After several claims on the internet that Jo Ellis, a transgender pilot of the Virginia Army National Guard, was the captain of the downed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-black-hawk-pilot-atc-missteps-obama-or-dei-hiring-whos-really-to-blame-8678560">Black Hawk</a>, she posted a video to reject the claims.&nbsp;
She took to the social media platform Facebook and posted a video as &ldquo;proof of life&rdquo; to reassure that she was alive and was not operating the helicopter.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-helicopter-black-box-found-41-of-67-victim-bodies-recovered-divers-continue-to-search-for-remaining-26-8679585">Washington Plane Crash: Helicopter black box found; 41 bodies recovered, search for remaining 26 victims on</a>
&ldquo;I understand some people have associated me with the crash in DC and that is false," she said in the video.&nbsp;
&ldquo;It is insulting to the families to try to tie this to some sort of political agenda. They don&rsquo;t deserve that. I don&rsquo;t deserve this," she further added.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6mcgx5u-rl5cj6wj-978x76hx">
JUST RELEASED VIDEO OF JO ELLIS ALIVE! 🚨 Rumors that Jo Ellis was the pilot in the DC crash are FALSE. Let's get the facts straight and stop spreading misinformation. <a href="https://t.co/QgjOIB0RLe">pic.twitter.com/QgjOIB0RLe</a>
&mdash; American Citizen 🇺🇸 (@realtalkstruth) <a href="https://twitter.com/realtalkstruth/status/1885342379432886596?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2025</a></blockquote>
A post on the Musk-owned X on January 31 said, "The Blackhawk helicopter pilot involved in the Washington D.C. Reagan National Airport #planecrash has been identified as transgender military pilot Jo Ellis."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-criticises-journalist-after-she-grills-him-for-blaming-democrats-dei-policies-for-washington-plane-crash-8676575">Donald Trump criticises journalist after she grills him for &lsquo;blaming&rsquo; Democrats, DEI policies for Washington plane crash</a>
&ldquo;Reports indicate Ellis attempted to take out three other passenger planes before colliding midair with American Airlines Flight 5342 over the Potomac. Just one day before the disaster, Ellis appeared on the Michael Smerconish podcast, slamming Trump's military trans ban," it further added.&nbsp;
The rumours erupted after US President Donald Trump and his supporters tried to link the Washington, DC crash to so-called &ldquo;DEI programs" and to the fact that Ellis is transgender.&nbsp;
WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/washington-plane-crash-no-survivors-expected-67-feared-dead-8676498">Washington plane crash: No survivors expected, 67 feared dead</a>
As per the reports, the crashed chopper was carrying three US Army soldiers while the commercial plane had 60 passengers onboard. Around 67 dead bodies have been recovered so far - and Trump has confirmed that no one is likely to be alive after the crash.&nbsp;
The lies further escalated when the Pentagon announced the names of the two deceased pilots but refused to reveal the third one &ldquo;at the request of the family.&rdquo;
Several posts emerged on the internet with claims that the third pilot was transgender, and it was Ellis speculating that she did it after Trump's ban on transgender people from the US military.&nbsp;
WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/washington-plane-crash-investigations-underway-into-tragedy-8676218">Washington Plane crash: Investigations underway into tragedy</a>
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

Trending | World | She took to the social media platform Facebook and posted a video as “proof of life” to reassure that she was alive and was not operating the helicopter. 

After several claims on the internet that Jo Ellis, a transgender pilot of the Virginia Army National Guard, was the captain of the downed Black Hawk, she posted a video to reject the claims. She took to the social media platform Facebook and posted a video as “proof of life” to reassure that she was alive and was not operating the helicopter. Also read: Washington Plane Crash: Helicopter black box found; 41 bodies recovered, search for remaining 26 victims on “I understand some people have associated me with the crash in DC and that is false," she said in the video. “It is insulting to the families to try to tie this to some sort of political agenda. They don’t deserve that. I don’t deserve this," she further added. JUST RELEASED VIDEO OF JO ELLIS ALIVE! 🚨 Rumors that Jo Ellis was the pilot in the DC crash are FALSE. Let's get the facts straight and stop spreading misinformation. pic.twitter.com/QgjOIB0RLe — American Citizen 🇺🇸 (@realtalkstruth) January 31, 2025 A post on the Musk-owned X on January 31 said, "The Blackhawk helicopter pilot involved in the Washington D.C. Reagan National Airport #planecrash has been identified as transgender military pilot Jo Ellis." Also read: Donald Trump criticises journalist after she grills him for ‘blaming’ Democrats, DEI policies for Washington plane crash “Reports indicate Ellis attempted to take out three other passenger planes before colliding midair with American Airlines Flight 5342 over the Potomac. Just one day before the disaster, Ellis appeared on the Michael Smerconish podcast, slamming Trump's military trans ban," it further added. The rumours erupted after US President Donald Trump and his supporters tried to link the Washington, DC crash to so-called “DEI programs" and to the fact that Ellis is transgender. WATCH: Washington plane crash: No survivors expected, 67 feared dead As per the reports, the crashed chopper was carrying three US Army soldiers while the commercial plane had 60 passengers onboard. Around 67 dead bodies have been recovered so far - and Trump has confirmed that no one is likely to be alive after the crash. The lies further escalated when the Pentagon announced the names of the two deceased pilots but refused to reveal the third one “at the request of the family.” Several posts emerged on the internet with claims that the third pilot was transgender, and it was Ellis speculating that she did it after Trump's ban on transgender people from the US military. WATCH: Washington Plane crash: Investigations underway into tragedy (With inputs from agencies)

'I don’t deserve this': Jo Ellis, transgender pilot wrongly named in Washington plane crash speaks out. Who is she? | WATCH

US President Donald Trump revealed on Friday (Jan 31) that his administration has engaged in &ldquo;very serious&rdquo; discussions with Russia regarding its ongoing war in Ukraine.&nbsp;
In remarks made during an exchange with reporters in the Oval Office, Trump suggested that he and Russian President Vladimir Putin could soon take de&nbsp;stepscisive to bring the war to a close.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We will be speaking, and I think we&rsquo;ll perhaps do something that&rsquo;ll be significant,&rdquo; Trump said. &ldquo;We want to end that war. That war would have not started if I was president.&rdquo;
While Trump did not specify who from his administration had been in contact with Russian officials, he emphasised that the two sides were already in communication. When asked directly if he had spoken to Putin himself, Trump offered a cryptic response, saying, &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t want to say that.&rdquo;
Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-agents-who-investigated-us-president-donald-trump-under-the-sword-amid-reports-of-mass-firings-or-sweeping-purge-8679596"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-agents-who-investigated-us-president-donald-trump-under-the-sword-amid-reports-of-mass-firings-or-sweeping-purge-8679596">'Retire, resign or be fired': FBI agents who investigated Trump under the sword amid reports of mass firings</a>
<h2>Putin's praise for Trump</h2>
In a recent interview with Russian state television, President Vladimir Putin praised Trump as a &ldquo;clever and pragmatic man&rdquo; who prioritises US interests. Putin also suggested that had Trump been president during the lead-up to the 2022 invasion, the crisis in Ukraine could have been avoided.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We always had a business-like, pragmatic but also trusting relationship with the current US president,&rdquo; Putin said. &ldquo;I couldn&rsquo;t disagree with him that if he had been president if they hadn&rsquo;t stolen victory from him in 2020, the crisis that emerged in Ukraine in 2022 could have been avoided.&rdquo;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-tariffs-could-hit-canada-mexico-and-china-tomorrow-why-even-americans-should-be-worried-8679177">Trump&rsquo;s tariffs to hit Canada, Mexico and China: Why should Americans be worried?</a>
<h2>Trump's position on Ukraine and Putin</h2>
Throughout his campaign and afterwards, Trump has repeatedly stated that he believes the war in Ukraine would never have occurred if he were still in office. This assertion is despite his tenure as president during the buildup of conflict in eastern Ukraine where fighting escalated between Ukrainian forces and pro-Russian separatists prior to Putin&rsquo;s 2022 invasion.&nbsp;
Trump has also criticised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for not reaching a deal with Putin to prevent the conflict.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World| Trump suggested that he and Russian President Vladimir Putin could soon take decisive steps to bring the war to a close. 

US President Donald Trump revealed on Friday (Jan 31) that his administration has engaged in “very serious” discussions with Russia regarding its ongoing war in Ukraine. In remarks made during an exchange with reporters in the Oval Office, Trump suggested that he and Russian President Vladimir Putin could soon take de stepscisive to bring the war to a close. “We will be speaking, and I think we’ll perhaps do something that’ll be significant,” Trump said. “We want to end that war. That war would have not started if I was president.” While Trump did not specify who from his administration had been in contact with Russian officials, he emphasised that the two sides were already in communication. When asked directly if he had spoken to Putin himself, Trump offered a cryptic response, saying, “I don’t want to say that.” Also Read | 'Retire, resign or be fired': FBI agents who investigated Trump under the sword amid reports of mass firings Putin's praise for Trump In a recent interview with Russian state television, President Vladimir Putin praised Trump as a “clever and pragmatic man” who prioritises US interests. Putin also suggested that had Trump been president during the lead-up to the 2022 invasion, the crisis in Ukraine could have been avoided. “We always had a business-like, pragmatic but also trusting relationship with the current US president,” Putin said. “I couldn’t disagree with him that if he had been president if they hadn’t stolen victory from him in 2020, the crisis that emerged in Ukraine in 2022 could have been avoided.” Also Read | Trump’s tariffs to hit Canada, Mexico and China: Why should Americans be worried? Trump's position on Ukraine and Putin Throughout his campaign and afterwards, Trump has repeatedly stated that he believes the war in Ukraine would never have occurred if he were still in office. This assertion is despite his tenure as president during the buildup of conflict in eastern Ukraine where fighting escalated between Ukrainian forces and pro-Russian separatists prior to Putin’s 2022 invasion. Trump has also criticised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for not reaching a deal with Putin to prevent the conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump hints he and Putin could soon take 'decisive steps' to end Ukraine conflict

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jan 31) said that the military helicopter was flying too high at the time of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/washington-plane-crash" rel="dofollow">Washington DC plane crash</a>, that killed 67 people on board.&nbsp;
In a Truth Social post, Trump said that the helicopter was far above the 200-foot limit.
"The Blackhawk helicopter was flying too high, by a lot. It was far above the 200-foot limit. That&rsquo;s not really too complicated to understand, is it???," he said in the post.&nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/113923147334338299/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

More than 40 bodies have been recovered from the Potomac River, a law enforcement official reportedly told the Associated Press.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-black-boxes-recovered-from-crashed-plane-in-washington-us-media-trump-confirms-no-survivors-8676429" rel="dofollow">'Black boxes' recovered from Washington DC plane crash that killed 67</a>
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said that the black boxes onboard the Black Hawk helicopter have not yet been recovered.&nbsp;
&ldquo;That might tell us exactly who was piloting that Black Hawk," he said, adding, &ldquo;if any confusion was there at the end.&rdquo;
&ldquo;Someone was at the wrong altitude&rdquo; Hegseth added. &ldquo;The investigation will help us understand that. Was the BlackHawk too high, was it on course? Right now we don&rsquo;t know.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/figure-skating-champions-daughter-of-indian-immigrants-know-who-are-the-victims-of-washington-dc-plane-crash-8678185" rel="dofollow">Figure skating champions, daughter of Indian immigrants: Know who are the victims of Washington DC plane crash</a>
Currently, the US Federal Aviation Administration is restricting helicopter flights near Reagan National Airport indefinitely, a FAA official reportedly told Reuters.
National Transportation Safety Board member Todd Inman said on Friday that they have hundreds of people in this investigation.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Today will be yet another day of the teams going out there&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;They&rsquo;re out in the field. They&rsquo;re collecting data. They&rsquo;ve started interviews.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-latest-news-american-airlines-jet-black-hawk-helicopter-critical-failures-deadliest-us-air-disaster-in-24-years-8678043" rel="dofollow">Washington DC plane crash: How 'critical failures,' last-minute errors resulted in deadliest US air disaster in 24 years</a>
Earlier, Trump suggested that efforts to increase diversity at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) could have been a cause in the crash.
Moreover, the NTSB on Thursday announced that the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been recovered from the passenger jet. The recording devices commonly known as black boxes were recovered from the crashed plane operated by an American Airlines subsidiary.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Pete Hegseth said that the black boxes onboard the Black Hawk helicopter have not yet been recovered, adding, 'itt might tell us who was piloting that Black Hawk'.  

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jan 31) said that the military helicopter was flying too high at the time of the Washington DC plane crash, that killed 67 people on board. In a Truth Social post, Trump said that the helicopter was far above the 200-foot limit. "The Blackhawk helicopter was flying too high, by a lot. It was far above the 200-foot limit. That’s not really too complicated to understand, is it???," he said in the post. More than 40 bodies have been recovered from the Potomac River, a law enforcement official reportedly told the Associated Press. Also read: 'Black boxes' recovered from Washington DC plane crash that killed 67 US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said that the black boxes onboard the Black Hawk helicopter have not yet been recovered. “That might tell us exactly who was piloting that Black Hawk," he said, adding, “if any confusion was there at the end.” “Someone was at the wrong altitude” Hegseth added. “The investigation will help us understand that. Was the BlackHawk too high, was it on course? Right now we don’t know.” Also read: Figure skating champions, daughter of Indian immigrants: Know who are the victims of Washington DC plane crash Currently, the US Federal Aviation Administration is restricting helicopter flights near Reagan National Airport indefinitely, a FAA official reportedly told Reuters. National Transportation Safety Board member Todd Inman said on Friday that they have hundreds of people in this investigation. “Today will be yet another day of the teams going out there” he said. “They’re out in the field. They’re collecting data. They’ve started interviews.” Also read: Washington DC plane crash: How 'critical failures,' last-minute errors resulted in deadliest US air disaster in 24 years Earlier, Trump suggested that efforts to increase diversity at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) could have been a cause in the crash. Moreover, the NTSB on Thursday announced that the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been recovered from the passenger jet. The recording devices commonly known as black boxes were recovered from the crashed plane operated by an American Airlines subsidiary. (With inputs from agencies)

'Not too complicated to understand', Trump says helicopter involved in Washington crash was flying 'too high'

Hours after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that US President Donald Trump is serious about buying Greenland and it was "not a joke," Denmark said it meant seriously that Greenland is not for sale.
Trump, since he returned to the White House, has been firm on his plan to acquire Greenland even if he would have to use military or economic power to do that.&nbsp;
In an interview on Thursday (Jan 30), Rubio said although the Trump administration is not conducting military action against Denmark, it can be assured that the inrest of the United States in Greenland is real.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-wants-greenland-but-does-greenland-want-trump-latest-poll-says-85-against-it-8669449">Trump wants Greenland but does Greenland want Trump? Latest poll says 85% against it</a>
"This is not a joke," Rubio said.
"President Trump's put out there what he intends to do, which is to purchase it," Rubio said. &nbsp;
"This is not about acquiring land to acquire land. This is in our national interest and it needs to be solved," he added.&nbsp;
<h2>'I would be more surprised if...'</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-us-will-get-greenland-calls-denmark-pm-mette-frederiksen-8655480">Trump confident US will 'get Greenland,' calls Denmark's refusal 'very unfriendly'</a>
Denmark's Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen responded to his remark and said, "I would be more surprised if he had said it was a joke."
"We seriously mean - and this is also true in Greenland - that Greenland is not for sale," he added.&nbsp;
Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede, who expressed the desire of the island nation to be free from Denmark, also said it should be the people of Greenland who decide their fate and not Trump.&nbsp;
<h2>'If we are already on the hook...'</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-is-not-first-us-president-to-think-about-buying-greenland-8626496">Trump is not the first US president to think about buying Greenland. A look at the geopolitics of the Arctic</a>
Talking about Denmark, Rubio said the US has a defence agreement with the country to protect Greenland "if it becomes under assault". &nbsp;
He said, "If we are already on the hook for having to do that, then we might as well have more control over what happens there."&nbsp;
<h2>China's interest in the island&nbsp;</h2>
WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trumps-bid-to-annex-greenland">Donald Trump's bid to 'Annex' Greenland</a>
Rubio further expressed his concerns over China's interest in Greenland. He said China is seeking Arctic access and could expand its influence in Greenland via state-run companies.&nbsp;
"It is completely realistic to believe that the Chinese will eventually, maybe even in the short term, try to do in Greenland what they have done at the Panama Canal and in other places," Rubio said.&nbsp;
<h2>US will own Greenland in 4 years?&nbsp;</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-brics-nation-with-100-pc-tariffs-for-replacing-us-dollar-8677282">Trump threatens BRICS nation with 100 pc tariffs for replacing US dollar</a>
Rubio was asked if the US would acquire Greenland in four years. The US State Secretary said, "Obviously that's the president's priority and he has made that point."&nbsp;
He said although the Trump administration is not yet ready to discuss the exact plan to do it, it can be assured that "four years from now, our interest in the Arctic will be more secure."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-criticises-journalist-after-she-grills-him-for-blaming-democrats-dei-policies-for-washington-plane-crash-8676575">Donald Trump criticises journalist after she grills him for &lsquo;blaming&rsquo; Democrats, DEI policies for Washington plane crash</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trump, since he returned to the White House, has been firm on his plan to acquire Greenland even if he would have to use military or economic power to do that. 

