US President Joe Biden told Americans Wednesday in his first speech to Congress that the nation has pulled off a massive logistical success with its battle against the coronavirus pandemic.

"Because of you, the American people, our progress these past 100 days against one of the worst pandemics in history is one of the greatest logistical achievements our country has ever seen," the president said in an address to a joint session of Congress.

The 78-year-old Biden noted that senior deaths from Covid have plunged some 80 percent since January, more than half of all US adults have received at least one vaccine dose, and that first responders considered the vaccine as "a dose of hope."

Biden argued in his first speech to Congress on Wednesday that he had restored Americans' faith in democracy nearly 100 days after he succeeded Donald Trump in office, and was set to unveil a $1.8 trillion spending and tax-credit plan.

Biden appeared in the chamber of the US&nbsp;House of Representatives at an event scaled back this year because of the pandemic, with a small, specially selected group of Democratic and Republican lawmakers arrayed before him, and the first woman to serve as US&nbsp;vice president, Kamala Harris, behind him.

Seizing on the coronavirus pandemic as an opportunity to advance his priorities at a time of political polarization, Biden told the joint session and millions of people watching on television that "America is ready for a takeoff."

"Now, after just 100 days, I can report to the nation: America is on the move again, turning peril into possibility, crisis into opportunity, setback into strength," Biden said.

He argued that the new spending and tax-credit package, which together with an earlier infrastructure and jobs plan, totals around $4 trillion, rivaling the annual federal budget,&nbsp;is a once-in-a-generation investment vital to America's future.

"Tonight, I come to talk about crisis&nbsp;and opportunity," he said. "About rebuilding our nation&nbsp;and revitalising our democracy. And winning the future for America."

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden told Americans Wednesday in his first speech to Congress that the nation has pulled off a massive logistical success with its battle against the coronavirus pandemic.

US President Joe Biden told Americans Wednesday in his first speech to Congress that the nation has pulled off a massive logistical success with its battle against the coronavirus pandemic. "Because of you, the American people, our progress these past 100 days against one of the worst pandemics in history is one of the greatest logistical achievements our country has ever seen," the president said in an address to a joint session of Congress. The 78-year-old Biden noted that senior deaths from Covid have plunged some 80 percent since January, more than half of all US adults have received at least one vaccine dose, and that first responders considered the vaccine as "a dose of hope." Biden argued in his first speech to Congress on Wednesday that he had restored Americans' faith in democracy nearly 100 days after he succeeded Donald Trump in office, and was set to unveil a $1.8 trillion spending and tax-credit plan. Biden appeared in the chamber of the US House of Representatives at an event scaled back this year because of the pandemic, with a small, specially selected group of Democratic and Republican lawmakers arrayed before him, and the first woman to serve as US vice president, Kamala Harris, behind him. Seizing on the coronavirus pandemic as an opportunity to advance his priorities at a time of political polarization, Biden told the joint session and millions of people watching on television that "America is ready for a takeoff." "Now, after just 100 days, I can report to the nation: America is on the move again, turning peril into possibility, crisis into opportunity, setback into strength," Biden said. He argued that the new spending and tax-credit package, which together with an earlier infrastructure and jobs plan, totals around $4 trillion, rivaling the annual federal budget, is a once-in-a-generation investment vital to America's future. "Tonight, I come to talk about crisis and opportunity," he said. "About rebuilding our nation and revitalising our democracy. And winning the future for America." (With inputs from agencies)

Biden hails US coronavirus fight as one of 'greatest logistical achievements'

The Iranian government has said that an investigation has been ordered into the "conspiracy" of leaked audio in which Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says the military and the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) are too influential in diplomacy.

President Hassan Rouhani ordered the investigation to identify who leaked the "stolen" three-hour-long recording by top diplomat and member of his moderate government Mohammad Javad Zarif, the spokesman said.

The tape, which comes ahead of presidential elections in June, has dominated the discussion in the Islamic republic since its publication by media outlets outside Iran on Sunday.

"We believe this theft of documents is a conspiracy against the government, the system, the integrity of effective domestic institutions, and also against our national interests," government spokesman Ali Rabiei told reporters.

