The United States says it has issued a 30-day waiver allowing India to purchase Russian oil already at sea, aiming to stabilize global energy markets during escalating tensions in West Asia. At the same time, the Kremlin has refused to disclose how much crude it is exporting to India, citing security concerns and “too many ill wishers.” Russian officials say Moscow is ready to increase oil shipments to India and China as disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz threaten global supply routes.  

Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded a historic two-day visit to Israel, where India and Israel elevated their relationship to a Special Strategic Partnership. Multiple MoUs were signed covering artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, agriculture, commerce, and digital payments, including a landmark UPI connectivity agreement.