Israel has received a shipment of heavy MK-84 bombs from the United States. The MK-84 is an unguided 2,000-pound bomb, which can rip through thick concrete and metal, creating a wide blast radius. Watch this report for more details!

Donald Trump defends sending 2000-pound bombs to Israel

US President Donald Trump said that he believes he could meet "very soon" with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss ending the war in Ukraine. Watch this report for more details!

Donald Trump says talks with Putin "Very soon"

As US President Donald Trump seeks an end to the Russia-Ukraine war, Europe seems unprepared to take on its substantial share of the responsibility to protect Ukraine and expand its defence. Trump is starting to tell the leaders of the European Union how to end the conflict in Ukraine. However, his demands are going to test the limits of the EU.

Trump's Ukraine plans mean a $3 tn bill for Europe

US President Donald Trump has declared BRICS "Dead". This comes just months after repeatedly threatening 100% tariffs on its members over "de-dollarization" efforts. But why is Trump so concerned about BRICS? Why does the US see any move away from the dollar as a direct threat? And where does India stand in this evolving economic battle?

The Geopolitics of Currency: Why the dollar still rules

<p>US President Donald Trump said on Sunday (Feb 16) that he could meet his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin "very soon". Trump added that he believes that Putin genuinely wants to stop fighting in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>
<p>While responding to a question on a potential upcoming meeting in Saudi Arabia between the two leaders, Trump told reporters, "No time set, but it could be very soon."&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-was-for-freed-slaves-not-immigrants-trump-defends-birthright-citizenship-order-amid-legal-push-back-8727169">&lsquo;It was for freed slaves, not immigrants&rsquo;: Trump defends birthright citizenship order amid legal pushback</a></strong>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Last week, Trump spoke with Putin on the phone and said he is willing to stand with Russia's demand to keep Ukraine out of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).&nbsp;</p>
<p>The call was the first known conversation between the presidents since Trump's new term began in January.</p>
<p>The conversation took place after Trump's keenness to end the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. A reporter asked Trump, "What do you think he [Putin] wants ultimately in Ukraine?"</p>
<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/there-can-never-be-nuclear-iran-netanyahu-rubio-discuss-hamas-trumps-gaza-plan-and-tehrans-aggression-8726530">&lsquo;There can never be nuclear Iran&rsquo;: Netanyahu, Rubio discuss Hamas, Trump&rsquo;s Gaza plan, and Tehran&rsquo;s &lsquo;aggression&rsquo;</a></strong></p>
<p>Trump responded, "I think he wants to stop fighting. I see that. We spoke long and hard. [US Middle East envoy] Steve Witkoff, who was with him for a very extended period, like about three hours. I think he wants to stop fighting."&nbsp;</p>
<p>"They have a big, powerful machine, you understand that. And they defeated Hitler and they defeated Napoleon, you know, they've been fighting a long time. They've done it before. But I think he'd like to&mdash;I think he would like to stop fighting," he added.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>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">Elon Musk-led DOGE cancels $21 million intended for 'voter turnout in India', BJP responds</a></strong></p>
<p>On whether he believes Putin wants to seize the entirety of Ukraine, Trump said: "That was my question to him."</p>
<p>"If he's going to go on... that would have caused me a big problem."</p>
<p>"I think he wants to end it, and they want to end it fast. Both of them," he said, adding "[Ukraine President Volodymyr] Zelensky wants to end it too."&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-responds-after-influencer-ashley-st-clair-claims-to-be-mother-of-his-13th-child-8726612">Elon Musk responds after influencer Ashley St Clair claims to be mother of his 13th Child</a></strong></p>
<h2><strong>High-level US delegation in Saudi Arabia's capital&nbsp;</strong></h2>
<p>With US Secretary of State Marco Rubio set to lead a high-level American delegation at the discussions with Russian officials in Saudi Arabia's capital in the coming days, a flurry of diplomacy was taking place as the brutal Ukraine war nears its third anniversary.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Republican president had repeatedly insisted he would end the Ukraine conflict in a single day if he returned to the White House, but Rubio stressed it would "not be easy" to resolve such a long-running, bloody and complex conflict.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"A process towards peace is not a one-meeting thing," America's top diplomat said in an interview with CBS channel on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

World | A high-level US delegation led by Rubio is set for diplomatic talks in Saudi Arabia as the Ukraine war nears its third anniversary

