More Today's Headlines
Italy Cancels US Visit After Trump Claims Meloni 'Begged' for G7 Photo; Meloni Denies
US President Donald Trump claimed Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni "begged" him for a photograph at the recent G7 Summit in France, saying he agreed only out of pity. Meloni strongly denied the allegation, calling it "completely made up" and expressing astonishment. She criticized Trump for treating allies harshly while being more accommodating to adversaries. In response, Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani canceled a planned US visit, condemning Trump's remarks as offensive to Italy. The incident marks a notable strain in US-Italy relations.
India's Vivek Aggarwal Elected Vice-President of Financial Action Task Force for 2026-27
India has been elected to the vice-presidency of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) for the first time, with senior IAS officer Vivek Aggarwal appointed for the 2026-27 term. Currently serving as Secretary in the Ministry of Culture, Aggarwal has extensive experience, including leading India's FATF delegation and directing the Financial Intelligence Unit-India. The appointment reflects India's growing role and credibility in global efforts against money laundering, terrorist financing, and emerging financial risks, and is seen as a diplomatic milestone.
Trump Praises PM Modi as Tough Leader and Names Him Among Top Global Leaders
US President Donald Trump praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a "great leader" and a "very tough cookie," highlighting his political longevity, leadership style, and ability to keep India out of wars. Trump named Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping as the two world leaders he most admires for their power, leverage, and execution. He noted India's economic growth under Modi and described the US-India trade relationship as now "fair business," contrasting it with past imbalances. Trump also emphasized Modi's role in providing political stability after years of frequent leadership changes and expressed personal respect for him during their recent meeting at the G7 Summit.