Donald Trump is changing the game as tech giants are falling in line and the balance of power shifts. The U.S. president has secured a $25 million settlement from Meta, marking an unprecedented victory over one of Big Tech's most formidable players.

Tech giants soften stance as Trump regains power

US President Donald Trump expresses sorrow after confirming that there are no survivors in the tragic plane crash in Washington DC.

Donald Trump On Washington Plane Crash: ‘there are sadly no survivors’

An American Airlines plane carrying 60 passengers and four crew members collided with an army helicopter on Thursday (Jan 30) while landing at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in the US.&nbsp;
As the recovery operation continued, the fire chief said that they are not expecting any survivors.&nbsp;
John Donnelly, the Fire and Emergency Medical Services Chief, in Washington, DC said that they are switching from a rescue operation to a recovery operation.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, 27 bodies have been recovered from the plane, and one from the helicopter.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-didnt-helicopter-go-up-or-down-trump-says-the-crash-should-have-been-prevented-8674669" rel="dofollow">'Why didn't helicopter go up or down': Trump says the crash 'should have been prevented'</a>
The plane crashed in the Potomac River after the collision. Search and rescue teams immediately started working on rescuing people, however, nobody was rescued.&nbsp;
The crash is the first fatal commercial plane crash in the US since 2009, when a Bombardier HDC-8 propeller plane went down near Buffalo, New York. The incident led to loss of 49 lives, including 45 passengers and four crew members.&nbsp;
<h2>What happened and when?&nbsp;</h2>
A PSA Airlines jet operating as American Airlines 5342 collided with a US Army helicopter at around 9:00 pm local time on Wednesday, as it approached Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) stated.&nbsp;
The plane, a Bombardier CRJ700 departed from Wichita, Kansas, carrying 64 people onboard.&nbsp;
The helicopter involved in the crash was a Sikorsky Black Hawk army helicopter that took off from Fort Belvoir in Virginia, the Pentagon said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-washington-dc-plane-crash-live-updates-images-videos-news-8673252" rel="dofollow">Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: Trump to speak on mid-air collision after official says 'no survivors expected'</a>
Before the scheduled landing, air traffic controllers (ATC) asked the pilots if they could land on Runway 33. The flight-tracking sites showed that the pilots adjusted their flight path to align with the request.&nbsp;
Also, just less than 30 seconds before the crash, an ATC asked the army helicopter if it could see the arriving plane.&nbsp;
&ldquo;PAT25 [army helicopter], do you have a CRJ [American Airlines plane] in sight? PAT25, pass behind the CRJ,&rdquo; an air traffic controller said at 8:47 pm (ET on Wednesday, 01:47 GMT on Thursday).
Later, as it crashed, air traffic controllers were heard saying, Crash, crash, crash, this is an alert three.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I just saw a fireball and then it was just gone. I haven&rsquo;t seen anything since they hit the river. But it was a CRJ and a helicopter that hit,&rdquo; another controller said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apparent-air-crash-in-potomac-river-washington-police-8669725" rel="dofollow">VIDEO | White House says passenger jet collided midair with helicopter over Washington</a>
As it collided, the passenger plane broke into multiple pieces and sunk several feet into the river. Meanwhile, the helicopter ended up upside down on the water.&nbsp;
Notably, three US soldiers were on board the helicopter, Washington DC Mayor Muriel Bowser said.&nbsp;
According to an official, the helicopter was on a training flight and belonged to B Company, 12th Aviation Battalion from Fort Belvoir in Virginia.
The FAA, along with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will be investigating the incident.&nbsp;
<h2>How many people affected?&nbsp;</h2>
The officials don't believe that there are any survivors from the crash, DC Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly said during a press briefing on Thursday.&nbsp;
He added that 28 bodies have been recovered so far, out of which 27 are from the plane and one from the helicopter.&nbsp;
US Figure Skating said "Several members of our skating community were sadly aboard" the flight.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-latest-news-donald-trump-atc-us-transportation-secretary-sean-duffy-it-was-preventable-8675641" rel="dofollow">'Helicopter knew there was a plane': Trump, US transportation secretary say deadly Washington DC crash was &lsquo;preventable&rsquo;</a>
It further said that the group also included athletes, coaches, and family members who were returning home from a development camp in Kansas.&nbsp;
Moreover, Russian citizens were also onboard the plane, as confirmed by the Kremlin. &ldquo;There were other of our fellow citizens on board. It&rsquo;s bad news today from Washington. We are sorry and send our condolences to families and friends,&rdquo; Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.&nbsp;
<h2>Trump said 'crash was preventable'</h2>
US President Donald Trump called the crash a "terrible accident", saying that he was monitoring the situation closely.&nbsp;
He further took to Truth Social, raising questions as he said the incident should have been prevented.&nbsp;
"This is a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented. NOT GOOD!!!," he posted.&nbsp;
<h2>Trump blames Biden, Obama for hiring 'mediocre staff'</h2>
Trump accused former presidents Joe Biden and Barack Obama of lowering air safety standards, saying that Obama allegedly hired "mediocre" staff for air traffic control jobs that require "superior intelligence".
He continued to take a swipe at the former presidents, saying that as he took office in 2016, he changed it, adding that Biden, however, after taking over, changed them back to "lower than before".
&ldquo;We must have only the highest standards for those who work in our aviation system,&rdquo; Trump said. &ldquo;I changed the Obama standards from very mediocre at best to extraordinary.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World: The plane crashed in the Potomac River after the collision. Search and rescue teams immediately started working on rescuing people, however, nobody could be rescued.

An American Airlines plane carrying 60 passengers and four crew members collided with an army helicopter on Thursday (Jan 30) while landing at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in the US. As the recovery operation continued, the fire chief said that they are not expecting any survivors. John Donnelly, the Fire and Emergency Medical Services Chief, in Washington, DC said that they are switching from a rescue operation to a recovery operation. Meanwhile, 27 bodies have been recovered from the plane, and one from the helicopter. Also read: 'Why didn't helicopter go up or down': Trump says the crash 'should have been prevented' The plane crashed in the Potomac River after the collision. Search and rescue teams immediately started working on rescuing people, however, nobody was rescued. The crash is the first fatal commercial plane crash in the US since 2009, when a Bombardier HDC-8 propeller plane went down near Buffalo, New York. The incident led to loss of 49 lives, including 45 passengers and four crew members. What happened and when? A PSA Airlines jet operating as American Airlines 5342 collided with a US Army helicopter at around 9:00 pm local time on Wednesday, as it approached Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) stated. The plane, a Bombardier CRJ700 departed from Wichita, Kansas, carrying 64 people onboard. The helicopter involved in the crash was a Sikorsky Black Hawk army helicopter that took off from Fort Belvoir in Virginia, the Pentagon said. Also read: Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: Trump to speak on mid-air collision after official says 'no survivors expected' Before the scheduled landing, air traffic controllers (ATC) asked the pilots if they could land on Runway 33. The flight-tracking sites showed that the pilots adjusted their flight path to align with the request. Also, just less than 30 seconds before the crash, an ATC asked the army helicopter if it could see the arriving plane. “PAT25 [army helicopter], do you have a CRJ [American Airlines plane] in sight? PAT25, pass behind the CRJ,” an air traffic controller said at 8:47 pm (ET on Wednesday, 01:47 GMT on Thursday). Later, as it crashed, air traffic controllers were heard saying, Crash, crash, crash, this is an alert three. “I just saw a fireball and then it was just gone. I haven’t seen anything since they hit the river. But it was a CRJ and a helicopter that hit,” another controller said. Also read: VIDEO | White House says passenger jet collided midair with helicopter over Washington As it collided, the passenger plane broke into multiple pieces and sunk several feet into the river. Meanwhile, the helicopter ended up upside down on the water. Notably, three US soldiers were on board the helicopter, Washington DC Mayor Muriel Bowser said. According to an official, the helicopter was on a training flight and belonged to B Company, 12th Aviation Battalion from Fort Belvoir in Virginia. The FAA, along with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will be investigating the incident. How many people affected? The officials don't believe that there are any survivors from the crash, DC Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly said during a press briefing on Thursday. He added that 28 bodies have been recovered so far, out of which 27 are from the plane and one from the helicopter. US Figure Skating said "Several members of our skating community were sadly aboard" the flight. Also read: 'Helicopter knew there was a plane': Trump, US transportation secretary say deadly Washington DC crash was ‘preventable’ It further said that the group also included athletes, coaches, and family members who were returning home from a development camp in Kansas. Moreover, Russian citizens were also onboard the plane, as confirmed by the Kremlin. “There were other of our fellow citizens on board. It’s bad news today from Washington. We are sorry and send our condolences to families and friends,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. Trump said 'crash was preventable' US President Donald Trump called the crash a "terrible accident", saying that he was monitoring the situation closely. He further took to Truth Social, raising questions as he said the incident should have been prevented. "This is a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented. NOT GOOD!!!," he posted. Trump blames Biden, Obama for hiring 'mediocre staff' Trump accused former presidents Joe Biden and Barack Obama of lowering air safety standards, saying that Obama allegedly hired "mediocre" staff for air traffic control jobs that require "superior intelligence". He continued to take a swipe at the former presidents, saying that as he took office in 2016, he changed it, adding that Biden, however, after taking over, changed them back to "lower than before". “We must have only the highest standards for those who work in our aviation system,” Trump said. “I changed the Obama standards from very mediocre at best to extraordinary.” (With inputs from agencies)

What we know about Washington DC plane crash, deadliest US air tragedy in nearly 24 years

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jan 30) said that the efforts have shifted to a recovery mission, adding that "sadly, there are no survivors."
Trump then accused former presidents Joe Biden and Barack Obama of lowering air safety standards, saying that Obama allegedly hired "mediocre" staff for air traffic control jobs that require "superior intelligence".&nbsp;
He continued to take a swipe at the former presidents, saying that as he took the office in 2016, he changed it, adding that Biden, however, after taking over, changed them back to "lower than before".&nbsp;
&ldquo;Their policy was horrible,&rdquo; the president said, &ldquo;and their politics was even worse.&rdquo;
&ldquo;We must have only the highest standards for those who work in our aviation system,&rdquo; Trump said. &ldquo;I changed the Obama standards from very mediocre at best to extraordinary.&rdquo;
He added, "You remember that. Only the highest aptitude. They have to be the highest intellect, and psychologically superior people were allowed to qualify for air traffic controllers. That was not so prior to getting there.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-latest-news-donald-trump-atc-us-transportation-secretary-sean-duffy-it-was-preventable-8675641" rel="dofollow">'Helicopter knew there was a plane': Trump, US transportation secretary say deadly Washington DC crash was &lsquo;preventable&rsquo;</a>
"The work has now shifted to a recovery mission. Sadly, there are no survivors,&rdquo; Donald Trump said in a press briefing on the mid-air <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/washington-plane-crash" rel="dofollow">helicopter crash</a>.&nbsp;
Before beginning the briefing, Trump took a moment of silence for the victims and their families, bowing his head.&nbsp;
Trump further blamed diversity hires for lowering air safety standards.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-no-survivors-expected-says-fire-chief-as-rescue-turns-to-recovery-8675409" rel="dofollow">Washington DC plane crash: &lsquo;No survivors expected,&rsquo; says fire chief as rescue turns to recovery</a>
<h2>'Dark and excruciating night'</h2>
He said, "This was a dark and excruciating night in our nation&rsquo;s capital and in our nation&rsquo;s history, and a tragedy of terrible proportions."
Trump said that they have some very strong opinions and ideas, and will find out what led to this deadly disaster.&nbsp;
"We have some pretty good ideas&hellip; we&rsquo;ll find out how this disaster occurred and we&rsquo;ll ensure that nothing like this ever happens again,&rdquo; he said, adding, &ldquo;The FAA and the NTSB and the US military will be carrying out a systematic and comprehensive investigation."
<h2>Trump appoints acting FAA commissioner</h2>
Trump announced that former chief operating officer of the National Business Aviation Association, Chris Rocheleau, will serve as the Federal Aviation Administration&rsquo;s acting commissioner.&nbsp;
Trump called Rocheleau "highly respected" during his remarks from the White House press briefing room.&nbsp;
An American Airlines plane carrying 60 passengers and four crew members collided with an army helicopter on Thursday (Jan 30) while landing at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in the US.&nbsp;
John Donnelly, the Fire and Emergency Medical Services Chief, in Washington, DC, said that they have switched from a rescue operation to a recovery operation.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, 27 bodies have been recovered from the plane and one from the helicopter.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-didnt-helicopter-go-up-or-down-trump-says-the-crash-should-have-been-prevented-8674669" rel="dofollow">'Why didn't helicopter go up or down': Trump says the crash 'should have been prevented'</a>
The plane crashed in the Potomac River after the collision. Search and rescue teams immediately started working on rescuing people however, nobody could be rescued.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World: "The work has now shifted to a recovery mission. Sadly, there are no survivors,” Donald Trump said in a press briefing on the mid-air helicopter crash. 

