The National Law Enforcement Accountability Database (NLEAD) which tracks misconduct by US federal officers, was taken down by the US Justice Department just days into President Donald Trump's second term, suggest reports.
NLEAD, though created by former president Joe Biden's executive order, was actually the brainchild of Trump. The Republican proposed the creation of such a database in the aftermath of the George Floyd murder by Derek Michael Chauvin, an officer of the law, in June 2020.
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<h2>What happened to the National Law Enforcement Accountability Database?</h2>
The decommissioning of the National Law Enforcement Accountability Database was first reported by the Washington Post.&nbsp;
According to the report, the database has been down since Jan 24, 2025 &mdash; mere days after Trump entered the White House. The discovery was made by Trevor Hugh Davis, a research scientist at the University of Notre Dame, who tracks disappearing government websites by analysing historical data. He first noticed that NLEAD was missing last week.
"We have lost countless records of disciplinary actions, terminations, complaints, and settlements related to police misconduct," said Davis, as per the WP report.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tone-it-down-us-security-adviser-urges-zelenskyy-as-tensions-escalate-with-trump-administration-8742761">&lsquo;Tone it down&rsquo;, US security adviser urges Zelenskyy as tensions escalate with Trump administration</a>
"Officers with serious misconduct histories often move between departments. Despite its limitations, it addressed a real problem &mdash; rehiring officers who had been fired or resigned for misconduct &hellip; its removal sends a clear message about the new administration's priorities," he alleged.
As per an announcement on a separate Justice Department website, the site is no longer active and "user agencies can no longer query or add data to the NLEAD."
"The US Department of Justice is decommissioning the NLEAD in accordance with federal standards," it adds.
<h2>'Wandering officer' phenomenon</h2>
As Davis said, officers with a history of misconduct often jump from one department to another. This is known as the "wandering officer" phenomenon and has been widely studied over the years. As per a study from Yale Law School, three per cent of active duty officers in Florida have been fired from another agency in the state.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-slams-congress-over-alleged-foreign-funding-after-trumps-21-million-claim-8742586">'Kickback Scheme': Trump criticises USAID funding to India, BJP targets Rahul Gandhi</a>
The deletion of the federal database does not affect the National Decertification Index, a national registry of state and local police officers who have lost their certification or licensing because of misconduct. That database is operated by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training, which declined to comment on the shutdown of the federal database.
(With inputs from agencies)
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World News | The NLEAD, designed to track federal officer misconduct, was decommissioned by the US Justice Department shortly after Trump's second term began.

The National Law Enforcement Accountability Database (NLEAD) which tracks misconduct by US federal officers, was taken down by the US Justice Department just days into President Donald Trump's second term, suggest reports. NLEAD, though created by former president Joe Biden's executive order, was actually the brainchild of Trump. The Republican proposed the creation of such a database in the aftermath of the George Floyd murder by Derek Michael Chauvin, an officer of the law, in June 2020. Also read | US judge refuses to halt Trump administration's mass layoff of federal employees What happened to the National Law Enforcement Accountability Database? The decommissioning of the National Law Enforcement Accountability Database was first reported by the Washington Post. According to the report, the database has been down since Jan 24, 2025 — mere days after Trump entered the White House. The discovery was made by Trevor Hugh Davis, a research scientist at the University of Notre Dame, who tracks disappearing government websites by analysing historical data. He first noticed that NLEAD was missing last week. "We have lost countless records of disciplinary actions, terminations, complaints, and settlements related to police misconduct," said Davis, as per the WP report. Also read | ‘Tone it down’, US security adviser urges Zelenskyy as tensions escalate with Trump administration "Officers with serious misconduct histories often move between departments. Despite its limitations, it addressed a real problem — rehiring officers who had been fired or resigned for misconduct … its removal sends a clear message about the new administration's priorities," he alleged. As per an announcement on a separate Justice Department website, the site is no longer active and "user agencies can no longer query or add data to the NLEAD." "The US Department of Justice is decommissioning the NLEAD in accordance with federal standards," it adds. 'Wandering officer' phenomenon As Davis said, officers with a history of misconduct often jump from one department to another. This is known as the "wandering officer" phenomenon and has been widely studied over the years. As per a study from Yale Law School, three per cent of active duty officers in Florida have been fired from another agency in the state. Also read | 'Kickback Scheme': Trump criticises USAID funding to India, BJP targets Rahul Gandhi The deletion of the federal database does not affect the National Decertification Index, a national registry of state and local police officers who have lost their certification or licensing because of misconduct. That database is operated by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training, which declined to comment on the shutdown of the federal database. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump shuts US database tracking police misconduct by officers like Chauvin who killed George Floyd

White House national security adviser Mike Waltz has weighed in on the ongoing spat between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Waltz advised Ukraine to "tone it down", urging it to &ldquo;take a hard look and sign that deal.&rdquo;
High-level talks between the US and Russia in Saudi Arabia have drawn criticism from Ukraine and its European allies, as Ukraine wasn't involved. President Zelensky has made it clear that Ukraine won't accept any agreements made without its input.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-slams-congress-over-alleged-foreign-funding-after-trumps-21-million-claim-8742586">'Kickback Scheme': Trump criticises USAID funding to India, BJP targets Rahul Gandhi</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Trump's administration pushes Ukraine to accept minerals deal</h2>
Talks between the US and Russia, happening while Russia continues to attack Ukraine's infrastructure, have revealed increasing tension between Zelensky and Trump. Trump's administration is pushing Ukraine to accept a minerals deal, which would give the US access to Ukraine's valuable natural resources in exchange for economic support and security guarantees.
Speaking to Fox News,&nbsp; Waltz urged Ukraine to accept the minerals agreement, calling it a &ldquo;historic opportunity&rdquo; for investment and long-term security.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-second-term-sparks-controversy-57-pc-of-americans-say-hes-overstepped-authority-8742467">Trump's second term sparks controversy: 57% Americans say he overstepped authority</a>
&ldquo;Pushback from Ukraine on the deal and how Trump is carrying out peace talks is simply unacceptable&rdquo;, Waltz said but insisted that these differences of views could be reconciled as &ldquo;the president also said how much he loves the Ukrainian people&rdquo;. Waltz also denied that US allies and Ukraine were not being consulted.
<h2 dir="ltr">Zelensky bats for &lsquo;strong ties&rsquo; with US&nbsp;</h2>
Zelensky said on Thursday that Ukraine was ready to work quickly and tirelessly to produce a strong and useful agreement on investments and security with the United States.
The statement comes amid rising tensions between Zelensky and Trump, with the two trading barbs on Wednesday.
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"We must and can ensure that peace is strong and lasting&mdash;so that Russia can never return with war," Zelensky wrote on X on Thursday after meeting US envoy for Ukraine and Russia Keith Kellogg.
&nbsp;"Ukraine is ready for a strong, effective investment and security agreement with the President of the United States. We have proposed the fastest and most constructive way to achieve results. Our team is ready to work 24/7," he added.
<h2 dir="ltr">Trump calls Zelensky a &ldquo;dictator without elections&rdquo;</h2>
A few days back, Trump called Zelensky &ldquo;A Dictator without Elections!!&rdquo; Notably, due to the war, Ukraine did delay elections that were scheduled for April 2024. Trump also suggested that Ukraine was to blame for the war.
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This came just hours after Zelensky accused Trump of being trapped in a "disinformation bubble" earlier on Wednesday, accusing him of making attempts to overthrow him from power.
"He refuses to have Elections, is very low in Ukrainian Polls, and the only thing he was good at was playing Biden 'like a fiddle'. A Dictator without Elections, Zelensky better move fast, or he is not going to have a Country left," Trump posted on social media.
Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 has delayed elections that were scheduled for April 2024.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: National security adviser Mike Waltz comments on the Trump-Zelensky tension, advising Ukraine to be cautious and consider signing the proposed agreement for resolution.

White House national security adviser Mike Waltz has weighed in on the ongoing spat between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Waltz advised Ukraine to "tone it down", urging it to “take a hard look and sign that deal.” High-level talks between the US and Russia in Saudi Arabia have drawn criticism from Ukraine and its European allies, as Ukraine wasn't involved. President Zelensky has made it clear that Ukraine won't accept any agreements made without its input. Also read | 'Kickback Scheme': Trump criticises USAID funding to India, BJP targets Rahul Gandhi Trump's administration pushes Ukraine to accept minerals deal Talks between the US and Russia, happening while Russia continues to attack Ukraine's infrastructure, have revealed increasing tension between Zelensky and Trump. Trump's administration is pushing Ukraine to accept a minerals deal, which would give the US access to Ukraine's valuable natural resources in exchange for economic support and security guarantees. Speaking to Fox News, Waltz urged Ukraine to accept the minerals agreement, calling it a “historic opportunity” for investment and long-term security. Also read | Trump's second term sparks controversy: 57% Americans say he overstepped authority “Pushback from Ukraine on the deal and how Trump is carrying out peace talks is simply unacceptable”, Waltz said but insisted that these differences of views could be reconciled as “the president also said how much he loves the Ukrainian people”. Waltz also denied that US allies and Ukraine were not being consulted. Zelensky bats for ‘strong ties’ with US Zelensky said on Thursday that Ukraine was ready to work quickly and tirelessly to produce a strong and useful agreement on investments and security with the United States. The statement comes amid rising tensions between Zelensky and Trump, with the two trading barbs on Wednesday. Also read | Kash Patel, the new FBI Director with roots in India. Everything to know "We must and can ensure that peace is strong and lasting—so that Russia can never return with war," Zelensky wrote on X on Thursday after meeting US envoy for Ukraine and Russia Keith Kellogg. "Ukraine is ready for a strong, effective investment and security agreement with the President of the United States. We have proposed the fastest and most constructive way to achieve results. Our team is ready to work 24/7," he added. Trump calls Zelensky a “dictator without elections” A few days back, Trump called Zelensky “A Dictator without Elections!!” Notably, due to the war, Ukraine did delay elections that were scheduled for April 2024. Trump also suggested that Ukraine was to blame for the war. Also read | KIIT suicide: Five more arrested for allegedly assaulting Nepalese students This came just hours after Zelensky accused Trump of being trapped in a "disinformation bubble" earlier on Wednesday, accusing him of making attempts to overthrow him from power. "He refuses to have Elections, is very low in Ukrainian Polls, and the only thing he was good at was playing Biden 'like a fiddle'. A Dictator without Elections, Zelensky better move fast, or he is not going to have a Country left," Trump posted on social media. Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 has delayed elections that were scheduled for April 2024. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Tone it down’, US security adviser urges Zelensky as tensions escalate with Trump administration

A judge on Thursday denied a union bid to temporarily halt the firing of thousands of federal employees on probationary status, handing President Donald Trump another legal win in his plan to slash the government workforce. Watch this report for more details!

US: Judge denies union bid to halt firing of government workers

Stubborn inflation and trade policies under US President Donald Trump are reigniting fears of stagflation- a toxic mix of slow growth and persistent inflation last seen in the 1970s.

Stagflation: When the economy stalls but costs keep climbing

Former US President Donald Trump has raised concerns over the reasoning for allocating $21 million towards voter turnout efforts in India through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Watch in for more details!

Trump alleges USAID used $21mn to influence India Polls

US: Judge denies union bid to temporarily halt government workers firing

US President Donald Trump has officially signed the commission to confirm Kash Patel as the Ninth Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Watch this report for more details!

Kash Patel becomes ninth director of Federal Bureau of Investigation

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met US envoy Keith Kellogg in Kyiv on Thursday (Feb 20) as the American diplomat is on a three-day visit to the war-torn country.
This comes after US President Donald Trump accused Zelensky of being a "dictator" and blamed him for the Russia-Ukraine war. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian president said that Trump was living in a Russian "disinformation bubble".&nbsp;
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that he had "productive meeting" with Trump envoy.
<h2>Press conference cancelled</h2>
Kellogg, a retired US general and a longtime adviser to Trump on security matters, cancelled the press conference scheduled after his meeting with Zelensky. Kellogg would not be taking questions from the press, Ukrainian officials said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-starmer-compares-zelensky-to-winston-churchill-defends-ukraine-prez-against-trumps-dictator-allegations-8738197">UK PM Starmer defends Zelensky against Trump's 'dictator' jibe, compares Ukraine prez to Winston Churchill</a>
They added that the US envoy would only come for a photocall and protocol handshake.&nbsp;
Kellogg's trip to Ukraine has coincided with recent heat between Trump and Zelensky, which has been raising questions about the US's relations with Ukraine.&nbsp;
This majorly came after the US held talks with Russia in Riyadh without the presence of Kyiv.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-blasts-ukrainian-president-zelensky-russia-ukraine-war-putin-8737582">&lsquo;Dictator Without Elections&rsquo;: Trump blasts Zelensky after &lsquo;disinformation&rsquo; dig, warns Ukraine could collapse</a>
Moreover, there are concerns that Kellogg has been sidelined from the Trump administration's negotiating team as he was not included in the US delegation that held talks with Russian officials in Saudi Arabia.
Kellogg said that the US is conducting separate discussions on a potential peace deal with Russia and with Ukraine and that he is leading the US-Ukraine track and Steve Witkoff, Trump&rsquo;s Middle East envoy, is in charge of the US-Russia track.
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Following this, the two envoys will return to Washington and compare notes and examine the next steps.&nbsp;
Kellogg, while speaking from the city's railway station after arrival, said that his mission would be to "sit and listen" to Ukraine's concerns.&nbsp;
He added that he understood Ukraine's "need for security guarantees&rdquo; in any postwar settlement.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-ukraines-military-spy-suggests-ceasefire-with-russia-could-happen-this-year-8740476">'How long, how effective?' Ukraine&rsquo;s military spy suggests ceasefire with Russia could happen this year</a>
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

World: Kellogg's trip to Ukraine has coincided with recent heat between Trump and Zelensky, which has been raising questions about the US's relations with Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met US envoy Keith Kellogg in Kyiv on Thursday (Feb 20) as the American diplomat is on a three-day visit to the war-torn country. This comes after US President Donald Trump accused Zelensky of being a "dictator" and blamed him for the Russia-Ukraine war. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian president said that Trump was living in a Russian "disinformation bubble". Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that he had "productive meeting" with Trump envoy. Press conference cancelled Kellogg, a retired US general and a longtime adviser to Trump on security matters, cancelled the press conference scheduled after his meeting with Zelensky. Kellogg would not be taking questions from the press, Ukrainian officials said. Also read: UK PM Starmer defends Zelensky against Trump's 'dictator' jibe, compares Ukraine prez to Winston Churchill They added that the US envoy would only come for a photocall and protocol handshake. Kellogg's trip to Ukraine has coincided with recent heat between Trump and Zelensky, which has been raising questions about the US's relations with Ukraine. This majorly came after the US held talks with Russia in Riyadh without the presence of Kyiv. Also read: ‘Dictator Without Elections’: Trump blasts Zelensky after ‘disinformation’ dig, warns Ukraine could collapse Moreover, there are concerns that Kellogg has been sidelined from the Trump administration's negotiating team as he was not included in the US delegation that held talks with Russian officials in Saudi Arabia. Kellogg said that the US is conducting separate discussions on a potential peace deal with Russia and with Ukraine and that he is leading the US-Ukraine track and Steve Witkoff, Trump’s Middle East envoy, is in charge of the US-Russia track. Also read: US refuses to co-sponsor UN draft resolution backing Ukraine: Report Following this, the two envoys will return to Washington and compare notes and examine the next steps. Kellogg, while speaking from the city's railway station after arrival, said that his mission would be to "sit and listen" to Ukraine's concerns. He added that he understood Ukraine's "need for security guarantees” in any postwar settlement. Also read: 'How long, how effective?' Ukraine’s military spy suggests ceasefire with Russia could happen this year (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky says had 'productive meeting' with Keith Kellogg after Trump envoy cancels press conference

The United States is refusing to co-sponsor a draft United Nations (UN) resolution that backs Kyiv's territorial integrity and condemns Russian aggression, reported Reuters, citing three diplomatic sources. This motion marks three years of the Ukraine war as the nation&rsquo;s most powerful Western ally suggests a potential start shift.
The move mirrors the growing rift between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump, who is trying to end the war in Ukraine. Recently, top US and Russian officials held talks in Saudi Arabia&rsquo;s Riyadh, without any leaders from Kyiv or Europe.
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<h2>Draft resolution for UNGA</h2>
According to Reuters, the draft resolution for the UN General Assembly condemns Russian aggression and reaffirms a commitment &ldquo;to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders.&rdquo;
The US decision not to co-sponsor the motion is a major blow to Ukraine, which has used tens of billions of dollars of US military aid agreed upon under former president Joe Biden's administration.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-ukraines-military-spy-suggests-ceasefire-with-russia-could-happen-this-year-8740476">'How long, how effective?' Ukraine&rsquo;s military spy suggests ceasefire with Russia could happen this year</a>
&ldquo;In previous years, the United States has consistently co-sponsored such resolutions in support of a just peace in Ukraine,&rdquo; a source told Reuters on Thursday (Feb 20).
According to the report, the resolution was being sponsored by over 50 nations. However, the source did not identify which countries.
While the deadline to back the draft resolution is not clear, a source said, &ldquo;For now, the situation is they (the US) won't sign it.&rdquo;
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<h2>White House adviser urges Ukraine to &lsquo;tone down&rsquo;</h2>
Meanwhile, the White House continued its efforts to bring the Russia-Ukraine conflict to an end, urging Kyiv to rein in criticism and sign a minerals deal introduced by Trump.
&ldquo;They need to tone it down and take a hard look and sign that deal,&rdquo; Mike Waltz, the White House national security adviser, said in an interview with Fox News. He added that the pushback from Ukraine on the deal is simply unacceptable given everything the US has done for Ukraine.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobody-excluding-ukraine-from-talks-putin-says-negotiations-key-priority-for-russia-8737304">&lsquo;Nobody excluding Ukraine from talks,&rsquo; Putin says negotiations &lsquo;key priority for Russia&rsquo;</a>
Waltz&rsquo;s remarks come a day after Trump and Zelensky exchanged insults, with Trump calling the Ukrainian leader a dictator and Zelensky saying that the US President was living in a disinformation bubble. However, Waltz said that differences between the US and Ukraine were not irreconcilable, saying &ldquo;The president also said how much he loves the Ukrainian people.&rdquo;
Waltz also denied that US allies and Ukraine were not being consulted in the talks, saying, &ldquo;There&rsquo;s a term for this in diplomacy. It's called shuttle diplomacy, because bringing everybody to the table at once just hasn't worked in the past.&rdquo;
&ldquo;So we&rsquo;ve engaged one side, we&rsquo;ve engaged the other side, and then we&rsquo;re going to have a process moving forward under President Trump&rsquo;s direction and leadership.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The move mirrors the growing rift between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump, who is trying to end the war in Ukraine.

The United States is refusing to co-sponsor a draft United Nations (UN) resolution that backs Kyiv's territorial integrity and condemns Russian aggression, reported Reuters, citing three diplomatic sources. This motion marks three years of the Ukraine war as the nation’s most powerful Western ally suggests a potential start shift. The move mirrors the growing rift between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump, who is trying to end the war in Ukraine. Recently, top US and Russian officials held talks in Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh, without any leaders from Kyiv or Europe. Also read | Federal govt should 'take over' Washington, DC: Trump slams city government for 'not doing the job' Draft resolution for UNGA According to Reuters, the draft resolution for the UN General Assembly condemns Russian aggression and reaffirms a commitment “to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders.” The US decision not to co-sponsor the motion is a major blow to Ukraine, which has used tens of billions of dollars of US military aid agreed upon under former president Joe Biden's administration. Also read | 'How long, how effective?' Ukraine’s military spy suggests ceasefire with Russia could happen this year “In previous years, the United States has consistently co-sponsored such resolutions in support of a just peace in Ukraine,” a source told Reuters on Thursday (Feb 20). According to the report, the resolution was being sponsored by over 50 nations. However, the source did not identify which countries. While the deadline to back the draft resolution is not clear, a source said, “For now, the situation is they (the US) won't sign it.” Also read | Putin and Trump could meet before end of February, says Kremlin: Report White House adviser urges Ukraine to ‘tone down’ Meanwhile, the White House continued its efforts to bring the Russia-Ukraine conflict to an end, urging Kyiv to rein in criticism and sign a minerals deal introduced by Trump. “They need to tone it down and take a hard look and sign that deal,” Mike Waltz, the White House national security adviser, said in an interview with Fox News. He added that the pushback from Ukraine on the deal is simply unacceptable given everything the US has done for Ukraine. Also read | ‘Nobody excluding Ukraine from talks,’ Putin says negotiations ‘key priority for Russia’ Waltz’s remarks come a day after Trump and Zelensky exchanged insults, with Trump calling the Ukrainian leader a dictator and Zelensky saying that the US President was living in a disinformation bubble. However, Waltz said that differences between the US and Ukraine were not irreconcilable, saying “The president also said how much he loves the Ukrainian people.” Waltz also denied that US allies and Ukraine were not being consulted in the talks, saying, “There’s a term for this in diplomacy. It's called shuttle diplomacy, because bringing everybody to the table at once just hasn't worked in the past.” “So we’ve engaged one side, we’ve engaged the other side, and then we’re going to have a process moving forward under President Trump’s direction and leadership.” (With inputs from agencies)

