A 5.2-magnitude earthquake hit Kargil, Ladakh, early on March 14, 2025, felt in Jammu and Kashmir. No injuries or damage were reported. Additionally, significant international developments include meetings between UAE and Swedish officials, the UK boosting defense export financing, and U.S. energy sanctions on Russia. The FDA has also recommended virus strains for upcoming flu vaccines without anticipated delays.
On March 14, 2025, a 5.2-magnitude earthquake struck Kargil in Ladakh at 2:50 AM, according to the National Center for Seismology. The tremors were felt across different areas of Jammu and Kashmir, with the earthquake occurring at a depth of 15 kilometers. Authorities reported no casualties or property damage following the event.
In response to the earthquake, Delhi Minister Ashish Sood expressed his prayers for residents, emphasizing the government’s commitment to maintaining a clean and beautiful capital under CM Rekha Gupta’s leadership. Meanwhile, on the international front, Russian President Vladimir Putin indicated conditional support for a U.S.-proposed ceasefire in Ukraine, highlighting the complexities involved in reaching an agreement.
Additionally, the UAE’s Foreign Minister, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, met with Sweden’s Defence Minister, Pal Jonson, discussing methods to enhance bilateral relations and cooperation in various sectors, including defense. The meeting also addressed pressing regional and global issues.
From the UK, the government has announced an increase of $2.6 billion in export credit facilities for defense firms, aimed at enhancing their overseas sales and bolstering economic growth. This updated funding will raise the total lending capacity of the UK Export Finance agency for defense contractors to £10 billion.
In U.S. relations regarding energy, the Trump administration allowed a license facilitating energy transactions with Russian institutions to expire, which is anticipated to raise pressure on Russia in ongoing negotiations concerning Ukraine. The expiration blocks these banks from accessing U.S. payments.
Furthermore, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently issued recommendations for influenza vaccine strains for the upcoming 2025-2026 flu season, managing the process independently rather than through an advisory committee as is typically done, without affecting vaccine availability.
President Trump also announced plans to impose 200 percent tariffs on European alcoholic beverages in response to the EU’s tariffs on U.S. goods like whiskey, reflecting ongoing trade tensions. Meanwhile, EU’s Kaja Kallas discussed expectations that Russia might accept a ceasefire proposal from the U.S., albeit under specific conditions.
The recent earthquake in Kargil highlights ongoing geological risks in the region, although authorities have reported no harm thus far. Concurrently, international relations involve various discussions and negotiations, particularly concerning Ukraine and trade policies between the U.S. and Europe. Additionally, the UK’s enhanced support for defense manufacturing and recent FDA vaccine recommendations demonstrate broad governmental initiatives aimed at both public health and economic fortitude.
Original Source: m.economictimes.com
