As foreign ministers assembled at Indonesia's capital for South East Asia's Annual security-focused gathering, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed his concerns about Russia as Russia is showing no signs of changing its cause on Ukraine.

US Secretary State Secretary Antony Blinken speaks on grain deal

US Secretary of State top Antony Blinken held "candid and constructive" talks with top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi on Thursday in Indonesia's capital, an official said, the latest in a series of interactions Washington says are aimed at managing competition between the rival superpowers.

Antony Blinken meets China's Wang Yi in Jakarta in latest talks to 'manage competition'

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking on various Sunday talk shows, addressed the recent crisis in Russia involving the Wagner group's mutiny against the Kremlin. Blinken described the uprising as a "direct challenge to Putin's authority" and emphasised that it exposed "real cracks" within the leadership of Russian President Vladimir Putin. These remarks marked the United States' first public statements on the developments in Russia.

"So this raises profound questions, it shows real cracks," Blinken told CBS News talk show "Face the Nation", reported AFP news agency.&nbsp;

<h2>Consultations with allies&nbsp;</h2>

During the past 24 hours, the United States engaged in intensive consultations with European allies regarding the revolt by the Wagner group. The consultations aimed to discuss the implications and consequences of the crisis.

Secretary Blinken stated that it is "too early" to speculate on the impact of the crisis, both on the Kremlin's stability and the ongoing war in Ukraine.&nbsp;

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He characterised the events as "extraordinary," as an ally of Putin turned against him, threatening the core of power in the Kremlin.

Blinken highlighted the significance of Yevgeny Prigozhin's actions, a key figure behind the Wagner group.&nbsp;

According to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, just 16 months ago, Russian forces were positioned with intentions of potentially seizing control of entire Ukraine. However, he noted, the recent events involving the Wagner group have led to a shift in circumstances.&nbsp;

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Blinken highlighted that now, over the weekend, Russian forces found themselves defending Moscow, their own capital, against mercenaries who are "Putin's own making", Blinken also told ABC News show "This Week.".

"Prigozhin himself, in this entire incident, has raised profound questions about the very premises of Russia's aggression against Ukraine in the first place, saying that Ukraine or NATO did not pose a threat to Russia, which is part of Putin's narrative."

Blinken noted that the Wagner crisis has left Moscow "distracted," potentially providing an additional advantage for Ukraine's counteroffensive against Russian forces.&nbsp;

Watch | PM Modi conferred with Egypt's highest state honour in Cairo

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However, he said speculation on the future direction of the crisis and its implications cannot be made just yet.&nbsp;

Wagner group's withdrawal comes after an agreement facilitated by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. The fighters have returned to their respective bases, with assurances given for their safety.

Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin is set to relocate to Belarus in accordance with the agreement. The global community, particularly Western leaders, has voiced apprehensions regarding the unrest unfolding in Russia, a nation possessing the largest nuclear arsenal in the world.&nbsp;

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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking on various Sunday talk shows, addressed the recent crisis in Russia involving the Wagner group's mutiny against the Kremlin.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking on various Sunday talk shows, addressed the recent crisis in Russia involving the Wagner group's mutiny against the Kremlin. Blinken described the uprising as a "direct challenge to Putin's authority" and emphasised that it exposed "real cracks" within the leadership of Russian President Vladimir Putin. These remarks marked the United States' first public statements on the developments in Russia. "So this raises profound questions, it shows real cracks," Blinken told CBS News talk show "Face the Nation", reported AFP news agency. Consultations with allies During the past 24 hours, the United States engaged in intensive consultations with European allies regarding the revolt by the Wagner group. The consultations aimed to discuss the implications and consequences of the crisis. Secretary Blinken stated that it is "too early" to speculate on the impact of the crisis, both on the Kremlin's stability and the ongoing war in Ukraine. Also Read | Bamboo could be a game changer in renewable energy. Here's how He characterised the events as "extraordinary," as an ally of Putin turned against him, threatening the core of power in the Kremlin. Blinken highlighted the significance of Yevgeny Prigozhin's actions, a key figure behind the Wagner group. According to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, just 16 months ago, Russian forces were positioned with intentions of potentially seizing control of entire Ukraine. However, he noted, the recent events involving the Wagner group have led to a shift in circumstances. Also Read | Porn platform owner: Society proud of sexual expression, adult content to become 'boring' Blinken highlighted that now, over the weekend, Russian forces found themselves defending Moscow, their own capital, against mercenaries who are "Putin's own making", Blinken also told ABC News show "This Week.". "Prigozhin himself, in this entire incident, has raised profound questions about the very premises of Russia's aggression against Ukraine in the first place, saying that Ukraine or NATO did not pose a threat to Russia, which is part of Putin's narrative." Blinken noted that the Wagner crisis has left Moscow "distracted," potentially providing an additional advantage for Ukraine's counteroffensive against Russian forces. Watch | PM Modi conferred with Egypt's highest state honour in Cairo × However, he said speculation on the future direction of the crisis and its implications cannot be made just yet. Wagner group's withdrawal comes after an agreement facilitated by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. The fighters have returned to their respective bases, with assurances given for their safety. Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin is set to relocate to Belarus in accordance with the agreement. The global community, particularly Western leaders, has voiced apprehensions regarding the unrest unfolding in Russia, a nation possessing the largest nuclear arsenal in the world. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Wagner group's mutiny exposes 'real cracks' in Putin's leadership: Blinken

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday encouraged Turkey to support Sweden's bid for membership in NATO. Blinken was meeting Turkey's new Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. Turkey has objected to Sweden's bid to join the Western military alliance due to security concerns. Current NATO members hope that Sweden will become a member in time for a mid-July summit in Vilnius.

State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said that Blinken met Fidan on the sidelines of the Ukraine Recovery Summit in London. Blinken stressed the importance of NATO unity at a critical time when Russia has invaded Ukraine.

Blinken welcomed Ankara's support for Kyiv and its work on the grain deal which enables exports of Ukrainian foodgrains from Black Sea ports.&nbsp;

The secretary of state urged Turkey last month to immediately finalise Sweden's accession to the bloc. Sweden and Finland reversed their decades-old policy of non-alignment last year and applied for NATO membership after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

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Finland joined NATO in April but Turkey continues to block Sweden's membership.

Just last week Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that Sweden should not expect green light from Ankara at the Vilnius summit unless it prevents anti-Turkey protests in Stockholm.

Turkey says Sweden harbours members of militant groups it considers to be terrorists. Sweden recently introduced a new law to make it harder to finance or support terrorist groups.

On Wednesday, Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom said that the Turkish parliament should start ratification of Sweden's bid as Stockholm has now met its obligations under a deal with Ankara.

