Pakistan of being behind the bombings in Kabul and the southeastern province of Paktika two days ago. The Shehbaz Sharif government neither denied the allegations nor confirmed them.How did it all start?It all started around 10:30 pm on Saturday (October 11) when Taliban forces attacked the Pakistan border, which later converted into multiple firing at various locations in the border area. Pakistan named Angoor Adda, Bajaur, Kurram, Dir, Bahram Chah, and Chitral as the locations where the clashes erupted. They all come under the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province except Bahram Chah in Balochistan.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kurnool-bus-accident-tragedy-forensic-report-reveals-drunk-biker-caused-crash-that-killed-20-1761485010510">Did drunk biker cause Kurnool bus crash? Here’s what forensic report reveals</a>The Pakistani military on Sunday condemned what it called “the cowardly action”, saying it was aimed at destabilising the border to facilitate terrorism”.“Exercising the right of self-defence, the alert Armed Forces of Pakistan repelled the assault decisively,” Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the military’s media wing, said in a statement.

He questions why the matter was imposed on the Taliban. This came referring to the ongoing negotiations between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Amid the ongoing tensions with Pakistan, the Minister of Interior of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, Khalifa Sirajuddin Haqqani, told Islamabad that the clashes with the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) are "their own matter" and have nothing to do with Kabul. He questions why the matter was "imposed" on the Taliban. This came referring to the ongoing negotiations between Afghanistan and Pakistan. "The talks that were held in Doha under the leadership of Mawlawi Yaqoob Mujahid, and now the ono=going negotiations in Türkiye. What we don't understand is if the problem is your own and you are capable of solving it, then why is it being imposed on us?" Haqqani said. "We want to clarify to our fellow citizes regarding the TTP that in response to the statements made by them, all of our responsible officials except for Zabiullah Mujahid have remained silent," he added. What's happening? A massive clash erupted between Pakistan and Afghanistan forces at multiple border areas of the countries. Both sides claimed they had captured and destroyed border posts. The Taliban administration’s spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, said at least 58 Pakistani soldiers were killed in “retaliatory” attacks on Saturday (October 11). This came two days after two blasts happened in Afghanistan. The tensions between the two nations are being called the worst border clashes in recent years. Meanwhile, the Pakistani authorities claimed that their 23 soldiers were killed while the Islamabad forces killed 200 Taliban and affiliated “terrorists”. The Taliban government has accused Pakistan of being behind the bombings in Kabul and the southeastern province of Paktika two days ago. The Shehbaz Sharif government neither denied the allegations nor confirmed them. How did it all start? It all started around 10:30 pm on Saturday (October 11) when Taliban forces attacked the Pakistan border, which later converted into multiple firing at various locations in the border area. Pakistan named Angoor Adda, Bajaur, Kurram, Dir, Bahram Chah, and Chitral as the locations where the clashes erupted. They all come under the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province except Bahram Chah in Balochistan. Also read: Did drunk biker cause Kurnool bus crash? Here’s what forensic report reveals The Pakistani military on Sunday condemned what it called “the cowardly action”, saying it was aimed at destabilising the border to facilitate terrorism”. “Exercising the right of self-defence, the alert Armed Forces of Pakistan repelled the assault decisively,” Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the military’s media wing, said in a statement.

He questions why the matter was "imposed" on the Taliban. This came referring to the ongoing negotiations between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

'These are your own problems': Afghan Taliban minister to Pakistan on clashes with TTP