US President Donald Trump said on Sunday (Feb 16) that he could meet his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin "very soon". Trump added that he believes that Putin genuinely wants to stop fighting in Ukraine. While responding to a question on a potential upcoming meeting in Saudi Arabia between the two leaders, Trump told reporters, "No time set, but it could be very soon." Also read: ‘It was for freed slaves, not immigrants’: Trump defends birthright citizenship order amid legal pushback Last week, Trump spoke with Putin on the phone and said he is willing to stand with Russia's demand to keep Ukraine out of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). The call was the first known conversation between the presidents since Trump's new term began in January. The conversation took place after Trump's keenness to end the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. A reporter asked Trump, "What do you think he [Putin] wants ultimately in Ukraine?" Also read: ‘There can never be nuclear Iran’: Netanyahu, Rubio discuss Hamas, Trump’s Gaza plan, and Tehran’s ‘aggression’ Trump responded, "I think he wants to stop fighting. I see that. We spoke long and hard. [US Middle East envoy] Steve Witkoff, who was with him for a very extended period, like about three hours. I think he wants to stop fighting." "They have a big, powerful machine, you understand that. And they defeated Hitler and they defeated Napoleon, you know, they've been fighting a long time. They've done it before. But I think he'd like to—I think he would like to stop fighting," he added. Also read: Elon Musk-led DOGE cancels $21 million intended for 'voter turnout in India', BJP responds On whether he believes Putin wants to seize the entirety of Ukraine, Trump said: "That was my question to him." "If he's going to go on... that would have caused me a big problem." "I think he wants to end it, and they want to end it fast. Both of them," he said, adding "[Ukraine President Volodymyr] Zelensky wants to end it too." Also read: Elon Musk responds after influencer Ashley St Clair claims to be mother of his 13th Child High-level US delegation in Saudi Arabia's capital With US Secretary of State Marco Rubio set to lead a high-level American delegation at the discussions with Russian officials in Saudi Arabia's capital in the coming days, a flurry of diplomacy was taking place as the brutal Ukraine war nears its third anniversary. The Republican president had repeatedly insisted he would end the Ukraine conflict in a single day if he returned to the White House, but Rubio stressed it would "not be easy" to resolve such a long-running, bloody and complex conflict. "A process towards peace is not a one-meeting thing," America's top diplomat said in an interview with CBS channel on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump says he could meet his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin 'very soon'

Donald Trump says he could meet Putin 'very soon'

US President Donald Trump's offer to sell the crown jewel of American military aviation to India marks a pivotal moment in global military dynamics. Watch this report for more details!

Trump offers India F-35 stealth jets

United States President Donald Trump on Thursday announced the extradition of Tahawwur Hussain Rana, who is wanted for his alleged role in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, to India. After his bilateral talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, both leaders addressed the media, with the US president saying that Rana was "going back to India to face justice".

PM Modi, President Trump meet to strengthen India-US ties

Trump offers India stealth jets

US-India trade talks take centre stage at the White House

PM Modi at White House: This is not the time of war

Modi-Trump Meet: Trade & tariffs take centre stage in US-India talks

US President Donald Trump expressed his desire to hold talks with Russia and China to reduce military spending, with a potential summit involving leaders Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping. Watch this report for more details!

Donald Trump wants talks on military spending cuts with Russia, China

In a high-profile diplomatic engagement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump met at the White House for their first bilateral meeting since Trump’s return to office for a second term. PM Modi is among the first global leaders to visit Washington following Trump’s electoral win, marking a key moment in India-US relations.

'Modi a tougher negotiator than me', says Donald Trump

President Donald Trump tells PM Modi: Expect 'wonderful trade deals'

Indian PM Modi thanks Trump for extradition of Tahawwur Rana

<div>US President Donald Trump's administration has begun laying off probationary employees as it moves to the next stage of its plans to aggressively shrink the federal workforce.</div>
<div></div>
<div>The US Department of Veteran's Affairs was one of the first departments to publicly confirm the layoffs, announcing in a statement that it dismissed more than 1,000 probationary employees on Thursday in non "mission critical" positions.&nbsp;</div>
<div></div>
<div>"The dismissals announced today are part of a government-wide Trump Administration effort to make agencies more efficient, effective and responsive to the American People," it said in a statement.&nbsp;</div>
<div></div>
<div>Also read | <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jd-vance-threatens-economic-military-sanctions-against-russia-if-putin-denies-peace-talk-with-ukraine-8720983">JD Vance threatens 'economic,' 'military' sanctions against Russia if Putin denies peace talk with Ukraine</a></strong></div>
<div></div>
<div>Although the exact number of federal employees affected is unclear, more than 200,000 recently hired workers are currently serving out their probationary period, according to the most recently available government data.</div>
<div></div>
<div>The Trump administration directed agency heads to terminate most trial and probationary staff -- who have fewer civil service protections -- US media reported Thursday.</div>
<div></div>
<div>An employee who was laid off from her job at the United States Office of Personnel Management (OPM) told AFP on condition of anonymity that she had been fired during a video call to which close to 100 employees had been invited.&nbsp;</div>
<div></div>
<div>The employee, and several other participants, were still serving out their probationary periods. All were told they were being let go for performance purposes.&nbsp;</div>
<div></div>
<div>Also read | <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/id-love-to-help-says-us-president-donald-trump-on-india-china-border-dispute-new-delhi-responds-8720925">&lsquo;I&rsquo;d love to help,&rsquo; says Trump on India-China border dispute; New Delhi responds</a></strong></div>
<div></div>
<div>Shortly after the call ended, the employee received a letter from acting OPM director Charles Ezell confirming she had been fired. Her access was cut off less than an hour later.&nbsp;</div>
<div></div>
<div>Spokespeople for OPM and the White House press offices did not immediately respond to a request for comment.&nbsp;</div>
<div></div>
<div>Thursday's actions follow a White House push -- led by OPM -- to shrink the number of government workers by offering them eight months' pay to resign.&nbsp;</div>
<div></div>
<div>The email with the resignation offer, titled "Fork in the Road," also noted that those who did not accept risked being let go in future culls.&nbsp;</div>
<div></div>
<div>More than 65,000 federal employees accepted the buyout offer from OPM, the White House said.&nbsp;</div>
<div></div>
<div>One employee at the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) who spoke with AFP reported accepting the OPM's offer to resign out of concern for otherwise being fired.</div>
<div></div>
<div>"This was my dream job," said the employee, who was not on probation but who had been at HUD for less time -- and thus had less job security -- than many other colleagues.&nbsp;</div>
<div></div>
<div>"It just became very clear to me that the writing is on the wall," the employee said. "I might as well take the best cushion I have to put myself in the best situation to take the time I need to find a new position."</div>
<div></div>
<div>A HUD spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment.&nbsp;</div>
<div></div>
<div><em>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.</em></div>
<div>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</div>