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jan 30) said that the efforts have shifted to a recovery mission, adding that "sadly, there are no survivors." Trump then accused former presidents Joe Biden and Barack Obama of lowering air safety standards, saying that Obama allegedly hired "mediocre" staff for air traffic control jobs that require "superior intelligence". He continued to take a swipe at the former presidents, saying that as he took the office in 2016, he changed it, adding that Biden, however, after taking over, changed them back to "lower than before". “Their policy was horrible,” the president said, “and their politics was even worse.” “We must have only the highest standards for those who work in our aviation system,” Trump said. “I changed the Obama standards from very mediocre at best to extraordinary.” He added, "You remember that. Only the highest aptitude. They have to be the highest intellect, and psychologically superior people were allowed to qualify for air traffic controllers. That was not so prior to getting there.” Also read: 'Helicopter knew there was a plane': Trump, US transportation secretary say deadly Washington DC crash was ‘preventable’ "The work has now shifted to a recovery mission. Sadly, there are no survivors,” Donald Trump said in a press briefing on the mid-air helicopter crash. Before beginning the briefing, Trump took a moment of silence for the victims and their families, bowing his head. Trump further blamed diversity hires for lowering air safety standards. Also read: Washington DC plane crash: ‘No survivors expected,’ says fire chief as rescue turns to recovery 'Dark and excruciating night' He said, "This was a dark and excruciating night in our nation’s capital and in our nation’s history, and a tragedy of terrible proportions." Trump said that they have some very strong opinions and ideas, and will find out what led to this deadly disaster. "We have some pretty good ideas… we’ll find out how this disaster occurred and we’ll ensure that nothing like this ever happens again,” he said, adding, “The FAA and the NTSB and the US military will be carrying out a systematic and comprehensive investigation." Trump appoints acting FAA commissioner Trump announced that former chief operating officer of the National Business Aviation Association, Chris Rocheleau, will serve as the Federal Aviation Administration’s acting commissioner. Trump called Rocheleau "highly respected" during his remarks from the White House press briefing room. An American Airlines plane carrying 60 passengers and four crew members collided with an army helicopter on Thursday (Jan 30) while landing at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in the US. John Donnelly, the Fire and Emergency Medical Services Chief, in Washington, DC, said that they have switched from a rescue operation to a recovery operation. Meanwhile, 27 bodies have been recovered from the plane and one from the helicopter. Also read: 'Why didn't helicopter go up or down': Trump says the crash 'should have been prevented' The plane crashed in the Potomac River after the collision. Search and rescue teams immediately started working on rescuing people however, nobody could be rescued. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump raps Biden, Obama for hiring 'mediocre staff' after Washington DC plane crash, confirms 'no survivors'

US President Donald Trump, in his inauguration speech on January 20, said his administration is planning to name the "Gulf of Mexico" to the "Gulf of America". He also said the plan includes changing the name of the North America's highest peak, Denali, to Mount McKinley.&nbsp;
Google has now said that it will show the name of both places as "Gulf of America" and "Mount McKinley" if and when the Trump administration makes the plan official.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-to-write-to-google-for-changing-gulf-of-mexico-to-gulf-of-america-on-its-maps-8669763">Mexico to write to Google for changing Gulf of Mexico to 'Gulf of America' on its maps</a>
In a post on the social media platform X Monday (Jan 27), Google said applying name changes, when it becomes official in government records, has been a "longstanding practice" by the organisation. It was referring to the Geographic Names Information System (GNIS).
"When that happens, we will update Google Maps in the US quickly to show Mount McKinley and Gulf of America," the post said.&nbsp;
<h2>When will it happen?&nbsp;</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-maps-to-rename-gulf-of-mexico-as-gulf-of-america-for-us-users-8662129">Google Maps to rename Gulf of Mexico as &lsquo;Gulf of America&rsquo; for US users</a>
Donald Trump's administration said on January 24 that it has already renamed the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. Trump signed multiple executive orders on his first day in the White House, including one to rename the Alaskan Mountain.
The US Department has said the process of implementing the new names is in continuation - but the official maps of the locations by the government are not done yet.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-officially-renames-gulf-of-mexico-to-gulf-of-america-in-us-will-it-catch-on-internationally-8652331">Trump officially renames Gulf of Mexico to 'Gulf of America' in US: Will it catch on internationally?</a>
Google said as soon as the government changes the name officially, the new names will be updated.&nbsp;
<h2>Will names change for everyone?&nbsp;</h2>
In its statement, Google added that "when official names vary between countries, Maps users see their official local name. Everyone in the rest of the world sees both names. That applies here, too."
This means that people in the United States will see the name "Gulf of America" while those in Mexico will see "Gulf of Mexico."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-trump-inauguration-trump-20-gulf-of-mexico-gofo-of-america-8642297">Explained: Trump wants to rename Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America. Can he do that?</a>
Google users in the rest of the world will see both names while using Google Maps, but one name will be in a bracket. Although Google has not commented on the order of names, a report by The New York Times said while quoting sources that "Gulf of Mexico" would come first.&nbsp;
<h3>How Google deals with disputed locations?&nbsp;</h3>
Around 1 million people across the world use Google Maps and it is the world's most-used navigation and mapping app.&nbsp;
As per Google's statement, when an area is in a dispute over the name, it shows the name based on the user's location.&nbsp;
In a similar case, there is a body of water known as a gulf between Iran and Saudi Arabia. It is known as the Persian Gulf or Arabian Gulf.&nbsp; In 2012, Iran threatened Google, "If Google does not correct its mistake as soon as possible, we will file an official complaint against Google." This was after Google did not name the body of water on its map.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-hillary-clinton-laughs-as-trump-says-gulf-of-mexico-will-be-renamed-during-inaugural-speech-8640118">Watch: Hillary Clinton laughs as Trump says Gulf of Mexico will be renamed during inaugural speech</a>
That time Google rejected the allegations, saying it had never labelled the body of water. Now, it displays both names based on the location of the user.&nbsp;
When it comes to border disputes, Google says, "Undisputed international boundaries, like the one between the United States and Canada, are shown as a solid grey line. Treaty and provisional boundaries, which are temporary, are displayed as a dashed grey line."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-republican-marjorie-green-promises-to-introduce-bill-renaming-gulf-of-mexico-to-gulf-of-america-asap-8601255">US Republican Marjorie Green promises to introduce bill renaming Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America 'ASAP'</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The US Department has said the process of implementing the new names is in continuation - but the official maps of the locations by the government are not done yet. 

US President Donald Trump, in his inauguration speech on January 20, said his administration is planning to name the "Gulf of Mexico" to the "Gulf of America". He also said the plan includes changing the name of the North America's highest peak, Denali, to Mount McKinley. Google has now said that it will show the name of both places as "Gulf of America" and "Mount McKinley" if and when the Trump administration makes the plan official. Also read: Mexico to write to Google for changing Gulf of Mexico to 'Gulf of America' on its maps In a post on the social media platform X Monday (Jan 27), Google said applying name changes, when it becomes official in government records, has been a "longstanding practice" by the organisation. It was referring to the Geographic Names Information System (GNIS). "When that happens, we will update Google Maps in the US quickly to show Mount McKinley and Gulf of America," the post said. When will it happen? Also read: Google Maps to rename Gulf of Mexico as ‘Gulf of America’ for US users Donald Trump's administration said on January 24 that it has already renamed the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. Trump signed multiple executive orders on his first day in the White House, including one to rename the Alaskan Mountain. The US Department has said the process of implementing the new names is in continuation - but the official maps of the locations by the government are not done yet. Also read: Trump officially renames Gulf of Mexico to 'Gulf of America' in US: Will it catch on internationally? Google said as soon as the government changes the name officially, the new names will be updated. Will names change for everyone? In its statement, Google added that "when official names vary between countries, Maps users see their official local name. Everyone in the rest of the world sees both names. That applies here, too." This means that people in the United States will see the name "Gulf of America" while those in Mexico will see "Gulf of Mexico." Also read: Explained: Trump wants to rename Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America. Can he do that? Google users in the rest of the world will see both names while using Google Maps, but one name will be in a bracket. Although Google has not commented on the order of names, a report by The New York Times said while quoting sources that "Gulf of Mexico" would come first. How Google deals with disputed locations? Around 1 million people across the world use Google Maps and it is the world's most-used navigation and mapping app. As per Google's statement, when an area is in a dispute over the name, it shows the name based on the user's location. In a similar case, there is a body of water known as a gulf between Iran and Saudi Arabia. It is known as the Persian Gulf or Arabian Gulf. In 2012, Iran threatened Google, "If Google does not correct its mistake as soon as possible, we will file an official complaint against Google." This was after Google did not name the body of water on its map. Also read: Watch: Hillary Clinton laughs as Trump says Gulf of Mexico will be renamed during inaugural speech That time Google rejected the allegations, saying it had never labelled the body of water. Now, it displays both names based on the location of the user. When it comes to border disputes, Google says, "Undisputed international boundaries, like the one between the United States and Canada, are shown as a solid grey line. Treaty and provisional boundaries, which are temporary, are displayed as a dashed grey line." Also read: US Republican Marjorie Green promises to introduce bill renaming Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America 'ASAP' (With inputs from agencies)

'Gulf of America' or 'Gulf of Mexico': How Google deals with controversial geography

The White House has insisted that Donald Trump's plan to freeze federal funding remains in full force. Watch in for more details!