Cyprus’s visiting Foreign Minister Dr. Constantinos Kombos stated that India has been a “consistent” supporter of his nation regarding the “Cyprus question”. He expressed gratitude to India for its unwavering backing of Cyprus’s territorial integrity and its demands for compliance with UNSC resolutions on the Cyprus problem, the dispute that began with Turkey’s 1974 invasion of the island, splitting it into two parts.&nbsp;The visiting FM hoped his country&nbsp;“could and should” be part of the India Middle East Europe corridor the&nbsp;announcement about which was made at the G20 Delhi Summit in 2023. Speaking to WION’s Sidhant Sibal, he said, “The more connectivity we have, the more trade corridors we have, the better it is for everyone.” Foreign minister Kombos held talks with EAM Dr S Jaishankar in Delhi on Thursday, to discuss the joint action plan announced during PM Modi’s visit to Cyprus earlier this year.&nbsp;When asked about procuring defence equipment from India, the foreign minister said, “We are always on the lookout and especially as regards countries with which we have a very strong relation and aspiration to make it even stronger.”&nbsp;The visit takes place at a crucial time as Cyprus would assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union from 1 January 2026, and it can play an important role in further strengthening the India–EU Strategic Partnership. Full interview:&nbsp;&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: What kind of talks did you have earlier today with EAM Dr S Jaishankar?Dr. Constantinos Kombos:&nbsp;We had a very fruitful discussion today with the minister. We took stock of the&nbsp;progress of the joint action plan that we have together, initiated after the historic visit of Prime Minister Modi to Cyprus in June. We focused on the various pillars that make part of that action plan with defense, investment, trade, maritime sector, culture, education, mobility of workers, tourism, so a vast array of subjects, and we identified the substantive progress that has taken place since the conclusion of the joint action plan in terms of the outcome, and also decided how to move forward in terms of further monitoring&nbsp;and creating those conditions necessary for achieving as much as possible and at the maximum potential that exists as regards the bilateral relation, all aspects identified.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: Following Prime Minister Modi’s historic visit to Cyprus in June 2025, what are the primary objectives of your current visit to India to further elevate our strategic partnership? Dr. Constantinos Kombos:&nbsp;It was a historic visit for a number of reasons. First of all, it was a visit by the Indian Prime Minister to Cyprus after 22-23 years. A very important signaling. As regards how we see the direction of the relation, of course, it happened after the very serious incidents and events (Pahalgam terror attack), and anything we do in diplomacy always reflects on sending signals. I want to underline and underscore the fact that this has been a visit that created the necessary political momentum for us, the ministers of foreign affairs, to set up the joint action plan, to look how it has progressed.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: The Joint Declaration from Modi’s visit outlined a five-year action plan, with the Bilateral Defence Cooperation Programme (BDCP) as a key component. Can you elaborate on its focus areas, such as joint training, exercises, and defense industrial collaboration?Dr. Constantinos Kombos:&nbsp;Training and exercises is one dimension and something that we believe will be beneficial for both sides for a number of reasons. Let me just make reference to one. Cyprus is situated in a region which is full of crisis. Very recently, we want to evacuate citizens of third countries through Cyprus. So the coordination in terms of the defence forces, the prior training, is always facilitative of such activity in case of an emergency crisis. Beyond that, we believe that there is also an advantage to be taken in relation to the strategic positioning of Cyprus. We recently had the stationing of an Indian military vessel in Cyprus. So this is something we believe could become a more frequent event. We have been doing it with other friendly countries as well. The geostrategic position is such that allows for this kind of activity. There is always a possibility of procurement in terms of military equipment that is being produced.&nbsp;There could be some joint action and joint ventures, if you like, and common activity and collaboration in the production or the design or the testing or the implementation of various initiatives at the creation of defence material. And lastly, the European Union is heading towards its strategic defence autonomy with a huge boost in investment. Part of that investment, of course, is allocated to Cyprus as a member state. So it’s, I believe, a very fertile ground for developing joint ventures and corporations.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: Are you willing to procure defence equipment from India?&nbsp;Dr. Constantinos Kombos:&nbsp;We have been under occupation, a third of the island for more than 50-51 years, we’re facing a Turkish, occupied force of 40,000 troops in an attack formation. So for us, it’s an existential reason of making sure that we are doing rather whatever we come to defend ourselves. This is a fundamental right for every state. So procurement from any source that can be useful in terms of our defence mix is something of course, we are always on the lookout and especially as regards countries with which we have a very strong relation and aspiration to make it even stronger.&nbsp;So, yes, the defence sector is an area within which we could have common benefits.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: How can Cyprus be a gateway for India when it comes to Europe? What's your sense when it comes to the India, European Union, FTA as well?Dr. Constantinos Kombos:&nbsp;Three elements to the question. I start from the bilateral trade relation. Already, there is a lot of activity, activity that is not well known, for example, in terms of FDI, foreign direct investment to India from Cyprus. Cyprus among the 10 largest investors in India, something around $15 billion from 2000 onwards. So there is already a lot of investment coming from Cyprus to India. At the same time, recently, we've had investment in the maritime sector in big, big numbers, and we have more 160 companies in Cyprus that are of Indian ownership or of India majority shareholding. So there is a lot of investment taking place already, as we speak, at the same time, we always try and expand this. We see sectors probably where we could have much more activity, especially in the maritime sector, especially new technology, So, there are opportunities there. We believe, Cyprus&nbsp;can be a springboard for doing business with Europe and with the Middle East in the Gulf as well.&nbsp;So it's a natural progression of a very strong economy. And also, there is a strong opportunity there for expanding the already strong investment activity with India, all of that will be magnified as soon as you have the free trade agreement between the EU and India, and we believe that this is an agreement that is for mutual benefit of both sides. So Cyprus is fully supportive of the conclusion of the negotiations with a positive outcome. The target of concluding before the end of the year has been set by the two negotiating parties. Cyprus as the incoming president of the Council of the EU will be fully supportive of that, for that very reason, because it's going to be mutually beneficial for Europe and for India.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: With the recent West Asia ceasefire, how do you envision the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) progressing, and what role will Cyprus play in this transformative initiative?Dr. Constantinos Kombos:&nbsp;We believe that in the current geographical uncertainty and with various activities happening, in terms of sanctions, tariffs, in terms of the fluctuation of the situation at the investment the trade level. The more connectivity we have, the more trade corridors we have, the better it is for everyone. So we're not seeing this as a competitive situation. We're seeing it as a complementary situation. We have excellent relations with all the participating countries, and also because of geography, and also because our economy is doing that well, and we are a financial center, and we are service provider center, and of course, of the maritime sector, there are a number of reasons why Cyprus could and should be part of that.