US President Donald Trump recently warned that “World War III is not far away,” while emphasizing his administration’s commitment to preventing such a conflict. Speaking at the Future Investment Initiative Institute Priority Summit in Miami on February 20, 2025, Trump highlighted ongoing tensions in the Middle East and the war in Ukraine as contributing factors to this potential global conflict.
He asserted that if former President Joe Biden’s administration had continued, the world would likely already be embroiled in World War-III.
Trump stated, “There’s no profit for anyone in having World War III,” and stressed his intention to end wars and restore peace globally. He expressed a desire to avoid further casualties, saying, “I want peace, and I don’t want to see everybody being killed”.
He also thanked Saudi Arabia for facilitating negotiations between the US and Russia regarding the Ukraine conflict, calling these discussions a significant step towards peace.
In his remarks, Trump criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, referring to him as “a dictator without elections” and suggesting that he has failed in his leadership during the ongoing war.
He concluded by asserting that while the US would not engage directly in these conflicts, his administration would work to stop them and ensure that America remains powerful enough to deter any potential threats.
ANI
The Army has successfully tested a laser beam capable of disabling drones from a distance of 1 km, with nine more such systems being added
Faced with new-age airborne threats such as drones, the Indian Army is tweaking its wartime arsenal to enhance its capability to track and neutralise them — an approach that has proven effective in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict.
The Army’s dedicated Air Defence (AAD) units are responsible for tackling immediate airborne threats. To counter drone warfare, the AAD is inducting new guns capable of firing advanced smart ammunition, along with high-power microwave systems and laser-guided equipment to disable drones mid-air. This shift aligns with the Army’s push for indigenous equipment, marking a departure from its four-decade reliance on Russian-origin systems.
Lt Gen Sumer D’Cunha, Director General of Army Air Defence, said on Friday, “The future is drone warfare, and we are prepared with a counter-drone strategy. We are integrating artificial intelligence to differentiate between enemy and friendly drones in close-range battles.”
The first step is detection, for which additional low-level lightweight radars are being deployed, particularly in valley regions. These Bharat Electronics Limited-made radars can identify drones within a 6-7 km range.
Next, the Army is working to prevent enemy kamikaze drones from targeting these radars. The upgraded arsenal includes the capability to detect, jam and spoof drones.
The Army has successfully tested a laser beam capable of disabling drones from a distance of 1 km, with nine more such systems being added. The next step is acquiring high-power microwave weapons from Indian suppliers, as microwaves can disable drone electronics.
Meanwhile, Russian-origin L70 and ZU-23 guns will be equipped with a new type of fragmentation ammunition capable of targeting multiple drones simultaneously. The Army plans to acquire 220 more such guns, with trials expected within three months. Currently, the L70 and ZU-23 guns have an effective range of 3.5 km and 2.5 km, respectively.
The AAD is also working on new air defence weapons to protect infantry and armoured units. A quick-reaction surface-to-air missile (QRSAM), developed by DRDO, has been successfully tested and has a range of 30 km. “We are hoping to finalise a contract in four to five months,” Lt Gen D’Cunha said.
Additionally, the Army is seeking replacements for Russian-origin ‘Shilka’ and ‘Tunguska’ weapon systems. In the long-range category, the Akash missile system currently has three regiments, each with 12 launchers. The Army is seeking two more regiments to strengthen its air defence capabilities.
Chief Executive Councillor of LAHDC Leh, Tashi Gyalson, met Air Commodore Sanjay Prabhu and Group Captain Ajay Kumar on Thursday to discuss issues pertaining to air connectivity to far-flung areas in the region. Councillor from Tiger constituency, Rigzen Lundup, and…
Chief Executive Councillor of LAHDC Leh, Tashi Gyalson, met Air Commodore Sanjay Prabhu and Group Captain Ajay Kumar on Thursday to discuss issues pertaining to air connectivity to far-flung areas in the region.
Councillor from Tiger constituency, Rigzen Lundup, and Leh Tehsildar Attaullah Khan were also present during the meeting.
Gyalson officially welcomed Prabhu, acknowledging the crucial role of the Air Force Station in improving connectivity and supporting development in Ladakh.
In the meeting, the officials discussed a range of important issues aimed at improving the region’s infrastructure and services, including challenges surrounding air connectivity, organising more medical camps in remote areas and exploring options to increase the frequency of civil flights to boost tourism, including late evening flight operations. They also addressed other matters related to ongoing initiatives and concerns for regional development.
Further, the discussion delved into making civil airlines operational at Thoise Airport, Nubra. The Air Commodore stated that, in accordance with Air Force protocols, all necessary preparations would be extended and there are no objections to it, signalling a significant step forward in improving air connectivity for the region.
