US President Donald Trump has ruled out trade negotiations with India until a tariff dispute is resolved. Following India’s continued import of Russian oil, the White House issued an executive order imposing an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods, raising the total to 50%. The administration cited national security concerns, calling India’s oil purchases an “extraordinary threat.” The new levy will take effect in 21 days, excluding goods already in transit. Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded defiantly, asserting India will not compromise on the interests of farmers, fishermen, and dairy producers. The standoff marks a sharp escalation in US-India trade tensions, with both sides holding firm on economic and geopolitical priorities. (PC: History.com)

India has reportedly paused a $3.6 billion deal to acquire six Boeing P‑8I maritime patrol aircraft, initially approved in 2021 for $2.42 billion, due to a near 50% cost escalation driven by supply‑chain disruptions, inflation, and newly imposed U.S. tariffs . The 25% tariffs imposed earlier in August, followed by an additional 25% increase by President Trump—bringing tariffs to 50%—significantly raised procurement expenses . In response, India’s Ministry of Defence decided to pause the purchase and conduct a strategic reassessment, although no official government confirmation has been made.

India faces a 50% tariff hike on its exports to the US, with Donald Trump targeting Delhi for purchasing Russian oil. The new rate takes effect on August 27, making India the most heavily taxed US trading partner in Asia. Delhi called the move "unfair," warning of a trade embargo–like impact on key sectors like textiles and gems. While pharma and electronics are exempt, India's $86.5B exports to the US hang in balance. As trade talks resume, experts say top-level diplomacy is crucial. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi called the move “economic blackmail” while India vows to defend national interests. (PC: BBC)

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met Russian President Vladimir Putin and Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoigu in Moscow, reaffirming the “very special relationship” between India and Russia. Amid growing global uncertainty and US President Trump’s doubling of tariffs on India over Russian oil imports, both nations emphasized strengthening their strategic partnership. Shoigu highlighted "time-tested ties of friendship" and a shared commitment to a fairer world order. Doval conveyed PM Modi’s thanks for Russia’s support after the Pahalgam terror attack. Discussions also focused on Putin’s upcoming India visit and enhancing cooperation in defence, multilateral forums, and counterterrorism. (PC: X)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said it would be “in the interest of both India and the United States” to resolve the ongoing tariff dispute after President Trump imposed 50% duties on Indian goods over Russian oil imports. Netanyahu, speaking to Indian journalists, also expressed his wish to visit India soon. He met Indian Ambassador JP Singh in Jerusalem to discuss bolstering bilateral cooperation in security, intelligence sharing, and counterterrorism. India slammed the tariffs as “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable,” defending its oil imports as essential for energy security. The additional US duties will take effect from August 27.

India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to strengthen energy and defence ties, as US President Donald Trump threatened harsher tariffs on India for importing Russian oil. Doval confirmed Putin’s upcoming visit to India, calling the strategic partnership “special” and “highly valued.” Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoigu echoed that Russia and India share “time-tested ties” and urged a full-scale Modi-Putin dialogue. This would be Putin’s first visit to India since the Ukraine war began. Trump, meanwhile, warned Putin of increased sanctions if aggression in Ukraine continues, hinting at a summit in the UAE. (PC: X)

AAP MP Ashok Mittal wrote an open letter to US President Donald Trump after the US raised tariffs on Indian goods to 50%. He warned that if 146 crore Indians boycotted US companies, the impact would be huge. Mittal called the tariff move “disappointing” and said India’s economy is strong and growing fast. He reminded Trump that many US firms earn billions from India and that much of America’s tech runs on Indian code. He urged the US to choose peace and talks, not pressure. India has called the tariff hike unfair and said it will protect its own interests. (PC: ANI)

More than 25 gunshots were fired at comedian Kapil Sharma’s cafe in Surrey, Canada—the second such attack less than a month. Two gangs, led by Goldy Dhillon and Lawrence Bishnoi, claimed responsibility in social media posts. A video of the shooting has surfaced, where a voice warns of more action if their "target" doesn't respond. “Next action will be in Mumbai,” the voice says. The attack has raised serious concerns. Mumbai Police and other security agencies are now investigating the threat. Kapil Sharma has not commented yet. The reason behind the attacks is still unclear, but police believe it may involve extortion.  (PC: @thekapscafe_/Instagram)

A large crowd marched from City Hall to the Dáil in Dublin to protest a racially motivated assault on an Indian man in Tallaght, which has been widely condemned as a hate crime. The 40‑year‑old victim was violently attacked by a group of youths—stripped and beaten—despite evidence disproving the perpetrators’ false allegations. The migrant community, supported by activists and residents, held a silent vigil outside the Department of Justice and submitted a petition urging stronger hate crime protections and enforcement. Organisers highlighted under‑reporting of such attacks and growing fears among migrants.  

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India will protect its farmers, even if it means facing high US tariffs. His comments came after President Trump raised tariffs on Indian goods to 50% due to India buying oil from Russia. Modi said, “India will not compromise on farmers’ interests. I’m ready to pay the price.” India called the US move unfair and said it will take all steps to protect national interests. The tariff hike has strained US-India ties. Talks on a trade deal have also failed. Sectors like textiles and food exports could be hit if the issue continues. (PC: AFP)