Blinken and Fidan were in London to attend the conference on Ukraine at which allies were due to pledge billions of dollars in economic and reconstruction aid. Fidan said he was there to demonstrate Turkey's support for Ukraine.

"The truth is we may not see eye to eye on every issue, but our longstanding alliance within NATO and other platforms compels us to continue to work together," Fidan said in a video released by the Turkish foreign ministry.

Turkey's former intelligence chief, Fidan was appointed by Erdogan this month after his May election victory.

<h2>US bombers in Sweden</h2>

On Wednesday, US bomber jets landed in Sweden for the first time for a training exercise.

Two American B-1B Lancers landed at Lulea-Kallax airport in northern Sweden on Monday, June 19, the military said.

"We are carrying out a joint exercise, both the air force and the army, with the Bomber Task Force," air force spokeswoman Louise Levin told AFP.

She reportedly did not provide information on how long would the exercises last.

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The military said in a statement that "for the first time in modern times US bomber planes have landed in Sweden".

"In these uncertain times and while waiting for NATO membership it is important to have strong partners."

(With inputs from agencies)

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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday encouraged Turkey to support Sweden's bid for membership in NATO. Blinken was meeting Turkey's new Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday encouraged Turkey to support Sweden's bid for membership in NATO. Blinken was meeting Turkey's new Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. Turkey has objected to Sweden's bid to join the Western military alliance due to security concerns. Current NATO members hope that Sweden will become a member in time for a mid-July summit in Vilnius. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said that Blinken met Fidan on the sidelines of the Ukraine Recovery Summit in London. Blinken stressed the importance of NATO unity at a critical time when Russia has invaded Ukraine. Blinken welcomed Ankara's support for Kyiv and its work on the grain deal which enables exports of Ukrainian foodgrains from Black Sea ports. The secretary of state urged Turkey last month to immediately finalise Sweden's accession to the bloc. Sweden and Finland reversed their decades-old policy of non-alignment last year and applied for NATO membership after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Watch | UK unveils $3 billion backing for Ukraine reconstruction × Finland joined NATO in April but Turkey continues to block Sweden's membership. Just last week Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that Sweden should not expect green light from Ankara at the Vilnius summit unless it prevents anti-Turkey protests in Stockholm. Turkey says Sweden harbours members of militant groups it considers to be terrorists. Sweden recently introduced a new law to make it harder to finance or support terrorist groups. On Wednesday, Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom said that the Turkish parliament should start ratification of Sweden's bid as Stockholm has now met its obligations under a deal with Ankara. Blinken and Fidan were in London to attend the conference on Ukraine at which allies were due to pledge billions of dollars in economic and reconstruction aid. Fidan said he was there to demonstrate Turkey's support for Ukraine. "The truth is we may not see eye to eye on every issue, but our longstanding alliance within NATO and other platforms compels us to continue to work together," Fidan said in a video released by the Turkish foreign ministry. Turkey's former intelligence chief, Fidan was appointed by Erdogan this month after his May election victory. US bombers in Sweden On Wednesday, US bomber jets landed in Sweden for the first time for a training exercise. Two American B-1B Lancers landed at Lulea-Kallax airport in northern Sweden on Monday, June 19, the military said. "We are carrying out a joint exercise, both the air force and the army, with the Bomber Task Force," air force spokeswoman Louise Levin told AFP. She reportedly did not provide information on how long would the exercises last. Also Read | Russia claims to have shot down three drones outside Moscow, calls it an attack by Ukraine The military said in a statement that "for the first time in modern times US bomber planes have landed in Sweden". "In these uncertain times and while waiting for NATO membership it is important to have strong partners." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Blinken meets new Turkish foreign minister, urges support for Sweden's NATO bid

US President Joe Biden on Tuesday called Chinese President Xi Jinping a dictator and said Xi was very embarrassed when a Chinese balloon was blown off course over the United States earlier this year.

Biden labels Xi Jinping a dictator, says ‘China’s balloon blunder a great embarrassment’

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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is in Beijing, addressed a press conference on Monday (June 19) following his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is in Beijing, addressed a press conference on Monday (June 19) following his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. During the conference, Blinken said that the US and China both want to stabilise ties. On the other hand, a submersible, which was meant to take tourists to view the wreck of the Titanic, went missing in the Atlantic Ocean, UK-based news outlet BBC reported on Monday (June 19). Click on the headlines to read more: US, China want to stabilise relationship, says Blinken after meeting Xi US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is in Beijing, addressed a press conference on Monday (June 19) following his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. During the conference, Blinken said that the US and China both want to stabilise ties. "In every meeting, I stressed that direct engagement and sustained communication at senior levels is the best way to responsibly manage differences and ensure that competition does not veer into conflict," Blinken told reporters. Submersible to take tourists to Titanic wreck goes missing in Atlantic Ocean A submersible, which was meant to take tourists to view the wreck of the Titanic, went missing in the Atlantic Ocean, UK-based news outlet BBC reported on Monday (June 19). The Boston Coastguard told the media outlet that currently, a search and rescue operation was underway to find the submersible. IndiGo seals biggest ever deal in aviation history, orders 500 Airbus planes Indian budget carrier IndiGo said on Monday (June 19) that it had ordered a record 500 A320 planes from French manufacturer Airbus. This has eclipsed Air India's purchase of 470 jets earlier this year and has set a new record. The multi-billion dollar purchase is the largest ever by number of aircraft. Heatwave in India: Nearly 100 dead in UP & Bihar, authorities urge people to stay indoors Nearly 100 people have died in India's Uttar Pradesh and eastern Bihar over the past few days amid rising heat. As per media reports, the death toll is between 96 and 98. Out of the fatalities reported, 54 deaths were registered in Uttar Pradesh's Ballia district. The authorities found that most of those who died were over the age of 60, while others had pre-existing health conditions that were exacerbated by the intense heat, the Associated Press reported. Greek boat tragedy: Pakistan officials arrest 11 involved in human trafficking Eleven suspects allegedly involved in trafficking Pakistani people to Europe through West Asia (Middle East) and Africa were arrested by Pakistan authorities in the latest crackdown that comes in the wake of several losing their lives in the recent Greece boat tragedy. Caught on camera! Fan throws phone at Bebe Rexha during concert; singer gets 3 stitches on face American singer-songwriter Bleta Rexha, who goes by the stage name Bebe Rexha, is currently touring across North America for her Best F'n Night Of My Life tour. On Sunday, she was performing in New York City when something disastrous happened. As she was walking on the stage at The Rooftop at Pier 17, a fan threw a phone at the singer and she got seriously injured on stage. A video of the same has surfaced online and is currently going viral. At least five Palestinians killed, 91 injured after Israeli military raid in West Bank At least five Palestinians have been killed and 91 others have been wounded after an Israeli military raid on Jenin in the occupied West Bank, said the Palestinian Ministry of Health, on Monday (June 19). This comes as the Israeli forces conducted an early morning raid involving an Apache helicopter for the first time in the West Bank in some two decades. Indian govt-run shipyard to build 'future-proof dry cargo vessel' for Norway Udupi Cochin Shipyard Limited (UCSL), the Indian government-run shipbuilder, has bagged an international order to design and construct six new-generation 3800 DWT cargo vessels for a Norwegian firm Wilson Shipowning AS. Germany: American man charged with murder for attack on US women near Neuschwanstein castle An American man accused of attacking two women from the United States in the German state of Bavaria, last week, which led to the death of one of them and seriously injured the other has been charged with murder and attempted murder, said the officials. The two women were later identified as recent college graduates from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Amazon blames social media sites for allowing 'fake reviews' industry to boom Fake reviews on e-commerce platforms have become one of the most persistent issues that online retailers across the globe have been facing over the past few years. A "cottage industry of fraudsters" has mushroomed on social media platforms and messaging apps, making the shopping experience, a nightmare, for both consumers as well as retailers.

