Prime Minister Narendra Modi makes a historic first visit to Croatia. The US Fed holds interest rates at 4.25–4.50 per cent amid easing inflation, while Elias Rodriguez faces a preliminary hearing in the Jewish museum shooting case in Washington, DC. Indonesia’s Subianto meets Putin, and Nippon Steel nears completion of its major US Steel dealread more
June 18, 2025, brings a diverse set of global headlines.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Croatia for a historic first visit, focusing on deepening bilateral ties.
The US Federal Reserve announces its latest interest rate decision amid easing inflation concerns.
In Washington, the preliminary hearing begins for Elias Rodriguez, charged in a high-profile museum shooting.
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto meets Vladimir Putin in Russia, signalling closer ties.
Meanwhile, Japan’s Nippon Steel faces a regulatory deadline in its $14 billion bid to acquire US Steel.
Here are today’s top developments.
Modi on landmark visit to Croatia
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Zagreb today for a historic first visit by an Indian leader to Croatia. He is set to meet Prime Minister Andrej Plenković and President Zoran Milanović.
The agenda includes signing bilateral agreements on defense cooperation, IT sector collaboration and renewable energy projects.
“This will be the first ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Croatia, marking an important milestone in the bilateral relationship. Prime Minister will hold bilateral discussions with Prime Minister Plenković and meet the President of Croatia, H.E. Mr. Zoran Milanović. The visit to Croatia will also underscore India’s commitment to further strengthening its engagement with partners in the European Union,” said the PM office in a statement.
Modi’s visit follows stops in Cyprus and Canada, underlining India’s expanding diplomatic outreach in Europe.
US Fed maintains rates amid disinflation
Following its June 17–18 policy meeting, the US Federal Reserve held the federal funds target range steady at 4.25–4.50 per cent.
The central bank cited disinflation — core inflation slowed to 2.7 per cent year-over-year — and moderated wage growth, which together justify pausing rate hikes.
While growth remains steady and unemployment low, Fed Chair Jerome Powell stated that future rate decisions will be data-driven.
Preliminary hearing for SC shooting suspect
In Washington, DC, a preliminary hearing has begun for Elias Rodriguez (31), charged with murdering two Israeli embassy staffers outside the Capital Jewish Museum on May 8.
According to court filings, Rodriguez allegedly shouted “Free Palestine” during the attack.
Prosecutors have presented video evidence and eyewitness testimony, while the defense argues the attack was random and not motivated by ideology.
A judge set bail at $500,000 amid hate-crime enhancements; trial date expected in late July.
Subianto meets Putin
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto will touch down in St. Petersburg from June 18 to June 20 for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Agenda items include defence cooperation, joint economic zones and Indonesian participation in Russia’s annual St Petersburg International Economic Forum.
Indonesia seeks to diversify its global ties, while Russia views this as a win amid Western economic sanctions.
Nippon Steel aims to finalise US Steel acquisition
Japanese steel giant Nippon Steel is racing to close its $14 billion acquisition of US Steel.
Following a security-review “golden share” agreement with the US government — granting the US veto over certain strategic asset decisions — the deal now awaits final regulatory and shareholder approval.
Completion is expected before June 30.
Nippon’s plans include investing over $11 billion in modernisation efforts and climate-friendly steelmaking within five years. Analysts say the deal could reshape North American steel capacity.
With inputs from agencies