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As Pakistan broke the 48-hour ceasefire with Afghan Taliban and conducted airstrike in several districts of Paktika province, US President Donald Trump, who likes to portray himself as ‘President of Peace’ has said that it will be easy for him to solve the conflict. Pakistan and Afghanistan are involved in a deadly clash since a week. A truce was reached for 48-hour but Pakistan allegedly violated the understanding. However, Taliban extended the truce till talks between the two sides are held in Doha. At least 10 people were killed in the airstrike including three Afghan cricketers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-extends-ceasefire-despite-pakistan-s-truce-violation-3-afghan-cricketers-killed-in-airstrike-1760752265180">Taliban extends ceasefire despite Pakistan's truce violation; 3 Afghan cricketers killed in airstrike</a>&nbsp;During a working lunch with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House, Donald Trump remarked that he was aware of Pakistan’s attack or ongoing conflict with Afghanistan. He claimed that resolving the issue would be easy for him if needed. While emphasizing that his primary responsibility was running the United States, he stated that he enjoyed resolving conflicts because he wanted to stop people from being killed. Trump said, “Although I do understand that Pakistan attacked, or there is an attack going on with Afghanistan. That's an easy one for me to solve if I have to solve it. In the meantime, I have to run the USA, but I love solving wars. You know why? I like stopping people from being killed, and I've saved millions and millions of lives.”&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-minister-baselessly-claims-afghan-taliban-fighting-india-s-proxy-war-1760593863943">'Fighting India's proxy war': Pakistan minister casts doubt on ceasefire with Afghan Taliban, issues anti-India rant</a> Trump further reiterated his claims of solving wars and expressed his desire for the Nobel Peace Prize. Without naming 2025 Nobel Peace Prize winner Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, he called her a ‘nice woman.’ “I have solved eight wars. Go to Rwanda and the Congo, talk about India and Pakistan. Look at all of the wars that we solved, and every time I solved, when they say if you solve the next one, you're gonna get the Nobel Prize. I didn't get a Nobel Prize. Somebody got it who is a very nice woman. I don't know who she is, but she was very generous. I don't care about all that stuff. I just care about saving lives," he said.&nbsp;Read More |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-afghans-have-always-been-loyal-to-india-explosions-rock-kabul-within-48-hours-of-pak-minister-vowing-big-action-what-happened-1760061090838"> 'Afghans have always been loyal to India': Explosions rock Kabul within 48 hours of Pak PM 'vowing big action' - What happened</a>

After Pakistan violated a 48-hour ceasefire with the Afghan Taliban by launching airstrikes in Paktika, killing at least 10, including 3 Afghan cricketers, US President Trump called the conflict "easy" to resolve. He reiterated his peace efforts and desire for a Nobel Prize 

As Pakistan broke the 48-hour ceasefire with Afghan Taliban and conducted airstrike in several districts of Paktika province, US President Donald Trump, who likes to portray himself as ‘President of Peace’ has said that it will be easy for him to solve the conflict. Pakistan and Afghanistan are involved in a deadly clash since a week. A truce was reached for 48-hour but Pakistan allegedly violated the understanding. However, Taliban extended the truce till talks between the two sides are held in Doha. At least 10 people were killed in the airstrike including three Afghan cricketers. Read More | Taliban extends ceasefire despite Pakistan's truce violation; 3 Afghan cricketers killed in airstrike During a working lunch with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House, Donald Trump remarked that he was aware of Pakistan’s attack or ongoing conflict with Afghanistan. He claimed that resolving the issue would be easy for him if needed. While emphasizing that his primary responsibility was running the United States, he stated that he enjoyed resolving conflicts because he wanted to stop people from being killed. Trump said, “Although I do understand that Pakistan attacked, or there is an attack going on with Afghanistan. That's an easy one for me to solve if I have to solve it. In the meantime, I have to run the USA, but I love solving wars. You know why? I like stopping people from being killed, and I've saved millions and millions of lives.” Read More | 'Fighting India's proxy war': Pakistan minister casts doubt on ceasefire with Afghan Taliban, issues anti-India rant Trump further reiterated his claims of solving wars and expressed his desire for the Nobel Peace Prize. Without naming 2025 Nobel Peace Prize winner Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, he called her a ‘nice woman.’ “I have solved eight wars. Go to Rwanda and the Congo, talk about India and Pakistan. Look at all of the wars that we solved, and every time I solved, when they say if you solve the next one, you're gonna get the Nobel Prize. I didn't get a Nobel Prize. Somebody got it who is a very nice woman. I don't know who she is, but she was very generous. I don't care about all that stuff. I just care about saving lives," he said. Read More | 'Afghans have always been loyal to India': Explosions rock Kabul within 48 hours of Pak PM 'vowing big action' - What happened

After Pakistan violated a 48-hour ceasefire with the Afghan Taliban by launching airstrikes in Paktika, killing at least 10, including 3 Afghan cricketers, US President Trump called the conflict "easy" to resolve. He reiterated his peace efforts and desire for a Nobel Prize&nbsp;

'That's an easy one for me...': Trump, who loves 'solving wars,' hints at resolving Afghan-Pakistan conflict next

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during his meeting with US President Donald Trump on Friday (Oct 17) was decked up in a black military-style suit which got him praises from the Republican leader. During their lunch in the Cabinet Room in the White House, Trump impressed by Zelensky's outfit said "I think he looks beautiful in this jacket, yes, beautiful, I hope people notice. It's good, it's actually very stylish, I like it."&nbsp;Zelensky has largely stuck to military-inspired outfits since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. However he has made some adjustments to his fashion when it has come to meeting Trump. In August, he wore a black formal jacket, shirt, and trousers for a meeting with the US President and European officials, inviting praises for it.&nbsp;During a press conference, conservative reporter Brian Glenn, who had criticised Zelensky for not wearing a formal suit in his meeting with Trump in February said, "You look fabulous in that suit" to which Trump replied saying, "I said the same thing".&nbsp;During the February meeting Zelensky wore a black polo and military-style trousers, which irked Trump and other officials, who called it a mark of disrespect. The US President on seeing Zelensky sarcastically remarked "all dressed up today".

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Trump gives Zelensky’s jacket a thumbs up ‘Very stylish… I like it’ Zelensky, unsure of himself: ‘YEAH?’ <a href="https://t.co/F27PgzjISz">https://t.co/F27PgzjISz</a> <a href="https://t.co/irWBkaQyVi">pic.twitter.com/irWBkaQyVi</a>&mdash; RT (@RT_com) <a href="https://twitter.com/RT_com/status/1979241753103450331?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Reason for Zelensky wearing military clothes</h2>Zelensky had said he vowed to wear his military clothes until peace returned to Ukraine. His black jacket, which is designed by Kyiv-based Viktor Anisimov, was first worn by him at Pope Francis’s funeral in April and then at meetings with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and at the NATO summit in The Hague.

Zelensky has largely stuck to military-inspired outfits since Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. However he has made some adjustments to his fashion when it has come to meeting Trump.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during his meeting with US President Donald Trump on Friday (Oct 17) was decked up in a black military-style suit which got him praises from the Republican leader. During their lunch in the Cabinet Room in the White House, Trump impressed by Zelensky's outfit said "I think he looks beautiful in this jacket, yes, beautiful, I hope people notice. It's good, it's actually very stylish, I like it." Zelensky has largely stuck to military-inspired outfits since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. However he has made some adjustments to his fashion when it has come to meeting Trump. In August, he wore a black formal jacket, shirt, and trousers for a meeting with the US President and European officials, inviting praises for it. During a press conference, conservative reporter Brian Glenn, who had criticised Zelensky for not wearing a formal suit in his meeting with Trump in February said, "You look fabulous in that suit" to which Trump replied saying, "I said the same thing". During the February meeting Zelensky wore a black polo and military-style trousers, which irked Trump and other officials, who called it a mark of disrespect. The US President on seeing Zelensky sarcastically remarked "all dressed up today".

Zelensky has largely stuck to military-inspired outfits since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. However he has made some adjustments to his fashion when it has come to meeting Trump.

Zelensky's 'very stylish' jacket earns compliment from Trump, WATCH viral video

Former US Representative George Santos was released from prison on Friday(Oct 17), after President Donald Trump commuted his sentence. Santos had been serving an 87-month (over 7 years) federal prison term but has now been granted early release by presidential order. Santos, who began his sentence in July 2025 after being convicted of multiple federal charges, was ordered to be freed immediately. Trump, in a post on Truth Social, defended his decision by stating that Santos had been “horribly mistreated” while behind bars. Calling him 'somewhat of a rogue,’&nbsp;Trump said that there are many rogues in our country who aren't given seven years in prison.<blockquote>In a truth Social post, Trump wrote, "I just signed a commutation, releasing George Santos from prison IMMEDIATELY.”</blockquote>Earlier this week, Santos published an open letter addressed to Trump, describing it as a “passionate plea.” In the message, he praised Trump and asked for a second chance, stating he had “faced the consequences” and wanted to reunite with his loved ones.“I take full responsibility for my actions,” he wrote. “I just want to return to my family, my friends, and my community.”<h2>What were George Santos' crimes?</h2>George Santos was convicted of fraud and identity theft tied to his 2022 congressional campaign. He admitted to falsifying donor names and inflating fundraising numbers to qualify for Republican National Committee funding. He also admitted to lying about his personal background, including fake claims about attending New York University, working at Goldman Sachs and Citigroup, and saying his grandparents fled the Nazis—none of which were true. He pleaded guilty to these offenses and was sentenced to more than seven years in prison in April 2025.&nbsp;Elected in 2022 to represent parts of New York City and its suburbs, Santos' brief political career was mired in controversy. As lies about his education, employment, and personal history surfaced, he became a national punchline and was ultimately expelled from Congress by his peers. During his 11 months in office, Santos was marginalized by fellow lawmakers and became a regular subject of ridicule in media and pop culture.

Former US Rep. George Santos was released from prison on Oct 17 after Trump commuted his 87-month sentence. Santos had pleaded guilty to fraud and identity theft tied to his 2022 campaign. In a letter, he asked Trump for a second chance, expressing remorse for his actions.

Former US Representative George Santos was released from prison on Friday(Oct 17), after President Donald Trump commuted his sentence. Santos had been serving an 87-month (over 7 years) federal prison term but has now been granted early release by presidential order. Santos, who began his sentence in July 2025 after being convicted of multiple federal charges, was ordered to be freed immediately. Trump, in a post on Truth Social, defended his decision by stating that Santos had been “horribly mistreated” while behind bars. Calling him 'somewhat of a rogue,’ Trump said that there are many rogues in our country who aren't given seven years in prison. In a truth Social post, Trump wrote, "I just signed a commutation, releasing George Santos from prison IMMEDIATELY.” Earlier this week, Santos published an open letter addressed to Trump, describing it as a “passionate plea.” In the message, he praised Trump and asked for a second chance, stating he had “faced the consequences” and wanted to reunite with his loved ones.“I take full responsibility for my actions,” he wrote. “I just want to return to my family, my friends, and my community.” What were George Santos' crimes? George Santos was convicted of fraud and identity theft tied to his 2022 congressional campaign. He admitted to falsifying donor names and inflating fundraising numbers to qualify for Republican National Committee funding. He also admitted to lying about his personal background, including fake claims about attending New York University, working at Goldman Sachs and Citigroup, and saying his grandparents fled the Nazis—none of which were true. He pleaded guilty to these offenses and was sentenced to more than seven years in prison in April 2025. Elected in 2022 to represent parts of New York City and its suburbs, Santos' brief political career was mired in controversy. As lies about his education, employment, and personal history surfaced, he became a national punchline and was ultimately expelled from Congress by his peers. During his 11 months in office, Santos was marginalized by fellow lawmakers and became a regular subject of ridicule in media and pop culture.

Former US Rep. George Santos was released from prison on Oct 17 after Trump commuted his 87-month sentence. Santos had pleaded guilty to fraud and identity theft tied to his 2022 campaign. In a letter, he asked Trump for a second chance, expressing remorse for his actions.

