External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently defended India's Russian oil purchases, directly confronting Western criticism. Speaking in Finland, he questioned Europe's moral authority, highlighting that European-made weapons have historically been used against India. Jaishankar also revealed the US encouraged India's oil imports in 2022 to stabilize global markets.

US President Donald Trump announced a "great settlement" with Iran, stating a final agreement is imminent and could be signed in Europe this weekend. Vice President JD Vance is expected to attend. However, Iran's Foreign Ministry has pushed back, denying a final deal has been reached and accusing Washington of "excessive demands."

The European Union has flagged 365 Indian products over the past two years due to the detection of pesticide residues. This significant number highlights ongoing concerns regarding agricultural practices and quality control for exports from India, particularly in categories like herbs, spices, fruits, and vegetables. The alerts underscore the need for stricter adherence to international safety standards.

A new report from the World Inequality Lab projects India will surpass China in its share of global Gross Domestic Product by 2060. This significant forecast highlights India's accelerating economic trajectory and its growing influence on the world stage, signaling a major shift in global economic power dynamics over the coming decades.

Cole Allen Tomas, 22, has been charged with attempted assassination of President Donald Trump after opening fire at the White House Correspondents' Dinner in Washington DC on April 26, 2026. The suspect fired multiple shots toward the stage where Trump was speaking. Secret Service agents returned fire and subdued him. Tomas faces multiple federal charges including attempted assassination of a president, assault on federal officers, and firearms violations. No fatalities were reported among attendees.

Shekhar Gupta argues that in a volatile global order marked by US unpredictability under Trump, Pakistan’s instability, and China’s assertiveness, India must focus on economic reform, consolidation, and building resilience. He cautions against knee-jerk reactions to Pakistan’s actions and stresses the need for disciplined long-term strategy rather than reactive foreign policy.

Iran has rejected the latest US peace proposal and is demanding formal recognition of its authority over the Strait of Hormuz, including the right to collect tolls. This could generate up to $4.5 billion per month. Tehran wants a permanent end to the war, lifting of sanctions, nuclear rights, and reparations. The blockade continues, impacting global oil prices and India’s fuel costs.

Iran has rejected a US ceasefire proposal conveyed through Pakistan, demanding a permanent end to the war instead of a temporary truce. According to IRNA, Tehran presented a 10-point framework that includes lifting all sanctions, recognition of its control over the Strait of Hormuz with toll rights, nuclear enrichment rights under NPT, and regional de-escalation in Lebanon and Gaza. Iran insists on guarantees against future attacks and war reparations.

A second US Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II (Warthog) crashed in the Persian Gulf region near the Strait of Hormuz. The lone pilot was rescued. This follows the downing of an F-15E Strike Eagle over Iran, where one crew member was rescued and efforts continue for the second. Iran claimed responsibility for targeting the A-10. The incidents mark escalating losses for US forces in the ongoing Middle East conflict.

A US fighter pilot is in Iranian custody after his F-15E Strike Eagle was shot down. Iran also claimed to have downed an F-35 using surface-to-air missiles. The incidents occurred during intense aerial operations over Iranian airspace. The development marks a significant escalation with potential human cost. US officials are working on securing the pilot’s safe return while continuing operations.