Hours after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that US President Donald Trump is serious about buying Greenland and it was "not a joke," Denmark said it meant seriously that Greenland is not for sale. Trump, since he returned to the White House, has been firm on his plan to acquire Greenland even if he would have to use military or economic power to do that. In an interview on Thursday (Jan 30), Rubio said although the Trump administration is not conducting military action against Denmark, it can be assured that the inrest of the United States in Greenland is real. Also read: Trump wants Greenland but does Greenland want Trump? Latest poll says 85% against it "This is not a joke," Rubio said. "President Trump's put out there what he intends to do, which is to purchase it," Rubio said. "This is not about acquiring land to acquire land. This is in our national interest and it needs to be solved," he added. 'I would be more surprised if...' Also read: Trump confident US will 'get Greenland,' calls Denmark's refusal 'very unfriendly' Denmark's Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen responded to his remark and said, "I would be more surprised if he had said it was a joke." "We seriously mean - and this is also true in Greenland - that Greenland is not for sale," he added. Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede, who expressed the desire of the island nation to be free from Denmark, also said it should be the people of Greenland who decide their fate and not Trump. 'If we are already on the hook...' Also read: Trump is not the first US president to think about buying Greenland. A look at the geopolitics of the Arctic Talking about Denmark, Rubio said the US has a defence agreement with the country to protect Greenland "if it becomes under assault". He said, "If we are already on the hook for having to do that, then we might as well have more control over what happens there." China's interest in the island WATCH: Donald Trump's bid to 'Annex' Greenland Rubio further expressed his concerns over China's interest in Greenland. He said China is seeking Arctic access and could expand its influence in Greenland via state-run companies. "It is completely realistic to believe that the Chinese will eventually, maybe even in the short term, try to do in Greenland what they have done at the Panama Canal and in other places," Rubio said. US will own Greenland in 4 years? Also read: Trump threatens BRICS nation with 100 pc tariffs for replacing US dollar Rubio was asked if the US would acquire Greenland in four years. The US State Secretary said, "Obviously that's the president's priority and he has made that point." He said although the Trump administration is not yet ready to discuss the exact plan to do it, it can be assured that "four years from now, our interest in the Arctic will be more secure." Also read: Donald Trump criticises journalist after she grills him for ‘blaming’ Democrats, DEI policies for Washington plane crash (With inputs from agencies)

US Secy of State Marco Rubio says Trump's intent to buy Greenland 'not a joke,' Denmark says 'not for sale

Billionaire Elon Musk has taken his dedication to work in US President Donald Trump's administration, to new heights, as he is reportedly living in the Department of Government Efficiency's (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/doge" rel="dofollow">DOGE</a>) headquarters in Washington DC, according to the American magazine WIRED.&nbsp;
Tesla and X CEO Musk has been living at DOGE's offices in the &nbsp;Eisenhower Executive Office Building, just some steps away from the White House.&nbsp;
Musk also claimed that he was invited to spend the night in the White House's Lincoln Bedroom, however, he chose to stay in the DOGE headquarters.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-administration-pulls-plug-on-funding-of-condoms-in-gaza-elon-musk-reacts-8664246" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts</a>
Reportedly, he made this decision to avoid a more formal relationship with Trump's team, after Chief of Staff Susie Wiles denied him office space in the West Wing, Daily Mail reported.&nbsp;
The world's richest man has been constantly showing dedication and commitment toward newly-sworn in president Trump and his administration.&nbsp;
He is also known for his 'hardcore' work habits and for demanding the same work ethics from his employees.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musks-doge-sued-soon-after-trumps-inauguration-8639018" rel="dofollow">Elon Musk's DOGE sued soon after Trump's inauguration</a>
Musk's primary role with the DOGE is to reduce unnecessary government spending. 'DOGE is saving the Federal Government approx. $1 billion/day, mostly from stopping the hiring of people into unnecessary positions, deletion of DEI and stopping improper payments to foreign organizations, all consistent with the President&rsquo;s Executive Orders,' DOGE said in a statement. 'A good start, though this number needs to increase to &gt; $3 billion/day.'
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/doge-chief-musk-wants-to-delete-irs-and-people-agree-with-him-779792" rel="dofollow">DOGE chief Musk wants to 'delete' IRS, and people agree with him</a>
<h2>Musk slept at Tesla factory&nbsp;</h2>
During the early days of Tesla, Musk slept on the factory floor during busy days, saying that it allowed his employees to see their leader's dedication.&nbsp;
"This is important because if the team thinks their leader is off somewhere having a good time, drinking Mai Tais on a tropical island... they knew I was there, and that made a huge difference," he said.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World, trending: Tesla and X CEO Musk has been living at DOGE's offices in the  Eisenhower Executive Office Building, just some steps away from the White House. 

Billionaire Elon Musk has taken his dedication to work in US President Donald Trump's administration, to new heights, as he is reportedly living in the Department of Government Efficiency's (DOGE) headquarters in Washington DC, according to the American magazine WIRED. Tesla and X CEO Musk has been living at DOGE's offices in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, just some steps away from the White House. Musk also claimed that he was invited to spend the night in the White House's Lincoln Bedroom, however, he chose to stay in the DOGE headquarters. Also read: Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts Reportedly, he made this decision to avoid a more formal relationship with Trump's team, after Chief of Staff Susie Wiles denied him office space in the West Wing, Daily Mail reported. The world's richest man has been constantly showing dedication and commitment toward newly-sworn in president Trump and his administration. He is also known for his 'hardcore' work habits and for demanding the same work ethics from his employees. Also read: Elon Musk's DOGE sued soon after Trump's inauguration Musk's primary role with the DOGE is to reduce unnecessary government spending. 'DOGE is saving the Federal Government approx. $1 billion/day, mostly from stopping the hiring of people into unnecessary positions, deletion of DEI and stopping improper payments to foreign organizations, all consistent with the President’s Executive Orders,' DOGE said in a statement. 'A good start, though this number needs to increase to > $3 billion/day.' Also read: DOGE chief Musk wants to 'delete' IRS, and people agree with him Musk slept at Tesla factory During the early days of Tesla, Musk slept on the factory floor during busy days, saying that it allowed his employees to see their leader's dedication. "This is important because if the team thinks their leader is off somewhere having a good time, drinking Mai Tais on a tropical island... they knew I was there, and that made a huge difference," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk turns Washington's DOGE office into his bedroom

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jan 30) warned BRICS nations and threatened them with 100 per cent tariffs on their exports for replacing the US dollar as the reserve currency.
The US President had made a similar statement right after winning the November 2024 elections.
<h2 dir="ltr">Trump threatens with 100 per cent tariffs</h2>
In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, &ldquo;The idea that the BRICS Countries are trying to move away from the Dollar, while we stand by and watch, is OVER."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rescue-efforts-intensify-in-japan-to-reach-driver-trapped-in-sinkhole-for-days-8677054">Rescue efforts intensify in Japan to reach driver trapped in sinkhole for days</a>
"We are going to require a commitment from these seemingly hostile Countries that they will neither create a new BRICS Currency, nor back any other Currency to replace the mighty US Dollar or, they will face 100% tariffs, and should expect to say goodbye to selling into the wonderful US Economy," the post added.
In a scathing attack, Trump dared BRICS countries to "go find another sucker nation," emphasizing that the US dollar's dominance in international trade is unshakeable.&nbsp;
&ldquo;They can go find another sucker Nation. There is no chance that BRICS will replace the U.S. Dollar in International Trade, or anywhere else, and any Country that tries should say hello to Tariffs, and goodbye to America!&rdquo; he said.
<h2 dir="ltr">BRICS nations aim to reduce their dependence on US dollar</h2>
The BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) have long sought to decrease their reliance on the US dollar. Although they don't share a common currency, BRICS countries have been actively promoting trade in their local currencies, aiming to reduce their dependence on the American dollar.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-criticises-journalist-after-she-grills-him-for-blaming-democrats-dei-policies-for-washington-plane-crash-8676575">Donald Trump criticises journalist after she grills him for &lsquo;blaming&rsquo; Democrats, DEI policies for Washington plane crash</a>
The call for de-dollarization gained momentum at the 15th BRICS Summit in 2023 and the June 2024 BRICS foreign ministers' meeting in Russia, where member states advocated for using local currencies in bilateral and multilateral trade.&nbsp;
However, the US dollar's widespread use in international transactions, foreign exchange reserves, and debt issuance continues to cement its position as the global reserve currency. Also, Trump intends to ensure that, even if it means arm-twisting nations by using the threat of crippling tariffs.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: US President Donald Trump threatens BRICS nations with 100 per cent tariffs, escalating tensions over their move to replace the US dollar as the global reserve currency.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jan 30) warned BRICS nations and threatened them with 100 per cent tariffs on their exports for replacing the US dollar as the reserve currency. The US President had made a similar statement right after winning the November 2024 elections. Trump threatens with 100 per cent tariffs In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, “The idea that the BRICS Countries are trying to move away from the Dollar, while we stand by and watch, is OVER." Also read | Rescue efforts intensify in Japan to reach driver trapped in sinkhole for days "We are going to require a commitment from these seemingly hostile Countries that they will neither create a new BRICS Currency, nor back any other Currency to replace the mighty US Dollar or, they will face 100% tariffs, and should expect to say goodbye to selling into the wonderful US Economy," the post added. In a scathing attack, Trump dared BRICS countries to "go find another sucker nation," emphasizing that the US dollar's dominance in international trade is unshakeable. “They can go find another sucker Nation. There is no chance that BRICS will replace the U.S. Dollar in International Trade, or anywhere else, and any Country that tries should say hello to Tariffs, and goodbye to America!” he said. BRICS nations aim to reduce their dependence on US dollar The BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) have long sought to decrease their reliance on the US dollar. Although they don't share a common currency, BRICS countries have been actively promoting trade in their local currencies, aiming to reduce their dependence on the American dollar. Also read | Donald Trump criticises journalist after she grills him for ‘blaming’ Democrats, DEI policies for Washington plane crash The call for de-dollarization gained momentum at the 15th BRICS Summit in 2023 and the June 2024 BRICS foreign ministers' meeting in Russia, where member states advocated for using local currencies in bilateral and multilateral trade. However, the US dollar's widespread use in international transactions, foreign exchange reserves, and debt issuance continues to cement its position as the global reserve currency. Also, Trump intends to ensure that, even if it means arm-twisting nations by using the threat of crippling tariffs. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump threatens BRICS nation with 100 pc tariffs for replacing US dollar

President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jan 30) criticised a journalist after she pressed the Republican leader for &ldquo;blaming&rdquo; Democrats and diversity and equity and inclusion policies for the Washington DC, air crash.
A heated exchange erupted between Trump and CNN reporter Kaitlan Collins during a White House press conference addressing the devastating plane crash at Reagan National Airport, which claimed the lives of 67 people.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-black-boxes-recovered-from-crashed-plane-in-washington-us-media-trump-confirms-no-survivors-8676429">Washington DC Plane Crash: 'Black boxes' recovered from crashed passenger jet</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Trump accuses Democratic predecessors</h2>
While addressing the press conference, Trump accused his predecessors, Joe Biden and Barack Obama, of prioritizing diversity and equity policies over hiring competent employees at the aviation agency.&nbsp;
"The FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) diversity push includes a focus on hiring people with severe intellectual and psychiatric disabilities. That is amazing," the US President said.
He claimed the FAA wanted people &ldquo;with severe disabilities, the most underrepresented segment of the workforce, and they want them in, and they want them - they can be air traffic controllers.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-we-know-about-washington-dc-plane-crash-deadliest-us-airline-crash-in-nearly-24-years-8676133">What we know about Washington DC plane crash, deadliest US air tragedy in nearly 24 years</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Anchor Kaitlan Collins questions Trump</h2>
Collins questioned Trump, saying that the US president was blaming Democrats and DEI policies even when the names of the 67 people who were killed were not known.
&ldquo;We don&rsquo;t yet know the names of the 67 people [who] were killed, and you are blaming Democrats and DEI policies and air traffic control, and seemingly the member of the US military who was flying the Black Hawk helicopter,&rdquo; Collins asked Trump. &ldquo;Don&rsquo;t you think you&rsquo;re getting ahead of the investigation right now?&rdquo;
&ldquo;I don&rsquo;t think so at all,&rdquo; Trump shot back. &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t think the names of the people &mdash; you mean the names of the people that are on the plane &mdash; you think that&rsquo;s going to make a difference?&rdquo;
Collins replied, &ldquo;Does it comfort their family to hear you blaming DEI policies?&rdquo;
The president said he could give Collins a list of names of those who lost their lives and that the White House was coordinating closely with the US military and American Airlines.
&ldquo;I think that&rsquo;s not a very smart question,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;I&rsquo;m surprised coming from you.&rdquo;
A passenger jet collided with an Army helicopter while approaching Ronald Reagan National Airport near Washington DC on Wednesday. Both the flight and the helicopter plummeted into the Potomac River.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: President Trump faced backlash after criticizing a journalist who questioned his stance on Democrats and diversity policies related to a Washington, DC, air crash.

President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jan 30) criticised a journalist after she pressed the Republican leader for “blaming” Democrats and diversity and equity and inclusion policies for the Washington DC, air crash. A heated exchange erupted between Trump and CNN reporter Kaitlan Collins during a White House press conference addressing the devastating plane crash at Reagan National Airport, which claimed the lives of 67 people. Also read | Washington DC Plane Crash: 'Black boxes' recovered from crashed passenger jet Trump accuses Democratic predecessors While addressing the press conference, Trump accused his predecessors, Joe Biden and Barack Obama, of prioritizing diversity and equity policies over hiring competent employees at the aviation agency. "The FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) diversity push includes a focus on hiring people with severe intellectual and psychiatric disabilities. That is amazing," the US President said. He claimed the FAA wanted people “with severe disabilities, the most underrepresented segment of the workforce, and they want them in, and they want them - they can be air traffic controllers.” Also read | What we know about Washington DC plane crash, deadliest US air tragedy in nearly 24 years Anchor Kaitlan Collins questions Trump Collins questioned Trump, saying that the US president was blaming Democrats and DEI policies even when the names of the 67 people who were killed were not known. “We don’t yet know the names of the 67 people [who] were killed, and you are blaming Democrats and DEI policies and air traffic control, and seemingly the member of the US military who was flying the Black Hawk helicopter,” Collins asked Trump. “Don’t you think you’re getting ahead of the investigation right now?” “I don’t think so at all,” Trump shot back. “I don’t think the names of the people — you mean the names of the people that are on the plane — you think that’s going to make a difference?” Collins replied, “Does it comfort their family to hear you blaming DEI policies?” The president said he could give Collins a list of names of those who lost their lives and that the White House was coordinating closely with the US military and American Airlines. “I think that’s not a very smart question,” he said. “I’m surprised coming from you.” A passenger jet collided with an Army helicopter while approaching Ronald Reagan National Airport near Washington DC on Wednesday. Both the flight and the helicopter plummeted into the Potomac River. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump criticises journalist after she grills him for ‘blaming’ Democrats, DEI policies for Washington plane crash

Transgender rights advocacy groups filed a lawsuit on Tuesday against U.S. President Donald Trump's executive order that targeted transgender service members, in what would be the first legal challenge to a cornerstone of his conservative agenda at the Pentagon.
Trump signed an executive order on Monday that took aim at transgender troops in a personal way -- at one point saying that a man identifying as a woman was "not consistent with the humility and selflessness required of a service member."
The lawsuit, filed jointly by GLAD Law and the National Center For Lesbian Rights (NCLR) in a district court in Washington D.C., challenges the constitutionality of the executive order and said it violated the equal protection component of the Fifth Amendment.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-transgender-people-us-military-executive-orders-8661366">Trump signs order banning transgender people from US military. What are the new guidelines?</a>
The plaintiffs include six transgender service members and two individuals looking to join the military.
Reuters was first to report plans to file the lawsuit.
The executive orders signed by Trump said that expressing a "gender identity" different from an individual's sex at birth did not meet military standards.
While the order banned the use of "invented" pronouns in the military, it did not answer basic questions including whether transgender soldiers currently serving in the military would be allowed to stay and, if not, how they would be removed.
Trump's order has been heavily criticized by rights groups and some Democratic lawmakers.
"President Trump's Executive Order is an insult to the bravery and service of transgender servicemembers," Senator Andy Kim said.
"How can we have a military that protects all Americans if it doesn't recognize and respect all Americans?" he added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democrat-bob-menendez-sentenced-to-11-years-for-corruption-echoing-donald-trump-ex-senator-claims-justice-system-is-corrupted-8673073">Bob Menendez sentenced to 11 years for corruption; Echoing Trump, ex-senator claims justice system is 'corrupted'</a>
During his first term, Trump announced that he would ban transgender troops from serving in the military. He did not fully follow through with that ban - his administration froze their recruitment while allowing serving personnel to remain.
President Joe Biden overturned the decision when he took office in 2021.
The military has about 1.3 million active-duty personnel, Department of Defense data show. While transgender rights advocates say there are as many as 15,000 transgender service members, officials say the number is in the low thousands.
When Trump announced his first ban in 2017, he said the military needed to focus on "decisive and overwhelming victory" without being burdened by the "tremendous medical costs and disruption" of having transgender personnel.
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 | The executive orders signed by Trump said that expressing a "gender identity" different from an individual's sex at birth did not meet military standards.

