Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the second-largest country in Europe by area, after Russia. It shares borders with Russia to the east and northeast, Belarus to the north, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary to the west, and Romania and Moldova to the south. Ukraine covers an area of 603,628 square kilometres. As of 2021, with a population of 41.6 million, it is the eighth-most populous country in Europe. The capital and largest city of Ukraine is Kyiv.
The territory of modern Ukraine dates back to 32,000 BC. In the 13th century, the region was ruled by various principalities, including the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and Austria-Hungary. During the 18th century, the territory was divided between Poland and the Russian Empire. After the Russian Revolution, a Ukrainian national movement emerged, and on June 23, 1917, the Ukrainian People's Republic was declared, gaining international recognition. Following World War II, Ukraine became part of the Soviet Union as the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic. Ukraine regained its independence on August 24, 1991, following the dissolution of the Soviet Union.
In 2013, Ukraine’s then-President Viktor Yanukovych suspended the Ukraine-European Union Association Agreement and opted for closer economic ties with Russia. This decision sparked massive protests, leading to Yanukovych’s removal and the establishment of a new government. These events set the stage for Russia’s annexation of Crimea in March 2014. In 2016, Ukraine became part of the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area with the European Union.
Ukraine is a developing country, ranking 74th on the Human Development Index. It is one of the poorest countries in Europe, suffering from high poverty rates and severe corruption. However, due to its vast fertile farmland, Ukraine is one of the world’s largest exporters of grain. It also maintains the third-largest military in Europe, after Russia and France.
The official language of Ukraine is Ukrainian, although Russian is widely spoken. According to the 2001 census, 67.5 per cent of the population declared Ukrainian as their native language, while 29.6 per cent declared Russian. Ukraine has a literacy rate of 99.4 per cent. The most popular sport in Ukraine is football.
Traditional Ukrainian cuisine includes dishes made from chicken, pork, beef, fish, and mushrooms. Ukrainians consume large quantities of potatoes, grains, and fresh, boiled, or pickled vegetables. Ukrainian specialities include Chicken Kyiv and Kyiv cake.
US President Donald Trump said on Monday that India and the US have agreed to a trade deal under which Washington will bring down reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods to 18 per cent from the current 25 per cent.
On this Special Report, the focus is on US President Donald Trump’s announcement regarding a temporary pause in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Speaking on the matter, Trump stated, 'I have been told that Russia is not doing any shooting for a period of time during this horrendously cold weather.' He claimed to have personally requested Russian President Vladimir Putin to halt strikes on Kyiv and other cities for one week due to record-setting cold temperatures affecting the region. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reportedly expressed gratitude for the initiative, specifically noting the halt of strikes on energy targets, while remaining cautious about Moscow's adherence to the agreement. The bulletin also highlights recent trilateral discussions between the US, Russia, and Ukraine in Abu Dhabi, aimed at establishing security and prosperity protocols. The report underscores the humanitarian impact of the extreme winter conditions in Ukraine, where temperatures have plummeted to -11 degrees Celsius, causing severe power outages and heating challenges for the population.
On this Special Report, India Today examines the global reaction to the landmark India-European Union trade agreement, described by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the 'mother of all deals.' US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent noted that India has 'come out on top in this deal,' gaining significant market access and increased immigration opportunities to Europe. The reaction comes amid tensions, as Bessent previously suggested the EU was 'funding war against themselves' by purchasing Indian-refined oil sourced from Russia. The deal, which follows 20 years of negotiations, is expected to integrate supply chains and eliminate up to four billion euros in annual tariffs. While the United States has imposed 25% tariffs on India regarding Russian oil imports, this new pact creates a market of two billion people, linking Indian services and scale with European technology and capital. The programme analyzes how this diversification of markets signals a shift in global trade dynamics and India's growing economic influence.
The India–European Union Free Trade Agreement is being seen as a strategic counterweight to China’s manufacturing dominance and shifting US trade policies, panellists said in a special report analysing the landmark pact.
Speaking to India Today Global, EU Vice President and High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas stressed the need to “build partnerships with those countries who believe in free trade,” underscoring the strategic message behind the newly concluded India–EU Free Trade Agreement.
In an India Today mega-exclusive, Geeta Mohan speaks with Kaja Kallas, the Vice President of the European Commission and High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy. Kallas discusses the successful conclusion of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement, noting that while democratic procedures take time, 'It is beneficial for both parties.' She addresses the geopolitical landscape, emphasizing the need to build partnerships with those who believe in free trade to diversify portfolios. Kallas responds to US criticisms regarding trade with Russia, highlighting EU sanctions on the Russian shadow fleet to end the war in Ukraine. On the Middle East, she asserts that the EU is the largest donor to Palestinians and is working on a Gaza Peace Plan to train Palestinian police. Kallas also touches upon transatlantic ties, the Greenland controversy, and the importance of the EU as a stable, predictable partner for India amidst global volatility and unpredictability.
