Category Archives: international

Suzie Bates registers her 11th duck in Women’s ODIs: Stats

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Suzie Bates, the opener for the New Zealand women’s cricket team, was dismissed for a duck in their ODI World Cup match against South Africa.

The game took place at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore.

This early setback posed a challenge for New Zealand as they looked to build a strong innings.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/women-s-wc-suzie-bates-registers-a-duck-vs-sa/story

‘Benefits India’: Russian expert backs RD-93 engines sale to Pakistan

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**‘Benefits India’: Russian Expert Backs RD-93 Engines Sale to Pakistan**

*By Snehil Singh | Oct 06, 2025, 03:45 PM*

A recent report on the sale of Russian RD-93 engines to Pakistan for its JF-17 aircraft has stirred significant debate. However, a Russian defense expert has come forward to defend the deal, suggesting it could actually benefit India in unexpected ways.

**Strategic Insight from Russia**

Pyotr Topychkanov, head of the Section on New Challenges in South and Southeast Asia at Moscow’s Primakov Institute, emphasized that the reported transaction highlights China and Pakistan’s continued reliance on Russian technology.

According to Topychkanov, “Firstly, it shows that China and Pakistan haven’t yet managed to replace the Russian-origin engine. Secondly, the new aircraft will be familiar and predictable to India, especially since they share the same engine and India observed the JF-17’s operational use during the May 2025 crisis (Operation Sindoor).”

He argued that this predictability could offer India a strategic advantage in anticipating JF-17 capabilities given the shared engine technology.

**Conflicting Reports from Moscow**

Despite these assertions, another senior Russian source denied any confirmation of such a deal. In a conversation with WION, the insider called the reports illogical for serious observers monitoring India-Russia defense relations.

The source also suggested that these rumors might be driven by ulterior motives, potentially aiming to undermine the promising cooperation ahead of upcoming high-level engagements between the countries.

**Political Controversy in India**

The alleged engine sale has sparked political backlash in India. The opposition Congress party has heavily criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government for allegedly allowing Russia to supply advanced RD-93 engines to Pakistan.

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh questioned why Russia would provide military support to Pakistan while India continues to purchase S-400 missile systems and negotiate for Su-57 stealth fighters from Moscow. He condemned the government for what he described as a lack of vigilance in safeguarding India’s strategic interests.

**BJP Stands Firm**

In response, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) defended the Modi government against these allegations, labeling the reports as “reckless information warfare.”

Amit Malviya, head of BJP’s IT cell, cited a report that included Russia’s clarification on the matter. He accused Ramesh of spreading unsubstantiated claims on social media based on content from a website known for pro-Pakistan propaganda.

—

The debate over the RD-93 engine sale continues to fuel discussions on India-Russia-Pakistan defense dynamics, highlighting the complex nature of geopolitical alliances and regional security concerns.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/russian-expert-defends-rd-93-sale-to-pakistan/story

‘Benefits India’: Russian expert backs RD-93 engines sale to Pakistan

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**‘Benefits India’: Russian Expert Backs RD-93 Engines Sale to Pakistan**

*By Snehil Singh | October 6, 2025, 3:45 PM*

A recent report about Russia supplying RD-93 engines to Pakistan for its JF-17 aircraft has sparked intense debate. However, a Russian defense expert has come forward defending the move, suggesting it could actually benefit India in unexpected ways.

**Strategic Insight from Russia**

Pyotr Topychkanov, head of the Section on New Challenges in South and Southeast Asia at Moscow’s Primakov Institute, shed light on the potential strategic implications of the deal. According to him, if the sale is indeed going ahead, it reveals an important dynamic — China and Pakistan remain dependent on Russian technology despite efforts to diversify.

Topychkanov explained, “Firstly, it shows that China and Pakistan haven’t yet managed to replace the Russian-origin engine. Secondly, the new aircraft will be familiar and predictable to India, especially since they share the same engine. India also observed the JF-17’s operational use during the May 2025 crisis (Operation Sindoor).”

This familiarity could give India a tactical advantage by making the behavior and performance of Pakistan’s JF-17 fleet more predictable in combat scenarios.