"The president has ordered the intelligence ministry to identify the agents of this conspiracy," he added.

The file was "stolen for clear reasons", he said, without elaborating further.

Foreign ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh did not deny the authenticity of the recording but said on Monday that it was cut from a seven-hour interview that included "personal opinions".

Zarif did not comment on the controversy, but published on Tuesday a brief audio message on Instagram, saying "I believe you should not work for history... I say that don't worry about history so much, but worry about God and the people".

He did not specify when he recorded this message.

The leaked remarks sparked harsh criticism from conservative media and politicians, with the mention of Iran's slain general Qasem Soleimani hitting a nerve.

Soleimani, considered one of the prominent architects of Iranian regional policy, was killed early last year in an American drone strike in Baghdad, ordered by former US President Donald Trump.

The leak and probe come ahead of presidential elections on June 18, which will see the moderate Rouhani step down after two terms in office and after conservatives fared well in parliamentary elections last year.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Iranian government has said that an investigation has been ordered into the "conspiracy" of leaked audio in which Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says the military and the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) are too influential in diplomacy.

The Iranian government has said that an investigation has been ordered into the "conspiracy" of leaked audio in which Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says the military and the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) are too influential in diplomacy. President Hassan Rouhani ordered the investigation to identify who leaked the "stolen" three-hour-long recording by top diplomat and member of his moderate government Mohammad Javad Zarif, the spokesman said. The tape, which comes ahead of presidential elections in June, has dominated the discussion in the Islamic republic since its publication by media outlets outside Iran on Sunday. "We believe this theft of documents is a conspiracy against the government, the system, the integrity of effective domestic institutions, and also against our national interests," government spokesman Ali Rabiei told reporters. "The president has ordered the intelligence ministry to identify the agents of this conspiracy," he added. The file was "stolen for clear reasons", he said, without elaborating further. Foreign ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh did not deny the authenticity of the recording but said on Monday that it was cut from a seven-hour interview that included "personal opinions". Zarif did not comment on the controversy, but published on Tuesday a brief audio message on Instagram, saying "I believe you should not work for history... I say that don't worry about history so much, but worry about God and the people". He did not specify when he recorded this message. The leaked remarks sparked harsh criticism from conservative media and politicians, with the mention of Iran's slain general Qasem Soleimani hitting a nerve. Soleimani, considered one of the prominent architects of Iranian regional policy, was killed early last year in an American drone strike in Baghdad, ordered by former US President Donald Trump. The leak and probe come ahead of presidential elections on June 18, which will see the moderate Rouhani step down after two terms in office and after conservatives fared well in parliamentary elections last year. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani  orders probe into leaked audio 'conspiracy'

US population growth fell over the past decade to the second-slowest pace in history, the&nbsp;Census&nbsp;Bureau reported Monday, after Donald Trump's tough crackdown brought immigration to a near halt.

The official 10-year count&nbsp;estimated that 331,449,281 people lived in the world's third-most populous country on April 1, 2020.

That was a 7.4 percent rise from 2010, when the official population stood at 308,745,538, the&nbsp;Census&nbsp;Bureau said.

The 10-year expansion was significantly slower than the previous decade, when the population grew by 9.7 percent, and was barely above the record low of 7.3 per cent over 1930-1940, when the United States and the world were mired in the Great Depression.

The population growth rate accelerated with the "baby boomer" birth surge after World War II, but since the early 1950s has been on a fairly steady decline.

That was only interrupted for a few years in the 1990s when millions of migrants, mostly Mexicans, entered the country without documents and stayed.

Since then, data shows the dropoff has been sharp.

In the past decade, researchers have said that the deep, year-long economic slump from the 2008 financial crisis contributed to the slowdown, with a lower birth rate and with many Mexican migrants returning to their country.

In addition, after he became president in 2017, Donald Trump sought to sharply cut legal immigration and halt illegal immigration completely.

The region showing the largest growth since 2010 was the south, followed by the west.

Arid, heavily desert Utah in the west had the fastest-growing population of the 50 states, gaining 18.4 percent, while mountainous West Virginia in the east fell by 3.2 percent.

