An investigation into the January 06 Capitol riots has concluded that the government, military and law enforcement failed miserably at controlling the situation — before and after the riots.

The Senate report claims the soldiers on the front were left directionless by their seniors, resulting in brain injuries, chemical burns and broken bones in several officers who were trying to control the raging supporters of former President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-was-scared-biden-would-be-replaced-with-hillary-clinton-or-michelle-obama-book-claims-390209" hreflang="en">Trump was scared Biden would be replaced with Hillary Clinton or Michelle Obama, book claims</a>

"I was horrified that no deputy chief or above was on the radio or helping us," an officer told the investigating committee anonymously. "For hours the screams on the radio were horrific, the sights were unimaginable and there was a complete loss of control … For hours no chief or above took command and control. Officers were begging and pleading for help for medical triage."

While the report clearly states that the law enforcement and police forces failed miserably, it does not answer the questions of the origin of the riots.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/our-president-donald-trump-attacks-fauci-hints-at-re-run-in-2024-election-390165" hreflang="en">'Our president': Donald Trump attacks Fauci, hints at re-run in 2024 election</a>

"This report is important in the fact that it allows us to make some immediate improvements to the security situation here in the Capitol," said Michigan Senator Gary Peters, the chairman of the homeland security and governmental affairs committee. "But it does not answer some of the bigger questions that we need to face, quite frankly, as a country and as a democracy."

The Senate report claims that as the officers in the US Capitol building tried to control the situation with their limited resources and repeatedly begged for help, the Pentagon spent hours "mission planning" a combat technique and wasted immense time and resources in getting rid of multiple layers of approval.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hits-out-at-biden-for-bowing-down-to-china-urges-him-to-put-america-first-389769" hreflang="en">Trump hits out at Biden for 'bowing down' to China, urges him to 'put America first'</a>

Alleging that nobody in the higher authority really understood their duties and responsibility, through this report, the Capitol police board has been advised to "regularly review the policies and procedures" and Congress has been urged to immediately grant more authority to the police chief.

The investigation also concluded that the Capitol Police’s system completely broke down during the riot which was due to lack of leadership, faulty equipment, poor planning and lack of on-the-spot thinking.

"USCP leadership never took control of the radio system to communicate orders to frontline officers," the investigation stated. However, the acting chief of police, Yogananda Pittman claims the lack of communication was a result of "incident commanders being overwhelmed and engaging with rioters, rather than issuing orders over the radio".

While the report alleged the higher authorities of poor handling of the situation, the Senate appreciated the officers present in the building on January 06 and said, “the officers inside all behaved admirably and heroically and, even outnumbered, went on the offensive and took the Capitol back”.

An investigation into the January 06 Capitol riots has concluded that the government, military and law enforcement failed miserably at controlling the situation — before and after the riots.

An investigation into the January 06 Capitol riots has concluded that the government, military and law enforcement failed miserably at controlling the situation — before and after the riots. The Senate report claims the soldiers on the front were left directionless by their seniors, resulting in brain injuries, chemical burns and broken bones in several officers who were trying to control the raging supporters of former President Donald Trump. Also read | Trump was scared Biden would be replaced with Hillary Clinton or Michelle Obama, book claims "I was horrified that no deputy chief or above was on the radio or helping us," an officer told the investigating committee anonymously. "For hours the screams on the radio were horrific, the sights were unimaginable and there was a complete loss of control … For hours no chief or above took command and control. Officers were begging and pleading for help for medical triage." While the report clearly states that the law enforcement and police forces failed miserably, it does not answer the questions of the origin of the riots. Also read | 'Our president': Donald Trump attacks Fauci, hints at re-run in 2024 election "This report is important in the fact that it allows us to make some immediate improvements to the security situation here in the Capitol," said Michigan Senator Gary Peters, the chairman of the homeland security and governmental affairs committee. "But it does not answer some of the bigger questions that we need to face, quite frankly, as a country and as a democracy." The Senate report claims that as the officers in the US Capitol building tried to control the situation with their limited resources and repeatedly begged for help, the Pentagon spent hours "mission planning" a combat technique and wasted immense time and resources in getting rid of multiple layers of approval. Also read | Trump hits out at Biden for 'bowing down' to China, urges him to 'put America first' Alleging that nobody in the higher authority really understood their duties and responsibility, through this report, the Capitol police board has been advised to "regularly review the policies and procedures" and Congress has been urged to immediately grant more authority to the police chief. The investigation also concluded that the Capitol Police’s system completely broke down during the riot which was due to lack of leadership, faulty equipment, poor planning and lack of on-the-spot thinking. "USCP leadership never took control of the radio system to communicate orders to frontline officers," the investigation stated. However, the acting chief of police, Yogananda Pittman claims the lack of communication was a result of "incident commanders being overwhelmed and engaging with rioters, rather than issuing orders over the radio". While the report alleged the higher authorities of poor handling of the situation, the Senate appreciated the officers present in the building on January 06 and said, “the officers inside all behaved admirably and heroically and, even outnumbered, went on the offensive and took the Capitol back”.

Directionless and poor management: Senate report highlights faulty leadership during Capitol riots

During the US election 2020, former President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a> made sure he calls Biden a mental retard” at least once in every appearance. However, he was still tad soft on Biden, a book claims.

A new book by Michael Bender titled, ‘Frankly, We Did Win This Election: The Inside Story of How Trump Lost’ claims Donald Trump went soft on Joe Biden with fears that the Democratic party might replace him with Hillary Clinton or Michelle Obama.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/our-president-donald-trump-attacks-fauci-hints-at-re-run-in-2024-election-390165" hreflang="en">'Our president': Donald Trump attacks Fauci, hints at re-run in 2024 election</a>

An open Obama-critic and a known misogynist, Trump believed Biden was too old and might be replaced by the former FLOTUS or Clinton.

He thought the Democrats will "realise [Biden is] old, and they're going to give it to somebody else. They’re going to give it to Hillary, or they’re going to give it to&nbsp;Michelle Obama," Bender wrote.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hits-out-at-biden-for-bowing-down-to-china-urges-him-to-put-america-first-389769" hreflang="en">Trump hits out at Biden for 'bowing down' to China, urges him to 'put America first'</a>

His book also claims that Trump gave Massachusetts senator Elizabeth Warren&nbsp;a racist nickname, "Pocahontas", on the basis of her reported Native American ancestry.

The interesting thing is that Michelle Obama has never expressed interest in running for the White House — be it for the post of President or any other post.

During the US election 2020, former President Donald Trump made sure he calls Biden a mental retard” at least once in every appearance. However, he was still tad soft on Biden, a book claims.

During the US election 2020, former President Donald Trump made sure he calls Biden a mental retard” at least once in every appearance. However, he was still tad soft on Biden, a book claims. A new book by Michael Bender titled, ‘Frankly, We Did Win This Election: The Inside Story of How Trump Lost’ claims Donald Trump went soft on Joe Biden with fears that the Democratic party might replace him with Hillary Clinton or Michelle Obama. Also read | 'Our president': Donald Trump attacks Fauci, hints at re-run in 2024 election An open Obama-critic and a known misogynist, Trump believed Biden was too old and might be replaced by the former FLOTUS or Clinton. He thought the Democrats will "realise [Biden is] old, and they're going to give it to somebody else. They’re going to give it to Hillary, or they’re going to give it to Michelle Obama," Bender wrote. Also read | Trump hits out at Biden for 'bowing down' to China, urges him to 'put America first' His book also claims that Trump gave Massachusetts senator Elizabeth Warren a racist nickname, "Pocahontas", on the basis of her reported Native American ancestry. The interesting thing is that Michelle Obama has never expressed interest in running for the White House — be it for the post of President or any other post.

Trump was scared Biden would be replaced with Hillary Clinton or Michelle Obama, book claims

In a rare appearance at the North Carolina Republican Party Convention, the former US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a> attacked the US infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci over his handling of the coronavirus pandemic in the US.

Labelling him as "not a great doctor but a great promoter", he, ironically, accused Fauci of solely caring about his own image by promoting himself through videos and television appearances.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hits-out-at-biden-for-bowing-down-to-china-urges-him-to-put-america-first-389769" hreflang="en">Trump hits out at Biden for 'bowing down' to China, urges him to 'put America first'</a>

He also alleged that the expert has "been wrong on almost every issue and he was wrong on Wuhan and the lab also,"&nbsp;Trump said.

Prepping for midterms

Happy with his introduction as "our president" by the North Carolina Republican Party Chairman Michael Whatley, Trump urged his supporters to continue trusting him and his party in order to make sure he can 'make America great again'.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/insult-to-75-million-voters-donald-trump-banned-for-two-years-from-facebook-389539" hreflang="en">'Insult to 75 million voters': Donald Trump banned for two years from Facebook</a>

He asked his supporters to lend support to the party candidates in the midterms next year. "The survival of America depends upon our ability to elect Republicans at every level, starting with the midterms next year,"&nbsp;Trump said.

Reiterating the false claims of voter fraud in the US election 2020, he said, "the 2020 presidential election, that election, the 2020 presidential election was by far the most corrupt election in the history of our country. There's never been anything like this. They use Covid and they used the mail-in ballots to steal an election. It was the Third World country election like we've never seen before. Look at what took place."

'Witch hunt'

The former reality TV star also accused his opponents of chasing him in a "witch hunt".

"It's a disgrace to our country. It's prosecutorial misconduct. They're in search of a crime. It's a fishing expedition and the Supreme Court of the United States should not have allowed it to happen, shouldn't have allowed it. And they mention it can't be a fishing expedition. This is the ultimate fishing expedition. It's been a five-year-long witch hunt, hoax after hoax. Russia, Russia, Russia, Ukraine, the Mueller hoax. Look at the Mueller scam," Trump said at the convention.

He also hinted at a possible re-run in the US election 2024 and claimed he was excitedly waiting for that year. He also alleged that his opponents will not give up the 'witch hunt'&nbsp;till 2024.

Bitcoin

Trump also voiced his opinion about bitcoin recently. "Bitcoin, it just seems like a scam. I don’t like it because it’s another currency competing against the dollar ... I want the dollar to be the currency of the world. That’s what I’ve always said," he said.

In a rare appearance at the North Carolina Republican Party Convention, the former US President Donald Trump attacked the US infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci over his handling of the coronavirus pandemic in the US.

In a rare appearance at the North Carolina Republican Party Convention, the former US President Donald Trump attacked the US infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci over his handling of the coronavirus pandemic in the US. Labelling him as "not a great doctor but a great promoter", he, ironically, accused Fauci of solely caring about his own image by promoting himself through videos and television appearances. Also read | Trump hits out at Biden for 'bowing down' to China, urges him to 'put America first' He also alleged that the expert has "been wrong on almost every issue and he was wrong on Wuhan and the lab also," Trump said. Prepping for midterms Happy with his introduction as "our president" by the North Carolina Republican Party Chairman Michael Whatley, Trump urged his supporters to continue trusting him and his party in order to make sure he can 'make America great again'. Also read | 'Insult to 75 million voters': Donald Trump banned for two years from Facebook He asked his supporters to lend support to the party candidates in the midterms next year. "The survival of America depends upon our ability to elect Republicans at every level, starting with the midterms next year," Trump said. Reiterating the false claims of voter fraud in the US election 2020, he said, "the 2020 presidential election, that election, the 2020 presidential election was by far the most corrupt election in the history of our country. There's never been anything like this. They use Covid and they used the mail-in ballots to steal an election. It was the Third World country election like we've never seen before. Look at what took place." 'Witch hunt' The former reality TV star also accused his opponents of chasing him in a "witch hunt". "It's a disgrace to our country. It's prosecutorial misconduct. They're in search of a crime. It's a fishing expedition and the Supreme Court of the United States should not have allowed it to happen, shouldn't have allowed it. And they mention it can't be a fishing expedition. This is the ultimate fishing expedition. It's been a five-year-long witch hunt, hoax after hoax. Russia, Russia, Russia, Ukraine, the Mueller hoax. Look at the Mueller scam," Trump said at the convention. He also hinted at a possible re-run in the US election 2024 and claimed he was excitedly waiting for that year. He also alleged that his opponents will not give up the 'witch hunt' till 2024. Bitcoin Trump also voiced his opinion about bitcoin recently. "Bitcoin, it just seems like a scam. I don’t like it because it’s another currency competing against the dollar ... I want the dollar to be the currency of the world. That’s what I’ve always said," he said.

'Our president': Donald Trump attacks Fauci, hints at re-run in 2024 election

Former US President Donald Trump tried to make a comeback to the political stage on Saturday with a major speech to southern Republicans.

Former US President Donald Trump teases comeback

Former US&nbsp;President Donald Trump tried to make a comeback to the political stage on Saturday&nbsp;with a major speech to southern Republicans.

Trump's speech to an enthusiastic audience at the North Carolina GOP convention dinner in Greenville was his first high profile public appearance outside of his Florida compound, and his first major speech, since leaving office in January.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-i-was-right-about-wuhan-lab-leak-demands-10-trillion-penalty-from-china-389378">Trump&nbsp;says 'I was right about Wuhan lab leak'; demands $10 trillion penalty from China</a>

The former Republican president repeated his previous barbs at President Joe Biden, the Democrats, undocumented migrants, Dr Anthony Fauci, and others

But the bulk of his attack for the first hour of his lengthy speech was directed at China, with Trump calling on nations to cancel their debt to China as Beijing's "down payment" for restitution over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID pandemic</a>.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-says-i-was-right-about-wuhan-lab-leak-389509/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dark-day-mike-pence-says-trump-and-him-can-never-see-eye-to-eye-on-capitol-riots-389478">'Dark day': Mike Pence says Trump and him can never see eye-to-eye on Capitol riots</a>

"The time has come for America and the world to demand reparations and accountability from the Communist Party of China... All nations should work together to present China a bill for a minimum of 10 trillion dollars to compensate for the damage they've caused," Trump said to applause.

Trump's first major speech as a private citizen again comes one day after Facebook announced it would suspend him for two years.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/insult-to-75-million-voters-donald-trump-banned-for-two-years-from-facebook-389539">'Insult to 75 million voters': Donald Trump banned for two years from Facebook</a>

The timeline denies Trump a major social media megaphone ahead of the November 2022 congressional elections. However, it means he may be able to return to Facebook well before the next presidential election in late 2024.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/facebook-suspends-trumps-account-until-2023-389559/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"A year that I look very much forward to, 2024," Trump said in his speech to wide applause.