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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke separately to his South Korean and Japanese counterparts, emphasising the importance of “sustained … trilateral cooperation” ahead of his visit to China, the State Department said on Saturday.

Blinken speaks to Japanese, S Korean counterparts ahead of China visit

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with his Chinese counterpart Quan Gang in Beijing. Blinken's trip to China is the highest level one taken by a US official in almost five years. As the two superpowers sought to defuse their escalating rivalry, both sides held talks in the hopes of enhancing communication and averting future conflict.

Blinken in Beijing: Blinken meets counterpart over hopes to improve communication & prevent conflict

Blinken: US to try to avoid miscalculations with China

Blinken will hold meetings in China on June 18-19 and may meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping, sources said. He will be the highest-ranking U.S. government official to visit China since President Joe Biden took office in January 2021, and the first secretary of state in five years.

Blinken heads to Beijing hoping to calm fears of a US-China break

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday refuted media reports about backdoor negotiations on an agreement with Iran amid the freeze in talks on the Iran nuclear program.

Blinken says reports about backdoor talks with Iran inaccurate

Shortly before setting out for Beijing, Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday emphasised the importance of the US and China establishing better lines of communication. He will be the highest-ranking member of the Biden administration to visit China.

Blinken stresses on better US-China communications as he heads to Beijing

U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, a long-time confidant of President Joe Biden, will travel to Beijing amid continuing strains in relations between the world’s two largest economies as part of a trip that begins on June 16, the State Department said in a statement today.

Blinken set to travel to Beijing amid continuing US-China strains

US Secretary of State Antony Bliken will be on a rare visit to China this weekend. The top diplomat will seek to reduce the chances of miscalculation in tense relations between the US and China. However, both countries are expecting that long-term tensions will fester. The US has confirmed that Blinken will go to China this weekend.

"Blinken will meet with senior PRC officials where he will discuss the importance of maintaining open lines of communication to responsibly manage the US-PRC relationship," State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said, referring to the People's Republic of China.

This is the first visit to China by a top US diplomat in nearly five years. The visit was to take place in February but it was scrapped over the incident of a Chinese spy balloon over the US.

Ahead of the trip, Blinken spoke with Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang on the phone and stressed that open lines of communication were important to responsibly manage the relationship between the two countries.

<h2>Souring relations</h2>

Relations between China and the US have soured in recent years over issues like Taiwan, trade, human rights and many more.

Daniel Kritenbrink, the top State Department official for East Asia, said that the United States was "realistic" about what Blinken could achieve.

"We're not going to Beijing with the intent of having some sort of breakthrough or transformation," Kritenbrink told reporters.

Instead, Blinken is coming with a "sincere desire to manage our competition in the most responsible way possible".

The United States hopes the trip "will, at a minimum, reduce the risk of miscalculation so that we do not veer into potential conflict".

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US leaders across political parties have regarded China as the foremost of US competitor.&nbsp;

"We know efforts to shape or reform China over several decades have failed," said Kurt Campbell, who leads Asia policy at the White House.&nbsp;

"We expect China to be around -- to be a major player -- on the world stage for the rest of our lifetimes," he told reporters.

He added that the US expected China to take more 'provocative steps' over Taiwan.

China considers Taiwan to be its own territory and has not ruled out the use of force to retake the island. Chinese fighter jets and even drones routinely cross the median line of the Taiwan Strait.

China has accused the United States of stirring up trouble in Taiwan through arms sales and visits by senior lawmakers -- allegations rejected by Washington, which says it seeks to preserve the status quo by helping Taipei defend itself.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-meddle-in-taiwan-issue-chinese-foreign-minister-qin-tells-us-antony-blinken-604232">'Don’t meddle in Taiwan issue': Chinese Foreign Minister Qin tells US’ Antony Blinken</a>

China struck a confrontational tone in a readout of the call with Blinken, saying that Qin had warned that relations between the two countries had faced "new difficulties and challenges" since the beginning of the year.

"It's clear who is responsible," Qin said, according to the Chinese foreign ministry.

"China has always viewed and managed China-US relations in accordance with the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation put forward by President Xi Jinping," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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US Secretary of State Antony Bliken will be on a rare visit to China this weekend. The top diplomat will seek to reduce the chances of miscalculation in tense relations between the US and China.

US Secretary of State Antony Bliken will be on a rare visit to China this weekend. The top diplomat will seek to reduce the chances of miscalculation in tense relations between the US and China. However, both countries are expecting that long-term tensions will fester. The US has confirmed that Blinken will go to China this weekend. "Blinken will meet with senior PRC officials where he will discuss the importance of maintaining open lines of communication to responsibly manage the US-PRC relationship," State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said, referring to the People's Republic of China. This is the first visit to China by a top US diplomat in nearly five years. The visit was to take place in February but it was scrapped over the incident of a Chinese spy balloon over the US. Ahead of the trip, Blinken spoke with Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang on the phone and stressed that open lines of communication were important to responsibly manage the relationship between the two countries. Souring relations Relations between China and the US have soured in recent years over issues like Taiwan, trade, human rights and many more. Daniel Kritenbrink, the top State Department official for East Asia, said that the United States was "realistic" about what Blinken could achieve. "We're not going to Beijing with the intent of having some sort of breakthrough or transformation," Kritenbrink told reporters. Instead, Blinken is coming with a "sincere desire to manage our competition in the most responsible way possible". The United States hopes the trip "will, at a minimum, reduce the risk of miscalculation so that we do not veer into potential conflict". Watch | Antony Blinken meets Mohammed bin Salman, discusses human rights × US leaders across political parties have regarded China as the foremost of US competitor. "We know efforts to shape or reform China over several decades have failed," said Kurt Campbell, who leads Asia policy at the White House. "We expect China to be around -- to be a major player -- on the world stage for the rest of our lifetimes," he told reporters. He added that the US expected China to take more 'provocative steps' over Taiwan. China considers Taiwan to be its own territory and has not ruled out the use of force to retake the island. Chinese fighter jets and even drones routinely cross the median line of the Taiwan Strait. China has accused the United States of stirring up trouble in Taiwan through arms sales and visits by senior lawmakers -- allegations rejected by Washington, which says it seeks to preserve the status quo by helping Taipei defend itself. Also Read | 'Don’t meddle in Taiwan issue': Chinese Foreign Minister Qin tells US’ Antony Blinken China struck a confrontational tone in a readout of the call with Blinken, saying that Qin had warned that relations between the two countries had faced "new difficulties and challenges" since the beginning of the year. "It's clear who is responsible," Qin said, according to the Chinese foreign ministry. "China has always viewed and managed China-US relations in accordance with the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation put forward by President Xi Jinping," he added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US State Department confirms Blinken will visit China this weekend

