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Following a U.S.-brokered ceasefire, India announced a pause in military action against Pakistan, reserving the right to retaliate against future attacks. Prime Minister Modi stated that any future dialogue with Pakistan would solely focus on terrorism and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Both countries reported a peaceful overnight period after days of intense cross-border fighting, including missile and drone strikes, stemming from a deadly attack on tourists in Kashmir that India blamed on Pakistan-backed militants. Airports and airspace were reopened by both nations following the ceasefire agreement.
Putin’s acceptance of Prime Minister Modi’s invitation to visit India, as announced by the Kremlin, has sparked a flurry of reactions and interpretations. This visit signifies more than a simple state visit; it underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the region and the enduring relationship between Russia and India.
The long-standing relationship between Russia and India, spanning over six decades, is often cited as a key factor driving this visit. This relationship is rooted in shared strategic interests and a history of military cooperation, with Russia supplying weapons to India even when Western nations were hesitant. This deep-seated connection transcends simple economics, highlighting a mutual reliance that has fostered a strong bond over many years.… Continue reading
Prime Minister Modi announced that India will prioritize its own water usage, effectively curbing water flow to Pakistan. This decision follows India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, a 1960 agreement allocating river water between the two nations, in response to a recent terror attack. Modi’s statement reflects a broader policy shift prioritizing national interests over international concerns, a change he credits with significant economic reforms, including strengthening the banking sector. This new focus, he argues, has led to India’s progress over the last decade.
Arabica coffee futures surged to a record high of $3.56 per pound, surpassing the previous record set in December. This price increase followed the retraction of President Trump’s threatened tariffs and sanctions on Colombia, a major coffee exporter to the U.S. The potential impact of these withdrawn tariffs on the coffee market was significant, given the substantial volume of Colombian coffee imported by the United States. However, the threat remains in reserve, and the broader implications of potential future tariffs on other countries, including Canada, Mexico, and China, remain a concern for commodity markets.
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood