The US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a> visited wounded soldiers in the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center recently for the first time since he took control of the White House.

Biden, a frequent visitor of the medical facility, met with soldiers who were on active duty and also the retired service members who are receiving treatment at the facility.

Calling them as 'real heroes', he said, "These kids are amazing, and thank God there’s not as many people to visit."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-first-lady-to-help-reunite-migrant-kids-with-parents-360280" hreflang="en">US first lady to help reunite migrant kids with parents</a>

The Walter Reed National Military Medical Center holds a special place for Biden since his son, Beau, died in the hospital.

Biden's son, Beau Biden, died in the same hospital in 2015 of brain cancer.&nbsp;He served as a major in the Delaware Army National Guard and was admitted to Water Reed hospital for his treatment.

Joe and his wife have since then been thankful to the hospital and its staff for taking care of his son "in his final days with great grace and dignity."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-ghani-urges-biden-to-up-pressure-on-taliban-360183" hreflang="en">Afghanistan's Ghani urges Biden to up pressure on Taliban</a>

The Bidens used to frequently visit the hospital even before 2015 when Joe Biden was serving as the Vice President of the US in the Obama administration. The couple used to also visit the hospital on Christmas Day to spread cheer for the soldiers of the country.

This was Biden's one of the first outdoor visits to an establishment since he took an oath to serve the country on Januayr 20, after winning the recently-concluded US election against twice-impeached President Donald Trump.

Other than this, Biden has only twice stepped out in the pubic day — the first being a visit to the Lincoln Memorial as a celebration on the Inauguration Day evening and the second was a visit to the church last Sunday.

The US President Joe Biden visited wounded soldiers in the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center recently for the first time since he took control of the White House.

The US President Joe Biden visited wounded soldiers in the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center recently for the first time since he took control of the White House. Biden, a frequent visitor of the medical facility, met with soldiers who were on active duty and also the retired service members who are receiving treatment at the facility. Calling them as 'real heroes', he said, "These kids are amazing, and thank God there’s not as many people to visit." Also read| US first lady to help reunite migrant kids with parents The Walter Reed National Military Medical Center holds a special place for Biden since his son, Beau, died in the hospital. Biden's son, Beau Biden, died in the same hospital in 2015 of brain cancer. He served as a major in the Delaware Army National Guard and was admitted to Water Reed hospital for his treatment. Joe and his wife have since then been thankful to the hospital and its staff for taking care of his son "in his final days with great grace and dignity." Also read| Afghanistan's Ghani urges Biden to up pressure on Taliban The Bidens used to frequently visit the hospital even before 2015 when Joe Biden was serving as the Vice President of the US in the Obama administration. The couple used to also visit the hospital on Christmas Day to spread cheer for the soldiers of the country. This was Biden's one of the first outdoor visits to an establishment since he took an oath to serve the country on Januayr 20, after winning the recently-concluded US election against twice-impeached President Donald Trump. Other than this, Biden has only twice stepped out in the pubic day — the first being a visit to the Lincoln Memorial as a celebration on the Inauguration Day evening and the second was a visit to the church last Sunday.

Joe Biden visits Walter Reed hospital to meet wounded US soldiers

US President Joe Biden has scrapped an on US funding for abortion counselling provided by international organisations. Abortion has been legal in the United States since a landmark 1973 Supreme Court decision, and Biden has consistently supported that ruling, which guarantees a woman's "right to choose."

Joe Biden reverses Trump abortion access restrictions

President Joe Biden signed executive orders on Tuesday (January 26) to scale back the U.S. government's use of private prisons and bolster anti-discrimination enforcement in the housing market as well as actions to curb bias across all U.S. government agencies.

Biden tries to make good on pledge to heal America's racial divide

Russia's lower house of Parliament today approved the extension of the New <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-proposes-to-renew-new-start-nuclear-treaty-between-us-and-russia-358434">START</a> nuclear arms control treaty with the United States after the Kremlin said both countries had reached a deal to extend the pact which was signed in 2010.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-biden-holds-first-call-with-russian-counterpart-putin-359665/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

All 399 lawmakers voted for the extension with no absentations. The country's upper house is due to vote on the extension later today. After the legislation is approved by both Houses it will be signed by President Putin.

The treaty which expires next week on February 5 sets the limits to the number of nuclear warheads, missiles and bombers that the US and Russia can possess.&nbsp;

The bill to extend the pact was ratified after President Putin had a phone call with new US President Joe Biden on Tuesday. "They discussed both countries’ willingness to extend New START for five years, agreeing to have their teams work urgently to complete the extension by Feb. 5," the White House had said.

"They also agreed to explore strategic stability discussions on a range of arms control and emerging security issues," the White House added.

The New START caps the number of nuclear warheads between Moscow and Washington to 1,550.&nbsp;The Russian President hailed the move saying the "extension of New START is step in the right direction".

The US had signed the pact&nbsp;during Obama's presidency. However, tensions continue between the two countries as the White House said: "President Biden made clear that the United States will act firmly in defense of its national interests in response to actions by Russia that harm us or our allies.

Biden raised other matter of concern with the Russian president including the Alexei Navalny poisoning row and the cyber attack by alleged Russian hackers who targeted US tech company SolarWinds Corp recently.

Russia's lower house of Parliament today approved the extension of the New START nuclear arms control treaty with the United States after the Kremlin said both countries had reached a deal to extend the pact which was signed in 2010.

Russia's lower house of Parliament today approved the extension of the New START nuclear arms control treaty with the United States after the Kremlin said both countries had reached a deal to extend the pact which was signed in 2010. Watch: All 399 lawmakers voted for the extension with no absentations. The country's upper house is due to vote on the extension later today. After the legislation is approved by both Houses it will be signed by President Putin. The treaty which expires next week on February 5 sets the limits to the number of nuclear warheads, missiles and bombers that the US and Russia can possess. The bill to extend the pact was ratified after President Putin had a phone call with new US President Joe Biden on Tuesday. "They discussed both countries’ willingness to extend New START for five years, agreeing to have their teams work urgently to complete the extension by Feb. 5," the White House had said. "They also agreed to explore strategic stability discussions on a range of arms control and emerging security issues," the White House added. The New START caps the number of nuclear warheads between Moscow and Washington to 1,550. The Russian President hailed the move saying the "extension of New START is step in the right direction". The US had signed the pact during Obama's presidency. However, tensions continue between the two countries as the White House said: "President Biden made clear that the United States will act firmly in defense of its national interests in response to actions by Russia that harm us or our allies. Biden raised other matter of concern with the Russian president including the Alexei Navalny poisoning row and the cyber attack by alleged Russian hackers who targeted US tech company SolarWinds Corp recently.

After Biden-Putin phone call, Russia's lower house of Parliament approves New START nuclear control treaty

President Joe Biden signed executive orders Tuesday to end Justice Department contracts with private prisons and increase the government’s enforcement of a law meant to combat discrimination in the housing market, part of the new administration’s continued focus on racial equity.

Biden also signed orders that make it the federal government’s policy to “condemn and denounce” discrimination against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, who have faced harassment since the coronavirus pandemic spread from China to the United States, and to strengthen relationships between the government and Native American tribes.

The moves are incremental pieces of Biden’s broader push for racial equity — an initiative that is expected to be a centerpiece of his administration and that follow an executive order last week directing federal agencies to review policies to root out systemic racism. The government effort is led by Susan Rice, who runs the Domestic Policy Council.

“I’m not promising we can end it tomorrow, but I promise you, we’re going to continue to make progress to eliminate systemic racism,” Biden said before signing the orders. He added that “every branch of the White House and the federal government is going to be part of that effort.”

The orders are an escalating repudiation of President Donald Trump’s policies and attitudes toward race relations. In separate executive orders last week, Biden overturned a Trump administration ban on diversity training in federal agencies and disbanded a Trump-created historical commission that issued a report aiming to put a more positive spin on the nation’s founders, who were slaveholders.

In a conference call with reporters, a senior White House official described the Trump administration’s “heinous” Muslim ban and said certain minority groups were treated with a “profound level of disrespect from political leaders and the White House.”

During a news conference Tuesday, Jen Psaki, White House press secretary, blamed the Trump administration for exacerbating racial inequities when it came to health. “The actions taken by the prior administration, for all intents and purposes to destroy the Affordable Care Act, didn’t help any Americans and certainly didn’t help communities of color,” she said.

At the same briefing, Rice made it clear that the administration was taking a new direction by highlighting those disparities instead of ignoring them — and that appointing a woman of color to oversee the initiative was part of that approach.

“Americans of color are being infected by and dying from COVID at higher rates,” she said, noting that “40% of Black-owned businesses have been forced too close for good during the COVID crisis.”

A descendant of immigrants from Jamaica, Rice called herself the living embodiment of the American dream and noted that “investing in equity is good for economic growth” and “creates jobs for all Americans.”

One of the orders signed Tuesday calls on the Justice Department not to renew contracts with private prisons, reverting to a policy first adopted in the Obama administration, when Biden was vice president, and which Trump reversed.

The order does not end all government contracts with private prisons — administration officials confirmed it would not apply to other agencies, like Immigration and Customs Enforcement, which contracts with private companies to detain thousands of undocumented immigrants.

“There is broad consensus that our current system of mass incarceration imposes significant costs and hardships on our society and communities and does not make us safer,” the order reads. “To decrease incarceration levels, we must reduce profit-based incentives to incarcerate by phasing out the federal government’s reliance on privately operated criminal detention facilities.”

The housing order directs the Department of Housing and Urban Development to more strenuously enforce the Fair Housing Act of 1968, which targets discrimination in home buying. That includes asking the department to review actions under Trump that sought to weaken some of that enforcement. Last year, as part of Trump’s attempted appeals to white suburban voters, the department rolled back an Obama-era program meant to fight racial segregation in housing, known as Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing.