'Have a great life': Trump tells 'rogue' George Santos as he commutes disgraced ex-congressman's sentence

The Indian High Commission on Saturday (Oct 18) confirmed that three Indian nationals have died, and five others went missing after a launch boat capsized during a crew transfer operation near Beira port in central Mozambique. The incident took place during what officials described as a routine transfer of crew members from shore to a vessel anchored offshore. The launch boat was carrying 14 Indian nationals when it overturned in the waters off Beira under circumstances that have not yet been clarified.&nbsp;In a press note, the Indian High Commission stated, “A launch boat carrying crew members of a tanker, including 14 Indian nationals, capsized during crew transfer operations off Beira port. Some Indian nationals have been rescued. Unfortunately, some have died and others remain unaccounted for.” The Indian Mission took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to express sorrow over the tragedy.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We convey our heartfelt condolences on the loss of lives, including of three Indian nationals, in a boat accident off Beira port,” the High Commission posted. It further noted that it is in touch with the families of the deceased and is offering all possible support. The High Commission also stated that search and rescue operations were being conducted by Mozambican authorities and other relevant agencies.“Boat accident: Search and rescue efforts are underway. Mission is coordinating with local authorities regarding the missing 5 Indians,” the Mission shared in another update.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Boat accident: Search and rescue efforts are underway. Mission is coordinating with local authorities regarding the missing 5 Indians. For any update &amp; information, Mission can be reached at following emergency nos: +258-870087401 (m) +258-821207788 (m) +258-871753920 -WhatsApp <a href="https://t.co/NOou16t9xe">pic.twitter.com/NOou16t9xe</a>&mdash; India in Mozambique (@IndiainMoz) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiainMoz/status/1979281307558400041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Three Indian nationals died and five are missing after a boat capsized during a crew transfer near Beira port, Mozambique. The boat carried 14 Indians. The Indian High Commission confirmed the incident and said search efforts are ongoing with local authorities.

The Indian High Commission on Saturday (Oct 18) confirmed that three Indian nationals have died, and five others went missing after a launch boat capsized during a crew transfer operation near Beira port in central Mozambique. The incident took place during what officials described as a routine transfer of crew members from shore to a vessel anchored offshore. The launch boat was carrying 14 Indian nationals when it overturned in the waters off Beira under circumstances that have not yet been clarified. In a press note, the Indian High Commission stated, “A launch boat carrying crew members of a tanker, including 14 Indian nationals, capsized during crew transfer operations off Beira port. Some Indian nationals have been rescued. Unfortunately, some have died and others remain unaccounted for.” The Indian Mission took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to express sorrow over the tragedy. “We convey our heartfelt condolences on the loss of lives, including of three Indian nationals, in a boat accident off Beira port,” the High Commission posted. It further noted that it is in touch with the families of the deceased and is offering all possible support. The High Commission also stated that search and rescue operations were being conducted by Mozambican authorities and other relevant agencies.“Boat accident: Search and rescue efforts are underway. Mission is coordinating with local authorities regarding the missing 5 Indians,” the Mission shared in another update.

Three Indian nationals died and five are missing after a boat capsized during a crew transfer near Beira port, Mozambique. The boat carried 14 Indians. The Indian High Commission confirmed the incident and said search efforts are ongoing with local authorities.

3 Indians dead, 5 missing in Mozambique boat accident, rescue ops underway

Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has officially withdrawn from the upcoming tri-series involving Pakistan after air strikes in Paktika Province in the wee hours of Saturday (Oct 18). Alleging Pakistan for the deadly air strikes, at least 10 people were killed, including three Afghan cricketers, in the Urgun district. To condemn the act, ACB has decided to withdraw from the tri-series, which was set to start in November.<h2>Afghanistan pulls out of Pakistan tri-series</h2>The ACB in a statement said, “Three players had earlier traveled to Sharana, the capital of Paktika province, to participate in a friendly cricket match. After returning home to Urgun, they were targeted during a gathering. The ACB considers this a great loss for Afghanistan’s sports community, its athletes, and the cricketing family.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-players-with-most-runs-in-women-s-odi-world-cup-history-debbie-hockley-mithali-raj-janette-brittin-charlotte-edwards-suzie-bates-1757606297874">From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history</a>&nbsp;“The ACB also extends its deepest condolences and solidarity to the bereaved families of the martyrs and to the people of Paktika Province.” It added, "In response to this tragic incident and as a gesture of respect to the victims, the Afghanistan Cricket Board has decided to withdraw from participating in the upcoming Tri-Nation T20I Series involving Pakistan, scheduled to be played in late November."&nbsp;The tri-series was scheduled in preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup in India, as Afghanistan, Pakistan and Sri Lanka were involved. However, taking a strong stand, the series is now in limbo as Afghanistan won’t travel to either Lahore or Rawalpindi, two locations where the series was set to take place.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-women-s-odi-world-cup-2025-all-you-need-to-know-about-indian-women-s-team-schedule-squad-fixtures-and-more-1758556378933">Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more</a><h2>Rashid condemns deadly attack</h2>Afghanistan legend Rashid Khan condemned the air strikes in Paktika Province as called it “immoral” and “barbaric” while accusing Pakistan. "I am deeply saddened by the loss of civilian lives in the recent Pakistani aerial strikes on Afghanistan," Rashid wrote. "A tragedy that claimed the lives of women, children, and aspiring young cricketers who dreamed of representing their nation on the world stage."

The tri-series was scheduled in preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup in India, as Afghanistan, Pakistan and Sri Lanka were involved. However, taking a strong stand, the series is now in limbo as Afghanistan won’t travel to either Lahore or Rawalpindi.

Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has officially withdrawn from the upcoming tri-series involving Pakistan after air strikes in Paktika Province in the wee hours of Saturday (Oct 18). Alleging Pakistan for the deadly air strikes, at least 10 people were killed, including three Afghan cricketers, in the Urgun district. To condemn the act, ACB has decided to withdraw from the tri-series, which was set to start in November. Afghanistan pulls out of Pakistan tri-series The ACB in a statement said, “Three players had earlier traveled to Sharana, the capital of Paktika province, to participate in a friendly cricket match. After returning home to Urgun, they were targeted during a gathering. The ACB considers this a great loss for Afghanistan’s sports community, its athletes, and the cricketing family. ALSO READ | From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history “The ACB also extends its deepest condolences and solidarity to the bereaved families of the martyrs and to the people of Paktika Province.” It added, "In response to this tragic incident and as a gesture of respect to the victims, the Afghanistan Cricket Board has decided to withdraw from participating in the upcoming Tri-Nation T20I Series involving Pakistan, scheduled to be played in late November." The tri-series was scheduled in preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup in India, as Afghanistan, Pakistan and Sri Lanka were involved. However, taking a strong stand, the series is now in limbo as Afghanistan won’t travel to either Lahore or Rawalpindi, two locations where the series was set to take place. ALSO READ | Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more Rashid condemns deadly attack Afghanistan legend Rashid Khan condemned the air strikes in Paktika Province as called it “immoral” and “barbaric” while accusing Pakistan. "I am deeply saddened by the loss of civilian lives in the recent Pakistani aerial strikes on Afghanistan," Rashid wrote. "A tragedy that claimed the lives of women, children, and aspiring young cricketers who dreamed of representing their nation on the world stage."

The tri-series was scheduled in preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup in India, as Afghanistan, Pakistan and Sri Lanka were involved. However, taking a strong stand, the series is now in limbo as Afghanistan won’t travel to either Lahore or Rawalpindi.

Afghanistan withdraws from tri-series involving Pakistan as deadly air strikes kill three cricketers

It was a night of chaos in Afghanistan’s Paktika Province as at least 10 people were killed in an alleged air strike by Pakistan on late Friday and early hours of Saturday (Oct 18) morning. The air strikes carried out in Urgun District saw three cricketers fall victim in the attack, after which Afghanistan cricket legend Rashid Khan slammed Pakistan. Rashid called the attack “immoral” and “barbaric” and condemned Pakistan for violation of human rights.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I am deeply saddened by the loss of civilian lives in the recent Pakistani aerial strikes on Afghanistan. A tragedy that claimed the lives of women, children, and aspiring young cricketers who dreamed of representing their nation on the world stage. It is absolutely immoral and…&mdash; Rashid Khan (@rashidkhan_19) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashidkhan_19/status/1979313849418551376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Rashid Khan slams Pakistan</h2>"I am deeply saddened by the loss of civilian lives in the recent Pakistani aerial strikes on Afghanistan," Rashid wrote. "A tragedy that claimed the lives of women, children, and aspiring young cricketers who dreamed of representing their nation on the world stage.""It is absolutely immoral and barbaric to target civilian infrastructure. These unjust and unlawful actions represent a grave violation of human rights and must not go unnoticed," continued Rashid.&nbsp;"In light of the precious innocent souls lost, I welcome the ACB's decision to withdraw from upcoming fixtures against Pakistan. I stand with our people at this difficult time; our national dignity must come before all else," concluded Rashid Khan.&nbsp;The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) also confirmed the death of three cricketers in a detailed statement. The board did not hold back and has since withdrawn from a tri-nation T20I series which involved Pakistan.&nbsp;The ACB in a statement said, “Three players had earlier traveled to Sharana, the capital of Paktika province, to participate in a friendly cricket match. After returning home to Urgun, they were targeted during a gathering. The ACB considers this a great loss for Afghanistan’s sports community, its athletes, and the cricketing family.&nbsp;“The ACB also extends its deepest condolences and solidarity to the bereaved families of the martyrs and to the people of Paktika Province.” It added, "In response to this tragic incident and as a gesture of respect to the victims, the Afghanistan Cricket Board has decided to withdraw from participating in the upcoming Tri-Nation T20I Series involving Pakistan, scheduled to be played in late November."&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-players-with-most-runs-in-women-s-odi-world-cup-history-debbie-hockley-mithali-raj-janette-brittin-charlotte-edwards-suzie-bates-1757606297874">From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history</a><h2>What could be the reason for attack?</h2>Since the Taliban’s takeover of Kabul in 2021, violence in Pakistan has increased, heightening tensions between the two neighbours. The return of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) intensified violence, with hundreds of attacks targeting Pakistani forces. In response to recent assaults, Pakistan closed major border crossings and made clear it will not tolerate Afghan soil being used for attacks.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-women-s-odi-world-cup-2025-all-you-need-to-know-about-indian-women-s-team-schedule-squad-fixtures-and-more-1758556378933">Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more</a>&nbsp;Adding to the complexity is the “India factor.” Pakistan sees India as a rival vying for influence in Afghanistan. Pakistan closely tracked Taliban’s foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi's visit to India. Blaming New Delhi, Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif alleged that Kabul is fighting ‘India’s proxy war' with Islamabad.

The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) confirmed the death of three cricketers in a detailed statement. The board did not hold back and has since withdrawn from a tri-nation T20I series which involved Pakistan.

It was a night of chaos in Afghanistan’s Paktika Province as at least 10 people were killed in an alleged air strike by Pakistan on late Friday and early hours of Saturday (Oct 18) morning. The air strikes carried out in Urgun District saw three cricketers fall victim in the attack, after which Afghanistan cricket legend Rashid Khan slammed Pakistan. Rashid called the attack “immoral” and “barbaric” and condemned Pakistan for violation of human rights.

The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) confirmed the death of three cricketers in a detailed statement. The board did not hold back and has since withdrawn from a tri-nation T20I series which involved Pakistan.

Rashid Khan condemns Pakistan airstrikes that killed 3 Afghan cricketers

Britain's Prince Andrew on Friday (Oct 18) announced that he would give up his title of Duke of York, following "discussion" with King Charles III. This comes amid massive pressure on Prince Andrew over connections to the late US sex offender Jeffrey Epstein as calls for the release of the controversial Epstein Files increases. Andrew is the second son of the late Queen Elizabeth and the younger brother of King Charles. He is also in mid of a controversy related to a spy case after a court ruling last year revealed that one of his close business associates was a Chinese spy.&nbsp;<h2>‘I have decided to put my duty to my family and country first’: Prince Andrew</h2>In a statement, Andrew said that the continued accusations against him had become a distraction from the work of his elder brother, King Charles, and the broader duties of the British royal family. He stated that he had decided to prioritise his duty to his family and country. He reaffirmed his decision made five years earlier to step back from public life. He then said that he would no longer use the title or honours previously conferred upon him as a part of the Royal Family. He also reiterated that he strongly denied the accusations made against him. Reuters quoted a royal source saying that the King was reportedly pleased with the decision.&nbsp;“I have decided, as I always have, to put my duty to my family and country first. I stand by my decision five years ago to stand back from public life. With His Majesty’s agreement, we feel I must now go a step further. I will therefore no longer use the title or the honours which have been conferred upon me. As I have said previously, I vigorously deny the accusations against me,” Andrew said.&nbsp;In 2011 when he stepped down as the UK's special trade representative. He later withdrew from all royal duties in 2019 and was formally stripped of his military titles and royal patronages in 2022 following allegations of sexual misconduct—allegations he has consistently denied. That same year, he reached an out-of-court settlement in a civil lawsuit filed by Virginia Giuffre, one of the main accuser of Epstein. Giuffre who passed away in April this year, had accused Andrew of sexually abusing her when she was a teenager. Although Andrew has always rejected her claims, in her memoir, Giuffre alleged that Andrew acted as though he was entitled to have sex with her, seeing it as a privilege of his royal status, The Guardian reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prince Andrew has renounced his Duke of York title after talks with King Charles III, amid renewed pressure over links to Jeffrey Epstein and a Chinese spy scandal. He denied all accusations and said he’s prioritising duty to family and country, stepping further back from public life.

