US President Donald Trump on Saturday said that America is in touch with both India and China to help both the countries out of the situation where both the countries have come to blows.

Tensions have simmered between New Delhi and Beijing since 20 Indian Army soldiers were killed in action following violent clashes with Chinese troops at Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh on June 15.&nbsp;

"It`s a very tough situation. We are talking to India, we`re talking to China. They have got a big problem there. They have come to blows and we`ll see what happens. We are trying to help them out," Trump told reporters outside White House.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinese-social-media-sites-delete-pm-modis-speech-mea-spokesmans-remarks-on-border-crisis-307322">Chinese social media sites delete PM Modi's speech, MEA spokesman's remarks on border crisis</a>

Last month Trump said on social media, "We have informed both India and China that the United States is ready, willing and able to mediate or arbitrate their now raging border dispute. Thank you!"

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Trump also said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was "not in a good mood" regarding the "big conflict" with China. However, both India and China turned down the offer and said that they will bilaterally resolve the issue. However, responding to questions on Trump`s offer, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Anurag Srivastava had then said, "We are engaged with the Chinese side to peacefully resolve this issue."

Last week, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi had a telephonic conversation. India said that China had attempted to erect a structure on the Indian side. New Delhi also said that Chinese forces took "premeditated and planned" move which resulted in violence and casualties.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-china-demonstration-held-outside-oppo-factory-in-greater-noida-32-protesters-booked-307353">&nbsp;Anti-China demonstration held outside Oppo factory in Greater Noida, 32 protesters booked</a>

In the past, Trump had offered to mediate between India and Pakistan over Kashmir, but this is the first time he has made such an offer to India and China.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday said that America is in touch with both India and China to help both the countries out of the situation where both the countries have come to blows.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday said that America is in touch with both India and China to help both the countries out of the situation where both the countries have come to blows. Tensions have simmered between New Delhi and Beijing since 20 Indian Army soldiers were killed in action following violent clashes with Chinese troops at Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh on June 15. "It`s a very tough situation. We are talking to India, we`re talking to China. They have got a big problem there. They have come to blows and we`ll see what happens. We are trying to help them out," Trump told reporters outside White House. Also read: Chinese social media sites delete PM Modi's speech, MEA spokesman's remarks on border crisis Last month Trump said on social media, "We have informed both India and China that the United States is ready, willing and able to mediate or arbitrate their now raging border dispute. Thank you!" #WATCH It's a very tough situation. We are talking to India, we're talking to China. They have got a big problem there. They have come to blows and we’ll see what happens. We are trying to help them out: US President Donald Trump pic.twitter.com/auaVnDjFdK — ANI (@ANI) June 20, 2020 × Trump also said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was "not in a good mood" regarding the "big conflict" with China. However, both India and China turned down the offer and said that they will bilaterally resolve the issue. However, responding to questions on Trump`s offer, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Anurag Srivastava had then said, "We are engaged with the Chinese side to peacefully resolve this issue." Last week, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi had a telephonic conversation. India said that China had attempted to erect a structure on the Indian side. New Delhi also said that Chinese forces took "premeditated and planned" move which resulted in violence and casualties. Also read: Anti-China demonstration held outside Oppo factory in Greater Noida, 32 protesters booked In the past, Trump had offered to mediate between India and Pakistan over Kashmir, but this is the first time he has made such an offer to India and China.

'They have come to blows and we'll see what happens': Trump on India, China standoff

Coronavirus infections in Latin America surged past two million on Saturday, with worst-hit Brazil home to nearly half of the cases as the virus accelerates its spread in the region.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-brazil-nears-50000-deaths-experts-fear-real-number-to-be-much-higher-307409" hreflang="en">Coronavirus: Brazil nears 50,000 deaths; experts fear real number to be much higher</a>

Europe, which has endured months of lockdowns to slow the virus but at a crippling economic cost, was set to further ease restrictions with Spain reopening to tourists on Sunday and Italy enjoying its first Serie A soccer match in 103 days.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-to-allow-british-tourists-to-visit-from-sunday-without-need-for-quarantine-spanish-foreign-minister-307363" hreflang="en">Spain to allow British tourists to visit from Sunday without need for quarantine: Spanish foreign minister</a>

In the US, which has been taking stuttering steps to reopen even as 20 states have reported a rebound in infections, President Donald Trump Saturday claimed his measures had "saved millions of lives" as he addressed his first rally in months.

"Now it's time to open up, get back to work," he told the crowd in Tulsa, Oklahoma, even as six members of his advance team tested positive for COVID-19.

The world's largest economy is taking a beating in a year when Trump seeks re-election.

Trump had downplayed the risk that the evening rally might trigger a coronavirus outbreak, ignoring danger warnings by Tulsa health and municipal officials.

After the president had boasted on Twitter that "almost one million people" had requested tickets for the rally, the 20,000-capacity arena was far from full, with many upper deck seats empty.

The United States remains the country hardest-hit by the pandemic with 119,719 deaths out of 2,254,630 official cases, according to a tally Saturday by Johns Hopkins University.

With nearly 50,000 deaths and more than one million cases, Brazil is the second worst-affected.

In total Latin America and the Caribbean have 2,007,621 confirmed cases, according to an AFP tally based on official tallies.

The figures were particularly alarming in Chile, where the death toll nearly doubled to more than 7,000 under a revised tallying method, and passed 20,000 in Mexico.

Europe meanwhile chalked up more than 2.5 million cases. Although the spread has slowed, Europe is still the worst-affected continent.

The continent is easing its way out of strict lockdowns, even as the World Health Organization warns against giving in to isolation fatigue.

Spain on Sunday reopens its borders to European Union countries in a bid to gets its tourism industry back up and running after lifting its state of emergency.

British tourists will also be allowed in without having to quarantine, the Spanish foreign minister said.

As his country emerges from a 14-week lockdown, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez warned that Spain remained vulnerable to the virus, which has claimed more than 28,000 lives there.

"We must remain on our guard and strictly follow hygiene and protection measures," he warned hours before the borders opened.

In France, millions more children were preparing to return to school on Monday after three months away.

"I cried with joy when I got the confirmation from the teacher that my two children would be going back to school full time," said Noemie from the southern city of Nice.

France is also reopening cinemas from Monday and stadiums for team sports, and in another sign of returning normality, actors have also started kissing again on film shoots.

A vaccine remains months off at best despite several trials, and scientists are still learning more about the virus, its symptoms and the extent to which it may have spread before being identified.

"The world is in a new and dangerous phase," WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned Friday.

"Many people are understandably fed up with being at home... but the virus is still spreading fast."

The virus has now killed more than 461,000 people and infected 8.7 million worldwide.

The Palestinian Authority announced Saturday it was temporarily closing the cities of Hebron and Nablus in the occupied West Bank after a sharp rise in infections.

Only goods will be allowed in, Palestinian prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh told journalists. Authorities have reported a total of 687 cases in the West Bank, including two deaths so far.

Coronavirus infections in Latin America surged past two million on Saturday, with worst-hit Brazil home to nearly half of the cases as the virus accelerates its spread in the region.

Coronavirus infections in Latin America surged past two million on Saturday, with worst-hit Brazil home to nearly half of the cases as the virus accelerates its spread in the region. Also read: Coronavirus: Brazil nears 50,000 deaths; experts fear real number to be much higher Europe, which has endured months of lockdowns to slow the virus but at a crippling economic cost, was set to further ease restrictions with Spain reopening to tourists on Sunday and Italy enjoying its first Serie A soccer match in 103 days. Also read: Spain to allow British tourists to visit from Sunday without need for quarantine: Spanish foreign minister In the US, which has been taking stuttering steps to reopen even as 20 states have reported a rebound in infections, President Donald Trump Saturday claimed his measures had "saved millions of lives" as he addressed his first rally in months. "Now it's time to open up, get back to work," he told the crowd in Tulsa, Oklahoma, even as six members of his advance team tested positive for COVID-19. The world's largest economy is taking a beating in a year when Trump seeks re-election. Trump had downplayed the risk that the evening rally might trigger a coronavirus outbreak, ignoring danger warnings by Tulsa health and municipal officials. After the president had boasted on Twitter that "almost one million people" had requested tickets for the rally, the 20,000-capacity arena was far from full, with many upper deck seats empty. The United States remains the country hardest-hit by the pandemic with 119,719 deaths out of 2,254,630 official cases, according to a tally Saturday by Johns Hopkins University. With nearly 50,000 deaths and more than one million cases, Brazil is the second worst-affected. In total Latin America and the Caribbean have 2,007,621 confirmed cases, according to an AFP tally based on official tallies. The figures were particularly alarming in Chile, where the death toll nearly doubled to more than 7,000 under a revised tallying method, and passed 20,000 in Mexico. Europe meanwhile chalked up more than 2.5 million cases. Although the spread has slowed, Europe is still the worst-affected continent. The continent is easing its way out of strict lockdowns, even as the World Health Organization warns against giving in to isolation fatigue. Spain on Sunday reopens its borders to European Union countries in a bid to gets its tourism industry back up and running after lifting its state of emergency. British tourists will also be allowed in without having to quarantine, the Spanish foreign minister said. As his country emerges from a 14-week lockdown, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez warned that Spain remained vulnerable to the virus, which has claimed more than 28,000 lives there. "We must remain on our guard and strictly follow hygiene and protection measures," he warned hours before the borders opened. In France, millions more children were preparing to return to school on Monday after three months away. "I cried with joy when I got the confirmation from the teacher that my two children would be going back to school full time," said Noemie from the southern city of Nice. France is also reopening cinemas from Monday and stadiums for team sports, and in another sign of returning normality, actors have also started kissing again on film shoots. A vaccine remains months off at best despite several trials, and scientists are still learning more about the virus, its symptoms and the extent to which it may have spread before being identified. "The world is in a new and dangerous phase," WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned Friday. "Many people are understandably fed up with being at home... but the virus is still spreading fast." The virus has now killed more than 461,000 people and infected 8.7 million worldwide. The Palestinian Authority announced Saturday it was temporarily closing the cities of Hebron and Nablus in the occupied West Bank after a sharp rise in infections. Only goods will be allowed in, Palestinian prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh told journalists. Authorities have reported a total of 687 cases in the West Bank, including two deaths so far.

Coronavirus: Latin America cases pass two million as Trump rally defies virus

Anmol Narang has become the first observant Sikh to graduate from United States Military Academy at West Point. Second Lieutenant Anmol Narang will be making efforts to represent her religion and community will encourage Americans to learn more about Sikhism.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-boris-johnson-defends-churchill-and-terms-removing-of-statues-distortion-of-our-history-305888" hreflang="en">British PM Boris Johnson defends Churchill and terms removing of statues 'distortion of our history'</a>

During an interview with CNN, she said: "It's an incredible feeling. It's a humbling experience, I have never worked harder for anything in my life. Being a Sikh woman is a very important part of my identity and if my experience can play a small role in being an inspiration for others, regardless of the career field, that will be wonderful."

The American President Donald Trump addressed the 1,107 graduates which included Anmol.&nbsp;

During the ceremony, Trump said: "This premier military academy produces only the best of the best—the strongest of the strong—and the bravest of the brave. West Point is a universal symbol of American gallantry, loyalty, devotion, discipline, and skill.

"To the 1,107 who today become the newest officers in the most exceptional Army ever to take the field of battle, I am here to offer America's salute. Thank you for answering your nation's call."

Many other Sikhs have also graduated from the academy but 23 years old Anmol became the first observant Sikh to graduate from West Point.&nbsp;

Anmol Narang has become the first observant Sikh to graduate from United States Military Academy at West Point. Second Lieutenant Anmol Narang will be making efforts to represent her religion and community will encourage Americans to learn more about Sikhism.

Anmol Narang has become the first observant Sikh to graduate from United States Military Academy at West Point. Second Lieutenant Anmol Narang will be making efforts to represent her religion and community will encourage Americans to learn more about Sikhism. Also read: British PM Boris Johnson defends Churchill and terms removing of statues 'distortion of our history' During an interview with CNN, she said: "It's an incredible feeling. It's a humbling experience, I have never worked harder for anything in my life. Being a Sikh woman is a very important part of my identity and if my experience can play a small role in being an inspiration for others, regardless of the career field, that will be wonderful." The American President Donald Trump addressed the 1,107 graduates which included Anmol. During the ceremony, Trump said: "This premier military academy produces only the best of the best—the strongest of the strong—and the bravest of the brave. West Point is a universal symbol of American gallantry, loyalty, devotion, discipline, and skill. "To the 1,107 who today become the newest officers in the most exceptional Army ever to take the field of battle, I am here to offer America's salute. Thank you for answering your nation's call." Many other Sikhs have also graduated from the academy but 23 years old Anmol became the first observant Sikh to graduate from West Point.

Meet Anmol Narang, first observant Sikh to graduate from US Military Academy

A Facebook Inc employee who criticized Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg's non-intervention against inflammatory posts by US President Donald Trump this month said on Friday that the social media company had fired him, reported news agency Reuters.

A Facebook Inc employee who criticized Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg's non-intervention against inflammatory posts by US President Donald Trump this month said on Friday that the social media company had fired him, reported news agency Reuters. Brandon Dail, whose social media profiles describe him as a former user interface engineer in Seattle, wrote on Twitter that he was dismissed for publicly challenging a colleague's silence on the controversy, which prompted a rare staff protest at Facebook on June 1. Dozens of employees, including Dail and six other engineers on his team, abandoned their desks and tweeted objections to Zuckerberg's handling of Trump's posts, the report added. In the interest of transparency, I was let go for calling out an employee’s inaction here on Twitter. I stand by what I said. They didn’t give me the chance to quit 😅 https://t.co/zMw8ARMwZt — Brandon Dail (@aweary) June 12, 2020 × Dail said the tweet that prompted his firing, which he sent the day after that walkout, scolded a fellow engineer for declining to add a statement of support to developer documents he was publishing. "Intentionally not making a statement is already political," Dail wrote in the tweet. Also read: Facebook bans around 200 accounts linked to white supremacist groups for inciting violence Trump's posts included the racially charged phrase "when the looting starts, the shooting starts" in reference to protests against racism and police brutality held after the May 25 killing of George Floyd, a black man who died in police custody in Minneapolis. Twitter affixed a warning label to the same post, saying it glorified violence. Facebook opted to leave the post untouched. Zuckerberg stood by his decision at a tense all-hands meeting with employees that week. During the meeting, Dail tweeted that it was "crystal clear today that leadership refuses to stand with us." Dail again voiced objections this week after both Facebook and Twitter declined to take action against a Trump post that contained an unsubstantiated conspiracy theory about Martin Gugino, a 75-year-old protester who was critically injured by police in Buffalo, New York. "Trump's attack on Martin Gugino is despicable and a clear violation [of] Facebook's anti-harassment rules. It's again extremely disappointing that we (and Twitter) haven't removed it," he said.

Facebook staffer who protested inaction on Trump's inflammatory posts says he was fired

Donald Trump has reiterated his demands for NFL players to stand during the national anthem, saying any player who kneels would be "disrespecting" the United States.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-were-wrong-nfl-commissioner-regrets-stance-on-player-protests-condemns-racism-303953">'We were wrong': NFL commissioner regrets stance on player protests, condemns racism</a>

On Friday, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell admitted the league had botched its handling of player protests started by former San Francisco quarterback Colin Kaepernick, indicating the league would now support "peaceful protests" by players.

Responding to Goodell's statement on Twitter late Sunday, Trump asked whether the NFL would now allow players to kneel during the anthem.&nbsp;

"Could it be even remotely possible that in Roger Goodell's rather interesting statement of peace and reconciliation, he was intimating that it would now be O.K. for the players to KNEEL, or not to stand, for the National Anthem, thereby disrespecting our Country &amp; our Flag?" Trump asked in his post.

NFL players who have knelt during the playing of the national anthem have repeatedly made it clear they are protesting racial injustice and police brutality, and not, as Trump and other conservative critics suggest, the United States or the military.

Trump ignited a firestorm of controversy with the NFL in 2017 when he said Kaepernick and other players kneeling were "sons of bitches" who should be fired.

The NFL later banned players from taking a knee in a 2018 policy directive which required players to "stand and show respect for the flag" before kick-off. That policy was later put on hold.

With a recent wave of protests sweeping across the United States following the shocking death of a black man in police custody in Minneapolis on May 25, Goodell said in a statement on Friday that the league had been wrong not to listen to the protests by its players.

"We, the National Football League, condemn racism and the systematic oppression of black people," Goodell said.

"We, the National Football League, admit we were wrong for not listening to NFL players earlier and encourage all to speak out and peacefully protest."

Donald Trump has reiterated his demands for NFL players to stand during the national anthem, saying any player who kneels would be "disrespecting" the United States.