On this special report, the focus is on the historic Free Trade Agreement (FTA) signed between India and the European Union. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the pact as the 'biggest ever free trade pact', noting it will provide Indian small industries greater access to European markets and stabilize the global order. European Council President Antonio Costa, who expressed pride in his Indian roots from Goa, described the agreement as the 'mother of all deals,' creating a market of 2 billion people. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized that the deal would cut approximately 4 billion euros in annual tariffs, strengthening global supply chains and manufacturing power. The leaders highlighted that this win-win partnership between the world's second and fourth largest economies serves as a blueprint for joint prosperity and a resilient international system amidst global turbulence.
On this Special Report, India Today's Aishwarya Paliwal provides an in-depth analysis of External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's endorsement of the landmark India-EU trade deal. Reporting on the significance of the agreement, Paliwal highlights the Minister's view that the 'India-EU summit is to strengthen the multipolarity and help de-risk the global order.' The transcript details how the Free Trade Agreement (FTA), along with security, defence, and mobility partnerships, forms the foundation for a deeper strategic relationship. Paliwal explains that both India and the European Union identified a critical need for a broader framework and newer, solid markets amidst global shifts. The discussion also touches upon the collaborative efforts between India and European nations regarding the situation in Ukraine, emphasizing a shared commitment to global peace and stability. This report underscores the diplomatic and economic milestones achieved through the comprehensive framework of cooperation signed between the two major powers.
On this special broadcast, European Council President Antonio Costa addresses the media alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking a transformative phase in India-EU relations. Highlighting his personal connection to India, Costa stated, 'I'm very proud of my roots in Goa, where my father's family came from.' The President announced the conclusion of historic trade negotiations and the establishment of the first-ever overarching defence and security framework between the European Union and India. He emphasized that as the world's two largest democracies, both entities are committed to a rules-based global order and shared prosperity. The summit focused on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), clean energy cooperation, and a joint strategic agenda toward 2030. Costa also addressed global security, calling for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine through dialogue and diplomacy, while praising India's role as a strategic and reliable partner in a fundamentally reshaping global landscape.
In a landmark 16th India-EU Summit held in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alongside European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, announced the conclusion of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Prime Minister Modi described the pact as 'a new blueprint for shared prosperity' and the largest trade agreement in India's history, coinciding with the 27th of the month and the 27 nations of the EU. The summit also marked the launch of a first-ever Security and Defence Partnership to enhance cooperation in maritime security, counter-terrorism, and cyber threats. President Costa, noting his personal roots in Goa, emphasized the strategic trust between the two largest democracies. President von der Leyen hailed the deal as the 'mother of all deals,' creating a market of 2 billion people. The leaders also signed a Comprehensive Framework on Mobility to benefit students and professionals, and launched the 'Towards 2030' strategic agenda to guide bilateral ties.
On this Special Report, anchor Swesha Sanchita details the landmark finalisation of the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA), described as the 'mother of all trade deals'. The bulletin highlights how the agreement aims to benefit Indian textile exporters by reducing 10% duties and empowering MSMEs, while addressing contentious issues like the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). Swesha Sanchita notes, 'India has been actually pushing for longer transition timelines and flexible requirements' regarding carbon rules. The report also covers the geopolitical friction caused by the deal, specifically the criticism from US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Bessent accused European nations of indirectly funding the Russia-Ukraine war by purchasing oil products refined in India from Russian crude. Despite US pressure and tariffs, New Delhi and Brussels are moving forward to provide strategic predictability and market access, leveraging India's massive consumer base and stable governance under Prime Minister Narendra Modi to counter global economic uncertainties and Chinese coercion.
This news report examines the evolving economic and strategic partnership between India and the European Union (EU) through the lens of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The speaker highlights that this collaboration is a 'win-win combination between India and European Union' occurring amidst global geopolitical turbulence. Key focus areas include investment protection, Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), and geographical indications (GI) tagging. The transcript details how the EU seeks to reduce its over-reliance on China by leveraging India's 'Make in India' programme, skilled manpower, and production capabilities. The partnership extends to the defence sector, driven by the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the need for diversified supply chains. Furthermore, the report discusses market access for Indian labor-intensive sectors like textiles and gems, while the EU eyes India's rapidly growing automobile market for high-end brands. Despite sensitivities in agriculture and dairy, both sides are fast-tracking negotiations to ensure economic and geopolitical security.
On this special report, India Today examines the escalating diplomatic friction between Washington, Brussels, and New Delhi. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has lashed out at the European Union following the announcement of a major trade framework with India. Bessent stated, 'The Mrs.5 has made much bigger sacrifices than the Europeans have. We have put 25 percent tariffs on India for buying Russian oil.' He further claimed that by signing this deal, the European Union is effectively 'funding war against themselves' by purchasing refined Russian oil products through India. The transcript highlights the 'mother of all deals' between India and the EU, which notably excludes agriculture to protect domestic interests. While the US remains fuming over the perceived lack of cooperation in isolating Russia, analysts suggest this move by the EU might nudge the Trump administration to reconsider its own punitive 25 percent tariffs on India to avoid being left behind in the changing global trade order.