Britain's Prince Andrew on Friday (Oct 18) announced that he would give up his title of Duke of York, following "discussion" with King Charles III. This comes amid massive pressure on Prince Andrew over connections to the late US sex offender Jeffrey Epstein as calls for the release of the controversial Epstein Files increases. Andrew is the second son of the late Queen Elizabeth and the younger brother of King Charles. He is also in mid of a controversy related to a spy case after a court ruling last year revealed that one of his close business associates was a Chinese spy. ‘I have decided to put my duty to my family and country first’: Prince Andrew In a statement, Andrew said that the continued accusations against him had become a distraction from the work of his elder brother, King Charles, and the broader duties of the British royal family. He stated that he had decided to prioritise his duty to his family and country. He reaffirmed his decision made five years earlier to step back from public life. He then said that he would no longer use the title or honours previously conferred upon him as a part of the Royal Family. He also reiterated that he strongly denied the accusations made against him. Reuters quoted a royal source saying that the King was reportedly pleased with the decision. “I have decided, as I always have, to put my duty to my family and country first. I stand by my decision five years ago to stand back from public life. With His Majesty’s agreement, we feel I must now go a step further. I will therefore no longer use the title or the honours which have been conferred upon me. As I have said previously, I vigorously deny the accusations against me,” Andrew said. In 2011 when he stepped down as the UK's special trade representative. He later withdrew from all royal duties in 2019 and was formally stripped of his military titles and royal patronages in 2022 following allegations of sexual misconduct—allegations he has consistently denied. That same year, he reached an out-of-court settlement in a civil lawsuit filed by Virginia Giuffre, one of the main accuser of Epstein. Giuffre who passed away in April this year, had accused Andrew of sexually abusing her when she was a teenager. Although Andrew has always rejected her claims, in her memoir, Giuffre alleged that Andrew acted as though he was entitled to have sex with her, seeing it as a privilege of his royal status, The Guardian reported.

Prince Andrew has renounced his Duke of York title after talks with King Charles III, amid renewed pressure over links to Jeffrey Epstein and a Chinese spy scandal. He denied all accusations and said he’s prioritising duty to family and country, stepping further back from public life.

‘I have decided to put my country first’: Prince Andrew gives up royal titles after ‘discussion with King’ as Epstein scandal deepens

As Taliban accused Pakistan of breaking the 48-hour truce amid deadly clashes, Taliban officials said that at least 10 people were killed in the attack. Later, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) revealed that three local Afghan cricketers from the Urgun District in Paktika Province died in the Pakistani airstrike. Soon after, he ACB announced its withdrawal from the upcoming Tri-Nation T20I series involving Pakistan. Even as the Taliban vowed to ‘retaliate’ but the two &nbsp;sides agreed to extend their 48-hour ceasefire until the conclusion of talks in Doha. This came also after deadly suicide attack near the Afghan border that killed seven Pakistani soldiers and wounded 13 others.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-minister-baselessly-claims-afghan-taliban-fighting-india-s-proxy-war-1760593863943">'Fighting India's proxy war': Pakistan minister casts doubt on ceasefire with Afghan Taliban, issues anti-India rant</a><h2>What was the ACB statement?</h2>The ACB in a statement said, “The players had earlier traveled to Sharana, the capital of Paktika province, to participate in a friendly cricket match. After returning home to Urgun, they were targeted during a gathering. The ACB considers this a great loss for Afghanistan’s sports community, its athletes, and the cricketing family. The ACB also extends its deepest condolences and solidarity to the bereaved families of the martyrs and to the people of Paktika Province.” It added, "In response of this tragic incident and as a gesture of respect to the victims, the Afghanistan Cricket Board has decided to withdraw from participating in the upcoming Tri-Nation T20I Series involving Pakistan, scheduled to be played in late November."<h2>Why are these neighbours exchanging deadliest fire in years</h2>Pakistan and Afghanistan share a long, complicated history shaped by their rugged 1,600-mile border, known as the Durand Line, which has been a source of frequent clashes. Pakistan supported the Taliban during their insurgency against the Afghan government in the early 2000s, aiming to influence the region’s political landscape. But, historically, Pakistan has blamed the Afghan Taliban government for harbouring the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a militant group blamed for many attacks inside Pakistan. Since the Taliban’s takeover of Kabul in 2021, violence in Pakistan has increased, heightening tensions between the two neighbours. The return of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) intensified violence, with hundreds of attacks targeting Pakistani forces. In response to recent assaults, Pakistan closed major border crossings and made clear it will not tolerate Afghan soil being used for attacks.&nbsp;Read More |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-afghans-have-always-been-loyal-to-india-explosions-rock-kabul-within-48-hours-of-pak-minister-vowing-big-action-what-happened-1760061090838"> 'Afghans have always been loyal to India': Explosions rock Kabul within 48 hours of Pak PM 'vowing big action' - What happened</a>&nbsp;Adding to the complexity is the “India factor.” Pakistan sees India as a rival vying for influence in Afghanistan. Pakistan closely tracked Taliban’s foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi's India visit. Blaming New Delhi, Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif alleged that Kabul is fighting ‘India’s proxy war' with Islamabad. Earlier, he said that Afghans “have always been loyal to India and against Pakistan in the past and present, and they would continue to remain the same in the future as well." Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also described the Afghan people as “enemies” of Pakistan.&nbsp;Read more | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-vs-afghanistan-border-clash-durand-line-an-unfinished-legacy-of-british-colonialism-still-festers-and-causes-rivalry-1760509007759/amp">Pakistan vs Afghanistan border clash: Durand Line, an unfinished legacy of British colonialism, still festers and causes rivalry</a>

Amid deadly border clashes, the Taliban accused Pakistan of violating a 48-hour truce, killing at least 10, including 3 Afghan cricketers in an airstrike. In response, ACB withdrew from a T20I series. Despite tensions, both sides extended the ceasefire during ongoing Doha talks.

As Taliban accused Pakistan of breaking the 48-hour truce amid deadly clashes, Taliban officials said that at least 10 people were killed in the attack. Later, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) revealed that three local Afghan cricketers from the Urgun District in Paktika Province died in the Pakistani airstrike. Soon after, he ACB announced its withdrawal from the upcoming Tri-Nation T20I series involving Pakistan. Even as the Taliban vowed to ‘retaliate’ but the two sides agreed to extend their 48-hour ceasefire until the conclusion of talks in Doha. This came also after deadly suicide attack near the Afghan border that killed seven Pakistani soldiers and wounded 13 others. Read More | 'Fighting India's proxy war': Pakistan minister casts doubt on ceasefire with Afghan Taliban, issues anti-India rant What was the ACB statement? The ACB in a statement said, “The players had earlier traveled to Sharana, the capital of Paktika province, to participate in a friendly cricket match. After returning home to Urgun, they were targeted during a gathering. The ACB considers this a great loss for Afghanistan’s sports community, its athletes, and the cricketing family. The ACB also extends its deepest condolences and solidarity to the bereaved families of the martyrs and to the people of Paktika Province.” It added, "In response of this tragic incident and as a gesture of respect to the victims, the Afghanistan Cricket Board has decided to withdraw from participating in the upcoming Tri-Nation T20I Series involving Pakistan, scheduled to be played in late November." Why are these neighbours exchanging deadliest fire in years Pakistan and Afghanistan share a long, complicated history shaped by their rugged 1,600-mile border, known as the Durand Line, which has been a source of frequent clashes. Pakistan supported the Taliban during their insurgency against the Afghan government in the early 2000s, aiming to influence the region’s political landscape. But, historically, Pakistan has blamed the Afghan Taliban government for harbouring the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a militant group blamed for many attacks inside Pakistan. Since the Taliban’s takeover of Kabul in 2021, violence in Pakistan has increased, heightening tensions between the two neighbours. The return of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) intensified violence, with hundreds of attacks targeting Pakistani forces. In response to recent assaults, Pakistan closed major border crossings and made clear it will not tolerate Afghan soil being used for attacks. Read More | 'Afghans have always been loyal to India': Explosions rock Kabul within 48 hours of Pak PM 'vowing big action' - What happened Adding to the complexity is the “India factor.” Pakistan sees India as a rival vying for influence in Afghanistan. Pakistan closely tracked Taliban’s foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi's India visit. Blaming New Delhi, Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif alleged that Kabul is fighting ‘India’s proxy war' with Islamabad. Earlier, he said that Afghans “have always been loyal to India and against Pakistan in the past and present, and they would continue to remain the same in the future as well." Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also described the Afghan people as “enemies” of Pakistan. Read more | Pakistan vs Afghanistan border clash: Durand Line, an unfinished legacy of British colonialism, still festers and causes rivalry

Amid deadly border clashes, the Taliban accused Pakistan of violating a 48-hour truce, killing at least 10, including 3 Afghan cricketers in an airstrike. In response, ACB withdrew from a T20I series. Despite tensions, both sides extended the ceasefire during ongoing Doha talks.

Taliban extends ceasefire despite Pakistan's truce violation; 3 Afghan cricketers killed in airstrike

Violent clashes broke out in Bangladesh after several hundred people, who claimed to be those whose protests toppled the Sheikh Hasina government last year, started demonstrating on Friday against the signing of the July Charter. The protesters were venting their anger saying that their concerns had not been addressed in the new charter, despite their loved ones dying during the mass uprising. The interim government, headed by Yunus, had invited the country’s main political parties to sign a new political charter to pave the way for political reforms. The area around Bangladesh’s Parliament turned into a scene of violent confrontation on Friday as the “July Fighters” clashed with police and security forces while attempting to stage a protest against the signing of the July National Charter.&nbsp;The protesters, including those who were injured in the July uprising of 2024 and families of the slain, gathered near the Parliament premises on Manik Mia Avenue, Dhaka for a sit-in.They said that the “July National Charter”, named after the national uprising that started last July, doesn’t address their concerns.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bangladesh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bangladesh</a> | Violent Clashes Erupt Near Bangladesh Parliament Ahead of July Charter Signing: The area surrounding Bangladesh’s Parliament turned into a scene of violent confrontation on Friday (17 October) as “July Fighters” clashed with police and security forces while… <a href="https://t.co/j83HkJLRCC">pic.twitter.com/j83HkJLRCC</a>&mdash; DD News (@DDNewslive) <a href="https://twitter.com/DDNewslive/status/1979139448538374573?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-want-a-ceasefire-ready-for-talks-in-any-format-security-guarantees-important-zelensky-tells-trump-1760724678941">‘We want a ceasefire, ready for talks in any format, but need security guarantees’: Zelensky</a>&nbsp;After clashes broke out, police fired tear gas and used grenades and batons to disperse the protesters expressing dissatisfaction with the interim government’s new political charter.The powerful political parties signed the charter on Friday aimed at ensuring democratic reform after next year’s elections, but celebrations by the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus were dampened by the clashes and the refusal of one party to sign the charter.&nbsp;Some protesters vandalised a police vehicle and makeshift tents, while others clashed with soldiers and security officials in the capital Dhaka. Witnesses said several people were injured. Police fired teargas, and used stun grenades and batons to disperse protesters outside Bangladesh’s national Parliament complex on Friday, as tensions soared over the interim government's new political charter.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/belgian-court-orders-fugitive-diamantaire-mehul-choksi-s-extradition-upholds-india-s-request-1760715778984">Belgian court orders fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi’s extradition to India</a>&nbsp;A National Consensus Commission set up by the interim government prepared the charter after a series of talks with the major political parties.Protests against Hasina’s rule began on July 1, 2024, with university students calling for changes to a quota system for public sector jobs. The protests culminated on August 5, 2024, when thousands of protesters stormed Hasina’s palace as she escaped by helicopter.Yunus has promised to hold the next national election in February, before the Muslim-majority nation of 170 million people celebrates the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The area around Bangladesh’s Parliament turned into a scene of violent confrontation on Friday as the “July Fighters” clashed with police and security forces while attempting to stage a protest against the signing of the July National Charter.