Donald Trump has reiterated his demands for NFL players to stand during the national anthem, saying any player who kneels would be "disrespecting" the United States. Also read: 'We were wrong': NFL commissioner regrets stance on player protests, condemns racism On Friday, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell admitted the league had botched its handling of player protests started by former San Francisco quarterback Colin Kaepernick, indicating the league would now support "peaceful protests" by players. Responding to Goodell's statement on Twitter late Sunday, Trump asked whether the NFL would now allow players to kneel during the anthem. "Could it be even remotely possible that in Roger Goodell's rather interesting statement of peace and reconciliation, he was intimating that it would now be O.K. for the players to KNEEL, or not to stand, for the National Anthem, thereby disrespecting our Country & our Flag?" Trump asked in his post. NFL players who have knelt during the playing of the national anthem have repeatedly made it clear they are protesting racial injustice and police brutality, and not, as Trump and other conservative critics suggest, the United States or the military. Trump ignited a firestorm of controversy with the NFL in 2017 when he said Kaepernick and other players kneeling were "sons of bitches" who should be fired. The NFL later banned players from taking a knee in a 2018 policy directive which required players to "stand and show respect for the flag" before kick-off. That policy was later put on hold. With a recent wave of protests sweeping across the United States following the shocking death of a black man in police custody in Minneapolis on May 25, Goodell said in a statement on Friday that the league had been wrong not to listen to the protests by its players. "We, the National Football League, condemn racism and the systematic oppression of black people," Goodell said. "We, the National Football League, admit we were wrong for not listening to NFL players earlier and encourage all to speak out and peacefully protest."

Donald Trump responds to NFL chief's protest statement

US President Donald Trump has yet again blamed China for spreading coronavirus in the world. In a tweet in the late hours of Thursday, eh tweeted about how China has given a bad gift to the world but has continued to march on.

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All over the World the CoronaVirus, a very bad “gift” from China, marches on. Not good!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1266014911127306240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The tweet came after he announced on Twitter that the US has recorded 100,000 deaths, one of the highest total death counts in the world caused due to the coronavirus pandemic.

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We have just reached a very sad milestone with the coronavirus pandemic deaths reaching 100,000. To all of the families &amp; friends of those who have passed, I want to extend my heartfelt sympathy &amp; love for everything that these great people stood for &amp; represent. God be with you!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1266000762057953284?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-feeling-absolutely-great-after-taking-hydroxychloroquine-white-house-official-301702">Also read| Donald Trump feeling 'absolutely great' after taking hydroxychloroquine: White House official</a>

The President has been blaming China for spreading coronavirus onto the world since the start of the pandemic. He has also accused China of hiding important information and stealing vaccine-related research of the US.

According to reports, this death count is the highest since the Korean War, and&nbsp;matches the toll in the US of the 1968 flu pandemic, and it is approaching the 116,000 killed in another flu outbreak a decade before that, it said.

While the world has crossed the 5.6 million mark for positive cases around the around, US alone has more than 1.7 million coronavirus positive cases.

US President Donald Trump has yet again blamed China for spreading coronavirus in the world. In a tweet in the late hours of Thursday, eh tweeted about how China has given a bad gift to the world but has continued to march on.

US President Donald Trump has yet again blamed China for spreading coronavirus in the world. In a tweet in the late hours of Thursday, eh tweeted about how China has given a bad gift to the world but has continued to march on. All over the World the CoronaVirus, a very bad “gift” from China, marches on. Not good! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 28, 2020 × The tweet came after he announced on Twitter that the US has recorded 100,000 deaths, one of the highest total death counts in the world caused due to the coronavirus pandemic. We have just reached a very sad milestone with the coronavirus pandemic deaths reaching 100,000. To all of the families & friends of those who have passed, I want to extend my heartfelt sympathy & love for everything that these great people stood for & represent. God be with you! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 28, 2020 × Also read| Donald Trump feeling 'absolutely great' after taking hydroxychloroquine: White House official The President has been blaming China for spreading coronavirus onto the world since the start of the pandemic. He has also accused China of hiding important information and stealing vaccine-related research of the US. According to reports, this death count is the highest since the Korean War, and matches the toll in the US of the 1968 flu pandemic, and it is approaching the 116,000 killed in another flu outbreak a decade before that, it said. While the world has crossed the 5.6 million mark for positive cases around the around, US alone has more than 1.7 million coronavirus positive cases.

Bad gift from China: Trump tweets as COVID 19 deaths cross 100,000 in US

Democratic White House candidate Joe Biden is in damage limitation mode after saying African Americans "ain't black" if they even consider voting for President Donald Trump over him.

Gaffe-prone Mr Biden made the remark in an interview on Friday with a prominent black radio host, Charlamagne Tha God, about his outreach to black voters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-approval-rating-dips-currently-trails-behind-biden-polls-298359">Donald Trump's approval rating dips, currently trails behind Biden: Polls</a>

However, after sparking&nbsp;accusations of racism, he recanted his remark and&nbsp;apologized for&nbsp;the "cavalier" comment.

I shouldn't have been such a wise guy. I shouldn't have been so cavalier,"&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;later said on a call with black business leaders, after the remarks sparked uproar.

"I have never, ever taken the African-American community for granted,"&nbsp;he told members of the Black Chamber of Commerce, according to reporters on the call.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-may-lose-in-a-landslide-because-of-economic-downturn-election-model-predicts-300165">Trump may lose in a landslide because of economic downturn, election model predicts</a>

Biden, Barack Obama's vice president for eight years, stumbled into the controversy as he was defending his ties to the African-American community, saying he has "overwhelming support" from black leaders and voters.

Throughout the 18-minute interview, Mr Biden, 77, stressed his longstanding ties to the black community, noting his overwhelming win this year in South Carolina's presidential primary, a state where the Democratic electorate is more than 60 per cent&nbsp;African&nbsp;American.

The comments, which aired early Friday on New York-based syndicated show The Breakfast Club, quickly sparked reaction from Team Trump.

Donald Trump Jr, the president's son, accused&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;of a "disgusting &amp; dehumanizing racist mentality."

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Democratic White House candidate Joe Biden is in damage limitation mode after saying African Americans "ain't black" if they even consider voting for President Donald Trump over him.

Democratic White House candidate Joe Biden is in damage limitation mode after saying African Americans "ain't black" if they even consider voting for President Donald Trump over him. Gaffe-prone Mr Biden made the remark in an interview on Friday with a prominent black radio host, Charlamagne Tha God, about his outreach to black voters. Also read: Donald Trump's approval rating dips, currently trails behind Biden: Polls However, after sparking accusations of racism, he recanted his remark and apologized for the "cavalier" comment. I shouldn't have been such a wise guy. I shouldn't have been so cavalier," Biden later said on a call with black business leaders, after the remarks sparked uproar. "I have never, ever taken the African-American community for granted," he told members of the Black Chamber of Commerce, according to reporters on the call. Also read: Trump may lose in a landslide because of economic downturn, election model predicts Biden, Barack Obama's vice president for eight years, stumbled into the controversy as he was defending his ties to the African-American community, saying he has "overwhelming support" from black leaders and voters. Throughout the 18-minute interview, Mr Biden, 77, stressed his longstanding ties to the black community, noting his overwhelming win this year in South Carolina's presidential primary, a state where the Democratic electorate is more than 60 per cent African American. The comments, which aired early Friday on New York-based syndicated show The Breakfast Club, quickly sparked reaction from Team Trump. Donald Trump Jr, the president's son, accused Biden of a "disgusting & dehumanizing racist mentality."

African American voters 'ain't black' if they vote for Trump: Biden

World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has vowed to lead the global war against novel coronavirus. According to Ghebreyesus, it &nbsp;"threatens to tear at the fabric of international cooperation."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-health-organisation-a-puppet-of-china-trump-says-as-he-mulls-slashing-us-funding-299543">World Health Organisation a 'puppet of China', Trump says as he mulls slashing US funding</a>

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, during the two-day annual ministerial assembly also thanked many member states who have shown "support and solidarity" in the fight against COVID-19.

WHO director-general welcomed the European Union's resolution that was adopted by the World Health Organisation's 194 member states. The resolution calls for an independent evaluation of the international response, "including, but not limited to, WHO’s performance."

"We want accountability more than anyone," Tedros said. "We will continue providing strategic leadership to coordinate the global response" to the pandemic.

He did not respond to Donald Trump's threat to leave the WHO.&nbsp;

Earlier, US President Donald Trump threatened to permanently halt US funding for the World Health Organization (WHO) if the body does not commit to "major substantive improvements" in the next 30 days.

In a letter to WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Trump said, "It is clear the repeated missteps by you and your organization in responding to the pandemic have been extremely costly for the world. The only way forward for the World Health Organization is if it can demonstrate independence from China."

"My administration has already started discussions with you on how to reform the organization. But action is needed quickly. We do not have time to waste."

Trump also said that even after declaring Covid-19 outbreak, the WHO failed to press China for the timely admittance of a team of international medical experts.

World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has vowed to lead the global war against novel coronavirus. According to Ghebreyesus, it "threatens to tear at the fabric of international cooperation.

World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has vowed to lead the global war against novel coronavirus. According to Ghebreyesus, it "threatens to tear at the fabric of international cooperation." Also read: World Health Organisation a 'puppet of China', Trump says as he mulls slashing US funding Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, during the two-day annual ministerial assembly also thanked many member states who have shown "support and solidarity" in the fight against COVID-19. WHO director-general welcomed the European Union's resolution that was adopted by the World Health Organisation's 194 member states. The resolution calls for an independent evaluation of the international response, "including, but not limited to, WHO’s performance." "We want accountability more than anyone," Tedros said. "We will continue providing strategic leadership to coordinate the global response" to the pandemic. He did not respond to Donald Trump's threat to leave the WHO. Earlier, US President Donald Trump threatened to permanently halt US funding for the World Health Organization (WHO) if the body does not commit to "major substantive improvements" in the next 30 days. In a letter to WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Trump said, "It is clear the repeated missteps by you and your organization in responding to the pandemic have been extremely costly for the world. The only way forward for the World Health Organization is if it can demonstrate independence from China." "My administration has already started discussions with you on how to reform the organization. But action is needed quickly. We do not have time to waste." Trump also said that even after declaring Covid-19 outbreak, the WHO failed to press China for the timely admittance of a team of international medical experts.

World Health Organisation will continue to lead global fight against pandemic: Tedros

US President Donald Trump on Monday&nbsp;defended ousting the state department's independent watchdog by calling it ''fully&nbsp;justified''.&nbsp;

Steve Linick, the agency's inspector general, was investigating Secretary of State Mike Pompeo for staff misuse and&nbsp;arms deal with Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;Trump fired had fired him on Friday.

Earlier,&nbsp;Pompeo had&nbsp;denied seeking to fire him&nbsp;in "retaliation" for an investigation.

Pompeo confirmed that he had recommended Linick's removal for "undermining" the state department, but said he did not know that the inspector general was investigating him.

"I went to the president and made clear to him that Inspector General Linick wasn't performing a function in a way that we had tried to get him to, that was additive for the state department, very consistent with what the statute says he's supposed to be doing," he said.

He is the fourth inspector general (IG) to be fired by&nbsp;Trump in four weeks, and the move sparked outcry from Democrats, who claimed Linick was fired for political reasons.

According to Democratic congressional aides, Linick had nearly completed an investigation into a highly&nbsp;controversial decision&nbsp;by Trump and Pompeo last May to approve $8bn in arms sales to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates without consulting Congress, on the grounds that the regional threat posed by Iran constituted a national emergency.

US President Donald Trump on Monday defended ousting the state department's independent watchdog by calling it ''fully justified''. Steve Linick, the agency's inspector general, was investigating Secretary of State Mike Pompeo for staff misuse and arms deal with Saudi Arabia.

US President Donald Trump on Monday defended ousting the state department's independent watchdog by calling it ''fully justified''. Steve Linick, the agency's inspector general, was investigating Secretary of State Mike Pompeo for staff misuse and arms deal with Saudi Arabia. Trump fired had fired him on Friday. Earlier, Pompeo had denied seeking to fire him in "retaliation" for an investigation. Pompeo confirmed that he had recommended Linick's removal for "undermining" the state department, but said he did not know that the inspector general was investigating him. "I went to the president and made clear to him that Inspector General Linick wasn't performing a function in a way that we had tried to get him to, that was additive for the state department, very consistent with what the statute says he's supposed to be doing," he said. He is the fourth inspector general (IG) to be fired by Trump in four weeks, and the move sparked outcry from Democrats, who claimed Linick was fired for political reasons. According to Democratic congressional aides, Linick had nearly completed an investigation into a highly controversial decision by Trump and Pompeo last May to approve $8bn in arms sales to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates without consulting Congress, on the grounds that the regional threat posed by Iran constituted a national emergency.

Trump defends firing watchdog investigating Pompeo for arms deal and staff misuse

US President Donald Trump has called the warning&nbsp;about lifting pandemic restrictions too soon was&nbsp;of his coronavirus top health official as&nbsp;''unacceptable''.

Earlier, the lead virus expert of the White House coronavirus task force, Anthony Fauci,&nbsp;this week about the dangers of reopening the economy and schools too quickly.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-refusal-to-wear-masks-hints-towards-racism-and-masculinity-in-america-298624" hreflang="en">Donald Trump's refusal to wear masks hints towards racism in America</a>

Fauci, who is also directs the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, also warned that a premature lifting of lockdowns could lead to additional outbreaks of the deadly coronavirus, which has killed more than 84,000 people in the United States and brought the economy to its knees.

"There is a real risk that you will trigger an outbreak that you may not be able to control," he said, adding that an early reopening would not only cost lives, but could even set them back on the road to trying to get economic recovery.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/just-like-hiv-coronavirus-may-never-go-away-who-expert-warns-298539">Just like HIV, coronavirus may never go away: WHO expert warns</a>

Trump accused Fauci of wanting "to play all sides of the equation" in his testimony to lawmakers on Tuesday.

The President said he was especially dissatisfied with Fauci's caution around reopening schools too quickly.

<section role="main">
However, he contradicted his statement on Wednesday and&nbsp;said the only thing that would be acceptable would be professors or teachers ''over a certain age''&nbsp;not holding classes. ''I think they ought to take it easy for another few weeks,''&nbsp;he added.
</section>

US President Donald Trump has called the warning about lifting pandemic restrictions too soon was of his coronavirus top health official as ''unacceptable''. Earlier, the lead virus expert of the White House coronavirus task force, Anthony Fauci, this week about the dangers of reopening the economy and schools too quickly.

US President Donald Trump has called the warning about lifting pandemic restrictions too soon was of his coronavirus top health official as ''unacceptable''. Earlier, the lead virus expert of the White House coronavirus task force, Anthony Fauci, this week about the dangers of reopening the economy and schools too quickly. Also read: Donald Trump's refusal to wear masks hints towards racism in America Fauci, who is also directs the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, also warned that a premature lifting of lockdowns could lead to additional outbreaks of the deadly coronavirus, which has killed more than 84,000 people in the United States and brought the economy to its knees. "There is a real risk that you will trigger an outbreak that you may not be able to control," he said, adding that an early reopening would not only cost lives, but could even set them back on the road to trying to get economic recovery. Also read: Just like HIV, coronavirus may never go away: WHO expert warns Trump accused Fauci of wanting "to play all sides of the equation" in his testimony to lawmakers on Tuesday. The President said he was especially dissatisfied with Fauci's caution around reopening schools too quickly. However, he contradicted his statement on Wednesday and said the only thing that would be acceptable would be professors or teachers ''over a certain age'' not holding classes. ''I think they ought to take it easy for another few weeks,'' he added.

Trump calls lead virus expert's warnings 'unacceptable'

There is high drama in South America. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has accused the United States of plotting a coup.

American arrested in Venezuela, Luke Denman, said: "To me, Venezuelans in Colombia, train them and come with them to Venezuela to Caracas and a secure airport here."

This video is playing on television screens across the world. This is American citizen Luke Denman. He is currently in Venezuelan custody.

What for? For trying to stage a coup.

It's a plot straight out of a Hollywood movie. The story begins sometime last week.

On May 4, Venezuela had news for the world. Nothing to do with the pandemic. Venezuela said it had foiled a maritime incursion. Mercenaries had tried to enter the country through the sea.

Their speedboats were intercepted by the Venezuelan military. Venezuela said 8 attackers were killed on the coast of La Guaira.

This is some 30 kilometres from the capital city of Caracas.

President Nicolas Maduro, said: "The main objective was to kill the Venezuelan president, a terrorist attack in the middle of a pandemic."

&nbsp;It did not take long for President Nicolas Maduro to cry coup. It was all planned in the White House, he said.

On May 6, 2020, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said: "Donald Trump, Mike Pompeo were directly behind this."

Later, Venezuelan authorities arrested 13 people. Among them were two Americans.

&nbsp;Luke Denman and Airan Berry, Venezuela said the duo played a key role in the plot.

Adding-- they were working with Jordan Goudreau-- an American military veteran who runs a security company in Florida.

