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An earthquake of magnitude 6.7 jolted Indonesia's Papua province on Thursday, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed. The USGS also said that the quake was at a depth of 70 km (43.5 miles). There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage following the quake.&nbsp;According to USGS, the epicenter of the earthquake was approximately 200 km from the city of Abepura, where the population is over 62,000. Meanwhile, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center confirmed no tsunami warning following the quake.&nbsp;&nbsp;The earthquake came days after a tsunami threat engulfed the Philippines and Indonesia following a 7.4 magnitude earthquake in the Mindanao region. Merely weeks ago, Papua in Indonesia itself was rattled by a 6.1 magnitude earthquake.&nbsp;(Note: This is a developing story, more details are awaited)

The epicenter of the earthquake was approximately 200 km from the city of Abepura, where the population is over 62,000. Meanwhile, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center confirmed no tsunami warning following the quake.

An earthquake of magnitude 6.7 jolted Indonesia's Papua province on Thursday, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed. The USGS also said that the quake was at a depth of 70 km (43.5 miles). There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage following the quake. According to USGS, the epicenter of the earthquake was approximately 200 km from the city of Abepura, where the population is over 62,000. Meanwhile, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center confirmed no tsunami warning following the quake. The earthquake came days after a tsunami threat engulfed the Philippines and Indonesia following a 7.4 magnitude earthquake in the Mindanao region. Merely weeks ago, Papua in Indonesia itself was rattled by a 6.1 magnitude earthquake. (Note: This is a developing story, more details are awaited)

The epicenter of the earthquake was approximately 200 km from the city of Abepura, where the population is over 62,000. Meanwhile, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center confirmed no tsunami warning following the quake.

Strong 6.7-magnitude earthquake strikes Indonesia’s Papua Province. Is there a tsunami warning?

US president Donald Trump issued his response on the execution reportedly carried out by Hamas in Gaza amid the ongoing exchange of hostages and prisoners according to US-brokered deal. Trump first said that he is not bothered by the executions as these are ‘gangs’ that Hamas is targeting. When asked how he knows about the gangs, he quickly changed his stance and said that he is doing his research on the issue.&nbsp;&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-our-tax-dollars-have-funded-a-genocide-zohran-mamdani-reacts-to-gaza-ceasefire-condemns-israel-and-us-admin-s-actions-1760512975423">'Our tax dollars have funded a genocide': Zohran Mamdani reacts to Gaza ceasefire</a>&nbsp;A shocking footage of Hamas fighters executing at least eight Palestinians, accused of collaborating with Israel surfaced on social media. The disturbing visuals of raised questions about peace in Gaza even after Israel's war. The video, which WION cannot independently verify, shows at least eight bound men kneeling before gunfire erupts as onlookers and label them “collaborators.” Report suggest that Sahm security force, run by Hamas, shared the footage.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-execute-7-palestinians-accused-of-collaborating-with-israel-in-broad-daylight-1760515977718">Hamas executes Palestinians accused of collaborating with Israel in broad daylight</a><h2>What was US President's response?</h2>US President Trump said he was unbothered by the videos.“They did take out a couple of gangs that were very bad… and they killed a number of gang members,” Trump told reporters. “That didn’t bother me much, to be honest with you. That’s okay. It’s a couple of very bad gangs. It’s no different than other countries like Venezuela [that have] sent their gangs [into the US],” he added. Asked if those being killed are civilians, Trump said, “I’m doing research on it… We’ll find out about it. It could be gangs plus.” He also added that Hamas has been open about the fact that they are “going in and clearing out the gangs, violent gangs.”&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-knock-the-crap-out-of-them-trump-hints-at-possibility-of-israel-resuming-gaza-war-if-hamas-1760582673476">'Knock the crap out of them...': Trump hints at the possibility of Israel resuming Gaza war if Hamas...</a>&nbsp;

Trump responded to reports of Hamas executing alleged collaborators in Gaza, calling them "very bad gangs" and saying he’s “not bothered.” When questioned about civilian deaths, he backtracked, saying he’s “doing research.” The footage has raised concerns over Gaza's post-war stability.

US president Donald Trump issued his response on the execution reportedly carried out by Hamas in Gaza amid the ongoing exchange of hostages and prisoners according to US-brokered deal. Trump first said that he is not bothered by the executions as these are ‘gangs’ that Hamas is targeting. When asked how he knows about the gangs, he quickly changed his stance and said that he is doing his research on the issue. Read More | 'Our tax dollars have funded a genocide': Zohran Mamdani reacts to Gaza ceasefire A shocking footage of Hamas fighters executing at least eight Palestinians, accused of collaborating with Israel surfaced on social media. The disturbing visuals of raised questions about peace in Gaza even after Israel's war. The video, which WION cannot independently verify, shows at least eight bound men kneeling before gunfire erupts as onlookers and label them “collaborators.” Report suggest that Sahm security force, run by Hamas, shared the footage. Read More | Hamas executes Palestinians accused of collaborating with Israel in broad daylight What was US President's response? US President Trump said he was unbothered by the videos.“They did take out a couple of gangs that were very bad… and they killed a number of gang members,” Trump told reporters. “That didn’t bother me much, to be honest with you. That’s okay. It’s a couple of very bad gangs. It’s no different than other countries like Venezuela [that have] sent their gangs [into the US],” he added. Asked if those being killed are civilians, Trump said, “I’m doing research on it… We’ll find out about it. It could be gangs plus.” He also added that Hamas has been open about the fact that they are “going in and clearing out the gangs, violent gangs.” Read More | 'Knock the crap out of them...': Trump hints at the possibility of Israel resuming Gaza war if Hamas...

Trump responded to reports of Hamas executing alleged collaborators in Gaza, calling them "very bad gangs" and saying he’s “not bothered.” When questioned about civilian deaths, he backtracked, saying he’s “doing research.” The footage has raised concerns over Gaza's post-war stability.

Trump issues first response on execution by Hamas, says 'it didn’t bother me much but...'

The Ministry of Defence on Wednesday signed a Rs 659.47 crore deal to procure Night Sights (image intensifiers) for the 7.62x51 mm SIG 716 assault rifle and associated accessories for the Indian Army, the ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;The procurement has been categorised as a Buy (Indian-IDDM) case, featuring over 51 per cent indigenous content, a key milestone in advancing the government's vision of Aatmanirbharata (self-reliance) in defence manufacturing.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Ministry of Defence signed a contract agreement worth Rs 659.47 crore for the procurement of Night Sight (Image Intensifier) for 7.62 x 51mm Assault Rifle, along with accessories for the Indian Army on October 15, 2025. The Night Sight will enable soldiers to fully exploit… <a href="https://t.co/POJtCRpWaF">pic.twitter.com/POJtCRpWaF</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1978447247214784663?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>What is the SIG 716 assault rifle?</h3>The SIG 716 assault rifle is a battle rifle manufactured by the American-Swiss company SIG Sauer. It is technically a battle rifle due to its more powerful 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge, which is often labelled an 'assault rifle'. The Night Sight will also enable soldiers to completely exploit the longer effective range of the SIG 716 Assault Rifle.&nbsp;In a press release, the ministry said that the procured Night Sights will enable accurate engagement of targeting a range up to 500 metres, even under starlit conditions. Its feature also shows an improved version of the currently positioned Passive Night Sights (PNS).&nbsp;Unlike many assault rifles that use intermediate cartridges, the SIG 716 is chambered in the larger and more powerful 7.62x51mm NATO round. This provides greater stopping power and accuracy at longer ranges.&nbsp;The SIG 716 utilises a short-stroke gas piston system, which keeps the firing action cleaner and cooler than traditional gas-impingement designs. This enhances the rifle's reliability, particularly in harsh environmental conditions.&nbsp;The ministry said that the initiative will strengthen the domestic defence manufacturing ecosystem and generate opportunities for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) engaged in component production and raw material supply.&nbsp;The Rs 659.47 crore contract was signed on October 15, 2025, with a consortium led by M/s MKU Ltd (Lead Member) and M/s Medbit Technologies Pvt Ltd. It will enable soldiers to fully exploit the longer effective range of the SIG 716 Assault Rifle, the defence ministry confirmed.

The procurement of Night Sights for the 7.62x51 mm SIG 716 assault rifle has been categorised as a Buy (Indian-IDDM) case, featuring over 51 per cent indigenous content, a key milestone in advancing the government's vision of Aatmanirbharata (self-reliance) in defence manufacturing.

The Ministry of Defence on Wednesday signed a Rs 659.47 crore deal to procure Night Sights (image intensifiers) for the 7.62x51 mm SIG 716 assault rifle and associated accessories for the Indian Army, the ministry said in a statement. The procurement has been categorised as a Buy (Indian-IDDM) case, featuring over 51 per cent indigenous content, a key milestone in advancing the government's vision of Aatmanirbharata (self-reliance) in defence manufacturing.

The procurement of Night Sights for the 7.62x51 mm SIG 716 assault rifle has been categorised as a Buy (Indian-IDDM) case, featuring over 51 per cent indigenous content, a key milestone in advancing the government's vision of Aatmanirbharata (self-reliance) in defence manufacturing.

What is SIG 716 assault rifle? India signs Rs 659-crore defence deal to equip with night sights

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced that he had authorised covert CIA operations against Venezuela but dodged questions on whether he had green-lighted an attempt on the nation's leader, Nicolás Maduro. Speaking in the Oval Office, Trump framed his actions as part of a broader anti-drug campaign, citing Maduro’s alleged role as the leader of a "narco-terrorist" regime and releasing prisoners who make their way to the United States.<h2>Has Trump given the CIA an order to "take out" Maduro?</h2>When pressed directly on the explosive question of whether he had secretly given the CIA authority to “take out” Maduro, Trump sidestepped and labelled the query "ridiculous"."That's a ridiculous question for me to be given. Not really a ridiculous question, but wouldn't it be a ridiculous question for me to answer?" he said, offering no clear confirmation. However, his dodge has raised eyebrows on whether a covert CIA operation was going to do exactly that.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-i-don-t-want-to-destroy-his-political-career-trump-makes-bizarre-remark-about-pm-modi-1760580304027">‘I don’t want to destroy his political career’: Trump makes bizarre remark about PM Modi</a><h2>After international waters, US to strike Venezuelan land targets?</h2>Just a day after he announced yet another US strike on an alleged boat in the Caribbean — the latest in a series of naval strikes — Trump, on Wednesday, indicated the US may expand its operations against alleged Venezuelan drug cartels onto land. "We are certainly looking at land now, because we've got the sea very well under control." US strikes on suspected drug vessels have so far killed at least 27 people. Legal experts have questioned the legality of using lethal force in international waters against targets who have not been apprehended or interrogated.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/has-india-s-modi-promised-us-it-will-no-longer-buy-russian-oil-here-s-what-trump-claims-1760574591627">Did Modi promise US that India will no longer buy Russian oil? Here's what Trump claims</a><h2>Maduro slams Trump's "coups d'etat" attempt</h2>The US president’s comments drew a sharp reaction from Maduro, who decried US operations as “coups d’etat orchestrated by the CIA” and ordered military exercises across Venezuela, including shantytowns and coastal areas. "No to war in the Caribbean...No to regime change...No to coups d'etat orchestrated by the CIA," &nbsp;he said. The Venezuelan leader on Telegram, as per AFP, announced that he was mobilising the military, police, and a civilian militia to defend Venezuela's "mountains, coasts, schools, hospitals, factories and markets," against any potential US aggression.

When pressed directly on the explosive question of whether he had secretly given the CIA authority to “take out” Maduro, Trump sidestepped and labelled the query "ridiculous".

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced that he had authorised covert CIA operations against Venezuela but dodged questions on whether he had green-lighted an attempt on the nation's leader, Nicolás Maduro. Speaking in the Oval Office, Trump framed his actions as part of a broader anti-drug campaign, citing Maduro’s alleged role as the leader of a "narco-terrorist" regime and releasing prisoners who make their way to the United States. Has Trump given the CIA an order to "take out" Maduro? When pressed directly on the explosive question of whether he had secretly given the CIA authority to “take out” Maduro, Trump sidestepped and labelled the query "ridiculous". "That's a ridiculous question for me to be given. Not really a ridiculous question, but wouldn't it be a ridiculous question for me to answer?" he said, offering no clear confirmation. However, his dodge has raised eyebrows on whether a covert CIA operation was going to do exactly that. Also read | ‘I don’t want to destroy his political career’: Trump makes bizarre remark about PM Modi After international waters, US to strike Venezuelan land targets? Just a day after he announced yet another US strike on an alleged boat in the Caribbean — the latest in a series of naval strikes — Trump, on Wednesday, indicated the US may expand its operations against alleged Venezuelan drug cartels onto land. "We are certainly looking at land now, because we've got the sea very well under control." US strikes on suspected drug vessels have so far killed at least 27 people. Legal experts have questioned the legality of using lethal force in international waters against targets who have not been apprehended or interrogated. Also read | Did Modi promise US that India will no longer buy Russian oil? Here's what Trump claims Maduro slams Trump's "coups d'etat" attempt The US president’s comments drew a sharp reaction from Maduro, who decried US operations as “coups d’etat orchestrated by the CIA” and ordered military exercises across Venezuela, including shantytowns and coastal areas. "No to war in the Caribbean...No to regime change...No to coups d'etat orchestrated by the CIA," he said. The Venezuelan leader on Telegram, as per AFP, announced that he was mobilising the military, police, and a civilian militia to defend Venezuela's "mountains, coasts, schools, hospitals, factories and markets," against any potential US aggression.

