The Trump administration on Friday (Feb 14) dismissed nearly half of the elite Epidemic Intelligence Service (EIS), a storied unit of epidemiologists known as the nation's "disease detectives."&nbsp;
The move, which comes as bird flu fears intensify, has sparked alarm among health experts, who say they're "so angry" by the move.
<h2>Trump firings &nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>
The mass layoffs are part of broader efforts by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency to downsize federal agencies and come as newly confirmed Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. vowed a sweeping overhaul of national health institutions.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/robert-f-kennedy-jr-sworn-in-as-us-health-and-human-services-chief-8720034">Robert F. Kennedy Jr sworn in as US Health and Human Services chief</a>
<h2>'I'm so angry' &mdash; CDC insiders sound the alarm</h2>
Speaking to AFP, a senior epidemiologist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), said, "I'm so angry".
The senior staff member cautioned, "We're on the verge of potentially another pandemic and we're firing the people who have probably more expertise than anyone else in the country collectively".
The layoffs, first reported by CBS News, reportedly mainly target employees still within their probationary period, a window in which federal workers can be dismissed more easily. In total, nearly 1,300 CDC employees&mdash;roughly 10 per cent of the agency's workforce&mdash;were let go. &nbsp;
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<h2>Who are 'disease detectives'?</h2>
'Disease detectives' is the name given to epidemiologists of the elite Epidemic Intelligence Service (EIS).
Founded in 1951, the EIS has been on the frontlines of major outbreaks, from smallpox eradication efforts to the first Ebola cases in Africa and the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Officers, recruited through a rigorous selection process, consist of doctors, nurses, scientists and more. Some of them are stationed at CDC headquarters in Atlanta, others are deployed across the country.
Several CDC chiefs have begun their careers as part of the elite EIS.
The 2024 EIS class was informed on Friday that termination emails would be sent that afternoon. The 2023 class remains under review. There are around 140 officers across both classes.
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Around 30 officers, of both classes, were hired via the US Public Health Service, and are currently unaffected, reports AFP.&nbsp;
"Without those officers we would not have eliminated smallpox from the globe," the CDC epidemiologist said. "We had people fanning across countries, wading through mud and navigating rivers on boats to eliminate smallpox." &nbsp;
This comes as Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was formally appointed the Health Secretary on Friday. RFK Jr has long been vocal about his distrust of infectious disease research. He recently suggested pausing such studies for eight years to prioritise chronic conditions instead. Kennedy has also questioned widely accepted medical science, challenging the role of germs in disease transmission and disputing the link between HIV and AIDS.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news | The Trump administration's decision to dismiss nearly half of the Epidemic Intelligence Service raises serious concerns among health experts as bird flu fears grow.

The Trump administration on Friday (Feb 14) dismissed nearly half of the elite Epidemic Intelligence Service (EIS), a storied unit of epidemiologists known as the nation's "disease detectives." The move, which comes as bird flu fears intensify, has sparked alarm among health experts, who say they're "so angry" by the move. Trump firings The mass layoffs are part of broader efforts by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency to downsize federal agencies and come as newly confirmed Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. vowed a sweeping overhaul of national health institutions. Also read | Robert F. Kennedy Jr sworn in as US Health and Human Services chief 'I'm so angry' — CDC insiders sound the alarm Speaking to AFP, a senior epidemiologist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), said, "I'm so angry". The senior staff member cautioned, "We're on the verge of potentially another pandemic and we're firing the people who have probably more expertise than anyone else in the country collectively". The layoffs, first reported by CBS News, reportedly mainly target employees still within their probationary period, a window in which federal workers can be dismissed more easily. In total, nearly 1,300 CDC employees—roughly 10 per cent of the agency's workforce—were let go. Also read | ‘We will create NATO in Ukraine’: Zelensky on NATO ambitions, Trump’s personal number, and more Who are 'disease detectives'? 'Disease detectives' is the name given to epidemiologists of the elite Epidemic Intelligence Service (EIS). Founded in 1951, the EIS has been on the frontlines of major outbreaks, from smallpox eradication efforts to the first Ebola cases in Africa and the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Officers, recruited through a rigorous selection process, consist of doctors, nurses, scientists and more. Some of them are stationed at CDC headquarters in Atlanta, others are deployed across the country. Several CDC chiefs have begun their careers as part of the elite EIS. The 2024 EIS class was informed on Friday that termination emails would be sent that afternoon. The 2023 class remains under review. There are around 140 officers across both classes. Also read | Trump-Modi 'bromance' in focus as US President gifts Indian PM THIS sentimental present Around 30 officers, of both classes, were hired via the US Public Health Service, and are currently unaffected, reports AFP. "Without those officers we would not have eliminated smallpox from the globe," the CDC epidemiologist said. "We had people fanning across countries, wading through mud and navigating rivers on boats to eliminate smallpox." This comes as Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was formally appointed the Health Secretary on Friday. RFK Jr has long been vocal about his distrust of infectious disease research. He recently suggested pausing such studies for eight years to prioritise chronic conditions instead. Kennedy has also questioned widely accepted medical science, challenging the role of germs in disease transmission and disputing the link between HIV and AIDS. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump administration dismisses nearly half of 'disease detectives' even as bird flu concerns rise

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised concerns about the situation in Bangladesh during his meeting with US President Donald Trump. The discussion took place amid strained relations between New Delhi and Dhaka.
Tensions between India and Bangladesh have increased following the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the establishment of an interim government in August last year. Speculation in Dhaka suggests a possible role of the US &ldquo;deep state&rdquo; in the protests that led to the Awami League government&rsquo;s exit.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-jd-vance-defends-elon-musk-munich-security-conference-election-interference-claims-8721870">'You can survive few months of Elon Musk': US VP JD Vance defends X boss amid election interference claims</a>
When questioned about this speculation before his talks with Modi, Trump denied any US involvement in Bangladesh&rsquo;s political transition. &ldquo;There was no role for our deep state. This is something the Prime Minister has been working on for a long time and has been ongoing for hundreds of years, frankly. I&rsquo;ve been reading about it, but I will leave Bangladesh to the Prime Minister,&rdquo; Trump said, though he did not clarify what efforts he was referring to.
<h2>Discussions</h2>
Following the meeting, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that Bangladesh was among the topics discussed. He stated that Modi shared India&rsquo;s perspective on recent developments in Bangladesh, which may not be well received by the interim administration led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus.
&ldquo;This was a subject discussed between the two leaders. The Prime Minister shared his views and concerns regarding recent developments in Bangladesh and India&rsquo;s perspective on the situation,&rdquo; Misri said.
Although he did not provide further details, India has previously expressed concerns over attacks on minorities in Bangladesh, the growing defence and intelligence ties between Bangladesh and Pakistan, and statements from Bangladeshi student leaders in the interim government that are viewed as contrary to Indian interests. Additionally, New Delhi has raised objections over Dhaka&rsquo;s opposition to completing border fencing along unfenced sections of the India-Bangladesh boundary.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/modi-holds-head-high-in-cross-atlantic-diplomacy-but-us-trade-details-may-hold-surprises-8721710">Modi holds head high in Cross-Atlantic diplomacy, but US trade details may hold surprises</a>
Misri stated that India hopes for a constructive and stable relationship with Bangladesh but acknowledged concerns about the current situation.
In recent weeks, India and Bangladesh have summoned each other&rsquo;s senior diplomats to express objections on various issues. Bangladesh&rsquo;s foreign ministry has protested against what it described as &ldquo;false and fabricated&rdquo; statements made by Hasina from self-exile in India. Meanwhile, India has condemned the destruction of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman&rsquo;s home in Dhaka by a mob.
(With inputs from agencies)

Tensions between India and Bangladesh have increased following the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the establishment of an interim government in August last year.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised concerns about the situation in Bangladesh during his meeting with US President Donald Trump. The discussion took place amid strained relations between New Delhi and Dhaka. Tensions between India and Bangladesh have increased following the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the establishment of an interim government in August last year. Speculation in Dhaka suggests a possible role of the US “deep state” in the protests that led to the Awami League government’s exit. Also read: 'You can survive few months of Elon Musk': US VP JD Vance defends X boss amid election interference claims When questioned about this speculation before his talks with Modi, Trump denied any US involvement in Bangladesh’s political transition. “There was no role for our deep state. This is something the Prime Minister has been working on for a long time and has been ongoing for hundreds of years, frankly. I’ve been reading about it, but I will leave Bangladesh to the Prime Minister,” Trump said, though he did not clarify what efforts he was referring to. Discussions Following the meeting, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that Bangladesh was among the topics discussed. He stated that Modi shared India’s perspective on recent developments in Bangladesh, which may not be well received by the interim administration led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. “This was a subject discussed between the two leaders. The Prime Minister shared his views and concerns regarding recent developments in Bangladesh and India’s perspective on the situation,” Misri said. Although he did not provide further details, India has previously expressed concerns over attacks on minorities in Bangladesh, the growing defence and intelligence ties between Bangladesh and Pakistan, and statements from Bangladeshi student leaders in the interim government that are viewed as contrary to Indian interests. Additionally, New Delhi has raised objections over Dhaka’s opposition to completing border fencing along unfenced sections of the India-Bangladesh boundary. Also read: Modi holds head high in Cross-Atlantic diplomacy, but US trade details may hold surprises Misri stated that India hopes for a constructive and stable relationship with Bangladesh but acknowledged concerns about the current situation. In recent weeks, India and Bangladesh have summoned each other’s senior diplomats to express objections on various issues. Bangladesh’s foreign ministry has protested against what it described as “false and fabricated” statements made by Hasina from self-exile in India. Meanwhile, India has condemned the destruction of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s home in Dhaka by a mob. (With inputs from agencies)

'No role of our deep state': Trump says Bangladesh situation is for PM Modi to address

US President Donald Trump has appointed Usha Vance, wife of US Vice President JD Vance, as a trustee to the John F Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts after claiming the centre was "woke". Recently, Trump dismissed several members of the Centre and expressed his intention to take control of it. He said the fired members did not "share our Vision for a Golden Age in Arts and Culture.&rdquo;
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The US president slammed past performances at the centre and called out drag performances saying they "will stop".&nbsp;
This after Trump, while speaking to a reporter aboard Air Force One on February 11, said the Kennedy Center is "woke". But when the reporter asked if he had ever been there or watched any shows, he said he hadn't but had "got reports". After the video of his statements circulated on social media, he was criticised for his claim.&nbsp;
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<h2>'Smarter than Vance'</h2>
Usha Vance, the Second Lady of the US of Indian origin, has studied at the University of Cambridge on a scholarship funded by Microsoft founder Bill Gates.&nbsp;
She was previously praised by Trump who even called her "smarter than Vance". The president has stated that Usha is "brilliant" and much more accomplished than Vance.&nbsp;
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&ldquo;I would have chosen her, but somehow, the line of succession didn&rsquo;t work that way, right?&rdquo; Trump said.&nbsp;
<h2>Trump's vision for Kennedy Center</h2>
Trump has expressed his desire to have a Kennedy Center that holds performances to appeal to &ldquo;a broader, more inclusive and more balanced audience, instead of those that only appeal to half the country," CBS News reported.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/you-have-lot-of-very-capable-people-trump-denies-endorsing-jd-vance-for-2028-presidential-run-as-gop-candidate-8709323">'You have lot of very capable people': Trump denies endorsing JD Vance for 2028 presidential run as GOP candidate</a>
&ldquo;Mr. Trump doesn&rsquo;t want productions to lean into &lsquo;woke culture,&rsquo; as he believes they have in the past," a source told CBS News.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Trending | World | US President Donald Trump has appointed Usha Vance, wife of US Vice President JD Vance, as a trustee to the John F Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts after claiming the centre was "woke".

US President Donald Trump has appointed Usha Vance, wife of US Vice President JD Vance, as a trustee to the John F Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts after claiming the centre was "woke". Recently, Trump dismissed several members of the Centre and expressed his intention to take control of it. He said the fired members did not "share our Vision for a Golden Age in Arts and Culture.” Also read: Trump blocked THIS news agency from Modi press conference amid 'Gulf of Mexico/America' naming dispute The US president slammed past performances at the centre and called out drag performances saying they "will stop". This after Trump, while speaking to a reporter aboard Air Force One on February 11, said the Kennedy Center is "woke". But when the reporter asked if he had ever been there or watched any shows, he said he hadn't but had "got reports". After the video of his statements circulated on social media, he was criticised for his claim. Also read: Trump-Modi 'bromance' in focus as US President gifts Indian PM THIS sentimental present 'Smarter than Vance' Usha Vance, the Second Lady of the US of Indian origin, has studied at the University of Cambridge on a scholarship funded by Microsoft founder Bill Gates. She was previously praised by Trump who even called her "smarter than Vance". The president has stated that Usha is "brilliant" and much more accomplished than Vance. Also read: 'Cheap tech': JD Vance warns against AI deals with 'authoritarian regimes' in a jab at China at Paris Summit “I would have chosen her, but somehow, the line of succession didn’t work that way, right?” Trump said. Trump's vision for Kennedy Center Trump has expressed his desire to have a Kennedy Center that holds performances to appeal to “a broader, more inclusive and more balanced audience, instead of those that only appeal to half the country," CBS News reported. Also read: 'You have lot of very capable people': Trump denies endorsing JD Vance for 2028 presidential run as GOP candidate “Mr. Trump doesn’t want productions to lean into ‘woke culture,’ as he believes they have in the past," a source told CBS News. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump appoints Usha Vance as trustee of Kennedy Center to make it less 'woke'

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday (Feb 13) that those staying in other countries illegally "do not have any legal right to be there."
President Donald Trump said that the United States will increase military sales to India by "many billions of dollars".
In other news, Trump gave Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi a special gift on their "journey together".
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-addresses-us-deportations-of-illegal-immigrants-says-they-have-no-legal-right-to-stay-8719299">PM Modi addresses deportation of illegal immigrants from US, says 'they have no legal right to stay'</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/14/wkulXgSQ6VLIzzYlGCKF.png" alt=" Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks during a press conference with US President Donald Trump in the East Room of the White House in Washington, DC, on February 13, 2025. Photograph: (AFP) ">
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that those staying in other countries illegally "do not have any legal right to be there," as he addressed the media at a joint press conference alongside US President Donald Trump.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-us-to-provide-f-35-stealth-jets-to-india-increasing-military-sales-by-many-billions-of-dollars-8719295">Trump says US to provide F-35 stealth jets to India, increase military sales by 'many billions of dollars'</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/14/DXOhm98EjLbGqePoNs2i.png" alt=" US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hold a joint press conference in the East Room of the White House in Washington, DC, on February 13, 2025. Photograph: (AFP) ">
President Donald Trump on Thursday said that the United States will be increasing military sales to India by "many billions of dollars" and will pave the way to ultimately provide India with the F-35 Stealth fighters 'starting this year', eventually making New Delhi part of the elite club of countries with state-of-the-art stealth jets.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-modi-bromance-in-focus-as-us-president-gifts-indian-pm-this-sentimental-present-8719422">Trump-Modi 'bromance' in focus as US President gifts Indian PM THIS sentimental present</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/14/iIswPGtcHiW2bSzeQWAQ.png" alt=" Donald Trump shows Narendra Modi his gift 'Our Journey Together'. Photograph: (WION Web Team) ">
US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Feb 13) gifted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi a special gift on their "journey together". The usually practical US president's gift can only be described as sentimental.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maga-miga-mega-pm-modi-shares-vision-for-indo-us-ties-8719313">MAGA + MIGA = 'MEGA': PM Modi shares vision for Indo-US ties</a>
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi found an interesting way of summarising his vision for the US-India ties.PM Modi hailed the friendship between India and the US, saying it was the "strongest it has ever been".
Watch | Valentine's Day 2025 | From love stories to scam stories: what's happening this Valentine's?
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World: Kickstart your day with WION's morning news brief, delivering a concise and insightful roundup of top stories to keep you informed and ready for the day ahead.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday (Feb 13) that those staying in other countries illegally "do not have any legal right to be there." President Donald Trump said that the United States will increase military sales to India by "many billions of dollars". In other news, Trump gave Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi a special gift on their "journey together". Click on the headlines for more PM Modi addresses deportation of illegal immigrants from US, says 'they have no legal right to stay' Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that those staying in other countries illegally "do not have any legal right to be there," as he addressed the media at a joint press conference alongside US President Donald Trump. Trump says US to provide F-35 stealth jets to India, increase military sales by 'many billions of dollars' President Donald Trump on Thursday said that the United States will be increasing military sales to India by "many billions of dollars" and will pave the way to ultimately provide India with the F-35 Stealth fighters 'starting this year', eventually making New Delhi part of the elite club of countries with state-of-the-art stealth jets. Trump-Modi 'bromance' in focus as US President gifts Indian PM THIS sentimental present US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Feb 13) gifted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi a special gift on their "journey together". The usually practical US president's gift can only be described as sentimental. MAGA + MIGA = 'MEGA': PM Modi shares vision for Indo-US ties Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi found an interesting way of summarising his vision for the US-India ties.PM Modi hailed the friendship between India and the US, saying it was the "strongest it has ever been". Watch | Valentine's Day 2025 | From love stories to scam stories: what's happening this Valentine's?

