Category Archives: international relations

EU’s von der Leyen says she wants Europe to stop buying Russian oil by end of year

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**EU’s Von der Leyen Says Europe Aims to Stop Buying Russian Oil by End of Year**

In her recent address, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen declared that Europe intends to cease purchasing Russian oil by the end of the year. This move comes as part of the EU’s broader response to the Kremlin’s incursions.

Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump responded to the situation by stating that NATO countries should shoot down Russian aircraft if they enter NATO airspace, highlighting the heightened tensions in the region.

During her speech at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France, on September 10, 2025, von der Leyen received applause for her firm stance and clear outline of Europe’s energy and security policies moving forward.

*Photo credit: YVES HERMAN/REUTERS*
https://www.jpost.com/international/internationalrussia-ukraine-war/article-868431

UN General Assembly: Who is attending, and what’s on agenda?

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**UN General Assembly: Who is Attending, and What’s on the Agenda?**

*By Snehil Singh | September 23, 2025, 2:29 PM*

World leaders have gathered in New York for the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The debates will open on Tuesday, continue through Saturday, and conclude on Monday, September 29.

### Traditional Opening Speakers

In keeping with tradition since 1955, Brazil will speak first, followed by the United States as the host country. This long-standing custom began when Brazil offered to speak first at the 10th General Assembly.

### Key Discussion Points

The assembly is expected to focus heavily on pressing global tensions, particularly the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza and Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine.

US President Donald Trump will address the UNGA on the opening day, Tuesday, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is also scheduled to speak later in the week.

### Representation of Major Powers

Several major powers are sending senior delegations to the assembly. Russian President Vladimir Putin will miss the gathering for the second consecutive year, with Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov leading Moscow’s delegation.

China will be represented by Premier Li Qiang instead of President Xi Jinping. Similarly, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appointed External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to represent India at the session.

### Bilateral Talks and Diplomatic Engagements

On Monday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with India’s S. Jaishankar to discuss strengthening strategic cooperation across trade, defense, energy, and critical minerals.

In addition, the External Affairs Minister engaged with EU foreign ministers at an informal meeting in New York. Discussions covered multilateralism, the India-EU partnership, the situation in Ukraine and Gaza, as well as energy and trade issues.

### Notable New Attendees

This year’s assembly features significant participation from countries that have rarely or never before addressed the UNGA in recent decades.

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa will speak, marking the first time a Syrian head of state has addressed the assembly since 1967.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian will also attend following Tehran’s announcement to suspend cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency amid UN Security Council sanctions.

Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, will be present as well.

### Theme of the 80th Session

The theme for this year’s assembly is **“Better together: 80 years and more for peace, development, and human rights.”**

Annalena Baerbock, Germany’s former foreign minister and the current president of the 80th session, has framed the gathering as a critical moment for international cooperation. She emphasized the importance of preserving the achievements of the UN since 1945, while adapting the institution to address future challenges, summing it up with the rallying cry: **“Better Together!”**
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/un-general-assembly-who-is-attending-what-s-on-agenda/story

UN General Assembly: Who is attending, and what’s on agenda?

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**UN General Assembly: Who is Attending, and What’s on the Agenda?**

*By Snehil Singh | September 23, 2025, 2:29 PM*

World leaders have gathered in New York for the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The debates officially open on Tuesday and will continue through Saturday, concluding on Monday, September 29.

### Tradition and Opening Speeches

As per tradition, Brazil will deliver the first speech, followed by the United States, the host country. This custom dates back to 1955, when Brazil offered to speak first during the 10th General Assembly, a practice that has continued ever since.

### Key Discussion Points: Focus on Global Tensions

A primary focus of this year’s assembly will be global tensions, especially the ongoing conflicts involving Israel and Hamas in Gaza as well as Russia’s war in Ukraine.

On the opening day, US President Donald Trump is scheduled to address the assembly. Later in the week, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will also deliver a speech.

### Representation from Major Powers

Several major powers are sending prominent delegations, though with some notable absences:

– Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend for the second consecutive year; Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will lead the delegation.
– China will be represented by Premier Li Qiang instead of President Xi Jinping.
– Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has delegated External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to represent India.