When pressed directly on the explosive question of whether he had secretly given the CIA authority to “take out” Maduro, Trump sidestepped and labelled the query "ridiculous".

‘Ridiculous question’: Trump dodges question on whether he ordered CIA to 'take out' Maduro

Hours after US President Donald Trump claimed that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had "assured" him that New Delhi would soon stop buying oil from Russia, New Delhi, in a statement, said it was its “consistent priority to safeguard the interests of the Indian consumer in a volatile energy scenario.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-i-don-t-want-to-destroy-his-political-career-trump-makes-bizarre-remark-about-pm-modi-1760580304027">‘I don’t want to destroy his political career’: Trump makes bizarre remark about PM Modi</a>In a statement on its Ministry of External Affairs website, India said, “Energy policy includes broad-basing energy sourcing, diversifying as appropriate to meet market conditions.”While avoiding directly accepting or refuting Trump's claims, the South Asian nation noted, “India is a significant importer of oil and gas. It has been our consistent priority to safeguard the interests of the Indian consumer in a volatile energy scenario.”&nbsp;“Our import policies are guided entirely by this objective," it noted, adding that energy cooperation discussion with the US were “ongoing”."Where the US is concerned, we have for many years sought to expand our energy procurement. This has steadily progressed in the last decade. The current Administration has shown interest in deepening energy cooperation with India. Discussions are ongoing."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Our response to media queries on comments on India’s energy sourcing⬇️ 🔗 <a href="https://t.co/BTFl2HQUab">https://t.co/BTFl2HQUab</a> <a href="https://t.co/r76rjJuC7A">pic.twitter.com/r76rjJuC7A</a>&mdash; Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1978690629522653592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/has-india-s-modi-promised-us-it-will-no-longer-buy-russian-oil-here-s-what-trump-claims-1760574591627">Did Modi promise US that India will no longer buy Russian oil? Here's what Trump claims</a><h2>What did Trump say?</h2>Months after slapping excessive tariffs on India for its purchase of discounted Russian oil, Trump told reporters, "He's assured me there will be no oil purchased from Russia." However, he did not share a timeline for this but said, “You know, you can't do it immediately. It's a little bit of a process, but the process is going to be over with soon.”Then, in a moment that quickly drew attention, the controversial leader also claimed he did not want to "destroy" PM Modi's political career. Trump, who often praises Modi as one of his closest international allies, said Modi "is a great man" and claimed that the Indian leader loved him. In what could have been his way of professing love, he added: “I don't want to destroy his political career.”

New Delhi, in a statement, said it was its “consistent priority to safeguard the interests of the Indian consumer in a volatile energy scenario'.”

Hours after US President Donald Trump claimed that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had "assured" him that New Delhi would soon stop buying oil from Russia, New Delhi, in a statement, said it was its “consistent priority to safeguard the interests of the Indian consumer in a volatile energy scenario.” Also read | ‘I don’t want to destroy his political career’: Trump makes bizarre remark about PM Modi In a statement on its Ministry of External Affairs website, India said, “Energy policy includes broad-basing energy sourcing, diversifying as appropriate to meet market conditions.” While avoiding directly accepting or refuting Trump's claims, the South Asian nation noted, “India is a significant importer of oil and gas. It has been our consistent priority to safeguard the interests of the Indian consumer in a volatile energy scenario.” “Our import policies are guided entirely by this objective," it noted, adding that energy cooperation discussion with the US were “ongoing”. "Where the US is concerned, we have for many years sought to expand our energy procurement. This has steadily progressed in the last decade. The current Administration has shown interest in deepening energy cooperation with India. Discussions are ongoing."

New Delhi, in a statement, said it was its “consistent priority to safeguard the interests of the Indian consumer in a volatile energy scenario'.”

India pushes back after Trump says Modi assured him on Russian oil: ‘Consumer interests are our priority’

For decades, European nations have lined up to buy American fighter jets, placing their trust—and billions of dollars—in U.S. technology. But the winds are shifting. France is now preparing to challenge America's dominance in the skies with an upgraded version of its Rafale fighter jet, the F5 "Super Rafale," which aims to rival the much-celebrated F-35 Lightning II. This isn't just about selling planes anymore. It's about Europe reclaiming control over its own defence future and reducing its dependence on Washington.&nbsp;According to the National Security Journal, Dassault Aviation's chief Eric Trappier, recently announced that France will soon receive a government contract to develop the Rafale F5, expected to enter service by 2030. This upgraded jet promises advanced electronic warfare systems, next-generation missiles, and the ability to command unmanned "loyal wingman" drones flying alongside it. The goal is clear: to offer European nations a homegrown alternative that matches the F-35's capabilities without the strings attached to American technology.&nbsp;The timing couldn't be more significant. Even as the F-35 has dominated European defence contracts in recent years, cracks are beginning to show in this transatlantic arrangement. Spain has already abandoned its plans to purchase F-35s, choosing instead to invest in European options like the Eurofighter and the Future Combat Air System. Portugal, too, has paused its F-35 acquisition plans, citing concerns about political uncertainty in the United States and overdependence on American software and supply chains. There are whispers that Lisbon may now turn to France's Rafale instead.This shift reflects a deeper anxiety brewing across Europe. For too long, European militaries have relied on American weapons systems, leaving them vulnerable to U.S. political decisions and supply disruptions. The Super Rafale offers an escape route—a chance for Europe to control its own destiny. If France delivers on its promises, the Rafale F5 could become the centerpiece of a more independent European defence architecture, one that doesn't need Washington's approval to function.&nbsp;But can the Super Rafale truly compete with the F-35? On paper, the upgrades are impressive. The F5 will feature cutting-edge electronic warfare capabilities, forming a protective shield around the aircraft. It will carry France's future ASN4G hypersonic nuclear missile, keeping it relevant in the nuclear deterrence game. Perhaps most importantly, it will integrate seamlessly with unmanned combat drones, creating a networked combat system where pilots and machines work together. French experts call this the "Club Rafale" network—a unified combat ecosystem that mirrors the direction next-generation warfare is heading.&nbsp;The Rafale has already proven its worth outside Europe, winning major contracts in Asia and the Middle East, including deals with Indonesia and other nations seeking alternatives to American hardware. But within Europe, it has struggled to compete with the F-35's stealth and technological allure. The F5 upgrade is France's attempt to change that narrative. By matching or exceeding the F-35's capabilities, Dassault hopes to persuade European allies that they don't need to look across the Atlantic for their defence needs.&nbsp;The development timeline is ambitious but achievable. The current Rafale F4 version entered service in February 2024, and work on the F5 is already underway. Flight testing is expected to begin soon, with the first jets potentially delivered by 2027 and full operational capability reached by 2030. France will operate both the F4 and F5 versions during this transition period, ensuring continuity while pushing toward the future. Beyond the F5, France is also working on the Future Combat Air System, a next-generation fighter program that could eventually replace the Rafale entirely.&nbsp;If France succeeds, the implications will ripple far beyond the aviation industry. A credible European alternative to the F-35 could fundamentally alter the balance of power in transatlantic defence relationships. European nations would gain leverage in their dealings with Washington, no longer forced to accept American terms simply because there are no other options. The European defence industry would receive a major boost, creating jobs and technological expertise that stay on the continent. And perhaps most importantly, Europe would take a significant step toward strategic autonomy—the ability to defend itself without depending on foreign powers.&nbsp;Of course, challenges remain. The F-35 program, despite its flaws, benefits from massive economies of scale and decades of development investment. It has a proven track record and is already in service with numerous NATO allies. The Rafale F5, by contrast, is still on the drawing board. Convincing countries that have already committed to the F-35 to change course will not be easy. And there's always the risk that technological delays or cost overruns could undermine confidence in the French program.&nbsp;Yet the mere fact that serious European nations are reconsidering their F-35 purchases shows how much the landscape has changed. The combination of political uncertainty in America, concerns about supply chain vulnerabilities, and a growing desire for European independence has created an opening for alternatives. France is betting that the Super Rafale can fill that gap.For India, watching from the sidelines, this competition holds lessons. New Delhi has long wrestled with similar questions about defence dependence and technological sovereignty. The success or failure of the Rafale F5 could offer a roadmap for other nations seeking to balance access to cutting-edge technology with the need to maintain strategic independence.&nbsp;As Europe stands at this crossroads, one thing is certain: the era of unquestioned American dominance in the fighter jet market is ending. Whether France's Super Rafale can truly rival the F-35 remains to be seen. But the very fact that Europe is trying signals a new chapter in global defence politics—one where allies are no longer content to simply follow Washington's lead. The skies above Europe may soon belong to a different kind of fighter jet, and the world will be watching to see if France can pull off this ambitious gamble.

According to the National Security Journal, Dassault Aviation's chief Eric Trappier recently announced that France will soon receive a government contract to develop the Rafale F5, expected to enter service by 2030.

For decades, European nations have lined up to buy American fighter jets, placing their trust—and billions of dollars—in U.S. technology. But the winds are shifting. France is now preparing to challenge America's dominance in the skies with an upgraded version of its Rafale fighter jet, the F5 "Super Rafale," which aims to rival the much-celebrated F-35 Lightning II. This isn't just about selling planes anymore. It's about Europe reclaiming control over its own defence future and reducing its dependence on Washington. According to the National Security Journal, Dassault Aviation's chief Eric Trappier, recently announced that France will soon receive a government contract to develop the Rafale F5, expected to enter service by 2030. This upgraded jet promises advanced electronic warfare systems, next-generation missiles, and the ability to command unmanned "loyal wingman" drones flying alongside it. The goal is clear: to offer European nations a homegrown alternative that matches the F-35's capabilities without the strings attached to American technology. The timing couldn't be more significant. Even as the F-35 has dominated European defence contracts in recent years, cracks are beginning to show in this transatlantic arrangement. Spain has already abandoned its plans to purchase F-35s, choosing instead to invest in European options like the Eurofighter and the Future Combat Air System. Portugal, too, has paused its F-35 acquisition plans, citing concerns about political uncertainty in the United States and overdependence on American software and supply chains. There are whispers that Lisbon may now turn to France's Rafale instead. This shift reflects a deeper anxiety brewing across Europe. For too long, European militaries have relied on American weapons systems, leaving them vulnerable to U.S. political decisions and supply disruptions. The Super Rafale offers an escape route—a chance for Europe to control its own destiny. If France delivers on its promises, the Rafale F5 could become the centerpiece of a more independent European defence architecture, one that doesn't need Washington's approval to function. But can the Super Rafale truly compete with the F-35? On paper, the upgrades are impressive. The F5 will feature cutting-edge electronic warfare capabilities, forming a protective shield around the aircraft. It will carry France's future ASN4G hypersonic nuclear missile, keeping it relevant in the nuclear deterrence game. Perhaps most importantly, it will integrate seamlessly with unmanned combat drones, creating a networked combat system where pilots and machines work together. French experts call this the "Club Rafale" network—a unified combat ecosystem that mirrors the direction next-generation warfare is heading. The Rafale has already proven its worth outside Europe, winning major contracts in Asia and the Middle East, including deals with Indonesia and other nations seeking alternatives to American hardware. But within Europe, it has struggled to compete with the F-35's stealth and technological allure. The F5 upgrade is France's attempt to change that narrative. By matching or exceeding the F-35's capabilities, Dassault hopes to persuade European allies that they don't need to look across the Atlantic for their defence needs. The development timeline is ambitious but achievable. The current Rafale F4 version entered service in February 2024, and work on the F5 is already underway. Flight testing is expected to begin soon, with the first jets potentially delivered by 2027 and full operational capability reached by 2030. France will operate both the F4 and F5 versions during this transition period, ensuring continuity while pushing toward the future. Beyond the F5, France is also working on the Future Combat Air System, a next-generation fighter program that could eventually replace the Rafale entirely. If France succeeds, the implications will ripple far beyond the aviation industry. A credible European alternative to the F-35 could fundamentally alter the balance of power in transatlantic defence relationships. European nations would gain leverage in their dealings with Washington, no longer forced to accept American terms simply because there are no other options. The European defence industry would receive a major boost, creating jobs and technological expertise that stay on the continent. And perhaps most importantly, Europe would take a significant step toward strategic autonomy—the ability to defend itself without depending on foreign powers. Of course, challenges remain. The F-35 program, despite its flaws, benefits from massive economies of scale and decades of development investment. It has a proven track record and is already in service with numerous NATO allies. The Rafale F5, by contrast, is still on the drawing board. Convincing countries that have already committed to the F-35 to change course will not be easy. And there's always the risk that technological delays or cost overruns could undermine confidence in the French program. Yet the mere fact that serious European nations are reconsidering their F-35 purchases shows how much the landscape has changed. The combination of political uncertainty in America, concerns about supply chain vulnerabilities, and a growing desire for European independence has created an opening for alternatives. France is betting that the Super Rafale can fill that gap. For India, watching from the sidelines, this competition holds lessons. New Delhi has long wrestled with similar questions about defence dependence and technological sovereignty. The success or failure of the Rafale F5 could offer a roadmap for other nations seeking to balance access to cutting-edge technology with the need to maintain strategic independence. As Europe stands at this crossroads, one thing is certain: the era of unquestioned American dominance in the fighter jet market is ending. Whether France's Super Rafale can truly rival the F-35 remains to be seen. But the very fact that Europe is trying signals a new chapter in global defence politics—one where allies are no longer content to simply follow Washington's lead. The skies above Europe may soon belong to a different kind of fighter jet, and the world will be watching to see if France can pull off this ambitious gamble.