&nbsp;I agree with you that the progress has been slow since the declaration. Have been very serious situations that have affected it, the war in Gaza and so on and so forth. At the planning stage, Cyprus wants to be part of the conversation. We believe, for all the reasons that I mentioned, that we have something to add in that conversation. And the free trade agreement between the EU and India and other free trade agreements with other countries that could be part of that corridor.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: How do you view India’s steadfast support for Cyprus’s territorial integrity and its calls for adherence to UNSC resolutions on the Cyprus issue, particularly highlighted by PM Modi’s visit to the UN Green Line buffer zone?Dr. Constantinos Kombos:&nbsp;India has been a consistent, persistent, in principle, supporter of Cyprus. But if I may say, not only Cyprus, this is about being a supporter of international law, the UN charter. And it's all about making sure that what will be declared in terms of rhetoric is actually being followed in terms of action. India has been doing this from the very beginning. We are grateful for the principal stand of India with regards to the Cyprus problem, a problem, which at its very core, it's a very simple issue. It's about invasion by an aggressor and continuing occupation of the territory of a sovereign country, a country that, right now is a member state of the European Union, of the Commonwealth, of the UN and will be assuming the Presidency of the Council of the EU. So there can be no activity as regards countering this basic foundation of international law. India, being a proponent of the basic principles that underpin the UN has been consistent in that support, and we are deeply grateful for that.&nbsp;At the same time, for us, a very good and strong indication as to how the international system should be operating. And at some point when this discussion about the reform of the Security Council is to take place, we have a strong opinion and we-Cyprus, will be supporting the inclusion of India as a permanent member of the Security Council.&nbsp;And at the same time, we are supportive of Indian interests in various international forum organizations. I understand it's going to be that they'll have the candidacy for COP 33, Cyprus will be fully supportive of that, and at every opportunity, we are cooperating and collaborating with India at an international forum.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: Any discussion on Turkiye, between India and Cyprus at the foreign ministers meeting? So what is your assessment about TurkiyeDr. Constantinos Kombos:&nbsp;If one takes for granted that would discuss projects of the magnitude like IMEC, of the bilateral relations, sectors like defence. And we start from the basic commitment to international law, including, of course, the Law of the Sea. And with Turkey challenging our sovereign rights as regards our exclusive economic zone, the exploitation of natural resources that are present in our economic zone, plus the continued occupation of part of the island. All this, of course, for us, it's an everyday situation. Every day in anything we do, we have a very dark shadow over us at the diplomatic front. So I guess Turkey is always a factor in what we are doing. It's always a concern. It's always something we need to take into consideration. Our joint ambition exceeds by far exceeds the activity of any spoiler. It's a relation that has its own deep value between India and Cyprus. Third parties could have objections, could have their own opinions and views about it. At the end of the day, what matters is what countries, their leadership think.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: In light of Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent statement supporting the so-called “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus” which is under occupation of Turkey, alongside President Erdogan, how do you see this comment?Dr. Constantinos Kombos:&nbsp;For us, simple equation,&nbsp;It doesn’t refer to Pakistan, specifically refers to every member of the international community. The UN Security Council has a bundle of resolutions clearly identifying the illegal secessionist entity in the occupied part of the island as something that we should not even have any kind of contact with in accordance with the Security Council resolutions. Therefore, for us, it's a very clear mandate for anyone who is participating in the international community, who is an active member of that community, we every day try and make sure that this message has been communicated to any party who could be in any way progressing or thinking or acting in a way that would try and dismantle the foundation of the UN Charter. The Cyprus problem, being an act of invasion, aggression and occupation, goes at the very heart of the organization we call the United Nations. So yes, for us the daily struggle. It's a daily effort. The message is clear. We try to project this message also through the European Union, because anything happening in relation to the Member States, by definition and by extension, of course, becomes in relation to the European Union. Therefore, yes, we are always concerned about anyone in general who could be trying to have more contacts with the legal entity. But at the end of the day, the status of the entity has been determined by the international community, and we continue to press that message to everyone who wants to hear, and everyone who needs to hear a clear message.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: Cyprus has consistently condemned terrorist attacks in India, including the April 2025 Pahalgam attack, and reaffirmed support in recent talks with External Affairs Minister Jaishankar. How will the new counter-terrorism information-sharing mechanism enhance joint efforts to combat cross-border threats?Dr. Constantinos Kombos:&nbsp;Let me start by expressing our clear solidarity again, towards India about the terrorist attacks. We have a very clear position on this. A terrorism cannot be tolerated, and there is no excuse for terrorism.&nbsp;At the same time, the terrorists, per se, and those that are supporting or financing the terrorists cannot be separated or distinguished. So this is a very basic premise that applies to any situation. As regards cooperation in the security services, intelligence services, this is not something that one can publicly comment upon. But if countries share basic values, if countries share the ambition of strategic partnership like Cyprus and India, then that partnership, of course, would naturally extend at all levels, and especially at the critical levels. Cyprus faces dangers. India is facing challenges. We are partners, so therefore, I think it's only natural that we have a closer cooperation at all possible&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: You will be the president of the EU Council, presidency starting next year, first January, six months. How will you make sure, EU and India come closer?Dr. Constantinos Kombos:&nbsp;We have the negotiations for the FTA. I think this is a critical element of the relation between the EU and India. And as I said earlier, Cyprus will be fully supportive of the progress in terms of the negotiations.&nbsp;My president has extended a formal invitation to the Prime Minister to attend the EU summit that is going to take place in Cyprus, with all the leaders of the member states and the leadership of the institutions of the Union. I have extended a formal invitation, an invitation to my counterpart to attend Foreign Affairs Council Member States. So for us, the political signaling towards Europe and towards India is very clear. We have the space to select guests for us. India is invited at all levels, not because, not only because you have a very strong bilateral relation, but because we believe that the relation between the EU and India is for the interest, the geopolitical interest, economic interest of both sides.