Transgender rights advocacy groups filed a lawsuit on Tuesday against U.S. President Donald Trump's executive order that targeted transgender service members, in what would be the first legal challenge to a cornerstone of his conservative agenda at the Pentagon. Trump signed an executive order on Monday that took aim at transgender troops in a personal way -- at one point saying that a man identifying as a woman was "not consistent with the humility and selflessness required of a service member." The lawsuit, filed jointly by GLAD Law and the National Center For Lesbian Rights (NCLR) in a district court in Washington D.C., challenges the constitutionality of the executive order and said it violated the equal protection component of the Fifth Amendment. Also read | Trump signs order banning transgender people from US military. What are the new guidelines? The plaintiffs include six transgender service members and two individuals looking to join the military. Reuters was first to report plans to file the lawsuit. The executive orders signed by Trump said that expressing a "gender identity" different from an individual's sex at birth did not meet military standards. While the order banned the use of "invented" pronouns in the military, it did not answer basic questions including whether transgender soldiers currently serving in the military would be allowed to stay and, if not, how they would be removed. Trump's order has been heavily criticized by rights groups and some Democratic lawmakers. "President Trump's Executive Order is an insult to the bravery and service of transgender servicemembers," Senator Andy Kim said. "How can we have a military that protects all Americans if it doesn't recognize and respect all Americans?" he added. Also read | Bob Menendez sentenced to 11 years for corruption; Echoing Trump, ex-senator claims justice system is 'corrupted' During his first term, Trump announced that he would ban transgender troops from serving in the military. He did not fully follow through with that ban - his administration froze their recruitment while allowing serving personnel to remain. President Joe Biden overturned the decision when he took office in 2021. The military has about 1.3 million active-duty personnel, Department of Defense data show. While transgender rights advocates say there are as many as 15,000 transgender service members, officials say the number is in the low thousands. When Trump announced his first ban in 2017, he said the military needed to focus on "decisive and overwhelming victory" without being burdened by the "tremendous medical costs and disruption" of having transgender personnel. 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.

Rights groups sue Trump against order banning transgender service members

Mexico will write to Google objecting to its decision to rename the Gulf of Mexico the "Gulf of America" on its maps following Donald Trump's order, President Claudia Sheinbaum said Wednesday.
Google said the change aligned with its policy of following official US government geographic designations through the Geographic Names Information System.
"We are drafting a letter to Google," Sheinbaum said at her daily news conference, adding that the message would emphasise that only an international organisation could change the name, not a single country.
Trump signed executive orders renaming the Gulf of Mexico and reverting the name of North America's highest peak, Denali, back to Mount McKinley soon after his January 20 inauguration.
Sheinbaum cheekily suggested earlier this month calling the United States "Mexican America," pointing to a map from before one-third of her country was seized by the United States in 1848.
Google said that users outside the United States would continue to see both the original and new names of the Gulf of Mexico and Denali, as is always the case for disputed locations.
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 | Google said the change aligned with its policy of following official US government geographic designations through the Geographic Names Information System.

Mexico will write to Google objecting to its decision to rename the Gulf of Mexico the "Gulf of America" on its maps following Donald Trump's order, President Claudia Sheinbaum said Wednesday. Google said the change aligned with its policy of following official US government geographic designations through the Geographic Names Information System. "We are drafting a letter to Google," Sheinbaum said at her daily news conference, adding that the message would emphasise that only an international organisation could change the name, not a single country. Trump signed executive orders renaming the Gulf of Mexico and reverting the name of North America's highest peak, Denali, back to Mount McKinley soon after his January 20 inauguration. Sheinbaum cheekily suggested earlier this month calling the United States "Mexican America," pointing to a map from before one-third of her country was seized by the United States in 1848. Google said that users outside the United States would continue to see both the original and new names of the Gulf of Mexico and Denali, as is always the case for disputed locations. 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.

Mexico to write to Google for changing Gulf of Mexico to 'Gulf of America' on its maps

Amid the constant claims and efforts by US President Donald Trump to acquire Greenland, a recent opinion poll showed that 85 per cent of citizens of Greenland do not want their island nation to be a part of the US.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-us-will-get-greenland-calls-denmark-pm-mette-frederiksen-8655480">Trump confident US will 'get Greenland,' calls Denmark's refusal 'very unfriendly'</a>
As per a survey by pollster Verian, only 6 per cent of Greenlanders are in favour of the island becoming part of the US, with 9 per cent unsure about either situation. Verian is funded by the Danish paper Berlingske.&nbsp;
The poll came as Denmark&rsquo;s prime minister, Mette Frederiksen, said Europe must &ldquo;stand together&rdquo; against Trump's efforts to acquire the nation.&nbsp;
After returning to the White House, Donald Trump constantly put efforts into acquiring the island, which is controlled by Denmark but enjoys a large degree of autonomy.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/denmark-will-come-along-trump-on-plans-of-buying-greenland-8639266">&lsquo;Denmark will come along&rsquo;: Trump on his plans to 'buy Greenland'</a>
On Saturday (Jan 25), Trump said, "I think we&rsquo;re going to have it,&rdquo; and claimed that the Arctic island&rsquo;s 57,000 residents &ldquo;want to be with us&rdquo;.
PM Mette Frederiksen, after a meeting with the German chancellor Olaf Scholz, said, "I want to ensure that all of Europe stands together. Not only in connection with the kingdom of Denmark but also more broadly.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-justice-department-drops-charges-against-trumps-co-defendants-in-record-case-8669474">US Justice Department drops charges against Trump's co-defendants in record case</a>
She further added, &ldquo;Everyone in Europe can see that it will be a different collaboration with the USA now. At least these are the ones we hear from Washington about trade and economic cooperation. What the consequences of that are, we don&rsquo;t know yet.&rdquo;
Previously, she said that Trump would use military forces to claim the island, a claim that Trump shunned.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ill-judged-peter-mandelson-flips-from-his-past-comment-on-trump-as-us-president-approves-him-as-uk-envoy-8669192">'Ill-judged': Peter Mandelson flips from his past comment on Trump as US President approves him as UK envoy</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World | After returning to the White House, Donald Trump constantly put efforts into acquiring the island, which is controlled by Denmark but enjoys a large degree of autonomy. 

Amid the constant claims and efforts by US President Donald Trump to acquire Greenland, a recent opinion poll showed that 85 per cent of citizens of Greenland do not want their island nation to be a part of the US. Also read: Trump confident US will 'get Greenland,' calls Denmark's refusal 'very unfriendly' As per a survey by pollster Verian, only 6 per cent of Greenlanders are in favour of the island becoming part of the US, with 9 per cent unsure about either situation. Verian is funded by the Danish paper Berlingske. The poll came as Denmark’s prime minister, Mette Frederiksen, said Europe must “stand together” against Trump's efforts to acquire the nation. After returning to the White House, Donald Trump constantly put efforts into acquiring the island, which is controlled by Denmark but enjoys a large degree of autonomy. Also read: ‘Denmark will come along’: Trump on his plans to 'buy Greenland' On Saturday (Jan 25), Trump said, "I think we’re going to have it,” and claimed that the Arctic island’s 57,000 residents “want to be with us”. PM Mette Frederiksen, after a meeting with the German chancellor Olaf Scholz, said, "I want to ensure that all of Europe stands together. Not only in connection with the kingdom of Denmark but also more broadly.” Also read: US Justice Department drops charges against Trump's co-defendants in record case She further added, “Everyone in Europe can see that it will be a different collaboration with the USA now. At least these are the ones we hear from Washington about trade and economic cooperation. What the consequences of that are, we don’t know yet.” Previously, she said that Trump would use military forces to claim the island, a claim that Trump shunned. Also read: 'Ill-judged': Peter Mandelson flips from his past comment on Trump as US President approves him as UK envoy (With inputs from agencies)

Trump wants Greenland but does Greenland want Trump? Latest poll says 85% against it

Hours after the Donald Trump administration approves him as the UK ambassador to the US, Peter Mandelson said that his previous remarks against the US President were "ill-judged and wrong". The controversial British politician has previously called Trump &ldquo;a danger to the world&rdquo;.&nbsp;
Mandelson's approval for the post came despite the concerns of Trump's team over his link with China.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-federal-workers-should-know-about-trumps-deferred-resignation-offer-for-govt-employees-8664372">What federal workers should know about Trump's &lsquo;deferred resignation&rsquo; offer for govt employees?</a>
Mandelson, in an interview with Fox News on Wednesday (Jan 29), said Donald Trump has won "fresh respect" with his &ldquo;dynamism and energy&rdquo;.
Foreign Office officials said that if things go smoothly, Mandelson would be formally confirmed to the position by February 2025.&nbsp;
<h2>'I think that times and attitudes...'</h2>
Mandelson, a former Labour minister, has been a critic of Trump for a long time. He has previously described the US President as a &ldquo;bully&rdquo; and &ldquo;reckless and a danger to the world&rdquo;.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-administration-pulls-plug-on-funding-of-condoms-in-gaza-elon-musk-reacts-8664246">Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts</a>
But in a recent interview, he said, &ldquo;I consider my remarks about President Trump as ill-judged and wrong. I think that times and attitudes toward the president have changed since then.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-first-lady-melania-trumps-offiial-portrait-carries-a-hidden-message-that-flotus-us-elections-8663986">FLOTUS Melania Trump's official portrait carries a hidden message that...</a>
&ldquo;I think people have been impressed not just by the extraordinary second mandate that he has received from the American people, but by the dynamism and energy with which he approached not just the campaign but the government as well,&rdquo; he further quipped.&nbsp;
Mandelson said Trump "certainly" has won respect from him and said that all the work he would do as "his majesty&rsquo;s ambassador" will be based on that respect.&nbsp;
WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-envoy-meets-with-senior-palestinian-official-in-saudi-arabia-8663543">Trump envoy meets with senior Palestinian official in Saudi Arabia</a>
<h2>'I&rsquo;ve heard nothing'</h2>
When he was asked about the concerns of his appointment among Trump's team members, Mandelson said, &ldquo;I&rsquo;ve heard nothing from the president or the White House or anyone working for him that suggests that there&rsquo;s going to be any difficulty about my appointment.&rdquo;
WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-orders-a-sweeping-freeze-of-federal-aid-8663448">Trump orders a sweeping freeze of federal aid</a>
Calling himself "an experienced and longstanding friend of the US", Mandelson said he believes Trump would focus on his credentials and "consider what&rsquo;s best for the relationship going forward".&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Mandelson, in an interview with Fox News on Wednesday (Jan 29), said Donald Trump has won "fresh respect" with his “dynamism and energy”.

Hours after the Donald Trump administration approves him as the UK ambassador to the US, Peter Mandelson said that his previous remarks against the US President were "ill-judged and wrong". The controversial British politician has previously called Trump “a danger to the world”. Mandelson's approval for the post came despite the concerns of Trump's team over his link with China. Also read: What federal workers should know about Trump's ‘deferred resignation’ offer for govt employees? Mandelson, in an interview with Fox News on Wednesday (Jan 29), said Donald Trump has won "fresh respect" with his “dynamism and energy”. Foreign Office officials said that if things go smoothly, Mandelson would be formally confirmed to the position by February 2025. 'I think that times and attitudes...' Mandelson, a former Labour minister, has been a critic of Trump for a long time. He has previously described the US President as a “bully” and “reckless and a danger to the world”. Also read: Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts But in a recent interview, he said, “I consider my remarks about President Trump as ill-judged and wrong. I think that times and attitudes toward the president have changed since then.” Also read: FLOTUS Melania Trump's official portrait carries a hidden message that... “I think people have been impressed not just by the extraordinary second mandate that he has received from the American people, but by the dynamism and energy with which he approached not just the campaign but the government as well,” he further quipped. Mandelson said Trump "certainly" has won respect from him and said that all the work he would do as "his majesty’s ambassador" will be based on that respect. WATCH: Trump envoy meets with senior Palestinian official in Saudi Arabia 'I’ve heard nothing' When he was asked about the concerns of his appointment among Trump's team members, Mandelson said, “I’ve heard nothing from the president or the White House or anyone working for him that suggests that there’s going to be any difficulty about my appointment.” WATCH: Trump orders a sweeping freeze of federal aid Calling himself "an experienced and longstanding friend of the US", Mandelson said he believes Trump would focus on his credentials and "consider what’s best for the relationship going forward". (With inputs from agencies)

'Ill-judged': Peter Mandelson flips from his past comment on Trump as US President approves him as UK envoy

The US Senate kicked off the confirmation hearing for Robert F Kennedy Jr, Donald Trump&rsquo;s nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services on Wednesday (29 January).
If confirmed, the 71-year-old environmental lawyer, who is known for his controversial stance on vaccines, will be responsible for overseeing the country&rsquo;s vast $1.8 trillion healthcare system.
Trump's top health official pick, Robert F Kennedy Jr, said, "Healthy people have 1,000 dreams, while a sick person has only one."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-claims-delay-in-aid-delivery-to-gaza-israel-denies-calls-it-fake-news-8669066">Hamas claims delay in aid delivery to Gaza; Israel denies, calls it 'fake news'</a>
He added Trump has "genuine care" for the situation and is committed to "restoring the American dream", and making America healthy again (MAHA). 
"This movement... is one of the most powerful and transcendent I&rsquo;ve ever seen," he added.
&ldquo;News reports have claimed that I am anti-vaccine or anti-industry. I am neither,&rdquo; Kennedy said.
The hearing began with opening statements during which Republican Senator Mike Crapo praised the health secretary nominee's accessibility, saying that he's demonstrated "strong commitment" to fulfilling the responsibilities of the role.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-confirms-receiving-list-of-three-gaza-hostages-to-be-freed-on-jan-30-8669104">Israel confirms receiving list of three Gaza hostages to be freed on Jan 30</a>
Meanwhile, Democratic Senator Ron Wyden accused RFK Jr. of having "embraced conspiracy theories, quacks, and charlatans" in his time "particularly over vaccines". He accused RFK Jr. of caring more about "chasing money and influence" than protecting the lives of children and vulnerable people.
<h2>Democratic Senator Mike Crapo asks RFK Jr four obligatory questions:&nbsp;</h2>
"Are you aware of any conflicts of interest?" Kennedy replied, "No."
Is there any reason which would prevent you from discharging your duties? Kennedy replied, "No."
Will you respond to any reasonable summons? Kennedy replied, "Yes."
Will you provide a prompt response to questions addressed to you? Kennedy replied, "Yes."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-federal-workers-should-know-about-trumps-deferred-resignation-offer-for-govt-employees-8664372">What federal workers should know about Trump's &lsquo;deferred resignation&rsquo; offer for govt employees?</a>
RFK Jr's cousin, Caroline Kennedy, strongly criticised his nomination in a letter to senators obtained by The Washington Post. She accused him of hypocrisy, writing that he was a &ldquo;predator&rdquo; who had privately vaccinated his&nbsp;own children while publicly encouraging vaccine hesitancy among parents.
Senator Bill Cassidy, a Republican from Louisiana and chairman of the health committee, also expressed reservations about Kennedy&rsquo;s views. As a physician, Cassidy said he had engaged in &ldquo;a frank conversation&rdquo; with Kennedy earlier in the month, specifically discussing vaccine policies. However, he remained undecided about whether to support Donald Trump&rsquo;s nominee.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-administration-pulls-plug-on-funding-of-condoms-in-gaza-elon-musk-reacts-8664246">Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts</a>
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m still working through it,&rdquo; Cassidy told reporters on Tuesday. &ldquo;I look forward to the hearings and I will allow that to guide&nbsp;my&nbsp;decision.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Trump's top health official pick Robert F Kennedy Jr, said, "Healthy people have 1,000 dreams, while a sick person has only one." He added Trump has "genuine care" for the situation.