Violent clashes broke out in Bangladesh after several hundred people, who claimed to be those whose protests toppled the Sheikh Hasina government last year, started demonstrating on Friday against the signing of the July Charter. The protesters were venting their anger saying that their concerns had not been addressed in the new charter, despite their loved ones dying during the mass uprising. The interim government, headed by Yunus, had invited the country’s main political parties to sign a new political charter to pave the way for political reforms. The area around Bangladesh’s Parliament turned into a scene of violent confrontation on Friday as the “July Fighters” clashed with police and security forces while attempting to stage a protest against the signing of the July National Charter. The protesters, including those who were injured in the July uprising of 2024 and families of the slain, gathered near the Parliament premises on Manik Mia Avenue, Dhaka for a sit-in. They said that the “July National Charter”, named after the national uprising that started last July, doesn’t address their concerns.

The area around Bangladesh’s Parliament turned into a scene of violent confrontation on Friday as the “July Fighters” clashed with police and security forces while attempting to stage a protest against the signing of the July National Charter.

Clashes erupt in Bangladesh amid protests against signing of ‘July National Charter’

US President Donald Trump reiterated on Friday that India would no longer buy oil from Russia. Speaking at the White House during his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Trump said India had already scaled back its purchases from Moscow. “India will not be buying oil from Russia,” Trump said. “They’ve already deescalated.” “India is not going to be buying Russian oil anymore,” Trump said at the White House press briefing. He acknowledged that the process “can’t be done immediately” but assured reporters, “the process is going to be over with soon.”Trump has been repeatedly saying that he could end Russia’s war in Ukraine with a mix of diplomacy and tariffs, if NATO countries stop buying Russian energy.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-want-a-ceasefire-ready-for-talks-in-any-format-security-guarantees-important-zelensky-tells-trump-1760724678941">‘We want a ceasefire, ready for talks in any format, but need security guarantees’: Zelensky</a>&nbsp;However, he struck a sympathetic note when questioned about Hungary, a NATO member heavily reliant on Russian crude. “Hungary is sort of stuck because they have one pipeline that’s been there for years and years and years,” he said. “They’re inland—they don’t have sea. It’s very hard for them to get oil. I understand it.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;India is not going to be buying Russian oil anymore, and Hungary is sort of stuck because they have one pipeline... and they&#39;re inland — they don&#39;t have sea... but India will not be buying oil from Russia.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/KXpUBejIvU">pic.twitter.com/KXpUBejIvU</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1979243740951712183?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Trump repeated his claim even after India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson had denied his earlier remark and clarified that there was “no conversation” between PM Narendra Modi and the US President on the matter on the specified day.The MEA spokesperson instead reiterated that India’s “consistent priority” is to “safeguard the interests of the Indian consumer in a volatile energy scenario” and that its import policies are guided by the twin goals of “stable energy prices and secured supplies”, thereby upholding the continued energy trade with Russia, which offers substantial discounts.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/belgian-court-orders-fugitive-diamantaire-mehul-choksi-s-extradition-upholds-india-s-request-1760715778984">Belgian court orders fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi’s extradition to India</a>&nbsp;Currently, Russia is the primary crude oil supplier to India and accounts for nearly one-third of its total oil imports.However, some reports suggest that the Russian crude imports by Indian refiners has witnessed some volatility on monthly basis due to price economics and discounts. Trump has been pushing India to stop energy trade with Moscow amid ongoing US-India trade negotiations.

Trump repeated his claim even after India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson had denied his earlier remark and clarified that there was “no conversation” between PM Narendra Modi and the US President on the matter on the specified day.

US President Donald Trump reiterated on Friday that India would no longer buy oil from Russia. Speaking at the White House during his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Trump said India had already scaled back its purchases from Moscow. “India will not be buying oil from Russia,” Trump said. “They’ve already deescalated.” “India is not going to be buying Russian oil anymore,” Trump said at the White House press briefing. He acknowledged that the process “can’t be done immediately” but assured reporters, “the process is going to be over with soon.” Trump has been repeatedly saying that he could end Russia’s war in Ukraine with a mix of diplomacy and tariffs, if NATO countries stop buying Russian energy. Also Read: ‘We want a ceasefire, ready for talks in any format, but need security guarantees’: Zelensky However, he struck a sympathetic note when questioned about Hungary, a NATO member heavily reliant on Russian crude. “Hungary is sort of stuck because they have one pipeline that’s been there for years and years and years,” he said. “They’re inland—they don’t have sea. It’s very hard for them to get oil. I understand it.”

Trump repeated his claim even after India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson had denied his earlier remark and clarified that there was “no conversation” between PM Narendra Modi and the US President on the matter on the specified day.

Donald Trump reiterates his claim, says India will stop buying Russian oil

Russian President Vladimir Putin's upcoming potential meet with the US counterpart Donald Trump in two weeks in Budapest, Hungary, has a unique problem. Hungary is a European Union (EU) country, which means, like the US, it has banned Russian aircraft in its airspace. Recently, the US had granted Russia special permission to fly Putin to Alaska in his modified Ilyushin Il-96 plane, dubbed the 'Flying Kremlin', but as of now, there's been no official confirmation of the same by the Kremlin.&nbsp;<h2>Why Russian planes can't fly over Hungary, EU?</h2>&nbsp;Days after Russia's military advancement on neighbouring Ukraine in February 2022, the US and the EU imposed a blanket ban on Russian planes in their airspace. The Russian president is not known to travel abroad too much either. With Hungary being landlocked, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, as reported by the news outlet BBC, says in the issue of how will Putin travel to the EU country for potential meet up with Trump: "For now, of course, it's not clear. What we do have is the willingness of the presidents to hold such a meeting."&nbsp;Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, however, is the closest to Putin ally in all 27 EU member nations. Orban's foreign minister has told reporters that "we will of course ensure that he can enter Hungary, hold successful talks here, and then return home".&nbsp;<h2>What would be Putin's air route to Hungary?</h2>&nbsp;If Putin decided to travel to Hungary, his special plane would not only need permission from Hungary but also other EU members as well, Looking at the geography, Putin will definitely not enter airspace over Ukraine or Poland - both Hungary's neighbours - given the current situation. Putin is most likely to fly over Black Sea and Turkey then Bulgaria before choosing to fly over from Serbia or Romania to enter Hungary. While there's no permission needed from Serbia, which is not a EU country, Bulgaria and Romania would need to give consent to Putin's plane along with Budapest.

How will Russian President Vladimir Putin get to Budapest to meet his US counterpart, Donald Trump? What route will the ‘Flying Kremlin’, the Russian president’s aircraft, take? Here's all you need to know…

Russian President Vladimir Putin's upcoming potential meet with the US counterpart Donald Trump in two weeks in Budapest, Hungary, has a unique problem. Hungary is a European Union (EU) country, which means, like the US, it has banned Russian aircraft in its airspace. Recently, the US had granted Russia special permission to fly Putin to Alaska in his modified Ilyushin Il-96 plane, dubbed the 'Flying Kremlin', but as of now, there's been no official confirmation of the same by the Kremlin. Why Russian planes can't fly over Hungary, EU? Days after Russia's military advancement on neighbouring Ukraine in February 2022, the US and the EU imposed a blanket ban on Russian planes in their airspace. The Russian president is not known to travel abroad too much either. With Hungary being landlocked, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, as reported by the news outlet BBC, says in the issue of how will Putin travel to the EU country for potential meet up with Trump: "For now, of course, it's not clear. What we do have is the willingness of the presidents to hold such a meeting." Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, however, is the closest to Putin ally in all 27 EU member nations. Orban's foreign minister has told reporters that "we will of course ensure that he can enter Hungary, hold successful talks here, and then return home". What would be Putin's air route to Hungary? If Putin decided to travel to Hungary, his special plane would not only need permission from Hungary but also other EU members as well, Looking at the geography, Putin will definitely not enter airspace over Ukraine or Poland - both Hungary's neighbours - given the current situation. Putin is most likely to fly over Black Sea and Turkey then Bulgaria before choosing to fly over from Serbia or Romania to enter Hungary. While there's no permission needed from Serbia, which is not a EU country, Bulgaria and Romania would need to give consent to Putin's plane along with Budapest.

How will Russian President Vladimir Putin get to Budapest to meet his US counterpart, Donald Trump? What route will the ‘Flying Kremlin’, the Russian president’s aircraft, take? Here's all you need to know…

Putin's potential meet with Trump has an 'air-block'. How will 'Flying Kremlin' get to Budapest?

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met Donald Trump at the White House on Friday and congratulated the US president on securing the Gaza peace deal and said it could serve as the “momentum” to end the war in Ukraine. Invited by Trump to speak at the opening of a working lunch at the White House between the two leaders, Zelensky said, “Congratulations with your successful ceasefire in the Middle East. I think this is momentum to finish Russia’s war against Ukraine.” “We are ready to speak in any format, bilateral or trilateral. Security guarantees between me and President Trump are very important. The USA is very strong,” said Zelensky.Asked if he would consider giving up his request to join NATO for ending the war, Zelensky said Nato membership is a very important issue for Ukrainians, and it's up to them and Ukraine’s allies to decide where the country stands.“The most important thing for people in Ukraine who are under attack is to have security guarantees,” he said, adding that he wants bilateral security guarantees from Trump.&nbsp;He added that he believes Russian President Vladimir Putin is “not ready” for peace and added, “I’m confident, with your help, we can stop this war.”&nbsp;“We need to sit and speak. We need a ceasefire. We want a ceasefire; Putin doesn’t want it.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;I have an obligation also though to make sure that we&#39;re completely stocked up as a country... We&#39;re going to be talking about Tomahawks, and we&#39;d much rather have them not need Tomahawks. We&#39;d much rather have the war be over.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/g8uuIep36P">pic.twitter.com/g8uuIep36P</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1979245234312654883?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;<h2>‘Will discuss new capabilities that enable Ukraine to strike deeper into Russia’</h2>&nbsp;Trump said he and Zelensky plan to discuss new capabilities that would allow Ukraine to strike deeper into Russia.“We’re going to be talking about that,” Trump said when asked whether the new abilities would be under discussion. “That’s something we’ll be talking about. You’re right. It’s an escalation, but we’ll be talking about that.”Trump praised Zelensky, saying he had “endured a lot” over the course of the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;It&#39;s an honor to be with a very strong leader, a man who has been through a lot, and a man who I&#39;ve gotten to know very well... President <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZelenskyyUa</a> of Ukraine has endured a lot... I think we&#39;re making great progress.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/lee1MVyMR0">pic.twitter.com/lee1MVyMR0</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1979241287371866452?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;“It’s an honour to be with a very strong leader, a man who has been through a lot, and a man who I’ve gotten to know very well... President Zelensky of Ukraine has endured a lot... I think we’re making great progress.”“We’ve endured it with him, to be honest,” Trump said. “It’s been a long time, and I think we’re making great progress. So we’re going to be talking about that today.”“We had a big call yesterday, as you know, with President Putin, and we’ll be talking about it,” he went on.&nbsp;“Russia has a lot of losses, both with their economy and people. Hungary is a safe country, I like Viktor Orban, he has done a good job. I think Orban will be a very good host,” Trump said about his proposed talks with Putin.&nbsp;WATCH: Kyiv pushes for US-made Tomahawk missiles in key talks<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kyiv-pushes-for-us-made-tomahawk-missiles-in-key-talks-1760727196226/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/kyiv-pushes-for-us-made-tomahawk-missiles-in-key-talks-1760727196226/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Trump said he and Zelensky plan to discuss new capabilities that would allow Ukraine to strike deeper into Russia. “We’re going to be talking about that,” the US president said, adding that it will be an escalation, but "we’ll be talking about that.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met Donald Trump at the White House on Friday and congratulated the US president on securing the Gaza peace deal and said it could serve as the “momentum” to end the war in Ukraine. Invited by Trump to speak at the opening of a working lunch at the White House between the two leaders, Zelensky said, “Congratulations with your successful ceasefire in the Middle East. I think this is momentum to finish Russia’s war against Ukraine.” “We are ready to speak in any format, bilateral or trilateral. Security guarantees between me and President Trump are very important. The USA is very strong,” said Zelensky. Asked if he would consider giving up his request to join NATO for ending the war, Zelensky said Nato membership is a very important issue for Ukrainians, and it's up to them and Ukraine’s allies to decide where the country stands. “The most important thing for people in Ukraine who are under attack is to have security guarantees,” he said, adding that he wants bilateral security guarantees from Trump. He added that he believes Russian President Vladimir Putin is “not ready” for peace and added, “I’m confident, with your help, we can stop this war.” “We need to sit and speak. We need a ceasefire. We want a ceasefire; Putin doesn’t want it.”

