Brazil and India are strengthening ties to counter Trump's trade wars, with officials and executives meeting in New Delhi this week to triple their $12 billion partnership. Both nations face harsh 50% tariffs threatening economic growth. Brazilian Vice President Geraldo Alckmin leads a delegation exploring partnerships in agribusiness, biofuels, and defense. Trump's policies have pushed global realignments, including India-China thaw and Mercosur-EU deals. While Modi initially hesitated attending BRICS summit fearing US backlash, Lula's persuasion succeeded. India sends nearly one-fifth exports to America; Brazil sends 12%. Despite deepening cooperation, both remain dependent on US markets, selling similar products and relying heavily on China, limiting their ability to fully pivot away.

US President Donald Trump announced Wednesday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him India would stop purchasing Russian oil, calling it "a big step" toward isolating Moscow over Ukraine. Trump expressed dissatisfaction with India's Russian crude imports, which he believes fund Putin's war effort. New Delhi hasn't confirmed this claim. Trump praised Modi as "a great man" and friend, noting his long tenure and their strong relationship. India has defended Russian oil purchases as vital for energy security and economic stability, with Russian crude accounting for nearly one-third of total imports. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar previously criticized Western nations for questioning India's business decisions while themselves purchasing Indian refined products.

The US Supreme Court has rejected a case challenging the rule that allows spouses of H-1B visa holders, known as H-4 visa holders, to work in the US. The lawsuit by Save Jobs USA claimed the rule takes jobs from American workers. The court’s decision means H-4 holders can continue to work legally. Since 2015, over 258,000 H-4 dependents have received work permits, helping families and contributing to the US economy. The ruling provides relief and stability for thousands of skilled spouses, many of whom have strong careers and businesses in the US. (PC: X)

India's passport slipped to 85th position in the 2025 Henley Passport Index, granting visa-free access to 57 countries, down from 59 last year. Singapore leads globally with access to 193 destinations, followed by South Korea and Japan, showcasing Asia's travel dominance. The US dropped to 12th rank, its lowest-ever position, falling outside the top 10 for the first time in two decades. Americans access 180 destinations visa-free, but the US offers reciprocal access to only 46 countries, ranking 77th in openness. Among neighbors, Pakistan ranks 103rd (31 destinations), Bangladesh 100th (38), Nepal 101st (36), and Bhutan 92nd (50). Afghanistan remains weakest globally with 24 destinations. (PC: Pinterest)

Ashley Tellis, a 64-year-old Indian-origin foreign policy expert, has been arrested in the US for allegedly keeping over 1,000 pages of top-secret defence documents at his home. The US Justice Department charged him with unlawful retention of national defence information. Tellis has worked with the US government for years, including the National Security Council under George W. Bush, and is currently with the Department of Defense. FBI reports say he was seen printing classified papers and meeting Chinese officials. If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. His lawyer said they will present evidence at the hearing. (PC: BBC)

Thousands gathered at Trafalgar Square in London on October 12 to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights. The event, called Diwali on the Square 2025, featured colourful performances, food, and cultural activities. Over 200 dancers opened the celebration with vibrant classical, folk, and Bollywood routines. The festival also included sari and turban tying, yoga, and children’s games. London Mayor Sadiq Khan attended and shared photos, wishing happiness to Hindu, Sikh, and Jain communities. The event, organised by the Mayor’s office and the Diwali in London Committee, highlighted unity and the triumph of light over darkness. (PC: X)

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer briefed Parliament on his landmark visit to Mumbai, leading the largest-ever UK trade delegation to India. He announced £1.3 billion in investments and 10,600 new UK jobs, praising India as a “growing force on the world stage” and a key partner in Britain’s post-Brexit global strategy. Starmer celebrated the UK-India Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) as a “historic step” to unlock new business opportunities. He confirmed expanded cooperation in education, technology, and defence, including a £350 million missile contract. Starmer emphasized the “living bridge” of shared history and future between the two nations. (PC: X)

India and Brazil, facing Trump's harshest 50% tariffs, are deepening ties to triple their $12-billion bilateral trade. Government officials and business executives meet in New Delhi this week, exploring partnerships in agribusiness, biofuels, and defense. Economists warn Trump's policies could reduce both nations' growth by one percentage point. Vice President Geraldo Alckmin leads Brazil's delegation, including Petrobras and Vale executives, targeting coffee and ethanol markets. Both countries depend heavily on US trade as Brazil exports 12% to America, while India ships nearly 20%. Despite strengthening bonds through BRICS leadership, experts note they cannot fully replace US markets as they sell similar products and rely on China differently.

India is preparing to send humanitarian aid to Gaza after the recent ceasefire. Relief will include medicines, food, tents, blankets, baby formula, and women’s sanitary items. Officials are also planning to help rebuild Gaza’s water systems, sanitation, and remove rubble left by Israeli airstrikes. Around 83% of Gaza City’s buildings were destroyed, and UN reports say the rubble is massive. India’s Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, attended the Sharm el-Sheikh peace summit. India supports the peace plan led by President Trump and emphasizes dialogue and a lasting two-state solution for Israel and Palestine. (PC: The Indian Express)

Washington’s policy community was stunned after Indian-origin foreign policy expert Ashley Tellis was arrested for keeping classified US documents and meeting Chinese officials. Tellis, 64, is a respected voice on US-India relations and helped shape the landmark US-India nuclear deal. He now faces up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine if found guilty. Colleagues expressed disbelief, calling him generous and influential. Tellis, once considered for the role of US Ambassador to India, has advised multiple US administrations. His 2023 essay, America’s Bad Bet on India, questioned India’s rise and drew major debate in Washington. (PC: HT)