Trump backs coal as critical minerals source

IANS | February 12, 2026 9:15 AM

Washington, Feb 12 (IANS) US President Donald Trump and industry leaders described coal as a strategic source of rare earth elements and critical minerals, expanding its role beyond traditional power generation.

US optimistic as Nepal heads to elections after Gen Z protests

IANS | February 12, 2026 9:10 AM

Washington, Feb 12 (IANS) The Trump Administration expressed optimism about Nepal’s upcoming election, as a senior official told lawmakers that the recent political upheaval there is part of a broader wave of democratic transitions across South Asia.

Trump orders Pentagon to buy coal power

IANS | February 12, 2026 8:57 AM

Washington, Feb 12 (IANS) President Donald Trump has signed an executive order directing the US military to enter into power purchasing agreements with coal plants, arguing the move would strengthen grid resilience and national security.

US eyes Cold War trade repeal in Central Asia

IANS | February 12, 2026 8:37 AM

Washington, Feb 12 (IANS) Lawmakers urged the State Department to back the repeal of the Cold War-era Jackson-Vanik amendment for Central Asian nations, arguing that the outdated provision hampers US investment and undercuts strategic competition with Russia and China.

Trump signs order to boost coal use

IANS | February 12, 2026 8:32 AM

Washington, Feb 12 (IANS) US President Donald Trump declared himself the “undisputed champion of beautiful, clean coal” as he signed a new executive order aimed at expanding coal use and keeping ageing plants online.

India reducing Russian oil buys, claims US

IANS | February 12, 2026 8:24 AM

Washington, Feb 12 (IANS) The United States has claimed India has been “reducing” its purchases of Russian oil and diversifying energy imports, as lawmakers pressed the State Department on enforcement challenges tied to Moscow’s war in Ukraine.

Diego Garcia vital for Indo-Pacific security, countering China, says US

IANS | February 12, 2026 8:15 AM

Washington, Feb 12 (IANS) Underscoring the strategic importance of the US naval support facility at Diego Garcia, lawmakers and a senior State Department official have said that safeguarding Indian Ocean sea lanes is central to countering China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific.

US lawmakers seek Ambassador Sergio Gor’s testimony on India

IANS | February 12, 2026 8:06 AM

Washington, Feb 12 (IANS) Lawmakers pressed the State Department to make the US ambassador to India available for congressional testimony, underscoring the strategic importance of the bilateral relationship and calling for greater oversight.