Digest for 05 August, 2025
India Rebuffs US Tariff Threat Over Russian Oil Trade
India issued a sharp rebuttal after US President Donald Trump threatened to “substantially” raise tariffs on its goods over the purchase and resale of Russian oil. India’s Ministry of External Affairs called the threat “unjustified and unreasonable,” noting that the US and EU also continue to trade with Russia. New Delhi asserted it would take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests. The spat marks a significant escalation in trade tensions, highlighting India's delicate balancing act between Western allies and its strategic partner, Russia.
India and Philippines Conduct Joint Naval Drill in South China Sea, Angering Beijing
The Indian and Philippine navies conducted their first-ever joint maritime exercise in the South China Sea, a move that drew a sharp rebuke from China, which accused the Philippines of interfering in the disputed waters. The drill coincided with the arrival of Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in New Delhi for a state visit to deepen strategic and defence cooperation with India. The joint manoeuvres underscore a growing alignment between the two nations to counter China's increasing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region.
US Proposes Visa Applicants Post Bonds of up to $15,000
The US State Department has proposed a pilot program that could require some business and tourist visa applicants to post a bond of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000. The measure targets applicants from countries with high rates of visa overstays or deficient document security. The proposal, part of the Trump administration's broader tightening of visa requirements, aims to ensure visitors comply with the terms of their stay. The move could make travel to the US significantly more expensive and difficult for many Indians.
Anil Ambani Questioned by ED in ₹17,000 Crore Bank Loan Fraud Case
Reliance Group Chairman Anil Ambani appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in New Delhi for questioning in a money laundering case. The investigation pertains to alleged financial irregularities and loan diversion of over ₹17,000 crore by his group companies, including funds from Yes Bank. The summons followed extensive searches by the agency at multiple premises linked to his business group. The probe marks a major development in one of the country's most high-profile corporate fraud investigations, with significant legal and market implications.
Jharkhand Leader and JMM Founder Shibu Soren Dies at 81
Veteran tribal leader Shibu Soren, founder of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) and a three-time former chief minister of Jharkhand, has died at 81 after a prolonged illness. Known as 'Dishom Guru' (Great Leader), Soren was a towering figure in Indian politics and instrumental in the movement for the creation of Jharkhand. His death marks the end of an era for the state, which has declared a three-day period of state mourning. Top national leaders are expected to attend his last rites.