### Bilateral Talks and Strategic Cooperation

Ahead of the assembly, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to discuss strengthening strategic cooperation between the two nations. Their discussions covered trade, defense, energy, and critical minerals.

In addition, Jaishankar participated in an informal meeting with EU foreign ministers in New York. The discussions included multilateralism, the India-EU partnership, the Ukraine conflict, the Gaza situation, energy, and trade.

### Notable New Attendees

This year marks several significant firsts and returns:

– Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa will address the assembly, the first time a Syrian head of state has done so since 1967.
– Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian will attend following Tehran’s announcement to suspend cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency amid UN Security Council sanctions.
– Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani will also be present.

### Theme of the 80th Session

The theme for this year’s UNGA is **“Better together: 80 years and more for peace, development, and human rights.”**

Annalena Baerbock, Germany’s former foreign minister and current president of the 80th session, described the gathering as a crucial moment for international cooperation. She emphasized the importance of preserving the UN’s achievements since 1945 while adapting to future challenges, closing with the rallying cry: *“Better Together!”*

—

Stay tuned for updates as the session unfolds and world leaders debate the pressing issues shaping global peace and development.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/un-general-assembly-who-is-attending-what-s-on-agenda/story

UN General Assembly: Who is attending, and what’s on agenda?

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UN General Assembly: Who is Attending, and What’s on the Agenda?

By Snehil Singh | Sep 23, 2025 | 2:29 PM

World leaders have gathered in New York for the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session. The debate of the 80th session will open on Tuesday, continue through Saturday, and conclude on Monday, September 29.

Traditionally, Brazil will speak first, followed by the United States as the host country. This custom has been maintained since 1955, when Brazil offered to speak first at the 10th General Assembly.

Discussion Points: Assembly to Focus on Global Tensions

The assembly is expected to focus on several pressing global issues, particularly the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza and Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. US President Donald Trump is scheduled to address the UNGA on the first day, Tuesday. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will also speak later in the week.

Representation: Major Powers Sending Trusted Delegations

Several major powers are sending senior representatives to the assembly, although some top leaders will be absent. Russian President Vladimir Putin will miss the gathering for another consecutive year, with Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov leading Moscow’s delegation.

China will be represented by Premier Li Qiang rather than President Xi Jinping. Similarly, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appointed External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to represent the country.

Bilateral Talks: Strengthening Strategic Cooperation

On Monday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with India’s External Affairs Minister Jaishankar to discuss enhancing strategic cooperation between their countries across multiple sectors including trade, defense, energy, and critical minerals.

Additionally, Jaishankar met with EU foreign ministers at an informal meeting in New York. The discussions included topics such as multilateralism, the India-EU partnership, the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, as well as energy and trade.

New Attendees: Syria, Iran, and Qatar’s Significant Presence

Syria’s President Ahmed al-Sharaa will address the assembly, marking the first time a Syrian head of state has done so since 1967.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian will also attend following Tehran’s announcement to suspend cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency over UN Security Council sanctions.

Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani will be present as well, highlighting the diverse participation at this year’s session.

Theme Revealed: “Better Together”

The theme for this year’s assembly is “Better together: 80 years and more for peace, development, and human rights.”

Annalena Baerbock, Germany’s former foreign minister and current president of the 80th session, framed the gathering as a critical moment for international cooperation. She emphasized the importance of preserving what the UN has achieved since 1945 and adapting it for future challenges with the rallying call: “Better Together!”

https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/un-general-assembly-who-is-attending-what-s-on-agenda/story

Trump Puts Venezuela on Notice… ‘OR THE PRICE YOU PAY WILL BE INCALCULABLE!’

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President Donald Trump demanded on Saturday that Venezuela immediately accept prisoners and individuals released from mental institutions who have been sent into the United States. This call is part of the administration’s broader effort to tighten enforcement on illegal immigration and combat international drug trafficking.

