chinese territory

Taiwan's defence institute unveiled three robotic dogs, modified from the base model developed by a US company, designed for patrol and reconnaissance of sensitive islands in the South China Sea. These adaptable machines can navigate tough terrain, monitor facilities, and even carry weapons, offering a safer alternative to human patrols against China's growing military presence.

Of the nine, eight sorties entered Taiwan's southwestern and eastern part of the Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ).

Taiwan's defense ministry reported Chinese military activity, with four aircraft and six naval vessels detected around the island. Three aircraft crossed the Taiwan Strait median line. This follows a day of heightened activity, with 16 aircraft and eight vessels observed, 13 of which crossed the median line. These incursions underscore rising regional tensions.

Cody Haddon earned a big win at UFC Macau after stopping Aoriqileng with a brutal liver knee in the second round. But his emotional post-fight interview created even more attention. The Australian fighter openly told UFC officials he was struggling financially and asked Dana White for a bonus. His comments once again sparked conversation among fans and fighters about UFC pay and contracts.

A significant $14 billion arms package for Taiwan has been put on hold by the US Navy, prioritizing munitions for operations against Iran. This decision sparks concerns about wavering US resolve amid escalating Chinese pressure. The pause, while attributed to operational needs, raises doubts for Taiwan about American support, especially with China's 2027 invasion readiness warnings.

During their discussions, President Trump and Xi Jinping placed Taiwan at the forefront of their diplomatic agenda. Trump perceives arms sales to Taiwan as a way to gain leverage, whereas Taiwan insists on its importance for regional harmony. Given its strategic significance in the technology sector, especially in chip manufacturing, any tension involving Taiwan could disturb the global economy.

India’s conflict with Pakistan last year and wars in Ukraine and Iran have put drones at the centre of modern combat, with Indian firms now chasing a surge in domestic orders and demand from West Asia and Nato markets

Taiwan, a flashpoint in US-China rivalry, is increasingly central to global tensions. President Xi Jinping's "Thucydides Trap" warning highlights the risk of conflict as China rises. The island's strategic importance in semiconductors and trade, coupled with historical crises, underscores the escalating danger of miscalculation.

India and Cyprus elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership, aiming to boost bilateral investments in sectors like defense and tourism. This move strengthens Cyprus's defense capabilities and positions it as a key European entry point for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, countering regional geopolitical challenges.

Iran is reportedly eyeing to impose licensing fees on the global tech giants for using undersea internet cables, which pass through the Strait, even as Tehran remains engaged in back-channel negotiations with the US to end the conflict that began on Feb 28

President Trump declared his China visit a historic "G-2" success, highlighting major trade deals including Boeing aircraft sales and agricultural commitments. He also suggested China would refrain from aggressive action on Taiwan during his presidency, while Xi Jinping privately warned of confrontation over the island. Trump indicated China's willingness to help broker an end to the Iran conflict.

Taiwan's defense ministry reported eight Chinese naval vessels near the island following US President Trump's China visit. Trump suggested China might act against Taiwan after his term, acknowledging Beijing's strong objections to its independence. The US arms package for Taiwan remains under review amid escalating tensions and China's territorial claims.

A recent Iran conflict has significantly depleted US high-end missile stockpiles, raising alarms in Washington. Critical systems like Tomahawks and Patriots may take years to replenish, creating a 'window of vulnerability' amid rising tensions with China. Production bottlenecks and allied demands complicate rebuilding efforts, impacting future defense readiness.

The Trump-Xi summit yielded no major breakthroughs, with both leaders sticking to their strategic interests, particularly concerning Taiwan. Russia's intensified attacks on Ukraine, met with Ukrainian drone strikes deep into Russia, highlight Moscow's continued aggression. Latvia's government collapsed over a drone incident, underscoring regional security concerns. Meanwhile, a joint US-Nigeria operation eliminated the Islamic State's No. 2 leader in Nigeria.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang joined Donald Trump's Beijing summit at the last minute, boarding Air Force One in Alaska, but China still won't approve H200 AI chip purchases. Trump said Beijing "chose not to" because it wants homegrown silicon. With DeepSeek now running on Huawei chips and 10 cleared Chinese firms yet to place orders, Nvidia's China stalemate looks set to drag on.

Iran has announced its support for Chinese President Xi Jinping's four-point plan for Gulf security and regional development. This initiative, emphasizing peaceful coexistence, respect for sovereignty, adherence to international law, and balancing security with economic cooperation, comes ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to China amid ongoing regional tensions.

President Trump's visit to China is overshadowed by the Iran War, which has disrupted global energy supplies and impacted his approval ratings. While trade and Taiwan remain on the agenda, the protracted conflict in Iran presents a significant challenge, with the US struggling to achieve its war aims and facing a decline in superpower status.

Iran'Fazli, has expressed support for Chinese President Xi Jinping's "four-point proposal" aimed at ensuring lasting security amid the conflict in West Asia as well as the shared development in the region.

While President Trump maintains a gentle approach in his dialogue with China, the US military is gearing up for any possible scenarios. Strengthening its presence in the Indo-Pacific, America is reactivating established bases and fortifying partnerships.

During a Beijing visit, President Trump observed China's military might, signaling a shift in global power. While the US faces munitions shortages and slow production, China's defense industry operates at wartime pace, excelling in drones, AI, and satellite tech. This evolving warfare, particularly concerning Taiwan, highlights a contest for future global dominance.

Trump’s philosophy is often mistaken for the absence of philosophy, but absence can become a system if practised with sufficient confidence. Every problem becomes a deal, every deal becomes a performance, every performance requires a winner, and the winner, ideally before anyone checks the paperwork, is Donald Trump.

Despite the bullish undertone in equities, several risk factors continue to keep investors on edge. The rupee touched a fresh record low after breaching the 95.8 mark against the US dollar for the first time.