Dr. Constantinos Kombos: We had a very fruitful discussion today with the minister. We took stock of the progress of the joint action plan that we have together, initiated after the historic visit of Prime Minister Modi to Cyprus in June. We focused on the various pillars that make part of that action plan with defense, investment, trade, maritime sector, culture, education, mobility of workers, tourism, so a vast array of subjects, and we identified the substantive progress that has taken place since the conclusion of the joint action plan in terms of the outcome, and also decided how to move forward in terms of further monitoring and creating those conditions necessary for achieving as much as possible and at the maximum potential that exists as regards the bilateral relation, all aspects identified. Sidhant Sibal: Following Prime Minister Modi’s historic visit to Cyprus in June 2025, what are the primary objectives of your current visit to India to further elevate our strategic partnership? Dr. Constantinos Kombos: It was a historic visit for a number of reasons. First of all, it was a visit by the Indian Prime Minister to Cyprus after 22-23 years. A very important signaling. As regards how we see the direction of the relation, of course, it happened after the very serious incidents and events (Pahalgam terror attack), and anything we do in diplomacy always reflects on sending signals. I want to underline and underscore the fact that this has been a visit that created the necessary political momentum for us, the ministers of foreign affairs, to set up the joint action plan, to look how it has progressed. Sidhant Sibal: The Joint Declaration from Modi’s visit outlined a five-year action plan, with the Bilateral Defence Cooperation Programme (BDCP) as a key component. Can you elaborate on its focus areas, such as joint training, exercises, and defense industrial collaboration?Dr. Constantinos Kombos: Training and exercises is one dimension and something that we believe will be beneficial for both sides for a number of reasons. Let me just make reference to one. Cyprus is situated in a region which is full of crisis. Very recently, we want to evacuate citizens of third countries through Cyprus. So the coordination in terms of the defence forces, the prior training, is always facilitative of such activity in case of an emergency crisis. Beyond that, we believe that there is also an advantage to be taken in relation to the strategic positioning of Cyprus. We recently had the stationing of an Indian military vessel in Cyprus. So this is something we believe could become a more frequent event. We have been doing it with other friendly countries as well. The geostrategic position is such that allows for this kind of activity. There is always a possibility of procurement in terms of military equipment that is being produced. There could be some joint action and joint ventures, if you like, and common activity and collaboration in the production or the design or the testing or the implementation of various initiatives at the creation of defence material. And lastly, the European Union is heading towards its strategic defence autonomy with a huge boost in investment. Part of that investment, of course, is allocated to Cyprus as a member state. So it’s, I believe, a very fertile ground for developing joint ventures and corporations. Sidhant Sibal: Are you willing to procure defence equipment from India? Dr. Constantinos Kombos: We have been under occupation, a third of the island for more than 50-51 years, we’re facing a Turkish, occupied force of 40,000 troops in an attack formation. So for us, it’s an existential reason of making sure that we are doing rather whatever we come to defend ourselves. This is a fundamental right for every state. So procurement from any source that can be useful in terms of our defence mix is something of course, we are always on the lookout and especially as regards countries with which we have a very strong relation and aspiration to make it even stronger. So, yes, the defence sector is an area within which we could have common benefits. Sidhant Sibal: How can Cyprus be a gateway for India when it comes to Europe? What's your sense when it comes to the India, European Union, FTA as well?Dr. Constantinos Kombos: Three elements to the question. I start from the bilateral trade relation. Already, there is a lot of activity, activity that is not well known, for example, in terms of FDI, foreign direct investment to India from Cyprus. Cyprus among the 10 largest investors in India, something around $15 billion from 2000 onwards. So there is already a lot of investment coming from Cyprus to India. At the same time, recently, we've had investment in the maritime sector in big, big numbers, and we have more 160 companies in Cyprus that are of Indian ownership or of India majority shareholding. So there is a lot of investment taking place already, as we speak, at the same time, we always try and expand this. We see sectors probably where we could have much more activity, especially in the maritime sector, especially new technology, So, there are opportunities there. We believe, Cyprus can be a springboard for doing business with Europe and with the Middle East in the Gulf as well. So it's a natural progression of a very strong economy. And also, there is a strong opportunity there for expanding the already strong investment activity with India, all of that will be magnified as soon as you have the free trade agreement between the EU and India, and we believe that this is an agreement that is for mutual benefit of both sides. So Cyprus is fully supportive of the conclusion of the negotiations with a positive outcome. The target of concluding before the end of the year has been set by the two negotiating parties. Cyprus as the incoming president of the Council of the EU will be fully supportive of that, for that very reason, because it's going to be mutually beneficial for Europe and for India. Sidhant Sibal: With the recent West Asia ceasefire, how do you envision the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) progressing, and what role will Cyprus play in this transformative initiative?Dr. Constantinos Kombos: We believe that in the current geographical uncertainty and with various activities happening, in terms of sanctions, tariffs, in terms of the fluctuation of the situation at the investment the trade level. The more connectivity we have, the more trade corridors we have, the better it is for everyone. So we're not seeing this as a competitive situation. We're seeing it as a complementary situation. We have excellent relations with all the participating countries, and also because of geography, and also because our economy is doing that well, and we are a financial center, and we are service provider center, and of course, of the maritime sector, there are a number of reasons why Cyprus could and should be part of that. I agree with you that the progress has been slow since the declaration. Have been very serious situations that have affected it, the war in Gaza and so on and so forth. At the planning stage, Cyprus wants to be part of the conversation. We believe, for all the reasons that I mentioned, that we have something to add in that conversation. And the free trade agreement between the EU and India and other free trade agreements with other countries that could be part of that corridor. Sidhant Sibal: How do you view India’s steadfast support for Cyprus’s territorial integrity and its calls for adherence to UNSC resolutions on the Cyprus issue, particularly highlighted by PM Modi’s visit to the UN Green Line buffer zone?Dr. Constantinos Kombos: India has been a consistent, persistent, in principle, supporter of Cyprus. But if I may say, not only Cyprus, this is about being a supporter of international law, the UN charter. And it's all about making sure that what will be declared in terms of rhetoric is actually being followed in terms of action. India has been doing this from the very beginning. We are grateful for the principal stand of India with regards to the Cyprus problem, a problem, which at its very core, it's a very simple issue. It's about invasion by an aggressor and continuing occupation of the territory of a sovereign country, a country that, right now is a member state of the European Union, of the Commonwealth, of the UN and will be assuming the Presidency of the Council of the EU. So there can be no activity as regards countering this basic foundation of international law. India, being a proponent of the basic principles that underpin the UN has been consistent in that support, and we are deeply grateful for that. At the same time, for us, a very good and strong indication as to how the international system should be operating. And at some point when this discussion about the reform of the Security Council is to take place, we have a strong opinion and we-Cyprus, will be supporting the inclusion of India as a permanent member of the Security Council. And at the same time, we are supportive of Indian interests in various international forum organizations. I understand it's going to be that they'll have the candidacy for COP 33, Cyprus will be fully supportive of that, and at every opportunity, we are cooperating and collaborating with India at an international forum. Sidhant Sibal: Any discussion on Turkiye, between India and Cyprus at the foreign ministers meeting? So what is your assessment about TurkiyeDr. Constantinos Kombos: If one takes for granted that would discuss projects of the magnitude like IMEC, of the bilateral relations, sectors like defence. And we start from the basic commitment to international law, including, of course, the Law of the Sea. And with Turkey challenging our sovereign rights as regards our exclusive economic zone, the exploitation of natural resources that are present in our economic zone, plus the continued occupation of part of the island. All this, of course, for us, it's an everyday situation. Every day in anything we do, we have a very dark shadow over us at the diplomatic front. So I guess Turkey is always a factor in what we are doing. It's always a concern. It's always something we need to take into consideration. Our joint ambition exceeds by far exceeds the activity of any spoiler. It's a relation that has its own deep value between India and Cyprus. Third parties could have objections, could have their own opinions and views about it. At the end of the day, what matters is what countries, their leadership think. Sidhant Sibal: In light of Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent statement supporting the so-called “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus” which is under occupation of Turkey, alongside President Erdogan, how do you see this comment?Dr. Constantinos Kombos: For us, simple equation, It doesn’t refer to Pakistan. specifically refers to every member of the international community. The UN Security Council has a bundle of resolutions clearly identifying the legal secessionist entity in the occupied part of the island as something that we should not even have any kind of contact with in accordance with the Security Council resolutions. Therefore, for us, it's a very clear mandate for anyone who is participating in the international community, who is an active member of that community, we every day try and make sure that this message has been communicated to any party who could be in any way progressing or thinking or acting in a way that would try and dismantle the foundation of the UN Charter. The Cyprus problem, being an act of invasion, aggression and occupation, goes at the very heart of the organization we call the United Nations. So yes, for us the daily struggle. It's a daily effort. The message is clear. We try to project this message also through the European Union, because anything happening in relation to the Member States, by definition and by extension, of course, becomes in relation to the European Union. Therefore, yes, we are always concerned about anyone in general who could be trying to have more contacts with the legal entity. But at the end of the day, the status of the entity has been determined by the international community, and we continue to press that message to everyone who wants to hear, and everyone who needs to hear a clear message. Sidhant Sibal: Cyprus has consistently condemned terrorist attacks in India, including the April 2025 Pahalgam attack, and reaffirmed support in recent talks with External Affairs Minister Jaishankar. How will the new counter-terrorism information-sharing mechanism enhance joint efforts to combat cross-border threats?Dr. Constantinos Kombos: Let me start by expressing our clear solidarity again, towards India about the terrorist attacks. We have a very clear position on this. A terrorism cannot be tolerated, and there is no excuse for terrorism. At the same time, the terrorists, per se, and those that are supporting or financing the terrorists cannot be separated or distinguished. So this is a very basic premise that applies to any situation. As regards cooperation in the security services, intelligence services, this is not something that one can publicly comment upon. But if countries share basic values, if countries share the ambition of strategic partnership like Cyprus and India, then that partnership, of course, would naturally extend at all levels, and especially at the critical levels. Cyprus faces dangers. India is facing challenges. We are partners, so therefore, I think it's only natural that we have a closer cooperation at all possible Sidhant Sibal: You will be the president of the EU Council, presidency starting next year, first January, six months. How will you make sure, EU and India come closer?Dr. Constantinos Kombos: We have the negotiations for the FTA. I think this is a critical element of the relation between the EU and India. And as I said earlier, Cyprus will be fully supportive of the progress in terms of the negotiations. My president has extended a formal invitation to the Prime Minister to attend the EU summit that is going to take place in Cyprus, with all the leaders of the member states and the leadership of the institutions of the Union. I have extended a formal invitation, an invitation to my counterpart to attend Foreign Affairs Council Member States. So for us, the political signaling towards Europe and towards India is very clear. We have the space to select guests for us. India is invited at all levels, not because, not only because you have a very strong bilateral relation, but because we believe that the relation between the EU and India is for the interest, the geopolitical interest, economic interest of both sides.