Former US President Donald Trump tried to make a comeback to the political stage on Saturday with a major speech to southern Republicans. Trump's speech to an enthusiastic audience at the North Carolina GOP convention dinner in Greenville was his first high profile public appearance outside of his Florida compound, and his first major speech, since leaving office in January.

Former US President Donald Trump tried to make a comeback to the political stage on Saturday with a major speech to southern Republicans. Trump's speech to an enthusiastic audience at the North Carolina GOP convention dinner in Greenville was his first high profile public appearance outside of his Florida compound, and his first major speech, since leaving office in January. Also Read | Trump says 'I was right about Wuhan lab leak'; demands $10 trillion penalty from China The former Republican president repeated his previous barbs at President Joe Biden, the Democrats, undocumented migrants, Dr Anthony Fauci, and others But the bulk of his attack for the first hour of his lengthy speech was directed at China, with Trump calling on nations to cancel their debt to China as Beijing's "down payment" for restitution over the COVID pandemic. Also Read | 'Dark day': Mike Pence says Trump and him can never see eye-to-eye on Capitol riots "The time has come for America and the world to demand reparations and accountability from the Communist Party of China... All nations should work together to present China a bill for a minimum of 10 trillion dollars to compensate for the damage they've caused," Trump said to applause. Trump's first major speech as a private citizen again comes one day after Facebook announced it would suspend him for two years. Also Read | 'Insult to 75 million voters': Donald Trump banned for two years from Facebook The timeline denies Trump a major social media megaphone ahead of the November 2022 congressional elections. However, it means he may be able to return to Facebook well before the next presidential election in late 2024. "A year that I look very much forward to, 2024," Trump said in his speech to wide applause.

Trump hints at comeback in major speech, calls on nations to cancel their China debt

Former United States President Donald Trump has remained largely missing from&nbsp;the public arena after Joe Biden took office.&nbsp; For months, Trump said that the elections were fraudulent without providing any evidence for his claims.&nbsp;

He was stripped of his privileges on social media websites like Twitter and Facebook after an attempted insurrection at the US Capitol caused multiple casualties. Since then, Trump’s voice has largely disappeared from social media platforms. Last month, a blog page was launched for the former president.&nbsp;

Now, his blog has been removed from the website. On Wednesday, Trump aide Jason Miller said that the page, officially known "From the Desk of Donald J. Trump," has been permanently taken down. "It was just auxiliary to the broader efforts we have and are working on," Miller told Reuters.

Earlier, Donald Trump’s team had announced plans to launch a social media platform. But no details were revealed.

"I'm hoping to have more information on the broader efforts soon, but I do not have a precise awareness of timing," Miller told Reuters in an email statement.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/us-formally-ends-trumps-remain-in-mexico-asylum-policy-388876" hreflang="en">US formally ends Trump’s 'remain in Mexico' asylum policy</a>

The blog, now defunct was billed as a place to “speak freely and safely”. It had posts from Trump which could be shared on social media networks like Twitter and Facebook. Twitter has asserted that its ban on Trump was permanent, regardless of whether he reruns for office.&nbsp;

Before being banned, Trump had over 88 million followers on Twitter. Recently, Facebook’s oversight board said that the company did the right thing by banning Trump, but criticised the indefinite nature of the ban.

YouTube, where he is also banned said that Trump’s account may be reinstated when it decides that the risk of violence has subsided.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/trump-promises-re-run-in-us-election-2024-if-his-health-allows-reports-388427" hreflang="en">Trump promises re-run in US election 2024 if his health allows: Reports</a>

Former United States President Donald Trump has remained largely missing from the public arena after Joe Biden took office. For months, Trump said that the elections were fraudulent without providing any evidence for his claims.

Former United States President Donald Trump has remained largely missing from the public arena after Joe Biden took office. For months, Trump said that the elections were fraudulent without providing any evidence for his claims. He was stripped of his privileges on social media websites like Twitter and Facebook after an attempted insurrection at the US Capitol caused multiple casualties. Since then, Trump’s voice has largely disappeared from social media platforms. Last month, a blog page was launched for the former president. Now, his blog has been removed from the website. On Wednesday, Trump aide Jason Miller said that the page, officially known "From the Desk of Donald J. Trump," has been permanently taken down. "It was just auxiliary to the broader efforts we have and are working on," Miller told Reuters. Earlier, Donald Trump’s team had announced plans to launch a social media platform. But no details were revealed. "I'm hoping to have more information on the broader efforts soon, but I do not have a precise awareness of timing," Miller told Reuters in an email statement. Also read: US formally ends Trump’s 'remain in Mexico' asylum policy The blog, now defunct was billed as a place to “speak freely and safely”. It had posts from Trump which could be shared on social media networks like Twitter and Facebook. Twitter has asserted that its ban on Trump was permanent, regardless of whether he reruns for office. Before being banned, Trump had over 88 million followers on Twitter. Recently, Facebook’s oversight board said that the company did the right thing by banning Trump, but criticised the indefinite nature of the ban. YouTube, where he is also banned said that Trump’s account may be reinstated when it decides that the risk of violence has subsided. Also read: Trump promises re-run in US election 2024 if his health allows: Reports

Donald Trump's blog page shuts down a month after launch

Former US President Donald Trump slammed Joe Biden for being the “most radical left-wing administration in the country”.

While speaking at the North Carolina Republican convention Trump urged Biden to “always put America first”. “We don't put America second. As we gather tonight, our country is being destroyed before our own eyes. Crime is exploding, police departments are being ripped apart and defunded... Is that good politics, defund our police?”, he said.

He also accused the Biden administration of “bowing down to China” and claimed that illegal immigration is “skyrocketing”.

“Gas prices are soaring. Our industries are being pillaged by foreign cyber attacks. That's a lack of respect for our country and for our leaders. And speaking of our leaders, they are bowing down to China, America is being demeaned and humiliated on the world stage. Our freedom is being overtaken by left-wing cancel culture. And the Biden administration is pushing toxic critical race theory and illegal discrimination into our children's race theory," Trump said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/biden-order-bans-investment-in-dozens-of-chinese-defence-tech-firms-389439" hreflang="en">Biden order bans investment in dozens of Chinese defence, tech firms</a>

Trump further termed Biden and Democrats as the most “radical left-wing administration in history”, adding that the survival of US is dependent on the election of Republicans at every level in the country.

"...We're not going to let it go any longer. We have to stand up for our values. And we're going to take back our country and take it back at a level that is very, very good for our country. And it's good for our citizens because we can't allow bad things to happen to our country," Trump added.

Trump is eyeing a return to politics by planning a 2024 presidential bid, while urging North Carolina to reject Biden and the “radical Democrats”. This marked Trump’s first public speech after leaving the White House in January, when Biden took over the presidential duties.

Trump is also facing a boycott by social media companies for his role in the January 7 insurrection of the US Capitol.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/biden-to-review-donald-trumps-china-investment-blacklist-report-389225" hreflang="en">Biden to review Donald Trump's China investment blacklist: Report</a>

Former US President Donald Trump slammed Joe Biden for being the “most radical left-wing administration in the country”. While speaking at the North Carolina Republican convention Trump urged Biden to “always put America first”.

Former US President Donald Trump slammed Joe Biden for being the “most radical left-wing administration in the country”. While speaking at the North Carolina Republican convention Trump urged Biden to “always put America first”. “We don't put America second. As we gather tonight, our country is being destroyed before our own eyes. Crime is exploding, police departments are being ripped apart and defunded... Is that good politics, defund our police?”, he said. He also accused the Biden administration of “bowing down to China” and claimed that illegal immigration is “skyrocketing”. “Gas prices are soaring. Our industries are being pillaged by foreign cyber attacks. That's a lack of respect for our country and for our leaders. And speaking of our leaders, they are bowing down to China, America is being demeaned and humiliated on the world stage. Our freedom is being overtaken by left-wing cancel culture. And the Biden administration is pushing toxic critical race theory and illegal discrimination into our children's race theory," Trump said. Also read: Biden order bans investment in dozens of Chinese defence, tech firms Trump further termed Biden and Democrats as the most “radical left-wing administration in history”, adding that the survival of US is dependent on the election of Republicans at every level in the country. "...We're not going to let it go any longer. We have to stand up for our values. And we're going to take back our country and take it back at a level that is very, very good for our country. And it's good for our citizens because we can't allow bad things to happen to our country," Trump added. Trump is eyeing a return to politics by planning a 2024 presidential bid, while urging North Carolina to reject Biden and the “radical Democrats”. This marked Trump’s first public speech after leaving the White House in January, when Biden took over the presidential duties. Trump is also facing a boycott by social media companies for his role in the January 7 insurrection of the US Capitol. Also read: Biden to review Donald Trump's China investment blacklist: Report

Trump hits out at Biden for 'bowing down' to China, urges him to 'put America first'

A little after the rumours of the former reality TV star and the 45th US President, Donald Trump, coming back on Facebook were dismissed, the social media platform has decided to continue the ban on the Republican leader for the next two years, at least.

Facebook suspends Trump's account until 2023

A little after the rumours of the former reality TV star and the 45th US President, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump?page=1">Donald Trump</a>, coming back on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/facebook">Facebook</a> were dismissed, the social media platform has decided to continue the ban on the Republican leader for the next two years, at least.

The former president was banned from Facebook and other social media platforms such as Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat after he was accused of motivating his supporters to start a riot at the US Capitol building.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-donald-trump-back-on-facebook-heres-the-truth-behind-deletefacebook-389235" hreflang="en">Is Donald Trump back on Facebook? Here's the truth behind '#DeleteFacebook'</a>

After losing the US election 2020 to Joe Biden, Trump asked his supporters to charge to the Capitol building and take back what was theirs. He had also used his social media accounts,&nbsp;especially on Twitter and Facebook, to incite violence on the country through his supporters.

Considering the seriousness and the harm done to the country and people, Facebook decided to ban the former president’s account for at least the next two years.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-blog-page-shuts-down-a-month-after-launch-389068" hreflang="en">Donald Trump's blog page shuts down a month after launch</a>

"Given the gravity of the circumstances that led to Mr. Trump's suspension, we believe his actions constituted a severe violation of our rules which merit the highest penalty available under the new enforcement protocols," Facebook vice president of global affairs Nick Clegg said in a post.

Trump, as expected, has not taken the decision well and has called it an 'insult' to his 75 million voters.

"Facebook's ruling is an insult to the record-setting 75M people, plus many others, who voted for us in the 2020 Rigged Presidential Election," Trump said in a statement. "They shouldn't be allowed to get away with this censoring and silencing, and ultimately, we will win. Our Country can’t take this abuse anymore!"

Facebook has also made it clear that two years is the suspension limit for now, but the authorities will re-evaluate the risk Trump poses and accordingly decided to lift or extend the ban after two years.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dark-day-mike-pence-says-trump-and-him-can-never-see-eye-to-eye-on-capitol-riots-389478" hreflang="en">'Dark day': Mike Pence says Trump and him can never see eye-to-eye on Capitol riots</a>

"If we determine that there is still a serious risk to public safety, we will extend the restriction for a set period of time and continue to re-evaluate until that risk has receded," Clegg said.

Even if his ban is lifted by Facebook, the former president will have to face strict sanctions and his account will be closely monitored for any kind of violation. If he ends up posting something that violates the platform’s rules again, Trump’s account will be permanently suspended.

"We know today's decision will be criticized by many people on opposing sides of the political divide," Clegg said. "But, our job is to make a decision in as proportionate, fair and transparent a way as possible, in keeping with the instruction given to us by the Oversight Board."

This has come almost a day after Trump’s personal blog page "From the Desk of Donald J. Trump" was shut down within a month of its launch.

A little after the rumours of the former reality TV star and the 45th US President, Donald Trump, coming back on Facebook were dismissed, the social media platform has decided to continue the ban on the Republican leader for the next two years, at least. The former president was banned from Facebook and other social media platforms such as Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat after he was accused of motivating his supporters to start a riot at the US Capitol building. Also read | Is Donald Trump back on Facebook? Here's the truth behind '#DeleteFacebook' After losing the US election 2020 to Joe Biden, Trump asked his supporters to charge to the Capitol building and take back what was theirs. He had also used his social media accounts, especially on Twitter and Facebook, to incite violence on the country through his supporters. Considering the seriousness and the harm done to the country and people, Facebook decided to ban the former president’s account for at least the next two years. Also read | Donald Trump's blog page shuts down a month after launch "Given the gravity of the circumstances that led to Mr. Trump's suspension, we believe his actions constituted a severe violation of our rules which merit the highest penalty available under the new enforcement protocols," Facebook vice president of global affairs Nick Clegg said in a post. Trump, as expected, has not taken the decision well and has called it an 'insult' to his 75 million voters. "Facebook's ruling is an insult to the record-setting 75M people, plus many others, who voted for us in the 2020 Rigged Presidential Election," Trump said in a statement. "They shouldn't be allowed to get away with this censoring and silencing, and ultimately, we will win. Our Country can’t take this abuse anymore!" Facebook has also made it clear that two years is the suspension limit for now, but the authorities will re-evaluate the risk Trump poses and accordingly decided to lift or extend the ban after two years. Also read | 'Dark day': Mike Pence says Trump and him can never see eye-to-eye on Capitol riots "If we determine that there is still a serious risk to public safety, we will extend the restriction for a set period of time and continue to re-evaluate until that risk has receded," Clegg said. Even if his ban is lifted by Facebook, the former president will have to face strict sanctions and his account will be closely monitored for any kind of violation. If he ends up posting something that violates the platform’s rules again, Trump’s account will be permanently suspended. "We know today's decision will be criticized by many people on opposing sides of the political divide," Clegg said. "But, our job is to make a decision in as proportionate, fair and transparent a way as possible, in keeping with the instruction given to us by the Oversight Board." This has come almost a day after Trump’s personal blog page "From the Desk of Donald J. Trump" was shut down within a month of its launch.

'Insult to 75 million voters': Donald Trump banned for two years from Facebook

Former US president Donald Trump has stated that his opinion that the "China Virus" originated in the Wuhan Lab was correct.

Trump says 'I was right about Wuhan lab leak'

Former US vice president, Mike Pence, did not end his term at the White House on good terms with former president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>.

