News Update: August 30, 2025

WASHINGTON, Aug. 30 (Reuters) - A request by the Trump administration that Japan commit to purchasing additional U.S. rice has become a major sticking point in bilateral trade negotiations. According to Japan’s Nikkei newspaper, Tokyo “strongly objected” to the condition when it was raised during this week’s discussions in Washington. The dispute has paused finalization of a proposed $550 billion investment package backed by government loans and guarantees. Japanese officials insist a revised U.S. executive order eliminating overlapping tariffs on Japanese goods must precede any joint announcement. Opposition leader Yuichiro Tamaki warned that without a formal written accord, Japan cannot evaluate the deal’s full implications, particularly for its automotive sector workforce, and urged lawmakers to demand greater transparency from Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s government.

NEW YORK, Aug. 30 (The New York Times) - President Donald Trump’s phone call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 17 has emerged as a flashpoint in U.S.-India relations. Trump repeatedly touted having “resolved” the decades-long military tensions between India and Pakistan and urged Modi to support his campaign for a Nobel Peace Prize nomination. Modi, according to sources, rebuffed the suggestion, clarifying that recent de-escalation had been achieved through direct talks between the two South Asian nations. The exchange has contributed to a growing rift between the leaders just as critical trade negotiations loom. Experts warn that sustained tensions could push India closer to China and Russia economically and strategically.