The Economic Times
Elections 2026Global Business / The Economic Times
US President Donald Trump announced a temporary waiver of sanctions and tariffs on Russian exports. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated a 60-day review period for assessing economic impacts is underway. This decision comes amid rising energy prices resulting from the ongoing conflict in Iran. Critics, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, argue this may empower Russian President Vladimir Putin further.
Brazil's presidential election runoff includes a crucial debate between President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Senator Flavio Bolsonaro. Lula's campaign has shifted, engaging younger influencers for improved social media strategies to connect with voters. Bolsonaro has criticized Lula's promises, accusing him of deceiving people for electoral gain. Recent polls show a tightening race, and both candidates are ramping up their efforts.
Alleged Israeli settlers viciously attacked Washington Post photojournalist Heidi Levine during an olive harvest in the West Bank. US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, expressed their disturbance regarding the incident. Israeli President Isaac Herzog condemned the violence, stating it does not represent Israeli values. After surgery, Levine reported injuries and theft of her belongings during the attack.
Cross-border movement and exchanges between Iran and Pakistan have been temporarily suspended due to technical issues. Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Esmail Baghaei confirmed that authorities are working to resolve the situation. Pakistan also halted trade through specific border checkpoints to enhance security measures. Shahid Rind clarified that this decision is aimed at preventing smuggling and improving border administration.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced potential trilateral talks involving Russia during the upcoming G20 Summit. He expressed willingness to participate in negotiations in any format and location. Zelenskyy called for increased pressure on Moscow rather than on Kyiv in these discussions. Additionally, he expressed disappointment about US President Donald Trump's recent decisions related to sanctions on Russia.
Tata Trusts reported a 72.5% increase in philanthropic spending to Rs 1,556.31 crore in 2025-26. Major allocations included Rs 457.62 crore for rural upliftment and Rs 270.26 crore for education. Cancer care projects received Rs 178.46 crore, while direct assistance to individuals totaled Rs 202.99 crore. Noel Tata emphasized the importance of sustainable outcomes over sheer spending figures.
Violent protests occurred across France as people expressed their frustration over rising living costs and inadequate school conditions. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez reported about 400 arrests were made during the demonstrations. While some protests were peaceful, others involved clashes with police, leading to injuries and property damage. President Emmanuel Macron condemned the violence, promising prosecution for those who vandalized public property.
A significant fire has broken out at CFB Wainwright military base in Alberta, impacting military personnel. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith are coordinating responses to the incident. Both officials expressed their support for those affected and thanked first responders. Details surrounding the cause of the fire or any injuries remain unclear at this time.
Hollywood now represents tech leaders like Elizabeth Holmes and Elon Musk as villains amidst public disillusionment. Recent films explore the consequences of their actions and seek accountability for social damage. Documentaries and fictional works dissect their influence and ethical lapses, highlighting concerns over concentrated power. Filmmakers confront the flaws of these figures while critiquing their societal impact.
US President Donald Trump waived sanctions on Russia, which Congress had overwhelmingly approved for supporting Ukraine. Lawmakers expressed anger after the decision, criticizing Trump's approach towards Russia's President Vladimir Putin. As Ukraine faces severe winter conditions due to ongoing attacks, Congress remains out of session until after the elections. A bipartisan group of senators has urged faster action against Russia's oil trade.
During a rally in Kentucky, Donald Trump stated that the ongoing conflict with Iran would conclude quickly. He claimed that falling gas prices would follow the end of hostilities. Trump's earlier military actions against Iran were described as necessary to prevent nuclear armament. Meanwhile, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of ceasefire to achieve regional peace.
The US military claims that 97% of vessels have transited the Strait of Hormuz safely. This follows recent incidents where Iranian projectiles targeted commercial vessels in the area. CENTCOM reported that US forces and regional partners are enhancing maritime security to ensure uninterrupted commerce. Additionally, Iran's economy is reportedly under strain due to US actions. Both the US and Iran assert their control over this strategic shipping route.
Kansas Soccer field crash: During a soccer game in Wichita, Kansas, a vehicle drove onto the field, causing chaos and injuries. Tragically, two people, including a child, lost their lives in the incident. Multiple other victims were transported to hospitals for treatment following the event. The police have detained the driver, but details about the motive remain unclear. Mayor Lily Wu expressed her condolences on social media for those affected by this heartbreaking situation.
Israeli settlers attacked Palestinians and European diplomats during an olive harvest in the West Bank. Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot reported the incident and emphasized the need for accountability. Belgian consul general, along with French and Polish diplomats, were among those targeted. Settler violence against Palestinians has reportedly surged over the past few years. Israeli police have opened an investigation, although prosecutions of such violence are rare.
Kansas Soccer game tragedy: Police said the driver was in custody but did not give further details about the person or say whether they believe it was intentional.
US President Donald Trumps decision to waive proposed tariffs of up to 100% on buyers of Russian oil has eased uncertainty for Indian exporters ahead of the crucial Christmas shipping season. However, businesses across textiles, gems and jewellery, and human hair products say they will continue diversifying export markets after last years tariff turmoil, even as the US remains a key destination for Indian goods.
If you are feeling annoyed because your past challenges have resurfaced again, then it is not your fault. You are going through a cosmic test which is going to empower you once you handle the issue with confidence.
Ashley St. Clair revisits her relationship with Elon Musk in a new documentary. Her account connects a proposed secrecy agreement with changes in financial support.
Typhoon Champi strengthened into a Category 4 storm as it moved west toward Guam at 14 mph.