“This represents a clear change of direction that gets us back on track to fulfill the Fair Housing Act,” said Julián Castro, who served as secretary of housing and urban development under President Barack Obama. “It’s sending a very strong signal that it’s a new day when it comes to fair housing and that HUD is going to be aggressive again. In some ways this is the easy part, but it’s a strong first step.”

Castro said that the housing department was still far behind in terms of the number of personnel it needed to enforce the Fair Housing Act and that nonprofit groups across the country working on fair housing issues should receive federal funding and other resources. But given that the action came on Day 6 of the new administration, he said, it served as a “clear repudiation of Trump’s fearmongering” about low-income housing invading white suburbs.

Biden’s prisons order won praise from the American Federation of Government Employees Council of Prison Locals, which represents 30,000 federal prison workers across the country, and from groups working to reduce mass incarceration of Black and other Americans.

“Eliminating the use of for-profit prisons is but a first step,” said Holly Harris, executive director of Justice Action Network, a bipartisan organization working on criminal justice — but a step with implications beyond the small percentage of federal prisoners who are held in private prisons. “Everyone is missing that they’re a big obstacle to reform because they give millions to elected officials who write our criminal law.”

Harris, who said she was a Republican, added that she was “extending a little grace to the Democratic administration and applauding this first step.”

President Joe Biden signed executive orders Tuesday to end Justice Department contracts with private prisons and increase the government’s enforcement of a law meant to combat discrimination in the housing market, part of the new administration’s continued focus on racial equity.

President Joe Biden signed executive orders Tuesday to end Justice Department contracts with private prisons and increase the government’s enforcement of a law meant to combat discrimination in the housing market, part of the new administration’s continued focus on racial equity. Biden also signed orders that make it the federal government’s policy to “condemn and denounce” discrimination against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, who have faced harassment since the coronavirus pandemic spread from China to the United States, and to strengthen relationships between the government and Native American tribes. The moves are incremental pieces of Biden’s broader push for racial equity — an initiative that is expected to be a centerpiece of his administration and that follow an executive order last week directing federal agencies to review policies to root out systemic racism. The government effort is led by Susan Rice, who runs the Domestic Policy Council. “I’m not promising we can end it tomorrow, but I promise you, we’re going to continue to make progress to eliminate systemic racism,” Biden said before signing the orders. He added that “every branch of the White House and the federal government is going to be part of that effort.” The orders are an escalating repudiation of President Donald Trump’s policies and attitudes toward race relations. In separate executive orders last week, Biden overturned a Trump administration ban on diversity training in federal agencies and disbanded a Trump-created historical commission that issued a report aiming to put a more positive spin on the nation’s founders, who were slaveholders. In a conference call with reporters, a senior White House official described the Trump administration’s “heinous” Muslim ban and said certain minority groups were treated with a “profound level of disrespect from political leaders and the White House.” During a news conference Tuesday, Jen Psaki, White House press secretary, blamed the Trump administration for exacerbating racial inequities when it came to health. “The actions taken by the prior administration, for all intents and purposes to destroy the Affordable Care Act, didn’t help any Americans and certainly didn’t help communities of color,” she said. At the same briefing, Rice made it clear that the administration was taking a new direction by highlighting those disparities instead of ignoring them — and that appointing a woman of color to oversee the initiative was part of that approach. “Americans of color are being infected by and dying from COVID at higher rates,” she said, noting that “40% of Black-owned businesses have been forced too close for good during the COVID crisis.” A descendant of immigrants from Jamaica, Rice called herself the living embodiment of the American dream and noted that “investing in equity is good for economic growth” and “creates jobs for all Americans.” One of the orders signed Tuesday calls on the Justice Department not to renew contracts with private prisons, reverting to a policy first adopted in the Obama administration, when Biden was vice president, and which Trump reversed. The order does not end all government contracts with private prisons — administration officials confirmed it would not apply to other agencies, like Immigration and Customs Enforcement, which contracts with private companies to detain thousands of undocumented immigrants. “There is broad consensus that our current system of mass incarceration imposes significant costs and hardships on our society and communities and does not make us safer,” the order reads. “To decrease incarceration levels, we must reduce profit-based incentives to incarcerate by phasing out the federal government’s reliance on privately operated criminal detention facilities.” The housing order directs the Department of Housing and Urban Development to more strenuously enforce the Fair Housing Act of 1968, which targets discrimination in home buying. That includes asking the department to review actions under Trump that sought to weaken some of that enforcement. Last year, as part of Trump’s attempted appeals to white suburban voters, the department rolled back an Obama-era program meant to fight racial segregation in housing, known as Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing. “This represents a clear change of direction that gets us back on track to fulfill the Fair Housing Act,” said Julián Castro, who served as secretary of housing and urban development under President Barack Obama. “It’s sending a very strong signal that it’s a new day when it comes to fair housing and that HUD is going to be aggressive again. In some ways this is the easy part, but it’s a strong first step.” Castro said that the housing department was still far behind in terms of the number of personnel it needed to enforce the Fair Housing Act and that nonprofit groups across the country working on fair housing issues should receive federal funding and other resources. But given that the action came on Day 6 of the new administration, he said, it served as a “clear repudiation of Trump’s fearmongering” about low-income housing invading white suburbs. Biden’s prisons order won praise from the American Federation of Government Employees Council of Prison Locals, which represents 30,000 federal prison workers across the country, and from groups working to reduce mass incarceration of Black and other Americans. “Eliminating the use of for-profit prisons is but a first step,” said Holly Harris, executive director of Justice Action Network, a bipartisan organization working on criminal justice — but a step with implications beyond the small percentage of federal prisoners who are held in private prisons. “Everyone is missing that they’re a big obstacle to reform because they give millions to elected officials who write our criminal law.” Harris, who said she was a Republican, added that she was “extending a little grace to the Democratic administration and applauding this first step.”

Biden moves to end justice contracts with private prisons

Russia and the United States reportedly struck a deal to extend their New START nuclear arms control treaty on Moscow's terms, Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said on Wednesday, as claimed by RIA news.

On Tuesday, Russia claimed that the pact would be preserved in the aftermath of talks between US President Joe Biden and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. The world’s two biggest nuclear powers will now extend their treaty.

Kremlin’s announcement was not confirmed by the White House, but Joe Biden and Vladimir Putin had spoken about the issue on telephone, and had agreed to complete the extension by February 5, for the treaty expires then.

The New START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty) was signed in 2010 to limit the number of nuclear warheads deployed by the US and Russia to 1,550 each.&nbsp;

This also includes limiting the number of land and submarine based missiles and bombers that deliver these warheads.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/how-navalny-built-an-opposition-in-russia-despite-putins-tight-grip-on-power-359519" hreflang="en">How Navalny built an opposition in Russia despite Putin's tight grip on power</a>

Under former US President Donald Trump, the countries had failed to reach an extension. Trump had reportedly attached conditions which were rejected by Russia.

According to the Kremlin, Putin and Biden “expressed satisfaction” after speaking to each other, further confirming the extension of the pact, and that it would be renewed in the next few days.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/putins-popularity-slips-as-alexei-navalnys-political-equity-rises-359520" hreflang="en">Putin's popularity slips as Alexei Navalny's political equity rises</a>

"They discussed both countries’ willingness to extend New START for five years, agreeing to have their teams work urgently to complete the extension by Feb. 5," the White House said.&nbsp;

"They also agreed to explore strategic stability discussions on a range of arms control and emerging security issues”, it added.

Russia and the United States reportedly struck a deal to extend their New START nuclear arms control treaty on Moscow's terms, Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said on Wednesday, as claimed by RIA news.

Russia and the United States reportedly struck a deal to extend their New START nuclear arms control treaty on Moscow's terms, Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said on Wednesday, as claimed by RIA news. On Tuesday, Russia claimed that the pact would be preserved in the aftermath of talks between US President Joe Biden and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. The world’s two biggest nuclear powers will now extend their treaty. Kremlin’s announcement was not confirmed by the White House, but Joe Biden and Vladimir Putin had spoken about the issue on telephone, and had agreed to complete the extension by February 5, for the treaty expires then. The New START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty) was signed in 2010 to limit the number of nuclear warheads deployed by the US and Russia to 1,550 each. This also includes limiting the number of land and submarine based missiles and bombers that deliver these warheads. Also read: How Navalny built an opposition in Russia despite Putin's tight grip on power Under former US President Donald Trump, the countries had failed to reach an extension. Trump had reportedly attached conditions which were rejected by Russia. According to the Kremlin, Putin and Biden “expressed satisfaction” after speaking to each other, further confirming the extension of the pact, and that it would be renewed in the next few days. Also read: Putin's popularity slips as Alexei Navalny's political equity rises "They discussed both countries’ willingness to extend New START for five years, agreeing to have their teams work urgently to complete the extension by Feb. 5," the White House said. "They also agreed to explore strategic stability discussions on a range of arms control and emerging security issues”, it added.

Nuclear arms control treaty with United States agreed on our terms: Russia

United States President Joe Biden on Monday vowed to capitalise on the country's purchasing power in a bid to improve domestic manufacturing and to create new markets for technologies.

The US is the world's biggest buyer of goods and services. On Monday, Biden signed an executive order to strengthen provisions for "Buy American", which will be applicable on a third of the service bought by the federal government every year.

Now, waivers will be more transparent, and a senior White House official will overlook the process.

"I don't buy for one second that the vitality of American manufacturing is a thing of the past," Biden told reporters.

