Ukraine’s President asserts that any agreements involving Ukraine without its participation will not be recognized, while Congress distances itself from Pitroda’s remarks on China. Sri Lanka’s President criticizes high energy tariffs; Qatar’s Amir plans key meetings in India. The Israeli army targets Hamas in Lebanon. Karnataka’s CM prepares to present his 16th budget, and BSP raises concerns over foreign election influence. The Khelo India Winter Games are postponed due to inadequate snow.
On February 17, 2025, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine would not recognize any agreements made without its participation, following unclear communication regarding discussions between Russia and the United States. He emphasized that Kyiv was uninformed and asserted, “We cannot recognise any things or any agreements about us without us. And we will not recognise such agreements.”
In Indian political news, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh clarified that Sam Pitroda’s views on China do not reflect the stance of the Indian National Congress. Pitroda had suggested that the perceived threat from China is overstated and advocated for a respectful approach towards China instead of viewing it as an adversary.
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake expressed concerns over “excessive tariffs” in energy projects, responding to Adani Green’s exit from a renewable energy initiative. He stated that energy investments should be governed by competitive tariffs, ensuring no favoritism towards specific companies or countries, indirectly referencing Adani or India.
Amir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani is visiting India with meetings planned with President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 18, 2025. His visit is expected to strengthen ties between the two nations, with discussions likely covering multiple areas of collaboration.
The Israeli military announced the killing of a Hamas leader, Muhammad Shaheen, during a strike in southern Lebanon. Shaheen was implicated in orchestrating “terrorist plots” against Israeli citizens, supposedly funded and directed by Iranian interests from within Lebanon.
In domestic affairs, Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah is set to present his 16th budget on March 7, 2025, as the budget session begins on March 3. Despite internal pressures to reduce funding for certain guarantees, he confirmed there are no plans to cut these funds.
Additionally, the Adani Group has committed ₹2,000 crore for educational initiatives, planning to build at least 20 schools across India. This donation comes as part of a broader ₹10,000 crore philanthropic effort initiated at the wedding of Gautam Adani’s son.
The BJP criticized Congress over Pitroda’s comments regarding China, arguing that such views align with Congress’s positions. This illustrates the ongoing political drama surrounding India-China relations and party accountability.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman reassured that India’s economic foundations remain robust despite recent fluctuations in foreign portfolio investments (FPIs) in the stock market. She emphasized the transition of higher incomes into lower tax categories under the new regime.
In Maharashtra, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar responded to questions about Minister Dhananjay Munde’s potential resignation amidst scrutiny following the arrest of an aide linked to a murder case. Pawar redirected inquiries to Mr. Munde, who is facing significant political pressures.
BSP chief Mayawati raised serious concerns regarding potential foreign interference in Indian elections, referencing reports of substantial funding from a U.S. agency aimed at boosting voter engagement. This highlights the ongoing discourse regarding election integrity.
Meanwhile, the 5th Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg have been postponed due to insufficient snowfall. New dates for the event will be announced once weather conditions improve and further assessments are concluded.
The key events from February 17, 2025, illustrate vital political and diplomatic developments, including Ukraine’s strong stance on international negotiations, domestic Indian political responses to foreign threats, Sri Lanka’s energy pricing issues, and shifts in funding commitments from significant corporations. Additionally, the postponement of the Khelo India Winter Games due to weather conditions underscores the impact of climatic factors on scheduling events.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
