The US Secret Service confirmed that one person is in custody in connection with the shooting incident at the White House Dinner event in which US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance were in attendance. The US Secret Service confirmed that Trump, Vance and First Lady Melania Trump are safe. It said that it is actively investigating the situation. The FBI in a statement said that the Washington Field Office’s National Capital Response Squad responded to the shooting at the Washington Hilton and confirmed that the suspect was in custody. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We will provide updates as they become available and confirm information. Our teams are on the ground assessing the situation and investigating. All of our protectees are safe. <a href="https://t.co/BYl6sR5WVU">pic.twitter.com/BYl6sR5WVU</a>&mdash; Anthony Guglielmi (@AJGuglielmi) <a href="https://twitter.com/AJGuglielmi/status/2048211521814118828?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-evacuated-from-white-house-correspondents-dinner-gunshots-heard-what-s-happening-1777164112094">Trump evacuated from White House Correspondents’ Dinner, gunshots heard - VIDEO</a>&nbsp;Revealing about the incident, an FBI official said the suspect fired at a Secret Service agent, though the agent is reported to be unharmed. Officials added that the shooting occurred in a “screening area” outside the event venue. The official added that a person armed with a shotgun attempted to breach security at the White House press dinner.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/are-trump-and-jd-vance-safe-shooting-incident-reported-at-washington-press-dinner-dramatic-video-surfaces-1777165766554">Reactions flow in after shooting incident at Washington press dinner, Trump safe</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Trump in his first reaction thanked the secret service agents and said that the show muct go on. He said that the law enforcement requested that he and others leave the premises “consistent with protocol,” which they did immediately. He also announced plans to hold a press conference in about 30 minutes from the White House press briefing room. Additionally, Trump stated he had spoken with officials in charge of the event and that the White House Correspondents’ Dinner would be rescheduled within the next 30 days.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260426/image-1777169551219.png"></figure>&nbsp;

The US Secret Service confirmed that a suspect is in custody after a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner at the Washington Hilton. Trump, JD Vance, and Melania Trump are safe. FBI said the suspect fired at a Secret Service agent outside the venue’s screening area.

The US Secret Service confirmed that one person is in custody in connection with the shooting incident at the White House Dinner event in which US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance were in attendance. The US Secret Service confirmed that Trump, Vance and First Lady Melania Trump are safe. It said that it is actively investigating the situation. The FBI in a statement said that the Washington Field Office’s National Capital Response Squad responded to the shooting at the Washington Hilton and confirmed that the suspect was in custody. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.

The US Secret Service confirmed that a suspect is in custody after a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner at the Washington Hilton. Trump, JD Vance, and Melania Trump are safe. FBI said the suspect fired at a Secret Service agent outside the venue’s screening area.

Suspect fired at US Secret Service agent with shotgun: Details emerge from White House Correspondents' Dinner shooting

The Justice Department is actively pursuing at least 300 foreign-born American citizens as potential targets for denaturalisation, the legal process of stripping someone of their US citizenship, in what may be the highest volume of such cases in the country's history. Talking to NBC News, a Justice Department official confirmed that the number of people under review runs into the hundreds. A department spokesperson said the effort was moving "at warp speed," adding that the administration was "pursuing the highest volume of denaturalisation referrals in history" under the leadership of US President Donald Trump and Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-weird-stuff-happens-us-navy-sailor-headed-to-strait-of-hormuz-for-trump-s-minesweeping-mission-attacked-by-monkey-1777009414675">'Weird stuff happens': Monkey temporarily derails Trump's 'shoot and kill' mission in Strait of Hormuz</a><h2>US 'laser focused on rooting out criminal aliens'</h2>The DOJ official confirmed that federal prosecutors in field offices across America were working on the effort. "The Department of Justice is laser-focused on rooting out criminal aliens defrauding the naturalisation process," said the unnamed official. "Under the leadership of President Trump and Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, the Department is pursuing the highest volume of denaturalisation referrals in history. We are moving at warp speed to ensure fraudsters are held accountable and prosecuted to the fullest extent."Denaturalisation has historically been an exceptionally rare legal tool, reserved for cases where someone concealed a serious criminal history, like war crimes, human rights violations, or fraud during the naturalisation process. Across the entirety of Trump's first term, the administration filed a total of 102 such cases. The current push is on track to dwarf that figure within months.US Citizenship and Immigration Services has deployed experts to field offices across the country and reassigned staff specifically to identify potential cases, to supply between 100 and 200 referrals per month to the Justice Department for prosecution. Federal prosecutors in field offices nationwide are working through the caseload.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-use-nuclear-weapons-against-tehran-trump-finally-reveals-his-plan-on-day-55-of-iran-war-1776996331952">US to use nuclear weapons against Tehran? Trump FINALLY REVEALS his plan on day 55 of Iran war</a><h2>Which naturalised citizens is the Trump admin targeting?</h2>The Justice Department has outlined the types of cases it wants attorneys to prioritise, from individuals who pose national security risks or have been involved in war crimes or torture, to those accused of Medicaid and Medicare fraud or other forms of government fraud. It remains unclear which specific criteria apply to the roughly 300 people currently identified, or why they were singled out. The New York Times first reported the figure.The denaturalisation drive sits within a much broader immigration enforcement push that has defined Trump's second term. This, over the past year, has included mass deportation operations, large-scale ICE deployments into American cities, and the construction of detention facilities.<h2>How many naturalised citizens does the US have?</h2>Roughly 800,000 people become naturalised US citizens each year, according to Homeland Security data.

Why is the US government moving to strip citizenship from hundreds of people? Under Donald Trump, the Justice Department is fast-tracking denaturalisation cases, with at least 300 individuals under review.

Who’s being targeted? Is your citizenship at risk? Scroll down to find out.

The Justice Department is actively pursuing at least 300 foreign-born American citizens as potential targets for denaturalisation, the legal process of stripping someone of their US citizenship, in what may be the highest volume of such cases in the country's history. Talking to NBC News, a Justice Department official confirmed that the number of people under review runs into the hundreds. A department spokesperson said the effort was moving "at warp speed," adding that the administration was "pursuing the highest volume of denaturalisation referrals in history" under the leadership of US President Donald Trump and Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. Also read | 'Weird stuff happens': Monkey temporarily derails Trump's 'shoot and kill' mission in Strait of Hormuz US 'laser focused on rooting out criminal aliens' The DOJ official confirmed that federal prosecutors in field offices across America were working on the effort. "The Department of Justice is laser-focused on rooting out criminal aliens defrauding the naturalisation process," said the unnamed official. "Under the leadership of President Trump and Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, the Department is pursuing the highest volume of denaturalisation referrals in history. We are moving at warp speed to ensure fraudsters are held accountable and prosecuted to the fullest extent." Denaturalisation has historically been an exceptionally rare legal tool, reserved for cases where someone concealed a serious criminal history, like war crimes, human rights violations, or fraud during the naturalisation process. Across the entirety of Trump's first term, the administration filed a total of 102 such cases. The current push is on track to dwarf that figure within months. US Citizenship and Immigration Services has deployed experts to field offices across the country and reassigned staff specifically to identify potential cases, to supply between 100 and 200 referrals per month to the Justice Department for prosecution. Federal prosecutors in field offices nationwide are working through the caseload. Also read | US to use nuclear weapons against Tehran? Trump FINALLY REVEALS his plan on day 55 of Iran war Which naturalised citizens is the Trump admin targeting? The Justice Department has outlined the types of cases it wants attorneys to prioritise, from individuals who pose national security risks or have been involved in war crimes or torture, to those accused of Medicaid and Medicare fraud or other forms of government fraud. It remains unclear which specific criteria apply to the roughly 300 people currently identified, or why they were singled out. The New York Times first reported the figure. The denaturalisation drive sits within a much broader immigration enforcement push that has defined Trump's second term. This, over the past year, has included mass deportation operations, large-scale ICE deployments into American cities, and the construction of detention facilities. How many naturalised citizens does the US have? Roughly 800,000 people become naturalised US citizens each year, according to Homeland Security data.

Why is the US government moving to strip citizenship from hundreds of people? Under Donald Trump, the Justice Department is fast-tracking denaturalisation cases, with at least 300 individuals under review.Who’s being targeted? Is your citizenship at risk? Scroll down to find out.

Trump DOJ working at 'warp speed' to strip hundreds of Americans of US citizenship. Are you at risk?

The alleged 'sugar daddy' Julia Varvaro, the Department of Homeland Security deputy assistant secretary for counterterrorism, has been identified as a business executive who cashed in on millions in US government last year. Varvaro, a senior Trump administration official, was recently placed on administrative leave after allegations about her personal life triggered an internal inquiry. Amid reports of Varvaro's personal life, the spotlight is now shifting to the man who filed the complaint. Here's all we know about Trump top aide's 'sugar daddy'.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-use-nuclear-weapons-against-tehran-trump-finally-reveals-his-plan-on-day-55-of-iran-war-1776996331952">US to use nuclear weapons against Tehran? Trump FINALLY REVEALS his plan on day 55 of Iran war</a><h2>Julia Varvaro and 'sugar daddy' allegations</h2>Julia Varvaro, a senior DHS counterterrorism official, is under investigation following claims that she maintained a profile on a seeking.com, a website associated with young singles seeking out "sugar daddy" relationships with older men. The allegations surfaced in a report by the Daily Mail and were later referred to the department’s inspector general. According to the report, Varvaro was earlier involved in a relationship with a man only identified as "Robert B". The relationship allegedly centred on lavish spending and financial demands.The ex-boyfriend claimed that "Everywhere we went, she’d always order the most expensive things on the menu, like the Wagyu premier cut of Japanese beef." He also claimed tensions escalated after trips abroad, including Italy and Switzerland, where he paid for luxury items such as designer goods, ski gear, and a handbag. Varvaro allegedly also asked him for help with rent during a DHS shutdown furlough period.People familiar with Varvaro’s side of the story say the trips were mutual and that Bianchi is now attempting to escalate the issue after the relationship ended. They also dispute suggestions that she faced financial pressure, saying her education was funded by her family.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-profiting-off-righteous-operation-how-an-army-soldier-used-secret-war-plans-about-maduro-s-capture-to-make-400-000-on-polymarket-1776993168140">'Profiting off righteous operation': How an army soldier used secret war plans about Maduro's capture to make $400,000 on Polymarket | IN PICS</a>However, now it has been revealed that the former boyfriend is actually a 57-year-old business executive who last year made millions in government contracts. This raises the question if this was actually a sugar daddy relationship with Varvaro using Robert B., or if he was actually the one using the DHS counterterrorism official for government contracts.<h2>Varvaro's sugar daddy IDENTIFIED</h2>The New York Post has identified Julia Varvaro's alleged sugar daddy as Robert Bianchi, a Maryland-based business executive who, according to multiple reports. Reports suggest that the two were in a relationship that lasted around three months and ended on poor terms.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🇺🇸 A DHS counterterrorism official is on leave after her ex-boyfriend filed a complaint accusing her of using him as a sugar daddy. Turns out he&#39;s an IT contractor with $67 million in government contracts, a third of which came in the last two years. He spent $40,000 on… <a href="https://t.co/5GL74ZNeP9">https://t.co/5GL74ZNeP9</a> <a href="https://t.co/fVFLMgUe1B">pic.twitter.com/fVFLMgUe1B</a>&mdash; Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarioNawfal/status/2047380483135209473?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Bianchi, who runs a federal contracting firm, is said to have filed the complaint that led to the investigation.Notably, Bianchi's company, SDVO Solutions, has secured more than $67 million in US government contracts since 2015, with a significant share awarded in the past two fiscal years. The firm works in IT and telecommunications and has contracts with agencies including the Department of Defence and the Department of Health and Human Services. As of now, there is no indication that those contracts are linked in any way to Varvaro.<h2>Investigation underway</h2>The Department of Homeland Security has not publicly commented on the specifics of the case. However, the complaint prompted a review by the Office of Inspector General, which in turn led to Varvaro being placed on leave. Varvaro, who holds advanced degrees in homeland security and previously worked at FEMA, joined DHS in her current role in 2025. &nbsp;

Who is the man at the centre of the “sugar daddy” controversy involving a top Trump aide? The identity of DHS official Julia Varvaro's ex-boyfriend was revealed as a contractor who made millions from US government contracts.

What really happened between them? Scroll down to find out.

The alleged 'sugar daddy' Julia Varvaro, the Department of Homeland Security deputy assistant secretary for counterterrorism, has been identified as a business executive who cashed in on millions in US government last year. Varvaro, a senior Trump administration official, was recently placed on administrative leave after allegations about her personal life triggered an internal inquiry. Amid reports of Varvaro's personal life, the spotlight is now shifting to the man who filed the complaint. Here's all we know about Trump top aide's 'sugar daddy'. Also read | US to use nuclear weapons against Tehran? Trump FINALLY REVEALS his plan on day 55 of Iran war Julia Varvaro and 'sugar daddy' allegations Julia Varvaro, a senior DHS counterterrorism official, is under investigation following claims that she maintained a profile on a seeking.com, a website associated with young singles seeking out "sugar daddy" relationships with older men. The allegations surfaced in a report by the Daily Mail and were later referred to the department’s inspector general. According to the report, Varvaro was earlier involved in a relationship with a man only identified as "Robert B". The relationship allegedly centred on lavish spending and financial demands. The ex-boyfriend claimed that "Everywhere we went, she’d always order the most expensive things on the menu, like the Wagyu premier cut of Japanese beef." He also claimed tensions escalated after trips abroad, including Italy and Switzerland, where he paid for luxury items such as designer goods, ski gear, and a handbag. Varvaro allegedly also asked him for help with rent during a DHS shutdown furlough period. People familiar with Varvaro’s side of the story say the trips were mutual and that Bianchi is now attempting to escalate the issue after the relationship ended. They also dispute suggestions that she faced financial pressure, saying her education was funded by her family. Also read | 'Profiting off righteous operation': How an army soldier used secret war plans about Maduro's capture to make $400,000 on Polymarket | IN PICS However, now it has been revealed that the former boyfriend is actually a 57-year-old business executive who last year made millions in government contracts. This raises the question if this was actually a sugar daddy relationship with Varvaro using Robert B., or if he was actually the one using the DHS counterterrorism official for government contracts. Varvaro's sugar daddy IDENTIFIED The New York Post has identified Julia Varvaro's alleged sugar daddy as Robert Bianchi, a Maryland-based business executive who, according to multiple reports. Reports suggest that the two were in a relationship that lasted around three months and ended on poor terms.

Who is the man at the centre of the “sugar daddy” controversy involving a top Trump aide? The identity of DHS official Julia Varvaro's ex-boyfriend was revealed as a contractor who made millions from US government contracts.What really happened between them? Scroll down to find out.