&nbsp;"American manufacturing was the arsenal of democracy in World War Two and it must be part of the engine of American prosperity now", he said.&nbsp;

In addition, Biden again reiterated plans to replace the fleet of federal cars with electric vehicles made in the US.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/joe-biden-reverses-donald-trumps-ban-on-transgender-people-in-military-359317" hreflang="en">Joe Biden reverses Donald Trump's ban on transgender people in military</a> 
 
Biden's plans to increase wages and to create more jobs requires the revitalisation of the manufacturing sector, which is responsible for 12 per cent of the country's economy. 
 
"America can't sit on the sidelines in the race to the future. Our competitors aren't waiting... To ensure the future is made in America, we need to win not just the jobs of today, but the jobs and industries of tomorrow", Biden said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/biden-to-reinstate-coronavirus-travel-ban-for-most-non-us-citizens-report-359098" hreflang="en">Biden to reinstate coronavirus travel ban for most non-US citizens: Report</a>

In 2010, China overtook the United States to become the world's largest manufacturer. In 2018, the country accounted for 28 per cent of the global output, as stated by United Nations data.

Manufactures have flocked to China owing to&nbsp;lower wages and weaker environmental provisions in the country.

United States President Joe Biden on Monday vowed to capitalise on the country's purchasing power in a bid to improve domestic manufacturing and to create new markets for technologies.

United States President Joe Biden on Monday vowed to capitalise on the country's purchasing power in a bid to improve domestic manufacturing and to create new markets for technologies. The US is the world's biggest buyer of goods and services. On Monday, Biden signed an executive order to strengthen provisions for "Buy American", which will be applicable on a third of the service bought by the federal government every year. Now, waivers will be more transparent, and a senior White House official will overlook the process. "I don't buy for one second that the vitality of American manufacturing is a thing of the past," Biden told reporters. "American manufacturing was the arsenal of democracy in World War Two and it must be part of the engine of American prosperity now", he said. In addition, Biden again reiterated plans to replace the fleet of federal cars with electric vehicles made in the US. Also read: Joe Biden reverses Donald Trump's ban on transgender people in military Biden's plans to increase wages and to create more jobs requires the revitalisation of the manufacturing sector, which is responsible for 12 per cent of the country's economy. "America can't sit on the sidelines in the race to the future. Our competitors aren't waiting... To ensure the future is made in America, we need to win not just the jobs of today, but the jobs and industries of tomorrow", Biden said. Also read: Biden to reinstate coronavirus travel ban for most non-US citizens: Report In 2010, China overtook the United States to become the world's largest manufacturer. In 2018, the country accounted for 28 per cent of the global output, as stated by United Nations data. Manufactures have flocked to China owing to lower wages and weaker environmental provisions in the country.

In a bid to revive US manufacturing, President Biden signs 'Buy American' order

The Russian government said today that the United States should return to "full compliance" of the 2015 nuclear deal for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-zarif-open-to-oil-gulf-security-contacts-with-us-not-on-israel-358827">Iran </a>to meet its obligations under the pact.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-asia-post-iran-steps-up-its-nuclear-program-356458/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Russian foreign miniser Sergei Lavrov said: "The United States returns to full compliance with the corresponding Security Council resolution, creating conditions for Iran to meet its obligations under the nuclear deal."

The deal also known as Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), was signed in 2015 between Iran, the United States, China, Russia, Britain, France and Germany fell apart after former US president Donald Trump pulled the US out of the deal in 2018 as part of his administration's "maximum pressure" policy on Iran.

Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif&nbsp;had said earlier that his country "will return to the full implementation of our obligations" if the US government lifts sanctions.

Meanwhile, France said the Iranian government must comply with the accord limiting nuclear programme in order to have the United States return to the deal.

The Iran government had urged the US government to "unconditionally" lift sanctions. The Donald Trump administration had imposed harsh sanctions on Iran targeting its oil and banking sector after pulling out of the deal..

Iran now insists the Joe <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cautious-welcome-for-biden-in-gulf-amid-yet-uncertain-iran-policy-358313">Biden</a> administration should first lift all sanctions and return to its own JCPOA obligations.

Biden had earlier expressed desire to negotiate more broadly with Iran.

The Russian government said today that the United States should return to "full compliance" of the 2015 nuclear deal for Iran to meet its obligations under the pact.

The Russian government said today that the United States should return to "full compliance" of the 2015 nuclear deal for Iran to meet its obligations under the pact. Watch: Russian foreign miniser Sergei Lavrov said: "The United States returns to full compliance with the corresponding Security Council resolution, creating conditions for Iran to meet its obligations under the nuclear deal." The deal also known as Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), was signed in 2015 between Iran, the United States, China, Russia, Britain, France and Germany fell apart after former US president Donald Trump pulled the US out of the deal in 2018 as part of his administration's "maximum pressure" policy on Iran. Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif had said earlier that his country "will return to the full implementation of our obligations" if the US government lifts sanctions. Meanwhile, France said the Iranian government must comply with the accord limiting nuclear programme in order to have the United States return to the deal. The Iran government had urged the US government to "unconditionally" lift sanctions. The Donald Trump administration had imposed harsh sanctions on Iran targeting its oil and banking sector after pulling out of the deal.. Iran now insists the Joe Biden administration should first lift all sanctions and return to its own JCPOA obligations. Biden had earlier expressed desire to negotiate more broadly with Iran.

Nuclear deal row: US should return to full compliance for Iran to meet obligations, says Russia

US President Joe Biden's administration is reportedly set to review the US deal with the Taliban. As part of this evaluation, the administration will focus on whether the Taliban has reduced attacks in Afghanistan.

Last year, the US struck a deal with the Taliban in Qatar. As part of this, it promised withdrawal of its troops from the country. This kicked off peace talks between the Taliban and the Afghanistan government.&nbsp;

Even then, violence across the country has increased as both sides continue to hold talks.

Biden's freshly appointed national security advisor - Jake Sullivan spoke with his counterpart from Afghanistan - Hamdullah Mohib, and relayed to them that they plan to review the deal.

National Security Council spokeswoman Emily Horne said that he "made clear the US' intention to review".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/with-2500-each-us-says-lowest-troops-deployed-in-iraq-afghanistan-in-about-two-decades-356978" hreflang="en">With 2,500 each, US says lowest troops deployed in Iraq, Afghanistan in about two decades</a>

The US is attempting to understand whether the Taliban is "living up to its commitments to cut ties with terrorist groups, to reduce violence in Afghanistan, and to engage in meaningful negotiations with the Afghan government and other stakeholders", Horne's statement said.

The statement added how Sullivan "underscored that the US will support the peace process with a robust and regional diplomatic effort, which will aim to help the two sides achieve a durable and just political settlement and permanent ceasefire."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/china-offered-bounties-to-non-state-actors-in-afghanistan-to-attack-american-soldiers-report-says-353536" hreflang="en">China offered bounties to non-state actors in Afghanistan to attack American soldiers, report says</a>

As part of the peace process, Sullivan said that the US is also extending support to the progress the country recently made in terms of women and minority rights groups.

Afghanistan's national security advisor - Mohib, tweeted that during the call both sides "agreed to work toward a permanent ceasefire and a just and durable peace".

US President Joe Biden's administration is reportedly set to review the US deal with the Taliban. As part of this evaluation, the administration will focus on whether the Taliban has reduced attacks in Afghanistan.

US President Joe Biden's administration is reportedly set to review the US deal with the Taliban. As part of this evaluation, the administration will focus on whether the Taliban has reduced attacks in Afghanistan. Last year, the US struck a deal with the Taliban in Qatar. As part of this, it promised withdrawal of its troops from the country. This kicked off peace talks between the Taliban and the Afghanistan government. Even then, violence across the country has increased as both sides continue to hold talks. Biden's freshly appointed national security advisor - Jake Sullivan spoke with his counterpart from Afghanistan - Hamdullah Mohib, and relayed to them that they plan to review the deal. National Security Council spokeswoman Emily Horne said that he "made clear the US' intention to review". Also read: With 2,500 each, US says lowest troops deployed in Iraq, Afghanistan in about two decades The US is attempting to understand whether the Taliban is "living up to its commitments to cut ties with terrorist groups, to reduce violence in Afghanistan, and to engage in meaningful negotiations with the Afghan government and other stakeholders", Horne's statement said. The statement added how Sullivan "underscored that the US will support the peace process with a robust and regional diplomatic effort, which will aim to help the two sides achieve a durable and just political settlement and permanent ceasefire." Also read: China offered bounties to non-state actors in Afghanistan to attack American soldiers, report says As part of the peace process, Sullivan said that the US is also extending support to the progress the country recently made in terms of women and minority rights groups. Afghanistan's national security advisor - Mohib, tweeted that during the call both sides "agreed to work toward a permanent ceasefire and a just and durable peace".

Under Biden, US set to review deal with Taliban

The European Union hailed Joe Biden's inauguration later on Wednesday as U.S. president as a "new dawn" for Europe and the United States, while insisting U.S. technology companies should be regulated to stop the "dark forces" of hate speech online.

US and EU to collaborate on COVID-19 pandemic, climate change

Forget red and blue (states). The theme of the Biden inauguration was “America United,” and the colour of the day seemed to be purple — the shade that bridges the divide by bringing both colours together (not to mention one of the original signature colours of the suffragists, whose dreams are now being realized with the first female vice president).

“Purple is the colour of loyalty, constancy to purpose, unswerving steadfastness to a cause,” the National Woman’s Party wrote in a newsletter in 1913.

Though Jill Biden coordinated her blue Markarian coat with her husband’s blue Ralph Lauren tie, Vice President Kamala Harris served up a bipartisan message in a bright single-breasted coat and dress from Christopher John Rodgers, as did former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in a grape Ralph Lauren pantsuit. And Michelle Obama, the former first lady, wore wine trousers with a coordinated turtleneck and long coat from Sergio Hudson, a young Black designer.

