BLACK SEA CONFLICT
Captured in Nairobi and jailed in an island prison for nearly 30 years, who is Abdullah Ocalan? The Kurdish leader who continues to be central to Turkey’s peace talks
Abdullah Ocalan, co-founder of the PKK, has been imprisoned since 1999 and still influences Kurdish politics. His recent relocation within Imrali Prison has sparked discussions about his prison conditions and the peace process. Politician Mithat Sancar indicated that negotiations have stalled for two months after Ocalan's disarmament call. The PKK announced an end to its armed campaign, creating potential for a political settlement.
EAM Jaishankar discusses Ukraine-Russia conflict solutions amid G20 summit
India has engaged in discussions with Russia, Europe, and Ukraine regarding the ongoing conflict and its impact. These talks focused on preventing attacks on civilian shipping and restoring grain exports affected by Black Sea disruptions. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasised the complexity of discussions around ceasing attacks on energy installations. Various interpretations of what constitutes energy installations have complicated these discussions.
US, Canada see growing interest in limited ceasefire in Black Sea
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted the growing interest in a limited ceasefire in the Black Sea. He emphasized the importance of facilitating grain shipments while pressing for a broader settlement of the ongoing war. Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand confronted Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov about Russia's invasion of Ukraine during the G20 meeting.
G20 foreign ministers to end Atlanta meeting without consensus on key issues
Top diplomats from the G20 nations met in Atlanta, discussing critical global security issues without consensus. Significant divisions arose, particularly regarding Russia's war with Ukraine and the Iran conflict. Instead of a joint communique, a chairman's statement will summarize their discussions. Participants hoped to make the upcoming G20 leaders summit in Florida a success despite disagreements. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the need for unity during the conversations.
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World War III? A ship sank off Bulgaria after a drone attack. Could the Black Sea crisis pull NATO closer to war?
World War III warning: The sinking of a cargo ship off Bulgaria's Black Sea coast has raised fresh questions about how far the Russia-Ukraine war could spread. Three maritime drones struck the Liberian-flagged container ship Contship Jet on Wednesday, causing the vessel to sink, according to Bulgarian authorities. The incident took place inside Bulgaria's exclusive economic zone, close to NATO territory.
G20 diplomats, including from China and Russia, face deep rifts as they prepare to meet in Atlanta
Top diplomats from the G20 nations are convening in Atlanta to discuss pressing global issues. Key topics include regional conflicts and trade tensions affecting international security. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio aims to facilitate cooperation among member countries. However, deep divisions are evident, especially regarding military actions and the Ukraine situation. This meeting serves as a precursor to the upcoming G20 summit hosted by President Trump.
Gold dips on firmer dollar; US inflation data in focus
Gold prices experienced a decline as the dollar strengthened following the Federal Reserve's decision to hold interest rates steady. Market participants are now paying close attention to forthcoming inflation statistics, which could sway the Fed's future decisions. Spot gold dropped by 0.7%, while both silver and platinum recorded slight downturns. However, palladium saw a modest uptick due to ongoing market volatility.
World Bank sees commodity prices surging 23% in 2026 on Middle East war
Commodity prices were projected to rise 23% in 2026 as the Middle East war disrupted energy supplies and shipping, while grain disruptions and safe haven demand pushed food and metals prices higher. The World Bank warned that further conflict escalation and a severe El Niño could intensify inflation and food security risks.
World Bank sounds alarm on food crisis as energy shock and El Nino push commodity prices up 23%
Global commodity prices are projected to rise significantly in 2026, driven by conflict in the Middle East and supply disruptions. Energy prices are likely to escalate by 32% due to decreased oil supply and increased consumption. Food prices are expected to increase about 10% in 2026 due to rising farm costs and disrupted grain shipments. The World Bank emphasizes the urgency of supporting vulnerable countries facing economic hardships.
Trump envoy Witkoff meets Putin in St. Petersburg for Ukraine war talks
Steve Witkoff held talks with Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg to discuss peace efforts regarding Ukraine. These meetings follow Witkoff's recent discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Oslo. Zelenskyy emphasized the need to freeze the conflict to achieve an end to the war. Trump expressed increasing pressure on Zelenskyy to negotiate a deal with Russia. Ongoing Russian attacks in Ukraine continue to result in casualties and damage to infrastructure.
Giant 'heat storms' are scorching the Earth. This is the story of the biggest one on record
Heat storms have increased dramatically, causing severe global consequences including excess deaths and environmental catastrophes. Recent heat storms have been identified as a new classification, representing larger and more persistent heat events. The intensity of these heat storms has worsened due to climate change and greenhouse gas emissions. Associated weather patterns have significantly disrupted ecosystems and agriculture worldwide.
Ukraine launches more than 1,000 drones at Russia as spat between Trump and Zelenskyy continues
Ukrainian strikes reportedly targeted an oil export terminal and depot in St. Petersburg, resulting in casualties. U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Ukraine's actions and delayed new sanctions against Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the waiver of sanctions, stating it would benefit Putin. Hostilities continued with both sides suffering losses, including attacks on energy infrastructure. Ukraine's Foreign Ministry apologized for an errant drone entering Lithuanian airspace during military operations.
Restrictions expose Ukraine's Starlink dependency in Russia war: Observers
As Ukraine faces significant constraints on the use of Starlink satellite internet amid its ongoing conflict with Russia, military operations are increasingly jeopardized, especially in terms of drone communication effectiveness. With winter approaching, the pressure mounts on air defense systems to address rising Russian drone threats. Ongoing discussions among officials regarding the reasons behind these limitations highlight concerns about the future of U.S.