Maduro furnished proof, he said: "Here's his license as part of silvercorp. Here's the passport of the other American mercenary who was a member of Donald Trump's security, they claim. Berry, Airan was born May 15, 1978, in Texas, United States. His identification as a member of the silvercorp company. "

&nbsp;

Goudreau has reportedly admitted to organising the invasion. He also admitted to working with Denman and Berry.

US President Donald Trump was quick to deny involvement. He said: "I just got information [referring to two US Citizens detained in Venezuela. Nothing to do with our government but I just got information on that. &nbsp;It has nothing to do with our government."

Back in Caracas, opposition leader and self-proclaimed president Juan Guaido rubbished the alleged incursion. Maduro is trying to divert attention from real issues, he said: "They want to sow confusion, they want to sow a state of apparent commotion to hide what's going on in Venezuela."

The United States has been tight-lipped on this supposed botched coup.

&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has called it a consular matter. He said: "We want to get every American back. If the Maduro regime decides to hold them, we'll use every tool that we have available to try and get them back. It's our responsibility to do so."

Venezuela meanwhile is beating its chest. It's latest so-called proof against the trump administration is this confession video where Luke Denman said: "My responsibility to silvercorp are written into a contract or described in a contract signed by Jordan Goudreau, Juan Rendon and Juan Guaido."

The 34-year-old Denman claims that the plan was to secure a Caracas airport so that Maduro could be sent to the United States.

This edited video is Maduro's best ammo against the trump administration. He is now lodging a case at the International Court of Justice.

The culprits are the US government and President Donald Trump.

There is high drama in South America. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has accused the United States of plotting a coup. American arrested in Venezuela, Luke Denman, said: "To me, Venezuelans in Colombia, train them and come with them to Venezuela to Caracas and a secure airport here.

There is high drama in South America. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has accused the United States of plotting a coup. American arrested in Venezuela, Luke Denman, said: "To me, Venezuelans in Colombia, train them and come with them to Venezuela to Caracas and a secure airport here." This video is playing on television screens across the world. This is American citizen Luke Denman. He is currently in Venezuelan custody. What for? For trying to stage a coup. It's a plot straight out of a Hollywood movie. The story begins sometime last week. On May 4, Venezuela had news for the world. Nothing to do with the pandemic. Venezuela said it had foiled a maritime incursion. Mercenaries had tried to enter the country through the sea. Their speedboats were intercepted by the Venezuelan military. Venezuela said 8 attackers were killed on the coast of La Guaira. This is some 30 kilometres from the capital city of Caracas. President Nicolas Maduro, said: "The main objective was to kill the Venezuelan president, a terrorist attack in the middle of a pandemic." It did not take long for President Nicolas Maduro to cry coup. It was all planned in the White House, he said. On May 6, 2020, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said: "Donald Trump, Mike Pompeo were directly behind this." Later, Venezuelan authorities arrested 13 people. Among them were two Americans. Luke Denman and Airan Berry, Venezuela said the duo played a key role in the plot. Adding-- they were working with Jordan Goudreau-- an American military veteran who runs a security company in Florida. Maduro furnished proof, he said: "Here's his license as part of silvercorp. Here's the passport of the other American mercenary who was a member of Donald Trump's security, they claim. Berry, Airan was born May 15, 1978, in Texas, United States. His identification as a member of the silvercorp company. " Goudreau has reportedly admitted to organising the invasion. He also admitted to working with Denman and Berry. US President Donald Trump was quick to deny involvement. He said: "I just got information [referring to two US Citizens detained in Venezuela. Nothing to do with our government but I just got information on that. It has nothing to do with our government." Back in Caracas, opposition leader and self-proclaimed president Juan Guaido rubbished the alleged incursion. Maduro is trying to divert attention from real issues, he said: "They want to sow confusion, they want to sow a state of apparent commotion to hide what's going on in Venezuela." The United States has been tight-lipped on this supposed botched coup. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has called it a consular matter. He said: "We want to get every American back. If the Maduro regime decides to hold them, we'll use every tool that we have available to try and get them back. It's our responsibility to do so." Venezuela meanwhile is beating its chest. It's latest so-called proof against the trump administration is this confession video where Luke Denman said: "My responsibility to silvercorp are written into a contract or described in a contract signed by Jordan Goudreau, Juan Rendon and Juan Guaido." The 34-year-old Denman claims that the plan was to secure a Caracas airport so that Maduro could be sent to the United States. This edited video is Maduro's best ammo against the trump administration. He is now lodging a case at the International Court of Justice. The culprits are the US government and President Donald Trump.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro accuses United States of plotting coup

The US Congress and President Donald Trump have enacted a historic $2 trillion&nbsp;stimulus bill to address the dramatic economic crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

The package includes&nbsp;direct payments, an unprecedented expansion in unemployment benefits and $350 billion benefits in small business loans.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-could-reoccur-in-2024-social-distancing-should-continue-in-us-for-two-years-harvard-study-292950" hreflang="en">Coronavirus could reoccur in 2024, social distancing should continue in US for two years: Harvard study</a>

But while people need the help immediately, the government is taking its sweet time to get everything moving.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-expands-coronavirus-emergency-nationwide-amid-spike-in-cases-292928" hreflang="en">Japan expands coronavirus emergency nationwide amid spike in cases</a>

Why? Because the 73-year-old president of a country that is dealing with unprecedented health and economic disaster has demanded his name to appear on the stimulus cheques. The funds, which are meant for struggling citizens in America will be delayed for an absurd request by their president.

Now before we give you the details of what exactly is happening at the US Treasury department and why is the internal revenue service delaying the whole process.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-death-toll-in-spain-crosses-19000-casualties-may-be-higher-say-reports-292918" hreflang="en">Coronavirus death toll in Spain crosses 19,000; casualties may be higher, say reports</a>

At the latest White House briefing on coronavirus pandemic, &nbsp;a reporter asked the reason for&nbsp;adding Trump's name on the coronavirus relief cheques, Trump immediately dismissed the question by saying that he doesn't know too much about it.

However, he did confirm that his name will be on the cheques.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/coronavirus-g20-agrees-to-provide-debt-relief-to-poorest-countries-292917" hreflang="en">Coronavirus: G20 agrees to provide debt relief to poorest countries</a>

"I don't know too much about it, but I understand that my name will be there. I don't know where they are going, how they are going. But I do understand that it is not delaying anything. And I'm satisfied with that. I can't imagine it to be a big deal. I am sure the people will be happy to receive a big fat beautiful cheque with my name on it", the president answered.

While the internal revenue service is rushing to send the checks millions of Americans, the US&nbsp;Treasury Department has ordered president Trump’s name printed on them.&nbsp;

A process that will delay the delivery by a few days. This will be the first time a president’s name will appear on an IRS disbursement, another sign of Trump’s effort to cast his response to the pandemic in political terms.

But the president of the United States is not an authorized signer for legal disbursements by the treasury. It is a standard practice for a civil servant to sign checks issued by the Treasury Department. &nbsp;A standard procedure to ensure that the government payments are non-partisan. So, the checks will instead bear Trump’s name in the memo line.

The paper checks are scheduled to be issued at a rate of 5 million each week until September.

The US Congress and President Donald Trump have enacted a historic $2 trillion stimulus bill to address the dramatic economic crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

The US Congress and President Donald Trump have enacted a historic $2 trillion stimulus bill to address the dramatic economic crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic. The package includes direct payments, an unprecedented expansion in unemployment benefits and $350 billion benefits in small business loans. Also read: Coronavirus could reoccur in 2024, social distancing should continue in US for two years: Harvard study But while people need the help immediately, the government is taking its sweet time to get everything moving. Also read: Japan expands coronavirus emergency nationwide amid spike in cases Why? Because the 73-year-old president of a country that is dealing with unprecedented health and economic disaster has demanded his name to appear on the stimulus cheques. The funds, which are meant for struggling citizens in America will be delayed for an absurd request by their president. Now before we give you the details of what exactly is happening at the US Treasury department and why is the internal revenue service delaying the whole process. Also read: Coronavirus death toll in Spain crosses 19,000; casualties may be higher, say reports At the latest White House briefing on coronavirus pandemic, a reporter asked the reason for adding Trump's name on the coronavirus relief cheques, Trump immediately dismissed the question by saying that he doesn't know too much about it. However, he did confirm that his name will be on the cheques. Also read: Coronavirus: G20 agrees to provide debt relief to poorest countries "I don't know too much about it, but I understand that my name will be there. I don't know where they are going, how they are going. But I do understand that it is not delaying anything. And I'm satisfied with that. I can't imagine it to be a big deal. I am sure the people will be happy to receive a big fat beautiful cheque with my name on it", the president answered. While the internal revenue service is rushing to send the checks millions of Americans, the US Treasury Department has ordered president Trump’s name printed on them. A process that will delay the delivery by a few days. This will be the first time a president’s name will appear on an IRS disbursement, another sign of Trump’s effort to cast his response to the pandemic in political terms. But the president of the United States is not an authorized signer for legal disbursements by the treasury. It is a standard practice for a civil servant to sign checks issued by the Treasury Department. A standard procedure to ensure that the government payments are non-partisan. So, the checks will instead bear Trump’s name in the memo line. The paper checks are scheduled to be issued at a rate of 5 million each week until September.

People will be happy to receive big, fat cheque with my name on it: Trump

Forced by the coronavirus pandemic to suspend reelection rallies, President Donald Trump has converted daily White House briefings on the crisis into mini campaign speeches, dominating the airwaves while his main rival sits quarantined in his basement.

In a nation paralyzed by fear of the rampaging virus, the White House briefing room podium is the go-to place for primetime television viewers to catch their government's latest response.

At least that's the idea.

But center stage is reserved for Trump and with a little over seven months to election day, the virus is not the only battle on the Republican's mind.

Experts, like renowned infectious diseases doctor Anthony Fauci, line up behind the president. The unquestioned star, though, is their showman-like boss.

Held at around 5:30 or 6:00 pm in Washington, the briefings are hardly brief, clocking in at 90 minutes or more.

First come the aides, quietly standing around an empty space at the lectern. Then, with the timing honed during a long reality television career, in strides Trump.

He reads dutifully from a lengthy prepared statement giving updates about what the government is doing. Next he introduces his subordinates, asking them one by one to say a few words.

Then with an "any questions?" the real show begins.

In his unique style, Trump riffs on everything from foreign policy to his personal achievements, the "dishonest" media, and his own at times off-the-cuff medical opinions. The vibe is instantly recognizable to anyone who has watched the now mothballed Make America Great Again rallies, just minus the cheering.

By the end, journalists in the room -- their numbers slashed to respect social distancing, and dwindling further due to coronavirus quarantines -- are running out of questions. Trump, though, can barely tear himself away from the cameras.

"I've gotten to like this room," he said.

Trapped in the basement

The briefings secure big live audiences. More than eight million people watch on average, rising at times above 12 million.

The Trump show, as always, is a hit.

Contrast that to the presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden. The former vice president under Barack Obama was riding high just a few weeks ago with stunning defeats of his final primary rival, Bernie Sanders.

Then, just as he was set to pivot his campaign to taking on Trump, the coronavirus pandemic struck. Like millions of other Americans, the 77-year-old Biden ended up trapped in his home.

This week he has finally sought to bust out of isolation with a studio set up in his book-lined basement. But technical glitches and a campaign machine seemingly unable to shift gears quickly give Biden's early efforts a surprisingly amateur look.

Hosting a virtual happy hour exchange with supporters by Zoom video link on Wednesday evening, Biden chatted fluently about foreign policy, the coronavirus and much else.

Yet only about 2,000 people were watching.

Trump, meanwhile, was in full flow in the White House briefing room.

Journalism or propaganda?

Because Trump goes off topic so often and makes medical claims that his experts then have to walk back, some US media organizations are arguing for scaling down the live coverage.

"If he keeps lying like he has been every day on stuff this important, all of us should stop broadcasting it," Rachel Maddow, an energetic Trump critic who hosts on the MSNBC network, said last week.

The New York Times editorial board said it was "time to put an end" to the daily briefings.

Veteran ABC news interviewer Ted Koppel also said the media needs to rethink traditional coverage of such an untraditional president.

"Training a camera on a live event, and just letting it play out, is technology, not journalism; journalism requires editing and context," he wrote to the Times.

"I recognize that presidential utterances occupy a unique category. Within that category, however, President Trump has created a special compartment all his own."

Ari Fleischer, who was White House press secretary under George W. Bush, a Republican, says leftwing journalists are simply trying to isolate Trump from the people.

"Trump's job approval hits the highest level of his presidency," he tweeted. "It's no coincidence that many resistance reporters want to take his Coronavirus briefings off the air."

Forced by the coronavirus pandemic to suspend reelection rallies, President Donald Trump has converted daily White House briefings on the crisis into mini campaign speeches, dominating the airwaves while his main rival sits quarantined in his basement.

Forced by the coronavirus pandemic to suspend reelection rallies, President Donald Trump has converted daily White House briefings on the crisis into mini campaign speeches, dominating the airwaves while his main rival sits quarantined in his basement. In a nation paralyzed by fear of the rampaging virus, the White House briefing room podium is the go-to place for primetime television viewers to catch their government's latest response. At least that's the idea. But center stage is reserved for Trump and with a little over seven months to election day, the virus is not the only battle on the Republican's mind. Experts, like renowned infectious diseases doctor Anthony Fauci, line up behind the president. The unquestioned star, though, is their showman-like boss. Held at around 5:30 or 6:00 pm in Washington, the briefings are hardly brief, clocking in at 90 minutes or more. First come the aides, quietly standing around an empty space at the lectern. Then, with the timing honed during a long reality television career, in strides Trump. He reads dutifully from a lengthy prepared statement giving updates about what the government is doing. Next he introduces his subordinates, asking them one by one to say a few words. Then with an "any questions?" the real show begins. In his unique style, Trump riffs on everything from foreign policy to his personal achievements, the "dishonest" media, and his own at times off-the-cuff medical opinions. The vibe is instantly recognizable to anyone who has watched the now mothballed Make America Great Again rallies, just minus the cheering. By the end, journalists in the room -- their numbers slashed to respect social distancing, and dwindling further due to coronavirus quarantines -- are running out of questions. Trump, though, can barely tear himself away from the cameras. "I've gotten to like this room," he said. Trapped in the basement The briefings secure big live audiences. More than eight million people watch on average, rising at times above 12 million. The Trump show, as always, is a hit. Contrast that to the presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden. The former vice president under Barack Obama was riding high just a few weeks ago with stunning defeats of his final primary rival, Bernie Sanders. Then, just as he was set to pivot his campaign to taking on Trump, the coronavirus pandemic struck. Like millions of other Americans, the 77-year-old Biden ended up trapped in his home. This week he has finally sought to bust out of isolation with a studio set up in his book-lined basement. But technical glitches and a campaign machine seemingly unable to shift gears quickly give Biden's early efforts a surprisingly amateur look. Hosting a virtual happy hour exchange with supporters by Zoom video link on Wednesday evening, Biden chatted fluently about foreign policy, the coronavirus and much else. Yet only about 2,000 people were watching. Trump, meanwhile, was in full flow in the White House briefing room. Journalism or propaganda? Because Trump goes off topic so often and makes medical claims that his experts then have to walk back, some US media organizations are arguing for scaling down the live coverage. "If he keeps lying like he has been every day on stuff this important, all of us should stop broadcasting it," Rachel Maddow, an energetic Trump critic who hosts on the MSNBC network, said last week. The New York Times editorial board said it was "time to put an end" to the daily briefings. Veteran ABC news interviewer Ted Koppel also said the media needs to rethink traditional coverage of such an untraditional president. "Training a camera on a live event, and just letting it play out, is technology, not journalism; journalism requires editing and context," he wrote to the Times. "I recognize that presidential utterances occupy a unique category. Within that category, however, President Trump has created a special compartment all his own." Ari Fleischer, who was White House press secretary under George W. Bush, a Republican, says leftwing journalists are simply trying to isolate Trump from the people. "Trump's job approval hits the highest level of his presidency," he tweeted. "It's no coincidence that many resistance reporters want to take his Coronavirus briefings off the air."

Trump coronavirus briefings become mini election rallies

European Union leaders on Thursday slammed the United States for imposing a unilateral travel ban for people coming from Europe for 30 days.&nbsp;

EU presidents Ursula von der Leyen and Charles Michel in a written statement said that coronavirus is not limited to any continent and "requires cooperation rather than unilateral action". &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-suspends-travel-from-europe-to-us-in-coronavirus-crisis-285714">Trump suspends travel from Europe to US in coronavirus crisis</a>

The comments came a day after US President Donald Trump criticised European Union for failing to take precautions and restrict "travel from China and other hotspots".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-should-get-tested-for-coronavirus-285845">Who should get tested for coronavirus?</a>

"The European Union disapproves of the fact that the US decision to impose a travel ban was taken unilaterally and without consultation," the statement said.&nbsp;

"The European Union is taking strong action to limit the spread of the virus."

On Wednesday, in a primetime address from the Oval Office, Trump announced a series of measures to control the outbreak and insisted that "the virus will not have a chance."