Masks were also part of the material culture of this inauguration. Jill Biden wore a sky blue mask that appeared custom-made to match her coat, and other members of her family chose a similar monochromatic theme. Harris opted for a shiny black number that complimented her purple outfit, one of her signature mask looks.

Many men opted for paper medical masks, but a few went for solid shades or face coverings that featured insignia. Former President George W. Bush sported a mask made by Rhoback, a company that was started by former Capitol Hill staffers.

Despite the very high fashion content of President Joe Biden’s swearing-in, which included Lady Gaga in a veritable ballgown from Schiaparelli, Ella Emhoff in a crystal-dusted tweed Miu Miu coat with a big white collar; and Jennifer Lopez in winter white Chanel, it was Sen. Bernie Sanders, not normally known for his style statements, whose choice of accessories may have had the widest effect. Specifically, Sanders’ woolly mittens, in a sort of brown and cream Himalayan sweater pattern, seemed to have charmed practically half the social media world, with commenters asking where they could buy a pair.

The mittens quickly got their own hashtag: #Berniesmittens. Even Vogue took note. Jen Ellis, a Vermont schoolteacher, claimed ownership in a tweet.

“I made Bernie’s mittens as a gift a couple of years ago,” she wrote, posting a photo of other similar creations. “They are made from repurposed wool sweaters and lined with fleece (made from recycled plastic bottles).”

In response a friend noted, “you better buy some titanium knitting-needles lol, you’ll need them, you just became the world’s most famous ‘mitten knitter’.” And thus the new administration appears to be keeping its vow to jump-start small businesses already.

Forget red and blue (states). The theme of the Biden inauguration was “America United,” and the colour of the day seemed to be purple — the shade that bridges the divide by bringing both colours together (not to mention one of the original signature colours of the suffragists, whose dreams are now being realized with the first female vice president).

Forget red and blue (states). The theme of the Biden inauguration was “America United,” and the colour of the day seemed to be purple — the shade that bridges the divide by bringing both colours together (not to mention one of the original signature colours of the suffragists, whose dreams are now being realized with the first female vice president). “Purple is the colour of loyalty, constancy to purpose, unswerving steadfastness to a cause,” the National Woman’s Party wrote in a newsletter in 1913. Though Jill Biden coordinated her blue Markarian coat with her husband’s blue Ralph Lauren tie, Vice President Kamala Harris served up a bipartisan message in a bright single-breasted coat and dress from Christopher John Rodgers, as did former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in a grape Ralph Lauren pantsuit. And Michelle Obama, the former first lady, wore wine trousers with a coordinated turtleneck and long coat from Sergio Hudson, a young Black designer. Masks were also part of the material culture of this inauguration. Jill Biden wore a sky blue mask that appeared custom-made to match her coat, and other members of her family chose a similar monochromatic theme. Harris opted for a shiny black number that complimented her purple outfit, one of her signature mask looks. Many men opted for paper medical masks, but a few went for solid shades or face coverings that featured insignia. Former President George W. Bush sported a mask made by Rhoback, a company that was started by former Capitol Hill staffers. Despite the very high fashion content of President Joe Biden’s swearing-in, which included Lady Gaga in a veritable ballgown from Schiaparelli, Ella Emhoff in a crystal-dusted tweed Miu Miu coat with a big white collar; and Jennifer Lopez in winter white Chanel, it was Sen. Bernie Sanders, not normally known for his style statements, whose choice of accessories may have had the widest effect. Specifically, Sanders’ woolly mittens, in a sort of brown and cream Himalayan sweater pattern, seemed to have charmed practically half the social media world, with commenters asking where they could buy a pair. The mittens quickly got their own hashtag: #Berniesmittens. Even Vogue took note. Jen Ellis, a Vermont schoolteacher, claimed ownership in a tweet. “I made Bernie’s mittens as a gift a couple of years ago,” she wrote, posting a photo of other similar creations. “They are made from repurposed wool sweaters and lined with fleece (made from recycled plastic bottles).” In response a friend noted, “you better buy some titanium knitting-needles lol, you’ll need them, you just became the world’s most famous ‘mitten knitter’.” And thus the new administration appears to be keeping its vow to jump-start small businesses already.

From Kamala Harris to Michelle Obama: Purple was a popular colour at the inauguration

President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pandemic-economic-crisis-racial-injustice-climate-crisis-threats-to-our-democracy-says-president-biden-from-lincoln-memorial-358219">Biden</a> stamped his authority on his first day at the White House telling his new staff,&nbsp;"I'm not joking when I say this: If you're ever working with me and I hear you treat another with disrespect, talking down to someone, I will fire you on the spot."

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/biden-halts-trump-border-wall-construction-rejoin-paris-climate-accord-in-first-day-order-358248/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-signs-raft-of-orders-rolls-back-trump-policies-on-coronavirus-immigration-and-more-358220">Biden's</a> directive came as the new employees were being sworn-in during a virtual meeting.

"You're engaged in and you're working with the most decent government in the world. And we have to restore the soul of this country, and I'm counting on all of you to be part of that," Biden said.

"The only thing I expect with absolute certitude is honesty and decency," the new US president said. Biden's statement comes after the fractious Trump era which deeply divided the nation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-wrote-a-very-generous-letter-before-departing-white-house-biden-358238">Trump</a> in the end refused to concede defeat and exited the White House without attending the Biden's inauguration.

The Capitol riots became the last act of Trump's presidency with several Republican criticising the former US president.&nbsp;

President Biden stamped his authority on his first day at the White House telling his new staff, "I'm not joking when I say this: If you're ever working with me and I hear you treat another with disrespect, talking down to someone, I will fire you on the spot.

President Biden stamped his authority on his first day at the White House telling his new staff, "I'm not joking when I say this: If you're ever working with me and I hear you treat another with disrespect, talking down to someone, I will fire you on the spot." Watch: Biden's directive came as the new employees were being sworn-in during a virtual meeting. "You're engaged in and you're working with the most decent government in the world. And we have to restore the soul of this country, and I'm counting on all of you to be part of that," Biden said. "The only thing I expect with absolute certitude is honesty and decency," the new US president said. Biden's statement comes after the fractious Trump era which deeply divided the nation. Trump in the end refused to concede defeat and exited the White House without attending the Biden's inauguration. The Capitol riots became the last act of Trump's presidency with several Republican criticising the former US president.

I hear you treat another with disrespect, will fire you on the spot: Biden to staff

US President Joe Biden in his first speech as head of the state appealed all Americans to come together and unite and 'end uncivil war'. Biden's tone and words were a continuation of the steadfast message he has been sending across ever since results of US Presidential Elections were out in December 2020. During his speech, he assured that he will work as hard for those who DID NOT support him as for those who supported him during the election campaign. Former US President Donald Trump was not present for Biden's inauguration ceremony. Former Vice-President Mike Pence was in attendance.

Stressing repeatedly that he will be a president for "all Americans", President Biden admitted that there was "much to repair and much to restore".&nbsp;

On January 6, the US Capitol building was put under siege by supporters of Donald Trump after he encouraged them. Biden said that the violence "sought to shake capital's very foundation". He said that it was an attempt to stop the process in which "will"of Americans people was being heard. US Congress was in a process to certify Joe Biden's victory when the attack took place.

"Here we stand, just days after a riotous mob thought they could use violence to silence the will of the people, to stop the work on our democracy, to drive us from this sacred ground," Biden said. "It did not happen; it will never happen. Not today, not tomorrow, not ever."

Biden thanked his predecessors "from both parties". Former US Presidents Barack Obama,&nbsp;the Bushes and Bill Clinton were present for the inauguration ceremony. He called his predecessors "patriots" who had taken oath to defend US Constitution. &nbsp;

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&nbsp;

"This is America's day, This is democracy's day [...] we celebrate a triumph of a cause of democracy," said Biden early in his speech.

"Hear me out," said Biden as he addressed the Americans who did not vote for him. He urged them to hear his words and said it was fine if they disagreed with him because that's how democracy functioned.

Racial justice, healthcare

In his inaugural speech, Biden said that he will deliver racial justice. He vowed to defeat political extremism and domestic terror. More significantly Biden mentioned white supremacy as a menace to confront

The United States faces "a rise of political extremism, white supremacy, domestic terrorism, that we must confront, and we will defeat," he said.

"This is our historic moment of crisis and challenge and unity is the path forward. And we must meet this moment as the United States of America." he added

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-inaugural-speech-full-text-358185">Check full text of Joe Biden's inaugural speech</a>

Biden urged Americans to "reject" culture of manipulating facts.

Joe Biden mentioned 'healthcare for all' as one of the goals of his administration.

'We will repair our alliances'

During Donald Trump's tenure, he took the US on an isolationist path and squabbled with America's traditional allies. He even unilaterally made the US exit many treaties with allies.

Joe Biden assured the world that under his watch, USA will repair the alliances.

On Coronavirus

Biden said that US was entering the 'deadliest' phase of COVID-19 pandemic. He led a silent prayer for all those who had lost their lives due to coronavirus.

"We need all our strength to... persevere through this dark winter. We're entering what may be the toughest and deadliest period of the virus," he said, calling on Americans to "finally face this pandemic as one nation."

US President Joe Biden in his first speech as head of the state appealed all Americans to come together and unite and 'end uncivil war'. Biden's tone and words were a continuation of the steadfast message he has been sending across ever since results of US Presidential Elections were out in December 2020.