Further, CEC expressed the desire to chair a follow-up meeting with the Air Force and the Airport Authority of India to plan for the early operations of civil flights in Nubra.
Gyalson acknowledged the significant role played by the Indian Air Force in the region’s development and their continued cooperation. Additionally, he emphasised that the Council’s support has been steadfast and will remain so for the betterment of Ladakh.
As the work on the upcoming international airport in Ludhiana is still going on, the Deputy Commissioner, Jitendra Jorwal, has asked the Indian Air Force (IAF) to complete the pending work at the earliest. The development assumes significance as the…
As the work on the upcoming international airport in Ludhiana is still going on, the Deputy Commissioner, Jitendra Jorwal, has asked the Indian Air Force (IAF) to complete the pending work at the earliest.
The development assumes significance as the new international airport coming up at Halwara air base had been granted the airport code, which is mandatory before launching the operations. It has been named Halwara airport by the Centre last month till the time any formal decision to give any specific name to the facility is taken.
At a meeting with the senior officials of the IAF and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) here, the DC reviewed the ongoing works at the Air Force Station and the civil terminal.
Taking stock of the progress of the runaway relaying, casting works, signages, besides other pending issues, Jorwal urged the PWD officials and private companies undertaking the ongoing work to expedite the completion of the pending tasks. He emphasised the need for effective coordination between the departments concerned and their officials, instructing them to address important issues promptly.
The Deputy Commissioner asked the officials to devise a detailed solid waste management plan to remove all debris and waste around the airport area within the next few days as garbage and waste could attract birds, which could disturb the flight operations.
Recently, the Centre had asked the Punjab Government to hand over the physical possession of the civil airport terminal complete in all respects to launch the operations.
With this, the bidding process for the operations of the airlines was also set to be launched shortly, which will take a couple of months before the commercial flights begin operations from here.
Air India has already announced plans to launch flights from Ludhiana once the airport becomes operational. Except the overlaying of runway, which is also progressing fast, the airport is ready for operations with the IAF and the state government completing almost all pending works inside their respective areas of operations.
“The ICAO code for IAF station Halwara is “VIHX”. Regarding the IATA code, as the information pertains mainly to IAF station, Halwara, Ludhiana, the request has been forwarded to the IAF. We are awaiting their response and will inform the airlines as soon as the details are received,” AAI Chairman Vipin Kumar had recently said. He further said that the operational date would be finalised once the terminal building was completed and officially handed over to the AAI by the Punjab Government.
While the overlaying of Taxi-A, Taxi-D and New Link Taxi inside the IAF premises is almost complete, March 31 is the deadline for completing the ongoing overlaying of the runway from where the flights will operate. This Rs 50-crore much-awaited and much-delayed big ticket project took over three years and missed at least 14 deadlines to see the light of the day.
Ludhiana, which is Punjab’s industrial and business capital with a population of almost 4 million, is presently serviced by a small airport at Sahnewal. Located at the geographical centre of Punjab, the new international airport will serve the entire state as well as neighbouring areas.
Tensions between India and Bangladesh have escalated over issues related to border fencing, security, and the safety of minorities. Recent developments highlight the complexities of their relationship, particularly concerning the ongoing construction of barbed wire fencing along their shared border.
Border Fencing Disputes
India’s Border Security Force (BSF) has resumed fencing work along the 4,096.7 km India-Bangladesh border, which has been a contentious issue since its inception in 1986. Bangladesh has raised concerns about these activities, claiming they violate the 1975 Joint India-Bangladesh Guidelines that prohibit any permanent structures within 150 yards of the international border. The Bangladeshi government summoned India’s high commissioner to express its “deep concern” over what it views as unauthorized fencing attempts by the BSF.
In a recent high-level meeting, the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) formally objected to the BSF’s construction of a single-row fence within this restricted area and requested a joint inspection of disputed points along the border. However, the BSF has maintained that it is adhering to previously established agreements and has declined to renegotiate terms.
Security Concerns And Minority Safety
Both nations have also discussed broader security issues, including human trafficking and cross-border crime. India has expressed worries about attacks on its personnel and smuggling activities, while Bangladesh has called for stronger measures against illegal crossings.
Additionally, there are rising concerns regarding the safety of minorities in Bangladesh. Reports indicate a significant increase in attacks on Hindu communities since a regime change in August 2024. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs reported multiple incidents of violence against Hindus, which has led to heightened scrutiny from India regarding minority safety in Bangladesh. In contrast, Bangladeshi officials have downplayed these incidents, arguing that media reports exaggerate the situation.