According to the National Security Journal, Dassault Aviation's chief Eric Trappier recently announced that France will soon receive a government contract to develop the Rafale F5, expected to enter service by 2030.

France's "Super Rafale" vs. America's F-35: Battle for Europe's skies

US President Donald Trump has stated that Israel will resume military operations in Gaza if Hamas fails to honour the recently signed hostage agreement. Trump's statement comes after Israel claimed that one of the bodies returned by Hamas is not one of the hostages, even as Hamas claimed that has returned all bodies it had and needs time to recover the rest of the deceased from the ruins of Gaza. Warning Hamas about the possibility of Israel's return, the US president said that Israel is all ready to “knock the crap out of them” but they are holding back because of him. He pressed Hamas to honour the US-brokered ceasefire deal with Israel.&nbsp;&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-our-tax-dollars-have-funded-a-genocide-zohran-mamdani-reacts-to-gaza-ceasefire-condemns-israel-and-us-admin-s-actions-1760512975423">'Our tax dollars have funded a genocide': Zohran Mamdani reacts to Gaza ceasefire</a>&nbsp;In a telephonic interview with CNN, Trump said that Israeli forces were ready to re-enter Gaza and act decisively once he gives the signal. Trump acknowledged that while most bodies of deceased hostages remain unreleased by Hamas, securing the release of 20 living hostages was the top priority. “Israel will return to those [Gaza] streets as soon as I say the word…If Israel could go in and knock the crap out of them, they’d do that.” Regarding the ceasefire deal, Trump revealed he had to persuade Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to hold back from escalating the war. He also highlighted the international support for the agreement, noting increased interest in the Abraham Accords. “I had to hold them back… I had it out with Bibi," he said.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-his-cognitive-ability-is-gone-trump-confuses-india-with-iran-as-he-repeats-tariffs-stopped-war-with-pak-claim-watch-1760580316983">'His cognitive ability is GONE': Trump confuses India with Iran as he repeats 'tariffs stopped war with Pak' claim - Watch</a>&nbsp;The US president also addressed Hamas’s harsh crackdown within Gaza, where the group has executed individuals it accuses of collaborating with Israel. Trump suggested this internal violence involves clearing out criminal gangs but admitted he was still gathering information on whether innocent civilians were affected. A shocking footage that has surfaced appears to be showing Hamas executing Palestinians accused of collaborating with Israel. The video, which WION cannot independently verify, shows at least eight bound men kneeling before gunfire erupts as onlookers and label them “collaborators.” Report suggest that Sahm security force, run by Hamas, shared the footage.&nbsp;&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-execute-7-palestinians-accused-of-collaborating-with-israel-in-broad-daylight-1760515977718">Hamas executes Palestinians accused of collaborating with Israel in broad daylight</a>&nbsp;

Trump warns Israel will resume Gaza operations if Hamas violates the hostage deal. He claims Israel is holding back “because of him” and stresses the priority of honouring the US-brokered ceasefire deal 

US President Donald Trump has stated that Israel will resume military operations in Gaza if Hamas fails to honour the recently signed hostage agreement. Trump's statement comes after Israel claimed that one of the bodies returned by Hamas is not one of the hostages, even as Hamas claimed that has returned all bodies it had and needs time to recover the rest of the deceased from the ruins of Gaza. Warning Hamas about the possibility of Israel's return, the US president said that Israel is all ready to “knock the crap out of them” but they are holding back because of him. He pressed Hamas to honour the US-brokered ceasefire deal with Israel. Read More | 'Our tax dollars have funded a genocide': Zohran Mamdani reacts to Gaza ceasefire In a telephonic interview with CNN, Trump said that Israeli forces were ready to re-enter Gaza and act decisively once he gives the signal. Trump acknowledged that while most bodies of deceased hostages remain unreleased by Hamas, securing the release of 20 living hostages was the top priority. “Israel will return to those [Gaza] streets as soon as I say the word…If Israel could go in and knock the crap out of them, they’d do that.” Regarding the ceasefire deal, Trump revealed he had to persuade Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to hold back from escalating the war. He also highlighted the international support for the agreement, noting increased interest in the Abraham Accords. “I had to hold them back… I had it out with Bibi," he said. Read More | 'His cognitive ability is GONE': Trump confuses India with Iran as he repeats 'tariffs stopped war with Pak' claim - Watch The US president also addressed Hamas’s harsh crackdown within Gaza, where the group has executed individuals it accuses of collaborating with Israel. Trump suggested this internal violence involves clearing out criminal gangs but admitted he was still gathering information on whether innocent civilians were affected. A shocking footage that has surfaced appears to be showing Hamas executing Palestinians accused of collaborating with Israel. The video, which WION cannot independently verify, shows at least eight bound men kneeling before gunfire erupts as onlookers and label them “collaborators.” Report suggest that Sahm security force, run by Hamas, shared the footage. Read More | Hamas executes Palestinians accused of collaborating with Israel in broad daylight

Trump warns Israel will resume Gaza operations if Hamas violates the hostage deal. He claims Israel is holding back “because of him” and stresses the priority of honouring the US-brokered ceasefire deal&nbsp;

'Knock the crap out of them...': Trump hints at the possibility of Israel resuming Gaza war if Hamas...

Uruguay on Wednesday legalised euthanasia, becoming one of the first countries in Latin America and among a dozen worldwide to allow assisted suicide. The small South American country has a long history of passing socially liberal laws, legalising marijuana, same-sex marriage and abortion long before most others.&nbsp;On Wednesday, euthanasia was added to the list with the Senate approving the so-called "Dignified Death" bill, garnering 20 votes in favor out of a total of 31 legislators present, passing a law approved by the lower Chamber of Representatives in August.The vote came after 10 hours of debate on an issue several lawmakers called “the most difficult.” The discussion was largely respectful and often emotional, though some onlookers watching the debate cried out "murderers" after the vote passed.&nbsp;Elsewhere in Latin America, courts in Colombia and Ecuador have decriminalized euthanasia without passing laws to legalize the practice, while Cuba allows for terminal patients to refuse being kept alive artificially. An initiative of the ruling leftist Frente Amplio, the legislation finally&nbsp;passed after a years-long battle, with fierce opposition mainly among the religious right.&nbsp;A recent poll showed more than 60 percent of Uruguayans support legal euthanasia, with only 24 percent opposed.The bill allows assisted suicide for adult Uruguayan citizens or residents who are mentally competent and in the terminal stage of an incurable disease that causes them suffering.&nbsp;Uruguayan Beatriz Gelos, a 71-year-old who has battled neurodegenerative ALS for two decades,&nbsp;told AFP the law was “compassionate, very humane.” In a wheelchair and speaking with a faltering voice, she said opponents “have no idea what it's like to live like this.” Another proponent is Monica Canepa, whose son Pablo, 39, has been paralyzed by an incurable disease. "Pablo is not living. This is not life," she told AFP.&nbsp;&nbsp;Uruguay's Medical Association has not taken a stance on euthanasia, allowing its doctor members to follow their own conscience. The Catholic Church, for its part, has expressed "sadness" at the decision.

Uruguay legalises euthanasia, becoming one of the first in Latin America to do so. The law allows assisted suicide for terminally ill, mentally competent adults. Backed by public support, the bill faced opposition from religious groups after years of debate.

Uruguay on Wednesday legalised euthanasia, becoming one of the first countries in Latin America and among a dozen worldwide to allow assisted suicide. The small South American country has a long history of passing socially liberal laws, legalising marijuana, same-sex marriage and abortion long before most others. On Wednesday, euthanasia was added to the list with the Senate approving the so-called "Dignified Death" bill, garnering 20 votes in favor out of a total of 31 legislators present, passing a law approved by the lower Chamber of Representatives in August. The vote came after 10 hours of debate on an issue several lawmakers called “the most difficult.” The discussion was largely respectful and often emotional, though some onlookers watching the debate cried out "murderers" after the vote passed. Elsewhere in Latin America, courts in Colombia and Ecuador have decriminalized euthanasia without passing laws to legalize the practice, while Cuba allows for terminal patients to refuse being kept alive artificially. An initiative of the ruling leftist Frente Amplio, the legislation finally passed after a years-long battle, with fierce opposition mainly among the religious right. A recent poll showed more than 60 percent of Uruguayans support legal euthanasia, with only 24 percent opposed. The bill allows assisted suicide for adult Uruguayan citizens or residents who are mentally competent and in the terminal stage of an incurable disease that causes them suffering. Uruguayan Beatriz Gelos, a 71-year-old who has battled neurodegenerative ALS for two decades, told AFP the law was “compassionate, very humane.” In a wheelchair and speaking with a faltering voice, she said opponents “have no idea what it's like to live like this.” Another proponent is Monica Canepa, whose son Pablo, 39, has been paralyzed by an incurable disease. "Pablo is not living. This is not life," she told AFP. Uruguay's Medical Association has not taken a stance on euthanasia, allowing its doctor members to follow their own conscience. The Catholic Church, for its part, has expressed "sadness" at the decision.

Uruguay legalises euthanasia, becoming one of the first in Latin America to do so. The law allows assisted suicide for terminally ill, mentally competent adults. Backed by public support, the bill faced opposition from religious groups after years of debate.

Uruguay becomes first country in Latin America to legalise euthanasia

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Oct 15) claimed that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured him India will stop purchasing Russian oil — before adding a questionable comment that is sure to raise eyebrows in both Washington and New Delhi. "He's assured me there will be no oil purchased from Russia," Trump told reporters, describing it as a gradual process. Then, in a moment that quickly drew attention, the controversial leader claimed he did not want to "destroy" PM Modi's political career. Trump, who often praises Modi as one of his closest international allies, said Modi "is a great man" and claimed that the Indian leader loved him. In what could have been his way of professing love, he added: “I don't want to destroy his political career.”&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/has-india-s-modi-promised-us-it-will-no-longer-buy-russian-oil-here-s-what-trump-claims-1760574591627">Did Modi promise US that India will no longer buy Russian oil? Here's what Trump claims</a>Trump’s comment came just months after his administration slapped steep tariffs — as high as 50 per cent — on Indian exports, accusing New Delhi of helping fund Russia’s war in Ukraine through energy trade.<h2>What did he mean by that?</h2>US President Donald Trump is known for being outspoken and often makes controversial statements that keep him in the headlines. While making the comment purportedly showing his goodwill towards India, its PM Modi, and his political career, Trump did not present any proof to back the claim that he actually could destroy his career. &nbsp;Trump's callous comments come as Washington and New Delhi attempt to mend the ties that have witnessed a decline after the US's shockingly high tariffs. Recently, in what was seen as an effort to smooth ties, Indian PM Modi warmly welcomed Trump’s newly appointed ambassador, Sergio Gor. Trump and Modi also engaged in a phone call, which Gor said made him "optimistic" about the bond between the two nations.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/could-be-a-little-nicer-trump-hails-netanyahu-as-hero-of-gaza-ceasefire-then-roasts-him-over-war-speeches-and-champagne-1760409906854">Could 'be a little nicer': Trump hails Netanyahu as ‘hero’ of Gaza ceasefire — then roasts him about…</a><h2>Trump's obsession with "ending careers"</h2>This was not the first time that Trump claimed to have the power to "destroy" someone's political career. During his first term as the US President, in 2018, he bragged about his prowess in destroying the careers of Republicans who dared defy him. At the time, while talking about party members that defy him, he said, "I only destroy their career because they said bad things about me, and you fight back and they go down the tubes and that’s OK."&nbsp;

Trump claimed Modi promised to stop buying Russian oil — then bizarrely added he “doesn’t want to destroy” the Indian PM’s political career. What did he mean by that? All you need to know.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Oct 15) claimed that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured him India will stop purchasing Russian oil — before adding a questionable comment that is sure to raise eyebrows in both Washington and New Delhi. "He's assured me there will be no oil purchased from Russia," Trump told reporters, describing it as a gradual process. Then, in a moment that quickly drew attention, the controversial leader claimed he did not want to "destroy" PM Modi's political career. Trump, who often praises Modi as one of his closest international allies, said Modi "is a great man" and claimed that the Indian leader loved him. In what could have been his way of professing love, he added: “I don't want to destroy his political career.” Also read | Did Modi promise US that India will no longer buy Russian oil? Here's what Trump claims Trump’s comment came just months after his administration slapped steep tariffs — as high as 50 per cent — on Indian exports, accusing New Delhi of helping fund Russia’s war in Ukraine through energy trade. What did he mean by that? US President Donald Trump is known for being outspoken and often makes controversial statements that keep him in the headlines. While making the comment purportedly showing his goodwill towards India, its PM Modi, and his political career, Trump did not present any proof to back the claim that he actually could destroy his career. Trump's callous comments come as Washington and New Delhi attempt to mend the ties that have witnessed a decline after the US's shockingly high tariffs. Recently, in what was seen as an effort to smooth ties, Indian PM Modi warmly welcomed Trump’s newly appointed ambassador, Sergio Gor. Trump and Modi also engaged in a phone call, which Gor said made him "optimistic" about the bond between the two nations. Also read | Could 'be a little nicer': Trump hails Netanyahu as ‘hero’ of Gaza ceasefire — then roasts him about… Trump's obsession with "ending careers" This was not the first time that Trump claimed to have the power to "destroy" someone's political career. During his first term as the US President, in 2018, he bragged about his prowess in destroying the careers of Republicans who dared defy him. At the time, while talking about party members that defy him, he said, "I only destroy their career because they said bad things about me, and you fight back and they go down the tubes and that’s OK."