The two leaders&nbsp;went separate ways when the former reality TV star lost the US election 2020 to Joe Biden, and then motivated his supporters to march to US Capitol and start a riot. During this time, Trump believed his longtime aide and friend, Mike Pence, did not stand in his support and the two leaders went weeks without conversing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-donald-trump-back-on-facebook-heres-the-truth-behind-deletefacebook-389235" hreflang="en">Is Donald Trump back on Facebook? Here's the truth behind '#DeleteFacebook'</a>

However, Pence has revealed that the two former leaders have met several times since the riots, that took place on January 6, but they fail to see eye-to-eye on the matter.

"You know, President Trump and I have spoken many times since we left office. And I don’t know if we’ll ever see eye to eye on that day," Pence said.

The former vice president was present in the Capitol building when the rioters took over the building and started damaging federal property. The rioters also chanted 'Hang Mike Pence' in the halls as they believed the leader had retracted his support from the former president.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/second-rioter-who-took-selfie-in-senate-chamber-pleads-guilty-in-us-capitol-attack-389138" hreflang="en">Second rioter who took selfie in Senate chamber pleads guilty in US Capitol attack</a>

"As I said that day, January 6 was a dark day in history of the United States Capitol. But thanks to the swift action of the Capitol police and federal law enforcement, violence was quelled. The Capitol was secured," Pence said. "And that same day, we reconvened the Congress and did our duty under the constitution and the laws of the United States."

However, Pence, now, also accused the Democratic party of using the riots as a subject to hide their own shortcomings and taking away the focus from Trump’s agenda.

During his speech, he also touched upon the subject of racism, which has taken several lives in the US, in the past few years.

Stressing that the US is not a racist country, he said, "It is past time for America to discard the left-wing myth of systemic racism. I commend state legislators and governors across the country for banning critical race theory from our schools."

Former US vice president, Mike Pence, did not end his term at the White House on good terms with former president Donald Trump. The two leaders went separate ways when the former reality TV star lost the US election 2020 to Joe Biden, and then motivated his supporters to march to US Capitol and start a riot.

Former US vice president, Mike Pence, did not end his term at the White House on good terms with former president Donald Trump. The two leaders went separate ways when the former reality TV star lost the US election 2020 to Joe Biden, and then motivated his supporters to march to US Capitol and start a riot. During this time, Trump believed his longtime aide and friend, Mike Pence, did not stand in his support and the two leaders went weeks without conversing. Also read | Is Donald Trump back on Facebook? Here's the truth behind '#DeleteFacebook' However, Pence has revealed that the two former leaders have met several times since the riots, that took place on January 6, but they fail to see eye-to-eye on the matter. "You know, President Trump and I have spoken many times since we left office. And I don’t know if we’ll ever see eye to eye on that day," Pence said. The former vice president was present in the Capitol building when the rioters took over the building and started damaging federal property. The rioters also chanted 'Hang Mike Pence' in the halls as they believed the leader had retracted his support from the former president. Also read | Second rioter who took selfie in Senate chamber pleads guilty in US Capitol attack "As I said that day, January 6 was a dark day in history of the United States Capitol. But thanks to the swift action of the Capitol police and federal law enforcement, violence was quelled. The Capitol was secured," Pence said. "And that same day, we reconvened the Congress and did our duty under the constitution and the laws of the United States." However, Pence, now, also accused the Democratic party of using the riots as a subject to hide their own shortcomings and taking away the focus from Trump’s agenda. During his speech, he also touched upon the subject of racism, which has taken several lives in the US, in the past few years. Stressing that the US is not a racist country, he said, "It is past time for America to discard the left-wing myth of systemic racism. I commend state legislators and governors across the country for banning critical race theory from our schools."

'Dark day': Mike Pence says Trump and him can never see eye-to-eye on Capitol riots

Iran&nbsp;on Thursday slammed the United Nations' decision to suspend its voting rights for failing to pay its dues as "fundamentally flawed, entirely unacceptable and completely unjustified".

Tehran argues that the $16.2 million it owes to the UN is the result of Washington's crippling sanctions, imposed after former president Donald Trump in 2018 unilaterally withdrew the US from a nuclear deal with&nbsp;Iran.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-the-un-does-not-clean-it-turkey-president-erdogan-threatens-to-target-refugee-camps-inside-iraq-389023">'If the UN does not clean it': Turkey President Erdogan threatens to target refugee camps inside Iraq</a>

Iran's voting rights at the UN General Assembly were suspended in January under rules for countries whose arrears are equal to or exceed their contributions due for the past two years.

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif expressed his "strong dismay" at the loss of voting rights, in a letter sent Thursday to UN chief Antonio Guterres.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-to-host-un-nuclear-watchdog-chief-ahead-of-sanctions-deadline-365039">Iran to host UN nuclear watchdog chief ahead of sanctions deadline</a>

"Iran's inability to fulfil its financial obligation toward the United Nations is directly caused by 'unlawful unilateral sanctions' imposed by the United States," Zarif wrote, according to the letter posted on his Twitter account.

Zarif said&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;rejected the suspension of its voting privileges because Tehran's "incapacity to transfer its financial contribution has been entirely beyond its control".

Guterres, in a May 28 letter to the UN General Assembly, said five nations were barred from voting due to their failure to pay arrears but added the UN could permit them to vote if it were deemed to be "due to conditions beyond the control" of the member state.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-nuclear-watchdog-chief-rafael-grossi-arrives-in-iran-ahead-of-us-sanctions-deadline-365182">UN nuclear watchdog chief, Rafael Grossi, arrives in Iran ahead of US sanctions deadline</a>

Stephane Dujarric, the spokesman for Guterres, said there had been a "very intense discussion" with&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;to find a solution.

"It is not from lack of trying, either on our side or their side... but the country falls under a number of bilateral sanctions which makes it a bit challenging," Dujarric told reporters.

"These discussions are continuing in good faith."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-russia-and-pakistan-set-to-join-un-human-rights-council-334862">China, Russia and Pakistan set to join UN human rights council</a>

Zarif urged the UN leadership to "remain true to the purposes and principles" of the UN charter, and to "refrain from any decision that betrays the spirit of sovereign equality of member states, and weakens multilateralism."

The US withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal and re-imposition of sanctions led to&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;stepping up its nuclear activities.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden has signalled his readiness to revive the accord, and global powers have been meeting in Vienna since early April in a bid to do so, with a fresh round of talks slated to begin next week.

Iran on Thursday slammed the United Nations' decision to suspend its voting rights for failing to pay its dues as "fundamentally flawed, entirely unacceptable and completely unjustified".

Iran on Thursday slammed the United Nations' decision to suspend its voting rights for failing to pay its dues as "fundamentally flawed, entirely unacceptable and completely unjustified". Tehran argues that the $16.2 million it owes to the UN is the result of Washington's crippling sanctions, imposed after former president Donald Trump in 2018 unilaterally withdrew the US from a nuclear deal with Iran. Also Read | 'If the UN does not clean it': Turkey President Erdogan threatens to target refugee camps inside Iraq Iran's voting rights at the UN General Assembly were suspended in January under rules for countries whose arrears are equal to or exceed their contributions due for the past two years. Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif expressed his "strong dismay" at the loss of voting rights, in a letter sent Thursday to UN chief Antonio Guterres. Also Read | Iran to host UN nuclear watchdog chief ahead of sanctions deadline "Iran's inability to fulfil its financial obligation toward the United Nations is directly caused by 'unlawful unilateral sanctions' imposed by the United States," Zarif wrote, according to the letter posted on his Twitter account. Zarif said Iran rejected the suspension of its voting privileges because Tehran's "incapacity to transfer its financial contribution has been entirely beyond its control". Guterres, in a May 28 letter to the UN General Assembly, said five nations were barred from voting due to their failure to pay arrears but added the UN could permit them to vote if it were deemed to be "due to conditions beyond the control" of the member state. Also Read | UN nuclear watchdog chief, Rafael Grossi, arrives in Iran ahead of US sanctions deadline Stephane Dujarric, the spokesman for Guterres, said there had been a "very intense discussion" with Iran to find a solution. "It is not from lack of trying, either on our side or their side... but the country falls under a number of bilateral sanctions which makes it a bit challenging," Dujarric told reporters. "These discussions are continuing in good faith." Also Read | China, Russia and Pakistan set to join UN human rights council Zarif urged the UN leadership to "remain true to the purposes and principles" of the UN charter, and to "refrain from any decision that betrays the spirit of sovereign equality of member states, and weakens multilateralism." The US withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal and re-imposition of sanctions led to Iran stepping up its nuclear activities. US President Joe Biden has signalled his readiness to revive the accord, and global powers have been meeting in Vienna since early April in a bid to do so, with a fresh round of talks slated to begin next week.

Iran calls UN voting rights suspension 'unacceptable'

A man who joined the January 6 attack on the US&nbsp;Capitol&nbsp;and carried a large red Trump flag onto the floor of the Senate pleaded guilty Wednesday to a charge of obstructing an official proceeding, as the Justice Department begins chipping away at some 450 cases related to the uprising.&nbsp;

Paul Hodgkins, 38, was the second person to plead guilty in what has been called an insurrection by supporters of president Donald Trump that shut down the Congress and stunned the country.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/majority-of-people-charged-for-us-capitol-riots-arent-in-jail-new-analysis-reveals-388207">Majority of people charged for US Capitol riots aren't in jail, new analysis reveals</a>

The native of Tampa, Florida travelled alone to Washington on the day that President Joe Biden's election victory over Trump was to be certified by Congress.

Encouraged by statements from Trump, he and several hundred others stormed the&nbsp;Capitol&nbsp;and broke inside, injuring scores of police officers.

Wearing a "Trump 2020" T-shirt and waving a flag with the same slogan, he took selfies on the Senate floor along with several others.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/senate-republicans-block-bill-on-probe-of-deadly-capitol-riot-388115">Senate Republicans block bill on probe of deadly Capitol riot</a>

But he was not accused of assault or similar charges levied against many of those who took part.

Hodgkins's crime brings up to 20 years in prison, but the court said based on his lack of a criminal record and other factors he could receive between 15 and 21 months in prison.

With more than 450 people charged in the&nbsp;Capitol&nbsp;assault, the Justice Department is reportedly seeking plea deals to clear out many cases. Most are facing relatively minor charges of disorderly conduct and illegally entering a federal building.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-egged-on-us-capitol-rioters-facebook-oversight-panel-co-chair-383955">Donald Trump 'egged on' US Capitol rioters: Facebook oversight panel co-chair</a>

Several dozen, though, are charged with conspiracy and armed attack on law enforcement officials.

The Justice Department is reportedly still considering whether to charge some, especially those affiliated with armed, violent groups like the Proud Boys, with sedition.

A man who joined the January 6 attack on the US Capitol and carried a large red Trump flag onto the floor of the Senate pleaded guilty Wednesday to a charge of obstructing an official proceeding, as the Justice Department begins chipping away at some 450 cases related to the uprising.

A man who joined the January 6 attack on the US Capitol and carried a large red Trump flag onto the floor of the Senate pleaded guilty Wednesday to a charge of obstructing an official proceeding, as the Justice Department begins chipping away at some 450 cases related to the uprising. Paul Hodgkins, 38, was the second person to plead guilty in what has been called an insurrection by supporters of president Donald Trump that shut down the Congress and stunned the country. Also Read | Majority of people charged for US Capitol riots aren't in jail, new analysis reveals The native of Tampa, Florida travelled alone to Washington on the day that President Joe Biden's election victory over Trump was to be certified by Congress. Encouraged by statements from Trump, he and several hundred others stormed the Capitol and broke inside, injuring scores of police officers. Wearing a "Trump 2020" T-shirt and waving a flag with the same slogan, he took selfies on the Senate floor along with several others. Also Read | Senate Republicans block bill on probe of deadly Capitol riot But he was not accused of assault or similar charges levied against many of those who took part. Hodgkins's crime brings up to 20 years in prison, but the court said based on his lack of a criminal record and other factors he could receive between 15 and 21 months in prison. With more than 450 people charged in the Capitol assault, the Justice Department is reportedly seeking plea deals to clear out many cases. Most are facing relatively minor charges of disorderly conduct and illegally entering a federal building. Also Read | Donald Trump 'egged on' US Capitol rioters: Facebook oversight panel co-chair Several dozen, though, are charged with conspiracy and armed attack on law enforcement officials. The Justice Department is reportedly still considering whether to charge some, especially those affiliated with armed, violent groups like the Proud Boys, with sedition.

Second rioter who took selfie in Senate chamber pleads guilty in US Capitol attack

The former US President, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>, was banned from social media platforms such as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/facebook">Facebook</a>, Instagram, Twitter&nbsp;and Snapchat after the Capitol riots that took place on January 6.

However, a few recent media reports claimed Trump’s account on Facebook has been restored, a few weeks after the social media platform announced that Trump’s account will stay blocked indefinitely.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-blog-page-shuts-down-a-month-after-launch-389068" hreflang="en">Donald Trump's blog page shuts down a month after launch</a>

A local news website, Becker News, reported, "BREAKING NEWS: Donald Trump is *BACK* on Two Major Social Media Platforms — Facebook and Instagram". This report came a few hours after it was announced that Trump's new, personal blog "From the Desk of Donald J. Trump" will be shutting down merely after a month’s activity.

However, Facebook has denied these rumours saying, "Nothing about the status of President Trump’s presence on our platform has changed. He remains indefinitely suspended".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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No. Nothing about the status of President Trump's presence on our platform has changed. He remains indefinitely suspended.
— Andy Stone (@andymstone) <a href="https://twitter.com/andymstone/status/1400214580945641472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The truth behind Trump's pages still showing up on the social media platform is that the pages have been there, but Trump or anyone else will not be able to post anything on the pages.

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Facebook Policy Comms Manager Andy Stone's statment about allowing Trump back on the platform: "Nothing about the status of President Trump's presence on our platform has changed. He remains indefinitely suspended." 
 
But, here is his very active, verified page. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DeleteFacebook?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DeleteFacebook</a> <a href="https://t.co/0laAXsGdMb">pic.twitter.com/0laAXsGdMb</a>
— Amee Vanderpool (@girlsreallyrule) <a href="https://twitter.com/girlsreallyrule/status/1400228325751021572?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The&nbsp;report caught the eye of many Twitter users who decided to #DeleteFacebook, and the phrase started trending on Twitter.