Foreign Minister of Cyprus Constantinos Kombos held talks with India's EAM Dr S Jaishankar in Delhi on Thursday to discuss the joint action plan announced during PM Narendra Modi’s visit to Cyprus earlier this year.

Cyprus’s visiting Foreign Minister Dr. Constantinos Kombos stated that India has been a “consistent” supporter of his nation regarding the “Cyprus question”. He expressed gratitude to India for its unwavering backing of Cyprus’s territorial integrity and its demands for compliance with UNSC resolutions on the Cyprus problem, the dispute that began with Turkey’s 1974 invasion of the island, splitting it into two parts. The visiting FM hoped his country “could and should” be part of the India Middle East Europe corridor the announcement about which was made at the G20 Delhi Summit in 2023. Speaking to WION’s Sidhant Sibal, he said, “The more connectivity we have, the more trade corridors we have, the better it is for everyone.” Foreign minister Kombos held talks with EAM Dr S Jaishankar in Delhi on Thursday, to discuss the joint action plan announced during PM Modi’s visit to Cyprus earlier this year. When asked about procuring defence equipment from India, the foreign minister said, “We are always on the lookout and especially as regards countries with which we have a very strong relation and aspiration to make it even stronger.” The visit takes place at a crucial time as Cyprus would assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union from 1 January 2026, and it can play an important role in further strengthening the India–EU Strategic Partnership. Full interview: Sidhant Sibal: What kind of talks did you have earlier today with EAM Dr S Jaishankar? Dr. Constantinos Kombos: We had a very fruitful discussion today with the minister. We took stock of the progress of the joint action plan that we have together, initiated after the historic visit of Prime Minister Modi to Cyprus in June. We focused on the various pillars that make part of that action plan with defense, investment, trade, maritime sector, culture, education, mobility of workers, tourism, so a vast array of subjects, and we identified the substantive progress that has taken place since the conclusion of the joint action plan in terms of the outcome, and also decided how to move forward in terms of further monitoring and creating those conditions necessary for achieving as much as possible and at the maximum potential that exists as regards the bilateral relation, all aspects identified. Sidhant Sibal: Following Prime Minister Modi’s historic visit to Cyprus in June 2025, what are the primary objectives of your current visit to India to further elevate our strategic partnership? Dr. Constantinos Kombos: It was a historic visit for a number of reasons. First of all, it was a visit by the Indian Prime Minister to Cyprus after 22-23 years. A very important signaling. As regards how we see the direction of the relation, of course, it happened after the very serious incidents and events (Pahalgam terror attack), and anything we do in diplomacy always reflects on sending signals. I want to underline and underscore the fact that this has been a visit that created the necessary political momentum for us, the ministers of foreign affairs, to set up the joint action plan, to look how it has progressed. Sidhant Sibal: The Joint Declaration from Modi’s visit outlined a five-year action plan, with the Bilateral Defence Cooperation Programme (BDCP) as a key component. Can you elaborate on its focus areas, such as joint training, exercises, and defense industrial collaboration? Dr. Constantinos Kombos: Training and exercises is one dimension and something that we believe will be beneficial for both sides for a number of reasons. Let me just make reference to one. Cyprus is situated in a region which is full of crisis. Very recently, we want to evacuate citizens of third countries through Cyprus. So the coordination in terms of the defence forces, the prior training, is always facilitative of such activity in case of an emergency crisis. Beyond that, we believe that there is also an advantage to be taken in relation to the strategic positioning of Cyprus. We recently had the stationing of an Indian military vessel in Cyprus. So this is something we believe could become a more frequent event. We have been doing it with other friendly countries as well. The geostrategic position is such that allows for this kind of activity. There is always a possibility of procurement in terms of military equipment that is being produced. There could be some joint action and joint ventures, if you like, and common activity and collaboration in the production or the design or the testing or the implementation of various initiatives at the creation of defence material. And lastly, the European Union is heading towards its strategic defence autonomy with a huge boost in investment. Part of that investment, of course, is allocated to Cyprus as a member state. So it’s, I believe, a very fertile ground for developing joint ventures and corporations. Sidhant Sibal: Are you willing to procure defence equipment from India? Dr. Constantinos Kombos: We have been under occupation, a third of the island for more than 50-51 years, we’re facing a Turkish, occupied force of 40,000 troops in an attack formation. So for us, it’s an existential reason of making sure that we are doing rather whatever we come to defend ourselves. This is a fundamental right for every state. So procurement from any source that can be useful in terms of our defence mix is something of course, we are always on the lookout and especially as regards countries with which we have a very strong relation and aspiration to make it even stronger. So, yes, the defence sector is an area within which we could have common benefits. Sidhant Sibal: How can Cyprus be a gateway for India when it comes to Europe? What's your sense when it comes to the India, European Union, FTA as well? Dr. Constantinos Kombos: Three elements to the question. I start from the bilateral trade relation. Already, there is a lot of activity, activity that is not well known, for example, in terms of FDI, foreign direct investment to India from Cyprus. Cyprus among the 10 largest investors in India, something around $15 billion from 2000 onwards. So there is already a lot of investment coming from Cyprus to India. At the same time, recently, we've had investment in the maritime sector in big, big numbers, and we have more 160 companies in Cyprus that are of Indian ownership or of India majority shareholding. So there is a lot of investment taking place already, as we speak, at the same time, we always try and expand this. We see sectors probably where we could have much more activity, especially in the maritime sector, especially new technology, So, there are opportunities there. We believe, Cyprus can be a springboard for doing business with Europe and with the Middle East in the Gulf as well. So it's a natural progression of a very strong economy. And also, there is a strong opportunity there for expanding the already strong investment activity with India, all of that will be magnified as soon as you have the free trade agreement between the EU and India, and we believe that this is an agreement that is for mutual benefit of both sides. So Cyprus is fully supportive of the conclusion of the negotiations with a positive outcome. The target of concluding before the end of the year has been set by the two negotiating parties. Cyprus as the incoming president of the Council of the EU will be fully supportive of that, for that very reason, because it's going to be mutually beneficial for Europe and for India. Sidhant Sibal: With the recent West Asia ceasefire, how do you envision the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) progressing, and what role will Cyprus play in this transformative initiative? Dr. Constantinos Kombos: We believe that in the current geographical uncertainty and with various activities happening, in terms of sanctions, tariffs, in terms of the fluctuation of the situation at the investment the trade level. The more connectivity we have, the more trade corridors we have, the better it is for everyone. So we're not