Morning news brief: PM Modi meets Trump, addresses deportation; US to give India F-35 jets, and more

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi found an interesting way of summarising his vision for the US-India ties.PM Modi hailed the friendship between India and the US, saying it was the "strongest it has ever been".&nbsp;
As Trump welcomed Modi to the White House, PM Modi used 'Make America Great Again' (MAGA), which is a phrase inspired by Donald Trump.&nbsp;
PM Modi added his own twist, and said that just as the US, a developed India means 'Make India Great Again', or 'MIGA'.&nbsp;
Modi made the comment at a joint press conference after a meeting with President Trump in Washington. He said, "In American terms, a developed India means 'Make India Great Again,' or 'MIGA.'"&nbsp;
"When America and India work together&mdash;'MAGA' plus 'MIGA'&mdash;it creates a 'MEGA' partnership for prosperity. And this MEGA spirit gives new scale and scope to our goals," PM Modi added.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m742cw26-gmluimh1-1i1z8vmg">
WATCH || "In American terms, a Developed India means 'Make India Great Again,' or 'MIGA.' When America and India work together&mdash;'MAGA' plus 'MIGA'&mdash;it creates a 'MEGA' partnership for prosperity. And this MEGA spirit gives new scale and scope to our goals," says India's PM&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/YMsj5Yrbp2">pic.twitter.com/YMsj5Yrbp2</a>
&mdash; DD India (@DDIndialive) <a href="https://twitter.com/DDIndialive/status/1890198779539911019?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>India-US trade&nbsp;</h2>
PM Modi said that the US and India have set a target of doubling their bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030. He noted that both nations will work on concluding a mutually beneficial trade agreement very soon.&nbsp;
"We have ... set ourselves the target of more than doubling our bilateral trade to attain $500 billion by 2030. Our teams will work on concluding very soon, a mutually beneficial trade agreement,&rdquo; Modi said.
"In order to ensure India's energy security, we will focus on trade in oil and gas. Investment in energy infrastructure will also increase in the area of nuclear energy," Modi said. He noted that the pact should be finalised "very soon".&nbsp;
While responding to the same, Trump said that he and PM Modi have agreed to start talks to address "long-running disparities" in trade.&nbsp;
Trump made the remarks after announcing plans for "reciprocal tariffs" that could hit allies and adversaries alike.&nbsp;
He said: "We'll begin negotiations to address the long-running disparities that should have been taken care of over the last four years."&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World | India | Trump and Modi agreed to initiate talks to resolve trade disparities, aiming for a mutually beneficial agreement to enhance economic ties and cooperation.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi found an interesting way of summarising his vision for the US-India ties.PM Modi hailed the friendship between India and the US, saying it was the "strongest it has ever been". As Trump welcomed Modi to the White House, PM Modi used 'Make America Great Again' (MAGA), which is a phrase inspired by Donald Trump. PM Modi added his own twist, and said that just as the US, a developed India means 'Make India Great Again', or 'MIGA'. Modi made the comment at a joint press conference after a meeting with President Trump in Washington. He said, "In American terms, a developed India means 'Make India Great Again,' or 'MIGA.'" "When America and India work together—'MAGA' plus 'MIGA'—it creates a 'MEGA' partnership for prosperity. And this MEGA spirit gives new scale and scope to our goals," PM Modi added. WATCH || "In American terms, a Developed India means 'Make India Great Again,' or 'MIGA.' When America and India work together—'MAGA' plus 'MIGA'—it creates a 'MEGA' partnership for prosperity. And this MEGA spirit gives new scale and scope to our goals," says India's PM… pic.twitter.com/YMsj5Yrbp2 — DD India (@DDIndialive) February 14, 2025 India-US trade PM Modi said that the US and India have set a target of doubling their bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030. He noted that both nations will work on concluding a mutually beneficial trade agreement very soon. "We have ... set ourselves the target of more than doubling our bilateral trade to attain $500 billion by 2030. Our teams will work on concluding very soon, a mutually beneficial trade agreement,” Modi said. "In order to ensure India's energy security, we will focus on trade in oil and gas. Investment in energy infrastructure will also increase in the area of nuclear energy," Modi said. He noted that the pact should be finalised "very soon". While responding to the same, Trump said that he and PM Modi have agreed to start talks to address "long-running disparities" in trade. Trump made the remarks after announcing plans for "reciprocal tariffs" that could hit allies and adversaries alike. He said: "We'll begin negotiations to address the long-running disparities that should have been taken care of over the last four years." (With inputs from agencies)

MAGA + MIGA = 'MEGA': PM Modi shares vision for India-US ties

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Thursday (Feb 13) that those staying in other countries illegally "do not have any legal right to be there," as he addressed the media at a joint press conference alongside US President Donald Trump.
Just days after visuals of Indian citizens in shackles being deported from the US caused uproar in India, Modi, during his visit to the US, said his country was ready to take back its citizens living in America illegally.&nbsp;
While condemning illegal immigration, Modi said that it is actually a symptom of a bigger disease.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/friendship-between-india-and-us-strongest-it-has-ever-been-says-trump-after-bilateral-meet-with-modi-8719286">Friendship between India and US 'strongest it has ever been,' says Trump after bilateral meet with Modi</a>
<h2>'Misled' and lost</h2>
The Indian Prime Minister stressed that "those who stay in other countries illegally do not have any legal right to be there."
He added, "As far as India and the US are concerned, we have always said that those who are verified and are truly the citizens of India - if they live in the US illegally, India is ready to take them back."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-on-the-side-of-peace-says-indian-pm-narendra-modi-on-ukraine-russia-war-ahead-of-bilateral-meet-with-us-president-donald-trump-8719280">'India not neutral', says PM Modi on Ukraine-Russia conflict, thanks Trump for initiative to end war</a>
However, he remarked that "it doesn't stop just there for us". The Indian PM said that many of the illegal Indian immigrants in the US are people belonging to poor families led astray by false promises and "big dreams".
"These are people from ordinary families. They are shown big dreams and most of them are such who are misled and brought here."&nbsp;
He said that the need of the hour is to "attack this entire system of human trafficking."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-us-to-provide-f-35-stealth-jets-to-india-increasing-military-sales-by-many-billions-of-dollars-8719295">Trump says US to provide F-35 stealth jets to India, increase military sales by 'many billions of dollars'</a>
"Together, it should be the effort of the US and India to destroy such an ecosystem from its roots so that human trafficking ends...Our bigger fight is against that entire ecosystem and we are confident that President Trump will fully cooperate with India in finishing this ecosystem," he stated.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, India News | Know about Indian PM Narendra Modi's stance on illegal immigration as he addresses deportation of Indian citizens from the US.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Thursday (Feb 13) that those staying in other countries illegally "do not have any legal right to be there," as he addressed the media at a joint press conference alongside US President Donald Trump. Just days after visuals of Indian citizens in shackles being deported from the US caused uproar in India, Modi, during his visit to the US, said his country was ready to take back its citizens living in America illegally. While condemning illegal immigration, Modi said that it is actually a symptom of a bigger disease. Also read | Friendship between India and US 'strongest it has ever been,' says Trump after bilateral meet with Modi 'Misled' and lost The Indian Prime Minister stressed that "those who stay in other countries illegally do not have any legal right to be there." He added, "As far as India and the US are concerned, we have always said that those who are verified and are truly the citizens of India - if they live in the US illegally, India is ready to take them back." Also read | 'India not neutral', says PM Modi on Ukraine-Russia conflict, thanks Trump for initiative to end war However, he remarked that "it doesn't stop just there for us". The Indian PM said that many of the illegal Indian immigrants in the US are people belonging to poor families led astray by false promises and "big dreams". "These are people from ordinary families. They are shown big dreams and most of them are such who are misled and brought here." He said that the need of the hour is to "attack this entire system of human trafficking." Also read | Trump says US to provide F-35 stealth jets to India, increase military sales by 'many billions of dollars' "Together, it should be the effort of the US and India to destroy such an ecosystem from its roots so that human trafficking ends...Our bigger fight is against that entire ecosystem and we are confident that President Trump will fully cooperate with India in finishing this ecosystem," he stated. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi addresses deportation of illegal immigrants from US, says 'they have no legal right to stay'

Just as US President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump-0" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump</a> was in the middle of announcing his proposed "reciprocal tariffs" on Thursday (Feb 13), a reporter quipped with a question and was met with a stark reply.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Trump was attending a press event at the White House, signing an executive order on the tariffs.&nbsp;
CNN's Kaitlan Collins, in the middle of the event, began to ask Trump, "Mr. President, you won the White House, in part because of high inflation. If your tariffs make prices go up..."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-us-visit-live-updates-president-trump-to-host-dinner-for-indian-pm-at-white-house-full-schedule-8718153">PM Modi US visit Live: PM Modi, Trump address joint press&nbsp;conference</a>
Trump hushed her down, saying, "Excuse me, we haven't asked you to speak yet, please."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
*Trump signs an Executive Order and displays it* *CNN Reporter Kaitlan Collins instantly starts yapping* TRUMP: &ldquo;Excuse me, we haven't asked you to speak yet&rdquo; *Camera pans slowly back to Trump* Like a scene out of a TV show🤣 <a href="https://t.co/PO5nOe5997">pic.twitter.com/PO5nOe5997</a>
&mdash; ALX 🇺🇸 (@alx) <a href="https://twitter.com/alx/status/1890153234913980666?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
Trump was showing the executive order to the journalists for the pictures when he was interrupted by Collins.&nbsp;
This happened during a formal session at the White House's Oval Office, where Trump announced reciprocal tariffs on imports to the US.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-us-to-provide-f-35-stealth-jets-to-india-increasing-military-sales-by-many-billions-of-dollars-8719295">Trump says US to provide F-35 stealth jets to India, increase military sales by 'many billions of dollars'</a>
While speaking in the Oval Office, he told reporters that US allies were often "worse than our enemies" on trade issues. The levies would be tailored to each US trading partner and consider factors like Value Added Tax (VAT).
"I've decided for purposes of fairness that I will charge a reciprocal tariff," Trump declared during the proclamation signing. &ldquo;It's fair to all. No other country can complain.&rdquo;
"No more or no less&hellip; They charge us a tax or tariff, and we charge the exact same tax or tariff&hellip; nobody knows what that number is&hellip; you go to an individual country and see what they are charging us," Donald Trump said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/friendship-between-india-and-us-strongest-it-has-ever-been-says-trump-after-bilateral-meet-with-modi-8719286">Friendship between India and US 'strongest it has ever been,' says Trump after bilateral meet with Modi</a>
This happened just hours before Trump was about to meet Indian PM Narendra Modi. Donald Trump has repeatedly criticised India&rsquo;s high tariff barriers.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, trending: This happened during a formal session at the White House's Oval Office, where Trump announced reciprocal tariffs on imports to the US.

Just as US President Donald Trump was in the middle of announcing his proposed "reciprocal tariffs" on Thursday (Feb 13), a reporter quipped with a question and was met with a stark reply. Trump was attending a press event at the White House, signing an executive order on the tariffs. CNN's Kaitlan Collins, in the middle of the event, began to ask Trump, "Mr. President, you won the White House, in part because of high inflation. If your tariffs make prices go up..." Also read: PM Modi US visit Live: PM Modi, Trump address joint press conference Trump hushed her down, saying, "Excuse me, we haven't asked you to speak yet, please." *Trump signs an Executive Order and displays it* *CNN Reporter Kaitlan Collins instantly starts yapping* TRUMP: “Excuse me, we haven't asked you to speak yet” *Camera pans slowly back to Trump* Like a scene out of a TV show🤣 pic.twitter.com/PO5nOe5997 — ALX 🇺🇸 (@alx) February 13, 2025 Trump was showing the executive order to the journalists for the pictures when he was interrupted by Collins. This happened during a formal session at the White House's Oval Office, where Trump announced reciprocal tariffs on imports to the US. Also read: Trump says US to provide F-35 stealth jets to India, increase military sales by 'many billions of dollars' While speaking in the Oval Office, he told reporters that US allies were often "worse than our enemies" on trade issues. The levies would be tailored to each US trading partner and consider factors like Value Added Tax (VAT). "I've decided for purposes of fairness that I will charge a reciprocal tariff," Trump declared during the proclamation signing. “It's fair to all. No other country can complain.” "No more or no less… They charge us a tax or tariff, and we charge the exact same tax or tariff… nobody knows what that number is… you go to an individual country and see what they are charging us," Donald Trump said. Also read: Friendship between India and US 'strongest it has ever been,' says Trump after bilateral meet with Modi This happened just hours before Trump was about to meet Indian PM Narendra Modi. Donald Trump has repeatedly criticised India’s high tariff barriers. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump shushes reporter during press conference. 'Haven't asked you to speak yet'

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Feb 13) said that he would love to have Russia return to the G7 group of advanced economies, stressing that it was a "mistake" to throw them out.&nbsp;
Trump suggested various entities other than Moscow were to blame for Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.&nbsp;
"I'd love to have them back. I think it was a mistake to throw them out. Look, it's not a question of liking Russia or not liking Russia," the US president said at the White House.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-us-visit-live-updates-president-trump-to-host-dinner-for-indian-pm-at-white-house-full-schedule-8718153">PM Modi US visit Live: PM Modi, Trump address joint press&nbsp;conference</a>
Trump blamed former President Joe Biden and Russia's 2014 ouster from the Group of Eight (G8) as factors that may have led to the conflict.&nbsp;
<h2>Why does it matter?</h2>
The G7 nations include Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United States and the United Kingdom. These economies dominate global trade.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-on-the-side-of-peace-says-indian-pm-narendra-modi-on-ukraine-russia-war-ahead-of-bilateral-meet-with-us-president-donald-trump-8719280">'India not neutral', says PM Modi on Ukraine-Russia conflict, thanks Trump for initiative to end war</a>
Moreover, Russia was a member of the G8 until 2014 when it was expelled from the group in response to its annexation of Crimea, a region of Ukraine.
<h2>'Common sense' to let Russia back in</h2>
Earlier in June 2020, Trump called it "common sense" to let Russia back in, saying that addressing issues would be much easier with Moscow at the table.
However, Canada refused to bring Russia back. Germany also said that it was not the appropriate time.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-detains-senior-security-official-accuses-him-of-spying-for-russia-8717935">Ukraine detains senior security official, accuses him of spying for Russia</a>
Before that also, in 2018, Trump suggested that Russia be allowed to come back into the alliance.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I think it would have been very helpful, and it still would be helpful, to have Russia be part of that mix,&rdquo; Trump said. &ldquo;And if they were, I don&rsquo;t think you would have had the problem that you have now.&rdquo;
In February 2022, Russia launched an invasion of Ukraine that President Vladimir Putin said was in response to the expansion of the NATO alliance.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/friendship-between-india-and-us-strongest-it-has-ever-been-says-trump-after-bilateral-meet-with-modi-8719286">Friendship between India and US 'strongest it has ever been,' says Trump after bilateral meet with Modi</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Trump blamed former President Joe Biden and Russia's 2014 ouster from the Group of Eight (G8) as factors that may have led to the conflict.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Feb 13) said that he would love to have Russia return to the G7 group of advanced economies, stressing that it was a "mistake" to throw them out. Trump suggested various entities other than Moscow were to blame for Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. "I'd love to have them back. I think it was a mistake to throw them out. Look, it's not a question of liking Russia or not liking Russia," the US president said at the White House. Also read: PM Modi US visit Live: PM Modi, Trump address joint press conference Trump blamed former President Joe Biden and Russia's 2014 ouster from the Group of Eight (G8) as factors that may have led to the conflict. Why does it matter? The G7 nations include Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United States and the United Kingdom. These economies dominate global trade. Also read: 'India not neutral', says PM Modi on Ukraine-Russia conflict, thanks Trump for initiative to end war Moreover, Russia was a member of the G8 until 2014 when it was expelled from the group in response to its annexation of Crimea, a region of Ukraine. 'Common sense' to let Russia back in Earlier in June 2020, Trump called it "common sense" to let Russia back in, saying that addressing issues would be much easier with Moscow at the table. However, Canada refused to bring Russia back. Germany also said that it was not the appropriate time. Also read: Ukraine detains senior security official, accuses him of spying for Russia Before that also, in 2018, Trump suggested that Russia be allowed to come back into the alliance. “I think it would have been very helpful, and it still would be helpful, to have Russia be part of that mix,” Trump said. “And if they were, I don’t think you would have had the problem that you have now.” In February 2022, Russia launched an invasion of Ukraine that President Vladimir Putin said was in response to the expansion of the NATO alliance. Also read: Friendship between India and US 'strongest it has ever been,' says Trump after bilateral meet with Modi (With inputs from agencies)

'Mistake to throw them out': Trump calls for Russia to rejoin G7. Why does it matter?

Talking to the press ahead of the much anticipated bilateral talks with US President Donald Trump, Indian PM Narendra Modi remarked that contrary to what the world thinks, "India is not neutral".
The Indian PM noted this while answering questions on India's stance on the war between Ukraine and Russia, which is nearing its three-year mark.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-declares-brics-is-dead-threatens-bloc-with-100-tariffs-over-dollar-challenge-ahead-of-talks-with-modi-8719262">'BRICS is dead', declares Trump, threatens bloc with 100% tariffs over dollar challenge</a>
Thanking Trump for taking the initiative towards ending the Ukraine war, Modi stressed that it was a misconception that India was neutral about the war. "The world thinks India is neutral, but India is not neutral. India has its own stance, and India&rsquo;s stance is peace," he said.
<h2>India-US to partner for Ukraine peace?</h2>
The Indian PM's statement can be seen as a precursor to a partnership between his nation and the United States. The allies may partner in pushing for peace in Ukraine.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slams-canada-says-has-been-very-bad-to-us-on-trade-repeats-talk-of-it-becoming-51st-us-state-8719244">Trump slams Canada, says 'has been very bad to us on trade,' repeats talk of it becoming 51st US state</a>
When asked if he sees India playing a role in his plan to broker peace in Ukraine, Trump remarked, "...We are just getting along well. We are going to get along with all countries. We are going to do very well. We are going to be doing, I think, record business, record numbers. We are going to work with India also. We have several big trade deals to announce in the very near future."&nbsp;
<h2>'National interest supreme'</h2>
PM Modi also praised Trump's 'Make America Great Again' slogan and said, "One thing that I deeply appreciate, and I learn from President Trump, is that he keeps the national interest supreme." Sitting alongside Trump in the White House, he drew parallels between the US president and himself and stressed, "And like him, I also keep the national interest of India at the top of everything else."
&nbsp;

World news | Discover how PM Modi asserts India's unique position ahead of crucial talks with US President Trump, highlighting India's proactive approach to global peace efforts.

Talking to the press ahead of the much anticipated bilateral talks with US President Donald Trump, Indian PM Narendra Modi remarked that contrary to what the world thinks, "India is not neutral". The Indian PM noted this while answering questions on India's stance on the war between Ukraine and Russia, which is nearing its three-year mark. Also read | 'BRICS is dead', declares Trump, threatens bloc with 100% tariffs over dollar challenge Thanking Trump for taking the initiative towards ending the Ukraine war, Modi stressed that it was a misconception that India was neutral about the war. "The world thinks India is neutral, but India is not neutral. India has its own stance, and India’s stance is peace," he said. India-US to partner for Ukraine peace? The Indian PM's statement can be seen as a precursor to a partnership between his nation and the United States. The allies may partner in pushing for peace in Ukraine. Also read | Trump slams Canada, says 'has been very bad to us on trade,' repeats talk of it becoming 51st US state When asked if he sees India playing a role in his plan to broker peace in Ukraine, Trump remarked, "...We are just getting along well. We are going to get along with all countries. We are going to do very well. We are going to be doing, I think, record business, record numbers. We are going to work with India also. We have several big trade deals to announce in the very near future." 'National interest supreme' PM Modi also praised Trump's 'Make America Great Again' slogan and said, "One thing that I deeply appreciate, and I learn from President Trump, is that he keeps the national interest supreme." Sitting alongside Trump in the White House, he drew parallels between the US president and himself and stressed, "And like him, I also keep the national interest of India at the top of everything else."