The US Senate kicked off the confirmation hearing for Robert F Kennedy Jr, Donald Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services on Wednesday (29 January). If confirmed, the 71-year-old environmental lawyer, who is known for his controversial stance on vaccines, will be responsible for overseeing the country’s vast $1.8 trillion healthcare system. Trump's top health official pick, Robert F Kennedy Jr, said, "Healthy people have 1,000 dreams, while a sick person has only one." Also read: Hamas claims delay in aid delivery to Gaza; Israel denies, calls it 'fake news' He added Trump has "genuine care" for the situation and is committed to "restoring the American dream", and making America healthy again (MAHA). "This movement... is one of the most powerful and transcendent I’ve ever seen," he added. “News reports have claimed that I am anti-vaccine or anti-industry. I am neither,” Kennedy said. The hearing began with opening statements during which Republican Senator Mike Crapo praised the health secretary nominee's accessibility, saying that he's demonstrated "strong commitment" to fulfilling the responsibilities of the role. Also read: Israel confirms receiving list of three Gaza hostages to be freed on Jan 30 Meanwhile, Democratic Senator Ron Wyden accused RFK Jr. of having "embraced conspiracy theories, quacks, and charlatans" in his time "particularly over vaccines". He accused RFK Jr. of caring more about "chasing money and influence" than protecting the lives of children and vulnerable people. Democratic Senator Mike Crapo asks RFK Jr four obligatory questions: "Are you aware of any conflicts of interest?" Kennedy replied, "No." Is there any reason which would prevent you from discharging your duties? Kennedy replied, "No." Will you respond to any reasonable summons? Kennedy replied, "Yes." Will you provide a prompt response to questions addressed to you? Kennedy replied, "Yes." Also read: What federal workers should know about Trump's ‘deferred resignation’ offer for govt employees? RFK Jr's cousin, Caroline Kennedy, strongly criticised his nomination in a letter to senators obtained by The Washington Post. She accused him of hypocrisy, writing that he was a “predator” who had privately vaccinated his own children while publicly encouraging vaccine hesitancy among parents. Senator Bill Cassidy, a Republican from Louisiana and chairman of the health committee, also expressed reservations about Kennedy’s views. As a physician, Cassidy said he had engaged in “a frank conversation” with Kennedy earlier in the month, specifically discussing vaccine policies. However, he remained undecided about whether to support Donald Trump’s nominee. Also read: Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts “I’m still working through it,” Cassidy told reporters on Tuesday. “I look forward to the hearings and I will allow that to guide my decision.” (With inputs from agencies)

RFK Jr denies being ‘anti-vaccine’ in Senate confirmation hearing for Trump’s health czar

The White House briefing room has been transformed under President Donald Trump's administration, welcoming new media personnel such as podcasters, social media influencers, and content creators.
The move, spearheaded by the youngest Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, aims to provide representation to groups that have not previously had a presence in the briefing room.
At her first daily media briefing on Tuesday (Jan 28), Leavitt said, "Millions of Americans, particularly young people, have shifted away from traditional television and newspapers to consume news through podcasts, blogs, social media, and other independent platforms.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-asks-spacex-for-fast-track-return-of-sunita-williams-butch-wilmore-to-home-says-musk-8662914">Trump orders Musk to bring astronauts Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore home</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">The &lsquo;New Media Seat&rsquo;</h2>
Leavitt emphasised that the move was crucial for the administration to effectively communicate President Trump's message and adapt to the evolving media environment of 2025.
She said the seats along the wall at the front of the briefing room, traditionally reserved for White House press staff, will now be designated the "New Media Seat."
<h2 dir="ltr">Leavitt welcomes content creators to apply for White House press credentials</h2>
Leavitt encouraged independent journalists, social media influencers, and content creators to apply for White House press credentials through a new platform on <a href="http://whitehouse.gov/newmedia">whitehouse.gov/newmedia</a>.
Applications will be reviewed by Leavitt's team, and credentials will be granted to those who meet the criteria and pass the US Secret Service's security requirements.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-offers-federal-employees-to-quit-with-eight-months-severance-8662902">US President Trump offers federal employees money to quit</a>
The press secretary also announced the reinstatement of 440 press passes that had been revoked under the previous administration. Throughout her first briefing, she fielded questions from new media outlets, some of which are among the most viewed news websites but had not previously been represented in the briefing room.
<h2 dir="ltr">The First Amendment and New Media</h2>
Leavitt reiterated the administration's commitment to upholding the First Amendment and stated, "It's a fact that Americans, especially young people, are consuming news from a variety of platforms. As the youngest press secretary in history, thanks to President Trump, I take great pride in opening this room to new media voices to ensure the president's message reaches as many Americans as possible."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-invites-netanyahu-to-white-house-on-feb-4-confirms-israel-pm-office-8662623">Trump to meet Netanyahu at White House on Feb 4, Israel PM's office confirms</a>
She also pledged that established outlets like Axios and Breitbart would have a permanent seat in the briefing room, and encouraged anyone producing legitimate news content, from TikTok creators to bloggers, to apply for press credentials.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

The White House briefing room evolves with President Trump's era, embracing diverse media voices, including podcasters, influencers, and content creators, for a modern twist.

The White House briefing room has been transformed under President Donald Trump's administration, welcoming new media personnel such as podcasters, social media influencers, and content creators. The move, spearheaded by the youngest Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, aims to provide representation to groups that have not previously had a presence in the briefing room. At her first daily media briefing on Tuesday (Jan 28), Leavitt said, "Millions of Americans, particularly young people, have shifted away from traditional television and newspapers to consume news through podcasts, blogs, social media, and other independent platforms.” Also read | Trump orders Musk to bring astronauts Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore home The ‘New Media Seat’ Leavitt emphasised that the move was crucial for the administration to effectively communicate President Trump's message and adapt to the evolving media environment of 2025. She said the seats along the wall at the front of the briefing room, traditionally reserved for White House press staff, will now be designated the "New Media Seat." Leavitt welcomes content creators to apply for White House press credentials Leavitt encouraged independent journalists, social media influencers, and content creators to apply for White House press credentials through a new platform on whitehouse.gov/newmedia. Applications will be reviewed by Leavitt's team, and credentials will be granted to those who meet the criteria and pass the US Secret Service's security requirements. Also read | US President Trump offers federal employees money to quit The press secretary also announced the reinstatement of 440 press passes that had been revoked under the previous administration. Throughout her first briefing, she fielded questions from new media outlets, some of which are among the most viewed news websites but had not previously been represented in the briefing room. The First Amendment and New Media Leavitt reiterated the administration's commitment to upholding the First Amendment and stated, "It's a fact that Americans, especially young people, are consuming news from a variety of platforms. As the youngest press secretary in history, thanks to President Trump, I take great pride in opening this room to new media voices to ensure the president's message reaches as many Americans as possible." Also read | Trump to meet Netanyahu at White House on Feb 4, Israel PM's office confirms She also pledged that established outlets like Axios and Breitbart would have a permanent seat in the briefing room, and encouraged anyone producing legitimate news content, from TikTok creators to bloggers, to apply for press credentials. (With inputs from agencies)

White House opens for social media influencers under Trump 2.0

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Tuesday (Jan 28) that the drones which were sighted above New Jersey last month were &ldquo;not the enemy&rdquo; while reading President Trump&rsquo;s assessment. She added that many were doing &ldquo;research&rdquo;, raising even more questions for the citizens.
Last month, Trump slammed former President Biden over the drone sightings, calling on authorities to "shoot" them down.
&ldquo;After research and study, the drones that were flying over New Jersey in large numbers were authorized to be flown by the FAA for research and various other reasons,&rdquo; Leavitt said, reading a statement by Trump during her first briefing.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-offers-federal-employees-to-quit-with-eight-months-severance-8662902#google_vignette" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">US President Trump offers federal employees to quit with eight months severance</a>
&ldquo;Many of these drones were also hobbyists, recreational and private individuals that enjoy flying drones. In time, it got worse due to curiosity. This was not the enemy.&rdquo;
<h2>Unclear explanation</h2>
The explanation did not clarify what research or other reasons were there for the drone sightings, many of which occurred near military bases.
Some leading politicians have also been sceptical of the official explanation for the drones. Last month, the then House Foreign Affairs Committee chairman Mike McCaul (R-Texas) said that he believed many of them were &ldquo;spy drones&rdquo; from China.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-asks-spacex-for-fast-track-return-of-sunita-williams-butch-wilmore-to-home-says-musk-8662914" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump asks SpaceX for fast-track return of Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore to home, says Musk</a>
&ldquo;My judgement based on my experience is that those that are over our military sites are adversarial and most likely are coming from the People&rsquo;s Republic of China,&rdquo; McCaul had said.
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re not getting answers and I think it&rsquo;s because our government does not know who is behind them and that is very disturbing to me.&rdquo;
Apart from New Jersey, the drones were also seen over New York City and other parts of the US, leading to a sense of hysteria among the people. However, the government agencies insisted they pose no threat.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-invites-netanyahu-to-white-house-on-feb-4-confirms-israel-pm-office-8662623" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump to meet Netanyahu at White House on Feb 4, Israel PM's office confirms</a>
A joint statement by the FBI, FAA, Pentagon and Department of Homeland Security said that &ldquo;we assess that the sightings to date include a combination of lawful commercial drones, hobbyist drones, and law enforcement drones, as well as manned fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, and stars mistakenly reported as drones.&rdquo;
<h2>Trump accused Biden of coverup</h2>
Trump, who was the president-elect at the time, had accused Biden and his aides of a coverup.&nbsp; Taking to his social media platform Truth Social, Trump wrote, "Mystery Drone sightings all over the Country. Can this really be happening without our government&rsquo;s knowledge. I don&rsquo;t think so! Let the public know, and now. Otherwise, shoot them down!!!".
He also said, &ldquo;Our military knows where they took off from &mdash; if it&rsquo;s a garage, they can go right into that garage. They know where it came from and where it went, and for some reason they don&rsquo;t want to comment.&rdquo;
Watch | Trump's federal spending freeze sparks fury
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2901_wion_spending_7330am/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2901_wion_spending_7330am.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=175&amp;tags=Trump, World News, WION" title="Trump's federal spending freeze sparks fury" id="PL_iframe_block-m6hf9uep-9r4wii85-8e8be86d"></iframe>
&ldquo;I can&rsquo;t imagine it&rsquo;s the enemy, because if it was the enemy, they&rsquo;d blast it.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending | “After research and study, the drones that were flying over New Jersey in large numbers were authorized to be flown by the FAA for research and various other reasons,” Leavitt said, reading a statement by Trump during her first briefing.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Tuesday (Jan 28) that the drones which were sighted above New Jersey last month were “not the enemy” while reading President Trump’s assessment. She added that many were doing “research”, raising even more questions for the citizens. Last month, Trump slammed former President Biden over the drone sightings, calling on authorities to "shoot" them down. “After research and study, the drones that were flying over New Jersey in large numbers were authorized to be flown by the FAA for research and various other reasons,” Leavitt said, reading a statement by Trump during her first briefing. Also read | US President Trump offers federal employees to quit with eight months severance “Many of these drones were also hobbyists, recreational and private individuals that enjoy flying drones. In time, it got worse due to curiosity. This was not the enemy.” Unclear explanation The explanation did not clarify what research or other reasons were there for the drone sightings, many of which occurred near military bases. Some leading politicians have also been sceptical of the official explanation for the drones. Last month, the then House Foreign Affairs Committee chairman Mike McCaul (R-Texas) said that he believed many of them were “spy drones” from China. Also read | Trump asks SpaceX for fast-track return of Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore to home, says Musk “My judgement based on my experience is that those that are over our military sites are adversarial and most likely are coming from the People’s Republic of China,” McCaul had said. “We’re not getting answers and I think it’s because our government does not know who is behind them and that is very disturbing to me.” Apart from New Jersey, the drones were also seen over New York City and other parts of the US, leading to a sense of hysteria among the people. However, the government agencies insisted they pose no threat. Also read | Trump to meet Netanyahu at White House on Feb 4, Israel PM's office confirms A joint statement by the FBI, FAA, Pentagon and Department of Homeland Security said that “we assess that the sightings to date include a combination of lawful commercial drones, hobbyist drones, and law enforcement drones, as well as manned fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, and stars mistakenly reported as drones.” Trump accused Biden of coverup Trump, who was the president-elect at the time, had accused Biden and his aides of a coverup. Taking to his social media platform Truth Social, Trump wrote, "Mystery Drone sightings all over the Country. Can this really be happening without our government’s knowledge. I don’t think so! Let the public know, and now. Otherwise, shoot them down!!!". He also said, “Our military knows where they took off from — if it’s a garage, they can go right into that garage. They know where it came from and where it went, and for some reason they don’t want to comment.” Watch | Trump's federal spending freeze sparks fury “I can’t imagine it’s the enemy, because if it was the enemy, they’d blast it.” (With inputs from agencies)

Enemy or ‘not the enemy’? Trump takes U-turn on NJ drones month after slamming Biden

Trump administration offered US federal workers an opportunity to leave their jobs in exchange for eight months severance through an email, according to AFP.
The proposal, which was sent to all two million federal workers, was praised by Trump&rsquo;s advisor Elon Musk, who called it a historic &ldquo;fork in the road&rdquo;, according to US media reports.
It is expected that 5 to 10 per cent of the federal staff will quit and secure about $100 billion in savings, a senior administration official told NBC News.
The email stated that the resignation period will start on Tuesday (Jan 28) and will continue till February 6.
The move has been the most sweeping one against federal spending since Trump assumed office on January 20.
This comes after an order from Trump to federal employees, demanding them to work from the office full time after several years of working from home following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Federal workers who wish to take up the offer were asked to reply &ldquo;resign&rdquo; to the email.
&ldquo;The federal workforce should comprise the best America has to offer. We will insist on excellence at every level,&rdquo; the email read.
Musk, who is leading the new Department of Government Efficiency, has been tasked to make massive cuts in federal spending. He spent over $270 for Trump&rsquo;s election campaign.
<h2>Federal spending freeze</h2>
Earlier, the White House implemented a temporary freeze on federal grants and loans as part of an ongoing review of government spending under the Trump administration.&nbsp;
The freeze comes following several executive orders signed by President Trump aimed at dismantling programmes tied to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), as well as other initiatives linked to gender ideology and the Green New Deal.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World | Trending | The email stated that the resignation period will start on Tuesday (Jan 28) and will continue till February 6. The move has been the most sweeping one against federal spending since Trump assumed office on January 20.

Trump administration offered US federal workers an opportunity to leave their jobs in exchange for eight months severance through an email, according to AFP. The proposal, which was sent to all two million federal workers, was praised by Trump’s advisor Elon Musk, who called it a historic “fork in the road”, according to US media reports. It is expected that 5 to 10 per cent of the federal staff will quit and secure about $100 billion in savings, a senior administration official told NBC News. The email stated that the resignation period will start on Tuesday (Jan 28) and will continue till February 6. The move has been the most sweeping one against federal spending since Trump assumed office on January 20. This comes after an order from Trump to federal employees, demanding them to work from the office full time after several years of working from home following the COVID-19 pandemic. Federal workers who wish to take up the offer were asked to reply “resign” to the email. “The federal workforce should comprise the best America has to offer. We will insist on excellence at every level,” the email read. Musk, who is leading the new Department of Government Efficiency, has been tasked to make massive cuts in federal spending. He spent over $270 for Trump’s election campaign. Federal spending freeze Earlier, the White House implemented a temporary freeze on federal grants and loans as part of an ongoing review of government spending under the Trump administration. The freeze comes following several executive orders signed by President Trump aimed at dismantling programmes tied to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), as well as other initiatives linked to gender ideology and the Green New Deal. (With inputs from agencies)

US President Trump offers federal employees money to quit

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/kamala-harris-divorce-doug-emhoff-plastic-ban-hypocrite-kamala-plstic-bags-8650853"></a>US First Lady Melania Trump, who has been accused several times of marrying Donald Trump for money, rejected the claims in a resurfaced video. Melania, who is 24 years younger than Trump, is the third wife of the US President. The couple has an 18-year-old son Barron Trump.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/white-house-releases-melania-trumps-updated-official-portrait-8661924">The Boss Lady: White House reveals official portrait of FLOTUS Melania Trump</a>
The resurfaced video is from the ABC News interview of Melania in 1999. She was 26 years old at that time. When the Slovenian model, who was then used to be known as Melania Knauss, was questioned in the interview if she was "hurt" by the rumours that she was dating Trump for financial gains, she said,&nbsp;&ldquo;You know, the people, they don't know me."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6goyk1k-ta1sjo8w-c7z72mae">
When Melania was 26 years old when she described herself as a possible First Lady. Fast forward and she has kept her word about the kind of First Lady she would be. Melania has given us the Jackie vibes through her intelligence and grace but she has far excelled in capturing&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/15KvvWSUSQ">pic.twitter.com/15KvvWSUSQ</a>
&mdash; Erica 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 (@EricaRN4USA) <a href="https://twitter.com/EricaRN4USA/status/1883234250192781389?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-inauguration-sets-youtubes-all-time-viewership-record-with-96-million-views-8655751">Trump's inauguration sets YouTube's 'all-time viewership record' with 9.6 million views</a>
She denied giving any answer when she was asked by the correspondent if she would accept the marriage proposal of the then 53-year-old Trump.&nbsp;
Still, the correspondent, Don Dahler said, &ldquo;Well, you don't see many 26-year-old supermodels on the arm of a 53-year-old car mechanics&hellip;&rdquo;
The now 54-year-old Melania replied, "&ldquo;You know what, you can't sleep or to hug or to talk with beautiful things, with beautiful apartment, beautiful plane, beautiful cars, beautiful houses, you can't do that. You could feel very empty.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-sign-executive-order-to-fundamentally-overhaul-or-get-rid-of-fema-as-he-arrives-in-north-carolina-8651345">Trump says will sign executive order to 'fundamentally overhaul' or 'get rid of FEMA' as he arrives in North Carolina</a>
&ldquo;And if somebody said, &ldquo;you're with the man because he's rich and famous,&rdquo; they don't know me,&rdquo; she added.&nbsp;
<h2>Would leave career to 'stand by my man'&nbsp;</h2>
She was further asked if she could see herself as the first lady of the United States. Melania said, &ldquo;Yes, I would be very traditional like Jackie Kennedy" adding that she would even leave her modelling career to "stand by" her man.&nbsp;
Melania became the First Lady of the US in 2017 for the first time and resumed her role on January 20, 2025, after Trump's victory in the 2024 presidential election.&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/kamala-harris-divorce-doug-emhoff-plastic-ban-hypocrite-kamala-plstic-bags-8650853">'Hypocrite': Kamala Harris spotted shopping with husband, carrying plastic bags after supporting ban</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

Trending | World | She denied giving any answer when she was asked by the correspondent if she would accept the marriage proposal of the then 53-year-old Trump. 

