Amid the high-voltage drama after breaking up with Elon Musk, US President Donald Trump was asked if he was planning to speak to the Tesla boss anytime soon. The US president said he has not “thought about it” yet. But it’s Musk who should initiate.&nbsp;During a press conference on Monday (June 9) in the White House, a reporter asked Trump if he was planning to speak to Musk on the phone any time soon.&nbsp;“Umm... I haven’t really thought about it actually. I would imagine he wants to speak to me. I think so! If I were him, I would want to speak to me,” Trump said.&nbsp;“Maybe he’s already called. You’d have to ask him. Ask him if he’s already called. But I’d have no problems with it,” the US president added while talking about his previous buddy.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨REPORTER: &quot;Do you plan to speak to Elon Musk on the phone any time soon?&quot; TRUMP: &quot;Umm.....I haven&#39;t really thought about it actually. I would imagine he wants to speak to me. If I were him I would want to speak to me. Maybe he&#39;s already called. You&#39;d have to ask him. Ask him… <a href="https://t.co/SbjCKS8m9K">pic.twitter.com/SbjCKS8m9K</a>&mdash; Autism Capital 🧩 (@AutismCapital) <a href="https://twitter.com/AutismCapital/status/1932187122133520627?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Trump also said that he and Musk had a “good relationship” and he just wishes him “well,” “very well actually.”Trump’s remarks came after the high-profile feud with Musk, once his ally and aide.&nbsp;The entire drama started after Musk’s public criticism of Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” after his resignation from DOGE.&nbsp;Not only that, apart from a dozen posts on X, Musk even claimed that the US president is related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.&nbsp;Trump to sell his 'beautiful' red Tesla&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Wall Street Journal, citing officials from the White House, reported that Trump is considering getting rid of his Tesla that he bought as part of a photo-op at the White House to promote Musk’s company. It was after a global anti-Musk protest and calls for a boycott of Tesla.&nbsp;The report said that Trump could either sell the car or give it away. As per CBS, the car had been parked outside the West Wing for weeks and was there by yesterday evening.&nbsp;Earlier, Trump had said that he spent “A lot of money” on his “beautiful” Tesla. He had also said that his White House team enjoyed taking turns driving it around the grounds.

If I were him, I would want to speak to me: Trump on speaking to Musk 


Amid the high-voltage drama after breaking up with Elon Musk, US President Donald Trump was asked if he was planning to speak to the Tesla boss anytime soon. The US president said he has not “thought about it” yet. But it’s Musk who should initiate. During a press conference on Monday (June 9) in the White House, a reporter asked Trump if he was planning to speak to Musk on the phone any time soon. “Umm... I haven’t really thought about it actually. I would imagine he wants to speak to me. I think so! If I were him, I would want to speak to me,” Trump said. “Maybe he’s already called. You’d have to ask him. Ask him if he’s already called. But I’d have no problems with it,” the US president added while talking about his previous buddy.

After the feud with Elon Musk on “Big Beautiful Bill," Trump said he was not planning to talk to the Tesla boss and it's Musk who should initiate. Trump said, “If I were him, I would want to speak to me.”&nbsp;

‘If I were him, I would want to speak to me’: Trump on speaking to Musk after high-voltage feud over 'Big Beautiful Bill'

California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced legal action against the Trump administration after the US president deployed National Guard troops to Los Angeles without the state’s approval.Axiom-4 mission to the ISS is delayed to 11 June 2025 due to weather. Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to pilot the historic flight. Launch set for 5:30 PM IST from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.&nbsp; Click on the headlines to read more&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-trump-putting-fuel-on-fire-will-take-him-to-court-california-gov-newsom-to-sue-trump-admin-over-national-guard-deployment-1749486739892">'Trump putting fuel on fire, will take him to court': California Gov Newsom to sue Trump admin over National Guard deployment</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250609/image-1749486838372.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="'Trump putting fuel on fire, will take him to court': California Gov Newsom to sue Trump admin over National Guard deployment"></figure>California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced legal action against the Trump administration after the US president deployed National Guard troops to Los Angeles without the state’s approval.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/isro-s-shubhanshu-shukla-ax-4-launch-delayed-to-wednesday-due-to-bad-weather-in-florida-1749481448874">SpaceX delays Axiom-4 carrying Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to June 11: Here's why</a>&nbsp;<img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250609/image-1749481679226.png?rect=(0,160,960,720)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="SpaceX delays Axiom-4 carrying Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to June 11: Here's why"> Originally scheduled for June 10, 2025, the launch will now take place on June 11 at 5:30 PM IST, due to unfavorable weather conditions at the launch site in Florida. The launch of the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS), which marks a historic moment for India, has been postponed by a day. According to a post by ISRO and SpaceX via a post on X. The mission will launch from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, with a backup opportunity available on 12 June at 7:37 AM ET. A live webcast will begin approximately two hours before liftoff. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-covid-variant-spreads-in-india-as-active-cases-rise-to-6-491-what-is-the-xfg-variant-here-s-all-you-need-to-know-1749480806604">New Covid variant spreads in India as active cases rise to 6,491: What is the XFG variant? - Here's all you need to know</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250609/image-1749480955943.png?rect=(0,204,1440,1080)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="New Covid variant spreads in India as active cases rise to 6,491: What is the XFG variant? - Here's all you need to know"></figure>India is seeing a fresh rise in COVID-19 cases, with the number of active infections reaching 6,491, according to the latest data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. A portion of these cases has been linked to a new variant, known as XFG, as reported by news agency PTI, citing data from INSACOG. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/la-protests-president-trump-you-are-so-wonderful-trump-praises-himself-for-deploying-national-guards-in-la-bashes-incompetent-gov-newsom-1749488175831">‘PRESIDENT TRUMP, YOU ARE SO WONDERFUL’: Trump praises himself for deploying National Guards in LA; bashes 'incompetent' Gov Newsom</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250609/image-1749488895780.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="‘PRESIDENT TRUMP, YOU ARE SO WONDERFUL’: Trump praises himself for deploying National Guards in LA; bashes 'incompetent' Gov Newsom"></figure>US President Donald Trump on Sunday (June 9) defended his controversial decision to deploy National Guard troops to Los Angeles, claiming the city would have been “completely obliterated” if he had not acted. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-counted-on-them-zelensky-says-20-000-anti-drone-missiles-meant-for-ukraine-were-diverted-to-middle-east-by-trump-admin-1749474144951">“We counted on them”: Zelensky says 20,000 US anti-drone missiles meant for Ukraine were diverted to Middle East by Trump admin</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250609/image-1749475288004.jpg?rect=(0,222,3822,2866)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="“We counted on them”: Zelensky says 20,000 US anti-drone missiles meant for Ukraine were diverted to Middle East by Trump admin"></figure>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has revealed that 20,000 anti-drone missiles originally meant for Ukraine were redirected by US President Donald Trump’s administration to American forces stationed in the Middle East. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-gets-its-2nd-woman-chopper-pilot-sub-lt-siddhi-dubey-1749481913650">Indian Navy gets its 2nd woman chopper pilot—Sub Lt Siddhi Dubey</a> <img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250609/image-1749482840950.jpg?rect=(0,79,1240,931)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Indian Navy gets its 2nd woman chopper pilot—Sub Lt Siddhi Dubey">Eighteen Indian Navy officers, including one woman, graduated as pilots from the Helicopter Training School at INS Rajali, near Chennai, on Monday, 9th June. Their Passing Out Parade marked the successful completion of their 22-week-long intensive flying and ground training at the Indian Naval Air Squadron-561, the largest helicopter squadron of the Indian Navy. Among those passing out and earning their ceremonial golden wings was Sub Lieutenant Siddhi Hemant Dubey, the second woman helicopter pilot of the Indian Navy. The coveted ‘golden wings’ symbolises a naval pilot’s ultimate transition from training to frontline operational readiness. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-elon-made-a-mistake-musk-s-father-breaks-silence-on-trump-spat-and-he-s-siding-with-the-president-1749481669984">'Elon made a mistake': Musk’s father breaks silence on Trump spat, and he’s siding with&nbsp;the&nbsp;president</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250609/image-1749481882253.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="'Elon made a mistake': Musk’s father breaks silence on Trump spat, and he’s siding with&nbsp;the&nbsp;president"></figure>&nbsp;Elon Musk’s father, Errol Musk, has downplayed the recent feud between his billionaire son and US President Donald Trump, calling it a result of “stress and fatigue”. Speaking to Russian media during a visit to Moscow, Errol suggested the clash was temporary and predicted the two men would soon reconcile. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-they-re-being-pushed-out-with-dogefather-musk-is-out-trump-admin-is-showing-door-to-doge-staff-report-1749470134949">‘They’re being pushed out’: With 'Dogefather' Musk out, Trump admin is showing door to&nbsp;DOGE&nbsp;staff - Report</a>&nbsp;<img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250609/image-1749470294734.jpg?rect=(0,386,3047,2285)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="‘They’re being pushed out’: With 'Dogefather' Musk out, Trump admin is showing door to&nbsp;DOGE&nbsp;staff - Report">Elon Musk’s exit from his White House role as a “special government employee” and his subsequent clash with US President Donald Trump is having a ripple effect across the federal government. Staffers brought in during his time are now being shown the door, some reportedly without choice. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/carlos-alcaraz-total-grand-slam-titles-is-he-officially-one-of-the-successors-of-big-three-1749472438453">Is Carlos Alcaraz officially one of the successors of Big Three? His titles and fitness surely favour him</a> <img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250609/image-1749472746551.jpg?rect=(813,0,4000,3000)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Is Carlos Alcaraz officially one of the successors of Big Three? His titles and fitness surely favour him">Spain's Carlos Alcaraz just won one of the best matches in the history of French Open 2025 as he defended his title in come-from-behind victory in a five-set thriller against Jannik Sinner on Sunday (June 8). Alcaraz, 22, was two sets down against Sinner at 4-6, 6(4)-7(7) and then staged a comeback for ages in the longest final of French Open history. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/jessie-j-breaks-down-amid-her-breast-cancer-battle-shares-health-update-1749467452077">Jessie J breaks down amid her Breast Cancer battle, shares health update</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250609/image-1749467702896.jpg?rect=(0,160,960,720)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Jessie J breaks down amid her Breast Cancer battle, shares health update"></figure>British Singer Jessie J who was recently diagnosed with Breast Cancer, broke down by sharing a series of posts on social media. She also shared what led to her instant mood shift. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Here are the top 10 news stories from across the world

California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced legal action against the Trump administration after the US president deployed National Guard troops to Los Angeles without the state’s approval. Axiom-4 mission to the ISS is delayed to 11 June 2025 due to weather. Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to pilot the historic flight. Launch set for 5:30 PM IST from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. Click on the headlines to read more 'Trump putting fuel on fire, will take him to court': California Gov Newsom to sue Trump admin over National Guard deployment California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced legal action against the Trump administration after the US president deployed National Guard troops to Los Angeles without the state’s approval. SpaceX delays Axiom-4 carrying Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to June 11: Here's why Originally scheduled for June 10, 2025, the launch will now take place on June 11 at 5:30 PM IST, due to unfavorable weather conditions at the launch site in Florida. The launch of the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS), which marks a historic moment for India, has been postponed by a day. According to a post by ISRO and SpaceX via a post on X. The mission will launch from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, with a backup opportunity available on 12 June at 7:37 AM ET. A live webcast will begin approximately two hours before liftoff. New Covid variant spreads in India as active cases rise to 6,491: What is the XFG variant? - Here's all you need to know India is seeing a fresh rise in COVID-19 cases, with the number of active infections reaching 6,491, according to the latest data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. A portion of these cases has been linked to a new variant, known as XFG, as reported by news agency PTI, citing data from INSACOG. ‘PRESIDENT TRUMP, YOU ARE SO WONDERFUL’: Trump praises himself for deploying National Guards in LA; bashes 'incompetent' Gov Newsom US President Donald Trump on Sunday (June 9) defended his controversial decision to deploy National Guard troops to Los Angeles, claiming the city would have been “completely obliterated” if he had not acted. “We counted on them”: Zelensky says 20,000 US anti-drone missiles meant for Ukraine were diverted to Middle East by Trump admin Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has revealed that 20,000 anti-drone missiles originally meant for Ukraine were redirected by US President Donald Trump’s administration to American forces stationed in the Middle East. Indian Navy gets its 2nd woman chopper pilot—Sub Lt Siddhi Dubey Eighteen Indian Navy officers, including one woman, graduated as pilots from the Helicopter Training School at INS Rajali, near Chennai, on Monday, 9th June. Their Passing Out Parade marked the successful completion of their 22-week-long intensive flying and ground training at the Indian Naval Air Squadron-561, the largest helicopter squadron of the Indian Navy. Among those passing out and earning their ceremonial golden wings was Sub Lieutenant Siddhi Hemant Dubey, the second woman helicopter pilot of the Indian Navy. The coveted ‘golden wings’ symbolises a naval pilot’s ultimate transition from training to frontline operational readiness. 'Elon made a mistake': Musk’s father breaks silence on Trump spat, and he’s siding with the president Elon Musk’s father, Errol Musk, has downplayed the recent feud between his billionaire son and US President Donald Trump, calling it a result of “stress and fatigue”. Speaking to Russian media during a visit to Moscow, Errol suggested the clash was temporary and predicted the two men would soon reconcile. ‘They’re being pushed out’: With 'Dogefather' Musk out, Trump admin is showing door to DOGE staff - Report Elon Musk’s exit from his White House role as a “special government employee” and his subsequent clash with US President Donald Trump is having a ripple effect across the federal government. Staffers brought in during his time are now being shown the door, some reportedly without choice. Is Carlos Alcaraz officially one of the successors of Big Three? His titles and fitness surely favour him Spain's Carlos Alcaraz just won one of the best matches in the history of French Open 2025 as he defended his title in come-from-behind victory in a five-set thriller against Jannik Sinner on Sunday (June 8). Alcaraz, 22, was two sets down against Sinner at 4-6, 6(4)-7(7) and then staged a comeback for ages in the longest final of French Open history. Jessie J breaks down amid her Breast Cancer battle, shares health update British Singer Jessie J who was recently diagnosed with Breast Cancer, broke down by sharing a series of posts on social media. She also shared what led to her instant mood shift.

Here are the top 10 news stories from across the world

Top 10 world news: California Gov to sue Trump admin over National Guard deployment; Axiom-4 launch delayed, and more

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (June 9) defended his controversial decision to deploy National Guard troops to Los Angeles, claiming the city would have been “completely obliterated” if he had not acted.In a post on Truth Social, Trump congratulated himself for what he called a “great decision” and launched personal attacks on California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.“The very incompetent ‘Governor,’ Gavin Newscum, and ‘Mayor,’ Karen Bass, should be saying, ‘THANK YOU, PRESIDENT TRUMP, YOU ARE SO WONDERFUL. WE WOULD BE NOTHING WITHOUT YOU, SIR,’” Trump wrote.He accused both leaders of “lying” by describing the protests as peaceful and claimed that pictures and videos showed clear violence and destruction.“We will always do what is needed to keep our Citizens SAFE, so we can, together, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!” he added.<h2>Newsom to sue Trump over ‘illegal’ deployment</h2>Governor Newsom has announced that California will take Trump to court, arguing that the president acted without proper authority.“Donald Trump is putting fuel on this fire. Commandeering a state’s National Guard without consulting the Governor of that state is illegal and immoral,” Newsom wrote on X.He continued, “President Trump illegally acted to federalise the National Guard… we’re suing him.”Newsom also accused Trump of intentionally escalating the crisis in Los Angeles. “Donald Trump has manufactured a crisis and is inflaming conditions. If he can’t solve it, we will,” he said. “To the bad actors fueling Trump’s flames, California will hold you accountable,” he added.<h2>What triggered the protests in Los Angeles?</h2>The protests began on 6 June after officers from US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) carried out immigration raids across Los Angeles. These actions were part of the Trump administration’s crackdown on undocumented immigrants.The raids triggered anger in local communities and civil rights groups, who say the actions were heavy-handed and unjust. The protests quickly grew in size, prompting clashes with law enforcement and the eventual deployment of the National Guard.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump congratulated himself for what he called a “great decision” and launched personal attacks on California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (June 9) defended his controversial decision to deploy National Guard troops to Los Angeles, claiming the city would have been “completely obliterated” if he had not acted. In a post on Truth Social, Trump congratulated himself for what he called a “great decision” and launched personal attacks on California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. “The very incompetent ‘Governor,’ Gavin Newscum, and ‘Mayor,’ Karen Bass, should be saying, ‘THANK YOU, PRESIDENT TRUMP, YOU ARE SO WONDERFUL. WE WOULD BE NOTHING WITHOUT YOU, SIR,’” Trump wrote. He accused both leaders of “lying” by describing the protests as peaceful and claimed that pictures and videos showed clear violence and destruction. “We will always do what is needed to keep our Citizens SAFE, so we can, together, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!” he added. Newsom to sue Trump over ‘illegal’ deployment Governor Newsom has announced that California will take Trump to court, arguing that the president acted without proper authority. “Donald Trump is putting fuel on this fire. Commandeering a state’s National Guard without consulting the Governor of that state is illegal and immoral,” Newsom wrote on X. He continued, “President Trump illegally acted to federalise the National Guard… we’re suing him.” Newsom also accused Trump of intentionally escalating the crisis in Los Angeles. “Donald Trump has manufactured a crisis and is inflaming conditions. If he can’t solve it, we will,” he said. “To the bad actors fueling Trump’s flames, California will hold you accountable,” he added. What triggered the protests in Los Angeles? The protests began on 6 June after officers from US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) carried out immigration raids across Los Angeles. These actions were part of the Trump administration’s crackdown on undocumented immigrants. The raids triggered anger in local communities and civil rights groups, who say the actions were heavy-handed and unjust. The protests quickly grew in size, prompting clashes with law enforcement and the eventual deployment of the National Guard.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump congratulated himself for what he called a “great decision” and launched personal attacks on California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.

‘PRESIDENT TRUMP, YOU ARE SO WONDERFUL’: Trump praises himself for deploying National Guards in LA; bashes 'incompetent' Gov Newsom

California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced legal action against the Trump administration after the US president deployed National Guard troops to Los Angeles without the state’s approval.“Donald Trump is putting fuel on this fire. Commandeering a state’s National Guard without consulting the Governor of that state is illegal and immoral,” Newsom posted on X on Sunday. “California will be taking him to court,” he added.In a follow-up post on Monday morning, Newsom doubled down, “President Trump illegally acted to federalise the National Guard… we’re suing him.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-counted-on-them-zelensky-says-20-000-anti-drone-missiles-meant-for-ukraine-were-diverted-to-middle-east-by-trump-admin-1749474144951">“We counted on them”: Zelensky says 20,000 US anti-drone missiles meant for Ukraine were diverted to Middle East by Trump admin</a><h2>LA unrest escalates after immigration crackdown</h2>The deployment came after protests erupted across Los Angeles in response to large-scale immigration enforcement raids on Friday. The weekend demonstrations turned tense, with confrontations between law enforcement and protesters.Governor Newsom accused Trump of creating a crisis. “Donald Trump has manufactured a crisis and is inflaming conditions. If he can’t solve it, we will. To the bad actors fueling Trump’s flames, California will hold you accountable,” he wrote on social media.<h2>Trump blames California leaders for chaos</h2>President Trump responded by attacking Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, blaming them for failing to handle the unrest.“Governor Gavin Newsom and ‘Mayor’ Bass should apologise to the people of Los Angeles for the horrible job that they have done, and this now includes the ongoing L.A. riots,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “These are not protesters, they are troublemakers and insurrectionists. Remember, NO MASKS!”Amid the tensions, Trump’s former immigration czar Tom Homan appeared to suggest that state leaders like Newsom or Bass could face arrest if they interfered with federal law enforcement.Homan later clarified his earlier remarks, saying: “If you cross the line, it’s a felony to knowingly harbour and conceal illegal aliens… If [Mayor Bass] crossed that line, we’ll ask DOJ to prosecute.”Although he added that he didn’t believe Bass had done so yet, he maintained that “no one is above the law”.<h2>Newsom fires back: ‘Come arrest me’</h2>In a sharp response, Newsom challenged Homan directly.“He’s a tough guy. Why doesn’t he do that? He knows where to find me,” Newsom said. Addressing Homan, he added, “Lay your hands off four-year-old girls who are trying to get an education … Come after me. Arrest me. Let’s just get it over with, tough guy.”<h2>Why are people protesting in Los Angeles?</h2>The protests in LA began on 6 June, following a series of immigration raids conducted by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in multiple parts of the city. These raids were part of the Trump administration’s wider crackdown on undocumented immigrants, which has sparked anger and concern among local communities and civil rights groups.