US refuses to co-sponsor UN draft resolution backing Ukraine: Report

Some of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) scientists have been told to stop using the words "woman", "disabled", and "elderly" in external communications, Reuters reported, citing two sources familiar with the matter.&nbsp;
The FDA scientists said that a list with the file name "prohibited words" has been circulating since at least last week in official chats.&nbsp;
As the issue came under the spotlight, the White House spokesman said that a part of the list of banned terms had misinterpreted President Donald Trump's executive order.&nbsp;
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The list is creating further confusion at an agency struggling with the Trump administration's sweeping firings.&nbsp;
Two FDA scientists, who requested anonymity, said that neither they nor their managers knew who issued the directive or why many of the more than two dozen words were included.&nbsp;
"I don't understand why we can't use a word like 'woman'," one FDA source who received the list told Reuters. "The words on the list would make it almost impossible to do our jobs."
The list reviewed by Reuters includes words like underrepresented, underserved, understudied, sex, identity, diverse, women, woman, promote, definition, continuum, ideology, self-assessed, special populations, elderly, and disabled.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/transgenders-people-with-history-of-gender-dysphoria-can-no-longer-join-us-military-defense-secretary-hegseth-memo-enforces-trumps-order-8709166">Transgenders, people with 'history of gender dysphoria' can no longer join US military: Hegseth memo</a>
Meanwhile, in recent weeks, another federal health agency was told to remove words such as gender, transgender, LGBT, and nonbinary from its communications to ensure that they comply with executive orders.&nbsp;
To follow the order, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention removed publicly available health information, including HIV datasets, and withdrew research papers that were being considered for publication in scientific journals for review by Trump appointees.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/american-transgenders-woe-as-passport-process-gets-complicated-for-them-amid-trumps-new-policy-8703305">Transgender Americans face complicated passport process amid Trump's new policy</a>
<h2>White House calls it an &lsquo;error&rsquo;</h2>
The White House spokesman told Reuters that most of the words on the FDA list did not need to be removed from communications, adding that an error may have resulted from the FDA officials misinterpreting Trump's executive order against "gender ideology."
Further clarifying, the spokesman said that the FDA does need to prohibit the use of the words gender, inclusion, identity, diversity, inter, intersex, equity, equitable, transgender, and trans to comply with the order.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-sign-executive-order-banning-transgender-from-female-sports-8694059">Trump to sign executive order banning transgender athletes from female sports</a>
<h2>Public health experts react</h2>
The experts stressed that such a move can threaten their ability to address all kinds of medical needs as they affect different groups, including those with HIV and sexually transmitted diseases.&nbsp;
Moreover, the two FDA sources said that their colleagues told them the list had originated within the Center for Devices and Radiological Health, which has more than 2,000 workers and is tasked with ensuring the safety and efficacy of medical devices.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: As the issue came under the spotlight, the White House spokesman said that a part of the list of banned terms had misinterpreted President Donald Trump’s executive order.

Some of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) scientists have been told to stop using the words "woman", "disabled", and "elderly" in external communications, Reuters reported, citing two sources familiar with the matter. The FDA scientists said that a list with the file name "prohibited words" has been circulating since at least last week in official chats. As the issue came under the spotlight, the White House spokesman said that a part of the list of banned terms had misinterpreted President Donald Trump's executive order. Also read: Deloitte orders US staff to remove gender pronouns from email amid Trump's crackdown on transgenders The list is creating further confusion at an agency struggling with the Trump administration's sweeping firings. Two FDA scientists, who requested anonymity, said that neither they nor their managers knew who issued the directive or why many of the more than two dozen words were included. "I don't understand why we can't use a word like 'woman'," one FDA source who received the list told Reuters. "The words on the list would make it almost impossible to do our jobs." The list reviewed by Reuters includes words like underrepresented, underserved, understudied, sex, identity, diverse, women, woman, promote, definition, continuum, ideology, self-assessed, special populations, elderly, and disabled. Also read: Transgenders, people with 'history of gender dysphoria' can no longer join US military: Hegseth memo Meanwhile, in recent weeks, another federal health agency was told to remove words such as gender, transgender, LGBT, and nonbinary from its communications to ensure that they comply with executive orders. To follow the order, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention removed publicly available health information, including HIV datasets, and withdrew research papers that were being considered for publication in scientific journals for review by Trump appointees. Also read: Transgender Americans face complicated passport process amid Trump's new policy White House calls it an ‘error’ The White House spokesman told Reuters that most of the words on the FDA list did not need to be removed from communications, adding that an error may have resulted from the FDA officials misinterpreting Trump's executive order against "gender ideology." Further clarifying, the spokesman said that the FDA does need to prohibit the use of the words gender, inclusion, identity, diversity, inter, intersex, equity, equitable, transgender, and trans to comply with the order. Also read: Trump to sign executive order banning transgender athletes from female sports Public health experts react The experts stressed that such a move can threaten their ability to address all kinds of medical needs as they affect different groups, including those with HIV and sexually transmitted diseases. Moreover, the two FDA sources said that their colleagues told them the list had originated within the Center for Devices and Radiological Health, which has more than 2,000 workers and is tasked with ensuring the safety and efficacy of medical devices. (With inputs from agencies)

FDA scientists told not to use words ‘women’, ‘disabled’, ‘elderly’; White House calls it ‘error’

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump</a> said that he thinks the federal government should "take over" and run Washington, DC, to make it safe.&nbsp;
Trump extended his support behind congressional efforts for a federal takeover of the US capital, saying that he approves putting the District of Columbia back under direct federal control.&nbsp;
The US president complained about crime and homelessness in the district. Trump was speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-appeals-court-blocks-trumps-birthright-citizenship-order-8739720">US appeals court blocks Trump's birthright citizenship order</a>
"I think we should take over Washington, D.C. &mdash; make it safe.&rdquo; He added, &ldquo;I think that we should govern the District of Columbia."&nbsp;
<h2>'City govt not doing the job'</h2>
He further said that the city's government was not "doing the job", adding that the city has a "great police department" that is not being "utilised properly".
Stressing that there was "too much crime" in the city, Trump said, "People are getting killed, people are being hurt.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-possible-trump-eyes-new-trade-deal-with-china-8738910">&lsquo;It&rsquo;s possible&rsquo;: Trump eyes new trade deal with China</a>
He also complained about homeless encampments in DC, saying there was &ldquo;too much graffiti, too many tents on the lawns, homeless people all over the place.&rdquo;
Trump argued that these issues must be dealt with swiftly. He added that foreign leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Chinese leader Xi Jinping are "coming over" to see, and "you can&rsquo;t have tents all over your beautiful, your once-magnificent plazas, lawns, and all.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-orders-firing-of-all-biden-era-us-attorneys-in-major-justice-department-shakeup-8734328">Trump orders firing of all Biden-era US attorneys in major Justice Department shakeup: 'We must clean house IMMEDIATELY'</a>
Earlier this month, GOP lawmakers introduced a bill that would repeal "the District of Columbia Home Rule Act" which would eliminate the city's local government and allow the federal government to take over its governance.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: TUS President Donald Trump extended his support to congressional efforts for a federal takeover of the US capital, saying that he approves putting the District of Columbia back under direct federal control.

US President Donald Trump said that he thinks the federal government should "take over" and run Washington, DC, to make it safe. Trump extended his support behind congressional efforts for a federal takeover of the US capital, saying that he approves putting the District of Columbia back under direct federal control. The US president complained about crime and homelessness in the district. Trump was speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One. Also read: US appeals court blocks Trump's birthright citizenship order "I think we should take over Washington, D.C. — make it safe.” He added, “I think that we should govern the District of Columbia." 'City govt not doing the job' He further said that the city's government was not "doing the job", adding that the city has a "great police department" that is not being "utilised properly". Stressing that there was "too much crime" in the city, Trump said, "People are getting killed, people are being hurt.” Also read: ‘It’s possible’: Trump eyes new trade deal with China He also complained about homeless encampments in DC, saying there was “too much graffiti, too many tents on the lawns, homeless people all over the place.” Trump argued that these issues must be dealt with swiftly. He added that foreign leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Chinese leader Xi Jinping are "coming over" to see, and "you can’t have tents all over your beautiful, your once-magnificent plazas, lawns, and all.” Also read: Trump orders firing of all Biden-era US attorneys in major Justice Department shakeup: 'We must clean house IMMEDIATELY' Earlier this month, GOP lawmakers introduced a bill that would repeal "the District of Columbia Home Rule Act" which would eliminate the city's local government and allow the federal government to take over its governance. (With inputs from agencies)

Federal govt should 'take over' Washington, DC: Trump slams city government for 'not doing the job'

President Trump is exploring a new trade deal with China, aiming to boost China's purchases of American products and attract more Chinese investments to the US.
According to the New York Times (NYSE:NYT), multiple sources close to the president, Trump is pushing for a wide-ranging deal with Chinese President Xi Jinping, going beyond just trade, despite potential hurdles. He's eager to secure a comprehensive agreement that addresses multiple aspects of the US-China relationship.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-criticises-teslas-plans-to-set-up-factory-in-india-as-unfair-to-us-amid-trade-disparities-8738487">Trump criticises Tesla's plans to set up factory in India as 'unfair' to US amid trade disparities</a>
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s possible, it&rsquo;s possible,&rdquo; Trump told reporters on Air Force One on Wednesday, when asked if he would make a new agreement with China.
<h2 dir="ltr">US imposes additional 10 per cent tariff on all Chinese imports</h2>
President Trump hasn't outlined the specifics of a potential deal with China, and any agreement will likely face significant hurdles, partly due to Trump's own actions. Trump has increased pressure on China by imposing an additional 10 per cent tariff on all Chinese imports, citing unfair trade practices and China's failure to curb the flow of fentanyl into the US.
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The president nonetheless heaped praise on Chinese President Xi Jinping, but once again did not say if or when they would speak directly. &ldquo;There&rsquo;s a little bit of competitiveness, but the relationship I have with President Xi is, I would say, a great one,&rdquo; Trump said.
<h2 dir="ltr">Preliminary trade agreement with China</h2>
In January 2020, President Trump negotiated a preliminary trade agreement with China, where Beijing agreed to protect US trade secrets and technology, purchase an additional $200 billion worth of American products, and reduce trade barriers for US exports.&nbsp;
However, the relationship was short-lived, as the coronavirus pandemic hit the globe just weeks later, with Trump pointing fingers at China. This marked a significant shift in their trade dynamics.
&ldquo;They had about $50 billion worth of our product, and we were making them buy it. The problem is that Biden didn&rsquo;t push them to adhere to it,&rdquo; Trump said, referring to his predecessor.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: President Trump is initiating talks for a new trade agreement with China to enhance American exports and invite increased Chinese investments into the US economy.