World: The Trump administration initiates layoffs of probationary staff, marking a pivotal step in its strategy to significantly reduce the size of the federal workforce.

US President Donald Trump's administration has begun laying off probationary employees as it moves to the next stage of its plans to aggressively shrink the federal workforce. The US Department of Veteran's Affairs was one of the first departments to publicly confirm the layoffs, announcing in a statement that it dismissed more than 1,000 probationary employees on Thursday in non "mission critical" positions. "The dismissals announced today are part of a government-wide Trump Administration effort to make agencies more efficient, effective and responsive to the American People," it said in a statement. Also read | JD Vance threatens 'economic,' 'military' sanctions against Russia if Putin denies peace talk with Ukraine Although the exact number of federal employees affected is unclear, more than 200,000 recently hired workers are currently serving out their probationary period, according to the most recently available government data. The Trump administration directed agency heads to terminate most trial and probationary staff -- who have fewer civil service protections -- US media reported Thursday. An employee who was laid off from her job at the United States Office of Personnel Management (OPM) told AFP on condition of anonymity that she had been fired during a video call to which close to 100 employees had been invited. The employee, and several other participants, were still serving out their probationary periods. All were told they were being let go for performance purposes. Also read | ‘I’d love to help,’ says Trump on India-China border dispute; New Delhi responds Shortly after the call ended, the employee received a letter from acting OPM director Charles Ezell confirming she had been fired. Her access was cut off less than an hour later. Spokespeople for OPM and the White House press offices did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Thursday's actions follow a White House push -- led by OPM -- to shrink the number of government workers by offering them eight months' pay to resign. The email with the resignation offer, titled "Fork in the Road," also noted that those who did not accept risked being let go in future culls. More than 65,000 federal employees accepted the buyout offer from OPM, the White House said. One employee at the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) who spoke with AFP reported accepting the OPM's offer to resign out of concern for otherwise being fired. "This was my dream job," said the employee, who was not on probation but who had been at HUD for less time -- and thus had less job security -- than many other colleagues. "It just became very clear to me that the writing is on the wall," the employee said. "I might as well take the best cushion I have to put myself in the best situation to take the time I need to find a new position." A HUD spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment. 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.

Trump administration begins firing of federal workers

Donald Trump proposes halving US, China & Russia military budgets

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has officially taken office as the United States Health Secretary after being confirmed by the Senate. The swearing-in ceremony took place in the presence of President Donald Trump. Watch this report for more details!