US President Joe Biden in his first speech as head of the state appealed all Americans to come together and unite and 'end uncivil war'. Biden's tone and words were a continuation of the steadfast message he has been sending across ever since results of US Presidential Elections were out in December 2020. During his speech, he assured that he will work as hard for those who DID NOT support him as for those who supported him during the election campaign. Former US President Donald Trump was not present for Biden's inauguration ceremony. Former Vice-President Mike Pence was in attendance. Stressing repeatedly that he will be a president for "all Americans", President Biden admitted that there was "much to repair and much to restore". On January 6, the US Capitol building was put under siege by supporters of Donald Trump after he encouraged them. Biden said that the violence "sought to shake capital's very foundation". He said that it was an attempt to stop the process in which "will"of Americans people was being heard. US Congress was in a process to certify Joe Biden's victory when the attack took place. "Here we stand, just days after a riotous mob thought they could use violence to silence the will of the people, to stop the work on our democracy, to drive us from this sacred ground," Biden said. "It did not happen; it will never happen. Not today, not tomorrow, not ever." Biden thanked his predecessors "from both parties". Former US Presidents Barack Obama, the Bushes and Bill Clinton were present for the inauguration ceremony. He called his predecessors "patriots" who had taken oath to defend US Constitution. × "This is America's day, This is democracy's day [...] we celebrate a triumph of a cause of democracy," said Biden early in his speech. "Hear me out," said Biden as he addressed the Americans who did not vote for him. He urged them to hear his words and said it was fine if they disagreed with him because that's how democracy functioned. Racial justice, healthcare In his inaugural speech, Biden said that he will deliver racial justice. He vowed to defeat political extremism and domestic terror. More significantly Biden mentioned white supremacy as a menace to confront The United States faces "a rise of political extremism, white supremacy, domestic terrorism, that we must confront, and we will defeat," he said. "This is our historic moment of crisis and challenge and unity is the path forward. And we must meet this moment as the United States of America." he added Check full text of Joe Biden's inaugural speech Biden urged Americans to "reject" culture of manipulating facts. Joe Biden mentioned 'healthcare for all' as one of the goals of his administration. 'We will repair our alliances' During Donald Trump's tenure, he took the US on an isolationist path and squabbled with America's traditional allies. He even unilaterally made the US exit many treaties with allies. Joe Biden assured the world that under his watch, USA will repair the alliances. On Coronavirus Biden said that US was entering the 'deadliest' phase of COVID-19 pandemic. He led a silent prayer for all those who had lost their lives due to coronavirus. "We need all our strength to... persevere through this dark winter. We're entering what may be the toughest and deadliest period of the virus," he said, calling on Americans to "finally face this pandemic as one nation."

US President Joe Biden appeals Americans to 'end uncivil war' in his inaugural speech

Joe Biden on Wednesday took oath to become 46th President of United States of America. Soon after his swearing-in, he delivered the inaugural speech, that is, his first address as US President. Former US President Donald Trump gave the inauguration ceremony a miss. However, Biden's inaugural speech did not have any hint of resentment. His speech appealed all Americans to come together. He tackled issues such as racism, social injustice, environment, US economy, coronavirus and much more. Check out what he said.

Joe Biden inaugural speech full text:

<blockquote>
"This is democracy’s day.

A day of history and hope.

Of renewal and resolve.

Through a crucible for the ages America has been tested anew and America has risen to the challenge.

Today, we celebrate the triumph not of a candidate, but of a cause, the cause of democracy.

The will of the people has been heard and the will of the people has been heeded.

We have learned again that democracy is precious.

Democracy is fragile.

And at this hour, my friends, democracy has prevailed.

So now, on this hallowed ground where just days ago violence sought to shake this Capitol’s very foundation, we come together as one nation, under God, indivisible, to carry out the peaceful transfer of power as we have for more than two centuries.

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&nbsp;

We look ahead in our uniquely American way – restless, bold, optimistic – and set our sights on the nation we know we can be and we must be.

I thank my predecessors of both parties for their presence here.

I thank them from the bottom of my heart.

You know the resilience of our Constitution and the strength of our nation.

As does President Carter, who I spoke to last night but who cannot be with us today, but whom we salute for his lifetime of service.

I have just taken the sacred oath each of these patriots took — an oath first sworn by George Washington.

But the American story depends not on any one of us, not on some of us, but on all of us.

On ‘We the People’ who seek a more perfect Union.

This is a great nation and we are a good people.

Over the centuries through storm and strife, in peace and in war, we have come so far. But we still have far to go.

We will press forward with speed and urgency, for we have much to do in this winter of peril and possibility.

Much to repair.

Much to restore.

Much to heal.

Much to build.

And much to gain.

Few periods in our nation’s history have been more challenging or difficult than the one we’re in now.

A once-in-a-century virus silently stalks the country.

It’s taken as many lives in one year as America lost in all of World War Two.

Millions of jobs have been lost.

Hundreds of thousands of businesses closed.

A cry for racial justice some 400 years in the making moves us. The dream of justice for all will be deferred no longer.

A cry for survival comes from the planet itself. A cry that can’t be any more desperate or any more clear.

And now, a rise in political extremism, white supremacy, domestic terrorism that we must confront and we will defeat.

To overcome these challenges – to restore the soul and to secure the future of America – requires more than words.

It requires that most elusive of things in a democracy: Unity.

In another January in Washington, on New Year’s Day 1863, Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation.

When he put pen to paper, the president said, “If my name ever goes down into history it will be for this act and my whole soul is in it.”

My whole soul is in it.

Today, on this January day, my whole soul is in this:

Bringing America together.

Uniting our people.

And uniting our nation.

I ask every American to join me in this cause.

Uniting to fight the common foes we face:

Anger, resentment, hatred.

Extremism, lawlessness, violence.

Disease, joblessness, hopelessness.

With unity we can do great things. Important things.

We can right wrongs.

We can put people to work in good jobs.

We can teach our children in safe schools.

We can overcome this deadly virus.

We can reward work, rebuild the middle class, and make health care secure for all."
</blockquote>

Joe Biden on Wednesday took oath to become 46th President of United States of America. Soon after his swearing-in, he delivered the inaugural speech, that is, his first address as US President.

Joe Biden on Wednesday took oath to become 46th President of United States of America. Soon after his swearing-in, he delivered the inaugural speech, that is, his first address as US President. Former US President Donald Trump gave the inauguration ceremony a miss. However, Biden's inaugural speech did not have any hint of resentment. His speech appealed all Americans to come together. He tackled issues such as racism, social injustice, environment, US economy, coronavirus and much more. Check out what he said. Joe Biden inaugural speech full text: "This is democracy’s day. A day of history and hope. Of renewal and resolve. Through a crucible for the ages America has been tested anew and America has risen to the challenge. Today, we celebrate the triumph not of a candidate, but of a cause, the cause of democracy. The will of the people has been heard and the will of the people has been heeded. We have learned again that democracy is precious. Democracy is fragile. And at this hour, my friends, democracy has prevailed. So now, on this hallowed ground where just days ago violence sought to shake this Capitol’s very foundation, we come together as one nation, under God, indivisible, to carry out the peaceful transfer of power as we have for more than two centuries. × We look ahead in our uniquely American way – restless, bold, optimistic – and set our sights on the nation we know we can be and we must be. I thank my predecessors of both parties for their presence here. I thank them from the bottom of my heart. You know the resilience of our Constitution and the strength of our nation. As does President Carter, who I spoke to last night but who cannot be with us today, but whom we salute for his lifetime of service. I have just taken the sacred oath each of these patriots took — an oath first sworn by George Washington. But the American story depends not on any one of us, not on some of us, but on all of us. On ‘We the People’ who seek a more perfect Union. This is a great nation and we are a good people. Over the centuries through storm and strife, in peace and in war, we have come so far. But we still have far to go. We will press forward with speed and urgency, for we have much to do in this winter of peril and possibility. Much to repair. Much to restore. Much to heal. Much to build. And much to gain. Few periods in our nation’s history have been more challenging or difficult than the one we’re in now. A once-in-a-century virus silently stalks the country. It’s taken as many lives in one year as America lost in all of World War Two. Millions of jobs have been lost. Hundreds of thousands of businesses closed. A cry for racial justice some 400 years in the making moves us. The dream of justice for all will be deferred no longer. A cry for survival comes from the planet itself. A cry that can’t be any more desperate or any more clear. And now, a rise in political extremism, white supremacy, domestic terrorism that we must confront and we will defeat. To overcome these challenges – to restore the soul and to secure the future of America – requires more than words. It requires that most elusive of things in a democracy: Unity. In another January in Washington, on New Year’s Day 1863, Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. When he put pen to paper, the president said, “If my name ever goes down into history it will be for this act and my whole soul is in it.” My whole soul is in it. Today, on this January day, my whole soul is in this: Bringing America together. Uniting our people. And uniting our nation. I ask every American to join me in this cause. Uniting to fight the common foes we face: Anger, resentment, hatred. Extremism, lawlessness, violence. Disease, joblessness, hopelessness. With unity we can do great things. Important things. We can right wrongs. We can put people to work in good jobs. We can teach our children in safe schools. We can overcome this deadly virus. We can reward work, rebuild the middle class, and make health care secure for all."

US President Joe Biden inaugural speech full text

The United Staes of America is set for Joe Biden's inauguration ceremony as he becomes the 46th President of the country. While the ceremony will be new and distanced, keeping in mind the ongoing pandemic, the post- oath ceremony will see many stars coming together to celebrate the occasion.&nbsp; 
 
Singer Katy Perry is performing at Joe Biden’s primetime inauguration special, and she shared a 'patriotic' picture ahead of her performance.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lady-gaga-tom-hanks-justin-timberlake-the-complete-celebrity-line-up-at-joe-bidens-inaugural-ceremony-357942">Lady Gaga, Tom Hanks, Justin Timberlake: The complete celebrity line up at Joe Biden's inaugural ceremony&nbsp;</a>

Perry took to Twitter and tweeted a photo of four mics — one white, one bedazzled with the flag, one covered in silver stars and one resembling Lady Liberty’s torch — with&nbsp;heart and an American flag emoji as the caption.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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♥️🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/glJjqrDdEM">pic.twitter.com/glJjqrDdEM</a>
— KATY PERRY (@katyperry) <a href="https://twitter.com/katyperry/status/1351698557221261312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

 
 
The picture was retweeted by the Biden Inaugural Committee before they made it official with an announcement that Perry would be performing on the Celebrating America TV special after Wednesday’s inaugural ceremony in Washington, D.C.