The deployment came after protests erupted across Los Angeles in response to large-scale immigration enforcement raids on Friday. The weekend demonstrations turned tense, with confrontations between law enforcement and protesters.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced legal action against the Trump administration after the US president deployed National Guard troops to Los Angeles without the state’s approval. “Donald Trump is putting fuel on this fire. Commandeering a state’s National Guard without consulting the Governor of that state is illegal and immoral,” Newsom posted on X on Sunday. “California will be taking him to court,” he added. In a follow-up post on Monday morning, Newsom doubled down, “President Trump illegally acted to federalise the National Guard… we’re suing him.” Also read: “We counted on them”: Zelensky says 20,000 US anti-drone missiles meant for Ukraine were diverted to Middle East by Trump admin LA unrest escalates after immigration crackdown The deployment came after protests erupted across Los Angeles in response to large-scale immigration enforcement raids on Friday. The weekend demonstrations turned tense, with confrontations between law enforcement and protesters. Governor Newsom accused Trump of creating a crisis. “Donald Trump has manufactured a crisis and is inflaming conditions. If he can’t solve it, we will. To the bad actors fueling Trump’s flames, California will hold you accountable,” he wrote on social media. Trump blames California leaders for chaos President Trump responded by attacking Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, blaming them for failing to handle the unrest. “Governor Gavin Newsom and ‘Mayor’ Bass should apologise to the people of Los Angeles for the horrible job that they have done, and this now includes the ongoing L.A. riots,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “These are not protesters, they are troublemakers and insurrectionists. Remember, NO MASKS!” Amid the tensions, Trump’s former immigration czar Tom Homan appeared to suggest that state leaders like Newsom or Bass could face arrest if they interfered with federal law enforcement. Homan later clarified his earlier remarks, saying: “If you cross the line, it’s a felony to knowingly harbour and conceal illegal aliens… If [Mayor Bass] crossed that line, we’ll ask DOJ to prosecute.” Although he added that he didn’t believe Bass had done so yet, he maintained that “no one is above the law”. Newsom fires back: ‘Come arrest me’ In a sharp response, Newsom challenged Homan directly. “He’s a tough guy. Why doesn’t he do that? He knows where to find me,” Newsom said. Addressing Homan, he added, “Lay your hands off four-year-old girls who are trying to get an education … Come after me. Arrest me. Let’s just get it over with, tough guy.” Why are people protesting in Los Angeles? The protests in LA began on 6 June, following a series of immigration raids conducted by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in multiple parts of the city. These raids were part of the Trump administration’s wider crackdown on undocumented immigrants, which has sparked anger and concern among local communities and civil rights groups.

The deployment came after protests erupted across Los Angeles in response to large-scale immigration enforcement raids on Friday. The weekend demonstrations turned tense, with confrontations between law enforcement and protesters.

'Trump putting fuel on fire, will take him to court': California Gov Newsom to sue Trump admin over National Guard deployment

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has revealed that 20,000 anti-drone missiles originally meant for Ukraine were redirected by US President Donald Trump’s administration to American forces stationed in the Middle East.Speaking to ABC News on 8 June, Zelensky confirmed that the missiles would have helped Ukraine defend against ongoing drone strikes from Russia, particularly Iranian-designed Shahed drones. On 1 June alone, Russia launched a record 472 drones in a single night.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russia-launches-biggest-drone-strike-on-ukraine-since-inception-of-war-kyiv-downs-two-russian-aircraft-1749467560974">'479 drones, 20 missiles': Russia launches BIGGEST drone strike on Ukraine since inception of war; Kyiv downs two Russian aircraft</a><h2>“We counted on this project,” says Zelensky</h2>“We have big problems with Shaheds… we will find all the tools to destroy them,” Zelensky said. “We counted on this project — 20,000 missiles. Anti-Shahed missiles. It was not expensive, but it’s a special technology,” he said.He said the missile transfer plan was initially agreed with then-Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin under President Joe Biden’s administration.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-putin-zelensky-trump-s-children-fighting-remark-here-s-what-he-said-1749405687191">‘Putin is a murderer who came to kill the kids’: Zelensky hits back at Trump’s ‘children fighting’ remark — Here’s&nbsp;what&nbsp;he&nbsp;said</a><h2>US Pentagon cited ‘urgent’ need for redirection</h2>According to The Wall Street Journal, the Trump administration reallocated the munitions, including special fuzes used in the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System, for use by US troops in the Middle East. The Pentagon later told Congress in a classified message that the move was considered an “urgent issue” by current Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth.<h2>Trump halted Ukraine military aid after re-election</h2>Since his return to office in January, Trump has blocked new military aid packages to Ukraine and has shown reluctance towards continuing assistance. Aid was only resumed after Ukraine agreed to a ceasefire proposal during peace talks held in Jeddah on 11 March.Notably, Hegseth did not attend the recent Ukraine Defence Contact Group meeting on 4 June, marking the first such absence by a US defence secretary since Russia’s full-scale invasion began.<h2>Kyiv warns of intensified Russian drone threat</h2>A source from Ukraine’s military intelligence (HUR) told the Kyiv Independent that Russia is preparing to launch over 500 long-range drones per night in upcoming strikes, as it boosts drone production and builds more launch sites.In response, Kyiv is urging its Western allies to provide more air defence systems, including US-made Patriot batteries, and invest in Ukraine’s domestic weapons production.

Zelensky confirmed that the missiles would have helped Ukraine defend against ongoing drone strikes from Russia, particularly Iranian-designed Shahed drones.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has revealed that 20,000 anti-drone missiles originally meant for Ukraine were redirected by US President Donald Trump’s administration to American forces stationed in the Middle East. Speaking to ABC News on 8 June, Zelensky confirmed that the missiles would have helped Ukraine defend against ongoing drone strikes from Russia, particularly Iranian-designed Shahed drones. On 1 June alone, Russia launched a record 472 drones in a single night. Also read: '479 drones, 20 missiles': Russia launches BIGGEST drone strike on Ukraine since inception of war; Kyiv downs two Russian aircraft “We counted on this project,” says Zelensky “We have big problems with Shaheds… we will find all the tools to destroy them,” Zelensky said. “We counted on this project — 20,000 missiles. Anti-Shahed missiles. It was not expensive, but it’s a special technology,” he said. He said the missile transfer plan was initially agreed with then-Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin under President Joe Biden’s administration. Also read: ‘Putin is a murderer who came to kill the kids’: Zelensky hits back at Trump’s ‘children fighting’ remark — Here’s what he said US Pentagon cited ‘urgent’ need for redirection According to The Wall Street Journal, the Trump administration reallocated the munitions, including special fuzes used in the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System, for use by US troops in the Middle East. The Pentagon later told Congress in a classified message that the move was considered an “urgent issue” by current Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth. Trump halted Ukraine military aid after re-election Since his return to office in January, Trump has blocked new military aid packages to Ukraine and has shown reluctance towards continuing assistance. Aid was only resumed after Ukraine agreed to a ceasefire proposal during peace talks held in Jeddah on 11 March. Notably, Hegseth did not attend the recent Ukraine Defence Contact Group meeting on 4 June, marking the first such absence by a US defence secretary since Russia’s full-scale invasion began. Kyiv warns of intensified Russian drone threat A source from Ukraine’s military intelligence (HUR) told the Kyiv Independent that Russia is preparing to launch over 500 long-range drones per night in upcoming strikes, as it boosts drone production and builds more launch sites. In response, Kyiv is urging its Western allies to provide more air defence systems, including US-made Patriot batteries, and invest in Ukraine’s domestic weapons production.

Zelensky confirmed that the missiles would have helped Ukraine defend against ongoing drone strikes from Russia, particularly Iranian-designed Shahed drones.

“We counted on them”: Zelensky says 20,000 US anti-drone missiles meant for Ukraine were diverted to Middle East by Trump admin

A new travel ban imposed by US President Donald Trump's administration on mainly Muslim-majority and Middle Eastern countries came into effect post midnight on Monday (June 9).<h2> Trump travel ban 2.0: Which countries are affected?</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>The ban will mainly affect citizens of 12 countries: Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. The citizens of these 12 countries will be completely banned from entering the US.&nbsp;The Afghans on Special Immigrant Visas are exempted. These are people who worked with, and helped the US forces and administration during the two-decade US occupation of that country.&nbsp;Afghanistan remains one of the largest source countries for resettled refugees, with 14,000 people arriving in the one-year period up to September 2024, since the Taliban takeover of 2021. In its broader form, the Trump travel ban will affect seven more countries, whose citizens will face further scrutiny before entering.&nbsp;These countries are Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela.<h2> Terrorism, poor vetting process, visa overstays are causes</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;The travel ban is being imposed apparently due to terrorism allegedly emanating from the listed countries, lack of proper pre-departure vetting, and lack of cooperation from these countries on deportations.&nbsp;Officials also said the countries named had high visa overstay rates, and failure in sharing identity and threat information. The recent terror attack in Boulder, Colorado, was cited by Trump in defending the travel ban. The Egyptian suspect had overstayed a tourist visa. But notably, Egypt is not on the travel ban list.&nbsp;According to the Trump administration, eight of the 12 banned countries in the new list have had high visa overstay record.<h2>Travel ban amid massive immigration crackdown</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>The new Trump crackdown came even as pitched battles were being fought in Los Angeles between people and police during protests against the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).&nbsp;The Trump administration's crackdown on migration has targeted people from across the southern border as well as students from different countries who had entered the country legally.&nbsp;<h2>How will travel ban affect citizens of listed countries?</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>It is expected that those with visas already issued can enter the US even after the ban kicked in.&nbsp;The new travel ban order, signed by Trump last week, will not affect visas already issued to those in the list. But if applicants do not meet the stricter norms under the ban, their applications will be rejected from Monday.&nbsp;Most of the listed countries do not send a lot of people to the US in any case. But Haiti, Cuba and Venezuela are exceptions, as they have been among the top source countries of immigration. In Haiti, people are trying to escape poverty, hunger, gang violence and political turmoil.&nbsp;<h2> Is this travel ban different from that of Trump's first term?</h2> The new travel ban is limited in scope than the sweeping 'Muslim country ban' executive order of Trump's first term. That ban had rejected entry to thousands of people from Muslim-majority nations. For the current ban, Trump took into account passport screening deficiencies, refusal of countries to take back their citizens from the US, and visa overstay data from the Homeland Security department.<h2> Trump travel ban criticised</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;The new travel ban was slammed by activists, particularly those supporting refugees from Afghanistan. Trump had suspended refugee resettlement as part of the flurry of orders on day one of his return to the White House. Abby Maxman, president of Oxfam America, was among those who criticised the travel ban, even as hundreds of people fought the immigration crackdowns in Los Angeles.&nbsp;&nbsp;“This policy is not about national security – it is about sowing division and vilifying communities that are seeking safety and opportunity in the United States,” Maxman said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The citizens of these 12 countries will be completely banned from entering the US. The Afghans on Special Immigrant Visas are exempted.

A new travel ban imposed by US President Donald Trump's administration on mainly Muslim-majority and Middle Eastern countries came into effect post midnight on Monday (June 9). Trump travel ban 2.0: Which countries are affected? The ban will mainly affect citizens of 12 countries: Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. The citizens of these 12 countries will be completely banned from entering the US. The Afghans on Special Immigrant Visas are exempted. These are people who worked with, and helped the US forces and administration during the two-decade US occupation of that country. Afghanistan remains one of the largest source countries for resettled refugees, with 14,000 people arriving in the one-year period up to September 2024, since the Taliban takeover of 2021. In its broader form, the Trump travel ban will affect seven more countries, whose citizens will face further scrutiny before entering. These countries are Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela. Terrorism, poor vetting process, visa overstays are causes The travel ban is being imposed apparently due to terrorism allegedly emanating from the listed countries, lack of proper pre-departure vetting, and lack of cooperation from these countries on deportations. Officials also said the countries named had high visa overstay rates, and failure in sharing identity and threat information. The recent terror attack in Boulder, Colorado, was cited by Trump in defending the travel ban. The Egyptian suspect had overstayed a tourist visa. But notably, Egypt is not on the travel ban list. According to the Trump administration, eight of the 12 banned countries in the new list have had high visa overstay record. Travel ban amid massive immigration crackdown The new Trump crackdown came even as pitched battles were being fought in Los Angeles between people and police during protests against the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The Trump administration's crackdown on migration has targeted people from across the southern border as well as students from different countries who had entered the country legally. How will travel ban affect citizens of listed countries? It is expected that those with visas already issued can enter the US even after the ban kicked in. The new travel ban order, signed by Trump last week, will not affect visas already issued to those in the list. But if applicants do not meet the stricter norms under the ban, their applications will be rejected from Monday. Most of the listed countries do not send a lot of people to the US in any case. But Haiti, Cuba and Venezuela are exceptions, as they have been among the top source countries of immigration. In Haiti, people are trying to escape poverty, hunger, gang violence and political turmoil. Is this travel ban different from that of Trump's first term? The new travel ban is limited in scope than the sweeping 'Muslim country ban' executive order of Trump's first term. That ban had rejected entry to thousands of people from Muslim-majority nations. For the current ban, Trump took into account passport screening deficiencies, refusal of countries to take back their citizens from the US, and visa overstay data from the Homeland Security department. Trump travel ban criticised The new travel ban was slammed by activists, particularly those supporting refugees from Afghanistan. Trump had suspended refugee resettlement as part of the flurry of orders on day one of his return to the White House. Abby Maxman, president of Oxfam America, was among those who criticised the travel ban, even as hundreds of people fought the immigration crackdowns in Los Angeles. “This policy is not about national security – it is about sowing division and vilifying communities that are seeking safety and opportunity in the United States,” Maxman said.

The citizens of these 12 countries will be completely banned from entering the US. The Afghans on Special Immigrant Visas are exempted.

Is my country listed? Trump travel ban is in effect now. Check which countries are included, and what's different this time

ABC News has suspended senior political correspondent Terry Moran after he posted a scathing personal comment online targeting Donald Trump’s adviser Stephen Miller.In a now-deleted post on X (formerly Twitter), Moran described Miller as “richly endowed with the capacity for hatred” and said he was the “bile” behind the Trumpist movement.“Miller is a man who is richly endowed with the capacity for hatred. He’s a world-class hater,” Moran wrote. “You can see this just by looking at him because you can see that his hatreds are his spiritual nourishment. He eats his hate,” he addedHe also called President Donald Trump “a world-class hater”, and added, “His hatred [is] only a means to an end, and that end [is] his own glorification. That’s his spiritual nourishment.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-bypass-security-no-tracking-no-records-elon-musk-s-doge-secretly-transmitted-white-house-data-via-starlink-1749380621741">‘Bypass security, no tracking, no records’: Elon Musk’s DOGE secretly transmitted White&nbsp;House&nbsp;data via Starlink</a><h2>ABC says post violates standards</h2>Following the uproar, ABC News issued a statement confirming Moran’s suspension.“ABC News stands for objectivity and impartiality in its news coverage and does not condone subjective personal attacks on others,” the network said. “The post does not reflect the views of ABC News and violated our standards — as a result, Terry Moran has been suspended pending further evaluation,” it added.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-s-most-followed-star-khaby-lame-detained-by-ice-then-posts-on-instagram-where-is-he-now-1749393420879">'He’s an ILLEGAL ALIEN!' TikTok’s most-followed star, Khaby Lame detained by ICE, then posts on Instagram - Where is he now?</a><h2>White House, Miller and Vance hit back</h2>White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt shared a screenshot of Moran’s post on her account and called the comments “unhinged and unacceptable”.“This is unhinged and unacceptable,” she wrote. “We have reached out to @ABC to inquire about how they plan to hold Terry accountable,” she added.Stephen Miller also responded, saying Moran’s outburst revealed the “radical” nature of mainstream media.“For decades, the privileged anchors and reporters narrating and gatekeeping our society have been radicals adopting a journalist’s pose,” he said.Vice President JD Vance called Moran’s post “a vile smear” and said it was “dripping with hatred.”“As it happens, I know Stephen quite well. And he’s motivated by love of country,” Vance added.<h2>Who is Terry Moran?</h2>Terry Moran, born in Chicago, earned a degree in English from Lawrence University in 1982. He started his journalism career writing for The New Republic before moving into broadcast journalism with Court TV, where he covered major trials including those of O.J. Simpson and the Menendez brothers.He rose to prominence covering the Clinton presidency and Al Gore’s campaign before joining ABC News. As co-anchor of Nightline, Moran interviewed Barack Obama nine times in one-on-one conversations.

In a now-deleted post on X (formerly Twitter), Moran described Miller as “richly endowed with the capacity for hatred” and said he was the “bile” behind the Trumpist movement.

ABC News has suspended senior political correspondent Terry Moran after he posted a scathing personal comment online targeting Donald Trump’s adviser Stephen Miller. In a now-deleted post on X (formerly Twitter), Moran described Miller as “richly endowed with the capacity for hatred” and said he was the “bile” behind the Trumpist movement. “Miller is a man who is richly endowed with the capacity for hatred. He’s a world-class hater,” Moran wrote. “You can see this just by looking at him because you can see that his hatreds are his spiritual nourishment. He eats his hate,” he added He also called President Donald Trump “a world-class hater”, and added, “His hatred [is] only a means to an end, and that end [is] his own glorification. That’s his spiritual nourishment.” Also read: ‘Bypass security, no tracking, no records’: Elon Musk’s DOGE secretly transmitted White House data via Starlink ABC says post violates standards Following the uproar, ABC News issued a statement confirming Moran’s suspension. “ABC News stands for objectivity and impartiality in its news coverage and does not condone subjective personal attacks on others,” the network said. “The post does not reflect the views of ABC News and violated our standards — as a result, Terry Moran has been suspended pending further evaluation,” it added. Also read: 'He’s an ILLEGAL ALIEN!' TikTok’s most-followed star, Khaby Lame detained by ICE, then posts on Instagram - Where is he now? White House, Miller and Vance hit back White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt shared a screenshot of Moran’s post on her account and called the comments “unhinged and unacceptable”. “This is unhinged and unacceptable,” she wrote. “We have reached out to @ABC to inquire about how they plan to hold Terry accountable,” she added. Stephen Miller also responded, saying Moran’s outburst revealed the “radical” nature of mainstream media. “For decades, the privileged anchors and reporters narrating and gatekeeping our society have been radicals adopting a journalist’s pose,” he said. Vice President JD Vance called Moran’s post “a vile smear” and said it was “dripping with hatred.” “As it happens, I know Stephen quite well. And he’s motivated by love of country,” Vance added. Who is Terry Moran? Terry Moran, born in Chicago, earned a degree in English from Lawrence University in 1982. He started his journalism career writing for The New Republic before moving into broadcast journalism with Court TV, where he covered major trials including those of O.J. Simpson and the Menendez brothers. He rose to prominence covering the Clinton presidency and Al Gore’s campaign before joining ABC News. As co-anchor of Nightline, Moran interviewed Barack Obama nine times in one-on-one conversations.

In a now-deleted post on X (formerly Twitter), Moran described Miller as “richly endowed with the capacity for hatred” and said he was the “bile” behind the Trumpist movement.

‘He eats his hate’: Who is Terry Moran? Journalist suspended after explosive post calling Trump, aide Stephen Miller 'world-class haters'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said his country is open to a ceasefire brokered by the United States, as he accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of seeking Ukraine’s “total defeat”.In an exclusive interview with ABC News on Sunday (June 08), Zelensky insisted that only “hard pressure” from the US and its European allies would be enough to push Putin towards a diplomatic solution.“Then they will stop the war,” Zelensky said. “I am convinced that the president of the United States has all the powers and enough leverage to step up,” he added.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/la-protest-trump-2000-national-guard-los-angeles-marines-next-all-you-need-to-know-1749400097503">Trump sends 2,000 National Guard to Los Angeles. Are Marines next? - All you need to know</a><h2>Ukraine rejects past ceasefires as Russia kept launching attacks</h2>Zelensky warned that temporary ceasefires in the past were never respected by Russia, as missile strikes and attacks continued.“People have to understand that we are under strikes, under attack every day,” he said. “You might remember that when they were talking about ceasefires, they still continued attacking and launching strikes,” he added.Zelensky said Ukraine is willing to accept a 30-day ceasefire without demanding a US security guarantee, as long as Russia also halts hostilities.<h2>Zelensky disagrees with Trump’s ‘children fighting’ comparison</h2>Zelensky pushed back on US President Donald Trump’s comments, where Trump compared the war in Ukraine to “two young children fighting like crazy”.The remark was made during Trump’s meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in the Oval Office. Trump said the war in Ukraine is like "two young children fighting like crazy" and "sometimes you're better off letting them fight for a while and then pulling them apart."Zelensky recalled the story of a Ukrainian man who lost his wife and children in a missile strike. “He told me, ‘I’m still looking for them beside me in the flat. And they are not there,’” Zelensky said.“Do people who haven’t lost the kids feel something like that? Probably not. Can a president who is in America feel exactly like this father? No,” he added."We are not kids with Putin at the playground in the park. This is why I am saying he is a murderer who came to this park to kill the kids," he said.<h2>Operation ‘Spiderweb’: Ukraine’s major strike on Russian bombers</h2>Just days earlier, Ukraine carried out a coordinated drone attack targeting Russian airfields. The operation, called “Spiderweb”, reportedly destroyed around a third of Russia’s strategic bombers.Zelensky said the secret mission had been in planning for 18 months and only hit military targets.“We can only counter [Russia’s aggression] with force. We understood if [Ukraine’s special services could] take some steps, we can stop [Russia] in their tracks,” Zelensky said.<h2>Kremlin calls it terrorism, Zelensky says it’s a clean military operation</h2>Russia called the drone attacks “an act of terrorism”, a claim Zelensky strongly rejected.“It’s [a] clean and clear military operation. It’s a step that showed everyone that we do not want this war,” he said. “We do not want to fight.”