Robert F Kennedy Jr sworn in as health secretary after Senate confirmation

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Feb 13) held a much-anticipated bilateral meeting, the first after the inauguration of the 47th POTUS. While addressing the media in a joint press conference following their first bilateral meeting in years, Trump remarked friendship between India and the US was the 'strongest it has ever been'.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-on-the-side-of-peace-says-indian-pm-narendra-modi-on-ukraine-russia-war-ahead-of-bilateral-meet-with-us-president-donald-trump-8719280">'India not neutral', says PM Modi on Ukraine-Russia conflict, thanks Trump for initiative to end war</a></strong></p>
<h2><strong>India-US friendship</strong></h2>
<p>US President Donald Trump said that he was thrilled to welcome PM Modi at the White House.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Reminiscing about the past, Trump said: "We spend a lot of time here and also in India. We travelled to your beautiful country 5 years ago... It was an incredible period of time. There is a special bond between the US and India - the world's oldest and largest democracies in the world. Today, the PM and I are announcing the framework to strengthen the ties further..."</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-declares-brics-is-dead-threatens-bloc-with-100-tariffs-over-dollar-challenge-ahead-of-talks-with-modi-8719262">'BRICS is dead', declares Trump, threatens bloc with 100% tariffs over dollar challenge</a></strong></p>
<p>Dismissing the ties between India and his predecessor Joe Biden's administration, Trump remarked: "I don't think India had a good relationship with the Biden administration...A lot of things happened that weren't very appropriate between India and the Biden Administration."</p>
<p>On elements in the US working against India, including Khalistani separatists, President Trump announced the extradition of Tahawwur Rana. "We are giving a very violent man (Tahawwur Rana) back to India immediately," he said.</p>
<p>"There are more to follow because we have quite a few requests. So, we work with India on crime and we want to make it good for India..." he added.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-pm-narendra-modi-meets-us-president-donald-trump-at-white-house-8719265">'Wonderful trade deals&rsquo;: Trump says as he meets PM Modi at White House after imposing 'reciprocal tariffs'</a></strong></p>
<p>India has long pursued the extradition of Tahawwur Rana, a key accused in the 26/11 attacks. Rana for years has been incarcerated in a high-security US prison.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

World | US President Trump highlighted the enduring bond between the world's oldest (US) and largest (India) democracies, announcing a framework to enhance bilateral ties further.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Feb 13) held a much-anticipated bilateral meeting, the first after the inauguration of the 47th POTUS. While addressing the media in a joint press conference following their first bilateral meeting in years, Trump remarked friendship between India and the US was the 'strongest it has ever been'. Also read | 'India not neutral', says PM Modi on Ukraine-Russia conflict, thanks Trump for initiative to end war India-US friendship US President Donald Trump said that he was thrilled to welcome PM Modi at the White House. Reminiscing about the past, Trump said: "We spend a lot of time here and also in India. We travelled to your beautiful country 5 years ago... It was an incredible period of time. There is a special bond between the US and India - the world's oldest and largest democracies in the world. Today, the PM and I are announcing the framework to strengthen the ties further..." Also read | 'BRICS is dead', declares Trump, threatens bloc with 100% tariffs over dollar challenge Dismissing the ties between India and his predecessor Joe Biden's administration, Trump remarked: "I don't think India had a good relationship with the Biden administration...A lot of things happened that weren't very appropriate between India and the Biden Administration." On elements in the US working against India, including Khalistani separatists, President Trump announced the extradition of Tahawwur Rana. "We are giving a very violent man (Tahawwur Rana) back to India immediately," he said. "There are more to follow because we have quite a few requests. So, we work with India on crime and we want to make it good for India..." he added. Also read | 'Wonderful trade deals’: Trump says as he meets PM Modi at White House after imposing 'reciprocal tariffs' India has long pursued the extradition of Tahawwur Rana, a key accused in the 26/11 attacks. Rana for years has been incarcerated in a high-security US prison. (With inputs from agencies)

Friendship between India and US 'strongest it has ever been,' says Trump

<p>US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Feb 13) delivered a stark warning to BRICS nations, threatening to impose a 100 per cent tariff on all imports into the United States if they proceed with launching a common currency. He also dismissed the bloc's significance in an emphatic declaration, stating bluntly: "Brics is dead."</p>
<p>The remarks came just before Trump's scheduled meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a key founding member country of the BRICS.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slams-canada-says-has-been-very-bad-to-us-on-trade-repeats-talk-of-it-becoming-51st-us-state-8719244">Trump slams Canada, says 'has been very bad to us on trade,' repeats talk of it becoming 51st US state</a></strong></p>
<h2><strong>BRICS is dead</strong></h2>
<p>Dismissing the intergovernmental organization, Trump said, "Brics was put there for a bad purpose".</p>
<p>"I told them if they want to play games with the Dollar, then they are going to be hit by a 100% tariff," he announced.</p>
<p>"The day they mention that they want to do it, they will come back and say - we beg you, we beg you. Brics is dead since I mentioned that..." said the US President, referring to any plans the BRICS nations might have to launch a common currency, like the Euro used by EU nations.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m73voqte-lc7fwgte-2q4jjua3">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"Play with the dollar and get hit with 100% tariffs"<br><br>US President Donald Trump says BRICS is 'dead' after warning member countries over dollar and tariff<br>.<br>.<br>.<br>.<br>(Video: news agency ANI) <a href="https://t.co/JMPto1chlj">pic.twitter.com/JMPto1chlj</a></p>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1890141344368341299?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p>Trump reiterated his position, doubling down on his claim that any move to challenge the US dollar's dominance would lead to severe economic repercussions for BRICS members. "Brics is dead the minute I mentioned that if they mess with the dollar, they will get 100% tariffs. Brics is dead," he repeated.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-wants-to-do-business-in-india-trump-says-its-very-hard-due-of-high-tariffs-8719225">Elon Musk wants to do business in India? Trump says 'it's very hard due of high tariffs'</a></strong></p>
<p>His comments directly addressed concerns that Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa might be exploring the creation of a unified currency, a move that some experts believe could weaken the dollar's global standing. Trump, however, made it clear that such ambitions would come at a steep price.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"If any trading gets through, it&rsquo;ll be 100% tariff, at least," he warned, signalling that his administration would take a hardline approach to any perceived threats to US financial supremacy.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-pm-narendra-modi-meets-us-president-donald-trump-at-white-house-8719265">Indian PM Narendra Modi meets US President Donald Trump at White House</a></strong></p>
<p>Trump's hardline stance came just hours ahead of his scheduled meeting with Indian PM Modi. His rhetoric showed no restraint, as Trump highlighted his administration's commitment to imposing strict trade measures and announced "reciprocal tariffs" that could target both allies and rivals.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"Today is the big one: reciprocal tariffs," Trump wrote on his social media platform ahead of the announcement. "They charge us a tax or tariff, and we charge them the exact tax or tariff. Very simple," he announced.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