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday credited US diplomacy for slowing down Chinese effort to project military power and espionage around the world. Blinken's statement came ahead of his visit to Beijing later this week. He was asked about Washington's response to Wall Street Journal report that said that a new Chinese spying effort against the US was underway in Cuba.

Blinken said that Chinese efforts in Cuba were part of its global efforts to expand its presence overseas. He said that US actions to address this since US President Joe Biden took office have produced results. He did not specify what these results were.&nbsp;

"Our experts assess that our diplomatic efforts have slowed down this effort by the PRC," Blinken said, referring to the People's Republic of China.

On Monday, China said that it was not using Cuba as a spying base.

Watch | China using secret base in Cuba to spy on U.S., Biden admin official confirms

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Blinken said that during the administration of former president Donald Trump, the US knew about a 2019 Chinese upgrade of intelligence-collection facilities in Cuba. However, he said, efforts to address this "weren't making enough progress'.

<h2>Incoming administration was briefed</h2>

Incoming Biden administration officials were briefed about Chinese efforts to "expand their overseas logistics, basing, collection infrastructure, to allow them to project and sustain military power at a greater distance", including the upgrade in Cuba, Blinken said.

The secretary of state said that President Biden told his team to take a more direct approach. This has included engaging with governments that are considering hosting Chinese base and exchanging information with them.

"We’ve been executing on that approach quietly, carefully - but, in our judgment, with results - ever since. I can’t get into every step that we’ve taken, but the strategy begins with diplomacy," Blinken said.

The relations between the US and China have been strained in recent times. The issues range from Taiwan to Chinese spy balloons and more.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-not-again-donald-trump-accused-of-lifting-monologue-from-ben-afflecks-air-without-consent-603316">Not again! Donald Trump accused of lifting monologue from Ben Affleck's 'Air' without consent</a>

China considers Taiwan its own territory and has not ruled out use of force to capture the self-ruled island nation. Chinese fighter planes and drones cross the median line in the Taiwan Strait many times, prompting Taiwan to scramble its own fighter jets.&nbsp;

The United States is the biggest backer of Taiwan internationally and regularly conducts freedom of navigation in the Taiwan Strait. The stance taken by China and the US often finds them at odds with each other.

(With inputs from agencies)

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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday credited US diplomacy for slowing down Chinese effort to project military power and espionage around the world. Blinken's statement came ahead of his visit to Beijing later this week.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday credited US diplomacy for slowing down Chinese effort to project military power and espionage around the world. Blinken's statement came ahead of his visit to Beijing later this week. He was asked about Washington's response to Wall Street Journal report that said that a new Chinese spying effort against the US was underway in Cuba. Blinken said that Chinese efforts in Cuba were part of its global efforts to expand its presence overseas. He said that US actions to address this since US President Joe Biden took office have produced results. He did not specify what these results were. "Our experts assess that our diplomatic efforts have slowed down this effort by the PRC," Blinken said, referring to the People's Republic of China. On Monday, China said that it was not using Cuba as a spying base. Watch | China using secret base in Cuba to spy on U.S., Biden admin official confirms × Blinken said that during the administration of former president Donald Trump, the US knew about a 2019 Chinese upgrade of intelligence-collection facilities in Cuba. However, he said, efforts to address this "weren't making enough progress'. Incoming administration was briefed Incoming Biden administration officials were briefed about Chinese efforts to "expand their overseas logistics, basing, collection infrastructure, to allow them to project and sustain military power at a greater distance", including the upgrade in Cuba, Blinken said. The secretary of state said that President Biden told his team to take a more direct approach. This has included engaging with governments that are considering hosting Chinese base and exchanging information with them. "We’ve been executing on that approach quietly, carefully - but, in our judgment, with results - ever since. I can’t get into every step that we’ve taken, but the strategy begins with diplomacy," Blinken said. The relations between the US and China have been strained in recent times. The issues range from Taiwan to Chinese spy balloons and more. Also Read | Not again! Donald Trump accused of lifting monologue from Ben Affleck's 'Air' without consent China considers Taiwan its own territory and has not ruled out use of force to capture the self-ruled island nation. Chinese fighter planes and drones cross the median line in the Taiwan Strait many times, prompting Taiwan to scramble its own fighter jets. The United States is the biggest backer of Taiwan internationally and regularly conducts freedom of navigation in the Taiwan Strait. The stance taken by China and the US often finds them at odds with each other. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Blinken credits US diplomacy for slowing Chinese spying activity

Joe Biden and Xi Jinping met in Bali in November and agreed to try to stop high tensions from soaring out of control, including by sending Blinken to Beijing. Blinken abruptly canceled a trip scheduled in early February. Back then, a Chinese balloon, which Beijing denies was a government spy vessel, spent a week flying over the US And Canada, before being shot down. The two sides have more recently looked again to keep tensions in check. Biden's national security advisor jake sullivan and top Chinese diplomat wang yi held an extensive closed-door meeting in Vienna last month. Tensions have risen sharply between the world's two largest economies in recent years, especially over Taiwan. The two countries are also at odds over China's increasingly assertive posture in the region and over trade and human rights. The u.S. President has looked to limited areas for cooperation with China, such as climate change.

US & China look to keep tensions in check | Disagreements over Taiwan, trade & human rights

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will travel to China this month, in the latest sign that Beijing and Washington are beginning to stabilize a turbulent bilateral relationship that had sunk to the lowest point in decades.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken looks to travel to China for talks in coming weeks: US official

At least four Nigerians were killed in an attack on a convoy of two United States&nbsp;government vehicles in Nigeria on Tuesday, US&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, adding that the attack did not appear to be directed at the US&nbsp;mission there.

