United States

Explained: Why the US and Japan joined hands to support the falling yen

The yen fell to its lowest level in nearly 40 years against the US dollar, prompting Japan and the US to jointly intervene in currency markets

Japan, US confirm joint yen-buying intervention, signal more action

The move underscored both countries' resolve to prevent a selloff in the yen and Japanese government bonds (JGBs) from causing global spillovers

US urges its nationals to leave West Asia amid 'complex security situation'

US embassies in several West Asian nations on Saturday called upon American citizens there to consider leaving or be "prepared to depart" amid heightened tensions with Iran and a "complex security situation". US embassies in Jerusalem and other West Asian capitals released identical security alerts warning American nationals about travel to or within the region. The advisory came as US President Donald Trump threatened more strikes on Iran. Speaking at Camp David on Friday, Trump said the US would continue striking Iran "very hard" until it "can't take it anymore". The two countries have engaged in hostilities, with the US attacking Iran and Tehran targeting ships in the Strait of Hormuz and American assets in the region. The advisory called the Iranian regime "unpredictable" and warned of a "potential for unforeseen escalation". "Americans currently in the Middle East should exercise caution and heightened vigilance and should be prepared for flight cancellations, periodic airspa

Venezuelans watch fresh government-opposition talks with cautious optimism

Venezuelans are watching the start of a round of US-backed talks between the ruling party and the opposition on Saturday with cautious optimism after several previous negotiations failed to bring reconciliation. The latest talks follow the January capture of then-President Nicolas Maduro by US forces, and will focus on strengthening democracy and restoring rights after nearly three decades of socialist rule. The talks will be led by members of Venezuela's overwhelmingly pro-government National Assembly and a group of former opposition lawmakers who previously attempted to oust Maduro. US officials say they will have a facilitating role. "I hope these people (the government) finally understand that we won't move forward with the usual arbitrary actions; they must respect agreements," said Soraida Martinez, a 58-year-old homemaker. "Both sides need to make concessions for the good of the country." Saturday's meeting comes nearly seven weeks after a gathering in Caracas between Nation

From US to China: How countries punish exam cheating and paper leaks

As Parliament debates tougher penalties for paper leaks, here's how countries from China and South Korea to the US, UK and Singapore punish exam fraud and organised cheating

India, China fuelling 'Putin's war machine': US Senator on sanctions bill

The US Senate moved a step closer to passing a bipartisan bill that would allow Trump to impose sanctions on countries, including India and China, that continue to buy Russian oil.

US, Japan urge India to address export restrictions in farm sector

The US and Japan urged India at the WTO to ease agricultural export restrictions, improve trade predictability and address non-tariff barriers during its Trade Policy Review

HDFC Bank under US scrutiny: Why three law firms are investigating the lender

Three US law firms have launched preliminary investigations into HDFC Bank after reports of alleged payment irregularities. But does this mean the bank has been sued?

Why is Warner Bros taking Amazon to court over one executive hire?

Amazon is facing a lawsuit from Warner Bros. Discovery over the hiring of a senior executive. Here's what the legal battle is about

Meet the woman who stands to inherit much of Jeffrey Epstein's fortune

Newly released Epstein investigation files shed light on Karyna Shuliak's life, relationship with the late financier, and her efforts to build a career as a dentist

Was America supposed to be a democracy? Two books revisit its founding

A review of two books explores James Wilson's overlooked role in shaping the US Constitution and examines the enduring tensions between democracy and republicanism

45% of India's exports to US out of Section 301's 10% tariff net: Govt

The Centre said 45% of India's exports to the US remain outside the new 10% Section 301 duty. India was placed in the lower tariff tier after USTR cut the proposed levy from 12.5%

US approves Saudi nuclear deal: What it allows and why it matters

The proposed agreement, estimated to be worth tens of billions of dollars, is expected to run for 30 years and place American companies at the centre of Saudi's civil nuclear infrastructure programme.

Pakistan seeks $10 billion in US backstop facility to boost reserves

The request, which is being reported for the first time, follows Pakistan's role in brokering talks over the Iran war, which raised its diplomatic profile

US advocacy group backs Sonam Wangchuk with protests in New York, San Jose

Activists from a US-based advocacy group held demonstrations in New York and San Jose to express solidarity with activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike in New Delhi over alleged irregularities in the conduct of the NEET exams. Activists from the 'Hindus for Human Rights' gathered at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in New York City's Union Square and San Jose on Monday evening carrying placards bearing slogans in support of Wangchuk. The activists also raised slogans against the Indian government and demanded the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Similar solidarity demonstrations were also held outside the Indian High Commission in London and the Indian Embassy in Dublin, the Hindus for Human Rights said in a statement here on Tuesday. "Our protests sent a clear message, whether in New York or London, San Jose or Dublin: India's students deserve to be treated with fairness and dignity," the group said in a statement. "The youth of Indi

Lockheed to make cheaper Patriot interceptors amid demand spike

Initial production could start within 36 months, the company said, adding that it plans to develop and manufacture the weapon with US and European industry partners

US issues global travel alert for citizens amid rising tensions with Iran

US State Department advised Americans across the world, particularly those in West Asia, to exercise increased caution and stay informed about rapidly evolving security developments

China tops US in global favourability, shows Pew Research survey

An area the US continues to get better ratings than China is its respect for personal freedom. However, that gap is also narrowing

Power, promise and an unfinished dream: The paradox of America at 250

For generations, millions of immigrants crossed oceans in search of freedom, security or simply a better life

Wildfire smoke blankets US cities as Canada fires rage, air turns hazardous

Canada's wildfire smoke has spread across large parts of the US, leading to hazardous air quality, cancelled outdoor events and health advisories in several major cities