Donald Trump's Gaza plan complicates hoped-for Saudi-Israeli deal

President Trump urged Russia to spare surrounded Ukrainian soldiers, as US envoy Steve Witkoff discussed a ceasefire with Putin in Moscow. Trump described the talks as "very good and productive," while Putin urged Ukrainian troops in Kursk to surrender for humane treatment. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed "cautious optimism," and Ukraine’s Zelensky criticized Putin's stance as "very manipulative." Full Article

Russia reported shooting down 126 Ukrainian drones over Volgograd and Voronezh regions after rejecting a ceasefire proposed by the US. President Putin expressed support for a truce but raised concerns about implementation. Ukraine has been using drones in retaliation, targeting border regions and launching a significant attack on Moscow. Full Article

US immigration authorities have arrested Leqaa Kordia, a Palestinian student from Columbia University, for participating in pro-Palestinian protests and overstaying her terminated student visa. This follows the arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, sparking debate over free speech and antisemitism on campus. The Trump administration has demanded reforms at Columbia, threatening to cancel federal grants and contracts over allegations of failing to protect Jewish students during protests. Full Article

India's defence sector is set for significant growth, with defence exports projected to reach Rs 203 billion in FY25 and a target of Rs 500 billion by FY29. The report by Nuvama highlights that European defence orders could start in the first half of FY26, providing a crucial opportunity for Indian companies due to Europe's manufacturing limitations. European nations are seeking partnerships with Indian defence manufacturers to address their manufacturing capacity and workforce shortages, paving...

French President Emmanuel Macron urged Russia to accept the US-brokered proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, stressing the need to end atrocities. Macron criticized Russia for delaying statements and assured France's unwavering support for Ukraine's peace efforts, announcing a video conference with partners to address the issue. Full Article

Retired Test opener David Warner doubts whether England's aggressive "Bazball" approach will succeed in Australia due to bouncier pitches and high-risk tactics. The strategy, led by Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum, saw mixed results, with England failing to retain the Ashes and losing in India. Warner, now playing for London Spirit in The Hundred, is eager for the challenge and expects a mixed reception from fans at Lord's, where tensions flared during the 2023 Ashes....