US STATE DEPARTMENT
White House says Trump to meet PM Modi in France; no word from Indian side yet
President Trump and Prime Minister Modi are set to meet in France. This meeting comes as US forces have attacked merchant ships carrying Indian nationals in the Gulf of Oman. An Indian dhow sank off Oman, but all 14 crew members were rescued. The US Navy assisted in the rescue.
India's protest with US over strike that killed three Indian mariners fell on deaf ears: Manish Tewari
Congress leader Manish Tewari has strongly criticized the United States' reaction to the deaths of three Indian sailors. He stated the US response was belligerent, not regretful. The US Secretary of State's remarks lacked empathy. India's External Affairs Minister conveyed a strong protest. The US emphasized adherence to blockade orders. This incident has sparked criticism from Indian leaders.
Modi government has belittled India's global standing and sovereignty: Mallikarjun Kharge
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his silence following the deaths of three Indian mariners. The incident occurred during a US attack on a commercial vessel in West Asia. Kharge stated that silence is not a substitute for accountability. He also accused the Modi government of undermining India's global standing and sovereignty.
‘Comply with US forces in Hormuz immediately,’ Rubio tells Jaishankar amid row over Indian sailors
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged compliance with US forces in the Strait of Hormuz. This follows India's strong protest over US naval attacks in the Gulf. These attacks resulted in the deaths of three Indian mariners aboard a Palau-flagged tanker. India summoned the US Embassy's Charge d'Affaires to register its objection.
Where the past curls up everywhere: A Balkan journey through time and memory
Exploring the Balkans is like stepping into a living museum, where the aroma of tobacco and traces of post-communism paint a vivid portrait of yesteryears. The charm of cities such as Tirana and Prizren beckons travelers to reminisce, as each monument and street name serves as a bridge linking modernity with historical significance.
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Trump's allies have another plan to pay 'weaponisation' victims
Former President Trump's allies are now looking at a 1946 law to pay supporters. This comes after a planned "weaponization" fund was dropped. The Federal Tort Claims Act allows claims against the US government. This could include individuals involved in the January 6th Capitol events. Discussions are ongoing to find ways to provide these payments.
Sam Bankman-Fried loses bid to overturn crypto fraud conviction
Sam Bankman-Fried's bid to overturn his fraud conviction and 25-year prison sentence has failed. The appeals court found prosecutors' evidence robust. Bankman-Fried used FTX customer funds for personal expenses. He was found guilty of stealing $8 billion. He is eligible for release in 2044. He is also seeking a presidential pardon.
Trump says US military strike killed leader of Venezuela's Tren de Aragua gang
U.S. forces, under President Trump's direction, conducted a lethal strike killing Hector Rusthenford Guerrero Flores, known as Nino Guerrero, the leader of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. The operation, coordinated with Venezuelan partners, targeted the organization for alleged involvement in drug smuggling, human trafficking, and money laundering.
US Justice Department clears Paramount's acquisition of Warner Bros
The U.S. Justice Department has approved Paramount Skydance Corp's massive $110 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery. This regulatory green light comes as several states prepare to challenge the deal in court. Paramount argues the merger will boost competition. However, concerns persist within Hollywood regarding job losses and storytelling diversity.
President Trump will not attend US team's World Cup opener
President Donald Trump will miss the United States' World Cup opening match. His schedule is tight, requiring him to be in Washington D.C. for the UFC Freedom 250 event. This is not unprecedented for a host nation's leader. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will lead the U.S. delegation. Andrew Giuliani suggested Trump may engage more with the World Cup later.
US plans major cut to fighter jets, warships for NATO operations in Europe, NYT reports
The United States is set to significantly reduce its aircraft and warships available for NATO operations in Europe, impacting long-range strike and surveillance capabilities. This move includes cutting fighter jets, reconnaissance planes, and aerial refuelling tankers. NATO acknowledges a historical over-reliance on US forces, suggesting a shift towards greater European and Canadian defence contributions.
China says holding US citizen suspected of spying
China has detained an American citizen, Min Zin, accusing him of espionage. He is a political analyst with the Institute for Strategy and Policy Myanmar. Chinese authorities state he is suspected of activities endangering national security. The US consulate in Guangzhou has been notified. Min Zin was reportedly arrested at Kunming airport.
Trump administration challenges judge’s order on $100,000 H-1B visa fee
The Trump administration is appealing a federal judge's decision that invalidated a $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applications. A Boston court ruled the increased cost, intended to curb immigration and protect American jobs, was an illegal tax. This legal battle highlights ongoing efforts to challenge the administration's immigration policies, with other lawsuits also pending.
US producer prices rose 6.5% in May on higher energy prices, largest yearly jump since November 2022
American producer prices saw their biggest jump since late 2022. Energy costs soared, impacting inflation significantly. This surge follows the Iran war and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Wholesale gasoline prices climbed sharply. Consumer prices also rose, exceeding the Federal Reserve's target. U.S. crude oil inventories are depleting. This situation could affect the refining system.