Zelensky warned that temporary ceasefires in the past were never respected by Russia, as missile strikes and attacks continued.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said his country is open to a ceasefire brokered by the United States, as he accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of seeking Ukraine’s “total defeat”. In an exclusive interview with ABC News on Sunday (June 08), Zelensky insisted that only “hard pressure” from the US and its European allies would be enough to push Putin towards a diplomatic solution. “Then they will stop the war,” Zelensky said. “I am convinced that the president of the United States has all the powers and enough leverage to step up,” he added. Also read: Trump sends 2,000 National Guard to Los Angeles. Are Marines next? - All you need to know Ukraine rejects past ceasefires as Russia kept launching attacks Zelensky warned that temporary ceasefires in the past were never respected by Russia, as missile strikes and attacks continued. “People have to understand that we are under strikes, under attack every day,” he said. “You might remember that when they were talking about ceasefires, they still continued attacking and launching strikes,” he added. Zelensky said Ukraine is willing to accept a 30-day ceasefire without demanding a US security guarantee, as long as Russia also halts hostilities. Zelensky disagrees with Trump’s ‘children fighting’ comparison Zelensky pushed back on US President Donald Trump’s comments, where Trump compared the war in Ukraine to “two young children fighting like crazy”. The remark was made during Trump’s meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in the Oval Office. Trump said the war in Ukraine is like "two young children fighting like crazy" and "sometimes you're better off letting them fight for a while and then pulling them apart." Zelensky recalled the story of a Ukrainian man who lost his wife and children in a missile strike. “He told me, ‘I’m still looking for them beside me in the flat. And they are not there,’” Zelensky said. “Do people who haven’t lost the kids feel something like that? Probably not. Can a president who is in America feel exactly like this father? No,” he added. "We are not kids with Putin at the playground in the park. This is why I am saying he is a murderer who came to this park to kill the kids," he said. Operation ‘Spiderweb’: Ukraine’s major strike on Russian bombers Just days earlier, Ukraine carried out a coordinated drone attack targeting Russian airfields. The operation, called “Spiderweb”, reportedly destroyed around a third of Russia’s strategic bombers. Zelensky said the secret mission had been in planning for 18 months and only hit military targets. “We can only counter [Russia’s aggression] with force. We understood if [Ukraine’s special services could] take some steps, we can stop [Russia] in their tracks,” Zelensky said. Kremlin calls it terrorism, Zelensky says it’s a clean military operation Russia called the drone attacks “an act of terrorism”, a claim Zelensky strongly rejected. “It’s [a] clean and clear military operation. It’s a step that showed everyone that we do not want this war,” he said. “We do not want to fight.”

Zelensky warned that temporary ceasefires in the past were never respected by Russia, as missile strikes and attacks continued.

‘Putin is a murderer who came to kill the kids’: Zelensky hits back at Trump’s ‘children fighting’ remark — Here’s what he said

National Guard troops began arriving in Los Angeles on Sunday (June 8) morning, following orders from former US President Donald Trump to send 2,000 service members to the city in response to protests over federal immigration raids.The White House confirmed that the National Guard would remain in Los Angeles for a 60-day period to “address the lawlessness that has been allowed to fester”.Despite the deployment, California already has over 75,000 uniformed law enforcement personnel across its state, county, and city levels. The Los Angeles Police Department alone has around 9,000 officers.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-you-won-t-reach-gaza-israel-warns-antisemite-greta-thunberg-to-turn-back-who-all-are-aboard-the-ship-1749390636101">‘You won't reach Gaza’: Israel warns 'antisemite' Greta Thunberg to 'turn back' - Who all are&nbsp;aboard the ship?</a><h2>Why has Trump sent in National Guard?</h2>Explaining the decision to deploy troops, Trump said demonstrations disrupting immigration enforcement were “a form of rebellion” against the federal government.Using powers under Title 10 of the US Code, which allows the President to federalise the National Guard during rebellion or threats to public order, Trump ordered the troops to active duty.On Truth Social, Trump wrote, “If Governor Gavin Newscum, of California, and Mayor Karen Bass, of Los Angeles, can’t do their jobs, which everyone knows they can’t, then the Federal Government will step in and solve the problem, RIOTS &amp; LOOTERS, the way it should be solved!!!”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-bypass-security-no-tracking-no-records-elon-musk-s-doge-secretly-transmitted-white-house-data-via-starlink-1749380621741">‘Bypass security, no tracking, no records’: Elon Musk’s DOGE secretly transmitted White&nbsp;House&nbsp;data via Starlink</a>He added, “Great job by the National Guard in Los Angeles after two days of violence, clashes and unrest… Masks will not be allowed to be worn at protests. What do these people have to hide, and why?”<h2>What are the LA protests about?</h2>The unrest began on Friday after US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) carried out a new wave of operations in Los Angeles. According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), 118 people were arrested this week in LA alone, with nationwide ICE arrests averaging 2,000 per day.The actions triggered widespread protests across the city and drew harsh criticism from local leaders. All 15 city council members issued a joint statement rejecting the raids.“We condemn this in no uncertain terms: Los Angeles was built by immigrants and it thrives because of immigrants,” the statement said. “We will not abide by fear tactics to support extreme political agendas… Los Angeles will continue to be a place that values and dignifies every human being,” it added.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-distraction-from-epstein-files-netizens-suggest-trump-is-distracting-voters-with-la-protests-national-guard-showdown-1749386782990">‘Distraction from Epstein files?’: Netizens suggest Trump is ‘distracting’ voters with LA protests, National Guard showdown</a>Mayor Karen Bass also denounced the raids, saying, “These tactics sow terror in our communities and disrupt basic principles of safety in our city… we will not stand for this.”<h2>What did California Governor Gavin Newsom say?</h2>California Governor Gavin Newsom strongly criticised the federal government’s move to override state authority and take control of the National Guard.“The federal government is taking over the California National Guard and deploying 2,000 soldiers in Los Angeles — not because there is a shortage of law enforcement, but because they want a spectacle,” he posted on X.The situation escalated further when US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth warned that active-duty Marines could be sent if violence continued. In response, Newsom said the idea of using Marines on American streets was “deranged”.“The Secretary of Defense is now threatening to deploy active-duty Marines on American soil against its own citizens. This is deranged behaviour,” he added.

The unrest began on Friday after US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) carried out a new wave of operations in Los Angeles. According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), 118 people were arrested this week in LA alone, with nationwide ICE arrests averaging 2,000 per day.

National Guard troops began arriving in Los Angeles on Sunday (June 8) morning, following orders from former US President Donald Trump to send 2,000 service members to the city in response to protests over federal immigration raids. The White House confirmed that the National Guard would remain in Los Angeles for a 60-day period to “address the lawlessness that has been allowed to fester”. Despite the deployment, California already has over 75,000 uniformed law enforcement personnel across its state, county, and city levels. The Los Angeles Police Department alone has around 9,000 officers. Also read: ‘You won't reach Gaza’: Israel warns 'antisemite' Greta Thunberg to 'turn back' - Who all are aboard the ship? Why has Trump sent in National Guard? Explaining the decision to deploy troops, Trump said demonstrations disrupting immigration enforcement were “a form of rebellion” against the federal government. Using powers under Title 10 of the US Code, which allows the President to federalise the National Guard during rebellion or threats to public order, Trump ordered the troops to active duty. On Truth Social, Trump wrote, “If Governor Gavin Newscum, of California, and Mayor Karen Bass, of Los Angeles, can’t do their jobs, which everyone knows they can’t, then the Federal Government will step in and solve the problem, RIOTS & LOOTERS, the way it should be solved!!!” Also read: ‘Bypass security, no tracking, no records’: Elon Musk’s DOGE secretly transmitted White House data via Starlink He added, “Great job by the National Guard in Los Angeles after two days of violence, clashes and unrest… Masks will not be allowed to be worn at protests. What do these people have to hide, and why?” What are the LA protests about? The unrest began on Friday after US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) carried out a new wave of operations in Los Angeles. According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), 118 people were arrested this week in LA alone, with nationwide ICE arrests averaging 2,000 per day. The actions triggered widespread protests across the city and drew harsh criticism from local leaders. All 15 city council members issued a joint statement rejecting the raids. “We condemn this in no uncertain terms: Los Angeles was built by immigrants and it thrives because of immigrants,” the statement said. “We will not abide by fear tactics to support extreme political agendas… Los Angeles will continue to be a place that values and dignifies every human being,” it added. Also read: ‘Distraction from Epstein files?’: Netizens suggest Trump is ‘distracting’ voters with LA protests, National Guard showdown Mayor Karen Bass also denounced the raids, saying, “These tactics sow terror in our communities and disrupt basic principles of safety in our city… we will not stand for this.” What did California Governor Gavin Newsom say? California Governor Gavin Newsom strongly criticised the federal government’s move to override state authority and take control of the National Guard. “The federal government is taking over the California National Guard and deploying 2,000 soldiers in Los Angeles — not because there is a shortage of law enforcement, but because they want a spectacle,” he posted on X. The situation escalated further when US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth warned that active-duty Marines could be sent if violence continued. In response, Newsom said the idea of using Marines on American streets was “deranged”. “The Secretary of Defense is now threatening to deploy active-duty Marines on American soil against its own citizens. This is deranged behaviour,” he added.

The unrest began on Friday after US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) carried out a new wave of operations in Los Angeles. According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), 118 people were arrested this week in LA alone, with nationwide ICE arrests averaging 2,000 per day.

Trump sends 2,000 National Guard to Los Angeles. Are Marines next? - All you need to know

Khaby Lame, the world’s most-followed TikToker, was detained by US immigration authorities earlier this month for overstaying his visa, according to an official statement provided to Men’s Journal by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).Lame, who has over 162 million followers on TikTok, was taken into custody at Harry Reid International Airport in Paradise, Nevada, on 6 June. ICE stated that the 25-year-old content creator had entered the US on 30 April but stayed beyond the limits of his visa.“US Immigration and Customs Enforcement detained Seringe Khabane Lame, 25, a citizen of Italy, June 6, at the Harry Reid International Airport, Las Vegas, Nevada for immigration violations,” the agency said.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-went-nuclear-on-trump-can-he-ever-return-to-us-president-s-good-books-here-s-what-jd-vance-has-to-say-1749383195989">Elon Musk ‘went nuclear’ on Trump, can he ever return to US President's good books? Here's what JD Vance has to say</a>“Lame entered the United States April 30 and overstayed the terms of his visa. Lame was granted voluntary departure June 6 and has since departed the US,” ICE added.<h2>Who is Khaby Lame?</h2>Khabane “Khaby” Lame was born in Senegal and later became an Italian citizen. He rose to fame during the COVID-19 pandemic with his signature silent videos mocking overly complicated life hacks. Known for his expressive reactions and simplicity, he quickly became one of the most recognised figures on social media.Lame’s popularity has landed him on prestigious lists such as Forbes’ 30 Under 30 and Fortune’s 40 Under 40. He currently holds the record for the most-followed individual on TikTok globally.'Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-bypass-security-no-tracking-no-records-elon-musk-s-doge-secretly-transmitted-white-house-data-via-starlink-1749380621741">‘Bypass security, no tracking, no records’: Elon Musk’s DOGE secretly transmitted White&nbsp;House&nbsp;data via Starlink</a><h2>Political activist claims credit for detention</h2>News of the detention was first made public by political activist Bo Loudon, who posted on X (formerly Twitter) that Lame had been arrested in Las Vegas and was being held at the Henderson Detention Center.“President Trump’s ICE just officially arrested far-left TikToker, Khaby Lame, whom I reported as an illegal alien,” Loudon claimed in a post. “According to the official DHS website, he’s currently being held at the Henderson Detention Center and is in ICE CUSTODY,” Loudon said.In another post, Loudon added, “Meet far-left TikTok star ‘Khaby Lame.’ He’s an ILLEGAL ALIEN! I’ve been working with the patriots at President Trump’s DHS to make this happen.”Loudon also posted what he claimed was a screenshot from ICE’s online detainee locator tool showing Lame in custody.<h2>Fans puzzled as Lame posts on Instagram and TikTok</h2>The claims sparked confusion online after Lame was seen posting actively on his Instagram Story and TikTok account after the date of the reported detention. This led many fans to question whether the arrest had actually happened.However, despite the ongoing speculation, ICE confirmed the detention and departure in its official statement.

Lame, who has over 162 million followers on TikTok, was taken into custody at Harry Reid International Airport in Paradise, Nevada, on 6 June. ICE stated that the 25-year-old content creator had entered the US on 30 April but stayed beyond the limits of his visa.

Khaby Lame, the world’s most-followed TikToker, was detained by US immigration authorities earlier this month for overstaying his visa, according to an official statement provided to Men’s Journal by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Lame, who has over 162 million followers on TikTok, was taken into custody at Harry Reid International Airport in Paradise, Nevada, on 6 June. ICE stated that the 25-year-old content creator had entered the US on 30 April but stayed beyond the limits of his visa. “US Immigration and Customs Enforcement detained Seringe Khabane Lame, 25, a citizen of Italy, June 6, at the Harry Reid International Airport, Las Vegas, Nevada for immigration violations,” the agency said. Also read: Elon Musk ‘went nuclear’ on Trump, can he ever return to US President's good books? Here's what JD Vance has to say “Lame entered the United States April 30 and overstayed the terms of his visa. Lame was granted voluntary departure June 6 and has since departed the US,” ICE added. Who is Khaby Lame? Khabane “Khaby” Lame was born in Senegal and later became an Italian citizen. He rose to fame during the COVID-19 pandemic with his signature silent videos mocking overly complicated life hacks. Known for his expressive reactions and simplicity, he quickly became one of the most recognised figures on social media. Lame’s popularity has landed him on prestigious lists such as Forbes’ 30 Under 30 and Fortune’s 40 Under 40. He currently holds the record for the most-followed individual on TikTok globally.' Also read: ‘Bypass security, no tracking, no records’: Elon Musk’s DOGE secretly transmitted White House data via Starlink Political activist claims credit for detention News of the detention was first made public by political activist Bo Loudon, who posted on X (formerly Twitter) that Lame had been arrested in Las Vegas and was being held at the Henderson Detention Center. “President Trump’s ICE just officially arrested far-left TikToker, Khaby Lame, whom I reported as an illegal alien,” Loudon claimed in a post. “According to the official DHS website, he’s currently being held at the Henderson Detention Center and is in ICE CUSTODY,” Loudon said. In another post, Loudon added, “Meet far-left TikTok star ‘Khaby Lame.’ He’s an ILLEGAL ALIEN! I’ve been working with the patriots at President Trump’s DHS to make this happen.” Loudon also posted what he claimed was a screenshot from ICE’s online detainee locator tool showing Lame in custody. Fans puzzled as Lame posts on Instagram and TikTok The claims sparked confusion online after Lame was seen posting actively on his Instagram Story and TikTok account after the date of the reported detention. This led many fans to question whether the arrest had actually happened. However, despite the ongoing speculation, ICE confirmed the detention and departure in its official statement.

Lame, who has over 162 million followers on TikTok, was taken into custody at Harry Reid International Airport in Paradise, Nevada, on 6 June. ICE stated that the 25-year-old content creator had entered the US on 30 April but stayed beyond the limits of his visa.

'He’s an ILLEGAL ALIEN!' TikTok’s most-followed star, Khaby Lame detained by ICE, then posts on Instagram - Where is he now?

Los Angeles saw intense protests over the weekend following a series of ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) raids across California. In response, President Donald Trump authorised the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops to the city for 60 days or “at the discretion of the Secretary of Defense,” the White House said late on Saturday.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-went-nuclear-on-trump-can-he-ever-return-to-us-president-s-good-books-here-s-what-jd-vance-has-to-say-1749383195989">Elon Musk ‘went nuclear’ on Trump, can he ever return to US President's good books? Here's what JD Vance has to say</a><h2>Social media buzzes with conspiracy theories</h2>As the unrest continued, several users on social media began linking the timing of the protests to tech billionaire Elon Musk’s recent claims about Trump and Jeffrey Epstein.Some users suggested the chaos in Los Angeles might be a distraction. “Elon: Trump is in the Epstein files. Next day: Los Angeles riots begin,” one person wrote on X, formerly Twitter.Another added, “LOS ANGELES IS A DISTRACTION. Elon was forced to take down his 1M+ likes re Trump and Epstein, in Congress the flagship tax bill is stalling out, and tariff confusion is spiking prices. DONT GET DISTRACTED BY KEY JANGLES.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-bypass-security-no-tracking-no-records-elon-musk-s-doge-secretly-transmitted-white-house-data-via-starlink-1749380621741">‘Bypass security, no tracking, no records’: Elon Musk’s DOGE secretly transmitted White&nbsp;House&nbsp;data via Starlink</a><h2>What did Musk say about Trump and Epstein?</h2>Earlier this week, Elon Musk posted a controversial message accusing Trump of having ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The message, which quickly gained over a million likes, read, “Time to drop the really big bomb: (Trump) is in the Epstein files.” He followed up with, “That is the real reason they have not been made public.”Musk later deleted the post and did not provide any specific evidence.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maga-loves-musk-too-here-s-how-elon-musk-s-popularity-among-republicans-could-hurt-donald-trump-s-future-plans-1749298584471">MAGA loves Musk too! Here's how Elon Musk's popularity among Republicans could hurt Donald Trump's future plans</a>The claims came during a highly public falling out between Musk and Trump. While the timing of the LA protests has sparked speculation, there is no evidence linking them directly to Musk’s Epstein post.<h2>DHS blames Democratic leaders for chaos</h2>Meanwhile, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has accused Democratic leaders of worsening the violence.“The violent targeting of law enforcement in Los Angeles by lawless rioters is despicable and Mayor Bass and Governor Newsom must call for it to end,” said DHS spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin in a statement.

Earlier this week, Elon Musk posted a controversial message accusing Trump of having ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The message, which quickly gained over a million likes, read, “Time to drop the really big bomb: (Trump) is in the Epstein files.”

Los Angeles saw intense protests over the weekend following a series of ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) raids across California. In response, President Donald Trump authorised the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops to the city for 60 days or “at the discretion of the Secretary of Defense,” the White House said late on Saturday. Also read: Elon Musk ‘went nuclear’ on Trump, can he ever return to US President's good books? Here's what JD Vance has to say Social media buzzes with conspiracy theories As the unrest continued, several users on social media began linking the timing of the protests to tech billionaire Elon Musk’s recent claims about Trump and Jeffrey Epstein. Some users suggested the chaos in Los Angeles might be a distraction. “Elon: Trump is in the Epstein files. Next day: Los Angeles riots begin,” one person wrote on X, formerly Twitter. Another added, “LOS ANGELES IS A DISTRACTION. Elon was forced to take down his 1M+ likes re Trump and Epstein, in Congress the flagship tax bill is stalling out, and tariff confusion is spiking prices. DONT GET DISTRACTED BY KEY JANGLES.” Also read: ‘Bypass security, no tracking, no records’: Elon Musk’s DOGE secretly transmitted White House data via Starlink What did Musk say about Trump and Epstein? Earlier this week, Elon Musk posted a controversial message accusing Trump of having ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The message, which quickly gained over a million likes, read, “Time to drop the really big bomb: (Trump) is in the Epstein files.” He followed up with, “That is the real reason they have not been made public.” Musk later deleted the post and did not provide any specific evidence. Also read: MAGA loves Musk too! Here's how Elon Musk's popularity among Republicans could hurt Donald Trump's future plans The claims came during a highly public falling out between Musk and Trump. While the timing of the LA protests has sparked speculation, there is no evidence linking them directly to Musk’s Epstein post. DHS blames Democratic leaders for chaos Meanwhile, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has accused Democratic leaders of worsening the violence. “The violent targeting of law enforcement in Los Angeles by lawless rioters is despicable and Mayor Bass and Governor Newsom must call for it to end,” said DHS spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin in a statement.

Earlier this week, Elon Musk posted a controversial message accusing Trump of having ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The message, which quickly gained over a million likes, read, “Time to drop the really big bomb: (Trump) is in the Epstein files.”