Future Negotiations
The two countries have agreed to enhance coordination through intelligence sharing and joint inspections to address these border-related issues more effectively. The next round of discussions is scheduled for July in Dhaka, where unresolved concerns will be revisited. This ongoing dialogue reflects both nations’ efforts to manage their complex relationship amid rising tensions over border security and minority rights.
lobal defence spending has reached unprecedented levels in 2025, driven by escalating geopolitical tensions and security concerns. The total military expenditure worldwide is estimated to be around $2.46 trillion, marking a significant increase from previous years. This surge reflects a collective prioritization of military strength among nations.
India has recently solidified its position as the fourth-largest defence spender globally, with a military budget of $75 billion for 2025. This significant investment underscores the country’s commitment to military modernisation, strategic preparedness, and self-reliance in defence production.
The current landscape of global defence spending reflects a marked increase in military budgets across various nations due to rising security concerns and geopolitical tensions. The top ten countries with the largest military budgets in 2025 are as follows:
Top 10 Military Powers In 2025
1. United States: Leading the pack, the U.S. has allocated a staggering $895 billion for defence, which constitutes approximately 62.3% of the combined military budgets of the top five spenders.
2. China: Following the U.S., China has committed $266.85 billion to its military, focusing on modernisation and regional security initiatives, particularly in the South China Sea.
3. Russia: With a defence budget of $126 billion, Russia continues to invest heavily in military capabilities amid ongoing conflicts and strategic ambitions in Eastern Europe.
4. India: India ranks fourth globally with a defence budget of $75 billion, emphasizing military modernisation and self-reliance in defence production as it addresses regional threats.
5. Saudi Arabia: Allocating $74.76 billion, Saudi Arabia remains a key player in Middle Eastern defence spending, reflecting its ongoing security partnerships.
6. United Kingdom: The UK has set aside $71.5 billion, focusing on maintaining its military capabilities in a changing global landscape.
7. Japan: Japan’s defence budget stands at $57 billion, aimed at enhancing its self-defence forces amid regional tensions.
8. Australia: With a commitment of $55.7 billion, Australia is investing in advanced military technologies and capabilities.
9. France: France’s defence budget is approximately $55 billion, supporting its strategic military operations and commitments.
10. Ukraine: Ukraine rounds out the top ten with a budget of $53.7 billion, reflecting its ongoing conflict and need for enhanced military support.
Comparative Summary
| Rank | Country | Defence Budget (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | United States | $895 billion |
| 2 | China | $266.85 billion |
| 3 | Russia | $126 billion |
| 4 | India | $75 billion |
| 5 | Saudi Arabia | $74.76 billion |
| 6 | United Kingdom | $71.5 billion |
| 7 | Japan | $57 billion |
| 8 | Australia | $55.7 billion |
| 9 | France | $55 billion |
| 10 | Ukraine | $53.7 billion |
Key Factors Contributing To India’s Ranking
Manpower: India leads in the number of individuals reaching military age annually and ranks second in available manpower.
Resources: The nation possesses significant natural resources that enhance its military capabilities.
Geography: India’s strategic location plays a crucial role in its defence strategy.
Despite these strengths, India faces challenges such as low rankings in specific military capabilities like helicopter carrier strength and mine warfare at sea.
India’s position as a top military power underscores its ongoing efforts to modernize its forces and enhance strategic preparedness amidst global geopolitical uncertainties.
Agencies
Amid a surge in unprovoked firing from across the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch and other areas of the Jammu region in the recent past, the Indian Army on Friday held a flag meeting with its Pakistani counterparts at…
Amid a surge in unprovoked firing from across the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch and other areas of the Jammu region in the recent past, the Indian Army on Friday held a flag meeting with its Pakistani counterparts at Chakkan-da-Bagh crossing in Poonch sector.
The brigade commander-level meeting was held after India had escalated the matter with Pakistan regarding the increased firing, including sniper shots, on the Indian soldiers manning the LoC in areas that are infested with thick vegetation.
While it is not clear whether terrorists or Pakistan army personnel were behind the recent incidents of firing from across the LoC, the Indian Army during the flag meeting asked the Pakistani side to keep a check on such elements “who have the potential to disrupt peace on the borders”.
Two Army personnel, including a Captain and a Naik, were killed and another injured in an IED explosion carried out by suspected terrorists in the Akhnoor sector of Jammu on February 11
Two Armymen were injured in firing from across the LoC in Rajouri and Poonch on February 10 and 14. Two more personnel were injured in landmine blasts close to LoC in Poonch last week
While there was no official statement by the Army issued on the flag meeting till evening, sources informed that the meeting continued for over an hour during which both the sides agreed to respect the ceasefire signed between India and Pakistan. Talks to de-escalate the fresh tensions on the LoC were also held wherein Pakistani officials assured the Indian side that they would take steps to ensure peace.