Trump's Funding Freeze: Federal workers must turn up in person or be terminated

Hours after the deadly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/washington-plane-crash" rel="dofollow">helicopter and aeroplane collision and crash</a> in Washington, US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jan 30) questioned the actions of both the helicopter crew and air traffic controllers, and said, "Why didn't the helicopter go up or down", stressing that it was a "CLEAR NIGHT".
The flight, carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, collided with the US Army helicopter before crashing into the Potomac River. The bodies of 19 people have been recovered.
Trump took to his Truth Social account and questioned why the helicopter did not avoid the plane.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/washington-dc-plane-crash-us-and-russian-figure-skaters-believed-to-be-onboard-8674484" rel="dofollow">Washington DC Plane Crash: US and Russian figure skaters believed to be aboard flight</a>
"The airplane was on a perfect and routine line of approach to the airport. The helicopter was going straight at the airplane for an extended period of time. It is a CLEAR NIGHT, the lights on the plane were blazing, why didn&rsquo;t the helicopter go up or down, or turn. Why didn&rsquo;t the control tower tell the helicopter what to do instead of asking if they saw the plane?," Trump posted.&nbsp;
The US president further said that the incident should have been avoided.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-washington-dc-plane-crash-live-updates-images-videos-news-8673252" rel="dofollow">Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: Multiple bodies recovered from Washington plane crash site</a>
<h2>'Not good'</h2>
"This is a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented. NOT GOOD!!!," Trump added.&nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/113915617049801010/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

Trump also conveyed his condolences and praised first responders on the aviation incident, saying, "Thank you for the incredible work being done by our first responders."
"I have been fully briefed on the terrible accident that just took place at Reagan National Airport. May God bless their souls," Trump said.&nbsp;
Vice President JD Vance also condoled the lives lost in the crash, saying, "Please say a prayer for everyone involved in the mid-air collision near Reagan airport this evening."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apparent-air-crash-in-potomac-river-washington-police-8669725" rel="dofollow">VIDEO | White House says passenger jet collided midair with helicopter over Washington</a>
He added that the authorities are monitoring the situation, but for now, let&rsquo;s hope for the best."
The Federal Aviation Administration announced that Reagan Airport will reopen at 11 am on Thursday.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The plane, carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, collided with the US Army helicopter before crashing into the Potomac River. The bodies of 19 people have been recovered so far.

Hours after the deadly helicopter and aeroplane collision and crash in Washington, US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jan 30) questioned the actions of both the helicopter crew and air traffic controllers, and said, "Why didn't the helicopter go up or down", stressing that it was a "CLEAR NIGHT". The flight, carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, collided with the US Army helicopter before crashing into the Potomac River. The bodies of 19 people have been recovered. Trump took to his Truth Social account and questioned why the helicopter did not avoid the plane. Also read: Washington DC Plane Crash: US and Russian figure skaters believed to be aboard flight "The airplane was on a perfect and routine line of approach to the airport. The helicopter was going straight at the airplane for an extended period of time. It is a CLEAR NIGHT, the lights on the plane were blazing, why didn’t the helicopter go up or down, or turn. Why didn’t the control tower tell the helicopter what to do instead of asking if they saw the plane?," Trump posted. The US president further said that the incident should have been avoided. Also read: Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: Multiple bodies recovered from Washington plane crash site 'Not good' "This is a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented. NOT GOOD!!!," Trump added. Trump also conveyed his condolences and praised first responders on the aviation incident, saying, "Thank you for the incredible work being done by our first responders." "I have been fully briefed on the terrible accident that just took place at Reagan National Airport. May God bless their souls," Trump said. Vice President JD Vance also condoled the lives lost in the crash, saying, "Please say a prayer for everyone involved in the mid-air collision near Reagan airport this evening." Also read: VIDEO | White House says passenger jet collided midair with helicopter over Washington He added that the authorities are monitoring the situation, but for now, let’s hope for the best." The Federal Aviation Administration announced that Reagan Airport will reopen at 11 am on Thursday. (With inputs from agencies)

'Why didn't helicopter go up or down': Trump says the crash 'should have been prevented'

More than three executive orders signed by US President Donald Trump face a barrage of lawsuits. Watch this report for more details!

Donald Trump's executive orders in legal trouble

Meta is to pay $25 million to United States President Donald Trump. The company agreed to pay the amount to settle a lawsuit filed by Trump in 2021, according to people familiar with the matter.
The lawsuit was filed by the president after Meta suspended his accounts following the US Capitol attack. Trump has signed settlement papers that require Meta to pay roughly $25 million to resolve the lawsuit, reported The Wall Street Journal.
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>
<h2>The $25 mn agreement</h2>
According to the report citing people familiar with the agreement, $22 million of the payment will fund the presidential library of Trump, while the remaining will cover the legal fees and other payments related to the case.
In the settlement, Meta will not admit wrongdoing for suspending Trump&rsquo;s accounts. A spokesperson for Meta confirmed the agreement to news agency AFP.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/metas-former-coo-sheryl-sandberg-sanctioned-by-delaware-judge-over-alleged-email-deletions-8655488">Meta&rsquo;s former COO Sheryl Sandberg sanctioned by Delaware judge over alleged email deletions</a>
Trump criticised the Meta platforms for suspending his account after his supporters attacked the Capitol on January 6, 2021. His comments were also seen as praising the people involved in the violence.
<h2>Tech mogul supports Trump</h2>
Trump had recently courted tech moguls including X owner Elon Musk along with Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg. The two were present during his inaugural ceremony on January 20.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lee-zeldin-confirmed-as-trumps-pick-for-environmental-protection-agency-8669732">Lee Zeldin confirmed as Trump's pick for Environmental Protection Agency</a>
Zuckerberg has also shown support for the new president. Reportedly, he dined with Trump at his Florida estate in November last year. The CEO recently announced an overhaul of Meta policies, lifting restrictions on content on its platforms including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and Threads.
Meta rolled back its fact-checking operations, saying it would be &ldquo;restoring free expression on our platforms&rdquo;, said Zuckerberg.&nbsp;
Watch | US: Passenger plane collides midair with military helicopter in Washington DC
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/3001_Manav_BREAKING_930AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/3001_Manav_BREAKING_930AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=261&amp;tags=us, plane collision, helicopter collision, potomac river, washington dc," title="US: Passenger plane collides midair with military helicopter in Washington DC " id="PL_iframe_block-m6iwgqix-1ql9p086-h7d10w9a"></iframe>
The latest settlement is yet another bow by a media corporation as Trump has assumed the office for the second time.
In December, ABC News settled an agreement with Trump by agreeing to pay $15 million to resolve a defamation lawsuit by Trump after a top anchor made comments about him on-air.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending | The lawsuit was filed by the president after Meta suspended his accounts following the US Capitol attack. Trump has signed settlement papers that require Meta to pay roughly $25 million to resolve the lawsuit.

Meta is to pay $25 million to United States President Donald Trump. The company agreed to pay the amount to settle a lawsuit filed by Trump in 2021, according to people familiar with the matter. The lawsuit was filed by the president after Meta suspended his accounts following the US Capitol attack. Trump has signed settlement papers that require Meta to pay roughly $25 million to resolve the lawsuit, reported The Wall Street Journal. Also read | Donald Trump unveils plan to detain 30,000 'criminal illegal aliens' at notorious Guantanamo Bay military prison The $25 mn agreement According to the report citing people familiar with the agreement, $22 million of the payment will fund the presidential library of Trump, while the remaining will cover the legal fees and other payments related to the case. In the settlement, Meta will not admit wrongdoing for suspending Trump’s accounts. A spokesperson for Meta confirmed the agreement to news agency AFP. Also read | Meta’s former COO Sheryl Sandberg sanctioned by Delaware judge over alleged email deletions Trump criticised the Meta platforms for suspending his account after his supporters attacked the Capitol on January 6, 2021. His comments were also seen as praising the people involved in the violence. Tech mogul supports Trump Trump had recently courted tech moguls including X owner Elon Musk along with Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg. The two were present during his inaugural ceremony on January 20. Also read | Lee Zeldin confirmed as Trump's pick for Environmental Protection Agency Zuckerberg has also shown support for the new president. Reportedly, he dined with Trump at his Florida estate in November last year. The CEO recently announced an overhaul of Meta policies, lifting restrictions on content on its platforms including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and Threads. Meta rolled back its fact-checking operations, saying it would be “restoring free expression on our platforms”, said Zuckerberg. Watch | US: Passenger plane collides midair with military helicopter in Washington DC The latest settlement is yet another bow by a media corporation as Trump has assumed the office for the second time. In December, ABC News settled an agreement with Trump by agreeing to pay $15 million to resolve a defamation lawsuit by Trump after a top anchor made comments about him on-air. (With inputs from agencies)

Why has Meta agreed to pay $25 mn to US President Trump?

A regional passenger jet crashed after colliding with a military helicopter mid-air near Washington's Reagan National Airport on Wednesday (Jan 29).
US President Donald Trump plans to detain thousands of undocumented migrants at Guantanamo Bay, the infamous military base in Cuba used to hold terrorism suspects since the 9/11 attacks.&nbsp;
In other news, following the stampede at the world's largest religious gathering in India, Maha Kumbh, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has issued guidelines to implement stricter crowd management protocols.
Meanwhile, Meta has agreed to pay $25 mn to US President Trump to settle a lawsuit filed by Trump for suspending his accounts following the US Capitol attack.
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apparent-air-crash-in-potomac-river-washington-police-8669725" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">VIDEO | White House says passenger jet collided midair with helicopter over Washington</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/30/oS9bn3uwPdyYwHQ9Lpe4.jpg" alt=" VIDEO | White House says passenger jet collided midair with helicopter over Washington Photograph: (X) ">
A regional passenger jet crashed Wednesday after colliding with a military helicopter mid-air near Washington's Reagan National Airport, the White House and aviation officials said, prompting a major emergency response and grounding of all flights.
<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" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump unveils plan to detain 30,000 'criminal illegal aliens' at notorious Guantanamo Bay military prison</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/30/Q0X3VutCWEF8ilxhyFyu.png" alt=" L: Donald Trump file photo. R: Archival image Guantanamo Bay. Photograph: (Combination created using images from AFP and Reuters) ">
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Jan 29) unveiled a controversial plan to detain thousands of undocumented migrants at Guantanamo Bay, a notorious United States military prison.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-stampede-up-cm-yogi-adityanath-tightens-arrangements-issues-fresh-orders-to-avoid-more-tragedies-8669675" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Maha Kumbh Stampede: UP CM Yogi Adityanath tightens arrangements, issues fresh orders to avoid more tragedies</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/30/KTvwgcZSom7tdVyJi7WH.png" alt=" File Photo: Yogi Adityanath and Maha Kumbh 2025 stampede. Photograph: (Combination created using images from AFP and Reuters) ">
In the wake of the tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has issued a slew of guidelines on crowd management, traffic flow, prevention of build-up of devotees and coordination among departments.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-has-meta-agreed-to-pay-25-mn-to-us-president-trump-8669842" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Why has Meta agreed to pay $25 mn to US President Trump?</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/30/xQUyrvKNxNtRYU8caiGd.jpg" alt=" US President Donald Trump and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg Photograph: (AFP) ">
Meta is to pay $25 million to United States President Donald Trump. The company agreed to pay the amount to settle a lawsuit filed by Trump in 2021, according to people familiar with the matter.
Watch | At least 75 Rohingya refugees sail to Indonesia
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/3001_Manav_INDONESIA_8AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/3001_Manav_INDONESIA_8AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=100&amp;tags=indonesia, rohingya, refugees, rohingya refugees," title="At least 75 Rohingya refugees sail to Indonesia " id="PL_iframe_block-m6itllwe-l3le9ynj-oh5aup17"></iframe>
&nbsp;

Begin your day with WION's comprehensive morning news brief, delivering the latest headlines and key updates to keep you informed and ready for the day ahead.