Tom Hanks will host the primetime special, which already includes Demi Lovato, Justin Timberlake, Jon Bon Jovi, Ant Clemons, Bruce Springsteen, John Legend and Foo Fighters performing at “iconic locations across the country,” according to a statement from the Presidential Inaugural Committee.

Celebrating America will air on ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN and MSNBC. It will also live stream on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and Twitch accounts. Amazon Prime Video, Twitch and NewsNow from Fox will also stream the event.

The United Staes of America is set for Joe Biden's inauguration ceremony as he becomes the 46th President of the country. While the ceremony will be new and distanced, keeping in mind the ongoing pandemic, the post- oath ceremony will see many stars coming together to celebrate the occasion.

The United Staes of America is set for Joe Biden's inauguration ceremony as he becomes the 46th President of the country. While the ceremony will be new and distanced, keeping in mind the ongoing pandemic, the post- oath ceremony will see many stars coming together to celebrate the occasion. Singer Katy Perry is performing at Joe Biden’s primetime inauguration special, and she shared a 'patriotic' picture ahead of her performance. Lady Gaga, Tom Hanks, Justin Timberlake: The complete celebrity line up at Joe Biden's inaugural ceremony Perry took to Twitter and tweeted a photo of four mics — one white, one bedazzled with the flag, one covered in silver stars and one resembling Lady Liberty’s torch — with heart and an American flag emoji as the caption. ♥️🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/glJjqrDdEM — KATY PERRY (@katyperry) January 20, 2021 × The picture was retweeted by the Biden Inaugural Committee before they made it official with an announcement that Perry would be performing on the Celebrating America TV special after Wednesday’s inaugural ceremony in Washington, D.C. Tom Hanks will host the primetime special, which already includes Demi Lovato, Justin Timberlake, Jon Bon Jovi, Ant Clemons, Bruce Springsteen, John Legend and Foo Fighters performing at “iconic locations across the country,” according to a statement from the Presidential Inaugural Committee. Celebrating America will air on ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN and MSNBC. It will also live stream on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and Twitch accounts. Amazon Prime Video, Twitch and NewsNow from Fox will also stream the event.

Katy Perry announces her presence at Joe Biden’s primetime inauguration special with a patriotic picture

The inauguration of Joe Biden as the 46th President of the United States took place amid the challenge of COVID-19. The organisers took into account precautions to wade off potential infections.

In mid-December, the Presidential Inaugural Committee announced that "vigorous health and safety protocols" were planned for the ceremony. This included the "reimagination" of traditional events, including a virtual inaugural parade.

The Capitol Hill luncheon was also cancelled. In addition, the committee urged people to stay at home and to not travel to DC.

But some unprecedented changes were enforced keeping in mind the pandemic.&nbsp;

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/joe-bidens-presidential-inauguration-whats-changed-whats-new-and-whats-missing-358033" hreflang="en">Joe Biden's presidential inauguration: What's changed, what's new, and what's missing!</a>

These included limited attendance. In mid-December, the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies (JCCIC) announced that the ceremony would be tremendously scaled back. In usual circumstances, 200,000 tickets are distributed for the ceremony. The National Mall remained closed to the public, and members of the US Congress were allowed to bring only one guest.

In terms of safety protocols, all provisions put forward by the World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control were followed at the ceremony.

The committee had announced earlier that the official swearing-in ceremony would include "vigorous health and safety protocols to protect public health, including face-coverings, social distancing, and more". 
 
Keeping in mind the risk of infection, many events were cancelled or reimagined to create a pandemic experience.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-president-elect-joe-biden-will-take-these-decisions-on-very-first-day-in-office-358003" hreflang="en">In Pics | President-elect Joe Biden will take these decisions on very first day in office</a>

As part of this, over 191,500 US flags were installed at the National Mall in an art display called "Field of Flags". In addition, 56 pillars of light were put in place, to represent Americans who could not attend the ceremony in person. 
 
The virtual "reimagined parade" is set to feature televised performances from all states and territories of the United States. This will include celebrity and guest appearances from Jennifer Lopez, Lady Gaga, Justin Timberlake, among many.

To make up for the in-person celebrations, team Biden is set to air a 90-minute special programme titled "Celebrating America" on the evening of the inauguration. 
 
Both Biden and Harris will speak during the programme, which will also pay homage to frontline workers who served during the COVID-19 pandemic, including teachers, and healthcare workers. 
 
The Capitol Hill luncheon was cancelled to prevent further spread of COVID-19. In regular times, the luncheon would have included guests like congressional leaders, and it also highlighted the cuisine of the new president and the vice president.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-joe-biden-oath-today-kamala-harris-news-us-inauguration-day-2021-live-updates-joe-biden-oath-ceremony-today-donald-trump-leave-white-house-vice-president-elect-kamala-harris-us-president-joe-biden-swearing-in-ceremony-oath-day-357872">Live updates here</a>

The inauguration of Joe Biden as the 46th President of the United States took place amid the challenge of COVID-19. The organisers took into account precautions to wade off potential infections.

The inauguration of Joe Biden as the 46th President of the United States took place amid the challenge of COVID-19. The organisers took into account precautions to wade off potential infections. In mid-December, the Presidential Inaugural Committee announced that "vigorous health and safety protocols" were planned for the ceremony. This included the "reimagination" of traditional events, including a virtual inaugural parade. The Capitol Hill luncheon was also cancelled. In addition, the committee urged people to stay at home and to not travel to DC. But some unprecedented changes were enforced keeping in mind the pandemic. In pics: Joe Biden's presidential inauguration: What's changed, what's new, and what's missing! These included limited attendance. In mid-December, the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies (JCCIC) announced that the ceremony would be tremendously scaled back. In usual circumstances, 200,000 tickets are distributed for the ceremony. The National Mall remained closed to the public, and members of the US Congress were allowed to bring only one guest. In terms of safety protocols, all provisions put forward by the World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control were followed at the ceremony. The committee had announced earlier that the official swearing-in ceremony would include "vigorous health and safety protocols to protect public health, including face-coverings, social distancing, and more". Keeping in mind the risk of infection, many events were cancelled or reimagined to create a pandemic experience. In Pics | President-elect Joe Biden will take these decisions on very first day in office As part of this, over 191,500 US flags were installed at the National Mall in an art display called "Field of Flags". In addition, 56 pillars of light were put in place, to represent Americans who could not attend the ceremony in person. The virtual "reimagined parade" is set to feature televised performances from all states and territories of the United States. This will include celebrity and guest appearances from Jennifer Lopez, Lady Gaga, Justin Timberlake, among many. To make up for the in-person celebrations, team Biden is set to air a 90-minute special programme titled "Celebrating America" on the evening of the inauguration. Both Biden and Harris will speak during the programme, which will also pay homage to frontline workers who served during the COVID-19 pandemic, including teachers, and healthcare workers. The Capitol Hill luncheon was cancelled to prevent further spread of COVID-19. In regular times, the luncheon would have included guests like congressional leaders, and it also highlighted the cuisine of the new president and the vice president. Live updates here

How COVID-19 precuations changed the route of Biden's inaugural ceremony

Donald Trump left the White House for the last time as US President on Wednesday hours before President-elect Joe Biden was inaugurated. Trump, accompanied by his wife Melania left White House in Marine One helicopter at 1300 GMT (6.30 pm IST). They went to Joint Air Force Base Andrews for a send-off ceremony. It was a quiet exit for a Trump who was very vocal in person as well as on his now-suspended Twitter account. Top Republican leaders like Vice-President Mike Pence were not there to see Trump off. Donald Trump has still not conceded defeat to President-elect Joe Biden

At Joint Air Force Base Andrews, Donald Trump made his last address as President of the USA in a campaign-style speech with several hundred supporters present.

"This has been an incredible four years," he said during his address.

"We've accomplished so much together," he said. "I will always fight for you.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-inauguration-2021-how-to-watch-us-oath-taking-ceremony-live-online-358052">Want to watch Inauguration ceremony LIVE? Click Here</a>

Significantly, Trump said that he "will be back"

"We will be back in some form," said Trump during his address. There are speculations that he will try to win the Oval Office back from Joe Biden in US Presidential Election 2024

Trump did not address Joe Biden by name but said he wishes the new administration "great luck and great success."

After his short address, Donald and Melania Trump boarded the Air Force One and left for his resort in Florida. Although Trump left a letter for Joe Biden, he became the first sitting US President since 1869 to skip inauguration ceremony of his successor. Trump also carries the tag of being the only US President in history to be impeached twice.

Donald Trump left the White House for the last time as US President on Wednesday hours before President-elect Joe Biden was inaugurated. Trump, accompanied by his wife Melania left White House in Marine One helicopter at 1300 GMT (6.

Donald Trump left the White House for the last time as US President on Wednesday hours before President-elect Joe Biden was inaugurated. Trump, accompanied by his wife Melania left White House in Marine One helicopter at 1300 GMT (6.30 pm IST). They went to Joint Air Force Base Andrews for a send-off ceremony. It was a quiet exit for a Trump who was very vocal in person as well as on his now-suspended Twitter account. Top Republican leaders like Vice-President Mike Pence were not there to see Trump off. Donald Trump has still not conceded defeat to President-elect Joe Biden At Joint Air Force Base Andrews, Donald Trump made his last address as President of the USA in a campaign-style speech with several hundred supporters present. "This has been an incredible four years," he said during his address. "We've accomplished so much together," he said. "I will always fight for you. Catch LIVE updates here Want to watch Inauguration ceremony LIVE? Click Here Significantly, Trump said that he "will be back" "We will be back in some form," said Trump during his address. There are speculations that he will try to win the Oval Office back from Joe Biden in US Presidential Election 2024 Trump did not address Joe Biden by name but said he wishes the new administration "great luck and great success." After his short address, Donald and Melania Trump boarded the Air Force One and left for his resort in Florida. Although Trump left a letter for Joe Biden, he became the first sitting US President since 1869 to skip inauguration ceremony of his successor. Trump also carries the tag of being the only US President in history to be impeached twice.

