August 6, 2026

Year: 2026

Two massive earthquakes strike Venezuela, killing at least 25 people and causing widespread damage.

** Venezuela is reeling from the impact of two massive earthquakes that struck the country in quick succession, killing at least 25 people and causing widespread destruction. The twin earthquakes, which measured 7.3 and 6.7 magnitude, have brought the country's fragile infrastructure to its knees, with buildings collapsed, roads cracked, and communication networks severely disrupted.

Venezuela hit by earthquakes

** Two devastating earthquakes have struck Venezuela, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. The disaster has put the country's newfound alliance with the US to the test, as the international community waits to see how Washington will respond to the crisis. With thousands in need of assistance, the US faces a significant challenge in navigating Venezuela's complex politics to provide humanitarian aid.

Punjab CM claims video of him is fake.

** Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has sparked a controversy by claiming that a video of him is fake, with the opposition dismissing his claim as a diversionary tactic and demanding an independent investigation into the matter. The controversy has raised questions about the use of technology to create fake videos, social media regulation, and accountability in politics.

US Supreme Court Upholds End to Temporary Protected Status for Haitian and Syrian Immigrants

** The US Supreme Court has ruled to end Temporary Protected Status for Haitian and Syrian immigrants, paving the way for the potential deportation of hundreds of thousands of people who have been living in the US for years. The decision has been met with criticism from immigrant advocacy groups and lawmakers, who argue that the move will put many lives at risk and cause significant disruption to families and communities.

Madras HC upholds Geetha Jeevan’s acquittal

** The Madras High Court has upheld the acquittal of former Minister Geetha Jeevan in a disproportionate assets case, dismissing a petition seeking to condone a delay of 839 days in preferring a revision against the acquittal. The judgment is seen as a significant development in the case, which has sparked debate about accountability and transparency in Tamil Nadu's governance structure.

Russia Ambassador visits Kerala, discusses strengthening ties in various sectors.

** The Russian Ambassador to India, Nikolay Rishatovich Kudashev, recently visited Kerala to strengthen ties between Russia and the Indian state, with a focus on key sectors such as trade, defence, education, and renewable energy, and to explore opportunities for mutual cooperation and investment.

US uses Turkey and Türkiye interchangeably.

** The US government's decision to use "Turkey" and "Türkiye" interchangeably has reignited the debate over the country's name change, with Turkish politicians and diplomats pushing for greater recognition and respect for their country's preferred name, while linguists and cultural experts weigh in on the merits and implications of the change.

Supreme Court allows Trump to end Haiti and Syria TPS programs.

** The Supreme Court has given the Trump administration the green light to end deportation protection for hundreds of thousands of Haitians and Syrians, potentially sending them back to their home countries amid concerns of persecution, violence, and even death. The ruling is a significant victory for the Trump administration, but has sparked widespread criticism from immigration advocates and lawmakers who argue that it will put vulnerable migrants at risk.

Hernández wins Colombia election

** In a surprise win, right-wing candidate Rodolfo Hernández has won Colombia's presidential election, thanks in part to an endorsement from US President Donald Trump. Hernández's anti-establishment and anti-corruption agenda resonated with voters, but his victory has also sparked controversy and allegations of US meddling in Colombian politics. As Hernández takes office, he faces significant challenges in addressing poverty, inequality, and corruption, and his relationship with the US government will be closely watched.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman promotes asset creation through State borrowing.

** Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has stressed the need for state borrowings to focus on asset creation, rather than just revenue expenditure, to drive economic growth, foster employment, and improve public infrastructure, amid concerns over the country's rising fiscal deficit and credit rating.