'India not neutral', says PM Modi on Ukraine-Russia war, thanks Trump for initiative to end war

US President Donald Trump announced reciprocal tariffs that will affect all countries that impose tariffs on American goods. The move on Thursday (Feb 13) came ahead of his meeting with visiting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Trump said India has more tariffs than nearly any other country, Reuters reported.&nbsp;"India charges tremendously high tariffs," he told reporters.
In an escalation on trade issues, Trump further said that whatever countries charge the US, America will charge the same, "no more, no less".&nbsp;
"They charge us with tax and tariffs, it's very simple we will charge them with exact tax and tariffs," US President Donald Trump said.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Donald Trump announces reciprocal tariffs to target allies and adversaries, says EU 'absolutely brutal' on trade Why would we pay $200 billion per year in subsidies when they are not a state? Canada could be a serious contender to be our 51st state, says Trump <a href="https://t.co/XJtG3amaW0">pic.twitter.com/XJtG3amaW0</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1890127652620472512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modis-us-visit-pm-modi-meets-us-national-security-advisor-michael-waltz-8719177">PM Modi's US visit: PM Modi meets US national security advisor Michael Waltz</a>
<h2>'Worse than our enemies'</h2>
While speaking in the Oval Office, he told reporters that US allies were often "worse than our enemies" on trade issues. The levies would be tailored to each US trading partner and consider factors like Value Added Tax (VAT).
<iframe width="600" height="" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/113998250121701192/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-us-visit-live-updates-president-trump-to-host-dinner-for-indian-pm-at-white-house-full-schedule-8718153">PM Modi US visit Live: Trump imposes 'reciprocal tariffs', says 'India has the most'</a>
<div class="AimyF" id="post1">
<h2 class="liveblogtextlist">Tariffs won't take immediate effect</h2>
However, a White House official said that the tariffs, which Trump put into motion via an executive action Thursday, won&rsquo;t take immediate effect, which is an intentional move to give nations time to potentially negotiate new trade terms with the US.
</div>
Earlier in the day, Trump posted on Truth Social, "Three great weeks, perhaps the best-ever, but today is the big one: Reciprocal tariffs. Make America Great Again!!!!."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-modi-to-discuss-defence-trade-and-critical-technologies-key-announcements-expected-8719059">Trump, Modi to discuss defence, trade, and critical technologies; key announcements expected</a>
The move is aimed at matching the US' tariff rates on imports to the level that other countries impose on United States goods.
For instance, if India levies a 25 per cent tariff on US automobile imports, Washington would respond by imposing a matching 25 per cent tariff on auto imports from New Delhi.
Since Trump took office for his second term as the US president, he has imposed tariffs on several countries, like Canada, Mexico, and China.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-reciprocal-tariffs-will-be-announced-thursday-8717978">&lsquo;Today is a big one&rsquo;: Trump&rsquo;s &lsquo;reciprocal tariffs&rsquo; post ahead of his meeting with PM Modi</a>
Moreover, Trump had recently also announced tariffs on all steel and aluminium imports beginning March 12.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: "They charge us with tax and tariffs, it's very simple we will charge them with exact tax and tariffs," US President Donald Trump said.

US President Donald Trump announced reciprocal tariffs that will affect all countries that impose tariffs on American goods. The move on Thursday (Feb 13) came ahead of his meeting with visiting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Trump said India has more tariffs than nearly any other country, Reuters reported. "India charges tremendously high tariffs," he told reporters. In an escalation on trade issues, Trump further said that whatever countries charge the US, America will charge the same, "no more, no less". "They charge us with tax and tariffs, it's very simple we will charge them with exact tax and tariffs," US President Donald Trump said. Donald Trump announces reciprocal tariffs to target allies and adversaries, says EU 'absolutely brutal' on trade Why would we pay $200 billion per year in subsidies when they are not a state? Canada could be a serious contender to be our 51st state, says Trump pic.twitter.com/XJtG3amaW0 — WION (@WIONews) February 13, 2025 Also read: PM Modi's US visit: PM Modi meets US national security advisor Michael Waltz 'Worse than our enemies' While speaking in the Oval Office, he told reporters that US allies were often "worse than our enemies" on trade issues. The levies would be tailored to each US trading partner and consider factors like Value Added Tax (VAT). Also read: PM Modi US visit Live: Trump imposes 'reciprocal tariffs', says 'India has the most' Tariffs won't take immediate effect However, a White House official said that the tariffs, which Trump put into motion via an executive action Thursday, won’t take immediate effect, which is an intentional move to give nations time to potentially negotiate new trade terms with the US. Earlier in the day, Trump posted on Truth Social, "Three great weeks, perhaps the best-ever, but today is the big one: Reciprocal tariffs. Make America Great Again!!!!." Also read: Trump, Modi to discuss defence, trade, and critical technologies; key announcements expected The move is aimed at matching the US' tariff rates on imports to the level that other countries impose on United States goods. For instance, if India levies a 25 per cent tariff on US automobile imports, Washington would respond by imposing a matching 25 per cent tariff on auto imports from New Delhi. Since Trump took office for his second term as the US president, he has imposed tariffs on several countries, like Canada, Mexico, and China. Also read: ‘Today is a big one’: Trump’s ‘reciprocal tariffs’ post ahead of his meeting with PM Modi Moreover, Trump had recently also announced tariffs on all steel and aluminium imports beginning March 12. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump announces reciprocal tariffs ahead of meeting with Indian PM Modi

Mass firings at US federal agencies have begun with terminations of probationary employees at the Department of Education and the Small Business Administration.
According to a CNN report citing federal employees and union sources, the firings mark the first under President Donald Trump's administration as Elon Musk&rsquo;s Department of Government Efficiency aims to cut the federal workforce. Until now, federal employees across government agencies have only been asked to go on paid leave.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-agencies-trump-musk-and-doge-have-been-trying-to-dismantle-and-downsize-heres-the-full-list-8714727">US agencies Trump, Musk and DOGE have been trying to dismantle and downsize. Here's the full list</a>
This comes the same day a federal judge allowed the deferred resignation programme to go into effect. Around 75,000 federal employees accepted the administration&rsquo;s offer to leave their jobs in exchange for eight months' severance.
<h2>Scores of firings at the Department of Education</h2>
The Department of Education employees were informed of their termination through a letter stating, &ldquo;The Agency finds, based on your performance, that you have not demonstrated that your further employment at the Agency would be in the public interest,&rdquo; reported CNN.
The firings at the department have affected employees across the agency, including the general counsel&rsquo;s office, the Federal Student Aid office, and the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Services, a union source told CNN.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-grants-musk-veto-power-over-federal-hirings-orders-agencies-to-comply-with-doge-directives-in-sweeping-executive-order-8712476">Trump grants Musk veto power over federal hirings, orders agencies to comply with DOGE directives</a>
A similar letter was sent to Small Business Administration employees on Tuesday (Feb 11), informing them of their termination.&nbsp;
On Friday (Feb 7) and Monday (Feb 10), probationary employees across the agency received an unsigned draft notice of termination, according to CNN. However, another email was sent advising employees that the draft notice &ldquo;was sent in error - and as such, it is not currently in effect.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-doge-clock-understanding-the-real-time-tracker-for-government-spending-cuts-8717614">What is DOGE Clock? Understanding the real-time tracker for government spending cuts</a>
&ldquo;If you are in receipt of the initial notice, your employment has not been terminated as was erroneously indicated in the initial notice,&rdquo; the email added.
The probation employees then received the termination notice the following day, according to the union representing the employees.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musks-doge-staffer-mistakenly-given-edit-access-to-sensitive-treasury-data-8714741">&lsquo;Promptly corrected&rsquo;: Elon Musk&rsquo;s DOGE staffer was &lsquo;mistakenly&rsquo; given &lsquo;edit&rsquo; access to sensitive Treasury data</a>
The firings are part of the administration&rsquo;s plan to downsize the federal workforce. On Tuesday (Feb 11), Trump signed an executive order directing agency heads to start preparing for layoffs and expanding the role of the Department of Government Efficiency.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The firings mark the first under President Donald Trump's administration as Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency aims to cut the federal workforce.

Mass firings at US federal agencies have begun with terminations of probationary employees at the Department of Education and the Small Business Administration. According to a CNN report citing federal employees and union sources, the firings mark the first under President Donald Trump's administration as Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency aims to cut the federal workforce. Until now, federal employees across government agencies have only been asked to go on paid leave. Also read | US agencies Trump, Musk and DOGE have been trying to dismantle and downsize. Here's the full list This comes the same day a federal judge allowed the deferred resignation programme to go into effect. Around 75,000 federal employees accepted the administration’s offer to leave their jobs in exchange for eight months' severance. Scores of firings at the Department of Education The Department of Education employees were informed of their termination through a letter stating, “The Agency finds, based on your performance, that you have not demonstrated that your further employment at the Agency would be in the public interest,” reported CNN. The firings at the department have affected employees across the agency, including the general counsel’s office, the Federal Student Aid office, and the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Services, a union source told CNN. Also read | Trump grants Musk veto power over federal hirings, orders agencies to comply with DOGE directives A similar letter was sent to Small Business Administration employees on Tuesday (Feb 11), informing them of their termination. On Friday (Feb 7) and Monday (Feb 10), probationary employees across the agency received an unsigned draft notice of termination, according to CNN. However, another email was sent advising employees that the draft notice “was sent in error - and as such, it is not currently in effect.” Also read | What is DOGE Clock? Understanding the real-time tracker for government spending cuts “If you are in receipt of the initial notice, your employment has not been terminated as was erroneously indicated in the initial notice,” the email added. The probation employees then received the termination notice the following day, according to the union representing the employees. Also read | ‘Promptly corrected’: Elon Musk’s DOGE staffer was ‘mistakenly’ given ‘edit’ access to sensitive Treasury data The firings are part of the administration’s plan to downsize the federal workforce. On Tuesday (Feb 11), Trump signed an executive order directing agency heads to start preparing for layoffs and expanding the role of the Department of Government Efficiency. (With inputs from agencies)

Mass firings begin as Trump and Musk plan to shrink US federal workforce

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the US on Thursday (Feb 13), is a landmark moment in the growing partnership between the two nations.&nbsp;
As the fourth foreign leader to be welcomed to the White House since President Donald Trump's inauguration on January 20, 2025, Modi's "official working visit" underscores the significance of this bilateral relationship.
What's more, this visit sets a new precedent as the earliest meeting between an Indian Prime Minister and a US President in recent history.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-to-stay-at-worlds-most-exlusive-hotel-the-blair-house-that-once-hosted-abraham-lincoln-modi-in-us-8716416">In US, PM Modi to stay at 'world's most exclusive' hotel that once hosted Abraham Lincoln</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Tariffs likely on Modi&rsquo;s agenda</h2>
Trump has promised to announce further tariffs later this week, and though he hasn&rsquo;t specified which countries or sectors might be targeted, India is expected to be affected.
White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt announced on Wednesday that the US is expected to impose reciprocal tariffs on countries with unfair trade practices, including India. These tariffs aim to counter restrictions on US imports that the Trump administration considers unfair.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-madhubani-of-bihar-to-crafts-of-rajasthan-indian-pm-narendra-modis-timeless-gifts-for-emmanuel-macron-and-jd-vance-8715971">From Madhubani to Rajasthani crafts: Narendra Modi's 'timeless' gifts for Macron and Vance's kids</a>
Trump has already imposed a 10 per cent tariff on all Chinese imports on top of existing tariffs and has introduced a 25 per cent tariff on all steel and aluminium imports. But when Modi meets Trump, the Indian PM could point to recent unilateral steps that India has taken to lower the barriers to entry for US goods, say analysts.
<h2 dir="ltr">Modi&rsquo;s plan for deportation</h2>
Over 100 Indian illegal immigrants were deported from the United States on a military aircraft in handcuffs and leg restraints earlier this month which triggered an uproar in the parliament during the ongoing Budget Session, prompting questions about the Standard Operation Procedures.
India&rsquo;s foreign minister, S Jaishankar, said that the use of restraints was part of the US&rsquo;s deportation policy, adding that &ldquo;it is the obligation of all countries to take back their nationals if they are found to be living illegally abroad&rdquo;.
&ldquo;Our focus should be on a strong crackdown on the illegal migration industry while taking steps to ease visas for legitimate travellers,&rdquo; said Jaishankar.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-lands-in-us-for-a-2-day-visit-meets-us-intelligence-chief-tulsi-gabbard-8715830">PM Modi lands in US, meets US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">&lsquo;Commitment to QUAD&rsquo;</h2>
Modi is only the fourth world leader to meet US President Trump since his re-election, after conflict-engaged Israel, Jordan and Japan, its ally in the Asia Pacific. Modi being invited this early in Trump&rsquo;s term shows how important the US president considers ties with India.
The Modi-Trump conversation on a phone call on January 27 also &ldquo;emphasised their commitment to advance the US-India strategic partnership and the Indo-Pacific Quad partnership&rdquo;, a US government statement said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-personally-escorts-modi-to-airport-how-indo-french-ties-boosted-in-two-days-of-indian-pms-visit-8715323">Macron escorts Modi to airport: How Indo-French ties got a boost from Indian PM&rsquo;s visit</a>
The Trump administration has made it clear that the Indo-Pacific region is a top priority, and that's largely due to the rising competition with China, according to former US diplomat Danilowicz.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the US marks a pivotal step in strengthening diplomatic and economic ties, highlighting a new era of collaboration between both nations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the US on Thursday (Feb 13), is a landmark moment in the growing partnership between the two nations. As the fourth foreign leader to be welcomed to the White House since President Donald Trump's inauguration on January 20, 2025, Modi's "official working visit" underscores the significance of this bilateral relationship. What's more, this visit sets a new precedent as the earliest meeting between an Indian Prime Minister and a US President in recent history. Also read | In US, PM Modi to stay at 'world's most exclusive' hotel that once hosted Abraham Lincoln Tariffs likely on Modi’s agenda Trump has promised to announce further tariffs later this week, and though he hasn’t specified which countries or sectors might be targeted, India is expected to be affected. White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt announced on Wednesday that the US is expected to impose reciprocal tariffs on countries with unfair trade practices, including India. These tariffs aim to counter restrictions on US imports that the Trump administration considers unfair. Also read | From Madhubani to Rajasthani crafts: Narendra Modi's 'timeless' gifts for Macron and Vance's kids Trump has already imposed a 10 per cent tariff on all Chinese imports on top of existing tariffs and has introduced a 25 per cent tariff on all steel and aluminium imports. But when Modi meets Trump, the Indian PM could point to recent unilateral steps that India has taken to lower the barriers to entry for US goods, say analysts. Modi’s plan for deportation Over 100 Indian illegal immigrants were deported from the United States on a military aircraft in handcuffs and leg restraints earlier this month which triggered an uproar in the parliament during the ongoing Budget Session, prompting questions about the Standard Operation Procedures. India’s foreign minister, S Jaishankar, said that the use of restraints was part of the US’s deportation policy, adding that “it is the obligation of all countries to take back their nationals if they are found to be living illegally abroad”. “Our focus should be on a strong crackdown on the illegal migration industry while taking steps to ease visas for legitimate travellers,” said Jaishankar. Also read | PM Modi lands in US, meets US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard ‘Commitment to QUAD’ Modi is only the fourth world leader to meet US President Trump since his re-election, after conflict-engaged Israel, Jordan and Japan, its ally in the Asia Pacific. Modi being invited this early in Trump’s term shows how important the US president considers ties with India. The Modi-Trump conversation on a phone call on January 27 also “emphasised their commitment to advance the US-India strategic partnership and the Indo-Pacific Quad partnership”, a US government statement said. Also read | Macron escorts Modi to airport: How Indo-French ties got a boost from Indian PM’s visit The Trump administration has made it clear that the Indo-Pacific region is a top priority, and that's largely due to the rising competition with China, according to former US diplomat Danilowicz. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian PM to meet President Trump: Tariffs, deportation, Quad on Modi’s agenda

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Feb 12) reached the United States for a vital meeting with newly inaugurated US President Donald Trump. During the trip, the Indian PM will be staying at the Blair House, a historic guest lodging reserved for international dignitaries visiting the POTUS and the White House.&nbsp;
Here's all you need to know about Blair House, where PM Modi will stay during his US visit.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-madhubani-of-bihar-to-crafts-of-rajasthan-indian-pm-narendra-modis-timeless-gifts-for-emmanuel-macron-and-jd-vance-8715971">From Madhubani to Rajasthani crafts: Narendra Modi's 'timeless' gifts for Macron and Vance's kids</a>
<h2>'World's most exclusive hotel'</h2>
Blair House is often called the "world's most exclusive hotel," due to its exhaustive guest list that features American presidents like Andrew Jackson and Abraham Lincoln, world leaders and even royalty.
Located at 1651 Pennsylvania Avenue, directly across the street from the White House, the historic guest house was built in 1824.&nbsp;
It is a luxurious property spanning 70,000 square feet and has 119 rooms, including 14 guest bedrooms, 35 bathrooms, three formal dining rooms, and a fully equipped beauty salon.
Blair House is not just one house, it is actually four interconnected townhouses.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-lands-in-us-for-a-2-day-visit-meets-us-intelligence-chief-tulsi-gabbard-8715830">PM Modi lands in US, meets US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard</a>
Furnished with decor, antique furniture, fine art, and countless historical artefacts that reflect American history and craftsmanship, the Blair House offers its guests a five-star experience.
<h2>Blair House and PM Modi</h2>
Ahead of PM Modi's visit to the US, the iconic Blair House was decked up with the Indian flag, reported ANI news agency.&nbsp;
Modi is in the US for the first time after Trump assumed office for his second term as the POTUS. This term will give the two global leaders an opportunity to rekindle their 'bromance' during Trump's first term of 2016-2020.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-developing-its-own-ai-language-model-inspired-by-nations-diversity-pm-narendra-modi-at-ai-action-summit-in-paris-8713252">India developing its own AI Language Model inspired by nation's diversity: PM Modi at AI Action Summit in Paris</a>
Modi in his departure statement fondly recalled his equation with Trump and said: "Although this will be our first meeting following his historic electoral victory and inauguration in January, I have a very warm recollection of working together in his first term in building a Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership between India and the US."
He added that this "visit will be an opportunity to build upon the successes of our collaboration in his first term and develop an agenda to further elevate and deepen our partnership, including in the areas of technology, trade, defence, energy, and supply chain resilience."
"We will work together for the mutual benefit of the people of our two countries and shape a better future for the world."
(With inputs from agencies)