Julia Varvaro's ‘sugar daddy’ IDENTIFIED as businessman who won $67m in US govt contracts. All we know

Thousands of Indian H-1B visa holders who traveled to India in December for routine visa renewals have found themselves stranded after US consulates unexpectedly canceled their interviews. In some cases, interviews have been rescheduled as far out as October 2026. Immigration lawyers have called it a "huge mess," saying that they have never seen such confusion before, with some unsure whether there was any clear plan behind the changes.&nbsp;According to reports from the Washington Post, many of these workers, primarily from the tech industry, had planned their travel around the US holiday season, a typical time for visa renewals. Now, they are stuck in India with expired visas, unable to return to the US for their jobs or reunite with their families. The State Department informed applicants that the delays were a result of expanded social media screening implemented under the Trump administration. The policy is designed to better vet visa applicants to ensure national security and public safety.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/when-the-desert-turned-white-saudi-arabia-sees-snowfall-for-first-time-in-decades-as-rare-cold-wave-sweeps-the-kingdom-1766408975495">When the desert turned white: Saudi Arabia sees snowfall for first time in decades as rare cold wave sweeps the Kingdom</a>&nbsp;Immigration lawyers handling these cases say that dozens of clients have been affected. Some firms report having over 100 workers stranded. These individuals are mostly experienced professionals in their 30s and 40s, with many of them working in high-demand fields like technology. The disruptions have caused major personal and professional setbacks. Some workers who traveled with their children face difficult choices, including whether to keep them out of school or send them back to the US alone. Others are separated from spouses or are facing unpaid leave while their savings diminish. Veena Vijay Ananth, an experienced immigration lawyer based in India, described the situation as "the biggest mess" she had encountered, adding that there seemed to be no clear plan in place to resolve it.&nbsp;The US State Department responded, saying that visa interviews are now being prioritised to ensure thorough vetting of applicants. This shift in priorities has led to a significant increase in processing times for H-1B visas. India is the largest source of H-1B workers, with the country accounting for 71% of visa holders, according to a 2025 USCIS report. Companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta are among the biggest sponsors of these workers.&nbsp;The visa delays are part of broader changes to the H-1B program implemented during Trump's second term. In July, the US government ended remote visa renewals for H-1B and H4 visa holders, requiring applicants to return to their home countries. Later, an executive order was signed imposing a $100,000 fee on new H-1B applications. Social media screening was rolled out in December as part of the vetting process.&nbsp;As a result of these changes, many applicants are now facing delays of several months. Most visa holders had their interviews rescheduled between March and June, with some appointments pushed back to October, and in rare cases, even to 2027. While the US State Department claims the delays are due to operational constraints linked to security concerns, some immigration lawyers suggest that the real motivation may be a growing political opposition to the H-1B program, particularly regarding Indian nationals.&nbsp;

'Biggest mess': Thousands of Indian H-1B visa holders stuck in India after interviews cancelled

Thousands of Indian H-1B visa holders who traveled to India in December for routine visa renewals have found themselves stranded after US consulates unexpectedly canceled their interviews. In some cases, interviews have been rescheduled as far out as October 2026. Immigration lawyers have called it a "huge mess," saying that they have never seen such confusion before, with some unsure whether there was any clear plan behind the changes. According to reports from the Washington Post, many of these workers, primarily from the tech industry, had planned their travel around the US holiday season, a typical time for visa renewals. Now, they are stuck in India with expired visas, unable to return to the US for their jobs or reunite with their families. The State Department informed applicants that the delays were a result of expanded social media screening implemented under the Trump administration. The policy is designed to better vet visa applicants to ensure national security and public safety. Also Read: When the desert turned white: Saudi Arabia sees snowfall for first time in decades as rare cold wave sweeps the Kingdom Immigration lawyers handling these cases say that dozens of clients have been affected. Some firms report having over 100 workers stranded. These individuals are mostly experienced professionals in their 30s and 40s, with many of them working in high-demand fields like technology. The disruptions have caused major personal and professional setbacks. Some workers who traveled with their children face difficult choices, including whether to keep them out of school or send them back to the US alone. Others are separated from spouses or are facing unpaid leave while their savings diminish. Veena Vijay Ananth, an experienced immigration lawyer based in India, described the situation as "the biggest mess" she had encountered, adding that there seemed to be no clear plan in place to resolve it. The US State Department responded, saying that visa interviews are now being prioritised to ensure thorough vetting of applicants. This shift in priorities has led to a significant increase in processing times for H-1B visas. India is the largest source of H-1B workers, with the country accounting for 71% of visa holders, according to a 2025 USCIS report. Companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta are among the biggest sponsors of these workers. The visa delays are part of broader changes to the H-1B program implemented during Trump's second term. In July, the US government ended remote visa renewals for H-1B and H4 visa holders, requiring applicants to return to their home countries. Later, an executive order was signed imposing a $100,000 fee on new H-1B applications. Social media screening was rolled out in December as part of the vetting process. As a result of these changes, many applicants are now facing delays of several months. Most visa holders had their interviews rescheduled between March and June, with some appointments pushed back to October, and in rare cases, even to 2027. While the US State Department claims the delays are due to operational constraints linked to security concerns, some immigration lawyers suggest that the real motivation may be a growing political opposition to the H-1B program, particularly regarding Indian nationals.

Thousands of Indian H-1B visa holders face cancellations and delays in US consulate interviews, leaving many stranded in India. Professional and personal lives are also affected

"US President Donald Trump’s administration filed a lawsuit on Monday (Nov 17) against California over new laws that ban federal officers from wearing facial coverings and require them to have identification while carrying out their duties. In the lawsuit, the administration argued that the state’s laws violate the Constitution’s Supremacy Clause, according to which federal laws supersede state laws. They further claimed that the laws put the federal officers’ safety at risk.“Law enforcement officers risk their lives every day to keep Americans safe, and they do not deserve to be doxed or harassed simply for carrying out their duties,” the attorney general, Pam Bondi, said in a statement. “California’s anti-law enforcement policies discriminate against the federal government and are designed to create risk for our agents. These laws cannot stand.”In the suit, the Department of Justice described the issue as California’s “unconstitutional attempt to regulate federal law enforcement officers through the so-called ‘No Secret Police Act’ and ‘No Vigilantes Act’”.During Trump’s immigration crackdown, federal officers have covered their faces during raids and refused to provide any identification to people they detain.In September, California’s governor Gavin Newsom signed laws, making the state the first to ban most law enforcement officers, including face coverings for federal immigration agents, while conducting their duties.The law bans ski masks, neck gaiters and other facial coverings for local and federal agents, including immigration officials. However, it excludes undercover agents, protective equipment like N95 masks or tactical gear and does not apply to state police. The officers are also required to wear clear identification with their agency and badge number on duty starting in January.Calling the law a “PR stunt”, the DHS had posted on X in September, “To be clear: We will NOT comply with Gavin Newsom's unconstitutional mask ban.”

In the lawsuit, the administration argued that the state’s laws violate the Constitution’s Supremacy Clause, according to which federal laws supersede state laws.

"US President Donald Trump’s administration filed a lawsuit on Monday (Nov 17) against California over new laws that ban federal officers from wearing facial coverings and require them to have identification while carrying out their duties. In the lawsuit, the administration argued that the state’s laws violate the Constitution’s Supremacy Clause, according to which federal laws supersede state laws. They further claimed that the laws put the federal officers’ safety at risk. “Law enforcement officers risk their lives every day to keep Americans safe, and they do not deserve to be doxed or harassed simply for carrying out their duties,” the attorney general, Pam Bondi, said in a statement. “California’s anti-law enforcement policies discriminate against the federal government and are designed to create risk for our agents. These laws cannot stand.” In the suit, the Department of Justice described the issue as California’s “unconstitutional attempt to regulate federal law enforcement officers through the so-called ‘No Secret Police Act’ and ‘No Vigilantes Act’”. During Trump’s immigration crackdown, federal officers have covered their faces during raids and refused to provide any identification to people they detain. In September, California’s governor Gavin Newsom signed laws, making the state the first to ban most law enforcement officers, including face coverings for federal immigration agents, while conducting their duties. The law bans ski masks, neck gaiters and other facial coverings for local and federal agents, including immigration officials. However, it excludes undercover agents, protective equipment like N95 masks or tactical gear and does not apply to state police. The officers are also required to wear clear identification with their agency and badge number on duty starting in January. Calling the law a “PR stunt”, the DHS had posted on X in September, “To be clear: We will NOT comply with Gavin Newsom's unconstitutional mask ban.”

In the lawsuit, the administration argued that the state’s laws violate the Constitution’s Supremacy Clause, according to which federal laws supersede state laws.

‘These laws cannot stand’: Trump administration sues California over ban on federal agents wearing masks

US President Donald Trump’s administration on Friday (Oct 31) restricted access for credentialed journalists from the core part of the White House press office without a prior appointment. The new rule bars journalists from entering the offices of press secretary Karoline Leavitt and other top communications officials in the West Wing, also known as Upper Press. The move has been taken to protect “sensitive material” and will take effect immediately.Defending the move, White House Communications Director Steven Cheung accused the reporters of “ambushing” cabinet secretaries in the area and secretly recording video and audio.Cheung said on X that “some reporters have been caught secretly recording video and audio of our offices, along with pictures of sensitive info, without permission.”“Cabinet Secretaries routinely come into our office for private meetings, only to be ambushed by reporters waiting outside our doors,” he added, also accusing reporters of “eavesdropping on private, closed-door meetings.” He did not provide any evidence for the accusations.<h2>What did the memo say?</h2>“This memorandum directs the prohibition of press passholders from accessing... ‘Upper Press,’ which is situated adjacent to the Oval Office, without an appointment,” said a memo, addressed to Leavitt and Cheung, from the White House National Security Council (NSC). It added that the decision was aimed at “protecting sensitive material from unauthorized disclosure in Upper Press.”Until now, White House reporters were allowed to visit the area freely, including seeking information or confirming stories from Leavitt or senior press officers. According to the memo, the journalists can now only access the area called “Lower Press”, which is next to the White House briefing room and has more junior press officers’ desks.The new guidelines come amid other restrictions imposed by the Trump administration, including new rules for journalists at the Pentagon that major outlets refused to sign earlier this month.The memo stated that the new restrictions were imposed due to “recent structural changes to the National Security Council”, which meant that White House press officers were now dealing with more sensitive information.The NSC was put under the control of Secretary of State Marco Rubio following the scandal involving the use of the messaging app Signal for discussing strikes on Yemen that led to the resignation of former National Security Advisor Mike Waltz.

The move has been taken to protect “sensitive material” and will take effect immediately.

US President Donald Trump’s administration on Friday (Oct 31) restricted access for credentialed journalists from the core part of the White House press office without a prior appointment. The new rule bars journalists from entering the offices of press secretary Karoline Leavitt and other top communications officials in the West Wing, also known as Upper Press. The move has been taken to protect “sensitive material” and will take effect immediately. Defending the move, White House Communications Director Steven Cheung accused the reporters of “ambushing” cabinet secretaries in the area and secretly recording video and audio. Cheung said on X that “some reporters have been caught secretly recording video and audio of our offices, along with pictures of sensitive info, without permission.” “Cabinet Secretaries routinely come into our office for private meetings, only to be ambushed by reporters waiting outside our doors,” he added, also accusing reporters of “eavesdropping on private, closed-door meetings.” He did not provide any evidence for the accusations. What did the memo say? “This memorandum directs the prohibition of press passholders from accessing... ‘Upper Press,’ which is situated adjacent to the Oval Office, without an appointment,” said a memo, addressed to Leavitt and Cheung, from the White House National Security Council (NSC). It added that the decision was aimed at “protecting sensitive material from unauthorized disclosure in Upper Press.” Until now, White House reporters were allowed to visit the area freely, including seeking information or confirming stories from Leavitt or senior press officers. According to the memo, the journalists can now only access the area called “Lower Press”, which is next to the White House briefing room and has more junior press officers’ desks. The new guidelines come amid other restrictions imposed by the Trump administration, including new rules for journalists at the Pentagon that major outlets refused to sign earlier this month. The memo stated that the new restrictions were imposed due to “recent structural changes to the National Security Council”, which meant that White House press officers were now dealing with more sensitive information. The NSC was put under the control of Secretary of State Marco Rubio following the scandal involving the use of the messaging app Signal for discussing strikes on Yemen that led to the resignation of former National Security Advisor Mike Waltz.

The move has been taken to protect “sensitive material” and will take effect immediately.

‘Protecting sensitive material’: White House bars journalists from accessing press secretary’s office

Several major US news organisations have refused to sign a new Pentagon policy that limits journalists’ access to defense facilities and requires them to pledge not to obtain “unauthorised” information - aka not pursue investigative journalism. The Defense Department, led by Secretary Pete Hegseth, has given reporters until Tuesday (Oct 14) 5pm to sign the pledge or turn in their press credentials within 24 hours. The policy also bars journalists from entering certain areas without official escorts.<h2>US media refuses to bow down</h2>The Washington Post, New York Times, CNN, the Atlantic, the Guardian, and Breaking Defense said Monday they would not comply. The outlets called the move unconstitutional and an attack on press freedom.Washington Post executive editor Matt Murray, in a statement, said the policy “undercuts First Amendment protections by placing unnecessary constraints on gathering and publishing information. We will continue to vigorously and fairly report on the policies and positions of the Pentagon and officials across the government.”The Atlantic said it “fundamentally” opposes the restrictions. The New York Times added that the public “has a right to know how the government and military are operating,” noting that the US military is "funded by nearly $1 trillion in taxpayer dollars annually".<h2>Pete Hegseth mocks press</h2>Hegseth, a former Fox News host, responded on X with a hand waving goodbye emoji and a post mocking critics with a list of what he called “Press Credentialing FOR DUMMIES,” and saying that "Press no longer roams free; Press must wear visible badge; Credentialed press no longer permitted to solicit criminal acts".&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Pentagon access is a privilege, not a right. So, here is <a href="https://twitter.com/DeptofWar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DeptofWar</a> press credentialing FOR DUMMIES: ✅ Press no longer roams free ✅ Press must wear visible badge ✅ Credentialed press no longer permitted to solicit criminal acts DONE. Pentagon now has same rules as every…&mdash; Pete Hegseth (@PeteHegseth) <a href="https://twitter.com/PeteHegseth/status/1977828217315549301?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

He later reposted a cartoon showing the Atlantic as a crying baby.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Yes <a href="https://t.co/HCQSGscUua">https://t.co/HCQSGscUua</a>&mdash; Pete Hegseth (@PeteHegseth) <a href="https://twitter.com/PeteHegseth/status/1977813700393513464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Even some right-leaning outlets balked at the prospect of signing the letter. Newsmax told the Times it “has no plans to sign the letter,” calling the rules “unnecessary and onerous.” But One America News, a staunchly pro-Trump network, accepted the terms. Host and former congressman Matt Gaetz said the outlet was “happy to follow these reasonable conditions.”<h2>Just journalists having a meltdown?</h2>Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said the backlash was exaggerated, claiming the policy only requires journalists to acknowledge its terms, not agree to them. He accused reporters of having a “full-blown meltdown” and insisted the rules are “what’s best for our troops and the national security of this country.”The Pentagon Press Association, which represents defense reporters, slamming the policy said it appears to be “designed to stifle a free press and potentially expose us to prosecution for simply doing our jobs”. It sends an unprecedented message of intimidation,” the group said, “unprecedented message of intimidation to everyone within the DoD, warning against any unapproved interactions with the press and even suggesting it’s criminal to speak without express permission – which plainly, it is not”.

Pentagon’s new media policy sparks newsroom revolt: Major US news organisations have refused to sign a new Pentagon policy restricting reporters’ access. To this, Pete Hegseth, a former journalist, has responded with mockery. All you need to know.

Several major US news organisations have refused to sign a new Pentagon policy that limits journalists’ access to defense facilities and requires them to pledge not to obtain “unauthorised” information - aka not pursue investigative journalism. The Defense Department, led by Secretary Pete Hegseth, has given reporters until Tuesday (Oct 14) 5pm to sign the pledge or turn in their press credentials within 24 hours. The policy also bars journalists from entering certain areas without official escorts. US media refuses to bow down The Washington Post, New York Times, CNN, the Atlantic, the Guardian, and Breaking Defense said Monday they would not comply. The outlets called the move unconstitutional and an attack on press freedom. Washington Post executive editor Matt Murray, in a statement, said the policy “undercuts First Amendment protections by placing unnecessary constraints on gathering and publishing information. We will continue to vigorously and fairly report on the policies and positions of the Pentagon and officials across the government.” The Atlantic said it “fundamentally” opposes the restrictions. The New York Times added that the public “has a right to know how the government and military are operating,” noting that the US military is "funded by nearly $1 trillion in taxpayer dollars annually". Pete Hegseth mocks press Hegseth, a former Fox News host, responded on X with a hand waving goodbye emoji and a post mocking critics with a list of what he called “Press Credentialing FOR DUMMIES,” and saying that "Press no longer roams free; Press must wear visible badge; Credentialed press no longer permitted to solicit criminal acts".

Pentagon’s new media policy sparks newsroom revolt: Major US news organisations have refused to sign a new Pentagon policy restricting reporters’ access. To this, Pete Hegseth, a former journalist, has responded with mockery. All you need to know.