seeing this as a competitive situation. We're seeing it as a complementary situation. We have excellent relations with all the participating countries, and also because of geography, and also because our economy is doing that well, and we are a financial center, and we are service provider center, and of course, of the maritime sector, there are a number of reasons why Cyprus could and should be part of that. I agree with you that the progress has been slow since the declaration. Have been very serious situations that have affected it, the war in Gaza and so on and so forth. At the planning stage, Cyprus wants to be part of the conversation. We believe, for all the reasons that I mentioned, that we have something to add in that conversation. And the free trade agreement between the EU and India and other free trade agreements with other countries that could be part of that corridor. Sidhant Sibal: How do you view India’s steadfast support for Cyprus’s territorial integrity and its calls for adherence to UNSC resolutions on the Cyprus issue, particularly highlighted by PM Modi’s visit to the UN Green Line buffer zone? Dr. Constantinos Kombos: India has been a consistent, persistent, in principle, supporter of Cyprus. But if I may say, not only Cyprus, this is about being a supporter of international law, the UN charter. And it's all about making sure that what will be declared in terms of rhetoric is actually being followed in terms of action. India has been doing this from the very beginning. We are grateful for the principal stand of India with regards to the Cyprus problem, a problem, which at its very core, it's a very simple issue. It's about invasion by an aggressor and continuing occupation of the territory of a sovereign country, a country that, right now is a member state of the European Union, of the Commonwealth, of the UN and will be assuming the Presidency of the Council of the EU. So there can be no activity as regards countering this basic foundation of international law. India, being a proponent of the basic principles that underpin the UN has been consistent in that support, and we are deeply grateful for that. At the same time, for us, a very good and strong indication as to how the international system should be operating. And at some point when this discussion about the reform of the Security Council is to take place, we have a strong opinion and we-Cyprus, will be supporting the inclusion of India as a permanent member of the Security Council. And at the same time, we are supportive of Indian interests in various international forum organizations. I understand it's going to be that they'll have the candidacy for COP 33, Cyprus will be fully supportive of that, and at every opportunity, we are cooperating and collaborating with India at an international forum. Sidhant Sibal: Any discussion on Turkiye, between India and Cyprus at the foreign ministers meeting? So what is your assessment about Turkiye Dr. Constantinos Kombos: If one takes for granted that would discuss projects of the magnitude like IMEC, of the bilateral relations, sectors like defence. And we start from the basic commitment to international law, including, of course, the Law of the Sea. And with Turkey challenging our sovereign rights as regards our exclusive economic zone, the exploitation of natural resources that are present in our economic zone, plus the continued occupation of part of the island. All this, of course, for us, it's an everyday situation. Every day in anything we do, we have a very dark shadow over us at the diplomatic front. So I guess Turkey is always a factor in what we are doing. It's always a concern. It's always something we need to take into consideration. Our joint ambition exceeds by far exceeds the activity of any spoiler. It's a relation that has its own deep value between India and Cyprus. Third parties could have objections, could have their own opinions and views about it. At the end of the day, what matters is what countries, their leadership think. Sidhant Sibal: In light of Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent statement supporting the so-called “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus” which is under occupation of Turkey, alongside President Erdogan, how do you see this comment? Dr. Constantinos Kombos: For us, simple equation, It doesn’t refer to Pakistan, specifically refers to every member of the international community. The UN Security Council has a bundle of resolutions clearly identifying the illegal secessionist entity in the occupied part of the island as something that we should not even have any kind of contact with in accordance with the Security Council resolutions. Therefore, for us, it's a very clear mandate for anyone who is participating in the international community, who is an active member of that community, we every day try and make sure that this message has been communicated to any party who could be in any way progressing or thinking or acting in a way that would try and dismantle the foundation of the UN Charter. The Cyprus problem, being an act of invasion, aggression and occupation, goes at the very heart of the organization we call the United Nations. So yes, for us the daily struggle. It's a daily effort. The message is clear. We try to project this message also through the European Union, because anything happening in relation to the Member States, by definition and by extension, of course, becomes in relation to the European Union. Therefore, yes, we are always concerned about anyone in general who could be trying to have more contacts with the legal entity. But at the end of the day, the status of the entity has been determined by the international community, and we continue to press that message to everyone who wants to hear, and everyone who needs to hear a clear message. Sidhant Sibal: Cyprus has consistently condemned terrorist attacks in India, including the April 2025 Pahalgam attack, and reaffirmed support in recent talks with External Affairs Minister Jaishankar. How will the new counter-terrorism information-sharing mechanism enhance joint efforts to combat cross-border threats? Dr. Constantinos Kombos: Let me start by expressing our clear solidarity again, towards India about the terrorist attacks. We have a very clear position on this. A terrorism cannot be tolerated, and there is no excuse for terrorism. At the same time, the terrorists, per se, and those that are supporting or financing the terrorists cannot be separated or distinguished. So this is a very basic premise that applies to any situation. As regards cooperation in the security services, intelligence services, this is not something that one can publicly comment upon. But if countries share basic values, if countries share the ambition of strategic partnership like Cyprus and India, then that partnership, of course, would naturally extend at all levels, and especially at the critical levels. Cyprus faces dangers. India is facing challenges. We are partners, so therefore, I think it's only natural that we have a closer cooperation at all possible Sidhant Sibal: You will be the president of the EU Council, presidency starting next year, first January, six months. How will you make sure, EU and India come closer? Dr. Constantinos Kombos: We have the negotiations for the FTA. I think this is a critical element of the relation between the EU and India. And as I said earlier, Cyprus will be fully supportive of the progress in terms of the negotiations. My president has extended a formal invitation to the Prime Minister to attend the EU summit that is going to take place in Cyprus, with all the leaders of the member states and the leadership of the institutions of the Union. I have extended a formal invitation, an invitation to my counterpart to attend Foreign Affairs Council Member States. So for us, the political signaling towards Europe and towards India is very clear. We have the space to select guests for us. India is invited at all levels, not because, not only because you have a very strong bilateral relation, but because we believe that the relation between the EU and India is for the interest, the geopolitical interest, economic interest of both sides.