The&nbsp;Census&nbsp;Bureau only released the broad numbers for the country and individual states Monday, to serve as a basis for reapportioning seats in the 435-member US House of Representatives.

In all, 13 states will either gain or lose seats, with California, the largest by population, losing one of its 53, while Texas, the second-largest, adding two to its current 36.

Others gaining one seat are Colorado, Montana, North Carolina and Oregon. Other losers were Illinois, Michigan, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

The&nbsp;census&nbsp;was taken under a cloud of politics, with Trump trying to reverse past practice and force the agency not to count undocumented or non-citizen residents.

His push against immigration is also thought to have made many people afraid to respond to&nbsp;census&nbsp;takers.

The&nbsp;census&nbsp;was also hampered by the Covid-19 outbreak.&nbsp;

"Trying to count people in a global pandemic made it even more challenging," said Ron Jarmin, acting director of the&nbsp;Census&nbsp;Bureau.

The bureau plans to release details on age, race and other characteristics of the population in the coming months.

US population growth fell over the past decade to the second-slowest pace in history, the Census Bureau reported Monday, after Donald Trump's tough crackdown brought immigration to a near halt.

US population growth fell over the past decade to the second-slowest pace in history, the Census Bureau reported Monday, after Donald Trump's tough crackdown brought immigration to a near halt. The official 10-year count estimated that 331,449,281 people lived in the world's third-most populous country on April 1, 2020. That was a 7.4 percent rise from 2010, when the official population stood at 308,745,538, the Census Bureau said. The 10-year expansion was significantly slower than the previous decade, when the population grew by 9.7 percent, and was barely above the record low of 7.3 per cent over 1930-1940, when the United States and the world were mired in the Great Depression. The population growth rate accelerated with the "baby boomer" birth surge after World War II, but since the early 1950s has been on a fairly steady decline. That was only interrupted for a few years in the 1990s when millions of migrants, mostly Mexicans, entered the country without documents and stayed. Since then, data shows the dropoff has been sharp. In the past decade, researchers have said that the deep, year-long economic slump from the 2008 financial crisis contributed to the slowdown, with a lower birth rate and with many Mexican migrants returning to their country. In addition, after he became president in 2017, Donald Trump sought to sharply cut legal immigration and halt illegal immigration completely. The region showing the largest growth since 2010 was the south, followed by the west. Arid, heavily desert Utah in the west had the fastest-growing population of the 50 states, gaining 18.4 percent, while mountainous West Virginia in the east fell by 3.2 percent. The Census Bureau only released the broad numbers for the country and individual states Monday, to serve as a basis for reapportioning seats in the 435-member US House of Representatives. In all, 13 states will either gain or lose seats, with California, the largest by population, losing one of its 53, while Texas, the second-largest, adding two to its current 36. Others gaining one seat are Colorado, Montana, North Carolina and Oregon. Other losers were Illinois, Michigan, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. The census was taken under a cloud of politics, with Trump trying to reverse past practice and force the agency not to count undocumented or non-citizen residents. His push against immigration is also thought to have made many people afraid to respond to census takers. The census was also hampered by the Covid-19 outbreak. "Trying to count people in a global pandemic made it even more challenging," said Ron Jarmin, acting director of the Census Bureau. The bureau plans to release details on age, race and other characteristics of the population in the coming months.

US population growth slowed sharply over 2010-2020: Census

The independent Oversight Board has announced to delay its decision on former US President Donald Trump`s ban from Facebook and Instagram that will now arrive "in the coming weeks". 
 
The board, constituted by Facebook with 20 members from across the world last year, said it is reviewing more than 9,000 responses before it delivers the verdict on Trump`s ban on the social media giant. 
 
"We extended the public comments deadline for this case, receiving 9,000+ responses. The Board`s commitment to carefully reviewing all comments has extended the case timeline, in line with the Board`s bylaws," the Board said in a tweet late Friday. 
 
Facebook banned Trump from its platforms after the Capitol Hill attack on January 6. 
 
Company CEO Mark Zuckerberg said that "the risks of allowing President Trump to continue to use our service during this period are simply too great". 
 
Trump is still banned from using Facebook and its other platforms. 
 