**Denial from Another Russian Source**

Despite Topychkanov’s comments, a senior Russian insider has denied any official confirmation of the RD-93 engine supply to Pakistan. Speaking exclusively to WION, the source called the rumors “illogical” and suggested they might be attempts to disrupt growing ties between Russia and India, especially in light of upcoming high-level engagements.

**Political Fallout in India**

The alleged deal has also ignited political controversy domestically. The Indian National Congress party has strongly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government for failing to prevent Russia from supporting Pakistan militarily.

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh questioned the logic behind Russia supplying advanced engines to Pakistan while India continues to procure Russian defense systems like the S-400 missile system and negotiates for Su-57 stealth fighters.

**BJP’s Defense of the Government**

The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has dismissed the allegations as baseless and part of a “reckless information warfare” campaign. Amit Malviya, BJP’s IT cell head, referenced Russia’s clarification on the matter and accused Ramesh of spreading misinformation based on reports from sources with a known pro-Pakistan bias.

**Conclusion**

While the controversy continues, the discourse highlights the complex interplay of defense diplomacy and strategic calculations in South Asia. Whether or not the RD-93 engines are being supplied to Pakistan, the debate underscores the sensitivity surrounding military technology transfers and the geopolitical ramifications for the region.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/russian-expert-defends-rd-93-sale-to-pakistan/story

‘Benefits India’: Russian expert backs RD-93 engines sale to Pakistan

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**‘Benefits India’: Russian Expert Supports Reported Sale of RD-93 Engines to Pakistan**

*By Snehil Singh | Oct 06, 2025, 3:45 PM*

A recent report about Russia potentially supplying RD-93 engines to Pakistan for its JF-17 fighter aircraft has sparked significant discussion. While the news has caused controversy in India, a Russian defense expert asserts that such a deal could actually offer strategic benefits to India.

**Russian Expert Highlights Strategic Advantage**

Pyotr Topychkanov, head of the Section on New Challenges in South and Southeast Asia at Moscow’s Primakov Institute, defended the reported sale. He emphasized that if true, the deal underscores China and Pakistan’s continued dependence on Russian technology.

Topychkanov explained that this dependence works in India’s favor by making the JF-17 aircraft more predictable. “Firstly, it shows that China and Pakistan haven’t yet managed to replace the Russian-origin engine. Secondly, the new aircraft will be familiar and predictable to India, especially since they share the same engine and India observed the JF-17’s operational use during the May 2025 crisis (Operation Sindoor),” he stated.

**Contradictory Reports on Engine Sale**

Despite the expert’s comments, a senior Russian official denied any confirmation of the RD-93 engine supply deal to Pakistan. In a conversation with WION, the insider labeled the rumors as illogical, especially for those closely monitoring major defense deals between Russia and India. The source suggested that these reports might be driven by ulterior motives aimed at undermining promising cooperation ahead of high-level diplomatic contacts.

**Political Fallout in India**

The alleged deal has ignited political controversy within India. The opposition Congress party has criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government for failing to prevent the sale of advanced RD-93 engines to Pakistan. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh questioned why Russia would continue offering military support to Pakistan while India is actively procuring sophisticated defense equipment like the S-400 missile systems and negotiating for the Su-57 stealth fighters from Moscow.

In response, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) defended the government, dismissing the reports as “reckless information warfare.” BJP IT-cell head Amit Malviya cited Russia’s clarification on the matter and accused Congress leaders of making baseless accusations based on sources known for pro-Pakistan propaganda.

—

This developing story highlights the complex interplay of defense diplomacy, strategic interests, and political narratives shaping India-Russia-Pakistan relations. Further official updates are awaited to clarify the situation.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/russian-expert-defends-rd-93-sale-to-pakistan/story

Louis CK defends Saudi Arabia gig: ‘Felt like good opportunity’

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**Louis CK Defends Saudi Arabia Gig: ‘Felt Like Good Opportunity’**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | October 6, 2025, 2:05 PM*

Emmy-winning comedian Louis CK has addressed the controversy surrounding his decision to perform at the Riyadh Comedy Festival in Saudi Arabia. The event, which he co-headlined alongside British comedian Jimmy Carr, has faced criticism from fellow comedians for allegedly whitewashing a regime notorious for human rights abuses.