US First Lady Melania Trump, who has been accused several times of marrying Donald Trump for money, rejected the claims in a resurfaced video. Melania, who is 24 years younger than Trump, is the third wife of the US President. The couple has an 18-year-old son Barron Trump. Also read: The Boss Lady: White House reveals official portrait of FLOTUS Melania Trump The resurfaced video is from the ABC News interview of Melania in 1999. She was 26 years old at that time. When the Slovenian model, who was then used to be known as Melania Knauss, was questioned in the interview if she was "hurt" by the rumours that she was dating Trump for financial gains, she said, “You know, the people, they don't know me." When Melania was 26 years old when she described herself as a possible First Lady. Fast forward and she has kept her word about the kind of First Lady she would be. Melania has given us the Jackie vibes through her intelligence and grace but she has far excelled in capturing… pic.twitter.com/15KvvWSUSQ — Erica 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 (@EricaRN4USA) January 25, 2025 Also read: Trump's inauguration sets YouTube's 'all-time viewership record' with 9.6 million views She denied giving any answer when she was asked by the correspondent if she would accept the marriage proposal of the then 53-year-old Trump. Still, the correspondent, Don Dahler said, “Well, you don't see many 26-year-old supermodels on the arm of a 53-year-old car mechanics…” The now 54-year-old Melania replied, "“You know what, you can't sleep or to hug or to talk with beautiful things, with beautiful apartment, beautiful plane, beautiful cars, beautiful houses, you can't do that. You could feel very empty.” Also read: Trump says will sign executive order to 'fundamentally overhaul' or 'get rid of FEMA' as he arrives in North Carolina “And if somebody said, “you're with the man because he's rich and famous,” they don't know me,” she added. Would leave career to 'stand by my man' She was further asked if she could see herself as the first lady of the United States. Melania said, “Yes, I would be very traditional like Jackie Kennedy" adding that she would even leave her modelling career to "stand by" her man. Melania became the First Lady of the US in 2017 for the first time and resumed her role on January 20, 2025, after Trump's victory in the 2024 presidential election. Also read: 'Hypocrite': Kamala Harris spotted shopping with husband, carrying plastic bags after supporting ban (With inputs from agencies)

'You can't sleep or hug...': Melania Trump refutes claims of marrying Trump for money in resurfaced video

The White House has implemented a temporary freeze on federal grants and loans as part of an ongoing review of government spending under the Trump administration.&nbsp;
A memo from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) outlines the suspension of all financial assistance, including grants, loans and other related programmes.
<h2>Focus on dismantling DEI and other policies</h2>
The freeze comes in response to several executive orders signed by President Trump aimed at dismantling programmes tied to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), as well as other initiatives linked to gender ideology and the Green New Deal.&nbsp;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/america-first-trump-vows-tariffs-on-china-india-brazil-and-other-nations-that-harm-us-8661806">'America first': Trump vows tariffs on China, India, Brazil and other nations that 'harm' US</a>
Matthew Vaeth, acting director of the OMB, stated that &ldquo;Federal agencies must temporarily pause all activities related to obligation or disbursement of all Federal financial assistance, and other relevant agency activities that may be implicated by the executive orders, including, but not limited to, financial assistance for foreign aid, nongovernmental organizations, DEI, woke gender ideology, and the green new deal.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tucker-carlson-claims-biden-administration-tried-to-kill-putin-heres-how-kremlin-reacted-8661344">Tucker Carlson claims Biden administration 'tried to kill Putin'. Here's how Kremlin reacted</a>
He added, "The use of Federal resources to advance Marxist equity, transgenderism, and green new deal social engineering policies is a waste of taxpayer dollars that does not improve the day-to-day lives of those we serve."
Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/time-to-return-to-system-that-made-us-richer-trump-hints-at-removing-income-tax-for-us-citizens-8661769"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/time-to-return-to-system-that-made-us-richer-trump-hints-at-removing-income-tax-for-us-citizens-8661769">'Time to return to system that made us richer,' Trump hints at removing income tax for US citizens</a>
<h2>Congressional Democrats demand reversal</h2>
The suspension, which took effect at 5 PM EST on January 28, has drawn sharp criticism from congressional Democrats. Senators Patty Murray and Representative Rosa DeLauro have urged the OMB to reverse the decision, calling the scope of the freeze &ldquo;unprecedented&rdquo; and warning of its potentially devastating consequences across the country.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | A memo from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) outlines the suspension of all financial assistance, including grants, loans, and other related programmes.

The White House has implemented a temporary freeze on federal grants and loans as part of an ongoing review of government spending under the Trump administration. A memo from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) outlines the suspension of all financial assistance, including grants, loans and other related programmes. Focus on dismantling DEI and other policies The freeze comes in response to several executive orders signed by President Trump aimed at dismantling programmes tied to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), as well as other initiatives linked to gender ideology and the Green New Deal. Also Read | 'America first': Trump vows tariffs on China, India, Brazil and other nations that 'harm' US Matthew Vaeth, acting director of the OMB, stated that “Federal agencies must temporarily pause all activities related to obligation or disbursement of all Federal financial assistance, and other relevant agency activities that may be implicated by the executive orders, including, but not limited to, financial assistance for foreign aid, nongovernmental organizations, DEI, woke gender ideology, and the green new deal.” Also Read | Tucker Carlson claims Biden administration 'tried to kill Putin'. Here's how Kremlin reacted He added, "The use of Federal resources to advance Marxist equity, transgenderism, and green new deal social engineering policies is a waste of taxpayer dollars that does not improve the day-to-day lives of those we serve." Also Read | 'Time to return to system that made us richer,' Trump hints at removing income tax for US citizens Congressional Democrats demand reversal The suspension, which took effect at 5 PM EST on January 28, has drawn sharp criticism from congressional Democrats. Senators Patty Murray and Representative Rosa DeLauro have urged the OMB to reverse the decision, calling the scope of the freeze “unprecedented” and warning of its potentially devastating consequences across the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump administration freezes funding for all financial assistance, including grants and loans

US President Donald Trump said on Monday (Jan 27) that India, China, and Brazil, the high-tariff countries, are harmful to America, adding that Washington would impose further taxes on other countries too to bring money to the US.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re going to put tariffs on outside countries and outside people that really mean harm to us. Well, they mean us harm, but they basically want to make their country good,&rdquo; Trump told House Republicans at a Florida retreat on Monday, PTI reported.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/time-to-return-to-system-that-made-us-richer-trump-hints-at-removing-income-tax-for-us-citizens-8661769">'Time to return to system that made us richer,' Trump hints at removing income tax for US citizens</a> He further added that China is a "tremendous tariff maker" and so is India, Brazil, and other countries. &ldquo;Look at what others do," he said, adding his administration is not going to let that happen. "Because we&rsquo;re going to put America first,&rdquo; he quipped.&nbsp;
Trump was further reported as saying that the US will establish a &ldquo;very fair system where money is going to come into our coffers, and America is going to be very rich again."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-ruby-dhalla-indian-origin-politician-running-for-canada-elections-8661646">Who is Ruby Dhalla, Indian-origin politician running for Canada elections?</a>
He said it will happen "very quickly".&nbsp;
Trump said it is time that America returns back to the system that made it &ldquo;richer and more powerful than ever before.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deepseek-donald-trump-wake-up-call-us-tech-industry-8661569">'If you could do it cheaper...': Trump calls DeepSeek a 'wake-up call' for US tech industry</a>
&ldquo;If you want to stop paying the taxes or the tariffs, you have to build your plant right here in America. That&rsquo;s what&rsquo;s going to happen at record levels. We&rsquo;re going to have more plants built in the next short period of time than anybody ever envisioned before because the incentive is going to be there, as they will have no tariffs whatsoever,&rdquo; the Republican reported as saying.&nbsp;
This came a day after Trump announced a new &lsquo;External Revenue Service (ERS)' to collect tariffs from other countries. He also commanded the commerce and treasury departments to probe the cause behind the "large and persistent" annual trade deficit of America.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-transgender-people-us-military-executive-orders-8661366">Trump signs order banning transgender people from US military. What are the new guidelines?</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Business & Economy: Trump said it is time that America returns back to the system that made it “richer and more powerful than ever before.”

US President Donald Trump said on Monday (Jan 27) that India, China, and Brazil, the high-tariff countries, are harmful to America, adding that Washington would impose further taxes on other countries too to bring money to the US. “We’re going to put tariffs on outside countries and outside people that really mean harm to us. Well, they mean us harm, but they basically want to make their country good,” Trump told House Republicans at a Florida retreat on Monday, PTI reported. Also read: 'Time to return to system that made us richer,' Trump hints at removing income tax for US citizens He further added that China is a "tremendous tariff maker" and so is India, Brazil, and other countries. “Look at what others do," he said, adding his administration is not going to let that happen. "Because we’re going to put America first,” he quipped. Trump was further reported as saying that the US will establish a “very fair system where money is going to come into our coffers, and America is going to be very rich again." Also read: Who is Ruby Dhalla, Indian-origin politician running for Canada elections? He said it will happen "very quickly". Trump said it is time that America returns back to the system that made it “richer and more powerful than ever before.” Also read: 'If you could do it cheaper...': Trump calls DeepSeek a 'wake-up call' for US tech industry “If you want to stop paying the taxes or the tariffs, you have to build your plant right here in America. That’s what’s going to happen at record levels. We’re going to have more plants built in the next short period of time than anybody ever envisioned before because the incentive is going to be there, as they will have no tariffs whatsoever,” the Republican reported as saying. This came a day after Trump announced a new ‘External Revenue Service (ERS)' to collect tariffs from other countries. He also commanded the commerce and treasury departments to probe the cause behind the "large and persistent" annual trade deficit of America. Also read: Trump signs order banning transgender people from US military. What are the new guidelines? (With inputs from agencies)

'America first': Trump vows tariffs on China, India, Brazil and other nations that 'harm' US

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order to bar transgender people from the military on Monday (Jan 27). This was one of the four orders he signed aboard Air Force One while travelling from Florida to Washington. The US president ordered the Pentagon to end diversity, equity, and inclusion programmes as well.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-advocates-for-border-crackdown-at-house-republican-retreat-concluding-first-week-in-office">Trump advocates for border crackdown at House Republican Retreat, concluding first week in office</a>
"To ensure we have the most lethal fighting force in the world, we will get transgender ideology the hell out of our military. It's going to be gone," Trump said while addressing a retreat with House Republicans.
Trump and his Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth described the directives as an effort to bring back the military to an unapologetically masculine professional culture.&nbsp;
Hegseth further blamed equitable hiring and staffing practices for the American military's lower standards and capacity for warfighting.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-to-visit-us-in-feb-trump-says-india-will-do-whats-right-on-immigrants-8661159">PM Modi to visit US in Feb, Trump says India &lsquo;will do what's right&rsquo; on immigrants</a>
The order further potentially banned soldiers who identify themselves as any gender other than the one assigned at birth, calling it a hurdle to the physical and mental well-being that is necessary for military service.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Consistent with the military mission and longstanding DoD policy, expressing a false &lsquo;gender identity&rsquo; divergent from an individual&rsquo;s sex cannot satisfy the rigorous standards necessary for military service,&rdquo; the order read.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Beyond the hormonal and surgical medical interventions involved, adoption of a gender identity inconsistent with an individual&rsquo;s sex conflicts with a soldier&rsquo;s commitment to an honourable, truthful and disciplined lifestyle, even in one&rsquo;s personal life," it said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/microsoft-in-talks-to-buy-tiktok-says-us-president-donald-trump-8660788" aria-label="Trump says Microsoft in talks to buy TikTok, encourages bidding war">Trump says Microsoft in talks to buy TikTok, encourages bidding war</a>
It said that when a man calls himself a woman and expects that others respect his "falsehood," this does not go with the requirement of "selfness" of a service member.
<h3>What will happen now?</h3>
As per the orders, no transgender soldier will be excluded from the service immediately. The Pentagon has been given 60 days to amend its policy and 30 more days to submit the revised guidance describing how the vision will be implemented.&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombia-agrees-to-accept-deported-migrants-on-military-planes-averts-trade-war-with-us-8659770" aria-label="Colombia averts trade war with US after agreeing to accept deported migrants">Colombia averts trade war with US after agreeing to accept deported migrants</a>
In other orders, Trump directed the Pentagon to reinstate military members who were discharged from the service after refusing to get the COVID-19 vaccine. As many as 8,200 service members were discharged for refusing the vaccine.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trump and his Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth described the directives as an effort to bring back the military to an unapologetically masculine professional culture. 

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order to bar transgender people from the military on Monday (Jan 27). This was one of the four orders he signed aboard Air Force One while travelling from Florida to Washington. The US president ordered the Pentagon to end diversity, equity, and inclusion programmes as well. Also read: Trump advocates for border crackdown at House Republican Retreat, concluding first week in office "To ensure we have the most lethal fighting force in the world, we will get transgender ideology the hell out of our military. It's going to be gone," Trump said while addressing a retreat with House Republicans. Trump and his Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth described the directives as an effort to bring back the military to an unapologetically masculine professional culture. Hegseth further blamed equitable hiring and staffing practices for the American military's lower standards and capacity for warfighting. Also read: PM Modi to visit US in Feb, Trump says India ‘will do what's right’ on immigrants The order further potentially banned soldiers who identify themselves as any gender other than the one assigned at birth, calling it a hurdle to the physical and mental well-being that is necessary for military service. “Consistent with the military mission and longstanding DoD policy, expressing a false ‘gender identity’ divergent from an individual’s sex cannot satisfy the rigorous standards necessary for military service,” the order read. “Beyond the hormonal and surgical medical interventions involved, adoption of a gender identity inconsistent with an individual’s sex conflicts with a soldier’s commitment to an honourable, truthful and disciplined lifestyle, even in one’s personal life," it said. Also read: Trump says Microsoft in talks to buy TikTok, encourages bidding war It said that when a man calls himself a woman and expects that others respect his "falsehood," this does not go with the requirement of "selfness" of a service member. What will happen now? As per the orders, no transgender soldier will be excluded from the service immediately. The Pentagon has been given 60 days to amend its policy and 30 more days to submit the revised guidance describing how the vision will be implemented. Also read: Colombia averts trade war with US after agreeing to accept deported migrants In other orders, Trump directed the Pentagon to reinstate military members who were discharged from the service after refusing to get the COVID-19 vaccine. As many as 8,200 service members were discharged for refusing the vaccine. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump signs order banning transgender people from US military. What are the new guidelines?

US President Donald Trump stated on Monday (Jan 27) that Microsoft is in talks to acquire video-sharing platform TikTok and that he would like to see a bidding war over the app.
While speaking to the media about TikTok, the US President said that Microsoft is in talks to purchase TikTok in the country. &ldquo;I would say yes&hellip; A lot of interest in TikTok. There&rsquo;s great interest in TikTok", Trump said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-in-talks-with-multiple-people-over-buying-tiktok-8655469">US President Donald Trump in talks with multiple people over buying TikTok</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">TikTok ban in US</h2>
The US Supreme Court had earlier this month upheld a law that banned TikTok in the country due to national security concerns surrounding the Chinese-owned application's data privacy.
However, President Trump, who has credited the app with helping him engage with younger voters during his campaign, has reserved the ban temporarily and signed an executive order giving TikTok 75 days to orchestrate a sale for the app so that it is no longer Chinese-owned.
Amid these legal and political challenges, TikTok&rsquo;s popularity in the US continues to soar. According to a recent study by the Pew Research Center, 33 per cent of US adults now use TikTok, a significant increase from just 21 per cent in 2021.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-accuses-police-of-coercing-false-testimony-in-corruption-trail-8660563">Netanyahu accuses police of coercing &lsquo;false testimony&rsquo; in corruption trail</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Trump on TikTok's future</h2>
The President had earlier also expressed that he would like Tesla CEO Elon Musk or Oracle Corp. Chairman Larry Ellison to take over the video-sharing platform as he did not want it to have Chinese ownership.
On Saturday, Trump said about the TikTok sale, &ldquo;Numerous people are talking to me. Very substantial people. We have a lot of interest in it, and the United States will be a big beneficiary&hellip; I'd only do it if the United States benefits.&rdquo;
Perplexity AI has also thrown its hat in the ring wherein the company has proposed a merger with TikTok's US business as well as a joint venture with the US government.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: President Trump announced Microsoft is negotiating to buy TikTok, hinting at a potential bidding war for the popular video app on January

US President Donald Trump stated on Monday (Jan 27) that Microsoft is in talks to acquire video-sharing platform TikTok and that he would like to see a bidding war over the app. While speaking to the media about TikTok, the US President said that Microsoft is in talks to purchase TikTok in the country. “I would say yes… A lot of interest in TikTok. There’s great interest in TikTok", Trump said. Also read | US President Donald Trump in talks with multiple people over buying TikTok TikTok ban in US The US Supreme Court had earlier this month upheld a law that banned TikTok in the country due to national security concerns surrounding the Chinese-owned application's data privacy. However, President Trump, who has credited the app with helping him engage with younger voters during his campaign, has reserved the ban temporarily and signed an executive order giving TikTok 75 days to orchestrate a sale for the app so that it is no longer Chinese-owned. Amid these legal and political challenges, TikTok’s popularity in the US continues to soar. According to a recent study by the Pew Research Center, 33 per cent of US adults now use TikTok, a significant increase from just 21 per cent in 2021. Also read | Netanyahu accuses police of coercing ‘false testimony’ in corruption trail Trump on TikTok's future The President had earlier also expressed that he would like Tesla CEO Elon Musk or Oracle Corp. Chairman Larry Ellison to take over the video-sharing platform as he did not want it to have Chinese ownership. On Saturday, Trump said about the TikTok sale, “Numerous people are talking to me. Very substantial people. We have a lot of interest in it, and the United States will be a big beneficiary… I'd only do it if the United States benefits.” Perplexity AI has also thrown its hat in the ring wherein the company has proposed a merger with TikTok's US business as well as a joint venture with the US government. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump says Microsoft in talks to buy TikTok, encourages bidding war