Trump said he and Zelensky plan to discuss new capabilities that would allow Ukraine to strike deeper into Russia. “We’re going to be talking about that,” the US president said, adding that it will be an escalation, but "we’ll be talking about that.”

‘We want a ceasefire, ready for talks in any format, but need security guarantees’: Zelensky

On Friday (Oct 17), Pakistan conducted airstrikes in the border areas of Afghanistan. This is in violation of the 48-hour ceasefire that the two neighbouring countries had agreed upon amid escalating tensions. A senior Taliban official told news agency AFP that Kabul would “retaliate”. He said, "Pakistan has broken the ceasefire and bombed three locations in Paktika province. Afghanistan will retaliate.” The two neighbours, who once where allies, had been engaged in fierce cross-border fighting for days now with a temporary truce bringing some respite before the latest violation.<h2>Why are Pakistan and Afghanistan fighting?</h2>The latest conflict between the two countries erupted after Islamabad accused of safeguarding 'terrorist' who have increased their attack on Pakistan, especially near border area. Militant violence has been on the rise in Pakistan for which it blames Afghan Taliban which returned to the power in 2021 after Trump announced withdrawal of US-led forces from the country. Afghanistan, however, denies the claim of safeguarding the terrorists. Nonetheless, dozens have been wounded or killed in the latest conflict.<h2>Countries step in to stop conflict</h2>Neighbouring countries of Saudi Arabia and Qatar have stepped up to stop the ongoing fighting between the two Asian neighbours. United States President Donald Trup has also offered to mediate to resolve the conflict. Before the temporary truce was reached, there had been a dramatic escalation of attacks from both sides days after explosions rocked the Afghan capital Kabul, just as the Taliban's foreign minister began an unprecedented visit to India with whom Pakistan was involved in a conflict earlier this year.In response to Pakistan's attacks, Taliban launched own offensive on the Southern border of the country which, in turn, prompted Pakistan to further increase the intensity and frequency of attack on Kabul.

 A senior Taliban official told news agency AFP, "Pakistan has broken the ceasefire and bombed three locations in Paktika province. Afghanistan will retaliate.”

On Friday (Oct 17), Pakistan conducted airstrikes in the border areas of Afghanistan. This is in violation of the 48-hour ceasefire that the two neighbouring countries had agreed upon amid escalating tensions. A senior Taliban official told news agency AFP that Kabul would “retaliate”. He said, "Pakistan has broken the ceasefire and bombed three locations in Paktika province. Afghanistan will retaliate.” The two neighbours, who once where allies, had been engaged in fierce cross-border fighting for days now with a temporary truce bringing some respite before the latest violation. Why are Pakistan and Afghanistan fighting? The latest conflict between the two countries erupted after Islamabad accused of safeguarding 'terrorist' who have increased their attack on Pakistan, especially near border area. Militant violence has been on the rise in Pakistan for which it blames Afghan Taliban which returned to the power in 2021 after Trump announced withdrawal of US-led forces from the country. Afghanistan, however, denies the claim of safeguarding the terrorists. Nonetheless, dozens have been wounded or killed in the latest conflict. Countries step in to stop conflict Neighbouring countries of Saudi Arabia and Qatar have stepped up to stop the ongoing fighting between the two Asian neighbours. United States President Donald Trup has also offered to mediate to resolve the conflict. Before the temporary truce was reached, there had been a dramatic escalation of attacks from both sides days after explosions rocked the Afghan capital Kabul, just as the Taliban's foreign minister began an unprecedented visit to India with whom Pakistan was involved in a conflict earlier this year. In response to Pakistan's attacks, Taliban launched own offensive on the Southern border of the country which, in turn, prompted Pakistan to further increase the intensity and frequency of attack on Kabul.

&nbsp;A senior Taliban official told news agency AFP, "Pakistan has broken the ceasefire and bombed three locations in Paktika province. Afghanistan will retaliate.”

Pakistan strikes Afghanistan in ceasefire violation, Taliban vows to 'retaliate'

On Friday (Oct 17), US President Trump said that the 100 per cent proposed tariff on Chinese goods entering the American market was not a permanent decision. He said that it was a measure he had to resort to to pressure Beijing ahead of his meeting with his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping. “A 100% tariff is not sustainable; they (China) forced me to do that,” Trump told Fox Business Network in an interview. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;It was on October 10 that Trump announced a 100 per cent tariff on China and said it would be effective from November 1. And now, the 79-year-old said it was only to pressure China. In his social media post, Trump wrote, “Given China’s unprecedented stance, the United States will impose a 100 per cent tariff on China, in addition to any tariffs currently in place.”&nbsp;In his previous post, Trump also said that he may not meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping amid the Asian country tightening its rules on rare earth elements' export. After Trump's post, the financial markets saw huge drop with S&amp;P 500 going down roughly 1.2 per cent in late morning trade. The US president also accused China of 'becoming very hostile' ahead of their scheduled meet in two weeks' time in South Korea.&nbsp;<h2>Markets down after Trump's post</h2>&nbsp;As soon as Trump posted these matters on social media, the financial markets were down in the late morning trade in New York as a result. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 560 points, or 1.2 per cent and the S&amp;P 500 lost 1.7 per cent. The setback on the market came as US government shutdown entered its 10th day on October 10 - adding to already bearish sentiment of the market.

Trump says 100% on China was not a permanent move. It was a measure he had to take to pressure Beijing ahead of his meeting with his Chinese President Xi Jinping

Trump says 100% on China was not a permanent move. It was a measure he had to take to pressure Beijing ahead of his meeting with his Chinese President Xi Jinping

'100% tariff is not sustainable': Trump says in a yo-yo move towards China ahead of meeting with Xi Jinping

John Bolton, who served as a national security adviser under US former President Donald Trump during his first term, surrendered himself to authorities on Friday (October 17) following a federal grand jury indictment accusing him of improperly handling classified documents. John Bolton was charged on Thursday (October 16) with allegedly sharing over 1,000 pages of classified government documents with two family members. The material, which Bolton may have planned to use for a book, reportedly included sensitive notes about high-level discussions with top officials, conversations with foreign leaders, and intelligence briefings. These charges come months after the FBI conducted raids at Bolton’s Maryland home and Washington office in the summer, where they reportedly discovered numerous documents marked as "secret," "confidential," and "classified," including some related to weapons of mass destruction.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-indian-pm-would-be-leader-of-free-world-in-40-50-years-former-pm-tony-abbott-1760704085767">‘Indian PM would be leader of Free World in 40-50 years’: Former PM Tony Abbott</a><h2>Who is John Bolton?</h2>John Bolton, known for his outspoken views on US foreign policy, has spent decades in the public eye, especially through his roles in government, media, and as an author. A former federal prosecutor during President Ronald Reagan's second term, Bolton also worked at the State Department under George HW Bush in the early '90s before becoming a prominent supporter of the Iraq War in 2003.&nbsp;During Barack Obama’s presidency, Bolton became a vocal critic of the administration’s foreign policy, primarily through his work with conservative think tanks and frequent appearances on Fox News. His views earned him a place in Donald Trump's inner circle when he was appointed National Security Adviser in 2018. However, Bolton’s tenure was short-lived; by 2019, he was dismissed after disagreements over key issues like North Korea and Iran.&nbsp;After leaving the Trump administration, Bolton returned to his role as a political commentator, sharply criticising Trump’s foreign policy and even penning a book about his experience in the White House. He continued to publicly challenge Trump’s approach during the president's second term, particularly targeting what he described as a “disjointed” strategy on Ukraine, which he mocked in a column for the conservative Washington Examiner shortly after his office and home were searched by the FBI.

Trump's ex-NSA John Bolton surrenders after indictment over mishandling classified information

John Bolton, who served as a national security adviser under US former President Donald Trump during his first term, surrendered himself to authorities on Friday (October 17) following a federal grand jury indictment accusing him of improperly handling classified documents. John Bolton was charged on Thursday (October 16) with allegedly sharing over 1,000 pages of classified government documents with two family members. The material, which Bolton may have planned to use for a book, reportedly included sensitive notes about high-level discussions with top officials, conversations with foreign leaders, and intelligence briefings. These charges come months after the FBI conducted raids at Bolton’s Maryland home and Washington office in the summer, where they reportedly discovered numerous documents marked as "secret," "confidential," and "classified," including some related to weapons of mass destruction. Also Read: ‘Indian PM would be leader of Free World in 40-50 years’: Former PM Tony Abbott Who is John Bolton? John Bolton, known for his outspoken views on US foreign policy, has spent decades in the public eye, especially through his roles in government, media, and as an author. A former federal prosecutor during President Ronald Reagan's second term, Bolton also worked at the State Department under George HW Bush in the early '90s before becoming a prominent supporter of the Iraq War in 2003. During Barack Obama’s presidency, Bolton became a vocal critic of the administration’s foreign policy, primarily through his work with conservative think tanks and frequent appearances on Fox News. His views earned him a place in Donald Trump's inner circle when he was appointed National Security Adviser in 2018. However, Bolton’s tenure was short-lived; by 2019, he was dismissed after disagreements over key issues like North Korea and Iran. After leaving the Trump administration, Bolton returned to his role as a political commentator, sharply criticising Trump’s foreign policy and even penning a book about his experience in the White House. He continued to publicly challenge Trump’s approach during the president's second term, particularly targeting what he described as a “disjointed” strategy on Ukraine, which he mocked in a column for the conservative Washington Examiner shortly after his office and home were searched by the FBI.

John Bolton, who served as national security adviser under US President Donald Trump in his first term, surrendered to authorities on Friday (October 17) following a federal grand jury indictment accusing him of improperly handling classified documents

Trump's ex-NSA John Bolton surrenders, pleads not guilty to charges of mishandling classified information

Amid escalating tension between neighbouring Pakistan and Afghanistan, the two nations agreed on a 48-hour ceasefire, which is ending on Friday (Oct 17). And now the government of Punjab in Pakistan has introduced a ‘whistle-blower system’, as per reports published in the news outlet Dawn. This new system is in place to deport the immigrants and particularly Afghan nationals, living in Punjab province. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz chaired a meeting on Thursday, in which the decision was sealed.&nbsp;The CM’s office issued a statement:&nbsp;“A whistle-blower system will be introduced for illegal immigrants. The name of the informant will be kept completely confidential.”

Pakistan's Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz's office issued a statement: “A whistle-blower system will be introduced for illegal immigrants. The name of the informant will be kept completely confidential.”

Amid escalating tension between neighbouring Pakistan and Afghanistan, the two nations agreed on a 48-hour ceasefire, which is ending on Friday (Oct 17). And now the government of Punjab in Pakistan has introduced a ‘whistle-blower system’, as per reports published in the news outlet Dawn. This new system is in place to deport the immigrants and particularly Afghan nationals, living in Punjab province. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz chaired a meeting on Thursday, in which the decision was sealed. The CM’s office issued a statement: “A whistle-blower system will be introduced for illegal immigrants. The name of the informant will be kept completely confidential.”

Pakistan's Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz's office issued a statement:&nbsp;“A whistle-blower system will be introduced for illegal immigrants. The name of the informant will be kept completely confidential.”