In a post on Truth, Trump stated, “We want Venezuela to immediately accept all of the prisoners, and people from mental institutions, which includes the Worst in the World Insane Asylums, that Venezuelan Leadership has forced into the United States of America. Thousands of people have been badly hurt, and even killed, by these Monsters. GET THEM THE HELL OUT OF OUR COUNTRY, RIGHT NOW, OR THE PRICE YOU PAY WILL BE INCALCULABLE!” The White House confirmed the authenticity of the president’s post.

The Department of Homeland Security also issued a statement online reading: “Americanism not globalism.”

This demand followed Trump’s order on Friday for Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to destroy a drug boat. The administration has made fentanyl a central focus in its anti-drug campaign, with Trump signing multiple executive orders aimed at curbing the flow of the substance across both the southern and northern borders.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 105,007 people died of drug overdoses in 2023, many linked to fentanyl-laced narcotics. Cartels often mix fentanyl into drugs to increase profits, despite its lethality in very small quantities.

The White House has stated it is working with both Canada and Mexico to disrupt trafficking routes and interdict supplies. In addition to international cooperation, Trump has authorized the deployment of U.S. troops to certain areas. Troops have already been sent to Washington, D.C., and officials have suggested further deployments to cities such as Detroit, Portland, and Baltimore to combat violent crime.

The administration has also restructured parts of the federal government. Notably, the Department of Defense has been renamed the Department of War, reflecting Trump’s stated goal of rebranding and refocusing federal agencies on national security priorities.

Domestically, the administration has linked its immigration and drug policies to broader enforcement efforts. Illegal aliens have been removed from taxpayer-funded programs, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides food assistance to approximately 42 million Americans. Other entitlement programs have also been restricted to citizens only.

Mexico’s cartels have been formally designated as foreign terrorist organizations. This move provides new authorities for U.S. agencies, including the power to impose sanctions, expand prosecution of cartel-linked activities, and limit financial networks associated with traffickers. The government has also imposed visa restrictions on family members and associates of cartel leaders.

These actions come alongside the annual release of the U.S. Department of State’s list of countries designated as major drug transit or producing nations. By linking international drug policy, immigration enforcement, and domestic security measures, the Trump administration has made clear that it views narcotics trafficking and illegal migration as interconnected challenges requiring aggressive action.

As of now, Venezuelan authorities have not publicly responded to the president’s demand.
https://www.lifezette.com/2025/09/trump-puts-venezuela-on-notice-or-the-price-you-pay-will-be-incalculable/

Starmer confirms UK recognition of a Palestinian state

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Keir Starmer has confirmed that the UK will recognise a Palestinian state in a historic, if largely symbolic, move. The British Prime Minister said the decision was intended to revive hope for peace between the Palestinians and Israelis.

The announcement comes ahead of the UN General Assembly this week, with other nations—including Australia and Canada—making similar recognitions shortly before Starmer’s statement.

The UK Government has acknowledged that recognising a Palestinian state will not ease the humanitarian crisis in Gaza nor directly contribute to the freeing of hostages taken by Hamas. However, the UK believes the move is necessary to safeguard the prospect of a lasting two-state solution to the Middle East conflict, envisioning Israel existing alongside a Palestinian state.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu branded the decision “absurd” and described it as simply a reward for terrorism. In response, Starmer emphasised that Hamas is a brutal terrorist organisation and confirmed plans to increase sanctions on the group.

“Our call for a genuine two-state solution is the exact opposite of their hateful vision,” he said.

With the humanitarian crisis in Gaza escalating and Israel advancing settlements in the West Bank, Starmer acknowledged that the hope of a two-state solution is fading but stressed, “we cannot let that light go out.”

He added, “Today we join over 150 countries who recognise a Palestinian state also—a pledge to the Palestinian and Israeli people that there can be a better future.”