President Trump is exploring a new trade deal with China, aiming to boost China's purchases of American products and attract more Chinese investments to the US. According to the New York Times (NYSE:NYT), multiple sources close to the president, Trump is pushing for a wide-ranging deal with Chinese President Xi Jinping, going beyond just trade, despite potential hurdles. He's eager to secure a comprehensive agreement that addresses multiple aspects of the US-China relationship. Also read | Trump criticises Tesla's plans to set up factory in India as 'unfair' to US amid trade disparities “It’s possible, it’s possible,” Trump told reporters on Air Force One on Wednesday, when asked if he would make a new agreement with China. US imposes additional 10 per cent tariff on all Chinese imports President Trump hasn't outlined the specifics of a potential deal with China, and any agreement will likely face significant hurdles, partly due to Trump's own actions. Trump has increased pressure on China by imposing an additional 10 per cent tariff on all Chinese imports, citing unfair trade practices and China's failure to curb the flow of fentanyl into the US. Also read | Indians among 300 US deportees held in Panama hotel, some migrants seen pleading for help from window The president nonetheless heaped praise on Chinese President Xi Jinping, but once again did not say if or when they would speak directly. “There’s a little bit of competitiveness, but the relationship I have with President Xi is, I would say, a great one,” Trump said. Preliminary trade agreement with China In January 2020, President Trump negotiated a preliminary trade agreement with China, where Beijing agreed to protect US trade secrets and technology, purchase an additional $200 billion worth of American products, and reduce trade barriers for US exports. However, the relationship was short-lived, as the coronavirus pandemic hit the globe just weeks later, with Trump pointing fingers at China. This marked a significant shift in their trade dynamics. “They had about $50 billion worth of our product, and we were making them buy it. The problem is that Biden didn’t push them to adhere to it,” Trump said, referring to his predecessor. (With inputs from agencies)

‘It’s possible’: Trump eyes new trade deal with China

US President Donald Trump expressed concerns about Elon Musk's plans to set up a Tesla manufacturing facility in India, calling it "unfair" to the US. Trump's concerns stem from existing trade disparities and India's high import duties on American-made vehicles.
The comment, made during Trump and Musk&rsquo;s interview with Fox News presenter Sean Hannity, comes days after the Tesla CEO met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the latter&rsquo;s visit to the US.
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<h2 dir="ltr">India a "tariff king"</h2>
Donald Trump has once again claimed that India imposes high tariffs, a statement that was echoed by Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla. This isn't the first time Trump has made this assertion, having previously described India as a "tariff king" that charges "tremendously high" tariffs on US products.&nbsp;
The interview was recorded earlier but broadcast on Wednesday (Feb 19).
Reiterating his claim that &ldquo;every country&rdquo; took advantage of the US with tariffs, Trump began by citing the example of tariffs on cars in India.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/morning-news-brief-starmer-backs-zelensky-against-trumps-dictator-claims-rekha-gupta-to-be-sworn-in-as-delhi-cm-and-more-8738357">Morning news brief: Starmer backs Zelensky against Trump's 'dictator' claims; Rekha Gupta to be sworn in as Delhi CM and more</a>
Trump said It&rsquo;s impossible for Musk to sell cars, practically in India. "I don&rsquo;t know if that&rsquo;s true or not, but I think&hellip;&rdquo; said Trump, and Musk completed his sentence by mentioning, &ldquo;The tariffs are like 100% import duty.&rdquo; This highlights the significant trade barriers that Tesla faces in the Indian market.
<h2 dir="ltr">&ldquo;Unfair&rdquo; to the US</h2>
The import duty on electric vehicles that cost at least $35,000 is 15 per cent in India, subject to conditions.
Trump added that if Musk wanted to build a factory in India, that was &ldquo;okay&rdquo; but also &ldquo;unfair&rdquo; to the US. &ldquo;That&rsquo;s unfair to us. It&rsquo;s very unfair,&rdquo; he said.
Trump added, &ldquo;I told Prime Minister [Narendra] Modi&hellip; Here&rsquo;s what you do. We are going to&hellip; be very fair with you.&rdquo;
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Trump was cut off mid-sentence when asked if India's tariffs were 36 per cent, to which he responded that they were "much, much higher." 
Musk chimed in, revealing that the tariffs on auto imports were actually a staggering 100 per cent.
Musk has also agreed with Trump and said &ldquo;It needs to be at a level playing field and fair and square.&rdquo; 
Trump then claimed that the US would now &ldquo;make a lot of money&rdquo; and &ldquo;a lot of businesses&rdquo; would come pouring in.
Tesla, led by Musk, has taken significant steps towards establishing a presence in India, having already identified locations for showrooms in New Delhi and Mumbai, and posted job openings for 13 mid-level positions in the country, Reuters reported.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: US President Donald Trump criticises Elon Musk's Tesla plans in India, citing concerns over trade disparities and the impact of India's high import duties on US vehicles.

US President Donald Trump expressed concerns about Elon Musk's plans to set up a Tesla manufacturing facility in India, calling it "unfair" to the US. Trump's concerns stem from existing trade disparities and India's high import duties on American-made vehicles. The comment, made during Trump and Musk’s interview with Fox News presenter Sean Hannity, comes days after the Tesla CEO met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the latter’s visit to the US. Also read | Indians among 300 US deportees held in Panama hotel, some migrants seen pleading for help from window India a "tariff king" Donald Trump has once again claimed that India imposes high tariffs, a statement that was echoed by Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla. This isn't the first time Trump has made this assertion, having previously described India as a "tariff king" that charges "tremendously high" tariffs on US products. The interview was recorded earlier but broadcast on Wednesday (Feb 19). Reiterating his claim that “every country” took advantage of the US with tariffs, Trump began by citing the example of tariffs on cars in India. Also read | Morning news brief: Starmer backs Zelensky against Trump's 'dictator' claims; Rekha Gupta to be sworn in as Delhi CM and more Trump said It’s impossible for Musk to sell cars, practically in India. "I don’t know if that’s true or not, but I think…” said Trump, and Musk completed his sentence by mentioning, “The tariffs are like 100% import duty.” This highlights the significant trade barriers that Tesla faces in the Indian market. “Unfair” to the US The import duty on electric vehicles that cost at least $35,000 is 15 per cent in India, subject to conditions. Trump added that if Musk wanted to build a factory in India, that was “okay” but also “unfair” to the US. “That’s unfair to us. It’s very unfair,” he said. Trump added, “I told Prime Minister [Narendra] Modi… Here’s what you do. We are going to… be very fair with you.” Also read | Two dead as small single-engine planes collide mid-air at Arizona airport Trump was cut off mid-sentence when asked if India's tariffs were 36 per cent, to which he responded that they were "much, much higher." Musk chimed in, revealing that the tariffs on auto imports were actually a staggering 100 per cent. Musk has also agreed with Trump and said “It needs to be at a level playing field and fair and square.” Trump then claimed that the US would now “make a lot of money” and “a lot of businesses” would come pouring in. Tesla, led by Musk, has taken significant steps towards establishing a presence in India, having already identified locations for showrooms in New Delhi and Mumbai, and posted job openings for 13 mid-level positions in the country, Reuters reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump criticises Tesla's plans to set up factory in India as 'unfair' to US amid trade disparities

US President Donald Trump called Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky a “dictator without elections” and criticized the $200 billion US aid to Ukraine, claiming the US gains nothing while Europe benefits. Trump also criticized Biden’s efforts to end the war and labeled Zelensky as a “modestly successful comedian.”

Donald Trump says Zelensky 'dictator' without elections as feud escalates over peace talks

The Trump administration is aggressively resetting Washington's very tense relations with Moscow, pushing to end the Ukraine war in the highest-profile U.S.-Russia engagement in years. Kyiv is isolated and is now pointing fingers at Washington, its biggest backer, while America's European allies are left out in the cold, unnerved by a dramatic policy shift that could potentially redraw the geopolitical landscape. Watch in for more details!

Donald Trump reshapes global order, Europe left in the cold

Elon Musk claimed that the two US astronauts, Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, were left stranded at the International Space Station (ISS) by the former US President Joe Biden administration.&nbsp;
Trump, while speaking at an exclusive interview with Fox News, said Joe Biden was going to leave stranded NASA astronauts, including Williams, in space, to which Musk quickly added that the reason was "political".&nbsp;
&ldquo;At the President&rsquo;s request, or instruction, we are accelerating the return of the astronauts, which was postponed, kind of, to a ridiculous degree," Elon Musk said on being asked about the return of the two astronauts.
&ldquo;They got left in space," Trump added to Musk.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/they-dress-in-t-shirts-trump-mocks-genius-doge-staffers-who-dress-worse-than-elon-musk-8736789">&lsquo;They dress in T-shirts&rsquo;: Trump mocks &lsquo;genius&rsquo; DOGE staffers who dress &lsquo;worse than Elon Musk&rsquo;</a>
Musk further said, "They were left up there for political reasons, which is not good."
When asked about SpaceX's mission to bring back Williams and Wilmore, Musk said, "We don&rsquo;t want to be complacent, but we have brought astronauts back from the space station many times before, and always with success."&nbsp;
&ldquo;I think it&rsquo;s about &ndash; about four weeks to bring them back," he added, upon being questioned about the timeline of the mission to bring them back.
&ldquo;You now have the go-ahead," Trump said, to which Musk responded, &ldquo;Yes. Well, thanks to you."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-releases-video-of-shackled-deportees-elon-musks-reaction-sparks-condemnation-8736268">White House releases video of shackled deportees; Elon Musk's reaction sparks condemnation</a>
The US president further claimed that Musk's company did not have the go-ahead with the Biden administration.&nbsp;
&ldquo;He (Biden) was going to leave him in space. I think he was going to leave them in space, can you believe it?" Trump said.&nbsp;
<h2>Astronauts say 'not abandoned'</h2>
The two astronauts, Sunita Williams and Butch Willmore, have been stranded in low-Earth orbit since June.&nbsp;
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In January, slamming Joe Biden, Trump and Musk claimed that the two astronauts were left high and dry by the previous administration. To which the astronauts said that they &ldquo;were not stranded, nor have been abandoned" at the ISS.
&ldquo;That&rsquo;s been the rhetoric. That&rsquo;s been the narrative from day one: stranded, abandoned, stuck&mdash;and I get it. We both get it," Wilmore said.
&ldquo;But that is, again, not what our human spaceflight programme is about. We don&rsquo;t feel abandoned, we don&rsquo;t feel stuck, we don&rsquo;t feel stranded."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/musk-trump-bromance-shines-in-joint-interview-as-doge-chief-calls-himself-tech-support-for-us-president-8734740">Musk-Trump 'bromance' shines in joint interview as DOGE chief calls himself 'tech support' for US prez</a>
Wilmore added a request: &ldquo;If you&rsquo;ll help us change the rhetoric, help us change the narrative. Let&rsquo;s change it to &lsquo;prepared and committed.&rsquo; That&rsquo;s what we prefer," Wilmore said.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Speaking at an exclusive interview with Fox News, Trump said Biden was going to leave stranded NASA astronauts in space. Musk added that the reason was "political".

