nuclear weapons

President Trump stated that American financial struggles will not influence his Iran negotiations, emphasizing that preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon is his sole priority. White House Communications Director Steven Cheung affirmed that Trump's ultimate responsibility is American safety and security, as Iran acquiring a nuclear weapon would threaten all Americans.

Former CIA analyst Larry Johnson claims President Trump considered a nuclear strike on Iran. He alleges Chairman of the Joint Chiefs General Dan Caine firmly rejected the idea, preventing its execution. Johnson explained the military chain of command and the potential for Caine's resignation if overruled, adding context to Trump's subsequent public statements against nuclear use.

India's nuclear journey began with the 1974 'Peaceful Nuclear Explosion' at Pokhran, making it the sixth nation to harness atomic power for defence. Driven by regional security concerns, India conducted the 'Operation Shakti' tests in 1998, solidifying its status as a nuclear power. These advancements underscore India's strategic capabilities and technological prowess.

India and Pakistan possess nearly identical nuclear arsenals, yet their doctrines diverge significantly. India adheres to 'No First Use' and aims for a minimum deterrent, while Pakistan's 'Full Spectrum Deterrence' counters India's conventional strength. India is expanding its nuclear triad, focusing on survivability and reach, while Pakistan emphasises tactical nuclear weapons and flexible options, raising escalation risks.

Russia has successfully tested its new RS-28 Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile, dubbed 'Satan II' by NATO. President Putin hailed it as the world's most powerful nuclear weapon, capable of carrying multiple warheads and evading missile defenses.

National Technology Day in India is a tribute to the groundbreaking 1998 Pokhran nuclear tests, symbolizing the nation's incredible journey in technological innovation. With a sophisticated nuclear triad now established, India stands tall with 172 warheads managed by the Strategic Forces Command, integrating air, land, and sea capabilities for unmatched security against any adversarial threats.

Russia successfully test-fired its new Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile, dubbed 'Satan II' by the West, a powerful weapon Putin claims will enter service by year-end. This modernization of nuclear forces comes amid claims the Ukraine conflict is nearing its end.

President Trump embarks on a crucial three-day visit to China, set to engage in high-stakes talks with President Xi Jinping. Discussions will span critical global issues including the Middle East conflict, Taiwan, AI, and nuclear weapons. Business leaders are accompanying Trump, signaling a focus on trade and potential new deals, as both nations navigate complex economic and security landscapes.

President Trump stated the US agreed to a ceasefire with Iran as a favor to Pakistan, accepting the truce at Islamabad's request. This comes as Pakistan seeks to mediate the US-Iran crisis, despite reports suggesting it may have provided logistical support to Iran, raising questions about its neutrality.

Amidst escalating Iran tensions, the US military is considering renaming its operations to potentially bypass Congressional approval. Operation Epic Fury, launched in February, might be rebranded as Operation Sledgehammer for any new strikes. Despite a ceasefire, exchanges continue, with Iran blocking the Strait of Hormuz and the US blockading its ports. President Trump remains firm on Iran's nuclear ambitions.

India's DRDO successfully test-fired a nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) off the Odisha coast, a development that could place any country worldwide within its strike range. This achievement signifies India's mastery of complex rocket propulsion and guidance systems, enhancing its strategic deterrence capabilities.

Xi dealt with Trump as his equal, pitting Beijing’s grand strategic concerns against Washington’s transactionalism. Yes, both sides outwardly agreed on some issues. But Beijing is playing a long game

India has successfully test-fired the 5,000 km-range, nuclear-capable Agni-5 missile with an MIRV system, joining an elite group of nations including the US, Russia, and China

Iran and the US are reportedly in talks for a temporary truce, aiming to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and pave the way for broader nuclear negotiations. A 30-day pause in hostilities is proposed, with discussions focusing on lifting shipping blockades and ending military actions. More complex issues like sanctions relief and Iran's nuclear program remain under negotiation.

Iran's armed forces are prepared to retaliate after President Trump rejected Tehran's ceasefire proposal, escalating regional tensions. The dispute over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil route, has already caused significant energy supply shocks and threatens global food security, with the UN warning of a potential humanitarian crisis.

Despite past fears from Chernobyl and Fukushima, nuclear energy is re-emerging as a reliable, clean power source. France's reliance showcases low emissions, while Germany's shutdown increased fossil fuel use. Modern reactors boast enhanced safety features, and global expansion is underway with new designs like SMRs promising efficiency and a smaller environmental footprint.

Operation Sindoor, marking its first anniversary, redefined India's counter-terrorism strategy with precision strikes and indigenous technology. This 88-hour operation signaled a firm resolve to respond to terror, blurring lines between terror groups and state sponsors. It demonstrated a new doctrine, asserting that future attacks would be treated as acts of war, with air power now a normalized, escalatory control tool.

India's recent MIRV-equipped Agni missile test propels its strategic program into global focus. This advancement, a culmination of decades of indigenous development, significantly bolsters India's nuclear deterrence, ensuring survivability and credible retaliation against evolving threats. The Agni series now forms a crucial pillar of India's nuclear triad, reflecting its growing technological prowess and geopolitical ambitions.

Russian President Putin is set for a significant two-day visit to China, commencing May 19, to deepen strategic ties with President Xi Jinping. This follows closely on the heels of Donald Trump's high-profile trip to Beijing, which focused on Taiwan, trade, and Iran. The leaders will discuss strengthening their partnership and address key global issues, aiming to sign a joint declaration.

Arya and Manju Warrier's spy thriller 'Mr X' is set for its digital premiere on JioHotstar on May 14th. After a theatrical run, the action-packed film, which also stars Gautham Karthik and R. Sarathkumar, will be available in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada. The movie explores a rogue agent's mission involving a lost nuclear weapon and a conspiracy.

An Intercontinental Ballistic Missile, or ICBM, is a long-range missile designed to travel more than 5,000 km. Unlike cruise missiles, which fly through the atmosphere using engines throughout their journey, ballistic missiles spend much of their flight outside the atmosphere, which means the missile actually leaves Earth’s air atmosphere and travels through space for part of its journey.

As US President Trump returns from China, pressure mounts over Iran. Top aides are reportedly preparing options for renewed military action against Tehran if diplomacy falters, including intensified bombing and potential Special Operations deployments. Iran, meanwhile, signals readiness for conflict, while the Strait of Hormuz remains a critical concern for global oil prices.

Pakistan's Fatah-3 missile test sparks debate, potentially challenging India's BrahMos dominance in precision strikes. Analysts question if it's a Pakistani leap or Chinese hardware, highlighting China's growing military influence. Operation Sindoor showcased India's advanced capabilities, underscoring the importance of integrated systems beyond just missile technology.

Trump again assails Pope Leo, potentially complicating Rubio's visit to Vatican this week

In a charged political atmosphere, Defence secretary Pete Hegseth is facing tough questions from lawmakers, including some from his own party, regarding the prolonged conflict in Iran and its controversial lack of congressional authorization. The Trump administration's ambitious military spending plan is taking a backseat to growing concerns about economic fallout and rising international tensions.

North Korea has amended its constitution, mandating an automatic nuclear strike if leader Kim Jong-un is assassinated or incapacitated by foreign adversaries. This revision, prompted by concerns over recent decapitation attacks in Iran, formalizes retaliatory procedures. The move underscores Pyongyang's heightened security fears amid evolving geopolitical threats.