Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman acknowledged that impending U.S. tariffs could impact India. She noted that Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal is currently in the U.S., engaging with officials, including the United States Trade Representative, to safeguard India's export interests. These discussions aim to address the potential repercussions of President Donald Trump's announcement of reciprocal tariffs set to commence on April 2 against countries imposing high taxes on U.S. products. The U.S. strategy seeks to counter unfair trade practices and encourage foreign nations to reduce or eliminate tariffs on U.S. goods or to establish manufacturing operations within the U.S., thereby boosting its economic growth.

In a significant legal development, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit has ruled that Pakistani-origin Canadian businessman Tahawwur Rana is extraditable to India for his alleged involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. The court affirmed a lower court's decision, rejecting Rana's habeas corpus petition and determining that the U.S.-India Extradition Treaty permits his extradition. Rana, previously convicted in the U.S. for supporting the terrorist organization Lashkar-e-Taiba, had argued that extradition would constitute double jeopardy. However, the court found that the charges in India contain distinct elements from those in the U.S. case. This ruling brings India closer to prosecuting Rana for his alleged role in the attacks that killed 166 people.

Hamas has issued a stark warning, threatening to execute Israeli hostages if Israel resumes military operations in Gaza. This announcement follows President Donald Trump's ultimatum demanding the immediate release of all hostages, both living and deceased, accompanied by threats of severe repercussions against Hamas. The militant group's spokesperson, Abu Ubaida, accused Israel of "bullying, stalling, and reckless aggression," asserting that Israeli threats would not secure the captives' release. He cautioned that any escalation would result in the killing of enemy captives. Currently, Israel estimates that 24 hostages remain alive in Gaza, including 22 Israelis, one Thai, and one Nepali national. The situation remains highly volatile as ceasefire negotiations falter, with both sides exchanging threats and demands.

SpaceX's eighth Starship test flight ended in failure Thursday as the upper stage exploded mid-air over the Caribbean, minutes after launching from Boca Chica, Texas. The booster stage was successfully recovered using the launch tower's "chopstick" arms, but the upper stage lost control before disintegrating. Fiery debris was visible across Florida and the Bahamas, prompting the FAA to temporarily halt air traffic at several Florida airports due to safety concerns. This incident marks the second consecutive Starship explosion, following a similar failure in January. The FAA has initiated an investigation, requiring SpaceX to implement corrective actions before future flights. Despite setbacks, Starship remains central to Elon Musk's vision for Mars colonization and NASA's Artemis lunar missions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declared, “Peace must not come at the price of the country,” during a Brussels, Belgium meeting with European leaders. He welcomed the "ReArm Europe Plan" and called for Ukraine’s continued involvement in peace talks. Zelensky outlined steps for a "fair" peace, including a truce in air and sea, prisoner exchanges, and trust-building measures. He expressed gratitude for European support, as leaders pledged F-16 jets, increased defense spending, and military aid. Lithuania proposed Ukraine's EU accession by 2030. The UK announced £30M for attack drones to aid Ukraine’s resistance.

The UK government condemned a security breach involving External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in London. A pro-Khalistan protester broke past barriers near Chatham House, ran toward Jaishankar’s motorcade, and tore an Indian flag before being detained. The UK Foreign Office called such disruptions “completely unacceptable,” while India urged Britain to uphold diplomatic obligations. The Metropolitan Police acted swiftly to handle the situation. India’s foreign ministry condemned the “provocative activities” of separatists, emphasizing the misuse of democratic freedoms. The incident occurred during Jaishankar’s week-long visit to the UK and Ireland.

Kannada actor Ranya Rao is under investigation for allegedly smuggling gold from Dubai. The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) suspects she has strong links in Dubai, where gold bars were handed to her. Rao allegedly wrapped them around her body using tape and crepe bandages. She reportedly bypassed security at Bengaluru airport with the help of a protocol officer. Her mobile and laptop remain locked as the DRI probes further. The agency says she hasn’t denied most charges and has bruise marks on her face. Authorities are investigating a larger smuggling nexus.

US President Donald Trump blamed Canadian PM Justin Trudeau for the 25% tariff on Canadian imports, alleging he is using it as a re-election strategy. The US imposed the tariff citing Canada’s failure to curb fentanyl exports, prompting Ottawa to retaliate with 25% tariffs on $20.82 billion in US imports. Trudeau warned of a prolonged trade war and approached the WTO for consultations. Trump announced a one-month exemption for US automakers but insisted Trudeau “largely caused” the issue. Canadian officials stated they won’t lift retaliatory tariffs unless the US removes all restrictions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for a truce on air and sea attacks to demonstrate Russia's commitment to ending the war. He urged a halt to strikes on energy and civilian infrastructure and military operations in the Black Sea. He also suggested that releasing prisoners could build trust and lead to a fair settlement. Addressing EU leaders in Brussels, Zelenskyy backed the ReArm Europe Plan, urging significant investment in Ukraine’s defense industry. He announced resumed talks with the U.S., hoping for a "meaningful meeting" next week.

Australia's Steve Smith announced his retirement from ODIs, drawing praise from cricketing legends. Yuvraj Singh said, "You and your family should be proud of all you achieved." David Warner called him "the best player I've played alongside," while Shane Watson recalled Smith's heroics in the 2015 World Cup. Smith, 35, will continue playing Tests and T20Is, eyeing the 2026 T20 World Cup and 2028 Olympics. His ODI career saw 5,367 runs in 155 matches, making him one of Australia's greats. Tributes poured in for "Smudge" from fans and teammates worldwide.