‘Distraction from Epstein files?’: Netizens suggest Trump is ‘distracting’ voters with LA protests, National Guard showdown

Donald Trump’s FBI Director Kash Patel issued a stark warning to protesters in Los Angeles against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), saying anyone who hits a cop will be “going to jail.”&nbsp;“Hit a cop, you’re going to jail… doesn’t matter where you came from, how you got here, or what movement speaks to you. If the local police force won’t back our men and women on the thin blue line, we FBI, will,” Patel said in a post on the social media platform X.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Hit a cop, you’re going to jail… doesn’t matter where you came from, how you got here, or what movement speaks to you. If the local police force won’t back our men and women on the thin blue line, we <a href="https://twitter.com/FBI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FBI</a> will.&mdash; FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) <a href="https://twitter.com/FBIDirectorKash/status/1931522027719995558?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

But his warning did not go well with a section of the internet, as people were seen reminding Trump’s aide of the January 6 Capitol riots.&nbsp;&nbsp;People reminded him how his present stance was way different from what the Republicans said and did about the January 6 riots. The rioters were pardoned by the US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;What was the riot?&nbsp;On January 6, 2021, a mob of Donald Trump supporters attacked the US Capitol. More than 150 police officers were injured during the riots that ensued. This was after the presidential election in which Joe Biden won and Trump alleged the election was “rigged”.&nbsp;After his return to the White House in January 2025 - Trump pardoned about 1,500 people charged over the riots.&nbsp;‘You'll get a pardon, right, Kash?’&nbsp;After Patel issued the warning, the internet took a dig at the FBI director.&nbsp;“But if you do it wearing Trump merch while rioting at the US Capitol, you'll get a pardon, right, Kash?” an X user wrote. “This declaration evidently does not apply to the Trump supporters who attacked police on Jan. 6,” wrote another.&nbsp;“Remember Jan 6th? Your dear leader pardoned hundreds who assaulted cops,” a third one wrote.&nbsp;What are the anti-ICE protests in LA?&nbsp;Los Angeles has become the epicentre of major anti-ICE protests following a series of large-scale immigration raids by federal agents across the city. &nbsp;&nbsp;Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to the streets of LA on Saturday (June 7) to curb the “lawlessness”.&nbsp;

‘Hit a cop, you’re going to jail’: Kash Patel warns LA anti-ICE protesters, internet reminds him of ‘January 6’ riots 

Donald Trump’s FBI Director Kash Patel issued a stark warning to protesters in Los Angeles against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), saying anyone who hits a cop will be “going to jail.” “Hit a cop, you’re going to jail… doesn’t matter where you came from, how you got here, or what movement speaks to you. If the local police force won’t back our men and women on the thin blue line, we FBI, will,” Patel said in a post on the social media platform X.

Donald Trump’s FBI Director Kash Patel issued a stark warning to protesters in Los Angeles against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), saying anyone who hits a cop will be “going to jail." But his warning backfired on him by the internet.&nbsp;

‘Hit a cop, you’re going to jail’: Kash Patel warns LA anti-ICE protesters, internet reminds him of ‘January 6’ riots

US President Donald Trump on Friday (June 8) once again claimed that he played a key role in stopping a possible war between India and Pakistan. However, he took a U-turn on his claims that it would be a nuclear war, saying that the war did not reach the potential of a nuclear war but could have gone to that level. India has categorically rejected his mediation claims and said that the hostilities was nowhere near nuclear war.&nbsp;Speaking to reporters on Air Force One, Trump said he used trade as a tool to get both sides to stop the escalating war. "You know, I did something that people don't talk about, and I don't talk about very much, but we solved a big problem, a nuclear problem potentially with India and with Pakistan. I spoke to Pakistan, I spoke to India, they have really great leaders, but they were going at it, and they could have gone at it nuclear," Trump said.&nbsp;Trump added, "Both nuclear countries, strong nuclear countries, and I talked about trade and said, 'We're not doing trade if you guys are going to be throwing bombs at each other." They both stopped, and I stopped that war immediately. It was going much further, and hopefully, it would not go to nuclear, but it might have gone to nuclear. In fact, it might have gone to nuclear in the next round, but we stopped it, and I'd like to commend the leaders of both countries, Pakistan and India."&nbsp;India had conducted Operation Sindoor early on May 7 and hit terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. Hostilities arose between the two countries thereafter. On May 10, the DGMOs of both countries agreed to stop firing based on a bilateral understanding.<h2>India's stance on Trump's mediation claims</h2>Earlier, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor commented on US President Donald Trump's repeated claims of mediation and put forward India's position in front of UP Vice President JD Vance. Tharoor said that the message of India's stance on the mediation claim was understood by Vance and also by the other levels of the US administration.&nbsp;Speaking to news agency ANI, Tharoor said, "No one needed to persuade us to stop. We had already said to stop. If there was any persuasion by the American president or his senior officials, it would have been the persuasion of the Pakistanis. They would have had to be persuaded. We don't need to be persuaded because we don't want war."&nbsp;Tharoor said US Vice President Vance understood the Indian position on mediation claims. "The meeting with Vice President Vance was outstanding, very good, very clear. I think we made our position amply clear on this question of mediation, and Vice President Vance fully understood our points," he said.&nbsp;Tharoor said that mediation implies equivalence between the two parties. And there can be no equivalence between Pakistan, which is an incubator of terrorism, and India, a victim of terror. "The main point is that mediation implies an equivalence between two parties, and there can be no equivalence between terrorists and their victims, between those who are offering safe havens to terrorists and, on the other one on our hand, multi-party democracy.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump on Friday once again claimed that he played a key role in stopping a possible war between India and Pakistan

US President Donald Trump on Friday (June 8) once again claimed that he played a key role in stopping a possible war between India and Pakistan. However, he took a U-turn on his claims that it would be a nuclear war, saying that the war did not reach the potential of a nuclear war but could have gone to that level. India has categorically rejected his mediation claims and said that the hostilities was nowhere near nuclear war. Speaking to reporters on Air Force One, Trump said he used trade as a tool to get both sides to stop the escalating war. "You know, I did something that people don't talk about, and I don't talk about very much, but we solved a big problem, a nuclear problem potentially with India and with Pakistan. I spoke to Pakistan, I spoke to India, they have really great leaders, but they were going at it, and they could have gone at it nuclear," Trump said. Trump added, "Both nuclear countries, strong nuclear countries, and I talked about trade and said, 'We're not doing trade if you guys are going to be throwing bombs at each other." They both stopped, and I stopped that war immediately. It was going much further, and hopefully, it would not go to nuclear, but it might have gone to nuclear. In fact, it might have gone to nuclear in the next round, but we stopped it, and I'd like to commend the leaders of both countries, Pakistan and India." India had conducted Operation Sindoor early on May 7 and hit terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. Hostilities arose between the two countries thereafter. On May 10, the DGMOs of both countries agreed to stop firing based on a bilateral understanding. India's stance on Trump's mediation claims Earlier, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor commented on US President Donald Trump's repeated claims of mediation and put forward India's position in front of UP Vice President JD Vance. Tharoor said that the message of India's stance on the mediation claim was understood by Vance and also by the other levels of the US administration. Speaking to news agency ANI, Tharoor said, "No one needed to persuade us to stop. We had already said to stop. If there was any persuasion by the American president or his senior officials, it would have been the persuasion of the Pakistanis. They would have had to be persuaded. We don't need to be persuaded because we don't want war." Tharoor said US Vice President Vance understood the Indian position on mediation claims. "The meeting with Vice President Vance was outstanding, very good, very clear. I think we made our position amply clear on this question of mediation, and Vice President Vance fully understood our points," he said. Tharoor said that mediation implies equivalence between the two parties. And there can be no equivalence between Pakistan, which is an incubator of terrorism, and India, a victim of terror. "The main point is that mediation implies an equivalence between two parties, and there can be no equivalence between terrorists and their victims, between those who are offering safe havens to terrorists and, on the other one on our hand, multi-party democracy.

US President Donald Trump on Friday once again claimed that he played a key role in stopping a possible war between India and Pakistan

'Would not go to nuclear, but might have': Trump confused over nuke war claims, but takes credit for stopping India, Pak tensions again

Iran on Saturday (June 8) slammed US President Donald Trump's travel ban on countries, including Iran, and said that it showed "deep hostility" towards Iranians and Muslims. It also said that the ban violates “fundamental principles of international law, including the prohibition of discrimination and basic human rights.” Iran said that the ban is an example of racist mentality. &nbsp;Iran's foreign ministry posted a statement on X quoting a senior official and said, “The decision to ban the entry of Iranian nationals - merely due to their religion and nationality - not only indicates the deep hostility of American decision-makers towards the Iranian people and Muslims but also violates... international law.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Iran slams Washington’s racist move to ban entry of citizens from several countries into US The director general for the Department for Iranian Affairs Abroad at Iran’s Foreign Ministry, Alireza Hashemi Raja, strongly condemned the recent decision by the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USA</a> government to bar… <a href="https://t.co/Qb3QbVKbIz">pic.twitter.com/Qb3QbVKbIz</a>&mdash; Foreign Ministry, Islamic Republic of Iran 🇮🇷 (@IRIMFA_EN) <a href="https://twitter.com/IRIMFA_EN/status/1931301714247680281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“Depriving hundreds of millions of people of the right to travel to another country solely based on their nationality or religion is an example of racial discrimination and systemic racism within the American ruling establishment,” the statement by Iran added.&nbsp;Iran said that it would take all necessary measures to protect the rights of Iranian nationals against the consequences of the US government's discriminatory decision.<h2>What is Trump's travel ban?</h2>Going ahead with its anti-immigration crackdown, Donald Trump signed a presidential proclamation banning&nbsp;citizens os as many as 19 countries from entering the US. The decree, released late on Wednesday, bars and restricts travellers from 19 countries, including Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen.&nbsp;&nbsp;The ban comes days after a deadly attack in Boulder, Colorado, allegedly carried out by an Egyptian national. While Egypt is not included in the ban, President Trump cited the attack as a reminder of the risks posed by individuals who overstay visas or who come from nations with poor screening practices.&nbsp;The order divides nations into two categories: those under a complete travel ban and those facing visa restrictions. The majority are located in Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America. Trump said that these countries are on the list because of the lack of document security and screening capabilities, high visa overstay rates, links to terrorism or state-sponsored terror.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Iran slammed US President Donald Trump's travel ban on countries and said that it showed deep hostility towards Iranians and Muslims

Iran on Saturday (June 8) slammed US President Donald Trump's travel ban on countries, including Iran, and said that it showed "deep hostility" towards Iranians and Muslims. It also said that the ban violates “fundamental principles of international law, including the prohibition of discrimination and basic human rights.” Iran said that the ban is an example of racist mentality. Iran's foreign ministry posted a statement on X quoting a senior official and said, “The decision to ban the entry of Iranian nationals - merely due to their religion and nationality - not only indicates the deep hostility of American decision-makers towards the Iranian people and Muslims but also violates... international law.”

Iran slammed US President Donald Trump's travel ban on countries, including Iran, and said that it showed "deep hostility" towards Iranians and Muslims.&nbsp;

'Systemic racism': Iran slams Trump's travel ban, calls it 'deep hostility towards Iranian people and Muslims'

After a dramatic public clash with Elon Musk, US President Donald Trump made a series of phone calls to allies in an effort to take control of the narrative. In those calls, Trump is reported to have called Musk a “big-time drug addict” as he tried to make sense of the tech billionaire’s behaviour, according to a Washington Post report.The feud escalated when Musk accused Trump of being linked to Jeffrey Epstein, and also called for Trump’s impeachment. The president responded by launching a smear campaign against his one-time ally.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-vs-elon-musk-news-today-republicans-more-popular-than-musk-spoiler-it-s-not-kash-patel-or-rubio-1749305592931">'Trump has 3.5 years left': Only TWO Republicans are more popular&nbsp;than&nbsp;Musk - SPOILER! It's not Kash&nbsp;Patel&nbsp;or&nbsp;Rubio</a>“Musk was ‘a big-time drug addict,’ Trump said at one point as he tried to make sense of Musk’s behaviour,” a source familiar with the phone conversations told the Washington Post.<h2>Musk’s drug use under scrutiny again</h2>Elon Musk has previously admitted to using ketamine to treat depression. The New York Times reported recently that Musk was taking enough ketamine during his public appearances that he mentioned it was affecting his bladder. He was also seen travelling with a pill box containing medication marked as Adderall.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maga-loves-musk-too-here-s-how-elon-musk-s-popularity-among-republicans-could-hurt-donald-trump-s-future-plans-1749298584471">MAGA loves Musk too! Here's how Elon Musk's popularity among Republicans could hurt Donald Trump's future plans</a><h2>Trump tells aides to tread carefully</h2>Following the public blow-up on Thursday, Trump reportedly told his team not to escalate the situation further. According to the report, he urged Vice President JD Vance to be cautious when speaking about Musk publicly.Though tensions only became visible last week, the relationship between Trump and Musk had reportedly started breaking down much earlier.<h2>White House maintains focus on cost-cutting plan</h2>Despite the drama, White House officials have insisted that Trump is still focused on his agenda.“President Trump and the entire Administration will continue the important mission of cutting waste, fraud, and abuse from our federal government on behalf of taxpayers, and the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill is critical to helping accomplish that mission,” said White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt.<h2>Behind the scenes, retaliation being discussed</h2>Behind closed doors, however, there has been growing talk of retaliatory action against Musk. Trump has already hinted at potential moves by calling for more public scrutiny into Musk’s government contracts through a Truth Social post.“I feel like the kids of a bitter divorce, where you’re just saying, ‘I really wish Mommy and Daddy would stop screaming,’” said Senator Ted Cruz on his podcast, summing what many in Washington are feeling over the high-profile feud.

Behind closed doors, however, there has been growing talk of retaliatory action against Musk. Trump has already hinted at potential moves by calling for more public scrutiny into Musk’s government contracts through a Truth Social post.

After a dramatic public clash with Elon Musk, US President Donald Trump made a series of phone calls to allies in an effort to take control of the narrative. In those calls, Trump is reported to have called Musk a “big-time drug addict” as he tried to make sense of the tech billionaire’s behaviour, according to a Washington Post report. The feud escalated when Musk accused Trump of being linked to Jeffrey Epstein, and also called for Trump’s impeachment. The president responded by launching a smear campaign against his one-time ally. Also read: 'Trump has 3.5 years left': Only TWO Republicans are more popular than Musk - SPOILER! It's not Kash Patel or Rubio “Musk was ‘a big-time drug addict,’ Trump said at one point as he tried to make sense of Musk’s behaviour,” a source familiar with the phone conversations told the Washington Post. Musk’s drug use under scrutiny again Elon Musk has previously admitted to using ketamine to treat depression. The New York Times reported recently that Musk was taking enough ketamine during his public appearances that he mentioned it was affecting his bladder. He was also seen travelling with a pill box containing medication marked as Adderall. Also read: MAGA loves Musk too! Here's how Elon Musk's popularity among Republicans could hurt Donald Trump's future plans Trump tells aides to tread carefully Following the public blow-up on Thursday, Trump reportedly told his team not to escalate the situation further. According to the report, he urged Vice President JD Vance to be cautious when speaking about Musk publicly. Though tensions only became visible last week, the relationship between Trump and Musk had reportedly started breaking down much earlier. White House maintains focus on cost-cutting plan Despite the drama, White House officials have insisted that Trump is still focused on his agenda. “President Trump and the entire Administration will continue the important mission of cutting waste, fraud, and abuse from our federal government on behalf of taxpayers, and the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill is critical to helping accomplish that mission,” said White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt. Behind the scenes, retaliation being discussed Behind closed doors, however, there has been growing talk of retaliatory action against Musk. Trump has already hinted at potential moves by calling for more public scrutiny into Musk’s government contracts through a Truth Social post. “I feel like the kids of a bitter divorce, where you’re just saying, ‘I really wish Mommy and Daddy would stop screaming,’” said Senator Ted Cruz on his podcast, summing what many in Washington are feeling over the high-profile feud.

Behind closed doors there has been growing talk of retaliatory action against Musk. Trump has already hinted at potential moves by calling for more public scrutiny into Musk’s government contracts through a Truth Social post.

Trump-Musk breakup: US prez calls Elon ‘big-time drug addict’, warns JD Vance to be 'cautious' when speaking about Tesla boss publicly

What began as one of the most powerful political-tech partnerships in modern American history has now devolved into an epic feud. The once-close relationship between President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk has collapsed in spectacular fashion—publicly, bitterly, and with potentially far-reaching political and economic consequences.Just a few months ago, Musk stood beside Trump on the steps of the US Capitol, lauded during the president’s second inaugural address as a “super genius” and “a star”. Today, their mutual admiration has turned into open hostility. Musk has called Trump’s spending bill a “disgusting abomination”, while Trump has threatened to revoke billions of dollars in government contracts with Musk’s companies.It’s a rupture that feels both inevitable and tragic, a classic tale of egos too large to share the same spotlight.<h2>A high-wattage beginning</h2>The roots of the Trump-Musk alliance trace back to the summer of 2024, when Musk publicly endorsed Trump following an assassination attempt during a campaign rally. From there, the alliance deepened quickly.Musk appeared at Trump rallies, wore MAGA (Make America Great Again) hats, and declared the former president the only candidate who could “preserve democracy in America”.The tech mogul’s social media platform, X, became a digital megaphone for Trump’s re-election campaign. Musk’s political enthusiasm wasn’t limited to cheerleading; he reportedly poured more than $100 million into efforts to return Trump to the White House, emerging as a potent new kingmaker in Republican politics.In return, Trump elevated Musk in ways no modern president has done for a private citizen. Following his election victory in November 2024, Trump appointed Musk to lead the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), tasking him with cutting federal waste and reshaping the bureaucratic state.Musk’s role was far from ceremonial. He took part in Cabinet meetings and oversaw budget cuts. Trump defended Musk during global backlash against Tesla, calling him a “patriot” and vowing to buy a Tesla himself.<h2>The beginning of the end</h2>Despite the theatrics and mutual praise, tensions began to bubble beneath the surface early in 2025. As DOGE aggressively pushed cost-cutting and return-to-office mandates, backlash from federal workers and agencies grew. Musk’s efforts to overhaul agencies like the US. The Institute of Peace sparked internal resistance and mounting political headaches for the administration.By March, Trump made it clear to his Cabinet that Musk was not in charge of federal departments—a subtle but significant reassertion of executive authority. Musk, for his part, publicly claimed the meetings were “productive”, but behind the scenes, his influence was waning.April brought more cracks. Tesla reported disappointing earnings, with shares down more than 40 per cent for the year amid growing investor concern that Musk was overextended. He pledged to reduce his involvement in DOGE, and by May, he had exited the administration altogether, citing frustration with government inefficiency and the administration’s direction.Even then, both men maintained a facade of cordiality. Trump held a farewell event for Musk, calling him “not really gone”, and Musk continued to visit the White House sporadically. But the goodwill would not last.<h2>A collision of titans</h2>The final break came in June, triggered by Musk’s vocal opposition to Trump’s sweeping tax and spending bill. Musk called the legislation “a disgusting abomination” and accused lawmakers of stuffing it with wasteful “pork”. He argued it undermined the very efficient efforts he had championed at DOGE.Trump initially tried to downplay the criticism but quickly turned combative. He accused Musk of being upset over the rollback of electric vehicle tax credits and dismissed his opposition as “personal”.The response from Musk was swift and scathing. He denied being consulted on the bill, lambasted the rushed legislative process, and suggested that Trump’s leadership was flawed. In a particularly pointed jab, he claimed Trump would have lost the 2024 election without his help.What followed was an extraordinary online brawl. Trump threatened to cancel federal contracts with Musk’s companies—Tesla, SpaceX, and Neuralink among them. Musk responded by threatening to phase out SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft, which provides critical transport services for NASA. Tesla’s stock nosedived, shedding $150 billion in value in a single day.Adding fuel to the fire, Musk reposted a meme calling for Trump’s impeachment and suggested the president’s name may appear in the sealed Jeffrey Epstein files. Trump retaliated by branding Musk “crazy” and dismissing his influence on the campaign as overblown.Now, as their feud dominates headlines and rattles markets, analysts are left wondering what happens next. Trump remains president, but Musk is still one of the most powerful voices in American business. Despite the fallout, their political fates may remain inextricably linked.Musk’s departure from Trump’s orbit doesn’t sever their shared legacy. From reshaping the Republican Party’s donor class to creating a new archetype of tech-political partnership, the pair have already altered the political landscape. And with Musk now hinting at forming a new political party and Trump eyeing legislative victories, their rivalry could shape not just the next election but the future of American governance itself.

The once-close relationship between President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk has collapsed in spectacular fashion—publicly, bitterly, and with potentially far-reaching political and economic consequences.