Trump claimed Modi promised to stop buying Russian oil — then bizarrely added he “doesn’t want to destroy” the Indian PM’s political career. What did he mean by that? All you need to know.

‘I don’t want to destroy his political career’: Trump makes bizarre remark about PM Modi

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Oct 15) has repeated his claims linking his tariff policies to preventing potential nuclear conflicts, specially the one between India and Pakistan, he said. While discussing trade and global peace, Trump said that his trade actions helped end "five or six" out of "eight wars" during in his second term. However, in one of his statements, he confused India with Iran. He mentioned negotiating a trade deal with Iran while talking about tensions involving Pakistan. This comes amid Trump's several other gaffes, that raises serious questions about his mental health. Meanwhile,&nbsp;&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hot-mic-moment-trump-calls-canadian-pm-carney-mr-president-at-peace-summit-at-least-i-didn-t-call-you-a-governor-1760412035954">Hot mic MOMENT! Trump calls Canadian PM Carney ‘Mr President’ at peace summit: ‘At least I didn’t call you a governor’</a><h2>What Trump said</h2>Speaking to reporters, Trump said, "If As an example, if you look at Pakistan and Iran…I told them I was negotiating a trade deal with Iran, and Pakistan was going to be in line. Because of tariffs, they all wanted to negotiate much differently. Then I heard they were shooting at each other, and I said, ‘Are you guys going to go to war? Two nuclear powers we are thinking about.'” Video of his latest mix-up went viral on social media, and netizens questioned the accuracy of this account. Meanwhile, Trump also claimed that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has "assured" him that New Delhi will soon stop buying oil from Russia. He and his administration have accused India for ‘funding Russia’ for the Ukraine war by buying its oil. New Delhi has previously rejected these claims, stating that India takes trade decisions based on its domestic needs.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">BREAKING: In an insane moment, Trump calls Iran a nuclear power, and claims to have stopped a war between Pakistan and Iran. &quot;I heard they are shooting at each other. Two nuclear powers,&quot; confusing Iran with India. His cognitive ability is GONE.<a href="https://t.co/IHChAZrny3">pic.twitter.com/IHChAZrny3</a>&mdash; Really American 🇺🇸 (@ReallyAmerican1) <a href="https://twitter.com/ReallyAmerican1/status/1978580820341166301?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-italian-pm-meloni-so-beautiful-at-gaza-peace-summit-then-quips-i-m-not-allowed-to-say-it-1760423483466">Trump calls Italian PM Meloni 'so beautiful' at Gaza Peace Summit, then quips 'I'm not allowed to say it...'</a>&nbsp;Earlier this week, during the Gaza peace summit in Egypt, Pakistan PM Shehbaaz Sharif nominated Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize and thanked him for ending India-Pakistan war. “Pakistan had nominated President Donald Trump for Nobel Peace Prize for his outstanding, extraordinary contributions to, first, stop the war between India and Pakistan and then achieve a ceasefire, along with his very wonderful team. And, today, again, I would like to nominate this great president for Nobel Peace Prize." Sharif was then seen saluting the US president as he continued, “Because I genuinely feel that he is the most genuine and most wonderful candidate for the Peace Prize because he has brought not only peace in South Asia, saved millions of people, their lives. And today, here in Sharm el-Sheikh, achieving peace in Gaza is saving millions of lives in the Middle East," Sharif said.&nbsp;Read More |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-disappointed-trump-says-putin-should-have-won-ukraine-war-in-a-week-did-he-just-pick-side-before-ending-the-conflict-1760517514522"> 'Disappointed' Trump says Putin should have won Ukraine war 'in a week' - Did he just pick side before ending the conflict?</a>&nbsp;

Trump repeated his claims that his tariff threat helped prevent nuclear war between India and Pakistan earlier in May, but in his latest mix-up, he confused Iran with India. Viral video of the incident sparks health concerns, yet again. 

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Oct 15) has repeated his claims linking his tariff policies to preventing potential nuclear conflicts, specially the one between India and Pakistan, he said. While discussing trade and global peace, Trump said that his trade actions helped end "five or six" out of "eight wars" during in his second term. However, in one of his statements, he confused India with Iran. He mentioned negotiating a trade deal with Iran while talking about tensions involving Pakistan. This comes amid Trump's several other gaffes, that raises serious questions about his mental health. Meanwhile, Read More | Hot mic MOMENT! Trump calls Canadian PM Carney ‘Mr President’ at peace summit: ‘At least I didn’t call you a governor’ What Trump said Speaking to reporters, Trump said, "If As an example, if you look at Pakistan and Iran…I told them I was negotiating a trade deal with Iran, and Pakistan was going to be in line. Because of tariffs, they all wanted to negotiate much differently. Then I heard they were shooting at each other, and I said, ‘Are you guys going to go to war? Two nuclear powers we are thinking about.'” Video of his latest mix-up went viral on social media, and netizens questioned the accuracy of this account. Meanwhile, Trump also claimed that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has "assured" him that New Delhi will soon stop buying oil from Russia. He and his administration have accused India for ‘funding Russia’ for the Ukraine war by buying its oil. New Delhi has previously rejected these claims, stating that India takes trade decisions based on its domestic needs.

Trump repeated his claims that his tariff threat helped prevent nuclear war between India and Pakistan earlier in May, but in his latest mix-up, he confused Iran with India. Viral video of the incident sparks health concerns, yet again.&nbsp;

'His cognitive ability is GONE': Trump confuses India with Iran as he repeats 'tariffs stopped war with Pak' claim - Watch

Ashley J. Tellis, a prominent American scholar of India and former US government advisor, has denied federal charges accusing him of improperly handling classified material and meeting with Chinese officials. His lawyers said Wednesday (Oct 15) that Tellis will “vigorously contest” the allegations, which could carry a prison sentence of up to 10 years if proven.<h2>The case of top-secret documents</h2>The 64-year-old Indian origin scholar was arrested on Saturday (Oct 11) after an FBI investigation found more than 1,000 pages of top-secret and secret documents at his home, according to a criminal affidavit made public this week. Prosecutors also allege that he entered the State Department late at night on September 25 and printed from a classified document detailing US Air Force techniques.The affidavit also claimed Tellis met several times with Chinese officials at a restaurant in Fairfax, Virginia, and once appeared to leave behind a manila envelope. However, the Justice Department said the formal charges relate specifically to mishandling classified documents, not espionage or acting as a foreign agent.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-arrests-indian-origin-scholar-ashley-tellis-for-mishandling-classified-documents-and-dining-with-chinese-officials-1760487783287">US arrests Indian-origin scholar Ashley Tellis for mishandling classified documents — and dining with Chinese officials</a><h2>Tellis denies charges</h2>"Ashley J. Tellis is a widely respected scholar and senior policy advisor," his attorneys, Deborah Curtis and John Nassikas, said in a joint statement. "We will be vigorously contesting the allegations brought against him, specifically any insinuation of his operating on behalf of a foreign adversary."Tellis, a naturalised American originally from India, served in senior roles during the George W. Bush administration and was closely involved in negotiating the landmark US-India civil nuclear cooperation deal. He later became a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, one of Washington’s leading think tanks, which announced Wednesday that Tellis has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the case.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-i-just-like-to-watch-her-talk-trump-slammed-for-ogling-female-reporter-s-lips-during-live-presser-1760513952487">‘I just like to watch her talk’: Trump slammed for ogling female reporter's lips during live presser. Watch!</a>In recent years, Tellis has stood out in Washington’s policy circles for his candid takes on India’s strategic autonomy, often warning that New Delhi’s positions on issues like the war in Ukraine do not fully align with US interests.

US scholar Ashley J. Tellis has denied charges of mishandling classified documents and meeting Chinese officials. Here's what he said.

Ashley J. Tellis, a prominent American scholar of India and former US government advisor, has denied federal charges accusing him of improperly handling classified material and meeting with Chinese officials. His lawyers said Wednesday (Oct 15) that Tellis will “vigorously contest” the allegations, which could carry a prison sentence of up to 10 years if proven. The case of top-secret documents The 64-year-old Indian origin scholar was arrested on Saturday (Oct 11) after an FBI investigation found more than 1,000 pages of top-secret and secret documents at his home, according to a criminal affidavit made public this week. Prosecutors also allege that he entered the State Department late at night on September 25 and printed from a classified document detailing US Air Force techniques. The affidavit also claimed Tellis met several times with Chinese officials at a restaurant in Fairfax, Virginia, and once appeared to leave behind a manila envelope. However, the Justice Department said the formal charges relate specifically to mishandling classified documents, not espionage or acting as a foreign agent. Also read | US arrests Indian-origin scholar Ashley Tellis for mishandling classified documents — and dining with Chinese officials Tellis denies charges "Ashley J. Tellis is a widely respected scholar and senior policy advisor," his attorneys, Deborah Curtis and John Nassikas, said in a joint statement. "We will be vigorously contesting the allegations brought against him, specifically any insinuation of his operating on behalf of a foreign adversary." Tellis, a naturalised American originally from India, served in senior roles during the George W. Bush administration and was closely involved in negotiating the landmark US-India civil nuclear cooperation deal. He later became a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, one of Washington’s leading think tanks, which announced Wednesday that Tellis has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the case. Also read | ‘I just like to watch her talk’: Trump slammed for ogling female reporter's lips during live presser. Watch! In recent years, Tellis has stood out in Washington’s policy circles for his candid takes on India’s strategic autonomy, often warning that New Delhi’s positions on issues like the war in Ukraine do not fully align with US interests.

US scholar Ashley J. Tellis has denied charges of mishandling classified documents and meeting Chinese officials. Here's what he said.

Indian-origin US scholar Ashley Tellis denies charges of mishandling top-secret docs, Chinese links, vows to fight back

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Oct 15) claimed that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has "assured" him that New Delhi will soon stop buying oil from Russia. This marks a new twist in the ongoing tensions between Washington and New Delhi over India’s continued energy trade with Moscow amid the Ukraine war. It comes months after Washington imposed heavy tariffs on Indian exports over the purchase of the discounted oil. Talking to the press at the White House, Trump said that Modi assured him "there will be no oil purchased from Russia," adding that "it’ll be over soon". India, as yet, has not made any comments acknowledging or denying the claim.<h2>What did Trump say?</h2>Months after slapping excessive tariffs on India for its purchase of discounted Russian oil, Trump told reporters, "He's assured me there will be no oil purchased from Russia." However, he did not share a timeline for this but said, "You know, you can't do it immediately. It's a little bit of a process, but the process is going to be over with soon."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/sam-altman-okays-ai-porn-on-chatgpt-says-current-version-less-enjoyable-to-users-with-no-mental-health-problems-1760493777871">Sam Altman okays AI porn on ChatGPT, says OpenAI chatbot's current version 'less enjoyable'</a>India has not confirmed Trump’s claim. Modi and his government, over the past few months, have consistently defended India’s oil trade with Moscow, arguing that New Delhi has to safeguard its energy security even as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine reshapes global supply chains.<h2>India-US relations back on track?</h2>Trump tariffs have led to a souring of the good ties India and the US have shared for decades. However, Trump, on Wednesday, suggested that he and Modi had mended fences after months of tension. Meanwhile, Modi also seems willing to do so. On Saturday, he met with the newly arrived US ambassador, Sergio Gor — a longtime Trump ally — in what was widely seen as a gesture to ease strains.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-i-just-like-to-watch-her-talk-trump-slammed-for-ogling-female-reporter-s-lips-during-live-presser-1760513952487">‘I just like to watch her talk’: Trump slammed for ogling female reporter's lips during live presser. Watch!</a>Following the meeting, Gor said the Trump administration values the relationship with India deeply and that he was "optimistic" after a phone call between Trump and Modi earlier this week.Trump, known for his unfiltered praise and self-reference, spoke glowingly of the Indian leader. Modi "is a great man. He loves Trump," the president said, speaking in the third person. "I don't want to destroy his political career," he added.He went on to call India “an incredible country” and praised Modi’s political longevity. "I've watched India for years. It's an incredible country, and every single year you'd have a new leader," Trump said. "My friend has been there now for a long time."