Here are a few of the best tweets from the trend:

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DeleteFacebook?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DeleteFacebook</a> 
I'm logging out🤣🤣🤣 <a href="https://t.co/oMFEzk1rZ0">pic.twitter.com/oMFEzk1rZ0</a>
— Jacob VIkey (@Jacobvikey) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jacobvikey/status/1400224207624093701?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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People saying <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DeleteFacebook?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DeleteFacebook</a> but still use IG <a href="https://t.co/QDdLWruWsp">pic.twitter.com/QDdLWruWsp</a>
— Philadelphia Man (@kevv_nn) <a href="https://twitter.com/kevv_nn/status/1400229422507167751?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Trump had been banned from social media platforms after he was accused of spreading misinformation and inciting violence by motivating his supporters to march to the US Capitol Hall and initiate riots, simply because Trump, without any proof, believed he had lost US election 2020 because of voter fraud.

The former US President, Donald Trump, was banned from social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat after the Capitol riots that took place on January 6.

The former US President, Donald Trump, was banned from social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat after the Capitol riots that took place on January 6. However, a few recent media reports claimed Trump’s account on Facebook has been restored, a few weeks after the social media platform announced that Trump’s account will stay blocked indefinitely. Also read | Donald Trump's blog page shuts down a month after launch A local news website, Becker News, reported, "BREAKING NEWS: Donald Trump is *BACK* on Two Major Social Media Platforms — Facebook and Instagram". This report came a few hours after it was announced that Trump's new, personal blog "From the Desk of Donald J. Trump" will be shutting down merely after a month’s activity. However, Facebook has denied these rumours saying, "Nothing about the status of President Trump’s presence on our platform has changed. He remains indefinitely suspended". No. Nothing about the status of President Trump's presence on our platform has changed. He remains indefinitely suspended. — Andy Stone (@andymstone) June 2, 2021 × The truth behind Trump's pages still showing up on the social media platform is that the pages have been there, but Trump or anyone else will not be able to post anything on the pages. Facebook Policy Comms Manager Andy Stone's statment about allowing Trump back on the platform: "Nothing about the status of President Trump's presence on our platform has changed. He remains indefinitely suspended." But, here is his very active, verified page. #DeleteFacebook pic.twitter.com/0laAXsGdMb — Amee Vanderpool (@girlsreallyrule) June 2, 2021 × The report caught the eye of many Twitter users who decided to #DeleteFacebook, and the phrase started trending on Twitter. Here are a few of the best tweets from the trend: #DeleteFacebook I'm logging out🤣🤣🤣 pic.twitter.com/oMFEzk1rZ0 — Jacob VIkey (@Jacobvikey) June 2, 2021 × People saying #DeleteFacebook but still use IG pic.twitter.com/QDdLWruWsp — Philadelphia Man (@kevv_nn) June 2, 2021 × Trump had been banned from social media platforms after he was accused of spreading misinformation and inciting violence by motivating his supporters to march to the US Capitol Hall and initiate riots, simply because Trump, without any proof, believed he had lost US election 2020 because of voter fraud.

Is Donald Trump back on Facebook? Here's the truth behind '#DeleteFacebook'

US President Joe Biden will this week, overhaul the list of Chinese firms that US investors are allowed to own shares in. Biden is re-evaluating world powers' relationship with China in post-Trump era. He is aiming to do so while maintaining pressure on Beijing.

Trump, during his term as US President had barred Americans from buying shares in 31 Chinese companies that were seen by the US to be supplying or supporting China's military and security apparatus. These companies include major telecom firms, technology and construction firms such as China mobile, China Telecom, video surveillance firm Hikvision, and China Railway Construction Corp.

It was among a series of measures by the White House aimed at quelling the Asian giant's rise and which has left ties between the two severely strained.

Now, the Treasury Department will create a list of firms that'll be hit with financial penalties for links with Chinese defence and surveillance technology sectors, Bloomberg News reported without citing sources. The president is expected to sign the order this week, it added.

Previously, the sanctions and choice of targets were tied to a congressionally mandated Defense Department report.

The review from Biden administration has come after two Chinese successfully challenged the order in court, and Biden said it was needed to be sure it was legally watertight and sustainable.

While the Biden administration has pledged to take a more diplomatic line with China following the upheaval of his predecessor, he has said he will keep to a strict line on several issues including defence and technology.

He is expected to keep the list largely intact, while the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control will add new firms after consulting the departments of Defense and State.

Tough line on China has a rare cross-party support in US Congress. US lawmakers are determined to keep lid on China's growing clout.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden will this week, overhaul the list of Chinese firms that US investors are allowed to own shares in. Biden is re-evaluating world powers' relationship with China in post-Trump era.

US President Joe Biden will this week, overhaul the list of Chinese firms that US investors are allowed to own shares in. Biden is re-evaluating world powers' relationship with China in post-Trump era. He is aiming to do so while maintaining pressure on Beijing. Trump, during his term as US President had barred Americans from buying shares in 31 Chinese companies that were seen by the US to be supplying or supporting China's military and security apparatus. These companies include major telecom firms, technology and construction firms such as China mobile, China Telecom, video surveillance firm Hikvision, and China Railway Construction Corp. It was among a series of measures by the White House aimed at quelling the Asian giant's rise and which has left ties between the two severely strained. Now, the Treasury Department will create a list of firms that'll be hit with financial penalties for links with Chinese defence and surveillance technology sectors, Bloomberg News reported without citing sources. The president is expected to sign the order this week, it added. Previously, the sanctions and choice of targets were tied to a congressionally mandated Defense Department report. The review from Biden administration has come after two Chinese successfully challenged the order in court, and Biden said it was needed to be sure it was legally watertight and sustainable. While the Biden administration has pledged to take a more diplomatic line with China following the upheaval of his predecessor, he has said he will keep to a strict line on several issues including defence and technology. He is expected to keep the list largely intact, while the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control will add new firms after consulting the departments of Defense and State. Tough line on China has a rare cross-party support in US Congress. US lawmakers are determined to keep lid on China's growing clout. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden to review Donald Trump's China investment blacklist: Report

The infamous former US president, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>, has assured a re-run in the 2024 elections, but only if his health permits him.

As per a few local reports, Trump told his aides that after losing to Joe Biden in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/us-election">US election 2020</a>, he is planning to run for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/the-white-house">White House</a> again in 2024 if he in good health.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/grand-jury-starts-investigating-donald-trumps-tax-evasions-hush-money-387399" hreflang="en">Grand jury starts investigating Donald Trump's tax evasions, hush money</a>

This has strengthened the rumours around Trump’s re-run. Rep Ronny Jackson had also hinted to a local reporter, few days back, that the former reality TV star will be returning to the race next term.

"He has been saying he's going to. He's seriously considering it — he's probably going to do it — so we'll see what happens," Jackson had said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/53-of-republicans-still-view-trump-as-true-us-president-months-after-his-defeat-poll-387257" hreflang="en">53% of Republicans still view Trump as true US president, months after his defeat: Poll</a>

The claims have come at a time when the US media has been abuzz with the physical changes being spotted in Trump in his post-presidency days. Since leaving White House, Trump has shed nearly 15 pounds and has also given up on his favourite M&amp;M sweets, and several other snacks that the former lover of Diet Coke used to consume on daily basis.

This change in Trump’s physical health has happened due to his regular golfing sessions and dietary restrictions that he adopted after his health scare when he struggled to recover from the deadly coronavirus.

Trump has also told local news channel, Fox News, that he is “very seriously” considering re-running for the post in 2024 and has claimed to have support of majority of the Republicans.

The infamous former US president, Donald Trump, has assured a re-run in the 2024 elections, but only if his health permits him. As per a few local reports, Trump told his aides that after losing to Joe Biden in US election 2020, he is planning to run for the White House again in 2024 if he in good health.

The infamous former US president, Donald Trump, has assured a re-run in the 2024 elections, but only if his health permits him. As per a few local reports, Trump told his aides that after losing to Joe Biden in US election 2020, he is planning to run for the White House again in 2024 if he in good health. Also read | Grand jury starts investigating Donald Trump's tax evasions, hush money This has strengthened the rumours around Trump’s re-run. Rep Ronny Jackson had also hinted to a local reporter, few days back, that the former reality TV star will be returning to the race next term. "He has been saying he's going to. He's seriously considering it — he's probably going to do it — so we'll see what happens," Jackson had said. Also read | 53% of Republicans still view Trump as true US president, months after his defeat: Poll The claims have come at a time when the US media has been abuzz with the physical changes being spotted in Trump in his post-presidency days. Since leaving White House, Trump has shed nearly 15 pounds and has also given up on his favourite M&M sweets, and several other snacks that the former lover of Diet Coke used to consume on daily basis. This change in Trump’s physical health has happened due to his regular golfing sessions and dietary restrictions that he adopted after his health scare when he struggled to recover from the deadly coronavirus. Trump has also told local news channel, Fox News, that he is “very seriously” considering re-running for the post in 2024 and has claimed to have support of majority of the Republicans.

Trump promises re-run in US election 2024 if his health allows: Reports

Facebook has reversed its policy banning posts suggesting COVID-19 emerged from a laboratory amid renewed debate over the origins of the virus, raising fresh questions about social media's role in policing misinformation.

The latest move by Facebook highlights the challenge for the world's largest social network of rooting out false and potentially harmful content while remaining open for discourse.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-joe-biden-orders-to-redouble-efforts-in-covid-19-origin-probe-387649/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"In light of ongoing investigations into the origin of COVID-19 and in consultation with public health experts, we will no longer remove the claim that Covid-19 is man-made or manufactured from our apps," the statement said.

"We're continuing to work with health experts to keep pace with the evolving nature of the pandemic and regularly update our policies as new facts and trends emerge."

The new statement updates guidance from Facebook in February when it said it would remove false or debunked claims about the novel coronavirus which created a global pandemic killing more than three million.

The move followed President Joe Biden's directive to US intelligence agencies to investigate competing theories on how the virus first emerged -- through animal contact at a market in Wuhan, China, or through accidental release from a research laboratory in the same city.

Biden's order signals an escalation in mounting controversy over the origins of the virus which emerged in Wuhan.

A recent Wall Street Journal report, citing a US intelligence report, said three researchers from China’s Wuhan Institute of Virology became sick in November 2019, ahead of the wider outbreak of the disease.

Facebook uses independent third-party fact checkers, to debunk misinformation. Although the origins of the virus remain unproven, the lab leak theory has been subject to fact-checking.&nbsp;

One fact checking organization, PolitiFact, reported last September that public health authorities had "repeatedly said the coronavirus was not derived from a lab" but earlier this month revised its guidance, noting: "that assertion is now more widely disputed," and saying it would continue to review the matter.

But the abrupt Facebook reversal prompted angry responses from conservatives and supporters of former president Donald Trump who argued their assertions had been dismissed as hoaxes.

"Wow! But they did suppress the story for a year, defaming Trump and Republicans for a 'conspiracy theory' blacklisting conservative press and banning us," tweeted Kelly Sadler, a blogger and former Trump aide.

Facebook in a separate statement said it was stepping up its efforts to curb misinformation by limiting the reach of users who "repeatedly" share false content.

Until now, Facebook had only taken this action on individual posts, but now will clamp down on the users who are the largest spreaders of false content.

(With inputs from agencies)

Facebook has reversed its policy banning posts suggesting COVID-19 emerged from a laboratory amid renewed debate over the origins of the virus, raising fresh questions about social media's role in policing misinformation.

Facebook has reversed its policy banning posts suggesting COVID-19 emerged from a laboratory amid renewed debate over the origins of the virus, raising fresh questions about social media's role in policing misinformation. The latest move by Facebook highlights the challenge for the world's largest social network of rooting out false and potentially harmful content while remaining open for discourse. "In light of ongoing investigations into the origin of COVID-19 and in consultation with public health experts, we will no longer remove the claim that Covid-19 is man-made or manufactured from our apps," the statement said. "We're continuing to work with health experts to keep pace with the evolving nature of the pandemic and regularly update our policies as new facts and trends emerge." The new statement updates guidance from Facebook in February when it said it would remove false or debunked claims about the novel coronavirus which created a global pandemic killing more than three million. The move followed President Joe Biden's directive to US intelligence agencies to investigate competing theories on how the virus first emerged -- through animal contact at a market in Wuhan, China, or through accidental release from a research laboratory in the same city. Biden's order signals an escalation in mounting controversy over the origins of the virus which emerged in Wuhan. A recent Wall Street Journal report, citing a US intelligence report, said three researchers from China’s Wuhan Institute of Virology became sick in November 2019, ahead of the wider outbreak of the disease. Facebook uses independent third-party fact checkers, to debunk misinformation. Although the origins of the virus remain unproven, the lab leak theory has been subject to fact-checking. One fact checking organization, PolitiFact, reported last September that public health authorities had "repeatedly said the coronavirus was not derived from a lab" but earlier this month revised its guidance, noting: "that assertion is now more widely disputed," and saying it would continue to review the matter. But the abrupt Facebook reversal prompted angry responses from conservatives and supporters of former president Donald Trump who argued their assertions had been dismissed as hoaxes. "Wow! But they did suppress the story for a year, defaming Trump and Republicans for a 'conspiracy theory' blacklisting conservative press and banning us," tweeted Kelly Sadler, a blogger and former Trump aide. Facebook in a separate statement said it was stepping up its efforts to curb misinformation by limiting the reach of users who "repeatedly" share false content. Until now, Facebook had only taken this action on individual posts, but now will clamp down on the users who are the largest spreaders of false content. (With inputs from agencies)

Facebook lifts ban on posts claiming COVID-19 was man-made, amid revitalised origins debate

A grand jury has convened in New York on Tuesday to start investigating the criminal charges on former US president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a> regarding his business dealings and hush money.

The investigation will be focusing on Trump’s wide range of criminal accusations, mainly involving matters of hush money paid to women, tax evasions, improper property valuations and more.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/reforms-assurance-and-cheetos-floyds-family-meets-biden-on-georges-death-anniversary-387389">Reforms, assurance and Cheetos: Floyd's family meets Biden on George's death anniversary</a>

Cyrus Vance Jr, Manhattan district attorney, has been conducting an investigation into Trump’s malpractices.