World news | Discover Trump's bold statement declaring BRICS as insignificant, hinting at severe economic consequences if the bloc moves to undermine the US dollar's dominance.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Feb 13) delivered a stark warning to BRICS nations, threatening to impose a 100 per cent tariff on all imports into the United States if they proceed with launching a common currency. He also dismissed the bloc's significance in an emphatic declaration, stating bluntly: "Brics is dead." The remarks came just before Trump's scheduled meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a key founding member country of the BRICS. Also read | Trump slams Canada, says 'has been very bad to us on trade,' repeats talk of it becoming 51st US state BRICS is dead Dismissing the intergovernmental organization, Trump said, "Brics was put there for a bad purpose". "I told them if they want to play games with the Dollar, then they are going to be hit by a 100% tariff," he announced. "The day they mention that they want to do it, they will come back and say - we beg you, we beg you. Brics is dead since I mentioned that..." said the US President, referring to any plans the BRICS nations might have to launch a common currency, like the Euro used by EU nations. "Play with the dollar and get hit with 100% tariffs" US President Donald Trump says BRICS is 'dead' after warning member countries over dollar and tariff . . . . (Video: news agency ANI) pic.twitter.com/JMPto1chlj — WION (@WIONews) February 13, 2025 Trump reiterated his position, doubling down on his claim that any move to challenge the US dollar's dominance would lead to severe economic repercussions for BRICS members. "Brics is dead the minute I mentioned that if they mess with the dollar, they will get 100% tariffs. Brics is dead," he repeated. Also read | Elon Musk wants to do business in India? Trump says 'it's very hard due of high tariffs' His comments directly addressed concerns that Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa might be exploring the creation of a unified currency, a move that some experts believe could weaken the dollar's global standing. Trump, however, made it clear that such ambitions would come at a steep price. "If any trading gets through, it’ll be 100% tariff, at least," he warned, signalling that his administration would take a hardline approach to any perceived threats to US financial supremacy. Also read | Indian PM Narendra Modi meets US President Donald Trump at White House Trump's hardline stance came just hours ahead of his scheduled meeting with Indian PM Modi. His rhetoric showed no restraint, as Trump highlighted his administration's commitment to imposing strict trade measures and announced "reciprocal tariffs" that could target both allies and rivals. "Today is the big one: reciprocal tariffs," Trump wrote on his social media platform ahead of the announcement. "They charge us a tax or tariff, and we charge them the exact tax or tariff. Very simple," he announced. (With inputs from agencies)

'BRICS is dead', declares Trump; threatens bloc with 100 pc tariffs over dollar challenge

