Who is Anita Anand? The Indian-origin Canada's Foreign Minister?

During Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim's visit to Moscow, Russian President Vladimir Putin shared a light-hearted moment by joking about marriage. While showing Anwar the grand St. Andrew's Hall, Putin pointed out three thrones. When asked who the third throne was for, Anwar cheekily replied, ¡°For the second wife!¡±¡ªprompting laughter from both leaders. Anwar later clarified it was a trick question and the throne was meant for the mother. The unexpected exchange added a warm touch to discussions that also addressed trade relations between Russia and Malaysia.

India is making major strides in air defense and military exports, with Russia proposing joint production of the S-500 air defense system. The S-500 Prometey, capable of intercepting hypersonic missiles, stealth aircraft, and low-orbit satellites, will further strengthen India¡¯s multi-layered air defense network. Meanwhile, Japan has invited India to join the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP), a sixth-generation fighter jet initiative led by Japan, the UK, and Italy. With AI, stealth, drone teaming, and next-gen propulsion, this fighter aims for deployment by the mid-2030s. India¡¯s defense exports are also booming, with Armenia purchasing Akash missiles in a $230 million deal, while the Philippines signed a $375 million contract for BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles.

During his visit to Saudi Arabia, Donald Trump had several awkward moments, from dozing off and wandering off-course to returning a salute to Saudi military officials. He awkwardly questioned Crown Prince MBS about his sleep habits and refused traditional Arabian coffee, seen by some as disrespectful. Despite the blunders, Trump secured a $142 billion arms deal and announced the removal of US sanctions on Syria, urging for its revival. His remarks received a standing ovation at the Riyadh investment forum.

Anita Anand has made history as she takes oath as Canada¡¯s new Minister of Foreign Affairs, becoming the first Hindu woman to hold this prestigious position. In a major cabinet reshuffle led by Prime Minister Mark Carney, Anand was sworn in with her hand on the Bhagavad Gita, a gesture that reflects her cultural roots and values. Born in Nova Scotia to Indian immigrant parents from Punjab and Tamil Nadu, Anand is a seasoned lawyer, academic, and politician. Her impressive political journey includes key roles as Minister of National Defence, Transport Minister, and Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry. She also led Canada¡¯s vaccine procurement during the COVID-19 pandemic.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced a sweeping overhaul of the country¡¯s immigration system, aiming to significantly reduce net migration. According to the new White Paper, the path to citizenship will now require 10 years of residency¡ªup from five¡ªwith exceptions for individuals who make notable contributions to the economy or society. English language requirements are also being tightened, with adult dependents of students and workers now needing to prove basic English proficiency.

On the night of May 8¨C9, as Pakistan launched a wave of coordinated drone and missile attacks across India¡¯s western border, the Indian Armed Forces responded with unmatched speed and precision. Over 50 drones were shot down across key military zones including Jammu, Udhampur, Samba, Akhnoor, Nagrota, and Pathankot. At the heart of this defensive success was the Pechora missile system¡ªa Soviet-origin surface-to-air missile platform known for its lethal accuracy. Integrated with the 4R90 Yatagan radar, the Pechora can detect and neutralize targets mid-air, even under intense electronic jamming. With a kill probability of 92% and target engagement capability at up to 35 km range and 25 km altitude, it proved indispensable during this high-tempo engagement. Despite the induction of newer systems like the Akash NG, MRSAM, and S-400 ¡®Sudarshan Chakra,¡¯ Pechora remains a trusted asset in India¡¯s layered air defence grid.

Following PM Modi¡¯s address post-Operation Sindoor, Pakistan reportedly launched another drone attack targeting J&K¡¯s Samba and Punjab¡¯s Jalandhar. Indian air defence responded swiftly, and precautionary blackouts were enforced, including at the Vaishno Devi shrine. Flights to several cities were cancelled. Meanwhile, US President Trump¡¯s claim of brokering peace through trade threats was denied by Indian sources. Modi confirmed Pakistan had requested a ceasefire after India¡¯s strong retaliation. India has also proposed retaliatory tariffs on US goods amid ongoing tensions.

Air Marshal AK Bharti serving as the Director General Air Operations (DGAO) at Air Headquarters provided key insights into the successful airstrikes conducted on multiple high-value targets. These airstrikes were meticulously planned and executed with precision to neutralize critical enemy infrastructure and ensure national security. Key locations targeted in the operations included terrorist training camps, weapon storage depots, and logistical hubs that were essential for enemy operations. The strikes were designed not only to disrupt enemy operations but also to send a strong message about the nation's military capability and strategic readiness. With months of preparation, real-time intelligence, and advanced technology, the airstrikes were executed to minimize collateral damage while maximizing their impact. These operations are part of a broader ongoing strategy aimed at weakening enemy forces and securing national borders.

India has exposed Pakistan¡¯s open support for terrorists with shocking evidence ¡ª a funeral where Pakistani soldiers honored militants killed in Indian airstrikes. Indian Ambassador to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami, presented an image showing Hafiz Abdul Rauf, brother of Jaish-e-Mohammed¡¯s founder, leading prayers for slain terrorists. With coffins draped in Pakistan¡¯s national flag, India questions Islamabad¡¯s claims of civilian casualties. Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri further challenges Pakistan¡¯s narrative, highlighting contradictions in its stance. As tensions rise along the Line of Control, India¡¯s decisive action against terror networks sparks global debate.

India¡¯s air defence systems have once again proven their strength, successfully neutralizing Pakistan¡¯s airstrike attempt on May 8-9, 2025. As drones, missiles, and loitering munitions targeted key cities and military bases, India¡¯s Counter-UAS grid, S-400 Sudarshan, Prithvi Air Defence, Akash, SPYDER, QRSAM, and Barak 8 swiftly intercepted every threat, ensuring zero casualties. From high-altitude missile interception to rapid-response drone neutralization, India¡¯s multi-layered defence network dominates aerial warfare.