After a spate of cross-border firing,the Indian Army had issued a statement in which it had said the ceasefire was intact and minor incidents were not unprecedented along LoC.
India and Pakistan signed a ceasefire agreement in 2003 for peace along LoC and other borders in J&K. However, multiple incidents of cross-border firing took place in following years. In 2021, the countries renewed the ceasefire agreement of 2003 after which the incidents dropped drastically.
The brigade commander-level flag meeting took place in Chakkan-Da-Bagh crossing point area in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonc
India and Pakistan held a flag meeting along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district on Friday, in an effort to de-escalate tension after several recent incidents of cross-border firing and an IED attack, official sources said.
The brigade commander-level flag meeting took place in the Chakkan-Da-Bagh crossing point area, with both sides highlighting the need to maintain peace along the border, the sources said.
However, no official statement was issued by the Indian Army on the 75-minute-long meeting that started at around 11 am.
The sources said the Indian military delegation lodged a strong protest over the recent unprovoked cross-border firing incidents, infiltration attempts by terrorists and smuggling of narcotics and weapons.
The meeting took place in a congenial atmosphere and both sides agreed to honour the ceasefire agreement in the larger interest of peace on the border, the sources said.
Ceasefire violations along the border of Jammu and Kashmir have been rare since the two neighbouring countries renewed an agreement on February 25, 2021.
Two Indian Army personnel, including a captain, were killed and another was injured in an improvised explosive device (IED) attack carried out by suspected terrorists in the Akhnoor sector of the Jammu region on February 11.
Two Army personnel were injured in separate incidents of small-arms firing from across the LoC in Rajouri and Poonch districts on February 10 and February 14, while two more Army personnel were injured in separate land-mine explosions in Poonch over the last week.
The extent of damage on the Pakistani side in the retaliatory action was not known immediately but officials had said the enemy forces also suffered “heavy casualties”.
Meanwhile, the sources said an explosion took place on the zero line in the Nakerkote area of the Digwar sector in Poonch at 9:20 am but there was no casualty.
The cause of the blast was not known immediately, they added.
Punjab’s Freedom Fighters and Defence Services Welfare Minister, Mohinder Bhagat, said the welfare of freedom fighters, ex-servicemen, widows, and their dependents was the state government’s priority. During his visit to the Maharaja Ranjit Singh War Museum and the Defence Services…
Punjab’s Freedom Fighters and Defence Services Welfare Minister, Mohinder Bhagat, said the welfare of freedom fighters, ex-servicemen, widows, and their dependents was the state government’s priority.
During his visit to the Maharaja Ranjit Singh War Museum and the Defence Services Welfare office here, the minister lent an ear to the concerns of ex-servicemen and their dependents and expressed his department’s commitment to addressing their issues. He emphasised that the nation would always be indebted to these brave individuals, whose sacrifices secured the country’s Independence.
He disclosed that 13 per cent vacancies had been reserved for the ESM in the Group A, B, C and D posts in Punjab. Bhagat highlighted the importance of providing efficient and transparent services to them and asked the officials concerned to address all their concerns promptly.
He stressed the need to raise awareness about the war museum, stating that it was an excellent place to learn about the history of the martyrs of the country and the wars that took place after Independence.
The minister also honoured the parents of Agniveer Ajay Kumar, who lost his life in a landmine explosion at the Kalal Sector in Jammu and Kashmir during operational duty on January 18, 2024. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had already provided Ajay Kumar’s family with a cheque of Rs 1 crore last year.
Besides, the minister presented a cheque of Rs 1 lakh from the Flag Day Fund to Sukhveer Kaur, the widow of Naik Ranjit Singh, who served in the 112 Engineer Regiment and died on duty on November 10, 2024. He also distributed cheques of financial assistance amounting to Rs 5,000 each to 12 non-pensioner ex-servicemen and widows from the Flag Day Fund.
Earlier, the Cabinet Minister was accorded a guard of honour at the museum by the district administration during his maiden visit to Ludhiana after assuming office. He took a salute from a Punjab Police contingent and laid a wreath at the memorial.
Deputy Commissioner Jitendra Jorwal welcomed the Cabinet Minister to the museum. Bhagat also held a brief meeting with the DC and other officials to review on-going schemes.
Director of Defence Services Welfare Brigadier Bhupinder Singh Dhillon (retd), and District Defence Services Welfare Officer Group Captain Davinder Singh Dhillon (retd) were also present on the occasion