Foreign Minister of Cyprus Constantinos Kombos held talks with India's EAM Dr S Jaishankar in Delhi on Thursday to discuss the joint action plan announced during PM Narendra Modi’s visit to Cyprus earlier this year.

India has been a consistent supporter of Cyprus: Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos

The Trump administration announced on Thursday the setting of the lowest refugee admissions cap in US history, allocating just 7,500 spots for this fiscal year, mostly for Afrikaners it claims are facing racial discrimination in South Africa for being White. The previous lowest refugee ceiling was set by the previous Trump administration in 2020, when it allocated 15,000 spots for fiscal year 2021. The fiscal year 2026 in the US started on Oct. 1 and culminates at the end of September 2026. The announcement is the latest effort by Trump and his top aides to dramatically scale back the decades-old US Refugee Admissions Program, a humanitarian policy for vulnerable people fleeing war and violence across the world.&nbsp;Trump signed an executive order suspending the US Refugee Admissions Programme, or USRAP, &nbsp;hours after taking office this year in January, citing strains on American communities and concerns about the vetting process. However, his administration made an exemption for Afrikaners, calling them victims of racial oppression.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/hostage-crisis-involving-17-children-at-powai-acting-studio-triggers-panic-in-mumbai-1761827231265">Hostage crisis involving 17 children at Powai acting studio triggers panic in Mumbai; suspect dies</a>&nbsp;Afrikaners are an ethnic group in South Africa made up of descendants of European settlers and colonists, mostly from the Netherlands, who first arrived there in the 1600s. The South African government denies Afrikaners and other White South Africans are being persecuted.&nbsp;&nbsp;In an order posted on the federal government’s journal of regulations, Trump said the 7,500 refugee spots for fiscal year 2026 would “primarily be allocated among Afrikaners” and “other victims of illegal or unjust discrimination in their respective homelands.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jd-vance-says-he-hopes-his-wife-usha-a-hindu-converts-to-christianity-eventually-1761835421337">JD Vance says he hopes his wife Usha, a Hindu, converts to Christianity eventually</a>&nbsp;The notice posted to the website of the Federal Register said the 7,500 admissions would "primarily" be allocated to Afrikaner South Africans and "other victims of illegal or unjust discrimination in their respective homelands".&nbsp;Refugee admissions dipped to a record low of 11,000 in fiscal year 2021—mostly due to Trump-era cuts and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-receives-coffins-with-two-bodies-of-gaza-hostages-says-confirming-identity-1761845810232">Israel receives coffins with two bodies of Gaza hostages, says confirming identity</a>&nbsp;The Joe Biden administration dramatically expanded the programme and in fiscal year 2024, welcomed more than 100,000 refugees, the highest level since the 1990s.&nbsp;The US policy of accepting white South Africans has already prompted accusations of unfair treatment from refugee advocacy groups.