US reaches EB-5 visa limit for Indian applicants, new issuances paused until October
The US has exhausted its FY2026 EB-5 unreserved immigrant visas for Indian applicants, halting further issuances until October 1, 2026. This means Indian investors seeking permanent residency through the EB-5 program will have to wait until the new fiscal year begins to apply. Visa allocations will reset for FY2027.
Arizona’s San Carlos Lake closes after catastrophic fish kill wipes out ‘approximately 100%’ of fish population; best alternatives for fishing and camping
San Carlos Lake in Eastern Arizona is now closed to all fishing and recreation. A massive fish kill has wiped out nearly the entire fish population. This closure impacts anglers and wildlife. Officials warn of health risks from decomposing fish. Several alternative destinations like Knoll Lake and Big Lake are suggested for fishing and camping.
US cracks down on 'birth tourism' networks, revokes hundreds of visas
The US has dismantled overseas "birth tourism" networks, revoking hundreds of visas for foreign nationals who traveled to give birth and secure US citizenship for their children. This action, part of the Trump administration's efforts to curb immigration system abuse, involved shutting down companies that coached applicants and arranged travel and housing.
Neeraj Sharma case: How fake job offers triggered major H-1B visa fraud probe in the US
US H1-B visa fraud: A major US immigration fraud probe targets 17 naturalised citizens. Neeraj Sharma, an Indian-origin CEO, faces denaturalisation over alleged H-1B visa fraud. Fake job offers were reportedly used to manipulate the visa system. This action is part of a significant government crackdown on fraudulent citizenship claims.
$327.1 billion US exports in April touch record high
America's trade deficit shrank in April. This happened as exports of oil products and capital goods reached new highs. This trend could help trade contribute to economic growth this quarter. The trade gap reduced by 1.2 percent to 55.9 billion dollars. Exports climbed to a record 327.1 billion dollars. Petroleum exports saw a significant jump.
India trusted partner in quantum computing, supply chains: US official
India is a trusted partner for the US in key technology areas like quantum computing and supply chains. US Under Secretary of State Sarah Rogers highlighted this during her visit to the region. She noted productive collaboration between American and Indian companies. The TRUST initiative is a significant deliverable advancing strategic interests. Future collaborations on technology are expected.
Trump says pilots safe after US Army Apache goes down near Hormuz
A US Army Apache helicopter crashed near the Strait of Hormuz. President Donald Trump confirmed the pilots are safe and uninjured. The crew members were rescued. The reason for the crash remains unclear. Investigations are underway to determine if it was due to enemy fire or mechanical issues. Further details are expected.
US to offer B1/B2 visa interview appointments within 10 days for additional $750 fee
The US State Department will launch a pilot programme from July 1 allowing certain consulates to offer B1/B2 visa applicants interview appointments within 10 business days for an additional $750 fee. The premium service, available in limited numbers at select locations through December 31, will only expedite appointment scheduling and will not affect visa processing times, eligibility requirements or approval chances.
Trump's $100,000 H-1B visa fee is unlawful, US judge rules
A United States judge has ruled a $100,000 fee on new H-1B visas unlawful. President Donald Trump had announced this fee in September. The ruling came after a lawsuit filed by 20 Democratic state attorneys general. This fee significantly increased the cost of obtaining H-1B visas for skilled foreign workers. The judge ordered the fee to be invalidated.
US lawmakers urge tighter rules on contract chipmakers supplying Chinese firms' overseas units
This comes after the Trump administration last week moved to halt a potential loophole that may have led companies to export advanced chips such as those made by Nvidia to subsidiaries of Chinese companies located outside China. That potential loophole arose last year when the Trump administration announced it would not enforce rules put in place by the previous Biden administration governing global access to US chips.
US says BYD, Baidu and Alibaba and other tech giants are aiding China's military
The U.S. has updated its list of Chinese companies aiding Beijing's military, adding tech giants like Alibaba and Baidu, alongside chipmakers CXMT and YMTC. This move, superseding a 2025 list, could heighten U.S.-China tensions and impact firms through future contracting restrictions.
US approves $1.5 billion sale of maritime helicopters to New Zealand
The U.S. has approved a $1.5 billion sale of five Seahawk helicopters to New Zealand, a move supporting the nation's plan to nearly double military spending. This initiative aims to bolster defense capabilities amid a shifting global strategic landscape and China's military rise, enhancing security for critical infrastructure and homeland defense.
US visa laws do not target India; H-1B rules part of global framework, clarifies State Dept official
A senior US State Department official stated that US visa laws are applied uniformly across all countries, including India, dispelling concerns about H-1B visas and immigration policies. The US aims to balance job opportunities for its citizens with facilitating necessary foreign talent for investment and economic growth.
US optimistic about progress in trade talks with India; deal a priority: State Dept
The US is optimistic about trade negotiations with India, with a bilateral trade deal remaining a priority for the Trump administration. State Department Spokesperson Tommy Pigott highlighted constructive discussions and the role of US Ambassador Sergio Gor in advancing trade and investment ties. Regarding immigration, Pigott stated visa laws are being applied consistently and globally, ensuring clarity for all countries.
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