Ex-journalist Pete Hegseth mocks press as US media revolts against Pentagon’s gag order: ‘Press no longer roams free’

The Trump administration has ordered FBI employees in Washington, DC, and New York to search their offices for any records tied to the disappearance of aviator Amelia Earhart, reports citing law enforcement sources suggest. According to CNN, agents have received a high-priority message from leadership on Tuesday (Oct 7) marked “urgent,” directing them to search “any areas where papers or physical media records may be stored, to include both open or closed cases, for records responsive to Amelia Earhart.” The directive supposedly came directly from the Executive Office of the President. Employees have reportedly been given till Wednesday to respond. What's surprising is that this directive comes even as the federal government shutdown entered its seventh day.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-she-looked-dead-rapist-husamettin-dogan-s-appeal-backfires-as-gisele-pelicot-s-ex-husband-exposes-chilling-truth-in-court-1759904740119">‘She looked dead’: Rapist Husamettin Dogan’s appeal backfires as Gisele Pelicot’s ex-husband exposes chilling truth in court</a><h2>The mysterious disappearance of Amelia Earhart</h2>Earhart vanished in 1937 while attempting to become the first woman to fly around the world. She was declared lost at sea after a 16-day search when her plane disappeared somewhere over the Pacific.Last month, President Donald Trump said he was ordering his administration to declassify and release all records related to her disappearance.“Her disappearance, almost 90 years ago, has captivated millions,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “I am ordering my Administration to declassify and release all Government Records related to Amelia Earhart, her final trip, and everything else about her.”Earhart, who became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean, broke multiple aviation records and remains one of the most iconic figures in flight history.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-sudden-death-syndrome-another-russian-elite-falls-to-death-former-pravda-publisher-vyacheslav-leontyev-latest-in-string-of-mystery-suicides-1759909542532">'Sudden Death Syndrome': Another Russian elite falls to death — former Pravda publisher Vyacheslav Leontyev latest in string of ‘mystery suicides’</a>Theories about what happened to her have persisted for decades, ranging from a crash at sea to claims she was captured by the Japanese during World War II. US officials have long believed Earhart’s plane likely ran out of fuel and went down in the Pacific. Trump has previously pushed to release long-classified files tied to other historic mysteries, including the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy, Senator Robert F. Kennedy, and Martin Luther King Jr.&nbsp;

The Trump administration has ordered FBI offices in DC and New York to urgently search for any records on Amelia Earhart, amid the federal shutdown. The directive follows Trump’s push to declassify all files on her 1937 disappearance, nearly 90 years after she vanished over the Pacific.

The Trump administration has ordered FBI employees in Washington, DC, and New York to search their offices for any records tied to the disappearance of aviator Amelia Earhart, reports citing law enforcement sources suggest. According to CNN, agents have received a high-priority message from leadership on Tuesday (Oct 7) marked “urgent,” directing them to search “any areas where papers or physical media records may be stored, to include both open or closed cases, for records responsive to Amelia Earhart.” The directive supposedly came directly from the Executive Office of the President. Employees have reportedly been given till Wednesday to respond. What's surprising is that this directive comes even as the federal government shutdown entered its seventh day. Also read | ‘She looked dead’: Rapist Husamettin Dogan’s appeal backfires as Gisele Pelicot’s ex-husband exposes chilling truth in court The mysterious disappearance of Amelia Earhart Earhart vanished in 1937 while attempting to become the first woman to fly around the world. She was declared lost at sea after a 16-day search when her plane disappeared somewhere over the Pacific. Last month, President Donald Trump said he was ordering his administration to declassify and release all records related to her disappearance. “Her disappearance, almost 90 years ago, has captivated millions,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “I am ordering my Administration to declassify and release all Government Records related to Amelia Earhart, her final trip, and everything else about her.” Earhart, who became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean, broke multiple aviation records and remains one of the most iconic figures in flight history. Also read | 'Sudden Death Syndrome': Another Russian elite falls to death — former Pravda publisher Vyacheslav Leontyev latest in string of ‘mystery suicides’ Theories about what happened to her have persisted for decades, ranging from a crash at sea to claims she was captured by the Japanese during World War II. US officials have long believed Earhart’s plane likely ran out of fuel and went down in the Pacific. Trump has previously pushed to release long-classified files tied to other historic mysteries, including the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy, Senator Robert F. Kennedy, and Martin Luther King Jr.

The Trump administration has ordered FBI offices in DC and New York to urgently search for any records on Amelia Earhart, amid the federal shutdown. The directive follows Trump’s push to declassify all files on her 1937 disappearance, nearly 90 years after she vanished over the Pacific.

Trump orders FBI to 'urgently' search for Amelia Earhart files amid government shutdown

California Gov. Gavin Newsom said on Sunday that he will sue the White House over its efforts to send 300 California National Guard members to Portland after a federal judge on Saturday blocked the president’s attempt to federalize and deploy the Oregon National Guard there. Newsom called the president’s actions “a breathtaking abuse of the law and power.” “The Trump Administration is unapologetically attacking the rule of law itself and putting into action their dangerous words—ignoring court orders and treating judges, even those appointed by the President himself, as political opponents,” Newsom said.&nbsp;“In response to a federal court order that blocked his attempt to federalize the Oregon National Guard, President Trump is deploying 300 California National Guard personnel into Oregon. They are on their way there now,” Newsom, a Democrat, said in a statement. “This is a breathtaking abuse of the law and power.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">After a federal court blocked his attempt to federalize the Oregon National Guard, Donald Trump is deploying 300 California National Guard personnel into Oregon. They are on their way there now. We are taking this fight back to court. The public cannot stay silent in the face…&mdash; Governor Gavin Newsom (@CAgovernor) <a href="https://twitter.com/CAgovernor/status/1974882275927249293?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>White House confirms California National Guard troops deployed to Oregon</h2> In a statement, the White House confirmed the movement of California National Guard troops to Oregon. “President Trump exercised his lawful authority to protect federal assets and personnel in Portland following violent riots and attacks on law enforcement. For once, Gavin Newscum should stand on the side of law-abiding citizens instead of violent criminals destroying Portland and cities across the country,” White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson said, referring to the California governor with a nickname often used by the president. In a statement, Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek, a Democrat, confirmed that California National Guard troops had already arrived in Oregon, saying, “101 federalized California National Guard members arrived in Oregon last night via plane, and it is our understanding that there are more on the way today.” She condemned the move, saying, “This action appears to intentional to circumvent yesterday’s ruling by a federal judge. The facts haven’t changed. There is no need for military intervention in Oregon. There is no insurrection in Portland. No threat to national security. Oregon is our home, not a military target. Oregonians exercising their freedom of speech against unlawful actions by the Trump Administration should do so peacefully.” WATCH: Gaza peace deal: US envoy joins Egyptian, Qatari mediators for peace push<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaza-peace-deal-us-envoy-joins-egyptian-qatari-mediators-for-peace-push-1759686725041/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaza-peace-deal-us-envoy-joins-egyptian-qatari-mediators-for-peace-push-1759686725041/embed</a> On Saturday, one day after the Trump administration activated 200 Oregon National Guard troops in Portland, a federal judge temporarily blocked the president's move. US District Judge Karin J. Immergut, a Trump appointee, issued the temporary block, which lasts until at least Oct. 18. “This country has a longstanding and foundational tradition of resistance to government overreach, especially in the form of military intrusion into civil affairs,” she wrote in her ruling. The president has clashed repeatedly with Democratic governors and mayors over the weekend over his moves to deploy National Guard troops across the country. Democrats also blasted the president’s comments to senior military leaders last week, when he told them that the military should “use some of these dangerous cities as training grounds for our military National Guard.”

Trump has clashed repeatedly with Democratic governors and mayors over his moves to deploy National Guard troops across the country. Democrats also blasted Trump’s comments last week, when he said the military should “use some of these dangerous cities as training grounds.”

California Gov. Gavin Newsom said on Sunday that he will sue the White House over its efforts to send 300 California National Guard members to Portland after a federal judge on Saturday blocked the president’s attempt to federalize and deploy the Oregon National Guard there. Newsom called the president’s actions “a breathtaking abuse of the law and power.” “The Trump Administration is unapologetically attacking the rule of law itself and putting into action their dangerous words—ignoring court orders and treating judges, even those appointed by the President himself, as political opponents,” Newsom said. “In response to a federal court order that blocked his attempt to federalize the Oregon National Guard, President Trump is deploying 300 California National Guard personnel into Oregon. They are on their way there now,” Newsom, a Democrat, said in a statement. “This is a breathtaking abuse of the law and power.”

Trump has clashed repeatedly with Democratic governors and mayors over his moves to deploy National Guard troops across the country. Democrats also blasted Trump’s comments last week, when he said the military should “use some of these dangerous cities as training grounds.”

Gov. Newsom says Trump admin has deployed California National Guard troops to Oregon, vows to sue

A NASA report released by the US Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation has whistleblowers warning that all is not well at the space agency, and the current circumstances can also lead to the death of an astronaut in the near future. The 21-page report states that officials at NASA are keeping things secret, and there are no open channels of communication. The space agency is reportedly in the grips of fear, which is preventing workers from reporting safety issues. All this has stemmed from the budget cuts for 2026-27 proposed by the Trump administration. A person told the committee that the dire conditions at NASA could even lead to an astronaut dying because of ignored safety issues. The committee has clearly stated that the budget cuts are unapproved, as any such measures need to be approved by Congress as well. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/is-nasa-nuking-an-asteroid-real-life-armageddon-could-happen-by-2031-details-1759238690934">Is NASA nuking an asteroid? Real-life Armageddon could happen by 2031 | Details</a>&nbsp;<h2>NASA budget cuts threaten astronaut safety because of an environment of fear</h2>The committee slammed the White House and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for creating such an environment where people are fearful of speaking up amid the budget cuts, which it says have been illegally enforced. Notably, the Trump administration earlier announced that the NASA budget for next year will be slashed from $24.8 billion to $18.8 billion. According to the plan, science projects will see a reduction of 33% budget and a 47 per cent cut in NASA projects. Nearly 32 per cent of the agency's workforce will also be laid off. The scientific community has been up in arms since the May announcement, which they say will immensely affect America's endeavour to lead the space race.&nbsp;The whistleblowers state in the report that the new policies at NASA are breaking the agency's rules and endangering its mission. The NASA staffers told the committee leadership that they have been told to follow only the unapproved 2026 budget (PBR), and nothing outside of it counts. This led them to speak up since this means putting space missions at risk and endangering spaceflights with astronauts. "I see safety issues around us all the time," one witness stated in the report. Another NASA employee raised concerns that "we're going to see an astronaut death within a few years."&nbsp;&nbsp;

NASA budget cuts pose a safety risk for astronauts, as whistleblowers stated in a report that communication is limited amid the 2026 budget cuts. People are fearful of openly flagging safety risks, which could mean risking the lives of astronauts on space missions.

A NASA report released by the US Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation has whistleblowers warning that all is not well at the space agency, and the current circumstances can also lead to the death of an astronaut in the near future. The 21-page report states that officials at NASA are keeping things secret, and there are no open channels of communication. The space agency is reportedly in the grips of fear, which is preventing workers from reporting safety issues. All this has stemmed from the budget cuts for 2026-27 proposed by the Trump administration. A person told the committee that the dire conditions at NASA could even lead to an astronaut dying because of ignored safety issues. The committee has clearly stated that the budget cuts are unapproved, as any such measures need to be approved by Congress as well. Also Read: Is NASA nuking an asteroid? Real-life Armageddon could happen by 2031 | Details NASA budget cuts threaten astronaut safety because of an environment of fear The committee slammed the White House and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for creating such an environment where people are fearful of speaking up amid the budget cuts, which it says have been illegally enforced. Notably, the Trump administration earlier announced that the NASA budget for next year will be slashed from $24.8 billion to $18.8 billion. According to the plan, science projects will see a reduction of 33% budget and a 47 per cent cut in NASA projects. Nearly 32 per cent of the agency's workforce will also be laid off. The scientific community has been up in arms since the May announcement, which they say will immensely affect America's endeavour to lead the space race. The whistleblowers state in the report that the new policies at NASA are breaking the agency's rules and endangering its mission. The NASA staffers told the committee leadership that they have been told to follow only the unapproved 2026 budget (PBR), and nothing outside of it counts. This led them to speak up since this means putting space missions at risk and endangering spaceflights with astronauts. "I see safety issues around us all the time," one witness stated in the report. Another NASA employee raised concerns that "we're going to see an astronaut death within a few years."

NASA budget cuts pose a safety risk for astronauts, as whistleblowers stated in a report that communication is limited amid the 2026 budget cuts. People are fearful of openly flagging safety risks, which could mean risking the lives of astronauts on space missions.

NASA budget cuts could cause 'an astronaut death', whistleblowers warn - 'Safety issues everywhere'

A disease name that was changed because of being seen as racist is being used once again in the United States. The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention is back to calling "mpox" "monkeypox" &nbsp;under the Trump administration. The revelation was made in a report by NPR. The CDC went back to using "monkeypox" in September. After the media learned about the reversal, they asked the Department of Health and Human Services about it. The body inaccurately stated, "Monkeypox is the name of the viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus." The disease is caused by Orthopoxvirus monkeypox, which falls in the same family as smallpox and cowpox. It started spreading rapidly in 2022 and 2024, prompting the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare international public health emergencies. But the name "monkeypox" was slammed as being racist, which led to it being changed to "mpox." The virus still has no clear origins.&nbsp;It was discovered in captive Asian monkeys sent to Denmark from Singapore in 1958. This led to the assumption that the monkeys were the natural hosts for the virus. The first human cases were identified in the 1970s in West and Central Africa. Scientists also noted that the virus had the potential to infect a broad range of animals. Current evidence suggests that African rodents, particularly squirrels, are the carriers of the virus. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/porn-blocked-multi-billion-dollar-us-adult-entertainment-industry-faces-moment-of-reckoning-as-more-states-introduce-age-verification-1759222680425">Porn blocked: Multi-billion dollar US adult entertainment industry faces moment of reckoning as more states introduce age verification</a>&nbsp;The name "monkeypox" assumed racist proportions because "monkey" has long been used as a slur for Black people. Besides, the disease was found to be spreading through sexual intercourse between men, adding to the stigma which was once all around when the HIV/AIDS pandemic started. WHO started receiving reports of "racist and stigmatising language online, in other settings, and in some communities." This led the body to change the name to mpox in 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Who names viruses?</h2>While the WHO has the authority to change the names of diseases, it cannot rename viruses. "Assigning names to new and, very exceptionally, to existing diseases is the responsibility of WHO under the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) and the WHO Family of International Health Related Classifications through a consultative process which includes WHO Member States," WHO said at the time. The International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses has the sole authority to change the name of viruses, which it hasn't done in the case of mpox. &nbsp;

The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention is once again calling “mpox” “monkeypox”, a name that was dropped because of its racist nature. NPR first reported the change. When asked about it, the Health and Human Services clearly used the name “monkeypox”. 

A disease name that was changed because of being seen as racist is being used once again in the United States. The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention is back to calling "mpox" "monkeypox" under the Trump administration. The revelation was made in a report by NPR. The CDC went back to using "monkeypox" in September. After the media learned about the reversal, they asked the Department of Health and Human Services about it. The body inaccurately stated, "Monkeypox is the name of the viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus." The disease is caused by Orthopoxvirus monkeypox, which falls in the same family as smallpox and cowpox. It started spreading rapidly in 2022 and 2024, prompting the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare international public health emergencies. But the name "monkeypox" was slammed as being racist, which led to it being changed to "mpox." The virus still has no clear origins. It was discovered in captive Asian monkeys sent to Denmark from Singapore in 1958. This led to the assumption that the monkeys were the natural hosts for the virus. The first human cases were identified in the 1970s in West and Central Africa. Scientists also noted that the virus had the potential to infect a broad range of animals. Current evidence suggests that African rodents, particularly squirrels, are the carriers of the virus. Also Read: Porn blocked: Multi-billion dollar US adult entertainment industry faces moment of reckoning as more states introduce age verification The name "monkeypox" assumed racist proportions because "monkey" has long been used as a slur for Black people. Besides, the disease was found to be spreading through sexual intercourse between men, adding to the stigma which was once all around when the HIV/AIDS pandemic started. WHO started receiving reports of "racist and stigmatising language online, in other settings, and in some communities." This led the body to change the name to mpox in 2022. Who names viruses? While the WHO has the authority to change the names of diseases, it cannot rename viruses. "Assigning names to new and, very exceptionally, to existing diseases is the responsibility of WHO under the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) and the WHO Family of International Health Related Classifications through a consultative process which includes WHO Member States," WHO said at the time. The International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses has the sole authority to change the name of viruses, which it hasn't done in the case of mpox.

