Letters to The Editor — January 8, 2026

Private diplomacy

It is perplexing that the sensitive issue of fixing high-profile dialogues and discussions with the Trump administration has been entrusted to unconnected firms especially when the Indian government has a range of diplomatic channels at its disposal (Front page, “Indian Embassy hired Trump aide’s firm for talks on trade, bilateral ties during Operation Sindoor”, January 7). How can unrelated entities be given the role of arranging for key discussions between two governments? Will this not amount to a transgression of established diplomatic norms and mandatory procedures governing such sensitive issues?

V. Johan Dhanakumar,

Chennai

Trump’s obtuse moves

It is as clear as daylight that the U.S. President, Donald Trump, is defying all norms to slake his thirst by doing obtuse things to achieve his aims and objectives. His moves against Venezuela are nothing but a clear violation of international law (Editorial and Editorial page, January 7). They also prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that the American President has cast his eyes on the abundant crude oil in Venezuela. But what is eating President Trump?

Mani Nataraajan,

Chennai

The happenings in Venezuela expose the disturbing reality of today’s global order. Even if such action violates international law and the UN Charter, strangely enough, U.S. courts may still assume jurisdiction under American domestic law, which permits judges to try an accused irrespective of how they were brought before the court. This peculiarity of U.S. law, when combined with overwhelming military power, effectively sidelines international norms. The inability of the UN, the ICJ and the wider international community to respond meaningfully underscores their growing irrelevance in restraining unilateral actions by powerful states. If global governance is to retain credibility, this episode should prompt reflection on strengthening multilateral institutions.

Dr. Thomas George,

Pala, Kerala