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Feb 13) at the White House.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>The US president said that he expects "wonderful trade deals" with India, right after announcing "reciprocal tariffs".</p>
<p>"We're going to make some wonderful trade deals for India and the US," Trump said as he opened talks with Modi at the White House.</p>
<p>This marks the first meeting between both leaders after Trump returned to the Oval Office last month.&nbsp;</p>
<p>PM Modi said that the events both the leaders were part of in Ahmedabad ("Namaste Trump") and in Houston ("Howdy Modi"), showed their friendship and mutual cooperation.&nbsp;</p>
<p>He further said whenever we hear about Trump, we hear about "Make America Great Again". "Similarly in India, we have the resolve of 1.4 billion people, the US is the world's oldest democracy and India is the world's largest democracy. This is why whenever we meet, we won't be 1+1 equals 2 but 1+1 equals 11, which showcases our strength and resolve in working together."</p>
<p>The Indian delegation including External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, NSA Ajit Doval and India's Ambassador to the US Vinay Mohan Kwatra, arrived at the White House soon after PM Modi.</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-us-visit-live-updates-president-trump-to-host-dinner-for-indian-pm-at-white-house-full-schedule-8718153">PM Modi US visit Live: Bilateral talks betwee Indian PM and US President Trump begin at White House</a></strong></p>
<p>Before his arrival, ceremonial guards gathered at the premises of the White House to welcome PM Modi.</p>
<p>The Indian leader began his day by meeting US National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, Indian-American Vivek Ramaswamy and Tesla CEO Elon Musk.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Ramaswamy, after meeting Modi, said that it was "a pleasure and honour to welcome PM Modi. Hope he has a wonderful visit and it was a great meeting."</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musks-kids-take-the-limelight-as-he-meets-pm-modi-in-us-see-pics-here-8719191">Elon Musk's kids take the limelight as he meets PM Modi in US | See pics HERE</a></strong></p>
<p>After meeting with Elon Musk, PM Modi posted, "Had a very good meeting with Elon Musk in Washington DC. We discussed various issues, including those he is passionate about such as space, mobility, technology and innovation. I talked about India&rsquo;s efforts towards reform and furthering &lsquo;Minimum Government, Maximum Governance."</p>
<p>PM Modi called US NSA Waltz a "great friend of India", adding that defence, technology and security are important aspects of India-USA ties and we had a wonderful discussion around these issues.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slams-canada-says-has-been-very-bad-to-us-on-trade-repeats-talk-of-it-becoming-51st-us-state-8719244">Trump slams Canada, says 'has been very bad to us on trade,' repeats talk of it becoming 51st US state</a></strong></p>
<p>"There is strong potential for cooperation in sectors like AI, semiconductors, space and more," PM Modi added.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Moreover, a mobile billboard advertising truck in Washington, DC displayed pictures ahead of the meeting between PM Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump.</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-wants-to-do-business-in-india-trump-says-its-very-hard-due-of-high-tariffs-8719225">Elon Musk wants to do business in India? Trump says 'it's very hard due of high tariffs'</a></strong></p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

World: The Indian delegation including EAM S Jaishankar, NSA Ajit Doval and India's Ambassador to the US Vinay Mohan Kwatra, arrived at the White House soon after PM Modi.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Feb 13) at the White House. The US president said that he expects "wonderful trade deals" with India, right after announcing "reciprocal tariffs". "We're going to make some wonderful trade deals for India and the US," Trump said as he opened talks with Modi at the White House. This marks the first meeting between both leaders after Trump returned to the Oval Office last month. PM Modi said that the events both the leaders were part of in Ahmedabad ("Namaste Trump") and in Houston ("Howdy Modi"), showed their friendship and mutual cooperation. He further said whenever we hear about Trump, we hear about "Make America Great Again". "Similarly in India, we have the resolve of 1.4 billion people, the US is the world's oldest democracy and India is the world's largest democracy. This is why whenever we meet, we won't be 1+1 equals 2 but 1+1 equals 11, which showcases our strength and resolve in working together." The Indian delegation including External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, NSA Ajit Doval and India's Ambassador to the US Vinay Mohan Kwatra, arrived at the White House soon after PM Modi. Also read: PM Modi US visit Live: Bilateral talks betwee Indian PM and US President Trump begin at White House Before his arrival, ceremonial guards gathered at the premises of the White House to welcome PM Modi. The Indian leader began his day by meeting US National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, Indian-American Vivek Ramaswamy and Tesla CEO Elon Musk. Ramaswamy, after meeting Modi, said that it was "a pleasure and honour to welcome PM Modi. Hope he has a wonderful visit and it was a great meeting." Also read: Elon Musk's kids take the limelight as he meets PM Modi in US | See pics HERE After meeting with Elon Musk, PM Modi posted, "Had a very good meeting with Elon Musk in Washington DC. We discussed various issues, including those he is passionate about such as space, mobility, technology and innovation. I talked about India’s efforts towards reform and furthering ‘Minimum Government, Maximum Governance." PM Modi called US NSA Waltz a "great friend of India", adding that defence, technology and security are important aspects of India-USA ties and we had a wonderful discussion around these issues. Also read: Trump slams Canada, says 'has been very bad to us on trade,' repeats talk of it becoming 51st US state "There is strong potential for cooperation in sectors like AI, semiconductors, space and more," PM Modi added. Moreover, a mobile billboard advertising truck in Washington, DC displayed pictures ahead of the meeting between PM Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump. Also read: Elon Musk wants to do business in India? Trump says 'it's very hard due of high tariffs' (With inputs from agencies)

After imposing reciprocal tariffs, Trump says he expects 'wonderful trade deals’ with India