The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention is once again calling “mpox” “monkeypox”, a name that was dropped because of its racist nature. NPR first reported the change. When asked about it, the Health and Human Services clearly used the name “monkeypox”.&nbsp;

A 'racist' disease name is back under Trump administration after being abolished three years ago

The US Supreme Court on Monday allowed President Donald Trump to keep a Democratic member of the Federal Trade Commission temporarily away from her post for now, pausing a judicial order for the reinstatement of the commissioner. The court’s action, known as an administrative stay, gives the justices additional time to consider Trump’s formal request to let him fire Rebecca Slaughter from the consumer protection agency that enforces antitrust law prior to the expiry of her term.Chief Justice John Roberts, who handles emergency filings arising in Washington, DC, issued the stay. Roberts also asked Slaughter to file a response by next Monday.&nbsp;The Trump administration had on Thursday asked the US Supreme Court to let him temporarily remove Slaughter till the legal fight over her dismissal is over. The request came after US District Judge Loren AliKhan blocked Trump’s firing of Slaughter, saying the attempt to remove her did not comply with removal protections in federal law. Congress put tenure protections in place to give regulatory agencies a degree of independence from presidential control.The US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit on 2 September in a 2-1 decision upheld the judge’s ruling.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Statutory protections shield FTC members from removal without cause</h2>&nbsp;The lower courts said that the statutory protections shielding FTC members from removal without cause conform with the US Constitution in light of a 1935 Supreme Court case called Humphrey’s Executor v. United States.In that case, the court ruled that a president does not have unfettered power to remove FTC commissioners, faulting then president Franklin Roosevelt’s firing of an FTC commissioner over policy differences.&nbsp;The Trump administration argued in its filing that “the modern FTC exercises far more substantial powers than the 1935 FTC,” and thus its members can be fired at will by the president.&nbsp;WATCH: Trump Family Makes $1.3 Billion From Crypto in Weeks | Report<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-family-makes-1-3-billion-from-crypto-in-weeks-report-1757351110797/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-family-makes-1-3-billion-from-crypto-in-weeks-report-1757351110797/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>Trump himself first placed Slaughter on the board in 2018</h2>&nbsp;Trump himself had first placed Slaughter on the board in 2018, and Joe Biden nominated her for a second term. The Senate confirmed her without opposition last year.The administration has repeatedly asked the justices to allow implementation of Trump policies impeded by lower courts. The Supreme Court, which has a 6-3 conservative majority, has sided with the administration in almost every case that it has been called upon to review since Trump returned to the presidency in January.&nbsp;Trump fired Slaughter and another Democratic FTC commissioner in March. The agency enforces anti-trust and consumer protection laws. Its five board members, appointed by the president, serve seven-year terms, and no more than three commissioners can be of the same political party.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The US Supreme Court, which has a 6-3 conservative majority, has sided with the administration in almost every case that it has been called upon to review since Donald Trump returned to the presidency in January.

The US Supreme Court on Monday allowed President Donald Trump to keep a Democratic member of the Federal Trade Commission temporarily away from her post for now, pausing a judicial order for the reinstatement of the commissioner. The court’s action, known as an administrative stay, gives the justices additional time to consider Trump’s formal request to let him fire Rebecca Slaughter from the consumer protection agency that enforces antitrust law prior to the expiry of her term. Chief Justice John Roberts, who handles emergency filings arising in Washington, DC, issued the stay. Roberts also asked Slaughter to file a response by next Monday. The Trump administration had on Thursday asked the US Supreme Court to let him temporarily remove Slaughter till the legal fight over her dismissal is over. The request came after US District Judge Loren AliKhan blocked Trump’s firing of Slaughter, saying the attempt to remove her did not comply with removal protections in federal law. Congress put tenure protections in place to give regulatory agencies a degree of independence from presidential control. The US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit on 2 September in a 2-1 decision upheld the judge’s ruling. Statutory protections shield FTC members from removal without cause The lower courts said that the statutory protections shielding FTC members from removal without cause conform with the US Constitution in light of a 1935 Supreme Court case called Humphrey’s Executor v. United States. In that case, the court ruled that a president does not have unfettered power to remove FTC commissioners, faulting then president Franklin Roosevelt’s firing of an FTC commissioner over policy differences. The Trump administration argued in its filing that “the modern FTC exercises far more substantial powers than the 1935 FTC,” and thus its members can be fired at will by the president. WATCH: Trump Family Makes $1.3 Billion From Crypto in Weeks | Report https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-family-makes-1-3-billion-from-crypto-in-weeks-report-1757351110797/embed Trump himself first placed Slaughter on the board in 2018 Trump himself had first placed Slaughter on the board in 2018, and Joe Biden nominated her for a second term. The Senate confirmed her without opposition last year. The administration has repeatedly asked the justices to allow implementation of Trump policies impeded by lower courts. The Supreme Court, which has a 6-3 conservative majority, has sided with the administration in almost every case that it has been called upon to review since Trump returned to the presidency in January. Trump fired Slaughter and another Democratic FTC commissioner in March. The agency enforces anti-trust and consumer protection laws. Its five board members, appointed by the president, serve seven-year terms, and no more than three commissioners can be of the same political party.

The US Supreme Court, which has a 6-3 conservative majority, has sided with the administration in almost every case that it has been called upon to review since Donald Trump returned to the presidency in January.

US supreme court allows Trump to keep Democrat away from her FTC post for now

President Donald Trump announced Tuesday that the US Space Command headquarters is being moved from Colorado Springs, Colorado, to Huntsville, Alabama, which will be known as the ‘Rocket City’. Reversing the decision made by President Joe Biden, Trump said the move was necessary as the US was “losing the space race to China and Russia.” Trump’s statement came after years of dispute between Colorado and Alabama over hosting rights for the facility. “The US Space Command HQ will move to the beautiful locale of a place called Huntsville, Alabama, forever to be known from this point forward as Rocket City,” Trump said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">President Trump: &quot; I am thrilled to report that the U.S. Space Command headquarters will move to the beautiful locale of a place called Huntsville, Alabama. Forever to be known from this point forward as &#39;Rocket City&#39;.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/qtMUAXMaLo">pic.twitter.com/qtMUAXMaLo</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1962953154737103258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

He said that when he created Space Command in his first term, he planned to make its headquarters in Alabama, but that the Biden administration established it instead in Colorado. Trump extended his gratitude to Colorado, where U.S. Space Command is currently headquartered, but he criticised the state’s use of mail ballots. “That played a big factor,” he said. Space Command, which directs America’s military activities in outer space, plays a central role in satellite defence and countering adversary capabilities. Biden had decided to keep the command at its current base in Colorado, citing operational stability, even though Trump had approved its relocation to Alabama during his first term in 2021. The issue had a political undertone as well. Colorado, a Democratic-leaning state, benefited from Biden’s decision, while Alabama, a Republican stronghold, has now regained the project under Trump’s reversal. Trump signed an executive order in 2018 re-establishing US Space Command, after it had been absorbed in 2002 into US Strategic Command. Its main goal is to find ways to defend US interests in space, especially the constellations of satellites that the US ground, sea, and air forces rely on for navigation, communications, and surveillance. In 2023, President Joe Biden had decided to keep Space Command headquarters in Colorado, where its temporary headquarters was located, overturning Trump’s first-term decision to move it to Alabama.Biden had been convinced by the then head of Space Command, Gen. James Dickinson, that moving its headquarters would jeopardise military readiness. Biden’s reversal prompted the House Armed Services Committee, chaired by Republican Mike Rogers of Alabama, to request the Pentagon's watchdog investigate the basing decision. The Defense Department Inspector General found that Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama, was the Air Force’s preferred location for the command, but building facilities to equal the ones already in Colorado could take three to four years. As per the watchdog report, Gen. Dickinson voiced concerns about that timeline’s impact on the command’s readiness, contributing to the decision Biden made to keep the headquarters in Colorado. The president’s announcement from the Oval Office was his first public appearance in a week after he spent the long weekend golfing at his private club located outside of Washington, D.C.

The issue had a political undertone as well. Colorado, a Democratic-leaning state, benefited from Biden’s decision, while Alabama, a Republican stronghold, has now regained the project under Trump’s reversal.

President Donald Trump announced Tuesday that the US Space Command headquarters is being moved from Colorado Springs, Colorado, to Huntsville, Alabama, which will be known as the ‘Rocket City’. Reversing the decision made by President Joe Biden, Trump said the move was necessary as the US was “losing the space race to China and Russia.” Trump’s statement came after years of dispute between Colorado and Alabama over hosting rights for the facility. “The US Space Command HQ will move to the beautiful locale of a place called Huntsville, Alabama, forever to be known from this point forward as Rocket City,” Trump said.

The issue had a political undertone as well. Colorado, a Democratic-leaning state, benefited from Biden’s decision, while Alabama, a Republican stronghold, has now regained the project under Trump’s reversal.

Trump moves Space Command headquarters to ‘Rocket City’ Huntsville in Alabama

Health concerns related to United States President Donald Trump refuse to die down, and the US president's silence over the matter is only adding up to the narrative. A new bruise has appeared on his left hand now, months after a bruise mark on his right hand made headlines. Videos from his meeting with former Major League Baseball player Roger Clemens and his son Kacy at Trump National Golf Club in Virginia went viral when the bruise was spotted. A dark discolouration was visible at the same place where a bruise was visible in his right hand. When asked, the White House repeated what it had previously stated - that the President meets a lot of people and shakes hands with them. Earlier, when Trump attended the FIFA Club World Cup finals, visibly swollen ankles and bruised hands raised concerns about his fitness. While some said that the blemish might be skin-toned makeup, others pointed to a possible health worry.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-skin-toned-makeup-or-health-issue-trump-s-swollen-ankles-bruised-hands-pave-way-for-rumours-here-s-what-doctors-said-1752739829005">Skin-toned makeup or health issue? Trump's swollen ankles, bruised hands pave way for rumours - Here's what doctors said</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Trump&#39;s hands yesterday <a href="https://t.co/20LonRNjW7">pic.twitter.com/20LonRNjW7</a>&mdash; MeidasTouch (@MeidasTouch) <a href="https://twitter.com/MeidasTouch/status/1959767180792483938?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

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In a statement to the Daily Beast, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said, “President Trump is a man of the people, and he meets more Americans and shakes their hands on a daily basis than any other President in history. His commitment is unwavering, and he proves that every single day. Trump's physician, Navy Captain Sean Barbabella, defended the White House statement, saying that bruising on Trump's hand is due to minor soft tissue irritation caused by frequent handshaking and regular aspirin use for heart health.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hand-makeup-health-concerns-cankles-1755957351757">Trump's bizarre hand makeup sparks new health fears after 'Cankles' scandal</a>

<h2>Trump diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency</h2>White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt last month revealed that Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a blood circulation issue, after “mild swelling was noticed in his lower legs.” Leavitt was addressing concerns over visible swelling in President Trump’s ankles and bruising on his hand when she made the disclosure and said that it was assessed to be “minor soft tissue irritation from frequent handshaking and the use of aspirin” as a preventative heart-health measure. After investigating ankle swelling, doctors determined that Trump has blood pooling in his veins, a condition Leavitt described as common among individuals over the age of 70.&nbsp;&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-reveals-details-about-trump-s-heart-health-after-concerns-about-his-swollen-ankles-test-confirmed-that-1752948008960">White House reveals details about Trump's heart health after concerns about his swollen ankles</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-totally-drunk-trump-struggles-to-walk-straight-while-approaching-putin-in-viral-video-netizens-react-1755343324461/embed">https://www.wionews.com/world/-totally-drunk-trump-struggles-to-walk-straight-while-approaching-putin-in-viral-video-netizens-react-1755343324461/embed</a>&nbsp;She emphasised that the tests showed “no evidence of deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease.” “I know that many in the media have been speculating about bruising on the president’s hand and also swelling in the president’s legs. In the effort of transparency, the president wanted me to share a note from his physician ... all results were within normal limits,” Leavitt said.&nbsp;<h2>Trump's health report</h2>The US president had undergone a health test back in April this year. According to that report, Trump is in "excellent cognitive and physical health" and had "excellent health, exhibiting robust cardiac, pulmonary, neurological, and general physical function." In the first annual physical of his second presidential term, Trump was also found to have scarring “on the right ear from a gunshot wound” after an assassination attempt last July. At 78, Trump is the oldest president to take office. Rumours about his health have been constantly floating after he took office in January this year.&nbsp;

A dark discolouration on US President Donald Trump's left hand has sparked another set of rumours regarding his health. This comes days after the White House revealed that Trump is suffering from chronic venous insufficiency

Health concerns related to United States President Donald Trump refuse to die down, and the US president's silence over the matter is only adding up to the narrative. A new bruise has appeared on his left hand now, months after a bruise mark on his right hand made headlines. Videos from his meeting with former Major League Baseball player Roger Clemens and his son Kacy at Trump National Golf Club in Virginia went viral when the bruise was spotted. A dark discolouration was visible at the same place where a bruise was visible in his right hand. When asked, the White House repeated what it had previously stated - that the President meets a lot of people and shakes hands with them. Earlier, when Trump attended the FIFA Club World Cup finals, visibly swollen ankles and bruised hands raised concerns about his fitness. While some said that the blemish might be skin-toned makeup, others pointed to a possible health worry. Read More | Skin-toned makeup or health issue? Trump's swollen ankles, bruised hands pave way for rumours - Here's what doctors said

A dark discolouration on US President Donald Trump's left hand has sparked another set of rumours regarding his health. This comes days after the White House revealed that Trump is suffering from chronic venous insufficiency

White House repeats bizarre 'shakes hands with people' theory over Trump's left-hand bruise - What his doctor said

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Aug 22) nominated his close political aide Sergio Gor as ambassador to India, placing one of his most trusted political enforcers in a key diplomatic post at a tense moment in Washington-New Delhi ties. In a Truth Social post, Trump, while announcing the appointment, said, "Sergio will make an incredible Ambassador". He added that Gor, who was once labelled a 'snake' by Trump's former DOGE chief Elon Musk, would also serve as special envoy for South and Central Asia. Who is Gor? Why did Musk call him a 'snake'? Here's all you need to know.<h2>Who is Sergio Gor?</h2>Sergio Gor has been serving as Trump's White House Director of Presidential Personnel for the past few months. 38-year-old Gor, as per AFP, rose quickly in conservative circles to become one of the most powerful, if low-profile, aides in the White House. As White House personnel chief, he vetted around 4,0000 appointees to ensure loyalty to Trump, a role that won him both allies and enemies. A high-profile name on his enemies list is X owner Elon Musk, who, as mentioned above, once called him a 'snake'.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-picks-loyal-aide-musk-enemy-sergio-gor-as-us-ambassador-to-india-calls-him-incredible-envoy-1755910479653">Trump loyalist, Musk enemy, Sergio Gor nominated as US ambassador to India</a>As per the AFP report, despite his clout, Gor has little experience in foreign policy. His exposure to foreign policy affairs has been limited to joining Trump's overseas trips and purging National Security Council officials viewed with suspicion.Despite that, Trump on Truth Social wrote that "For the most populous Region in the World" he wanted "someone I can fully trust to deliver on my Agenda and help us, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN." Calling Gor "a great friend, who has been at my side for many years," he added, "Sergio will make an incredible Ambassador".<h2>Gor's political career</h2>Born in Soviet Uzbekistan, Gor moved to Malta as a child before emigrating to the United States. He built a career in Republican politics, working with Senator Rand Paul and later as a fundraiser and book publisher for Trump. He also moonlighted as a wedding DJ before becoming a key gatekeeper in the Trump administration.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-satanic-trump-white-house-portrait-sets-internet-on-fire-netizens-call-it-his-most-honest-image-yet-compare-potus-to-hitler-1755752441076">‘Satanic’ Trump White House portrait sets internet on fire—netizens call it his most honest image yet, compare POTUS to Hitler</a>Trump, in his post, revealed that Gor worked on his Presidential Campaigns, published the Republican's "Best Selling Books", and also ran one of the biggest Super PACs, which supported our Movement. He added that "Sergio's role as Director of Presidential Personnel has been essential to delivering on the unprecedented Mandate that we received from the American People."

<h2>Why did Musk label Sergio a 'snake'?</h2>According to reports, the enmity between the two men stems from Gor's choice for NASA chief. The new US ambassador to India had apparently blocked the world's richest man's preferred pick - Jared Isaacman- to head NASA.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-vs-history-potus-tells-museums-to-stop-saying-how-bad-slavery-was-slams-woke-ness-in-bizarre-truth-social-rant-1755678553258">Trump vs history: POTUS tells museums to stop saying 'how bad Slavery was,' slams 'WOKE-ness' in bizarre rant</a>In June 2025, Musk on X, called Gor a "snake" replying to a New York Post report claiming that Gor, who was in charge of overseeing the vetting for thousands of executive-branch employees, had not completed his own background security clearance paperwork for a permanent security clearance. The claims were refuted by White House.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">He’s a snake&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1935531784978186276?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

If confirmed, Gor would follow a line of high-profile US envoys to India, including economist John Kenneth Galbraith and social scientist Daniel Patrick Moynihan. President Joe Biden’s choice, Eric Garcetti, was a former Los Angeles mayor who studied Hindi and Urdu in his youth.