The grand jury will be looking into the matters where Trump has been accused of paying hush women to tackle his hidden sexual relationships with women also his improper relations with lenders. It will also look into the donations the Trump empire has made to evade tax.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-washington-post-cnn-alleges-trump-of-spying-on-reporters-386653" hreflang="en">After Washington Post, CNN alleges Trump of spying on reporters</a>

Trump, however, has labelled this investigation as a “witch hunt” and has claimed he is being “unfairly attacked and abused by a corrupt political system”.

As the former president plans to re-run for White House in 2024 elections, he has accused opponents of carrying out this "witch hunt" to slim down his chances of winning the next election and misleading his supporters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-us-president-donald-trump-sued-for-referring-to-covid-19-as-china-virus-386663" hreflang="en">Former US President Donald Trump sued for referring to COVID-19 as 'China virus'</a>

Vance will also be investigating whether Trump’s employees were paid off-the-books compensations for their apartments, school tuitions and more.

&nbsp;

A grand jury has convened in New York on Tuesday to start investigating the criminal charges on former US president Donald Trump regarding his business dealings and hush money.

A grand jury has convened in New York on Tuesday to start investigating the criminal charges on former US president Donald Trump regarding his business dealings and hush money. The investigation will be focusing on Trump’s wide range of criminal accusations, mainly involving matters of hush money paid to women, tax evasions, improper property valuations and more. Also read | Reforms, assurance and Cheetos: Floyd's family meets Biden on George's death anniversary Cyrus Vance Jr, Manhattan district attorney, has been conducting an investigation into Trump’s malpractices. The grand jury will be looking into the matters where Trump has been accused of paying hush women to tackle his hidden sexual relationships with women also his improper relations with lenders. It will also look into the donations the Trump empire has made to evade tax. Also read | After Washington Post, CNN alleges Trump of spying on reporters Trump, however, has labelled this investigation as a “witch hunt” and has claimed he is being “unfairly attacked and abused by a corrupt political system”. As the former president plans to re-run for White House in 2024 elections, he has accused opponents of carrying out this "witch hunt" to slim down his chances of winning the next election and misleading his supporters. Also read | Former US President Donald Trump sued for referring to COVID-19 as 'China virus' Vance will also be investigating whether Trump’s employees were paid off-the-books compensations for their apartments, school tuitions and more.

Grand jury starts investigating Donald Trump's tax evasions, hush money

A grand jury has been convened in New York on Tuesday to launch an investigation into criminal charges on former US President Donald Trump for his business deals and concealing money.

NY prosecutors probing Donald Trump set up grand jury to investigate tax evasions : Report

US Capitol stood unprotected by National Guard for the first time in about five months on Monday. Last 2149 out of 26,000 troops departed on Monday their mission to protect Congress formally ended.

The troops were mobilized after hundreds of supporters of then-president Donald Trump stormed the Capitol, halting the joint session to confirm Trump's rival Joe Biden as winner of the presidential election.

Some broke into lawmakers' offices, and called for the killing of lawmakers and vice president Mike Pence, who was presiding over the session.

Amid fears of more threats around and following the January 20 inauguration of Biden, thousands of Guard troops were mobilized, patrolling the Capitol area day and night while a large fence encircled the grounds, making it appear a building under siege.

The troops remained in Washington for months after the inauguration as what many dubbed an insurrection was investigated.

Trump, who was impeached for encouraging the assault, later claimed the attackers were "zero threat" to lawmakers and downplayed the episode.

The FBI has arrested and charged about 440 people involved in January 6 attacks. Dozens of them are associated with armed militia groups.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Capitol stood unprotected by National Guard for the first time in about five months on Monday. Last 2149 out of 26,000 troops departed on Monday their mission to protect Congress formally ended.

US Capitol stood unprotected by National Guard for the first time in about five months on Monday. Last 2149 out of 26,000 troops departed on Monday their mission to protect Congress formally ended. The troops were mobilized after hundreds of supporters of then-president Donald Trump stormed the Capitol, halting the joint session to confirm Trump's rival Joe Biden as winner of the presidential election. Some broke into lawmakers' offices, and called for the killing of lawmakers and vice president Mike Pence, who was presiding over the session. Amid fears of more threats around and following the January 20 inauguration of Biden, thousands of Guard troops were mobilized, patrolling the Capitol area day and night while a large fence encircled the grounds, making it appear a building under siege. The troops remained in Washington for months after the inauguration as what many dubbed an insurrection was investigated. Trump, who was impeached for encouraging the assault, later claimed the attackers were "zero threat" to lawmakers and downplayed the episode. The FBI has arrested and charged about 440 people involved in January 6 attacks. Dozens of them are associated with armed militia groups. (With inputs from agencies)

National Guard troops exit US Capitol months after January 6 attack

For decades, Arkansas punched above its weight in politics and business.

In the 1990s, it was home to the president and the world’s wealthiest family. In the 2000s, three one-time Arkansans ran for president. A decade later, the state claimed its sixth company on the Fortune 500 list.

But Arkansas may be entering its most consequential period yet, as a test case for the future of the Republican Party.

Having undergone a lightning-quick transformation in the last decade from Democratic dominance to Republican rule, how closely the state clings to former President Donald Trump and his style of politics will offer insights about the party he still dominates.

Arkansas represents the full spectrum of today’s GOP.

There are Trump devotees fully behind his false claims of a stolen election and his brand of grievance-oriented politics. That faction is now led by former White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders, the daughter of Mike Huckabee, the state’s onetime governor. More ideological, and less Trump-centric, conservatives include Sen. Tom Cotton.

And then there are pre-Trump Republicans, like Gov. Asa Hutchinson, hoping against hope the moment will pass and they can return the party to its Reaganite roots. Finally, some Republicans are so appalled by Trumpism, they have left or are considering leaving the party.

Perhaps most significant, each of these factions are bunched together in a state powered by a handful of corporations that are increasingly uneasy with the culture-war politics that define Trump Republicanism. In a meeting of Walmart’s Arkansas-based executives last month, a number of officials cited state measures limiting transgender rights to express concern about how such bills could hamper their ability to recruit a diverse workforce, according to a business leader familiar with the discussion.

“They’ve got to recruit people to this state, and this makes it harder for them,” said Hutchinson, alluding to transgender measures that he opposed in this year’s legislative session. “And there’s many in the base of the party that just don’t care,” he said. “They would rather fight the cultural war and pay the price in terms of growth.”

In the next year and a half, Sanders will road-test Trumpism in state politics as she runs for governor in a state the former president carried by 27 points last year. She will initially face a longtime friend and former aide to her father, the state’s Attorney General Leslie Rutledge, who unsuccessfully pleaded with Trump not to endorse Sanders.

Then, if Sanders prevails, she may prompt a long-shot challenge in the general election from a Republican-turned-independent who left the party in disgust with Trump, and just happens to be Hutchinson’s nephew.

At the same time, Cotton and Hutchinson will be circling one another, perhaps in Iowa as often as in Arkansas, as they both eye 2024 presidential bids with very different bets about the future of the party.

“There will be a lot of complicated relationships,” state Sen. Jonathan Dismang, an influential lawmaker, said with maximum delicacy.

For many veterans of Arkansas politics, the intra-Republican competition is a full-circle moment, reflecting the state’s rapid shift from an overwhelmingly Democratic state to an overwhelmingly Republican one. This period is also eerily familiar to an earlier era when it was Democrats like then-Gov. Bill Clinton and former Sens. Dale Bumpers and David Pryor who were vying for supremacy. What’s different about today is how much politics in a small, mostly rural state at the intersection of the Deep South, Midwest and Southwest is shaped by a figure who has almost certainly never let the phrase “Woo Pig Sooie” slip from his lips.

“Arkansas Republicanism is defined by President Trump right now,” said Trent Garner, a south Arkansas state lawmaker who defeated one of the remaining rural white Democrats when Trump was first elected.

If there was any doubt about that after Trump’s romp in the state last year, it was erased in February when Lt. Gov. Tim Griffin abruptly pulled out of the 2022 governor’s race. A longtime political operative and former House member, Griffin had been collecting chits for what many here assumed was an inevitable run for the state’s top job after returning home from Congress in 2014 to serve as lieutenant governor.

Then Sanders, who has never served in elective office, made clear she would run for governor, and Trump quickly endorsed his former spokeswoman.

The combination of her connection to Trump, her father’s legacy and her own celebrity from being a Fox News regular made her seemingly unbeatable, according to a private survey Griffin took, Republicans familiar with the findings said.

Now running for attorney general, Griffin, an Army Reserve colonel, sought to put the best face on his climb-down. “If bio and resume was key to politics, then George H.W. Bush would’ve been reelected, Bob Dole would’ve won and John McCain would’ve won,” he said.

Hutchinson put a finer point on how Sanders had derailed Griffin. “It shows you the power of media and personality,” he said.

Sanders does still have competition for governor, particularly from Rutledge, a conservative who, in the friends-and-neighbors world of Arkansas politics, served as Huckabee’s general counsel as governor and in the same capacity when he ran for president in 2008.

“She’s never made decisions,” Rutledge said of Sanders. “It’s a big difference answering questions behind a podium versus making decisions behind a desk.”

She insisted primary voters would ultimately value her experience, and dismissed state Capitol speculation that she would eventually follow Griffin to the exits, perhaps to run for lieutenant governor or the state Supreme Court.

Asked about Rutledge’s criticism, Sanders ignored her rival and trumpeted her own record-setting early fundraising. “I take nothing for granted,” she said via text message.

Should Sanders emerge as the Republican standard-bearer, she may face a third-party opponent from well outside the pro-Trump orbit. State Sen. Jim Hendren, who left the GOP after the Jan. 6 riot, and Davy Carter, a former state House speaker, are both considering bids.

In separate interviews, they said they would not compete with one another in the same race. “I’m convinced that even in Arkansas, Trump and Trumpism is a slow-sinking ship,” said Carter, who as speaker helped push through Medicaid expansion. He said that a successful challenge to Trumpism would not happen unless liberals, moderates and anti-Trump Republicans “organize in one lane.”

Asked who he’d ultimately back in the governor’s race, Hutchinson said, “I expect to support the Republican nominee.”

But he acknowledged talking extensively with his nephew, Hendren, saying they share “the same frustrations” about the party, except that Hutchinson is determined to fight from within the tent. Offering some barely veiled advice for Sanders, he said: “Leadership is about bringing people along and not giving in to a lie.”

The governor, and most observers, are deeply skeptical that an independent could win statewide. Indeed, more than a year and a half before Sanders would even take office, many insiders have moved on to discussing what sort of governor she would be.

Would she repurpose Trump’s media-bashing and grievance-oriented politics to stay in the national headlines, and perhaps propel a presidential run of her own, or would she mirror her father’s more pragmatic approach to the office? While he is now known for his own Fox News and social media profile, Huckabee governed in the political center, even incurring the wrath of the far right, whom he labeled “Shiite conservatives.”

“I think she’s going to be very eager to prove that she’s a competent executive who cares about the state,” said John Burris, a state legislator-turned-lobbyist.

While shunning the state media and declining an interview for this story, Sanders has quietly reached out to state Republican lawmakers to discuss state policy and convey her desire to work with them, according to Garner.

Few in the state will be watching as closely as the business titans at companies like Walmart, Tyson Foods and J.B. Hunt, the transportation and logistics giant, which are headquartered in the northwest corner of the state. Once the only Republican region of Arkansas — even Bill Clinton couldn’t win a House seat there in the aftermath of Watergate — it is now the state’s economic engine.

The area is booming, will gain about a half-dozen new state legislative seats in redistricting, and is becoming more diverse. As the local business alliance, the Northwest Arkansas Council, notes, from 1990 and 2019, the nonwhite population of the region grew from less than 5% to over 28%.

To lure more transplants, the business giants have showered the region with money, helping develop local attractions like the Crystal Bridges art museum, which was founded by Alice Walton, daughter of Walmart founder Sam Walton.

But this transformation is coming into conflict with the state’s shift right.

At the height of the transgender legislation debate this spring, Tom Walton, a grandson of Sam Walton, issued a statement decrying “policy targeting LGBTQ people in Arkansas” and spoke directly to what he saw as the threat presented. “This trend is harmful and sends the wrong message to those willing to invest in or visit our state.”

Hendren, who represents a swath of the region in the state Senate, said the business community would have to do far more to slow Arkansas’ sprint right.

“Continuing to do the same thing is going to lead to the same results,” he said, dismissing the companies’ strategy of sending the maximum allowable donations to candidates “and thinking that’s going buy you any loyalty.”

As for the Arkansans eying 2024, neither is willing to expound on their ambitions before the midterm elections. But both are attempting to carve out space for their potential bids.

Cotton is quick to jump on issues he knows will animate core Republicans — from introducing legislation to address anti-Semitic hate crimes, to lambasting what he calls “woke corporations” — while Hutchinson has become a frequent presence on the national television circuit.

“I don’t want to sit back idly and let the division grow greater and let our party just become more angry,” Hutchinson said.

For decades, Arkansas punched above its weight in politics and business. In the 1990s, it was home to the president and the world’s wealthiest family. In the 2000s, three one-time Arkansans ran for president.