World - Trending - India News | Explore the rich history of Blair House, a 70,000 sq ft guest lodge that has hosted dignitaries like Abraham Lincoln and now welcomes Indian PM Narendra Modi.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Feb 12) reached the United States for a vital meeting with newly inaugurated US President Donald Trump. During the trip, the Indian PM will be staying at the Blair House, a historic guest lodging reserved for international dignitaries visiting the POTUS and the White House. Here's all you need to know about Blair House, where PM Modi will stay during his US visit. Also read | From Madhubani to Rajasthani crafts: Narendra Modi's 'timeless' gifts for Macron and Vance's kids 'World's most exclusive hotel' Blair House is often called the "world's most exclusive hotel," due to its exhaustive guest list that features American presidents like Andrew Jackson and Abraham Lincoln, world leaders and even royalty. Located at 1651 Pennsylvania Avenue, directly across the street from the White House, the historic guest house was built in 1824. It is a luxurious property spanning 70,000 square feet and has 119 rooms, including 14 guest bedrooms, 35 bathrooms, three formal dining rooms, and a fully equipped beauty salon. Blair House is not just one house, it is actually four interconnected townhouses. Also read | PM Modi lands in US, meets US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard Furnished with decor, antique furniture, fine art, and countless historical artefacts that reflect American history and craftsmanship, the Blair House offers its guests a five-star experience. Blair House and PM Modi Ahead of PM Modi's visit to the US, the iconic Blair House was decked up with the Indian flag, reported ANI news agency. Modi is in the US for the first time after Trump assumed office for his second term as the POTUS. This term will give the two global leaders an opportunity to rekindle their 'bromance' during Trump's first term of 2016-2020. Also read | India developing its own AI Language Model inspired by nation's diversity: PM Modi at AI Action Summit in Paris Modi in his departure statement fondly recalled his equation with Trump and said: "Although this will be our first meeting following his historic electoral victory and inauguration in January, I have a very warm recollection of working together in his first term in building a Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership between India and the US." He added that this "visit will be an opportunity to build upon the successes of our collaboration in his first term and develop an agenda to further elevate and deepen our partnership, including in the areas of technology, trade, defence, energy, and supply chain resilience." "We will work together for the mutual benefit of the people of our two countries and shape a better future for the world." (With inputs from agencies)

In US, PM Modi to stay at 'world's most exclusive' hotel that once hosted Abraham Lincoln

US President Donald Trump is the new chairman of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Days after the unprecedented move, well-known producer Shonda Rhimes resigned from her role as treasurer of the arts institution.
Rhimes' resignation comes after Trump was appointed the chairman, who said that he would be firing board members. No statement has been released by Rhimes on this big move.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musks-x-to-pay-donald-trump-10-million-to-settle-twitter-ban-lawsuit-report-8715849">Elon Musk&rsquo;s X to pay Donald Trump $10 million to settle Twitter ban lawsuit: Report</a>
Trump said in a statement on Truth Social, "It is a Great Honor to be Chairman of The Kennedy Center, especially with this amazing Board of Trustees.''
"We will make The Kennedy Center a very special and exciting place!"&nbsp;
&ldquo;At my direction, we are going to make the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., GREAT AGAIN. I have decided to immediately terminate multiple individuals from the Board of Trustees, including the Chairman, who do not share our Vision for a Golden Age in Arts and Culture,&rdquo; Trump wrote on his social media site.
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Soon after Trump took over the top post of the&nbsp;cultural institution, the contract of Kennedy Center President Deborah F. Rutter was terminated, with Richard Grenell being appointed as the interim president.
The centre&rsquo;s longtime president, Deborah F Rutter served in the position since 2014 and had plans to step down at the end of 2025.&nbsp;
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/captain-america-brave-new-world-early-reviews-out-fans-and-critics-give-thumbs-up-to-anthony-mackie-8715214" aria-label="Captain America: Brave New World early reviews out! Fans and critics give thumbs up to Anthony Mackie">Captain America: Brave New World early reviews out! Fans and critics give thumbs up to Anthony Mackie</a>
Rhimes is not the only one who has put down her resignation. In light of Trump's new appointment and rapid developments, singer-songwriter Ben Folds announced his resignation as artistic adviser to the National Symphony Orchestra.
In a statement shared on Instagram, Folds wrote, ''Given the developments at the Kennedy Center, effective today I am resigning as artistic advisor to the NSO. Not for me. &nbsp;Above all, I will miss the musicians of our nation&rsquo;s symphony orchestra &mdash; just the best.&rdquo;
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/captain-america-brave-new-world-early-reviews-out-fans-and-critics-give-thumbs-up-to-anthony-mackie-8715214" aria-label="Captain America: Brave New World early reviews out! Fans and critics give thumbs up to Anthony Mackie">Captain America: Brave New World early reviews out! Fans and critics give thumbs up to Anthony Mackie</a>
Grammy-winning soprano Renee Fleming also submitted her resignation as an artistic adviser to the centre.&nbsp;

Entertainment, World : Shonda Rhimes' resignation comes after Trump was appointed the chairman, who said that he would be firing board members.

US President Donald Trump is the new chairman of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Days after the unprecedented move, well-known producer Shonda Rhimes resigned from her role as treasurer of the arts institution. Rhimes' resignation comes after Trump was appointed the chairman, who said that he would be firing board members. No statement has been released by Rhimes on this big move. Also read: Elon Musk’s X to pay Donald Trump $10 million to settle Twitter ban lawsuit: Report Trump said in a statement on Truth Social, "It is a Great Honor to be Chairman of The Kennedy Center, especially with this amazing Board of Trustees.'' "We will make The Kennedy Center a very special and exciting place!" “At my direction, we are going to make the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., GREAT AGAIN. I have decided to immediately terminate multiple individuals from the Board of Trustees, including the Chairman, who do not share our Vision for a Golden Age in Arts and Culture,” Trump wrote on his social media site. Also read: Who will play Dumbledore? THIS actor is reportedly in talks to play the iconic role in Harry Potter series Soon after Trump took over the top post of the cultural institution, the contract of Kennedy Center President Deborah F. Rutter was terminated, with Richard Grenell being appointed as the interim president. The centre’s longtime president, Deborah F Rutter served in the position since 2014 and had plans to step down at the end of 2025. Also read: Captain America: Brave New World early reviews out! Fans and critics give thumbs up to Anthony Mackie Rhimes is not the only one who has put down her resignation. In light of Trump's new appointment and rapid developments, singer-songwriter Ben Folds announced his resignation as artistic adviser to the National Symphony Orchestra. In a statement shared on Instagram, Folds wrote, ''Given the developments at the Kennedy Center, effective today I am resigning as artistic advisor to the NSO. Not for me. Above all, I will miss the musicians of our nation’s symphony orchestra — just the best.” Also read: Captain America: Brave New World early reviews out! Fans and critics give thumbs up to Anthony Mackie Grammy-winning soprano Renee Fleming also submitted her resignation as an artistic adviser to the centre.

Shonda Rhimes resigns as Kennedy Center treasurer after Donald Trump takes over as its chairman

Elon Musk's social media platform will pay US President Donald Trump $10 million to settle an old lawsuit from 'Twitter' days.
The $10 million is a settlement over Twitter (now X) banning Trump after the mob attack on the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, suggested a Wall Street Journal report on Wednesday (Feb 12).
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-okay-with-russian-president-vladimir-putins-demand-to-keep-ukraine-out-of-nato-8715816">Trump 'okay' with Russian President Vladimir Putin's demand to keep Ukraine out of NATO</a>
<h2>The Trump-Twitter lawsuit</h2>
On January 6, 2021, Trump supporters in the infamous Capitol riots led an insurrection seeking to overturn the Republican's defeat to Democrat Joe Biden in the 2020 US Elections. Over 140 police officers were injured at the hands of Trump supporters wielding flagpoles, baseball bats, hockey sticks and other makeshift weapons along with tasers and canisters of bear spray.&nbsp;
The insurrection happened after a speech in which Trump made false claims about election fraud. At the time, amid concerns that he would promote further violence with bogus claims of voter fraud, Twitter, along with other social media platforms, removed Trump. This led to Trump launching his own social media platform, 'Truth Social'.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-grants-musk-veto-power-over-federal-hirings-orders-agencies-to-comply-with-doge-directives-in-sweeping-executive-order-8712476">Trump grants Musk veto power over federal hirings, orders agencies to comply with DOGE directives</a>
<h2>Musk buys Twitter</h2>
Elon Musk, who in 2022 bought Twitter and renamed it X, reinstated Trump's account and emerged as a vocal supporter. During the recent presidential election, he openly backed Trump, who has since rewarded him with a role leading the newly created Department of Government Efficiency.&nbsp;
Subsequently, in 2022, Elon Musk purchased Twitter, renaming it X. The SpaceX CEO then reinstated Trump to the platform and went on to become a major Trump supporter in the 2024 US Election race.
X has yet to comment on the settlement publicly.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-elon-musks-son-captures-the-hearts-of-netizens-as-he-accompanies-father-to-oval-office-8714268">Watch | Elon Musk's son captures the hearts of netizens as he accompanies father to Oval Office</a>
<h2>Meta paid even more settlement to Trump</h2>
Trump's grievances with social media didn&rsquo;t stop with Twitter. In January, Meta&mdash;the parent company of Facebook and Instagram&mdash;agreed to pay him $25 million to settle a similar lawsuit over censoring after the Capitol riot. News agency AFP reports that a company spokesperson has confirmed the settlement news.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | The settlement follows Trump's removal from Twitter over incitement concerns after the Jan 6 Capitol riots, leading him to launch Truth Social.

Elon Musk's social media platform will pay US President Donald Trump $10 million to settle an old lawsuit from 'Twitter' days. The $10 million is a settlement over Twitter (now X) banning Trump after the mob attack on the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, suggested a Wall Street Journal report on Wednesday (Feb 12). Also read | Trump 'okay' with Russian President Vladimir Putin's demand to keep Ukraine out of NATO The Trump-Twitter lawsuit On January 6, 2021, Trump supporters in the infamous Capitol riots led an insurrection seeking to overturn the Republican's defeat to Democrat Joe Biden in the 2020 US Elections. Over 140 police officers were injured at the hands of Trump supporters wielding flagpoles, baseball bats, hockey sticks and other makeshift weapons along with tasers and canisters of bear spray. The insurrection happened after a speech in which Trump made false claims about election fraud. At the time, amid concerns that he would promote further violence with bogus claims of voter fraud, Twitter, along with other social media platforms, removed Trump. This led to Trump launching his own social media platform, 'Truth Social'. Also read | Trump grants Musk veto power over federal hirings, orders agencies to comply with DOGE directives Musk buys Twitter Elon Musk, who in 2022 bought Twitter and renamed it X, reinstated Trump's account and emerged as a vocal supporter. During the recent presidential election, he openly backed Trump, who has since rewarded him with a role leading the newly created Department of Government Efficiency. Subsequently, in 2022, Elon Musk purchased Twitter, renaming it X. The SpaceX CEO then reinstated Trump to the platform and went on to become a major Trump supporter in the 2024 US Election race. X has yet to comment on the settlement publicly. Also read | Watch | Elon Musk's son captures the hearts of netizens as he accompanies father to Oval Office Meta paid even more settlement to Trump Trump's grievances with social media didn’t stop with Twitter. In January, Meta—the parent company of Facebook and Instagram—agreed to pay him $25 million to settle a similar lawsuit over censoring after the Capitol riot. News agency AFP reports that a company spokesperson has confirmed the settlement news. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk’s X to pay Donald Trump $10 million to settle Twitter ban lawsuit: Report

US President Donald Trump asked Jordan's King Abdullah to ensure that Hamas understands the severity of the situation if the Palestinian militant group does not release hostages, including Americans by Saturday.&nbsp;
Trump and Abdullah met at the White House on Tuesday (February 11) and held a warm and productive meeting.&nbsp;
While discussing the Gaza situation, Trump said, "Hamas must release all hostages, including all Americans, by Saturday, and asked for the King&rsquo;s assistance in ensuring that Hamas, as well as the leaders of the region, understand the severity of the situation."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/were-above-that-trump-insists-gaza-takeover-as-jordan-king-opposes-plan-of-displacing-palestinians-at-us-meet-8713211">Trump meets Jordan's King Abdullah, reiterates proposal to take control of Gaza</a>
The Jordan King thanked Trump for his leadership in securing the release of hostages from Gaza and a temporary pause in hostilities.&nbsp;
"The President affirmed the strength of relations between the United States and Jordan, and thanked His Majesty for the Kingdom&rsquo;s longstanding commitment to promoting and advancing regional peace," the White House said in a statement.
The two leaders also discussed Trump's goal of ensuring that Gaza is rebuilt beautifully after the conflict ends.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-control-gaza-palestinians-will-be-living-beautifully-elsewhere-says-trump-as-he-meets-jordan-king-8712212">'US will control Gaza, Palestinians will be living beautifully elsewhere,' says Trump as he meets&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;king</a>
They further provided options for the people of Gaza that "allow them to live in security and dignity, and free of Hamas&rsquo;s tyranny."
Moreover, during the meeting, King Abdullah said, &ldquo;One of the things we can do right away&rdquo; is bring 2,000 children who are in a &ldquo;very ill state&rdquo; to Jordan as quickly as possible."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wont-accept-american-and-israeli-threats-hamas-warns-trump-netanyahu-over-gaza-ceasefire-ultimatum-8715064">&lsquo;Won&rsquo;t accept American and Israeli threats&rsquo;: Hamas warns Trump, Netanyahu over Gaza ceasefire ultimatum</a>
In response to the offer, Trump said, "That's a really beautiful gesture."
&ldquo;The president is looking at Egypt coming to present their plan, we will be in Saudi Arabia to discuss how we can work with the president and with the United States,&rdquo; the King said.
This comes as Trump pushed his suggestion of relocating all Palestinians from the Gaza Strip to neighbouring Jordan and Egypt to transform Gaza into a luxury destination. The US president had proposed turning the territory into a high-end "Riviera."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-reconstruction-needs-at-least-usd-53-billion-un-says-8712066">Gaza reconstruction needs at least USD 53 billion, UN says</a>
Revealing more about his plan, the US president said that he would not personally develop property in Gaza. "Palestinians will live safely in another location that is not Gaza. We will run Gaza very properly, we&rsquo;re not going to buy it," Trump said.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: Jordan King Abdullah thanked Donald Trump for his leadership in securing the release of hostages from Gaza and a temporary pause in hostilities.

US President Donald Trump asked Jordan's King Abdullah to ensure that Hamas understands the severity of the situation if the Palestinian militant group does not release hostages, including Americans by Saturday. Trump and Abdullah met at the White House on Tuesday (February 11) and held a warm and productive meeting. While discussing the Gaza situation, Trump said, "Hamas must release all hostages, including all Americans, by Saturday, and asked for the King’s assistance in ensuring that Hamas, as well as the leaders of the region, understand the severity of the situation." Also read: Trump meets Jordan's King Abdullah, reiterates proposal to take control of Gaza The Jordan King thanked Trump for his leadership in securing the release of hostages from Gaza and a temporary pause in hostilities. "The President affirmed the strength of relations between the United States and Jordan, and thanked His Majesty for the Kingdom’s longstanding commitment to promoting and advancing regional peace," the White House said in a statement. The two leaders also discussed Trump's goal of ensuring that Gaza is rebuilt beautifully after the conflict ends. Also read: 'US will control Gaza, Palestinians will be living beautifully elsewhere,' says Trump as he meets Jordan king They further provided options for the people of Gaza that "allow them to live in security and dignity, and free of Hamas’s tyranny." Moreover, during the meeting, King Abdullah said, “One of the things we can do right away” is bring 2,000 children who are in a “very ill state” to Jordan as quickly as possible." Also read: ‘Won’t accept American and Israeli threats’: Hamas warns Trump, Netanyahu over Gaza ceasefire ultimatum In response to the offer, Trump said, "That's a really beautiful gesture." “The president is looking at Egypt coming to present their plan, we will be in Saudi Arabia to discuss how we can work with the president and with the United States,” the King said. This comes as Trump pushed his suggestion of relocating all Palestinians from the Gaza Strip to neighbouring Jordan and Egypt to transform Gaza into a luxury destination. The US president had proposed turning the territory into a high-end "Riviera." Also read: Gaza reconstruction needs at least USD 53 billion, UN says Revealing more about his plan, the US president said that he would not personally develop property in Gaza. "Palestinians will live safely in another location that is not Gaza. We will run Gaza very properly, we’re not going to buy it," Trump said. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump tells Jordan King to ensure Hamas understands ‘severity of situation’ if hostages not freed

US President Donald Trump has been taking actions to cut staff at the federal bureaucracy and also dismantling several agencies. Trump on Tuesday (Feb 11) signed a new executive order to limit new hiring and commence a "critical transformation" of government.&nbsp;
Trump has some specific targets, including, foreign aid workers, inspectors general, Jan. 6 investigators, and diversity, equity, and inclusion workers.&nbsp;
Moreover, he has also given wide powers to his close Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has cracked down on more than a dozen agencies in search of spending and layoffs.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-fires-usaid-inspector-general-report-8714191">US President Donald Trump fires USAID inspector general: Report</a>
However, the US federal courts have temporarily halted some of the administration's efforts but many more layoffs across the government are expected in the weeks ahead.&nbsp;
<h2>List of agencies that have been under Trump's radar:</h2>
<h3>United States Agency for International Development (USAID)</h3>
Elon Musk on February 2 announced to shut down USAID, which is responsible for humanitarian efforts across the world. However, the agency's website was taken down before the announcement, which left many aid groups across the globe in the dark.&nbsp;
In the beginning, the Trump administration put nearly 60 senior staffers on leave. &ldquo;We spent the weekend feeding USAID into the wood chipper,&rdquo; Musk posted on X on Feb 3.
Later, the administration said it would reduce the aid agency's workforce from more than 10,000 to hundreds of staffers. However, a judge temporarily halted the effort for more than 2,000 employees.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/close-it-down-trump-says-nothing-can-be-done-now-as-he-orders-usaid-to-cut-staff-from-10000-to-300-8700543">'Close it down': Trump says 'nothing can be done now' as he orders USAID to cut staff from 10,000 to 300</a>
<h3>Consumer Financial Protection Bureau&nbsp;</h3>
Elon Musk posted on Feb 7 on X, saying that the employees of the financial industry watchdog, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, may be next. &ldquo;CFPB RIP,&rdquo; he posted on X.&nbsp;
The next day, the acting director of the bureau told the staff of more than 1,700 to effectively halt work.
Employees were asked "not to perform any work tasks" starting Feb 10, and the agency's DC offices are expected to be closed all week.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hopes-linda-mcmahon-puts-herself-out-of-job-by-shutting-down-education-department-8693248">Trump hopes Linda McMahon 'puts herself out of job' by shutting down education&nbsp;department</a>
<h3>Centres of Medicare and Medicaid Services</h3>
The CMS, a subagency of the Department of Health and Human Services, has also been collaborating with DOGE since February 5.&nbsp;
Musk took to X, tweeting a Wall Street Journal article reporting thing, and said, "Yeah, this is where the big money fraud is happening."
<h3>Department of Education</h3>
Musk's DOGE gained access to the Department of Education, which Trump has promised to dismantle despite such an action needing congressional approval, Democratic leaders said.&nbsp;
DOGE reduced the number of employees at the Department of Education, slashing 89 independent research contracts at the department's Institute of Education Sciences worth nearly $900 million.&nbsp;
<h3>Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)</h3>
The Department of Homeland Security on February 11 fired four FEMA officials. This comes a day after Musk posted on X, claiming that he found tens of millions of dollars had been spent by the agency to lodge migrants in New York hotels.&nbsp;
Among the terminated officials were FEMA's chief financial officer, two program analysts, and a grant specialist, according to DHS.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-fema-agency-trump-threatened-to-get-rid-of-during-his-visit-to-north-carolina-8653405">What is FEMA, agency Trump threatened to get rid of during his visit to North Carolina?</a>
<h3>Federal Aviation Administration</h3>
The Department of Transportation and Musk announced earlier this month that he had access to FAA technologies to make "rapid safety upgrades", Musk posted on X.&nbsp;
The next day, Democratic Sen. Maria Cantwell sent a letter to Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy, arguing that it was a &ldquo;conflict of interest for someone whose company is regulated by the federal government to be involved in anything that affects his personal financial interest, his company, or his competitors.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: Trump has some specific targets, including, foreign aid workers, inspectors general, Jan. 6 investigators, and diversity, equity, and inclusion workers.