Snoop Dogg has been receiving a lot of hate ever since he made an appearance at Donald Trump&rsquo;s Inauguration Ball, The rapper who usually stays away from making political statements, was spotted at Trump&rsquo;s Ball and raised a few eyebrows.&nbsp;
<h2>Snoop Dogg is on Trump's side?</h2>
Amid &ldquo;all the hate&rdquo; he said he&rsquo;s ben getting, Snoop Dogg said that he will answer it all with &ldquo;love&rdquo;. In a video he posted on Instagram from his car while smoking, Snoop is heard saying, &ldquo;For all the hate, I&rsquo;m going to answer with love. Get your life right, stop worrying about mine. I&rsquo;m cool. I&rsquo;m together. Still a Black man. Still 100% Black. All out &rsquo;til you ball out or &rsquo;til you fall out.&rdquo;
The rapper said that he is &ldquo;still 100% Black&rdquo; contrary to what people might think of him.&nbsp;
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/trumps-border-czar-tom-homan-calls-selena-gomez-sick-person-as-she-cries-in-video-over-crackdown-on-immigrants-8660048" aria-label="Trump's border czar Tom Homan has 'no apologies' as response to Selena Gomez's crying video over immigration crackdown">Trump's border czar Tom Homan has 'no apologies' as response to Selena Gomez's crying video over immigration crackdown</a></h2>
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/selena-gomez-breaks-down-in-tears-over-trumps-immigration-crackdown-deletes-video-later-8659468" aria-label="'My people are getting attacked' Selena Gomez breaks down in tears over Trump's immigration crackdown">'My people are getting attacked' Selena Gomez breaks down in tears over Trump's immigration crackdown</a></h2>
He also opened up about dealing with the backlash following his performance on R&amp;B Money Podcast. He said, &ldquo;You &lsquo;gon deal with hate when you get to the top, no matter who you are&hellip; Me, personally, I answer it with success and love. That&rsquo;s my answer to any hate and negativity that comes my way, &rsquo;cause it&rsquo;s the strongest force that can beat it.&rdquo;
Snoop Dogg performed at the Crypto Ball in Washington, D.C. on January 17. He performed along with Rick Ross and Soulja Boy. In addition, Nelly played at the Liberty Ball on January 20.
<h2>When Snoop called Trump and his supporters, "racist"</h2>
This turnaround comes as a shock for many since Snoop in 2018 spoke out against Kanye West and everyone in the celebrity circuit that supported Donald Trump. On DJ Suss One&rsquo;s SiriusXM show, Snoop said, &ldquo;I tell them straight up motherf*****. If you like that n****, you motherf***** racist. F***you, and f*** him.&rdquo;
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/so-crazy-jim-jones-hails-kanye-wests-new-album-bully-8660030" aria-label="'So crazy': Jim Jones hails Kanye West's new album 'Bully'">'So crazy': Jim Jones hails Kanye West's new album 'Bully'</a>

Entertainment Hollywood World News Snoop Dogg ruffled a few feathers as he made an appearance during Donald Trump's Inauguration Ball after having called him a "racist" in 2018. 

Snoop Dogg has been receiving a lot of hate ever since he made an appearance at Donald Trump’s Inauguration Ball, The rapper who usually stays away from making political statements, was spotted at Trump’s Ball and raised a few eyebrows. Snoop Dogg is on Trump's side? Amid “all the hate” he said he’s ben getting, Snoop Dogg said that he will answer it all with “love”. In a video he posted on Instagram from his car while smoking, Snoop is heard saying, “For all the hate, I’m going to answer with love. Get your life right, stop worrying about mine. I’m cool. I’m together. Still a Black man. Still 100% Black. All out ’til you ball out or ’til you fall out.” The rapper said that he is “still 100% Black” contrary to what people might think of him. Trump's border czar Tom Homan has 'no apologies' as response to Selena Gomez's crying video over immigration crackdown 'My people are getting attacked' Selena Gomez breaks down in tears over Trump's immigration crackdown He also opened up about dealing with the backlash following his performance on R&B Money Podcast. He said, “You ‘gon deal with hate when you get to the top, no matter who you are… Me, personally, I answer it with success and love. That’s my answer to any hate and negativity that comes my way, ’cause it’s the strongest force that can beat it.” Snoop Dogg performed at the Crypto Ball in Washington, D.C. on January 17. He performed along with Rick Ross and Soulja Boy. In addition, Nelly played at the Liberty Ball on January 20. When Snoop called Trump and his supporters, "racist" This turnaround comes as a shock for many since Snoop in 2018 spoke out against Kanye West and everyone in the celebrity circuit that supported Donald Trump. On DJ Suss One’s SiriusXM show, Snoop said, “I tell them straight up motherf*****. If you like that n****, you motherf***** racist. F***you, and f*** him.” Also read: 'So crazy': Jim Jones hails Kanye West's new album 'Bully'

Snoop Dogg says 'still 100% Black' over hate for appearing at Trump Inauguration Ball

Selena Gomez&rsquo;s crying video on the deportation of illegal immigrants is now taking over the internet. The now-deleted video had the pop star crying and slamming Donald Trump&rsquo;s move of mass deportations of people she referred to as &ldquo;my people&rdquo;.&nbsp;
<h2>Tom Homan has THIS blunt response to Selena Gomez's crying video</h2>
On behalf of Donald Trump&rsquo;s administration, border czar Tom Homan went on air asking people who have a problem with the law to &ldquo;go to Congress and change the law&rdquo;. He told Fox News, &ldquo;If they don't like it, then go to Congress and change the law. We're going to do this operation without apology. We're gonna make our community safer... It is all for the good of this nation. And we're gonna keep going. No apologies. We're moving forward.&rdquo;
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/fans-will-have-to-wait-for-quentin-tarantinos-final-film-in-no-hurry-he-says-at-sundance-8659720" aria-label="Fans will have to wait for Quentin Tarantino's final film: In 'no hurry', he says at Sundance">Fans will have to wait for Quentin Tarantino's final film: In 'no hurry', he says at Sundance</a>
Tom is currently spearheading the immigration overhaul. There have been sweeping raids across the country in which violent criminals have been rounded up and sent packing on government flights.&nbsp;
Trump had promised the same when he was campaigning for a second term for the White House. People are shocked that he is putting this to effect so soon with many internet users surprised at the swift action of the Trump administration.&nbsp;
<h2>Selena Gomez recorded a meltdown video over raids on illegal immigrants</h2>
Selena took to Instagram to record her displeasure at the mass deportation of illegal immigrants. She was seen<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/selena-gomez-breaks-down-in-tears-over-trumps-immigration-crackdown-deletes-video-later-8659468"> sobbing in the video </a>as she said, &ldquo;All my people are getting attacked, the children. I don't understand. I'm so sorry, I wish I could do something but I can't. I don't know what to do. I'll try everything, I promise.&rdquo; She captioned the post: &ldquo;I'm sorry [Mexican flag emoji].&rdquo;
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/580x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/828c7781-5cb.jpg" alt="Selena Gomez " style="width: 580px;">
In a scathing response to her post, Tom denied that the children are being targeted. He said, &ldquo;I don't think we've arrested any families. We've arrested public safety threats and national security threats, bottom-line.&rdquo;
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lady-gagas-seventh-studio-album-mayhem-release-date-album-art-and-everything-you-need-to-know-8659758" aria-label="Lady Gaga's seventh studio album Mayhem: Release date, album art and everything you need to know">Lady Gaga's seventh studio album Mayhem: Release date, album art and everything you need to know</a>
He added, &ldquo;President Trump won the election on this one issue - securing our border and saving lives. What happened on our southern border in the last four years is the biggest national security threat our county has seen, at least in my lifetime.&rdquo;
Selena Gomez has since deleted the video after it did not sit well with social media users.

Entertainment World News In a since-deleted video, Selena Gomez took to Instagram to share how she feels about crackdown on illegal immigrants. 

Selena Gomez’s crying video on the deportation of illegal immigrants is now taking over the internet. The now-deleted video had the pop star crying and slamming Donald Trump’s move of mass deportations of people she referred to as “my people”. Tom Homan has THIS blunt response to Selena Gomez's crying video On behalf of Donald Trump’s administration, border czar Tom Homan went on air asking people who have a problem with the law to “go to Congress and change the law”. He told Fox News, “If they don't like it, then go to Congress and change the law. We're going to do this operation without apology. We're gonna make our community safer... It is all for the good of this nation. And we're gonna keep going. No apologies. We're moving forward.” Also read: Fans will have to wait for Quentin Tarantino's final film: In 'no hurry', he says at Sundance Tom is currently spearheading the immigration overhaul. There have been sweeping raids across the country in which violent criminals have been rounded up and sent packing on government flights. Trump had promised the same when he was campaigning for a second term for the White House. People are shocked that he is putting this to effect so soon with many internet users surprised at the swift action of the Trump administration. Selena Gomez recorded a meltdown video over raids on illegal immigrants Selena took to Instagram to record her displeasure at the mass deportation of illegal immigrants. She was seen sobbing in the video as she said, “All my people are getting attacked, the children. I don't understand. I'm so sorry, I wish I could do something but I can't. I don't know what to do. I'll try everything, I promise.” She captioned the post: “I'm sorry [Mexican flag emoji].” In a scathing response to her post, Tom denied that the children are being targeted. He said, “I don't think we've arrested any families. We've arrested public safety threats and national security threats, bottom-line.” Also read: Lady Gaga's seventh studio album Mayhem: Release date, album art and everything you need to know He added, “President Trump won the election on this one issue - securing our border and saving lives. What happened on our southern border in the last four years is the biggest national security threat our county has seen, at least in my lifetime.” Selena Gomez has since deleted the video after it did not sit well with social media users.

'Go to Congress', says border czar Tom Homan of Selena Gomez's crying video

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a phone conversation with Donald Trump a week after his second inauguration as US President. This marks the first phone conversation between the two leaders since Trump assumed office last week.&nbsp; During their call, PM Modi congratulated President Trump on his victory in the US presidential elections. PM Modi in a post on social media platform X said, "We will work together for the welfare of our people and towards global peace, prosperity."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6f4zmn8-fwdiufwh-6zhqcxa9">
Delighted to speak with my dear friend President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>. Congratulated him on his historic second term. We are committed to a mutually beneficial and trusted partnership. We will work together for the welfare of our people and towards global peace, prosperity,&hellip;
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1883882348439089490?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2025</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
The two leaders may meet as early as mid-February if President Trump attends the Artificial Intelligence (AI) summit in Paris. Alternatively, PM Modi could visit Washington, D.C. in February for their first in-person meeting. According to sources cited by The Economic Times, dates for the meeting have not been finalised. Discussions are ongoing, considering potential issues such as tariffs and immigration policies. A decision will be made following further discussions with the Trump administration. President Trump and PM Modi's last meeting was in February 2020 during th former's visit to India, where both leaders demonstrated a strong working relationship. Trump is also expected to visit India later this year for the Quad summit. The summit will be hosted by India.&nbsp; In 2019, Trump and Modi participated in the 'Howdy Modi' rally in Houston, attended by approximately 50,000 people, including many Indian Americans.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World | India News: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump engaged in a detailed phone conversation, focusing on strengthening India-US bilateral ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a phone conversation with Donald Trump a week after his second inauguration as US President. This marks the first phone conversation between the two leaders since Trump assumed office last week. During their call, PM Modi congratulated President Trump on his victory in the US presidential elections. PM Modi in a post on social media platform X said, "We will work together for the welfare of our people and towards global peace, prosperity." Delighted to speak with my dear friend President @realDonaldTrump @POTUS. Congratulated him on his historic second term. We are committed to a mutually beneficial and trusted partnership. We will work together for the welfare of our people and towards global peace, prosperity,… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 27, 2025 The two leaders may meet as early as mid-February if President Trump attends the Artificial Intelligence (AI) summit in Paris. Alternatively, PM Modi could visit Washington, D.C. in February for their first in-person meeting. According to sources cited by The Economic Times, dates for the meeting have not been finalised. Discussions are ongoing, considering potential issues such as tariffs and immigration policies. A decision will be made following further discussions with the Trump administration. President Trump and PM Modi's last meeting was in February 2020 during th former's visit to India, where both leaders demonstrated a strong working relationship. Trump is also expected to visit India later this year for the Quad summit. The summit will be hosted by India. In 2019, Trump and Modi participated in the 'Howdy Modi' rally in Houston, attended by approximately 50,000 people, including many Indian Americans. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi and Donald Trump discuss strengthening India-US partnership over call

The White House said on Sunday (January 26) that Colombia has agreed to the "unrestricted acceptance" of immigrants who entered the United States (US) illegally from Colombia.&nbsp;
In a statement, the White House said that Colombia agreed to unrestricted acceptance of "all illegal aliens from Colombia returned from the US, including on US military aircraft, without limitation or delay."
<h2>US freezes plans for tariffs, sanctions on Colombia</h2>
"Today's events make clear to the world that America is respected again," the statement said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flagrant-disregard-brazil-outrages-over-immigrants-deported-from-us-arrive-in-handcuffs-8655195" rel="dofollow">Flagrant disregard: Brazil outraged as immigrants deported from US arrive in handcuffs</a>
"President Trump will continue to fiercely protect our nation's sovereignty, and he expects all other nations of the world to fully cooperate in accepting the deportation of their citizens illegally present in the United States," it added.
The statement also said that Washington would freeze most plans for tariffs and sanctions on Colombia.
<h2>Colombia says has overcome impasse with US</h2>
Following the White House statement, Colombia said that it had overcome the impasse with Washington over the reception of migrants deported from the US.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-trump-cracks-down-on-immigrants-some-families-wonder-whether-to-send-kids-to-school-8646595" rel="dofollow">As Trump cracks down on immigrants, some families wonder whether to send kids to school</a>
"We will continue receiving Colombians who return as deportees," Foreign Minister Luis Gilberto Murillo said at a news conference.&nbsp;
<h2>Earlier: Trump ordered sweeping sanctions against Colombia</h2>
Earlier, US President Donald Trump had ordered sweeping tariffs and sanctions against Colombia in retaliation for its refusal to accept military deportation flights.&nbsp;
Trump promised to impose 25 per cent tariffs on products from Colombia and raise them to 50 per cent in a week, a report by the news agency AFP said.&nbsp;
Also watch | US Speaker invites Trump to address Congress
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2601_us_4pm_wion/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2601_us_4pm_wion_.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=135&amp;tags=US, Trump, World News, WION" title="US Speaker invites Donald Trump to address Congress" id="PL_iframe_block-m6ekh5vg-wqdl56cp-9kgva0ap"></iframe>
Meanwhile, Colombia's left-leaning President Gustavo Petro did not back down, announcing his own tariffs against American products, as he vowed that returning migrants will be treated with dignity.
President Petro also said he would take back migrants but "with dignity," including on civilian planes.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The decision came as the Trump administration has been cracking down on illegal immigration. Colombia said it would take back its citizens but with dignity. 

The White House said on Sunday (January 26) that Colombia has agreed to the "unrestricted acceptance" of immigrants who entered the United States (US) illegally from Colombia. In a statement, the White House said that Colombia agreed to unrestricted acceptance of "all illegal aliens from Colombia returned from the US, including on US military aircraft, without limitation or delay." US freezes plans for tariffs, sanctions on Colombia "Today's events make clear to the world that America is respected again," the statement said. Also read | Flagrant disregard: Brazil outraged as immigrants deported from US arrive in handcuffs "President Trump will continue to fiercely protect our nation's sovereignty, and he expects all other nations of the world to fully cooperate in accepting the deportation of their citizens illegally present in the United States," it added. The statement also said that Washington would freeze most plans for tariffs and sanctions on Colombia. Colombia says has overcome impasse with US Following the White House statement, Colombia said that it had overcome the impasse with Washington over the reception of migrants deported from the US. Also read | As Trump cracks down on immigrants, some families wonder whether to send kids to school "We will continue receiving Colombians who return as deportees," Foreign Minister Luis Gilberto Murillo said at a news conference. Earlier: Trump ordered sweeping sanctions against Colombia Earlier, US President Donald Trump had ordered sweeping tariffs and sanctions against Colombia in retaliation for its refusal to accept military deportation flights. Trump promised to impose 25 per cent tariffs on products from Colombia and raise them to 50 per cent in a week, a report by the news agency AFP said. Also watch | US Speaker invites Trump to address Congress Meanwhile, Colombia's left-leaning President Gustavo Petro did not back down, announcing his own tariffs against American products, as he vowed that returning migrants will be treated with dignity. President Petro also said he would take back migrants but "with dignity," including on civilian planes. (With inputs from agencies)

Colombia agreed to 'unrestricted acceptance' of immigrants who entered US illegally: White House

After Pamela Hemphill refused <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-to-shake-up-us-military-executive-orders-news-today-transgender-troops-dei-initiatives-8659509" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump's</a> pardon for the January 6 US Capital riots, US Navy veteran Jason Riddle also rejected the pardon, saying he believed his actions "weren't pardonable".&nbsp;
Riddle, in an interview published Friday by New Hampshire Public Radio (NHPR), said that it is almost like Trump was trying to say that it did not happen.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-were-wrong-that-day-convicted-us-capitol-rioter-refused-to-take-trumps-pardon-8644746" rel="dofollow"> 'We were wrong that day': Convicted US Capitol rioter refuses Trump's pardon</a>
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s almost like (Trump) was trying to say it didn&rsquo;t happen. And it happened. I did those things, and they weren&rsquo;t pardonable," he said.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I don&rsquo;t want the pardon. And I&hellip;reject the pardon," Riddle added.&nbsp;
On January 6, 2021, Riddle entered the US Senate parliamentarian's office, drank a bottle of wine, stole a book, and caused damage at the Capitol when Trump supporters attacked the building.&nbsp;
He then received a 90-day prison sentence and was fined USD 750 in April 2022 for pleading guilty to committing misdemeanors in an attack linked to several deaths, including officer suicides.
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/were-planning-to-regroup-say-far-right-capitols-riot-leaders-who-were-freed-by-trump-8647068" rel="dofollow"> 'We're planning to regroup,' say far-right Capitol riot leaders who were freed by Trump</a>
Riddle told NHPR that he believed rejecting Trump&rsquo;s pardon would boost his employment prospects in the future ahead.
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m thinking down the road [if] an employer looks in my background, they see misdemeanors &hellip; with a presidential pardon &ndash; I think that tends to draw more attention,&rdquo; Riddle said.
Referring to the president&rsquo;s &ldquo;Make America Great Again slogan&rdquo;, Riddle added, &ldquo;And I&rsquo;m sure that&rsquo;s fine in the Maga world with whoever supports Trump, but I don&rsquo;t want to spend the rest of my life wondering if (those at) the job I&rsquo;m applying to &hellip; like Trump.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-grants-blanket-pardon-to-almost-all-involved-in-capitol-riots-8640896" rel="dofollow">Who were the Capitol riots accused that US President Trump granted pardon to?</a>
As Trump became the 47th US President on Monday, he gave pardons or commutations to 1,500 people charged or convicted in the January 6 riots.&nbsp;
<h2>Pamela Hemphill rejects Trump's pardon</h2>
Pamela Hemphill pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 60 days in prison, and she told BBC that there should be no pardons for the riot on January 6, 2021.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/us-capitol-rioter-says-will-refuse-a-pardon-from-felon-us-president-elect-donald-trump-8624749" rel="dofollow">'I was guilty': US Capitol rioter says &lsquo;will refuse a pardon from felon Trump'</a>
"Accepting a pardon would only insult the Capitol police officers, the rule of law, and, of course, our nation," she said.
"I pleaded guilty because I was guilty, and accepting a pardon also would serve to contribute to their gaslighting and false narrative."
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Riddle, in an interview published Friday by New Hampshire Public Radio (NHPR), said that it is almost like Trump was trying to say that it did not happen. 