In a video message, Sir Keir Starmer said:
“Today, to revive the hope of peace and a two-state solution, I state clear as Prime Minister of this great country that the United Kingdom formally recognises the State of Palestine. We recognised the State of Israel more than 75 years ago as a homeland for the Jewish people. Today we join over 150 countries who recognise a Palestinian state also. A pledge to the Palestinian and Israeli people that there can be a better future.”
https://www.breakingnews.ie/world/starmer-confirms-uk-recognition-of-a-palestinian-state-1809431.html

Why Trump wants us to reclaim Afghanistan’s Bagram air base

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**Why Trump Wants Us to Reclaim Afghanistan’s Bagram Air Base**
*By Snehil Singh | Sep 21, 2025, 04:04 pm*

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**What’s the story?**

United States President Donald Trump has called for the return of the Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan. “We’re talking now to Afghanistan, and we want it back, and we want it back soon,” he said. The base, once a key US military installation, fell into Taliban hands after the US withdrawal in 2021. On his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump also warned Afghanistan of “bad things” if they did not relent to his demand.

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**Geopolitical Importance**

**Strategic Location of Bagram Air Base**
Bagram Air Base is situated about 60 km north of Kabul, making it a strategic hub that connects Iran, Pakistan, Central Asia, and China’s Xinjiang province. This prime location makes it an ideal launchpad for US military operations in almost any direction. The base is equipped with two major runways, including one nearly 12,000 feet (3,650 meters) long, capable of accommodating heavy bombers and cargo planes.

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**Regional Surveillance**

Monitoring China, Russia, and Iran
Trump highlighted the base’s strategic significance, stating, “It’s an hour away from where China makes its nuclear weapons.” Its proximity offers the US a valuable advantage in monitoring Chinese military developments. Additionally, the base would enable Washington to track Russian activities in Central Asia and Iranian movements to the west.

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**Economic Influence**

**Economic Significance**
Beyond its military value, Bagram is located near emerging trade corridors and a region rich in untapped minerals. According to the Economic Times, whoever controls Bagram can influence economic routes that China and Russia aim to secure. The presence of US troops would also strengthen regional counterterrorism efforts, enhancing the base’s overall strategic importance.

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**Symbolic Significance**

**Challenges in Returning to Bagram**
The official US withdrawal from Bagram Air Base in July 2021 marked a symbolic end to America’s 20-year military presence in Afghanistan. However, any attempt to reclaim the base would face significant hurdles, including obtaining Afghan approval and managing complex logistics. Despite these challenges, Trump’s push to regain control of Bagram underscores its critical role in America’s global security strategy.

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Bagram Air Base remains a focal point in the geopolitical chessboard, reflecting not only military interests but also economic and symbolic stakes in the region. Reclaiming it would mark a notable shift in US foreign policy and regional engagement.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/trump-warns-afghanistan-to-return-bagram-airbase/story

Why Israel should annex the West Bank, but doesn’t need to do so yet – opinion

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**Why Israel Should Annex the West Bank, But Doesn’t Need to Do So Yet**

Anyone with even the most superficial understanding of the conflict knows that a Palestinian state has never been further from coming to fruition than today.

Earlier this month, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution endorsing the New York Declaration on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution.

![UN General Assembly adopts a resolution](photo-credit-eduardo-munoz-reuters.jpg)
*Photo credit: Eduardo Munoz/Reuters*

By Aliza Pilichowski
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-868240

Rajnath to visit Morocco, first by any Indian Defence Minister

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**Rajnath Singh to Visit Morocco: First Visit by an Indian Defence Minister**

*By Snehil Singh | Sep 20, 2025, 02:54 PM*

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to embark on a two-day official visit to Morocco starting September 22. This marks the first time an Indian Defence Minister will visit the North African country, underscoring the importance of strengthening strategic ties between India and Morocco.

### Strengthening Strategic Ties

The visit aims to enhance defense cooperation and industrial collaboration between the two nations. During his trip, Rajnath Singh will inaugurate the Tata Advanced Systems Maroc’s new manufacturing facility for the Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP) 8×8 in Berrechid.

### A Milestone in Defence Manufacturing

The Berrechid plant stands out as a significant milestone — it is the first Indian defense manufacturing unit established on African soil. This development is a major achievement under India’s **Aatmanirbhar Bharat** initiative and highlights the expanding global footprint of India’s defence industry.

