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Zelenskyy Stresses Reducing Russia’s Military Strength as Top Priority

December 10, 2024, 9:36 am

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded to the growing discussion about lowering the draft age for Ukrainians. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing training and equipping existing military brigades rather than focusing on age. “We must not compensate the lack of equipment and training with the youth of soldiers,” Zelenskyy wrote in a post on X.

He further stressed, “The priority should be providing missiles and lowering Russia’s military potential, not Ukraine’s draft age.” Zelenskyy highlighted that the main goal should be to preserve lives, not stockpile weapons. “The most important thing is to work together on how to end this war.”

Gratitude for Global Allies

Zelenskyy thanked French President Emmanuel Macron and U.S. President-elect Donald Trump for their support. He pointed out that global unity is essential to end the war justly. “During the meeting in Paris, this was exactly what we focused on, and it was a very productive conversation,” he said.

He also expressed his appreciation: “I reiterate my gratitude to President Macron for organizing it, as well as my deep gratitude to President Trump for his strong resolve to bring this war to a fair end.”

Unity for Peace

Zelenskyy continued by emphasizing that unity among nations is key to bringing peace. “We know that America has the capacity to accomplish remarkable things—things that others have not been able to achieve,” he said. “To succeed in ending this war, we need unity—unity of America, Europe, and everyone in the world who values security—as well as strong positions and guarantees for peace.”

He also noted, “I told President Trump that Putin fears only him and, perhaps, China. Only decisiveness can bring this war to a just end and ensure lasting peace.”

U.S. Official Calls for Lowering Draft Age

Zelenskyy’s comments came after a senior U.S. official suggested lowering Ukraine’s draft age from 25 to 18. The official believed more recruits were needed to replace soldiers lost in combat. According to Al Jazeera, the official mentioned that Russia was making progress in the east, pushing back Ukrainian forces.

“The need right now is manpower. The Russians are making steady progress in the east. Mobilization and more manpower could make a significant difference,” the official said.

The U.S. is also preparing a new weapons package for Ukraine before President Biden’s term ends in January.

Challenges and Predicaments in the Taiwan Strait: From Biden to Trump 2.0

December 4, 2024, 4:25 am

The Taiwan Strait remains a pivotal region in global geopolitics, where US policies play a crucial role in influencing regional stability. Under President Biden, US-Taiwan relations strengthened significantly, with a focus on defence cooperation and economic partnerships. With the return of Donald Trump to the White House, questions arise about the future direction of US policy toward Taiwan amid escalating tensions with China.

The Trump 1.0 Legacy
During his first term (2017–2021), President Donald Trump made a significant shift in US policy toward Taiwan, particularly in its dealings with China. In an unprecedented move, he spoke with Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen shortly after his election, setting the tone for his administration’s approach. This call, the first communication between a US president-elect and a Taiwanese leader in nearly four decades, enraged Beijing, which considers Taiwan a breakaway province. Trump’s disregard for China’s “One China” policy signalled his administration’s broader strategy to confront China on multiple fronts, ranging from trade to military presence in the region. The Trump administration approved over $18 billion in arms sales to Taiwan, including high-profile F-16 fighter jets, emphasizing support for Taiwan’s military readiness against growing Chinese threats. According to the Security Assistance Monitor, Taiwan ranked as the second-highest recipient of US arms offers in 2019 and the fifth highest in 2020. Additionally, US Navy operations in the Taiwan Strait challenged Beijing’s territorial assertions, showcasing a commitment to maintaining freedom of navigation in the region.
While Trump’s support for Taiwan was appreciated in Taipei, it carried serious risks. These measures, part of a strategy of ‘strategic clarity,’ provoked aggressive Chinese responses, including military drills and frequent incursions into Taiwan’s airspace. Although these actions bolstered Taiwan’s security, they also heightened the risk of miscalculation and conflict in the region.