A regional passenger jet crashed after colliding with a military helicopter mid-air near Washington's Reagan National Airport on Wednesday (Jan 29). US President Donald Trump plans to detain thousands of undocumented migrants at Guantanamo Bay, the infamous military base in Cuba used to hold terrorism suspects since the 9/11 attacks. In other news, following the stampede at the world's largest religious gathering in India, Maha Kumbh, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has issued guidelines to implement stricter crowd management protocols. Meanwhile, Meta has agreed to pay $25 mn to US President Trump to settle a lawsuit filed by Trump for suspending his accounts following the US Capitol attack. Click on the headlines for more VIDEO | White House says passenger jet collided midair with helicopter over Washington A regional passenger jet crashed Wednesday after colliding with a military helicopter mid-air near Washington's Reagan National Airport, the White House and aviation officials said, prompting a major emergency response and grounding of all flights. Donald Trump unveils plan to detain 30,000 'criminal illegal aliens' at notorious Guantanamo Bay military prison US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Jan 29) unveiled a controversial plan to detain thousands of undocumented migrants at Guantanamo Bay, a notorious United States military prison. Maha Kumbh Stampede: UP CM Yogi Adityanath tightens arrangements, issues fresh orders to avoid more tragedies In the wake of the tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has issued a slew of guidelines on crowd management, traffic flow, prevention of build-up of devotees and coordination among departments. Why has Meta agreed to pay $25 mn to US President Trump? Meta is to pay $25 million to United States President Donald Trump. The company agreed to pay the amount to settle a lawsuit filed by Trump in 2021, according to people familiar with the matter. Watch | At least 75 Rohingya refugees sail to Indonesia

Morning news brief: Passenger plane collides with helicopter in Washington; Trump plans to detain 'illegal aliens', and more

President Donald Trump's nominee to head the US Environmental Protection Agency was confirmed by the Senate on Wednesday, drawing cheers from the fossil fuel industry and sparking alarm among green groups.
Lee Zeldin, a former US congressman from New York, has committed to Trump's campaign pledges of boosting US energy dominance and rolling back environmental regulations enacted under former president Joe Biden.
The 44-year-old's nomination was confirmed by a 56-42 vote, with Democrats John Fetterman of Pennsylvania as well as Ruben Gallego and Mark Kelly of Arizona crossing the aisle to vote with their Republican colleagues.&nbsp;
Senators Cory Booker of New Jersey and Jon Ossoff of Georgia did not vote.&nbsp;
"Administrator Lee Zeldin has a proven track record of finding solutions to the nation's most pressing energy challenges," said American Petroleum Institute president and CEO Mike Sommers.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-commerce-secretary-nominee-lutnick-advocates-across-the-board-tariffs-in-senate-hearing-8669715">Trump&rsquo;s commerce secretary nominee Lutnick advocates 'across-the-board' tariffs in senate hearing</a>
"We look forward to working with him to advance American energy leadership, from developing smart, effective regulations to ensuring consumers &ndash; not the government &ndash; can choose the vehicles they drive."&nbsp;
Faced with hostile Democratic questioning during his confirmation hearing, Zeldin acknowledged human-caused climate change is real, in contrast with Trump, who has derided it as a hoax.&nbsp;
But he repeatedly emphasized his commitment to "clean air" and "clean water," echoing rhetoric commonly used by conservatives who champion fossil fuels while resisting efforts to combat the worsening climate crisis, which is disrupting ecosystems and intensifying extreme weather events.
"With today's vote, Senate Republicans have installed yet another Trump loyalist to advance his agenda of environmental destruction," said Evergreen Action's Executive Director Lena Moffitt.
"Despite Lee Zeldin's repeated assurances to 'fully' follow the law, his blind loyalty to President Trump in the face of illegal, destructive executive actions makes it clear that his EPA will put polluters over people."
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>
Brett Hartl, government affairs director at the Center for Biological Diversity, warned that Zeldin's leadership should be scrutinized closely.
"Let's be clear-eyed that every other person Trump has already deployed to the EPA's pesticide, water and air divisions has a long track record of putting industry profits and polluters above our health and the environment," he said.
Zeldin's confirmation comes amid sweeping moves by Trump to reshape US environmental policy.
On his very first day in office, Trump announced he was removing the United States from the Paris climate accord for a second time, declared a "national energy emergency" to expand drilling, and signed executive orders to slow the transition to electric vehicles and halt offshore windshore farms.
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.

World | The 44-year-old's nomination was confirmed by a 56-42 vote, with Democrats John Fetterman of Pennsylvania as well as Ruben Gallego and Mark Kelly of Arizona crossing the aisle to vote with their Republican colleagues. 

President Donald Trump's nominee to head the US Environmental Protection Agency was confirmed by the Senate on Wednesday, drawing cheers from the fossil fuel industry and sparking alarm among green groups. Lee Zeldin, a former US congressman from New York, has committed to Trump's campaign pledges of boosting US energy dominance and rolling back environmental regulations enacted under former president Joe Biden. The 44-year-old's nomination was confirmed by a 56-42 vote, with Democrats John Fetterman of Pennsylvania as well as Ruben Gallego and Mark Kelly of Arizona crossing the aisle to vote with their Republican colleagues. Senators Cory Booker of New Jersey and Jon Ossoff of Georgia did not vote. "Administrator Lee Zeldin has a proven track record of finding solutions to the nation's most pressing energy challenges," said American Petroleum Institute president and CEO Mike Sommers. Also read | Trump’s commerce secretary nominee Lutnick advocates 'across-the-board' tariffs in senate hearing "We look forward to working with him to advance American energy leadership, from developing smart, effective regulations to ensuring consumers – not the government – can choose the vehicles they drive." Faced with hostile Democratic questioning during his confirmation hearing, Zeldin acknowledged human-caused climate change is real, in contrast with Trump, who has derided it as a hoax. But he repeatedly emphasized his commitment to "clean air" and "clean water," echoing rhetoric commonly used by conservatives who champion fossil fuels while resisting efforts to combat the worsening climate crisis, which is disrupting ecosystems and intensifying extreme weather events. "With today's vote, Senate Republicans have installed yet another Trump loyalist to advance his agenda of environmental destruction," said Evergreen Action's Executive Director Lena Moffitt. "Despite Lee Zeldin's repeated assurances to 'fully' follow the law, his blind loyalty to President Trump in the face of illegal, destructive executive actions makes it clear that his EPA will put polluters over people." Also read | Donald Trump unveils plan to detain 30,000 'criminal illegal aliens' at notorious Guantanamo Bay military prison Brett Hartl, government affairs director at the Center for Biological Diversity, warned that Zeldin's leadership should be scrutinized closely. "Let's be clear-eyed that every other person Trump has already deployed to the EPA's pesticide, water and air divisions has a long track record of putting industry profits and polluters above our health and the environment," he said. Zeldin's confirmation comes amid sweeping moves by Trump to reshape US environmental policy. On his very first day in office, Trump announced he was removing the United States from the Paris climate accord for a second time, declared a "national energy emergency" to expand drilling, and signed executive orders to slow the transition to electric vehicles and halt offshore windshore farms. 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.

Lee Zeldin confirmed as Trump's pick for Environmental Protection Agency

US President Donald Trump signed the Laken Riley Act, bringing into effect the law aimed at cracking down on migrants charged with crimes. Watch this report for more details!

US President Donald Trump signs Laken Riley act into law

The Justice Department ended its prosecution on Wednesday of two former co-defendants of President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump-0" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump</a> who were accused of mishandling classified documents.
Special Counsel Jack Smith dropped the case against Trump after he won November's election but charges were still pending against Walt Nauta, Trump's valet, and Carlos De Oliveira, a property manager at the president's Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida.
Judge Aileen Cannon, a Trump appointee, threw out the case in July but Smith had appealed the dismissal of the charges against Nauta and De Oliveira to the 11th US Circuit Court of Appeals in Atlanta.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-to-sign-executive-order-cancelling-student-visas-of-hamas-sympathisers-8669336" rel="dofollow">'Will find and deport you': Trump to sign order cancelling student visas of 'Hamas sympathisers'</a>
The Justice Department, which is now led by Trump appointees, said in a filing with the 11th Circuit Court that it was abandoning its appeal.
No reason was given for the move, which the appeals court is likely to accept, bringing the case to an end.
Nauta, Trump's long-time valet, and De Oliveira had pleaded not guilty to charges of making false statements and obstructing justice.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-administration-pulls-plug-on-funding-of-condoms-in-gaza-elon-musk-reacts-8664246" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts</a>
Trump was accused by the special counsel of conspiring to overturn the results of the 2020 election he lost to Democrat Joe Biden and stashing classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago home after leaving the White House at the end of his first term.
Trump allegedly kept the top secret documents -- which included records from the Pentagon and CIA -- unsecured at Mar-a-Lago and thwarted efforts to retrieve them.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-opens-for-social-media-influencers-under-trump-20-8663906" rel="dofollow">White House opens for social media influencers under Trump 2.0</a>
Smith dropped both cases against Trump after the election citing a Justice Department policy of not indicting or prosecuting a sitting president.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: The Justice Department, which is now led by Trump appointees, said in a filing with the 11th Circuit Court that it was abandoning its appeal.

The Justice Department ended its prosecution on Wednesday of two former co-defendants of President Donald Trump who were accused of mishandling classified documents. Special Counsel Jack Smith dropped the case against Trump after he won November's election but charges were still pending against Walt Nauta, Trump's valet, and Carlos De Oliveira, a property manager at the president's Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida. Judge Aileen Cannon, a Trump appointee, threw out the case in July but Smith had appealed the dismissal of the charges against Nauta and De Oliveira to the 11th US Circuit Court of Appeals in Atlanta. Also read: 'Will find and deport you': Trump to sign order cancelling student visas of 'Hamas sympathisers' The Justice Department, which is now led by Trump appointees, said in a filing with the 11th Circuit Court that it was abandoning its appeal. No reason was given for the move, which the appeals court is likely to accept, bringing the case to an end. Nauta, Trump's long-time valet, and De Oliveira had pleaded not guilty to charges of making false statements and obstructing justice. Also read: Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts Trump was accused by the special counsel of conspiring to overturn the results of the 2020 election he lost to Democrat Joe Biden and stashing classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago home after leaving the White House at the end of his first term. Trump allegedly kept the top secret documents -- which included records from the Pentagon and CIA -- unsecured at Mar-a-Lago and thwarted efforts to retrieve them. Also read: White House opens for social media influencers under Trump 2.0 Smith dropped both cases against Trump after the election citing a Justice Department policy of not indicting or prosecuting a sitting president. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US Justice Department drops charges against Trump's co-defendants in record case

US President Donald Trump, whose second term has just begun this month, has been ranked lower than any newly elected president since World War II.&nbsp;
A new polling average for President Donald Trump's initial job approval rating shows that the numbers are currently working against him.&nbsp;
Trump's average approval rating nearly hits 50 per cent, while 43 per cent of respondents disapprove him for what all he has done after becoming the US president.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-poll-case-da-willis-ordered-to-respond-to-claims-over-her-relationship-with-special-prosecutor-681476" rel="dofollow"> Trump poll case: DA Willis ordered to respond to claims about her relationship with special prosecutor</a>
Trump had started off his first term in 2017 with a 44.6 per cent approval rating and a 41.4 per cent disapproval counterpart, which brought his net result to +3.2 per cent.&nbsp;
Trump's predecessor Joe Biden began his presidency at nearly +22 per cent in 2021. Meanwhile, Barack Obama's net score in 2009 was around 47 per cent, and George W Bush's in 2021 was approximately +28 per cent.&nbsp;
Notably, Trump's executive orders have gained mixed responses from US citizens. Reuters, Ipsos conducted a poll, indicating his overall approval of performance at 45 per cent, reflecting a slight movement downward compared to prior polling data.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rfk-jr-confirmation-hearing-anti-vaccine-claims-for-donald-trumps-pick-secretary-of-health-and-human-services-8669206" rel="dofollow">RFK Jr denies being &lsquo;anti-vaccine&rsquo; in Senate confirmation hearing for Trump&rsquo;s health czar</a>
However, his move to end birthright citizenship and rename the Gulf of Mexico to the "Gulf of America" have garnered disapproval from 59 per cent and 70 per cent of respondents respectively.&nbsp;
According to Echelon Insights, 51 per cent of respondents approved Trump's handling of his presidential duties, with 10 percentage points separating his approval of economic policies from disapproval (50% to 40%); and even more support for his immigration strategies (55% vs. 40%).&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-federal-workers-should-know-about-trumps-deferred-resignation-offer-for-govt-employees-8664372" rel="dofollow">What federal workers should know about Trump's &lsquo;deferred resignation&rsquo; offer for govt employees?</a>
Meanwhile, 54 per cent of respondents disapproved of any plans made by Trump to expand US territory.&nbsp;
As Trump pardoned over 1500 January 6 Capitol rioters, the AP/NORC poll stated that only 21 per cent of adults are in favour of these individuals being let off easy.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-administration-pulls-plug-on-funding-of-condoms-in-gaza-elon-musk-reacts-8664246" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts</a>
Moreover, as seen till now, Trump's future decisions also have the power to bring down the approval ratings even further as time passes.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: A new polling average for President Donald Trump's initial job approval rating shows that the numbers are currently working against him. 