US President Donald Trump has been taking actions to cut staff at the federal bureaucracy and also dismantling several agencies. Trump on Tuesday (Feb 11) signed a new executive order to limit new hiring and commence a "critical transformation" of government. Trump has some specific targets, including, foreign aid workers, inspectors general, Jan. 6 investigators, and diversity, equity, and inclusion workers. Moreover, he has also given wide powers to his close Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has cracked down on more than a dozen agencies in search of spending and layoffs. Also read: US President Donald Trump fires USAID inspector general: Report However, the US federal courts have temporarily halted some of the administration's efforts but many more layoffs across the government are expected in the weeks ahead. List of agencies that have been under Trump's radar: United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Elon Musk on February 2 announced to shut down USAID, which is responsible for humanitarian efforts across the world. However, the agency's website was taken down before the announcement, which left many aid groups across the globe in the dark. In the beginning, the Trump administration put nearly 60 senior staffers on leave. “We spent the weekend feeding USAID into the wood chipper,” Musk posted on X on Feb 3. Later, the administration said it would reduce the aid agency's workforce from more than 10,000 to hundreds of staffers. However, a judge temporarily halted the effort for more than 2,000 employees. Also read: 'Close it down': Trump says 'nothing can be done now' as he orders USAID to cut staff from 10,000 to 300 Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Elon Musk posted on Feb 7 on X, saying that the employees of the financial industry watchdog, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, may be next. “CFPB RIP,” he posted on X. The next day, the acting director of the bureau told the staff of more than 1,700 to effectively halt work. Employees were asked "not to perform any work tasks" starting Feb 10, and the agency's DC offices are expected to be closed all week. Also read: Trump hopes Linda McMahon 'puts herself out of job' by shutting down education department Centres of Medicare and Medicaid Services The CMS, a subagency of the Department of Health and Human Services, has also been collaborating with DOGE since February 5. Musk took to X, tweeting a Wall Street Journal article reporting thing, and said, "Yeah, this is where the big money fraud is happening." Department of Education Musk's DOGE gained access to the Department of Education, which Trump has promised to dismantle despite such an action needing congressional approval, Democratic leaders said. DOGE reduced the number of employees at the Department of Education, slashing 89 independent research contracts at the department's Institute of Education Sciences worth nearly $900 million. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) The Department of Homeland Security on February 11 fired four FEMA officials. This comes a day after Musk posted on X, claiming that he found tens of millions of dollars had been spent by the agency to lodge migrants in New York hotels. Among the terminated officials were FEMA's chief financial officer, two program analysts, and a grant specialist, according to DHS. Also read: What is FEMA, agency Trump threatened to get rid of during his visit to North Carolina? Federal Aviation Administration The Department of Transportation and Musk announced earlier this month that he had access to FAA technologies to make "rapid safety upgrades", Musk posted on X. The next day, Democratic Sen. Maria Cantwell sent a letter to Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy, arguing that it was a “conflict of interest for someone whose company is regulated by the federal government to be involved in anything that affects his personal financial interest, his company, or his competitors. (With inputs from agencies)

US agencies Trump, Musk and DOGE have been trying to dismantle and downsize. Here's the full list

Marc Fogel, an American teacher detained for over three years in Russia, was released on Tuesday (Feb 11) and was welcomed by US President Donald Trump as he said that Vladimir Putin had got "not much" in return.&nbsp;
The White House described it in a statement as a diplomatic thaw that is a step toward ending the Ukraine war.&nbsp;
Steve Witkoff, President Donald Trump's special envoy, was with Fogel while leaving Russia and landed back in the US at Joint Base Andrews on Tuesday night.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-fires-usaid-inspector-general-report-8714191" rel="dofollow">US President Donald Trump fires USAID inspector general: Report</a>
Trump said that another detainee would be freed on Wednesday without revealing the name.&nbsp;
<h2>Who is Marc Fogel?</h2>
Marc Fogel, a 63-year-old former diplomat and a school teacher, was arrested in August 2021 and was serving a 14-year prison sentence.&nbsp;
According to his family and supporters, he had been travelling with medically prescribed marijuana and was designated by former President Joe Biden's administration as wrongfully detained in December.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-russian-missile-strike-kills-at-least-one-in-kyiv-8713602" rel="dofollow">Putin 'not preparing for peace': Zelensky slams Russia after missile attack killed one in Kyiv</a>
"I feel like the luckiest man on Earth right now," said Fogel. "I'm a middle-class school teacher who's now in a dream world."
Fogel's relatives said they were "beyond grateful, relieved, and overwhelmed&rdquo; that he was coming home.
President Trump, while speaking to reporters at the White House, said, "We were treated very nicely by Russia, actually. I hope that's the beginning of a relationship where we can end that war.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-says-open-to-land-swap-with-russia-to-end-war-donald-trump-vladimir-putin-8712366">Volodymyr Zelensky changes stance, says Ukraine 'open to land swap' with Russia</a>
Asked whether the US had given up anything in return, Trump replied &ldquo;not much&rdquo; but did not elaborate.
<h2>'Sign towards ending Ukraine war'</h2>
Michael Waltz, Trump's national security adviser, said the US and Russia "negotiated an exchange" to ensure Fogel's release.
Waltz stressed the development was "a sign we are moving in the right direction to end the brutal and terrible war in Ukraine.&rdquo;
After landing on US soil, the White House posted on X, "PROMISES MADE, PROMISES KEPT!" along with a picture of Mr Fogel.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-may-be-russian-someday-says-trump-ahead-of-envoy-keith-kelloggs-meeting-with-zelensky-8710008">Ukraine 'may be Russian someday', says Trump ahead of envoy Keith Kellogg's meeting with Zelensky</a>
<h2>Russian citizen freed from US in exchange</h2>
The Kremlin said on Wednesday (Feb 12) that a Russian citizen was freed from a US prison in exchange for the release of Marc Fogel.&nbsp;
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the Russians will return home in the coming days, at which point Moscow will release their name.
Replying to Trump's remark that this could help end the war, Peskov said it was unlikely to be a turning point but described the releases as gradual steps to increase mutual trust, now at a low point.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Steve Witkoff, President Donald Trump's special envoy, was with Fogel while leaving Russia and landed in the US at Joint Base Andrews on Tuesday night. 

Marc Fogel, an American teacher detained for over three years in Russia, was released on Tuesday (Feb 11) and was welcomed by US President Donald Trump as he said that Vladimir Putin had got "not much" in return. The White House described it in a statement as a diplomatic thaw that is a step toward ending the Ukraine war. Steve Witkoff, President Donald Trump's special envoy, was with Fogel while leaving Russia and landed back in the US at Joint Base Andrews on Tuesday night. Also read: US President Donald Trump fires USAID inspector general: Report Trump said that another detainee would be freed on Wednesday without revealing the name. Who is Marc Fogel? Marc Fogel, a 63-year-old former diplomat and a school teacher, was arrested in August 2021 and was serving a 14-year prison sentence. According to his family and supporters, he had been travelling with medically prescribed marijuana and was designated by former President Joe Biden's administration as wrongfully detained in December. Also read: Putin 'not preparing for peace': Zelensky slams Russia after missile attack killed one in Kyiv "I feel like the luckiest man on Earth right now," said Fogel. "I'm a middle-class school teacher who's now in a dream world." Fogel's relatives said they were "beyond grateful, relieved, and overwhelmed” that he was coming home. President Trump, while speaking to reporters at the White House, said, "We were treated very nicely by Russia, actually. I hope that's the beginning of a relationship where we can end that war.” Also read: Volodymyr Zelensky changes stance, says Ukraine 'open to land swap' with Russia Asked whether the US had given up anything in return, Trump replied “not much” but did not elaborate. 'Sign towards ending Ukraine war' Michael Waltz, Trump's national security adviser, said the US and Russia "negotiated an exchange" to ensure Fogel's release. Waltz stressed the development was "a sign we are moving in the right direction to end the brutal and terrible war in Ukraine.” After landing on US soil, the White House posted on X, "PROMISES MADE, PROMISES KEPT!" along with a picture of Mr Fogel. Also read: Ukraine 'may be Russian someday', says Trump ahead of envoy Keith Kellogg's meeting with Zelensky Russian citizen freed from US in exchange The Kremlin said on Wednesday (Feb 12) that a Russian citizen was freed from a US prison in exchange for the release of Marc Fogel. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the Russians will return home in the coming days, at which point Moscow will release their name. Replying to Trump's remark that this could help end the war, Peskov said it was unlikely to be a turning point but described the releases as gradual steps to increase mutual trust, now at a low point. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Marc Fogel? Russia releases imprisoned American teacher; US calls it step to ‘end Ukraine war’

US President Donald Trump's executive order aimed to strip birthright citizenship from children of temporary visa holders, sending shockwaves through immigrant communities, particularly Indians in America.&nbsp;
This move has left thousands of expecting Indian parents in a state of uncertainty, despite the policy being temporarily blocked due to legal challenges.
The uncertainty surrounding this policy has left many expecting parents, including Indians, in a difficult position. With the policy's fate hanging in the balance, these families are facing an uncertain future, unsure of their children's citizenship status.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mozambique-or-gaza-journalist-fact-checks-doges-50mn-condoms-claim-musk-replies-8713620">Mozambique or Gaza? Journalist fact-checks DOGE's $50mn condoms claim, Musk replies...</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Indian immigrant parents in limbo</h2>
An Indian couple, Neha Satpute and Akshay Pise, who are engineers on H-1B visas for skilled foreign workers, are expecting their son, due on Feb 26, to be born as American citizens.&nbsp;
Employed at a large tech firm with a supportive parental leave policy, they had carefully built their life in San Jose, California.
"This impacts us directly," says Akshay. "If the order takes effect, we don't know what comes next&mdash;it's uncharted territory." Their biggest question: What nationality will their child have?
Their concern is valid, says New York-based immigration attorney Cyrus Mehta: "US law has no provision for granting non-immigrant status to a person born here."
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As their baby's arrival draws near, the expecting parents sought medical advice on potentially inducing labour early. Their doctor suggested that, under ideal circumstances, they could consider inducing labour at 40 weeks, but the couple has decided to wait it out.
"I want the natural process to take its course," says Neha. Akshay adds, "My priority is safe delivery and my wife's health. Citizenship comes second."
<h2 dir="ltr">Three federal judges ruled against the policy</h2>
A third federal judge on Monday (Feb 10) blocked President Donald Trump's executive order ending birthright citizenship for the children of temporary visa holders.
The ruling from US District Judge Joseph N. Laplante in New Hampshire comes after two similar rulings by judges in Seattle and Maryland last week. A lawsuit filed by the American Civil Liberties Union contends that Trump's order violates the Constitution and "attempts to upend one of the most fundamental American constitutional values."
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Explore the impact of President Trump's executive order on birthright citizenship, stirring concerns among immigrant communities, especially among Indian Americans.

US President Donald Trump's executive order aimed to strip birthright citizenship from children of temporary visa holders, sending shockwaves through immigrant communities, particularly Indians in America. This move has left thousands of expecting Indian parents in a state of uncertainty, despite the policy being temporarily blocked due to legal challenges. The uncertainty surrounding this policy has left many expecting parents, including Indians, in a difficult position. With the policy's fate hanging in the balance, these families are facing an uncertain future, unsure of their children's citizenship status. Also read | Mozambique or Gaza? Journalist fact-checks DOGE's $50mn condoms claim, Musk replies... Indian immigrant parents in limbo An Indian couple, Neha Satpute and Akshay Pise, who are engineers on H-1B visas for skilled foreign workers, are expecting their son, due on Feb 26, to be born as American citizens. Employed at a large tech firm with a supportive parental leave policy, they had carefully built their life in San Jose, California. "This impacts us directly," says Akshay. "If the order takes effect, we don't know what comes next—it's uncharted territory." Their biggest question: What nationality will their child have? Their concern is valid, says New York-based immigration attorney Cyrus Mehta: "US law has no provision for granting non-immigrant status to a person born here." Also read | Trump’s steel, aluminium tariffs draw criticism from Canada, Mexico, EU As their baby's arrival draws near, the expecting parents sought medical advice on potentially inducing labour early. Their doctor suggested that, under ideal circumstances, they could consider inducing labour at 40 weeks, but the couple has decided to wait it out. "I want the natural process to take its course," says Neha. Akshay adds, "My priority is safe delivery and my wife's health. Citizenship comes second." Three federal judges ruled against the policy A third federal judge on Monday (Feb 10) blocked President Donald Trump's executive order ending birthright citizenship for the children of temporary visa holders. The ruling from US District Judge Joseph N. Laplante in New Hampshire comes after two similar rulings by judges in Seattle and Maryland last week. A lawsuit filed by the American Civil Liberties Union contends that Trump's order violates the Constitution and "attempts to upend one of the most fundamental American constitutional values." (With inputs from agencies)

Uncertainty grips Indian immigrant community as Trump targets birthright citizenship

US President Donald Trump barred the American news agency Associate Press (AP) from sending a reporter on Tuesday (Feb 11) to his Oval Office executive order signing. The outlet claimed the US president did so to "punish" it for not using the name of the "Gulf of Mexico" as "Gulf of America".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-falls-in-line-with-trumps-order-changes-gulf-of-mexico-to-gulf-of-america-8709246">Google falls in line with Trump&rsquo;s order, changes Gulf of Mexico to &lsquo;Gulf of America&rsquo;</a>
AP&rsquo;s executive editor, Julie Pace, said in a statement, &ldquo;As a global news organisation, The Associated Press informs billions of people around the world every day with factual, nonpartisan journalism."&nbsp;
She said that the organisation was informed by the White House that if the news outlet would not "align its editorial standards" with the US president, AP would not be allowed in the Oval Office for any event.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gulf-of-america-or-gulf-of-mexico-how-google-deals-with-controversial-geography-8675623">'Gulf of America' or 'Gulf of Mexico': How Google deals with controversial geography</a>
"It is alarming that the Trump administration would punish AP for its independent journalism. Limiting our access to the Oval Office based on the content of AP&rsquo;s speech not only severely impedes the public&rsquo;s access to independent news, it plainly violates the First Amendment," Pace said.&nbsp;
Aaron Terr, of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression called Trump's decision as an "alarming attack on press freedom&rdquo;.
&ldquo;The role of our free press is to hold those in power accountable, not to act as their mouthpiece. Any government efforts to erode this fundamental freedom deserve condemnation," Terr told The Guardian.&nbsp;
The White House Correspondents&rsquo; Association (WHCA) took to social media to protest the decision in a statement.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-trump-inauguration-trump-20-gulf-of-mexico-gofo-of-america-8642297">Explained: Trump wants to rename Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America. Can he do that?</a>
&ldquo;The White House cannot dictate how news organizations report the news, nor should it penalize working journalists because it is unhappy with their editors&rsquo; decisions,&rdquo; said Eugene Daniels, WHCA president.
&ldquo;The move by the administration to bar a reporter from the Associated Press from an official event open to news coverage today is unacceptable," Daniels further told the British news agency.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-republican-marjorie-green-promises-to-introduce-bill-renaming-gulf-of-mexico-to-gulf-of-america-asap-8601255">US Republican Marjorie Green promises to introduce bill renaming Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America 'ASAP'</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | TRENDING | US President Donald Trump barred the American news agency Associate Press (AP) from sending a reporter on Tuesday (Feb 11) to his Oval Office executive order signing.