Who is Sergio Gor? Donald Trump aide, once dubbed 'snake' by Elon Musk, nominated as US ambassador to India. His qualifications for the post, why the world's richest man called him a 'snake' and more – here's all you need to know.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Aug 22) nominated his close political aide Sergio Gor as ambassador to India, placing one of his most trusted political enforcers in a key diplomatic post at a tense moment in Washington-New Delhi ties. In a Truth Social post, Trump, while announcing the appointment, said, "Sergio will make an incredible Ambassador". He added that Gor, who was once labelled a 'snake' by Trump's former DOGE chief Elon Musk, would also serve as special envoy for South and Central Asia. Who is Gor? Why did Musk call him a 'snake'? Here's all you need to know. Who is Sergio Gor? Sergio Gor has been serving as Trump's White House Director of Presidential Personnel for the past few months. 38-year-old Gor, as per AFP, rose quickly in conservative circles to become one of the most powerful, if low-profile, aides in the White House. As White House personnel chief, he vetted around 4,0000 appointees to ensure loyalty to Trump, a role that won him both allies and enemies. A high-profile name on his enemies list is X owner Elon Musk, who, as mentioned above, once called him a 'snake'. Also read | Trump loyalist, Musk enemy, Sergio Gor nominated as US ambassador to India As per the AFP report, despite his clout, Gor has little experience in foreign policy. His exposure to foreign policy affairs has been limited to joining Trump's overseas trips and purging National Security Council officials viewed with suspicion. Despite that, Trump on Truth Social wrote that "For the most populous Region in the World" he wanted "someone I can fully trust to deliver on my Agenda and help us, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN." Calling Gor "a great friend, who has been at my side for many years," he added, "Sergio will make an incredible Ambassador". Gor's political career Born in Soviet Uzbekistan, Gor moved to Malta as a child before emigrating to the United States. He built a career in Republican politics, working with Senator Rand Paul and later as a fundraiser and book publisher for Trump. He also moonlighted as a wedding DJ before becoming a key gatekeeper in the Trump administration. Also read | ‘Satanic’ Trump White House portrait sets internet on fire—netizens call it his most honest image yet, compare POTUS to Hitler Trump, in his post, revealed that Gor worked on his Presidential Campaigns, published the Republican's "Best Selling Books", and also ran one of the biggest Super PACs, which supported our Movement. He added that "Sergio's role as Director of Presidential Personnel has been essential to delivering on the unprecedented Mandate that we received from the American People."

Who is Sergio Gor? Donald Trump aide, once dubbed 'snake' by Elon Musk, nominated as US ambassador to India. His qualifications for the post, why the world's richest man called him a 'snake' and more – here's all you need to know.

Who is Sergio Gor? Trump loyalist once dubbed 'snake' by Musk, to be US envoy to India. All you need to know about him

American surgeon and public health expert Dr Atul Gawande has criticised the Trump administration's decision to implement a 90-day &ldquo;Stop Work Order&rdquo; on foreign assistance. The order is part of a broader policy review to align foreign aid with President Trump&rsquo;s priorities. The order stops billions of dollars in vital aid and disrupts key health initiatives around the globe. In a post on social media platform X, Gawande said that the freeze could impact efforts to control deadly disease outbreaks. These include diseases such as the Marburg virus in Tanzania and a deadly Mpox variant in West Africa. The suspension also halts monitoring of bird flu in 49 countries.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6f949hx-tztjpzx5-5z5mtlmg">
I ran <a href="https://twitter.com/USAID?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USAID</a> health programs for the last 3 years. Trump&rsquo;s 90 day Stop Work Order on foreign assistance does serious damage to the world and the US. Examples:🧵
&mdash; Atul Gawande (@Atul_Gawande) <a href="https://twitter.com/Atul_Gawande/status/1883212990948024416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2025</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
The surgeon added that these measures will also hinder progress in eliminating diseases like polio, river blindness, and elephantiasis. These diseases were close to being eradicated in several regions a few months ago. Gawande also said that the order halts the distribution of medicines and supplies critical to more than 90 million women and children, who rely on low-cost vaccinations, prenatal care, safe childbirth, and contraception. He added that services for 6.5 million vulnerable children and caregivers in 23 countries have been already stopped, while access to drugs for 20 million people living with HIV has been cut.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6f9bizu-d6qi83al-nfzi9jeo">
5. Stops medicines, supplies, systems building, staff support aiding &gt;90 million women and children to get low cost vaccinations, prenatal care, safe childbirth, contraception, and other basic lifesaving health needs. <a href="https://t.co/RCVNKjA7x9">https://t.co/RCVNKjA7x9</a>
&mdash; Atul Gawande (@Atul_Gawande) <a href="https://twitter.com/Atul_Gawande/status/1883213004390772850?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2025</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
The order also disrupts operations at USAID, the US agency responsible for foreign aid, as employees face uncertainty about their future, putting the agency's ongoing operations at risk.
Gawande warned that this could harm the US's global reputation, relationships with other countries, and its long-term strategic interests.
In 2023, the US provided $72 billion in foreign assistance, which funded health, poverty alleviation, and humanitarian programmes worldwide. However, the &ldquo;Stop Work Order&rdquo; threatens the continuation of these programmes, placing efforts in areas like clean water, development, and military aid at risk.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Atul Gawande said that services for 6.5 million vulnerable children and caregivers in 23 countries have already been stopped, while access to drugs for 20 million people living with HIV has been cut.

American surgeon and public health expert Dr Atul Gawande has criticised the Trump administration's decision to implement a 90-day “Stop Work Order” on foreign assistance. The order is part of a broader policy review to align foreign aid with President Trump’s priorities. The order stops billions of dollars in vital aid and disrupts key health initiatives around the globe. In a post on social media platform X, Gawande said that the freeze could impact efforts to control deadly disease outbreaks. These include diseases such as the Marburg virus in Tanzania and a deadly Mpox variant in West Africa. The suspension also halts monitoring of bird flu in 49 countries. I ran @USAID health programs for the last 3 years. Trump’s 90 day Stop Work Order on foreign assistance does serious damage to the world and the US. Examples:🧵 — Atul Gawande (@Atul_Gawande) January 25, 2025 The surgeon added that these measures will also hinder progress in eliminating diseases like polio, river blindness, and elephantiasis. These diseases were close to being eradicated in several regions a few months ago. Gawande also said that the order halts the distribution of medicines and supplies critical to more than 90 million women and children, who rely on low-cost vaccinations, prenatal care, safe childbirth, and contraception. He added that services for 6.5 million vulnerable children and caregivers in 23 countries have been already stopped, while access to drugs for 20 million people living with HIV has been cut. 5. Stops medicines, supplies, systems building, staff support aiding >90 million women and children to get low cost vaccinations, prenatal care, safe childbirth, contraception, and other basic lifesaving health needs. https://t.co/RCVNKjA7x9 — Atul Gawande (@Atul_Gawande) January 25, 2025 The order also disrupts operations at USAID, the US agency responsible for foreign aid, as employees face uncertainty about their future, putting the agency's ongoing operations at risk. Gawande warned that this could harm the US's global reputation, relationships with other countries, and its long-term strategic interests. In 2023, the US provided $72 billion in foreign assistance, which funded health, poverty alleviation, and humanitarian programmes worldwide. However, the “Stop Work Order” threatens the continuation of these programmes, placing efforts in areas like clean water, development, and military aid at risk. (With inputs from agencies)

90 million children, women at risk! Researcher sounds alarm on serious damage as US freezes foreign aid

Washington DC | To hear Donald Trump tell it, the day he returns to the White House on January 20 will mark the beginning of &ldquo;the golden age of America&rdquo;. It will be a strong, safe and prosperous country, leaving divisions of the past behind. &nbsp;
That is how the 78-year-old former and future president portrayed his country&rsquo;s future on the night of November 5, when results confirmed his spectacular return to power after losing the presidency in 2020 in an election he termed fraudulent. Sixty-four courts disagreed with his complaints.&nbsp;
What stood out in his Golden Age victory speech was mention of the word unity, given that the United States is almost evenly (50/50) divided.&nbsp;
Trump won 77,297,721 popular votes. His Democratic opponent, Kamala Harris, gained 75,009,338. That&rsquo;s a difference of 1.5 per cent. But in the electoral college, America&rsquo;s antiquated election system, Trump&rsquo;s victory was sweeping: 312-226.&nbsp;
It is no surprise that many of the 75 million Americans who voted against Trump harbour doubts about the prospect of unity and the purity of the promised gold in the new Golden Age. Will it be 24-carat, 14-carat or just brass?&nbsp;
Trump watchers, whose number is reflected by a growing library of books about Trump (so far, at least 48), include many who predict that Trump&rsquo;s second term will be as chaotic and divisive as the first.&nbsp;
And judging from his nominees for cabinet posts which require confirmation by the Senate, much of the new administration&rsquo;s energy will be spent on a campaign of revenge against critics, many of whom served in his first administration and portray the leader of the world&rsquo;s most powerful country as a threat to democracy.&nbsp;
There are two cabinet picks who will play key roles in the campaign of retribution Trump has forecast in a number of stump speeches. &nbsp;
Also read: &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-fbi-director-pick-kash-patel-targetted-by-iranian-hacking-attack-781413">Trump's FBI director pick Kash Patel targetted by Iranian hacking attack</a>
One is Kash Patel, proposed to become chief of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The other is Pam Bondi, Trumps pick for Attorney General after his original nominee, Matt Gaetz, withdrew in the face of allegations of sex trafficking and sex with a minor.&nbsp;
If they survive what will be bruising Senate confirmation hearings, Patel and Bondi will yield formidable power in a retribution campaign. Both are hard-line Trump loyalists and Patel would report to Bondi, a former Florida attorney general.&nbsp;
One of the world&rsquo;s biggest criminal investigations organisations, the FBI conducts investigations into crimes and terrorism. But the responsibility to launch operations or bringing lawsuits falls on the Justice Department and its leader, the attorney general. &nbsp; Neither Patel nor Bondi are likely to ignore the wishes of Trump, even if expressed only indirectly, as far as targets are concerned.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-florida-congressman-matt-gaetz-violated-state-laws-with-drug-use-sex-with-a-minor-report-786261">Ex-Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz violated state laws with drug use, sex with a minor: Report</a>
An &ldquo;enemies list&rdquo; already exists, drawn up by Patel as an appendix to a 2023 book he published after leaving government service (he held various positions in the justice department and the White House). The book is entitled Government Gangsters and the list comprises 60 names.&nbsp;
They include top officials of both the Biden and first Trump administrations, from Bill Barr, former Attorney General under Trump and John Brennan, CIA chief under Barack Obama and Mark Esper, former Secretary of Defence under Trump. Joe Biden is on the list and so are less prominent members of the establishment, such as Stephanie Grisham, former Trump press secretary.&nbsp;
They are all identified as Members of the Executive Branch Deep State. Patel, who is of Indian heritage (his parents came from Gujarat) has been extremely active in promoting the concept of a Deep State, a conspiracy theory claiming there is a clandestine network of government officials who work alongside financial and industrial leaders to secretly wield power.&nbsp;
While Trump has not as often used the term Deep State as Patel and other loyalists, he asserted in the first major campaign event for the 2024 elections that &ldquo;either the deep state destroys America, or we destroy the deep state.&rdquo;&nbsp;
In the final stretch of the campaign that won him another term at the White House, Trump had frequently raged against &ldquo;the enemies from within.&rdquo; &nbsp;Who are they? Without naming them, he has left it to the imagination of his followers to figure that out.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The crazy lunatics that we have &mdash; the fascists, the Marxists, the communists, the people that we have that are actually running the country. Those people are more dangerous &mdash; the enemy from within &mdash; than Russia and China and other people.&rdquo;&nbsp;
The prospect of a Patel/Bondi power couple has alarmed Trump critics who have shown concern over Trump&rsquo;s authoritarian mindset. Katel would turn the FBI into the FBR &ndash; the Federal Bureau of Retribution, quipped political analyst Doyle McManus in a column in the Los Angeles Times.&nbsp;
David Frum, a former speechwriter for a Republican president, George W. Bush, put it more bluntly: &ldquo;Trump&rsquo;s nomination of Kash Patel threatens to turn the FBI into an instrument of personal presidential power.&rdquo;&nbsp;
This week, at the beginning of the Christmas holidays, Trump signalled that presidential power at home may not be enough. &nbsp;
He told supporters in Arizona he wanted to reassert control over the Panama Canal, a vital waterway that links the east and west coasts of the Americas. The canal was designed and built by the US Completed in 1914, it passed to full Panamanian control in 1999.&nbsp;
The threat was a rare example of a US leader saying he could push a sovereign (and friendly) country into handing over territory. The comment caused outrage in Latin America and a sharp response from Panama&rsquo;s president.&nbsp;
Analysts closely following Trump were at a loss to explain what prompted the president-elect to show public interest in the waterway. The Panama Canal was not mentioned in a single speech during Trump&rsquo;s election campaign.&nbsp;
American voters were clearly more worried about inflation and the cost of living than a waterway many couldn&rsquo;t place on a map. &nbsp;
It remains to be seen what actually happens after January 20, and how many pledges &ndash; from mass deportations of undocumented immigrants to purging federal agencies like the FBI &ndash; are fulfilled.&nbsp;
But one thing is a safe bet: Trump 2.0 will be a presidency like no other.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.
&nbsp;

Opinions  | Trump watchers, whose number is reflected by a growing library of books about Trump (so far, at least 48), include many who predict that Trump’s second term will be as chaotic and divisive as the first. 

Washington DC | To hear Donald Trump tell it, the day he returns to the White House on January 20 will mark the beginning of “the golden age of America”. It will be a strong, safe and prosperous country, leaving divisions of the past behind. That is how the 78-year-old former and future president portrayed his country’s future on the night of November 5, when results confirmed his spectacular return to power after losing the presidency in 2020 in an election he termed fraudulent. Sixty-four courts disagreed with his complaints. What stood out in his Golden Age victory speech was mention of the word unity, given that the United States is almost evenly (50/50) divided. Trump won 77,297,721 popular votes. His Democratic opponent, Kamala Harris, gained 75,009,338. That’s a difference of 1.5 per cent. But in the electoral college, America’s antiquated election system, Trump’s victory was sweeping: 312-226. It is no surprise that many of the 75 million Americans who voted against Trump harbour doubts about the prospect of unity and the purity of the promised gold in the new Golden Age. Will it be 24-carat, 14-carat or just brass? Trump watchers, whose number is reflected by a growing library of books about Trump (so far, at least 48), include many who predict that Trump’s second term will be as chaotic and divisive as the first. And judging from his nominees for cabinet posts which require confirmation by the Senate, much of the new administration’s energy will be spent on a campaign of revenge against critics, many of whom served in his first administration and portray the leader of the world’s most powerful country as a threat to democracy. There are two cabinet picks who will play key roles in the campaign of retribution Trump has forecast in a number of stump speeches. Also read: Trump's FBI director pick Kash Patel targetted by Iranian hacking attack One is Kash Patel, proposed to become chief of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The other is Pam Bondi, Trumps pick for Attorney General after his original nominee, Matt Gaetz, withdrew in the face of allegations of sex trafficking and sex with a minor. If they survive what will be bruising Senate confirmation hearings, Patel and Bondi will yield formidable power in a retribution campaign. Both are hard-line Trump loyalists and Patel would report to Bondi, a former Florida attorney general. One of the world’s biggest criminal investigations organisations, the FBI conducts investigations into crimes and terrorism. But the responsibility to launch operations or bringing lawsuits falls on the Justice Department and its leader, the attorney general. Neither Patel nor Bondi are likely to ignore the wishes of Trump, even if expressed only indirectly, as far as targets are concerned. Also read: Ex-Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz violated state laws with drug use, sex with a minor: Report An “enemies list” already exists, drawn up by Patel as an appendix to a 2023 book he published after leaving government service (he held various positions in the justice department and the White House). The book is entitled Government Gangsters and the list comprises 60 names. They include top officials of both the Biden and first Trump administrations, from Bill Barr, former Attorney General under Trump and John Brennan, CIA chief under Barack Obama and Mark Esper, former Secretary of Defence under Trump. Joe Biden is on the list and so are less prominent members of the establishment, such as Stephanie Grisham, former Trump press secretary. They are all identified as Members of the Executive Branch Deep State. Patel, who is of Indian heritage (his parents came from Gujarat) has been extremely active in promoting the concept of a Deep State, a conspiracy theory claiming there is a clandestine network of government officials who work alongside financial and industrial leaders to secretly wield power. While Trump has not as often used the term Deep State as Patel and other loyalists, he asserted in the first major campaign event for the 2024 elections that “either the deep state destroys America, or we destroy the deep state.” In the final stretch of the campaign that won him another term at the White House, Trump had frequently raged against “the enemies from within.” Who are they? Without naming them, he has left it to the imagination of his followers to figure that out. “The crazy lunatics that we have — the fascists, the Marxists, the communists, the people that we have that are actually running the country. Those people are more dangerous — the enemy from within — than Russia and China and other people.” The prospect of a Patel/Bondi power couple has alarmed Trump critics who have shown concern over Trump’s authoritarian mindset. Katel would turn the FBI into the FBR – the Federal Bureau of Retribution, quipped political analyst Doyle McManus in a column in the Los Angeles Times. David Frum, a former speechwriter for a Republican president, George W. Bush, put it more bluntly: “Trump’s nomination of Kash Patel threatens to turn the FBI into an instrument of personal presidential power.” This week, at the beginning of the Christmas holidays, Trump signalled that presidential power at home may not be enough. He told supporters in Arizona he wanted to reassert control over the Panama Canal, a vital waterway that links the east and west coasts of the Americas. The canal was designed and built by the US Completed in 1914, it passed to full Panamanian control in 1999. The threat was a rare example of a US leader saying he could push a sovereign (and friendly) country into handing over territory. The comment caused outrage in Latin America and a sharp response from Panama’s president. Analysts closely following Trump were at a loss to explain what prompted the president-elect to show public interest in the waterway. The Panama Canal was not mentioned in a single speech during Trump’s election campaign. American voters were clearly more worried about inflation and the cost of living than a waterway many couldn’t place on a map. It remains to be seen what actually happens after January 20, and how many pledges – from mass deportations of undocumented immigrants to purging federal agencies like the FBI – are fulfilled. But one thing is a safe bet: Trump 2.0 will be a presidency like no other. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Trump 2.0: The Golden Age of America or four more years of disruption?

