Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump held a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France on Wednesday, marking an important engagement between the two leaders amid ongoing discussions on trade, security and strategic cooperation.

During interactions around the meeting, Trump praised Modi in unusually warm terms, describing the Indian Prime Minister as a “tough trader” and highlighting his negotiating abilities. He also referred to Modi as a “total killer” while complimenting his leadership style and effectiveness in dealing with complex issues.

The meeting was the first face-to-face interaction between the two leaders in several months and came at a time when New Delhi and Washington are working toward advancing a bilateral trade agreement. Officials from both sides have indicated that discussions on trade remain a priority, although a final deal is still under negotiation.

Focus on trade and strategic cooperation

Speaking after the meeting, Trump said he had a “very good” conversation with Modi and noted that the two countries were continuing efforts to reach trade agreements. He also described the Indian leader as a strong negotiator and expressed interest in visiting India in the future.

Trade issues have been a major area of discussion between India and the United States, with both sides seeking progress on market access, tariffs and broader economic cooperation.

Maritime security also discussed

The bilateral meeting took place against the backdrop of wider global security concerns. During G7 engagements, Modi raised issues related to maritime security and the safety of Indian seafarers, stressing the importance of secure shipping routes and uninterrupted global trade.

The leaders’ talks were closely watched as India and the United States continue to deepen cooperation across trade, defence and strategic affairs.

Delhi experienced a significant break from the intense summer heat after rainfall and cloudy skies pushed temperatures down, making it the coolest day of June so far.

The change in weather brought much-needed relief to residents who had been dealing with high temperatures and humid conditions over the past several weeks. Rainfall was reported in several parts of the national capital and adjoining NCR regions, leading to a noticeable drop in daytime temperatures. Similar weather conditions have recently helped keep temperatures below normal across the city.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the combination of rain-bearing systems and cloud cover contributed to the cooler conditions. The weather department has indicated that pleasant weather is likely to continue, with chances of additional rainfall and thunderstorms over the next few days.

The rainfall not only lowered temperatures but also improved outdoor conditions after a prolonged spell of heat. Earlier this month, Delhi had experienced episodes of extreme weather, including heatwave conditions and dust storms, making the recent spell of rain a welcome change for residents.

IMD’s latest forecast suggests that while temperatures may gradually rise later in the week, intermittent rain and thunderstorms could continue to provide temporary relief from the summer heat.

Weather officials have advised people to stay updated on local forecasts as changing weather conditions could bring brief spells of rain, gusty winds and thunderstorms across Delhi-NCR.

Fresh political uncertainty has gripped the Shiv Sena (UBT) after several of its Lok Sabha MPs reportedly became unreachable, prompting senior leaders to make personal efforts to contact them amid growing speculation of a possible rebellion within the party.

Party chief Uddhav Thackeray and other senior leaders are understood to be reaching out to MPs as concerns grow over potential defections. The developments come ahead of a parliamentary committee meeting in Delhi, where several MPs from the Uddhav Thackeray camp are expected to gather.

Reports suggest that some MPs from the Shiv Sena (UBT) faction could hold discussions in the national capital alongside leaders from the rival Shiv Sena led by Eknath Shinde. Sources have indicated that a group of MPs may explore forming a separate faction in Parliament before potentially aligning with the Shinde-led camp, although no official announcement has been made.

Names being discussed in political circles include MPs such as Sanjay Dina Patil, Sanjay Deshmukh, Nagesh Patil Ashtikar, Omraje Nimbalkar, Bhausaheb Wakchaure and Sanjay Jadhav. However, at least one MP, Sanjay Dina Patil, has publicly rejected reports linking him to any rebel group.

Meanwhile, senior Uddhav camp leaders including Arvind Sawant and Anil Desai are expected to remain actively engaged in efforts to maintain party unity. Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut has also been in Delhi amid the unfolding developments.

The latest episode has revived memories of previous political upheavals in Maharashtra and intensified speculation over whether the Shiv Sena (UBT) could face another significant organisational challenge in the coming days. As meetings continue in Delhi, political observers will be closely watching for any formal announcements from either camp.