'Will be back', says Donald Trump in his last speech as US President

New Yorkers participated in a prayer for healing and a call for unity on the eve of the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris. Passersby lit candles and prayed on the steps of the Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine in New York City on Tuesday (January 19).

NYC church lights candle for unity ahead of the Inauguration

Starting January 20, Joe Biden will take the oath as the US President - a transition India is eagerly waiting for.

New Delhi has a&nbsp;long wish-list for the Biden administration. India would like its trade benefits worth six billion dollars restored, and it also wants the Trump era curbs on visas to be lifted. New Delhi would like a strong stance against Pakistan-backed terror groups, and a deeper alliance to combat China.

India isn’t looking forward to a hasty American withdrawal from Afghanistan. New Delhi would also like to see some movement on two big ticket items - The reform of the United Nations Security Council and India's entry into the Nuclear Suppliers Group.

Where does Joe Biden stand on these issues?

When it became clear that Joe Biden will be America's next president, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated him with a photograph which was clicked seven years ago - when Biden attended a lunch - hosted in honour of the Indian prime minister in Washington DC. On that day, Joe Biden had talked about the promise of a strong India-US relationship.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/breaking-tradition-trump-plans-self-farewell-before-bidens-inauguration-ceremony-357814" hreflang="en">Breaking tradition: Trump plans self-farewell before Biden's inauguration ceremony</a>

Now, as president of the US, he gets to accomplish his vision. When the two leaders meet again they'll have a lot to discuss. And New Delhi should feel confident about its future engagements with Washington.

As a candidate, Joe Biden made all the right noises, like on the issue of visas, and Biden has already promised to lift all trump era restrictions.

The biggest challenge is the backlog, with over eight lakh Indians waiting for a green card. And it is believed more than two lakh will die waiting for one. Biden plans to revamp the visa rules. He wants to expand the number of high skilled visas and eliminate country specific quotas.

Biden's campaign website also assured an instant green card to students to get their doctorate in America in the fields of science, technology, engineering and maths.

What about trade?

India's relationship with America took a hit on the trade front when Trump decided to withdraw benefits worth six billion dollars under the generalized system of preferences. Both sides negotiated for a "mini trade deal" but they didn't sign an agreement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/biden-harris-inauguration-special-prayers-sweet-distribution-planned-at-harris-ancestral-village-357770" hreflang="en">Biden-Harris inauguration: Special prayers, sweet distribution planned at Harris’ ancestral village</a>

Biden hasn't made his position clear on tariffs, and the incoming president faces his own share of economic challenges. The pandemic has left more than 25 million workers in America either unemployed, or, with lower salaries. Biden has promised to stand by American firms. Any trade negotiation with India will be a hard-nosed one.

Chinese aggression&nbsp;

India and the US have bigger concerns besides trade - Like the growing Chinese aggression. China will be the driving force behind this relationship, and Biden is expected to remain tough on Beijing.

He had refereed to the Chinese president as a thug while campaigning and promised to rope in allies to push back against China on its human rights record and authoritarianism.

Biden has also promised to remain tough on the issue of terrorism. He believes there can be no tolerance for terrorism in South Asia - cross border or otherwise. So far, team Biden has sent the right signals to India. Biden himself has called the India-US partnership a defining relationship for the 21st century.

Starting January 20, Joe Biden will take the oath as the US President - a transition India is eagerly waiting for. New Delhi has a long wish-list for the Biden administration.

Starting January 20, Joe Biden will take the oath as the US President - a transition India is eagerly waiting for. New Delhi has a long wish-list for the Biden administration. India would like its trade benefits worth six billion dollars restored, and it also wants the Trump era curbs on visas to be lifted. New Delhi would like a strong stance against Pakistan-backed terror groups, and a deeper alliance to combat China. India isn’t looking forward to a hasty American withdrawal from Afghanistan. New Delhi would also like to see some movement on two big ticket items - The reform of the United Nations Security Council and India's entry into the Nuclear Suppliers Group. Where does Joe Biden stand on these issues? When it became clear that Joe Biden will be America's next president, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated him with a photograph which was clicked seven years ago - when Biden attended a lunch - hosted in honour of the Indian prime minister in Washington DC. On that day, Joe Biden had talked about the promise of a strong India-US relationship. Also read: Breaking tradition: Trump plans self-farewell before Biden's inauguration ceremony Now, as president of the US, he gets to accomplish his vision. When the two leaders meet again they'll have a lot to discuss. And New Delhi should feel confident about its future engagements with Washington. As a candidate, Joe Biden made all the right noises, like on the issue of visas, and Biden has already promised to lift all trump era restrictions. The biggest challenge is the backlog, with over eight lakh Indians waiting for a green card. And it is believed more than two lakh will die waiting for one. Biden plans to revamp the visa rules. He wants to expand the number of high skilled visas and eliminate country specific quotas. Biden's campaign website also assured an instant green card to students to get their doctorate in America in the fields of science, technology, engineering and maths. What about trade? India's relationship with America took a hit on the trade front when Trump decided to withdraw benefits worth six billion dollars under the generalized system of preferences. Both sides negotiated for a "mini trade deal" but they didn't sign an agreement. Also read: Biden-Harris inauguration: Special prayers, sweet distribution planned at Harris’ ancestral village Biden hasn't made his position clear on tariffs, and the incoming president faces his own share of economic challenges. The pandemic has left more than 25 million workers in America either unemployed, or, with lower salaries. Biden has promised to stand by American firms. Any trade negotiation with India will be a hard-nosed one. Chinese aggression India and the US have bigger concerns besides trade - Like the growing Chinese aggression. China will be the driving force behind this relationship, and Biden is expected to remain tough on Beijing. He had refereed to the Chinese president as a thug while campaigning and promised to rope in allies to push back against China on its human rights record and authoritarianism. Biden has also promised to remain tough on the issue of terrorism. He believes there can be no tolerance for terrorism in South Asia - cross border or otherwise. So far, team Biden has sent the right signals to India. Biden himself has called the India-US partnership a defining relationship for the 21st century.

What can India expect from Joe Biden as US President?

US&nbsp;President-elect Joe Biden will wait for a recommendation from his intelligence advisers on whether to share classified information with President Donald Trump after the Republican leaves office, Biden`s top aide said on Sunday. 
 
Ron Klain, the incoming White House chief of staff, made the comment after former principal deputy director of national intelligence, Sue Gordon, wrote an op-ed arguing against sharing such information with Trump once he has left the presidency. 
 
"With this simple act — which is solely the new president’s prerogative — Joe Biden can mitigate one aspect of the potential national security risk posed by Donald Trump, private citizen," Gordon said in a Washington Post piece headlined "A former president Trump won`t `need to know.` Cut off his intelligence." 
 
Asked about Gordon`s recommendation, Klain told CNN`s "State of the Union" program that Biden would want to hear from his own intelligence professionals before making any decision. 
 
"We`ll certainly look for a recommendation from the intelligence professionals in the Biden administration ... and we will act on that recommendation," he said. 
 
Gordon, who resigned in 2019, said any former president was a foreign intelligence target but Trump "might be unusually vulnerable to bad actors with ill intent," citing, among other things, his business interests abroad. 
 
"It is not clear that he understands the tradecraft to which he has been exposed, the reasons the knowledge he has acquired must be protected from disclosure, or the intentions and capabilities of adversaries," she added. 
 
Democratic House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff was more blunt, telling CBS` "Face The Nation" program, "I don`t think he can be trusted with it."

US President-elect Joe Biden will wait for a recommendation from his intelligence advisers on whether to share classified information with President Donald Trump after the Republican leaves office, Biden`s top aide said on Sunday.

US President-elect Joe Biden will wait for a recommendation from his intelligence advisers on whether to share classified information with President Donald Trump after the Republican leaves office, Biden`s top aide said on Sunday. Ron Klain, the incoming White House chief of staff, made the comment after former principal deputy director of national intelligence, Sue Gordon, wrote an op-ed arguing against sharing such information with Trump once he has left the presidency. "With this simple act — which is solely the new president’s prerogative — Joe Biden can mitigate one aspect of the potential national security risk posed by Donald Trump, private citizen," Gordon said in a Washington Post piece headlined "A former president Trump won`t `need to know.` Cut off his intelligence." Asked about Gordon`s recommendation, Klain told CNN`s "State of the Union" program that Biden would want to hear from his own intelligence professionals before making any decision. "We`ll certainly look for a recommendation from the intelligence professionals in the Biden administration ... and we will act on that recommendation," he said. Gordon, who resigned in 2019, said any former president was a foreign intelligence target but Trump "might be unusually vulnerable to bad actors with ill intent," citing, among other things, his business interests abroad. "It is not clear that he understands the tradecraft to which he has been exposed, the reasons the knowledge he has acquired must be protected from disclosure, or the intentions and capabilities of adversaries," she added. Democratic House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff was more blunt, telling CBS` "Face The Nation" program, "I don`t think he can be trusted with it."

Biden will wait for recommendation on sharing secrets with Trump

For months, far-right extremists have been openly posting their threats on public sites. Now, wary of surveillance and amid a crackdown by social media, some are shifting their online communications to private chats or lesser known platforms that could make those threats harder to find.