From Trump to Biden’s Strategic Balancing Act
President Biden continued Trump’s policy of strengthening ties with Taiwan but adopted a more measured approach. His administration allocated $4.5 billion in military aid to Taiwan and designated it as a ‘Major Non-NATO Ally,’ enhancing the island’s defensive capabilities against Chinese aggression. Additionally, Congress extended the initiative by adding an extra year and $2 billion in foreign military financing, raising the total to $6.5 billion through fiscal year 2027. Economic and defence ties between the US and Taiwan also deepened, with increased arms sales and collaborative efforts to strengthen Taiwan’s domestic defence industry. The Biden administration further advocated for Taiwan’s participation in global organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO).
However, Biden avoided highly provocative actions, such as selling weapons with prominent international profiles like F-16 fighter jets or advanced longer-range capabilities, such as the Army Tactical Missile Systems and Standoff Land Attack Missile Expanded Response, which were part of Foreign Military Sales (FMS) notifications under the Trump administration. By October 2024, his administration has authorized $7.7 billion in military sales, prioritizing practical defence upgrades. This approach reflected a cautious but steady effort to support Taiwan without exacerbating tension with China.

What Trump 2.0 May Bring
With Trump’s return to the White House, his Taiwan policy is likely to be shaped by a mix of transactional considerations, strategic competition with China, and continuity in arms sales and military support. During Trump’s first term, US-Taiwan relations were significantly bolstered through high-profile visits by US officials and enhanced arms sales. However, Trump’s rhetoric often tied Taiwan’s security to financial contributions, framing US defence commitments in transactional terms.
A second Trump administration may introduce challenges and uncertainties for Taiwan. Trump’s unpredictable foreign policy style and reluctance to explicitly commit to Taiwan’s defence could bring back strategic ambiguity. His repeated emphasis on financial contributions such as his comments in a July 2024 Bloomberg Businessweek interview suggesting Taiwan should “pay” for US security guarantees, likened to an insurance policy. Trump has also critiqued Taiwan’s dominance in the semiconductor industry, potentially complicating bilateral relations.
These statements mark a sharp divergence from the Biden administration’s position, which pledged to deploy US troops in Taiwan’s defence if necessary. However, appointments like Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Défense and Marco Rubio as Secretary of State suggest a hardline stance on China, likely signalling intensified US Navy patrols in the Taiwan Strait, approvals for advanced weaponry sales to Taiwan, and greater military collaboration with regional allies such as Japan, South Korea, and Australia.

2024 and Beyond
Looking ahead, Taiwan will need to navigate the shifting dynamics of US policy by bolstering its defence capabilities, ensuring bipartisan support in the US Congress, and deepening regional partnerships. It must prioritize preparedness, resilience, and diplomatic agility to safeguard its sovereignty and security in an increasingly volatile environment.
During Trump’s first term, his policy of strategic clarity earned strong support in Taipei. However, shifting global dynamics now present significant challenges for the United States in maintaining a delicate balance in the region. A newly elected Trump administration would face the critical task of managing the risk of military escalation in the Taiwan Strait. Chinese President Xi Jinping has reaffirmed China’s determination to reunify Taiwan, even by force if necessary. Trump’s confrontational policies, such as conducting freedom of navigation operations in the Taiwan Strait, risk provoking aggressive Chinese countermeasures, thereby heightening the chances of conflict. To address these challenges, a Trump 2.0 administration would need to adopt a stable and nuanced strategy aimed at safeguarding stability and preserving the status quo in the Taiwan Strait. Furthermore, maintaining a visible and capable U.S. military presence in the Indo-Pacific, coupled with joint military exercises alongside regional allies, will be essential for deterring China and ensuring peace in the region.

The author is is a doctoral candidate in the United States Studies Program at the Centre for Canadian, United States, and Latin American Studies, School for International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi.

President Biden’s Granddaughter Naomi Announces Pregnancy on Election Day

November 6, 2024, 12:11 pm

In a joyful moment during the election season, President Joe Biden’s granddaughter, Naomi Biden, revealed she is expecting her first child with her husband, Peter George Heermann Neal. Naomi, the daughter of Hunter Biden and his ex-wife Kathleen Buhle, shared this happy news on Election Day, marking a special moment for the Biden family.

Social Media Announcement

Naomi shared her pregnancy news with her Instagram followers by posting a photo of her baby bump alongside an “I voted” sticker. She captioned the image with “We voted” along with the American flag and upside-down face emojis, making the announcement both heartfelt and patriotic. This baby will be the first great-grandchild for Joe and Jill Biden, as reported by The Daily Beast.