US President Donald Trump, whose second term has just begun this month, has been ranked lower than any newly elected president since World War II. A new polling average for President Donald Trump's initial job approval rating shows that the numbers are currently working against him. Trump's average approval rating nearly hits 50 per cent, while 43 per cent of respondents disapprove him for what all he has done after becoming the US president. Also read: Trump poll case: DA Willis ordered to respond to claims about her relationship with special prosecutor Trump had started off his first term in 2017 with a 44.6 per cent approval rating and a 41.4 per cent disapproval counterpart, which brought his net result to +3.2 per cent. Trump's predecessor Joe Biden began his presidency at nearly +22 per cent in 2021. Meanwhile, Barack Obama's net score in 2009 was around 47 per cent, and George W Bush's in 2021 was approximately +28 per cent. Notably, Trump's executive orders have gained mixed responses from US citizens. Reuters, Ipsos conducted a poll, indicating his overall approval of performance at 45 per cent, reflecting a slight movement downward compared to prior polling data. Also read: RFK Jr denies being ‘anti-vaccine’ in Senate confirmation hearing for Trump’s health czar However, his move to end birthright citizenship and rename the Gulf of Mexico to the "Gulf of America" have garnered disapproval from 59 per cent and 70 per cent of respondents respectively. According to Echelon Insights, 51 per cent of respondents approved Trump's handling of his presidential duties, with 10 percentage points separating his approval of economic policies from disapproval (50% to 40%); and even more support for his immigration strategies (55% vs. 40%). Also read: What federal workers should know about Trump's ‘deferred resignation’ offer for govt employees? Meanwhile, 54 per cent of respondents disapproved of any plans made by Trump to expand US territory. As Trump pardoned over 1500 January 6 Capitol rioters, the AP/NORC poll stated that only 21 per cent of adults are in favour of these individuals being let off easy. Also read: Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts Moreover, as seen till now, Trump's future decisions also have the power to bring down the approval ratings even further as time passes. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump's second term sees near-record-low approval rating, worse than any new president since WWII

Transgender soldiers have filed a lawsuit against new gender reforms in the military, challenging policies introduced under the Trump administration’s efforts to reshape military regulations.

Trump 2.0: Transgender soldiers file case against gender reform in military

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth revoked the security clearance and security detail of former US Gen Mark Milley on Tuesday (Jan 28). Milley, who served as the highest-ranking military officer, worked under both Donald Trump and Joe Biden's administrations. However, he has been under a political storm for criticising Trump for a long time.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-want-to-fight-wars-but-deter-them-says-pete-hegseth-after-being-sworn-in-as-us-defence-secretary-8654098">'Don't want to fight wars, but deter them', says Pete Hegseth after being sworn in as US defence secretary</a>
Hegseth further announced an inspector-general review into Milley's record to decide if his rank should be reduced after retirement.&nbsp;
<h2>'Would be court-martialed if Trump wins'&nbsp;</h2>
A month before the 2024 presidential election, Milley had said that he feared he would be recalled to uniform and court-martialed if Trump won the election.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-pete-hegseth-the-man-chosen-as-new-us-secretary-of-defense-8651814">Who is Pete Hegseth? Ex-Fox News anchor, soldier-turned US Secretary of Defence</a>
&ldquo;He is a walking, talking advertisement of what he&rsquo;s going to try to do,&rdquo; Washington Post reporter Bob Woodward quoted Milley in his book as saying.
<h2>'A fascist to the core'</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pete-hegseth-confirmed-as-us-defense-secretary-tie-breaking-vote-from-vice-president-jd-vance-8651726">Pete Hegseth confirmed as US defence secretary with tie-breaking vote from Vice President JD Vance</a>
Woodward further claimed that Milley received &ldquo;a non-stop barrage of death threats&rdquo; after his retirement in 2023.&nbsp;
Woodward quoted Milley as saying, &ldquo;He (Trump) is the most dangerous person ever. I had suspicions when I talked to you about his mental decline and so forth, but now I realize he&rsquo;s a total fascist. He is now the most dangerous person in this country."&nbsp;
Milley reportedly called Trump "a fascist to the core".&nbsp;
WATCH: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-senate-grills-pete-hegseth-on-military-diversity-sexual-assault-claim">US: Senate grills Pete Hegseth on military diversity, sexual assault claim</a>
<h2>Biden's pardon before Trump administration&nbsp;</h2>
Just before the swearing-in ceremony of Trump on January 20, Joe Biden issued a preemptive pardon for Mark Milley along with other top political foes of Trump.&nbsp;
WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pete-hegseth-faces-multiple-allegations-of-misconduct">Pete Hegseth Faces Multiple Allegations Of Misconduct</a>
"These public servants have served our nation with honour and distinction and do not deserve to be the targets of unjustified and politically motivated prosecutions," Biden said in his statement while issuing the pardon.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Hegseth further announced an inspector-general review into Milley's record to decide if his rank should be reduced after retirement. 

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth revoked the security clearance and security detail of former US Gen Mark Milley on Tuesday (Jan 28). Milley, who served as the highest-ranking military officer, worked under both Donald Trump and Joe Biden's administrations. However, he has been under a political storm for criticising Trump for a long time. Also read: 'Don't want to fight wars, but deter them', says Pete Hegseth after being sworn in as US defence secretary Hegseth further announced an inspector-general review into Milley's record to decide if his rank should be reduced after retirement. 'Would be court-martialed if Trump wins' A month before the 2024 presidential election, Milley had said that he feared he would be recalled to uniform and court-martialed if Trump won the election. Also read: Who is Pete Hegseth? Ex-Fox News anchor, soldier-turned US Secretary of Defence “He is a walking, talking advertisement of what he’s going to try to do,” Washington Post reporter Bob Woodward quoted Milley in his book as saying. 'A fascist to the core' Also read: Pete Hegseth confirmed as US defence secretary with tie-breaking vote from Vice President JD Vance Woodward further claimed that Milley received “a non-stop barrage of death threats” after his retirement in 2023. Woodward quoted Milley as saying, “He (Trump) is the most dangerous person ever. I had suspicions when I talked to you about his mental decline and so forth, but now I realize he’s a total fascist. He is now the most dangerous person in this country." Milley reportedly called Trump "a fascist to the core". WATCH: US: Senate grills Pete Hegseth on military diversity, sexual assault claim Biden's pardon before Trump administration Just before the swearing-in ceremony of Trump on January 20, Joe Biden issued a preemptive pardon for Mark Milley along with other top political foes of Trump. WATCH: Pete Hegseth Faces Multiple Allegations Of Misconduct "These public servants have served our nation with honour and distinction and do not deserve to be the targets of unjustified and politically motivated prosecutions," Biden said in his statement while issuing the pardon. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Mark Milley, ex-US Gen whose security detail has been revoked by Pete Hegseth?

The White House on Wednesday (Jan 29) announced the details of the "deferred resignation" offer made by US President Donald Trump's administration, for the federal employees that allows them to resign with pay.&nbsp;
In a move to end work-from-home practices, Trump's administration is expecting up to 10 per cent of federal employees to take the offer by September.&nbsp;
The employees can decide by February 6 whether they want to participate in a "deferred resignation programme".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-offers-federal-employees-to-quit-with-eight-months-severance-8662902" rel="dofollow">US President Trump offers federal employees money to quit</a>
This will affect most of the 2.3 million workers employed by the US government.&nbsp;
<h2>Things federal workers should know about the offer</h2>
Federal workers who accept the "deferred resignation offer" will remain employed, retain all pay and benefits, and be exempt from in-person work requirements until September 30.&nbsp;
According to the letter shared by the office, whoever takes the offer could see their duties changed, or be reassigned, or would be placed on leave, before their resignation.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-administration-pulls-plug-on-funding-of-condoms-in-gaza-elon-musk-reacts-8664246" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding of condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts</a>
Moreover, agencies may make "adjustments" in response to resignations including moving, eliminating, consolidating, reassigning my position and tasks, reducing my official duties, and/or placing me on paid administrative leave until my resignation date."&nbsp;
As per the offer, employees can speed up their resignation date, however, they cannot extend it.&nbsp;
If a federal worker becomes eligible for early or normal retirement at any point before their due resignation date, they may also elect to retire.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-opens-for-social-media-influencers-under-trump-20-8663906" rel="dofollow">White House opens for social media influencers under Trump 2.0</a>
<h2>What if someone does not accept the offer?</h2>
According to the office, the offer expires on February 6, however, there is no penalty for civil servants who do not respond to the email stating the offer.&nbsp;
For those who do not take the offer, the announcement read, "We cannot give you full assurance regarding the certainty of your position or agency but should your position be eliminated you will be treated with dignity and will be afforded the protections in place for such positions."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-asks-spacex-for-fast-track-return-of-sunita-williams-butch-wilmore-to-home-says-musk-8662914" rel="dofollow">Trump orders Musk to bring astronauts Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore home</a>
Notably, not all federal employees are eligible for this. Agency heads may determine carve-outs within their agencies.&nbsp;
Military personnel, employees of the US Postal Service, and those in positions related to immigration enforcement and national security are also exempted.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: In a move to end work-from-home practices, Trump's administration is expecting up to 10 per cent of federal employees to take the offer by September. 

