BLACK SEA REGION
Endless wars must give way to end of war: MEA emphasises PM Modi's message on India's engagement with Russia, Ukraine
India has conveyed proposals to Russia and Ukraine aimed at restoring peace in the region. These ideas include ensuring the safety of commercial shipping in the Black Sea and addressing energy and grain export concerns. Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed the conflict with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, emphasizing the need for dialogue. Subsequently, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar engaged in conversations with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
A day before US-brokered talks, Russia and Ukraine batter each other with long-range strikes
Russia has targeted multiple electrical substations in Ukraine amid ongoing military actions. Ukrainian forces have hit a major oil refinery in Russia, crippling its supply capabilities. Diplomatic talks between Russia and Ukraine are scheduled with U.S. mediation amid the ongoing conflict. European Union emergency funding for Ukrainian power grid repairs has been activated to aid recovery efforts.
Russia says hit power substations in Ukraine and three ships in Black Sea
Russia conducted overnight strikes that reportedly targeted three cargo vessels linked to Ukrainian military supplies. The vessels were struck in Odesa and Chornomorsk, according to the Russian Defence Ministry. Additionally, two electricity substations in Dnipropetrovsk and Zhytomyr, which supplied power to military efforts, were hit. Following the attack, over 600,000 residents were left without electricity due to damage at energy facilities.
19 Indian seafarers stranded in Yemen safely evacuated, Embassy says
The Embassy of India to Yemen has evacuated 19 Indian seafarers who were stranded in Hodeidah and Sana'a. All seafarers are reported to be safe and in good health while returning to India. India has lost a total of 23 nationals amid ongoing conflicts in West Asia, including Indian seafarers and others in shipping attacks.
No water to sow, no respite at the grocery store: India's prolonged food inflation worry
Indian farmers face challenges in sowing winter crops amid dwindling water supplies from a weak monsoon. Amarsingh Gushinge's village experiences a significant rainfall deficit, impacting crop planting decisions. Food inflation could worsen as key staples see rising prices, aggravating the economic strain on households. The Reserve Bank of India may respond with interest rate hikes to combat rising inflationary pressures.
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G20 foreign ministers end Atlanta meeting without consensus on key issue, group photo cancelled
Top diplomats from the G20 met in Atlanta, but they could not agree on important global security issues. Tensions, particularly regarding Russia's war in Ukraine, overshadowed the talks and affected the outcomes. The meeting concluded without a joint communique, only a chairman's statement summarizing their discussions. Despite the lack of consensus, efforts were made to strengthen cooperation on supply chains and mineral resources.
What is NATO’s Article 5, the clause that could pull 32 countries into one war?
An attack on one NATO member could bring 31 other countries into its defence. That is the central promise of Article 5, the collective defence clause of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). The provision has become increasingly important as tensions between Russia and Western countries grow.
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.
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.
Who is Dr M. V. Ramana Murthy? An IIT Madras alumnus honoured after a new electric ray species discovered deep in the Arabian Sea has been named after him
New electric ray species found: Dr M. V. Ramana Murthy, Mission Director of India's Deep Ocean Mission, has been honoured by the naming of a newly discovered electric ray after him. An IIT Madras-trained ocean engineer, he has worked in coastal research, desalination, marine technology and hazard management, including as director of the National Centre for Coastal Research.
North Carolina dumped 7,200 tons of discarded concrete pipe onto bare ocean floor at AR-165; the reef later grew to include 3 retired tugboats for fish habitat
In North Carolina, marine biologists are transforming sunken tugboats and concrete pipes into artificial reefs, enhancing the habitat for numerous fish species. These initiatives not only boost marine biodiversity but also show that artificial reefs can effectively replicate natural ecosystems. Current research emphasizes the positive impact these structures can have on fish communities, offering a sustainable way to utilize discarded materials while supporting marine life.
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.
Russia ships the least crude oil in a month as major Baltic port halts
Russian crude shipments have dropped to a month low due to maintenance work disrupting operations at the Primorsk port. Despite a reduction in Ukrainian attacks on refineries, oil production facilities are still under threat. Notably, shipments to Asia, including significant customers like China and India, are declining, mirrored by a substantial fall in export values, signaling a downturn in demand.
NATO to add more surveillance and reconnaissance assets for Black Sea
"Today, NATO Ambassadors met in the North Atlantic Council to discuss security in the Black Sea," wrote NATO spokesperson Allison Hart on X.
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.
Zelenskyy says Ukraine got no early warning from partners as Russia hits the power grid again
Zelenskyy is grappling with recent Washington moves benefiting Russian President Vladimir Putin, including waiving U.S. sanctions on Moscow and signing a deal to import diesel from Moscow.
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.
Russia strikes 9 Ukrainian regions as strain grows between Zelenskyy and Trump
Russian attacks on Ukraine have led to emergency power outages affecting many households and increased civilian injuries. Attacks on civilian infrastructure, including homes and public services, have resulted in a significant rise in casualties. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy highlighted ongoing tensions with the United States regarding support for Ukraine's defense. The war is expected to cost Ukraine around 174 billion USD next year, straining resources.
Deadly attacks on Saudi Arabia risk wider war that draws in US
Yemen’s Houthis have increased their attacks on Saudi Arabia, targeting Riyadh’s main airport this weekend. These strikes resulted in significant casualties and increased pressure on Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The escalation of hostilities raises concerns regarding potential US intervention and the collapse of a previous truce. Saudi Arabia's relationship with its allies may also be tested amid this ongoing conflict.
22 Indian crew safe after drone attack on Panama-flagged tanker off Sharjah
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed that all Indian crew members aboard the MT GEM NO. 2 are safe. The vessel was targeted in a drone attack at Sharjah Anchorage on October 9. Concerns over maritime safety in the Gulf region have risen due to recent attacks on commercial vessels. The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted a new initiative for enhancing the safety of shipping and seafarers.
Black Sea attacks hit yellow peas, sunflower oil supplies to India
Russia's exports of yellow peas and sunflower oil to India have been disrupted by ongoing conflicts. As a result, prices for yellow peas have risen from ₹40 to ₹46 per kg in the last two months. Importers report that shipments from Russia have not occurred recently, affecting the availability of yellow peas. Meanwhile, sunflower oil shipments are also hindered, causing expectations of higher prices in the near future.
Why global investors are turning to Georgia for real estate opportunities in 2026
Alliance Group designates 2026 as a pivotal year for international stakeholders targeting Georgia's dynamic real estate landscape. The nation has witnessed substantial increases in residential property transactions, luring buyers from India and Europe. Tbilisi and Batumi stand out with impressive rental yields, while rising GDP and tourism profits bolster investment allure. Additionally, favorable policy adjustments cater to high-net-worth individuals keen on tapping into Georgian real estate opportunities.
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.
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.
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.
All three Indians safe after commercial vessel attacked in Black Sea; 2 foreign nationals killed
A commercial vessel named MV ROYAD MAMMADOV was attacked in the Black Sea, resulting in casualties. Three Indian nationals were among the crew members, with one sustaining injuries during the incident. The Indian Embassy in Romania confirmed the safety of the Indian nationals and is providing necessary support. Indian Ambassador Manoj Mohapatra confirmed their condition after visiting them at the hospital.
'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.
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