In a statement on Wednesday, Blinken said the US&nbsp;mission and its Nigerian counterparts were working to ascertain the location and condition of those unaccounted for. In all, there were nine Nigerian nationals in the convoy, he said.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/secretary-of-state-antony-blinken-to-attend-us-pacific-islands-summit-as-biden-cancels-his-png-trip-593769">Secretary of State Antony Blinken to attend US-Pacific Islands summit as Biden cancels his PNG trip</a>

The convoy was carrying five employees of the US&nbsp;mission to Nigeria and four members of the Nigeria Police Force. They were travelling in advance of a planned visit by US&nbsp;mission personnel to a US-funded flood response project in Nigeria's Anambra state, Blinken said.

"We condemn in the strongest terms this attack," Blinken said. "We will work closely with our Nigerian law enforcement colleagues in seeking to bring those responsible to justice," he added.

WATCH | Antony Blinken to visit Vietnam as Asia tensions flare

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"The United States has no greater priority than the safety and security of our personnel," he said. "We express our heartfelt condolences to the families of those killed in the attack, and pledge to do everything possible to safely recover those who remain missing," he stated.

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At least four Nigerians were killed in an attack on a convoy of two United States government vehicles in Nigeria on Tuesday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, adding that the attack did not appear to be directed at the US mission there.

At least four Nigerians were killed in an attack on a convoy of two United States government vehicles in Nigeria on Tuesday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, adding that the attack did not appear to be directed at the US mission there. In a statement on Wednesday, Blinken said the US mission and its Nigerian counterparts were working to ascertain the location and condition of those unaccounted for. In all, there were nine Nigerian nationals in the convoy, he said. ALSO READ | Secretary of State Antony Blinken to attend US-Pacific Islands summit as Biden cancels his PNG trip The convoy was carrying five employees of the US mission to Nigeria and four members of the Nigeria Police Force. They were travelling in advance of a planned visit by US mission personnel to a US-funded flood response project in Nigeria's Anambra state, Blinken said. "We condemn in the strongest terms this attack," Blinken said. "We will work closely with our Nigerian law enforcement colleagues in seeking to bring those responsible to justice," he added. WATCH | Antony Blinken to visit Vietnam as Asia tensions flare "The United States has no greater priority than the safety and security of our personnel," he said. "We express our heartfelt condolences to the families of those killed in the attack, and pledge to do everything possible to safely recover those who remain missing," he stated. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

At least four Nigerians killed in attack on US convoy, Blinken says

The content of Hunter Biden's laptop has been the source of hundreds of articles & allegations against the 53-year-old one-time financier. His alleged past business dealings in Ukraine & china continue to shadow joe Biden. Now, a former CIA official has reportedly said that Biden campaign & Blinken orchestrated the hunter Biden cover-up story. The U.S. State department is, so far, silent on the issue. Weeks before the 2020 election that pitted joe Biden against trump, the New York post claimed it had emails & documents from hunter Biden's laptop. The emails & documents reportedly implicated hunter Biden and his father in questionable business dealings with Ukraine, while Biden was vice president in 2015. At a 2020 debate, Biden cited a letter from 51 former intelligence officials to claim the laptop story was a r\Russian disinformation campaign. Former CIA deputy Michael Morell reportedly told the house judiciary & intelligence committees that Blinken was the impetus for the letter.

Hunter Biden's alleged past dealings in Ukraine and china continue to shadow U.S. President

The FBI's probe into the crashed alleged Chinese spy balloon has raised worries in China and because of this it is refusing to let US secretary of state Antony Blinken visit Beijing, reported Financial Times citing sources familiar with the discussions.&nbsp;

Four persons involved with the discussions claimed that China had informed the US that it was unwilling to reschedule a trip that Blinken had postponed in February, reported Financial Times.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-approves-electronic-enlistment-bill-clamps-down-on-russians-who-dodge-military-service-582599">Putin approves electronic call-up bill, clamps down on Russians who dodge military service</a>

In February, Blinken was scheduled to meet with President Xi Jinping in China but unexpectedly postponed his trip because of the balloon saga.&nbsp;FBI has been examining the debris that was recovered from it. There are conflicting stances from both sides. China claims it was a weather balloon that went off track, contrary to the US's claim that the device was eavesdropping on secret military facilities.

Chinese authorities are worried that the FBI investigation and tangible evidence from the balloon would be released by the Biden administration, and that the study's conclusions might be made known during Blinken's visit to China.

According to three persons with knowledge of the discussion, Qin Gang, China's foreign minister, brought up the subject with Americans attending the China Development Forum in Beijing last month. One source said Qin cited the FBI probe as another problem that made it challenging to normalise US-China relations.

US authorities emphasise that China's balloon flight across its airspace is what started the situation. Inquiries about whether the probe will be made public were refused by the FBI and National Security Council.

The matter has also prompted disagreements inside the Biden administration, with some officials wishing to declassify the information to demonstrate that the balloon was spying. Additionally, the FBI's findings are likely to be released under pressure from Congress.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-leak-us-president-biden-says-probe-will-examine-why-leaker-had-classified-access-582597">Pentagon leak: US President Biden says investigation will examine why leaker had classified access</a>

Others, however, contend that revealing the material would thwart efforts to relaunch the countries' much-needed high-level interaction. Beijing's approach, according to Bonnie Glaser of the German Marshall Fund, indicated its worries about how the US might utilise the incident going forward.

“Beijing is distrustful of US intent and worries the US will use the information gleaned from the balloon investigation in ways harmful to Chinese interests,” Glaser said.

Watch | Macron's pension reform gets constitutional green light despite raging protests

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On visit plans to China, Blinken told FT that&nbsp;it is “important to maintain channels of communication” with China to make sure both sides were “speaking to each other clearly”.

“When it comes to my own visit to China, when the conditions are right I’ll certainly look forward to pursuing that."&nbsp; 
 
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The FBI's probe into the crashed alleged Chinese spy balloon has raised worries in China and because of this it is refusing to let US secretary of state Antony Blinken visit Beijing, reported Financial Times citing sources familiar with the discussions.

