Trump predicts sharp fall in global oil prices

IANS | June 12, 2026 7:11 AM

Washington, June 12 (IANS) US President Donald Trump predicted a sharp decline in global oil prices if a proposed agreement with Iran is finalised, arguing that greater stability in the Middle East and the reopening of key shipping routes would ease pressure on energy markets.

China outpacing US in biotech race: Report

IANS | June 12, 2026 6:58 AM

Washington, June 12 (IANS) China is moving aggressively to dominate biotechnology and is already implementing many of the policies recommended by a US national security commission, raising concerns that Washington could lose its long-held leadership in a sector increasingly seen as critical to economic and military power.

US foreign investment bill targets China, ethics concerns

IANS | June 12, 2026 6:51 AM

Washington, June 12 (IANS) Democratic lawmakers introduced legislation that would create a new federal authority to review and monitor large foreign investment commitments in the United States, arguing that Washington needs stronger safeguards to ensure such investments benefit American workers and do not create ethical conflicts for public officials.

Trump says Iran leaders back nuclear deal

IANS | June 12, 2026 6:47 AM

Washington, June 12 (IANS) President Donald Trump said that Iran's leadership has approved a framework agreement with the United States that would permanently bar Tehran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, raising expectations that a formal signing could take place within days.

US sanctions Cuba's state oil company

IANS | June 12, 2026 6:43 AM

Washington, June 12 (IANS) The United States imposed sanctions on Cuba's state-owned oil and gas company, escalating pressure on Havana as the Trump administration accused the Communist government of using energy resources to sustain repression and enrich its leadership.

Melania Trump unveils savings plan for foster youth

IANS | June 12, 2026 6:36 AM

Washington, June 12 (IANS) First Lady Melania Trump launched a new financial initiative aimed at helping children in foster care build savings and assets before they reach adulthood, describing it as a step towards expanding economic opportunity for some of the country's most vulnerable young people.

UFC joins US diplomacy push under Rubio

IANS | June 12, 2026 6:34 AM

Washington, June 12 (IANS) The United States signed an agreement with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), bringing the world's largest mixed martial arts organisation into Washington's expanding sports diplomacy efforts as the Trump administration seeks to strengthen America's global outreach through popular culture.

Trump claims secret US operations in Hormuz

IANS | June 12, 2026 6:25 AM

Washington, June 12 (IANS) US President Donald Trump claimed the United States had secretly conducted military operations in and around the Strait of Hormuz for weeks, moving ships and oil cargoes through the strategic waterway while targeting Iranian maritime assets ahead of a proposed agreement with Tehran.

Trump says US, Iran close to finalising deal

IANS | June 12, 2026 6:21 AM

Washington, June 12 (IANS) US President Donald Trump said that the United States and Iran are close to finalising an agreement that would bar Tehran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, raising the prospect of a signing ceremony within days and a broader easing of tensions across the Middle East.