'Whistle-blower system': Pakistan set to identify and deport Afghans amid conflict

Former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott said on Friday that the 21st century belongs to India, and the prime minister of the country—whoever that might be four or five decades down the line—could take the mantle of “the leader of the free world” from the president of the United States. In a forthright tone, Abbott presented an analytical overview of India’s ties with the US, China, and Pakistan at the NDTV World Summit 2025 and said only Delhi can check Beijing’s ambitions to “dominate the world”. &nbsp;“They want to be hegemonic power... and this spells trouble for all of China’s neighbours, as well as the world.” India has three big advantages—democracy, the rule of law, and the English language—as it gears up for the economic and military ‘take-off’ accomplished by China a few decades ago, he said.“As PM, I used to say India will emerge as a democratic superpower. Well, now that has happened. The PM of India is likely to be the leader of a free world in the next 40-50 years...”&nbsp;Abbott also called on Delhi to play its role as one of the new superpowers and as a “democratic counterweight” to China in the Asia-Pacific region and a “strong, reliable partner” for Australia. Trade deals, like the one India signed with Australia in 2022 and with the United Kingdom last month, are signs that the democratic world is shifting from China, he opined.&nbsp;“India is a counterweight to China. It is now the most populous country. You go to any Indian city... there is massive infrastructure push—new airports, etc. India is rising and can be a substitute to China.”“The 21st century belongs to India just as it belongs to China,” he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘At heart, Pakistan is a military society with a strong Islamist streak’</h2>&nbsp;Abbott also shared his views on the growing ties between Washington and Islamabad and bluntly said that America’s fundamental interests lie more in a strong friendship with India than with Pakistan.He took a jab at Trump’s growing ties with the Shehbaz Sharif government in Pakistan and said, “America’s fundamental interests lie in a strong friendship with India compared to Pakistan. India’s fundamental interests lie in a strong partnership with fellow democracies much less than with dictatorships.”&nbsp;One of the big mistakes that America made during the Cold War was “consistently tilting towards Pakistan, a military dictatorship, as opposed to India, a liberal democracy,” Abbott added, and pointed out that for the last 20 years, the Americans “very sensibly have been trying to rectify that.”&nbsp;“Pakistan cooperated so closely with the US on terrorism that they gave (Osama) Bin Laden a home for the best part of a decade. There are good people in Pakistan, but it is still at heart a military society with a strong Islamist streak. India is totally different. I’m not saying the US should not work with Pakistan where it can. But it needs to know where its better friends are.”&nbsp;WATCH: US: Trump critic Bolton indicted for mishandling classified information<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-trump-critic-bolton-indicted-for-mishandling-classified-information-1760703786012/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-trump-critic-bolton-indicted-for-mishandling-classified-information-1760703786012/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘Weakness is provocative,’&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Referring to the threat posed to Taiwan by China, Abbot warned all democratic nations not to take Beijing’s aggressive posturing lightly.“The best way to ensure nothing untoward happens is not to pretend that China has peaceful intentions... it is to be prepared (and) to let China know, every day, that it cannot get away with these incursions... weakness is provocative,” the former PM said.&nbsp;<h2>‘Incursion wouldn’t have happened if Ukraine had been in NATO’</h2>&nbsp;Abbott also asserted that the war in Ukraine would not have happened had the country been a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation, and been protected by the military might of the US and Europe.“The Ukrainians have been absolutely heroic. I wish democracies in the world had done more for them... If Ukraine was part of NATO, there would have been no Russian incursion,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘Trump misplayed his hand on tariffs with India’</h2>&nbsp;President Donald Trump misplayed his tariff hand with India, said Abbott even as he admitted being Trump supporter. “I think he misplayed his hand with India when he imposed those punitive tariffs... particularly given there are other countries that are cheating here, especially China (which buys more than India), that didn’t get the same treatment.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Abbott took a jab at Trump’s growing ties with the Shehbaz Sharif government in Pakistan and said one of the big mistakes that America made during the Cold War was consistently tilting towards Pakistan, a military dictatorship, as opposed to India, a liberal democracy.

Former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott said on Friday that the 21st century belongs to India, and the prime minister of the country—whoever that might be four or five decades down the line—could take the mantle of “the leader of the free world” from the president of the United States. In a forthright tone, Abbott presented an analytical overview of India’s ties with the US, China, and Pakistan at the NDTV World Summit 2025 and said only Delhi can check Beijing’s ambitions to “dominate the world”. “They want to be hegemonic power... and this spells trouble for all of China’s neighbours, as well as the world.” India has three big advantages—democracy, the rule of law, and the English language—as it gears up for the economic and military ‘take-off’ accomplished by China a few decades ago, he said. “As PM, I used to say India will emerge as a democratic superpower. Well, now that has happened. The PM of India is likely to be the leader of a free world in the next 40-50 years...” Abbott also called on Delhi to play its role as one of the new superpowers and as a “democratic counterweight” to China in the Asia-Pacific region and a “strong, reliable partner” for Australia. Trade deals, like the one India signed with Australia in 2022 and with the United Kingdom last month, are signs that the democratic world is shifting from China, he opined. “India is a counterweight to China. It is now the most populous country. You go to any Indian city... there is massive infrastructure push—new airports, etc. India is rising and can be a substitute to China.” “The 21st century belongs to India just as it belongs to China,” he added. ‘At heart, Pakistan is a military society with a strong Islamist streak’ Abbott also shared his views on the growing ties between Washington and Islamabad and bluntly said that America’s fundamental interests lie more in a strong friendship with India than with Pakistan. He took a jab at Trump’s growing ties with the Shehbaz Sharif government in Pakistan and said, “America’s fundamental interests lie in a strong friendship with India compared to Pakistan. India’s fundamental interests lie in a strong partnership with fellow democracies much less than with dictatorships.” One of the big mistakes that America made during the Cold War was “consistently tilting towards Pakistan, a military dictatorship, as opposed to India, a liberal democracy,” Abbott added, and pointed out that for the last 20 years, the Americans “very sensibly have been trying to rectify that.” “Pakistan cooperated so closely with the US on terrorism that they gave (Osama) Bin Laden a home for the best part of a decade. There are good people in Pakistan, but it is still at heart a military society with a strong Islamist streak. India is totally different. I’m not saying the US should not work with Pakistan where it can. But it needs to know where its better friends are.” WATCH: US: Trump critic Bolton indicted for mishandling classified information https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-trump-critic-bolton-indicted-for-mishandling-classified-information-1760703786012/embed ‘Weakness is provocative,’ Referring to the threat posed to Taiwan by China, Abbot warned all democratic nations not to take Beijing’s aggressive posturing lightly. “The best way to ensure nothing untoward happens is not to pretend that China has peaceful intentions... it is to be prepared (and) to let China know, every day, that it cannot get away with these incursions... weakness is provocative,” the former PM said. ‘Incursion wouldn’t have happened if Ukraine had been in NATO’ Abbott also asserted that the war in Ukraine would not have happened had the country been a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation, and been protected by the military might of the US and Europe. “The Ukrainians have been absolutely heroic. I wish democracies in the world had done more for them... If Ukraine was part of NATO, there would have been no Russian incursion,” he said. ‘Trump misplayed his hand on tariffs with India’ President Donald Trump misplayed his tariff hand with India, said Abbott even as he admitted being Trump supporter. “I think he misplayed his hand with India when he imposed those punitive tariffs... particularly given there are other countries that are cheating here, especially China (which buys more than India), that didn’t get the same treatment.”

Abbott took a jab at Trump’s growing ties with the Shehbaz Sharif government in Pakistan and said one of the big mistakes that America made during the Cold War was consistently tilting towards Pakistan, a military dictatorship, as opposed to India, a liberal democracy.

‘Indian PM would be leader of Free World in 40-50 years’: Former PM Tony Abbott

Mandatory military service, also known as conscription, remains a reality in many countries. Here are the top 10 countries where military service remains compulsory for their citizen

Top 10 countries where every citizen must serve in the military

In a new revelation in the UK spy case, it is reported that Prince Andrew met a senior ­Chinese Communist Party official related to the case at least three times. The Duke of York spoke with Cai Qi between 2018 and 2019, when &nbsp;Christopher Cash, 30, and teacher Christopher Berry, 33, were allegedly recruited as spies.&nbsp;According to The Telegraph, Cai, a close ally of President Xi Jinping and the mastermind behind the Westminster espionage plot the recipient of information allegedly sent by Berry, who was one of the accused in the case.&nbsp;In May 2018 a Chinese delegation led by Cai visited UK and met British officials including the Duke of York, Jeremy Corbyn, who was Labour leader at the time. They also met Nicola Sturgeon, then Scotland’s first minister.&nbsp;Following the visit, Andrew travelled to China the next month and met Cai and President Xi. While interacting with other senior CCP members Andrew spoke of boosting Britain’s technological co-operation with China, reported the local media.&nbsp;In April 2019, Andrew and the Chinese President met for the third time and agreed to jointly build a “golden era” in China-UK relations”, reported The Telegraph, citing the China's government website.&nbsp;After their interaction, Cai praised ­Andrew’s work, and spoke about how his Pitch@Palace venture “had supported nearly 2,000 entrepreneurial projects around the world, with its influence growing”.&nbsp;Meanwhile the UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is under immense pressure over the collapse of the trial after it came to light that the government's deputy national security adviser had alerted about espionage in the UK.&nbsp;The revelation was made by the witnesses in their statements, which was released by the government on Wednesday (Oct 15).&nbsp;Cash and Berry were charged last year with passing politically sensitive information to a Chinese agent. However, both denied the allegations and the case collapsed last month.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

While interacting with other senior CCP members and Xi Jinping, Prince Andrew spoke of boosting Britain’s technological co-operation with China.

In a new revelation in the UK spy case, it is reported that Prince Andrew met a senior Chinese Communist Party official related to the case at least three times. The Duke of York spoke with Cai Qi between 2018 and 2019, when Christopher Cash, 30, and teacher Christopher Berry, 33, were allegedly recruited as spies. According to The Telegraph, Cai, a close ally of President Xi Jinping and the mastermind behind the Westminster espionage plot the recipient of information allegedly sent by Berry, who was one of the accused in the case. In May 2018 a Chinese delegation led by Cai visited UK and met British officials including the Duke of York, Jeremy Corbyn, who was Labour leader at the time. They also met Nicola Sturgeon, then Scotland’s first minister. Following the visit, Andrew travelled to China the next month and met Cai and President Xi. While interacting with other senior CCP members Andrew spoke of boosting Britain’s technological co-operation with China, reported the local media. In April 2019, Andrew and the Chinese President met for the third time and agreed to jointly build a “golden era” in China-UK relations”, reported The Telegraph, citing the China's government website. After their interaction, Cai praised Andrew’s work, and spoke about how his Pitch@Palace venture “had supported nearly 2,000 entrepreneurial projects around the world, with its influence growing”. Meanwhile the UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is under immense pressure over the collapse of the trial after it came to light that the government's deputy national security adviser had alerted about espionage in the UK. The revelation was made by the witnesses in their statements, which was released by the government on Wednesday (Oct 15). Cash and Berry were charged last year with passing politically sensitive information to a Chinese agent. However, both denied the allegations and the case collapsed last month.

While interacting with other senior CCP members and Xi Jinping, Prince Andrew spoke of boosting Britain’s technological co-operation with China.

China spying case: Prince Andrew, senior ­Chinese Communist Party official reportedly met at least three times

On Friday (Oct 17), China’s Ministry of National Defence has seen top officials coming under the scanner. In the latest, the country’s second rank military general’s name has been added to the investigation. As reported by news outlet South China Morning Post, the ministry confirmed that He Weidong,&nbsp;vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), who is also a member of the 24-man Politburo, was expelled from&nbsp;the army and Communist Party (CP). Weidong is the first serving member of the Politburo and the CP to face these charges and be investigated.<h2>Ministry releases statement on Weidong's expulsion</h2>A total on nine officers, all senior personnel, have been investigated and punished, informed ministry spokesman Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang in what is a rare voluntary public release.“Upon investigation, it has been determined that these nine individuals seriously violated party discipline and allegedly committed grave duty-related crimes. The amounts involved are particularly huge, the nature of the offences extremely severe, and the impact is exceptionally negative,” Zhang told media on Friday (Oct 17).<h2>Who all officers are involved in matter</h2>As informed by Zhang, a total of nine senior military officers were investigated and punished in the matter. While He was definitely the top name among all the personnel involved, below are the other officers who were punished as well<ul><li>Miao Hua, former member of the CMC in charge of the military’s political, ideology and personnel work</li><li>He Hongjun, Miao’s deputy and former executive</li><li>Wang Xiubin, former executive deputy director of the CMC Joint Operations Command Centre</li><li>Lin Xiangyang, former commander of the Eastern Theatre Command</li><li>Qin Shutong, former political commissar of the army&nbsp;</li><li>Yuan Huazhi, former political commissar of the navy</li><li>Wang Houbin, former commander of the Rocket Force</li><li>Wang Chunning, former commander of the People’s Armed Police Force</li></ul>&nbsp;More to follow…

Weidong is the first serving member of the Politburo and the CP to face these charges and be investigated.

