LIBERTY

Trump Waives Russian Oil Tariffs: Relief for India Meta Description: October 17, 2026 | Geopolitics | India–US Relations Trump's sudden decision to waive new sanctions and tariffs linked to Russian oil has brought major relief to India. But is this a lasting policy shift or only temporary protection from another trade dispute? What Is Happening Now? US President Donald Trump issued an executive order on October 16, 2026, waiving major sanctions and tariffs under the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026. The legislation included additional tariffs of up to 100% on US imports from major buyers of Russian oil and gas, including India and China. The measures were scheduled to take effect on October 18. Trump cited US national interests in granting the waiver. However, existing Russia-related sanctions remain in place. Why It Matters Washington originally supported tougher sanctions to restrict Russia's energy revenues and increase pressure over the Ukraine war...

Saudi Arabia Under Missile Attacks Saudi Arabia is facing fresh missile and drone attacks, with airports becoming major targets. The growing conflict threatens regional stability, global oil supplies and the safety of Indians working and travelling in the Gulf. What Is Happening Now? Saudi Arabia reported another wave of missiles and drones on October 12, following deadly attacks on Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport. A major strike on Saturday killed 13 people and injured more than 300. Another attack on Sunday killed one person and injured 11. Airport operations remain suspended amid security inspections. Who Is Behind the Attacks? Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi movement claimed responsibility for Saturday’s attack. Saudi-backed forces have launched military operations against the Houthis in Yemen, raising fears of wider confrontation. Why It Matters The attacks threaten Saudi Arabia’s aviation, energy infrastructure and economic development plans. They also raise concerns about...

France Tests M51.3 Missile as Russia Tensions Rise France has successfully test-fired its upgraded M51.3 submarine-launched ballistic missile at a tense moment for European security. Although the missile carried no nuclear warhead, the launch sends a powerful strategic signal as tensions with Russia deepen. What Is Happening Now? France conducted the first test launch of the M51.3 from a nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine on October 6. The unarmed missile was fired from Le Vigilant off Brittany as part of an operation validating the submarine’s ability to deploy the upgraded weapon after maintenance. The M51.3 entered service in 2025. France does not publicly disclose its range, although estimates for the M51 family generally put it at around 9,000 km or more . Why It Matters The timing is geopolitically significant. Russian President Vladimir Putin recently warned that Moscow could use nuclear weapons if its Kaliningrad territory were attacked. NATO says its activities do n...