US President Donald Trump barred the American news agency Associate Press (AP) from sending a reporter on Tuesday (Feb 11) to his Oval Office executive order signing. The outlet claimed the US president did so to "punish" it for not using the name of the "Gulf of Mexico" as "Gulf of America". Also read: Google falls in line with Trump’s order, changes Gulf of Mexico to ‘Gulf of America’ AP’s executive editor, Julie Pace, said in a statement, “As a global news organisation, The Associated Press informs billions of people around the world every day with factual, nonpartisan journalism." She said that the organisation was informed by the White House that if the news outlet would not "align its editorial standards" with the US president, AP would not be allowed in the Oval Office for any event. Also read: 'Gulf of America' or 'Gulf of Mexico': How Google deals with controversial geography "It is alarming that the Trump administration would punish AP for its independent journalism. Limiting our access to the Oval Office based on the content of AP’s speech not only severely impedes the public’s access to independent news, it plainly violates the First Amendment," Pace said. Aaron Terr, of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression called Trump's decision as an "alarming attack on press freedom”. “The role of our free press is to hold those in power accountable, not to act as their mouthpiece. Any government efforts to erode this fundamental freedom deserve condemnation," Terr told The Guardian. The White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) took to social media to protest the decision in a statement. Also read: Explained: Trump wants to rename Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America. Can he do that? “The White House cannot dictate how news organizations report the news, nor should it penalize working journalists because it is unhappy with their editors’ decisions,” said Eugene Daniels, WHCA president. “The move by the administration to bar a reporter from the Associated Press from an official event open to news coverage today is unacceptable," Daniels further told the British news agency. Also read: US Republican Marjorie Green promises to introduce bill renaming Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America 'ASAP' (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump bars THIS news agency from Oval Office as 'punishment' for not using the name 'Gulf of America'

Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk brushed off concerns over his increasing influence within the administration as US President Donald Trump signed a new executive order handing him more power. The executive order, as per reports, instructs federal agencies to cooperate with DOGE's directives on cutting their workforces and limiting hiring while giving the Musk-led agency veto power over new hiring.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-defends-growing-influence-in-trump-20-administration-describes-doge-as-unelected-fourth-branch-of-govt-donald-trump-8712396">Elon Musk defends growing influence in Trump 2.0 administration, describes DOGE as 'unelected' fourth branch of govt</a>
<h2>Trump hands Musk more power with sweeping executive order</h2>
Musk's authority is set to expand further following Trump's signing of a new executive order that forces federal agencies to comply with DOGE's directives.&nbsp;
As per a Guardian report, the White House order said that it "commences a critical transformation of the Federal bureaucracy. By eliminating waste, bloat, and insularity, my Administration will empower American families, workers, taxpayers, and our system of Government itself."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deloitte-orders-us-staff-to-remove-gender-pronouns-from-email-amid-trumps-crackdown-on-transgenders-8712132">Deloitte orders US staff to remove gender pronouns from email amid Trump's crackdown on transgenders</a>
<h2>What new powers does DOGE have?</h2>
The order states that agency heads "will undertake plans for large-scale reductions in force and determine which agency components (or agencies themselves) may be eliminated or combined because their functions aren't required by law".
Under the directive, agencies are required to "initiate large-scale reductions", potentially eliminating entire divisions deemed non-essential and can hire only one new employee for every four who leave. Furthermore, Musk's team has been granted oversight and veto in fresh hiring decisions.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/openai-not-for-sale-sam-altman-calls-elon-musk-competitor-who-is-not-able-to-beat-us-8711753">'OpenAI not for sale': Sam Altman calls Elon Musk 'competitor who is not able to beat us'</a>
The order stipulates that agencies "shall not fill any vacancies for career appointments that the DOGE Team Lead assesses should not be filled unless the Agency Head determines the positions should be filled."
Moreover, each agency will have a DOGE Team Lead, that "shall provide the United States DOGE Service (USDS) Administrator with a monthly hiring report for the agency".
(With inputs from agencies)

World news | Discover how President Trump's executive order grants Elon Musk significant influence over federal hiring, empowering DOGE directives to reshape government workforce policies.

Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk brushed off concerns over his increasing influence within the administration as US President Donald Trump signed a new executive order handing him more power. The executive order, as per reports, instructs federal agencies to cooperate with DOGE's directives on cutting their workforces and limiting hiring while giving the Musk-led agency veto power over new hiring. Also read | Elon Musk defends growing influence in Trump 2.0 administration, describes DOGE as 'unelected' fourth branch of govt Trump hands Musk more power with sweeping executive order Musk's authority is set to expand further following Trump's signing of a new executive order that forces federal agencies to comply with DOGE's directives. As per a Guardian report, the White House order said that it "commences a critical transformation of the Federal bureaucracy. By eliminating waste, bloat, and insularity, my Administration will empower American families, workers, taxpayers, and our system of Government itself." Also read | Deloitte orders US staff to remove gender pronouns from email amid Trump's crackdown on transgenders What new powers does DOGE have? The order states that agency heads "will undertake plans for large-scale reductions in force and determine which agency components (or agencies themselves) may be eliminated or combined because their functions aren't required by law". Under the directive, agencies are required to "initiate large-scale reductions", potentially eliminating entire divisions deemed non-essential and can hire only one new employee for every four who leave. Furthermore, Musk's team has been granted oversight and veto in fresh hiring decisions. Also read | 'OpenAI not for sale': Sam Altman calls Elon Musk 'competitor who is not able to beat us' The order stipulates that agencies "shall not fill any vacancies for career appointments that the DOGE Team Lead assesses should not be filled unless the Agency Head determines the positions should be filled." Moreover, each agency will have a DOGE Team Lead, that "shall provide the United States DOGE Service (USDS) Administrator with a monthly hiring report for the agency". (With inputs from agencies)

Trump grants Musk veto power over federal hirings, orders agencies to comply with DOGE directives

Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri on Tuesday (Feb 11) said that US President Donald Trump must remember that the only way to bring home Israeli hostages is to respect the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.&nbsp;
Trump on Monday issued a stern ultimatum, warning that "all hell" will break loose unless all hostages held in Gaza are released by Saturday.
The warning comes as Hamas accused Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement and threatened to delay future prisoner exchanges.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-says-palestinians-have-no-right-to-return-under-gaza-takeover-plan-8708500">&lsquo;Committed to buying, owning Gaza&rsquo;: Trump says Palestinians have no right to return under Gaza &lsquo;takeover&rsquo; plan</a>
"Trump must remember that there is an agreement that must be respected by both parties, and this is the only way to bring back the prisoners. The language of threats has no value and only complicates matters," he told Reuters.
<h2>Israel backs Trump's plan</h2>
Meanwhile, Israel backed US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Feb 11) for his plan to "let hell break out" on Gaza if Israeli hostages are not released.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-warns-hamas-hell-will-break-out-unless-israeli-hostages-are-released-on-saturday-feb-15-israel-hamas-war-gaza-war-8709085">Trump warns Hamas 'all hell' will break loose unless Israeli hostages are released on Feb 15</a>
Israel&rsquo;s communications minister, Shlomo Karhi said, "The response must be exactly as President Trump suggested."
He suggested, "Completely halt humanitarian aid, cut off electricity, water and communications and use brutal and disproportionate force until the hostages return."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-hamas-indefinitely-delays-hostage-exchange-israel-asks-military-to-be-prepared-8708792">&lsquo;Blatant violation of ceasefire&rsquo;: Hamas indefinitely delays hostage exchange; Israel asks military to &lsquo;be prepared&rsquo;</a>
Karhi stressed, "It is time to open the gates of hell on Hamas &ndash; and this time, without any restrictions on our heroic fighters."
Speaking at the White House, Trump said he would call for an end to the fragile ceasefire between Hamas and Israel if all hostages aren't returned.
The ceasefire between the two parties marked a pause in over 15 months of intense conflict in Gaza. Moreover, it has already facilitated the release of five groups of Israeli hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/look-like-holocaust-survivors-red-cross-demands-private-hostage-swap-after-hamas-choreographed-handover-8703128">'Look like Holocaust survivors&rsquo;: Red Cross demands 'private' hostage swap after Hamas' choreographed&nbsp;handover</a>
Abu Ubaida, a spokesperson for Hamas's armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades announced on Monday that the next hostage release, "which was scheduled for next Saturday, February 15, 2025, will be postponed until further notice".
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: Speaking at the White House, Trump said he would call for an end to the fragile ceasefire between Hamas and Israel if all hostages aren't returned.

Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri on Tuesday (Feb 11) said that US President Donald Trump must remember that the only way to bring home Israeli hostages is to respect the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Trump on Monday issued a stern ultimatum, warning that "all hell" will break loose unless all hostages held in Gaza are released by Saturday. The warning comes as Hamas accused Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement and threatened to delay future prisoner exchanges. Also read: ‘Committed to buying, owning Gaza’: Trump says Palestinians have no right to return under Gaza ‘takeover’ plan "Trump must remember that there is an agreement that must be respected by both parties, and this is the only way to bring back the prisoners. The language of threats has no value and only complicates matters," he told Reuters. Israel backs Trump's plan Meanwhile, Israel backed US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Feb 11) for his plan to "let hell break out" on Gaza if Israeli hostages are not released. Also read: Trump warns Hamas 'all hell' will break loose unless Israeli hostages are released on Feb 15 Israel’s communications minister, Shlomo Karhi said, "The response must be exactly as President Trump suggested." He suggested, "Completely halt humanitarian aid, cut off electricity, water and communications and use brutal and disproportionate force until the hostages return." Also read: ‘Blatant violation of ceasefire’: Hamas indefinitely delays hostage exchange; Israel asks military to ‘be prepared’ Karhi stressed, "It is time to open the gates of hell on Hamas – and this time, without any restrictions on our heroic fighters." Speaking at the White House, Trump said he would call for an end to the fragile ceasefire between Hamas and Israel if all hostages aren't returned. The ceasefire between the two parties marked a pause in over 15 months of intense conflict in Gaza. Moreover, it has already facilitated the release of five groups of Israeli hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Also read: 'Look like Holocaust survivors’: Red Cross demands 'private' hostage swap after Hamas' choreographed handover Abu Ubaida, a spokesperson for Hamas's armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades announced on Monday that the next hostage release, "which was scheduled for next Saturday, February 15, 2025, will be postponed until further notice". (With inputs from agencies)

'Respecting truce only way to bring hostages back', Hamas warns Trump after US president's ultimatum

US President Donald Trump has signed a new executive order halting prosecution of American citizens for bribing foreign officials. This order directly impacts the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) of 1977, the same act under which Indian businessman Gautam Adani is charged.
Trump has ordered the newly elected Attorney General Pam Bondi to 'immediately stop' actions taken under FCPA. According to Trump, the act discourages foreign businesses from doing business with 'Americans.' 'It sounds good on paper, but in practicality, it's a disaster,' Trump said. 'It was a Jimmy Carter concept, and it sounds so good, but it's so bad. It hurts the country and many, many deals are unable to be made because nobody wants to do business,' he added.
<h2>FCPA's influence</h2>
US authorities have indicted over 35 companies every year under the FCPA act. 31 companies are under investigation in 2024. This includes the case against Adani, which wiped off substantial money from its group companies in a matter of days. While the money was recovered and the Adani group dismissed the allegations as 'baseless,' the charges were serious enough for investors to be sceptical. Now with the recent announcement, Adani shares posted notable gains as investors access the fresh circumstances. The White House has announced that all FCPA-related actions will be reviewed, along with new, relaxed enforcement guidelines for future cases. &nbsp;
This recent order by Trump comes as India's prime minister, Narendra Modi, is set to visit the US for bilateral talks on February 12. PM Modi would be looking to strengthen US-India relations further, especially as the global trade landscape trembles under Trump's tariffs.

Business & Economy, According to Trump, the act discourages foreign businesses from doing business with 'Americans.' 'It sounds good on paper, but in practicality, it's a disaster.

US President Donald Trump has signed a new executive order halting prosecution of American citizens for bribing foreign officials. This order directly impacts the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) of 1977, the same act under which Indian businessman Gautam Adani is charged. Trump has ordered the newly elected Attorney General Pam Bondi to 'immediately stop' actions taken under FCPA. According to Trump, the act discourages foreign businesses from doing business with 'Americans.' 'It sounds good on paper, but in practicality, it's a disaster,' Trump said. 'It was a Jimmy Carter concept, and it sounds so good, but it's so bad. It hurts the country and many, many deals are unable to be made because nobody wants to do business,' he added. FCPA's influence US authorities have indicted over 35 companies every year under the FCPA act. 31 companies are under investigation in 2024. This includes the case against Adani, which wiped off substantial money from its group companies in a matter of days. While the money was recovered and the Adani group dismissed the allegations as 'baseless,' the charges were serious enough for investors to be sceptical. Now with the recent announcement, Adani shares posted notable gains as investors access the fresh circumstances. The White House has announced that all FCPA-related actions will be reviewed, along with new, relaxed enforcement guidelines for future cases. This recent order by Trump comes as India's prime minister, Narendra Modi, is set to visit the US for bilateral talks on February 12. PM Modi would be looking to strengthen US-India relations further, especially as the global trade landscape trembles under Trump's tariffs.

Donald Trump suspends Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA)

JFK assassination files: Sixty-one years after the assassination of US president John F. Kennedy, the FBI has 'discovered' 2,400 previously concealed records relating to the former president's killing, suggest reports.
This revelation follows US President Donald Trump's order demanding the release of all JFK assassination records.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-orders-full-and-complete-release-of-john-f-kennedy-robert-f-kennedy-and-martin-luther-king-jr-assassination-files-everything-will-be-revealed-8648595">Trump orders 'full and complete release' of JFK assassination files: 'Everything will be revealed'</a>
Citing sources in the know, Axios reports that these thousands of pages worth of records were never shared with the board tasked with reviewing and disclosing the JFK assassination files.
<h2>Closely held secrets</h2>
As per the report, the existence of these clandestine records was disclosed to the White House on Friday (Feb 7) as Lora Shiao, the Director of National Intelligence, submitted the agency's plan to disclose the assassination records.
The discovery of these documents is likely to raise questions on how information on the closely scrutinised event in US history managed to stay a secret for over six decades.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nothing-heroic-about-it-jfks-grandson-slams-trumps-decision-to-declassify-assassination-records-8650450">'Nothing heroic about it': JFK's grandson slams Trump's decision to declassify assassination records</a>
<h2>'This is huge'</h2>
Applauding the revelation, Jefferson Morley, an expert on the assassination and vice president of the nonpartisan Mary Ferrell Foundation, the nation's largest source of online records of Kennedy's killing, said: "This is huge".
"The FBI is finally saying, 'Let's respond to the president's order,' instead of keeping the secrecy going," he added.
<h2>Why does this matter?</h2>
The remaining records, whose content is still not disclosed, can potentially shed light on whether JFK assassin Lee Harvey Oswald was a lone wolf or part of a broader conspiracy, say experts.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-warns-hamas-hell-will-break-out-unless-israeli-hostages-are-released-on-saturday-feb-15-israel-hamas-war-gaza-war-8709085">Trump warns Hamas 'all hell' will break loose unless Israeli hostages are released on Feb 15</a>
Additionally, these records could have relevance in a 2022 lawsuit alleging that federal agencies had more documents relating to the assassination that were kept hidden from the national archives. The lawsuit filed by the Mary Ferrell Foundation against the Biden administration in 2022 alleges that the documents include Jailhouse recordings of mobster Carlos Marcello, who claimed he was involved in the assassination, among other things. &nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World and Trending news | Know about the unprecedented discovery of hidden JFK assassination records, unearthed by the FBI 61 years after the tragic killing.

JFK assassination files: Sixty-one years after the assassination of US president John F. Kennedy, the FBI has 'discovered' 2,400 previously concealed records relating to the former president's killing, suggest reports. This revelation follows US President Donald Trump's order demanding the release of all JFK assassination records. Also read | Trump orders 'full and complete release' of JFK assassination files: 'Everything will be revealed' Citing sources in the know, Axios reports that these thousands of pages worth of records were never shared with the board tasked with reviewing and disclosing the JFK assassination files. Closely held secrets As per the report, the existence of these clandestine records was disclosed to the White House on Friday (Feb 7) as Lora Shiao, the Director of National Intelligence, submitted the agency's plan to disclose the assassination records. The discovery of these documents is likely to raise questions on how information on the closely scrutinised event in US history managed to stay a secret for over six decades. Also read | 'Nothing heroic about it': JFK's grandson slams Trump's decision to declassify assassination records 'This is huge' Applauding the revelation, Jefferson Morley, an expert on the assassination and vice president of the nonpartisan Mary Ferrell Foundation, the nation's largest source of online records of Kennedy's killing, said: "This is huge". "The FBI is finally saying, 'Let's respond to the president's order,' instead of keeping the secrecy going," he added. Why does this matter? The remaining records, whose content is still not disclosed, can potentially shed light on whether JFK assassin Lee Harvey Oswald was a lone wolf or part of a broader conspiracy, say experts. Also read | Trump warns Hamas 'all hell' will break loose unless Israeli hostages are released on Feb 15 Additionally, these records could have relevance in a 2022 lawsuit alleging that federal agencies had more documents relating to the assassination that were kept hidden from the national archives. The lawsuit filed by the Mary Ferrell Foundation against the Biden administration in 2022 alleges that the documents include Jailhouse recordings of mobster Carlos Marcello, who claimed he was involved in the assassination, among other things. (With inputs from agencies)

FBI 'discovers' 2,400 hidden JFK assassination files 61 years after his killing

US President Donald Trump said on Monday (Feb 10) that he does not see Vice President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-talked-to-putin-says-russian-president-wants-to-see-people-stop-dying-in-ukraine-war-report-8703614">JD Vance</a> as his successor. Trump said it is "too early" to make such an endorsement and he and his team are "just starting". Trump made the statement ahead of the Super Bowl. This comes after Trump's multiple statements hinting at his desire to run for a third term.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-jd-vance-to-attend-ai-summit-in-paris-8689858">US Vice President JD Vance to attend AI summit in Paris</a>
In an interview, a Fox News journalist asked Trump, "Do you view Vice President JD Vance as your successor, the Republican nominee in 2028?"&nbsp;
Trump replied, "No, but he is very capable. I think you have a lot of very capable people. So far I think he is doing a fantastic job. It's too early. We're just starting."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dumbest-immigration-policy-in-the-world-jd-vance-slams-birthright-citizenship-in-first-interview-as-us-vp-8656473">'Dumbest immigration policy': JD Vance slams birthright citizenship in first interview as US vice president</a>
Trump has previously said he would bring constitutional amendments to run for the third time for the post of the US president.&nbsp;
The 22nd Amendment of the American Constitution does not allow one to become the US president more than twice. Trump first served after winning the 2016 elections and now in 2024.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, JD Vance is being seen as the next face for the Republicans for the 2028 presidential run, as per numerous reports by US media outlets.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-washington-church-jd-vance-melania-trump-8642362">WATCH | Donald Trump, JD Vance attend interfaith service at Washington National Cathedral with family</a>
As per a recent survey of GOP voters by McLaughlin &amp; Associates, around 27 per cent of those who polled want Vance to run for president in 2028.
Just after taking office in January 2025, Vance was asked if he desired to run for the role in 2028. Vance said, &ldquo;We&rsquo;ll see what happens come 2028."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jd-vance-tells-who-shouldnt-be-pardoned-as-fate-of-jan-6-rioters-hangs-in-balance-8612830">JD Vance tells &lsquo;who shouldn&rsquo;t be pardoned&rsquo; as fate of Jan 6 rioters hangs in balance</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | TRENDING | In an interview, a Fox News journalist asked Trump, "Do you view Vice President JD Vance as your successor, the Republican nominee in 2028?" 

