International

Trump Announces $1,776 Bonus for US Troops in White House Address

By BPN News Desk December 18, 2025

U.S. President Donald Trump delivered a televised speech from the White House on Wednesday night, during which he announced that more than 1.4 million U.S. military service members will receive a one-time bonus of $1,776 before Christmas. The payment, termed a “warrior dividend,” is meant to recognise the service of active-duty personnel and certain reservists. […]

International

South African Lawmaker Congratulates India on BRICS 2026 Presidency

By BPN News Desk December 18, 2025

A senior South African parliamentary official has publicly congratulated India on assuming the BRICS Presidency for 2026, recognising the growing role India will play in the bloc of emerging economies. The statement highlighted the importance of strong leadership as BRICS prepares to host key meetings and the 18th BRICS Summit next year. Support for India’s […]

International

India Suspends Visa Services as Bangladesh Ties Strain

By BPN News Desk December 18, 2025

India has suspended visa services in Bangladesh after shutting its main visa application centre in Dhaka and halting operations at centres in Rajshahi and Khulna, citing security concerns. The decision comes amid rising tensions between the two countries following protests in Bangladesh that raised concerns over the safety of Indian diplomatic missions and personnel.

International

Belgium Court Rejects Choksi Appeal in PNB Scam Case

By BPN News Desk December 18, 2025

Belgium’s top court has rejected fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi’s appeal against India’s extradition request in the Punjab National Bank fraud case, endorsing the findings of a lower court. The ruling clears a key legal hurdle in India’s efforts to bring Choksi back to face trial in connection with one of the country’s largest banking scams. […]

International

Putin Condemns NATO Chief’s ‘Prepare for War’ Warning

By BPN News Desk December 18, 2025

Russian President Vladimir Putin strongly criticised remarks by the NATO Secretary General that Western countries should be ready for a conflict on the scale experienced by past generations. Putin described the comments as “hysteria” and misleading, saying they fuel unnecessary fear about Russia and escalate tensions between Moscow and the West. Western leaders have

International

Netanyahu Clears Record Israel Gas Export Deal to Egypt

By BPN News Desk December 18, 2025

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has approved Israel’s largest-ever natural gas export agreement, a deal valued at about $35 billion to supply gas to Egypt over the long term. The agreement is linked to production from the offshore Leviathan gas field and will use existing pipeline infrastructure to transport gas to Egypt. Israeli officials described […]

International

Trump Says US ‘Inherited a Mess’ in National Address

By BPN News Desk December 18, 2025

U.S. President Donald Trump said the United States had “inherited a mess” as he addressed the nation in a televised speech, using the phrase to describe the economic, security and governance challenges his administration faced upon taking office. The remarks were central to his message as he laid out his case for continued policy changes […]

International

India Exports Medicines to Afghanistan, Pakistan Reacts

By BPN News Desk December 18, 2025

India has begun exporting life-saving medicines to Afghanistan, marking a renewed economic engagement with the Taliban-led government in Kabul. The shipments include a range of essential drugs aimed at supporting healthcare needs in Afghanistan amid continuing shortages of medical supplies. Shift in Regional Trade The move comes after reports that Afghanistan reduced the

International

India, Oman to Sign Free Trade Agreement on December 18

By BPN News Desk December 17, 2025

India and Oman are set to sign a Free Trade Agreement on December 18, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral economic relations. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal confirmed the development, stating that the agreement will deepen trade, investment and strategic cooperation between the two countries. Agreement After Extended Negotiations The trade

International

Bondi Beach Shooting Suspect Arrested in Hospital

By BPN News Desk December 17, 2025

Australian police have arrested the suspected gunman involved in the Bondi Beach shooting after he regained consciousness in a Sydney hospital. The accused had been in a medically induced coma following injuries sustained during the police response to the incident and was placed under arrest at his hospital bedside once doctors confirmed he was fit […]