Elon Musk claimed that the two US astronauts, Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, were left stranded at the International Space Station (ISS) by the former US President Joe Biden administration. Trump, while speaking at an exclusive interview with Fox News, said Joe Biden was going to leave stranded NASA astronauts, including Williams, in space, to which Musk quickly added that the reason was "political". “At the President’s request, or instruction, we are accelerating the return of the astronauts, which was postponed, kind of, to a ridiculous degree," Elon Musk said on being asked about the return of the two astronauts. “They got left in space," Trump added to Musk. Also read: ‘They dress in T-shirts’: Trump mocks ‘genius’ DOGE staffers who dress ‘worse than Elon Musk’ Musk further said, "They were left up there for political reasons, which is not good." When asked about SpaceX's mission to bring back Williams and Wilmore, Musk said, "We don’t want to be complacent, but we have brought astronauts back from the space station many times before, and always with success." “I think it’s about – about four weeks to bring them back," he added, upon being questioned about the timeline of the mission to bring them back. “You now have the go-ahead," Trump said, to which Musk responded, “Yes. Well, thanks to you." Also read: White House releases video of shackled deportees; Elon Musk's reaction sparks condemnation The US president further claimed that Musk's company did not have the go-ahead with the Biden administration. “He (Biden) was going to leave him in space. I think he was going to leave them in space, can you believe it?" Trump said. Astronauts say 'not abandoned' The two astronauts, Sunita Williams and Butch Willmore, have been stranded in low-Earth orbit since June. Also read: US Court refuses to block Elon Musk, DOGE from accessing data, firing workers In January, slamming Joe Biden, Trump and Musk claimed that the two astronauts were left high and dry by the previous administration. To which the astronauts said that they “were not stranded, nor have been abandoned" at the ISS. “That’s been the rhetoric. That’s been the narrative from day one: stranded, abandoned, stuck—and I get it. We both get it," Wilmore said. “But that is, again, not what our human spaceflight programme is about. We don’t feel abandoned, we don’t feel stuck, we don’t feel stranded." Also read: Musk-Trump 'bromance' shines in joint interview as DOGE chief calls himself 'tech support' for US prez Wilmore added a request: “If you’ll help us change the rhetoric, help us change the narrative. Let’s change it to ‘prepared and committed.’ That’s what we prefer," Wilmore said. (With inputs from agencies)

Did Biden leave NASA astronauts in space for 'political reasons'? Musk, Trump claim in joint interview

Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump could meet as early as before the end of February. Although an in-person meeting will take time to prepare, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday (Feb 19), Russian news agencies reported.
Peskov said the US-Russia meeting on Tuesday (Feb 18) in Riyadh was a &ldquo;very, very important step&rdquo; toward a settlement in the Ukraine war, which is nearing its third year.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-leaders-are-pathological-liars-zelensky-says-they-cant-be-trusted-and-must-be-pressured-8736344">Russian leaders are 'pathological liars': Zelensky says they can't be trusted and 'must be pressured</a>
&ldquo;In order to carry out, figuratively speaking, resuscitation measures, diplomats will now begin to work in light of the agreement (Russian Foreign Minister Sergei) Lavrov reached yesterday with (U.S. Secretary of State Marco) Rubio,&rdquo; Peskov said, as quoted by state media.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/russia-eyes-economic-reset-on-ukraine-peace-talks-8735192">Russia eyes economic reset on Ukraine peace talks</a>
&ldquo;But this is the first step&hellip;Naturally, it&rsquo;s impossible to fix everything in one day or a week. There is a long way to go,&rdquo; he added.
<h2>First US-Russia talks to end Ukraine conflict</h2>
The talks in Saudi Arabia were the first time top US and Russian officials had met to discuss ending the conflict in Europe since World War Two. Kyiv said it would not accept any deal without its consent, as no Ukrainian or European officials were invited to the discussion.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-blames-zelensky-for-ukraines-war-with-russia-you-should-have-never-started-it-8734910">Trump blames Zelensky for Ukraine's war with Russia: 'You should have never started it'</a>
Trump said on Tuesday (Feb 18) that he would probably meet Putin this month. He also dismissed Ukraine&rsquo;s concerns about being left out of the talks in Saudi Arabia and suggested Kyiv could have struck a deal with Russia earlier.
The most recent time that US and Russian leaders met face-to-face was when Trump&rsquo;s predecessor Joe Biden and Putin earlier held a summit in Geneva in June 2021. Although Biden and Putin had a phone call in February 2022.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-he-will-probably-meet-putin-this-month-dismisses-ukraine-concerns-8734879">Trump says he will &lsquo;probably&rsquo; meet Putin this month; dismisses Ukraine's concerns</a>
Trump has overturned Western policy on Russia and Ukraine, holding meetings with Russia without Ukraine or European leaders, speaking to Putin, and talking over bringing down oil prices, of which Russia is a major exporter.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Peskov said the US-Russia meeting on Tuesday (Feb 18) in Riyadh was a “very, very important step” toward a settlement in the Ukraine war, which is nearing its third year.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump could meet as early as before the end of February. Although an in-person meeting will take time to prepare, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday (Feb 19), Russian news agencies reported. Peskov said the US-Russia meeting on Tuesday (Feb 18) in Riyadh was a “very, very important step” toward a settlement in the Ukraine war, which is nearing its third year. Also read | Russian leaders are 'pathological liars': Zelensky says they can't be trusted and 'must be pressured “In order to carry out, figuratively speaking, resuscitation measures, diplomats will now begin to work in light of the agreement (Russian Foreign Minister Sergei) Lavrov reached yesterday with (U.S. Secretary of State Marco) Rubio,” Peskov said, as quoted by state media. Also read | Russia eyes economic reset on Ukraine peace talks “But this is the first step…Naturally, it’s impossible to fix everything in one day or a week. There is a long way to go,” he added. First US-Russia talks to end Ukraine conflict The talks in Saudi Arabia were the first time top US and Russian officials had met to discuss ending the conflict in Europe since World War Two. Kyiv said it would not accept any deal without its consent, as no Ukrainian or European officials were invited to the discussion. Also read | Trump blames Zelensky for Ukraine's war with Russia: 'You should have never started it' Trump said on Tuesday (Feb 18) that he would probably meet Putin this month. He also dismissed Ukraine’s concerns about being left out of the talks in Saudi Arabia and suggested Kyiv could have struck a deal with Russia earlier. The most recent time that US and Russian leaders met face-to-face was when Trump’s predecessor Joe Biden and Putin earlier held a summit in Geneva in June 2021. Although Biden and Putin had a phone call in February 2022. Also read | Trump says he will ‘probably’ meet Putin this month; dismisses Ukraine's concerns Trump has overturned Western policy on Russia and Ukraine, holding meetings with Russia without Ukraine or European leaders, speaking to Putin, and talking over bringing down oil prices, of which Russia is a major exporter. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin and Trump could meet before end of February, says Kremlin: Report

US President Donald Trump and billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk made their first televised joint appearance in an interview. The discussion touched on various topics, including Musk’s role as an advisor to Trump and the White House’s stance on his influence.

US President Trump and Elon Musk hold joint interview discussing DOGE

Elon Musk says he is 'tech support' for President Donald Trump in Joint Interview

Elon Musk, in an unprecedented joint interview alongside US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Feb 18), dismissed reports of his growing influence in the Trump 2.0 administration and said he only views his role as facilitating the Republican leader's agenda.
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) chief, who donned a "Tech Support" T-shirt for the interview brushed aside the criticism that he was acting as "President Musk" and said: Trump "is the elected representative of the people, so it's representing the will of the people."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/musk-trump-bromance-shines-in-joint-interview-as-doge-chief-calls-himself-tech-support-for-us-president-8734740">Musk-Trump 'bromance' shines in joint interview as DOGE chief calls himself 'tech support' for US prez</a>
Here are some of the other striking things the two men said during their noteworthy appearance on The Sean Hannity Show on Fox News.
<h2>Trump acknowledges his controversial media presence</h2>
Replying to a question about the media's alleged attempts to "divorce" Trump and Musk, the contentious US president claimed that despite doing the "greatest things," he gets "98 per cent bad publicity".
Naming and shaming multiple news outlets, including MSNBC, CNN, PBS, AP and CBS, Trump said that he used to think that the media was good at painting him as the bad guy but that "They're actually bad at it, because if they were good at it, I'd never be president because I &mdash; I think nobody in history has ever gotten more bad publicity than me."
"It's, like, the craziest thing," he remarked, adding "But you know what I have learned...The people are smart. They get it."&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-blames-zelensky-for-ukraines-war-with-russia-you-should-have-never-started-it-8734910">Trump blames Zelensky for Ukraine's war with Russia; 'You should have never started it'</a>
<h2>Bureaucracy or democracy?</h2>
Portraying himself merely as the executor of Trump's orders, Musk said: "One of the biggest functions of the DOGE team is just making sure that the presidential executive orders are actually carried out."
He also pointed out that "this is a very important thing, because the president is the elected representative of the people, so he's representing the will of the people."
"And if the bureaucracy is fighting the will of the people and preventing the president from implementing what the people want, then what we live in is a bureaucracy and not a democracy," he added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tesla-posts-13-job-openings-in-india-after-ceo-elon-musks-meeting-with-pm-modi-8730853">Tesla posts 13 job openings in India after CEO Elon Musk's meeting with PM Modi</a>
<h2>Twitter/X payout to Trump</h2>
The recent $10 million settlement paid by Musk's X (formerly Twitter) was also discussed. Trump noted that he had "sued from long before he (Musk) had it.
"I mean, they really did a number on me, you know. &nbsp;And I sued, and they had to pay. &nbsp;You know, they paid $10 million settlement."
When asked if he was okay with footing the billions in settlement, the X CEO said, "I mean, I left it up to the lawyers and, you know, the team running Twitter. So, I said, 'You guys do what you think is the right &mdash; makes sense'."
The US president who was once banned from Twitter then joked: "I was looking to get much more money than that," and that he gave Musk a "big discount".
&nbsp;

Trending, World news | Discover Elon Musk's take on claims of being 'President Musk' as he clarifies his role in Trump 2.0 during a joint interview alongside Donald Trump.

Elon Musk, in an unprecedented joint interview alongside US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Feb 18), dismissed reports of his growing influence in the Trump 2.0 administration and said he only views his role as facilitating the Republican leader's agenda. The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) chief, who donned a "Tech Support" T-shirt for the interview brushed aside the criticism that he was acting as "President Musk" and said: Trump "is the elected representative of the people, so it's representing the will of the people." Also read | Musk-Trump 'bromance' shines in joint interview as DOGE chief calls himself 'tech support' for US prez Here are some of the other striking things the two men said during their noteworthy appearance on The Sean Hannity Show on Fox News. Trump acknowledges his controversial media presence Replying to a question about the media's alleged attempts to "divorce" Trump and Musk, the contentious US president claimed that despite doing the "greatest things," he gets "98 per cent bad publicity". Naming and shaming multiple news outlets, including MSNBC, CNN, PBS, AP and CBS, Trump said that he used to think that the media was good at painting him as the bad guy but that "They're actually bad at it, because if they were good at it, I'd never be president because I — I think nobody in history has ever gotten more bad publicity than me." "It's, like, the craziest thing," he remarked, adding "But you know what I have learned...The people are smart. They get it." Also read | Trump blames Zelensky for Ukraine's war with Russia; 'You should have never started it' Bureaucracy or democracy? Portraying himself merely as the executor of Trump's orders, Musk said: "One of the biggest functions of the DOGE team is just making sure that the presidential executive orders are actually carried out." He also pointed out that "this is a very important thing, because the president is the elected representative of the people, so he's representing the will of the people." "And if the bureaucracy is fighting the will of the people and preventing the president from implementing what the people want, then what we live in is a bureaucracy and not a democracy," he added. Also read | Tesla posts 13 job openings in India after CEO Elon Musk's meeting with PM Modi Twitter/X payout to Trump The recent $10 million settlement paid by Musk's X (formerly Twitter) was also discussed. Trump noted that he had "sued from long before he (Musk) had it. "I mean, they really did a number on me, you know. And I sued, and they had to pay. You know, they paid $10 million settlement." When asked if he was okay with footing the billions in settlement, the X CEO said, "I mean, I left it up to the lawyers and, you know, the team running Twitter. So, I said, 'You guys do what you think is the right — makes sense'." The US president who was once banned from Twitter then joked: "I was looking to get much more money than that," and that he gave Musk a "big discount".