US House of Representatives&nbsp;Republicans on Monday (Sep 9) are set to release a long-awaited critical report blasting President Joe Biden for the 2021 military withdrawal from Afghanistan.

The report claims that "America's credibility on the world stage was severely damaged" with the withdrawal and that Biden failed to mitigate the "likely consequences of the decision" to withdraw, made by the previous administration of Donald Trump.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:131,&quot;w&quot;:579,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1968}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/honeymoon-period-over-for-harris-trump-leads-among-likely-voters-in-fresh-poll-756917">Honeymoon period over for Harris? Trump leads among likely voters in fresh poll</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:167,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2004}">The failings of Afghanistan withdrawal</h2>

The report, a result of a three-year investigation led by Representative Michael McCaul, the Republican chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, slams the Biden administration on many counts, including for its delayed decision to evacuate non-combatants — formally ordered only on Aug. 16.

Additionally, it claims&nbsp;that the administration did not effectively communicate within departments in Washington or among officials in Afghanistan, and mishandled the paperwork for the departure of eligible Afghan civilians.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/largest-attack-on-us-soil-since-911-pakistani-citizen-who-planned-terrorist-attack-in-ny-on-oct-7-756903">'Largest attack on US soil since 9/11': Pakistani citizen who planned terrorist attack in NY on Oct 7</a>

"America’s credibility on the world stage was severely damaged after we abandoned Afghan allies to Taliban reprisal killings — the people of Afghanistan we had promised to protect," states the report, adding that&nbsp;"the moral injury to America’s veterans and those still serving remains a stain on this administration’s legacy."

The report also&nbsp;highlights the shared concerns of military leaders who believed the US should have kept troops in the country and continued the war launched in 2001 after the 9/11 (September 11) attacks.

"Biden's decision to withdraw all US troops was not based on the security situation, the Doha agreement, or the advice of his senior national security advisors or our allies," claims the report.

"Rather, it was premised on his longstanding and unyielding opinion that the United States should no longer be in Afghanistan."

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:413,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2250}">Democrats clap back</h2>

As the issue of 9/11 gets increasingly politicised ahead of the November elections, Democrats, as per the news agency AFP, slammed the Republican report as an attempt to upset the upcoming presidential elections.

"If they have had three years to assess what happened, why are they delivering a report after Labor Day in a presidential election year?" asked Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg during an interview with CNN.

Biden's party contends that some blame for the messy withdrawal lies with Trump, who started the withdrawal process in 2020.

(With inputs from agencies)

US House of Representatives Republicans on Monday (Sep 9) are set to release a long-awaited critical report blasting President Joe Biden for the 2021 military withdrawal from Afghanistan.

US House of Representatives Republicans on Monday (Sep 9) are set to release a long-awaited critical report blasting President Joe Biden for the 2021 military withdrawal from Afghanistan. The report claims that "America's credibility on the world stage was severely damaged" with the withdrawal and that Biden failed to mitigate the "likely consequences of the decision" to withdraw, made by the previous administration of Donald Trump. Also read | Honeymoon period over for Harris? Trump leads among likely voters in fresh poll The failings of Afghanistan withdrawal The report, a result of a three-year investigation led by Representative Michael McCaul, the Republican chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, slams the Biden administration on many counts, including for its delayed decision to evacuate non-combatants — formally ordered only on Aug. 16. Additionally, it claims that the administration did not effectively communicate within departments in Washington or among officials in Afghanistan, and mishandled the paperwork for the departure of eligible Afghan civilians. Also read | 'Largest attack on US soil since 9/11': Pakistani citizen who planned terrorist attack in NY on Oct 7 "America’s credibility on the world stage was severely damaged after we abandoned Afghan allies to Taliban reprisal killings — the people of Afghanistan we had promised to protect," states the report, adding that "the moral injury to America’s veterans and those still serving remains a stain on this administration’s legacy." The report also highlights the shared concerns of military leaders who believed the US should have kept troops in the country and continued the war launched in 2001 after the 9/11 (September 11) attacks. "Biden's decision to withdraw all US troops was not based on the security situation, the Doha agreement, or the advice of his senior national security advisors or our allies," claims the report. "Rather, it was premised on his longstanding and unyielding opinion that the United States should no longer be in Afghanistan." Democrats clap back As the issue of 9/11 gets increasingly politicised ahead of the November elections, Democrats, as per the news agency AFP, slammed the Republican report as an attempt to upset the upcoming presidential elections. "If they have had three years to assess what happened, why are they delivering a report after Labor Day in a presidential election year?" asked Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg during an interview with CNN. Biden's party contends that some blame for the messy withdrawal lies with Trump, who started the withdrawal process in 2020. (With inputs from agencies)

Republican report slams Biden for 2021 Afghanistan withdrawal, damaging 'America's credibility’

In a scathing report by the Department of Defense inspector general, a myriad of issues within the White House Medical Unit during the previous Trump administration were revealed. The report outlined shocking violations, including the alleged provision of controlled substances to ineligible White House staff in direct contravention of federal law and policy.

As per the report, controlled substances, ranging from opioids to sleeping medications, were inadequately managed, with handwritten notes being used for inventory tracking, resulting in frequent errors.&nbsp;

<h2>The allegations against the Trump administration</h2>

A new report by the Department of Defense Inspector General found that the White House Medical Unit's practices extended to dispensing medications such as Ambien without proper verification. It also alleges that expensive brand-name medications, such as Ambien and Provigil, which it says are 174 and 55 times "more expensive than the generic equivalent", were purchased. This reflects a significant lack of fiscal responsibility.&nbsp;

The improper disposal of both controlled and non-controlled substances further highlighted a systemic failure in pharmaceutical management.

The report's critique emphasised that the "White House medical officials did not consider their operations to be a pharmacy,"&nbsp;showcasing a stark deficiency in perception and professional responsibility.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/celestial-parade-earth-braces-for-close-encounters-with-five-colossal-asteroids-this-week-684758">Celestial parade: Earth braces for close encounters with five colossal asteroids this week</a>

Without oversight from qualified pharmacy staff, the report warned of potential prescribing errors and raised concerns about the health and safety of patients treated within the unit.

"Without oversight from qualified pharmacy staff, the White House medical unit's pharmaceutical management practices might have been subject to prescribing errors," it warned.

"Additionally, the White House medical unit's practices demonstrated inadequate medication management and increased risk to the health and safety of patients treated within the unit."

<h2>What prompted the investigation?</h2>

As per CBS News, the investigation was prompted by complaints from 2018.&nbsp;

"In 2018, the DoD Office of Inspector&nbsp;General (DoD OIG) Hotline received&nbsp;complaints alleging that a senior military medical officer assigned to the White House Medical Unit engaged in improper medical practices," says the report. However, the report did not explicitly name individuals.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-expresses-concern-over-us-aid-warns-of-potential-escalation-to-world-war-iii-684725">'Bad signal': Ukraine's Zelensky expresses concern over potential decrease in aid from US</a>

US Representative Ronny Jackson, who led the White House Medical Unit during the period under scrutiny, previously faced controversies related to medication dispensing and inappropriate conduct.

Allegedly nicknamed the "candy man", Senator Jon Tester accused him of loosely dispensing sleep-related medications like Ambien and Provigil.&nbsp;Speaking to CNN, in 2018, Tester claimed that "In the White House they call him the 'candy man.'" &nbsp;

In a scathing report by the Department of Defense inspector general, a myriad of issues within the White House Medical Unit during the previous Trump administration were revealed.

In a scathing report by the Department of Defense inspector general, a myriad of issues within the White House Medical Unit during the previous Trump administration were revealed. The report outlined shocking violations, including the alleged provision of controlled substances to ineligible White House staff in direct contravention of federal law and policy. As per the report, controlled substances, ranging from opioids to sleeping medications, were inadequately managed, with handwritten notes being used for inventory tracking, resulting in frequent errors. The allegations against the Trump administration A new report by the Department of Defense Inspector General found that the White House Medical Unit's practices extended to dispensing medications such as Ambien without proper verification. It also alleges that expensive brand-name medications, such as Ambien and Provigil, which it says are 174 and 55 times "more expensive than the generic equivalent", were purchased. This reflects a significant lack of fiscal responsibility. The improper disposal of both controlled and non-controlled substances further highlighted a systemic failure in pharmaceutical management. The report's critique emphasised that the "White House medical officials did not consider their operations to be a pharmacy," showcasing a stark deficiency in perception and professional responsibility. Also read | Celestial parade: Earth braces for close encounters with five colossal asteroids this week Without oversight from qualified pharmacy staff, the report warned of potential prescribing errors and raised concerns about the health and safety of patients treated within the unit. "Without oversight from qualified pharmacy staff, the White House medical unit's pharmaceutical management practices might have been subject to prescribing errors," it warned. "Additionally, the White House medical unit's practices demonstrated inadequate medication management and increased risk to the health and safety of patients treated within the unit." What prompted the investigation? As per CBS News, the investigation was prompted by complaints from 2018. "In 2018, the DoD Office of Inspector General (DoD OIG) Hotline received complaints alleging that a senior military medical officer assigned to the White House Medical Unit engaged in improper medical practices," says the report. However, the report did not explicitly name individuals. Also read | 'Bad signal': Ukraine's Zelensky expresses concern over potential decrease in aid from US US Representative Ronny Jackson, who led the White House Medical Unit during the period under scrutiny, previously faced controversies related to medication dispensing and inappropriate conduct. Allegedly nicknamed the "candy man", Senator Jon Tester accused him of loosely dispensing sleep-related medications like Ambien and Provigil. Speaking to CNN, in 2018, Tester claimed that "In the White House they call him the 'candy man.'"

Scathing report accuses Trump administration of controlled substance abuse violations in White House

President Donald Trump is back in the news - his hair to be more precise. The halo of orange, that has been as much a subject of debate as his tweets - fake or real, people have been asking.

The president hasn't turned a hair in response - he loves it.&nbsp;So much so, that he's changing America's shower rules, just to have the perfect hair wash.

"Because my hair...I don't know about you but my hair has to be perfect...perfect," he says.

Donald Trump wants his hair to be "perfect", even if it takes changing the law. The president is changing America's shower rules after complaining repeatedly that bathroom fixtures do not work according to his liking.

"Mr Sandy Hair" believes water does not come out fast enough from fixtures and that was enough for his administration to propose rule changes. The new rules will now allow shower heads to boost water pressure only for the US president to maintain his thatch of blonde.

"We're bringing back consumer choice and home appliances so that you can buy washers and dryers, shower heads and faucets. so showerheads, you take a shower, the water doesn't come out. You want to wash your hands. the water doesn't come out. so what do you do? You just stand there longer. you take a shower longer, because my hair I don't know about you, but has to be perfect. perfect," the president said.

In 1992, the US set a rule - a water limit for shower fixtures to 2.5 gallon per minute. The idea was to save water, the rule got in Trump's hair. Now that he's president and evidently vain about his golden fleece, he wants change.

Regulators have allowed shower fixtures to include multiple shower heads, however, consumer groups have decried the plan. They say current rules save money, water and fuel. The president thinks they're splitting hair. 
&nbsp;

President Donald Trump is back in the news - his hair to be more precise. The halo of orange, that has been as much a subject of debate as his tweets - fake or real, people have been asking.

President Donald Trump is back in the news - his hair to be more precise. The halo of orange, that has been as much a subject of debate as his tweets - fake or real, people have been asking. The president hasn't turned a hair in response - he loves it. So much so, that he's changing America's shower rules, just to have the perfect hair wash. "Because my hair...I don't know about you but my hair has to be perfect...perfect," he says. Donald Trump wants his hair to be "perfect", even if it takes changing the law. The president is changing America's shower rules after complaining repeatedly that bathroom fixtures do not work according to his liking. "Mr Sandy Hair" believes water does not come out fast enough from fixtures and that was enough for his administration to propose rule changes. The new rules will now allow shower heads to boost water pressure only for the US president to maintain his thatch of blonde. "We're bringing back consumer choice and home appliances so that you can buy washers and dryers, shower heads and faucets. so showerheads, you take a shower, the water doesn't come out. You want to wash your hands. the water doesn't come out. so what do you do? You just stand there longer. you take a shower longer, because my hair I don't know about you, but has to be perfect. perfect," the president said. In 1992, the US set a rule - a water limit for shower fixtures to 2.5 gallon per minute. The idea was to save water, the rule got in Trump's hair. Now that he's president and evidently vain about his golden fleece, he wants change. Regulators have allowed shower fixtures to include multiple shower heads, however, consumer groups have decried the plan. They say current rules save money, water and fuel. The president thinks they're splitting hair.

Now, Donald Trump wants rule change to ensure perfect hair wash

US National Security Adviser Robert O’Brien has become the highest-ranking official close to President Donald Trump to test positive for Covid-19

US' National Security Advisor Robert O'Brien tests positive for COVID-19

US President Donald Trump once paid a proxy to take a standardised college entrance exam for him when he was a high school student, his niece has claimed in a tell-all book scheduled to be published next week.

According to a report by The New York Times, Mary Trump -- in the book "Too Much and Never Enough: How My Family Created the World’s Most Dangerous Man" -- writes that the president paid someone to take the SAT, an entrance exam used by most US universities, in his place.

“The high score the proxy earned for him helped the young Mr Trump to later gain admittance as an undergraduate to the University of Pennsylvania’s prestigious Wharton business school,” a manuscript of the book read.

White House senior advisor Kellyanne Conway, when asked about the book on Tuesday, told reporters at the White House that it was a family matter.

White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said on Tuesday: “It’s a book of falsehoods and that’s about it.”

US President Donald Trump once paid a proxy to take a standardised college entrance exam for him when he was a high school student, his niece has claimed in a tell-all book scheduled to be published next week.

US President Donald Trump once paid a proxy to take a standardised college entrance exam for him when he was a high school student, his niece has claimed in a tell-all book scheduled to be published next week. According to a report by The New York Times, Mary Trump -- in the book "Too Much and Never Enough: How My Family Created the World’s Most Dangerous Man" -- writes that the president paid someone to take the SAT, an entrance exam used by most US universities, in his place. “The high score the proxy earned for him helped the young Mr Trump to later gain admittance as an undergraduate to the University of Pennsylvania’s prestigious Wharton business school,” a manuscript of the book read. White House senior advisor Kellyanne Conway, when asked about the book on Tuesday, told reporters at the White House that it was a family matter. White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said on Tuesday: “It’s a book of falsehoods and that’s about it.”