"This is the most aggressive and comprehensive effort to confront a foreign virus in modern history," Trump said.&nbsp;

The major announcement was the ban on European travel, which Trump added would go into effect from "midnight Friday."

So far, over 1,100 infections and 32 deaths are confirmed in the United States, as per the tally by Johns Hopkins University.&nbsp;

The US president also announced short-term tax deferments and asked the Congress to enact "immediate payroll tax relief."

European Union leaders on Thursday slammed the United States for imposing a unilateral travel ban for people coming from Europe for 30 days. EU presidents Ursula von der Leyen and Charles Michel in a written statement said that coronavirus is not limited to any continent and "requires cooperation rather than unilateral action".

European Union leaders on Thursday slammed the United States for imposing a unilateral travel ban for people coming from Europe for 30 days. EU presidents Ursula von der Leyen and Charles Michel in a written statement said that coronavirus is not limited to any continent and "requires cooperation rather than unilateral action". Also read: Trump suspends travel from Europe to US in coronavirus crisis The comments came a day after US President Donald Trump criticised European Union for failing to take precautions and restrict "travel from China and other hotspots". Also read: Who should get tested for coronavirus? "The European Union disapproves of the fact that the US decision to impose a travel ban was taken unilaterally and without consultation," the statement said. "The European Union is taking strong action to limit the spread of the virus." On Wednesday, in a primetime address from the Oval Office, Trump announced a series of measures to control the outbreak and insisted that "the virus will not have a chance." "This is the most aggressive and comprehensive effort to confront a foreign virus in modern history," Trump said. The major announcement was the ban on European travel, which Trump added would go into effect from "midnight Friday." So far, over 1,100 infections and 32 deaths are confirmed in the United States, as per the tally by Johns Hopkins University. The US president also announced short-term tax deferments and asked the Congress to enact "immediate payroll tax relief."

EU slams US for travel ban on Europe over coronavirus

President Of The United States,&nbsp;&nbsp;Donald Trump and his wife Melania were treated to an all-vegetarian affair during his visit to Ahmedabad on Monday.&nbsp; 
 
Trump who is on his first official trip to the country is known to be a meat-lover and loves his McDonalds Burgers and diet coke. But the high- tea menu that was set for the President of United States comprised of Gujarati delicacies including Khaman and broccoli and corn samosa. Trump was also treated to popular sweet, Kaju Katli along with masala chai and fresh-cut fruits.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/day-1-donald-trumps-india-visit-live-updates-news-wion-trump-us-president-pm-modis-ivanka-jared-kushner-ahmedabad-motera-modi-taj-mahal-PM-modi-tweets-in-hindi-hours-before-reaching-india-282262">Catch all the live updates of Trumps Ahmedabad visit here.&nbsp;</a>

Trump along with his wife arrived in Ahemadabad around noon on Monday and was received by PM Narendra Modi. The trio then went to Sabarmati Ashram to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. Tea and snacks were served during his visit to the ashram which has been exclusively prepared by Chef &nbsp;Suresh Khanna of Fortune Landmark Hotel.

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Earlier while speaking to media, Khanna had revealed that masala chai was added in the menu especially for PM Modi, who is a fan of the beverage.&nbsp; 
 
While the menu was set keeping in mind the local delicacies, cinnamon apple pie, canned juices and choco chip cookies were included keeping in mind the American palate.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/melania-trump-ivanka-stun-in-spring-fashion-as-they-arrive-in-india-282340">Melania Trump, Ivanka stun in spring fashion as they arrive in India</a>

The menu though did not impress most of Twitterati as most scoffed at the poor selection of items.&nbsp;

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A great civilisation is capable of some truly shitty hospitality. The brutally unappetising menu for Trump's tea in...where else?...Gujarat. <a href="https://t.co/BmL7hePRKp">pic.twitter.com/BmL7hePRKp</a>
— Tunku Varadarajan (@tunkuv) <a href="https://twitter.com/tunkuv/status/1231782453037142017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Nominee for worst menu in history. Tasteless. <a href="https://t.co/yjquBB9zyN">pic.twitter.com/yjquBB9zyN</a>
— Aakar Patel (@Aakar__Patel) <a href="https://twitter.com/Aakar__Patel/status/1231801133359714304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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India should take it easy with their plans to impress Trump. However we mess up like the shit menu that’s been prepared in his honour - Trump will describe it was the most beeyooootiful welcome ever.
— Ray Stings (@Purba_Ray) <a href="https://twitter.com/Purba_Ray/status/1231832810631000064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Trump is on a two-day trip to India and will also be visiting Agra and New Delhi.&nbsp;

President Of The United States, Donald Trump and his wife Melania were treated to an all-vegetarian affair during his visit to Ahmedabad on Monday. Trump who is on his first official trip to the country is known to be a meat-lover and loves his McDonalds Burgers and diet coke.

President Of The United States, Donald Trump and his wife Melania were treated to an all-vegetarian affair during his visit to Ahmedabad on Monday. Trump who is on his first official trip to the country is known to be a meat-lover and loves his McDonalds Burgers and diet coke. But the high- tea menu that was set for the President of United States comprised of Gujarati delicacies including Khaman and broccoli and corn samosa. Trump was also treated to popular sweet, Kaju Katli along with masala chai and fresh-cut fruits. Catch all the live updates of Trumps Ahmedabad visit here. Trump along with his wife arrived in Ahemadabad around noon on Monday and was received by PM Narendra Modi. The trio then went to Sabarmati Ashram to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. Tea and snacks were served during his visit to the ashram which has been exclusively prepared by Chef Suresh Khanna of Fortune Landmark Hotel. Earlier while speaking to media, Khanna had revealed that masala chai was added in the menu especially for PM Modi, who is a fan of the beverage. While the menu was set keeping in mind the local delicacies, cinnamon apple pie, canned juices and choco chip cookies were included keeping in mind the American palate. Melania Trump, Ivanka stun in spring fashion as they arrive in India The menu though did not impress most of Twitterati as most scoffed at the poor selection of items. A great civilisation is capable of some truly shitty hospitality. The brutally unappetising menu for Trump's tea in...where else?...Gujarat. pic.twitter.com/BmL7hePRKp — Tunku Varadarajan (@tunkuv) February 24, 2020 × Nominee for worst menu in history. Tasteless. pic.twitter.com/yjquBB9zyN — Aakar Patel (@Aakar__Patel) February 24, 2020 × India should take it easy with their plans to impress Trump. However we mess up like the shit menu that’s been prepared in his honour - Trump will describe it was the most beeyooootiful welcome ever. — Ray Stings (@Purba_Ray) February 24, 2020 × Trump is on a two-day trip to India and will also be visiting Agra and New Delhi.

Donald Trump in India: Gujarati delicacy Khaman, masala chai served to President of United States

Good morning! Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/US-President-Trump-to-visit-India-on-February-24-25-White-House" hreflang="en">US President Trump to visit India on February 24-25: White House</a>

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US President Donald Trump will visit India on February 24 and 25 on a two-day trip, the White House said today. It will be Trump's first visit to India since he won the presidency in 2016.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-result-2020-live-big-test-for-bjp-arvind-kejriwals-aam-adami-party-as-counting-of-votes-begin-279915" hreflang="en">Delhi Assembly Election Result 2020 LIVE: Big test for BJP, Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Adami Party as counting begins</a>

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The counting of votes for the Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election 2020 will begin at 8am today with the fate of Aam Adami Party(AAP) chief minister Arvind Kejriwal to be decided by voters of the national capital.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-xi-visits-hospital-in-beijing-as-coronavirus-death-toll-crosses-1000-in-china-279927">President Xi visits hospital as coronavirus death toll crosses 1,000 in China</a>

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The death toll in China's coronavirus crossed 1,000 on Tuesday with over 42,000 infected nationwide, the health ministry said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pele-depressed-reclusive-because-of-poor-health-son-279914" hreflang="en">Pele depressed, reclusive because of poor health, says&nbsp;son</a>

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Football legend Pele is experiencing "a kind of depression" and barely leaves home anymore because health problems have left him unable to walk normally, his son said in an interview published Monday.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/winds-and-waves-lash-uk-as-storm-ciara-strikes-279792" hreflang="en">Winds and waves lash UK as Storm Ciara strikes</a>

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&nbsp;

Good morning! Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. US President Trump to visit India on February 24-25: White House US President Donald Trump will visit India on February 24 and 25 on a two-day trip, the White House said today.

Good morning! Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. US President Trump to visit India on February 24-25: White House US President Donald Trump will visit India on February 24 and 25 on a two-day trip, the White House said today. It will be Trump's first visit to India since he won the presidency in 2016. Delhi Assembly Election Result 2020 LIVE: Big test for BJP, Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Adami Party as counting begins The counting of votes for the Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election 2020 will begin at 8am today with the fate of Aam Adami Party(AAP) chief minister Arvind Kejriwal to be decided by voters of the national capital. President Xi visits hospital as coronavirus death toll crosses 1,000 in China The death toll in China's coronavirus crossed 1,000 on Tuesday with over 42,000 infected nationwide, the health ministry said. Pele depressed, reclusive because of poor health, says son Football legend Pele is experiencing "a kind of depression" and barely leaves home anymore because health problems have left him unable to walk normally, his son said in an interview published Monday. WATCH | Winds and waves lash UK as Storm Ciara strikes ×

Morning News Brief: Trump's visit to India, Delhi election results and more!

&nbsp;U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday threatened to impose high tariffs on imports of cars from the European Union if the bloc doesn't agree to a trade deal.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/us-china-trade-pact-fails-to-resolve-three-fundamental-issues-274848">Also Read: US-China trade pact fails to resolve three fundamental issues</a>

Trump has previously made threats to place duties on European automobile imports, with the intent of receiving better terms in the US-Europe trade relationship. Trump has delayed imposing the tariffs a number of times.

"I met with the new head of the European Commission, who's terrific. And I had a great talk. But I said, 'look, if we don't get something, I'm going to have to take action' and the action will be very high tariffs on their cars and on other things that come into our country," Trump told CNBC's Joe Kernen in an interview from the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

Former German Defence Minister Ursula von der Leyen succeeded Jean-Claude Juncker at the end of 2019 as the EU's top official, becoming the first woman to hold the post.

Mike Manley, the head of European car industry lobby group ACEA, said businesses need certainty and hoped that a clash with Trump could be avoided.

"If you look at President Trump's track record I think he is incredibly serious. If the parties involved approach those discussions in a serious manner it will be possible for an amicable conclusion to be reached," Manley, who is the chief executive of Fiat Chrysler , told an industry event in Brussels.

"An escalation of the tariffs is not to the benefit of anyone,” he added.

The United States has also threatened duties of up to 100 per cent&nbsp;on French goods, from champagne to handbags, because of a digital services tax that Washington says harms US&nbsp;tech companies.

Trump told CNBC that the European Union had to make a deal on trade. "They have no choice," Trump said.

In a separate interview in Davos with Fox Business News, Trump said the tariffs on EU cars could amount to 25 per cent.

"Ultimately it will be very easy because if we can't make a deal, we'll have to put 25 per cent&nbsp;tariffs on their cars," Trump told Fox Business' Maria Bartiromo in an interview.

The United States struck a Phase 1 trade deal with China in January, soothing some of the worries which have hampered the world economy in recent time.

Asked if a trade pact with Britain could come next, Trump told CNBC he was ready to make a deal with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

"Boris and I are friends, and he wants to make a deal, and that's ok with me," he said.

Britain is due to leave the EU at the end of January, the Johnson has stated that one of the main advantages of being outside the bloc would be the ability for Britain to negotiate its own trade deals, including with the United States.

"We're starting. We've already started negotiating" with Britain, Trump said.

&nbsp;

U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday threatened to impose high tariffs on imports of cars from the European Union if the bloc doesn't agree to a trade deal. Also Read: US-China trade pact fails to resolve three fundamental issues Trump has previously made threats to place duties on European automobile imports, with the intent of receiving better terms in the US-Europe trade relationship.

U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday threatened to impose high tariffs on imports of cars from the European Union if the bloc doesn't agree to a trade deal. Also Read: US-China trade pact fails to resolve three fundamental issues Trump has previously made threats to place duties on European automobile imports, with the intent of receiving better terms in the US-Europe trade relationship. Trump has delayed imposing the tariffs a number of times. "I met with the new head of the European Commission, who's terrific. And I had a great talk. But I said, 'look, if we don't get something, I'm going to have to take action' and the action will be very high tariffs on their cars and on other things that come into our country," Trump told CNBC's Joe Kernen in an interview from the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Former German Defence Minister Ursula von der Leyen succeeded Jean-Claude Juncker at the end of 2019 as the EU's top official, becoming the first woman to hold the post. Mike Manley, the head of European car industry lobby group ACEA, said businesses need certainty and hoped that a clash with Trump could be avoided. "If you look at President Trump's track record I think he is incredibly serious. If the parties involved approach those discussions in a serious manner it will be possible for an amicable conclusion to be reached," Manley, who is the chief executive of Fiat Chrysler , told an industry event in Brussels. "An escalation of the tariffs is not to the benefit of anyone,” he added. The United States has also threatened duties of up to 100 per cent on French goods, from champagne to handbags, because of a digital services tax that Washington says harms US tech companies. Trump told CNBC that the European Union had to make a deal on trade. "They have no choice," Trump said. In a separate interview in Davos with Fox Business News, Trump said the tariffs on EU cars could amount to 25 per cent. "Ultimately it will be very easy because if we can't make a deal, we'll have to put 25 per cent tariffs on their cars," Trump told Fox Business' Maria Bartiromo in an interview. The United States struck a Phase 1 trade deal with China in January, soothing some of the worries which have hampered the world economy in recent time. Asked if a trade pact with Britain could come next, Trump told CNBC he was ready to make a deal with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson. "Boris and I are friends, and he wants to make a deal, and that's ok with me," he said. Britain is due to leave the EU at the end of January, the Johnson has stated that one of the main advantages of being outside the bloc would be the ability for Britain to negotiate its own trade deals, including with the United States. "We're starting. We've already started negotiating" with Britain, Trump said.

Trump threatens to impose 'very high tariffs' on cars from EU

Oil prices remained atop three-month peaks on Thursday, extending a robust streak that began a week ago, as thawing trade relations between the United States and China supported global markets.

Brent crude futures edged up 8 cents to $66.25 a barrel by 0645 GMT, while US&nbsp;West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude gained 4 cents to $60.97. Trading volume was thin, with not even news of President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/donald-trumps-attitude-towards-india-unpredictable-unreliable-238560">Donald Trump</a>'s impeachment by the US&nbsp;House of Representatives stirring the oil market.

"We're near the top of trading ranges for both Brent and WTI so it's interesting to see them holding here," said Michael McCarthy, chief market analyst at CMC Markets in Sydney.

While there is a clear uptrend in place on the daily technical price chart for<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/international-oil-prices-stabilise-as-opec-production-cut-looms-178478"> WTI</a> to potentially move towards $61.50 a barrel, there are also near-term risks - touching that price level may encourage traders to sell, McCarthy said.

"(Trading) volumes are terrible. A lot of people have given up for the year with no scheduled events to push oil markets around," he said.

The trend leaves oil prices set to rise for a third consecutive week, surfing momentum from announcements this month about deeper output cuts by major producers as well as the 'Phase One' deal between the United States and China to resolve their long-running trade war.

The deal between the world's two largest economies has improved the global economic outlook, lifted the prospect for higher energy demand next year and underpinned oil prices.

In a further sign of thawing relations, China's finance ministry on Thursday published a new list of six US products that will be exempt from tariffs starting December&nbsp;26.

Just the week before, the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-prices-tumble-ahead-of-opec-meeting-global-stocks-fall-265363">OPEC</a>) and non-OPEC producers such as Russia agreed to deepen production cuts by a further 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) from January 1 on top of previous reductions of 1.2 million bpd.

According to weekly data released by the Energy Information Administration on Wednesday, US&nbsp;crude inventories dropped 1.1 million barrels in the week to December&nbsp;13, while gasoline and distillate stockpiles rose.

Oil prices remained atop three-month peaks on Thursday, extending a robust streak that began a week ago, as thawing trade relations between the United States and China supported global markets.

Oil prices remained atop three-month peaks on Thursday, extending a robust streak that began a week ago, as thawing trade relations between the United States and China supported global markets. Brent crude futures edged up 8 cents to $66.25 a barrel by 0645 GMT, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude gained 4 cents to $60.97. Trading volume was thin, with not even news of President Donald Trump's impeachment by the US House of Representatives stirring the oil market. "We're near the top of trading ranges for both Brent and WTI so it's interesting to see them holding here," said Michael McCarthy, chief market analyst at CMC Markets in Sydney. While there is a clear uptrend in place on the daily technical price chart for WTI to potentially move towards $61.50 a barrel, there are also near-term risks - touching that price level may encourage traders to sell, McCarthy said. "(Trading) volumes are terrible. A lot of people have given up for the year with no scheduled events to push oil markets around," he said. The trend leaves oil prices set to rise for a third consecutive week, surfing momentum from announcements this month about deeper output cuts by major producers as well as the 'Phase One' deal between the United States and China to resolve their long-running trade war. The deal between the world's two largest economies has improved the global economic outlook, lifted the prospect for higher energy demand next year and underpinned oil prices. In a further sign of thawing relations, China's finance ministry on Thursday published a new list of six US products that will be exempt from tariffs starting December 26. Just the week before, the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and non-OPEC producers such as Russia agreed to deepen production cuts by a further 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) from January 1 on top of previous reductions of 1.2 million bpd. According to weekly data released by the Energy Information Administration on Wednesday, US crude inventories dropped 1.1 million barrels in the week to December 13, while gasoline and distillate stockpiles rose.