Elon Musk dismisses claims of 'President Musk': Key points from joint interview with Donald Trump

US President Donald Trump questioned the allocation of $21 million by USAID to India to boost voter turnout, highlighting India's high tariffs and taxation. Watch this report for more details!

Donald Trump questions $21 million fund for India's voter turnout

US President Donald Trump said Tuesday he was much more confident of a deal to end the Ukraine war after talks that drew a strong rebuke from Kyiv over its exclusion. Watch this report for more details!

Trump 'more confident' of Ukraine deal after talks with Russia, bashes Zelensky

As tensions rise, the world watches closely to see if Trump will grant the concessions Putin seeks. The meeting between top diplomats of the US and Russia in Riyadh marks a pivotal point for the Trump Administration in reversing US policy on isolating Russia. These talks aim to set the stage for a meeting between Trump and Putin.

What Putin wants from Russia-US talks

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Feb 18) announced that he has ordered the firing of all remaining US attorneys appointed by his predecessor Joe Biden, as part of a broad effort to reshape the Department of Justice.
Taking to his social media platform Truth Social, Trump cited politicisation "like never before".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-sign-new-executive-orders-as-his-first-joint-interview-with-elon-musk-airs-8733996">US President Donald Trump and Elon Musk's first joint interview to air today - Know all details inside</a>
<h2>'America's Golden Age'</h2>
Trump alleged that "Over the past four years, the Department of Justice has been politicized like never before."
"Therefore, I have instructed the termination of ALL remaining 'Biden Era' US Attorneys," he said.
"We must 'clean house' IMMEDIATELY, and restore confidence," Trump added.
"America's Golden Age must have a fair Justice System - THAT BEGINS TODAY!," he added. &nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/114027416979768016/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-starts-firing-faa-staff-weeks-after-dc-plane-crash-8731656">Trump administration starts firing FAA staff weeks after DC plane crash</a>
<h2>A standard practice?</h2>
As per AFP news agency, it is standard practice for incoming presidents to replace US attorneys, the chief federal prosecutors overseeing the 94 federal court districts across the country.&nbsp;
In anticipation of being replaced, many Biden-era US attorneys had already resigned following Trump&rsquo;s November election victory. &nbsp;
This shakeup comes following Trump's long-standing accusations against the Justice Department. Trump routinely claimed that the DoJ is biased, particularly due to its investigations into him.
Since taking office, he has implemented a major shakeup, firing, demoting, or reassigning multiple senior officials. &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tesla-posts-13-job-openings-in-india-after-ceo-elon-musks-meeting-with-pm-modi-8730853">Tesla posts 13 job openings in India after CEO Elon Musk's meeting with PM Modi</a>
Among those dismissed were members of Special Counsel Jack Smith's office&mdash;the team responsible for prosecuting Trump in two now-abandoned criminal cases. &nbsp;
Additionally, the acting US attorney for the influential Southern District of New York, a Trump appointee, resigned last week after reportedly being asked to drop corruption charges against New York Mayor Eric Adams. &nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | Trump's directive to dismiss Biden-era US attorneys marks a pivotal moment in addressing perceived politicisation and restoring public trust in the Justice Department.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Feb 18) announced that he has ordered the firing of all remaining US attorneys appointed by his predecessor Joe Biden, as part of a broad effort to reshape the Department of Justice. Taking to his social media platform Truth Social, Trump cited politicisation "like never before". Also read | US President Donald Trump and Elon Musk's first joint interview to air today - Know all details inside 'America's Golden Age' Trump alleged that "Over the past four years, the Department of Justice has been politicized like never before." "Therefore, I have instructed the termination of ALL remaining 'Biden Era' US Attorneys," he said. "We must 'clean house' IMMEDIATELY, and restore confidence," Trump added. "America's Golden Age must have a fair Justice System - THAT BEGINS TODAY!," he added. Also read | Trump administration starts firing FAA staff weeks after DC plane crash A standard practice? As per AFP news agency, it is standard practice for incoming presidents to replace US attorneys, the chief federal prosecutors overseeing the 94 federal court districts across the country. In anticipation of being replaced, many Biden-era US attorneys had already resigned following Trump’s November election victory. This shakeup comes following Trump's long-standing accusations against the Justice Department. Trump routinely claimed that the DoJ is biased, particularly due to its investigations into him. Since taking office, he has implemented a major shakeup, firing, demoting, or reassigning multiple senior officials. Also read | Tesla posts 13 job openings in India after CEO Elon Musk's meeting with PM Modi Among those dismissed were members of Special Counsel Jack Smith's office—the team responsible for prosecuting Trump in two now-abandoned criminal cases. Additionally, the acting US attorney for the influential Southern District of New York, a Trump appointee, resigned last week after reportedly being asked to drop corruption charges against New York Mayor Eric Adams. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump orders firing of all Biden-era US attorneys in major Justice Department shakeup: 'We must clean house IMMEDIATELY'

As talks between the US and Russian delegations come to an end in Saudi Arabia, US Secretary of State Department Marco Rubio said that the end to the Ukraine conflict must be acceptable to everybody involved, including Ukraine and Europe.&nbsp;
Rubio stressed that no one is being sidelined here. "End to Ukraine conflict must be acceptable to all involved, including Ukraine, Europe and Russia."
The European Union needs to be involved at some point, the US State Secretary said.&nbsp;
"Goal is a fair, enduring, sustainable end to Ukraine war," Rubio said after the four-hour talks concluded in Riyadh.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-peace-talks-live-europe-plays-catch-up-in-paris-as-marco-rubio-arrives-in-saudi-arabia-for-talks-with-russia-without-zelensky-8729487">Ukraine peace talks LIVE: 'Emergency Summit' begins in Paris ahead of US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia</a>
He further stressed that everyone involved in the Ukraine conflict has to be okay with a solution to end it.&nbsp;
Saudi Arabia on Tuesday (Feb 18) hosted breakthrough US-Russia talks to discuss ways to end the Ukraine war and strengthen American-Russian relations. However, Ukraine was not part of the talks, with President Volodymyr Zelensky saying that no peace agreement can be reached without Kyiv's presence.
<h2>EU will be at the table at some point</h2>
Rubio said that the European Union is 'going to have to be at the table' in Ukraine talks.&nbsp;
The US Secretary of State added that the European nations would have to be involved in talks on ending the Ukraine war.&nbsp;
"There are other parties that have sanctions (on Russia), the European Union is going to have to be at the table at some point because they have sanctions as well," said Rubio.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-secretary-of-state-marco-rubio-mike-waltz-steve-witkoff-heads-to-saudi-arabia-for-ukraine-peace-talks-with-russia-without-ukraine-8726984">Trump&rsquo;s team heads to Saudi Arabia for Ukraine peace talks with Russia, without Ukraine</a>
<h2>Agreed to appoint high-level teams to end war&nbsp;</h2>
Moreover, the two sides agreed to appoint high-level teams to begin working on the path to end Russia's war in Ukraine as soon as possible.&nbsp;
US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said that the US-Russian delegation will work to end the Ukraine conflict in a way that is "enduring, sustainable, and acceptable to all sides."&nbsp;
Bruce said that the US and Russia will also begin to look at "future cooperation on matters of mutual geopolitical interest and historic economic and investment opportunities," which will emerge from a successful end to the conflict in Ukraine.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-secretary-of-state-marco-rubio-mike-waltz-steve-witkoff-heads-to-saudi-arabia-for-ukraine-peace-talks-with-russia-without-ukraine-8726984">Trump&rsquo;s team heads to Saudi Arabia for Ukraine peace talks with Russia, without Ukraine</a>
"President Trump wants to stop the killing; the United States wants peace and is using its strength in the world to bring countries together," he said, adding that Trump is the only leader in the world who can get Ukraine and Russia to agree to that.&nbsp;
<h2>'Agreed to address irritants'</h2>
The delegations of both nations agreed to "address irritants" to their bilateral relationship with the objective of taking steps necessary to normalise the operation of our respective diplomatic missions.&nbsp;
Moreover, the spokesperson said, &ldquo;The parties to today&rsquo;s meetings pledge to remain engaged to make sure the process moves forward in a timely and productive manner."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-diktat-on-ukraine-europe-pushes-back-with-emergency-meet-as-us-sidelines-kyiv-from-talks-to-end-war-8730530">&lsquo;No diktat on Ukraine&rsquo;: Europe pushes back with &lsquo;emergency meet&rsquo; as US sidelines Kyiv from talks to end war</a>
<h2>Russia-US talks on Ukraine to start 'in due time'</h2>
Putin's foreign policy advisor, Yuri Ushakov, said that separate teams of Russian and US negotiators will begin contacts on Ukraine "in due time".&nbsp;
Ushakov further stressed that the decision to begin contact with the US on Ukraine ultimately would be the call of Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;
<h2>Trump-Putin meeting</h2>
On the Trump-Putin meeting in the coming future, Ushakov said, "We are ready for this, but it is still difficult to talk about a specific date for the meeting of the two leaders."
<h2>Riyadh talks 'went well'</h2>
Ushakov said that the talks in Saudi "went well" and was a serious conversation on all issues", Reuters reported, citing Interfax and TASS.&nbsp;
He further said that the US and Russia agreed for negotiators to talk about Ukraine.
<h2>US, Russia agree to restore embassy staffing</h2>
US State Secretary said that Marco Rubio said that officials agreed to restore embassy staffing and create a high-level team to negotiate peace in Ukraine and promote economic cooperation.
Rubio said that actions over the last several years have reduced both countries&rsquo; diplomatic missions&rsquo; abilities to operate.
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re going to need to have vibrant diplomatic missions that are able to function normally in order to be able to continue these conduits," he said.&nbsp;
Deployment of NATO troops in Kyiv 'unacceptable'
Russian foreign minister Sergiei Lavrov said&nbsp;that any deployment of NATO troops in Ukraine would be "completely unacceptable".&nbsp;
Lavrov added that President Putin stressed more than once that NATO&rsquo;s expansion and the absorption of Ukraine by NATO was a direct threat to the Russian Federation and our sovereignty.&nbsp;
"We noted that President Trump was the first of western leaders to say that dragging Ukraine into NATO was one of the main [reasons behind] what is happening, one of Biden&rsquo;s biggest mistakes. Had Trump been the president, that would have never happened," he said in a press conference offering the Russian view on Tuesday&rsquo;s talks on Ukraine.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: State Department spokesperson said that the US-Russia will work to end the Ukraine conflict in a way that is "enduring, sustainable, and acceptable to all sides."

