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OpenAI has delayed the broad release of its new AI model, GPT-5.6 Sol, after agreeing to a vetting process requested by President Donald Trump’s administration. The model will initially be accessible only to a select group of government-approved partners.
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The Trump administration expanded sanctions on Cuba by targeting five entities linked to finance, logistics, mining and steel production, along with a member of the Castro family, in a move aimed at restricting revenue streams supporting the Cuban government.
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The Trump administration has indicated that Iran will be allowed to resume selling oil on international markets under a new diplomatic framework, a move expected to impact global energy prices and major importers like India. Energy Secretary Chris Wright confirmed that exports could reach 1.5 million barrels per day.
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The United States and Iran are nearing a landmark nuclear agreement that would require Tehran to dismantle key elements of its nuclear programme, surrender enriched material, and accept long-term inspections in exchange for phased economic relief.
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US lawmakers and immigration advocates criticised the Trump administration’s new policy requiring green card applicants to apply from their home countries. Critics warned the move could disrupt families, impact skilled workers, and hurt America’s competitiveness while triggering legal challenges against the decision
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The Trump administration exempted foreign medical doctors from a visa and green card review pause affecting high-risk countries, offering hope to physicians like Libyan doctor Faysal Alghoula. However, uncertainty remains as thousands of immigrants, researchers, and professionals still face delays, employment restrictions, and deportation fears
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US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth faces lawmakers over the Iran war, defence budget, and military leadership shake-ups. Democrats question costs and legality, while Republicans weigh support. Rising tensions, Strait of Hormuz disruption, and leadership firings add pressure
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India’s engineering goods exports touched a record $122.43 billion in FY 2025–26, marking a 5 per cent rise over the previous year despite geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and rising energy costs. EEPC India credited industry initiative, diversification, and free trade agreements for the sector’s resilience.
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An Iranian military spokesperson, Ebrahim Zolfaghari, ridiculed United States ceasefire efforts, saying Washington is “negotiating with itself.” Iran rejected the proposal, signalling continued defiance and dim prospects for de-escalation amid escalating regional tensions
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US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said India emerged on top in the India-EU free trade agreement, gaining greater market access and mobility benefits. He noted EU’s globalization push amid US protectionism and highlighted ongoing concerns over India’s Russian oil purchases
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The United States has formally withdrawn from the World Health Organization, with the Trump administration accusing the global body of pandemic failures and acting against US interests. All funding and staffing have ended, marking a shift in US global health engagement.
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Ahead of the World Economic Forum in Davos, an Oxfam report warned that billionaire wealth hit a record USD 18.3 trillion in 2025, deepening economic and political inequality, with billionaires far more likely to hold power while global poverty, hunger and unrest intensify
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US State Department to suspend immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries from January 21, citing concerns that applicants may rely on public welfare. The move follows stricter ‘public charge’ rules under the Trump administration
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US Secretary of State Marco Rubio plans talks with Danish officials as the Trump administration renews interest in acquiring Greenland. European leaders warn the move could undermine NATO, while Washington insists diplomacy remains the preferred option.
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Introduced by Republican lawmaker Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, the Bill seeks to amend the 'Immigration and Nationality Act' to eliminate the H-1B visa programme, and for other purposes. The Bill has been referred to the committee on Judiciary, and in addition to committees on Energy and Commerce, and Ways and Means.
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The Trump Administration has announced sweeping reforms to the H-1B visa system, replacing the random lottery with a weighted selection process that favours higher-skilled and higher-paid foreign workers. The new rules will take effect from February 27 and apply to the fiscal year 2027 H-1B cap season.
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The Trump administration plans to significantly increase denaturalisation of US citizens, targeting fraud, criminal links, and other categories. USCIS guidance sets quotas of 100–200 cases per month, raising concerns over fear, politicisation, and impact on law-abiding naturalised Americans
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Africa was the hardest hit by President Donald Trump’s expanded US travel restrictions, with several countries facing full or partial bans, prompting muted official reactions, concern over unfair treatment, and warnings of strained US–Africa relations and wider diplomatic, economic and social impacts
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The Trump administration has announced enhanced screening measures for H-1B and H-4 visa applicants, requiring checks of their social media profiles. Starting December 15, the US State Department will review the online presence of applicants and their dependents.
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Twenty US states have sued the Trump administration over a $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa petitions, calling it illegal and harmful to public services. The states say the move worsens labour shortages in education and healthcare.