For decades, Arkansas punched above its weight in politics and business. In the 1990s, it was home to the president and the world’s wealthiest family. In the 2000s, three one-time Arkansans ran for president. A decade later, the state claimed its sixth company on the Fortune 500 list. But Arkansas may be entering its most consequential period yet, as a test case for the future of the Republican Party. Having undergone a lightning-quick transformation in the last decade from Democratic dominance to Republican rule, how closely the state clings to former President Donald Trump and his style of politics will offer insights about the party he still dominates. Arkansas represents the full spectrum of today’s GOP. There are Trump devotees fully behind his false claims of a stolen election and his brand of grievance-oriented politics. That faction is now led by former White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders, the daughter of Mike Huckabee, the state’s onetime governor. More ideological, and less Trump-centric, conservatives include Sen. Tom Cotton. And then there are pre-Trump Republicans, like Gov. Asa Hutchinson, hoping against hope the moment will pass and they can return the party to its Reaganite roots. Finally, some Republicans are so appalled by Trumpism, they have left or are considering leaving the party. Perhaps most significant, each of these factions are bunched together in a state powered by a handful of corporations that are increasingly uneasy with the culture-war politics that define Trump Republicanism. In a meeting of Walmart’s Arkansas-based executives last month, a number of officials cited state measures limiting transgender rights to express concern about how such bills could hamper their ability to recruit a diverse workforce, according to a business leader familiar with the discussion. “They’ve got to recruit people to this state, and this makes it harder for them,” said Hutchinson, alluding to transgender measures that he opposed in this year’s legislative session. “And there’s many in the base of the party that just don’t care,” he said. “They would rather fight the cultural war and pay the price in terms of growth.” In the next year and a half, Sanders will road-test Trumpism in state politics as she runs for governor in a state the former president carried by 27 points last year. She will initially face a longtime friend and former aide to her father, the state’s Attorney General Leslie Rutledge, who unsuccessfully pleaded with Trump not to endorse Sanders. Then, if Sanders prevails, she may prompt a long-shot challenge in the general election from a Republican-turned-independent who left the party in disgust with Trump, and just happens to be Hutchinson’s nephew. At the same time, Cotton and Hutchinson will be circling one another, perhaps in Iowa as often as in Arkansas, as they both eye 2024 presidential bids with very different bets about the future of the party. “There will be a lot of complicated relationships,” state Sen. Jonathan Dismang, an influential lawmaker, said with maximum delicacy. For many veterans of Arkansas politics, the intra-Republican competition is a full-circle moment, reflecting the state’s rapid shift from an overwhelmingly Democratic state to an overwhelmingly Republican one. This period is also eerily familiar to an earlier era when it was Democrats like then-Gov. Bill Clinton and former Sens. Dale Bumpers and David Pryor who were vying for supremacy. What’s different about today is how much politics in a small, mostly rural state at the intersection of the Deep South, Midwest and Southwest is shaped by a figure who has almost certainly never let the phrase “Woo Pig Sooie” slip from his lips. “Arkansas Republicanism is defined by President Trump right now,” said Trent Garner, a south Arkansas state lawmaker who defeated one of the remaining rural white Democrats when Trump was first elected. If there was any doubt about that after Trump’s romp in the state last year, it was erased in February when Lt. Gov. Tim Griffin abruptly pulled out of the 2022 governor’s race. A longtime political operative and former House member, Griffin had been collecting chits for what many here assumed was an inevitable run for the state’s top job after returning home from Congress in 2014 to serve as lieutenant governor. Then Sanders, who has never served in elective office, made clear she would run for governor, and Trump quickly endorsed his former spokeswoman. The combination of her connection to Trump, her father’s legacy and her own celebrity from being a Fox News regular made her seemingly unbeatable, according to a private survey Griffin took, Republicans familiar with the findings said. Now running for attorney general, Griffin, an Army Reserve colonel, sought to put the best face on his climb-down. “If bio and resume was key to politics, then George H.W. Bush would’ve been reelected, Bob Dole would’ve won and John McCain would’ve won,” he said. Hutchinson put a finer point on how Sanders had derailed Griffin. “It shows you the power of media and personality,” he said. Sanders does still have competition for governor, particularly from Rutledge, a conservative who, in the friends-and-neighbors world of Arkansas politics, served as Huckabee’s general counsel as governor and in the same capacity when he ran for president in 2008. “She’s never made decisions,” Rutledge said of Sanders. “It’s a big difference answering questions behind a podium versus making decisions behind a desk.” She insisted primary voters would ultimately value her experience, and dismissed state Capitol speculation that she would eventually follow Griffin to the exits, perhaps to run for lieutenant governor or the state Supreme Court. Asked about Rutledge’s criticism, Sanders ignored her rival and trumpeted her own record-setting early fundraising. “I take nothing for granted,” she said via text message. Should Sanders emerge as the Republican standard-bearer, she may face a third-party opponent from well outside the pro-Trump orbit. State Sen. Jim Hendren, who left the GOP after the Jan. 6 riot, and Davy Carter, a former state House speaker, are both considering bids. In separate interviews, they said they would not compete with one another in the same race. “I’m convinced that even in Arkansas, Trump and Trumpism is a slow-sinking ship,” said Carter, who as speaker helped push through Medicaid expansion. He said that a successful challenge to Trumpism would not happen unless liberals, moderates and anti-Trump Republicans “organize in one lane.” Asked who he’d ultimately back in the governor’s race, Hutchinson said, “I expect to support the Republican nominee.” But he acknowledged talking extensively with his nephew, Hendren, saying they share “the same frustrations” about the party, except that Hutchinson is determined to fight from within the tent. Offering some barely veiled advice for Sanders, he said: “Leadership is about bringing people along and not giving in to a lie.” The governor, and most observers, are deeply skeptical that an independent could win statewide. Indeed, more than a year and a half before Sanders would even take office, many insiders have moved on to discussing what sort of governor she would be. Would she repurpose Trump’s media-bashing and grievance-oriented politics to stay in the national headlines, and perhaps propel a presidential run of her own, or would she mirror her father’s more pragmatic approach to the office? While he is now known for his own Fox News and social media profile, Huckabee governed in the political center, even incurring the wrath of the far right, whom he labeled “Shiite conservatives.” “I think she’s going to be very eager to prove that she’s a competent executive who cares about the state,” said John Burris, a state legislator-turned-lobbyist. While shunning the state media and declining an interview for this story, Sanders has quietly reached out to state Republican lawmakers to discuss state policy and convey her desire to work with them, according to Garner. Few in the state will be watching as closely as the business titans at companies like Walmart, Tyson Foods and J.B. Hunt, the transportation and logistics giant, which are headquartered in the northwest corner of the state. Once the only Republican region of Arkansas — even Bill Clinton couldn’t win a House seat there in the aftermath of Watergate — it is now the state’s economic engine. The area is booming, will gain about a half-dozen new state legislative seats in redistricting, and is becoming more diverse. As the local business alliance, the Northwest Arkansas Council, notes, from 1990 and 2019, the nonwhite population of the region grew from less than 5% to over 28%. To lure more transplants, the business giants have showered the region with money, helping develop local attractions like the Crystal Bridges art museum, which was founded by Alice Walton, daughter of Walmart founder Sam Walton. But this transformation is coming into conflict with the state’s shift right. At the height of the transgender legislation debate this spring, Tom Walton, a grandson of Sam Walton, issued a statement decrying “policy targeting LGBTQ people in Arkansas” and spoke directly to what he saw as the threat presented. “This trend is harmful and sends the wrong message to those willing to invest in or visit our state.” Hendren, who represents a swath of the region in the state Senate, said the business community would have to do far more to slow Arkansas’ sprint right. “Continuing to do the same thing is going to lead to the same results,” he said, dismissing the companies’ strategy of sending the maximum allowable donations to candidates “and thinking that’s going buy you any loyalty.” As for the Arkansans eying 2024, neither is willing to expound on their ambitions before the midterm elections. But both are attempting to carve out space for their potential bids. Cotton is quick to jump on issues he knows will animate core Republicans — from introducing legislation to address anti-Semitic hate crimes, to lambasting what he calls “woke corporations” — while Hutchinson has become a frequent presence on the national television circuit. “I don’t want to sit back idly and let the division grow greater and let our party just become more angry,” Hutchinson said.

Why Arkansas is a test case for a post-Trump Republican Party

The US wants to strengthen its relationship with&nbsp;Greenland, especially commercially, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Thursday, but stressed that they, unlike Donald Trump, don't want to buy it.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-confirms-interest-in-buying-greenland-243957">US President Donald Trump confirms interest in buying Greenland</a>

Blinken visited the Danish autonomous territory as he ended a four-day trip that included a meeting of the foreign ministers of countries bordering the Arctic in Reykjavik.

"I am in&nbsp;Greenland&nbsp;because the United States deeply values our partnership and wants to make it even stronger," Antony Blinken told reporters on his final stop of the Arctic tour.

Last year, the US reopened a consulate in&nbsp;Greenland's capital Nuuk and pledged $12 million in aid for civilian projects.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-donald-trump-wants-to-buy-greenland-244206">Why Donald Trump wants to buy Greenland</a>

While he spoke of potential additional funding, Blinken was vague about new US projects, even though the new Greenlandic local government had floated the idea of a free trade agreement earlier in the week.

"We would like to find ways to strengthen even more the commercial relationship," Blinken said.

The then US president Donald Trump's 2019 proposal to buy the Arctic territory, described as "absurd" by the Danish government, caused a diplomatic kerfuffle but meanwhile signalled in clear terms the US' renewed interest in the region.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greenland-tells-trump-it-is-open-for-business-but-not-for-sale-243427">Greenland tells US President Donald Trump it is open for business but not for sale</a>

Asked whether the US had definitively ruled out any plans to buy&nbsp;Greenland, Blinken replied with a smile: "I can confirm that's correct."

Greenlandic new young Prime Minister Mute Egede, who came to power in April, said he was "convinced that this decade will be the beginning of a new era in the relationship between our countries."

The left-wing government, which won snap parliamentary elections last month, is allied with a small pro-independence party, Naleraq, which has shown itself to be in favour of mending ties with the US.

The US wants to strengthen its relationship with Greenland, especially commercially, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Thursday, but stressed that they, unlike Donald Trump, don't want to buy it.

The US wants to strengthen its relationship with Greenland, especially commercially, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Thursday, but stressed that they, unlike Donald Trump, don't want to buy it. Also Read | US President Donald Trump confirms interest in buying Greenland Blinken visited the Danish autonomous territory as he ended a four-day trip that included a meeting of the foreign ministers of countries bordering the Arctic in Reykjavik. "I am in Greenland because the United States deeply values our partnership and wants to make it even stronger," Antony Blinken told reporters on his final stop of the Arctic tour. Last year, the US reopened a consulate in Greenland's capital Nuuk and pledged $12 million in aid for civilian projects. Also Read | Why Donald Trump wants to buy Greenland While he spoke of potential additional funding, Blinken was vague about new US projects, even though the new Greenlandic local government had floated the idea of a free trade agreement earlier in the week. "We would like to find ways to strengthen even more the commercial relationship," Blinken said. The then US president Donald Trump's 2019 proposal to buy the Arctic territory, described as "absurd" by the Danish government, caused a diplomatic kerfuffle but meanwhile signalled in clear terms the US' renewed interest in the region. Also Read | Greenland tells US President Donald Trump it is open for business but not for sale Asked whether the US had definitively ruled out any plans to buy Greenland, Blinken replied with a smile: "I can confirm that's correct." Greenlandic new young Prime Minister Mute Egede, who came to power in April, said he was "convinced that this decade will be the beginning of a new era in the relationship between our countries." The left-wing government, which won snap parliamentary elections last month, is allied with a small pro-independence party, Naleraq, which has shown itself to be in favour of mending ties with the US.

US wants 'stronger' ties with Greenland without buying it, assures Blinken

Iranian President Hassan&nbsp;Rouhani&nbsp;said on Thursday that the United States was ready to lift sanctions on his country's oil, banking and shipping sectors that were reimposed after former US&nbsp;President Donald Trump exited a 2015 nuclear deal three years ago.

Iran and world powers have been in talks since April on reviving the deal and the EU official leading the discussions said on Wednesday he was confident a deal would be reached.

But European diplomats said success was not guaranteed and very difficult issues remained, while a senior Iranian official contradicted the president.

"The talks in Vienna are about minor issues. They have accepted to lift sanctions on Iran's oil and shipping sectors as well as sanctions on the Central Bank and others," President Hassan&nbsp;Rouhani&nbsp;said during a televised cabinet meeting.

Rouhani&nbsp;was speaking a few weeks ahead of Iran's presidential election, in which the revival of the nuclear accord could boost moderate candidates close to him.

Trump withdrew from the deal in 2018, prompting Iran to steadily overstep the accord’s limits on its nuclear programme designed to make it harder to develop an atomic bomb,&nbsp;an ambition Tehran denies.

Iran's top nuclear negotiator Abbas Araqchi said on Wednesday that some "key issues" needed to be discussed further.

And a senior Iranian official told the country's Press TV that Washington had no intention to "completely lift any sanctions on the oil, banking, finance and energy sectors".

"Washington intends to temporarily suspend some of the sanctions over a long period of time and in various steps," said the official, who was not identified by the station run by hardliners and which is close to the Revolutionary Guards.

Oil prices were on course for a third day of losses on Thursday after diplomats said progress was made towards a deal to lift sanctions on Iran, which could boost crude supply.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Thursday that the United States was ready to lift sanctions on his country's oil, banking and shipping sectors that were reimposed after former US President Donald Trump exited a 2015 nuclear deal three years ago.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Thursday that the United States was ready to lift sanctions on his country's oil, banking and shipping sectors that were reimposed after former US President Donald Trump exited a 2015 nuclear deal three years ago. Iran and world powers have been in talks since April on reviving the deal and the EU official leading the discussions said on Wednesday he was confident a deal would be reached. But European diplomats said success was not guaranteed and very difficult issues remained, while a senior Iranian official contradicted the president. "The talks in Vienna are about minor issues. They have accepted to lift sanctions on Iran's oil and shipping sectors as well as sanctions on the Central Bank and others," President Hassan Rouhani said during a televised cabinet meeting. Rouhani was speaking a few weeks ahead of Iran's presidential election, in which the revival of the nuclear accord could boost moderate candidates close to him. Trump withdrew from the deal in 2018, prompting Iran to steadily overstep the accord’s limits on its nuclear programme designed to make it harder to develop an atomic bomb, an ambition Tehran denies. Iran's top nuclear negotiator Abbas Araqchi said on Wednesday that some "key issues" needed to be discussed further. And a senior Iranian official told the country's Press TV that Washington had no intention to "completely lift any sanctions on the oil, banking, finance and energy sectors". "Washington intends to temporarily suspend some of the sanctions over a long period of time and in various steps," said the official, who was not identified by the station run by hardliners and which is close to the Revolutionary Guards. Oil prices were on course for a third day of losses on Thursday after diplomats said progress was made towards a deal to lift sanctions on Iran, which could boost crude supply.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani says US is ready to lift sanctions

A bipartisan commission has been set up by the US House to look into the proceedings of the infamous Capitol riots that took place on January 06, on the alleged command of former US president, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>.

The panel will be a 10-member commission that was approved with a vote of 252 to 175 in the House of Representatives on Wednesday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-to-resume-political-rallies-from-next-month-reports-385268" hreflang="en">Donald Trump to resume political rallies from next month: Reports</a>

"This commission is built to work, and it will be depoliticized, and it will get the results we need," House Republican John Katko said. "I urge all of you in the body, all of you on both sides... to set aside politics just this once -- just this once."