US President Donald Trump said on Monday (Feb 10) that he does not see Vice President JD Vance as his successor. Trump said it is "too early" to make such an endorsement and he and his team are "just starting". Trump made the statement ahead of the Super Bowl. This comes after Trump's multiple statements hinting at his desire to run for a third term. Also read: US Vice President JD Vance to attend AI summit in Paris In an interview, a Fox News journalist asked Trump, "Do you view Vice President JD Vance as your successor, the Republican nominee in 2028?" Trump replied, "No, but he is very capable. I think you have a lot of very capable people. So far I think he is doing a fantastic job. It's too early. We're just starting." Also read: 'Dumbest immigration policy': JD Vance slams birthright citizenship in first interview as US vice president Trump has previously said he would bring constitutional amendments to run for the third time for the post of the US president. The 22nd Amendment of the American Constitution does not allow one to become the US president more than twice. Trump first served after winning the 2016 elections and now in 2024. Meanwhile, JD Vance is being seen as the next face for the Republicans for the 2028 presidential run, as per numerous reports by US media outlets. Also read: WATCH | Donald Trump, JD Vance attend interfaith service at Washington National Cathedral with family As per a recent survey of GOP voters by McLaughlin & Associates, around 27 per cent of those who polled want Vance to run for president in 2028. Just after taking office in January 2025, Vance was asked if he desired to run for the role in 2028. Vance said, “We’ll see what happens come 2028." Also read: JD Vance tells ‘who shouldn’t be pardoned’ as fate of Jan 6 rioters hangs in balance (With inputs from agencies)

'You have lot of very capable people': Trump denies endorsing JD Vance for 2028 presidential run as GOP candidate

Google fell in line with Donald Trump&rsquo;s executive order by changing the name of Gulf of Mexico to &lsquo;Gulf of America&rsquo; on Monday (Feb 10) for those using its Maps application in the United States.
<h2>Google announces change of name</h2>
In a blog post, the tech giant wrote it has officially updated the name of &lsquo;Gulf of Mexico&rsquo; to &lsquo;Gulf of America&rsquo; in the US.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-officially-renames-gulf-of-mexico-to-gulf-of-america-in-us-will-it-catch-on-internationally-8652331">Trump officially renames Gulf of Mexico to 'Gulf of America' in US: Will it catch on internationally?</a>
&ldquo;People using Maps in the U.S. will see &lsquo;Gulf of America,&rsquo; and people in Mexico will see &lsquo;Gulf of Mexico.&rsquo; Everyone else will see both names,&rdquo; Google wrote.
<figure class="image"><img alt="Image shared by Google." src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/11/FbFuJy5omkmltSpOsWuA.jpg" style="width: 1280px;">
<figcaption>Image shared by Google. Photograph: (https://blog.google/)</figcaption>
</figure>
&nbsp;Earlier on January 27, Google stated in an X post, &ldquo;We have a longstanding practice of applying name changes when they have been updated in official government sources.&rdquo;
Google said that the change of name aligns with the the Geographic Names Information System, the official US government geographic designations.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-maps-to-rename-gulf-of-mexico-as-gulf-of-america-for-us-users-8662129">Google Maps to rename Gulf of Mexico as &lsquo;Gulf of America&rsquo; for US users</a>
<h2>Glitch in the (gulf) matrix?</h2>
Some social media users have reported seeing a glitch in Google maps while viewing the gulf. A user from Kentuckey shared a video where the map shows the name &lsquo;Gulf of America&rsquo; when it is zoomed out. However, it changed to &lsquo;Gulf of Mexico&rsquo; when he zooms in.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Google can&rsquo;t decide if it&rsquo;s the Gulf of America or the Gulf of Mexico,&rdquo; the user wrote on X.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gulf-of-america-or-gulf-of-mexico-how-google-deals-with-controversial-geography-8675623">'Gulf of America' or 'Gulf of Mexico': How Google deals with controversial geography</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Google can&rsquo;t decide if it&rsquo;s the Gulf of America or the Gulf of Mexico <a href="https://t.co/SB91o9qYSW">pic.twitter.com/SB91o9qYSW</a>
&mdash; greg (@greg16676935420) <a href="https://twitter.com/greg16676935420/status/1889077495896645759?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Trump's orders on renaming locations spark controversy</h2>
The Trump administration&rsquo;s Interior Department announced on Friday (Jan 24) that it has officially renamed the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. The move was authorised by President Donald Trump.
Renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America is not the only executive order that Trump has signed. Trump has also signed an order to revert the name of the highest peak in the US, Denali, back to its former moniker Mt. McKinley.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-to-write-to-google-for-changing-gulf-of-mexico-to-gulf-of-america-on-its-maps-8669763">Mexico to write to Google for changing Gulf of Mexico to 'Gulf of America' on its maps</a>
In 2015, then-president Barack Obama officially renamed the Alaska mountain to Denali, the name used by the natives for centuries.&nbsp;
Trump&rsquo;s renaming of the peak has sparked a backlash from the Indigenous groups in Alaska while changing the name of the gulf has drawn diplomatic tensions with Mexico.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum mocked Trump by suggesting to call the United States &ldquo;Mexican America,&rdquo; pointing to an older map before one-third of her country was seized by the US in 1848.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending | “People using Maps in the U.S. will see ‘Gulf of America,’ and people in Mexico will see ‘Gulf of Mexico.’ Everyone else will see both names,” Google wrote.

Google fell in line with Donald Trump’s executive order by changing the name of Gulf of Mexico to ‘Gulf of America’ on Monday (Feb 10) for those using its Maps application in the United States. Google announces change of name In a blog post, the tech giant wrote it has officially updated the name of ‘Gulf of Mexico’ to ‘Gulf of America’ in the US. Also read | Trump officially renames Gulf of Mexico to 'Gulf of America' in US: Will it catch on internationally? “People using Maps in the U.S. will see ‘Gulf of America,’ and people in Mexico will see ‘Gulf of Mexico.’ Everyone else will see both names,” Google wrote. Image shared by Google. Photograph: (https://blog.google/) Earlier on January 27, Google stated in an X post, “We have a longstanding practice of applying name changes when they have been updated in official government sources.” Google said that the change of name aligns with the the Geographic Names Information System, the official US government geographic designations. Also read | Google Maps to rename Gulf of Mexico as ‘Gulf of America’ for US users Glitch in the (gulf) matrix? Some social media users have reported seeing a glitch in Google maps while viewing the gulf. A user from Kentuckey shared a video where the map shows the name ‘Gulf of America’ when it is zoomed out. However, it changed to ‘Gulf of Mexico’ when he zooms in. “Google can’t decide if it’s the Gulf of America or the Gulf of Mexico,” the user wrote on X. Also read | 'Gulf of America' or 'Gulf of Mexico': How Google deals with controversial geography Google can’t decide if it’s the Gulf of America or the Gulf of Mexico pic.twitter.com/SB91o9qYSW — greg (@greg16676935420) February 10, 2025 Trump's orders on renaming locations spark controversy The Trump administration’s Interior Department announced on Friday (Jan 24) that it has officially renamed the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. The move was authorised by President Donald Trump. Renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America is not the only executive order that Trump has signed. Trump has also signed an order to revert the name of the highest peak in the US, Denali, back to its former moniker Mt. McKinley. Also read | Mexico to write to Google for changing Gulf of Mexico to 'Gulf of America' on its maps In 2015, then-president Barack Obama officially renamed the Alaska mountain to Denali, the name used by the natives for centuries. Trump’s renaming of the peak has sparked a backlash from the Indigenous groups in Alaska while changing the name of the gulf has drawn diplomatic tensions with Mexico. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum mocked Trump by suggesting to call the United States “Mexican America,” pointing to an older map before one-third of her country was seized by the US in 1848. (With inputs from agencies)

Google falls in line with Trump’s order, changes Gulf of Mexico to ‘Gulf of America’

US President Donald Trump on Monday made good on a promise to slap 25 per cent tariffs on steel and aluminium imports, stepping up a long-promised trade war despite warnings from Europe and China.
The Republican president had unveiled the policy on Sunday aboard Air Force One while flying to the Super Bowl in Louisiana.
Before he signed executive orders imposing the measures, global stock markets rose as traders with "tariff fatigue" appeared to shrug off Trump's plans.
"Today I'm simplifying our tariffs on steel and aluminium," Trump said in the Oval Office. "It's 25 per cent without exceptions or exemptions."
He also signalled that he would look at imposing additional tariffs on automobiles, pharmaceuticals and computer chips.
Canada and Mexico &ndash; which Trump has already threatened with tariffs &ndash; are the biggest steel importers to the United States, according to US trade data. Brazil and South Korea are also major steel providers.
"President Trump has made it clear that an important part of an America First Golden Age is steel production," National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett told CNBC.
The US leader said he was considering an exemption for Australia from the steel tariffs, confirming comments made by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
"We have a (trade) surplus to Australia, one of the few. And the reason is they buy a lot of airplanes. They are rather far away and need lots of airplanes," he said.
Trump has also promised an announcement on Tuesday or Wednesday on broader "reciprocal tariffs" to match the levies other governments charge on US products.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-warns-hamas-hell-will-break-out-unless-israeli-hostages-are-released-on-saturday-feb-15-israel-hamas-war-gaza-war-8709085">Trump warns Hamas 'all hell' will break loose unless Israeli hostages are released on Feb 15</a>
He imposed sweeping tariffs during his 2017-2021 presidency to protect US industries, which he believed faced unfair competition from Asian and European countries.&nbsp;
<h2>'Losers'</h2>
Canadian steelmakers warned of "massive" disruption, while the European Commission said it would "react to protect the interests of European businesses, workers and consumers from unjustified measures."
French President Emmanuel Macron vowed in an interview aired Sunday to go head-to-head with Trump over his wider tariff threats against the European Union, though he said the United States should focus its efforts on China.
German Economy Minister Robert Habeck said a tariff conflict "only has losers."
Around 25 per cent of European steel exports go to the United States, according to consultancy Roland Berger.
Britain's steel industry body called the tariff plan a "devastating blow."
Trump has already shown his fondness for weaponizing the United States' power as the world's largest economy, ordering tariffs on key trade partners China, Mexico and Canada soon after he took office.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-justification-eu-awaits-details-on-trumps-tariff-plan-vows-to-respond-if-needed-8707908">&lsquo;No justification&rsquo;: EU slams Trump&rsquo;s tariff plan on steel, aluminium - Here&rsquo;s how Europe can retaliate</a>
He paused 25 per cent levies against Canada and Mexico for a month after both countries vowed to step up measures to counter flows of the drug fentanyl and the crossing of undocumented migrants into the United States.
<h2>'Tariff fatigue'</h2>
But Trump went ahead with tariffs on China, the world's second biggest economy, with products entering the United States facing an additional 10 percent levy.
Chinese retaliatory tariffs targeting US coal and liquified natural gas come into play on Monday.&nbsp;
Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said Monday that "there is no winner in a trade war and tariff war."
Trump also focused on steel during a visit by Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba last week.&nbsp;
The American leader said he had secured an agreement for Japan's Nippon Steel to make a major investment in US Steel, instead of seeking to take over the troubled firm.
Trump, who has promised a "new golden age" for the United States, insists the impact of any tariffs would be borne by foreign exporters without being passed on to US consumers, despite most experts saying the contrary.
But he did acknowledge this month that Americans might initially feel economic "pain" from the levies.
Wall Street's main indices finished up Monday despite the tariff threat. London and Frankfurt set fresh records, while Hong Kong and Shanghai stocks also rose.
"The fact that global equity indices are higher at the start of the week could be a sign of tariff fatigue," said Kathleen Brooks, research director at trading group XTB.
The dollar also rose against the Canadian dollar, the Mexican peso and South Korean won on Monday.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World | Canada and Mexico – which Trump has already threatened with tariffs – are the biggest steel importers to the United States, according to US trade data. Brazil and South Korea are also major steel providers.

US President Donald Trump on Monday made good on a promise to slap 25 per cent tariffs on steel and aluminium imports, stepping up a long-promised trade war despite warnings from Europe and China. The Republican president had unveiled the policy on Sunday aboard Air Force One while flying to the Super Bowl in Louisiana. Before he signed executive orders imposing the measures, global stock markets rose as traders with "tariff fatigue" appeared to shrug off Trump's plans. "Today I'm simplifying our tariffs on steel and aluminium," Trump said in the Oval Office. "It's 25 per cent without exceptions or exemptions." He also signalled that he would look at imposing additional tariffs on automobiles, pharmaceuticals and computer chips. Canada and Mexico – which Trump has already threatened with tariffs – are the biggest steel importers to the United States, according to US trade data. Brazil and South Korea are also major steel providers. "President Trump has made it clear that an important part of an America First Golden Age is steel production," National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett told CNBC. The US leader said he was considering an exemption for Australia from the steel tariffs, confirming comments made by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. "We have a (trade) surplus to Australia, one of the few. And the reason is they buy a lot of airplanes. They are rather far away and need lots of airplanes," he said. Trump has also promised an announcement on Tuesday or Wednesday on broader "reciprocal tariffs" to match the levies other governments charge on US products. Also read | Trump warns Hamas 'all hell' will break loose unless Israeli hostages are released on Feb 15 He imposed sweeping tariffs during his 2017-2021 presidency to protect US industries, which he believed faced unfair competition from Asian and European countries. 'Losers' Canadian steelmakers warned of "massive" disruption, while the European Commission said it would "react to protect the interests of European businesses, workers and consumers from unjustified measures." French President Emmanuel Macron vowed in an interview aired Sunday to go head-to-head with Trump over his wider tariff threats against the European Union, though he said the United States should focus its efforts on China. German Economy Minister Robert Habeck said a tariff conflict "only has losers." Around 25 per cent of European steel exports go to the United States, according to consultancy Roland Berger. Britain's steel industry body called the tariff plan a "devastating blow." Trump has already shown his fondness for weaponizing the United States' power as the world's largest economy, ordering tariffs on key trade partners China, Mexico and Canada soon after he took office. Also read | ‘No justification’: EU slams Trump’s tariff plan on steel, aluminium - Here’s how Europe can retaliate He paused 25 per cent levies against Canada and Mexico for a month after both countries vowed to step up measures to counter flows of the drug fentanyl and the crossing of undocumented migrants into the United States. 'Tariff fatigue' But Trump went ahead with tariffs on China, the world's second biggest economy, with products entering the United States facing an additional 10 percent levy. Chinese retaliatory tariffs targeting US coal and liquified natural gas come into play on Monday. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said Monday that "there is no winner in a trade war and tariff war." Trump also focused on steel during a visit by Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba last week. The American leader said he had secured an agreement for Japan's Nippon Steel to make a major investment in US Steel, instead of seeking to take over the troubled firm. Trump, who has promised a "new golden age" for the United States, insists the impact of any tariffs would be borne by foreign exporters without being passed on to US consumers, despite most experts saying the contrary. But he did acknowledge this month that Americans might initially feel economic "pain" from the levies. Wall Street's main indices finished up Monday despite the tariff threat. London and Frankfurt set fresh records, while Hong Kong and Shanghai stocks also rose. "The fact that global equity indices are higher at the start of the week could be a sign of tariff fatigue," said Kathleen Brooks, research director at trading group XTB. The dollar also rose against the Canadian dollar, the Mexican peso and South Korean won on Monday. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Trump signs executive orders to impose tariffs on steel, aluminium

Donald Trump on Sunday (Feb 9) made history as he became the first United States president to attend a Super Bowl. His daughter Ivanka was also present. Philadelphia Eagles registered a sensational 40-22 Super Bowl victory over the Kansas City Chiefs.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl/super-bowl-lix-eagles-beat-chiefs-thanks-to-god-for-qb-patrick-mahomes-reacts-after-loss-against-eagles-8706326" rel="dofollow">Super Bowl LIX: 'Thanks to God for...,' Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes reacts after loss against Eagles</a>&nbsp;
Besides the stunning performances during the game, Trump's salute became a talking point. Trump was spotted in a salute during the national anthem performance by Jon Batiste before the match started. Now, people online wonder if the 78-year-old is allowed to salute. Did he serve in the military?&nbsp;
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/super-bowl-halftime-show-its-game-over-for-drake-as-kendrick-lamar-performs-diss-track-not-like-us-8705912" aria-label="Super Bowl Halftime Show: It's 'Game Over' for Drake as Kendrick Lamar performs diss track Not Like Us">Super Bowl Halftime Show: It's 'Game Over' for Drake as Kendrick Lamar performs diss track Not Like Us</a>&nbsp;
Several users on social media platform X have asked if Trump is allowed to salute during the national anthem. One user asked, "Is Trump allowed to salute? Does a president get to salute even though they didn&rsquo;t serve at all?" Another wrote, "Why is Trump saluting?" Another said, "Why does trump salute when he never went to the military."&nbsp;
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/super-bowl-taylor-swift-gets-booed-by-pro-eagles-fand-as-she-watches-the-chiefs-8705857" aria-label="Super Bowl: Taylor Swift taken aback as she gets booed by pro-Eagles fans while watching the Chiefs">Super Bowl: Taylor Swift taken aback as she gets booed by pro-Eagles fans while watching the Chiefs</a>&nbsp;
Watch the video here:&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6yqn7sa-kx169hdv-5xl6el3q">
Super Bowl stadium erupts in huge cheers as President Trump appears on screen as he salutes during the National Anthem. 🇺🇸🫡 <a href="https://t.co/7t74lMgw1j">pic.twitter.com/7t74lMgw1j</a>
&mdash; Oli London (@OliLondonTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/OliLondonTV/status/1888738220244189511?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Conduct during the national anthem&nbsp;</h2>
United States Code mentions that "during rendition of the national anthem when the flag is displayed, all present except those in uniform should stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart".&nbsp;
"Men not in uniform should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Persons in uniform should render the military salute at the first note of the anthem and retain this position until the last note," it says. &nbsp;
"When the flag is not displayed, those present should face toward the music and act in the same manner they would if the flag were displayed there," it further states.&nbsp;
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-impose-25-percent-tariffs-on-steel-aluminum-imports-says-donald-trump-8705765" aria-label="US to impose 25-percent tariffs on steel, aluminium imports, says Donald Trump">US to impose 25-percent tariffs on steel, aluminium imports, says Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;
Trump arrived at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans in his motorcade after he jetted in from Florida on Air Force One. He appeared briefly on the field following his arrival.&nbsp;
The president met with first responders and family members of victims of the January 1 attack in New Orleans in which 14 people lost their lives and dozens were injured.&nbsp;
Trump had confirmed on Sunday that he would be present during the Super Bowl. He released a message ahead of the "Big Game".&nbsp;
"I look forward to joining the fans in New Orleans for Super Bowl LIX to cheer on two great teams &ndash; the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles &ndash; as they battle for the National Football League&rsquo;s Vince Lombardi Trophy," Trump said in a statement.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World | Uncover the reactions from netizens questioning Trump's salute. Discussion centers on whether a president who hasn't served is permitted to salute the anthem.