**Unexpected Audience Response**

On *Real Time With Bill Maher*, CK shared that many comedians were “really surprised” by the audience’s reaction in Riyadh. He highlighted that a Jewish lesbian comedian, Jessica Kirson, received a standing ovation during the festival. Kirson, who also performed at the event, later expressed “sincere regret” for her participation.

“There’s stuff going on that’s unexpected in this thing,” CK said. “People have been playing Saudi Arabia for years. Comedians have been going and playing Arab countries.”

**Decision-Making and Performance Guidelines**

CK revealed that organizers informed him of only two restrictions for his performance: to avoid jokes about “their religion and their government.” He noted that he didn’t have any material targeting those topics.

“When I heard it’s opening, I thought, that’s awfully interesting. That just feels like a good opportunity. And I just feel like comedy is a great way to get in and start talking,” CK explained.

**Criticism from Fellow Comedians**

Several comedians, including Marc Maron, Atsuko Okatsuka, and David Cross, have strongly criticized performers who have previously spoken out against cancel culture and censorship but chose to participate in the Riyadh festival.

David Cross published a scathing statement on his website, explicitly calling out Louis CK by name. “Clearly you guys don’t give a shit about what the rest of us think, but how can any of us take any of you seriously ever again?” he wrote.

**Defenses from Performers**

Jessica Kirson requested assurances that she could discuss her identity as a lesbian on stage before agreeing to perform. Despite her initial participation, she later expressed “sincere regret” about performing under the Saudi government’s auspices.

Comedian Burr, who performed at the festival on September 26, defended his decision, describing it as “a mind-blowing experience.” He emphasized the value of experiencing that part of the world firsthand.

Other notable comedians such as Dave Chappelle, Kevin Hart, Pete Davidson, and Aziz Ansari also participated in the festival, adding to the diversity of voices present.

—

The Riyadh Comedy Festival continues to spark debate about the intersection of entertainment, cultural exchange, and human rights concerns in politically sensitive regions.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/louis-ck-defends-performance-at-riyadh-comedy-festival/story

Louis CK defends Saudi Arabia gig: ‘Felt like good opportunity’

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**Louis CK Defends Saudi Arabia Gig: ‘Felt Like Good Opportunity’**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | Oct 06, 2025*

Emmy-winning comedian Louis CK has come forward to defend his decision to perform at the Riyadh Comedy Festival in Saudi Arabia, an event he co-headlined alongside British comedian Jimmy Carr. The festival has sparked controversy, with critics accusing participating comedians of whitewashing a regime known for serious human rights abuses.

Speaking on *Real Time with Bill Maher*, Louis CK revealed that many of his fellow comedians were “really surprised” by the audience’s response in Riyadh.

### Audience Response

CK highlighted an unexpected positive moment at the festival: a Jewish lesbian comedian, Jessica Kirson, received a standing ovation during her set. Kirson has since expressed “sincere regret” for her participation in the event. CK remarked, “So, there’s stuff going on that’s unexpected in this thing. People have been playing Saudi Arabia for years. Comedians have been going and playing Arab countries.”

### Decision-Making and Restrictions

Louis CK shared that he was informed of only two restrictions imposed on his performance — “Their religion and their government.” He admitted that he did not have jokes addressing these topics, which influenced his decision. “When I heard it’s opening, I thought, that’s awfully interesting. That just feels like a good opportunity. And I just feel like comedy is a great way to get in and start talking,” CK explained.

### Backlash from Fellow Comedians

Several comedians, including Marc Maron, Atsuko Okatsuka, and David Cross, have criticized those who perform at the Riyadh festival, especially when some of these performers have previously spoken out against cancel culture and censorship. David Cross published a scathing statement on his website, calling out Louis CK by name: “Clearly you guys don’t give a shit about what the rest of us think, but how can any of us take any of you seriously ever again?”

### Responses from Other Performers

Jessica Kirson, who performed at the festival on September 29, requested and received a guarantee to speak about her identity as a lesbian on stage. Despite this, she later expressed regret for participating under the Saudi government’s auspices.

Comedian Bill Burr, who also performed in Riyadh on September 26, defended his decision, describing the experience as “mind-blowing” and valuing the opportunity to explore that part of the world.