On this India Today Global report, Pranay Upadhyay discusses the significance of US President Donald Trump’s congratulatory message to India on its 77th Republic Day. President Trump stated, 'On behalf of the people of the United States, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the government and people of India as we celebrate the 77th Republic Day.' The report highlights the historic bond between the world’s oldest and largest democracies while addressing underlying tensions regarding a bilateral trade deal. Upadhyay notes that despite the 'special bond' shared between President Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, concerns remain following reports involving US Senator Ted Cruz and Vice President JD Vance regarding trade agreements. The discussion also touches upon India's commitment to the strategic partnership and President Trump's broader international efforts, including the Gaza Peace Initiative and mediation attempts in the Ukraine-Russia conflict. The bulletin emphasizes that while challenges exist, both nations remain engaged in strengthening their diplomatic and economic ties.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the escalating conflict between Russia and Ukraine as major cities face renewed aerial bombardments. Reporter Pranay provides updates on the ground situation, noting that Russia has targeted Kyiv and Kharkiv with over 100 UAVs, leaving the capital without power amidst freezing temperatures of minus 11 degrees Celsius. Pranay states, 'Most of the Kyiv city, which is the capital of Ukraine, is out of power, and heating is a big challenge.' The report highlights the stark contrast between the intense fighting on the battlefronts and the ongoing trilateral diplomatic talks involving Russia, Ukraine, and the United States in Abu Dhabi. While these talks in the UAE offer a glimmer of hope for a solution, the humanitarian crisis deepens with thousands of lives lost weekly. The programme explores the strategic targeting of electrical facilities by Russian forces and the retaliatory drone strikes by Ukraine as the war enters its fourth year.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the significant diplomatic breakthrough in Abu Dhabi where a trilateral meeting involving Ukrainian, American, and Russian delegations is underway. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, communicating via Platform X, emphasized the necessity of a definitive conclusion to the conflict, stating, 'The key is that Russia must be ready to end the war it started.' The talks, which have concluded their first day in the UAE, aim to establish parameters for ending the four-year-long conflict and achieving full security guarantees for Ukraine and its European partners. The discussion highlights the shift from bilateral engagements to a trilateral format, raising hopes for a potential ceasefire. While the Ukrainian diplomatic team provides hourly updates on the negotiations, the focus remains on territorial claims and security frameworks. The programme explores the significance of these talks and the role of international mediation in resolving the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the high-stakes diplomatic engagement between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Following their hour-long meeting, Zelenskyy expressed optimism about an upcoming trilateral summit in the UAE involving the US, Russia, and Ukraine, stating, 'I think that trilateral meetings maybe will show each other variants' regarding unresolved territorial issues in eastern Ukraine. While Zelenskyy criticised European leaders for their perceived inaction and highlighted the disparity between the legal pursuit of Nicolas Maduro and Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump remained hopeful of a swift resolution. Trump asserted that a settlement is coming 'very soon,' noting that 'everyone wants the war to end.' The programme examines the shift in geopolitical dynamics during Trump’s second term and the potential for these first-of-their-kind trilateral negotiations to finally broker a peace deal after nearly four years of conflict.
In an exclusive interview with India Today at Davos, Nicholas Thompson, CEO of The Atlantic, shares his insights on the dual disruptions of Donald Trump’s presidency and the rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence.
On this Special Report from the Davos Brainstorm, Nicholas Thompson, CEO of The Atlantic, shares his insights on the dual disruptions of Donald Trump’s presidency and the rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence. Thompson observes that 'Donald Trump acts very impulsively' and notes how the world often follows his lead due to his power and charisma. The conversation explores the challenges of maintaining media objectivity in a volatile political climate, specifically referencing The Atlantic’s reporting on the Trump administration. Thompson also delves into the AI revolution, characterizing it as a transformative force potentially as significant as electricity, while predicting a shift toward more idea-based competition in the tech sector. As an ultra-marathoner, he reflects on the therapeutic nature of running amidst the 'new world disorder.' The discussion concludes with a look at the diminishing global brand of America and the critical role of the fourth estate in informing democracies during times of significant economic and geopolitical change.
In this exclusive interaction at Davos, Ian Bremmer, President of Eurasia Group, analyzes the shifting global dynamics in the 'Trumpian era'. Bremmer asserts that while Donald Trump dominates headlines, leaders like Xi Jinping and Narendra Modi hold more consistent power due to their domestic stability. He highlights that 'Modi is in one of the stronger positions to push back against Trump' compared to European leaders, citing India's 7% growth and strategic importance as a hedge against China. Bremmer discusses the 'G0 world'—a state of geopolitical recession where no single power leads—and evaluates Trump's 'Board of Peace' and the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Iran. He also clarifies his stance on India's AI capabilities, noting that while the US and China lead, India is developing significant human capacity and talent. The discussion provides a comprehensive outlook on how middle powers like India must navigate a 'technopolar' and multipolar economic world while dealing with a unipolar security order dominated by the United States.