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Oct 15) claimed that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has "assured" him that New Delhi will soon stop buying oil from Russia. This marks a new twist in the ongoing tensions between Washington and New Delhi over India’s continued energy trade with Moscow amid the Ukraine war. It comes months after Washington imposed heavy tariffs on Indian exports over the purchase of the discounted oil. Talking to the press at the White House, Trump said that Modi assured him "there will be no oil purchased from Russia," adding that "it’ll be over soon". India, as yet, has not made any comments acknowledging or denying the claim. What did Trump say? Months after slapping excessive tariffs on India for its purchase of discounted Russian oil, Trump told reporters, "He's assured me there will be no oil purchased from Russia." However, he did not share a timeline for this but said, "You know, you can't do it immediately. It's a little bit of a process, but the process is going to be over with soon." Also read | Sam Altman okays AI porn on ChatGPT, says OpenAI chatbot's current version 'less enjoyable' India has not confirmed Trump’s claim. Modi and his government, over the past few months, have consistently defended India’s oil trade with Moscow, arguing that New Delhi has to safeguard its energy security even as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine reshapes global supply chains. India-US relations back on track? Trump tariffs have led to a souring of the good ties India and the US have shared for decades. However, Trump, on Wednesday, suggested that he and Modi had mended fences after months of tension. Meanwhile, Modi also seems willing to do so. On Saturday, he met with the newly arrived US ambassador, Sergio Gor — a longtime Trump ally — in what was widely seen as a gesture to ease strains. Also read | ‘I just like to watch her talk’: Trump slammed for ogling female reporter's lips during live presser. Watch! Following the meeting, Gor said the Trump administration values the relationship with India deeply and that he was "optimistic" after a phone call between Trump and Modi earlier this week. Trump, known for his unfiltered praise and self-reference, spoke glowingly of the Indian leader. Modi "is a great man. He loves Trump," the president said, speaking in the third person. "I don't want to destroy his political career," he added. He went on to call India “an incredible country” and praised Modi’s political longevity. "I've watched India for years. It's an incredible country, and every single year you'd have a new leader," Trump said. "My friend has been there now for a long time."

US President Donald Trump claims that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured him that India will “soon stop buying oil from Russia.”&nbsp;

Did Modi promise US that India will no longer buy Russian oil? Here's what Trump claims

Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, till recently was on a mission to cure cancer—or at least that’s the headline goal. But apparently, curing cancer can wait, because on Tuesday (Oct 14) he signed off on another high-priority initiative: letting OpenAI's ChatGPT make porn. Yes, you read that right. Altman took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce that ChatGPT will now “treat adult users like adults.”<h2>What did Sam Altman say?</h2>In an X post, OpenAI CEO Altman said that they had made ChatGPT "pretty restrictive" to make sure they were "being careful with mental health issues". However, now they've apparently "realised" that staying sensitive to mental health issues made the platform "less useful/enjoyable to many users who had no mental health problems". Insisting that "given the seriousness of the issue," the AI maker "wanted to get this right". How? By allowing users to generate porn on the popular chatbot.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/why-scientists-revive-40-000-year-old-ancient-virus-with-pandemic-potential-from-arctic-ice-1759812221224">Why?? Scientists revive 40,000-year-old ancient virus with 'pandemic potential' from Arctic ice</a>By December, he promised, the platform will allow even more risqué creations, including erotica for verified adults. Because apparently nothing says responsible AI innovation quite like giving adults the green light to generate digital fantasies. "In December, as we roll out age-gating more fully and as part of our 'treat adult users like adults' principle, we will allow even more, like erotica for verified adults," said Altman.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We made ChatGPT pretty restrictive to make sure we were being careful with mental health issues. We realize this made it less useful/enjoyable to many users who had no mental health problems, but given the seriousness of the issue we wanted to get this right. Now that we have…&mdash; Sam Altman (@sama) <a href="https://twitter.com/sama/status/1978129344598827128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Why were ChatGPT restrictions put in place?</h2>ChatGPT was made to wear a figurative chastity belt after a teenage user tragically took his own life with alleged guidance from the AI. Erotica writers, predictably, were not thrilled—arguing that the AI had been a perfectly safe tool for penning steamy scenes.Now, according to Altman, the mental health risks have been "mitigated," so adults can once again let the AI do their dirty work.Altman framed the move as a logical next step. "Now that we have been able to mitigate the serious mental health issues and have new tools, we are going to be able to safely relax the restrictions in most cases," he said. Translation: yes, we figured out how to stop ChatGPT from being dangerous, so let’s make it fun again.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ex-journalist-pete-hegseth-mocks-press-as-us-media-revolts-against-pentagon-s-gag-order-press-no-longer-roams-free-1760402303105">Ex-journalist Pete Hegseth mocks press as US media revolts against Pentagon’s gag order: ‘Press no longer roams free’</a>This update follows another statement by Sam Altman, where he suggested that AI could be used to "cure cancer". Thanks to the new risqué rollout announcement, critics, of course, are having a field day. "Why do age-gates always have to lead to erotica? Like, I just want to be able to be treated like an adult and not a toddler, that doesn't mean I want perv-mode activated," commented one X user on Altman's post.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Why do age-gates always have to lead to erotica? Like, I just want to be able to be treated like an adult and not a toddler, that doesn&#39;t mean I want perv-mode activated.&mdash; cate bligh (@catebligh) <a href="https://twitter.com/catebligh/status/1978130471318921225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"When you say ‘Adult Mode’ and erotica will be allowed in ChatGPT, how do you define the ethical boundaries of digital intimacy?," asked another.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">When you say “Adult Mode” and erotica will be allowed in ChatGPT, how do you define the ethical boundaries of digital intimacy?&mdash; VraserX e/acc (@VraserX) <a href="https://twitter.com/VraserX/status/1978155429893967935?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Others just posted satire and memes trolling him.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <a href="https://t.co/V7kn1gHOFB">pic.twitter.com/V7kn1gHOFB</a>&mdash; Jared Davidson (@Archetapp) <a href="https://twitter.com/Archetapp/status/1978138446364287322?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">2023: AI will cure cancer 2025: soon we will achieve AI erotica for verified adults&mdash; Dr J Rould (@jrouldz) <a href="https://twitter.com/jrouldz/status/1978143401951297721?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Chatgpt to users <a href="https://t.co/RiiLSLWiq8">pic.twitter.com/RiiLSLWiq8</a>&mdash; Monkey (@y1ssh) <a href="https://twitter.com/y1ssh/status/1978130852073668642?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has announced ChatGPT will now allow adult content for verified users, saying the AI can safely “treat adult users like adults.” His announcement has led to mixed reactions, with netizens both trolling him and applauding the move. All you need to know.

Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, till recently was on a mission to cure cancer—or at least that’s the headline goal. But apparently, curing cancer can wait, because on Tuesday (Oct 14) he signed off on another high-priority initiative: letting OpenAI's ChatGPT make porn. Yes, you read that right. Altman took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce that ChatGPT will now “treat adult users like adults.” What did Sam Altman say? In an X post, OpenAI CEO Altman said that they had made ChatGPT "pretty restrictive" to make sure they were "being careful with mental health issues". However, now they've apparently "realised" that staying sensitive to mental health issues made the platform "less useful/enjoyable to many users who had no mental health problems". Insisting that "given the seriousness of the issue," the AI maker "wanted to get this right". How? By allowing users to generate porn on the popular chatbot. Also read | Why?? Scientists revive 40,000-year-old ancient virus with 'pandemic potential' from Arctic ice By December, he promised, the platform will allow even more risqué creations, including erotica for verified adults. Because apparently nothing says responsible AI innovation quite like giving adults the green light to generate digital fantasies. "In December, as we roll out age-gating more fully and as part of our 'treat adult users like adults' principle, we will allow even more, like erotica for verified adults," said Altman.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has announced ChatGPT will now allow adult content for verified users, saying the AI can safely “treat adult users like adults.” His announcement has led to mixed reactions, with netizens both trolling him and applauding the move. All you need to know.

Sam Altman okays AI porn on ChatGPT, says OpenAI chatbot's current version 'less enjoyable'

A federal judge on Wednesday paused job cuts for thousands of American workers on Wednesday by granting a temporary restraining order blocking the Trump administration from laying off federal workers during the government shutdown, which has now stretched to two weeks. Two workers’ unions had sued the Trump administration last month ahead of the shutdown after the White House signalled a plan to lay off workers through “reductions in force” (RIFs) at federal agencies. US District Judge Susan Illston granted a request by two unions to stop layoffs at more than 30 agencies. During a hearing on Wednesday, a federal judge in the Northern District of California granted the unions’ motion to issue a temporary restraining order preventing the layoffs, which began on Friday.&nbsp;“The activities that are being undertaken here are contrary to the laws,” US District Judge Susan Yvonne Illston said. “You can’t do this in a nation of laws.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-it-s-china-vs-the-world-us-will-neither-be-commanded-nor-controlled-says-treasury-secretary-scott-bessent-1760543539998">‘It’s China vs. the world’: US will ‘neither be commanded nor controlled,’ says treasury secretary Scott Bessent</a>&nbsp;The judge said President Donald Trump and his top aides have made several remarks showing explicit political motivations for the layoffs, like Trump saying that cuts would target “Democrat agencies”.&nbsp;<h2>‘Things being articulated here are not within the law’</h2>&nbsp;“You can’t do that in a nation of laws. And we have laws here, and the things that are being articulated here are not within the law,” said Illston, an appointee of Democratic former President Bill Clinton.&nbsp;Illston said that the Trump administration had “taken advantage of the lapse in government spending and government functioning to assume that all bets are off, the laws don’t apply to them anymore, and they can impose the structures that they like on the government situation that they don’t like.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-peace-comes-through-strength-hegseth-warns-russia-of-costs-if-ukraine-war-does-not-end-1760552646712">‘Peace comes through strength’: Hegseth warns Russia of ‘costs’ if Ukraine war does not end</a>&nbsp;Illston said that she believed the plaintiffs can demonstrate that the Trump administration’s actions were illegal, in excess of authority and “arbitrary and capricious.”&nbsp;Assistant US Attorney Elizabeth Themins Hedges argued that employment-related harms were “reparable” and that losing employment was not an “irreparable harm”.&nbsp;<h2>Senate rejects GOP-backed spending bill for ninth time</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Senate on Wednesday rejected a GOP-backed spending bill for the ninth time. The legislation would have extended government funding until Nov. 21. But Democrats continue to demand additional health care funding to overturn Medicaid cuts and extend tax credits for the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare.&nbsp;WATCH: South Korean student dies after severe torture by three Chinese suspects<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-korean-student-dies-after-severe-torture-by-three-chinese-suspects-1760552591021/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-korean-student-dies-after-severe-torture-by-three-chinese-suspects-1760552591021/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The longest previous shutdown lasted 35 days between December 2018 and January 2019, during Trump’s first term.

The judge said the Trump administration had taken advantage of the lapse in government spending and government functioning to assume that all bets are off, the laws don’t apply to them anymore, and they can impose the structures that they like on the government situation that they don’t like.

A federal judge on Wednesday paused job cuts for thousands of American workers on Wednesday by granting a temporary restraining order blocking the Trump administration from laying off federal workers during the government shutdown, which has now stretched to two weeks. Two workers’ unions had sued the Trump administration last month ahead of the shutdown after the White House signalled a plan to lay off workers through “reductions in force” (RIFs) at federal agencies. US District Judge Susan Illston granted a request by two unions to stop layoffs at more than 30 agencies. During a hearing on Wednesday, a federal judge in the Northern District of California granted the unions’ motion to issue a temporary restraining order preventing the layoffs, which began on Friday. “The activities that are being undertaken here are contrary to the laws,” US District Judge Susan Yvonne Illston said. “You can’t do this in a nation of laws.” Also Read: ‘It’s China vs. the world’: US will ‘neither be commanded nor controlled,’ says treasury secretary Scott Bessent The judge said President Donald Trump and his top aides have made several remarks showing explicit political motivations for the layoffs, like Trump saying that cuts would target “Democrat agencies”. ‘Things being articulated here are not within the law’ “You can’t do that in a nation of laws. And we have laws here, and the things that are being articulated here are not within the law,” said Illston, an appointee of Democratic former President Bill Clinton. Illston said that the Trump administration had “taken advantage of the lapse in government spending and government functioning to assume that all bets are off, the laws don’t apply to them anymore, and they can impose the structures that they like on the government situation that they don’t like.” Also Read: ‘Peace comes through strength’: Hegseth warns Russia of ‘costs’ if Ukraine war does not end Illston said that she believed the plaintiffs can demonstrate that the Trump administration’s actions were illegal, in excess of authority and “arbitrary and capricious.” Assistant US Attorney Elizabeth Themins Hedges argued that employment-related harms were “reparable” and that losing employment was not an “irreparable harm”. Senate rejects GOP-backed spending bill for ninth time Meanwhile, the Senate on Wednesday rejected a GOP-backed spending bill for the ninth time. The legislation would have extended government funding until Nov. 21. But Democrats continue to demand additional health care funding to overturn Medicaid cuts and extend tax credits for the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. WATCH: South Korean student dies after severe torture by three Chinese suspects https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-korean-student-dies-after-severe-torture-by-three-chinese-suspects-1760552591021/embed The longest previous shutdown lasted 35 days between December 2018 and January 2019, during Trump’s first term.