On Friday, a strength competition occurred in Gaza, drawing crowds despite the challenging environment. Participants showcased their skills by pulling trucks and lifting heavy weights in a ruined setting. The event was delayed due to prior conflicts, marking a return to sports for many. The organizer emphasized the importance of proving Gaza can produce champions despite adversity. Spectators enjoyed the atmosphere as athletes celebrated their competitive spirit and resilience.
Tyler Perry is planning to expand his business beyond filmmaking with a proposed 38-acre entertainment district near his Atlanta film studio. The project could include a theatre, shops and office spaces, with plans suggesting that it could be completed by January 2028. Perry bought 330 acres of the former Fort McPherson military base for $30 million in 2015 and later turned the site into Tyler Perry Studios.
Pope Leo will take on his first official duty on Sunday, delivering the traditional Angelus blessing to the faithful in St. Peter's Square.
Mark Cuban pledged $10 million to organizations supporting women's leadership in sports and combating domestic violence in 2018 after an investigation found widespread workplace misconduct within the Dallas Mavericks. The donation followed scrutiny of the NBA team's workplace culture and raised questions about how the money would be distributed and what changes followed the investigation.
The Supreme Court upheld the Madras HC's ruling that religious conversion from Hinduism to another religion does not entitle a person to SC or OBC reservation. The case concerns Tamil Nadu's 3.5% quota for Muslim OBCs. In March 2024, the then DMK government allowed OBCs, SCs and Denotified Communities members who converted to Islam to claim the quota. The Madras HC struck down the order in June 2024 as unconstitutional. The TVK government's appeal was rejected by the SC.
Weather Tomorrow: IMD has warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and gusty winds across parts of southern India, with Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu among the affected regions. Rain is expected to continue in several areas through October 23. Fishermen have also been advised to exercise caution along parts of the Arabian Sea coast.
No Kings anti-Trump movement: More than 3,200 events had been planned in all 50 states, after the two previous nationwide events attracted millions of participants.
Richa Parashar, a journalist, filed a complaint against Rahul Gandhi for manhandling during a protest. The incident occurred on October 12 while covering a demonstration by Opposition leaders. Parashar alleged that Gandhi grabbed her and caused her to fall, resulting in injuries. She emphasized the lack of assistance from his supporters after the fall. Parashar has requested that media organizations release footage of the incident.
International Oil prices: The recovery in Middle Eastern oil exports, higher production outside the Persian Gulf and dwindling demand had narrowed the global supply deficit sharply.
Benjamin Satterley, renowned in wrestling as Pac, passed away on September 27 at 40 years old. His death was attributed to bronchial asthma, ruled natural by the Cook County Medical Examiners Office. Satterley was discovered unconscious in a rental car after competing in an AEW match against Andrade El Idolo. His wife, Natalie, shared a heartfelt tribute, reflecting on their life and plans together.
Mike Satterlee, a 19-year-old entrepreneur from Clifton Park, New York, turned a $500 3D printer into CruiseCup, a business that generated $808,000 in gross revenue in 2025. Despite the impressive sales, the young entrepreneur pays himself just $500 to $1,500 a month, choosing to reinvest much of the money into expanding his 160-printer operation
Donald Trump faces challenges to thwart the political momentum of Democrats ahead of November 3 US midterm elections.
A cargo vessels sinking in the Strait of Hormuz has left questions over maritime safety after Iranian fishermen recovered goods from the surrounding waters. All 21 crew members of the GFS Pride escaped, but competing explanations for the incident, including a mine or a possible missile or drone strike, remain unconfirmed.
The country suffered one of the worst disasters in its history on August 26, when a mountain collapse near the China border triggered catastrophic floods that killed more than 1,400 people and left over 5,000 missing.
'He's a jihadist': Trump takes another jab at Michigan Democrat Abdul El-Sayed | Midterm elections
A 44-year-old woman who was rescued after spending nearly 20 hours in the Ionian Sea near Zakynthos, Greece, has revealed why she intentionally jumped from Royal Caribbeans Odyssey of the Seas. According to The New York Times, the Salvadoran woman told rescuers that she jumped because she wanted to disembark.
Autopen scandal explodes at Biden cover-up hearing; Senators erupt: 'Who was the real Prez?':
How to vote in the US midterm: A new voter registration glitch in Texas has raised concerns ahead of early voting for the 2026 US midterm elections, which begins October 19. Here's how to check your voter registration status, what to do if your name is missing from the voter list, and how to contact election officials.
Protests have arisen in France regarding increasing living costs and dissatisfaction with educational conditions. High school students, supported by the CGT union, are actively participating in demonstrations. President Emmanuel Macron has called for calm while emphasizing respect for individuals and property. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez announced the anticipation of numerous protests and implemented restrictions on specific gatherings. Recent student protests have resulted in significant un
At least 10 people, including children, were killed and four others injured after a fire broke out at a beach resort in Bangladesh's Cox's Bazar district on Saturday. The blaze quickly engulfed the three-storey wooden Tuptup Resto and Resort near the Bay of Bengal. The cause of the fire remains unknown, officials said.
Sri Lanka suffered a nationwide electricity blackout on Saturday after the national grid tripped, possibly because solar power generation exceeded consumption, officials said. The entire grid shut down in February 2025, when solar power generation exceeded consumption on a bright, sunny Sunday.
Russia has hailed US President Donald Trump's decision to waive new sanctions targeting its energy revenues as a historic move, raising concerns among Ukraine and its European allies that Washington is favouring Moscow.
Ballarat, founded in 1897 in the notorious Death Valley of California, flourished as a mining hub following the gold rush in the nearby Panamint Mountains. Once boasting a vibrant community of around 400, it was home to saloons, hotels, and essential services for miners. Sadly, as key mines closed, the town's population dwindled, and by 1917, the post office's closure signified its decline into obscurity.

20 C