As talks between the US and Russian delegations come to an end in Saudi Arabia, US Secretary of State Department Marco Rubio said that the end to the Ukraine conflict must be acceptable to everybody involved, including Ukraine and Europe. Rubio stressed that no one is being sidelined here. "End to Ukraine conflict must be acceptable to all involved, including Ukraine, Europe and Russia." The European Union needs to be involved at some point, the US State Secretary said. "Goal is a fair, enduring, sustainable end to Ukraine war," Rubio said after the four-hour talks concluded in Riyadh. Also read: Ukraine peace talks LIVE: 'Emergency Summit' begins in Paris ahead of US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia He further stressed that everyone involved in the Ukraine conflict has to be okay with a solution to end it. Saudi Arabia on Tuesday (Feb 18) hosted breakthrough US-Russia talks to discuss ways to end the Ukraine war and strengthen American-Russian relations. However, Ukraine was not part of the talks, with President Volodymyr Zelensky saying that no peace agreement can be reached without Kyiv's presence. EU will be at the table at some point Rubio said that the European Union is 'going to have to be at the table' in Ukraine talks. The US Secretary of State added that the European nations would have to be involved in talks on ending the Ukraine war. "There are other parties that have sanctions (on Russia), the European Union is going to have to be at the table at some point because they have sanctions as well," said Rubio. Also read: Trump’s team heads to Saudi Arabia for Ukraine peace talks with Russia, without Ukraine Agreed to appoint high-level teams to end war Moreover, the two sides agreed to appoint high-level teams to begin working on the path to end Russia's war in Ukraine as soon as possible. US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said that the US-Russian delegation will work to end the Ukraine conflict in a way that is "enduring, sustainable, and acceptable to all sides." Bruce said that the US and Russia will also begin to look at "future cooperation on matters of mutual geopolitical interest and historic economic and investment opportunities," which will emerge from a successful end to the conflict in Ukraine. Also read: Trump’s team heads to Saudi Arabia for Ukraine peace talks with Russia, without Ukraine "President Trump wants to stop the killing; the United States wants peace and is using its strength in the world to bring countries together," he said, adding that Trump is the only leader in the world who can get Ukraine and Russia to agree to that. 'Agreed to address irritants' The delegations of both nations agreed to "address irritants" to their bilateral relationship with the objective of taking steps necessary to normalise the operation of our respective diplomatic missions. Moreover, the spokesperson said, “The parties to today’s meetings pledge to remain engaged to make sure the process moves forward in a timely and productive manner." Also read: ‘No diktat on Ukraine’: Europe pushes back with ‘emergency meet’ as US sidelines Kyiv from talks to end war Russia-US talks on Ukraine to start 'in due time' Putin's foreign policy advisor, Yuri Ushakov, said that separate teams of Russian and US negotiators will begin contacts on Ukraine "in due time". Ushakov further stressed that the decision to begin contact with the US on Ukraine ultimately would be the call of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump-Putin meeting On the Trump-Putin meeting in the coming future, Ushakov said, "We are ready for this, but it is still difficult to talk about a specific date for the meeting of the two leaders." Riyadh talks 'went well' Ushakov said that the talks in Saudi "went well" and was a serious conversation on all issues", Reuters reported, citing Interfax and TASS. He further said that the US and Russia agreed for negotiators to talk about Ukraine. US, Russia agree to restore embassy staffing US State Secretary said that Marco Rubio said that officials agreed to restore embassy staffing and create a high-level team to negotiate peace in Ukraine and promote economic cooperation. Rubio said that actions over the last several years have reduced both countries’ diplomatic missions’ abilities to operate. “We’re going to need to have vibrant diplomatic missions that are able to function normally in order to be able to continue these conduits," he said. Deployment of NATO troops in Kyiv 'unacceptable' Russian foreign minister Sergiei Lavrov said that any deployment of NATO troops in Ukraine would be "completely unacceptable". Lavrov added that President Putin stressed more than once that NATO’s expansion and the absorption of Ukraine by NATO was a direct threat to the Russian Federation and our sovereignty. "We noted that President Trump was the first of western leaders to say that dragging Ukraine into NATO was one of the main [reasons behind] what is happening, one of Biden’s biggest mistakes. Had Trump been the president, that would have never happened," he said in a press conference offering the Russian view on Tuesday’s talks on Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Key takeaways from US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia as two nations discuss Ukraine war in its absence

Indian Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh on Monday said India would be looking with an "open mind" to US President Donald Trump's offer to sell F-35 fighter jets to India. Watch this report for more details!

India to look at US' F-35 proposal with an 'open mind'

The Trump government has started firing several hundred Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) employees, just weeks after a fatal mid-air collision at the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.&nbsp;
In a statement, David Spero, who is the president of the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists union, said that in a late-night email on Friday, the probationary workers were notified that they had been fired.&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-diktat-on-ukraine-europe-pushes-back-with-emergency-meet-as-us-sidelines-kyiv-from-talks-to-end-war-8730530" rel="noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;No diktat on Ukraine&rsquo;: Europe pushes back with &lsquo;emergency meet&rsquo; as US sidelines Kyiv from talks to end war</a>&nbsp;
"It is shameful to toss aside dedicated public servants who have chosen to work on behalf of their fellow Americans," Spero said.&nbsp;
The union said that the firing has impacted workers including systems specialists, safety inspectors, maintenance mechanics, administrative staff and more.&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-considering-to-buy-multi-billion-dollar-defence-from-us-to-win-trump-administrations-support-8730512" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Taiwan mulling multi-billion dollar defence deal with US to win Trump admin's support: Report&nbsp;</a>
"These employees were devoted to their jobs and the safety-critical mission of the FAA. This draconian action will increase the workload and place new responsibilities on a workforce that is already stretched thin," he added.&nbsp;
Spero said that the employees were fired "without cause nor based on performance or conduct," and the emails were "from an 'exec order' Microsoft email address" &mdash; not a government email address.&nbsp;
Sean Duffy, who is the Transportation Secretary, said Monday in a post on X that "the FAA alone has a staggering 45,000 employees. Less than 400 were let go, and they were all probationary, meaning they had been hired less than a year ago. Zero air traffic controllers and critical safety personnel were let go."&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/forced-to-trim-beard-sikh-deportee-from-us-recalls-mistreatment-says-faced-crocodiles-snakes-8730177" rel="noopener" target="_blank">'Forced to trim beard': Sikh deportee from US recalls mistreatment, says 'faced crocodiles, snakes'</a>
<h2>What happened on January 29? &nbsp;</h2>
On January 29, a passenger plane and a US Army helicopter collided near Washington and plunged into the Potomac River. The officials said that salvage crews recovered the bodies of all 67 people killed.&nbsp;
Sixty-four people, including four crew members were on the plane during the tragic incident. While three soldiers were aboard the US Army Black Hawk helicopter. There were no survivors.&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/too-soon-europe-split-on-ukraine-troop-deployment-as-trump-courts-putin-for-peace-talks-8730102" rel="noopener" target="_blank">'Too soon': Europe split on Ukraine troop deployment as Trump courts Putin for peace talks</a>&nbsp;
President Donald Trump was quick to blame diversity hiring policies for the accident although no evidence has emerged that they were responsible.
Trump also said the helicopter, which was on a routine training mission, appeared to be flying too high.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Learn about the union's response to the FAA layoffs, as they criticize the sudden dismissals of workers, including safety inspectors and systems specialists.

The Trump government has started firing several hundred Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) employees, just weeks after a fatal mid-air collision at the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. In a statement, David Spero, who is the president of the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists union, said that in a late-night email on Friday, the probationary workers were notified that they had been fired. Also read: ‘No diktat on Ukraine’: Europe pushes back with ‘emergency meet’ as US sidelines Kyiv from talks to end war "It is shameful to toss aside dedicated public servants who have chosen to work on behalf of their fellow Americans," Spero said. The union said that the firing has impacted workers including systems specialists, safety inspectors, maintenance mechanics, administrative staff and more. Also read: Taiwan mulling multi-billion dollar defence deal with US to win Trump admin's support: Report "These employees were devoted to their jobs and the safety-critical mission of the FAA. This draconian action will increase the workload and place new responsibilities on a workforce that is already stretched thin," he added. Spero said that the employees were fired "without cause nor based on performance or conduct," and the emails were "from an 'exec order' Microsoft email address" — not a government email address. Sean Duffy, who is the Transportation Secretary, said Monday in a post on X that "the FAA alone has a staggering 45,000 employees. Less than 400 were let go, and they were all probationary, meaning they had been hired less than a year ago. Zero air traffic controllers and critical safety personnel were let go." Also read: 'Forced to trim beard': Sikh deportee from US recalls mistreatment, says 'faced crocodiles, snakes' What happened on January 29? On January 29, a passenger plane and a US Army helicopter collided near Washington and plunged into the Potomac River. The officials said that salvage crews recovered the bodies of all 67 people killed. Sixty-four people, including four crew members were on the plane during the tragic incident. While three soldiers were aboard the US Army Black Hawk helicopter. There were no survivors. Also read: 'Too soon': Europe split on Ukraine troop deployment as Trump courts Putin for peace talks President Donald Trump was quick to blame diversity hiring policies for the accident although no evidence has emerged that they were responsible. Trump also said the helicopter, which was on a routine training mission, appeared to be flying too high. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump administration starts firing FAA staff weeks after DC plane crash

European leaders are meeting in Paris as Donald Trump is pushing for an accelerated timetable to strike a deal between Ukraine and Russia. Watch this report for more details!

European leaders meet in Paris to discuss Ukraine, Trump & defence spending

Kristi Noem, the newly appointed US Secretary of Homeland Security on Tuesday (Feb 18) warned illegal aliens, "We will hunt you down," as she announced a multimillion-dollar ad campaign aimed at dissuading illegal immigrants from entering the US.
In a video on social media platform X, Noem warned, "If you are thinking of entering America illegally, don't even think about it".
<h2>Weak leadership&nbsp;</h2>
Noem began the one-minute video by thanking US President Donald Trump for "securing our border and putting America first."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stick-to-catholic-church-trumps-border-czar-fires-back-at-pope-francis-over-immigration-criticism-8712179">'Stick to Catholic Church': Trump&rsquo;s border czar fires back at Pope Francis over immigration criticism</a>
She then delivers a message from "President Trump to the world" and warns people thinking of entering America illegally - "Don't even think about it".
Noem goes on to threaten immigrants who enter the US illegally and break laws, saying, "We will hunt you down". "Criminals are not welcome in the United States," she emphasised.
Trump's DHS Secretary then slams former US president Joe Biden. Without explicitly mentioning Biden's name, Noem states that "for too long weak leadership has left our borders wide open, flooding our communities with drugs, human trafficking and violent criminals".
"Well those days are over," she said, adding "Under President Trump, we're defending American families and restoring their safety".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-unveils-plan-to-detain-30000-migrants-at-notorious-guantanamo-bay-military-prison-criminal-illegal-aliens-us-illegal-immigrants-8669651">Donald Trump unveils plan to detain 30,000 'criminal illegal aliens' at notorious Guantanamo Bay military prison</a>
"If you try to enter illegally, you will be removed and you will never return".
"Follow the law and you'll find opportunity if you break it you'll find consequences," she vowed, warning immigrants to not come to America illegally.
<h2>Trump's hardline anti-immigration stance</h2>
During his campaign, Donald Trump would frequently demonise immigrants, calling them "illegal aliens," and blaming them for the crimes in the USA. Since becoming president, he has passed the Laken Riley Act, which mandates the detention of undocumented immigrants charged with theft-related crimes, and also expands mandatory detention to include offences causing death or serious bodily injury.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/laken-riley-act-us-congress-passes-trump-crackdown-on-migrant-criminals-and-suspects-8645556">Laken Riley Act: US Congress passes Trump's hardline immigration crackdown bill</a>
He also unveiled a controversial plan to detain up to 30,000 undocumented migrants at Guant&aacute;namo Bay, a notorious United States military prison used to hold terrorism suspects since the 9/11 attacks.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | Kristi Noem's video message warns potential illegal immigrants against entering the US, highlighting a firm stance on border security and legal consequences.

