CUBA IRAN RELATIONS
Marco Rubio calls on Cubans to partner with CIA as Trump vows to 'take care of Cuba'; Cuba mocks US 'desperation'
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has called on Cubans to partner with the CIA for change. President Donald Trump mentioned taking care of Cuba after dealing with Iran. Their administration continues to apply pressure on Cuba regarding its communist government. The US has imposed an oil blockade, causing severe strains on Cuba's economy. Cuba's foreign minister expressed openness to dialogue while human rights experts condemned the blockade as unlawful.
Trump says US will 'take care of Cuba' on its way back from Iran
President Donald Trump mentioned plans to deal with Cuba following discussions about Iran. He expressed confidence that the US would reach an agreement with Cuba. The Trump administration aims to alter the current communist government in Cuba. Recently imposed oil blockades have triggered severe energy shortages in Cuba. Cuba's foreign minister indicated an openness to dialogue with the United States amidst these tensions.
US is reducing staffing at 4 Middle East embassies over increased threats from Iran
The U.S. State Department is currently reducing the number of staff at four embassies in the Middle East. This decision follows intelligence reports indicating increased efforts by Iran to target American personnel. While the embassies remain operational, staffing changes are described as related to threats from Iranian-backed Houthi rebels. Unlike in Saudi Arabia, U.S. personnel in these embassies are not compelled to leave.
Trump's diesel price relief efforts grow costlier as election nears
With the midterm elections approaching, President Trump is implementing various strategies to combat high diesel prices. These measures include financial aid for farmers and adjustments to regulations for truckers. However, criticisms arise regarding the effectiveness of these solutions and their geopolitical implications. Many voters attribute rising costs to Trump's policies, posing a challenge for Republican candidates. Ultimately, the pressure to lower diesel prices remains as the elections draw near.
US announces new Iran-related sanctions targeting 16 people, 10 entities
The United States has imposed sanctions on 16 individuals and 10 entities connected to Iran's financial operations. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that these measures target Iran's military funding sources and financial networks. The sanctions aim to dismantle offshore banks and shadow financiers aiding Iran's economy. Entities like the International Development Bank for Investment and Finance have been implicated in supporting Iranian activities.
- Go To Page 1

Donald Trump and Xi Jinping's 'stalemate' summit was a glitzy gift to China
US President Trump's recent meeting with Xi Jinping aimed to strengthen their personal relationship, but limited progress was achieved. Both leaders agreed on lowering tariffs on certain goods, with no specific timeline provided for implementation. The absence of a Chinese CEO delegation highlighted ongoing investment challenges amid mutual suspicions. China's trade has thrived despite US tariff threats, giving it leverage in negotiations.

China pushes back against US on Iran and Cuba in UN speech
China's Vice President Han Zheng urged the US to respect Cuba's sovereignty and lift its blockade. He emphasized the need for major countries to uphold international peace and security in his UN speech. Additionally, Han highlighted China's role as a reliable partner for developing nations and equal member of the international community. While addressing Iran, he reassured that China would not support the US's pressures in the region.

Colombia's new US-backed government cuts ties with Iran
Colombia has cut diplomatic ties with Iran, aligning with the US and its allies in Latin America. The decision was made by President Abelardo de la Espriella, who took office in August 2026. Officials accused Iran of connections to terrorist groups that threaten national security in Colombia after taking office. This decision comes after a broader shift in Colombian foreign policy under De la Espriella.

BRICS adopts New Delhi Declaration: Inside the 140-point document on Global South's ambitions
BRICS leaders adopted the New Delhi Declaration at the 18th summit, reaffirming their commitment to cooperation, multilateralism and a more representative global order. The document outlines India's 2026 chairship priorities, recognises partner countries' contributions and calls for greater participation of Emerging Markets, Developing Countries and Least Developed Countries in global governance.

President Putin proposes BRICS grain market, insurance framework to counter global pressures
Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed new initiatives for BRICS economic growth. He called for a holistic approach to address global challenges effectively. Putin highlighted the growing global stature and independent course of the BRICS grouping. The bloc's expansion and partner countries underscore its increasing influence. BRICS represents a significant portion of the world's population and economy.

BRICS Summit: Modi warns against weaponisation of tech, critical minerals; Xi announces open-source AI
BRICS Summit 2026: Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged BRICS nations to unite in the face of rising global tensions and emphasised the need for inclusive growth, particularly for the Global South. Concerns were also raised over the weaponisation of technology and critical minerals. The grouping aims to strengthen resilience and preparedness against future crises, with cooperation on early warning systems and resilient supply chains being prioritised.

'Breakthrough', 'good move': Several foreign journalists covering BRICS Summit welcome New Delhi Declaration
Foreign journalists covering the BRICS Summit in Delhi welcomed the New Delhi Declaration. Some called the consensus document a breakthrough while others described it as a good move. The declaration addressed global governance and promoting peace through dialogue and diplomacy. It also highlighted practical cooperation and the role of the New Development Bank. BRICS leaders also condemned terrorism and backed India's call for zero tolerance.

Modi-Xi meet: China calls for strategic, long-term ties as India backs bilateral cooperation
Prime Minister Modi and President Xi held a meeting at the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. This meeting marks Xi's first India visit in nearly seven years. The leaders aim to improve relations after the eastern Ladakh standoff. They are expected to discuss border peace and the broader development of bilateral ties. China will assume the BRICS chair after the summit concludes.

