The world news cycle for Friday, January 9, 2026, is dominated by aggressive foreign policy moves from the United States and deteriorating diplomatic ties in South Asia. In a double blow to India’s global standing, President Donald Trump has ordered a mass withdrawal from international organizations, including the India-led International Solar Alliance (ISA). Meanwhile, neighbors Bangladesh have abruptly halted visa services for Indian citizens.
Here is a detailed roundup of the top global developments impacting India today.
1. US Exits International Solar Alliance (ISA)
In a move described as “America First on steroids,” President Trump has signed a memorandum ordering the immediate withdrawal of the United States from 66 international organizations.
- The Impact on India: The list includes the International Solar Alliance (ISA), a flagship initiative launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and France in 2015.
- Trump’s Reasoning: The White House stated these bodies are “redundant, globalist, and contrary to US financial interests.”
- Global Reaction: This creates a massive funding vacuum. Experts fear that China may step in to fill the leadership gap in these green energy bodies, undermining India’s diplomatic leverage in the Global South.
2. Bangladesh Suspends Visa Services for Indians
Diplomatic tensions between New Delhi and Dhaka have hit a new low.
- The News: The Bangladesh Deputy High Commission in Kolkata, along with missions in Mumbai and Chennai, has indefinitely suspended visa services for Indian nationals.
- Reason Cited: Bangladeshi authorities cited “administrative issues” and a lack of security for their staff amid ongoing protests in India against the persecution of minorities in Bangladesh.
- Impact: Thousands of Indians planning to travel for business or to visit relatives are now stranded in the application process. Dhaka is also reportedly seeking an exemption from US visa bonds, signaling a pivot away from India.
3. Venezuela Crisis: “US Will Run the Country”
The geopolitical shockwaves from the US military operation in Venezuela continue to spread.
- Trump’s Statement: After the capture of President Nicolás Maduro (who is now in a New York jail pleading not guilty to narco-terrorism), President Trump boldly declared that the US would “run Venezuela” until a transition is complete.
- Oil Politics: Trump explicitly mentioned that the US will have a “presence” regarding Venezuela’s oil reserves, confirming suspicions that energy control was a key motive behind the operation.
- Greenland Tension: Emboldened by this, the US administration has reportedly renewed pressure on Denmark to sell Greenland, leading to a diplomatic spat with Copenhagen.
4. Iran Protests & Internet Blackout
The Middle East remains on edge as massive anti-government protests have erupted across Iran.
- Situation: Demonstrators have set fire to government buildings in Tehran.
- Crackdown: The Iranian regime has imposed a near-total internet blackout to curb the unrest.
- US Warning: President Trump has warned Tehran that any crackdown will be met with “very hard” consequences, raising fears of another US military intervention.
5. NASA’s Emergency Crew Return
In a developing space story, NASA has announced the emergency return of the Crew-11 team from the International Space Station (ISS).
- Reason: An “unprecedented medical issue” affecting one of the four astronauts onboard.
- Status: The crew is expected to splash down earlier than scheduled. Details of the medical emergency remain classified to protect the astronaut’s privacy.
Why This Matters for India
Today’s developments paint a picture of a rapidly fragmenting world order.
- Trade: With the US exiting the ISA and threatening tariffs (covered earlier), India’s climate goals and export economy face headwinds.
- Neighborhood: The breakdown with Bangladesh complicates India’s “Neighborhood First” policy, potentially pushing Dhaka closer to China or Pakistan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Why did the US leave the International Solar Alliance?
President Trump labeled the organization as “redundant” and a financial burden on the US, consistent with his “America First” policy of reducing US involvement in global multilateral bodies.
Q2. Can Indians still travel to Bangladesh?
Currently, visa services are suspended at Bangladesh missions in India (Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai). Unless you already hold a valid visa, obtaining a new one is currently halted.
Q3. What is happening in Venezuela?
The US military recently captured President Nicolás Maduro. He is now in US custody facing drug trafficking charges, and the US has effectively taken control of the country’s transition, sparking global debate on sovereignty
Q4. Is the Internet working in Iran?
No, reports indicate a nationwide internet blackout imposed by the Iranian government to control spreading anti-regime protests.
Q5. What is the ISA?
The International Solar Alliance (ISA) is a coalition of 120+ solar-rich countries, launched by India and France to promote solar energy. The US was a member but has now exited.