Kristi Noem, the newly appointed US Secretary of Homeland Security on Tuesday (Feb 18) warned illegal aliens, "We will hunt you down," as she announced a multimillion-dollar ad campaign aimed at dissuading illegal immigrants from entering the US. In a video on social media platform X, Noem warned, "If you are thinking of entering America illegally, don't even think about it". Weak leadership Noem began the one-minute video by thanking US President Donald Trump for "securing our border and putting America first." Also read | 'Stick to Catholic Church': Trump’s border czar fires back at Pope Francis over immigration criticism She then delivers a message from "President Trump to the world" and warns people thinking of entering America illegally - "Don't even think about it". Noem goes on to threaten immigrants who enter the US illegally and break laws, saying, "We will hunt you down". "Criminals are not welcome in the United States," she emphasised. Trump's DHS Secretary then slams former US president Joe Biden. Without explicitly mentioning Biden's name, Noem states that "for too long weak leadership has left our borders wide open, flooding our communities with drugs, human trafficking and violent criminals". "Well those days are over," she said, adding "Under President Trump, we're defending American families and restoring their safety". Also read | Donald Trump unveils plan to detain 30,000 'criminal illegal aliens' at notorious Guantanamo Bay military prison "If you try to enter illegally, you will be removed and you will never return". "Follow the law and you'll find opportunity if you break it you'll find consequences," she vowed, warning immigrants to not come to America illegally. Trump's hardline anti-immigration stance During his campaign, Donald Trump would frequently demonise immigrants, calling them "illegal aliens," and blaming them for the crimes in the USA. Since becoming president, he has passed the Laken Riley Act, which mandates the detention of undocumented immigrants charged with theft-related crimes, and also expands mandatory detention to include offences causing death or serious bodily injury. Also read | Laken Riley Act: US Congress passes Trump's hardline immigration crackdown bill He also unveiled a controversial plan to detain up to 30,000 undocumented migrants at Guantánamo Bay, a notorious United States military prison used to hold terrorism suspects since the 9/11 attacks. (With inputs from agencies)

US DHS Kristi Noem announces multimillion-dollar ad campaign targeting immigrants

The US federal tax collection agency is reportedly preparing to give a team of Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) access to personal taxpayer data.&nbsp;
This comes after DOGE requested access to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the US tax office's system.&nbsp;
The system contains sensitive information, including detailed financial information about every taxpayer, business, and nonprofit in the US, The Washington Post reported.&nbsp;
The request is currently under review, and if allowed, it would give DOGE officials "broad access to tax-agency systems, property and datasets, including tax returns&rdquo;.
Among them is the Integrated Data Retrieval System, or IDRS, which enables tax agency employees to access IRS accounts&mdash;including personal identification numbers&mdash;and bank information."
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/elon-musk-led-doge-cancels-21-million-intended-for-voter-turnout-in-india-bjp-responds-8725771" rel="dofollow"> Elon Musk-led DOGE cancels $21 million intended for 'voter turnout in India', BJP responds</a>
Later, a Trump administration official defended the move, saying that DOGE staff are working on a mission to "eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse, and improve government performance to better serve the people&rdquo;.
This latest move by Elon's DOGE has triggered concern within the government and among privacy experts. They warned that granting access to Musk could be dangerously risky, ABC News reported.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-doge-clock-understanding-the-real-time-tracker-for-government-spending-cuts-8717614" rel="dofollow">What is DOGE Clock? Understanding the real-time tracker for government spending cuts</a>
"People who share their most sensitive information with the federal government do so under the understanding that not only will it be used legally, but also handled securely and in ways that minimize risks like identity theft and personal invasion, which this reporting brings into serious question," Elizabeth Laird, a former state privacy officer now with the Center for Democracy and Technology, said.&nbsp;
White House spokesperson Harrison Fields defended the request, saying, "Waste, fraud, and abuse have been deeply entrenched in our broken system for far too long. It takes direct access to the system to identify and fix it."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-agencies-trump-musk-and-doge-have-been-trying-to-dismantle-and-downsize-heres-the-full-list-8714727" rel="dofollow">US agencies Trump, Musk and DOGE have been trying to dismantle and downsize. Here's the full list</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Elon Musk's department DOGE is requesting access to a classified IRS system that contains the sensitive personal financial records of millions of Americans.

The US federal tax collection agency is reportedly preparing to give a team of Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) access to personal taxpayer data. This comes after DOGE requested access to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the US tax office's system. The system contains sensitive information, including detailed financial information about every taxpayer, business, and nonprofit in the US, The Washington Post reported. The request is currently under review, and if allowed, it would give DOGE officials "broad access to tax-agency systems, property and datasets, including tax returns”. Among them is the Integrated Data Retrieval System, or IDRS, which enables tax agency employees to access IRS accounts—including personal identification numbers—and bank information." Also read: Elon Musk-led DOGE cancels $21 million intended for 'voter turnout in India', BJP responds Later, a Trump administration official defended the move, saying that DOGE staff are working on a mission to "eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse, and improve government performance to better serve the people”. This latest move by Elon's DOGE has triggered concern within the government and among privacy experts. They warned that granting access to Musk could be dangerously risky, ABC News reported. Also read: What is DOGE Clock? Understanding the real-time tracker for government spending cuts "People who share their most sensitive information with the federal government do so under the understanding that not only will it be used legally, but also handled securely and in ways that minimize risks like identity theft and personal invasion, which this reporting brings into serious question," Elizabeth Laird, a former state privacy officer now with the Center for Democracy and Technology, said. White House spokesperson Harrison Fields defended the request, saying, "Waste, fraud, and abuse have been deeply entrenched in our broken system for far too long. It takes direct access to the system to identify and fix it." Also read: US agencies Trump, Musk and DOGE have been trying to dismantle and downsize. Here's the full list (With inputs from agencies)

IRS preparing to give Elon Musk's DOGE access to sensitive taxpayer data: Report

A planned Saudi meeting of Arab leaders in response to US President Donald Trump's plan to take control of Gaza has been postponed by a day and expanded, Arab diplomats said on Monday.
"The mini Arab summit in Riyadh has been postponed from Thursday to Friday, February 21," a Saudi source told AFP. An Arab diplomatic source confirmed the new date.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-prime-minister-keir-starmer-to-meet-us-president-donald-trump-next-week-after-us-freezes-europe-out-of-ukraine-talks-8729776">UK's Keir Starmer to meet Trump next week after US freezes Europe out of&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;talks</a>
Three Arab states had been expected to attend the summit, but the Saudi source said the expanded meeting will "include the leaders of the six Gulf Cooperation Council countries along with Egypt and Jordan to discuss Arab alternatives to Trump's plans in the Gaza Strip".
The member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council are the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, and Kuwait.
The Saudi source said that "an influential Gulf country expressed its dissatisfaction at being excluded from the Riyadh summit, which prompted the organisers to include all the Gulf countries", without specifying which country was involved.
Trump had proposed taking over the war-ravaged Gaza Strip and moving its more than two million residents to Jordan or Egypt -- a plan experts say would violate international law.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-cant-do-a-thing-tehran-slams-netanyahu-for-vowing-to-finish-the-job-against-iran-with-trumps-help-8729162">'Israel can't do a thing': Tehran slams Netanyahu for vowing to 'finish the job' against Iran with Trump's help</a>
Arab countries have unanimously rejected the idea or any prospect of displacing Palestinians from their lands.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Thursday that Washington was open to proposals from Arab countries concerning the Palestinian territory, where a fragile ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war came into effect on 19 January after more than 15 months of fighting.
Rubio said he hoped to be able to discuss these ideas during a tour that took him to Israel on Sunday, Saudi Arabia on Monday, and on to the United Arab Emirates.
On Tuesday, Jordan's King Abdullah II met with Trump at the White House and "reiterated Jordan's steadfast position against the displacement of Palestinians", according to a statement issued later, saying this was "the unified Arab position".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trumps-aid-freeze-could-result-in-millions-more-aids-deaths-un-8728395">US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s aid freeze could result in millions more AIDS deaths: UN</a>
Trump doubled down on his plan during the meeting.
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<div>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</div>
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WORLD | "The mini Arab summit in Riyadh has been postponed from Thursday to Friday, February 21," a Saudi source told AFP. An Arab diplomatic source confirmed the new date.

A planned Saudi meeting of Arab leaders in response to US President Donald Trump's plan to take control of Gaza has been postponed by a day and expanded, Arab diplomats said on Monday. "The mini Arab summit in Riyadh has been postponed from Thursday to Friday, February 21," a Saudi source told AFP. An Arab diplomatic source confirmed the new date. Also read: UK's Keir Starmer to meet Trump next week after US freezes Europe out of Ukraine talks Three Arab states had been expected to attend the summit, but the Saudi source said the expanded meeting will "include the leaders of the six Gulf Cooperation Council countries along with Egypt and Jordan to discuss Arab alternatives to Trump's plans in the Gaza Strip". The member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council are the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, and Kuwait. The Saudi source said that "an influential Gulf country expressed its dissatisfaction at being excluded from the Riyadh summit, which prompted the organisers to include all the Gulf countries", without specifying which country was involved. Trump had proposed taking over the war-ravaged Gaza Strip and moving its more than two million residents to Jordan or Egypt -- a plan experts say would violate international law. Also read: 'Israel can't do a thing': Tehran slams Netanyahu for vowing to 'finish the job' against Iran with Trump's help Arab countries have unanimously rejected the idea or any prospect of displacing Palestinians from their lands. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Thursday that Washington was open to proposals from Arab countries concerning the Palestinian territory, where a fragile ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war came into effect on 19 January after more than 15 months of fighting. Rubio said he hoped to be able to discuss these ideas during a tour that took him to Israel on Sunday, Saudi Arabia on Monday, and on to the United Arab Emirates. On Tuesday, Jordan's King Abdullah II met with Trump at the White House and "reiterated Jordan's steadfast position against the displacement of Palestinians", according to a statement issued later, saying this was "the unified Arab position". Also read: US President Donald Trump’s aid freeze could result in millions more AIDS deaths: UN Trump doubled down on his plan during the meeting. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Arab summit on Donald Trump's Gaza plan postponed

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