The judge said the Trump administration had taken advantage of the lapse in government spending and government functioning to assume that all bets are off, the laws don’t apply to them anymore, and they can impose the structures that they like on the government situation that they don’t like.

‘You can’t do this in a nation of laws’: Judge blocks Trump’s layoffs during federal shutdown, calls them illegal

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth called on more countries to contribute to a US scheme that sees allies pay for American weapons for Ukraine, and warned Moscow that the US and its allies would impose costs on it for its continued aggression if the war in Ukraine does not come to an end. “You get peace when you are strong, not when you use strong words or wag your finger, you get it when you have strong and real capabilities that adversaries respect,” Hegseth told reporters. &nbsp;“Now is the time for all NATO countries to turn words into action,” the Pentagon chief said. “No free riders.” Hegseth also warned Moscow that the US and its allies would “impose costs on Russia for its continued aggression” if the war in Ukraine does not come to an end.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">U.S. Secretary of War Hegseth at NATO defense ministers’ security summit in Brussels, declares, “Firepower, that’s what is coming and we expect it is coming from NATO.” <a href="https://t.co/AxZAb458a9">pic.twitter.com/AxZAb458a9</a>&mdash; Open Source Intel (@Osint613) <a href="https://twitter.com/Osint613/status/1978361960983933019?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;“If we must take this step, the US War Department stands ready to do our part in ways that only the United States can do,” Hegseth said at a meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group of Kyiv’s allies at NATO headquarters, but did not elaborate.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-it-s-china-vs-the-world-us-will-neither-be-commanded-nor-controlled-says-treasury-secretary-scott-bessent-1760543539998">‘It’s China vs. the world’: US will ‘neither be commanded nor controlled,’ says treasury secretary Scott Bessent</a><h2>‘Stop needless bloodshed, come to the peace table’</h2>“Now is the time to end this tragic war, stop the needless bloodshed, and come to the peace table,” Hegseth said.“This is not a war that started on President Trump’s watch, but it will end on his watch.”Hegseth called on NATO allies to increase spending on purchases of US weapons for Ukraine, following a report about a sharp decline in Western military support for Kyiv in July and August.&nbsp;Washington has shifted closer to Kyiv as President Donald Trump has lost patience with Russian leader Vladimir Putin for stalling on peace efforts. The Trump administration is considering request from Ukraine for long-range Tomahawk missiles.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">SecDef Pete Hegseth to Ukrainian contact group: Conflict must end, Ukrainian membership in NATO will not be part of a negotiated settlement, and Ukraine must accept it will not return to pre-2014 borders. <a href="https://t.co/gFjeCKXdC4">pic.twitter.com/gFjeCKXdC4</a>&mdash; Bad Hombre (@joma_gc) <a href="https://twitter.com/joma_gc/status/1889693411776569358?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Hegseth and Rutte said they expected a string of countries to announce new money for the programme set up by Trump over the summer, beyond the two billion dollars committed so far.&nbsp;“Our expectation today is that more countries donate even more, that they purchase even more to provide for Ukraine, to bring that conflict to a peaceful conclusion,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-you-can-t-do-this-in-a-nation-of-laws-judge-blocks-trump-s-layoffs-during-federal-shutdown-calls-them-illegal-1760557402475">‘You can’t do this in a nation of laws’: Judge blocks Trump’s layoffs during federal shutdown, calls them illegal</a><h2>NATO testing new anti-drone defences to plug gaps in defence</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, NATO said Wednesday it was testing new anti-drone defences on its eastern flank to plug gaps in defence, as the alliance scrambles to counter the threat from Russia after a series of air incursions.&nbsp;“NATO will implement a number of additional counter drone measures that will build on and expand and accelerate our ability to counter drones,” EU chief Mark Rutte said after a meeting of NATO defence ministers in Brussels.“We are testing integrated systems that will help us detect, track and neutralise aerial threats,” Rutte added.&nbsp;“Let me say it once and for all, the EU and NATO are working hand in hand, closely together, and we both know our strength,” Rutte insisted.&nbsp;WATCH: Syria: Assad govt 'secretly' moved mass grave<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/syria-assad-govt-secretly-moved-mass-grave-1760552596566/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/syria-assad-govt-secretly-moved-mass-grave-1760552596566/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Ukraine’s defence minister Denys Shmygal said Kyiv hoped the total committed under the initiative would reach “12 to 20 billion dollars” next year.&nbsp;The Kremlin has warned Washington against the supply of long-range Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, but Trump may be willing to let Kyiv hit deep inside Russia to pressure Putin towards peace.

Washington has shifted closer to Kyiv as President Donald Trump has lost patience with Russian leader Vladimir Putin for stalling on peace efforts. The Trump administration is considering a request from Ukraine for long-range Tomahawk missiles.

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth called on more countries to contribute to a US scheme that sees allies pay for American weapons for Ukraine, and warned Moscow that the US and its allies would impose costs on it for its continued aggression if the war in Ukraine does not come to an end. “You get peace when you are strong, not when you use strong words or wag your finger, you get it when you have strong and real capabilities that adversaries respect,” Hegseth told reporters. “Now is the time for all NATO countries to turn words into action,” the Pentagon chief said. “No free riders.” Hegseth also warned Moscow that the US and its allies would “impose costs on Russia for its continued aggression” if the war in Ukraine does not come to an end.

Washington has shifted closer to Kyiv as President Donald Trump has lost patience with Russian leader Vladimir Putin for stalling on peace efforts. The Trump administration is considering a request from Ukraine for long-range Tomahawk missiles.

‘Peace comes through strength’: Hegseth warns Russia of ‘costs’ if Ukraine war does not end

The Minister of state in the ministry of external affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh, who was PM Modi's special envoy to the US-Egypt hosted Sharm el-Sheikh peace summit has said that when it comes to the US President Trump's Gaza peace plan "everyone must honour their respective commitments" that could "set the stage for subsequent follow up steps".&nbsp;Under Trump's 20 point Gaza peace plan, after the first phase has been implemented, which involves ceasefire implementation, release of Israeli hostages, Palestinian prisoners, humanitarian access, phase 2 needs to be implemented. Under Phase 2, a multinational force called the International Stabilization Force (ISF) will be deployed, Israeli defence forces will withdraw, Hamas will disarm, and Gaza will be demilitarized. The phase 2 challenges include Hamas’s historical resistance to disarmament and Israel’s insistence on maintaining security control until threats are fully eliminated.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lg-meets-terror-victim-families-in-kupwara-assures-comprehensive-rehabilitation-1760548062509">LG meets terror victim families in Kupwara, assures comprehensive rehabilitation</a>&nbsp;The Indian minister was making the statement at the&nbsp;NAM Ministerial Committee meeting on Palestine in Uganda.&nbsp;Important to note that the NAM Ministerial Committee on Palestine was established under India’s Presidency, during NAM Summit in New Delhi in 1983. While condemning the October 7th, 2023 terror attack by Hamas in Israel, MoS Singh said, "Gaza must have access to food, fuel and other necessities without hindrance". He restated India's policy on a 2 state solution which he said is the "only path to achieve lasting peace and overall prosperity". India backs a sovereign, independent, viable State of Palestine, living side by side in peace and security with Israel, within secure and recognized borders.&nbsp;&nbsp;India meanwhile continues to extend development cooperation and humanitarian assistance to Pakistan. The minister said, "our projects range from health to education; from institution-building to women’s empowerment and more". Since October 2023 alone, India has provided relief assistance of nearly 135 metric tons of medicines and supplies. India also contributes annually $5 million to the core budget of United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). The Indian minister on the sidelines of the meet met Mali Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Somalia Ali Mohamed Omar.&nbsp;

'Everyone must honour commitments', says MoS MEA Kirti Vardhan Singh on Trump's Gaza peace plan

The Minister of state in the ministry of external affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh, who was PM Modi's special envoy to the US-Egypt hosted Sharm el-Sheikh peace summit has said that when it comes to the US President Trump's Gaza peace plan "everyone must honour their respective commitments" that could "set the stage for subsequent follow up steps". Under Trump's 20 point Gaza peace plan, after the first phase has been implemented, which involves ceasefire implementation, release of Israeli hostages, Palestinian prisoners, humanitarian access, phase 2 needs to be implemented. Under Phase 2, a multinational force called the International Stabilization Force (ISF) will be deployed, Israeli defence forces will withdraw, Hamas will disarm, and Gaza will be demilitarized. The phase 2 challenges include Hamas’s historical resistance to disarmament and Israel’s insistence on maintaining security control until threats are fully eliminated. Also Read: LG meets terror victim families in Kupwara, assures comprehensive rehabilitation The Indian minister was making the statement at the NAM Ministerial Committee meeting on Palestine in Uganda. Important to note that the NAM Ministerial Committee on Palestine was established under India’s Presidency, during NAM Summit in New Delhi in 1983. While condemning the October 7th, 2023 terror attack by Hamas in Israel, MoS Singh said, "Gaza must have access to food, fuel and other necessities without hindrance". He restated India's policy on a 2 state solution which he said is the "only path to achieve lasting peace and overall prosperity". India backs a sovereign, independent, viable State of Palestine, living side by side in peace and security with Israel, within secure and recognized borders. India meanwhile continues to extend development cooperation and humanitarian assistance to Pakistan. The minister said, "our projects range from health to education; from institution-building to women’s empowerment and more". Since October 2023 alone, India has provided relief assistance of nearly 135 metric tons of medicines and supplies. India also contributes annually $5 million to the core budget of United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). The Indian minister on the sidelines of the meet met Mali Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Somalia Ali Mohamed Omar.

Under Trump's 20 point Gaza peace plan, after the first phase has been implemented, which involves ceasefire implementation, release of Israeli hostages, Palestinian prisoners, humanitarian access, phase 2 needs to be implemented

Mother of an ex-hostage release in the first phase of the Gaza peace deal, Rom Braslavski, alleged that Hamas forced her son to convert to Islam. When Braslavski came back home after 730 days, his mother alleged that he was tortured and starved during captivity. Meanwhile, in contrast, she claimed they used to give him extra food to lure him into changing his religion.“Rom told me that between April and July they abused him more,” she told the Kan public broadcaster.“Several times a day, they would beat him with a whip and with things that I will not even mention. He absorbed it," she added.“It’s important for him to maintain his Jewish identity because they asked him to convert to Islam,” the mother claimed.“They tried to tempt him with food and small gifts. He didn’t break down and didn’t do it," she added in her allegations.Trump demands slain Gaza hostages backUS President Donald Trump, a day after the first phase of the Gaza peace deal, said that the job was "not done" yet and his team will work to disarm the Palestinian militant group Hamas. He threatened to do so if the Palestinian militants refused to do it themselves, as he called for the group to release the bodies of hostages."If they don't disarm, we will disarm them," Trump told reporters at the White House, hours after returning from Israel and Egypt. "And it will happen quickly and perhaps violently.""I spoke to Hamas and I said 'you're gonna disarm and they said 'yes sir, we're going to disarm,'" said Trump. He said he conveyed the message to the group "through my people" rather than in direct contact. "ALL TWENTY HOSTAGES ARE BACK AND FEELING AS GOOD AS CAN BE EXPECTED. A big burden has been lifted, but the job IS NOT DONE," Trump said on Truth Social."THE DEAD HAVE NOT BEEN RETURNED, AS PROMISED! Phase Two begins right NOW!!!" he added.

 When Braslavski came back home after 730 days, his mother alleged that he was tortured and starved during captivity. Meanwhile, in contrast, she claimed they used to give him extra food to lure him into changing his religion.

Mother of an ex-hostage release in the first phase of the Gaza peace deal, Rom Braslavski, alleged that Hamas forced her son to convert to Islam. When Braslavski came back home after 730 days, his mother alleged that he was tortured and starved during captivity. Meanwhile, in contrast, she claimed they used to give him extra food to lure him into changing his religion. “Rom told me that between April and July they abused him more,” she told the Kan public broadcaster. “Several times a day, they would beat him with a whip and with things that I will not even mention. He absorbed it," she added. “It’s important for him to maintain his Jewish identity because they asked him to convert to Islam,” the mother claimed. “They tried to tempt him with food and small gifts. He didn’t break down and didn’t do it," she added in her allegations. Trump demands slain Gaza hostages back US President Donald Trump, a day after the first phase of the Gaza peace deal, said that the job was "not done" yet and his team will work to disarm the Palestinian militant group Hamas. He threatened to do so if the Palestinian militants refused to do it themselves, as he called for the group to release the bodies of hostages. "If they don't disarm, we will disarm them," Trump told reporters at the White House, hours after returning from Israel and Egypt. "And it will happen quickly and perhaps violently." "I spoke to Hamas and I said 'you're gonna disarm and they said 'yes sir, we're going to disarm,'" said Trump. He said he conveyed the message to the group "through my people" rather than in direct contact. "ALL TWENTY HOSTAGES ARE BACK AND FEELING AS GOOD AS CAN BE EXPECTED. A big burden has been lifted, but the job IS NOT DONE," Trump said on Truth Social. "THE DEAD HAVE NOT BEEN RETURNED, AS PROMISED! Phase Two begins right NOW!!!" he added.

When Braslavski came back home after 730 days, his mother alleged that he was tortured and starved during captivity. Meanwhile, in contrast, she claimed they used to give him extra food to lure him into changing his religion.