The visit follows an invitation from Morocco’s Minister Delegate of National Defense, Abdellatif Loudiyi, emphasizing the diplomatic significance of this engagement.

### Strategic Discussions and Cooperation

During the visit, Singh will hold bilateral talks with Minister Loudiyi to explore avenues for enhanced defense cooperation and strategic partnerships. Additionally, he is expected to meet Morocco’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Ryad Mezzour, to discuss opportunities for industrial collaboration.

A key outcome anticipated from this visit is the signing of a **Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Defence Cooperation**. This MoU would formalize bilateral exchanges, joint training programs, and industrial linkages between the two countries.

### Growing Diplomatic Relations

India-Morocco relations have progressively strengthened since 2015, following a notable meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and King Mohammed VI. Rajnath Singh’s visit is expected to inject fresh momentum into this growing partnership, particularly in the defense and strategic sectors.

The Ministry of Defence also highlighted that Indian Navy ships have been making regular port calls at Casablanca in recent years. The new agreements set to be signed during this visit are anticipated to further consolidate maritime cooperation between India and Morocco.

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This historic visit and the initiatives it heralds signify India’s commitment to expanding its defense diplomacy and industrial collaboration beyond traditional boundaries, paving the way for deeper bilateral engagement with Morocco and the African continent.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/rajnath-to-inaugurate-tasl-armored-vehicle-unit-during-morocco-visit/story

Former Jammu and Kashmir DGP on Yasin Malik`s claims

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After Mehbooba Mufti urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to look into Yasin Malik’s case through a humanitarian lens, the former Jammu and Kashmir (J-K) Director General of Police (DGP) SP Vaid on Friday criticised JKLF chief Yasin Malik’s claims.

The former JK DGP revealed that Yasin Malik had briefed then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh after meeting Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Hafiz Saeed, calling it a “matter of shame” for the government at that time. Yasin Malik has been convicted in terror-related cases and is currently serving a life sentence in a 2017 terror-funding case.

Malik claimed in a sworn affidavit that he travelled to Pakistan, met Hafiz Saeed, and subsequently briefed Manmohan Singh, according to a report by ANI.

Speaking to the media on Friday, former JK DGP SP Vaid expressed shock that someone involved in killings could have been used for “diplomatic purposes.” He asserted, “What could be more shameful than this?”

According to ANI, Vaid said, “Yasin Malik’s affidavit states that he travelled to Pakistan, met with Hafiz Saeed, and subsequently briefed then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh upon his return. This means you are using a murderer like Yasin Malik, who killed five of your air force men and was responsible for the deaths of many Kashmiri Hindu pandits.”

He further added, “A murderer is being used as a diplomat to approach Hafiz Saeed, who is an India-hater and heads Lashkar-e-Taiba, responsible for killing thousands of Indians. I leave it to the people of this country to decide what kind of government they want. It is such a disgrace to have such diplomacy and government.”

A day earlier, Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) chief Yasin Malik claimed before the Delhi High Court that, far from being a terrorist, he was repeatedly engaged by six successive Indian governments—from VP Singh to Manmohan Singh—to participate in peace initiatives concerning Kashmir.

Malik further alleged that the meetings facilitated by the Indian establishment were later “twisted” to portray him as a conspirator, ANI reported.

Currently serving a life sentence in a 2017 terror-funding case, Malik made these assertions in detailed written submissions filed in response to the National Investigation Agency’s (NIA) appeal seeking the death penalty against him.

According to Malik, his engagement began in the early 2000s when then Intelligence Bureau (IB) Special Director Ajit Doval visited him in jail to convey the Vajpayee government’s interest in a peace process.

Malik further asserted that following his meeting with Ajit Doval, the National Security Advisor set up a meeting with IB Director Shyamal Dutta and NSA Brajesh Mishra, who asked for his support for the Ramzan ceasefire.

(With inputs from ANI)
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/former-jammu-and-kashmir-dgp-on-yasin-maliks-claims-says-what-could-be-more-shameful-than-this-23594966