Donald Trump on Sunday (Feb 9) made history as he became the first United States president to attend a Super Bowl. His daughter Ivanka was also present. Philadelphia Eagles registered a sensational 40-22 Super Bowl victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. Also read: Super Bowl LIX: 'Thanks to God for...,' Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes reacts after loss against Eagles Besides the stunning performances during the game, Trump's salute became a talking point. Trump was spotted in a salute during the national anthem performance by Jon Batiste before the match started. Now, people online wonder if the 78-year-old is allowed to salute. Did he serve in the military? Also read: Super Bowl Halftime Show: It's 'Game Over' for Drake as Kendrick Lamar performs diss track Not Like Us Several users on social media platform X have asked if Trump is allowed to salute during the national anthem. One user asked, "Is Trump allowed to salute? Does a president get to salute even though they didn’t serve at all?" Another wrote, "Why is Trump saluting?" Another said, "Why does trump salute when he never went to the military." Also read: Super Bowl: Taylor Swift taken aback as she gets booed by pro-Eagles fans while watching the Chiefs Watch the video here: Super Bowl stadium erupts in huge cheers as President Trump appears on screen as he salutes during the National Anthem. 🇺🇸🫡 pic.twitter.com/7t74lMgw1j — Oli London (@OliLondonTV) February 9, 2025 Conduct during the national anthem United States Code mentions that "during rendition of the national anthem when the flag is displayed, all present except those in uniform should stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart". "Men not in uniform should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Persons in uniform should render the military salute at the first note of the anthem and retain this position until the last note," it says. "When the flag is not displayed, those present should face toward the music and act in the same manner they would if the flag were displayed there," it further states. Also read: US to impose 25-percent tariffs on steel, aluminium imports, says Donald Trump Trump arrived at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans in his motorcade after he jetted in from Florida on Air Force One. He appeared briefly on the field following his arrival. The president met with first responders and family members of victims of the January 1 attack in New Orleans in which 14 people lost their lives and dozens were injured. Trump had confirmed on Sunday that he would be present during the Super Bowl. He released a message ahead of the "Big Game". "I look forward to joining the fans in New Orleans for Super Bowl LIX to cheer on two great teams – the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles – as they battle for the National Football League’s Vince Lombardi Trophy," Trump said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

'Why is Trump saluting?' Netizens curious about Donald Trump's salute at Super Bowl 2025 - VIDEO

The Kansas City Chiefs aim for a historic hat-trick of Super Bowl titles on Sunday when they take on the Philadelphia Eagles in front of a star-studded crowd in New Orleans headed by US President Donald Trump.<o:p></o:p>
Trump, a strident critic of the National Football League over the years, will become the first sitting president ever to attend the Super Bowl when he takes his seat among a sell-out crowd of around 74,000 fans at the Caesars Superdome for the biggest annual event in the American sporting calendar.<o:p></o:p>
Pop superstar Taylor Swift will also be in the VIP seats to watch as her boyfriend Travis Kelce and his Chiefs team-mates bid to become the first team in history to lift three consecutive Vince Lombardi Trophies.<o:p></o:p>
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Trump's presence at the NFL showpiece will heighten security around an event which was already protected by a heavy police presence following the New Year's Day attack which left 14 people dead and many more injured in the Big Easy's famous Bourbon Street district.<o:p></o:p>
"I'm confident the safest place this weekend will be under the security umbrella we have in place around (the Superdome)," Cathy Lanier, the NFL's chief security officer, said this week. "We have reviewed, and re-reviewed, all the events of January 1."<o:p></o:p>
Trump's groundbreaking attendance at the game comes against a backdrop of a strained relationship with the NFL stretching back several decades, when he sought to join the league as an owner in the early 1980s only to be rebuffed.<o:p></o:p>
Trump also triggered uproar during his first term as president when in 2017 he criticized NFL players who knelt during the playing of the US national anthem to draw attention to issues of racial injustice.<o:p></o:p>
Players in Sunday's game have so far walked a diplomatic line when asked about Trump's presence, with Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes saying playing in front of the US leader would be "cool."<o:p></o:p>
Fans in New Orleans meanwhile expressed hope that Trump does not politicize the occasion.<o:p></o:p>
"I'm hoping that basically he comes in and he's at his seat and they kind of like keep it quiet. I just want it to be a fun game and not be political," Debra Ward, a teacher from Virginia, told AFP.<o:p></o:p>
As always, the Super Bowl crosses over into popular culture and the half-time show this year will feature hip-hop artist Kendrick Lamar, who had a clean sweep at last Sunday's Grammys, winning in all five categories for which he received nominations.<o:p></o:p>
Bookmakers and casinos meanwhile are taking odds on whether Chiefs star Kelce will propose to pop icon Swift after what might be his final game in the NFL. Reports late Saturday said the 35-year-old is considering retirement after the Super Bowl. <o:p></o:p>
American sports books, now legal in 38 states, could take an estimated $1.39 billion in bets on the Super Bowl according to an annual report from the American Gaming Association (AGA).<o:p></o:p>
<h2>Chiefs&rsquo; favourites<o:p></o:p></h2>
For the more serious punters, the oddsmakers have the Chiefs as slight favourite for the game, a rematch of the Super Bowl from two years ago which the Chiefs won by three points.<o:p></o:p>
The Chiefs defended their title last year, beating the San Francisco 49ers in Las Vegas and putting them one win away from an unprecedented "three-peat".<o:p></o:p>
The 29-year-old Mahomes will become one of just four quarterbacks in the history of the NFL to have won more than three Super Bowls should he triumph again, having first led the Chiefs to Super Bowl glory in 2020.<o:p></o:p>
But the Eagles have added serious offensive firepower since their defeat two years ago with mobile quarterback Jalen Hurts joined by the game-changing speed and power of running back Saquon Barkley.<o:p></o:p>
The Chiefs put the finishing touches to their Super Bowl preparations on Saturday with a 30-minute walkthrough of a mock game.<o:p></o:p>
Chiefs coach Andy Reid saluted his team's attitude to training over the whole week since arriving in Louisiana.<o:p></o:p>
"I thought the guys worked hard, they got done what they needed to get done," Reid said.<o:p></o:p>
The Eagles had a similarly relaxed final session before heading to the Superdome on Saturday for a team photo.<o:p></o:p>
Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni said his players were "hungry" and "ready to roll."<o:p></o:p>
"We're ready for the challenge against a really good team," Sirianni said.<o:p></o:p>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, NFL: Taylor Swift will also be in the VIP seats to watch Travis Kelce and his Chiefs team-mates bid to become the first team to lift three consecutive Trophies.

The Kansas City Chiefs aim for a historic hat-trick of Super Bowl titles on Sunday when they take on the Philadelphia Eagles in front of a star-studded crowd in New Orleans headed by US President Donald Trump. Trump, a strident critic of the National Football League over the years, will become the first sitting president ever to attend the Super Bowl when he takes his seat among a sell-out crowd of around 74,000 fans at the Caesars Superdome for the biggest annual event in the American sporting calendar. Pop superstar Taylor Swift will also be in the VIP seats to watch as her boyfriend Travis Kelce and his Chiefs team-mates bid to become the first team in history to lift three consecutive Vince Lombardi Trophies. Also read | Alcaraz sets up Rotterdam Open final date with Australia’s de Minaur Trump's presence at the NFL showpiece will heighten security around an event which was already protected by a heavy police presence following the New Year's Day attack which left 14 people dead and many more injured in the Big Easy's famous Bourbon Street district. "I'm confident the safest place this weekend will be under the security umbrella we have in place around (the Superdome)," Cathy Lanier, the NFL's chief security officer, said this week. "We have reviewed, and re-reviewed, all the events of January 1." Trump's groundbreaking attendance at the game comes against a backdrop of a strained relationship with the NFL stretching back several decades, when he sought to join the league as an owner in the early 1980s only to be rebuffed. Trump also triggered uproar during his first term as president when in 2017 he criticized NFL players who knelt during the playing of the US national anthem to draw attention to issues of racial injustice. Players in Sunday's game have so far walked a diplomatic line when asked about Trump's presence, with Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes saying playing in front of the US leader would be "cool." Fans in New Orleans meanwhile expressed hope that Trump does not politicize the occasion. "I'm hoping that basically he comes in and he's at his seat and they kind of like keep it quiet. I just want it to be a fun game and not be political," Debra Ward, a teacher from Virginia, told AFP. As always, the Super Bowl crosses over into popular culture and the half-time show this year will feature hip-hop artist Kendrick Lamar, who had a clean sweep at last Sunday's Grammys, winning in all five categories for which he received nominations. Bookmakers and casinos meanwhile are taking odds on whether Chiefs star Kelce will propose to pop icon Swift after what might be his final game in the NFL. Reports late Saturday said the 35-year-old is considering retirement after the Super Bowl. American sports books, now legal in 38 states, could take an estimated $1.39 billion in bets on the Super Bowl according to an annual report from the American Gaming Association (AGA). Chiefs’ favourites For the more serious punters, the oddsmakers have the Chiefs as slight favourite for the game, a rematch of the Super Bowl from two years ago which the Chiefs won by three points. The Chiefs defended their title last year, beating the San Francisco 49ers in Las Vegas and putting them one win away from an unprecedented "three-peat". The 29-year-old Mahomes will become one of just four quarterbacks in the history of the NFL to have won more than three Super Bowls should he triumph again, having first led the Chiefs to Super Bowl glory in 2020. But the Eagles have added serious offensive firepower since their defeat two years ago with mobile quarterback Jalen Hurts joined by the game-changing speed and power of running back Saquon Barkley. The Chiefs put the finishing touches to their Super Bowl preparations on Saturday with a 30-minute walkthrough of a mock game. Chiefs coach Andy Reid saluted his team's attitude to training over the whole week since arriving in Louisiana. "I thought the guys worked hard, they got done what they needed to get done," Reid said. The Eagles had a similarly relaxed final session before heading to the Superdome on Saturday for a team photo. Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni said his players were "hungry" and "ready to roll." "We're ready for the challenge against a really good team," Sirianni said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Donald Trump, Taylor Swift to attend Super Bowl showdown as Chiefs chase 'three-peat'

Days after launching a massive crackdown on illegal immigrants since his return to the White House, US President Donald Trump has reportedly ruled out deporting Prince Harry from the United States, despite ongoing litigation questioning the Duke of Sussex's immigration status.
In an interview with The New York Post on Friday (Feb 8), Donald Trump made it clear that he does not want to take action against Prince Harry, a member of the British royal family who, along with his wife, Meghan Markle, stepped down as working royals in January 2020 and moved to Meghan's native Southern California.
"I don't want to do that," he said. "I'll leave him alone. He's got enough problems with his wife. She's terrible," Trump said.
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<h2 dir="ltr">Trump admired Harry's estranged older brother, Prince William</h2>
Trump's statement comes amid legal challenges involving Harry's visa, particularly from the Heritage Foundation, which has raised concerns over his potential failure to disclose past illegal drug use during his visa application process.
The US President also expressed admiration for Harry's estranged older brother, Prince William, calling him "a great young man."
The two had met privately in Paris during the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral in December 2024, a meeting that stood in stark contrast to Trump's strained relationship with Harry and his wife.
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The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have long been vocal critics of Donald Trump.
<h2 dir="ltr">Harry's US visa</h2>
A lawsuit filed by The Heritage Foundation against the Department of Homeland Security has sparked questions about Prince Harry's truthfulness on his US visa application. Specifically, his admissions in his memoir "Spare" about past drug use, including cocaine, cannabis, and psychedelics, have raised concerns.
Nile Gardiner of the Heritage Foundation stated, "Anyone applying to the US must be truthful on their application, and it&rsquo;s unclear whether that&rsquo;s the case with Prince Harry," according to the report.
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The conservative think tank has implied that Prince Harry may have benefited from preferential treatment by the Biden administration, potentially due to his high-profile status. This speculation arises from the circumstances surrounding Harry and Meghan's relocation to California in 2020, following their decision to step back from the British royal family, commonly referred to as "Megxit."
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: US President Trump, after a crackdown on illegal immigration, has decided not to deport Prince Harry, amidst ongoing questions about his US residency status.

Days after launching a massive crackdown on illegal immigrants since his return to the White House, US President Donald Trump has reportedly ruled out deporting Prince Harry from the United States, despite ongoing litigation questioning the Duke of Sussex's immigration status. In an interview with The New York Post on Friday (Feb 8), Donald Trump made it clear that he does not want to take action against Prince Harry, a member of the British royal family who, along with his wife, Meghan Markle, stepped down as working royals in January 2020 and moved to Meghan's native Southern California. "I don't want to do that," he said. "I'll leave him alone. He's got enough problems with his wife. She's terrible," Trump said. Also read | The great American guessing game: who runs the country, Trump or Musk? Trump admired Harry's estranged older brother, Prince William Trump's statement comes amid legal challenges involving Harry's visa, particularly from the Heritage Foundation, which has raised concerns over his potential failure to disclose past illegal drug use during his visa application process. The US President also expressed admiration for Harry's estranged older brother, Prince William, calling him "a great young man." The two had met privately in Paris during the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral in December 2024, a meeting that stood in stark contrast to Trump's strained relationship with Harry and his wife. Also read | After Biden, Trump cancels security clearances for Blinken, Jake Sullivan The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have long been vocal critics of Donald Trump. Harry's US visa A lawsuit filed by The Heritage Foundation against the Department of Homeland Security has sparked questions about Prince Harry's truthfulness on his US visa application. Specifically, his admissions in his memoir "Spare" about past drug use, including cocaine, cannabis, and psychedelics, have raised concerns. Nile Gardiner of the Heritage Foundation stated, "Anyone applying to the US must be truthful on their application, and it’s unclear whether that’s the case with Prince Harry," according to the report. Also read | Alaska plane crash: Bodies of all 10 people recovered. Here’s what we know The conservative think tank has implied that Prince Harry may have benefited from preferential treatment by the Biden administration, potentially due to his high-profile status. This speculation arises from the circumstances surrounding Harry and Meghan's relocation to California in 2020, following their decision to step back from the British royal family, commonly referred to as "Megxit." (With inputs from agencies)

‘I'll leave him alone’: Donald Trump on why he won’t deport Prince Harry

Hollywood actor Richard Gere was recently bestowed with the prestigious International Goya Award at Spain&rsquo;s top film honours, the Goya Awards 2025.&nbsp;
At the awards ceremony, Richard Gere put up a handsome front in a black suit. During his acceptance speech, he spoke about the US President Donald Trump and what America has become in the past few years with the rise of authoritarianis. He called Trump a &ldquo;bully&rdquo; and a &ldquo;thug&rdquo; during the awards ceremony and said that the US is in a &ldquo;very dark place&rdquo;.&nbsp;
<h2>America is in a 'dark place'</h2>
While accepting his award, he said, "We're in a very dark place in America, where we have a bully, a thug, who's the president of the United States. But it's not just in the US, it's everywhere. Authoritarianism takes us all over."&nbsp;
Richard Gere was presented the award by Spanish actor Antonio Banderas. Antonio presented Gere with the honorary award for "his extraordinary contribution to the art of filmmaking" and his social commitment to various causes, including the plight of refugees and the homeless.
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/thank-you-to-my-brother-diddy-responds-to-kanye-wests-free-puff-campaign-8702570" aria-label="'Thank you to my brother': Diddy responds to Kanye West's 'Free Puff' campaign">'Thank you to my brother': Diddy responds to Kanye West's 'Free Puff' campaign</a></h2>
During his speech, Richard Gere warned of the "dark marriage" of power and money "like we've never seen before".
"The fact that these irresponsible and perhaps dangerously corrosive billionaires are running everything in America right now is a danger for everyone on this planet," he said.
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/nicholas-hoult-reveals-his-approach-to-lex-luthor-in-james-gunns-superman-8702970" aria-label="Nicholas Hoult reveals his approach to Lex Luthor in James Gunn's Superman">Nicholas Hoult reveals his approach to Lex Luthor in James Gunn's Superman</a></h2>
<h2>Richard Gere does not live in the US anymore</h2>
Last year, Richard Gere and his Spanish wife, the publicist Alejandra Silva, 41, moved to Madrid with their two sons.

Entertainment Hollywood actor Richard Gere was awarded International Goya Award. In his acceptance speech, Richard Gere called out Trump and said that America was in a dark place. 

Hollywood actor Richard Gere was recently bestowed with the prestigious International Goya Award at Spain’s top film honours, the Goya Awards 2025. At the awards ceremony, Richard Gere put up a handsome front in a black suit. During his acceptance speech, he spoke about the US President Donald Trump and what America has become in the past few years with the rise of authoritarianis. He called Trump a “bully” and a “thug” during the awards ceremony and said that the US is in a “very dark place”. America is in a 'dark place' While accepting his award, he said, "We're in a very dark place in America, where we have a bully, a thug, who's the president of the United States. But it's not just in the US, it's everywhere. Authoritarianism takes us all over." Richard Gere was presented the award by Spanish actor Antonio Banderas. Antonio presented Gere with the honorary award for "his extraordinary contribution to the art of filmmaking" and his social commitment to various causes, including the plight of refugees and the homeless. 'Thank you to my brother': Diddy responds to Kanye West's 'Free Puff' campaign During his speech, Richard Gere warned of the "dark marriage" of power and money "like we've never seen before". "The fact that these irresponsible and perhaps dangerously corrosive billionaires are running everything in America right now is a danger for everyone on this planet," he said. Nicholas Hoult reveals his approach to Lex Luthor in James Gunn's Superman Richard Gere does not live in the US anymore Last year, Richard Gere and his Spanish wife, the publicist Alejandra Silva, 41, moved to Madrid with their two sons.

Richard Gere calls Donald Trump a 'bully', a 'thug' in his acceptance speech at Goya Awards

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