Oil prices surf US-China trade thaw to 3-month highs

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday became the third US president to be impeached as the House of Representatives formally charged him with abuse of power and obstruction of Congress.

The first of the articles accused Trump, 73, of abusing his power by pressuring Ukraine to investigate his political rival and leading Democrat&nbsp;candidate for the presidential nomination for the 2020 race.&nbsp;

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Democrats alleged that Trump held back $391 million in security aid intended to combat Russia-backed separatists and a coveted White House meeting for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy as leverage to coerce Kiev into interfering in the 2020 election by smearing Biden, the report added.

The second article accused Trump of obstruction of Congress by directing administration officials and agencies not to comply with lawful House subpoenas for testimony and documents related to impeachment.

The 229 to 198 vote fell almost entirely along party lines.&nbsp;All of Trump's fellow Republicans opposed it, and all but three Democrats supported it, the report added.

The House has already voted on the first article of impeachment, which charges Trump with abusing his power by pressuring Ukraine to investigate former Vice President Joe Biden.

(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday became the third US president to be impeached as the House of Representatives formally charged him with abuse of power and obstruction of Congress.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday became the third US president to be impeached as the House of Representatives formally charged him with abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. The first of the articles accused Trump, 73, of abusing his power by pressuring Ukraine to investigate his political rival and leading Democrat candidate for the presidential nomination for the 2020 race. × Democrats alleged that Trump held back $391 million in security aid intended to combat Russia-backed separatists and a coveted White House meeting for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy as leverage to coerce Kiev into interfering in the 2020 election by smearing Biden, the report added. The second article accused Trump of obstruction of Congress by directing administration officials and agencies not to comply with lawful House subpoenas for testimony and documents related to impeachment. The 229 to 198 vote fell almost entirely along party lines. All of Trump's fellow Republicans opposed it, and all but three Democrats supported it, the report added. The House has already voted on the first article of impeachment, which charges Trump with abusing his power by pressuring Ukraine to investigate former Vice President Joe Biden. (With inputs from Reuters)

US House votes to impeach President Trump for abuse of power, obstruction

Republican <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/how-the-impeachment-inquiry-might-affect-donald-trumps-2020-re-election-chances-253716">Donald Trump</a> is this week likely to become the third <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/for-russia-talk-of-donald-trump-impeachment-is-the-gift-that-keeps-on-giving-254956">US president</a> to be impeached when the Democratic-led House of Representatives votes on charges stemming from his effort to pressure Ukraine to investigate political rival Joe Biden.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/how-does-the-impeachment-of-a-us-president-work-265766">Trump</a> faces one charge of abusing his power by asking Ukraine to investigate Biden, a leading Democratic contender to oppose him in the 2020 US presidential election, and one of obstructing Congress' investigation into the matter.

Watch:&nbsp;

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The president has denied wrongdoing and accused Democrats of a baseless and politically-motivated bid to oust him from power.

The House is likely to take up impeachment on Wednesday, setting the stage for a vote this week on whether to approve the charges and send the matter to the Republican-led Senate to hold a trial on whether to remove Trump from office.

Democrats, who enjoy a 36-seat majority in the House, are expected to win an impeachment vote, which requires a simple majority.

Republicans hold 53 of the 100 seats in the Senate, where they appear likely to prevail in any trial against Trump, which would require a two-thirds majority of those present to remove him from office.

Seeking to shape any trial, Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer called on Sunday for testimony from White House acting Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney, former national security adviser John Bolton, Mulvaney aide Robert Blair and budget official Michael Duffey.

Schumer made his appeal in a letter to Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, who said last week he was coordinating with the White House and has raised the prospect of a short impeachment trial in which no witnesses would be called.

"I hope we can come to an agreement about a fair trial," Schumer told MSNBC in an interview on Monday.

House Democrats also sought testimony from the four men in their inquiry, but they did not appear.

The House Judiciary Committee voted 23-17 on Friday along party lines to approve the two charges against Trump and to send the matter to the full chamber. Late on Sunday, the panel issued its full report detailing the case against him.

In a tweet on Monday, White House spokeswoman Stephanie Grisham said Schumer's comments seeking fairness were "laughable" after the release of the 658-page report "in the middle of the night. Thankfully the people of this country continue to see the partisan sham that this is."

A McConnell spokesman did not directly address Schumer's requests, but said the Senate majority leader "plans to meet with Leader Schumer to discuss the contours of a trial soon."

Defection

No US&nbsp;president has been removed as a direct result of impeachment.

Richard Nixon resigned in 1974 before he could be removed, while Andrew Johnson and Bill Clinton were impeached by the House, respectively in 1868 and 1998, but not convicted by the Senate.

Senior House Democrats expect to win any impeachment vote, albeit with the possibility of some defections from moderates facing tough re-elections next year in Trump-leaning districts.

Representative Jeff Van Drew, a conservative Democrat from New Jersey who opposed impeachment, is planning to become a Republican, media reported over the weekend. The news prompted a mass resignation of staffers in his office.

In congressional hearings, Democrats have accused Trump of endangering the U.S. Constitution, jeopardizing national security and undermining the integrity of next year's U.S. presidential election by asking Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in a July phone call to investigate Biden and his son Hunter Biden, who was on the board of a Ukrainian gas company.

Democrats argue impeachment is an urgent necessity because Trump has continued his alleged misconduct, endangering the integrity of the 2020 election.

Republicans have defended Trump and accused Democrats of a partisan effort aimed at overturning his upset 2016 victory over Democrat Hillary Clinton. Trump has branded the entire impeachment drive a sham.

"READ THE TRANSCRIPTS! The Impeachment Hoax is the greatest con job in the history of American politics!" he said in a tweet on Monday.

Trump has alleged the Bidens were involved in corruption in Ukraine and should be investigated there, but has offered no evidence. Biden, a former U.S. vice president, has denied wrongdoing.

Republican Donald Trump is this week likely to become the third US president to be impeached when the Democratic-led House of Representatives votes on charges stemming from his effort to pressure Ukraine to investigate political rival Joe Biden.

Republican Donald Trump is this week likely to become the third US president to be impeached when the Democratic-led House of Representatives votes on charges stemming from his effort to pressure Ukraine to investigate political rival Joe Biden. Trump faces one charge of abusing his power by asking Ukraine to investigate Biden, a leading Democratic contender to oppose him in the 2020 US presidential election, and one of obstructing Congress' investigation into the matter. Watch: The president has denied wrongdoing and accused Democrats of a baseless and politically-motivated bid to oust him from power. The House is likely to take up impeachment on Wednesday, setting the stage for a vote this week on whether to approve the charges and send the matter to the Republican-led Senate to hold a trial on whether to remove Trump from office. Democrats, who enjoy a 36-seat majority in the House, are expected to win an impeachment vote, which requires a simple majority. Republicans hold 53 of the 100 seats in the Senate, where they appear likely to prevail in any trial against Trump, which would require a two-thirds majority of those present to remove him from office. Seeking to shape any trial, Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer called on Sunday for testimony from White House acting Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney, former national security adviser John Bolton, Mulvaney aide Robert Blair and budget official Michael Duffey. Schumer made his appeal in a letter to Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, who said last week he was coordinating with the White House and has raised the prospect of a short impeachment trial in which no witnesses would be called. "I hope we can come to an agreement about a fair trial," Schumer told MSNBC in an interview on Monday. House Democrats also sought testimony from the four men in their inquiry, but they did not appear. The House Judiciary Committee voted 23-17 on Friday along party lines to approve the two charges against Trump and to send the matter to the full chamber. Late on Sunday, the panel issued its full report detailing the case against him. In a tweet on Monday, White House spokeswoman Stephanie Grisham said Schumer's comments seeking fairness were "laughable" after the release of the 658-page report "in the middle of the night. Thankfully the people of this country continue to see the partisan sham that this is." A McConnell spokesman did not directly address Schumer's requests, but said the Senate majority leader "plans to meet with Leader Schumer to discuss the contours of a trial soon." Defection No US president has been removed as a direct result of impeachment. Richard Nixon resigned in 1974 before he could be removed, while Andrew Johnson and Bill Clinton were impeached by the House, respectively in 1868 and 1998, but not convicted by the Senate. Senior House Democrats expect to win any impeachment vote, albeit with the possibility of some defections from moderates facing tough re-elections next year in Trump-leaning districts. Representative Jeff Van Drew, a conservative Democrat from New Jersey who opposed impeachment, is planning to become a Republican, media reported over the weekend. The news prompted a mass resignation of staffers in his office. In congressional hearings, Democrats have accused Trump of endangering the U.S. Constitution, jeopardizing national security and undermining the integrity of next year's U.S. presidential election by asking Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in a July phone call to investigate Biden and his son Hunter Biden, who was on the board of a Ukrainian gas company. Democrats argue impeachment is an urgent necessity because Trump has continued his alleged misconduct, endangering the integrity of the 2020 election. Republicans have defended Trump and accused Democrats of a partisan effort aimed at overturning his upset 2016 victory over Democrat Hillary Clinton. Trump has branded the entire impeachment drive a sham. "READ THE TRANSCRIPTS! The Impeachment Hoax is the greatest con job in the history of American politics!" he said in a tweet on Monday. Trump has alleged the Bidens were involved in corruption in Ukraine and should be investigated there, but has offered no evidence. Biden, a former U.S. vice president, has denied wrongdoing.

Donald Trump on track to become third US president to be impeached

The House Judiciary Committee on Thursday opened two-day marathon hearing to approve the Articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump.&nbsp;

The Committee is expected to approve two articles of impeachment later in the day, which will allow a vote by the Democratic-controlled House next week that is expected to make Trump the third president in US history to be impeached.

If the House impeaches Trump, who is charged with abuse of power and obstruction of Congress, the matter would then go to the Senate for a trial. The Republican-led chamber is unlikely to vote to remove Trump from office.

Donald Trump is accused of abusing&nbsp;his power by trying to force Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden, the former vice-president and leading contender for the Democratic nomination to run against Trump next year.

Trump is also accused of obstructing Congress when lawmakers tried to investigate the matter.

However, the US president denies any wrongdoing and condemned the impeachment enquiry as a hoax.

At the start of the hearing, Republicans on the Judiciary panel repeatedly complained about the procedures followed by Democrats in the impeachment inquiry.

Republicans requested another hearing and said their rights had been trampled in the inquiry but were voted down by the panel's Democratic majority.

"Rules have just been thrown out the window in this process," said Republican US Representative Debbie Lesko. "It continues to amaze me how corrupt, how unfair this process has been from the start."

Democrats noted that Republicans were not addressing the substance of the charges against Trump.

"Let us dispense with these process arguments and get to the substance of why we are here today," Democratic Representative Joe Neguse said.

Public support for impeachment has largely fallen along party lines, with the vast majority of Democrats supporting it and most Republicans opposing it. Trump's approval rating, according to opinion polls, has largely remained consistent throughout the inquiry.

(With inputs from agencies)

The House Judiciary Committee on Thursday opened two-day marathon hearing to approve the Articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump. The Committee is expected to approve two articles of impeachment later in the day, which will allow a vote by the Democratic-controlled House next week that is expected to make Trump the third president in US history to be impeached.

The House Judiciary Committee on Thursday opened two-day marathon hearing to approve the Articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump. The Committee is expected to approve two articles of impeachment later in the day, which will allow a vote by the Democratic-controlled House next week that is expected to make Trump the third president in US history to be impeached. If the House impeaches Trump, who is charged with abuse of power and obstruction of Congress, the matter would then go to the Senate for a trial. The Republican-led chamber is unlikely to vote to remove Trump from office. Donald Trump is accused of abusing his power by trying to force Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden, the former vice-president and leading contender for the Democratic nomination to run against Trump next year. Trump is also accused of obstructing Congress when lawmakers tried to investigate the matter. However, the US president denies any wrongdoing and condemned the impeachment enquiry as a hoax. At the start of the hearing, Republicans on the Judiciary panel repeatedly complained about the procedures followed by Democrats in the impeachment inquiry. Republicans requested another hearing and said their rights had been trampled in the inquiry but were voted down by the panel's Democratic majority. "Rules have just been thrown out the window in this process," said Republican US Representative Debbie Lesko. "It continues to amaze me how corrupt, how unfair this process has been from the start." Democrats noted that Republicans were not addressing the substance of the charges against Trump. "Let us dispense with these process arguments and get to the substance of why we are here today," Democratic Representative Joe Neguse said. Public support for impeachment has largely fallen along party lines, with the vast majority of Democrats supporting it and most Republicans opposing it. Trump's approval rating, according to opinion polls, has largely remained consistent throughout the inquiry. (With inputs from agencies)

US judiciary committee debate over impeachment articles against Trump

Donald Trump's personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani implemented an "irregular" policy channel that undermined US relations with Ukraine while seeking to help the president politically, a key witness told the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-televised-trump-impeachment-hearing-opens-in-us-house-261886">Trump impeachment hearing</a> Wednesday.

A hold on critical US military aid until <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-not-watching-impeachment-hearing-white-house-spokeswoman-261901">Kiev committed to investigate Trump rivals </a>"was driven by the irregular policy channel I had come to understand was guided by Mr. Giuliani," said Washington's top envoy to Ukraine, William Taylor.

The push to get Ukraine's president to commit to probing an energy company linked to the son of Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden "showed how the official foreign policy of the United States was undercut by the irregular efforts led by Mr. Giuliani," Taylor added.

Taylor said he had made known to the administration his view that "withholding security assistance in exchange for help with a domestic political campaign in the United States would be crazy."

Senior Democratic and Republican lawmakers presented duelling narratives on Wednesday as a US congressional impeachment enquiry that threatens Donald Trump's tumultuous presidency entered a crucial new phase with the first public hearing.

Democrats leading the US House of Representatives probe have summoned three US diplomats - all of whom have previously expressed alarm in closed-door testimony about Trump's dealings with US ally Ukraine - to detail their concerns under the glare of wall-to-wall news coverage this week. The public hearings are scheduled for Wednesday and Friday.

With a potential television audience of tens of millions looking on, Democratic Representative Adam Schiff, chairman of the House of Representatives Intelligence Committee, opened the historic session - the first impeachment spectacle in two decades - in an ornate hearing room packed with journalists, lawmakers and members of the public.

Schiff's accusations that Trump abused his power was met by a staunch denial by the panel's senior Republican, Devin Nunes, of the Republican president's complicity in a saga that revolves around whether Trump and his aides improperly pressured Ukraine to dig up dirt on a political rival for his political benefit.

The day's two witnesses - William Taylor, the top US diplomat in Ukraine, and George Kent, the deputy assistant secretary of state for European and Eurasian affairs - followed with opening statements echoing their earlier closed-door testimony about their alarm over efforts to get Ukraine to open an investigation of former Vice President Joe Biden, a leading contender for the Democratic nomination for the 2020 election.

"The questions presented by this impeachment enquiry are whether President Trump sought to exploit that ally's vulnerability and invite Ukraine's interference in our elections," Schiff said in his opening statement.

"Our answer to these questions will affect not only the future of this presidency, but the future of the presidency itself, and what kind of conduct or misconduct the American people may come to expect from their commander-in-chief," Schiff said.

Schiff added, "If this is not impeachable conduct, what is?"

This week's hearings, where Americans are hearing directly for the first time from people involved in events that sparked the congressional inquiry, may pave the way for the Democratic-led House to approve articles of impeachment - formal charges - against Trump.

That would lead to a trial in the Senate on whether to convict Trump of those charges and remove him from office. Republicans control the Senate and have shown little support for Trump's removal.

Nunes accused the Democrats of conducting a "carefully orchestrated smear campaign" and of using the hearings as a "televised theatrical performance."

He hewed to the Republican strategy of arguing that Trump did nothing wrong or impeachable when he asked Ukraine's new president to investigate prominent Democrat Joe Biden, a former US vice president and key 2020 re-election rival.

"It's nothing more than an impeachment process in search of a crime," Nunes said.

Schiff said the inquiry looks at whether Trump sought to condition official acts such as a White House meeting or U.S. military assistance on Ukraine's willingness to carry out two political investigations that would help his re-election campaign.

"And if President Trump did either, whether such an abuse of his power is compatible with the office of the presidency?" Schiff asked.