The Board said it will announce "its decision on the case concerning former US President Trump`s indefinite suspension from Facebook and Instagram in the coming weeks". 
 
Earlier this week, the Board noted that it will begin accepting cases from Facebook and Instagram users who believe the company wrongfully allowed harmful content to remain on its platforms. 
 
The content eligible for review includes posts, status updates, photos, videos, comments, and shares. 
 
Decisions made through the Board`s independent judgment are binding on Facebook. 
 
The Oversight Board on January made 17 recommendations, based on the six cases, for Facebook to improve its content moderation. 
 
Since October 2020, users have been able to appeal to the Oversight Board about their own content being removed. 
 
So far, the Board has received over 300,000 user appeals and thousands of public comments.

The independent Oversight Board has announced to delay its decision on former US President Donald Trump`s ban from Facebook and Instagram that will now arrive "in the coming weeks".

The independent Oversight Board has announced to delay its decision on former US President Donald Trump`s ban from Facebook and Instagram that will now arrive "in the coming weeks". The board, constituted by Facebook with 20 members from across the world last year, said it is reviewing more than 9,000 responses before it delivers the verdict on Trump`s ban on the social media giant. "We extended the public comments deadline for this case, receiving 9,000+ responses. The Board`s commitment to carefully reviewing all comments has extended the case timeline, in line with the Board`s bylaws," the Board said in a tweet late Friday. Facebook banned Trump from its platforms after the Capitol Hill attack on January 6. Company CEO Mark Zuckerberg said that "the risks of allowing President Trump to continue to use our service during this period are simply too great". Trump is still banned from using Facebook and its other platforms. The Board said it will announce "its decision on the case concerning former US President Trump`s indefinite suspension from Facebook and Instagram in the coming weeks". Earlier this week, the Board noted that it will begin accepting cases from Facebook and Instagram users who believe the company wrongfully allowed harmful content to remain on its platforms. The content eligible for review includes posts, status updates, photos, videos, comments, and shares. Decisions made through the Board`s independent judgment are binding on Facebook. The Oversight Board on January made 17 recommendations, based on the six cases, for Facebook to improve its content moderation. Since October 2020, users have been able to appeal to the Oversight Board about their own content being removed. So far, the Board has received over 300,000 user appeals and thousands of public comments.

Oversight Board delays decision on Donald Trump's Facebook ban

Congress' probe into security failures that allowed the deadly January assault on the US Capitol by former President Donald Trump's supporters turns on Thursday to the inspector general of the police department charged with securing the seat of American democracy.

The House of Representatives Administration Committee will hear testimony from Michael Bolton, the US Capitol Police inspector general leading the investigation into the department’s preparation for and response to the January&nbsp;06 violence.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/clear-the-capitol-mike-pences-plea-for-help-in-capitol-riot-revealed-in-pentagons-document-376757">'Clear the Capitol': Mike Pence's plea for help in Capitol riot revealed in Pentagon's document</a>

Those internal probes recommended that the Capitol Police immediately improve its intelligence operations and beef up the readiness of a unit that handles civil disturbances.

Trump and some of his fellow Republicans have tried to downplay the attack, when hundreds of his supporters stormed the Capitol in an attempt to disrupt Congress’ certification of President Joe Biden’s election victory.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/revelatory-mike-pence-signs-seven-figure-two-book-deal-for-memoir-376006">Revelatory: Mike Pence signs seven-figure two-book deal for memoir</a>

Five people including Capitol Police officer Brian Sicknick died in the violence and many more officers suffered injuries. Lawmakers were forced to huddle in secure rooms while law enforcement battled the rioters.

Nonetheless, some congressional Republicans have sought to downplay the violence. Republican Senator Ron Johnson has expressed doubts that Trump supporters were behind the riot and a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll found that only three in 10 Republicans said Trump bears some responsibility for the attack.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-blocks-phrase-hang-mike-pence-as-trump-supporters-turn-against-him-355959">Twitter blocks phrase 'Hang Mike Pence' as Trump supporters turn against him</a>

A summary of Bolton’s report to Congress found the Capitol Police Civil Disturbance Unit was operating on Jan. 6 "at a decreased level of readiness" and that the department needed to improve its management of weapons, ammunition and riot shields.