What began as one of the most powerful political-tech partnerships in modern American history has now devolved into an epic feud. The once-close relationship between President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk has collapsed in spectacular fashion—publicly, bitterly, and with potentially far-reaching political and economic consequences. Just a few months ago, Musk stood beside Trump on the steps of the US Capitol, lauded during the president’s second inaugural address as a “super genius” and “a star”. Today, their mutual admiration has turned into open hostility. Musk has called Trump’s spending bill a “disgusting abomination”, while Trump has threatened to revoke billions of dollars in government contracts with Musk’s companies. It’s a rupture that feels both inevitable and tragic, a classic tale of egos too large to share the same spotlight. A high-wattage beginning The roots of the Trump-Musk alliance trace back to the summer of 2024, when Musk publicly endorsed Trump following an assassination attempt during a campaign rally. From there, the alliance deepened quickly. Musk appeared at Trump rallies, wore MAGA (Make America Great Again) hats, and declared the former president the only candidate who could “preserve democracy in America”. The tech mogul’s social media platform, X, became a digital megaphone for Trump’s re-election campaign. Musk’s political enthusiasm wasn’t limited to cheerleading; he reportedly poured more than $100 million into efforts to return Trump to the White House, emerging as a potent new kingmaker in Republican politics. In return, Trump elevated Musk in ways no modern president has done for a private citizen. Following his election victory in November 2024, Trump appointed Musk to lead the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), tasking him with cutting federal waste and reshaping the bureaucratic state. Musk’s role was far from ceremonial. He took part in Cabinet meetings and oversaw budget cuts. Trump defended Musk during global backlash against Tesla, calling him a “patriot” and vowing to buy a Tesla himself. The beginning of the end Despite the theatrics and mutual praise, tensions began to bubble beneath the surface early in 2025. As DOGE aggressively pushed cost-cutting and return-to-office mandates, backlash from federal workers and agencies grew. Musk’s efforts to overhaul agencies like the US. The Institute of Peace sparked internal resistance and mounting political headaches for the administration. By March, Trump made it clear to his Cabinet that Musk was not in charge of federal departments—a subtle but significant reassertion of executive authority. Musk, for his part, publicly claimed the meetings were “productive”, but behind the scenes, his influence was waning. April brought more cracks. Tesla reported disappointing earnings, with shares down more than 40 per cent for the year amid growing investor concern that Musk was overextended. He pledged to reduce his involvement in DOGE, and by May, he had exited the administration altogether, citing frustration with government inefficiency and the administration’s direction. Even then, both men maintained a facade of cordiality. Trump held a farewell event for Musk, calling him “not really gone”, and Musk continued to visit the White House sporadically. But the goodwill would not last. A collision of titans The final break came in June, triggered by Musk’s vocal opposition to Trump’s sweeping tax and spending bill. Musk called the legislation “a disgusting abomination” and accused lawmakers of stuffing it with wasteful “pork”. He argued it undermined the very efficient efforts he had championed at DOGE. Trump initially tried to downplay the criticism but quickly turned combative. He accused Musk of being upset over the rollback of electric vehicle tax credits and dismissed his opposition as “personal”. The response from Musk was swift and scathing. He denied being consulted on the bill, lambasted the rushed legislative process, and suggested that Trump’s leadership was flawed. In a particularly pointed jab, he claimed Trump would have lost the 2024 election without his help. What followed was an extraordinary online brawl. Trump threatened to cancel federal contracts with Musk’s companies—Tesla, SpaceX, and Neuralink among them. Musk responded by threatening to phase out SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft, which provides critical transport services for NASA. Tesla’s stock nosedived, shedding $150 billion in value in a single day. Adding fuel to the fire, Musk reposted a meme calling for Trump’s impeachment and suggested the president’s name may appear in the sealed Jeffrey Epstein files. Trump retaliated by branding Musk “crazy” and dismissing his influence on the campaign as overblown. Now, as their feud dominates headlines and rattles markets, analysts are left wondering what happens next. Trump remains president, but Musk is still one of the most powerful voices in American business. Despite the fallout, their political fates may remain inextricably linked. Musk’s departure from Trump’s orbit doesn’t sever their shared legacy. From reshaping the Republican Party’s donor class to creating a new archetype of tech-political partnership, the pair have already altered the political landscape. And with Musk now hinting at forming a new political party and Trump eyeing legislative victories, their rivalry could shape not just the next election but the future of American governance itself.

The once-close relationship between President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk has collapsed in spectacular fashion—publicly, bitterly, and with potentially far-reaching political and economic consequences.

From bromance to breakup: The rise and ruin of Trump and Musk’s relationship

US President Donald Trump was gifted his grandfather's birth certificate by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz during a bilateral meeting between the two leaders in the Oval Office on Thursday (June 5). Merz presented US President Trump with a gold-framed copy of the historic birth certificate of the president's grandfather, Friedrich.&nbsp;&nbsp;Handing over the gift to Trump, Merz explained in English that Trump's grandfather was born near the town of Bad Dürkheim. Trump commented on the name of the place and jokingly said, "That's serious German."&nbsp;

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKhqEXVP5uW/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKhqEXVP5uW/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKhqEXVP5uW/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by WION (@wionews)</a></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

The US president expressed his delight with the gift, saying, "Fantastic!" Glancing around the Oval Office, he promised that he would hang the gift somewhere sparking laughter among those present. The document was enclosed in a gold frame, a nod to Trump’s signature colour, often featured in his White House office decor.&nbsp;In a video posted on X, Merz explained that the Foreign Ministry had prepared the gift, which included an English translation. "Truly sensational!" he added in German.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Mein Gastgeschenk für <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>. <a href="https://t.co/lGx5Rip2XB">pic.twitter.com/lGx5Rip2XB</a>&mdash; Bundeskanzler Friedrich Merz (@bundeskanzler) <a href="https://twitter.com/bundeskanzler/status/1930656039042416678?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>More about Firedrich Trump, US President's grandfather</h2>Firedrich Trump was&nbsp;born in 1869 in Kallstadt in the Palatinate region. In 1885 he emigrated to America,- reportedly to avoid mandatory military service and settled in New York, which at the time was seeing a large influx of German immigrants. &nbsp;The birth of Trump's grandfather was certified by Bavarian authorities, because the Palatinate region was part of the Kingdom of Bavaria at the time, as per reports. He later returned to Germany in 1901, but was expelled and returned to the US with his wife, Elisabeth Christ. Friedrich Trump died in 1918 during the Spanish Flu pandemic.

US President Donald Trump was gifted his grandfather's birth certificate by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz

US President Donald Trump was gifted his grandfather's birth certificate by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz during a bilateral meeting between the two leaders in the Oval Office on Thursday (June 5). Merz presented US President Trump with a gold-framed copy of the historic birth certificate of the president's grandfather, Friedrich. Handing over the gift to Trump, Merz explained in English that Trump's grandfather was born near the town of Bad Dürkheim. Trump commented on the name of the place and jokingly said, "That's serious German."

US President Donald Trump was gifted his grandfather's birth certificate by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz

German Chancellor gifts US President Trump his grandfather’s birth certificate, here's why

US President Donald Trump has "no plans" to issue a proclamation recognising June as Pride Month, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said.“There are no plans for a proclamation for the month of June,” Leavitt said at a White House press briefing Tuesday.“But I can tell you this president is very proud to be a president for all Americans, regardless of race, religion or creed," she said.One of the reporters who asked the question on Pride Month, MAGA podcaster Alec Lace, suggested that the White House could name June "Nuclear Family Month" rather than honouring LGBTQ Americans.Even during his first presidency, Trump declined to officially proclaim June Pride Month, but surprisingly he posted in support of Pride Month.“As we celebrate LGBT Pride Month and recognize the outstanding contributions LGBT people have made to our great Nation, let us also stand in solidarity with the many LGBT people who live in dozens of countries worldwide that punish, imprison, or even execute individuals on the basis of their sexual orientation,” Trump said.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-sparks-criticism-for-removing-black-history-month-pride-among-other-cultural-events-8713991">Also read: Google sparks criticism by removing Black History Month, Pride Month, other such events from Calendar</a>&nbsp;“My Administration has launched a global campaign to decriminalize homosexuality and invite all nations to join us in this effort!," he added.This doesn't end here. Recently, a US Navy oil tanker, which was named after gay rights leader Harvey Milk will be renamed now, and the US Navy may also change the titles of other vessels.This comes as the Trump administration issues a broader movement to curb programmes promoting diversity and inclusion across federal departments.Pride Month in June is an annual commemoration of the LGBT community that coincides with the anniversary of the Stonewall riots in 1969.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pride-month-explained-how-it-started-why-its-observed-in-june-and-what-challenges-does-the-community-face-727493">Also read: Pride Month Explained: How it started, why it's observed in June, and what challenges does the community face?</a>

Even during his first presidency, Trump declined to officially proclaim June Pride Month, but surprisingly he posted in support of Pride Month.

US President Donald Trump has "no plans" to issue a proclamation recognising June as Pride Month, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said. “There are no plans for a proclamation for the month of June,” Leavitt said at a White House press briefing Tuesday. “But I can tell you this president is very proud to be a president for all Americans, regardless of race, religion or creed," she said. One of the reporters who asked the question on Pride Month, MAGA podcaster Alec Lace, suggested that the White House could name June "Nuclear Family Month" rather than honouring LGBTQ Americans. Even during his first presidency, Trump declined to officially proclaim June Pride Month, but surprisingly he posted in support of Pride Month. “As we celebrate LGBT Pride Month and recognize the outstanding contributions LGBT people have made to our great Nation, let us also stand in solidarity with the many LGBT people who live in dozens of countries worldwide that punish, imprison, or even execute individuals on the basis of their sexual orientation,” Trump said. Also read: Google sparks criticism by removing Black History Month, Pride Month, other such events from Calendar “My Administration has launched a global campaign to decriminalize homosexuality and invite all nations to join us in this effort!," he added. This doesn't end here. Recently, a US Navy oil tanker, which was named after gay rights leader Harvey Milk will be renamed now, and the US Navy may also change the titles of other vessels. This comes as the Trump administration issues a broader movement to curb programmes promoting diversity and inclusion across federal departments. Pride Month in June is an annual commemoration of the LGBT community that coincides with the anniversary of the Stonewall riots in 1969. Also read: Pride Month Explained: How it started, why it's observed in June, and what challenges does the community face?

Even during his first presidency, Trump declined to officially proclaim June Pride Month, but surprisingly he posted in support of Pride Month.

No more Pride Month in US? Trump has 'no plans' to issue Pride Month proclamation

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Tuesday (June 3) said that a trade deal soon with India could be finalised “in the not-too-distant future”, adding that talks are in a “very, very good place.” Lutnick added that India is among the countries that approached the United States earlier to avoid tariffs threatened by President Donald Trump. He said that he's a “great fan of India” and highlighted that New Delhi is “specifically” addressing Trump's trade concerns. Lutnick expressed his disappointment with India buying its military gear from Russia and said that it has "rubbed the United States the wrong way.&nbsp;&nbsp;Speaking at the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum in Washington, DC, Lutnick said, “I think to be in a very, very good place, and you should expect a deal between the United States and India in the not-too-distant future.”&nbsp;Explaining the issues between India and United States on trade, Lutnick added, "There were certain things that the Indian government did that generally rubbed the United States the wrong way. For instance, you generally buy your military gear from Russia. That's a way to kind of get under the skin of America if you're going to buy your armaments from Russia. I think India starting to move towards buying military equipment from the United States, which then goes a long way. "&nbsp;“The President calls that out directly and specifically, and the Indian government is addressing it specifically,” he added.<h2>Lutnick highlights the relationship between Modi and Trump</h2>&nbsp;Lutnick highlighted the relationship between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Trump calling them only leaders of the world who were democratically elected. "President Donald Trump is the only person in our administration elected by the full United States of America and so does PM Modi in India - if you think about the world, how many other leaders actually elected by their country very, very rare, so that connection is pretty unique because it's rare. So their relationship is very strong and very positive. That gives me an easy path to trade negotiations because we start from a very positive place..," said the US Secretary of Commerce.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lutnick added, “President Trump is going to make sure he takes care of India, who he deeply, deeply admires and respects, and we are going to have a great, great relationship together.”&nbsp;Earlier, the Trump administration claimed that it used trade and tariffs to stop the fight between India and Pakistan that ensued after Operation Sindoor and Pahalgam terror attacks. India's MEA categorically rejected the mention of trade in talks about the fighting with the US. India has also said that the ceasefire understanding between the two countries was achieved bilaterally and no third-party mediation was involved, refuting the claims made by Trump.&nbsp;

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said that a trade deal soon with India could be finalised soon and talks are in a good place

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Tuesday (June 3) said that a trade deal soon with India could be finalised “in the not-too-distant future”, adding that talks are in a “very, very good place.” Lutnick added that India is among the countries that approached the United States earlier to avoid tariffs threatened by President Donald Trump. He said that he's a “great fan of India” and highlighted that New Delhi is “specifically” addressing Trump's trade concerns. Lutnick expressed his disappointment with India buying its military gear from Russia and said that it has "rubbed the United States the wrong way. Speaking at the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum in Washington, DC, Lutnick said, “I think to be in a very, very good place, and you should expect a deal between the United States and India in the not-too-distant future.” Explaining the issues between India and United States on trade, Lutnick added, "There were certain things that the Indian government did that generally rubbed the United States the wrong way. For instance, you generally buy your military gear from Russia. That's a way to kind of get under the skin of America if you're going to buy your armaments from Russia. I think India starting to move towards buying military equipment from the United States, which then goes a long way. " “The President calls that out directly and specifically, and the Indian government is addressing it specifically,” he added. Lutnick highlights the relationship between Modi and Trump Lutnick highlighted the relationship between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Trump calling them only leaders of the world who were democratically elected. "President Donald Trump is the only person in our administration elected by the full United States of America and so does PM Modi in India - if you think about the world, how many other leaders actually elected by their country very, very rare, so that connection is pretty unique because it's rare. So their relationship is very strong and very positive. That gives me an easy path to trade negotiations because we start from a very positive place..," said the US Secretary of Commerce. Lutnick added, “President Trump is going to make sure he takes care of India, who he deeply, deeply admires and respects, and we are going to have a great, great relationship together.” Earlier, the Trump administration claimed that it used trade and tariffs to stop the fight between India and Pakistan that ensued after Operation Sindoor and Pahalgam terror attacks. India's MEA categorically rejected the mention of trade in talks about the fighting with the US. India has also said that the ceasefire understanding between the two countries was achieved bilaterally and no third-party mediation was involved, refuting the claims made by Trump.

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said that a trade deal soon with India could be finalised in the not-too-distant future

'You buy your military gear from Russia...': US Commerce Secy highlights issues in trade talks with India, expresses optimism on possible deal

At least eight people were injured in a violent attack in Boulder, Colorado, on Sunday, in what the FBI is calling a suspected act of terrorism. A man reportedly used incendiary devices and a makeshift flamethrower to target demonstrators at a pro-Israel rally near the city courthouse.<h2>Trump reacts: ‘He must go out under Trump Policy’</h2>Reacting to the incident, President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social, demanding the suspect be deported. He criticised the Biden administration’s immigration policies, linking them to the attack.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-geopolitical-insult-donald-trump-was-not-informed-about-ukraine-s-operation-spider-web-against-russia-1748861373784">'Geopolitical insult': Donald Trump was 'not informed' about Ukraine's Operation Spider Web against Russia</a>“Yesterday’s horrific attack in Boulder, Colorado, WILL NOT BE TOLERATED in the United States of America,” Trump wrote. “He came in through Biden’s ridiculous Open Border Policy, which has hurt our Country so badly. He must go out under ‘TRUMP’ Policy. Acts of Terrorism will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the Law,” he said.Trump added, “This is yet another example of why we must keep our Borders SECURE, and deport Illegal, Anti-American Radicals from our Homeland. My heart goes out to the victims of this terrible tragedy, and the Great People of Boulder, Colorado!”<h2>Who was the suspect behind Colorado attack?</h2>The suspect, identified as 45-year-old Mohamed Sabry Soliman of Colorado Springs, was arrested at the scene and treated for minor injuries. Boulder Police Chief Steve Redfearn confirmed officers arrived around 1:26 p.m. after receiving emergency calls about a man setting people on fire at 13th and Pearl streets.Multiple victims, mostly aged between 67 and 88, suffered injuries ranging from minor to serious burns. Six people were initially confirmed injured, but the number later rose to eight. Two victims were airlifted to a burn unit in Aurora, while four others were taken to Boulder Community Hospital.<h2>Witnesses describe terrifying scenes</h2>Videos taken at the scene showed a shirtless man holding what appeared to be Molotov cocktails while shouting “Free Palestine!” at demonstrators supporting the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza. Eyewitnesses described the attack as “absolutely horrific and shocking”. Israeli flags were also seen scattered on the ground.According to FBI Special Agent Mark D. Michalek, the suspect used a “makeshift flamethrower” and threw incendiary devices. He confirmed the FBI is treating the incident as “a targeted act of violence”.“It’s our job, the FBI, the Boulder police, and our law enforcement and community partners, to bring these criminals to justice and keep these communities safe,” Michalek said.<h2>Investigation continues amid rising tensions</h2>The FBI’s Denver division is working alongside local police to process the scene, gather evidence and interview witnesses. Officials are still checking for any potential explosive materials and have set up an evacuation zone.Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard stated that the National Counterterrorism Center is also involved in the investigation. FBI Director Kash Patel and Deputy Director Dan Bongino echoed this, confirming the Bureau is treating it as a “targeted terror attack”.Bongino posted on X, “This act of terror is being investigated as an act of ideologically motivated violence based on the early information, the evidence, and witness accounts.”

Reacting to the incident, President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social, demanding the suspect be deported. He criticised the Biden administration’s immigration policies, linking them to the attack.

At least eight people were injured in a violent attack in Boulder, Colorado, on Sunday, in what the FBI is calling a suspected act of terrorism. A man reportedly used incendiary devices and a makeshift flamethrower to target demonstrators at a pro-Israel rally near the city courthouse. Trump reacts: ‘He must go out under Trump Policy’ Reacting to the incident, President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social, demanding the suspect be deported. He criticised the Biden administration’s immigration policies, linking them to the attack. Also read: 'Geopolitical insult': Donald Trump was 'not informed' about Ukraine's Operation Spider Web against Russia “Yesterday’s horrific attack in Boulder, Colorado, WILL NOT BE TOLERATED in the United States of America,” Trump wrote. “He came in through Biden’s ridiculous Open Border Policy, which has hurt our Country so badly. He must go out under ‘TRUMP’ Policy. Acts of Terrorism will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the Law,” he said. Trump added, “This is yet another example of why we must keep our Borders SECURE, and deport Illegal, Anti-American Radicals from our Homeland. My heart goes out to the victims of this terrible tragedy, and the Great People of Boulder, Colorado!” Who was the suspect behind Colorado attack? The suspect, identified as 45-year-old Mohamed Sabry Soliman of Colorado Springs, was arrested at the scene and treated for minor injuries. Boulder Police Chief Steve Redfearn confirmed officers arrived around 1:26 p.m. after receiving emergency calls about a man setting people on fire at 13th and Pearl streets. Multiple victims, mostly aged between 67 and 88, suffered injuries ranging from minor to serious burns. Six people were initially confirmed injured, but the number later rose to eight. Two victims were airlifted to a burn unit in Aurora, while four others were taken to Boulder Community Hospital. Witnesses describe terrifying scenes Videos taken at the scene showed a shirtless man holding what appeared to be Molotov cocktails while shouting “Free Palestine!” at demonstrators supporting the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza. Eyewitnesses described the attack as “absolutely horrific and shocking”. Israeli flags were also seen scattered on the ground. According to FBI Special Agent Mark D. Michalek, the suspect used a “makeshift flamethrower” and threw incendiary devices. He confirmed the FBI is treating the incident as “a targeted act of violence”. “It’s our job, the FBI, the Boulder police, and our law enforcement and community partners, to bring these criminals to justice and keep these communities safe,” Michalek said. Investigation continues amid rising tensions The FBI’s Denver division is working alongside local police to process the scene, gather evidence and interview witnesses. Officials are still checking for any potential explosive materials and have set up an evacuation zone. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard stated that the National Counterterrorism Center is also involved in the investigation. FBI Director Kash Patel and Deputy Director Dan Bongino echoed this, confirming the Bureau is treating it as a “targeted terror attack”. Bongino posted on X, “This act of terror is being investigated as an act of ideologically motivated violence based on the early information, the evidence, and witness accounts.”

Reacting to the incident, President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social, demanding the suspect be deported. He criticised the Biden administration’s immigration policies, linking them to the attack.