<p>US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Feb 13) took aim at Canada as he intensified his trade war strategy, signing plans for sweeping "reciprocal tariffs".</p>
<h2><strong>Trump on Canada</strong></h2>
<p>While signing the executive action dubbed the "Fair and Reciprocal Plan," Trump called Canada's trade policies unfair and suggested that the country has been taking advantage of US military protection while keeping its own defence spending low.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-wants-to-do-business-in-india-trump-says-its-very-hard-due-of-high-tariffs-8719225">Elon Musk wants to do business in India? Trump says 'it's very hard due of high tariffs'</a></strong></p>
<p>"...Canada has been very bad to us on trade," Trump remarked, as he announced, "But now Canada is going to have to start paying up".</p>
<p>Trump remarked that "Canada has been tough on the military because they have a very low military cost. They think we are going to protect them with our military, which is unfair."</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m73u9gwt-k7x33aim-m1ang7uh">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Donald Trump announces reciprocal tariffs to target allies and adversaries, says EU 'absolutely brutal' on trade<br><br>Why would we pay $200 billion per year in subsidies when they are not a state? Canada could be a serious contender to be our 51st state, says Trump <a href="https://t.co/XJtG3amaW0">pic.twitter.com/XJtG3amaW0</a></p>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1890127652620472512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p>He then made a provocative statement, once again reiterating his previous proposal, said: "I think Canada is going to be a very serious contender to be our 51st state."</p>
<h2><strong>Trump's 'reciprocal tariffs'</strong></h2>
<p>The US president's tariffs as per reports could target both allies and rivals. The move economists warn may stoke inflation and disrupt global trade.</p>
<p>Speaking from the Oval Office on Thursday, Trump justified the move by claiming that US allies have been "worse than our enemies" when it comes to trade. He singled out the European Union as being "absolutely brutal" in its dealings with Washington.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-has-more-than-nearly-any-other-country-trump-imposes-reciprocal-tariffs-ahead-of-meeting-pm-modi-8719155">'India has more than nearly any other country': Trump imposes 'reciprocal tariffs' ahead of meeting with PM Modi</a></strong></p>
<p>The new tariffs will be structured on a country-by-country basis, with US trade officials tailoring duties to match levies imposed on American goods.&nbsp;</p>
<p>A White House official, speaking to AFP on condition of anonymity, said that Washington would first examine economies with which the United States has the largest deficits or "most egregious trade practices."</p>
<p>He said that the levies would not be sweeping, rather they would be tailored. For this, taxes the US sees as "discriminatory", such as value-added taxes (VATs), would be considered.</p>
<p>"This should be a matter of weeks, in a few months, but not much longer than that," the official added.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

World News | Explore how President Trump criticizes Canada's trade policies, claiming they exploit US military protection, as he signs the Fair and Reciprocal Plan to impose tariffs.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Feb 13) took aim at Canada as he intensified his trade war strategy, signing plans for sweeping "reciprocal tariffs". Trump on Canada While signing the executive action dubbed the "Fair and Reciprocal Plan," Trump called Canada's trade policies unfair and suggested that the country has been taking advantage of US military protection while keeping its own defence spending low. Also read | Elon Musk wants to do business in India? Trump says 'it's very hard due of high tariffs' "...Canada has been very bad to us on trade," Trump remarked, as he announced, "But now Canada is going to have to start paying up". Trump remarked that "Canada has been tough on the military because they have a very low military cost. They think we are going to protect them with our military, which is unfair." Donald Trump announces reciprocal tariffs to target allies and adversaries, says EU 'absolutely brutal' on trade Why would we pay $200 billion per year in subsidies when they are not a state? Canada could be a serious contender to be our 51st state, says Trump pic.twitter.com/XJtG3amaW0 — WION (@WIONews) February 13, 2025 He then made a provocative statement, once again reiterating his previous proposal, said: "I think Canada is going to be a very serious contender to be our 51st state." Trump's 'reciprocal tariffs' The US president's tariffs as per reports could target both allies and rivals. The move economists warn may stoke inflation and disrupt global trade. Speaking from the Oval Office on Thursday, Trump justified the move by claiming that US allies have been "worse than our enemies" when it comes to trade. He singled out the European Union as being "absolutely brutal" in its dealings with Washington. Also read | 'India has more than nearly any other country': Trump imposes 'reciprocal tariffs' ahead of meeting with PM Modi The new tariffs will be structured on a country-by-country basis, with US trade officials tailoring duties to match levies imposed on American goods. A White House official, speaking to AFP on condition of anonymity, said that Washington would first examine economies with which the United States has the largest deficits or "most egregious trade practices." He said that the levies would not be sweeping, rather they would be tailored. For this, taxes the US sees as "discriminatory", such as value-added taxes (VATs), would be considered. "This should be a matter of weeks, in a few months, but not much longer than that," the official added. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump calls Canada's trade policies unfair, repeats talk of it becoming 51st US state