The violence shook lawmakers, aides and the large support workforce.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, speaking on the Senate floor following the attack, said,&nbsp;"I have never lived through or even imagined an experience like the one we have just witnessed in this Capitol."

Congress' probe into security failures that allowed the deadly January assault on the US Capitol by former President Donald Trump's supporters turns on Thursday to the inspector general of the police department charged with securing the seat of American democracy.

Congress' probe into security failures that allowed the deadly January assault on the US Capitol by former President Donald Trump's supporters turns on Thursday to the inspector general of the police department charged with securing the seat of American democracy. The House of Representatives Administration Committee will hear testimony from Michael Bolton, the US Capitol Police inspector general leading the investigation into the department’s preparation for and response to the January 06 violence. Also read | 'Clear the Capitol': Mike Pence's plea for help in Capitol riot revealed in Pentagon's document Those internal probes recommended that the Capitol Police immediately improve its intelligence operations and beef up the readiness of a unit that handles civil disturbances. Trump and some of his fellow Republicans have tried to downplay the attack, when hundreds of his supporters stormed the Capitol in an attempt to disrupt Congress’ certification of President Joe Biden’s election victory. Also read | Revelatory: Mike Pence signs seven-figure two-book deal for memoir Five people including Capitol Police officer Brian Sicknick died in the violence and many more officers suffered injuries. Lawmakers were forced to huddle in secure rooms while law enforcement battled the rioters. Nonetheless, some congressional Republicans have sought to downplay the violence. Republican Senator Ron Johnson has expressed doubts that Trump supporters were behind the riot and a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll found that only three in 10 Republicans said Trump bears some responsibility for the attack. Also read | Twitter blocks phrase 'Hang Mike Pence' as Trump supporters turn against him A summary of Bolton’s report to Congress found the Capitol Police Civil Disturbance Unit was operating on Jan. 6 "at a decreased level of readiness" and that the department needed to improve its management of weapons, ammunition and riot shields. The violence shook lawmakers, aides and the large support workforce. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, speaking on the Senate floor following the attack, said, "I have never lived through or even imagined an experience like the one we have just witnessed in this Capitol."

Probe of deadly Jan 6 attack turns to US Capitol police inspector general

Iran's supreme leader&nbsp;Ayatollah Ali Khamenei&nbsp;on Wednesday dismissed initial offers at talks in Vienna to save Tehran's tattered nuclear deal as ''not worth looking at,''&nbsp;attempting to pressure world powers after an attack on the country's main nuclear enrichment site.

The comments by Khamenei, who has final say on all matters of state in the Islamic Republic, came after a day that saw Iran's president similarly ratchet up pressure over the accord.

European powers meanwhile warned Tehran its actions were ''particularly regrettable''&nbsp;and ''dangerous.''

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-powers-warn-iran-over-dangerous-uranium-enrichment-move-377640" hreflang="en">European powers warn Iran over 'dangerous' uranium enrichment move&nbsp;</a>

The talks already have been thrown into disarray by a weekend attack on Iran's main Natanz nuclear enrichment site suspected to have been carried out by Israel.

Tehran retaliated by announcing it would enrich uranium up to 60 per cent&nbsp;higher than it ever has before but still lower than weapons-grade levels of 90&nbsp;per cent.

"The offers they provide are usually arrogant and humiliating (and) are not worth looking at,''&nbsp;the 81-year-old Khamenei said in an address marking the first day of the holy Muslim fasting month of Ramadan in Iran. He also criticized the US&nbsp;And warned time could be running out.

''The talks shouldn't become talks of attrition,''&nbsp;Khamenei said. "They shouldn't be in a way that parties drag on and prolong the talks. This is harmful to the country.''

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-says-60-uranium-enrichment-answer-to-nuclear-terrorism-377567/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Speaking to his Cabinet, an impassioned Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said the first-generation IR-1 centrifuges that were damaged in Sunday's attack would be replaced by advanced IR-6 centrifuges that enrich uranium much faster.

''You wanted to make our hands empty during the talks but our hands are full,''&nbsp;Rouhani said.