'THIS WILL NOT BE TOLERATED': Trump calls for deportation of 'Anti-American radicals' after Boulder ‘terror’ attack targets pro-Israel rally

Former US National Security Advisor Mike Flynn has claimed that Donald Trump was not informed in advance about a recent Ukrainian drone attack that reportedly destroyed over 40 Russian aircraft.<h2>No warning before Ukraine’s major strike</h2>Flynn made the comments on Monday (June 2), stating on social media that Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky did not notify Trump before launching a high-impact strike deep inside Russian territory.“So, it appears Zelensky gave the go ahead to attack parked Russian nuclear capable bombers without informing @realDonaldTrump,” Flynn wrote on X. He went on to say that if Trump truly wasn’t told, it was more than just a missed step in communication.“This isn’t simply a breach of protocol. It’s a geopolitical insult and a warning sign. If Ukraine is willing to conduct strikes with strategic consequences without notifying the White House, we are no longer allies with coordination issues—we are co-belligerents flying blind,” he warned.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-throws-molotov-cocktail-bombs-on-pro-israel-protest-in-colorado-6-injured-fbi-calls-it-targeted-terror-attack-names-suspect-1748832004571">Six injured as man throws Molotov cocktail bombs on pro-Israel protest in Colorado; FBI calls it ‘targeted terror attack’</a><h2>Flynn raises nuclear treaty concerns</h2>Flynn also pointed out that the Russian bombers hit in the strike are usually left in plain sight because of obligations under a nuclear treaty. He claimed that Ukraine used deception tactics to carry out the attack.“FYI, Those bombers that were hit HAVE to be out in full view due to nuclear treaty obligations. Zelenskyy took advantage of that. For instance, they appear to have hidden the drones in containers and were driven on trucks near the airbase,” he wrote.Flynn noted the tactic as clever but also issued a caution. “Smart use of deception. However, imagine any one of our big bomber bases having the exact same thing done to them. Very costly U.S. Strategic Bombers can be taken out in the same way by anyone with access to inexpensive drones, delivery trucks, explosives, and a bit of technical knowledge (not good and new tactics will now have to be developed),” he added.‘Brash move’ may spark global consequencesFlynn went further, stressing the potential global fallout of Ukraine’s move. “People, and especially world leaders, need to realize the global implications to such an operation as Ukraine just pulled off,” he wrote.“Russia will respond. Action, reaction, counteraction. Those are the shifting tides of warfare. This wasn’t a bold action, it was brash. Ukraine’s short-term win could be the world’s long-term loss.”Since beginning his second term, President Trump has advocated for a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine-Russia conflict, which began during President Biden’s administration and has now entered its fourth year.While Trump has in the past spoken favourably of Russian President Vladimir Putin, he recently expressed concern over Putin’s actions.“I’ve always had a very good relationship with Vladimir Putin of Russia, but something has happened to him. He has gone absolutely CRAZY!” Trump posted on his Truth Social account last week.<h2>Zelensky personally oversaw the strike</h2>According to a Ukrainian security official cited by the Associated Press, the drone strike had been in planning for over a year and a half, with President Zelensky directly involved in overseeing the mission.“We are doing everything to protect our independence, our state, and our people. I outlined the tasks for the near term,” Zelensky posted&nbsp;on&nbsp;X&nbsp;on&nbsp;Sunday.

Flynn made the comments on Monday (June 2), stating on social media that Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky did not notify Trump before launching a high-impact strike deep inside Russian territory.

Former US National Security Advisor Mike Flynn has claimed that Donald Trump was not informed in advance about a recent Ukrainian drone attack that reportedly destroyed over 40 Russian aircraft. No warning before Ukraine’s major strike Flynn made the comments on Monday (June 2), stating on social media that Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky did not notify Trump before launching a high-impact strike deep inside Russian territory. “So, it appears Zelensky gave the go ahead to attack parked Russian nuclear capable bombers without informing @realDonaldTrump,” Flynn wrote on X. He went on to say that if Trump truly wasn’t told, it was more than just a missed step in communication. “This isn’t simply a breach of protocol. It’s a geopolitical insult and a warning sign. If Ukraine is willing to conduct strikes with strategic consequences without notifying the White House, we are no longer allies with coordination issues—we are co-belligerents flying blind,” he warned. Also read: Six injured as man throws Molotov cocktail bombs on pro-Israel protest in Colorado; FBI calls it ‘targeted terror attack’ Flynn raises nuclear treaty concerns Flynn also pointed out that the Russian bombers hit in the strike are usually left in plain sight because of obligations under a nuclear treaty. He claimed that Ukraine used deception tactics to carry out the attack. “FYI, Those bombers that were hit HAVE to be out in full view due to nuclear treaty obligations. Zelenskyy took advantage of that. For instance, they appear to have hidden the drones in containers and were driven on trucks near the airbase,” he wrote. Flynn noted the tactic as clever but also issued a caution. “Smart use of deception. However, imagine any one of our big bomber bases having the exact same thing done to them. Very costly U.S. Strategic Bombers can be taken out in the same way by anyone with access to inexpensive drones, delivery trucks, explosives, and a bit of technical knowledge (not good and new tactics will now have to be developed),” he added. ‘Brash move’ may spark global consequences Flynn went further, stressing the potential global fallout of Ukraine’s move. “People, and especially world leaders, need to realize the global implications to such an operation as Ukraine just pulled off,” he wrote. “Russia will respond. Action, reaction, counteraction. Those are the shifting tides of warfare. This wasn’t a bold action, it was brash. Ukraine’s short-term win could be the world’s long-term loss.” Since beginning his second term, President Trump has advocated for a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine-Russia conflict, which began during President Biden’s administration and has now entered its fourth year. While Trump has in the past spoken favourably of Russian President Vladimir Putin, he recently expressed concern over Putin’s actions. “I’ve always had a very good relationship with Vladimir Putin of Russia, but something has happened to him. He has gone absolutely CRAZY!” Trump posted on his Truth Social account last week. Zelensky personally oversaw the strike According to a Ukrainian security official cited by the Associated Press, the drone strike had been in planning for over a year and a half, with President Zelensky directly involved in overseeing the mission. “We are doing everything to protect our independence, our state, and our people. I outlined the tasks for the near term,” Zelensky posted on X on Sunday.

Flynn made the comments on Monday (June 2), stating on social media that Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky did not notify Trump before launching a high-impact strike deep inside Russian territory.

'Geopolitical insult': Donald Trump was 'not informed' about Ukraine's Operation Spider Web against Russia

The FBI is facing internal chaos as Director Kash Patel continues to remove staff considered disloyal to the Trump administration. According to The New York Times, Patel has been pushing senior officials to take polygraph tests at an “rapid rate” as part of his campaign to prevent leaks from the agency.One senior official told the Times he was pushed out last month after being forced to take a lie detector test. He said he believed he was targeted because he had not told Patel that his wife had taken a knee during the 2020 protests against police brutality in Washington, D.C.Others have said the threat of polygraphs is being used to scare staff into silence, preventing them from speaking out about Patel’s decisions or criticising his leadership.<h2>Trump ally leads controversial FBI shake-up</h2>Kash Patel was appointed FBI Director by President Donald Trump earlier this year. He was tasked with ending what Republicans describe as the agency’s “weaponisation” under former President Joe Biden, particularly over the FBI’s past handling of the Russiagate investigation and Trump’s retention of classified documents.Soon after taking charge, Patel reportedly asked about installing a direct phone line between his office and the White House—raising concerns about possible political interference. He has also drawn criticism for wanting to use a private security team instead of FBI-provided protection.<h2>Senior staff purged, elite unit disbanded</h2>Under Patel, the FBI has seen an unprecedented shake-up. Many senior agents and executives have been demoted, placed on leave without explanation, or forced out altogether, according to the Times report.A notable move involved disbanding a high-level investigations team in Washington, DC, which had been looking into Trump’s attempts to overturn the 2020 election results.Internal critics say the wave of firings, reassignments and early retirements has wiped out years of national security experience. They also argue that the agency is now unwilling to tolerate dissent, especially regarding actions taken by Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth. Both Vance and Hegseth were reportedly involved in a leak scandal linked to the messaging app Signal.

Kash Patel was appointed FBI Director by President Donald Trump earlier this year. He was tasked with ending what Republicans describe as the agency’s “weaponisation” under former President Joe Biden.

The FBI is facing internal chaos as Director Kash Patel continues to remove staff considered disloyal to the Trump administration. According to The New York Times, Patel has been pushing senior officials to take polygraph tests at an “rapid rate” as part of his campaign to prevent leaks from the agency. One senior official told the Times he was pushed out last month after being forced to take a lie detector test. He said he believed he was targeted because he had not told Patel that his wife had taken a knee during the 2020 protests against police brutality in Washington, D.C. Others have said the threat of polygraphs is being used to scare staff into silence, preventing them from speaking out about Patel’s decisions or criticising his leadership. Trump ally leads controversial FBI shake-up Kash Patel was appointed FBI Director by President Donald Trump earlier this year. He was tasked with ending what Republicans describe as the agency’s “weaponisation” under former President Joe Biden, particularly over the FBI’s past handling of the Russiagate investigation and Trump’s retention of classified documents. Soon after taking charge, Patel reportedly asked about installing a direct phone line between his office and the White House—raising concerns about possible political interference. He has also drawn criticism for wanting to use a private security team instead of FBI-provided protection. Senior staff purged, elite unit disbanded Under Patel, the FBI has seen an unprecedented shake-up. Many senior agents and executives have been demoted, placed on leave without explanation, or forced out altogether, according to the Times report. A notable move involved disbanding a high-level investigations team in Washington, DC, which had been looking into Trump’s attempts to overturn the 2020 election results. Internal critics say the wave of firings, reassignments and early retirements has wiped out years of national security experience. They also argue that the agency is now unwilling to tolerate dissent, especially regarding actions taken by Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth. Both Vance and Hegseth were reportedly involved in a leak scandal linked to the messaging app Signal.

Kash Patel was appointed FBI Director by President Donald Trump earlier this year. He was tasked with ending what Republicans describe as the agency’s “weaponisation” under former President Joe Biden.

‘Lie detector purge’: FBI director Kash Patel accused of forcing out officials over ‘disloyalty’ after conducting polygraph test

A Secret Service whistleblower has reportedly told Republican Senator Josh Hawley that Joe Biden would sometimes get lost in his own closet at the White House. The claim, which adds to growing concerns about the former president’s mental sharpness, was shared by Hawley during an interview with Fox News host Sean Hannity.“He told me that Biden used to get lost in his closet in the mornings at the White House,” Hawley said. “I mean, the guy literally stumbling around in the White House residence couldn’t find his way out of his own closet. The president of the United States,” he added.Hawley, a close ally of Donald Trump and a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, said the information came from a Secret Service agent who had been part of Biden’s detail.<h2>Senator says Biden's mental state may be a major scandal</h2>Hawley used the story to highlight what he called a growing scandal surrounding Biden’s cognitive state while in office. “This is outrageous. We were lied to,” he said.The White House has not responded to the claim. A spokesperson for Biden did not return a request for comment.<h2>Book reveals deeper concerns about Biden's condition</h2>Questions about Biden’s mental fitness have been around for a while, but they have intensified in recent weeks following the release of Original Sin, a book by CNN’s Jake Tapper and Axios reporter Alex Thompson.The book includes details from people close to Biden. One story claims aides considered using a wheelchair if he won re-election. Another says Biden did not recognise his longtime friend George Clooney at a fundraising event.<h2>Republicans push for more scrutiny</h2>Republicans in Congress have started investigations into Biden’s mental condition while he was president. Rep. James Comer has raised doubts about the legality of orders signed by an autopen, arguing they might not be valid. However, legal experts have pushed back against that idea.<h2>Biden hits back at critics, then exits race</h2>Biden, 82, who recently revealed he has an aggressive form of prostate cancer, has dismissed the claims. In an interview with CNN, he said sarcastically, “You can see that I’m mentally incompetent, and I can’t walk, and I can beat the hell out of both of them,” referring to the book’s authors.His mental condition became a central issue in the 2024 election, especially after a poor debate performance in June against Trump. Biden later withdrew from the race, giving Kamala Harris just a few months to campaign as the Democratic nominee.“I don’t have any regrets,” Biden told CNN. “I think we’re at one of those inflection points in history, where the decisions we make in the next little bit are going to determine what things look like for the next 20 years.”

Hawley, a close ally of Donald Trump and a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, said the information came from a Secret Service agent who had been part of Biden’s detail.

A Secret Service whistleblower has reportedly told Republican Senator Josh Hawley that Joe Biden would sometimes get lost in his own closet at the White House. The claim, which adds to growing concerns about the former president’s mental sharpness, was shared by Hawley during an interview with Fox News host Sean Hannity. “He told me that Biden used to get lost in his closet in the mornings at the White House,” Hawley said. “I mean, the guy literally stumbling around in the White House residence couldn’t find his way out of his own closet. The president of the United States,” he added. Hawley, a close ally of Donald Trump and a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, said the information came from a Secret Service agent who had been part of Biden’s detail. Senator says Biden's mental state may be a major scandal Hawley used the story to highlight what he called a growing scandal surrounding Biden’s cognitive state while in office. “This is outrageous. We were lied to,” he said. The White House has not responded to the claim. A spokesperson for Biden did not return a request for comment. Book reveals deeper concerns about Biden's condition Questions about Biden’s mental fitness have been around for a while, but they have intensified in recent weeks following the release of Original Sin, a book by CNN’s Jake Tapper and Axios reporter Alex Thompson. The book includes details from people close to Biden. One story claims aides considered using a wheelchair if he won re-election. Another says Biden did not recognise his longtime friend George Clooney at a fundraising event. Republicans push for more scrutiny Republicans in Congress have started investigations into Biden’s mental condition while he was president. Rep. James Comer has raised doubts about the legality of orders signed by an autopen, arguing they might not be valid. However, legal experts have pushed back against that idea. Biden hits back at critics, then exits race Biden, 82, who recently revealed he has an aggressive form of prostate cancer, has dismissed the claims. In an interview with CNN, he said sarcastically, “You can see that I’m mentally incompetent, and I can’t walk, and I can beat the hell out of both of them,” referring to the book’s authors. His mental condition became a central issue in the 2024 election, especially after a poor debate performance in June against Trump. Biden later withdrew from the race, giving Kamala Harris just a few months to campaign as the Democratic nominee. “I don’t have any regrets,” Biden told CNN. “I think we’re at one of those inflection points in history, where the decisions we make in the next little bit are going to determine what things look like for the next 20 years.”

Hawley, a close ally of Donald Trump and a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, said the information came from a Secret Service agent who had been part of Biden’s detail.

'Stumbling around in the White House': Secret Service whistleblower says Biden ‘got lost in his closet,’ claims close Trump ally

US President Donald Trump has stirred controversy once again, this time by reposting a wild conspiracy theory that claims President Joe Biden was “executed” in 2020 and replaced by clones.On Saturday night, Trump shared a message from a supporter on his Truth Social platform. The post read, “There is no #JoeBiden - executed in 2020. #Biden clones double &amp; robotic engineered soulless mindless entities are what you see. Democrats dont know the difference.”The report has thrust Biden into a bizarre category of public figures accused of being secretly replaced, a list that already includes pop stars like Paul McCartney and Avril Lavigne.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-launches-massive-drone-attack-targeting-russian-airbases-military-aircraft-report-1748779448172">Ukraine launches massive drone attack, targeting Russian airbases, military aircraft: Reports</a><h2>A history of body double theories</h2>Biden is far from the first to be caught up in this type of speculation. Conspiracy theories about celebrities being replaced after their death have circulated for decades. Rumours about Paul McCartney's supposed death have lingered since 1969, and Avril Lavigne has faced similar claims since the early 2000s.Even Melania Trump, the former First Lady, was at the centre of such theories during Trump’s first term. Claims that a body double had replaced her became so widespread that the White House issued an official statement dismissing the idea as a “non-story.”<h2>Supporters push fringe claims with photos and ‘proof’</h2>Following Trump’s report, supporters flooded the replies with memes and supposed evidence to back the outlandish claim.Some users pointed out that Biden’s eye colour had allegedly changed after 2020. Others claimed that his ear lobes had gone from being unattached to attached, offering this as “proof” that the real Biden had been swapped with a double. Several people even claimed to have spotted differences in his signature or used side-by-side photos from different decades to support their argument.A few went further, suggesting that Biden had been “executed by a military tribunal” and replaced by “robotic entities.”<h2>Trump’s conspiracy-laden weekend continues</h2>The clone theory wasn’t the only conspiracy Trump pushed over the weekend. On Friday night, he reposted another claim accusing CBS of hiding footage from his 2015 appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. In reality, the segment is freely available on YouTube.This comes at a time when Biden is under scrutiny for his age and health, especially after recently revealing he had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer. The diagnosis sparked further backlash from the MAGA camp, with some, including Trump, calling for an investigation into Biden’s White House doctor. Critics allege the doctor gave Trump a clean bill of health in July despite concerns.

Biden is far from the first to be caught up in this type of speculation. Conspiracy theories about celebrities being replaced after their death have circulated for decades.

US President Donald Trump has stirred controversy once again, this time by reposting a wild conspiracy theory that claims President Joe Biden was “executed” in 2020 and replaced by clones. On Saturday night, Trump shared a message from a supporter on his Truth Social platform. The post read, “There is no #JoeBiden - executed in 2020. #Biden clones double & robotic engineered soulless mindless entities are what you see. Democrats dont know the difference.” The report has thrust Biden into a bizarre category of public figures accused of being secretly replaced, a list that already includes pop stars like Paul McCartney and Avril Lavigne. Also read: Ukraine launches massive drone attack, targeting Russian airbases, military aircraft: Reports A history of body double theories Biden is far from the first to be caught up in this type of speculation. Conspiracy theories about celebrities being replaced after their death have circulated for decades. Rumours about Paul McCartney's supposed death have lingered since 1969, and Avril Lavigne has faced similar claims since the early 2000s. Even Melania Trump, the former First Lady, was at the centre of such theories during Trump’s first term. Claims that a body double had replaced her became so widespread that the White House issued an official statement dismissing the idea as a “non-story.” Supporters push fringe claims with photos and ‘proof’ Following Trump’s report, supporters flooded the replies with memes and supposed evidence to back the outlandish claim. Some users pointed out that Biden’s eye colour had allegedly changed after 2020. Others claimed that his ear lobes had gone from being unattached to attached, offering this as “proof” that the real Biden had been swapped with a double. Several people even claimed to have spotted differences in his signature or used side-by-side photos from different decades to support their argument. A few went further, suggesting that Biden had been “executed by a military tribunal” and replaced by “robotic entities.” Trump’s conspiracy-laden weekend continues The clone theory wasn’t the only conspiracy Trump pushed over the weekend. On Friday night, he reposted another claim accusing CBS of hiding footage from his 2015 appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. In reality, the segment is freely available on YouTube. This comes at a time when Biden is under scrutiny for his age and health, especially after recently revealing he had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer. The diagnosis sparked further backlash from the MAGA camp, with some, including Trump, calling for an investigation into Biden’s White House doctor. Critics allege the doctor gave Trump a clean bill of health in July despite concerns.

Biden is far from the first to be caught up in this type of speculation. Conspiracy theories about celebrities being replaced after their death have circulated for decades.

‘There is no Joe Biden’: Trump boosts wild claim that Biden was executed in 2020 and was replaced by 'robotic soulless clone'

The European Union has sharply criticised US President Donald Trump’s decision to double tariffs on imported steel and aluminium, calling the move a blow to global trade stability. The European Commission reportedly warned that it is prepared to activate countermeasures if a negotiated solution is not reached soon.&nbsp;According to Reuters, Trump on Friday announced that the US would raise tariffs on steel and aluminium imports from 25 per cent to 50 per cent, citing national security and the need to protect American industries.&nbsp;&nbsp;The tariff hike is seen as a major escalation in the ongoing trade conflict between Washington and its allies.&nbsp;“We strongly regret the announced increase of US tariffs on steel imports from 25 per cent to 50 per cent,” a European Commission spokesperson said in an emailed statement, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;The Commission noted that the decision “adds further uncertainty to the global economy and increases costs for consumers and businesses on both sides of the Atlantic.” It further added that the tariff hike undermines efforts currently underway to reach a negotiated resolution between the EU and US.<h2>EU prepares retaliatory measures</h2>The EU had earlier paused its own counter-tariff actions in order to allow room for diplomatic talks. However, following Trump’s latest announcement, the Commission said it was finalising internal consultations on expanding its trade defence measures.&nbsp;“The EU is prepared to impose countermeasures, including in response to the latest US tariff increase,” the spokesperson said, according to Reuters.&nbsp;If talks fail, both existing and newly drafted EU tariffs will take effect on 14 July—or earlier if required. These retaliatory measures are expected to target key American exports, similar to past EU responses during previous tariff disputes.<h2>Impact on transatlantic trade ties</h2>Trump’s decision comes amid growing friction with both China and the EU on multiple trade fronts. The doubling of tariffs is not only expected to raise input costs for US manufacturers but also risks damaging already fragile EU-US trade relations.&nbsp;European officials view the move as part of a broader trend in Trump’s protectionist trade policies, which have also included hefty tariffs on Chinese goods and threats against auto imports from Germany and Japan.&nbsp;The European Commission reiterated that it remains open to discussions but stressed the importance of a fair and rules-based global trading system.&nbsp;“The tariff increase also undermines ongoing efforts to reach a negotiated solution,” the Commission said, per Reuters. &nbsp;

The European Commission has warned that it is prepared to activate countermeasures if a negotiated solution is not reached soon. 


