Philippines–China Tensions: Manila hit back after China sanctioned Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and his family, with Teodoro arguing Beijing is retaliating for Philippine action against alleged Chinese-linked illegal activities in the West Philippine Sea. Taiwan Strait Messaging: China’s Straits Forum in Xiamen pushed “peaceful development” and rejected separatism, as Taiwan-related reunification rhetoric again dominated cross-strait talks. US–India Maritime Row: India’s foreign minister called US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to protest US strikes off Oman that killed Indian mariners, after New Delhi summoned US diplomats twice in days. India–Europe Diplomacy: PM Modi’s France, Slovakia and G7 trip is framed around energy, critical minerals and innovation ties, including “Bharat Innovates” with Macron and a Slovakia state visit. India Domestic Politics: A new student-focused protest campaign in Punjab demands Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation over alleged exam irregularities and paper leaks. Defense & Security: DRDO’s three successful ballistic missile defence flight tests place India in an elite club, while Taiwan condemned Chinese vessels entering restricted waters near Itu Aba. Energy & Cost Pressure: Delhi’s power minister defended a PPAC surcharge increase tied to West Asia fuel shocks, saying subsidised consumers won’t face higher bills. Regional Economy & Trade: Bangladesh’s foreign adviser urged respectful, mutually beneficial India ties, while Malaysia’s PM linked political stability to continued oil and gas access.