A Trade War Years in the Making The world’s two largest economies are once again teetering on the brink of a full-scale trade war. What began in 2018 under the Trump administration as a series of tariffs aimed at addressing trade imbalances with China has evolved into a long, bitter standoff between Washington and Beijing. Initially, the US imposed tariffs on billions of dollars’ worth of Chinese goods, citing unfair trade practices and intellectual property theft. China responded in kind, slapping duties on American exports. The escalation marked the beginning…
Category: Geo Politics
Defiant Under Fire: Why US Bombing Is Strengthening, Not Stopping, the Houthis
A Costly Air Campaign Amid Growing Resistance In recent weeks, the United States has intensified its military campaign against the Houthi movement in Yemen, targeting strategic assets such as oil refineries, missile launchers, and airports. With President Donald Trump vowing “overwhelming force” to put an end to Houthi missile and drone attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea, the cost of the operation is rapidly climbing—nearing $1 billion in under three weeks, according to reports. Despite this aggressive effort, the campaign’s effectiveness is under increasing scrutiny. While the Pentagon…
China Hits Back: 34% Tariff on US Goods Escalates Trade War
The US-China Tariff Battle The trade war between the United States and China has entered a new and intensified phase, with Beijing announcing a sweeping 34% tariff on all US goods, effective April 10. This move comes in direct retaliation to President Donald Trump’s recent tariff hikes on Chinese imports, bringing total new tariffs to 54%. The escalating conflict between the world’s two largest economies has sparked global market turmoil, with investors fearing a potential recession. Beyond tariffs, China has also imposed strict export controls on rare-earth elements—key materials in…
“Hands Off!” Protests: Americans Rally Against Trump Policies on April 5
Nationwide Demonstrations Against Trump and Musk On April 5, thousands of Americans will take to the streets in a nationwide protest against President Donald Trump’s policies and the actions of billionaire Elon Musk. Branded as the “Hands Off!” movement, this mass mobilization is expected to be the largest single-day demonstration since Trump’s return to office. According to organizers, over 1,000 events are planned across all 50 states, with more than 250,000 people having RSVP’d. The protests are being led by activist groups such as Third Act, Indivisible, and MoveOn, who…
India-Bangladesh Relations at a Crossroads: Modi Meets Yunus at BIMSTEC
A Legacy of Friendship and Strains in Ties India and Bangladesh share a deep-rooted relationship shaped by history, geography, and mutual cooperation. Since Bangladesh’s independence in 1971, India has been a key ally, offering economic support, infrastructure development, and strategic collaboration. However, the relationship has seen strains in recent times, particularly after the political turmoil in Bangladesh that led to the exile of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Hasina, who sought refuge in India amidst corruption allegations and violent protests in her country, has become a contentious figure in the…
Trump’s New Tariffs: IMF Chief Weighs In on Global Growth Concerns
Amid worldwide criticism, Trump declared a national economic emergency and announced tariffs of at least 10 per cent across all countries, with rates even higher for 60 countries. The tariff plan imposed high levies on many countries, including 26 per cent on India. The world economy was jolted on Thursday as United States President Donald Trump’s sweeping new tariffs on foreign imports sent shockwaves through governments, investors, and industries worldwide. The sudden move prompted threats of retaliation from several countries and urgent calls for negotiations while markets struggled to absorb…
Trump’s 26% Reciprocal Tariff on India: A ‘Mixed Bag’ or a Looming Trade Dispute?
A New Trade Flashpoint In a dramatic shift in US trade policy, President Donald Trump has announced a sweeping 26% reciprocal tariff on Indian imports, a move that has sent ripples through global markets. The announcement, made on April 2, 2025, was framed by Trump as a crucial step in reclaiming American economic strength. While this decision comes amid ongoing US-India negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement, Indian officials have downplayed its impact, calling it a “mixed bag” rather than a setback. The Indian commerce ministry has now launched an…
US Revokes Hundreds of International Student Visas Amid National Security Concerns
A Controversial Crackdown In a move that has sparked widespread debate, the United States government has revoked the visas of hundreds of international students, including some from India, citing concerns over national security. The crackdown is primarily focused on students allegedly involved in campus protests and online activities deemed supportive of Hamas, a group designated as a terrorist organization by the U.S. government. While the administration argues that these measures are necessary to safeguard the country, critics contend that the policy infringes on free speech and academic freedom, leaving many…
Trump’s New Trade Tariffs: Which Countries Will Be Hit the Hardest?
A New Era of Trade Restrictions In a move set to shake global trade dynamics, U.S. President Donald Trump is poised to impose a fresh round of tariffs starting April 2, a date he has labeled “Liberation Day” for America. These new duties will specifically target nations that levy high tariffs on U.S. goods or maintain restrictive trade policies that the White House deems unfair. While the specific details of the tariffs remain closely guarded, Trump’s administration has been vocal about its dissatisfaction with existing trade agreements. The new measures…
ED Probes USAID Funding Over Alleged Soros Links
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has come under scrutiny in India as part of an ongoing investigation by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The probe is centered around alleged foreign exchange violations linked to hedge fund billionaire George Soros. The investigation involves three Bengaluru-based companies that reportedly received significant funding from Soros’ Economic Development Fund (SEDF) between 2021 and 2024. Adding to the controversy, one of these firms also received financial support from USAID, raising concerns about the nature and intent of these transactions. The ED Probe: Uncovering…