The focus of the inquiry is on a July 25 telephone call in which Trump asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to open a corruption investigation into Biden and his son Hunter Biden and into a discredited theory that Ukraine, not Russia, meddled in the 2016 US election. Hunter Biden had worked for a Ukrainian energy company called Burisma.

Democrats are looking into whether Trump abused his power by withholding $391 million in security aid to Ukraine - a vulnerable US ally facing Russian aggression - as leverage to pressure Kiev into conducting investigations politically beneficial to Trump. The money - approved by the US Congress to help Ukraine combat Russia-backed separatists in the eastern part of the country - was later provided to Ukraine.

Donald Trump's personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani implemented an "irregular" policy channel that undermined US relations with Ukraine while seeking to help the president politically, a key witness told the Trump impeachment hearing Wednesday.

Donald Trump's personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani implemented an "irregular" policy channel that undermined US relations with Ukraine while seeking to help the president politically, a key witness told the Trump impeachment hearing Wednesday. A hold on critical US military aid until Kiev committed to investigate Trump rivals "was driven by the irregular policy channel I had come to understand was guided by Mr. Giuliani," said Washington's top envoy to Ukraine, William Taylor. The push to get Ukraine's president to commit to probing an energy company linked to the son of Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden "showed how the official foreign policy of the United States was undercut by the irregular efforts led by Mr. Giuliani," Taylor added. Taylor said he had made known to the administration his view that "withholding security assistance in exchange for help with a domestic political campaign in the United States would be crazy." Senior Democratic and Republican lawmakers presented duelling narratives on Wednesday as a US congressional impeachment enquiry that threatens Donald Trump's tumultuous presidency entered a crucial new phase with the first public hearing. Democrats leading the US House of Representatives probe have summoned three US diplomats - all of whom have previously expressed alarm in closed-door testimony about Trump's dealings with US ally Ukraine - to detail their concerns under the glare of wall-to-wall news coverage this week. The public hearings are scheduled for Wednesday and Friday. With a potential television audience of tens of millions looking on, Democratic Representative Adam Schiff, chairman of the House of Representatives Intelligence Committee, opened the historic session - the first impeachment spectacle in two decades - in an ornate hearing room packed with journalists, lawmakers and members of the public. Schiff's accusations that Trump abused his power was met by a staunch denial by the panel's senior Republican, Devin Nunes, of the Republican president's complicity in a saga that revolves around whether Trump and his aides improperly pressured Ukraine to dig up dirt on a political rival for his political benefit. The day's two witnesses - William Taylor, the top US diplomat in Ukraine, and George Kent, the deputy assistant secretary of state for European and Eurasian affairs - followed with opening statements echoing their earlier closed-door testimony about their alarm over efforts to get Ukraine to open an investigation of former Vice President Joe Biden, a leading contender for the Democratic nomination for the 2020 election. "The questions presented by this impeachment enquiry are whether President Trump sought to exploit that ally's vulnerability and invite Ukraine's interference in our elections," Schiff said in his opening statement. "Our answer to these questions will affect not only the future of this presidency, but the future of the presidency itself, and what kind of conduct or misconduct the American people may come to expect from their commander-in-chief," Schiff said. Schiff added, "If this is not impeachable conduct, what is?" This week's hearings, where Americans are hearing directly for the first time from people involved in events that sparked the congressional inquiry, may pave the way for the Democratic-led House to approve articles of impeachment - formal charges - against Trump. That would lead to a trial in the Senate on whether to convict Trump of those charges and remove him from office. Republicans control the Senate and have shown little support for Trump's removal. Nunes accused the Democrats of conducting a "carefully orchestrated smear campaign" and of using the hearings as a "televised theatrical performance." He hewed to the Republican strategy of arguing that Trump did nothing wrong or impeachable when he asked Ukraine's new president to investigate prominent Democrat Joe Biden, a former US vice president and key 2020 re-election rival. "It's nothing more than an impeachment process in search of a crime," Nunes said. Schiff said the inquiry looks at whether Trump sought to condition official acts such as a White House meeting or U.S. military assistance on Ukraine's willingness to carry out two political investigations that would help his re-election campaign. "And if President Trump did either, whether such an abuse of his power is compatible with the office of the presidency?" Schiff asked. The focus of the inquiry is on a July 25 telephone call in which Trump asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to open a corruption investigation into Biden and his son Hunter Biden and into a discredited theory that Ukraine, not Russia, meddled in the 2016 US election. Hunter Biden had worked for a Ukrainian energy company called Burisma. Democrats are looking into whether Trump abused his power by withholding $391 million in security aid to Ukraine - a vulnerable US ally facing Russian aggression - as leverage to pressure Kiev into conducting investigations politically beneficial to Trump. The money - approved by the US Congress to help Ukraine combat Russia-backed separatists in the eastern part of the country - was later provided to Ukraine.

Trump's lawyer Giuliani guided 'irregular' Ukraine policy channel: Impeachment witness

A New York state judge on Thursday ordered US President Donald Trump to pay $2 million for misusing his namesake charitable foundation, resulting in funds being used to advance his 2016 presidential campaign.

A New York state judge on Thursday ordered US President Donald Trump to pay $2 million for misusing his namesake charitable foundation, resulting in funds being used to advance his 2016 presidential campaign. Justice Saliann Scarpulla, of the state Supreme Court in Manhattan, directed the payment to eight non-profits, in connection with a lawsuit by the state's attorney general against the president and three of his adult children over the now-dissolved Donald J. Trump Foundation. President Trump defended the charity in a statement on Twitter, saying the foundation was an "incredibly effective philanthropy" that had made "some small technical violations." A spokesman for the Trump Foundation said it was pleased the court rejected the attorney general's request for punitive damages. The attorney general, Letitia James, said her office had also reached agreements with the foundation and its directors to end the June 2018 lawsuit, which was filed by her predecessor, Barbara Underwood. James said Trump admitted to "personally misusing funds at the Trump Foundation," which agreed last December to dissolve, and accepted limits on his activities if he created a new charity. James also said Trump's children - Donald Jr., Eric and Ivanka - agreed to "mandatory training" on the duties of charity officials. "The court's decision, together with the settlements we negotiated, are a major victory in our efforts to protect charitable assets and hold accountable those who would abuse charities for personal gain," James said in a statement. Trump, in his statement, accused James of "deliberately mischaracterizing this settlement for political purposes." Underwood had filed suit after a 21-month probe that she said uncovered "extensive unlawful political coordination" between the Trump Foundation and Trump's campaign. The lawsuit sought to recoup $2.82 million donated to the foundation in a 2016 Iowa fundraiser for military veterans, but which Underwood said Trump allowed his campaign to control. Scarpulla agreed with the attorney general's office that Trump had breached his fiduciary duty to the foundation. "Mr. Trump's fiduciary duty breaches included allowing his campaign to orchestrate the fundraiser, allowing his campaign, instead of the Foundation, to direct distribution of the funds, and using the fundraiser and distribution of the funds to further Mr. Trump's political campaign," she wrote. The judge said that because the money ultimately went to support veterans, Trump should pay just $2 million, without interest, rather than the entire $2.82 million. In refusing to award punitive damages, Scarpulla cited Trump's agreement to take steps to avoid a recurrence. The $2 million is expected to go to Army Emergency Relief, the Children's Aid Society, City Meals-on-Wheels, Give an Hour, Martha's Table, the United Negro College Fund, the United Way of the National Capital Area and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.

New York judge orders Trump to pay $2 million for misusing namesake charity

China is pushing US President Donald Trump to remove more tariffs imposed in September as part of a "phase one" US-China trade deal, people familiar with the negotiations said on Monday.

The deal, which may be signed later this month by Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping at a yet-to-be-determined location, is widely expected to include a US pledge to scrap tariffs scheduled for Dec. 15 on about $156 billion worth of Chinese imports, including cell phones, laptop computers and toys.

A US official said the fate of the December 15 tariffs is being considered as part of negotiations and a potential signing trip this month.

Another source briefed on the talks said Chinese negotiators want Washington to drop 15% tariffs on about $125 billion worth of Chinese goods that went into effect on September 1. They are also seeking relief from earlier 25% tariffs on about $250 billion of imports from machinery and semiconductors to furniture.

A person familiar with Beijing's negotiating position said that China is continuing to press Washington to "remove all tariffs as soon as possible."

China's request to remove the September 1 duties was earlier reported by Politico, citing sources. The Financial Times newspaper also reported the White House was considering whether to roll back the Sept. 1 tariffs, which cover some clothing items, flat-screen televisions, smart speakers and Bluetooth headphones.

Ralph Winnie, director of the China program at the Eurasia Center, said wrapping up the interim trade pact would provide a boost to both the US and Chinese economies, while handing Trump an important win among farmers - a core constituency.

"It’s in both countries’ interest to have this trade deal," Winnie said. "If he seals the deal, it will be looked on very favourably by the American people. It’s a win-win for both countries."

Speaking on Tuesday at an import fair aimed at burnishing China's free-trade credentials, President Xi Jinping called on countries to stand against protectionism and reiterated pledges to continue to open China's economy and strengthen protection of intellectual property rights.

Foreign governments and business groups have become sceptical of Chinese reform promises and have longed warned that China would invite retaliation if it didn't match the openness of its trading partners.

Copyrights, not subsidies

Since Trump took office in 2017, his administration has been pressing China to curb massive subsidies to state-owned firms and end the forced transfer of American technology to Chinese firms as a price of doing business in China.

Analysts say the phase one deal will fail to adequately address these issues, focusing largely on Chinese purchases of US farm goods and intellectual property protection related to copyright and trademark issues. It will not address industrial subsidies at all.

China was requesting some changes to the text, but parts of the agreement are “very close to finished,” including the text on financial services, said a US source briefed on the negotiations. The text on agriculture was “dozens of pages long and nearly completed,” the source said.

“It is important to both sides to get this agreement across the finish line,” said the source, adding that the two presidents were very likely to meet before the end of the month.

Charles Boustany, a former congressman from Louisiana and counsellor at the National Bureau of Asian Research, said any initial agreement would likely be short-term in nature and unstable.

"Even though there's some talk about a phase one agreement, we don't think it’s going to be substantive in terms of addressing any of the structural problems," he said. "It would largely be a status quo situation where China continues to do what it’s doing."

Some business groups complain that a central component of the "phase one" deal - increased access to China's financial services market - will fall short of its promises, because of inconsistencies in China's new foreign investment law.

In comments submitted to the Chinese government by the US Chamber of Commerce, the American Chamber of Commerce in China and the US Information Technology Office, the groups pointed out that Beijing's draft regulations "do not address clear differences between the treatment of China's state-owned enterprises and the private sector," according to a person familiar with the comments.

Trump had said on Friday that negotiations on the initial phase agreement were going well and he hoped to sign the deal with Xi at a US location when work on the deal was completed.

China is pushing US President Donald Trump to remove more tariffs imposed in September as part of a "phase one" US-China trade deal, people familiar with the negotiations said on Monday.

China is pushing US President Donald Trump to remove more tariffs imposed in September as part of a "phase one" US-China trade deal, people familiar with the negotiations said on Monday. The deal, which may be signed later this month by Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping at a yet-to-be-determined location, is widely expected to include a US pledge to scrap tariffs scheduled for Dec. 15 on about $156 billion worth of Chinese imports, including cell phones, laptop computers and toys. A US official said the fate of the December 15 tariffs is being considered as part of negotiations and a potential signing trip this month. Another source briefed on the talks said Chinese negotiators want Washington to drop 15% tariffs on about $125 billion worth of Chinese goods that went into effect on September 1. They are also seeking relief from earlier 25% tariffs on about $250 billion of imports from machinery and semiconductors to furniture. A person familiar with Beijing's negotiating position said that China is continuing to press Washington to "remove all tariffs as soon as possible." China's request to remove the September 1 duties was earlier reported by Politico, citing sources. The Financial Times newspaper also reported the White House was considering whether to roll back the Sept. 1 tariffs, which cover some clothing items, flat-screen televisions, smart speakers and Bluetooth headphones. Ralph Winnie, director of the China program at the Eurasia Center, said wrapping up the interim trade pact would provide a boost to both the US and Chinese economies, while handing Trump an important win among farmers - a core constituency. "It’s in both countries’ interest to have this trade deal," Winnie said. "If he seals the deal, it will be looked on very favourably by the American people. It’s a win-win for both countries." Speaking on Tuesday at an import fair aimed at burnishing China's free-trade credentials, President Xi Jinping called on countries to stand against protectionism and reiterated pledges to continue to open China's economy and strengthen protection of intellectual property rights. Foreign governments and business groups have become sceptical of Chinese reform promises and have longed warned that China would invite retaliation if it didn't match the openness of its trading partners. Copyrights, not subsidies Since Trump took office in 2017, his administration has been pressing China to curb massive subsidies to state-owned firms and end the forced transfer of American technology to Chinese firms as a price of doing business in China. Analysts say the phase one deal will fail to adequately address these issues, focusing largely on Chinese purchases of US farm goods and intellectual property protection related to copyright and trademark issues. It will not address industrial subsidies at all. China was requesting some changes to the text, but parts of the agreement are “very close to finished,” including the text on financial services, said a US source briefed on the negotiations. The text on agriculture was “dozens of pages long and nearly completed,” the source said. “It is important to both sides to get this agreement across the finish line,” said the source, adding that the two presidents were very likely to meet before the end of the month. Charles Boustany, a former congressman from Louisiana and counsellor at the National Bureau of Asian Research, said any initial agreement would likely be short-term in nature and unstable. "Even though there's some talk about a phase one agreement, we don't think it’s going to be substantive in terms of addressing any of the structural problems," he said. "It would largely be a status quo situation where China continues to do what it’s doing." Some business groups complain that a central component of the "phase one" deal - increased access to China's financial services market - will fall short of its promises, because of inconsistencies in China's new foreign investment law. In comments submitted to the Chinese government by the US Chamber of Commerce, the American Chamber of Commerce in China and the US Information Technology Office, the groups pointed out that Beijing's draft regulations "do not address clear differences between the treatment of China's state-owned enterprises and the private sector," according to a person familiar with the comments. Trump had said on Friday that negotiations on the initial phase agreement were going well and he hoped to sign the deal with Xi at a US location when work on the deal was completed.

China presses Trump for more tariff roll-backs in 'phase one' trade deal

Operation Kayla: Why US named mission to kill Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi after Arizona aid worker

A top White House official admitted Thursday that President Donald Trump had tied military aid for Ukraine to Kiev undertaking an<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-pushed-for-ukraine-probe-of-firm-linked-to-biden-son-us-diplomat-256547"> investigation that would help Trump politically</a>, adding ammunition to Democrats' impeachment probe.

Acting White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney's stunning admission supports a key allegation in the House impeachment effort, that the president illicitly sought foreign political help as he seeks re-election next year.

Mulvaney said it was true that Trump used the aid to prod Kiev in July to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-wont-interfere-in-trump-impeachment-probe-president-zelensky-256330">investigate the allegation</a> -- widely viewed as groundless -- that the Democratic National Committee had hidden a computer server in Ukraine that would undermine claims that Trump's 2016 election victory was helped by Russian meddling.

Trump did not want to send nearly $400 million in military aid to Ukraine because the country was deeply corrupt, Mulvaney said.

"Did he also mention to me in passing the corruption related to the DNC server? Absolutely. No question about that," Mulvaney told reporters.

"That's it, and that's why we held up the money."

'From bad to worse'

Hours later, Mulvaney abruptly recanted.

"Let me be clear, there was absolutely no quid pro quo between Ukrainian military aid and any investigation into the 2016 election," he said in a statement.

"The president never told me to withhold any money until the Ukrainians did anything related to the server."

Nevertheless, his initial admission appeared to support Democrats' charges that Trump abused his power and violated election laws.

"Mulvaney just said that US military aid for Ukraine was held up pending Ukraine's investigation of Democrats," tweeted Adam Schiff, the House Intelligence Committee chairman who is leading the impeachment inquiry.

"Things just went from very, very bad to much, much worse," he said.

But Mulvaney argued that Trump had done nothing wrong, because he acted in support of a Justice Department probe into the origins of 2016 Russian meddling allegations.

And Mulvaney denied that Trump also tied the aid to Ukraine investigating a top Democratic rival, Joe Biden, ahead of the 2020 vote.

That Biden allegation is the other key leg of Democrats' charges against Trump.

"The money held up had absolutely nothing to do with Biden," he said.

Dramatic revelations

Mulvaney's comments added to a dramatic day in which a senior diplomat told Congressional investigators that Trump and his personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani sought political help from Ukraine. Trump also announced that US Energy Secretary Rick Perry, who was deeply involved in Ukraine talks, was stepping down.

Word of Perry's departure came a day after the publication of an interview in which Perry said that -- on Trump's orders -- he had communicated with Giuliani over alleged corruption in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Trump said Perry had told him of his plans to resign months ago.

