Russia freed American Hubbard; Trump says 'gave nothing in exchange'

IANS | October 22, 2026 6:33 AM

Washington, Oct 22 (IANS) US President Donald Trump has said Russia released American Stephen Hubbard after he asked President Vladimir Putin in a phone call, insisting Washington "gave nothing in exchange", and praised Moscow and Beijing for largely staying out of the Iran conflict.

Putin, Trump's special envoy discuss Ukraine and situation in Persian Gulf

IANS | October 21, 2026 7:29 PM

Moscow, Oct 21 (IANS) US President's special envoy Steve Witkoff held a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at Constantine Palace in St. Petersburg on Wednesday, where they discussed several issues, including the Ukrainian peace process, local media reported on Wednesday.

Pakistan: BLA claims killing 14 Pakistani military personnel in Balochistan

IANS | October 21, 2026 7:28 PM

Quetta, Oct 21 (IANS) The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for 34 operations carried out in Pakistan's Balochistan province from October 9-20, claiming lives of Pakistani military personnel and military operatives and capture of a serving Pakistani soldier, local media reported on Wednesday.

Estonia backs India becoming stronger global voice: Envoy

IANS | October 21, 2026 6:26 PM

New Delhi, Oct 21 (IANS) Estonia's Ambassador Kristi Karelsohn on Wednesday expressed Tallinn's support for India becoming a stronger voice globally. In an interview with IANS, Karelsohn emphasised that the Indian leadership aims to have a greater role in the world and global organisations and Estonia supports New Delhi's ambition of having a greater role in the world.