A Historic White House Wedding

Naomi Biden, who has often been seen by her grandfather’s side at various state events, holds a special place in the Biden family history. She became the first presidential grandchild to be married at the White House, tying the knot with Peter Neal on the South Lawn. Naomi was also present at high-profile events like the G7 summit in Italy this past June. According to Daily Mail, speculation around her pregnancy began in May at a state dinner, where it quickly became “the talk” of the evening.

Meet Peter Neal: Naomi Biden’s Husband

Peter Neal has had an active background in politics and public service. As reported by Guest of a Guest, he interned for Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign and later took a position in the Obama-Biden administration. Together, Peter and Naomi created an application in 2020 to assist small businesses with calculating eligibility for CARES Act benefits. Explaining their motivation, they shared on their website, “After spending hours reading the stimulus bill and trying to understand what it meant for ourselves, as well as Peter’s family’s small business in Wyoming, we were struck by the difficulty of navigating what should be accessible information for struggling small businesses and individuals during a crisis like this.”

Neal proposed to Naomi in September 2021, presenting her with his grandmother’s engagement ring, a gesture that added sentimental value to their relationship. The couple celebrated their wedding the following year at the White House, a fitting location for a family deeply connected to the country’s political legacy.

Biden’s Final Diwali Celebration At White House: A Grand Farewell With Indian-Americans

October 28, 2024, 12:58 am

This Monday, President Joe Biden will celebrate Diwali with Indian-Americans from across the United States at the White House, marking his last Diwali event as President. The evening promises to be a memorable tribute to Indian heritage and culture, emphasizing the growing bond between the U.S. and the Indian-American community.

Lighting the Diya in the Blue Room

Continuing a cherished tradition, President Biden will light a Diya lamp in the White House’s Blue Room, symbolizing the festival’s theme of light over darkness. This ceremonial lamp-lighting will be followed by the President’s remarks to the assembled guests, highlighting the significance of Diwali for both India and Indian-Americans in the U.S.

Special Video Message from Astronaut Sunita Williams

Adding to the cultural tribute, Biden’s introductions will include a special video message from Sunita Williams, a celebrated NASA astronaut and retired Navy Captain, who recorded a greeting from the International Space Station. Williams, a practicing Hindu, has previously shared Diwali messages from space and even brought Indian cultural items—such as samosas, copies of the Bhagavad Gita, and Upanishads—to celebrate her heritage. Her message this year is expected to resonate deeply with the Indian-American community.

Traditional Dance and Music Performances

The evening’s festivities will also include a classical dance and music ensemble by Nootana, a South Asian arts group based in Washington, D.C., bringing traditional South Asian rhythms and movements to the celebration. In addition, the Marine Corps Band will complement the cultural showcase, adding a unique touch to the White House’s Diwali reception.

Biden’s Last Diwali Reception as President

With this being Biden’s final Diwali reception at the White House, his celebration with the Indian-American community marks a heartfelt farewell. The event symbolizes his commitment to inclusivity and his appreciation for Indian-American contributions to U.S. society.

Hurricane Milton Causes $50 Billion In Damage; President Biden Promises Aid

October 12, 2024, 5:30 pm

Hurricane Milton has inflicted approximately $50 billion in damages, according to President Joe Biden. The Category 3 storm devastated Florida, resulting in 16 fatalities and leaving millions without power. Biden is expected to visit the affected areas on Sunday as officials evaluate the extent of the destruction.

“I want everyone in the impacted areas to know we’re going to do everything we can to help you pick back up the pieces and return to normalcy,” Biden stated on Friday.

Governor Ron DeSantis remarked that the state had avoided a “worst-case scenario,” although significant damage still occurred. The Tampa Bay region managed to evade the anticipated storm surge, which had raised alarms.

Authorities noted that the situation could have been far worse without widespread evacuations. The recent devastation from Hurricane Helene, which struck just two weeks prior, likely encouraged many residents to flee in advance of Milton’s arrival.