Other notable comedians at the festival included Dave Chappelle, Kevin Hart, Pete Davidson, and Aziz Ansari.

—

The Riyadh Comedy Festival continues to spark debate about the balance between artistic freedom and the ethical implications of performing in countries with controversial human rights records.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/louis-ck-defends-performance-at-riyadh-comedy-festival/story

Louis CK defends Saudi Arabia gig: ‘Felt like good opportunity’

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**Louis CK Defends Saudi Arabia Gig: ‘Felt Like Good Opportunity’**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | October 6, 2025, 2:05 PM*

Emmy-winning comedian Louis CK has defended his decision to perform at the Riyadh Comedy Festival in Saudi Arabia, an event he is co-headlining with British comedian Jimmy Carr. The festival has faced criticism from fellow comedians who accuse it of whitewashing a regime known for human rights abuses.

### Audience Response Surprises Comedians

On *Real Time With Bill Maher*, CK revealed that other comedians were “really surprised” by the positive response from the Riyadh audience. He highlighted that a Jewish lesbian comedian, Jessica Kirson, received a standing ovation during the festival. Kirson has since expressed “sincere regret” for her participation.

“There’s stuff going on that’s unexpected in this thing,” CK said. “People have been playing Saudi Arabia for years. Comedians have been going and playing Arab countries.”

### Restrictions and Decision-Making

Louis CK disclosed that he was informed of only two restrictions for his performance: no jokes about the country’s religion and government. He admitted that he does not have material on these subjects.

“When I heard it’s opening, I thought, that’s awfully interesting. That just feels like a good opportunity. And I just feel like comedy is a great way to get in and start talking,” CK explained.

### Criticism from Fellow Comedians

Several comedians, including Marc Maron, Atsuko Okatsuka, and David Cross, have slammed peers who agreed to perform in Riyadh while previously voicing concerns about cancel culture and censorship. David Cross published a scathing statement on his website directly calling out Louis CK.

“Clearly you guys don’t give a shit about what the rest of us think, but how can any of us take any of you seriously ever again?” Cross wrote.

### Defenses from Performers

Jessica Kirson, who performed on September 29, had requested assurance that she could discuss being a lesbian on stage. Nonetheless, she later expressed regret for participating under the Saudi government’s auspices.

Comedian Bill Burr, who performed on September 26, described his experience as “mind-blowing” and expressed enthusiasm for getting to experience that part of the world.

Other big names at the festival included Dave Chappelle, Kevin Hart, Pete Davidson, and Aziz Ansari, all of whom have also faced public scrutiny for their participation.

—

The Riyadh Comedy Festival remains a controversial event, raising ongoing debates about the role of art and entertainment in regimes with problematic human rights records.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/louis-ck-defends-performance-at-riyadh-comedy-festival/story

“Didn’t think the ball was coming”: A.J. Brown reveals reason for slowing down after missing Jalen Hurts’ pass for 61-yard TD opportunity

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A. J. Brown and the Philadelphia Eagles suffered their first loss of the 2025 season in a hard-fought game at Lincoln Financial Field.

Nick Sirianni’s men were defeated 21-17 by Bo Nix and the Denver Broncos, marking a surprising upset in the early part of the season.

Despite a strong effort, the Eagles were unable to secure the win on their home turf, as the Broncos pulled ahead late in the game.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/news-didn-t-think-ball-coming-a-j-brown-reveals-reason-slowing-missing-jalen-hurts-pass-61-yard-td-opportunity

“Didn’t think the ball was coming”: A.J. Brown reveals reason for slowing down after missing Jalen Hurts’ pass for 61-yard TD opportunity

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A.J. Brown and the Philadelphia Eagles suffered their first loss of the 2025 season in a hard-fought contest at Lincoln Financial Field.

Nick Sirianni’s squad was defeated 21-17 by Bo Nix and the Denver Broncos, marking a challenging setback early in the season.

Despite a strong effort, the Eagles were unable to secure the win in front of their home crowd.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/news-didn-t-think-ball-coming-a-j-brown-reveals-reason-slowing-missing-jalen-hurts-pass-61-yard-td-opportunity