Historic India-Russia Oil Deal Boosts Energy Ties Amid Sanctions

Virat Kohli, one of India’s most celebrated cricketers, announced his retirement from Test cricket, a decision that has left the cricketing community in shock. This announcement comes shortly after the resignation of captain Rohit Sharma. Both players will be absent as India prepares for a demanding five-Test series in England set to begin in June, potentially impacting the team's performance. Kohli, reflecting on his journey in a heartfelt Instagram post to his 270 million followers, expressed that stepping away from Test cricket was a difficult yet right choice for him. His career is marked by notable achievements, including leading India to significant victories and being an icon for millions globally, garnering tributes from renowned athletes across multiple sports. Former India captain Ravi Shastri emphasized that Kohli transformed the Indian cricket team into a competitive force, especially in overseas conditions. Throughout his Test career, Kohli amassed 9,230 runs, ranking fourth among Indian cricketers, and is hailed for his influence on and off the field. With Kohli's departure, a pivotal chapter in Indian cricket has come to a close.

India's Air Force conducted a precision strike on May 10, targeting 11 military airbases in Pakistan, reportedly damaging 20% of its air force infrastructure and resulting in over 50 fatalities, including Squadron Leader Usman Yusuf. According to top government sources, the attacks focused on key installations including Bholari and Sargodha, where F-16 and JF-17 fighter jets are stationed. In comments to the media, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that this strike marks a significant milestone, making India the first nation to attack the airbases of a nuclear-armed country in a single operation. Official reports indicate that the operation inflicted heavy casualties at Bholari airbase and led to the destruction of several fighter jets. The operation followed an earlier strike on May 7, dubbed Operation Sindoor, which reportedly killed over 100 terrorists in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Satellite imagery has shown the extent of the damage at various airbases, including Shahbaz and Noor Khan. The use of kamikaze drones in the operation was noted as a crucial element in neutralizing Pakistan's air defense capabilities.

A video surfaced on social media in which a man, identified as a Bangladeshi Islamist, openly threatened to launch Taliban-style attacks in Kolkata, India, including potential suicide bombings against Hindus. In the footage, which was shared by the 'Voice of Bangladeshi Hindus' on May 12, 2025, the individual made derogatory remarks about Hindus, expressing confidence in executing such a plan if given the backing of the Bangladeshi military. The speaker claimed, “If the Bangladesh army gives me permission, here’s what I will do – I’ll send the most suicide bombers to Kolkata,” further elaborating on his intent to intimidate and attack Hindu communities. The video has raised alarms, particularly amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan following a recent terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 tourists. The Indian military recently conducted 'Operation Sindoor', targeting terror groups in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, escalating existing geopolitical anxieties, according to the Indian Directorate General of Military Operations.