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In a startling development, Ukraine has detained an Indian national, Sahil Majothi, who is accused of fighting for Russian forces. This marks the first known instance of an Indian being captured in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Sahil, a 22-year-old from Gujarat, initially traveled to Russia in January 2024 to pursue a degree in computer engineering. However, his journey took a tragic turn when he was allegedly framed in a drug case in April 2024, leading to his arrest and subsequent detention for six months. Facing a seven-year prison sentence, Sahil reportedly joined the Russian army to avoid incarceration, as revealed in a video released by Ukraine’s 63rd Mechanized Brigade. In the video, Sahil claims he was given the choice between military service or jail time, with promises of payment that never materialized. After undergoing 15 days of training in September 2024, he was deployed to the battlefield a year later. Sahil alleges that he deserted Russian forces following an altercation with his commander and sought help from Ukrainian troops. The Indian government has acknowledged the case and is investigating, though no formal communication has been received from Ukraine. Sahil’s mother, Hasina Majothi, has appealed for his safe return, stating that her son was coerced into joining the military. This incident highlights broader concerns over the recruitment of Indian nationals into the Russian army, with reports indicating that over 150 Indians have enlisted, some on student or visitor visas. The Indian government has repeatedly warned its citizens against participating in the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing the grave risks involved.

The autumn hiking season in the Himalayas, once characterized by clear skies and breathtaking views of snow-draped peaks, is now increasingly marred by extreme weather events. Meteorologists report that the monsoon season, traditionally ending by mid-September, now extends into October, bringing with it dangerous conditions. Last weekend, a sudden blizzard stranded hundreds of tourists near the eastern face of Mount Everest at an altitude of over 4,900 meters. Despite a well-coordinated rescue effort that saved nearly 600 trekkers, one person succumbed to hypothermia and altitude sickness. Similar incidents occurred on the Nepal side, where a South Korean mountaineer died on Mera Peak. Communication lines were severely disrupted by torrential rains and heavy snowfall, delaying the dissemination of information. Landslides and flash floods in Nepal have claimed around 60 lives in the past week. Riten Jangbu Sherpa, a mountain guide, noted that such extreme weather is highly unusual for October, a month typically known for clear skies. Archana Shrestha, deputy director general at Nepal’s department of hydrology and meteorology, highlighted that the past decade has seen monsoons lasting until the second week of October, a significant shift from historical patterns. The interaction between the monsoon and westerly disturbances, which bring cold air from the Mediterranean, is exacerbating these conditions. Scientists warn that this trend is likely to continue, making flexible scheduling and experienced leadership crucial for safe Himalayan expeditions.

Authorities in Oman have issued a stern warning to residents as the nation braces for severe weather conditions expected to bring heavy rainfall and potential flash floods. The Meteorological Department of Oman has forecasted intense convective rain across several northern governorates, including Al Batinah North and South, Al Dhahirah, Al Dakhiliyah, and Al Buraimi, from 2 PM to 10 PM on Saturday, October 11, 2025. Rainfall is predicted to range between 20–60 mm, with the possibility of thunderstorms and strong winds reaching speeds of 15–35 knots (28–64 km/h).

The advisory, disseminated by Oman Police, urges residents to exercise extreme caution. Key recommendations include avoiding the crossing of wadi streams, maintaining safe driving distances, reducing vehicle speed, and using windshield wipers for clear visibility. The Civil Aviation Authority has also emphasized the importance of staying away from low-lying areas and valleys to mitigate the risk of flash floods.

In addition to the northern regions, light to moderate rain of 5–10 mm is expected in some coastal areas of Muscat, accompanied by active winds that may reduce horizontal visibility. The weather system is also anticipated to impact the northern parts of Al Sharqiyah North and South, as well as Al Wusta governorates, particularly around the Wilayat of Masirah, with rainfall amounts between 10–30 mm.

Residents are advised to stay updated on weather developments and adhere to safety guidelines to ensure their well-being during this period of adverse weather conditions.