''60&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;enrichment is an answer to your evilness. ... We cut off both of your hands, one with IR-6 centrifuges and another one with 60 per cent,''&nbsp;Rouhani added:

Rouhani also accused Israel of being behind the Natanz attack and threatened to retaliate.

In Jerusalem at a Memorial Day commemoration, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared to reference Iran.

''We must never remain apathetic to the threats of war and extermination of those who seek to eliminate us,''&nbsp;he said. Israel has not claimed the attack, though it rarely does in its ongoing shadow war against Tehran.

The talks in Vienna are aimed at finding a way for the United States to re-enter Tehran's nuclear agreement with world powers and have Iran comply again with its limits.

The accord, which former President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew the US&nbsp;from in 2018, prevented Iran from stockpiling enough high-enriched uranium to be able to pursue a nuclear weapon in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions.

Late on Wednesday, the European Union said formal negotiations would resume Thursday in Vienna.

Rouhani in his comments Wednesday insisted Iran is still hoping that the Vienna talks lead to a negotiated settlement over its program&nbsp;and the accompanying lifting of punishing sanctions. Khamenei as well said he believed in his negotiators, but kept up the pressure on the West in his remarks Wednesday night.

''They must do what we say first, and we are assured that it's done, then we will do what is we are required to do," he said.

France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, all parties to the nuclear deal, only hours earlier issued a joint statement Wednesday expressing their ''grave concern''&nbsp;over Iran's decision to increase enrichment.

''This is a serious development since the production of highly enriched uranium constitutes an important step in the production of a nuclear weapon,''&nbsp;the countries said.

''Iran has no credible civilian need for enrichment at this level.''

China and Russia also took part in the deal.

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken also called Iran's enrichment decision a ''provocative announcement.''

''It calls into question Iran's seriousness of purpose in the nuclear talks,''&nbsp;he said in Brussels.

Saudi Arabia, a regional rival to Iran, similarly issued a statement, saying enriching at that level ''could not be considered a program intended for peaceful purposes.'' It called on Iran to ''avoid escalation."

Iran insists its nuclear program is peaceful, though the West and the International Atomic Energy Agency says Tehran had an organized military nuclear program up until the end of 2003.

An annual US&nbsp;Intelligence report released Tuesday maintained the American assessment that ''Iran is not currently undertaking the key nuclear weapons-development activities that we judge would be necessary to produce a nuclear device.''

Iran previously had said it could use uranium enriched up to 60&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;for nuclear-powered ships. However, the Islamic Republic currently has no such ships in its navy.

Iran had been enriching up to 20&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;even that was a short technical step to weapons-grade levels. The deal limited Iran's enrichment to 3.76&nbsp;per cent.

Iran's envoy to the IAEA, Kazem Gharibabadi, posted a letter online addressed to IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi warning against any adventurism by (the) Israeli regime&nbsp;targeting Iranian nuclear sites.

''The most recent cowardly act of nuclear terrorism will only strengthen our determination to march forward and to replace all (damaged) centrifuges with even more advanced and sophisticated machines,''&nbsp;Gharibabadi wrote.&nbsp;

(With input from agencies)

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Wednesday dismissed initial offers at talks in Vienna to save Tehran's tattered nuclear deal as ''not worth looking at,'' attempting to pressure world powers after an attack on the country's main nuclear enrichment site.