On Friday (Oct 17), China’s Ministry of National Defence has seen top officials coming under the scanner. In the latest, the country’s second rank military general’s name has been added to the investigation. As reported by news outlet South China Morning Post, the ministry confirmed that He Weidong, vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), who is also a member of the 24-man Politburo, was expelled from the army and Communist Party (CP). Weidong is the first serving member of the Politburo and the CP to face these charges and be investigated. Ministry releases statement on Weidong's expulsion A total on nine officers, all senior personnel, have been investigated and punished, informed ministry spokesman Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang in what is a rare voluntary public release. “Upon investigation, it has been determined that these nine individuals seriously violated party discipline and allegedly committed grave duty-related crimes. The amounts involved are particularly huge, the nature of the offences extremely severe, and the impact is exceptionally negative,” Zhang told media on Friday (Oct 17). Who all officers are involved in matter As informed by Zhang, a total of nine senior military officers were investigated and punished in the matter. While He was definitely the top name among all the personnel involved, below are the other officers who were punished as well Miao Hua, former member of the CMC in charge of the military’s political, ideology and personnel work He Hongjun, Miao’s deputy and former executive Wang Xiubin, former executive deputy director of the CMC Joint Operations Command Centre Lin Xiangyang, former commander of the Eastern Theatre Command Qin Shutong, former political commissar of the army Yuan Huazhi, former political commissar of the navy Wang Houbin, former commander of the Rocket Force Wang Chunning, former commander of the People’s Armed Police Force More to follow…

Weidong is the first serving member of the Politburo and the CP to face these charges and be investigated.

China's top military officials face corruption charges, expelled from office

The UK government on October 16 (Thursday) announced a package of 90 new sanctions aimed at cutting off revenue streams from Russia's oil, which is being used to fund the war in Ukraine. Among the sanctioned entities, there is Nayara Energy, which is operating the Vadinar Refinery in Gujarat, India. India, on Thursday, rejected the sanctions and called out the double standards on energy trade. The UK is specifically targeting the Russian oil companies like Rosneft and Lukoil.&nbsp;"We do not subscribe to any unilateral sanctions. The Government of India considers the provision of energy security a responsibility of paramount importance to meet the basic needs of its citizens," said Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs.<h2>How is Nayara Energy linked to British Petroleum?</h2>There is a dormant connection between Mumbai-based Nayara Energy and the UK oil giant British Petroleum. Which in hindsight might imply that the UK have managed to do something that no one has done before. Rosneft, the Russian government-backed oil company, owns approximately 49.13 per cent stakes in Nayara Energy. So, sanctioning Nayara is indirectly hurting the revenue of Rosneft. However, contrary to the popular notion, British Petroleum still has around 19.75 per cent stake in Rosneft. It tried to exit the Russian government-backed oil company Rosneft in February 2022, in retaliation for the Russian invasion of Ukraine. However, it failed to sell off the stakes, and it remains frozen. The Russian government still holds the shares due to international sanctions and Russian law, which made divestment impossible.On October 27, 2022, Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin at the Eurasian Economic Forum said, &nbsp;"Despite all the rhetoric, BP remains, I would say, a 'shadow' shareholder; does not participate in the operations of the company's management bodies; and retains all its rights and corresponding dividends package. Taking this opportunity, I would like to convey to our friends from BP that the dividends to which they are entitled for the second half of 2021, totalling $700 million, have been transferred to the accounts opened for them."&nbsp;<h2>So did the UK sanction itself?</h2>Legally and economically, no, it didn't; symbolically and politically, yes; that's the irony in international relations. The UK sanctioned Nayara Energy, where Rosneft owns a share, which is, in turn, part-owned by British Petroleum on paper. BP can not touch its shares, and the UK just sanctioned Nayara Energy. But Reddit had been buzzing about ‘UK sanctioning itself’. Which is partly true because if the Russia-Ukraine war ends, depending on the deal between the Western nations and Russia, BP could pocket a huge profit for its share or continue its partnership with Rosneft.&nbsp;

The UK just sanctioned Nayra Energy, which is part-owned by the Russian state-backed oil company Rosneft, and is part-owned by the UK-based British Petroleum. 

The UK government on October 16 (Thursday) announced a package of 90 new sanctions aimed at cutting off revenue streams from Russia's oil, which is being used to fund the war in Ukraine. Among the sanctioned entities, there is Nayara Energy, which is operating the Vadinar Refinery in Gujarat, India. India, on Thursday, rejected the sanctions and called out the double standards on energy trade. The UK is specifically targeting the Russian oil companies like Rosneft and Lukoil. "We do not subscribe to any unilateral sanctions. The Government of India considers the provision of energy security a responsibility of paramount importance to meet the basic needs of its citizens," said Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs. How is Nayara Energy linked to British Petroleum? There is a dormant connection between Mumbai-based Nayara Energy and the UK oil giant British Petroleum. Which in hindsight might imply that the UK have managed to do something that no one has done before. Rosneft, the Russian government-backed oil company, owns approximately 49.13 per cent stakes in Nayara Energy. So, sanctioning Nayara is indirectly hurting the revenue of Rosneft. However, contrary to the popular notion, British Petroleum still has around 19.75 per cent stake in Rosneft. It tried to exit the Russian government-backed oil company Rosneft in February 2022, in retaliation for the Russian invasion of Ukraine. However, it failed to sell off the stakes, and it remains frozen. The Russian government still holds the shares due to international sanctions and Russian law, which made divestment impossible. On October 27, 2022, Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin at the Eurasian Economic Forum said, "Despite all the rhetoric, BP remains, I would say, a 'shadow' shareholder; does not participate in the operations of the company's management bodies; and retains all its rights and corresponding dividends package. Taking this opportunity, I would like to convey to our friends from BP that the dividends to which they are entitled for the second half of 2021, totalling $700 million, have been transferred to the accounts opened for them." So did the UK sanction itself? Legally and economically, no, it didn't; symbolically and politically, yes; that's the irony in international relations. The UK sanctioned Nayara Energy, where Rosneft owns a share, which is, in turn, part-owned by British Petroleum on paper. BP can not touch its shares, and the UK just sanctioned Nayara Energy. But Reddit had been buzzing about ‘UK sanctioning itself’. Which is partly true because if the Russia-Ukraine war ends, depending on the deal between the Western nations and Russia, BP could pocket a huge profit for its share or continue its partnership with Rosneft.

The UK just sanctioned Nayra Energy, which is part-owned by the Russian state-backed oil company Rosneft, and Rosneft is part-owned by the UK-based British Petroleum.&nbsp;

Did the UK just sanction itself? BP’s hidden link to Nayara Energy

Pakistani security officials on Friday (Oct 17) said that at least seven Pakistani soldiers were killed in a suicide attack near the Afghan border. At least 13 Pakistani soldiers were injured during an assault on a military camp in North Waziristan, according to five security officials. Police said that a suicide car bomber linked to the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) rammed into the outer wall of a fortified army base. Two additional attackers attempted to breach the compound but were shot and killed by security forces. The Pakistani military has not yet issued an official statement on the statement. This comes amid a fragile ceasefire between Islamabad and Kabul after deadly clashes between the two countries. The ground fighting and airstrikes between the two South Asian neighbours killed dozens and wounded hundreds, before they reached a ceasefire.&nbsp;Read more | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-minister-baselessly-claims-afghan-taliban-fighting-india-s-proxy-war-1760593863943">'Fighting India's proxy war': Pakistan minister casts doubt on ceasefire with Afghan Taliban, issues anti-India rant</a>&nbsp;Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated on Thursday that Pakistan had "responded" militarily after exhausting its patience with repeated incursions and attacks, but emphasized that the country remains open to negotiations to ease tensions.In turn, the Taliban government has denied any involvement and accused Pakistan of spreading disinformation to provoke hostilities, as well as allegedly harboring ISIS-affiliated fighters to destabilise Afghanistan. Islamabad has rejected these accusations.<h2>Pakistan-Afghanistan border clashes</h2>Pakistan and Afghanistan have implemented a ceasefire following the deadliest border clashes in years. Though Afghanistan's Taliban government’s chief spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid said that the truce was at the “insistence” of the Pakistani side and his social media post did not mention a 48-hour timeframe, both sides agreed to go forward with the ceasefire, with Islamabad also confirming its duration. The Taliban government also said that Afghan forces had been instructed to respect the ceasefire "as long as no one commits aggression".&nbsp;Read more | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-vs-afghanistan-border-clash-durand-line-an-unfinished-legacy-of-british-colonialism-still-festers-and-causes-rivalry-1760509007759/amp">Pakistan vs Afghanistan border clash: Durand Line, an unfinished legacy of British colonialism, still festers and causes rivalry</a>&nbsp;Both sides blame each other for starting the offensive. Situation worsened when two explosions rocked Kabul last week. Though Islamabad did not take responsibility of the bombings, it came right after Pakistani leaders publically vowed ‘big action’ on those sheltering Pakistani Taliban (TTP) fighters. The Taliban then initiated offensives along the southern Pakistani border, prompting Islamabad to threaten decisive retaliation. As tensions renewed on Wednesday, Pakistan's military said its forces had killed "15-20 Afghan Taliban" in Spin Boldak border district while Taliban administration said several Pakistani soldiers were killed. Another set of explosions occurred in Kabul and Kandahar. A ceasefire was reached after these explosions.&nbsp;

At least seven Pakistani soldiers were killed and 13 injured in a suicide attack near the Afghan border amid renewed Pakistan-Afghanistan tensions. Despite a fragile ceasefire, deadly border clashes persist. Both nations trade blame as Islamabad urges action against TTP sanctuaries.


Pakistani security officials on Friday (Oct 17) said that at least seven Pakistani soldiers were killed in a suicide attack near the Afghan border. At least 13 Pakistani soldiers were injured during an assault on a military camp in North Waziristan, according to five security officials. Police said that a suicide car bomber linked to the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) rammed into the outer wall of a fortified army base. Two additional attackers attempted to breach the compound but were shot and killed by security forces. The Pakistani military has not yet issued an official statement on the statement. This comes amid a fragile ceasefire between Islamabad and Kabul after deadly clashes between the two countries. The ground fighting and airstrikes between the two South Asian neighbours killed dozens and wounded hundreds, before they reached a ceasefire. Read more | 'Fighting India's proxy war': Pakistan minister casts doubt on ceasefire with Afghan Taliban, issues anti-India rant Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated on Thursday that Pakistan had "responded" militarily after exhausting its patience with repeated incursions and attacks, but emphasized that the country remains open to negotiations to ease tensions. In turn, the Taliban government has denied any involvement and accused Pakistan of spreading disinformation to provoke hostilities, as well as allegedly harboring ISIS-affiliated fighters to destabilise Afghanistan. Islamabad has rejected these accusations. Pakistan-Afghanistan border clashes Pakistan and Afghanistan have implemented a ceasefire following the deadliest border clashes in years. Though Afghanistan's Taliban government’s chief spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid said that the truce was at the “insistence” of the Pakistani side and his social media post did not mention a 48-hour timeframe, both sides agreed to go forward with the ceasefire, with Islamabad also confirming its duration. The Taliban government also said that Afghan forces had been instructed to respect the ceasefire "as long as no one commits aggression". Read more | Pakistan vs Afghanistan border clash: Durand Line, an unfinished legacy of British colonialism, still festers and causes rivalry Both sides blame each other for starting the offensive. Situation worsened when two explosions rocked Kabul last week. Though Islamabad did not take responsibility of the bombings, it came right after Pakistani leaders publically vowed ‘big action’ on those sheltering Pakistani Taliban (TTP) fighters. The Taliban then initiated offensives along the southern Pakistani border, prompting Islamabad to threaten decisive retaliation. As tensions renewed on Wednesday, Pakistan's military said its forces had killed "15-20 Afghan Taliban" in Spin Boldak border district while Taliban administration said several Pakistani soldiers were killed. Another set of explosions occurred in Kabul and Kandahar. A ceasefire was reached after these explosions.