The White House on Wednesday (Jan 29) announced the details of the "deferred resignation" offer made by US President Donald Trump's administration, for the federal employees that allows them to resign with pay. In a move to end work-from-home practices, Trump's administration is expecting up to 10 per cent of federal employees to take the offer by September. The employees can decide by February 6 whether they want to participate in a "deferred resignation programme". Also read: US President Trump offers federal employees money to quit This will affect most of the 2.3 million workers employed by the US government. Things federal workers should know about the offer Federal workers who accept the "deferred resignation offer" will remain employed, retain all pay and benefits, and be exempt from in-person work requirements until September 30. According to the letter shared by the office, whoever takes the offer could see their duties changed, or be reassigned, or would be placed on leave, before their resignation. Also read: Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding of condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts Moreover, agencies may make "adjustments" in response to resignations including moving, eliminating, consolidating, reassigning my position and tasks, reducing my official duties, and/or placing me on paid administrative leave until my resignation date." As per the offer, employees can speed up their resignation date, however, they cannot extend it. If a federal worker becomes eligible for early or normal retirement at any point before their due resignation date, they may also elect to retire. Also read: White House opens for social media influencers under Trump 2.0 What if someone does not accept the offer? According to the office, the offer expires on February 6, however, there is no penalty for civil servants who do not respond to the email stating the offer. For those who do not take the offer, the announcement read, "We cannot give you full assurance regarding the certainty of your position or agency but should your position be eliminated you will be treated with dignity and will be afforded the protections in place for such positions." Also read: Trump orders Musk to bring astronauts Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore home Notably, not all federal employees are eligible for this. Agency heads may determine carve-outs within their agencies. Military personnel, employees of the US Postal Service, and those in positions related to immigration enforcement and national security are also exempted. (With inputs from agencies)

What federal workers should know about Trump's ‘deferred resignation’ offer for govt employees?

The Donald Trump administration's recent freeze on all foreign aid included a surprising cut, of $50 million in US funding for condoms in Gaza.
A White House official revealed that a memo from the Office of Management and Budget is set to temporarily suspend grants, loans, and federal assistance programmes while they undergo review, according to a Fox News report.&nbsp;
The official, while speaking to the media outlet, said, "If the activity is not in conflict with the President's priorities, it will continue with no issues. This is similar to how HHS (Department of Health and Human Services) stopped the flow of grant money to the World Health Organisation after President Trump announced the US withdrawal from the organisation. Or how the State Department halted several million dollars going to condoms in Gaza this past weekend."
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-opens-for-social-media-influencers-under-trump-20-8663906">Also read: White House opens for social media influencers under Trump 2.0</a>
<h2>Elon Musk reacts</h2>
Expressing doubts over the funding of condoms in Gaza by the previous government, Elon Musk, leader of the US Department of Government Efficiency, suggested that it might have ended up in the wrong hands, possibly with Hamas.
Musk took to his platform X and called the move the &ldquo;tip of the iceberg&rdquo;.
&ldquo;My guess is that a lot of that money ended up in the pockets of Hamas, not actually condoms.&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6hqx50c-qoplspvl-4o11o5s0">
My guess is that a lot of that money ended up in the pockets Hamas, not actually condoms
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1884329088040722724?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2025</a></blockquote>
"Yes, even in the unlikely event that the money was actually spent on condoms, we should NOT be sending US taxpayer money to buy condoms for foreigners," he said in another post.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6hqxpnm-hhdf8z32-g1jroe3n">
Yes, even in the unlikely event that the money was actually spent on condoms, we should NOT be sending US taxpayer money to buy condoms for foreigners 🤦&zwj;♂️
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1884329854528807104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2025</a></blockquote>
One of the users claimed the condoms were being used to transport improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and incendiary materials, potentially harming Israeli citizens.
To this, Musk replied, saying, &ldquo;Explains why all the condom orders were magnum."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6hqynkf-fnsd30e9-3b4hhn95">
Elon Musk chimes in: &lsquo;Explains why all condom orders were &ldquo;Magnum&rdquo; 😂&rsquo; When the absurdity meets policy: $50M of U.S. funds tied to &lsquo;condoms in Gaza&rsquo; goes far beyond satire. <a href="https://t.co/Rr97QvX6U7">https://t.co/Rr97QvX6U7</a>
&mdash; Entrepreneur (@WallSTQuon) <a href="https://twitter.com/WallSTQuon/status/1884419245381169236?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>US Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt calls it 'preposterous waste of money'</h2>
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, in her first briefing, deemed the move a &ldquo;preposterous waste of taxpayer money," stating that "there was about to be $50 million taxpayer dollars that went out the door to fund condoms in Gaza".
&ldquo;That's what this pause is focused on&mdash;being good stewards of tax dollars,&rdquo; she added.
The move to pause all foreign aid came as an effect of US President Donald Trump's executive order, "Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid", which he signed after taking charge of the White House on January 20.
"No new funds shall be obligated for new awards or extensions of existing awards until each proposed new award or extension has been reviewed and approved," Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in an internal memo.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Expressing doubts over the funding of condoms in Gaza by the previous government, Elon Musk, leader of the US Department of Government Efficiency, suggested that it might have ended up in the wrong hands.

The Donald Trump administration's recent freeze on all foreign aid included a surprising cut, of $50 million in US funding for condoms in Gaza. A White House official revealed that a memo from the Office of Management and Budget is set to temporarily suspend grants, loans, and federal assistance programmes while they undergo review, according to a Fox News report. The official, while speaking to the media outlet, said, "If the activity is not in conflict with the President's priorities, it will continue with no issues. This is similar to how HHS (Department of Health and Human Services) stopped the flow of grant money to the World Health Organisation after President Trump announced the US withdrawal from the organisation. Or how the State Department halted several million dollars going to condoms in Gaza this past weekend." Also read: White House opens for social media influencers under Trump 2.0 Elon Musk reacts Expressing doubts over the funding of condoms in Gaza by the previous government, Elon Musk, leader of the US Department of Government Efficiency, suggested that it might have ended up in the wrong hands, possibly with Hamas. Musk took to his platform X and called the move the “tip of the iceberg”. “My guess is that a lot of that money ended up in the pockets of Hamas, not actually condoms.” My guess is that a lot of that money ended up in the pockets Hamas, not actually condoms — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 28, 2025 "Yes, even in the unlikely event that the money was actually spent on condoms, we should NOT be sending US taxpayer money to buy condoms for foreigners," he said in another post. Yes, even in the unlikely event that the money was actually spent on condoms, we should NOT be sending US taxpayer money to buy condoms for foreigners 🤦‍♂️ — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 28, 2025 One of the users claimed the condoms were being used to transport improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and incendiary materials, potentially harming Israeli citizens. To this, Musk replied, saying, “Explains why all the condom orders were magnum." Elon Musk chimes in: ‘Explains why all condom orders were “Magnum” 😂’ When the absurdity meets policy: $50M of U.S. funds tied to ‘condoms in Gaza’ goes far beyond satire. https://t.co/Rr97QvX6U7 — Entrepreneur (@WallSTQuon) January 29, 2025 US Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt calls it 'preposterous waste of money' White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, in her first briefing, deemed the move a “preposterous waste of taxpayer money," stating that "there was about to be $50 million taxpayer dollars that went out the door to fund condoms in Gaza". “That's what this pause is focused on—being good stewards of tax dollars,” she added. The move to pause all foreign aid came as an effect of US President Donald Trump's executive order, "Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid", which he signed after taking charge of the White House on January 20. "No new funds shall be obligated for new awards or extensions of existing awards until each proposed new award or extension has been reviewed and approved," Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in an internal memo. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts

A stampede unfolded at the Sangam during the Maha Kumbh on Wednesday (Jan 29), leaving several injured.
In other news, the Trump administration offered US federal workers an opportunity to leave their jobs in exchange for eight months severance.
Meanwhile, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said that the drones which were sighted above New Jersey last month were &ldquo;not the enemy&rdquo;.
Click on the headlines to read more:
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-2025-tragedy-at-indias-maha-kumbh-several-worshipers-killed-in-stampede-rescue-operations-underway-death-toll-maha-kumbh-stampede-8662768">Maha Kumbh Stampede: Dozens feared dead as tragedy strikes on Mauni Amavasya</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/29/B0opctmZWc0KX0MBlNrW.png" alt=" Security personnel carry an injured pilgrim at the site of a stampede amid the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela festival in Prayagraj on January 29, 2025. Photograph: (AFP) ">
A stampede at Maha Kumbh, the world's largest religious gathering, resulted in multiple casualties on Wednesday (Jan 29), reported AFP, citing its photographer who was present at the scene in India's Prayagraj.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-offers-federal-employees-to-quit-with-eight-months-severance-8662902">US President Trump offers federal employees to quit with eight months severance</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/28/55CbxnLeZRq0i1NGlk6k.jpg" alt=" US President Donald Trump Photograph: (AFP) ">
Trump administration offered US federal workers an opportunity to leave their jobs in exchange for eight months severance, according to an email to staff seen by AFP.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/enemy-or-not-the-enemy-trump-takes-u-turn-on-nj-drones-month-after-slamming-biden-8662938">Enemy or &lsquo;not the enemy&rsquo;? Trump takes U-turn on NJ drones month after slamming Biden</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/29/X6fLdmHIXS3GTV1wBVwo.jpg" alt=" White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt holds her first news conference in the Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House on January 28, 2025 in Washington, DC. Photograph: (AFP) ">
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Tuesday (Jan 28) that the drones which were sighted above New Jersey last month were &ldquo;not the enemy&rdquo; while reading President Trump&rsquo;s assessment. She added that many were doing &ldquo;research&rdquo;, raising even more questions for the citizens.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afghan-womens-cricket-team-reunites-three-years-after-taliban-ban-8662893">Afghan women's cricket team reunites three years after Taliban ban</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/29/eo2jjVet28DQyyOffdfW.png" alt=" Afghan women's cricket team reunites three years after Taliban ban ">
The Afghan women's cricket team had an eye-catching reunion on Wednesday (Jan 29) after they were seen together at an event in Australia. The exiled Afghan women&rsquo;s side, led by Nahida Sapan and Firooza Amiri, criticised the Taliban rule in her native country as they sought a revival of female cricket. The moment comes three years after Afghanistan was taken over by Taliban rule, which has banned female participation in sports.
Watch: Delhi Assembly Elections: Arvind Kejriwal accuses Haryana govt of poisoning river Yamuna
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2901_wion_AAP_8AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2901_wion_AAP_8AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=165&amp;tags=delhi, delhi elections, aap, bjp, aap vs bjp," title="Delhi Assembly Elections: Arvind Kejriwal accuses Haryana govt of poisoning river Yamuna" id="PL_iframe_block-m6hes6sl-gvo0slcm-8b2ia1wy"></iframe>

Jumpstart your morning with WION's Morning News Brief, bringing you the latest headlines and updates to keep you informed and prepared for the day ahead.

