External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar criticized the US and Pakistan at the Economic Times World Leaders Forum, highlighting their tendency to “overlook history,” specifically referencing the 2011 Abbottabad raid. He emphasized India’s foreign policy is guided by long-term confidence and national interests, rejecting any mediation in relations with Pakistan. Furthermore, Jaishankar refuted claims of US mediation in past ceasefire agreements, attributing the settlements to direct talks between India and Pakistan. The minister also underscored the government’s commitment to protecting India’s economic interests and strategic autonomy, warning against any challenges to these positions.
Read More
Revealing that the very nations criticizing India are themselves indulging in trade with Russia, says India on Trump’s tariff remarks. This situation is, to put it mildly, complicated, and it’s easy to see why the comments on tariffs and trade with Russia are raising eyebrows. The core of the issue is this: India is facing criticism, particularly from Western nations, for its continued trade with Russia, yet these very same critics are, in various ways, also involved in economic exchanges with Moscow. It’s a classic case of “do as I say, not as I do,” and it’s understandable why India is pointing this out.… Continue reading
President Trump has declared a 25% tariff on India, effective August 1st, along with an additional penalty for purchasing energy and arms from Russia. This decision stems from concerns over India’s high tariffs and trade barriers, as well as its continued trade with Russia amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The US president stated that the August first deadline will not be extended, reflecting his determination to adjust trade relations. India’s government, while assessing the impact, has reiterated its commitment to prioritizing national interests in ongoing trade deal negotiations with the US.
Read More
The imposition of new US sanctions on January 10th caused a significant increase in tanker freight rates for Russian oil, disrupting trade between Russia and its major Asian buyers. This surge in costs, coupled with buyers’ avoidance of sanctioned vessels, created a substantial price gap, effectively halting March deliveries of Russian ESPO Blend crude to China and India. Consequently, the volume of Russian oil offered to these countries has dropped dramatically, impacting both nations who had previously become significant importers of Russian oil. This disruption underscores the sanctions’ impact on the global oil market and Russia’s ability to export its oil.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood