EP-336 | Trump's Tariff, Russian Oil, Munir's Nuke Threat, Bangladesh & Nat'l Security| Pankaj Saran

EP-336 | Trump's Tariff, Russian Oil, Munir's Nuke Threat, Bangladesh & Nat'l Security| Pankaj Saran

Author: Asian News International (ANI) August 14, 2025 Duration: 1:31:42

Pankaj Saran is a well-known figure in Indian diplomacy, having served as Ambassador to Russia and Bangladesh, Deputy National Security Adviser, and in the PMO under Dr Manmohan Singh. He has also been posted at the Indian mission in Washington, D.C.


In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, he talks about Trump’s tariffs on India. He explains how India can protect its interests and sovereignty. He shares his views on the Russia–Ukraine war and the chances of a ceasefire. Ambassador speaks about attacks on Hindus and minorities in Bangladesh. He also talks about the future of democracy in Dhaka. Furthermore, He explains the role of the NSA and Deputy NSA in the matter of National Security.



Audio Timestamps:


00:00 – Introduction

00:46 – Trump–Putin Alaska Meet

07:19 – Why Russia–Ukraine Ceasefire Matters to Trump

09:02 – Future of Indo–US Friendship

11:27 – Why India Matters to Europe

13:12 – How India Should Deal with Trump

16:08 – India & America’s War Policy

21:02 – Why Target India Over Russian Oil?

26:49 – Munir’s Nuke Threat to India from the US

35:10 – US Growing Closer to Pakistan

42:13 – China’s Stance on Munir’s US Trips

46:08 – Russia–India Ties

50:36 – Where Does the Quad Stand?

57:11 – Hasina’s Exit & the Bangladesh Crisis

01:04:38 – Undoing Hasina’s Pakistan Policy

01:06:22 – Life as Ambassador vs Deputy NSA

01:07:57 – Diplomats in the US vs India

01:09:54 – Ajit Doval & Brijesh Mishra as NSAs

01:12:24 – Do NSAs Disagree with the PM?

01:14:07 – 26/11’s Impact on Manmohan Singh

01:18:12 – Why 26/11 Didn’t Change India’s Security Stance

01:23:13 – PM–NSA Chemistry and Its Impact


Conversations that shape our world often happen behind closed doors or in the quiet moments after the headlines fade. ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash pulls up a chair to those discussions, offering a direct line to the minds of influential figures. Hosted by veteran journalist Smita Prakash, this series moves beyond the soundbite, creating a space where politicians, athletes, artists, and thinkers can explore the nuances of the issues that define contemporary India and global affairs. The dialogue here is driven by curiosity and a commitment to depth, allowing guests to elaborate on their perspectives, their decisions, and the personal experiences that inform their public lives. You will hear candid reflections on current events, policy debates, and cultural shifts, all through the lens of those at the center of the story. Produced by Asian News International, the podcast leverages a legacy of journalistic access and integrity, ensuring every conversation is both insightful and substantive. It’s more than an interview; it’s an opportunity to understand the motivations and narratives driving today’s news. For anyone looking to move past the surface and engage with the substance of politics, society, and human endeavor, this podcast provides a consistently thoughtful and compelling listen.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash
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