In an order posted on the federal government’s journal of regulations, Trump said the 7,500 refugee spots for fiscal year 2026 would “primarily be allocated among Afrikaners” and “other victims of illegal or unjust discrimination in their respective homelands.” 

The Trump administration announced on Thursday the setting of the lowest refugee admissions cap in US history, allocating just 7,500 spots for this fiscal year, mostly for Afrikaners it claims are facing racial discrimination in South Africa for being White. The previous lowest refugee ceiling was set by the previous Trump administration in 2020, when it allocated 15,000 spots for fiscal year 2021. The fiscal year 2026 in the US started on Oct. 1 and culminates at the end of September 2026. The announcement is the latest effort by Trump and his top aides to dramatically scale back the decades-old US Refugee Admissions Program, a humanitarian policy for vulnerable people fleeing war and violence across the world. Trump signed an executive order suspending the US Refugee Admissions Programme, or USRAP, hours after taking office this year in January, citing strains on American communities and concerns about the vetting process. However, his administration made an exemption for Afrikaners, calling them victims of racial oppression. Also Read: Hostage crisis involving 17 children at Powai acting studio triggers panic in Mumbai; suspect dies Afrikaners are an ethnic group in South Africa made up of descendants of European settlers and colonists, mostly from the Netherlands, who first arrived there in the 1600s. The South African government denies Afrikaners and other White South Africans are being persecuted. In an order posted on the federal government’s journal of regulations, Trump said the 7,500 refugee spots for fiscal year 2026 would “primarily be allocated among Afrikaners” and “other victims of illegal or unjust discrimination in their respective homelands.” Also Read: JD Vance says he hopes his wife Usha, a Hindu, converts to Christianity eventually The notice posted to the website of the Federal Register said the 7,500 admissions would "primarily" be allocated to Afrikaner South Africans and "other victims of illegal or unjust discrimination in their respective homelands". Refugee admissions dipped to a record low of 11,000 in fiscal year 2021—mostly due to Trump-era cuts and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Also Read: Israel receives coffins with two bodies of Gaza hostages, says confirming identity The Joe Biden administration dramatically expanded the programme and in fiscal year 2024, welcomed more than 100,000 refugees, the highest level since the 1990s. The US policy of accepting white South Africans has already prompted accusations of unfair treatment from refugee advocacy groups.

In an order posted on the federal government’s journal of regulations, Trump said the 7,500 refugee spots for fiscal year 2026 would “primarily be allocated among Afrikaners” and “other victims of illegal or unjust discrimination in their respective homelands.”&nbsp;

Trump sets refugee cap at record low of 7,500, mostly for Afrikaners, in huge cut from Biden era

An old video has circulated showing New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani chanting against “Israeli settler violence" at a rally in Manhattan, months before the October 7 attack in 2023. The footage was widely shared online and showed the Democratic Socialist state assemblyman from Queens shouting into a megaphone at an anti-Israel demonstration in Midtown.The clip showed Mamdani chanting, “That’s what we’re calling for."“We are calling for it because we know that the days of inconsistency, the days of drawing the lines in Palestine, those days are over," he added.“What we are calling for is the end of our complicity as New Yorkers," he said.The rally was held in support of a bill Zohran Mamdani introduced in the New York State Assembly. It was centred on ending tax-exempt status for organisations that raise money for Israeli military or settlement activity.During his speech in the rally, Mamdani criticised what he described as a double standard in American politics when it comes to Palestinian rights.“When I grew up in this city, I grew up hearing a term- ‘progressive except Palestine,’" he said.“I saw the politicians that I admired speak of universal rights and then draw the line right when it came to Palestinians," he added.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Three months before the October 7 Massacre, Zohran Mamdani was already “Globalizing the Intifada.” No western suit and tie. No polished smile. Just pure hate. <a href="https://t.co/H64pK1v0tK">pic.twitter.com/H64pK1v0tK</a>&mdash; The Persian Jewess (@persianjewess) <a href="https://twitter.com/persianjewess/status/1983769107544862926?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, the Indian-American filmmaker Mira Nair, the mother of New York City socialist mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, said in an old interview that her then 21-year-old son was "not an American at all." The old video has resurfaced, creating a buzz online. The interview is now being criticised because Nair used a few terms that some view as derogatory toward the United States.In a 2013 interview, the filmmaker said about Mamdani that "he is a total desi". At the time, Mamdani was attending Bowdoin College, where he co-founded the school’s Students for Justice in Palestine chapter and was pushing for academic sanctions against Israel."Completely. We are not firangs at all. He is very much us. He is not an Uhmericcan (American) at all. He was born in Uganda, raised between India and America. He is at home in many places. He thinks of himself as a Ugandan and as an Indian." &nbsp;

The footage was widely shared online and showed the Democratic Socialist state assemblyman from Queens shouting into a megaphone at an anti-Israel demonstration in Midtown.

An old video has circulated showing New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani chanting against “Israeli settler violence" at a rally in Manhattan, months before the October 7 attack in 2023. The footage was widely shared online and showed the Democratic Socialist state assemblyman from Queens shouting into a megaphone at an anti-Israel demonstration in Midtown. The clip showed Mamdani chanting, “That’s what we’re calling for." “We are calling for it because we know that the days of inconsistency, the days of drawing the lines in Palestine, those days are over," he added. “What we are calling for is the end of our complicity as New Yorkers," he said. The rally was held in support of a bill Zohran Mamdani introduced in the New York State Assembly. It was centred on ending tax-exempt status for organisations that raise money for Israeli military or settlement activity. During his speech in the rally, Mamdani criticised what he described as a double standard in American politics when it comes to Palestinian rights. “When I grew up in this city, I grew up hearing a term- ‘progressive except Palestine,’" he said. “I saw the politicians that I admired speak of universal rights and then draw the line right when it came to Palestinians," he added.

The footage was widely shared online and showed the Democratic Socialist state assemblyman from Queens shouting into a megaphone at an anti-Israel demonstration in Midtown.

WATCH: Zohran Mamdani called to end ‘Israeli violence’ against Palestine months before Oct 7 attack

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Zohran Mamdani called to end ‘Israeli violence’ months before Oct 7 attack