Gordon Sondland, the US ambassador to the European Union, said in written testimony that Trump ordered diplomats in May to involve Giuliani in talks with new Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Giuliani, he said, sought to pressure Zelensky to investigate Biden and Biden's son over ties to a Ukraine energy company, Burisma, as well as to find evidence for the 2016 Democratic server theory. Hunter Biden served on the board of Burisma for five years until April this year.

"Mr Giuliani specifically mentioned the 2016 election (including the DNC server) and Burisma as two anti-corruption investigatory topics of importance for the president," Sondland said.

"I did not understand, until much later, that Mr Giuliani's agenda might have also included an effort to prompt the Ukrainians to investigate Vice President Biden or his son or to involve Ukrainians, directly or indirectly, in the president's 2020 re-election campaign," he said.

Evidence Trump abused powers

Sondland, a businessman who was appointed ambassador after donating $1 million to Trump's inauguration festivities, sought to distance himself from the political storm enveloping the White House.

Sondland said Giuliani was the principal messenger, and that he had few communications with the president's lawyer.

"My understanding was that the president directed Mr. Giuliani's participation, that Mr. Giuliani was expressing the concerns of the president," Sondland stated.

"Our view was that the men and women of the State Department, not the president's personal lawyer, should take responsibility for all aspects of US foreign policy towards Ukraine."

Eight witnesses

Sondland was the eighth witness to testify to the three House committees leading the impeachment investigation, all defying White House efforts to block them from appearing.

Democrats appear increasingly likely to unveil articles of impeachment -- formal charges -- before the end of the year.&nbsp;

If approved by the Democrat-dominated House of Representatives, Trump would then go on trial for removal in the Senate, where Republicans have the majority.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi denied Thursday that the investigation was politically driven, and said there was no timeline.

"None of us came to Congress to impeach a president," she told reporters. "Any such actions are to be taken very solemnly, seriously and in my view prayerfully."

A top White House official admitted Thursday that President Donald Trump had tied military aid for Ukraine to Kiev undertaking an investigation that would help Trump politically, adding ammunition to Democrats' impeachment probe.

A top White House official admitted Thursday that President Donald Trump had tied military aid for Ukraine to Kiev undertaking an investigation that would help Trump politically, adding ammunition to Democrats' impeachment probe. Acting White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney's stunning admission supports a key allegation in the House impeachment effort, that the president illicitly sought foreign political help as he seeks re-election next year. Mulvaney said it was true that Trump used the aid to prod Kiev in July to investigate the allegation -- widely viewed as groundless -- that the Democratic National Committee had hidden a computer server in Ukraine that would undermine claims that Trump's 2016 election victory was helped by Russian meddling. Trump did not want to send nearly $400 million in military aid to Ukraine because the country was deeply corrupt, Mulvaney said. "Did he also mention to me in passing the corruption related to the DNC server? Absolutely. No question about that," Mulvaney told reporters. "That's it, and that's why we held up the money." 'From bad to worse' Hours later, Mulvaney abruptly recanted. "Let me be clear, there was absolutely no quid pro quo between Ukrainian military aid and any investigation into the 2016 election," he said in a statement. "The president never told me to withhold any money until the Ukrainians did anything related to the server." Nevertheless, his initial admission appeared to support Democrats' charges that Trump abused his power and violated election laws. "Mulvaney just said that US military aid for Ukraine was held up pending Ukraine's investigation of Democrats," tweeted Adam Schiff, the House Intelligence Committee chairman who is leading the impeachment inquiry. "Things just went from very, very bad to much, much worse," he said. But Mulvaney argued that Trump had done nothing wrong, because he acted in support of a Justice Department probe into the origins of 2016 Russian meddling allegations. And Mulvaney denied that Trump also tied the aid to Ukraine investigating a top Democratic rival, Joe Biden, ahead of the 2020 vote. That Biden allegation is the other key leg of Democrats' charges against Trump. "The money held up had absolutely nothing to do with Biden," he said. Dramatic revelations Mulvaney's comments added to a dramatic day in which a senior diplomat told Congressional investigators that Trump and his personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani sought political help from Ukraine. Trump also announced that US Energy Secretary Rick Perry, who was deeply involved in Ukraine talks, was stepping down. Word of Perry's departure came a day after the publication of an interview in which Perry said that -- on Trump's orders -- he had communicated with Giuliani over alleged corruption in Ukraine. Trump said Perry had told him of his plans to resign months ago. Gordon Sondland, the US ambassador to the European Union, said in written testimony that Trump ordered diplomats in May to involve Giuliani in talks with new Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky. Giuliani, he said, sought to pressure Zelensky to investigate Biden and Biden's son over ties to a Ukraine energy company, Burisma, as well as to find evidence for the 2016 Democratic server theory. Hunter Biden served on the board of Burisma for five years until April this year. "Mr Giuliani specifically mentioned the 2016 election (including the DNC server) and Burisma as two anti-corruption investigatory topics of importance for the president," Sondland said. "I did not understand, until much later, that Mr Giuliani's agenda might have also included an effort to prompt the Ukrainians to investigate Vice President Biden or his son or to involve Ukrainians, directly or indirectly, in the president's 2020 re-election campaign," he said. Evidence Trump abused powers Sondland, a businessman who was appointed ambassador after donating $1 million to Trump's inauguration festivities, sought to distance himself from the political storm enveloping the White House. Sondland said Giuliani was the principal messenger, and that he had few communications with the president's lawyer. "My understanding was that the president directed Mr. Giuliani's participation, that Mr. Giuliani was expressing the concerns of the president," Sondland stated. "Our view was that the men and women of the State Department, not the president's personal lawyer, should take responsibility for all aspects of US foreign policy towards Ukraine." Eight witnesses Sondland was the eighth witness to testify to the three House committees leading the impeachment investigation, all defying White House efforts to block them from appearing. Democrats appear increasingly likely to unveil articles of impeachment -- formal charges -- before the end of the year. If approved by the Democrat-dominated House of Representatives, Trump would then go on trial for removal in the Senate, where Republicans have the majority. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi denied Thursday that the investigation was politically driven, and said there was no timeline. "None of us came to Congress to impeach a president," she told reporters. "Any such actions are to be taken very solemnly, seriously and in my view prayerfully."

White House admits Donald Trump tied Ukraine aid to political effort

By Ali Bilgic

In a move likely to further destabilise the situation in Syria and the Middle East, Donald Trump appeared to give Turkey the green light on October 6 for a military operation into northern Syria. The area is currently controlled by the Syrian Democratic Forces, led by the Kurdish People’s Protection Units, or YPG, who the US worked closely within the battle to defeat Islamic State (IS). Kurdish forces described Trump’s decision to pull US troops out of the area as a “stab in the back”.

Amid mounting criticism of the decision, Trump appeared to pull back, taking to Twitter to warn Turkey not to go too far in its operation. US security officials insisted the administration did not endorse or support the Turkish operation. However, Turkey said its preparations were complete for the military campaign, which aims to establish a “safe zone” along the Turkish-Syria border.

Trump’s decision to withdraw troops appeared to be underlined by his dissatisfaction with European allies who haven’t taken back their citizens from the region. The White House said, it wanted to avoid spending more money from American taxpayers on holding captured IS fighters. During a phone conversation with Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Trump reportedly agreed with the Turkish president that Turkey would take charge of these captured fighters.

Relations between Turkey and the US have long been strained by American support for Kurdish fighters in Syria. Turkey believes they are directly connected to the PKK, a Kurdish separatist group recognised as a terrorist organisation by Turkey, the US, and the European Union.

Yet Turkey could find itself in a quagmire that involves a guerrilla warfare waged by the Kurdish forces. According to the Anatolian Agency, Turkey’s official news agency, the PKK is already present in northern Syria. If Turkey goes ahead with a campaign, it will extend the 40-year long conflict between the Turkish military, NATO’s second-biggest army, and the PKK beyond Turkey’s borders. However, unlike in previous decades, the PKK will be backed by the YPG, long trained in active combat.

Assad’s next move

It’s unclear how Bashar al Assad and his regime in Damascus will react to a planned Turkish incursion into northern Syria. One possibility is that Assad government forces, backed by Russia, could take advantage of the situation and advance from the south into the Kurdish region. This will force the Kurds to fight on two fronts at the same time – something they are unlikely to survive.

There is another possibility. If the Kurdish political forces are successful in negotiating a deal with Damascus to set up a federal government system, like in Iraq, in Syria, these two forces could unite against the “foreign invader”. Speaking at the UN General Assembly in September, the Syrian foreign minister, Walid al-Moallem, already called for the withdrawal of American and Turkish forces in Syria.

Some Kurdish militia in northern Iraq could also join the YPG in a future conflict against Turkey. In March 2019, the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan from Iraq announced its potential support in case of an attack. Such moves would likely disturb stability in northern Iraq, which has had amicable relations with Turkey.

Fate of refugees

The Kurdish region in northern Syria, also known as Rojova, has been one of the most stable in the country throughout the Syrian war. It has provided shelter to those who escaped from IS, Assad forces, and extremist factions within the Free Syrian Army, such as Al Qaeda affiliates.

The destabilisation of the region will likely trigger a new wave of migration from Syria towards northern Iraq and potentially Turkey. Since an informal agreement between the US and Turkey in August to create safe zones in northern Syria, tens of thousands have already fled from Idlib to the Turkish border anticipating a new conflict in the region.

Turkey, which currently hosts more than 3m Syrian refugees, has recently introduced stricter policies and regulations that aim to return some of these refugees to Syria. Erdoğan plans to repatriate them to any safe zone it manages to set up, so it’s unlikely Turkey will accept and host new waves of refugees from Syria. Stuck between a rock and a hard place, refugees will be forced to take irregular migration channels to Europe via Turkey and north Africa.

Russia’s next move is also crucial. The Kremlin, which recognises Turkey’s right to defend itself, also emphasises the need to protect Syria’s “territorial integrity”. Russia has been careful not to alienate the Kurds in Syria completely.

If the Kurds, who feel betrayed and abandoned by the US, move closer to Russia as a guarantor of their autonomy in a federal Syria, this could play in to the Americans’ hands by threatening the growing rapprochement between Turkey and Russia. However, a post-war Syria with a federal system that includes the Kurds and a consolidated Assad regime could strengthen the Russia-Iran bloc in the region, which will disturb both Israel and Saudi Arabia, crucial partners and allies of the US.

The next few weeks and months will determine the fate of Rojova, which will be pressured by both Turkish and Assad forces. Alongside the Kurds, the ethnic and religious groups, such as the Assyrians and Yazidis, who have found shelter in Rojova, will go through a dangerous period. And the cells of defeated IS fighters will be waiting for the opportunity derived from this crisis.

(Ali Bilgic is Lecturer in Politics and International Relations, Loughborough University) 
 
(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/what-donald-trumps-decision-to-abandon-kurdish-fighters-in-syria-means-for-the-kurds-assad-and-russia-124815">original article</a>)

 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

By Ali Bilgic In a move likely to further destabilise the situation in Syria and the Middle East, Donald Trump appeared to give Turkey the green light on October 6 for a military operation into northern Syria.

By Ali Bilgic In a move likely to further destabilise the situation in Syria and the Middle East, Donald Trump appeared to give Turkey the green light on October 6 for a military operation into northern Syria. The area is currently controlled by the Syrian Democratic Forces, led by the Kurdish People’s Protection Units, or YPG, who the US worked closely within the battle to defeat Islamic State (IS). Kurdish forces described Trump’s decision to pull US troops out of the area as a “stab in the back”. Amid mounting criticism of the decision, Trump appeared to pull back, taking to Twitter to warn Turkey not to go too far in its operation. US security officials insisted the administration did not endorse or support the Turkish operation. However, Turkey said its preparations were complete for the military campaign, which aims to establish a “safe zone” along the Turkish-Syria border. Trump’s decision to withdraw troops appeared to be underlined by his dissatisfaction with European allies who haven’t taken back their citizens from the region. The White House said, it wanted to avoid spending more money from American taxpayers on holding captured IS fighters. During a phone conversation with Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Trump reportedly agreed with the Turkish president that Turkey would take charge of these captured fighters. Relations between Turkey and the US have long been strained by American support for Kurdish fighters in Syria. Turkey believes they are directly connected to the PKK, a Kurdish separatist group recognised as a terrorist organisation by Turkey, the US, and the European Union. Yet Turkey could find itself in a quagmire that involves a guerrilla warfare waged by the Kurdish forces. According to the Anatolian Agency, Turkey’s official news agency, the PKK is already present in northern Syria. If Turkey goes ahead with a campaign, it will extend the 40-year long conflict between the Turkish military, NATO’s second-biggest army, and the PKK beyond Turkey’s borders. However, unlike in previous decades, the PKK will be backed by the YPG, long trained in active combat. Assad’s next move It’s unclear how Bashar al Assad and his regime in Damascus will react to a planned Turkish incursion into northern Syria. One possibility is that Assad government forces, backed by Russia, could take advantage of the situation and advance from the south into the Kurdish region. This will force the Kurds to fight on two fronts at the same time – something they are unlikely to survive. There is another possibility. If the Kurdish political forces are successful in negotiating a deal with Damascus to set up a federal government system, like in Iraq, in Syria, these two forces could unite against the “foreign invader”. Speaking at the UN General Assembly in September, the Syrian foreign minister, Walid al-Moallem, already called for the withdrawal of American and Turkish forces in Syria. Some Kurdish militia in northern Iraq could also join the YPG in a future conflict against Turkey. In March 2019, the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan from Iraq announced its potential support in case of an attack. Such moves would likely disturb stability in northern Iraq, which has had amicable relations with Turkey. Fate of refugees The Kurdish region in northern Syria, also known as Rojova, has been one of the most stable in the country throughout the Syrian war. It has provided shelter to those who escaped from IS, Assad forces, and extremist factions within the Free Syrian Army, such as Al Qaeda affiliates. The destabilisation of the region will likely trigger a new wave of migration from Syria towards northern Iraq and potentially Turkey. Since an informal agreement between the US and Turkey in August to create safe zones in northern Syria, tens of thousands have already fled from Idlib to the Turkish border anticipating a new conflict in the region. Turkey, which currently hosts more than 3m Syrian refugees, has recently introduced stricter policies and regulations that aim to return some of these refugees to Syria. Erdoğan plans to repatriate them to any safe zone it manages to set up, so it’s unlikely Turkey will accept and host new waves of refugees from Syria. Stuck between a rock and a hard place, refugees will be forced to take irregular migration channels to Europe via Turkey and north Africa. Russia’s next move is also crucial. The Kremlin, which recognises Turkey’s right to defend itself, also emphasises the need to protect Syria’s “territorial integrity”. Russia has been careful not to alienate the Kurds in Syria completely. If the Kurds, who feel betrayed and abandoned by the US, move closer to Russia as a guarantor of their autonomy in a federal Syria, this could play in to the Americans’ hands by threatening the growing rapprochement between Turkey and Russia. However, a post-war Syria with a federal system that includes the Kurds and a consolidated Assad regime could strengthen the Russia-Iran bloc in the region, which will disturb both Israel and Saudi Arabia, crucial partners and allies of the US. The next few weeks and months will determine the fate of Rojova, which will be pressured by both Turkish and Assad forces. Alongside the Kurds, the ethnic and religious groups, such as the Assyrians and Yazidis, who have found shelter in Rojova, will go through a dangerous period. And the cells of defeated IS fighters will be waiting for the opportunity derived from this crisis. (Ali Bilgic is Lecturer in Politics and International Relations, Loughborough University) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

What Donald Trump’s decision to abandon Kurdish fighters in Syria means for the Kurds, Assad and Russia

The US Federal Reserve cut interest rates again on Wednesday to help sustain a record-long economic expansion but signalled a higher bar to further reductions in borrowing costs, eliciting a fast and sharp rebuke from President Donald Trump.

Describing the US economic outlook as "favourable," Fed Chair Jerome Powell said the rate cut was designed "to provide insurance against ongoing risks" including weak global growth and resurgent trade tensions.

"If the economy does turn down, then a more extensive sequence of rate cuts could be appropriate," Powell said in a news conference after the Fed announced it had lowered its benchmark overnight lending rate by a quarter of a percentage point to a range of 1.75% to 2.00%. It was the second Fed rate cut this year.

But, Powell said, "what we think we are facing here is a situation which can be addressed, which should be addressed, with moderate adjustments to the federal funds rate," noting that the US&nbsp;labour market was strong and inflation was likely to return to the Fed's 2% annual goal.

"We are going to be highly data-dependent ... We are not on a pre-set course, we are going to be making decisions meeting by meeting," Powell said, adding that the Fed would stop cutting rates "when we think we've done enough."

Trump blasted Powell, saying the central bank chief had "No 'guts,' no sense, no vision!"

"A terrible communicator," Trump tweeted before Powell had even begun his news conference.

Later, Trump told reporters during a trip to California: "I think it's fine. I think that frankly they should have acted faster."

Underscoring divisions within the central bank, the quarter-point rate cut on Wednesday drew dissents from three of the 10 voting policymakers.