A stampede unfolded at the Sangam during the Maha Kumbh on Wednesday (Jan 29), leaving several injured. In other news, the Trump administration offered US federal workers an opportunity to leave their jobs in exchange for eight months severance. Meanwhile, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said that the drones which were sighted above New Jersey last month were “not the enemy”. Click on the headlines to read more: Maha Kumbh Stampede: Dozens feared dead as tragedy strikes on Mauni Amavasya A stampede at Maha Kumbh, the world's largest religious gathering, resulted in multiple casualties on Wednesday (Jan 29), reported AFP, citing its photographer who was present at the scene in India's Prayagraj. US President Trump offers federal employees to quit with eight months severance Trump administration offered US federal workers an opportunity to leave their jobs in exchange for eight months severance, according to an email to staff seen by AFP. Enemy or ‘not the enemy’? Trump takes U-turn on NJ drones month after slamming Biden White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Tuesday (Jan 28) that the drones which were sighted above New Jersey last month were “not the enemy” while reading President Trump’s assessment. She added that many were doing “research”, raising even more questions for the citizens. Afghan women's cricket team reunites three years after Taliban ban The Afghan women's cricket team had an eye-catching reunion on Wednesday (Jan 29) after they were seen together at an event in Australia. The exiled Afghan women’s side, led by Nahida Sapan and Firooza Amiri, criticised the Taliban rule in her native country as they sought a revival of female cricket. The moment comes three years after Afghanistan was taken over by Taliban rule, which has banned female participation in sports. Watch: Delhi Assembly Elections: Arvind Kejriwal accuses Haryana govt of poisoning river Yamuna

Morning news brief: Maha Kumbh stampede updates; Trump offers federal employees money to quit, and more

Tesla CEO Elon Musk on Tuesday (Jan 28) said that US President Donald Trump had asked him to facilitate the return of the two Boeing Starliner astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been on the space station since June 2024, as soon as possible.
Musk called out former President Joe Biden's administration as "terrible" for leaving the duo "stranded"&nbsp;at the International Space Station (ISS) for&nbsp;so long, even though NASA had already roped in SpaceX months ago to return both astronauts as part of its Crew-9 mission.
"The @POTUS has asked @SpaceX to bring home the 2 astronauts stranded on the @Space_Station as soon as possible. We will do so. Terrible that the Biden administration left them there so long," Musk wrote on X.
Also read | US President Trump offers federal employees to quit with eight months severance
<h2 dir="ltr">NASA says the pair is not &lsquo;stranded&rsquo;</h2>
NASA had earlier determined that the duo would come home on Dragon because of lingering uncertainties surrounding Starliner.
NASA leadership repeatedly stressed on multiple forums that Wilmore and Williams were not &ldquo;stranded,&rdquo; but that the Starliner didn&rsquo;t have enough assurances around it to support a crewed trip back to Earth.
Also read | Trump to meet Netanyahu at White House on Feb 4, Israel PM's office confirms
<h2 dir="ltr">Sunita Williams says &lsquo;she&rsquo;s trying to remember how to walk&rsquo;</h2>
Astronaut Sunita Williams, while speaking to students from Needham High School on January 27, said she is trying to remember how to walk as she awaits her return to Earth in spring.
Williams, a native of Needham, a town in Norfolk County, Massachusetts, shared what it was like living on the space station.
She said, &ldquo;I've been up here long enough right now I've been trying to remember what it's like to walk. I haven't walked. I haven't sat down. I haven't laid down. You don't have to. You can just close your eyes and float where you are right here,&rdquo; reported People Magazine.
Also read | Maha Kumbh and stampedes: A look at the deadly history of world's largest religious gathering
Williams admitted that she didn&rsquo;t expect to be stuck in space for such a long time.
"We knew that it would be probably a month or so, honestly. But the extended stay was just a little bit different,&rdquo; she said.
Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are expected to return in March 2025 as NASA&rsquo;s SpaceX Crew-10 mission has been rescheduled.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Elon Musk announced that President Trump requested his help to bring back astronauts, Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore from the space station promptly.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk on Tuesday (Jan 28) said that US President Donald Trump had asked him to facilitate the return of the two Boeing Starliner astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been on the space station since June 2024, as soon as possible. Musk called out former President Joe Biden's administration as "terrible" for leaving the duo "stranded" at the International Space Station (ISS) for so long, even though NASA had already roped in SpaceX months ago to return both astronauts as part of its Crew-9 mission. "The @POTUS has asked @SpaceX to bring home the 2 astronauts stranded on the @Space_Station as soon as possible. We will do so. Terrible that the Biden administration left them there so long," Musk wrote on X. Also read | US President Trump offers federal employees to quit with eight months severance NASA says the pair is not ‘stranded’ NASA had earlier determined that the duo would come home on Dragon because of lingering uncertainties surrounding Starliner. NASA leadership repeatedly stressed on multiple forums that Wilmore and Williams were not “stranded,” but that the Starliner didn’t have enough assurances around it to support a crewed trip back to Earth. Also read | Trump to meet Netanyahu at White House on Feb 4, Israel PM's office confirms Sunita Williams says ‘she’s trying to remember how to walk’ Astronaut Sunita Williams, while speaking to students from Needham High School on January 27, said she is trying to remember how to walk as she awaits her return to Earth in spring. Williams, a native of Needham, a town in Norfolk County, Massachusetts, shared what it was like living on the space station. She said, “I've been up here long enough right now I've been trying to remember what it's like to walk. I haven't walked. I haven't sat down. I haven't laid down. You don't have to. You can just close your eyes and float where you are right here,” reported People Magazine. Also read | Maha Kumbh and stampedes: A look at the deadly history of world's largest religious gathering Williams admitted that she didn’t expect to be stuck in space for such a long time. "We knew that it would be probably a month or so, honestly. But the extended stay was just a little bit different,” she said. Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are expected to return in March 2025 as NASA’s SpaceX Crew-10 mission has been rescheduled. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump orders Musk to bring astronauts Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore home

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order for America to get an ‘Iron Dome’ air defence system. The short-range Iron Dome air defense system was built by Israel's Rafael Advanced Defense Systems to intercept rockets fired by Hamas toward Israel.

Donald Trump orders Pentagon to move forward on missile defence

The White House unveils the official portrait of First Lady Melania Trump, celebrating her role and legacy. The portrait is a significant addition to the nation’s collection, honoring her time as First Lady.

White House unveils official portrait of First Lady Melania Trump

Donald Trump pledges to develop a U.S. version of the Iron Dome missile defense system, emphasizing the urgent need for its implementation to protect the nation from missile threats.

Donald Trump announces plan to build 'Iron Dome' missile shield for the U.S.

White House unveils the official portrait of FLOTUS

In a move to comply with US President Donald Trump's order, Google is set to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America on Google Maps in the US.
This comes after the Trump administration&rsquo;s Interior Department on Friday officially renamed the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America.&nbsp;
Following this, the Gulf of Mexico will soon be renamed the &ldquo;Gulf of America,&rdquo; and Alaska&rsquo;s Denali mountain will revert to its former name of Mount McKinley in the app.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-officially-renames-gulf-of-mexico-to-gulf-of-america-in-us-will-it-catch-on-internationally-8652331" rel="dofollow">Trump officially renames Gulf of Mexico to 'Gulf of America' in US: Will it catch on internationally?</a>
Trump signed an executive order after swearing in as the President of the United States to change these names. The US also reverted the name of the Alaskan peak known as Denali to its previous name, Mount McKinley.
These changes will come into effect after being reflected in the official federal mapping database.&nbsp;
Google, in a post on X, confirmed that it follows government-approved name changes.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-draws-line-on-us-deportation-flights-but-vows-to-welcome-back-citizens-with-open-arms-8651983" rel="dofollow"> Mexico draws line on US deportation flights but vows to welcome back citizens 'with open arms'</a>
&ldquo;We have a longstanding practice of applying name changes when they have been updated in official government sources,&rdquo; the company said in a post on X.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
When that happens, we will update Google Maps in the U.S. quickly to show Mount McKinley and Gulf of America.
&mdash; News from Google (@NewsFromGoogle) <a href="https://twitter.com/NewsFromGoogle/status/1884012813083115894?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2025</a>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</blockquote>
Moreover, Denali, North America's highest peak, will be renamed Mount McKinley once again on Google Maps, as it was originally called.&nbsp;
Later, the Obama administration officially renamed it Denali in 2015.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-trump-inauguration-trump-20-gulf-of-mexico-gofo-of-america-8642297" rel="dofollow"> Explained: Trump wants to rename Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America. Can he do that?</a>
Mexico, which also borders the Gulf, has previously expressed its opposition to Trump's suggestion of changing the name.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum reacted to Trump's pledge shortly before his inauguration, jokingly suggesting that North America, including the US, should be renamed as well.&nbsp;
She suggested "American Mexicana" or "Mexican America" because an 1814 founding document that preceded Mexico's constitution used that name.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-president-mocks-trumps-gulf-of-america-proposal-suggests-mexican-america-instead-8603211" rel="dofollow">Mexico President mocks Trump&rsquo;s 'Gulf of America' proposal, suggests 'Mexican America' instead</a>
However, Google's move can create discrepancies for international users, as Google Maps will show the name "Gulf of America" for American users, but for users in Mexico, it will still be referred to as the Gulf of Mexico.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Following this, the Gulf of Mexico will soon be renamed the “Gulf of America,” and Alaska’s Denali mountain will revert to its former name of Mount McKinley in the app. 

In a move to comply with US President Donald Trump's order, Google is set to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America on Google Maps in the US. This comes after the Trump administration’s Interior Department on Friday officially renamed the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. Following this, the Gulf of Mexico will soon be renamed the “Gulf of America,” and Alaska’s Denali mountain will revert to its former name of Mount McKinley in the app. Also read: Trump officially renames Gulf of Mexico to 'Gulf of America' in US: Will it catch on internationally? Trump signed an executive order after swearing in as the President of the United States to change these names. The US also reverted the name of the Alaskan peak known as Denali to its previous name, Mount McKinley. These changes will come into effect after being reflected in the official federal mapping database. Google, in a post on X, confirmed that it follows government-approved name changes. Also read: Mexico draws line on US deportation flights but vows to welcome back citizens 'with open arms' “We have a longstanding practice of applying name changes when they have been updated in official government sources,” the company said in a post on X. When that happens, we will update Google Maps in the U.S. quickly to show Mount McKinley and Gulf of America. — News from Google (@NewsFromGoogle) January 27, 2025 Moreover, Denali, North America's highest peak, will be renamed Mount McKinley once again on Google Maps, as it was originally called. Later, the Obama administration officially renamed it Denali in 2015. Also read: Explained: Trump wants to rename Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America. Can he do that? Mexico, which also borders the Gulf, has previously expressed its opposition to Trump's suggestion of changing the name. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum reacted to Trump's pledge shortly before his inauguration, jokingly suggesting that North America, including the US, should be renamed as well. She suggested "American Mexicana" or "Mexican America" because an 1814 founding document that preceded Mexico's constitution used that name. Also read: Mexico President mocks Trump’s 'Gulf of America' proposal, suggests 'Mexican America' instead However, Google's move can create discrepancies for international users, as Google Maps will show the name "Gulf of America" for American users, but for users in Mexico, it will still be referred to as the Gulf of Mexico. (With inputs from agencies)

Google Maps to rename Gulf of Mexico as ‘Gulf of America’ for US users

US President<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump-0" rel="dofollow"> Donald Trump</a> proposed to abolish the income tax for American citizens, stressing that it would boost disposable income for individuals and families.&nbsp;
Trump described the move as a return to the old American practices, which helped drive national prosperity and a step that made America richer.&nbsp;
"It&rsquo;s time for the United States to return to the system that made us richer and more powerful than ever before&hellip;," he said on Monday.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-irs-launches-crackdown-on-125000-unfiled-high-income-tax-returns-695453" rel="dofollow">US IRS launches crackdown on 125,000 unfiled high-income tax returns</a>
The US president further said that he would introduce across-the-board import tariffs to replace income tax.
"Instead of taxing our citizens to enrich foreign nations, we should be taxing foreign nations to enrich our citizens. It will be massive amounts of money pouring into our treasury coming from foreign sources," Trump added.
He noted that the US was the wealthiest from 1870 to 1913 when a tariff-based economic system was in place. Trump said that import tariffs will help offset the revenue shortfall from income tax reductions that are being proposed by him.
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deepseek-donald-trump-wake-up-call-us-tech-industry-8661569" rel="dofollow"> 'If you could do it cheaper...': Trump calls DeepSeek a 'wake-up call' for US tech industry</a>
<h2>What does the proposal include?</h2>
The proposal made by Trump includes replacing income tax, which is a key contributor to federal revenue, with tariffs on imported goods.&nbsp;
Trump also announced to create the External Revenue Service, a new body under his administration, which will be responsible for managing tariffs and related revenues.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-transgender-people-us-military-executive-orders-8661366" rel="dofollow"> Trump signs order banning transgender people from US military. What are the new guidelines?</a>
The plan has attracted both support and criticism. The economists have warned of potential inflationary pressures and sustained high interest rates due to increased import costs.&nbsp;
Moreover, the Congress has also opposed it, with lawmakers raising concerns about potential deficits and logistical hurdles in implementing the overhaul.
However, Trump emphasised his commitment to prioritising American families and workers. "We will immediately begin overhauling our trade system to protect American interests,&rdquo; he said.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Donald Trump described the move as a return to the old American practices, which helped drive national prosperity and a step that made America richer. 