Trump paid proxy to take college entrance exam for him, claims niece's new book

The US&nbsp;Supreme Court on Monday delivered a watershed victory for&nbsp;LGBT&nbsp;rights and a defeat for President Donald Trump's administration by ruling that a longstanding federal law barring workplace discrimination protects gay and transgender employees.

The landmark 6-3 ruling represented the biggest moment for&nbsp;LGBT&nbsp;rights in the United States since the Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage nationwide in 2015. Two conservative justices joined the court's four liberals in the decision: Neil Gorsuch, a 2017 Trump appointee who wrote the ruling, and Chief Justice John Roberts.

The justices decided that gay and transgender people are protected under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which bars employers from discriminating against employees on the basis of sex as well as race, colour, national origin and religion.

Workplace bias against gay and transgender employees had remained legal in much of the country, with 28 U.S. states lacking comprehensive measures against employment discrimination. The ruling - in two gay rights cases from Georgia and New York and a transgender rights case from Michigan - recognizes new worker protections in federal law.

The legal fight focused on the definition of "sex" in Title VII. The court agreed with the plaintiffs that discriminating against gay and transgender workers was inherently based on their sex and consequently was illegal.

Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump called the ruling very powerful and said, "They've ruled and we live with their decision." Supported by evangelical Christian voters, Trump has taken actions that have undermined gay and transgender rights since taking office in 2017.

LGBT&nbsp;activists and the only surviving plaintiff in the litigation lauded the ruling.

"I truly believe I went into shock this morning," said Gerald Bostock, who brought the Georgia case after losing his job as a county government child welfare services coordinator months after joining the local gay-friendly Hotlanta Softball League.

"I'm proud to have taken part in this process in getting us to this historic moment," Bostock added.

The ruling does not resolve other legal issues on&nbsp;LGBT&nbsp;rights including whether separate federal laws that bar sex discrimination should also be interpreted as covering sexual orientation and gender identity.

"Americans must be able to rely on what the law says, and it is disappointing that a majority of the justices were unwilling to affirm that commonsense principle," said John Bursch, a lawyer with the Alliance Defending Freedom, a conservative Christian legal group that represented the employer in the Michigan case.

Trump's administration joined the employers in arguing that Congress did not intend for Title VII to protect gay and transgender people when it passed the law. Gorsuch conceded that point but said what mattered was the law's text.

'A necessary and undisguisable role'&nbsp;&nbsp;

"An employer who fires an individual for being homosexual or transgender fires that person for traits or actions it would not have questioned in members of a different sex," Gorsuch wrote. "Sex plays a necessary and undisguisable role in the decision, exactly what Title VII forbids."

Gorsuch, who signaled sympathy toward the plaintiffs during arguments in the case in October, wrote that "there is no way an employer can discriminate against those who check the homosexual or transgender box without discriminating in part because of an applicant's sex."

Roberts, considered the ideological center of the court, backed gay rights in this case after dissenting in the gay marriage ruling.

Conservative Justices Samuel Alito, Clarence Thomas and Brett Kavanaugh dissented from Monday's ruling.

"There is only one word for what the court has done today: legislation," Alito wrote.

Two other plaintiffs did not live to see the ruling. Donald Zarda, who sued after being fired as a skydiving instructor in New York, died in 2014. Aimee Stephens, fired by a Detroit funeral home after revealing plans to transition from male to female, died in May.

Alphonso David, president of the Human Rights Campaign gay rights group, said, "No one should be denied a job or fired simply because of who they are or whom they love."

"By discriminating against homosexuals," Gorsuch wrote, "the employer intentionally penalizes men for being attracted to men and women for being attracted to women. By discriminating against transgender persons, the employer unavoidably discriminates against persons with one sex identified at birth and another today."

Trump's administration last week issued a rule lifting anti-discrimination protections for transgender people in healthcare.

His administration also has backed the right of certain businesses to refuse to serve gay people on the basis of religious objections, banned most transgender service members from the military and rescinded protections on bathroom access for transgender students in public schools.

The court faces another test in its next term, which starts in October, in a case pitting&nbsp;LGBT&nbsp;rights against religious rights involving Philadelphia's decision to bar a Catholic organization from participating in the city's foster care program because the group will not place children with same-sex couples.

The US Supreme Court on Monday delivered a watershed victory for LGBT rights and a defeat for President Donald Trump's administration by ruling that a longstanding federal law barring workplace discrimination protects gay and transgender employees.

The US Supreme Court on Monday delivered a watershed victory for LGBT rights and a defeat for President Donald Trump's administration by ruling that a longstanding federal law barring workplace discrimination protects gay and transgender employees. The landmark 6-3 ruling represented the biggest moment for LGBT rights in the United States since the Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage nationwide in 2015. Two conservative justices joined the court's four liberals in the decision: Neil Gorsuch, a 2017 Trump appointee who wrote the ruling, and Chief Justice John Roberts. The justices decided that gay and transgender people are protected under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which bars employers from discriminating against employees on the basis of sex as well as race, colour, national origin and religion. Workplace bias against gay and transgender employees had remained legal in much of the country, with 28 U.S. states lacking comprehensive measures against employment discrimination. The ruling - in two gay rights cases from Georgia and New York and a transgender rights case from Michigan - recognizes new worker protections in federal law. The legal fight focused on the definition of "sex" in Title VII. The court agreed with the plaintiffs that discriminating against gay and transgender workers was inherently based on their sex and consequently was illegal. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump called the ruling very powerful and said, "They've ruled and we live with their decision." Supported by evangelical Christian voters, Trump has taken actions that have undermined gay and transgender rights since taking office in 2017. LGBT activists and the only surviving plaintiff in the litigation lauded the ruling. "I truly believe I went into shock this morning," said Gerald Bostock, who brought the Georgia case after losing his job as a county government child welfare services coordinator months after joining the local gay-friendly Hotlanta Softball League. "I'm proud to have taken part in this process in getting us to this historic moment," Bostock added. The ruling does not resolve other legal issues on LGBT rights including whether separate federal laws that bar sex discrimination should also be interpreted as covering sexual orientation and gender identity. "Americans must be able to rely on what the law says, and it is disappointing that a majority of the justices were unwilling to affirm that commonsense principle," said John Bursch, a lawyer with the Alliance Defending Freedom, a conservative Christian legal group that represented the employer in the Michigan case. Trump's administration joined the employers in arguing that Congress did not intend for Title VII to protect gay and transgender people when it passed the law. Gorsuch conceded that point but said what mattered was the law's text. 'A necessary and undisguisable role' "An employer who fires an individual for being homosexual or transgender fires that person for traits or actions it would not have questioned in members of a different sex," Gorsuch wrote. "Sex plays a necessary and undisguisable role in the decision, exactly what Title VII forbids." Gorsuch, who signaled sympathy toward the plaintiffs during arguments in the case in October, wrote that "there is no way an employer can discriminate against those who check the homosexual or transgender box without discriminating in part because of an applicant's sex." Roberts, considered the ideological center of the court, backed gay rights in this case after dissenting in the gay marriage ruling. Conservative Justices Samuel Alito, Clarence Thomas and Brett Kavanaugh dissented from Monday's ruling. "There is only one word for what the court has done today: legislation," Alito wrote. Two other plaintiffs did not live to see the ruling. Donald Zarda, who sued after being fired as a skydiving instructor in New York, died in 2014. Aimee Stephens, fired by a Detroit funeral home after revealing plans to transition from male to female, died in May. Alphonso David, president of the Human Rights Campaign gay rights group, said, "No one should be denied a job or fired simply because of who they are or whom they love." "By discriminating against homosexuals," Gorsuch wrote, "the employer intentionally penalizes men for being attracted to men and women for being attracted to women. By discriminating against transgender persons, the employer unavoidably discriminates against persons with one sex identified at birth and another today." Trump's administration last week issued a rule lifting anti-discrimination protections for transgender people in healthcare. His administration also has backed the right of certain businesses to refuse to serve gay people on the basis of religious objections, banned most transgender service members from the military and rescinded protections on bathroom access for transgender students in public schools. The court faces another test in its next term, which starts in October, in a case pitting LGBT rights against religious rights involving Philadelphia's decision to bar a Catholic organization from participating in the city's foster care program because the group will not place children with same-sex couples.

In landmark ruling, US Supreme Court bars discrimination against LGBT workers

Three US senators will meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in Kyiv on Friday, seeking to reinforce the importance of his country as a strategic US ally after he found himself at the centre of President Donald Trump's acrimonious impeachment trial.

Three US senators will meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in Kyiv on Friday, seeking to reinforce the importance of his country as a strategic US ally after he found himself at the centre of President Donald Trump's acrimonious impeachment trial. "The US-Ukraine relationship is as important now as ever," Republican Senators Ron Johnson and John Barrasso and Democratic Senator Chris Murphy said in a statement on Wednesday announcing their trip. "The future of Ukraine matters to the United States and we must make sure Ukraine knows that we view them as a strategic ally," they said. Also Read: Two days after his acquittal, Trump ousts two star impeachment witnesses Johnson and Murphy last met with Zelenskiy in Kyiv on September 5, as his government was dealing with Trump's decision to freeze nearly $400 million (£308.43 million) in security assistance. Murphy told reporters at a news conference in Washington with Johnson on September 10 that Ukrainian officials did not have a full understanding of why the money might be withheld, and that they had brought up the issue in every meeting during their trip. That decision, and Trump's telephone call with the Ukrainian leader to discuss it, became central to an investigation of Trump that led to his impeachment by the Democratic-led House of Representatives late last year. Also See: Winners and losers from impeachment and acquittal of Donald Trump The Republican-led Senate acquitted Trump last week. His defence argued that the money had been withheld because of corruption in Ukraine, not to put pressure on Zelenskiy. Trump insisted his call with Zelenskiy had been "perfect." Democratic impeachment managers contended that Trump withheld the money to put pressure on Zelenskiy to investigate former Vice President Joe Biden, a Democratic rival to Trump as he seeks re-election this year, and Biden's son, Hunter Biden, who was on the board of a Ukrainian company. Johnson is chairman, and Barrasso and Murphy are members, of a Senate subcommittee on Europe and Regional Security Cooperation.

US Senators plan on visiting Ukraine after Trump impeachment trial

In a 111-page document filed before <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trumps-impeachment-trial-officialy-gets-underway-274778">Trump's Senate trial begins</a> in earnest on Tuesday, the lawmakers laid out their arguments supporting charges of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress against the president.

"The Senate should convict and remove President Trump to avoid serious and long term damage to our democratic values and the nation's security," the lawmakers said, for the first time formally calling for the Senate to convict the president and remove him from office.

"The case against the president of the United States is simple, the facts are indisputable, and the evidence is overwhelming," they said.

<img alt="45th US President Donald Trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5f783268-83a5-4d7a-bb4d-8d51e494d17d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%288%29_13.jpg" /> 
[US President Donald Trump (Courtesy: WION Web Team) ]

The document was an appeal directly to the senators to be impartial. "History will judge each senator's willingness to rise above partisan differences, view the facts honestly and defend the Constitution," the managers said in a statement noting "the President is not a king."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/impeachment-dream-team-meet-us-president-trumps-star-studded-legal-team-274978">Trump's legal team</a> issued a resounding rejection of the impeachment charges, which were read out in the Senate earlier in the week during formalities setting the stage for the trial. They are expected to release a longer, separate response to the Democrats' pretrial brief on Monday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazen-and-unlawful-donald-trumps-legal-team-rejects-impeachment-charges-275143">'Brazen and unlawful': Donald Trump's legal team rejects impeachment charges</a>

<img alt="File Photo: Donald Trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0c15c550-c635-4775-8c64-91e5c2ebf1f2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%287%29_15.jpg" /> 
[President of the United States,&nbsp;Donald Trump (Courtesy: WION Web Team) ]

Rejecting the charges, Trump's lawyers reiterated the president's insistence, echoed by many of his fellow Republicans in Congress, that the charges are nothing more than a partisan attempt to remove him from office, a "dangerous attack on the right of the American people to freely choose their president."

"This is a brazen and unlawful attempt to overturn the results of the 2016 election and interfere with the 2020 election -&nbsp;now just months away," they argued in a six-page document released on Saturday.

It was the first time Trump formally responded to the two articles of impeachment - abuse of power and obstruction of Congress - that the Democratic-led House approved late last year.

Trump and Democratic lawmakers offered dueling arguments about the politically polarizing impeachment case involving Trump's attempt to persuade Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to investigate Democratic rival Joe Biden last year.

"President Trump categorically and unequivocally denies each and every allegation in both articles of impeachment," the Trump lawyers' document said.

As well as the charge of abuse of office for pressuring Ukraine to investigate Biden and his son Hunter Biden, Trump is also accused of obstructing Congress in its investigation into his conduct by refusing to hand over documents and barring administration officials from testifying, even when subpoenaed by House investigators.

<img alt="File Photo: Donald Trump, 45th US President" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="887e6be4-d9e9-44b0-a81b-42164f1c2489" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%289%29_17.jpg" /> 
[ Donald Trump, 45th US President (CourtesyL WION Web Team) ]

The document filed by the Democratic House impeachment managers on Saturday explained why the House passed the two articles of impeachment, and listed evidence supporting the charges.

The evidence included references to information released in the past few days from Lev Parnas, an associate of Trump's personal attorney Rudy Giuliani, who was involved in Giuliani's contacts with Ukraine's government.

It also included a finding on Thursday by the nonpartisan Government Accountability Office (GAO) that Trump broke the law when he withheld military aid that Congress had designated for Ukraine. Trump is charged with withholding the $391 million in security assistance to put pressure on Kiev to announce an investigation of the Bidens, to boost his 2020 re-election prospects.

“An acquittal would also provide license to President Trump and his successors to use taxpayer dollars for personal political ends,” the Democratic lawmakers' brief said.

Trump has denied wrongdoing.

The trial in the Republican-led Senate is unlikely to lead to Trump's ouster, as no Republican senators have voiced support for doing so and a two-thirds majority vote is required to convict.

Trump, at his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, for the weekend, played a round of golf on Saturday.

The Trump lawyers, in their document, argued that the president acted at all times with full constitutional legal authority, said one of three sources close to Trump's legal team who briefed reporters on a conference call on Saturday.

"We will take the facts head-on and we believe that the facts will prove, and have proven, that the president did absolutely nothing wrong," the source said.

In a 111-page document filed before Trump's Senate trial begins in earnest on Tuesday, the lawmakers laid out their arguments supporting charges of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress against the president.

In a 111-page document filed before Trump's Senate trial begins in earnest on Tuesday, the lawmakers laid out their arguments supporting charges of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress against the president. "The Senate should convict and remove President Trump to avoid serious and long term damage to our democratic values and the nation's security," the lawmakers said, for the first time formally calling for the Senate to convict the president and remove him from office. "The case against the president of the United States is simple, the facts are indisputable, and the evidence is overwhelming," they said. [US President Donald Trump (Courtesy: WION Web Team) ] The document was an appeal directly to the senators to be impartial. "History will judge each senator's willingness to rise above partisan differences, view the facts honestly and defend the Constitution," the managers said in a statement noting "the President is not a king." Trump's legal team issued a resounding rejection of the impeachment charges, which were read out in the Senate earlier in the week during formalities setting the stage for the trial. They are expected to release a longer, separate response to the Democrats' pretrial brief on Monday. Also Read: 'Brazen and unlawful': Donald Trump's legal team rejects impeachment charges [President of the United States, Donald Trump (Courtesy: WION Web Team) ] Rejecting the charges, Trump's lawyers reiterated the president's insistence, echoed by many of his fellow Republicans in Congress, that the charges are nothing more than a partisan attempt to remove him from office, a "dangerous attack on the right of the American people to freely choose their president." "This is a brazen and unlawful attempt to overturn the results of the 2016 election and interfere with the 2020 election - now just months away," they argued in a six-page document released on Saturday. It was the first time Trump formally responded to the two articles of impeachment - abuse of power and obstruction of Congress - that the Democratic-led House approved late last year. Trump and Democratic lawmakers offered dueling arguments about the politically polarizing impeachment case involving Trump's attempt to persuade Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to investigate Democratic rival Joe Biden last year. "President Trump categorically and unequivocally denies each and every allegation in both articles of impeachment," the Trump lawyers' document said. As well as the charge of abuse of office for pressuring Ukraine to investigate Biden and his son Hunter Biden, Trump is also accused of obstructing Congress in its investigation into his conduct by refusing to hand over documents and barring administration officials from testifying, even when subpoenaed by House investigators. [ Donald Trump, 45th US President (CourtesyL WION Web Team) ] The document filed by the Democratic House impeachment managers on Saturday explained why the House passed the two articles of impeachment, and listed evidence supporting the charges. The evidence included references to information released in the past few days from Lev Parnas, an associate of Trump's personal attorney Rudy Giuliani, who was involved in Giuliani's contacts with Ukraine's government. It also included a finding on Thursday by the nonpartisan Government Accountability Office (GAO) that Trump broke the law when he withheld military aid that Congress had designated for Ukraine. Trump is charged with withholding the $391 million in security assistance to put pressure on Kiev to announce an investigation of the Bidens, to boost his 2020 re-election prospects. “An acquittal would also provide license to President Trump and his successors to use taxpayer dollars for personal political ends,” the Democratic lawmakers' brief said. Trump has denied wrongdoing. The trial in the Republican-led Senate is unlikely to lead to Trump's ouster, as no Republican senators have voiced support for doing so and a two-thirds majority vote is required to convict. Trump, at his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, for the weekend, played a round of golf on Saturday. The Trump lawyers, in their document, argued that the president acted at all times with full constitutional legal authority, said one of three sources close to Trump's legal team who briefed reporters on a conference call on Saturday. "We will take the facts head-on and we believe that the facts will prove, and have proven, that the president did absolutely nothing wrong," the source said.