Kansas City Fed President Esther George and Boston Fed President Eric Rosengren called for no rate cut, and St. Louis Fed President James Bullard wanted a bigger half-point rate cut.

Forecasts from all 17 policymakers released at the end of the meeting showed even broader disagreement, with seven expecting a third rate cut this year, five seeing the current rate cut as the last for 2019, and five who appeared to have been against even Wednesday's move.

Technical adjustments

The central bank also widened the gap between the interest it pays banks on excess reserves and the top of its policy rate range, a step taken to smooth out problems in money markets that prompted a market intervention by the New York Fed this week.

In a hint that the Fed may soon take bigger steps, Powell acknowledged that strains in funding markets had been bigger than expected, and he said the central bank may need to resume increases to the Fed's balance sheet "earlier" than previously thought.

US stocks, lower ahead of the statement, extended their losses and the US Treasury yield curve flattened. The 10-year Treasury note yield inched up to 1.79%.

The dollar gained ground against the euro and yen.

"Another rate cut from the Fed to try to shield the US economy from global headwinds," said Joe Manimbo, senior market analyst at Western Union Business Solutions in Washington. "Today’s move was more of a hawkish easing in that the Fed’s median forecasts for rates suggested no more cuts this year, while some officials dissented."

Still, traders of interest rate futures were betting on one more quarter-point rate cut this year.

New projections showed Fed policymakers at the median expected rates to stay within the new range through 2020.

"There is a lot of uncertainty" around rate-path views and the economic outlook, Powell said.

There was little change in policymakers' projections for the economy, with GDP growth seen at a slightly higher 2.2% this year and the unemployment rate to be 3.7% through 2020. Inflation is projected to be 1.5% for the year, below the Fed's 2% target, before rising to 1.9% next year.

The Fed also cut rates in July, the first such move since 2008, as it responded to risks from Trump's trade war with China and other overseas developments.

The US Federal Reserve cut interest rates again on Wednesday to help sustain a record-long economic expansion but signalled a higher bar to further reductions in borrowing costs, eliciting a fast and sharp rebuke from President Donald Trump.

The US Federal Reserve cut interest rates again on Wednesday to help sustain a record-long economic expansion but signalled a higher bar to further reductions in borrowing costs, eliciting a fast and sharp rebuke from President Donald Trump. Describing the US economic outlook as "favourable," Fed Chair Jerome Powell said the rate cut was designed "to provide insurance against ongoing risks" including weak global growth and resurgent trade tensions. "If the economy does turn down, then a more extensive sequence of rate cuts could be appropriate," Powell said in a news conference after the Fed announced it had lowered its benchmark overnight lending rate by a quarter of a percentage point to a range of 1.75% to 2.00%. It was the second Fed rate cut this year. But, Powell said, "what we think we are facing here is a situation which can be addressed, which should be addressed, with moderate adjustments to the federal funds rate," noting that the US labour market was strong and inflation was likely to return to the Fed's 2% annual goal. "We are going to be highly data-dependent ... We are not on a pre-set course, we are going to be making decisions meeting by meeting," Powell said, adding that the Fed would stop cutting rates "when we think we've done enough." Trump blasted Powell, saying the central bank chief had "No 'guts,' no sense, no vision!" "A terrible communicator," Trump tweeted before Powell had even begun his news conference. Later, Trump told reporters during a trip to California: "I think it's fine. I think that frankly they should have acted faster." Underscoring divisions within the central bank, the quarter-point rate cut on Wednesday drew dissents from three of the 10 voting policymakers. Kansas City Fed President Esther George and Boston Fed President Eric Rosengren called for no rate cut, and St. Louis Fed President James Bullard wanted a bigger half-point rate cut. Forecasts from all 17 policymakers released at the end of the meeting showed even broader disagreement, with seven expecting a third rate cut this year, five seeing the current rate cut as the last for 2019, and five who appeared to have been against even Wednesday's move. Technical adjustments The central bank also widened the gap between the interest it pays banks on excess reserves and the top of its policy rate range, a step taken to smooth out problems in money markets that prompted a market intervention by the New York Fed this week. In a hint that the Fed may soon take bigger steps, Powell acknowledged that strains in funding markets had been bigger than expected, and he said the central bank may need to resume increases to the Fed's balance sheet "earlier" than previously thought. US stocks, lower ahead of the statement, extended their losses and the US Treasury yield curve flattened. The 10-year Treasury note yield inched up to 1.79%. The dollar gained ground against the euro and yen. "Another rate cut from the Fed to try to shield the US economy from global headwinds," said Joe Manimbo, senior market analyst at Western Union Business Solutions in Washington. "Today’s move was more of a hawkish easing in that the Fed’s median forecasts for rates suggested no more cuts this year, while some officials dissented." Still, traders of interest rate futures were betting on one more quarter-point rate cut this year. New projections showed Fed policymakers at the median expected rates to stay within the new range through 2020. "There is a lot of uncertainty" around rate-path views and the economic outlook, Powell said. There was little change in policymakers' projections for the economy, with GDP growth seen at a slightly higher 2.2% this year and the unemployment rate to be 3.7% through 2020. Inflation is projected to be 1.5% for the year, below the Fed's 2% target, before rising to 1.9% next year. The Fed also cut rates in July, the first such move since 2008, as it responded to risks from Trump's trade war with China and other overseas developments.

US Federal Reserve cuts interest rates, signals holding pattern for now

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un invited US President Donald Trump to visit Pyongyang in a letter sent in August amid stalled denuclearisation talks, a South Korean newspaper reported on Monday, citing diplomatic sources.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un invited US President Donald Trump to visit Pyongyang in a letter sent in August amid stalled denuclearisation talks, a South Korean newspaper reported on Monday, citing diplomatic sources. Kim, in the letter sent in the third week of August, spoke of his "willingness" for a third summit and extended an invitation for Trump to visit the North Korean capital of Pyongyang, the Joongang Ilbo newspaper reported, citing an unidentified source. Trump on August 9 said he had received a "very beautiful letter" from Kim. But US officials have not said anything about a second letter in August. Trump and Kim have met three times since June last year to discuss ways to resolve a crisis over North Korea's missile and nuclear programmes, but substantive progress has been scant. Their first two meetings were formal summits, the second of which, in Vietnam in February, broke down after they failed to narrow the gap between U.S. demands for North Korean denuclearisation and a North Korean demand for relief from sanctions. They met for a third time on June 30 in the Demilitarised Zone between the two Koreas and agreed to restart working-level talks but that has not happened. Since the June meeting, North Korea has several times tested short-range projectiles. The White House, the U.S. State Department and the North Korean mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the report. A senior official at North Korea's foreign ministry said on Monday that a "good meeting" with working-level officials from the United States could take place within weeks, according to North Korea's official KCNA news agency. North Korea's vice foreign minister, Choe Son Hui, said last week Pyongyang was willing to have "comprehensive discussions" late this month. Trump subsequently said he would be willing to meet Kim at some point this year. South Korea's foreign minister, Kang Kyung-wha, asked about the report on Monday that there were "detailed explanations about such a letter" but declined to elaborate. Kang said it could be "too much to expect" that Trump and Kim would meet before any working-level talks. "No agreement was reached between the two leaders in Hanoi even after working-level negotiations," Kang told a parliamentary panel. "For the sake of the success of another summit, their working-level teams should meet and have primary discussions on the outcome of the summit."

North Korea leader Kim invited Trump to Pyongyang in letter: Report

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a deeply controversial pledge on Tuesday to annex the Jordan Valley in the occupied West Bank if re-elected in September 17 polls.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a deeply controversial pledge on Tuesday to annex the Jordan Valley in the occupied West Bank if re-elected in September 17 polls. Palestinians immediately reacted by saying Netanyahu was destroying any hopes for peace, while his electoral opponents accused him of a cynical play for right-wing nationalist votes with polls only a week away. In his televised speech, the prime minister also reiterated his intention to annex Israeli settlements in the wider West Bank if re-elected. But he said he would do that in coordination with US President Donald Trump, whose long-awaited peace plan is expected to be unveiled sometime after the vote. × Those moves could effectively kill any remaining hopes for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, long the focus of international diplomacy. "There is one place where we can apply Israeli sovereignty immediately after the elections," Netanyahu said during the address that included a map of the Jordan Valley on an easel next to him. "If I receive from you, citizens of Israel, a clear mandate to do so ... today I announce my intention to apply with the formation of the next government Israeli sovereignty over the Jordan Valley and northern Dead Sea." Senior Palestinian official Hanan Ashrawi said Netanyahu was "not only destroying the two-state solution, he is destroying all chances of peace". She called it "worse than apartheid". 'Great opportunity' Saeb Erekat, the chief Palestinian negotiator, said the annexation would be "manifestly illegal" and called on the international community to act. Jordan's Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi warned the move would "push the whole region towards violence" and risks "killing off the entire peace process". In Turkey, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu slammed Netanyahu's pledge as "racist". "The election promise of Netanyahu, who is giving all kind of illegal, unlawful and aggressive messages before the election, is a racist apartheid state," Cavusoglu wrote on his official Twitter account in both English and Turkish. Saudi Arabia condemned it as a "dangerous escalation against the Palestinian people" and called for an emergency meeting of foreign ministers from the 57 member states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the official Saudi Press Agency said, citing the royal court. The Jordan Valley accounts for around one-third of the West Bank and Israeli right-wing politicians have long viewed the strategic area as a part of the territory they would never retreat from, seeing it as the country's eastern border. Israeli settlements are located in what is known as Area C of the West Bank, which accounts for some 60 per cent of the territory, including the vast majority of the Jordan Valley. Netanyahu said his annexation plans would not include Palestinian cities, such as the Jordan Valley's Jericho, though it would be encircled by Israeli territory. The premier said Trump's peace parameters "will place before us a great challenge and also a great opportunity." "This is a historic, one-time opportunity to apply Israeli sovereignty on our settlements... and other places of importance to our security, our heritage and our future." Trump has thrown US support overwhelmingly in favour of Israel since taking office, including by recognising Jerusalem as Israel's capital and cutting hundreds of millions of dollars in aid to the Palestinians. Ahead of April elections, Trump recognised Israeli sovereignty over the occupied Golan Heights, seized from Syria in the 1967 Six-Day War.

Netanyahu vows to annex West Bank's Jordan Valley if re-elected

The US military is set to pull troops from five Afghan bases under a proposed deal with the Taliban, the US envoy leading talks with the insurgents said Monday, in some of the first confirmed details of a much-anticipated accord.

Zalmay Khalilzad, who has spent about a year negotiating with the Taliban, said the draw-down would occur within about four months of a final deal being approved -- provided the Taliban stick to their commitments.

"We have agreed that if the conditions proceed according to the agreement, we will leave within 135 days five bases in which we are present now," Khalilzad told Tolo News, according to an excerpt of an interview the Afghan TV station published on Twitter.

The Afghan-born envoy was speaking in Dari, and Tolo said the full interview would be broadcast later Monday.

Khalilzad was in Kabul following the latest round of talks with the Taliban in Doha, after which he said the two sides were at the "threshold" of a deal. He met Monday with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and showed him the draft of a proposed agreement.

The prospective deal centres on US troop reductions in return for several security guarantees from the Taliban, as well as broader peace talks between the insurgents and the Afghan government and an eventual ceasefire.

Still, even if many of 13,000 or so US troops in Afghanistan leave soon after the deal, President Donald Trump last week said America would maintain a permanent presence -- with 8,600 troops initially -- even after a deal is reached with the Taliban.

Khalilzad's discussions with Ghani are key because the Afghan government has until now been largely sidelined from talks, though any eventual deal would require the Taliban to talk to the Afghan leader.

"The efforts of the US and other partners will yield results when the Taliban enters direct negotiations with the Afghan government," Ghani's spokesman Sediq Sediqqi told reporters.

"We hope these efforts will lead to an end to the conflict."

When asked to describe the deal, Sediqqi demurred, saying "the most important thing is that the Taliban's violence stops".

Afghanistan's Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah said in a statement he too had been briefed and assured of "a thorough and sustainable peace in Afghanistan".

'Threshold' of a deal

Ghani has appointed a 15-member delegation to meet with the Taliban at "intra-Afghan" talks slated to take place in Norway in the coming weeks.

On Sunday, Khalilzad said the US and the Taliban were closing in on a deal that would reduce violence and pave the way for "sustainable" peace.

But even as negotiations have entered their apparent final stage, violence has continued apace across Afghanistan.

On Saturday, the Taliban attempted to seize Kunduz in the north, and on Sunday, they launched an operation in the city of Pul-e Khumri, the capital of neighbouring Baghlan province.

Afghan officials on Monday said Pul-e Khumri had been cleared of Taliban fighters and fighting restricted to the outskirts.

Afghan forces, backed by local and US airpower, were able to stop Kunduz falling and repel the Taliban, who briefly seized the city in 2015.

Afghan officials claimed Monday the city was back to normal but in the afternoon a suicide bomber detonated himself near a security-forces base in the outskirts of Kunduz, killing six troops and wounding 15 other people.

The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack.

Meanwhile, the US-led NATO mission in Afghanistan said mechanical problems had caused a coalition drone to crash in Ghor province.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has previously said he hoped a peace deal would be finalised before September 1, ahead of Afghan polls set for September 28.

Suhail Shaheen, the Taliban's spokesman in Doha, said Saturday a deal was "near to finalised" but did not specify what obstacles remain.

All of the last-minute deal-making comes less than a month before the presidential elections are due.

Despite Ghani's repeated insistence, the polls will go ahead, many in Afghanistan are sceptical they will happen as planned.

The US military is set to pull troops from five Afghan bases under a proposed deal with the Taliban, the US envoy leading talks with the insurgents said Monday, in some of the first confirmed details of a much-anticipated accord.

The US military is set to pull troops from five Afghan bases under a proposed deal with the Taliban, the US envoy leading talks with the insurgents said Monday, in some of the first confirmed details of a much-anticipated accord. Zalmay Khalilzad, who has spent about a year negotiating with the Taliban, said the draw-down would occur within about four months of a final deal being approved -- provided the Taliban stick to their commitments. "We have agreed that if the conditions proceed according to the agreement, we will leave within 135 days five bases in which we are present now," Khalilzad told Tolo News, according to an excerpt of an interview the Afghan TV station published on Twitter. The Afghan-born envoy was speaking in Dari, and Tolo said the full interview would be broadcast later Monday. Khalilzad was in Kabul following the latest round of talks with the Taliban in Doha, after which he said the two sides were at the "threshold" of a deal. He met Monday with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and showed him the draft of a proposed agreement. The prospective deal centres on US troop reductions in return for several security guarantees from the Taliban, as well as broader peace talks between the insurgents and the Afghan government and an eventual ceasefire. Still, even if many of 13,000 or so US troops in Afghanistan leave soon after the deal, President Donald Trump last week said America would maintain a permanent presence -- with 8,600 troops initially -- even after a deal is reached with the Taliban. Khalilzad's discussions with Ghani are key because the Afghan government has until now been largely sidelined from talks, though any eventual deal would require the Taliban to talk to the Afghan leader. "The efforts of the US and other partners will yield results when the Taliban enters direct negotiations with the Afghan government," Ghani's spokesman Sediq Sediqqi told reporters. "We hope these efforts will lead to an end to the conflict." When asked to describe the deal, Sediqqi demurred, saying "the most important thing is that the Taliban's violence stops". Afghanistan's Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah said in a statement he too had been briefed and assured of "a thorough and sustainable peace in Afghanistan". 'Threshold' of a deal Ghani has appointed a 15-member delegation to meet with the Taliban at "intra-Afghan" talks slated to take place in Norway in the coming weeks. On Sunday, Khalilzad said the US and the Taliban were closing in on a deal that would reduce violence and pave the way for "sustainable" peace. But even as negotiations have entered their apparent final stage, violence has continued apace across Afghanistan. On Saturday, the Taliban attempted to seize Kunduz in the north, and on Sunday, they launched an operation in the city of Pul-e Khumri, the capital of neighbouring Baghlan province. Afghan officials on Monday said Pul-e Khumri had been cleared of Taliban fighters and fighting restricted to the outskirts. Afghan forces, backed by local and US airpower, were able to stop Kunduz falling and repel the Taliban, who briefly seized the city in 2015. Afghan officials claimed Monday the city was back to normal but in the afternoon a suicide bomber detonated himself near a security-forces base in the outskirts of Kunduz, killing six troops and wounding 15 other people. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack. Meanwhile, the US-led NATO mission in Afghanistan said mechanical problems had caused a coalition drone to crash in Ghor province. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has previously said he hoped a peace deal would be finalised before September 1, ahead of Afghan polls set for September 28. Suhail Shaheen, the Taliban's spokesman in Doha, said Saturday a deal was "near to finalised" but did not specify what obstacles remain. All of the last-minute deal-making comes less than a month before the presidential elections are due. Despite Ghani's repeated insistence, the polls will go ahead, many in Afghanistan are sceptical they will happen as planned.

US-Taliban deal would see US pull troops from five bases: US envoy

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