As of 8 PM on Wednesday, the time of Milton’s landfall, the National Weather Service confirmed 19 tornadoes in Florida, with a total of 45 reported throughout the day, mainly in central and eastern areas.

The Biden administration has assured that it is “providing all the resources needed” to support the recovery efforts. Federal officials are optimistic about managing the responses to both Hurricanes Milton and Helene but are wary of potential funding shortages if additional storms develop before the hurricane season ends in November.

Residents returning from evacuation faced slow journeys on congested highways, exhausted from their travels and the daunting cleanup tasks awaiting them but relieved to return safely.

PM Modi Presents Antique Silver Hand-Engraved Train Model to President Biden

September 22, 2024, 10:42 am

PM gifted an Antique Silver Hand-Engraved Train Model to President Biden. This vintage silver hand-engraved train model is a rare and extraordinary piece, masterfully crafted by artisans from Maharashtra – renowned for its rich heritage in silver craftsmanship. Made of 92.5% silver, the model showcases the pinnacle of Indian metalworking artistry, with elaborate details achieved through traditional techniques such as engraving, repoussé (hammering from the reverse to create raised designs), and intricate filigree work.

This creation is a tribute to the steam locomotive era, with artistic brilliance merging with historical significance.

Signifying the robust linkages between India and the US, the model has been customised by inscribing “DELHI – DELAWARE” on the sides of the main carriage and “INDIAN RAILWAYS” on the sides of the engine in English and Hindi based on the standard format used on passenger trains in India.

This masterpiece not only highlights the artisan’s exceptional skill but also serves as a glowing testimony to the long history of Indian railways and its global influences.

Ivanka Trump’s Emotional Message After Assassination Attempt on Donald Trump

July 14, 2024, 12:44 pm

Ivanka Trump expressed her love and gratitude on social media after an assassination attempt on her father, former President Donald Trump, during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. She wrote on X, “Thank you for your love and prayers for my father and for the other victims of today’s senseless violence in Butler, Pennsylvania. I am grateful to the Secret Service and all the other law enforcement officers for their quick and decisive actions today. I continue to pray for our country. I love you Dad, today and always.”

Thank you for your love and prayers for my father and for the other victims of today’s senseless violence in Butler, Pennsylvania. I am grateful to the Secret Service and all the other law enforcement officers for their quick and decisive actions today. I continue to pray for our…

— Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) July 14, 2024

Incident Details

During the rally, one attendee was killed, and another was seriously injured. The shooter, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, was killed by Secret Service snipers. An AR-style rifle was recovered at the scene. The FBI is still investigating the motive behind the attack.

GOP Chairman Ed Cox’s Comments

New York State GOP chairman Ed Cox praised Trump’s response to the attack, stating that it will win him respect. “Americans saw what Donald Trump was made of. It’s going to energize us,” said Cox. He compared the incident to former President Theodore Roosevelt being shot during a speech in 1912, highlighting Trump’s toughness and resilience.

President Biden’s Response

In an official White House statement, it was revealed that President Joe Biden spoke to Trump after the incident. Biden also spoke with Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Butler Mayor Bob Dandoy. To address the situation, Biden is returning to Washington, D.C., cutting his beach weekend short. He will receive an updated briefing from homeland security and law enforcement officials the following morning.

Trump Escapes Injury After Shots Fired At Rally In Pennsylvania

July 14, 2024, 10:24 am

At a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, former president Donald Trump was rushed off the stage after shots were fired. The Republican nominee was hit, clutching the side of his head, and Secret Service agents quickly tackled him. As Trump stood up, blood was seen gushing from his right ear. Witnesses claimed they had tried to warn police about a sniper on a nearby roof just moments before the gunfire.

Posting a witness video, Elon Musk demanded the resignations of Secret Service chief Kimberly Cheatle and the leader of Trump’s security detail. A witness told BBC News, “You could clearly see him with a rifle. We’re pointing at him. The police were running around on the ground. We were like, ‘Hey, there’s a guy on the roof with a rifle.’ And the police didn’t know what was going on.”

Musk shared the witness interview and tweeted, “The head of the Secret Service and the leader of this security detail should resign.” Social media users also posted images and videos of a man on a rooftop with what they described as a sniper rifle.