The European Union has sharply criticised US President Donald Trump’s decision to double tariffs on imported steel and aluminium, calling the move a blow to global trade stability. The European Commission reportedly warned that it is prepared to activate countermeasures if a negotiated solution is not reached soon. According to Reuters, Trump on Friday announced that the US would raise tariffs on steel and aluminium imports from 25 per cent to 50 per cent, citing national security and the need to protect American industries. The tariff hike is seen as a major escalation in the ongoing trade conflict between Washington and its allies. “We strongly regret the announced increase of US tariffs on steel imports from 25 per cent to 50 per cent,” a European Commission spokesperson said in an emailed statement, as quoted by Reuters. The Commission noted that the decision “adds further uncertainty to the global economy and increases costs for consumers and businesses on both sides of the Atlantic.” It further added that the tariff hike undermines efforts currently underway to reach a negotiated resolution between the EU and US. EU prepares retaliatory measures The EU had earlier paused its own counter-tariff actions in order to allow room for diplomatic talks. However, following Trump’s latest announcement, the Commission said it was finalising internal consultations on expanding its trade defence measures. “The EU is prepared to impose countermeasures, including in response to the latest US tariff increase,” the spokesperson said, according to Reuters. If talks fail, both existing and newly drafted EU tariffs will take effect on 14 July—or earlier if required. These retaliatory measures are expected to target key American exports, similar to past EU responses during previous tariff disputes. Impact on transatlantic trade ties Trump’s decision comes amid growing friction with both China and the EU on multiple trade fronts. The doubling of tariffs is not only expected to raise input costs for US manufacturers but also risks damaging already fragile EU-US trade relations. European officials view the move as part of a broader trend in Trump’s protectionist trade policies, which have also included hefty tariffs on Chinese goods and threats against auto imports from Germany and Japan. The European Commission reiterated that it remains open to discussions but stressed the importance of a fair and rules-based global trading system. “The tariff increase also undermines ongoing efforts to reach a negotiated solution,” the Commission said, per Reuters.

The European Union has strongly criticized US President Donald Trump's decision to double tariffs on imported steel and aluminium, arguing it is a blow to global trade stability.

EU warns of countermeasures as Trump doubles US steel tariffs

The Trump administration has rolled out a major plan to reform how the US federal government hires new workers. The aim is to ensure that only what it calls “patriotic Americans” who back the president’s priorities are brought on board.In a new hiring memo released on Thursday, the White House, along with the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), outlined how federal agencies must now recruit staff under what it calls a “merit hiring plan.”This move comes as former President Donald Trump pushes to shrink the size of the federal workforce, a key promise from the start of his presidency. According to the memo, the goal is to make sure “only the most talented, capable and patriotic Americans” are chosen to serve in government roles.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-key-to-white-house-trump-gifts-special-golden-key-to-musk-what-is-it-and-how-many-people-have-it-wion-explains-1748671194690">'Key to White House': Trump gifts 'special' golden key to Musk. What is it and how many people have it? WION Explains</a><h2>New essay requirement for federal job applicants</h2>Under the new policy, anyone applying for federal positions starting at the GS-5 level or higher will now have to write short essays. These must outline how they will support the US Constitution, improve efficiency, back Trump’s executive orders and policy goals, and demonstrate a strong work ethic.Trump's allies argue the changes are necessary to root out government employees they believe are standing in the way of his agenda.But critics say the plan amounts to a political loyalty test. They also warn it could make it harder to attract top talent to public service roles.<h2>End of diversity metrics in hiring and promotions</h2>The memo, written by Vince Haley, assistant to the president for domestic policy, and Charles Ezell, the acting director of OPM, claims the previous system relied too heavily on what it calls “discriminatory ‘equity’ quotas.”It directs agencies to stop using statistics based on race, sex, ethnicity, or national origin when making hiring or promotion decisions. It also orders departments to stop sharing internal workforce data based on these characteristics.Instead, the plan focuses entirely on merit and individual commitment to Trump’s vision.<h2>Focus shifts away from ‘elite’ universities</h2>Trump’s hiring overhaul also targets where the federal government looks for recruits. The memo says there’s been too much focus on hiring from “elite universities and credentials.”Instead, the administration wants agencies to look for talent from a broader range of sources, including:<ul><li>State and land-grant universities</li><li>Religious colleges and community colleges</li><li>Trade and technical schools</li><li>Homeschooling groups</li><li>Military and law enforcement communities</li><li>Faith-based and youth organisations like 4-H and the American Legion</li></ul><h2>Trump aims to speed up hiring across government</h2>Another part of the plan aims to cut down the time it takes to hire someone for a federal role. The new target is to complete hiring processes in under 80 days, as per an earlier executive order from Trump.<h2>Overhauling top executive recruitment</h2>The memo also includes a separate strategy for hiring senior federal executives, those in the Senior Executive Service (SES). These roles involve significant decision-making power within government agencies.Trump had previously said on his first day in office that these officials “must serve at the pleasure of the President.”The memo calls the current SES hiring process “broken” and “insular,” accusing it of bringing in officials who either leak sensitive information, defy presidential policies, or work inefficiently.It also says previous diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) requirements for SES hiring were “unlawful” and have now been removed.<h2>New leadership programme to groom future executives</h2>To train future executive leaders, OPM will now offer an 80-hour “fee-based aspiring executive development programme.” According to the memo, this training will be rooted in the Constitution and US laws and will include education on Trump’s executive orders.The goal is to build a pipeline of leadership candidates “with the skills, knowledge, technical expertise, and strategic mindset necessary to excel in senior leadership roles.”

This move comes as former President Donald Trump pushes to shrink the size of the federal workforce, a key promise from the start of his presidency. According to the memo, the goal is to make sure “only the most talented, capable and patriotic Americans” are chosen.

The Trump administration has rolled out a major plan to reform how the US federal government hires new workers. The aim is to ensure that only what it calls “patriotic Americans” who back the president’s priorities are brought on board. In a new hiring memo released on Thursday, the White House, along with the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), outlined how federal agencies must now recruit staff under what it calls a “merit hiring plan.” This move comes as former President Donald Trump pushes to shrink the size of the federal workforce, a key promise from the start of his presidency. According to the memo, the goal is to make sure “only the most talented, capable and patriotic Americans” are chosen to serve in government roles. Also read: 'Key to White House': Trump gifts 'special' golden key to Musk. What is it and how many people have it? WION Explains New essay requirement for federal job applicants Under the new policy, anyone applying for federal positions starting at the GS-5 level or higher will now have to write short essays. These must outline how they will support the US Constitution, improve efficiency, back Trump’s executive orders and policy goals, and demonstrate a strong work ethic. Trump's allies argue the changes are necessary to root out government employees they believe are standing in the way of his agenda. But critics say the plan amounts to a political loyalty test. They also warn it could make it harder to attract top talent to public service roles. End of diversity metrics in hiring and promotions The memo, written by Vince Haley, assistant to the president for domestic policy, and Charles Ezell, the acting director of OPM, claims the previous system relied too heavily on what it calls “discriminatory ‘equity’ quotas.” It directs agencies to stop using statistics based on race, sex, ethnicity, or national origin when making hiring or promotion decisions. It also orders departments to stop sharing internal workforce data based on these characteristics. Instead, the plan focuses entirely on merit and individual commitment to Trump’s vision. Focus shifts away from ‘elite’ universities Trump’s hiring overhaul also targets where the federal government looks for recruits. The memo says there’s been too much focus on hiring from “elite universities and credentials.” Instead, the administration wants agencies to look for talent from a broader range of sources, including: State and land-grant universities Religious colleges and community colleges Trade and technical schools Homeschooling groups Military and law enforcement communities Faith-based and youth organisations like 4-H and the American Legion Trump aims to speed up hiring across government Another part of the plan aims to cut down the time it takes to hire someone for a federal role. The new target is to complete hiring processes in under 80 days, as per an earlier executive order from Trump. Overhauling top executive recruitment The memo also includes a separate strategy for hiring senior federal executives, those in the Senior Executive Service (SES). These roles involve significant decision-making power within government agencies. Trump had previously said on his first day in office that these officials “must serve at the pleasure of the President.” The memo calls the current SES hiring process “broken” and “insular,” accusing it of bringing in officials who either leak sensitive information, defy presidential policies, or work inefficiently. It also says previous diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) requirements for SES hiring were “unlawful” and have now been removed. New leadership programme to groom future executives To train future executive leaders, OPM will now offer an 80-hour “fee-based aspiring executive development programme.” According to the memo, this training will be rooted in the Constitution and US laws and will include education on Trump’s executive orders. The goal is to build a pipeline of leadership candidates “with the skills, knowledge, technical expertise, and strategic mindset necessary to excel in senior leadership roles.”

This move comes as former President Donald Trump pushes to shrink the size of the federal workforce, a key promise from the start of his presidency. According to the memo, the goal is to make sure “only the most talented, capable and patriotic Americans” are chosen.

Loyalty test for federal jobs? Trump demands ‘patriotic Americans’ in sweeping hiring shake-up

Amid row over Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) director Kash Patel's nightclub visits, Deputy Director Dan Bongino said that Patel works for 13 hours every day. Dan Bongino, in an interview, said Patel arrives at the office at 6 am and rarely leaves before 7 pm, while refuting reports that Patel is rarely in office. &nbsp;"Kash is in the office by 6 a.m. and rarely leaves before 7 p.m. If you think we are there for tea and crumpets… I mean, Kash is there all day," he said. He also added that their offices are so close that he can even hear when Patel turns on a faucet. “I stare at these four walls all day in DC, you know, by myself, divorced from my wife. Not divorced, but I mean, separated. And it's hard. We love each other, but it's hard to be apart,” Bongino said.&nbsp;Bongino explained his sacrifices saying, “My wife is struggling. But I am not a victim. I am not James Comey (former FBI director). I did this and I am proud that I did it.” &nbsp;This comes weeks after Former FBI counter-intelligence official Frank Figliuzzi said that Patel is spotted more at nightclubs and less at the office, but people are not complaining because they probably think that things could be bad if he ran the office. Yeah well, reportedly, he's been visible at nightclubs far more than he has been on the seventh floor of the Hoover building," Figliuzzi replied. "And there are reports that daily briefings to him have been changed from every day to maybe twice weekly," he said. &nbsp;Former FBI director James Comey had also raised questions about Kash Patel and Dan Bongino's leadership. "There are lots of people in the FBI who know what they're doing. I hope these two guys are letting them guide them," he told CNN. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Amid row over Federal Bureau of Investigation director Kash Patel nightclub visits Deputy Director Dan Bongino said that Patel works for 13 hours every day

Amid row over Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) director Kash Patel's nightclub visits, Deputy Director Dan Bongino said that Patel works for 13 hours every day. Dan Bongino, in an interview, said Patel arrives at the office at 6 am and rarely leaves before 7 pm, while refuting reports that Patel is rarely in office. "Kash is in the office by 6 a.m. and rarely leaves before 7 p.m. If you think we are there for tea and crumpets… I mean, Kash is there all day," he said. He also added that their offices are so close that he can even hear when Patel turns on a faucet. “I stare at these four walls all day in DC, you know, by myself, divorced from my wife. Not divorced, but I mean, separated. And it's hard. We love each other, but it's hard to be apart,” Bongino said. Bongino explained his sacrifices saying, “My wife is struggling. But I am not a victim. I am not James Comey (former FBI director). I did this and I am proud that I did it.” This comes weeks after Former FBI counter-intelligence official Frank Figliuzzi said that Patel is spotted more at nightclubs and less at the office, but people are not complaining because they probably think that things could be bad if he ran the office. Yeah well, reportedly, he's been visible at nightclubs far more than he has been on the seventh floor of the Hoover building," Figliuzzi replied. "And there are reports that daily briefings to him have been changed from every day to maybe twice weekly," he said. Former FBI director James Comey had also raised questions about Kash Patel and Dan Bongino's leadership. "There are lots of people in the FBI who know what they're doing. I hope these two guys are letting them guide them," he told CNN.

Amid row over Federal Bureau of Investigation director Kash Patel's nightclub visits, Deputy Director Dan Bongino said that Patel works for 13 hours every day

'Not at FBI for tea': Kash Patel's deputy refutes report of his boss at nightclubs, says FBI Director works for '13 hours'

Pakistan is sending a delegation to the United States next week for high-stakes trade talks, President Donald Trump confirmed on Friday, as the South Asian nation tries to avert a looming tariff crisis that could jeopardise billions in export earnings, according to Reuters.&nbsp;&nbsp;The development comes amid Washington’s broader tariff campaign against countries running significant trade surpluses with the US and follows a sharp warning from Trump over recent military clashes between Pakistan and its neighbour India.<h2>Why Pakistan is under pressure</h2>As per Reuters, the US government last month announced sweeping tariff hikes on multiple trading partners. Among them, Pakistan now faces potential tariffs of up to 29 per cent on its exports to the US, owing to a trade surplus of approximately $3 billion.&nbsp;This makes the upcoming trade negotiations critical for Islamabad, which heavily relies on US market access to sustain key sectors such as textiles and surgical instruments.&nbsp;Trump, speaking at Joint Base Andrews, said that “Representatives from Pakistan are coming to the United States next week as they seek to make a deal on tariffs,” as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;While he did not elaborate on the scope of discussions, his remarks signal that the talks will centre on tariff exemptions and possibly a broader bilateral trade reset.<h2>A fragile moment for regional diplomacy</h2>The talks also come against the backdrop of heightened military tensions in South Asia.&nbsp;Earlier in May, Pakistan and India engaged in four days of intense cross-border conflict involving missiles, drones, artillery, and fighter jets, worst confrontation in decades.&nbsp;Referring to this, Trump added, “I would have no interest in making a deal with Pakistan or India if they were to engage in war with each other,” as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;The White House is closely monitoring the situation, given the nuclear capabilities of both nations and their strategic importance in regional stability.<h2>US-Pakistan trade dependency</h2>According to 2024 trade data from the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), total two-way goods trade between the US and Pakistan stood at $12.2 billion, with Pakistan exporting $7.6 billion worth of goods to the US and importing $4.6 billion in return.&nbsp;Pakistan’s largest exports to the US include:<ul><li>Textiles and apparel: over $4.4 billion</li><li>Surgical and medical instruments: around $500 million</li><li>Leather goods and footwear</li><li>Sporting equipment</li></ul>The US is Pakistan’s single largest export destination, accounting for over 21 per cent of its total exports, according to data from Pakistan’s Ministry of Commerce.&nbsp;By contrast, US exports to Pakistan remain limited, concentrated mainly in machinery, pharmaceuticals, aircraft parts, and agricultural products.&nbsp;This asymmetry gives the US considerable leverage in trade negotiations but also highlights Pakistan’s economic vulnerability if tariff hikes are implemented.<h2>Will Pakistan offer concessions?</h2>As per Bloomberg, Pakistan may offer market access guarantees and investment incentives to US firms as part of the deal, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, green energy, and e-commerce.&nbsp;Pakistan’s Board of Investment is reportedly finalising a list of federal infrastructure contracts and public-private partnerships worth over $25 billion, which could be opened up to US bidders in exchange for tariff relief.&nbsp;The talks are expected to include Pakistan’s caretaker Commerce Minister and key officials from its Finance and Foreign Affairs Ministries, according to government sources quoted by The Express Tribune.<h2>US Parallel talks with India complicate the picture</h2>While Pakistan prepares for negotiations, India is also deepening trade engagement with Washington. Trump confirmed on Friday that the US is “very close [to] making a deal with India,” as quoted by Reuters.India’s Trade Minister Piyush Goyal was in Washington earlier this month to advance discussions, with an interim trade agreement expected by early July, as per Reuters.&nbsp;India currently faces 26 per cent tariffs on US-bound goods under the April tariff hike and is reportedly offering $50 billion in procurement opportunities to American firms in return for relief and improved access to the US tech and defence markets.&nbsp;This parallel track may influence how Washington negotiates with Islamabad, potentially demanding more structural reforms or commercial openness.<h2>What happens next?</h2>For Pakistan, the stakes are high. Without a deal, its key exports could become uncompetitive overnight, triggering factory closures and job losses in industries that employ millions of workers, particularly in cities like Karachi, Sialkot, and Faisalabad.&nbsp;The US also risks weakening a strategically important partner in South Asia, one it often relies on for counterterrorism, Afghan stability, and regional intelligence cooperation.&nbsp;Trade officials from both countries are expected to meet in Washington next week, with preparatory talks already underway, according to sources quoted by Dawn&nbsp; &nbsp;

Business & Economy: This comes amid Washington broader tariff campaign against countries with significant trade surpluses with the US and a warning from Trump over recent military clashes between Pakistan and its neighbor India. 

Pakistan is sending a delegation to the United States next week for high-stakes trade talks, President Donald Trump confirmed on Friday, as the South Asian nation tries to avert a looming tariff crisis that could jeopardise billions in export earnings, according to Reuters. The development comes amid Washington’s broader tariff campaign against countries running significant trade surpluses with the US and follows a sharp warning from Trump over recent military clashes between Pakistan and its neighbour India. Why Pakistan is under pressure As per Reuters, the US government last month announced sweeping tariff hikes on multiple trading partners. Among them, Pakistan now faces potential tariffs of up to 29 per cent on its exports to the US, owing to a trade surplus of approximately $3 billion. This makes the upcoming trade negotiations critical for Islamabad, which heavily relies on US market access to sustain key sectors such as textiles and surgical instruments. Trump, speaking at Joint Base Andrews, said that “Representatives from Pakistan are coming to the United States next week as they seek to make a deal on tariffs,” as quoted by Reuters. While he did not elaborate on the scope of discussions, his remarks signal that the talks will centre on tariff exemptions and possibly a broader bilateral trade reset. A fragile moment for regional diplomacy The talks also come against the backdrop of heightened military tensions in South Asia. Earlier in May, Pakistan and India engaged in four days of intense cross-border conflict involving missiles, drones, artillery, and fighter jets, worst confrontation in decades. Referring to this, Trump added, “I would have no interest in making a deal with Pakistan or India if they were to engage in war with each other,” as quoted by Reuters. The White House is closely monitoring the situation, given the nuclear capabilities of both nations and their strategic importance in regional stability. US-Pakistan trade dependency According to 2024 trade data from the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), total two-way goods trade between the US and Pakistan stood at $12.2 billion, with Pakistan exporting $7.6 billion worth of goods to the US and importing $4.6 billion in return. Pakistan’s largest exports to the US include: Textiles and apparel: over $4.4 billion Surgical and medical instruments: around $500 million Leather goods and footwear Sporting equipment The US is Pakistan’s single largest export destination, accounting for over 21 per cent of its total exports, according to data from Pakistan’s Ministry of Commerce. By contrast, US exports to Pakistan remain limited, concentrated mainly in machinery, pharmaceuticals, aircraft parts, and agricultural products. This asymmetry gives the US considerable leverage in trade negotiations but also highlights Pakistan’s economic vulnerability if tariff hikes are implemented. Will Pakistan offer concessions? As per Bloomberg, Pakistan may offer market access guarantees and investment incentives to US firms as part of the deal, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, green energy, and e-commerce. Pakistan’s Board of Investment is reportedly finalising a list of federal infrastructure contracts and public-private partnerships worth over $25 billion, which could be opened up to US bidders in exchange for tariff relief. The talks are expected to include Pakistan’s caretaker Commerce Minister and key officials from its Finance and Foreign Affairs Ministries, according to government sources quoted by The Express Tribune. US Parallel talks with India complicate the picture While Pakistan prepares for negotiations, India is also deepening trade engagement with Washington. Trump confirmed on Friday that the US is “very close [to] making a deal with India,” as quoted by Reuters. India’s Trade Minister Piyush Goyal was in Washington earlier this month to advance discussions, with an interim trade agreement expected by early July, as per Reuters. India currently faces 26 per cent tariffs on US-bound goods under the April tariff hike and is reportedly offering $50 billion in procurement opportunities to American firms in return for relief and improved access to the US tech and defence markets. This parallel track may influence how Washington negotiates with Islamabad, potentially demanding more structural reforms or commercial openness. What happens next? For Pakistan, the stakes are high. Without a deal, its key exports could become uncompetitive overnight, triggering factory closures and job losses in industries that employ millions of workers, particularly in cities like Karachi, Sialkot, and Faisalabad. The US also risks weakening a strategically important partner in South Asia, one it often relies on for counterterrorism, Afghan stability, and regional intelligence cooperation. Trade officials from both countries are expected to meet in Washington next week, with preparatory talks already underway, according to sources quoted by Dawn

Pakistan is reportedly set to send a delegation to the US next week for high-stakes trade talks to avoid a potential tariff crisis that could threaten billions in export earnings.&nbsp;

Pakistan heads to Washington for trade talks: What’s at stake as US tariff threat looms?