After Pamela Hemphill refused Trump's pardon for the January 6 US Capital riots, US Navy veteran Jason Riddle also rejected the pardon, saying he believed his actions "weren't pardonable". Riddle, in an interview published Friday by New Hampshire Public Radio (NHPR), said that it is almost like Trump was trying to say that it did not happen. Also read: 'We were wrong that day': Convicted US Capitol rioter refuses Trump's pardon “It’s almost like (Trump) was trying to say it didn’t happen. And it happened. I did those things, and they weren’t pardonable," he said. “I don’t want the pardon. And I…reject the pardon," Riddle added. On January 6, 2021, Riddle entered the US Senate parliamentarian's office, drank a bottle of wine, stole a book, and caused damage at the Capitol when Trump supporters attacked the building. He then received a 90-day prison sentence and was fined USD 750 in April 2022 for pleading guilty to committing misdemeanors in an attack linked to several deaths, including officer suicides. Also read: 'We're planning to regroup,' say far-right Capitol riot leaders who were freed by Trump Riddle told NHPR that he believed rejecting Trump’s pardon would boost his employment prospects in the future ahead. “I’m thinking down the road [if] an employer looks in my background, they see misdemeanors … with a presidential pardon – I think that tends to draw more attention,” Riddle said. Referring to the president’s “Make America Great Again slogan”, Riddle added, “And I’m sure that’s fine in the Maga world with whoever supports Trump, but I don’t want to spend the rest of my life wondering if (those at) the job I’m applying to … like Trump.” Also read: Who were the Capitol riots accused that US President Trump granted pardon to? As Trump became the 47th US President on Monday, he gave pardons or commutations to 1,500 people charged or convicted in the January 6 riots. Pamela Hemphill rejects Trump's pardon Pamela Hemphill pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 60 days in prison, and she told BBC that there should be no pardons for the riot on January 6, 2021. Also read: 'I was guilty': US Capitol rioter says ‘will refuse a pardon from felon Trump' "Accepting a pardon would only insult the Capitol police officers, the rule of law, and, of course, our nation," she said. "I pleaded guilty because I was guilty, and accepting a pardon also would serve to contribute to their gaslighting and false narrative." (With inputs from agencies)

Another convicted US Capitol rioter rejects Trump's pardon. Here's why

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Jan 21) introduced a plan to invest $500 billion in creating new Artificial Intelligence (AI) data centres across the United States. In this proposal, big names in the tech industry, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son, and Oracle Chairman Larry Ellison, were also together.
All three executives credit Trump for the project, and Altman said to him that it would not be possible without "Mr President". The project was started under the Biden administration.&nbsp;
Trump replied to the executives by praising the "high-quality people" working on the project. The project is what the second Trump administration wishes to accomplish, but some of the members of the administration seemed not so happy with the announcement.&nbsp;
WATCH: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/elon-musk-sam-altman-feud-over-stargate">Elon Musk &amp; Sam Altman feud over Stargate</a>
Soon after the announcement of the project, Trump's ally and Altman's former ally, Elon Musk, had a public outburst. The billionaire, leading the newly formed DOGE department under Trump, spent days on social media claiming that neither OpenAI nor SoftBank has sufficient funds to invest. He was also seen firing jabs at Altman, who was once an ally of the X owner and now an enemy.&nbsp;
In a post announcing the project by the OpenAI on Musk-owned X, the billionaire replied, "They don&rsquo;t have the money." He further said, &ldquo;SoftBank has well under $10bn secured. I have that on good authority.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-in-talks-with-multiple-people-over-buying-tiktok-8655469">US President Donald Trump in talks with multiple people over buying TikTok</a>
Musk even called the announcement fake and termed Altman a "grifter". This was the latest in the rivalry between Musk and Altman, who once founded Open AI together, and just after that, Musk left the company.&nbsp;
But Musk's argument was in total contradiction to Trump's praise for the project. And no one was ready for it after Musk's massive support for the Republican in the 2024 presidential election.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-says-uk-pm-keir-starmer-elon-musk-criticism-8655008">Trump says UK PM Starmer is doing 'very good job' despite 'first buddy' Elon Musk's criticism</a>
Trump, in response to the criticism by Musk, said on Thursday (Jan 23), "The people in the deal are very, very smart people &ndash; but Elon, one of the people he happens to hate. But I have certain hatreds of people too."&nbsp;
Moreover, as per a report by Politico, Trump's staff are "furious" with Elon Musk. &ldquo;The problem is, the president doesn&rsquo;t have any leverage over him, and Elon gives zero f***s," says one of the staff members to the news agency.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-news-today-joins-germany-afd-rally-germans-to-move-beyond-past-guilt-amid-nazi-salute-controversy-8654678">'Make Germany great again': Elon Musk urges Germans to move beyond 'past guilt'</a>
Former Trump aide and Maga guru, Steve Bannon, called Musk &ldquo;out of control." He added that Musk "should not reverse" what Trump has already promised.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The project is what the second Trump administration wishes to accomplish, but some of the members of the administration seemed not so happy with the announcement. 

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Jan 21) introduced a plan to invest $500 billion in creating new Artificial Intelligence (AI) data centres across the United States. In this proposal, big names in the tech industry, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son, and Oracle Chairman Larry Ellison, were also together. All three executives credit Trump for the project, and Altman said to him that it would not be possible without "Mr President". The project was started under the Biden administration. Trump replied to the executives by praising the "high-quality people" working on the project. The project is what the second Trump administration wishes to accomplish, but some of the members of the administration seemed not so happy with the announcement. WATCH: Elon Musk & Sam Altman feud over Stargate Soon after the announcement of the project, Trump's ally and Altman's former ally, Elon Musk, had a public outburst. The billionaire, leading the newly formed DOGE department under Trump, spent days on social media claiming that neither OpenAI nor SoftBank has sufficient funds to invest. He was also seen firing jabs at Altman, who was once an ally of the X owner and now an enemy. In a post announcing the project by the OpenAI on Musk-owned X, the billionaire replied, "They don’t have the money." He further said, “SoftBank has well under $10bn secured. I have that on good authority.” Also read: US President Donald Trump in talks with multiple people over buying TikTok Musk even called the announcement fake and termed Altman a "grifter". This was the latest in the rivalry between Musk and Altman, who once founded Open AI together, and just after that, Musk left the company. But Musk's argument was in total contradiction to Trump's praise for the project. And no one was ready for it after Musk's massive support for the Republican in the 2024 presidential election. Also read: Trump says UK PM Starmer is doing 'very good job' despite 'first buddy' Elon Musk's criticism Trump, in response to the criticism by Musk, said on Thursday (Jan 23), "The people in the deal are very, very smart people – but Elon, one of the people he happens to hate. But I have certain hatreds of people too." Moreover, as per a report by Politico, Trump's staff are "furious" with Elon Musk. “The problem is, the president doesn’t have any leverage over him, and Elon gives zero f***s," says one of the staff members to the news agency. Also read: 'Make Germany great again': Elon Musk urges Germans to move beyond 'past guilt' Former Trump aide and Maga guru, Steve Bannon, called Musk “out of control." He added that Musk "should not reverse" what Trump has already promised. (With inputs from agencies)

Musk's decade-old rivalry with Sam Altman creates hitch between Tesla CEO and Trump

The US Senate on Saturday confirmed South Dakota governor Kristi Noem to lead the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), a key agency in President Donald Trump's push to clamp down on illegal immigration.
The vote came a day after US lawmakers narrowly confirmed former Fox News co-host Pete Hegseth to be Pentagon chief, adding to previous national security posts already greenlit for Trump's cabinet, including the secretary of state and CIA director.
Noem, 53, a Trump ally and second-term governor of the north central US state, takes control of the US agency overseeing border enforcement and migrant deportations, but which also leads federal efforts on cybersecurity, terrorism, and emergency management.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-inauguration-sets-youtubes-all-time-viewership-record-with-96-million-views-8655751">Trump's inauguration sets YouTube's 'all time viewership record' with 9.6 million views</a>
Trump on Friday said he would sign an order seeking to scrap the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)&nbsp;after he harshly criticised its response to two devastating hurricanes during last year's election campaign.
Noem is best known internationally for sinking her chances of being Trump's vice-presidential pick with her cheerful admission that she had shot her dog, Cricket, because it was "untrainable."
She is also known for making South Dakota&mdash;far from the border with Mexico&mdash;among the first Republican-led states to send National Guard troops to the frontier, earning plaudits from conservatives.
During her confirmation hearing last week, Noem said the southern border would be a top priority, asserting America's "responsibility to secure our borders against those who would do us harm," while stressing that the system must be fair and lawful.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-halts-funding-to-bangladesh-under-usaid-after-trumps-90-day-pause-on-all-foreign-aid-8655603">US halts funding to Bangladesh under USAID after Trump's 90-day pause on all foreign aid</a>
Noem was also asked at the hearing to address the distribution of disaster aid.
She vowed "there will be no political bias to how disaster relief is delivered to the American people."
But Trump on Friday, after expressing his intent to close FEMA, threatened to withhold assistance to California as it faces a historic wave of wildfires unless the Democratic-led state changes its voting laws and environmental regulations.
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&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.

World: Noem, 53, a Trump ally and second-term governor of the north central US state, takes control of the US agency overseeing border enforcement and migrant deportations.

The US Senate on Saturday confirmed South Dakota governor Kristi Noem to lead the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), a key agency in President Donald Trump's push to clamp down on illegal immigration. The vote came a day after US lawmakers narrowly confirmed former Fox News co-host Pete Hegseth to be Pentagon chief, adding to previous national security posts already greenlit for Trump's cabinet, including the secretary of state and CIA director. Noem, 53, a Trump ally and second-term governor of the north central US state, takes control of the US agency overseeing border enforcement and migrant deportations, but which also leads federal efforts on cybersecurity, terrorism, and emergency management. Also read: Trump's inauguration sets YouTube's 'all time viewership record' with 9.6 million views Trump on Friday said he would sign an order seeking to scrap the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) after he harshly criticised its response to two devastating hurricanes during last year's election campaign. Noem is best known internationally for sinking her chances of being Trump's vice-presidential pick with her cheerful admission that she had shot her dog, Cricket, because it was "untrainable." She is also known for making South Dakota—far from the border with Mexico—among the first Republican-led states to send National Guard troops to the frontier, earning plaudits from conservatives. During her confirmation hearing last week, Noem said the southern border would be a top priority, asserting America's "responsibility to secure our borders against those who would do us harm," while stressing that the system must be fair and lawful. Also read: US halts funding to Bangladesh under USAID after Trump's 90-day pause on all foreign aid Noem was also asked at the hearing to address the distribution of disaster aid. She vowed "there will be no political bias to how disaster relief is delivered to the American people." But Trump on Friday, after expressing his intent to close FEMA, threatened to withhold assistance to California as it faces a historic wave of wildfires unless the Democratic-led state changes its voting laws and environmental regulations. 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.

Kristi Noem confirmed as Department of Homeland Security Chief, vows border security overhaul

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump-0" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump</a>'s inauguration, which was held on January 20, has set a viewership record, as the news section of YouTube received a stunning 9.6 million views, making a new &ldquo;All Time Viewership Record&rdquo;.&nbsp;
Trump took to his social media Truth Social and expressed his excitement by sharing the news.&nbsp;
According to the data from Stream Charts, Trump's inauguration coverage received over 9 million viewers.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/golden-age-of-america-begins-now-donald-trump-says-as-he-swears-in-as-us-president-8638801" rel="dofollow">'Golden age of America begins now,' says Trump in first speech as 47th US President</a>
Moreover, the inaugural ceremony stream on President Trump's X account received 36.7 million views.
"In combination with TV viewership, an estimated 80.7 million viewers watched the President&rsquo;s Inauguration, which beats the previous record of 42 million viewers with Ronald Reagan&rsquo;s Inauguration in 1981," Trump said in his post.&nbsp;
<figure class="image"><img alt="Trump post on Truth Social" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/598x471/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/26/1UlXbkERkuoQIinA9nLl.png" style="width: 598px;">
<figcaption>Trump post on Truth Social Photograph: (Truth Social)</figcaption>
</figure>
&nbsp;Notably, over 10 million viewers watched coverage by Fox News on Trump's inauguration, making it the most-watched channel during the inauguration as compared to any other network.&nbsp;
From 11:30 am through 1 pm ET, Fox News averaged 10.3 million total viewers, Fox News reported citing Nielsen Media Research.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/smart-woman-awkward-air-kiss-moment-between-president-trump-melania-goes-viral-8638906" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Smart woman,&rsquo; Awkward air-kiss moment between President Trump, Melania goes viral</a>
In second place, is ABC news, with 4.7 million total viewers. Further, NBC came in third with 4.4 million viewers, followed by CBS with 4.1 million.&nbsp;
Donald Trump was officially inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States on Monday (Jan 20). At 78, Trump is the oldest individual to hold the office of President in US history. His inauguration also marked a historic moment as he was the first convicted felon to assume the presidency.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-inauguration-today-jan-20-new-white-house-website-revamped-8638932" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;America is back': White House website revamped as Trump 2.0 begins</a>
During his inaugural speech, Trump said, &ldquo;My recent election is a mandate to completely and totally reverse a horrible betrayal, and all of these many betrayals that have taken place, and to give the people back their faith, their wealth, their democracy, and indeed their freedom.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: Data from Stream Charts stated Trump's inauguration coverage received over 9 million viewers. The inaugural ceremony stream on Trump's X account received 36.7 million views.