US President Donald Trump proposed to abolish the income tax for American citizens, stressing that it would boost disposable income for individuals and families. Trump described the move as a return to the old American practices, which helped drive national prosperity and a step that made America richer. "It’s time for the United States to return to the system that made us richer and more powerful than ever before…," he said on Monday. Also read: US IRS launches crackdown on 125,000 unfiled high-income tax returns The US president further said that he would introduce across-the-board import tariffs to replace income tax. "Instead of taxing our citizens to enrich foreign nations, we should be taxing foreign nations to enrich our citizens. It will be massive amounts of money pouring into our treasury coming from foreign sources," Trump added. He noted that the US was the wealthiest from 1870 to 1913 when a tariff-based economic system was in place. Trump said that import tariffs will help offset the revenue shortfall from income tax reductions that are being proposed by him. Also read: 'If you could do it cheaper...': Trump calls DeepSeek a 'wake-up call' for US tech industry What does the proposal include? The proposal made by Trump includes replacing income tax, which is a key contributor to federal revenue, with tariffs on imported goods. Trump also announced to create the External Revenue Service, a new body under his administration, which will be responsible for managing tariffs and related revenues. Also read: Trump signs order banning transgender people from US military. What are the new guidelines? The plan has attracted both support and criticism. The economists have warned of potential inflationary pressures and sustained high interest rates due to increased import costs. Moreover, the Congress has also opposed it, with lawmakers raising concerns about potential deficits and logistical hurdles in implementing the overhaul. However, Trump emphasised his commitment to prioritising American families and workers. "We will immediately begin overhauling our trade system to protect American interests,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

'Time to return to system that made us richer,' Trump hints at removing income tax for US citizens

After the Chinese AI Chatboat made headlines for giving shockwaves to Wall Street, US President Donald Trump called DeepSeek a "wake-up call" for the tech industry of the United States.
The US chip giant Nvidia's shares lost around $600 billion, along with a major fall in the shares of other tech firms.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/china-deepseek-deepseek-or-deep-secrecy-netizens-slam-chinas-new-ai-chatbot-for-deflecting-questions-on-dark-chinese-history-lets-talk-about-something-else-8660727">DeepSeek or Deep Secrecy? Netizens slam China's new AI chatbot for deflecting questions on dark Chinese history</a>
DeepSeek claimed that its R1 model was made using a fraction of the cost used by its rivals like OpenAI, which raised questions about America's future in dominating the AI industry and on the scale of its investment plans.&nbsp;
Since DeepSeek's R1 became the most downloaded app in the US just weeks after launch, Trump said that the developments in the Chinese AI industry may be a "positive" thing for his country.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trumps-iron-dome-for-america-trump-executive-order-us-missile-defence-upgrade-8659528">Trump's 'Iron Dome for America': US President to sign executive order for 'next-gen' missile defence upgrade</a>
"If you could do it cheaper, if you could do it [for] less [and] get to the same end result. I think that's a good thing for us," Trump said, BBC reported.&nbsp;
He further claimed that the US will continue dominating the industry,and he is not concerned by the breakthrough.&nbsp;
WATCH: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/deepseek-sparks-1-trillion-tech-sell-off">DeepSeek sparks $1 trillion tech sell-off</a>
DeepSeek is powered by the open-source DeepSeek-V3 model. Its researchers claimed that it was made at a cost of $6 million, a statement many in the AI industry disputed. If the claims of the Chinese app are believed to be true, the cost is way less than the billions of dollars used by its rivals in the West.&nbsp;
<h2>Who founded DeepSeek?</h2>
DeepSeek was founded in 2023 by a Chinese electronic engineering graduate, Liang Wenfeng. The 40-year-old said in an interview in July 2024 that he was surprised by the reaction to the previous version of the platform.&nbsp;
"We didn't expect pricing to be such a sensitive issue," he said.&nbsp;
WATCH: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/deepseek-sparks-global-ai-stock-selloff">DeepSeek sparks global AI stock selloff</a>
He further added, "We were simply following our own pace, calculating costs, and setting prices accordingly."
(With inputs from agencies)

World | SCIENCE & TECH | The US chip giant Nvidia's shares lost around $600 billion, along with a major fall in the shares of other tech firms. 

After the Chinese AI Chatboat made headlines for giving shockwaves to Wall Street, US President Donald Trump called DeepSeek a "wake-up call" for the tech industry of the United States. The US chip giant Nvidia's shares lost around $600 billion, along with a major fall in the shares of other tech firms. Also read: DeepSeek or Deep Secrecy? Netizens slam China's new AI chatbot for deflecting questions on dark Chinese history DeepSeek claimed that its R1 model was made using a fraction of the cost used by its rivals like OpenAI, which raised questions about America's future in dominating the AI industry and on the scale of its investment plans. Since DeepSeek's R1 became the most downloaded app in the US just weeks after launch, Trump said that the developments in the Chinese AI industry may be a "positive" thing for his country. Also read: Trump's 'Iron Dome for America': US President to sign executive order for 'next-gen' missile defence upgrade "If you could do it cheaper, if you could do it [for] less [and] get to the same end result. I think that's a good thing for us," Trump said, BBC reported. He further claimed that the US will continue dominating the industry,and he is not concerned by the breakthrough. WATCH: DeepSeek sparks $1 trillion tech sell-off DeepSeek is powered by the open-source DeepSeek-V3 model. Its researchers claimed that it was made at a cost of $6 million, a statement many in the AI industry disputed. If the claims of the Chinese app are believed to be true, the cost is way less than the billions of dollars used by its rivals in the West. Who founded DeepSeek? DeepSeek was founded in 2023 by a Chinese electronic engineering graduate, Liang Wenfeng. The 40-year-old said in an interview in July 2024 that he was surprised by the reaction to the previous version of the platform. "We didn't expect pricing to be such a sensitive issue," he said. WATCH: DeepSeek sparks global AI stock selloff He further added, "We were simply following our own pace, calculating costs, and setting prices accordingly." (With inputs from agencies)

'If you could do it cheaper...': Trump calls DeepSeek a 'wake-up call' for US tech industry

Donald Trump faces intense backlash after making controversial statements regarding Gaza, with critics accusing him of endorsing ethnic cleansing against Palestinians. His remarks have sparked a heated debate over the ongoing conflict.

Trump calls for 'ethnic cleansing' of Palestinians from Gaza, receives backlash | WION Originals

Donald Trump pushes for stronger border security measures during a retreat with House Republicans, marking the end of his first week in office. The proposal aims to address immigration and enhance border enforcement.

Trump advocates for border crackdown at House Republican Retreat, concluding first week in office

US President Donald Trump said on Monday (Jan 27) that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the United States in February.
&ldquo;He (PM Modi) will visit the US sometime in February,&rdquo; news agency Reuters quoted Donald Trump as saying.
This comes after Trump on Monday had a "productive" phone call with PM Narendra Modi, where the two leaders discussed expanding and deepening bilateral cooperation and issues including security in the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe. 
This was the first telephonic conversation between President Trump and Prime Minister Modi since the Republican was sworn in for a second term on January 20.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-and-donald-trump-discuss-strengthening-india-us-partnership-over-call-8658886">PM Modi and Donald Trump discuss strengthening India-US partnership over call</a>
The American leader noted he discussed the issue of immigration with the Indian Premier and said Prime Minister Modi "will do what's right" when it comes to taking back Indian immigrants who came to the US illegally.
<h2 dir="ltr">PM Modi on call with Trump</h2>
PM Modi on Monday posted on X that the two countries are committed to a mutually beneficial and trusted partnership.
"Delighted to speak with my dear friend President @realDonaldTrump @POTUS. Congratulated him on his historic second term. We are committed to a mutually beneficial and trusted partnership. We will work together for the welfare of our people and towards global peace, prosperity, and security," PM Modi said after the talks concluded.
<h2 dir="ltr">White House on Trump-Modi call</h2>
The White House released a statement on the talks held between the two leaders, saying that the two "discussed expanding and deepening cooperation."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prime-minister-modi-highlights-indias-growing-concert-economy-citing-coldplays-tour-8660890">Prime Minister Modi highlights India's growing concert economy, citing Coldplay's tour</a>
"Today, President Donald J. Trump held a productive call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India. The two leaders discussed expanding and deepening cooperation. They also discussed a range of regional issues, including security in the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe," it said.
"The President emphasized the importance of India increasing its procurement of American-made security equipment and moving toward a fair bilateral trading relationship. The leaders discussed plans for Prime Minister Modi to visit the White House, underscoring the strength of the friendship and strategic ties between our nations. Both leaders emphasized their commitment to advance the U.S.-India strategic partnership and the Indo-Pacific Quad partnership, with India hosting Quad Leaders for the first time later this year," it added.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | India News: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit the United States in February as paer an announcement by US President Donald Trump on January 27.

US President Donald Trump said on Monday (Jan 27) that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the United States in February. “He (PM Modi) will visit the US sometime in February,” news agency Reuters quoted Donald Trump as saying. This comes after Trump on Monday had a "productive" phone call with PM Narendra Modi, where the two leaders discussed expanding and deepening bilateral cooperation and issues including security in the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe. This was the first telephonic conversation between President Trump and Prime Minister Modi since the Republican was sworn in for a second term on January 20. Also read | PM Modi and Donald Trump discuss strengthening India-US partnership over call The American leader noted he discussed the issue of immigration with the Indian Premier and said Prime Minister Modi "will do what's right" when it comes to taking back Indian immigrants who came to the US illegally. PM Modi on call with Trump PM Modi on Monday posted on X that the two countries are committed to a mutually beneficial and trusted partnership. "Delighted to speak with my dear friend President @realDonaldTrump @POTUS. Congratulated him on his historic second term. We are committed to a mutually beneficial and trusted partnership. We will work together for the welfare of our people and towards global peace, prosperity, and security," PM Modi said after the talks concluded. White House on Trump-Modi call The White House released a statement on the talks held between the two leaders, saying that the two "discussed expanding and deepening cooperation." Also read | Prime Minister Modi highlights India's growing concert economy, citing Coldplay's tour "Today, President Donald J. Trump held a productive call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India. The two leaders discussed expanding and deepening cooperation. They also discussed a range of regional issues, including security in the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe," it said. "The President emphasized the importance of India increasing its procurement of American-made security equipment and moving toward a fair bilateral trading relationship. The leaders discussed plans for Prime Minister Modi to visit the White House, underscoring the strength of the friendship and strategic ties between our nations. Both leaders emphasized their commitment to advance the U.S.-India strategic partnership and the Indo-Pacific Quad partnership, with India hosting Quad Leaders for the first time later this year," it added. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi to visit US in Feb, Trump says India ‘will do what's right’ on immigrants

President Donald Trump on Monday announced he had signed four executive orders that will reshape the military, including banning transgender service members from serving in the US armed forces. Watch this report for more details!

Donald Trump signs orders to reshape US military, ban transgender troops

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