<p>US President Donald Trump believes Elon Musk met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi because he wanted to do business in India.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Trump, after announcing "reciprocal tariffs" on Thursday (Feb 13) was answering the questions of reporters.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The US president stressed that "India is a very hard place to do business in because of the tariffs".&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musks-kids-take-the-limelight-as-he-meets-pm-modi-in-us-see-pics-here-8719191">Elon Musk's kids take the limelight as he meets PM Modi in US | See pics HERE</a></strong></p>
<p>"They have the highest tariffs...It's a hard place to do business. I would imagine he met possibly because he is running a company, he is doing this as something that he has felt strongly about for a long time," Trump said.&nbsp;</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Journalist: Did Elon Musk meet with Prime Minister Modi as an American CEO, or as a representative of the US govt?<br><br>President Trump: I don&rsquo;t know. They met, and I assume he wants to do business in India. But India is a very hard place to do business in because of the tariffs... <a href="https://t.co/rAsyUOfTRm">pic.twitter.com/rAsyUOfTRm</a></p>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1890130993694023919?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p>Trump also announced reciprocal tariffs the same day before his meeting with Indian PM Modi.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In an escalation on trade issues, Trump further said that whatever countries charge the US, America will charge the same, "no more, no less".&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-us-visit-live-updates-president-trump-to-host-dinner-for-indian-pm-at-white-house-full-schedule-8718153">PM Modi US visit Live: Trump imposes 'reciprocal tariffs', says 'India has the most'</a></strong></p>
<p>For example, if India imposes a 25 per cent tariff on US autos, Washington will have a 25 per cent tariff as well on imports of autos from India, explained a Nomura report this week.</p>
<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Tesla CEO Elon Musk on Thursday (Feb 13) at the Blair House in Washington DC.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Musk, who heads the Donald Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), was accompanied by his three children. He also presented PM Modi with a special gift before the discussion.</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-has-more-than-nearly-any-other-country-trump-imposes-reciprocal-tariffs-ahead-of-meeting-pm-modi-8719155">'India has more than nearly any other country': Trump imposes 'reciprocal tariffs' ahead of meeting with PM Modi</a></strong></p>
<p>Taking to his official X handle, PM Modi said that he had a good meeting with Musk, where he discussed issues such as space, mobility, technology, and innovation.</p>
<p>"Had a very good meeting with Elon Musk in Washington DC. We discussed various issues, including those he is passionate about such as space, mobility, technology and innovation. I talked about India&rsquo;s efforts towards reform and furthering &lsquo;Minimum Government, Maximum Governance,&rsquo;" PM Modi wrote on X.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-modi-to-discuss-defence-trade-and-critical-technologies-key-announcements-expected-8719059">Trump, Modi to discuss defence, trade, and critical technologies; key announcements expected</a></strong></p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

World: "They have the highest tariffs. It's a hard place to do business. I would imagine he met possibly because he is running a company," Trump said.

US President Donald Trump believes Elon Musk met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi because he wanted to do business in India. Trump, after announcing "reciprocal tariffs" on Thursday (Feb 13) was answering the questions of reporters. The US president stressed that "India is a very hard place to do business in because of the tariffs". Also read: Elon Musk's kids take the limelight as he meets PM Modi in US | See pics HERE "They have the highest tariffs...It's a hard place to do business. I would imagine he met possibly because he is running a company, he is doing this as something that he has felt strongly about for a long time," Trump said. Journalist: Did Elon Musk meet with Prime Minister Modi as an American CEO, or as a representative of the US govt? President Trump: I don’t know. They met, and I assume he wants to do business in India. But India is a very hard place to do business in because of the tariffs... pic.twitter.com/rAsyUOfTRm — WION (@WIONews) February 13, 2025 Trump also announced reciprocal tariffs the same day before his meeting with Indian PM Modi. In an escalation on trade issues, Trump further said that whatever countries charge the US, America will charge the same, "no more, no less". Also read: PM Modi US visit Live: Trump imposes 'reciprocal tariffs', says 'India has the most' For example, if India imposes a 25 per cent tariff on US autos, Washington will have a 25 per cent tariff as well on imports of autos from India, explained a Nomura report this week. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Tesla CEO Elon Musk on Thursday (Feb 13) at the Blair House in Washington DC. Musk, who heads the Donald Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), was accompanied by his three children. He also presented PM Modi with a special gift before the discussion. Also read: 'India has more than nearly any other country': Trump imposes 'reciprocal tariffs' ahead of meeting with PM Modi Taking to his official X handle, PM Modi said that he had a good meeting with Musk, where he discussed issues such as space, mobility, technology, and innovation. "Had a very good meeting with Elon Musk in Washington DC. We discussed various issues, including those he is passionate about such as space, mobility, technology and innovation. I talked about India’s efforts towards reform and furthering ‘Minimum Government, Maximum Governance,’" PM Modi wrote on X. Also read: Trump, Modi to discuss defence, trade, and critical technologies; key announcements expected (With inputs from agencies)

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