Ensemble of artistes from India, other countries to perform at BRICS Summit gala dinner
Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted a gala dinner for world leaders at the BRICS Summit. An ensemble of over 160 artistes will perform a 'BRICS Symphony' during the event. The summit addressed global governance reform and economic headwinds faced by the Global South. Leaders also visited an exhibition and planted trees on the convention centre lawns. India's BRICS chairship focuses on resilience, innovation, cooperation, and sustainability.

BRICS Summit: Xi Jinping arrives in Delhi after 7 years; PM Modi meeting to test India-China reset
Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in New Delhi for the 18th BRICS Summit. He will hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the summit's sidelines. This marks Xi's first visit to India in nearly seven years. China aims to enhance cooperation and manage differences with India. The summit addresses global issues and BRICS cooperation development.

PM Modi holds bilateral talks with Malaysia's Anwar Ibrahim at Hyderabad House
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Malaysian counterpart Anwar Ibrahim in New Delhi. They discussed strengthening cooperation in defence, trade, and digital technologies. Malaysian PM Ibrahim arrived for the 18th BRICS Summit, which India will host. He will also meet India's Grand Mufti and leaders from Russia and Iran. The visit aims to bring tangible benefits to both nations and their people.

PM Modi meets Ethiopia’s Abiy Ahmed on sidelines of BRICS Summit in Delhi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali in New Delhi. Ethiopia joined BRICS in January 2024, gaining market access and export opportunities. India is hosting the 18th BRICS Summit focusing on cooperation and sustainability. BRICS members collectively represent a significant portion of the global population and economy. Recent defense talks explored expanding bilateral collaboration between India and Ethiopia.

Modi's grand BRICS welcome for Xi Jinping, Putin & other leaders: 160 artistes to perform 'BRICS Symphony' at Bharat Mandapam
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host a grand gala dinner featuring over one hundred BRICS artistes. The event, aptly named 'BRICS Symphony', will showcase an array of classical dancers and musicians from India and the other BRICS nations. This cultural celebration aims to promote camaraderie and understanding among member countries, highlighting their unique artistic traditions during the opening day of the summit.

Ahead of Modi-Xi meeting, Beijing says India and China should handle differences properly
President Xi Jinping will visit India for the BRICS summit and bilateral talks. China urges handling differences and viewing ties from a strategic perspective. This meeting follows previous engagements between the two leaders. The BRICS summit is a key platform for emerging market cooperation. Xi's visit aims to stabilize bilateral ties amid global volatility.

BRICS Summit 2026: China, India arranging Xi-Modi bilateral meeting
China and India are arranging a bilateral meeting between their leaders. President Xi Jinping will travel to India this weekend for a BRICS summit. China's foreign ministry stated they will approach bilateral ties strategically. They aim to enhance communication and cooperation while managing differences. Xi will attend the summit and discuss the international situation with leaders.

BRICS can boost local-currency trade with deeper financial markets, stronger banking links: Experts
BRICS nations can boost trade and investment by deepening financial markets. Experts suggest using local currencies more often for transactions. Linking payment platforms and exploring CBDCs will speed up cross-border payments. Reducing non-tariff barriers will also enhance intra-BRICS trade significantly. Greater trust and business partnerships are key for future economic cooperation.

MEA expects 1,200-1,300 journalists for BRICS Summit coverage, says information dissemination key challenge
In New Delhi, the upcoming 18th BRICS Summit will attract around 1,200 to 1,300 journalists, highlighting its global significance. To support the media, an International Media Centre is being constructed at the Bharat Mandapam Complex. The Ministry of External Affairs intends to utilize both digital channels and traditional methods for information dissemination.

India set to host expanded BRICS summit as global trade, finance and governance take centre stage
India will host the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit in Delhi on September 12 and 13. Leaders will discuss trade, finance, technology, and energy security during the meeting. The summit marks BRICS' 20th anniversary and follows the bloc's significant expansion. India's chairship theme is "Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability." The gathering will also facilitate bilateral discussions with key leaders.

Trump expands US sanctions on Cuba, accuses government of alignment with Iran, Hezbollah
President Donald Trump has signed an executive order expanding sanctions on the Cuban government. This move targets individuals and entities supporting Cuba's security apparatus or involved in corruption and human rights violations. The sanctions also authorize secondary sanctions for transactions with those targeted. This action follows recent U.S. actions in Venezuela and signals increased pressure on Havana.

Trump says talks with Cuba ongoing, action possible after Iran
United States President Donald Trump indicated a potential deal or action with Cuba could happen soon. He stated that talks are ongoing but Iran will be addressed before Cuba. Cuba's President Miguel Diaz-Canel confirmed dialogue to resolve bilateral differences and move away from confrontation amid a severe economic crisis.

After Iran strikes, Lindsey Graham says US to target this country next — what that could mean
Senator Lindsey Graham suggested Cuba is next on President Trump's foreign policy agenda following U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iran. Graham praised Trump's handling of Venezuela's Maduro and stated Cuba's "communist dictatorship" is nearing its end. This follows recent escalations, including the capture of Maduro and Cuba's fuel crisis, alongside Trump's comments about potential "friendly takeover" talks with Havana.
India votes against Iran at IAEA
Resolution sought stay on developing of uranium enrichment site by Iran.
US demands to see Swiss-Iran gas contract
The US has demanded to see a Swiss contract for natural gas supplies from Iran to see whether it violates an American sanctions law against Tehran, the US Embassy in Switzerland said.
Load More