This commission is expected to rule keeping all ‘politics’ aside and is expected to be similar to the 9/11 Commission, created in 2002.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-orange-donald-trump-appears-on-walls-of-national-portrait-gallery-385208" hreflang="en">'Not orange': Donald Trump appears on walls of National Portrait Gallery</a>

"As we did in the wake of September 11, it's time to set aside partisan politics and come together as Americans in common pursuit of truth and justice," former New Jersey governor Tom Kean and ex-congressman Lee Hamilton, the two chairs of the body said.

While many Republicans changed sides to support Democrats in opposing the Capitol riots, a former aide of Trump, Mitch McConnell, has refused to support this newly-formed commission.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-former-lawyer-to-testify-in-russia-meddling-case-384712" hreflang="en">Trump's former lawyer to testify in Russia meddling case</a>

"After careful consideration, I've made a decision to oppose the House Democrats' slanted and unbalanced proposal for another commission to study the events of January the 6th,:&nbsp;McConnell said.

McConnell believes the ongoing investigation has arrested more than 400 suspects who have been investigated and convicted as per their role and involvement in the riots, and he believes this new commission is unnecessary and might cause an overlap, bringing discrepancies and overlap with the ongoing law enforcement investigation.

In January, the former aide had blamed Trump for inciting violence on January 06, after which the former president had openly resorted to name-calling against McConnell.

A bipartisan commission has been set up by the US House to look into the proceedings of the infamous Capitol riots that took place on January 06, on the alleged command of former US president, Donald Trump.

A bipartisan commission has been set up by the US House to look into the proceedings of the infamous Capitol riots that took place on January 06, on the alleged command of former US president, Donald Trump. The panel will be a 10-member commission that was approved with a vote of 252 to 175 in the House of Representatives on Wednesday. Also read | Donald Trump to resume political rallies from next month: Reports "This commission is built to work, and it will be depoliticized, and it will get the results we need," House Republican John Katko said. "I urge all of you in the body, all of you on both sides... to set aside politics just this once -- just this once." This commission is expected to rule keeping all ‘politics’ aside and is expected to be similar to the 9/11 Commission, created in 2002. Also read | 'Not orange': Donald Trump appears on walls of National Portrait Gallery "As we did in the wake of September 11, it's time to set aside partisan politics and come together as Americans in common pursuit of truth and justice," former New Jersey governor Tom Kean and ex-congressman Lee Hamilton, the two chairs of the body said. While many Republicans changed sides to support Democrats in opposing the Capitol riots, a former aide of Trump, Mitch McConnell, has refused to support this newly-formed commission. Also read | Trump's former lawyer to testify in Russia meddling case "After careful consideration, I've made a decision to oppose the House Democrats' slanted and unbalanced proposal for another commission to study the events of January the 6th,: McConnell said. McConnell believes the ongoing investigation has arrested more than 400 suspects who have been investigated and convicted as per their role and involvement in the riots, and he believes this new commission is unnecessary and might cause an overlap, bringing discrepancies and overlap with the ongoing law enforcement investigation. In January, the former aide had blamed Trump for inciting violence on January 06, after which the former president had openly resorted to name-calling against McConnell.

US House appoints commission on Capitol riots; Mitch McConnell opposes

The New York attorney general’s office has been criminally investigating the chief financial officer of former President Donald Trump’s company for months over tax issues, according to people with knowledge of the matter.

The office of the attorney general, Letitia James, notified the Trump Organization in a January letter that it had opened a criminal investigation related to the chief financial officer, Allen Weisselberg, the people said. The investigators have examined whether taxes were paid on fringe benefits that Trump gave him, including cars and tens of thousands of dollars in private school tuition for at least one of Weisselberg’s grandchildren.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-appoints-commission-on-capitol-riots-mitch-mcconnell-opposes-386139" hreflang="en">US House appoints commission on Capitol riots; Mitch McConnell opposes</a>

Previously, James’ office had been conducting only a civil investigation into the Trump Organization, meaning it could sue the company and seek fines, but not criminal charges.

The focus on perks and Weisselberg overlaps with the Manhattan district attorney’s long-running criminal fraud investigation of Trump and his family business. The district attorney’s office has been investigating the extent to which Trump handed out fringe benefits to some of his executives, including Weisselberg, and whether taxes were paid on those perks, The New York Times previously reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-to-resume-political-rallies-from-next-month-reports-385268" hreflang="en">Donald Trump to resume political rallies from next month: Reports</a>

In recent weeks, James’ office suggested to the company in a new letter that it had broadened the criminal investigation beyond the focus on Weisselberg, one of the people said. It was unclear how the inquiry had widened.

In general, fringe benefits — which can include cars, flights and club memberships — are taxable, though there are some exceptions. Companies are typically responsible for withholding such taxes from an employee’s paycheck.

Rather than risk bumping into each other, the two investigative offices recently began collaborating, another person with knowledge of the matter said. Two assistant attorneys general from James’ office have joined the district attorney’s team, which has been seeking to turn Weisselberg into a cooperating witness against Trump and the Trump Organization, people with knowledge of that effort said.

Weisselberg's lawyer, Mary E. Mulligan, declined to comment.

The attorney general’s office revealed the collaboration Tuesday, announcing, “We are now actively investigating the Trump Organization in a criminal capacity, along with the Manhattan DA.” The office did not comment further, and the district attorney’s office declined to comment.

In a lengthy statement released Wednesday, Trump called the efforts an “investigation that is in desperate search of a crime.”

The New York attorney general’s office has been criminally investigating the chief financial officer of former President Donald Trump’s company for months over tax issues, according to people with knowledge of the matter.

The New York attorney general’s office has been criminally investigating the chief financial officer of former President Donald Trump’s company for months over tax issues, according to people with knowledge of the matter. The office of the attorney general, Letitia James, notified the Trump Organization in a January letter that it had opened a criminal investigation related to the chief financial officer, Allen Weisselberg, the people said. The investigators have examined whether taxes were paid on fringe benefits that Trump gave him, including cars and tens of thousands of dollars in private school tuition for at least one of Weisselberg’s grandchildren. Also read | US House appoints commission on Capitol riots; Mitch McConnell opposes Previously, James’ office had been conducting only a civil investigation into the Trump Organization, meaning it could sue the company and seek fines, but not criminal charges. The focus on perks and Weisselberg overlaps with the Manhattan district attorney’s long-running criminal fraud investigation of Trump and his family business. The district attorney’s office has been investigating the extent to which Trump handed out fringe benefits to some of his executives, including Weisselberg, and whether taxes were paid on those perks, The New York Times previously reported. Also read | Donald Trump to resume political rallies from next month: Reports In recent weeks, James’ office suggested to the company in a new letter that it had broadened the criminal investigation beyond the focus on Weisselberg, one of the people said. It was unclear how the inquiry had widened. In general, fringe benefits — which can include cars, flights and club memberships — are taxable, though there are some exceptions. Companies are typically responsible for withholding such taxes from an employee’s paycheck. Rather than risk bumping into each other, the two investigative offices recently began collaborating, another person with knowledge of the matter said. Two assistant attorneys general from James’ office have joined the district attorney’s team, which has been seeking to turn Weisselberg into a cooperating witness against Trump and the Trump Organization, people with knowledge of that effort said. Weisselberg's lawyer, Mary E. Mulligan, declined to comment. The attorney general’s office revealed the collaboration Tuesday, announcing, “We are now actively investigating the Trump Organization in a criminal capacity, along with the Manhattan DA.” The office did not comment further, and the district attorney’s office declined to comment. In a lengthy statement released Wednesday, Trump called the efforts an “investigation that is in desperate search of a crime.”

Top Trump executive under criminal investigation over taxes

The Russian parliament's lower house voted on Wednesday to withdraw from an international treaty allowing surveillance flights over military facilities following the US departure from the pact.

The Russian exit from the Open Skies Treaty is yet to be endorsed by the upper house of parliament and needs to be signed by President Vladimir Putin to take effect.

Moscow has signaled its readiness to reverse the withdrawal procedure and stay in the treaty if the US returns to the agreement.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-pulls-out-of-open-skies-treaty-russia-says-it-will-affect-all-members-300258">US pulls out of Open Skies treaty; Russia says it will affect all members</a>

The Open Skies Treaty was intended to build trust between Russia and the West by allowing the accord's more than three dozen signatories to conduct reconnaissance flights over each other's territories to collect information about military forces and activities.

More than 1,500 flights have been conducted under the treaty since it took effect in 2002, aimed at fostering transparency about military activity and helping monitor arms control and other agreements.

US President Donald Trump pulled out of the pact, arguing that Russian violations made it untenable for Washington to remain a party. The US completed its withdrawal from the pact in November.

Russia has insisted that the restrictions on observation flights it imposed in the past were permissible by the treaty and noted that the US imposed more sweeping restrictions on observation flights over Alaska.

The Russian parliament's lower house voted on Wednesday to withdraw from an international treaty allowing surveillance flights over military facilities following the US departure from the pact.

The Russian parliament's lower house voted on Wednesday to withdraw from an international treaty allowing surveillance flights over military facilities following the US departure from the pact. The Russian exit from the Open Skies Treaty is yet to be endorsed by the upper house of parliament and needs to be signed by President Vladimir Putin to take effect. Moscow has signaled its readiness to reverse the withdrawal procedure and stay in the treaty if the US returns to the agreement. Also read| US pulls out of Open Skies treaty; Russia says it will affect all members The Open Skies Treaty was intended to build trust between Russia and the West by allowing the accord's more than three dozen signatories to conduct reconnaissance flights over each other's territories to collect information about military forces and activities. More than 1,500 flights have been conducted under the treaty since it took effect in 2002, aimed at fostering transparency about military activity and helping monitor arms control and other agreements. US President Donald Trump pulled out of the pact, arguing that Russian violations made it untenable for Washington to remain a party. The US completed its withdrawal from the pact in November. Russia has insisted that the restrictions on observation flights it imposed in the past were permissible by the treaty and noted that the US imposed more sweeping restrictions on observation flights over Alaska.

Russian parliament's lower house votes to exit from Open Skies Treaty

As the US returns to normalcy, the twice-impeached former US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a> is expected to resume his political rallies from next month.

Trump, who lost the US election 2020 to the Democrat candidate Joe Biden, has decided to return to the public eye to support the candidates to favour him and his agenda.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-orange-donald-trump-appears-on-walls-of-national-portrait-gallery-385208" hreflang="en">'Not orange': Donald Trump appears on walls of National Portrait Gallery</a>

Team members who are aware of Trump’s plans disclosed to local media that the former president is aiming to organise two rallies next month and one near the July 04 holiday.

As of now, the cities and venues for these rallies, along with the dates, have not been finalised yet, a source was quoted by the New York Post.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-former-lawyer-to-testify-in-russia-meddling-case-384712" hreflang="en">Trump's former lawyer to testify in Russia meddling case</a>

The rallies, experts believe, will be yet another trial of Trump in his plan to relaunch himself in the political environment to prepare for his rerun in the US presidential election 2024.

These rallies will also be Trump’s source of venting out his opinions on a microphone since he was banned on the social media platforms — namely Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok and YouTube — for encouraging his supports for Capitol riots.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-family-got-inappropriately-close-to-secret-service-agent-book-384427" hreflang="en">Trump family got 'inappropriately close' to Secret Service agent: Book</a>

This will be his biggest platform of connecting with his supporters since his rant against the Democrats and the present administration at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in February.

The soon-to-be 75-year-old leader is also expected to make an appearance on May 22 at the Trump National Golf Club Bedminster in New Jersey for the first fundraiser of a political action committee that is actively backing.

As the US returns to normalcy, the twice-impeached former US President Donald Trump is expected to resume his political rallies from next month. Trump, who lost the US election 2020 to the Democrat candidate Joe Biden, has decided to return to the public eye to support the candidates to favour him and his agenda.

As the US returns to normalcy, the twice-impeached former US President Donald Trump is expected to resume his political rallies from next month. Trump, who lost the US election 2020 to the Democrat candidate Joe Biden, has decided to return to the public eye to support the candidates to favour him and his agenda. Also read | 'Not orange': Donald Trump appears on walls of National Portrait Gallery Team members who are aware of Trump’s plans disclosed to local media that the former president is aiming to organise two rallies next month and one near the July 04 holiday. As of now, the cities and venues for these rallies, along with the dates, have not been finalised yet, a source was quoted by the New York Post. Also read | Trump's former lawyer to testify in Russia meddling case The rallies, experts believe, will be yet another trial of Trump in his plan to relaunch himself in the political environment to prepare for his rerun in the US presidential election 2024. These rallies will also be Trump’s source of venting out his opinions on a microphone since he was banned on the social media platforms — namely Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok and YouTube — for encouraging his supports for Capitol riots. Also read | Trump family got 'inappropriately close' to Secret Service agent: Book This will be his biggest platform of connecting with his supporters since his rant against the Democrats and the present administration at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in February. The soon-to-be 75-year-old leader is also expected to make an appearance on May 22 at the Trump National Golf Club Bedminster in New Jersey for the first fundraiser of a political action committee that is actively backing.

Donald Trump to resume political rallies from next month: Reports

US Republicans on Friday elected congresswoman Elise Stefanik, an outspoken defender of Donald Trump, as their new House conference chair, as the party scrambles to unify amid an explosive debate about its direction.

Stefanik, a 36-year-old former moderate representing upstate New York, easily overcame a late entrant to the race and won strong support from the Republican conference in a closed-door vote of 134 to 46.

"My focus is on unity, because that's what the American people and that's what our voters deserve," she told reporters after vaulting into the number three House Republican position -- becoming the party's most powerful woman in Congress.

"We are going on offense and are going to win back the majority in 2022" in the House of Representatives, said Stefanik, the party's new top messenger.

The vote came two days after the conference ousted Liz Cheney, a conservative stalwart and daughter of former vice president Dick Cheney, from the post over her repeated criticism of Trump and her refusal to embrace his false claim that Democrats stole the 2020 election.

With Trump retaining enormous influence, Republicans have been desperate to tamp down swelling discord within party ranks over its future.&nbsp;

Conservatives aim to craft a coherent message heading into next year's midterm elections, but some Republicans fear that failing to reject Trump's rhetoric about voter fraud could hurt the party at the polls.

