defense ministry

In a surprising turn of events, Norway has cancelled export licenses for a naval missile system intended for Malaysia due to a recent policy shift aimed at controlling the sale of sensitive defense technologies. The reaction from Kuala Lumpur has been fierce, with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim voicing concerns about damaged trust from European defense manufacturers.

Taiwan's defense ministry reported eight Chinese naval vessels near the island following US President Trump's China visit. Trump suggested China might act against Taiwan after his term, acknowledging Beijing's strong objections to its independence. The US arms package for Taiwan remains under review amid escalating tensions and China's territorial claims.

Microsoft Israel's chief has resigned following an internal probe into the misuse of Azure cloud services by the Israeli Ministry of Defense. The investigation revealed ethical breaches and a lack of transparency, impacting Microsoft's global standing. This comes after earlier revelations about Unit 8200's surveillance activities, complicating future contract renewals.

A Russian missile strike on a Kyiv apartment building claimed 24 lives, including three teenagers, as emergency crews concluded their search. This attack, part of Russia's largest barrage since the invasion, underscores the ongoing conflict despite recent ceasefire suggestions. Ukraine also launched drone attacks, hitting a Russian oil refinery and causing casualties.

Ukraine's ex-chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, faces a major graft probe for alleged money laundering, embarrassing president Zelenskyy amid EU accession talks. Meanwhile, Zelenskyy met Palantir's CEO to boost defense tech cooperation. Russia launched over 200 drones after a brief lull, despite Ukraine's improved battlefield position.

Ukraine is at the forefront of a military upheaval, unleashing a fleet of Unmanned Ground Vehicles, such as cutting-edge combat cyborgs and self-destructing attack machines, which are key to keeping troops safe on the front lines. By assigning perilous missions to these tenacious robots, soldiers can concentrate on more aggressive tactics.

During his recent trip to Beijing, President Trump showcased a willingness to engage in conversations about US arms sales to Taiwan, confident that his personal bond with Xi Jinping would act as a buffer against any potential Chinese aggression. The visit, primarily focused on enhancing trade relations, also included key American business leaders.

US President Donald Trump branded Iran's terms for ending the Middle East war "totally unacceptable", raising the possibility of fresh conflict and sending oil prices sharply higher in early Asia trade on Monday. The impasse unnerved global energy markets, with international benchmark Brent crude prices rising 4.65 percent to $99.95 a barrel during Monday morning trade in Asia.

The proposal was suggested by the Reserve Bank of India and is currently under active consideration by the Finance Ministry, sources said. Talks around reducing taxes for overseas investors have accelerated amid efforts to slow the rupee’s decline, they added.

Senator Lindsey Graham has questioned Pakistan's credibility as a mediator in US-Iran negotiations, citing reports of Iranian military aircraft using Pakistani bases. Pakistan denies these claims, stating aircraft were for diplomatic arrangements. Broader scrutiny of Pakistan's mediation role has emerged within the Trump administration due to stalled talks and Iran's response to peace proposals.

India is significantly boosting defence spending and prioritizing domestic production, aiming for self-reliance and export growth. New policies like 'Make in India' and DAP 2020 are reshaping procurement, encouraging local manufacturing and foreign collaboration. Despite global supply chain challenges, indigenous production and exports are rising, signaling a strategic shift towards greater defence capability and autonomy.

Pakistan reportedly sheltered Iranian military aircraft at its airbases, raising questions about its neutrality as a mediator in the US-Iran conflict. US officials cited in a CBS News report claim Iran moved planes, including a reconnaissance jet, to Pakistan's Nur Khan Air Base. A Pakistani official denied these allegations, calling them implausible.

Ukraine announced a ceasefire starting May 5-6, prioritizing human life over Victory Day commemorations, with President Zelenskyy criticizing Russia's focus on parades. Russia, however, declared its own truce from May 8-9, coinciding with WWII Victory Day, and warned of massive retaliation if Kyiv disrupts their celebrations.

Mamata Banerjee, calling herself a 'free bird,' refuses to resign, alleging vote looting by BJP and EC. Raghav Chadha met President Murmu, claiming he's the AAP-led Punjab government's next target for switching parties. The US sank Iranian boats in the Strait of Hormuz amid UAE attacks. Kejriwal accused BJP of 'murdering democracy' after poll wins.

Brazil's Amazon deforestation is at a decade low, yet forest degradation from fires, logging, and drought poses a significant threat, affecting 40% of the region. Experts warn of a tipping point where the forest could emit more carbon than it absorbs. A proposed bill could weaken crucial satellite monitoring, jeopardizing conservation efforts.

Taiwan, a flashpoint in US-China rivalry, is increasingly central to global tensions. President Xi Jinping's "Thucydides Trap" warning highlights the risk of conflict as China rises. The island's strategic importance in semiconductors and trade, coupled with historical crises, underscores the escalating danger of miscalculation.

India has successfully tested its long-range hypersonic anti-ship missile (LR-AShM), boasting a strike range exceeding 1,500 km and speeds of Mach 10. This advanced weapon, capable of evading modern defenses and engaging large targets, significantly enhances India's maritime capabilities. The successful flight test marks a major stride in indigenous defense innovation, bolstering national security and self-reliance.

Japan defence chief visits Philippines to deepen security ties, witness combat exercise

Israel's defense ministry has approved a multi-billion dollar deal to purchase two new combat squadrons of advanced F-35 and F-15IA fighter jets from Lockheed Martin and Boeing. This significant expansion of air power aims to bolster the country's long-term military capability and air superiority, with a focus on domestic production and technological advancement.

Germany is undertaking its most significant military overhaul in decades, aiming to build Europe's strongest army by 2029. This ambitious plan, spurred by global security shifts, involves expanding forces, enhancing multi-domain capabilities by 2035, and transforming into a tech-advanced military by 2039. Early successes include increased artillery shell production.

Japan has lifted its ban on lethal weapons exports, a significant shift in its post-war pacifist stance. This move aims to bolster its defense industry amidst regional security concerns, with countries like Australia already signing major deals. While China criticizes the policy, allies see it as a step towards enhanced regional stability and cooperation.

Salman Khan has just revealed an exciting new collaboration with director Vamshi Paidipally, starring the talented Nayanthara and produced by the influential Dil Raju. The film is set to hit theaters on Eid 2027. In the meantime, Khan is navigating challenges with his other project, 'Maatrubhumi,' facing title changes and undergoing reshoots as it comes under government oversight. Read on to know more in detail.

Monsoon brings romanticized scenes but also a public health reality of increased malaria risk, especially for vulnerable groups. Despite significant national declines, malaria persists in localized pockets due to environmental and socio-economic factors. Climate change further complicates transmission patterns, necessitating sustained surveillance and targeted interventions for elimination.

North Korea launched multiple ballistic missiles into the sea from its east coast on Sunday, prompting South Korea to heighten surveillance and convene an emergency meeting. Japan also detected the launches, protesting the violation of UN resolutions and the threat to regional peace.

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung emphasized close collaboration with India as emerging global leaders amidst geopolitical uncertainty. He highlighted shared values and complementary economies, advocating for upgraded trade agreements, defense industrial cooperation, and joint ventures in critical minerals and shipbuilding to foster mutual growth and innovation.

Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi, marking a significant step in bilateral ties. Discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in trade, technology, and renewable energy. Both leaders emphasized peace and global institutional reform, with MoUs exchanged to bolster partnerships in various sectors, including a new working holiday program.