News Digest for 11 May, 2025
India Strikes Terror Hubs in Pakistan; Ceasefire Agreed, Then Violated
India conducted 'Operation Sindoor' on May 7, striking nine terror targets in Pakistan, killing over 100 terrorists, including high-value targets, and causing 35-40 Pakistani Army casualties, according to India's DGMO. All Indian pilots returned safely. A ceasefire was agreed upon from May 10 evening following talks, possibly mediated by the US. However, India reported Pakistan violated the ceasefire within hours by flying drones over Kashmir, prompting Indian counter-actions. Two Indian personnel (IAF, BSF) were martyred in earlier cross-border firing.
Diplomatic Flurry Follows India-Pakistan Ceasefire; Future Terror Declared 'Act of War'
Following the ceasefire announcement, PM Modi chaired high-level meetings. US President Trump praised Indian and Pakistani leadership, offered mediation on Kashmir, and promised increased trade. Pakistan's PM Sharif advocated peaceful negotiations. India conveyed that future terror attacks would be treated as an 'act of war'. Army Chief Dwivedi authorized commanders to counter any ceasefire violations. J&K residents near the border were urged not to return home yet due to unexploded ordnance risks. The Pope welcomed the ceasefire.
Putin Proposes Direct Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks in Istanbul
After three years of war, Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed direct peace talks with Ukraine, suggesting Istanbul as the venue for May 15, 'without preconditions'. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy welcomed the initiative, stating Kyiv's willingness to talk but emphasizing the need for a ceasefire agreement first. This follows calls from European leaders for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire. Putin's proposal aims to restart negotiations similar to those held in 2022.
Two Arrested for Espionage Linked to Pakistani High Commission Official
Punjab Police arrested two individuals, including a woman, for alleged involvement in espionage activities. They are accused of leaking sensitive information to an official stationed at the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi. The arrests underscore ongoing counter-intelligence efforts amidst heightened India-Pakistan tensions. Authorities stated the operation reinforces their commitment to national security against foreign intelligence operations seeking to undermine India's interests.
New BrahMos Missile Production Facility Inaugurated in Lucknow
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually inaugurated a new BrahMos Aerospace facility in Lucknow, part of the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor. Built at a cost of Rs 300 crore, the unit is designed to produce 80-100 BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles annually. Singh described Operation Sindoor as demonstrating India's strong will against terrorism. This facility significantly boosts India's indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities amid regional tensions, enhancing missile production capacity.