US tightens control of Venezuelan oil, sparks debate in Congress

IANS | January 8, 2026 6:18 AM

Washington, Jan 8 (IANS) The Trump administration is moving to tighten US control over Venezuela's oil exports through sanctions enforcement, a naval presence, and US-managed sales, according to top administration officials, even as lawmakers pressed the White House for clearer objectives and legal justification.

India joins Weimar Triangle Format, discusses EU ties

IANS | January 7, 2026 11:50 PM

Paris, Jan 7 (IANS) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday participated in India's inaugural engagement in the Weimar Triangle format, holding candid discussions with French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot, German Minister of State for Europe and Climate Action Anna Lührmann (represented by Tobias Lindner or Wadephul as mentioned), and Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski.

Nepal: Minister Ghising resigns after 115 days

IANS | January 7, 2026 11:06 PM

Kathmandu, Jan 7 (IANS) Nepali Cabinet Minister Kul Man Ghising on Wednesday resigned from his post amid pressure from Prime Minister Sushila Karki on ministers aligned with political parties to quit their ministerial positions.

Pakistan: Railway track damaged after blast in Balochistan

IANS | January 7, 2026 8:15 PM

Quetta, Jan 7 (IANS) An explosion occurred after unknown assailants using explosive material targetted a railway track near the national highway in the Notal area of Nasirabad in Pakistan's Balochistan, local media reported on Wednesday.

Christians in Bangladesh seek protection amid rising attacks: Report

IANS | January 7, 2026 8:06 PM

Dhaka, Jan 7 (IANS) Bangladesh's administration has become increasingly dysfunctional since the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government assumed power following the ouster of the Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government, enabling Islamist groups to escalate attacks on minorities, especially Hindus and Christians, a report said on Wednesday.

Australia faces scrutiny over engagements with judges from Hong Kong's 'bogus court': Report

IANS | January 7, 2026 8:01 PM

Canberra, Jan 7 (IANS) The Australian judiciary appears complicit in the Chinese psychological warfare campaign by allowing the controversial trio of Hong Kong National Security Law judges to enter Australia and engage with the judicial figures — posing a national security risk. Australia’s judiciary does not seem concerned by the judgments of Hong Kong’s “bogus court”, a report said on Wednesday.