US President Donald Trump's inauguration, which was held on January 20, has set a viewership record, as the news section of YouTube received a stunning 9.6 million views, making a new “All Time Viewership Record”. Trump took to his social media Truth Social and expressed his excitement by sharing the news. According to the data from Stream Charts, Trump's inauguration coverage received over 9 million viewers. Also read: 'Golden age of America begins now,' says Trump in first speech as 47th US President Moreover, the inaugural ceremony stream on President Trump's X account received 36.7 million views. "In combination with TV viewership, an estimated 80.7 million viewers watched the President’s Inauguration, which beats the previous record of 42 million viewers with Ronald Reagan’s Inauguration in 1981," Trump said in his post. Trump post on Truth Social Photograph: (Truth Social) Notably, over 10 million viewers watched coverage by Fox News on Trump's inauguration, making it the most-watched channel during the inauguration as compared to any other network. From 11:30 am through 1 pm ET, Fox News averaged 10.3 million total viewers, Fox News reported citing Nielsen Media Research. Also read: ‘Smart woman,’ Awkward air-kiss moment between President Trump, Melania goes viral In second place, is ABC news, with 4.7 million total viewers. Further, NBC came in third with 4.4 million viewers, followed by CBS with 4.1 million. Donald Trump was officially inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States on Monday (Jan 20). At 78, Trump is the oldest individual to hold the office of President in US history. His inauguration also marked a historic moment as he was the first convicted felon to assume the presidency. Also read: ‘America is back': White House website revamped as Trump 2.0 begins During his inaugural speech, Trump said, “My recent election is a mandate to completely and totally reverse a horrible betrayal, and all of these many betrayals that have taken place, and to give the people back their faith, their wealth, their democracy, and indeed their freedom.” (With inputs from agencies)

Trump's inauguration sets YouTube's 'all-time viewership record' with 9.6 million views

As Donald Trump took over the administration in the United States, he has made a series of changes. In his new move, the US has ordered an immediate cease or suspension of any work in Bangladesh under contracts, work orders, grants, cooperative agreements, or other assistance or procurement instruments.
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) said in a letter that the partners shall not resume work under their awards until they receive a notification in writing from the contracting/agreement officer.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-secretary-of-state-marco-rubio-donald-trump-freezes-foreign-aid-military-funding-for-israel-egypt-8651682" rel="dofollow"> 'Manufactured chaos': US freezes nearly all foreign aid including for Ukraine; military funding for Israel, Egypt excempted</a>
"Partners shall take all reasonable steps to minimize the incurrence of costs allocable to their awards," the letter read.&nbsp;
The USAID cited Donald Trump in its letter, saying, "This letter is directing all USAID/Bangladesh implementing partners to immediately cease or suspend any work under your USAID/Bangladesh contract, work order, grant, cooperative agreement, or other assistance or acquisition instrument."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
US halts aid to Yunus Regime-led Bangladesh, notifies Dhaka. <a href="https://t.co/T59KxcXPWP">pic.twitter.com/T59KxcXPWP</a>
&mdash; Kanchan Gupta 🇮🇳 (@KanchanGupta) <a href="https://twitter.com/KanchanGupta/status/1883429723356958967?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2025</a>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</blockquote>
Following this decision, bankrupt Bangladesh, which is already dealing with a huge economic crisis, will now battle with even more challenges.&nbsp;
Notably, just hours after Trump was sworn in as US President on Jan 20, he ordered a 90-day pause on US foreign development assistance pending a review of efficiencies and consistency with his foreign policy. However, how his order will turn out was not immediately known.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladeshi-americans-urge-trump-to-intervene-amid-attacks-against-minorities-8577523" rel="dofollow">Bangladeshi Americans urge Trump to intervene amid attacks against minorities</a>
On Saturday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio ordered a pause on nearly all foreign aid programmes, including possibly for Ukraine, but excluding military funding for Israel and Egypt, according to an internal memo circulated to US officials and embassies abroad.&nbsp;
As the world&rsquo;s largest donor of international aid, the US allocated $68 billion to foreign development efforts in 2023, according to official data.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/bangladesh/bangladesh-forcing-importers-to-source-goods-from-pakistan-amidst-tensions-with-india-report-786194" rel="dofollow">Bangladesh 'forcing' importers to source goods from Pakistan amidst tensions with India: Report</a>
Moreover, the US is the leading contributor of humanitarian assistance in response to the Rohingya crisis and has provided nearly USD 2.4 billion since the violence began in August 2017.&nbsp;
America has also assisted Bangladesh by providing USD 490 million as obligations and another USD 550 million as disbursement in 2023 alone via all its agencies.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Following this decision, bankrupt Bangladesh, which is already dealing with a huge economic crisis, will now battle with even more challenges. 

As Donald Trump took over the administration in the United States, he has made a series of changes. In his new move, the US has ordered an immediate cease or suspension of any work in Bangladesh under contracts, work orders, grants, cooperative agreements, or other assistance or procurement instruments. The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) said in a letter that the partners shall not resume work under their awards until they receive a notification in writing from the contracting/agreement officer. Also read: 'Manufactured chaos': US freezes nearly all foreign aid including for Ukraine; military funding for Israel, Egypt excempted "Partners shall take all reasonable steps to minimize the incurrence of costs allocable to their awards," the letter read. The USAID cited Donald Trump in its letter, saying, "This letter is directing all USAID/Bangladesh implementing partners to immediately cease or suspend any work under your USAID/Bangladesh contract, work order, grant, cooperative agreement, or other assistance or acquisition instrument." US halts aid to Yunus Regime-led Bangladesh, notifies Dhaka. pic.twitter.com/T59KxcXPWP — Kanchan Gupta 🇮🇳 (@KanchanGupta) January 26, 2025 Following this decision, bankrupt Bangladesh, which is already dealing with a huge economic crisis, will now battle with even more challenges. Notably, just hours after Trump was sworn in as US President on Jan 20, he ordered a 90-day pause on US foreign development assistance pending a review of efficiencies and consistency with his foreign policy. However, how his order will turn out was not immediately known. Also read: Bangladeshi Americans urge Trump to intervene amid attacks against minorities On Saturday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio ordered a pause on nearly all foreign aid programmes, including possibly for Ukraine, but excluding military funding for Israel and Egypt, according to an internal memo circulated to US officials and embassies abroad. As the world’s largest donor of international aid, the US allocated $68 billion to foreign development efforts in 2023, according to official data. Also read: Bangladesh 'forcing' importers to source goods from Pakistan amidst tensions with India: Report Moreover, the US is the leading contributor of humanitarian assistance in response to the Rohingya crisis and has provided nearly USD 2.4 billion since the violence began in August 2017. America has also assisted Bangladesh by providing USD 490 million as obligations and another USD 550 million as disbursement in 2023 alone via all its agencies. (With inputs from agencies)

US halts funding to Bangladesh under USAID after Trump's 90-day pause on all foreign aid

Brazil on Saturday (January 25) expressed outrage over dozens of immigrants deported from the United States (US) arriving by plane in handcuffs, calling it a "flagrant disregard" for their rights. A total of 88 Brazilians, including children, were aboard the flight.
The Brazilian foreign ministry said that it would demand an explanation from the Donald Trump administration over the degrading treatment of passengers on that flight.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-deploys-1500-extra-troops-on-border-with-mexico-8646434" rel="dofollow">US </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-deploys-1500-extra-troops-on-border-with-mexico-8646434" rel="dofollow">President Trump deploys 1,500 extra troops on border with Mexico</a>
In a statement, the justice ministry said that when the plane landed in Brazil's Manaus, authorities ordered US officials to immediately remove the handcuffs.
Justice Minister Ricardo Lewandowski told President Lula da Silva of "the flagrant disregard for the fundamental rights of Brazilian citizens," the statement added.
The flight was originally destined for the southeastern city of Belo Horizonte but encountered a technical issue forcing it to land in Manaus.
<h2>'Not given water, nor allowed to use washroom'</h2>
One of the passengers aboard the flight told the news agency AFP, "On the plane, they didn't give us water, we were tied hands and feet, they wouldn't even let us go to the bathroom."
"It was very hot, some people fainted," the passenger added.
Another passenger said that there was no air conditioning on the flight due to technical issues, which led to many passengers facing respiratory problems.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-trump-cracks-down-on-immigrants-some-families-wonder-whether-to-send-kids-to-school-8646595" rel="dofollow">As Trump cracks down on immigrants, some families wonder whether to send kids to school</a>
A government source told AFP that the deportation flight was not directly linked to any immigration orders issued by Trump upon taking office Monday but&nbsp;rather stemmed from a 2017 bilateral agreement.
Brazil's Minister of Human Rights, Macae Evaristo, said during a press conference that "children with autism ... who went through very serious experiences" were also on the flight.
<h2>Lula orders passengers to be transported to their final destination</h2>
The justice ministry statement also said that upon learning about the situation, President Lula ordered that a Brazilian Air Force (FAB) aircraft be mobilised to transport the passengers to their final destination to ensure that they could complete their journey with dignity and safety.&nbsp;
This incident came as Latin America is grappling with the Trump administration's hard-line anti-immigration agenda.
Also watch | Trump signs tough border executive order
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2501_trump_1030pm_wion/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2501_trump_1030pm_wion_.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=126&amp;tags=Donald Trump, US, World News, WION" title="Trump signs tough border executive order; cartel designation sparks sovereignty debate" id="PL_iframe_block-m6deqj13-4di6pnlr-ehexwk97"></iframe>
Trump promised a crackdown on illegal immigration during the election campaign and began his second term with a flurry of executive actions aimed at overhauling entry to the US.&nbsp;
On his first day in office, he signed orders declaring a "national emergency" at the southern US border and announced the deployment of more troops to the area while vowing to deport "criminal aliens."
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;
&nbsp;

World | This incident from Brazil came as the whole of Latin America is grappling with the Trump administration's hard-line anti-immigration agenda.

Brazil on Saturday (January 25) expressed outrage over dozens of immigrants deported from the United States (US) arriving by plane in handcuffs, calling it a "flagrant disregard" for their rights. A total of 88 Brazilians, including children, were aboard the flight. The Brazilian foreign ministry said that it would demand an explanation from the Donald Trump administration over the degrading treatment of passengers on that flight. Also read | US President Trump deploys 1,500 extra troops on border with Mexico In a statement, the justice ministry said that when the plane landed in Brazil's Manaus, authorities ordered US officials to immediately remove the handcuffs. Justice Minister Ricardo Lewandowski told President Lula da Silva of "the flagrant disregard for the fundamental rights of Brazilian citizens," the statement added. The flight was originally destined for the southeastern city of Belo Horizonte but encountered a technical issue forcing it to land in Manaus. 'Not given water, nor allowed to use washroom' One of the passengers aboard the flight told the news agency AFP, "On the plane, they didn't give us water, we were tied hands and feet, they wouldn't even let us go to the bathroom." "It was very hot, some people fainted," the passenger added. Another passenger said that there was no air conditioning on the flight due to technical issues, which led to many passengers facing respiratory problems. Also read | As Trump cracks down on immigrants, some families wonder whether to send kids to school A government source told AFP that the deportation flight was not directly linked to any immigration orders issued by Trump upon taking office Monday but rather stemmed from a 2017 bilateral agreement. Brazil's Minister of Human Rights, Macae Evaristo, said during a press conference that "children with autism ... who went through very serious experiences" were also on the flight. Lula orders passengers to be transported to their final destination The justice ministry statement also said that upon learning about the situation, President Lula ordered that a Brazilian Air Force (FAB) aircraft be mobilised to transport the passengers to their final destination to ensure that they could complete their journey with dignity and safety. This incident came as Latin America is grappling with the Trump administration's hard-line anti-immigration agenda. Also watch | Trump signs tough border executive order Trump promised a crackdown on illegal immigration during the election campaign and began his second term with a flurry of executive actions aimed at overhauling entry to the US. On his first day in office, he signed orders declaring a "national emergency" at the southern US border and announced the deployment of more troops to the area while vowing to deport "criminal aliens." (With inputs from agencies)

Flagrant disregard: Brazil outraged as immigrants deported from US arrive in handcuffs

United States (US) President Donald Trump said on Saturday (January 25) that he would like to see Jordan, Egypt and other Arab nations increase the number of Palestinian refugees they were accepting from the war-torn Gaza Strip.
During a presser with reporters aboard Air Force One, President Trump also said that he ended his predecessor Joe Biden's hold on sending 2,000-pound bombs to Israel.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-israel-releases-70-palestinian-prisoners-into-egypt-more-awaited-to-be-freed-8653174" rel="dofollow">Israel releases 200 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for four female soldiers released by Hamas</a>
This lifted a pressure point that had been meant to reduce civilian casualties during the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza which is currently halted by a ceasefire.
"We released them today," Trump said of the bombs, adding, "They (Israel) have been waiting for them for a long time."
<h2>'Something has to happen'</h2>
Trump said he would like Egypt to take Palestinian refugees. "You&rsquo;re talking about probably a million and a half people, and we just clean out that whole thing and say- You know it's over," he said.
The US president also complimented Jordan for successfully accepting refugees.
&ldquo;I&rsquo;d love for you to take on more, cause I&rsquo;m looking at the whole Gaza Strip right now, and it&rsquo;s a mess. It&rsquo;s a real mess,&rdquo; Trump told Jordan's King Abdullah II.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-fake-hamas-attack-staged-in-israel-kfar-saba-hamas-8647184" rel="dofollow">'I was so scared&hellip;': Fake Hamas attack staged in Israel to protest Gaza ceasefire stirs panic</a>
Regarding the mass movement of Palestinians, Trump said, &ldquo;It could be temporary or long term,&rdquo; adding that the area of the world that encompasses Gaza, has &ldquo;had many, many conflicts&rdquo; over centuries.
"...it&rsquo;s (Gaza) literally a demolition site right now. Almost everything&rsquo;s demolished, and people are dying there. So, I&rsquo;d rather get involved with some of the Arab nations, and build housing in a different location, where they can maybe live in peace for a change," the US president told reporters.
<h2>Israel lauds Trump's initiative&nbsp;</h2>
Israel welcomed Trump's initiative to transfer Palestinians from Gaza to Egypt and Jordan.
In a post on X, far-right Otzma Yehudit party leader Itamar Ben Gvir said, "Congratulations to US President Trump on the initiative to transfer residents from Gaza to Jordan and Egypt.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
מברך את נשיא ארה״ב טראמפ על היוזמה להעביר תושבים מעזה לירדן ולמצרים. אחת הדרישות שלנו מראש-הממשלה בנימין נתניהו היא לעודד הגירה מרצון וכאשר נשיא המעצמה הכי גדולה בעולם טראמפ מעלה בעצמו את הרעיון כדאי שממשלת ישראל תיישם - עידוד הגירה עכשיו!
&mdash; איתמר בן גביר (@itamarbengvir) <a href="https://twitter.com/itamarbengvir/status/1883390919728328723?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

"One of our demands from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is to encourage voluntary immigration, and when the president of the world's largest power, Trump, himself raises the idea, it would be wise for the Israeli government to implement it - encourage immigration now!" Gvir added. 
<h2>Second phase of prisoner-hostage exchange deal in Gaza completed</h2>
Trump's remarks came as the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said on Saturday that the second phase of a prisoner-hostage exchange between Hamas and Israel was completed under the initial terms of a ceasefire agreement.
Also watch | Israel bars Palestinians from returning to North Gaza
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2501_ISAREL_GEUST_9PM_wion/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2501_ISAREL_GEUST_9PM_wion_.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=302&amp;tags=Israel, Hamas War, World News, WION" title="Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal: Israel bars Palestinians from returning to North Gaza" id="PL_iframe_block-m6d3vxhj-63928avz-gruapkll"></iframe>
The second phase, including the release of 200 Palestinian prisoners and four female Israeli soldier hostages, was carried out after thorough coordination and review procedures conducted by the ICRC.
The first stage of the six-week ceasefire took effect on January 19.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World | West Asia | Trump's demand came as the second phase of a prisoner-hostage exchange between Hamas and Israel was completed on Saturday. 

United States (US) President Donald Trump said on Saturday (January 25) that he would like to see Jordan, Egypt and other Arab nations increase the number of Palestinian refugees they were accepting from the war-torn Gaza Strip. During a presser with reporters aboard Air Force One, President Trump also said that he ended his predecessor Joe Biden's hold on sending 2,000-pound bombs to Israel. Also read | Israel releases 200 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for four female soldiers released by Hamas This lifted a pressure point that had been meant to reduce civilian casualties during the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza which is currently halted by a ceasefire. "We released them today," Trump said of the bombs, adding, "They (Israel) have been waiting for them for a long time." 'Something has to happen' Trump said he would like Egypt to take Palestinian refugees. "You’re talking about probably a million and a half people, and we just clean out that whole thing and say- You know it's over," he said. The US president also complimented Jordan for successfully accepting refugees. “I’d love for you to take on more, cause I’m looking at the whole Gaza Strip right now, and it’s a mess. It’s a real mess,” Trump told Jordan's King Abdullah II. Also read | 'I was so scared…': Fake Hamas attack staged in Israel to protest Gaza ceasefire stirs panic Regarding the mass movement of Palestinians, Trump said, “It could be temporary or long term,” adding that the area of the world that encompasses Gaza, has “had many, many conflicts” over centuries. "...it’s (Gaza) literally a demolition site right now. Almost everything’s demolished, and people are dying there. So, I’d rather get involved with some of the Arab nations, and build housing in a different location, where they can maybe live in peace for a change," the US president told reporters. Israel lauds Trump's initiative Israel welcomed Trump's initiative to transfer Palestinians from Gaza to Egypt and Jordan. In a post on X, far-right Otzma Yehudit party leader Itamar Ben Gvir said, "Congratulations to US President Trump on the initiative to transfer residents from Gaza to Jordan and Egypt. מברך את נשיא ארה״ב טראמפ על היוזמה להעביר תושבים מעזה לירדן ולמצרים. אחת הדרישות שלנו מראש-הממשלה בנימין נתניהו היא לעודד הגירה מרצון וכאשר נשיא המעצמה הכי גדולה בעולם טראמפ מעלה בעצמו את הרעיון כדאי שממשלת ישראל תיישם - עידוד הגירה עכשיו! — איתמר בן גביר (@itamarbengvir) January 26, 2025 "One of our demands from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is to encourage voluntary immigration, and when the president of the world's largest power, Trump, himself raises the idea, it would be wise for the Israeli government to implement it - encourage immigration now!" Gvir added. Second phase of prisoner-hostage exchange deal in Gaza completed Trump's remarks came as the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said on Saturday that the second phase of a prisoner-hostage exchange between Hamas and Israel was completed under the initial terms of a ceasefire agreement. Also watch | Israel bars Palestinians from returning to North Gaza The second phase, including the release of 200 Palestinian prisoners and four female Israeli soldier hostages, was carried out after thorough coordination and review procedures conducted by the ICRC. The first stage of the six-week ceasefire took effect on January 19. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Trump wants Jordan, Egypt, & other Arab nations to accept more refugees; Israel lauds initiative

donald-trump-0

Donald Trump, News on Donald Trump, stories on Donald Trump, articles on Donald Trump, Donald Trump stories at Wion, Donald Trump news, Donald Trump latest news

donald trump-0