One user on X (formerly known as Twitter) claimed, “The shooter at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania can be seen dead on the roof of a nearby building, after being killed by U.S. Secret Service agents.” They shared a video showing a person on the roof.

Police have not yet confirmed these witness accounts. Meanwhile, Trump’s campaign and the Secret Service stated that the former president was “okay” and was at a medical facility.

President Biden condemned the attack, calling it “political violence” and saying, “There is no place in America for this kind of violence. It’s sick.”

NATO Leaders Defend Biden’s Fitness Amid Health Concerns

July 13, 2024, 12:17 pm

Amid growing concerns about US President Joe Biden’s health and fitness for a second term, world leaders who met him at the NATO summit have come to his defense, addressing health concerns and backing him for the upcoming presidential elections.

Keir Starmer’s Reaction to Biden’s Age

Keir Starmer, Britain’s newest leader, addressed the issue indirectly while discussing age limits for lawmakers. In an exclusive interview with CNN’s Jake Tapper at the NATO summit in Washington, Starmer was asked whether his stance on old age extends to Biden. “Obviously in America, it’s for the American people to decide who they want to be their president,” Starmer responded. He noted that despite questions about Biden’s mental acuity, the 81-year-old president had been “in good form” during their talks. However, Starmer added that he would express concerns if he had any.

Justin Trudeau’s Reaction to Biden’s Age

Other world leaders also offered their support for Biden. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, when asked about Biden’s capability to lead on the world stage, praised the U.S. president. “It has been, as always, a privilege and a pleasure to work alongside [Biden] on big issues,” Trudeau said. “[Biden’s] depth of experience, his thoughtfulness, his steadfastness on the greatest issues and challenges of our time is a credit to the work that we’re all doing together.”

Emmanuel Macron’s Reaction to Biden’s Age

French President Emmanuel Macron defended Biden following a verbal slip where Biden mistakenly referred to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as Russian President Vladimir Putin before correcting himself. Macron, speaking to reporters, assured that Biden is “in charge” and clear on important issues. “I was able to talk with President Biden at length yesterday at dinner,” Macron said. “I saw as always a president who is in charge, clear on the issues he knows well.” Macron emphasized that everyone makes mistakes and urged for indulgence, saying, “We all slip up sometimes. It’s happened to me and it could happen again tomorrow.”

Olaf Scholz’s Reaction to Biden’s Age

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz echoed this sentiment, defending Biden and downplaying the significance of occasional verbal slips. “Slips of tongue happen, and if you always monitor everyone, you will find enough of them,” Scholz told reporters.

As President Biden continues to face scrutiny over his age and fitness for office, the support from these world leaders at the NATO summit highlights the confidence they have in his leadership and experience.

G20: PM Modi, President Biden alongwith other leaders pay homage at Raj Ghat

September 10, 2023, 10:06 am

US President Joe Biden was greeted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Delhi’s Raj Ghat on Sunday as he arrived to pay respects to the nation’s founding father Mahatma Gandhi. As President Joe Biden arrived at Raj Ghat, PM Modi greeted him and gave him a khadi gift.

Emmanuel Macron, the president of France, also traveled to Delhi’s Rajghat to honor Mahatma Gandhi and lay a wreath. Joko Widodo, the president of Indonesia, also paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi by going to Rajghat. Cyril Ramaphosa, the president of South Africa, also traveled to Delhi’s Rajghat to honor Mahatma Gandhi and lay a wreath. Asaad bin Tariq bin Taimur Al Said, the deputy prime minister of Oman, arrived at Rajghat. PM Modi gave him khadi as a gift to say “hello.” Lee Hsien Loong, the prime minister of Singapore, also went to Rajghat.

World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom, Asian Development Bank President Masatsugu Asakawa, and United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Ajay Banga, the managing director of the World Bank, Kristalina Georgieva, and other delegates made their way to Rajghat to honor Mahatma Gandhi and lay a wreath.

Leaders and delegation heads will first pay respects to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat before proceeding to Bharat Mandapam. At Bharat Mandapam, a tree-planting ceremony will be held. The leaders will then take part in the G20 summit’s third session, titled “One Future.”