In a pre-dawn operation on December 20, the US Coast Guard, backed by the Department of War, apprehended an oil tanker last docked in Venezuela over allegations of moving sanctioned oil used to fund narco terrorism in the region. Secretary Kristi Noem issued a hard-hitting statement: 'We will find you, and we will stop you,' while thanking the men and women of the US Coast Guard and the Department of War for the operation.
US President Donald Trump addressed Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest, marking the organisation’s first major summit since the death of founder Charlie Kirk. Trump paid tribute to Kirk’s legacy, calling him a driving force behind conservative youth mobilisation and urging supporters to carry forward his vision.
Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav said new mining in the Aravalli Hills will follow a strict scientific plan approved by the Supreme Court, with less than 0.19% area affected. He stressed ecological restoration, local flora protection, and habitat conservation as central to afforestation efforts.
Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has voiced serious concern over growing Islamist influence, accusing Muhammad Yunus of enabling extremists within the government. She warned that radicals are exploiting his global image to undermine Bangladesh’s secular foundations, posing risks to regional and South Asian stability.
Former senior diplomat Mahesh Sachdev said facts support former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina’s remarks, noting that Bangladeshi authorities have admitted they do not know the whereabouts of Hadi’s alleged killer. He said earlier claims blaming India lacked evidence and fueled unproven anti-India sentiment.
A thick layer of toxic smog has blanketed Delhi and the NCR, drastically reducing visibility and worsening air quality to hazardous levels. Visuals from iconic India Gate and surrounding areas show the city shrouded in grey haze early this week, raising public health concerns and travel disruptions across the capital.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday accused the Congress of insulting Assam’s legacy by opposing the Bharat Ratna for Bhupen Hazarika. Speaking in Namrup, Modi said the BJP works to enhance Assam’s global prestige, while Congress repeatedly disrespects its art, culture, and communities.
Ajit Pawar-led NCP registered a decisive victory in the Roha Municipal elections in Raigad district, Maharashtra. The party won 18 of the 20 seats, securing a clear majority and strengthening its local political hold ahead of upcoming political contests.
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh strongly criticised the VB-G-RAM-G Bill passed in Parliament, alleging it has altered the core structure of MGNREGA. He said employment rights of rural poor have been diluted, states sidelined, and decisions centralised, warning of serious federal and financial consequences.
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