In impeachment document, Democrats say Trump endangers security, president denies

Venezuelans desperately explored&nbsp;piracy&nbsp;workarounds on Tuesday to continue using&nbsp;Adobe&nbsp;programs&nbsp;after&nbsp;the software developer said it will&nbsp;cut&nbsp;access to its products for the country's users, citing<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-people-protests-against-imposed-sanctions-241437"> US&nbsp;sanctions.</a>

Critics said the move demonstrated the unintended consequences of the policies of US&nbsp;President Donald Trump's administration.

San Jose, California-based&nbsp;Adobe&nbsp;Inc, whose products like Photoshop and InDesign are widely used by&nbsp;designers, illustrators and digital marketers, said on Monday it was "deactivating all accounts in&nbsp;Venezuela" to comply with the sanctions, which are part of Washington's effort to oust socialist President Nicolas Maduro.

A slew of&nbsp;Venezuelan creative professionals took to social media to argue that&nbsp;Adobe's move would have a devastating impact on freelance&nbsp;designers&nbsp;and marketers, who are already struggling with a hyperinflationary economic collapse.

Gremiana Gonzalez, a graphic design student at the University of the Andes in western Merida state, offered instructions on Twitter on how to "crack any app in the Creative Cloud," referring to&nbsp;Adobe's collection of programs.

"In a way it goes against my principles because I am not completely in agreement with&nbsp;piracy, but in these circumstances either you use pirated software or you don't eat," Gonzalez said in a text message. "I know that just like me, many&nbsp;Venezuelans depend completely on freelancing, and&nbsp;Adobe's suite is the most widely-used, best-acclaimed and easiest to access."

Adobe&nbsp;said its software will stop working in&nbsp;Venezuela&nbsp;on Oct 28.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-rights-chief-condemns-latest-us-venezuela-sanctions-241802">Critics of US&nbsp;policy towards&nbsp;Venezuela</a>&nbsp;pointed to&nbsp;Adobe's announcement as the latest example of how the Trump administration's steady escalation of sanctions has hurt ordinary people without succeeding in ousting Maduro, who is accused of corruption and human rights violations.

Washington in January slapped sanctions on state oil company PDVSA, the lifeblood of&nbsp;Venezuela's economy, and has sanctioned dozens of top government officials.

In August, it froze all&nbsp;Venezuelan state assets in the United States and threatened sanctions on any company continuing to do business with the government.&nbsp;Adobe&nbsp;cited that measure in a statement announcing the decision on Monday.

A spokesman for the US&nbsp;Treasury Department, which implements sanctions, said Treasury had "an active sanctions programme in&nbsp;Venezuela&nbsp;aimed at depriving resources from the illegitimate Maduro regime."

The spokesman referred comment on a private company's individual compliance to&nbsp;Adobe.&nbsp;Adobe&nbsp;did not respond to a request for comment.

Francisco Rodriguez, a prominent&nbsp;Venezuelan economist who has launched a nonprofit to help alleviate the OPEC nation's humanitarian crisis, circulated a petition requesting the US&nbsp;Treasury Department to issue a license exempting software&nbsp;service&nbsp;providers from the sanctions.

"Adobe's decision to suspend&nbsp;services in&nbsp;Venezuela&nbsp;has revived the debate over the impact of sanctions," Rodriguez wrote on Twitter. "But maybe we are leaving aside the most relevant question: what can we due to mitigate the impact of these measures on&nbsp;Venezuelans?"

Venezuelans desperately explored piracy workarounds on Tuesday to continue using Adobe programs after the software developer said it will cut access to its products for the country's users, citing US sanctions.

Venezuelans desperately explored piracy workarounds on Tuesday to continue using Adobe programs after the software developer said it will cut access to its products for the country's users, citing US sanctions. Critics said the move demonstrated the unintended consequences of the policies of US President Donald Trump's administration. San Jose, California-based Adobe Inc, whose products like Photoshop and InDesign are widely used by designers, illustrators and digital marketers, said on Monday it was "deactivating all accounts in Venezuela" to comply with the sanctions, which are part of Washington's effort to oust socialist President Nicolas Maduro. A slew of Venezuelan creative professionals took to social media to argue that Adobe's move would have a devastating impact on freelance designers and marketers, who are already struggling with a hyperinflationary economic collapse. Gremiana Gonzalez, a graphic design student at the University of the Andes in western Merida state, offered instructions on Twitter on how to "crack any app in the Creative Cloud," referring to Adobe's collection of programs. "In a way it goes against my principles because I am not completely in agreement with piracy, but in these circumstances either you use pirated software or you don't eat," Gonzalez said in a text message. "I know that just like me, many Venezuelans depend completely on freelancing, and Adobe's suite is the most widely-used, best-acclaimed and easiest to access." Adobe said its software will stop working in Venezuela on Oct 28. Critics of US policy towards Venezuela pointed to Adobe's announcement as the latest example of how the Trump administration's steady escalation of sanctions has hurt ordinary people without succeeding in ousting Maduro, who is accused of corruption and human rights violations. Washington in January slapped sanctions on state oil company PDVSA, the lifeblood of Venezuela's economy, and has sanctioned dozens of top government officials. In August, it froze all Venezuelan state assets in the United States and threatened sanctions on any company continuing to do business with the government. Adobe cited that measure in a statement announcing the decision on Monday. A spokesman for the US Treasury Department, which implements sanctions, said Treasury had "an active sanctions programme in Venezuela aimed at depriving resources from the illegitimate Maduro regime." The spokesman referred comment on a private company's individual compliance to Adobe. Adobe did not respond to a request for comment. Francisco Rodriguez, a prominent Venezuelan economist who has launched a nonprofit to help alleviate the OPEC nation's humanitarian crisis, circulated a petition requesting the US Treasury Department to issue a license exempting software service providers from the sanctions. "Adobe's decision to suspend services in Venezuela has revived the debate over the impact of sanctions," Rodriguez wrote on Twitter. "But maybe we are leaving aside the most relevant question: what can we due to mitigate the impact of these measures on Venezuelans?"

Venezuela designers turn to piracy after Adobe announces it will cut service

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-may-use-iran-threat-to-sell-bombs-to-saudis-without-congress-approval-senator-220787">The Trump administration</a> has moved ahead with a&nbsp;surveillance&nbsp;drone sale to four US&nbsp;allies in the&nbsp;South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea&nbsp;region as acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan said Washington will no longer "tiptoe" around Chinese behaviour in Asia.

The&nbsp;drones&nbsp;would afford greater intelligence gathering capabilities potentially curbing Chinese activity in the region.

Shanahan did not directly name&nbsp;China&nbsp;when making accusations of "actors" destabilising the region in a speech at the annual Shangri-La Dialogue in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-warships-take-part-in-international-maritime-defence-exhibition-in-singapore-218962">Singapore</a> on Saturday but went on to say the United States would not ignore Chinese behaviour.

The Pentagon had announced on Friday it would&nbsp;sell&nbsp;34&nbsp;ScanEagle&nbsp;drones, made by Boeing Co. to the governments of Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam for a total of $47 million.

China&nbsp;claims almost all of the strategic&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warship-sails-in-disputed-south-china-sea-amid-trade-tensions-220018">South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea</a>&nbsp;and frequently lambastes the United States and its allies over naval operations near Chinese occupied islands. Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam have competing claims.

The Pentagon had said on Friday's sales included spare and repair parts, support equipment, tools, training and technical services and work on the equipment was expected to be completed by March 2022.

As many as 12 unarmed&nbsp;drones&nbsp;and equipment would go to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-picks-up-58-malaysia-bound-rohingya-at-sea-223039">Malaysia</a> for about $19 million. Indonesia, the world's largest Muslim-majority country would buy eight&nbsp;drones, the Philippines eight, and Vietnam six.

In 2018, US&nbsp;President Donald Trump's administration rolled out a long-awaited overhaul of US arms export policy aimed at expanding sales to allies, saying it would bolster the American defence industry and create jobs at home.

That initiative eased rules for exporting some types of lethal as well as non-lethal US made&nbsp;drones&nbsp;to potentially dozens more allies and partners.

There is no armed version of the ScanEagle, but Insitu, the division of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/medium-haul-737-aircraft-including-737-max-8-could-have-defective-wing-part-boeing-223745">Boeing</a> that makes the drone, also makes the RQ-21A Blackjack which is an optionally armed drone&nbsp;used by US&nbsp;Navy and Marine Corps.

The Trump administration has moved ahead with a surveillance drone sale to four US allies in the South China Sea region as acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan said Washington will no longer "tiptoe" around Chinese behaviour in Asia.

The Trump administration has moved ahead with a surveillance drone sale to four US allies in the South China Sea region as acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan said Washington will no longer "tiptoe" around Chinese behaviour in Asia. The drones would afford greater intelligence gathering capabilities potentially curbing Chinese activity in the region. Shanahan did not directly name China when making accusations of "actors" destabilising the region in a speech at the annual Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on Saturday but went on to say the United States would not ignore Chinese behaviour. The Pentagon had announced on Friday it would sell 34 ScanEagle drones, made by Boeing Co. to the governments of Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam for a total of $47 million. China claims almost all of the strategic South China Sea and frequently lambastes the United States and its allies over naval operations near Chinese occupied islands. Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam have competing claims. The Pentagon had said on Friday's sales included spare and repair parts, support equipment, tools, training and technical services and work on the equipment was expected to be completed by March 2022. As many as 12 unarmed drones and equipment would go to Malaysia for about $19 million. Indonesia, the world's largest Muslim-majority country would buy eight drones, the Philippines eight, and Vietnam six. In 2018, US President Donald Trump's administration rolled out a long-awaited overhaul of US arms export policy aimed at expanding sales to allies, saying it would bolster the American defence industry and create jobs at home. That initiative eased rules for exporting some types of lethal as well as non-lethal US made drones to potentially dozens more allies and partners. There is no armed version of the ScanEagle, but Insitu, the division of Boeing that makes the drone, also makes the RQ-21A Blackjack which is an optionally armed drone used by US Navy and Marine Corps.

US to sell 34 surveillance drones to allies in South China Sea region

Former US&nbsp;national security adviser Michael Flynn gave Special Counsel Robert Mueller information about attempts by people tied to the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-propose-plan-to-make-us-immigration-more-merit-based-219054"> Trump administration </a>and Congress to obstruct the Russia investigation, court documents released on Thursday showed.

The documents revealed for the first time sections that had originally been blacked out before last month`s release of Mueller`s report on his probe into Russia`s meddling in the 2016 election. The new disclosures were made at prosecutors` request.&nbsp;

Flynn "informed the government of multiple instances, both before and after his guilty plea, where either he or his attorneys received communications from persons connected to the Administration or Congress that could have affected both his willingness to cooperate and the completeness of that cooperation," Mueller wrote in a memo originally submitted ahead of Flynn`s planned sentencing on Dec. 18, 2018.&nbsp;

"The defendant even provided a voicemail recording of one such communication. In some instances, the SCO was unaware of the outreach until being alerted to it by the defendant," he wrote, using the acronym for the Special Counsel`s Office.

The US&nbsp;District Judge Emmet Sullivan, who is overseeing Flynn`s case, further ordered the government to disclose transcripts of the voicemail recording and of Flynn`s conversations with Russian officials by May 31 and an unredacted version of the sections of Mueller`s report relating to Flynn.

Flynn pleaded guilty to lying to FBI agents about his December 2016 conversations with Sergei Kislyak, then <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-increasing-influence-in-cuba-stirs-ghost-of-cold-war-215866">Russia’s</a> ambassador in Washington, about US&nbsp;sanctions imposed on Moscow by the administration of Trump’s Democratic predecessor Barack Obama.

The conversations took place between Trump`s November election victory and his inauguration in January 2017.

Flynn had been scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 18 but the judge fiercely criticized the retired US&nbsp;Army lieutenant general for his actions and delayed his sentencing until after he had finished helping prosecutors with other probes.

Mueller has asked for the judge not to sentence Flynn to prison given his substantial cooperation.&nbsp;

Flynn is still cooperating with prosecutors in the Eastern District of Virginia against his former business partner, Bijan Rafiekian, who was indicted on allegations of unregistered lobbying on behalf of Turkey. Rafiekian has pleaded not guilty and will take his case to a trial scheduled to begin in July.

Mueller completed his investigation in March. While he did not find that there was a conspiracy between Moscow and the Trump campaign to influence the 2016 election, his report describes multiple actions Trump took to try to impede the investigation.

The report stopped short of declaring Trump had committed a crime.

&nbsp;

Former US national security adviser Michael Flynn gave Special Counsel Robert Mueller information about attempts by people tied to the Trump administration and Congress to obstruct the Russia investigation, court documents released on Thursday showed.

Former US national security adviser Michael Flynn gave Special Counsel Robert Mueller information about attempts by people tied to the Trump administration and Congress to obstruct the Russia investigation, court documents released on Thursday showed. The documents revealed for the first time sections that had originally been blacked out before last month`s release of Mueller`s report on his probe into Russia`s meddling in the 2016 election. The new disclosures were made at prosecutors` request. Flynn "informed the government of multiple instances, both before and after his guilty plea, where either he or his attorneys received communications from persons connected to the Administration or Congress that could have affected both his willingness to cooperate and the completeness of that cooperation," Mueller wrote in a memo originally submitted ahead of Flynn`s planned sentencing on Dec. 18, 2018. "The defendant even provided a voicemail recording of one such communication. In some instances, the SCO was unaware of the outreach until being alerted to it by the defendant," he wrote, using the acronym for the Special Counsel`s Office. The US District Judge Emmet Sullivan, who is overseeing Flynn`s case, further ordered the government to disclose transcripts of the voicemail recording and of Flynn`s conversations with Russian officials by May 31 and an unredacted version of the sections of Mueller`s report relating to Flynn. Flynn pleaded guilty to lying to FBI agents about his December 2016 conversations with Sergei Kislyak, then Russia’s ambassador in Washington, about US sanctions imposed on Moscow by the administration of Trump’s Democratic predecessor Barack Obama. The conversations took place between Trump`s November election victory and his inauguration in January 2017. Flynn had been scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 18 but the judge fiercely criticized the retired US Army lieutenant general for his actions and delayed his sentencing until after he had finished helping prosecutors with other probes. Mueller has asked for the judge not to sentence Flynn to prison given his substantial cooperation. Flynn is still cooperating with prosecutors in the Eastern District of Virginia against his former business partner, Bijan Rafiekian, who was indicted on allegations of unregistered lobbying on behalf of Turkey. Rafiekian has pleaded not guilty and will take his case to a trial scheduled to begin in July. Mueller completed his investigation in March. While he did not find that there was a conspiracy between Moscow and the Trump campaign to influence the 2016 election, his report describes multiple actions Trump took to try to impede the investigation. The report stopped short of declaring Trump had committed a crime.

Michael Flynn detailed attempts to obstruct Russia probe: US court filing