IMF edges up 2026 global growth forecast to 3.1% but warns economy is ‘vulnerable to setbacks from both directions’
The International Monetary Fund has updated its global growth forecast for 2026 to 3.1 percent. Concerns remain about the economy's resilience amidst geopolitical tensions and depleting oil inventories. Advanced economies are projected to grow more slowly, while emerging markets may face slowdowns. Inflation is expected to remain high, impacting consumer prices worldwide. Policymakers are urged to strengthen fiscal measures and manage inflationary pressures effectively.
Drones hit ships in Black Sea, sinking 1 and prompting rescue operations, Bulgaria says
On Tuesday, drones targeted two ships in the Black Sea off Bulgaria, causing significant damage and injuries. Rescuers successfully evacuated the crew from one ship, while a second vessel sank during the attack. Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev condemned the strikes and sought assistance from NATO and the European Union. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha accused Russia of responsibility for these attacks on commercial vessels.
India miffed over 'Ukrainian' drone strike on oil tanker
Aa Ukrainian drone assault targeted the Liberian-flagged Aframax Rio, carrying Indian citizens off the coast of Sochi. Fortunately, all 23 crew members were rescued after the fire broke out. India's Ministry of External Affairs has called for open dialogue to safeguard seafarers and ensure the freedom of navigation, stressing the critical need to restore international maritime safety and trade stability.
Russia grateful to India for its readiness to help resolve Ukraine conflict: Kremlin
India has put forward a significant plan aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, receiving praise from Russia. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov acknowledged the importance of India's initiative, highlighting the harmonious relationship between the two nations. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha noted that India's proposal stands out as the most extensive in comparison to other countries' offers.
A global job spinner for Indians is now turning into a death trap
India has emerged as the world’s second-largest supplier of seafarers, but its growing presence aboard global merchant ships has also left more Indians exposed to wars, piracy and unsafe working conditions. Recent attacks in the Black Sea and off Oman have put the spotlight on how India is trying to protect its maritime workforce through tighter regulation, repatriation efforts, real-time tracking and international cooperation.
India-bound sunflower oil cargoes face cancellation, delays as war disrupts Russian shipments
The Russia-Ukraine conflict has also delayed about 60,000 tons of sunflower oil bound for India, prompting Indian buyers to step up palm oil purchases ahead of the festival season, trade sources said.
India navigating multipolar 'age of flux', says Jaishankar; talks on with Russia, Ukraine for safe Black Sea passage
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar affirmed the importance of the US as a primary strategic partner for India. He emphasized India's nuanced approach to relationships with various nations including China and Russia. Jaishankar also addressed the challenges in securing grain and fuel shipments amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict. He called for a reform in the United Nations to better represent the Global South.
23 Indian seafarers reported safe after Ukrainian drone attack sets fire to oil tanker off Russian coast
A Liberian-flagged oil tanker carrying an Indian crew caught fire off Russia's Black Sea coast following a Ukrainian drone attack, with all 23 crew members safely rescued. India condemned ongoing maritime attacks, urging dialogue and diplomacy to protect global commerce and seafarers.
Ukraine drone attacks oil tanker off Russia’s Sochi with 23 Indians aboard, all rescued
Ukraine struck an oil tanker off the southern Russian coast on Tuesday evening, triggering a huge fire and black smoke cloud that blanketed parts of the resort city of Sochi. Videos and photos circulated widely on social media from Sochi -- a popular resort city of almost 500,000 people -- showing bright orange flames out at sea and a thick column of black smoke billowing into the sky.
MEA condemns Black Sea attack that killed two seafarers, expresses grave concern over strikes on commercial shipping
India has condemned the attack on the commercial vessel MV ROYAD MAMMADOV that resulted in two fatalities. All three Indian nationals aboard the ship have been reported safe, with one receiving medical attention. The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized the need for dialogue to resolve ongoing conflicts affecting commercial shipping. Indian authorities are in close contact with Romanian officials to support the injured crew members.
UN ‘largely irrelevant’ to major global conflicts, Jaishankar says, calls for reform
S Jaishankar addressed the need for reform in the United Nations during the 5th Kautilya Economic Conclave. He pointed out the UN's irrelevance in addressing significant global issues, including conflicts in Ukraine and the Gulf. Jaishankar noted that the Security Council is gridlocked and does not represent global interests adequately. He emphasized the importance of fixing the UN instead of bypassing it.
India seeks greater role in brokering Russia-Ukraine peace
India's Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar stated that dialogue and diplomacy are necessary to resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict. He revealed that India is increasing its involvement in discussions with both Russia and Ukraine. Current talks include issues related to shipping safety in the Black Sea and the export of grain and energy. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky mentioned the United States' desire to facilitate new discussions for peace negotiations.
'Our side is ready to support': Zelenskyy expresses readiness for US-proposed trilateral talks with Russia
Ukraine is ready for a proposed trilateral meeting with the US and Russia at the technical level by the end of October, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. The announcement came after fresh Russian drone and missile attacks across Ukraine, while India said it was separately engaging Moscow and Kyiv on issues including Black Sea shipping and exports.
Got little bit more involved beyond advocacy: Jaishankar on India's peace efforts to end Ukraine conflict
India has reportedly intensified its diplomatic initiatives to address the ongoing Ukraine conflict through discussions. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar noted that India is engaging with both Kyiv and Moscow for resolution. Recent remarks from Russian President Vladimir Putin highlighted India's potential role in finding a solution.
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