The FBI's probe into the crashed alleged Chinese spy balloon has raised worries in China and because of this it is refusing to let US secretary of state Antony Blinken visit Beijing, reported Financial Times citing sources familiar with the discussions. Four persons involved with the discussions claimed that China had informed the US that it was unwilling to reschedule a trip that Blinken had postponed in February, reported Financial Times. Also Read | Putin approves electronic call-up bill, clamps down on Russians who dodge military service In February, Blinken was scheduled to meet with President Xi Jinping in China but unexpectedly postponed his trip because of the balloon saga. FBI has been examining the debris that was recovered from it. There are conflicting stances from both sides. China claims it was a weather balloon that went off track, contrary to the US's claim that the device was eavesdropping on secret military facilities. Chinese authorities are worried that the FBI investigation and tangible evidence from the balloon would be released by the Biden administration, and that the study's conclusions might be made known during Blinken's visit to China. According to three persons with knowledge of the discussion, Qin Gang, China's foreign minister, brought up the subject with Americans attending the China Development Forum in Beijing last month. One source said Qin cited the FBI probe as another problem that made it challenging to normalise US-China relations. US authorities emphasise that China's balloon flight across its airspace is what started the situation. Inquiries about whether the probe will be made public were refused by the FBI and National Security Council. The matter has also prompted disagreements inside the Biden administration, with some officials wishing to declassify the information to demonstrate that the balloon was spying. Additionally, the FBI's findings are likely to be released under pressure from Congress. Also Read | Pentagon leak: US President Biden says investigation will examine why leaker had classified access Others, however, contend that revealing the material would thwart efforts to relaunch the countries' much-needed high-level interaction. Beijing's approach, according to Bonnie Glaser of the German Marshall Fund, indicated its worries about how the US might utilise the incident going forward. “Beijing is distrustful of US intent and worries the US will use the information gleaned from the balloon investigation in ways harmful to Chinese interests,” Glaser said. Watch | Macron's pension reform gets constitutional green light despite raging protests × On visit plans to China, Blinken told FT that it is “important to maintain channels of communication” with China to make sure both sides were “speaking to each other clearly”. “When it comes to my own visit to China, when the conditions are right I’ll certainly look forward to pursuing that." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China unwilling to reschedule Blinken’s Beijing visit, concerned about investigation into spy balloon

Mexico President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on Friday (March 24) responded to comments from US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and denied that parts of Mexico were controlled by drug cartels.

Blinken said in a congressional hearing on Wednesday (March 22) that it was "fair to say" that parts of Mexico were controlled by cartels instead of the government.

"It’s false," Lopez Obrador said in a regular news conference. "There is no place in the country that does not have the presence of authorities."

Obrador's comments came after a US State Department report said that credible evidence of human rights abuses, government-led disappearances and torture existed in Mexico.

He appeared to take a softer tone against the United States on Friday, saying that Blinken, whom he called a good guy, was ‘just doing his job’.

Lopez Obrador has pointed to fentanyl being trafficked across the border by U.S. citizens, rather than undocumented migrants, and blamed the crisis in part on the deterioration of family values and lack of government support for families.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Mexico President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on Friday (March 24) responded to comments from US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and denied that parts of Mexico were controlled by drug cartels.

Mexico President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on Friday (March 24) responded to comments from US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and denied that parts of Mexico were controlled by drug cartels. Blinken said in a congressional hearing on Wednesday (March 22) that it was "fair to say" that parts of Mexico were controlled by cartels instead of the government. "It’s false," Lopez Obrador said in a regular news conference. "There is no place in the country that does not have the presence of authorities." Obrador's comments came after a US State Department report said that credible evidence of human rights abuses, government-led disappearances and torture existed in Mexico. He appeared to take a softer tone against the United States on Friday, saying that Blinken, whom he called a good guy, was ‘just doing his job’. Lopez Obrador has pointed to fentanyl being trafficked across the border by U.S. citizens, rather than undocumented migrants, and blamed the crisis in part on the deterioration of family values and lack of government support for families. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Mexico president refutes Blinken’s claims, says drug cartels don’t run the country

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday (March 16) vowed to broaden support for violence-ridden Sahel region in Africa beyond just security. He pitched the United States as a better partner than Russia which is seeking to broaden its footprint in the region.

Speaking to AFP on the highest-level visit ever by a US official to Niger, Blinken called for moving on from what was often seen as a military-first approach by the United States and former colonial power France, which wound up a controversial nine-year operation in Mali in November.

"We're in the midst of building something relatively new," Blinken said in an interview late Thursday in the capital Niamey.

"We absolutely have to have a holistic, comprehensive approach in which security is absolutely necessary but is not enough."

"The fact that Niger, which is obviously one of the poorest countries on earth, is doing this so effectively, I think only underscores the importance of taking this comprehensive approach."

Blinken made announcement of USD 150 million in a fresh humanitarian aid to Niger. The secretary of state highlighted US support for a programme to rehabilitate former extremists as well as a major US initiative to improve irrigation and climate-resilient agriculture&nbsp;

But Blinken acknowledged the desire for security ties with Niger, where the United States has stationed forces and built Air Base 201 in the desert to fly drones deep into the Sahel.&nbsp;

France also maintains more than 1,000 troops under a long-running anti-jihadist mission, which is being reconfigured following its pullout from neighbouring Mali.

(With inputs from agencies)

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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday (March 16) vowed to broaden support for violence-ridden Sahel region in Africa beyond just security. He pitched the United States as a better partner than Russia which is seeking to broaden its footprint in the region.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday (March 16) vowed to broaden support for violence-ridden Sahel region in Africa beyond just security. He pitched the United States as a better partner than Russia which is seeking to broaden its footprint in the region. Speaking to AFP on the highest-level visit ever by a US official to Niger, Blinken called for moving on from what was often seen as a military-first approach by the United States and former colonial power France, which wound up a controversial nine-year operation in Mali in November. "We're in the midst of building something relatively new," Blinken said in an interview late Thursday in the capital Niamey. "We absolutely have to have a holistic, comprehensive approach in which security is absolutely necessary but is not enough." "The fact that Niger, which is obviously one of the poorest countries on earth, is doing this so effectively, I think only underscores the importance of taking this comprehensive approach." Blinken made announcement of USD 150 million in a fresh humanitarian aid to Niger. The secretary of state highlighted US support for a programme to rehabilitate former extremists as well as a major US initiative to improve irrigation and climate-resilient agriculture But Blinken acknowledged the desire for security ties with Niger, where the United States has stationed forces and built Air Base 201 in the desert to fly drones deep into the Sahel. France also maintains more than 1,000 troops under a long-running anti-jihadist mission, which is being reconfigured following its pullout from neighbouring Mali. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US a better partner than Russia in Sahel region: Anthony Blinken

In Global Round-Up by WION, we bring you news from around the world. In today's edition - Blinken all set to meet Ethiopia's Abiy in a bid to renew ties, UN officials working to renew Black Sea grain deal and strike grips Sri Lanka as Unions protest IMF bailout.

Blinken to meet Ethiopia's Abiy; UN officials work on renewing Black Sea deal | WION Global Round-up

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed discussed efforts to reach sustainable peace in Tigray on Wednesday, Blinken's spokesperson said, as both sides seek to mend diplomatic ties damaged by the war there.