Law enforcement scrutiny drives US extremists into internet's dark corners

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has arrested more than 100 people over last week's violent siege of the U.S. Capitol, and is now looking into individuals who could possibly threaten the safety of the Jan. 20 inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden, its director said on Thursday (January 14).

United States gears up for peaceful transition of power

In the aftermath of riots that rocked the US Capitol last week, Washington DC has upped its security measures to prevent a similar instance as Joe Biden gets ready to take over presidential duties starting January 20.

On Friday, DC continued increasing security measures by restricting access to landmarks, while installing vehicle checkpoints surrounding Washington. 
&nbsp;

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Even though presidential inaugurations are generally very well secured, this time the security has been ramped even further in view of the violence that took place on January 6 whereby Trump supporters stormed the capital while representatives met inside to certify Biden as the winner.

&nbsp;

Law enforcement agencies have warned threats and potential armed conflict in all 50 states of the country.

On Friday, the National Park Service said that it was closing iconic landmarks in the capital city till at least January 21. These include the National Mall and other iconic US landmarks. Part of the Mall are landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial, and the Washington Monument.

Most of the area surrounding the White House also remains closed, including an important bridge which connects Virginia to Washington, along with East and West Potomac Parks, including Hains Point, which also falls near the Mall.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-investigating-dozens-for-death-of-police-officer-at-us-capitol-357102" hreflang="en">FBI investigating dozens for death of police officer at US Capitol</a>

"We cannot allow a recurrence of the chaos and illegal activity that the United States and the world witnessed last week," Matthew Miller, the head of the Secret Service’s operations in Washington said to reporters.

As part of its agreement with the US Secret Service, Virginia later announced that it would close many other bridges that lead into the capital from January 19 to January 21.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation in the United States is currently questioning dozens of people in relation to the killing of a police officer during the attack on US Capitol.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-slams-republican-lawmakers-for-not-wearing-masks-during-capitol-hill-attack-357107" hreflang="en">Biden slams Republican lawmakers for not wearing masks during Capitol Hill attack</a>

Brian Sicknick died a day after a mob supporting US President Donald Trump stormed the Capitol last week. Reportedly, they attacked law enforcement officers.&nbsp;

Another state bordering the capital - Maryland announced a state of emergency ahead of the inauguration.

In the aftermath of riots that rocked the US Capitol last week, Washington DC has upped its security measures to prevent a similar instance as Joe Biden gets ready to take over presidential duties starting January 20.

In the aftermath of riots that rocked the US Capitol last week, Washington DC has upped its security measures to prevent a similar instance as Joe Biden gets ready to take over presidential duties starting January 20. On Friday, DC continued increasing security measures by restricting access to landmarks, while installing vehicle checkpoints surrounding Washington. Even though presidential inaugurations are generally very well secured, this time the security has been ramped even further in view of the violence that took place on January 6 whereby Trump supporters stormed the capital while representatives met inside to certify Biden as the winner. Law enforcement agencies have warned threats and potential armed conflict in all 50 states of the country. On Friday, the National Park Service said that it was closing iconic landmarks in the capital city till at least January 21. These include the National Mall and other iconic US landmarks. Part of the Mall are landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial, and the Washington Monument. Most of the area surrounding the White House also remains closed, including an important bridge which connects Virginia to Washington, along with East and West Potomac Parks, including Hains Point, which also falls near the Mall. Also read: FBI investigating dozens for death of police officer at US Capitol "We cannot allow a recurrence of the chaos and illegal activity that the United States and the world witnessed last week," Matthew Miller, the head of the Secret Service’s operations in Washington said to reporters. As part of its agreement with the US Secret Service, Virginia later announced that it would close many other bridges that lead into the capital from January 19 to January 21. The Federal Bureau of Investigation in the United States is currently questioning dozens of people in relation to the killing of a police officer during the attack on US Capitol. Also read: Biden slams Republican lawmakers for not wearing masks during Capitol Hill attack Brian Sicknick died a day after a mob supporting US President Donald Trump stormed the Capitol last week. Reportedly, they attacked law enforcement officers. Another state bordering the capital - Maryland announced a state of emergency ahead of the inauguration.

Major landmarks closed, security measures upped in DC before Biden's presidential inauguration

President-elect Joe Biden has slammed Republican lawmakers who refused to wear masks while huddling in a secure location during the January 6 riot at the US Capitol despite the threat of coronavirus, telling them that "it's time to grow up".

At least four members of US Congress -- including Democratic leaders Pramila Jayapal, Brad Schneider and Bonnie Watson Coleman -- have tested positive for COVID-19 since the Capitol attack by Trump's supporters which left five people dead.

"Quite frankly, it was shocking to see members of the Congress while the Capitol was under siege by a deadly mob of thugs refusing to wear a mask while they were in secure locations," Biden told reporters in Wilmington, Delaware on Friday.

"I'm so proud of my congresswoman, right here in the state of Delaware, Lisa Blunt Rochester, trying to hand out masks while people are lying on the floor huddled up, and her Republican colleagues were refusing to put them on.

What the hell is the matter with you? It's time to grow up," he said.

"The result? At least four members of Congress today, including a cancer survivor, now have COVID-19 who were in those rooms," Biden said Congresswoman Coleman, who recently tested COVID-19 positive, is a 75-year-old cancer survivor.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has imposed fines this week on members who refuse to wear masks on the House floor, with a USD 500 penalty for a first offence and USD 2,500 for a second offence.

Biden said wearing a mask is not a political, but a lifesaving issue.

"For God's sake, wear a mask if not for yourself, for your loved ones, for your country. These are real matters of life and death. We need you to stick with the handwashing, social distancing, and avoid indoor gatherings with people outside your own household," he said.

"I hope we now know this is not a political issue. This is about saving lives. I know it's become a partisan issue, but what a stupid, stupid thing for it to happen. This is a patriotic act. We are asking you, we're in a war with this virus, and experts saying--have shown that wearing a mask from now until April will save as many as 50,000 lives," the Democratic leader said.

US is the worst-hit nation in the world with over 23,530,460 coronavirus cases and more than 392,100 deaths due to the disease.

Biden reiterated his plans to call on all Americans to wear masks for his first 100 days in office.

"The day we're inaugurated, we're going to ask you to mask up for the next 100 days.

This is not a political issue.

And I will issue an executive order to require a mask where I have the authority to do that, in federal worker--for federal workers on federal property, on interstate travel by train and planes," he said.

"We'll also be working with mayors and governors in red states and blue states and require mask--and ask them to require masking up in their cities and their states," he said.

The coronavirus pandemic, Biden said, can't solve US' problems as a divided nation.

"The only way we come through this is if we come through together as Americans, fellow Americans, as the United States of America.

Vice President-elect Harris and I ran on that vision.

And starting at noon on Wednesday, that's exactly how we're going to govern and ask for your help," he said.

President-elect Joe Biden has slammed Republican lawmakers who refused to wear masks while huddling in a secure location during the January 6 riot at the US Capitol despite the threat of coronavirus, telling them that "it's time to grow up".

President-elect Joe Biden has slammed Republican lawmakers who refused to wear masks while huddling in a secure location during the January 6 riot at the US Capitol despite the threat of coronavirus, telling them that "it's time to grow up". At least four members of US Congress -- including Democratic leaders Pramila Jayapal, Brad Schneider and Bonnie Watson Coleman -- have tested positive for COVID-19 since the Capitol attack by Trump's supporters which left five people dead. "Quite frankly, it was shocking to see members of the Congress while the Capitol was under siege by a deadly mob of thugs refusing to wear a mask while they were in secure locations," Biden told reporters in Wilmington, Delaware on Friday. "I'm so proud of my congresswoman, right here in the state of Delaware, Lisa Blunt Rochester, trying to hand out masks while people are lying on the floor huddled up, and her Republican colleagues were refusing to put them on. What the hell is the matter with you? It's time to grow up," he said. "The result? At least four members of Congress today, including a cancer survivor, now have COVID-19 who were in those rooms," Biden said Congresswoman Coleman, who recently tested COVID-19 positive, is a 75-year-old cancer survivor. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has imposed fines this week on members who refuse to wear masks on the House floor, with a USD 500 penalty for a first offence and USD 2,500 for a second offence. Biden said wearing a mask is not a political, but a lifesaving issue. "For God's sake, wear a mask if not for yourself, for your loved ones, for your country. These are real matters of life and death. We need you to stick with the handwashing, social distancing, and avoid indoor gatherings with people outside your own household," he said. "I hope we now know this is not a political issue. This is about saving lives. I know it's become a partisan issue, but what a stupid, stupid thing for it to happen. This is a patriotic act. We are asking you, we're in a war with this virus, and experts saying--have shown that wearing a mask from now until April will save as many as 50,000 lives," the Democratic leader said. US is the worst-hit nation in the world with over 23,530,460 coronavirus cases and more than 392,100 deaths due to the disease. Biden reiterated his plans to call on all Americans to wear masks for his first 100 days in office. "The day we're inaugurated, we're going to ask you to mask up for the next 100 days. This is not a political issue. And I will issue an executive order to require a mask where I have the authority to do that, in federal worker--for federal workers on federal property, on interstate travel by train and planes," he said. "We'll also be working with mayors and governors in red states and blue states and require mask--and ask them to require masking up in their cities and their states," he said. The coronavirus pandemic, Biden said, can't solve US' problems as a divided nation. "The only way we come through this is if we come through together as Americans, fellow Americans, as the United States of America. Vice President-elect Harris and I ran on that vision. And starting at noon on Wednesday, that's exactly how we're going to govern and ask for your help," he said.

Biden slams Republican lawmakers for not wearing masks during Capitol Hill attack

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