Hamas lured hostages to convert to Islam? Ex-captive's mother alleges he was given 'extra food, small gifts' to change his religion

Swedish activist Greta Thunberg recalled the Gaza flotilla incident after the peace deal in the region. The 22-year-old alleged that she was assaulted and treated badly by Israeli authorities after being detained by them.When her belongings were returned, her red suitcase was covered in graffiti. Across it, someone had written cuss words in black letters, surrounded by an Israeli flag and a sexual image, she claimed.“The bag was taken by the Israeli military from our boat and came back like this,” Thunberg told Aftonbladet.“They’re like five-year-olds,” she added.“This is not about me or the others from the flotilla. There are thousands of Palestinians, hundreds of them children, being held without trial right now — and many are most likely being tortured," the activist said.“If Israel, with the whole world watching, can treat a well-known, white person with a Swedish passport like this, imagine what they do to Palestinians behind closed doors," she added.Greta Thunberg claims ‘harsh treatment’ by IsraelWhile being detained, Greta &nbsp;informed her government that she was being harshly treated by the Israeli authorities after she was held by the IDF from a flotilla carrying aid to Gaza. As per a latest report, Israeli forces are also reported by another detainee to have taken photographs where Thunberg was allegedly forced to hold flags. The identity of the flags is unknown.A Swedish official, who visited the activist in prison, said that she claimed she was detained in a cell infested with bedbugs, with too little food and water. The information was given by the Swedish foreign ministry via email to people closer to Greta, the Guardian reported.The email read, "The embassy has been able to meet with Greta. She informed of dehydration. She has received insufficient amounts of both water and food. She also stated that she had developed rashes which she suspects were caused by bedbugs. She spoke of harsh treatment and said she had been sitting for long periods on hard surfaces.” “Another detainee reportedly told another embassy that they had seen her [Thunberg] being forced to hold flags while pictures were taken. She wondered whether images of her had been distributed,” the Swedish ministry’s official added, the British newspaper reported.

When her belongings were returned, her red suitcase was covered in graffiti. Across it, someone had written cuss words in black letters, surrounded by an Israeli flag and a sexual image, she claimed.

Swedish activist Greta Thunberg recalled the Gaza flotilla incident after the peace deal in the region. The 22-year-old alleged that she was assaulted and treated badly by Israeli authorities after being detained by them. When her belongings were returned, her red suitcase was covered in graffiti. Across it, someone had written cuss words in black letters, surrounded by an Israeli flag and a sexual image, she claimed. “The bag was taken by the Israeli military from our boat and came back like this,” Thunberg told Aftonbladet. “They’re like five-year-olds,” she added. “This is not about me or the others from the flotilla. There are thousands of Palestinians, hundreds of them children, being held without trial right now — and many are most likely being tortured," the activist said. “If Israel, with the whole world watching, can treat a well-known, white person with a Swedish passport like this, imagine what they do to Palestinians behind closed doors," she added. Greta Thunberg claims ‘harsh treatment’ by Israel While being detained, Greta informed her government that she was being harshly treated by the Israeli authorities after she was held by the IDF from a flotilla carrying aid to Gaza. As per a latest report, Israeli forces are also reported by another detainee to have taken photographs where Thunberg was allegedly forced to hold flags. The identity of the flags is unknown. A Swedish official, who visited the activist in prison, said that she claimed she was detained in a cell infested with bedbugs, with too little food and water. The information was given by the Swedish foreign ministry via email to people closer to Greta, the Guardian reported. The email read, "The embassy has been able to meet with Greta. She informed of dehydration. She has received insufficient amounts of both water and food. She also stated that she had developed rashes which she suspects were caused by bedbugs. She spoke of harsh treatment and said she had been sitting for long periods on hard surfaces.” “Another detainee reportedly told another embassy that they had seen her [Thunberg] being forced to hold flags while pictures were taken. She wondered whether images of her had been distributed,” the Swedish ministry’s official added, the British newspaper reported.

When her belongings were returned, her red suitcase was covered in graffiti. Across it, someone had written cuss words in black letters, surrounded by an Israeli flag and a sexual image, she claimed.

‘If Israel can treat a well-known white person with a Swedish passport like this...’: Great Thunberg recalls ill treatment by Israel

Donald Trump's Indian-origin ally Vivek Ramaswamy has slammed a new feature of OpenAI's ChatGPT. He slammed the company for its plan to introduce an “Adult Mode" in ChatGPT, calling it a troubling step that could “sexually and emotionally manipulate" users.Ramaswamy said the feature, set to offer erotic content to verified adults, would “do nothing to improve productivity or prosperity" and instead deepen “addiction and loneliness".He posted on X saying, “The unnecessary ‘over-humanisation’ of AI is becoming troubling. This new ‘feature’ will do nothing to improve productivity or prosperity. But it will almost certainly increase addiction &amp; loneliness."Details of the new featureSam Altman, the founder of OpenAI, announced on Tuesday (Oct 14) that there will be a new feature in ChatGPTI that will allow erotic content for verified adult users starting December 2025. In his post shared on X, Altman acknowledged that ChatGPT had been “pretty restrictive" so far, a decision taken to safeguard users’ mental health.“We made ChatGPT pretty restrictive to make sure we were being careful with mental health issues," Altman wrote.“We realise this made it less useful/enjoyable to many users who had no mental health problems, but given the seriousness of the issue, we wanted to get this right," he &nbsp;added.

Ramaswamy said the feature, set to offer erotic content to verified adults, would do nothing to improve productivity or prosperity and instead deepen addiction and loneliness.

Donald Trump's Indian-origin ally Vivek Ramaswamy has slammed a new feature of OpenAI's ChatGPT. He slammed the company for its plan to introduce an “Adult Mode" in ChatGPT, calling it a troubling step that could “sexually and emotionally manipulate" users. Ramaswamy said the feature, set to offer erotic content to verified adults, would “do nothing to improve productivity or prosperity" and instead deepen “addiction and loneliness". He posted on X saying, “The unnecessary ‘over-humanisation’ of AI is becoming troubling. This new ‘feature’ will do nothing to improve productivity or prosperity. But it will almost certainly increase addiction & loneliness." Details of the new feature Sam Altman, the founder of OpenAI, announced on Tuesday (Oct 14) that there will be a new feature in ChatGPTI that will allow erotic content for verified adult users starting December 2025. In his post shared on X, Altman acknowledged that ChatGPT had been “pretty restrictive" so far, a decision taken to safeguard users’ mental health. “We made ChatGPT pretty restrictive to make sure we were being careful with mental health issues," Altman wrote. “We realise this made it less useful/enjoyable to many users who had no mental health problems, but given the seriousness of the issue, we wanted to get this right," he added.

Ramaswamy said the feature, set to offer erotic content to verified adults, would “do nothing to improve productivity or prosperity" and instead deepen “addiction and loneliness".

What is ChatGPT's new erotic feature of 'adult content'? Vivek Ramaswamy calls it 'dangerous'

Metro networks have emerged as a primary mode of urban mobility in the 21st century, driven by rapid urbanisation, a focus away from private vehicles, and a need for an efficient, low-emission public transport system. Here are the top 7 countries leading the race.

Top 7 countries with largest metro networks: How India stands out globally

China’s recent restrictions on rare earth exports are a “global supply chain power grab,” said US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on Wednesday while speaking to reporters at the Treasury Department in Washington, D.C., along with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Bessent also targeted China, saying its actions amounted to a provocation. The remarks were the latest sign that the US-China trade relations continue to deteriorate after Beijing’s announcement last week of new limits on rare earth minerals and related technologies. In response to China’s move, President Donald Trump threatened to impose 100% tariffs on China as well as export controls on “any and all critical software.” China can avoid the new tariffs only if it drops the proposed export controls, Greer told NBC News.&nbsp;“If some in the Chinese government want to slow down the global economy through disappointing actions and through economic coercion, the Chinese economy will be hurt the most—and make no mistake: this is China vs. the world," said Bessent.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SecScottBessent?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecScottBessent</a>: &quot;If some in the Chinese government want to slow down the global economy through disappointing actions and through economic coercion, the Chinese economy will be hurt the most — and make no mistake: this is China vs. the world.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/cywrHwLVDc">pic.twitter.com/cywrHwLVDc</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1978457854852976885?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;Both Bessent and Greer sounded optimistic about Beijing backing down and returning to the negotiating table&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-sooo-dishonest-and-corrupt-trump-hints-corrupt-sen-adam-schiff-could-be-next-to-face-charges-1760294694036">‘Sooo dishonest and corrupt’: Trump hints Sen. Adam Schiff could be next to face charges</a>&nbsp;“Our expectation is that they won’t implement [the controls] and that we’ll be able to be back to where we were a week ago,” said Greer, “where we had the tariff levels we’ve agreed to and we have the flow of rare earth magnets we agreed to.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">.<a href="https://twitter.com/USTradeRep?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USTradeRep</a> Ambassador Greer addresses China&#39;s &quot;power grab&quot; on the global supply chain: &quot;It&#39;s a clear repudiation of everything we&#39;ve been working towards for the last 6 months... The United States won&#39;t stand for it.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/SNN6hLB3F3">pic.twitter.com/SNN6hLB3F3</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1978457038301659322?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;Bessent added that Washington was conferring with its allied trade partners about a unified response to the restrictions. “This is China vs. the world,” he said, adding, “We and our allies will neither be commanded, nor controlled.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobel-laureates-abhijit-banerjee-esther-duflo-to-leave-us-move-to-zurich-amid-funding-cuts-1760280303367">Nobel laureates Abhijit Banerjee, Esther Duflo to leave US, move to Zurich amid funding cuts&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;Rare earth minerals are critical for manufacturing a wide range of products like batteries, electric vehicles, household goods, TVs and smartphones, and solar panels.&nbsp;Besides, even after three rounds of trade talks called successful by officials, China has still not officially approved the sale of TikTok US and has not bought any soybeans from American farmers since May.&nbsp;Both Greer and Bessent said the current 90-day tariff pause in place with China—renewed at least three times so far—could be increased again for a longer interval if China lifts the rare earths restrictions.&nbsp;WATCH: Donald Trump threatens to remove Boston as World Cup host<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-threatens-to-remove-boston-as-world-cup-host-1760541806229/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-threatens-to-remove-boston-as-world-cup-host-1760541806229/embed</a>&nbsp;

Rare earth minerals are critical for manufacturing a wide range of products like batteries, electric vehicles, household goods, TVs, smartphones, and solar panels. Besides, even after three rounds of trade talks, China has still not officially approved the sale of TikTok US.

China’s recent restrictions on rare earth exports are a “global supply chain power grab,” said US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on Wednesday while speaking to reporters at the Treasury Department in Washington, D.C., along with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Bessent also targeted China, saying its actions amounted to a provocation. The remarks were the latest sign that the US-China trade relations continue to deteriorate after Beijing’s announcement last week of new limits on rare earth minerals and related technologies. In response to China’s move, President Donald Trump threatened to impose 100% tariffs on China as well as export controls on “any and all critical software.” China can avoid the new tariffs only if it drops the proposed export controls, Greer told NBC News. “If some in the Chinese government want to slow down the global economy through disappointing actions and through economic coercion, the Chinese economy will be hurt the most—and make no mistake: this is China vs. the world," said Bessent.

Rare earth minerals are critical for manufacturing a wide range of products like batteries, electric vehicles, household goods, TVs, smartphones, and solar panels. Besides, even after three rounds of trade talks, China has still not officially approved the sale of TikTok US.

‘It’s China vs. the world’: US will ‘neither be commanded nor controlled,’ says treasury secretary Scott Bessent

Rahm Emanuel, a leading Democratic figure, has criticised US President Donald Trump for undermining decades of careful US-India strategic planning, blaming it on Trump's desire to secure a Nobel Peace Prize. Emanuel, a former senior advisor to Barack Obama and ex-ambassador to Japan, said Donald Trump's ego led him to disrupt vital diplomatic efforts. He pointed out that Trump’s focus on securing a Nobel Prize overshadowed long-term US interests with India, especially when Trump demanded that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi publicly praise him for the ceasefire deal between India and Pakistan.&nbsp;He said, “He threw it all away because Modi would not say that the President deserves a Nobel Peace Prize for the ceasefire (with Pakistan).” &nbsp;While India asserts the ceasefire decision was made independently following a request from the Pakistani army, Trump has repeatedly claimed he forced India and Pakistan into compliance through threats of severe tariffs.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-candace-owens-failed-australia-s-character-test-and-lost-her-visa-appeal-know-all-about-it-1760537903387">Why Candace Owens failed Australia’s ‘Character Test’ and lost her visa appeal. Know all about it</a>&nbsp;Rahm Emanuel argued that, under Trump, the US lost an opportunity to leverage India as a counterbalance to China in key sectors, including manufacturing, technology, and defense. He emphasised that Trump’s actions essentially disregarded 40 years of bipartisan efforts to strengthen US-India relations.&nbsp;Further, Rahm Emanuel raised concerns about Trump's ties to Pakistan, accusing Donald Trump of compromising US interests due to financial gains from Pakistani dealings. He specifically mentioned Trump’s sons, Donald Jr. and Eric, as well as Jared Kushner, who reportedly had financial interests connected to a Pakistani firm linked to cryptocurrency transactions. Emanuel suggested that Trump’s actions were motivated both by his ego and these financial entanglements. Emanuel’s criticism highlights broader concerns over Trump’s foreign policy decisions and their long-term impact on US alliances and strategic interests.