But Stefanik made clear that Trump and Trumpism will remain vital in the effort to turn back the "destructive, radical, far-left socialist agenda" of President Joe Biden and his Democrats.

Trump an 'important voice'

Trump "is a critical part of our Republican team," Stefanik said.

"I support president Trump, voters support president Trump," she added. "He is an important voice in our Republican Party and we look forward to working with him."

Trump, whose grip on the party has tightened with Stefanik's elevation, immediately congratulated her for the "overwhelming" win.

"The House GOP is united and the Make America Great Again movement is Strong!" the former president said. 
Stefanik's ascension to leadership was the singular bright spot for Republicans in an otherwise difficult week.

On Thursday after a meeting with Biden and top congressional Democrats at the White House, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy made the dubious assertion that "I don't think anybody is questioning the legitimacy of the presidential election."

One day earlier during a contentious House hearing, Republicans sought to downplay the seriousness of the deadly January 6 attack on the US Capitol by Trump supporters, with congressman Andrew Clyde saying footage from the day of the insurrection appeared to show "a normal tourist visit" to the building.

And in a sign that tensions still haunt Congress six months after the election, Republican congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, who has espoused wild conspiracy theories, aggressively confronted progressive Democrat Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, heightening concerns about security on Capitol Hill.

Ousted from leadership, Cheney has vowed to continue fighting for conservative principles and against a defeated leader who keeps spreading "the big lie" of voter fraud.

Stefanik is unapologetic in her defense of Trump and has promoted the ex-president's falsehoods about the 2020 election, but some Republicans have openly questioned her conservative credentials.&nbsp;

She voted against Trump's 2017 tax plan, dismissed his border wall as not "realistic" and worked hard to build a more diverse party and get more Republican women elected to Congress.

While the congressman who challenged Stefanik for the conference chair post, Texas Republican Chip Roy, received a 100 percent lifetime rating from the Club For Growth, the conservative group gave Stefanik a rating of just 35 percent.

Despite the pushback, Stefanik on Friday branded herself a "proud conservative Republican."

Asked whether there was a place in the party for vocal Trump critics like Cheney or congressman Adam Kinzinger -- both of whom voted to impeach Trump in January -- Stefanik sought to strike a unifying note.

"They are part of this Republican conference," she said, then added: "We are unified in working with president Trump."

US Republicans on Friday elected congresswoman Elise Stefanik, an outspoken defender of Donald Trump, as their new House conference chair, as the party scrambles to unify amid an explosive debate about its direction.

US Republicans on Friday elected congresswoman Elise Stefanik, an outspoken defender of Donald Trump, as their new House conference chair, as the party scrambles to unify amid an explosive debate about its direction. Stefanik, a 36-year-old former moderate representing upstate New York, easily overcame a late entrant to the race and won strong support from the Republican conference in a closed-door vote of 134 to 46. "My focus is on unity, because that's what the American people and that's what our voters deserve," she told reporters after vaulting into the number three House Republican position -- becoming the party's most powerful woman in Congress. "We are going on offense and are going to win back the majority in 2022" in the House of Representatives, said Stefanik, the party's new top messenger. The vote came two days after the conference ousted Liz Cheney, a conservative stalwart and daughter of former vice president Dick Cheney, from the post over her repeated criticism of Trump and her refusal to embrace his false claim that Democrats stole the 2020 election. With Trump retaining enormous influence, Republicans have been desperate to tamp down swelling discord within party ranks over its future. Conservatives aim to craft a coherent message heading into next year's midterm elections, but some Republicans fear that failing to reject Trump's rhetoric about voter fraud could hurt the party at the polls. But Stefanik made clear that Trump and Trumpism will remain vital in the effort to turn back the "destructive, radical, far-left socialist agenda" of President Joe Biden and his Democrats. Trump an 'important voice' Trump "is a critical part of our Republican team," Stefanik said. "I support president Trump, voters support president Trump," she added. "He is an important voice in our Republican Party and we look forward to working with him." Trump, whose grip on the party has tightened with Stefanik's elevation, immediately congratulated her for the "overwhelming" win. "The House GOP is united and the Make America Great Again movement is Strong!" the former president said. Stefanik's ascension to leadership was the singular bright spot for Republicans in an otherwise difficult week. On Thursday after a meeting with Biden and top congressional Democrats at the White House, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy made the dubious assertion that "I don't think anybody is questioning the legitimacy of the presidential election." One day earlier during a contentious House hearing, Republicans sought to downplay the seriousness of the deadly January 6 attack on the US Capitol by Trump supporters, with congressman Andrew Clyde saying footage from the day of the insurrection appeared to show "a normal tourist visit" to the building. And in a sign that tensions still haunt Congress six months after the election, Republican congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, who has espoused wild conspiracy theories, aggressively confronted progressive Democrat Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, heightening concerns about security on Capitol Hill. Ousted from leadership, Cheney has vowed to continue fighting for conservative principles and against a defeated leader who keeps spreading "the big lie" of voter fraud. Stefanik is unapologetic in her defense of Trump and has promoted the ex-president's falsehoods about the 2020 election, but some Republicans have openly questioned her conservative credentials. She voted against Trump's 2017 tax plan, dismissed his border wall as not "realistic" and worked hard to build a more diverse party and get more Republican women elected to Congress. While the congressman who challenged Stefanik for the conference chair post, Texas Republican Chip Roy, received a 100 percent lifetime rating from the Club For Growth, the conservative group gave Stefanik a rating of just 35 percent. Despite the pushback, Stefanik on Friday branded herself a "proud conservative Republican." Asked whether there was a place in the party for vocal Trump critics like Cheney or congressman Adam Kinzinger -- both of whom voted to impeach Trump in January -- Stefanik sought to strike a unifying note. "They are part of this Republican conference," she said, then added: "We are unified in working with president Trump."

Republicans elect pro-Trump Stefanik to House leadership

US President Joe Biden on Friday (local time) revoked an executive order by former President Donald Trump against social media platforms. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Trump had issued the order in 2020 to direct US regulators to limit liability protections enjoyed by the social media platforms.

The Center for Democracy and Technology, which had sued to block Trump's May 2020 order, praised Biden's reversal, arguing Trump's order "was an attempt to use threats of retaliation to coerce social media companies into allowing disinformation and hateful speech to go unchecked."

Trump unsuccessfully demanded the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) set new rules to limit protections for social media firms under the 1996 Communications Decency Act. It shields the companies from liability for content posted by their users and allows them to remove lawful but objectionable posts.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-orange-donald-trump-appears-on-walls-of-national-portrait-gallery-385208">'Not orange': Donald Trump appears on walls of National Portrait Gallery</a>

Trump's executive order was issued after Twitter tagged his tweets having claims of widespread voter fraud in US Presidential Election 2020. Trump had continued his claims of voter fraud even after US Supreme Court had rejected the assertions.

After Trump's posts following the Jan. 6 Capitol attacks, Twitter and Facebook barred Trump from posting on their sites, and the following day FCC Chairman Ajit Pai said he would not act on Trump's request to limit social media liability protections.

Facebook did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Twitter declined comment but referred to its initial statement about Trump's order, which called it "reactionary and politicized."

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden on Friday (local time) revoked an executive order by former President Donald Trump against social media platforms. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

US President Joe Biden on Friday (local time) revoked an executive order by former President Donald Trump against social media platforms. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Trump had issued the order in 2020 to direct US regulators to limit liability protections enjoyed by the social media platforms. The Center for Democracy and Technology, which had sued to block Trump's May 2020 order, praised Biden's reversal, arguing Trump's order "was an attempt to use threats of retaliation to coerce social media companies into allowing disinformation and hateful speech to go unchecked." Trump unsuccessfully demanded the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) set new rules to limit protections for social media firms under the 1996 Communications Decency Act. It shields the companies from liability for content posted by their users and allows them to remove lawful but objectionable posts. Also Read | 'Not orange': Donald Trump appears on walls of National Portrait Gallery Trump's executive order was issued after Twitter tagged his tweets having claims of widespread voter fraud in US Presidential Election 2020. Trump had continued his claims of voter fraud even after US Supreme Court had rejected the assertions. After Trump's posts following the Jan. 6 Capitol attacks, Twitter and Facebook barred Trump from posting on their sites, and the following day FCC Chairman Ajit Pai said he would not act on Trump's request to limit social media liability protections. Facebook did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Twitter declined comment but referred to its initial statement about Trump's order, which called it "reactionary and politicized." (With inputs from agencies)

Joe Biden revokes Trump executive order against social media platforms

Donald Trump's supporter, Matt Gaetz, is back in the headlines as a close associate of the congressman has admitted to the charges of sex trafficking involving a minor.

A former tax collector of Florida, on Monday, has confessed to paying a 17-year-old girl for sex and also admitted to arranging drugs for the minor.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lot-of-explaining-to-do-trump-advised-to-stay-away-from-matt-gaetz-amid-his-sex-scandal-375233">'Lot of explaining to do': Trump advised to stay away from Matt Gaetz amid his sex scandal</a>

Local media has reported that Joel Greenberg has told the investigators that Gaetz had sex with the 17-year-old unnamed girl while being completely aware of her age and that she was getting paid for it. However, the infamous congressman has denied the accusations and has refused to resign from Congress.

As per Greenberg's confession, an unnamed associate and Greenberg paid more than $70,000 to women who were hired to perform sexual acts for 'wealthy and powerful men'&nbsp;between 2016 and 2018. He also confessed to using the tax collector office's credit cards at times to make payments to these women.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-ally-under-investigation-for-sexual-relationship-with-underage-girls-374435">Trump's ally under investigation for sexual relationship with underage girls</a>

He also admitted to arranging drugs for an underage girl. He has confessed to having sex with the minor girl at least seven times and he "also introduced the Minor to other adult men, who engaged in commercial sex acts with the Minor".

However, Haetz continues to dismiss these accusations. "The first indictment of Joel Greenberg alleges that he falsely accused another man of sex with a minor for his own gain. That man was apparently innocent. So is Congressman Gaetz," Harlan Hill, the Congressman’s spokeswoman said.

Donald Trump's supporter, Matt Gaetz, is back in the headlines as a close associate of the congressman has admitted to the charges of sex trafficking involving a minor.

Donald Trump's supporter, Matt Gaetz, is back in the headlines as a close associate of the congressman has admitted to the charges of sex trafficking involving a minor. A former tax collector of Florida, on Monday, has confessed to paying a 17-year-old girl for sex and also admitted to arranging drugs for the minor. Also read | 'Lot of explaining to do': Trump advised to stay away from Matt Gaetz amid his sex scandal Local media has reported that Joel Greenberg has told the investigators that Gaetz had sex with the 17-year-old unnamed girl while being completely aware of her age and that she was getting paid for it. However, the infamous congressman has denied the accusations and has refused to resign from Congress. As per Greenberg's confession, an unnamed associate and Greenberg paid more than $70,000 to women who were hired to perform sexual acts for 'wealthy and powerful men' between 2016 and 2018. He also confessed to using the tax collector office's credit cards at times to make payments to these women. Also read | Trump's ally under investigation for sexual relationship with underage girls He also admitted to arranging drugs for an underage girl. He has confessed to having sex with the minor girl at least seven times and he "also introduced the Minor to other adult men, who engaged in commercial sex acts with the Minor". However, Haetz continues to dismiss these accusations. "The first indictment of Joel Greenberg alleges that he falsely accused another man of sex with a minor for his own gain. That man was apparently innocent. So is Congressman Gaetz," Harlan Hill, the Congressman’s spokeswoman said.

Matt Gaetz's former associate confesses paying minor for sex

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump's</a> former White House lawyer, Don McGahn, has decided to testify on allegations against the former president about his ties with Russia.

McGahn had acted as the White House counsel in 2017 and 2018 during which Trump was being investigated by Robert Mueller, an independent prosecutor.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/republicans-oust-trump-critic-liz-cheney-from-leadership-role-384570" hreflang="en">Republicans oust Trump critic Liz Cheney from leadership role</a>

Mueller had accused McGahn of having him removed as the Justice Department's special counsel in 2017. However, McGahn had refused to take part in that decision-making.

Now, months after Trump has left the White House, a court filing has revealed that McGahn has decided to testify in the obstruction case but behind closed doors. This interview between the committee and Trump’s former lawyer will rally around the Mueller report and the lawyer will be questioned if the accusations and statements made in that report are accurate.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-family-got-inappropriately-close-to-secret-service-agent-book-384427" hreflang="en">Trump family got 'inappropriately close' to Secret Service agent: Book</a>

While the interview will take place behind doors, a transcript of the same will be made public.

It is still not clear what will be the next step of the committee even if McGahn supports the accusations made by Mueller.

"When the former President vowed to fight 'all of the subpoenas' aimed at his administration, he began a dangerous campaign of unprecedented obstruction," said Democrat Jerry Nadler, who had launched an impeachment investigation against Trump in the House Judiciary Committee. "We begin to bring that era of obstruction to an end today."

Donald Trump's former White House lawyer, Don McGahn, has decided to testify on allegations against the former president about his ties with Russia. McGahn had acted as the White House counsel in 2017 and 2018 during which Trump was being investigated by Robert Mueller, an independent prosecutor.

Donald Trump's former White House lawyer, Don McGahn, has decided to testify on allegations against the former president about his ties with Russia. McGahn had acted as the White House counsel in 2017 and 2018 during which Trump was being investigated by Robert Mueller, an independent prosecutor. Also read | Republicans oust Trump critic Liz Cheney from leadership role Mueller had accused McGahn of having him removed as the Justice Department's special counsel in 2017. However, McGahn had refused to take part in that decision-making. Now, months after Trump has left the White House, a court filing has revealed that McGahn has decided to testify in the obstruction case but behind closed doors. This interview between the committee and Trump’s former lawyer will rally around the Mueller report and the lawyer will be questioned if the accusations and statements made in that report are accurate. Also read | Trump family got 'inappropriately close' to Secret Service agent: Book While the interview will take place behind doors, a transcript of the same will be made public. It is still not clear what will be the next step of the committee even if McGahn supports the accusations made by Mueller. "When the former President vowed to fight 'all of the subpoenas' aimed at his administration, he began a dangerous campaign of unprecedented obstruction," said Democrat Jerry Nadler, who had launched an impeachment investigation against Trump in the House Judiciary Committee. "We begin to bring that era of obstruction to an end today."

Trump's former lawyer to testify in Russia meddling case

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