Blinken visits Ethiopia, next stop is Niger

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the sidelines of G20 meet were "constructive" but that the US said nothing new. Both leaders met during the G20 foreign ministers' meeting in India last week. Russia and US are at two opposite ends of political manoeuvres especially after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February last year.&nbsp;

Lavrov was speaking during an interview on Russian state TV. He said that he spoke with Blinken for 10 minutes and both of them discussed nuclear arms issues and the conflict in Ukraine. This was the first meeting between the two leaders since the Russian invasion.

"We spoke constructively, without emotions, we shook hands," Lavrov said.

"Everything I heard was a position that has already been expressed and underlined in public many times before. I gave my honest, detailed assessment about the New START treaty, and why we saw it necessary to suspend it," he said.

Last month, Russian President Vladimir Putin suspended Russian participation in the new START nuclear arms treaty. He accused the US of trying to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia in the Ukraine conflict. 
 
Russia said on Friday it was still in contact with Washington over the treaty, but held out little prospect of returning to it.

Russia attacked Ukraine on February 24 last year. After sustained gains in the first months of the conflict, Russian forces had to retreat in face of Ukrainian counter-offensive. Russian&nbsp;forces are currently trying very hard to capture the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
&nbsp;

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Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the sidelines of G20 meet were "constructive" but that the US said nothing new.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the sidelines of G20 meet were "constructive" but that the US said nothing new. Both leaders met during the G20 foreign ministers' meeting in India last week. Russia and US are at two opposite ends of political manoeuvres especially after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February last year. Lavrov was speaking during an interview on Russian state TV. He said that he spoke with Blinken for 10 minutes and both of them discussed nuclear arms issues and the conflict in Ukraine. This was the first meeting between the two leaders since the Russian invasion. "We spoke constructively, without emotions, we shook hands," Lavrov said. "Everything I heard was a position that has already been expressed and underlined in public many times before. I gave my honest, detailed assessment about the New START treaty, and why we saw it necessary to suspend it," he said. Last month, Russian President Vladimir Putin suspended Russian participation in the new START nuclear arms treaty. He accused the US of trying to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia in the Ukraine conflict. Russia said on Friday it was still in contact with Washington over the treaty, but held out little prospect of returning to it. Russia attacked Ukraine on February 24 last year. After sustained gains in the first months of the conflict, Russian forces had to retreat in face of Ukrainian counter-offensive. Russian forces are currently trying very hard to capture the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Talks with Blinken at G20 ‘constructive’ but US said nothing new: Lavrov

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in the Indian capital, New Delhi, on Wednesday, to attend the G20 Foreign Affairs Ministers' Meeting.&nbsp;The US diplomat while speaking with reporters in Tashkent earlier, said, he has no plans to meet Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang at the G20 Foreign Affairs Meeting in New Delhi.&nbsp;

"No plans to see either (China or Russia's foreign ministers) at the G20, although I suspect that we will certainly be in group sessions of one kind or another together," Blinken told reporters in the Uzbek capital.

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The G20 foreign ministers' meeting comes days after India hosted the G20 finance ministers' meeting in Bengaluru in the Indian state of Karnataka.&nbsp;India's G20 presidency comes at a crucial time when the war in Ukraine continues to wage on. The meeting brings leaders from all the major economies under one umbrella, however, there are differences in the members of the grouping over the war.&nbsp;

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The conflict in Eastern Europe emerged as one of the major points of discussion during the finance ministers' meeting.&nbsp;As there was no consensus, the meeting had to be concluded without a joint communique and only a “chair’s summary and outcome document” which is said to simply summarise the talks and noted disagreements was released.&nbsp;

Blinken arrived in India after wrapping up his visit to the Central Asian Nations of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.&nbsp;

His first visit was to Kazakhstan where he met his counterpart. Blinken on Tuesday held talks with Kazakh foreign minister Mukhtar Tileuberdi and Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.&nbsp;

Later, Blinken took part in a meeting of the "C5+1" diplomatic platform, which represents the US approach to Central Asia, jointly engaging all five Central Asian governments, namely Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.&nbsp;

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During his visit to Tashkent, Blinken welcomed the reform agenda of the country in his talks with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in a closed-door meeting.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in the Indian capital, New Delhi, on Wednesday, to attend the G20 Foreign Affairs Ministers' Meeting. The US diplomat while speaking with reporters in Tashkent earlier, said, he has no plans to meet Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang at the G20 Foreign Affairs Meeting in New Delhi.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in the Indian capital, New Delhi, on Wednesday, to attend the G20 Foreign Affairs Ministers' Meeting. The US diplomat while speaking with reporters in Tashkent earlier, said, he has no plans to meet Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang at the G20 Foreign Affairs Meeting in New Delhi. "No plans to see either (China or Russia's foreign ministers) at the G20, although I suspect that we will certainly be in group sessions of one kind or another together," Blinken told reporters in the Uzbek capital. Also Read | Biden appoints two prominent Indian American corporate leaders to his Export Council The G20 foreign ministers' meeting comes days after India hosted the G20 finance ministers' meeting in Bengaluru in the Indian state of Karnataka. India's G20 presidency comes at a crucial time when the war in Ukraine continues to wage on. The meeting brings leaders from all the major economies under one umbrella, however, there are differences in the members of the grouping over the war. Also Read | BBC must follow law, EAM Jaishankar tells UK Foreign secretary The conflict in Eastern Europe emerged as one of the major points of discussion during the finance ministers' meeting. As there was no consensus, the meeting had to be concluded without a joint communique and only a “chair’s summary and outcome document” which is said to simply summarise the talks and noted disagreements was released. Blinken arrived in India after wrapping up his visit to the Central Asian Nations of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. His first visit was to Kazakhstan where he met his counterpart. Blinken on Tuesday held talks with Kazakh foreign minister Mukhtar Tileuberdi and Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Later, Blinken took part in a meeting of the "C5+1" diplomatic platform, which represents the US approach to Central Asia, jointly engaging all five Central Asian governments, namely Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Watch | EU bans TikTok on work devices amid data security breaches During his visit to Tashkent, Blinken welcomed the reform agenda of the country in his talks with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in a closed-door meeting. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US secretary of state Blinken arrives in Delhi, to attend G20 foreign ministers' meet Thursday

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Turkey to show support to the earthquake-hit country. Blinken announced further aid to Turkey and said Washington would provide longer term help to Ankara as it seeks to rebuild following this month's earthquake.