Top Democrat accuses Trump of sacrificing US-India ties for Nobel Peace Prize; alleges financial links to Pakistan via son

Rahm Emanuel, a leading Democratic figure, has criticised US President Donald Trump for undermining decades of careful US-India strategic planning, blaming it on Trump's desire to secure a Nobel Peace Prize. Emanuel, a former senior advisor to Barack Obama and ex-ambassador to Japan, said Donald Trump's ego led him to disrupt vital diplomatic efforts. He pointed out that Trump’s focus on securing a Nobel Prize overshadowed long-term US interests with India, especially when Trump demanded that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi publicly praise him for the ceasefire deal between India and Pakistan. He said, “He threw it all away because Modi would not say that the President deserves a Nobel Peace Prize for the ceasefire (with Pakistan).” While India asserts the ceasefire decision was made independently following a request from the Pakistani army, Trump has repeatedly claimed he forced India and Pakistan into compliance through threats of severe tariffs. Also Read: Why Candace Owens failed Australia’s ‘Character Test’ and lost her visa appeal. Know all about it Rahm Emanuel argued that, under Trump, the US lost an opportunity to leverage India as a counterbalance to China in key sectors, including manufacturing, technology, and defense. He emphasised that Trump’s actions essentially disregarded 40 years of bipartisan efforts to strengthen US-India relations. Further, Rahm Emanuel raised concerns about Trump's ties to Pakistan, accusing Donald Trump of compromising US interests due to financial gains from Pakistani dealings. He specifically mentioned Trump’s sons, Donald Jr. and Eric, as well as Jared Kushner, who reportedly had financial interests connected to a Pakistani firm linked to cryptocurrency transactions. Emanuel suggested that Trump’s actions were motivated both by his ego and these financial entanglements. Emanuel’s criticism highlights broader concerns over Trump’s foreign policy decisions and their long-term impact on US alliances and strategic interests.

The Democrat has criticised Donald Trump for jeopardising US-India ties due to his Nobel Peace Prize aspirations and also alleged Pakistan-related financial connections

India has pitched its indigenous weapons systems and platforms to Brazil during key talks that were held between Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh with&nbsp;Brazil Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, and Defence Minister José Múcio Monteiro Filho in Delhi on Wednesday. A statement by the Indian side on the talks said, India and Brazil had "forward-looking discussions on issues pertaining to Defence Cooperation with a focus on expanding Military to Military Cooperation and Defence Industrial Collaboration".The talks focused on Brazil's interest in the Akash missile system, an indigenous Indian medium-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) defense system designed to protect vulnerable areas, points, and assets from aerial threats such as fighter aircraft, cruise missiles, drones, and helicopters.&nbsp; Developed under India's Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP) by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), it is produced by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). In the past, India has exported the Akash missile system to Armenia, with the first battery delivered in November 2024.In the past few years, India, Brazil have had talks on firming up defence ties. Brazil has been interested in secure communication systems on the battlefield and offshore patrol vessels from India. The South American country is also interested in partnering with Delhi in maintaining the Scorpene submarine, coastal surveillance system, and Garuda artillery guns.&nbsp;The Indian statement on Wednesday's talks said, "the leaders reviewed the progress of ongoing defence related initiatives and identified priority areas for joint work including exploring opportunities for co-development &amp; co-production of defence equipment".The visit of the Brazilian vice president and defence minister is the 2nd high-level visit to India from Brazil in a few weeks' time. Earlier this month, the Brazilian NSA had visited for talks with his counterpart, NSA Ajit Doval. Next year, Brazilian President Lula da Silva is expected to visit India for a state visit.

In the past few years, India, Brazil have had talks on firming up defence ties. Brazil has been interested in secure communication systems on the battlefield and offshore patrol vessels from India. 

India has pitched its indigenous weapons systems and platforms to Brazil during key talks that were held between Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh with Brazil Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, and Defence Minister José Múcio Monteiro Filho in Delhi on Wednesday. A statement by the Indian side on the talks said, India and Brazil had "forward-looking discussions on issues pertaining to Defence Cooperation with a focus on expanding Military to Military Cooperation and Defence Industrial Collaboration". The talks focused on Brazil's interest in the Akash missile system, an indigenous Indian medium-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) defense system designed to protect vulnerable areas, points, and assets from aerial threats such as fighter aircraft, cruise missiles, drones, and helicopters. Developed under India's Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP) by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), it is produced by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). In the past, India has exported the Akash missile system to Armenia, with the first battery delivered in November 2024. In the past few years, India, Brazil have had talks on firming up defence ties. Brazil has been interested in secure communication systems on the battlefield and offshore patrol vessels from India. The South American country is also interested in partnering with Delhi in maintaining the Scorpene submarine, coastal surveillance system, and Garuda artillery guns. The Indian statement on Wednesday's talks said, "the leaders reviewed the progress of ongoing defence related initiatives and identified priority areas for joint work including exploring opportunities for co-development & co-production of defence equipment". The visit of the Brazilian vice president and defence minister is the 2nd high-level visit to India from Brazil in a few weeks' time. Earlier this month, the Brazilian NSA had visited for talks with his counterpart, NSA Ajit Doval. Next year, Brazilian President Lula da Silva is expected to visit India for a state visit.

In the past few years, India, Brazil have had talks on firming up defence ties. Brazil has been interested in secure communication systems on the battlefield and offshore patrol vessels from India.&nbsp;

India pitches indigenous Akash missile system to Brazil

Candace Owens, a conservative political commentator from the United States, lost her legal challenge after the Australian high court upheld the government’s decision to bar her entry. The court ruled on Wednesday (October 15) that Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke was justified in denying Owens a visa, citing "character" grounds. Burke had invoked the Migration Act last year to conclude that Owens failed the ‘character test’. The decision was based on concerns that Owens could 'incite discord' within Australian society.&nbsp;&nbsp;Her controversial public statements, including inflammatory remarks about various minority groups, were central to the minister’s rationale for the visa refusal. In response, Owens' legal team argued that the Migration Act was unconstitutional, claiming it infringed on Australia's implied right to free speech, especially in political matters.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/us-passport-slips-from-top-10-as-singapore-south-korea-and-japan-dominate-global-rankings-check-where-india-is-on-the-list-1760529502263">US passport slips from top 10 as Singapore, South Korea, and Japan dominate global rankings. Check where India is on the list</a>&nbsp;However, the high court dismissed this argument, ruling that the restrictions on political speech were necessary to&nbsp;protect national security and public order. Justices Stephen Gageler, Michelle Gordon, and Robert Beech-Jones emphasised that the implied freedom of political communication is not an unlimited right, but rather one that can be restricted when public safety is at risk. This ruling follows a similar case in July, when Australian authorities also revoked the visa of rapper Ye (formerly Kanye West) over his promotion of hate speech in a recent song.

Why Candace Owens failed Australia’s ‘Character Test’ and lost her visa appeal. Know all about it

Candace Owens, a conservative political commentator from the United States, lost her legal challenge after the Australian high court upheld the government’s decision to bar her entry. The court ruled on Wednesday (October 15) that Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke was justified in denying Owens a visa, citing "character" grounds. Burke had invoked the Migration Act last year to conclude that Owens failed the ‘character test’. The decision was based on concerns that Owens could 'incite discord' within Australian society. Her controversial public statements, including inflammatory remarks about various minority groups, were central to the minister’s rationale for the visa refusal. In response, Owens' legal team argued that the Migration Act was unconstitutional, claiming it infringed on Australia's implied right to free speech, especially in political matters. Also Read: US passport slips from top 10 as Singapore, South Korea, and Japan dominate global rankings. Check where India is on the list However, the high court dismissed this argument, ruling that the restrictions on political speech were necessary to protect national security and public order. Justices Stephen Gageler, Michelle Gordon, and Robert Beech-Jones emphasised that the implied freedom of political communication is not an unlimited right, but rather one that can be restricted when public safety is at risk. This ruling follows a similar case in July, when Australian authorities also revoked the visa of rapper Ye (formerly Kanye West) over his promotion of hate speech in a recent song.

Australia’s high court upheld the government’s decision to deny Candace Owens a visa, citing concerns over her controversial views and the risk of inciting discord

Freshwater is one of the most vital resources available on Earth. Of all water resources, only 3% is fresh water, and less than 1% is accessible to humans; the rest is locked in glaciers, icecaps and underground aquifers. Here are the top 10 countries with the most fresh water reserves. 

Top 10 countries with the most freshwater resources in the world in 2025

In the ongoing border clashes between Afghanistan and Pakistan, a temporary ceasefire of 48 hours has been reportedly announced by Pakistan. As per Reuters, Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban administration have agreed to a temporary ceasefire for 48 hours starting 6:00 p.m. Pakistan local time (1300 GMT) on Wednesday (Oct 15).This came after at least 15 more civilians were killed in the Taliban ruling nation, whereas they were reported dead. While Reuters reported at least six Pakistani paramilitary soldiers were killed in a clash with militants near the Afghan border, Afghan officials told AFP news agency that 15 civilians were dead and dozens were injured in the fresh violence on the border between the two countries.&nbsp;What's happening?A massive clash erupted between Pakistan and Afghanistan forces at multiple border areas of the countries. Both sides claimed they had captured and destroyed border posts. The Taliban administration’s spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, said at least 58 Pakistani soldiers were killed in “retaliatory” attacks on Saturday (October 11). This came two days after two blasts happened in Afghanistan. The tensions between the two nations are being called the worst border clashes in recent years.Meanwhile, the Pakistani authorities claimed that their 23 soldiers were killed while the Islamabad forces killed 200 Taliban and affiliated “terrorists”. The Taliban government has accused Pakistan of being behind the bombings in Kabul and the southeastern province of Paktika two days ago. The Shehbaz Sharif government neither denied the allegations nor confirmed them.How did it all start?It all started around 10:30 pm on Saturday (October 11) when Taliban forces attacked the Pakistan border, which later converted into multiple firing at various locations in the border area. Pakistan named Angoor Adda, Bajaur, Kurram, Dir, Bahram Chah, and Chitral as the locations where the clashes erupted. They all come under the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province except Bahram Chah in Balochistan.The Pakistani military on Sunday condemned what it called “the cowardly action”, saying it was aimed at destabilising the border to facilitate terrorism”.“Exercising the right of self-defence, the alert Armed Forces of Pakistan repelled the assault decisively,” Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the military’s media wing, said in a statement.What triggered the clashes?Afghanistan experienced two major bomb blasts on Thursday Taliban government accused Pakistan of violating Afghanistan’s “sovereign territory”.

Afghanistan-Pakistan border clashes: Temporary ceasefire announced for 48 hours. All details here. 

In the ongoing border clashes between Afghanistan and Pakistan, a temporary ceasefire of 48 hours has been reportedly announced by Pakistan. As per Reuters, Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban administration have agreed to a temporary ceasefire for 48 hours starting 6:00 p.m. Pakistan local time (1300 GMT) on Wednesday (Oct 15). This came after at least 15 more civilians were killed in the Taliban ruling nation, whereas they were reported dead. While Reuters reported at least six Pakistani paramilitary soldiers were killed in a clash with militants near the Afghan border, Afghan officials told AFP news agency that 15 civilians were dead and dozens were injured in the fresh violence on the border between the two countries. What's happening? A massive clash erupted between Pakistan and Afghanistan forces at multiple border areas of the countries. Both sides claimed they had captured and destroyed border posts. The Taliban administration’s spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, said at least 58 Pakistani soldiers were killed in “retaliatory” attacks on Saturday (October 11). This came two days after two blasts happened in Afghanistan. The tensions between the two nations are being called the worst border clashes in recent years. Meanwhile, the Pakistani authorities claimed that their 23 soldiers were killed while the Islamabad forces killed 200 Taliban and affiliated “terrorists”. The Taliban government has accused Pakistan of being behind the bombings in Kabul and the southeastern province of Paktika two days ago. The Shehbaz Sharif government neither denied the allegations nor confirmed them. How did it all start? It all started around 10:30 pm on Saturday (October 11) when Taliban forces attacked the Pakistan border, which later converted into multiple firing at various locations in the border area. Pakistan named Angoor Adda, Bajaur, Kurram, Dir, Bahram Chah, and Chitral as the locations where the clashes erupted. They all come under the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province except Bahram Chah in Balochistan. The Pakistani military on Sunday condemned what it called “the cowardly action”, saying it was aimed at destabilising the border to facilitate terrorism”. “Exercising the right of self-defence, the alert Armed Forces of Pakistan repelled the assault decisively,” Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the military’s media wing, said in a statement. What triggered the clashes? Afghanistan experienced two major bomb blasts on Thursday Taliban government accused Pakistan of violating Afghanistan’s “sovereign territory”.

Afghanistan-Pakistan border clashes: Temporary ceasefire announced for 48 hours. All details here.&nbsp;

Afghanistan-Pakistan border clashes: Temporary ceasefire announced for 48 hours. All details here

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Afghanistan-Pakistan border clashes: Temporary ceasefire announced for 48 hours