At least seven Pakistani soldiers were killed and 13 injured in a suicide attack near the Afghan border amid renewed Pakistan-Afghanistan tensions. Despite a fragile ceasefire, deadly border clashes persist. Both nations trade blame as Islamabad urges action against TTP sanctuaries.

7 Pakistani soldiers killed in suicide attack near Afghan border amid fragile ceasefire; Police blames TTP

US President Donald Trump, this week, revealed a bold new vision for Washington’s landscape: a massive commemorative arch inspired by the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Dubbed the “Arc de Trump,” the monument is intended to mark America’s 250th anniversary in 2026 and serve as a symbolic gateway into the nation's capital. The monument is modeled after the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and is expected to be erected at Memorial Circle, located just across the Arlington Memorial Bridge from the Lincoln Memorial.&nbsp;Read more | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-ex-nsa-john-bolton-indicted-over-sharing-us-defence-secrets-was-his-email-hacked-by-iran-1760668587048">Trump's ex-NSA John Bolton indicted over sharing US defence secrets: Was his email hacked by Iran?</a>&nbsp;Speaking at a White House donor dinner on Wednesday, Trump showcased 3D models of the proposed structure, which he described as a tribute to the country’s “strength, unity, and founding spirit.” According to the BBC, Trump told attendees, “It’s going to be really beautiful. I think it’s going to be fantastic.” He presented three design options—small, medium, and large—openly stating a preference for the largest version, while holding up a model and joking, “There’s a rendering of what it will look like. You have three sizes. I happen to think the large one.” Trump explained that the site has long seemed like it was missing something monumental. “Every time somebody rides over that beautiful bridge to the Lincoln Memorial, they literally say something is supposed to be here,” he said, as quoted by the BBC.&nbsp;Read more | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-s-oil-remark-ignites-delhi-political-clash-opposition-criticizes-pm-modi-for-succumbing-1760674088391">Trump’s Oil Remark Ignites Delhi Political Clash; Opposition Criticizes PM Modi for ‘Succumbing’</a>&nbsp;While Trump did not specify the monument’s total cost, he hinted that funds remaining from another private project—a $250 million ballroom expansion for the White House—might be redirected to the arch. “It’s fully taken care of now,” Trump reportedly told guests, according to the Associated Press.&nbsp;Read more | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-calling-pm-modi-a-great-man-trump-mix-up-of-india-and-pakistan-goes-viral-1760621058019">After calling PM Modi a 'great man', Trump mix up of India and Pakistan goes viral</a>

Donald Trump has proposed a monumental “Arc de Trump” in Washington DC, inspired by Paris’s Arc de Triomphe. Planned for Memorial Circle, the arch would mark America’s 250th anniversary in 2026. Trump showcased 3D models and said it would symbolize the nation’s strength and unity.

US President Donald Trump, this week, revealed a bold new vision for Washington’s landscape: a massive commemorative arch inspired by the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Dubbed the “Arc de Trump,” the monument is intended to mark America’s 250th anniversary in 2026 and serve as a symbolic gateway into the nation's capital. The monument is modeled after the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and is expected to be erected at Memorial Circle, located just across the Arlington Memorial Bridge from the Lincoln Memorial. Read more | Trump's ex-NSA John Bolton indicted over sharing US defence secrets: Was his email hacked by Iran? Speaking at a White House donor dinner on Wednesday, Trump showcased 3D models of the proposed structure, which he described as a tribute to the country’s “strength, unity, and founding spirit.” According to the BBC, Trump told attendees, “It’s going to be really beautiful. I think it’s going to be fantastic.” He presented three design options—small, medium, and large—openly stating a preference for the largest version, while holding up a model and joking, “There’s a rendering of what it will look like. You have three sizes. I happen to think the large one.” Trump explained that the site has long seemed like it was missing something monumental. “Every time somebody rides over that beautiful bridge to the Lincoln Memorial, they literally say something is supposed to be here,” he said, as quoted by the BBC. Read more | Trump’s Oil Remark Ignites Delhi Political Clash; Opposition Criticizes PM Modi for ‘Succumbing’ While Trump did not specify the monument’s total cost, he hinted that funds remaining from another private project—a $250 million ballroom expansion for the White House—might be redirected to the arch. “It’s fully taken care of now,” Trump reportedly told guests, according to the Associated Press. Read more | After calling PM Modi a 'great man', Trump mix up of India and Pakistan goes viral

Donald Trump has proposed a monumental “Arc de Trump” in Washington DC, inspired by Paris’s Arc de Triomphe. Planned for Memorial Circle, the arch would mark America’s 250th anniversary in 2026. Trump showcased 3D models and said it would symbolize the nation’s strength and unity.

Trump's latest plan is 'Arc de Trump' monument in Washington DC - What is it?

Petrol prices depend on a lot of factors like taxes and duties, import and transportation costs, currency and exchange rates, policies and regulations, market competition and geographic constraints. Here are the top 10 countries with the costliest petrol.

World's costliest petrol: Top 10 countries with the highest petrol prices in 2025

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Oct 16) announced to sell common fertility drugs at reduced prices on TrumpRx, a direct-to-consumer drug platform that is expected to be launched in January 2026 by the White House. This will lead to in vitro fertilization (IVF) drugs made by EMD Serono, the US arm of German company Merck KGaA to be slashed by more than 70%.&nbsp;While making the announcement, Trump shared several updates in his speech but there was one moment that caught the imagination of internet users and the clip has now gone viral. The video from the speech shared online shows Trump struggling to pronounce the name of the fertility drug, Pergoveris.&nbsp;As Trump struggled to pronounce Pergoveris, a medication already sold in Europe the US President smiled, and joked, “Why can’t you name them nice, simple names? Doesn’t matter. If it works, that’s all we care about.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">LOL Trump: Why Can&#39;t Prescription Drugs Have Easier Names? &quot;Pergoveris. Pergo-veris... Why can&#39;t you name them nice simple names? Doesn&#39;t matter. If it works that&#39;s all we care about.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/9vBcPzVX7w">pic.twitter.com/9vBcPzVX7w</a>&mdash; Mr Producer (@RichSementa) <a href="https://twitter.com/RichSementa/status/1978916367051985271?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

As soon as the video found its way on to the internet it went viral across platforms like X, Instagram, and TikTok.&nbsp;An internet user on watching the video on X wrote,, “Do they ever prepare him?”.While a second agreed and said, “Yeah, he should’ve been briefed. He definitely struggled with that. His ego probably told him he didn’t need to be briefed.”&nbsp;The announcement to sell in vitro fertilization (IVF) drugs comes after Trump promised, in February to expand access to IVF and reduce its cost.&nbsp;Pfizer and AstraZeneca have also signed agreements in recent weeks to offer drugs on TrumpRx as part of multipart deals earning reprieves from higher tariffs on imported products," reported CNN.&nbsp;

The announcement to sell in vitro fertilization (IVF) drugs comes after Trump promised, in February to expand access to IVF and reduce its cost.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Oct 16) announced to sell common fertility drugs at reduced prices on TrumpRx, a direct-to-consumer drug platform that is expected to be launched in January 2026 by the White House. This will lead to in vitro fertilization (IVF) drugs made by EMD Serono, the US arm of German company Merck KGaA to be slashed by more than 70%. While making the announcement, Trump shared several updates in his speech but there was one moment that caught the imagination of internet users and the clip has now gone viral. The video from the speech shared online shows Trump struggling to pronounce the name of the fertility drug, Pergoveris. As Trump struggled to pronounce Pergoveris, a medication already sold in Europe the US President smiled, and joked, “Why can’t you name them nice, simple names? Doesn’t matter. If it works, that’s all we care about.”

The announcement to sell in vitro fertilization (IVF) drugs comes after Trump promised, in February to expand access to IVF and reduce its cost.

WATCH: Trump struggles with pronunciation of IVF drug in viral video, netizens wonder 'if he was even briefed'

Four airports — three in Canada and one in the United States — were reportedly hacked on Tuesday (Oct 16) and displayed pro-Hamas, anti-Israel and anti-Trump messages. Sparking safety concerns, the hackers disrupted flight information display screen and criticised US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. They also called for ‘Free Palestine.' The hackers claimed responsibility for the cyber attack through the &nbsp;phrase ‘Turkish hacker Cyber Islam was here.' It is unclear if Hamas is directly responsible for the attack. All affected airports serve domestic routes.&nbsp;Read more | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/could-fighter-jets-be-influenced-by-ai-algorithms-built-by-enemy-hackers-1760263867096">Could fighter jets be influenced by AI algorithms built by enemy hackers?</a>&nbsp;The airports under the attack were Kelowna International Airport and Victoria International Airport in British Columbia, Windsor International Airport in Ontario, and Harrisburg International Airport in Pennsylvania. Footage and audio clips of the incidents circulated on social media shows hacked screens with messages such as “Israel lost the war, Hamas won the war honorably.” At Harrisburg International Airport, a female voice was heard over the loudspeaker saying “Free Palestine,” using profanities directed at Trump and Netanyahu. This latest event adds to a series of cyberattacks targeting airports globally. Just the previous month, multiple European airports, including London Heathrow, faced similar disruptions caused by cyber intrusions.&nbsp;Read more | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/jaguar-land-rover-suffers-cyberattack-who-is-behind-this-attack-1758807898343">Jaguar Land Rover suffers cyberattack: Who is behind this attack?</a><h2>Investigations underway</h2>&nbsp;The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), supported by the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, is actively investigating the cyber breaches at the Canadian airports. In the US, the Federal Aviation Administration and officials from Harrisburg International Airport are conducting their own inquiries. A spokesperson for Victoria International Airport told Reuters that attackers breached third-party cloud software managing airport systems at four smaller regional airports. Victoria and Windsor airports also said they quickly switched to internal systems, restoring normal operations within hours.&nbsp;&nbsp;Read more | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cyber-attack-key-european-airports-face-major-disruptions-following-cyberattack-1758432016335">Cyber-Attack: Key European Airports Face Major Disruptions Following Cyberattack</a>

Four regional airports—three in Canada and one in the U.S.—were hacked on Oct 16, displaying pro-Hamas and anti-Trump/Israel messages. Screens and announcements called for "Free Palestine." Authorities in both countries are investigating. The breach hit third-party cloud software systems.

Four airports — three in Canada and one in the United States — were reportedly hacked on Tuesday (Oct 16) and displayed pro-Hamas, anti-Israel and anti-Trump messages. Sparking safety concerns, the hackers disrupted flight information display screen and criticised US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. They also called for ‘Free Palestine.' The hackers claimed responsibility for the cyber attack through the phrase ‘Turkish hacker Cyber Islam was here.' It is unclear if Hamas is directly responsible for the attack. All affected airports serve domestic routes. Read more | Could fighter jets be influenced by AI algorithms built by enemy hackers? The airports under the attack were Kelowna International Airport and Victoria International Airport in British Columbia, Windsor International Airport in Ontario, and Harrisburg International Airport in Pennsylvania. Footage and audio clips of the incidents circulated on social media shows hacked screens with messages such as “Israel lost the war, Hamas won the war honorably.” At Harrisburg International Airport, a female voice was heard over the loudspeaker saying “Free Palestine,” using profanities directed at Trump and Netanyahu. This latest event adds to a series of cyberattacks targeting airports globally. Just the previous month, multiple European airports, including London Heathrow, faced similar disruptions caused by cyber intrusions. Read more | Jaguar Land Rover suffers cyberattack: Who is behind this attack? Investigations underway The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), supported by the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, is actively investigating the cyber breaches at the Canadian airports. In the US, the Federal Aviation Administration and officials from Harrisburg International Airport are conducting their own inquiries. A spokesperson for Victoria International Airport told Reuters that attackers breached third-party cloud software managing airport systems at four smaller regional airports. Victoria and Windsor airports also said they quickly switched to internal systems, restoring normal operations within hours. Read more | Cyber-Attack: Key European Airports Face Major Disruptions Following Cyberattack

Four regional airports—three in Canada and one in the U.S.—were hacked on Oct 16, displaying pro-Hamas and anti-Trump/Israel messages. Screens and announcements called for "Free Palestine." Authorities in both countries are investigating. The breach hit third-party cloud software systems.

‘F*** Trump, Free Palestine’: Canada, US airports hacked to show anti-Israel messages - Is Hamas responsible?

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