Ecuador confirms first COVID-19 death

He highlighted India's role as a "first responder" for the Maldives, emphasising that India's support during critical periods has been fundamental to the stability and security of the island nation.

Addressing a gathering in Kentucky, Trump said, "I'm pleased to report that earlier today, the International Energy Agency agreed to coordinate the release of a record 400 million barrels of oil from various national petroleum reserves around the world, which will substantially reduce the oil prices, as we end this threat to America and this threat to the world."

The European Union on Wednesday moved to intensify pressure on Tehran amid the conflict in West Asia by approving new sanctions targeting 19 Iranian regime officials and entities accused of serious human rights violations.

Balen Shah's RSP is heading for a landslide victory in Nepal's parliamentary polls, leading in 98 seats and winning 19. Shah holds a massive lead over veteran KP Sharma Oli, as the RSP nears a simple majority, with party leaders eyeing a two-third majority of 186 seats.

The United States on Friday conducted lethal kinetic operations against designated terrorist organisations within Ecuador on Friday, the US Southern Command shared on Saturday.

EAM S Jaishankar stated that the era of "big deals" between dominant powers is over, as multipolarity is now an irreversible reality. He argued that the Global South is defined by shared historical experiences, while noting a growing "differentiation" within the previously unified Global West.

Bonnie Glick, Adjunct Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defence of Democracies, stated the US aims to destroy Iran's ballistic and nuclear capabilities, predicting the conflict could end within weeks. Meanwhile, Dhruva Jaishankar, Executive Director of ORF America, emphasised that India's priorities remain the safety of its 1 crore diaspora and energy supplies.

Dhruva Jaishankar, Executive Director of ORF America, stated at the Raisina Dialogue 2026 that global conflicts necessitate "unexpected arrangements" and "carve outs" to balance geostrategic competition with economic stability. He noted that even during crises, the US remains conscious of global energy markets, requiring nations to navigate these contradictions.

Christopher Landau on Thursday emphasised that the Trade Agreement that has been negotiated with India will always keep American interest first.

US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau emphasised that "America First" means international cooperation, not isolation, during the 2026 Raisina Dialogue. Landau highlighted India's vital 21st-century role, citing its human and economic potential as key to a mutually beneficial partnership and an imminent bilateral trade deal.