The Donald Trump administration has launched a Pentagon investigation into the 2021 withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan.In a memo, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said that he has concluded that a "comprehensive review" was needed to ensure that a "complete picture is provided to the American people".Pentagon chief Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, in his memo, said that the review would ensure that accountability for the troop withdrawal was met.“On August 26, 2021, President Biden's administration led a chaotic withdrawal of U.S. military and embassy officials from Afghanistan that led to the deaths of 13 U.S. service members and 170 civilians in a suicide bombing at the Kabul International Airport's Abbey Gate.”"I have concluded that we need to conduct a comprehensive review to ensure that accountability for this event is met and that the complete picture is provided to the American people," stated the memo.What happened during the US withdrawal from Afghanistan? Here's the timeline.<h3>11 September 2001</h3>The US is devastated by a massive terrorist strike. Four commercial airliners were hijacked by Al-Qaeda operatives, who then crashed three of them into the World Trade Centre in New York. The fourth one crashed into a field in Pennsylvania thanks to brave passengers.Around three thousand people died in the terror attack.In the aftermath, US President George W. Bush vowed to "win the war against terrorism".Nineteen hijackers were involved in the attack, none of them Afghan citizens.The Bush government zeroed in on Al-Qaeda and its leader, Osama bin Laden, who was located in Afghanistan. The US called on the Taliban regime to "deliver to the United States authorities all the leaders of al-Qaeda who hide in your land" or share in their fate.<h3>18 September 2001</h3>President George Bush signed into law a joint resolution authorising the use of force against the terrorists involved in the 9/11 attack.<h3>7 October 2001</h3>With British support, the US launched "Operation Enduring Freedom" and began a bombing campaign against Taliban forces. In the early phase, the US mainly carried out air strikes on al-Qaeda and Taliban forces. 12 days later, the first wave of conventional ground forces arrives.<h3>November 2001</h3>In a series of losses, the Taliban regime starts to unravel rapidly, with their strongholds crumbling.<h3>14 November 2001</h3>The UN Security Council (UNSC) passes Resolution 1378, calling for a "central role" for the United Nations in establishing a transitional administration and inviting member states to send peacekeeping forces to promote stability and aid delivery.<h3>December 2001</h3>Following the fall of Kabul in November 2001, with UN backing, major Afghan factions signed the Bonn Agreement and installed Hamid Karzai as the interim administration head and created an international peacekeeping force to maintain security in Kabul. Following this, UNSC Resolution 1386 on December 20 establishes the International Security Assistance Force, or ISAF.<h3>December 2001</h3>Taliban collapse and the fall can be tied to the surrender of Kandahar.<h3>March 2002</h3>The US launches its first major ground assault, called Operation Anaconda, against 800 al-Qaeda and Taliban fighters in the Shah-i-Kot Valley south of the city of Gardez (Paktia Province).<h3>April 2002</h3>President Bush calls for the reconstruction of Afghanistan.Speaking at the Virginia Military Institute, he said, “By helping to build an Afghanistan that is free from this evil and is a better place in which to live, we are working in the best traditions of George Marshall.”Between 2001 and 2009, the US Congress granted $38 billion in humanitarian and reconstruction assistance.<h3>1 May 2011</h3>Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden was killed in Pakistan by US forces. Following this, the then-President Barack Obama prepared to announce the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan but was met with arguments for sustained military engagement.<h3>22 June 2011</h3>President Obama outlines a plan to withdraw thirty-three thousand troops by the summer of 2012—the surge troops sent in December 2009—including ten thousand by the end of 2011.<h3>November 2011</h3>The US marks ten years of war in Afghanistan. The war toll includes casualties of 1,800 US troop members and $444 billion in spending.<h3>June 2013</h3>Following peace talks, Afghan forces take the lead in security responsibility nationwide. The US-led coalition, meanwhile, switches to military training and special operations-driven counterterrorism. Talks continued in Doha, Qatar, between the Taliban and the US.<h3>27 May 2014</h3>President Obama announces a timetable for US troop withdrawal – to be completed by the end of 2016. The first phase of the plan calls for 9,800 troops to remain in Afghanistan, conducting operations against al-Qaeda and training Afghan forces.<h3>September 2014</h3>Newly elected Afghan president Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, a top Taliban official, and his chief opponent Abdullah Abdullah signed a power-sharing agreement.<h3>21 August 2017</h3>US President Donald Trump, in an address to troops in Arlington, Virginia, signals a prolonged Afghan war. He said that though his "original instinct was to pull out", He will instead press on with an open-ended military commitment aimed at preventing the emergence of "a vacuum for terrorists".<h3>29 February 2020</h3>The US and the Taliban sign an agreement paving the way for peace in Afghanistan and the drawdown of US troops from Afghanistan. The agreement includes guarantees from the Taliban that the country would not be used for terrorist activities.<h3>17 November 2020</h3>Before the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden, the then-acting US Defence Secretary Christopher C. Miller announced that the number of troops in Afghanistan would be halved to 2,500 by mid-January.<h3>14 April 2021</h3>Newly inaugurated President Joe Biden announces the US will withdraw all its troops by 11 September 2021. "It's time to end America’s longest war," he said.<h3>15 August 2021</h3>Taliban takeover of Kabul and the presidential palace. Leaders of the terror group say they will hold talks with Afghan officials to form an "open, inclusive Islamic government".<h3>26 August 2021</h3>12 members of the US military are killed and 18 are injured in an attack outside the Kabul airport amid "chaotic" troop withdrawal. At least 170 Afghans were also killed. The Islamic State in Khorasan claims responsibility, and several days later, the United States launches an air strike targeting a suspected plotter from the group.<h3>30 August 2021</h3>After twenty years of war, the last of the US military departs from Afghanistan, leaving the nation under its Taliban rulers.

Hegseth said that he has concluded that a "comprehensive review" was needed to ensure that a "complete picture is provided to the American people". What happened during the US withdrawal from Afghanistan? From the 9/11 attack to the end of US' 20-year war, here's a timeline 

The Donald Trump administration has launched a Pentagon investigation into the 2021 withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan. In a memo, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said that he has concluded that a "comprehensive review" was needed to ensure that a "complete picture is provided to the American people". Pentagon chief Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, in his memo, said that the review would ensure that accountability for the troop withdrawal was met. “On August 26, 2021, President Biden's administration led a chaotic withdrawal of U.S. military and embassy officials from Afghanistan that led to the deaths of 13 U.S. service members and 170 civilians in a suicide bombing at the Kabul International Airport's Abbey Gate.” "I have concluded that we need to conduct a comprehensive review to ensure that accountability for this event is met and that the complete picture is provided to the American people," stated the memo. What happened during the US withdrawal from Afghanistan? Here's the timeline. 11 September 2001 The US is devastated by a massive terrorist strike. Four commercial airliners were hijacked by Al-Qaeda operatives, who then crashed three of them into the World Trade Centre in New York. The fourth one crashed into a field in Pennsylvania thanks to brave passengers. Around three thousand people died in the terror attack. In the aftermath, US President George W. Bush vowed to "win the war against terrorism". Nineteen hijackers were involved in the attack, none of them Afghan citizens. The Bush government zeroed in on Al-Qaeda and its leader, Osama bin Laden, who was located in Afghanistan. The US called on the Taliban regime to "deliver to the United States authorities all the leaders of al-Qaeda who hide in your land" or share in their fate. 18 September 2001 President George Bush signed into law a joint resolution authorising the use of force against the terrorists involved in the 9/11 attack. 7 October 2001 With British support, the US launched "Operation Enduring Freedom" and began a bombing campaign against Taliban forces. In the early phase, the US mainly carried out air strikes on al-Qaeda and Taliban forces. 12 days later, the first wave of conventional ground forces arrives. November 2001 In a series of losses, the Taliban regime starts to unravel rapidly, with their strongholds crumbling. 14 November 2001 The UN Security Council (UNSC) passes Resolution 1378, calling for a "central role" for the United Nations in establishing a transitional administration and inviting member states to send peacekeeping forces to promote stability and aid delivery. December 2001 Following the fall of Kabul in November 2001, with UN backing, major Afghan factions signed the Bonn Agreement and installed Hamid Karzai as the interim administration head and created an international peacekeeping force to maintain security in Kabul. Following this, UNSC Resolution 1386 on December 20 establishes the International Security Assistance Force, or ISAF. December 2001 Taliban collapse and the fall can be tied to the surrender of Kandahar. March 2002 The US launches its first major ground assault, called Operation Anaconda, against 800 al-Qaeda and Taliban fighters in the Shah-i-Kot Valley south of the city of Gardez (Paktia Province). April 2002 President Bush calls for the reconstruction of Afghanistan. Speaking at the Virginia Military Institute, he said, “By helping to build an Afghanistan that is free from this evil and is a better place in which to live, we are working in the best traditions of George Marshall.” Between 2001 and 2009, the US Congress granted $38 billion in humanitarian and reconstruction assistance. 1 May 2011 Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden was killed in Pakistan by US forces. Following this, the then-President Barack Obama prepared to announce the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan but was met with arguments for sustained military engagement. 22 June 2011 President Obama outlines a plan to withdraw thirty-three thousand troops by the summer of 2012—the surge troops sent in December 2009—including ten thousand by the end of 2011. November 2011 The US marks ten years of war in Afghanistan. The war toll includes casualties of 1,800 US troop members and $444 billion in spending. June 2013 Following peace talks, Afghan forces take the lead in security responsibility nationwide. The US-led coalition, meanwhile, switches to military training and special operations-driven counterterrorism. Talks continued in Doha, Qatar, between the Taliban and the US. 27 May 2014 President Obama announces a timetable for US troop withdrawal – to be completed by the end of 2016. The first phase of the plan calls for 9,800 troops to remain in Afghanistan, conducting operations against al-Qaeda and training Afghan forces. September 2014 Newly elected Afghan president Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, a top Taliban official, and his chief opponent Abdullah Abdullah signed a power-sharing agreement. 21 August 2017 US President Donald Trump, in an address to troops in Arlington, Virginia, signals a prolonged Afghan war. He said that though his "original instinct was to pull out", He will instead press on with an open-ended military commitment aimed at preventing the emergence of "a vacuum for terrorists". 29 February 2020 The US and the Taliban sign an agreement paving the way for peace in Afghanistan and the drawdown of US troops from Afghanistan. The agreement includes guarantees from the Taliban that the country would not be used for terrorist activities. 17 November 2020 Before the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden, the then-acting US Defence Secretary Christopher C. Miller announced that the number of troops in Afghanistan would be halved to 2,500 by mid-January. 14 April 2021 Newly inaugurated President Joe Biden announces the US will withdraw all its troops by 11 September 2021. "It's time to end America’s longest war," he said. 15 August 2021 Taliban takeover of Kabul and the presidential palace. Leaders of the terror group say they will hold talks with Afghan officials to form an "open, inclusive Islamic government". 26 August 2021 12 members of the US military are killed and 18 are injured in an attack outside the Kabul airport amid "chaotic" troop withdrawal. At least 170 Afghans were also killed. The Islamic State in Khorasan claims responsibility, and several days later, the United States launches an air strike targeting a suspected plotter from the group. 30 August 2021 After twenty years of war, the last of the US military departs from Afghanistan, leaving the nation under its Taliban rulers.

Hegseth said that he has concluded that a "comprehensive review" was needed to ensure that a "complete picture is provided to the American people". What happened during the US withdrawal from Afghanistan? From the 9/11 attack to the end of US' 20-year war, here's a timeline&nbsp;

Trump admin launches review of US troops' withdrawal from Afghanistan: Timeline from 9/11 attack to end of '20-year-war' | WION Explains

After US President Donald Trump launched a crackdown on Harvard University, various claims emerged on social media saying his crackdown was a frustration after the Ivy League university did not admit his youngest son Barron Trump. But now, the biographer of the US president, Michael Wolff, has claimed that it was Trump who was not admitted to Harvard, not Barron.&nbsp;The author of the books like 'Fire and Fury', 'Siege: Trump under fire', and this year's 'All or nothing', claimed this on a podcast with the The Daily Beast.&nbsp;His claim came after the host of podcast, Joanna Coles, said that many people who were linked to Trump studied in Harvard. Wolf said, "It's important not to lend too much calculation and planning to anything he does."&nbsp;"But the other thing is that, by the way, he didn't get into Harvard. So one of the Trump things is always holding a grudge against the Ivy League," the biographer added.&nbsp;<h2>Trump’s educational history</h2>&nbsp;Donald Trump studied at Fordham University in 1964 after attending the New York Military Academy for four years. He got his bachelor's degree in economics from University of Pennsylvania.&nbsp;After Wolf’s claim, a &nbsp;White House spokesperson hit out at the president’s biographer for "peddling fake news", adding that Trump did not need to apply to an "overrated and corrupt" university like Harvard.&nbsp;"They both peddle fake news for clickbait in a hopeless attempt to amount to something more than lying losers. The President didn't need to apply to an overrated, corrupt institution like Harvard to become a successful businessman and the most transformative President in history," Taylor Rogers said.&nbsp;<h2>Trump 'loves the drama'</h2>&nbsp;Wolf also said that apart from "holding the grudge", Trump's "TV star instincts as a producer" play a key role in his legal battle against Ivy League Universities - especially Harvard. He said that Trump need an enemy.&nbsp;"That's what makes the show great, the Trump show. He picks fantastic enemies. And Harvard, for all it represents, fits right into the Trump show. The president loves the drama. He's done what he set out to do - dominate the headline. What do you do? You go after Harvard in a way that is draconian, dramatic, and existential. It's threatening Harvard on that level," Wolf said.&nbsp; &nbsp;

'He loves drama': Reason for Trump's 'grudge' against Harvard REVEALED. Here's what US president's biographer claims

After US President Donald Trump launched a crackdown on Harvard University, various claims emerged on social media saying his crackdown was a frustration after the Ivy League university did not admit his youngest son Barron Trump. But now, the biographer of the US president, Michael Wolff, has claimed that it was Trump who was not admitted to Harvard, not Barron. The author of the books like 'Fire and Fury', 'Siege: Trump under fire', and this year's 'All or nothing', claimed this on a podcast with the The Daily Beast. His claim came after the host of podcast, Joanna Coles, said that many people who were linked to Trump studied in Harvard. Wolf said, "It's important not to lend too much calculation and planning to anything he does." "But the other thing is that, by the way, he didn't get into Harvard. So one of the Trump things is always holding a grudge against the Ivy League," the biographer added. Trump’s educational history Donald Trump studied at Fordham University in 1964 after attending the New York Military Academy for four years. He got his bachelor's degree in economics from University of Pennsylvania. After Wolf’s claim, a White House spokesperson hit out at the president’s biographer for "peddling fake news", adding that Trump did not need to apply to an "overrated and corrupt" university like Harvard. "They both peddle fake news for clickbait in a hopeless attempt to amount to something more than lying losers. The President didn't need to apply to an overrated, corrupt institution like Harvard to become a successful businessman and the most transformative President in history," Taylor Rogers said. Trump 'loves the drama' Wolf also said that apart from "holding the grudge", Trump's "TV star instincts as a producer" play a key role in his legal battle against Ivy League Universities - especially Harvard. He said that Trump need an enemy. "That's what makes the show great, the Trump show. He picks fantastic enemies. And Harvard, for all it represents, fits right into the Trump show. The president loves the drama. He's done what he set out to do - dominate the headline. What do you do? You go after Harvard in a way that is draconian, dramatic, and existential. It's threatening Harvard on that level," Wolf said.

After US President Donald Trump launched a crackdown on Harvard University, various claims emerged on social media saying his crackdown was a frustration after the Ivy League university did not admit his youngest son Barron Trump.

US President Donald Trump has some marital advice for French President Emmanuel Macron, who recently got embroiled in controversy after a video of his wife supposedly slapping him went viral.The video captures French President Emmanuel Macron being "slapped", or rather pushed, in the face by his wife, Brigitte Macron, upon their arrival in Hanoi, Vietnam. The video has garnered significant media attention. It shows Brigitte extending her arms towards Macron's face as they disembarked from their aircraft. Initially, the Élysée Palace dismissed the incident as a light-hearted moment between the couple. President Macron later addressed the media frenzy, describing the interaction as harmless play fighting between spouses.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/french-president-s-hanoi-visit-overshadowed-by-viral-moment-1748319012870">French president's Hanoi visit overshadowed by viral moment</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Macron bitchslapped by 72-year-old wife Brigitte...his people claim it was a playful not angry slap <a href="https://t.co/3d15JVZFst">pic.twitter.com/3d15JVZFst</a>&mdash; Rita Panahi (@RitaPanahi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RitaPanahi/status/1926952721652793459?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What advice did Trump give Macron?</h2>In response to the viral video, US President Donald Trump offered a humorous take. During the send-off press conference for Elon Musk, a Fox News correspondent asked Trump if he had any "world leader-to-world leader marital advice" for Macron. Trump, who has plenty of marital experience under his belt — he has been married three times — quipped: "Make sure the door remains closed"."That was not good," Trump said to laughter in the Oval Office.Trump then revealed that he had talked to Macron after the plane incident."I spoke to him," he said, adding, "He's fine. They're fine"."They're two really good people. I know him very well, and I don't know what that was all about," added Trump as he chose his words carefully."But I know him very well, and they're fine," he added.<h2>Elon Musk's black eye</h2>Musk, who was supporting a black eye himself, interjected into the conversation, saying, "I know a little shiner here". He later revealed that the injury happened when he was "horsing around with Little X" his son.

During the send-off press conference for Elon Musk, Trump was asked if he had any "world leader-to-world leader marital advice" for Macron. Trump, who has plenty of marital experience under his belt — he has been married three times — quipped: "Make sure the door remains closed".

US President Donald Trump has some marital advice for French President Emmanuel Macron, who recently got embroiled in controversy after a video of his wife supposedly slapping him went viral. The video captures French President Emmanuel Macron being "slapped", or rather pushed, in the face by his wife, Brigitte Macron, upon their arrival in Hanoi, Vietnam. The video has garnered significant media attention. It shows Brigitte extending her arms towards Macron's face as they disembarked from their aircraft. Initially, the Élysée Palace dismissed the incident as a light-hearted moment between the couple. President Macron later addressed the media frenzy, describing the interaction as harmless play fighting between spouses. Also read | French president's Hanoi visit overshadowed by viral moment

During the send-off press conference for Elon Musk, Trump was asked if he had any "world leader-to-world leader marital advice" for Macron. Trump, who has plenty of marital experience under his belt — he has been married three times — quipped: "Make sure the door remains closed".

Donald Trump gives French President Emmanuel Macron marital advice after viral slap video: 'Make sure...'

donald-trump

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

donald trump

‘If I were him, I would want to speak to me’: Trump on speaking to Musk after high-voltage feud over 'Big Beautiful Bill'

Top 10 world news: California Gov to sue Trump admin over National Guard deployment; Axiom-4 launch delayed, and more

‘PRESIDENT TRUMP, YOU ARE SO WONDERFUL’: Trump praises himself for deploying National Guards in LA; bashes 'incompetent' Gov Newsom

'Trump putting fuel on fire, will take him to court': California Gov Newsom to sue Trump admin over National Guard deployment

“We counted on them”: Zelensky says 20,000 US anti-drone missiles meant for Ukraine were diverted to Middle East by Trump admin

Is my country listed? Trump travel ban is in effect now. Check which countries are included, and what's different this time

‘He eats his hate’: Who is Terry Moran? Journalist suspended after explosive post calling Trump, aide Stephen Miller 'world-class haters'

‘Putin is a murderer who came to kill the kids’: Zelensky hits back at Trump’s ‘children fighting’ remark — Here’s what he said

Trump sends 2,000 National Guard to Los Angeles. Are Marines next? - All you need to know

'He’s an ILLEGAL ALIEN!' TikTok’s most-followed star, Khaby Lame detained by ICE, then posts on Instagram - Where is he now?

‘Distraction from Epstein files?’: Netizens suggest Trump is ‘distracting’ voters with LA protests, National Guard showdown

‘Hit a cop, you’re going to jail’: Kash Patel warns LA anti-ICE protesters, internet reminds him of ‘January 6’ riots

'Would not go to nuclear, but might have': Trump confused over nuke war claims, but takes credit for stopping India, Pak tensions again

'Systemic racism': Iran slams Trump's travel ban, calls it 'deep hostility towards Iranian people and Muslims'

Trump-Musk breakup: US prez calls Elon ‘big-time drug addict’, warns JD Vance to be 'cautious' when speaking about Tesla boss publicly

From bromance to breakup: The rise and ruin of Trump and Musk’s relationship

German Chancellor gifts US President Trump his grandfather’s birth certificate, here's why

No more Pride Month in US? Trump has 'no plans' to issue Pride Month proclamation

'You buy your military gear from Russia...': US Commerce Secy highlights issues in trade talks with India, expresses optimism on possible deal

'THIS WILL NOT BE TOLERATED': Trump calls for deportation of 'Anti-American radicals' after Boulder ‘terror’ attack targets pro-Israel rally

'Geopolitical insult': Donald Trump was 'not informed' about Ukraine's Operation Spider Web against Russia

‘Lie detector purge’: FBI director Kash Patel accused of forcing out officials over ‘disloyalty’ after conducting polygraph test

'Stumbling around in the White House': Secret Service whistleblower says Biden ‘got lost in his closet,’ claims close Trump ally

‘There is no Joe Biden’: Trump boosts wild claim that Biden was executed in 2020 and was replaced by 'robotic soulless clone'

EU warns of countermeasures as Trump doubles US steel tariffs

Loyalty test for federal jobs? Trump demands ‘patriotic Americans’ in sweeping hiring shake-up