Top U.S. Diplomat announces fresh set of aid to Turkiye

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is mulling a meet with China's former foreign minister and top diplomat Wang Yi at a security conference later this week, reported Bloomberg citing sources. Blinken and Wang Yi would meet at the Munich Security Conference if both sides agree to hold discussions, Bloomberg sources added on condition of anonymity. The conference is scheduled from 17 February to 19 February in Germany.&nbsp;

US-China relationship has long been challenged by a number of issues including human rights and global market competition. Earlier, Blinken was set to kick off his visit to China on 5 February which led to anticipations that the two countries would productively engage and seek to reset ties.&nbsp;

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However, the recent Chinese "spy" balloon controversy compounded the tensions and caused furore between the nations. With this, Blinken's visit was postponed indefinitely.&nbsp;

Both countries traded barbs after the Chinese "spy" balloon was found floating in American skies. Beijing chastised Washington, calling Pentagon's shooting down of the balloon off the coast of South Carolina unnecessary. &nbsp;

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China has maintained that the balloon was a weather-monitoring gadget that veered off course, while the US contends that it was a component of China's surveillance mission.

The United States shot down a fourth object on Sunday over Michigan. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin at a press briefing on Monday said, “It is nothing rare for US balloons to illegally enter other country’s airspace." 
“We reserve the right to take necessary means to deal with relevant incidents.”

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However, the United States readily refuted the allegations saying that this is the "latest example of China scrambling to do damage control.”&nbsp;

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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is mulling a meet with China's former foreign minister and top diplomat Wang Yi at a security conference later this week, reported Bloomberg citing sources.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is mulling a meet with China's former foreign minister and top diplomat Wang Yi at a security conference later this week, reported Bloomberg citing sources. Blinken and Wang Yi would meet at the Munich Security Conference if both sides agree to hold discussions, Bloomberg sources added on condition of anonymity. The conference is scheduled from 17 February to 19 February in Germany. US-China relationship has long been challenged by a number of issues including human rights and global market competition. Earlier, Blinken was set to kick off his visit to China on 5 February which led to anticipations that the two countries would productively engage and seek to reset ties. Also Read | France's lynx population 'desperately' needs help to survive: Report However, the recent Chinese "spy" balloon controversy compounded the tensions and caused furore between the nations. With this, Blinken's visit was postponed indefinitely. Both countries traded barbs after the Chinese "spy" balloon was found floating in American skies. Beijing chastised Washington, calling Pentagon's shooting down of the balloon off the coast of South Carolina unnecessary. Also Read | Moldovan President Maia Sandu reveals Russia’s plans to topple its government China has maintained that the balloon was a weather-monitoring gadget that veered off course, while the US contends that it was a component of China's surveillance mission. The United States shot down a fourth object on Sunday over Michigan. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin at a press briefing on Monday said, “It is nothing rare for US balloons to illegally enter other country’s airspace." “We reserve the right to take necessary means to deal with relevant incidents.” Watch | This heart-shaped island is up for sale ahead of Valentine's Day However, the United States readily refuted the allegations saying that this is the "latest example of China scrambling to do damage control.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Blinken, Wang Yi likely to meet in Germany for first time since China 'spy' balloon row: Report

In a meeting with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg in Washington, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed the US' support for Ukraine as well as Sweden's and Finland's efforts to join the alliance. But one of the hot topic of discussions was&nbsp;the political flare&nbsp;that developed between US and China&nbsp;after a Chinese "spy"&nbsp;balloon was sighted in the&nbsp;US skies&nbsp;last week.

Blinken stated that the US will inform Congress as well as allies worldwide of its findings on the balloon that was shot down off the US's east coast over the weekend. He continued by saying that the US Navy was still working to retrieve the balloon fragments.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-bird-caged-in-turkey-after-anger-swamped-social-media-over-erdogans-quake-response-560125">Twitter bird 'caged' in Turkey after anger swamped social media over Erdogan's quake response</a>

“Last week, Beijing violated international law and US sovereignty with the presence of a Chinese surveillance balloon in US airspace,” Blinken reportedly told media on Wednesday at a news conference with Stoltenberg.

China, on the other hand, has been denying any surveillance saying it was a Chinese civil airship. Blinken added that US is analysing the debris of the balloon to understand more about the surveillance program. China presented “systemic and tactical challenges” to the NATO alliance, he added.&nbsp;

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Meanwhile, Stoltenberg said that&nbsp;Putin launched his illegal war of aggression almost a year ago.&nbsp;“Since then, NATO allies have provided unprecedented support for Ukraine. Around $120bn in military, humanitarian and financial assistance.”

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In addition to the US' willingness for Sweden and Finland's NATO membership bid, Blinken noted that Washington has sent Ukraine nearly $30bn in military aid since the conflict began last February, which included humanitarian as well as economic aid.

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In a meeting with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg in Washington, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed the US' support for Ukraine as well as Sweden's and Finland's efforts to join the alliance.

In a meeting with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg in Washington, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed the US' support for Ukraine as well as Sweden's and Finland's efforts to join the alliance. But one of the hot topic of discussions was the political flare that developed between US and China after a Chinese "spy" balloon was sighted in the US skies last week. Blinken stated that the US will inform Congress as well as allies worldwide of its findings on the balloon that was shot down off the US's east coast over the weekend. He continued by saying that the US Navy was still working to retrieve the balloon fragments. Also Read | Twitter bird 'caged' in Turkey after anger swamped social media over Erdogan's quake response “Last week, Beijing violated international law and US sovereignty with the presence of a Chinese surveillance balloon in US airspace,” Blinken reportedly told media on Wednesday at a news conference with Stoltenberg. China, on the other hand, has been denying any surveillance saying it was a Chinese civil airship. Blinken added that US is analysing the debris of the balloon to understand more about the surveillance program. China presented “systemic and tactical challenges” to the NATO alliance, he added. Also Read | Is God gender-neutral? Church of England to explore terms for God in prayers Meanwhile, Stoltenberg said that Putin launched his illegal war of aggression almost a year ago. “Since then, NATO allies have provided unprecedented support for Ukraine. Around $120bn in military, humanitarian and financial assistance.” Watch | Turkiye earthquake survivors recall horror In addition to the US' willingness for Sweden and Finland's NATO membership bid, Blinken noted that Washington has sent Ukraine nearly $30bn in military aid since the conflict began last February, which included humanitarian as well as economic aid. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US to share findings on Chinese 'spy' balloon with Congress, allies: Blinken

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was in West Asia last week, where he held three crucial meetings with regional leaders. Did the three-day quick trip fulfill Washington's hopes? Ghadi Francis decodes the story on this week's The West Asia Post only on WION.

The West Asia Post: Blinken's crucial West Asia visit

A day after meeting the top Israeli leadership, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. During the meet the top US Diplomat reaffirmed Washington's backing for a two-state solution. Blinken criticised settlements in West Bank saying the US will oppose 'anything' that threatens the 2-state solution. He further warned that Palestinian people are facing "a shrinking horizon of hope."

Blinken urges Israeli- Palestinian calm

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