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Wednesday dismissed initial offers at talks in Vienna to save Tehran's tattered nuclear deal as ''not worth looking at,'' attempting to pressure world powers after an attack on the country's main nuclear enrichment site. The comments by Khamenei, who has final say on all matters of state in the Islamic Republic, came after a day that saw Iran's president similarly ratchet up pressure over the accord. European powers meanwhile warned Tehran its actions were ''particularly regrettable'' and ''dangerous.'' Also read| European powers warn Iran over 'dangerous' uranium enrichment move The talks already have been thrown into disarray by a weekend attack on Iran's main Natanz nuclear enrichment site suspected to have been carried out by Israel. Tehran retaliated by announcing it would enrich uranium up to 60 per cent higher than it ever has before but still lower than weapons-grade levels of 90 per cent. "The offers they provide are usually arrogant and humiliating (and) are not worth looking at,'' the 81-year-old Khamenei said in an address marking the first day of the holy Muslim fasting month of Ramadan in Iran. He also criticized the US And warned time could be running out. ''The talks shouldn't become talks of attrition,'' Khamenei said. "They shouldn't be in a way that parties drag on and prolong the talks. This is harmful to the country.'' Speaking to his Cabinet, an impassioned Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said the first-generation IR-1 centrifuges that were damaged in Sunday's attack would be replaced by advanced IR-6 centrifuges that enrich uranium much faster. ''You wanted to make our hands empty during the talks but our hands are full,'' Rouhani said. ''60 per cent enrichment is an answer to your evilness. ... We cut off both of your hands, one with IR-6 centrifuges and another one with 60 per cent,'' Rouhani added: Rouhani also accused Israel of being behind the Natanz attack and threatened to retaliate. In Jerusalem at a Memorial Day commemoration, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared to reference Iran. ''We must never remain apathetic to the threats of war and extermination of those who seek to eliminate us,'' he said. Israel has not claimed the attack, though it rarely does in its ongoing shadow war against Tehran. The talks in Vienna are aimed at finding a way for the United States to re-enter Tehran's nuclear agreement with world powers and have Iran comply again with its limits. The accord, which former President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew the US from in 2018, prevented Iran from stockpiling enough high-enriched uranium to be able to pursue a nuclear weapon in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions. Late on Wednesday, the European Union said formal negotiations would resume Thursday in Vienna. Rouhani in his comments Wednesday insisted Iran is still hoping that the Vienna talks lead to a negotiated settlement over its program and the accompanying lifting of punishing sanctions. Khamenei as well said he believed in his negotiators, but kept up the pressure on the West in his remarks Wednesday night. ''They must do what we say first, and we are assured that it's done, then we will do what is we are required to do," he said. France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, all parties to the nuclear deal, only hours earlier issued a joint statement Wednesday expressing their ''grave concern'' over Iran's decision to increase enrichment. ''This is a serious development since the production of highly enriched uranium constitutes an important step in the production of a nuclear weapon,'' the countries said. ''Iran has no credible civilian need for enrichment at this level.'' China and Russia also took part in the deal. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also called Iran's enrichment decision a ''provocative announcement.'' ''It calls into question Iran's seriousness of purpose in the nuclear talks,'' he said in Brussels. Saudi Arabia, a regional rival to Iran, similarly issued a statement, saying enriching at that level ''could not be considered a program intended for peaceful purposes.'' It called on Iran to ''avoid escalation." Iran insists its nuclear program is peaceful, though the West and the International Atomic Energy Agency says Tehran had an organized military nuclear program up until the end of 2003. An annual US Intelligence report released Tuesday maintained the American assessment that ''Iran is not currently undertaking the key nuclear weapons-development activities that we judge would be necessary to produce a nuclear device.'' Iran previously had said it could use uranium enriched up to 60 per cent for nuclear-powered ships. However, the Islamic Republic currently has no such ships in its navy. Iran had been enriching up to 20 per cent even that was a short technical step to weapons-grade levels. The deal limited Iran's enrichment to 3.76 per cent. Iran's envoy to the IAEA, Kazem Gharibabadi, posted a letter online addressed to IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi warning against any adventurism by (the) Israeli regime targeting Iranian nuclear sites. ''The most recent cowardly act of nuclear terrorism will only strengthen our determination to march forward and to replace all (damaged) centrifuges with even more advanced and sophisticated machines,'' Gharibabadi wrote. (With input from agencies)

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei says Vienna offers 'not worth looking at'

Iran is going to begin enriching uranium at 60 per cent purity starting Wednesday, Iran’s chief nuclear negotiator Abbas Araghchi announced on Tuesday, state media reported. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-take-our-revenge-from-the-zionists-iran-blames-israel-for-natanz-incident-376980">Also read | 'We will take our revenge from the Zionists': Iran blames Israel for Natanz incident</a> 
 
“Iran has informed the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) of its plan to start 60 per cent uranium enrichment as of Wednesday,” Iran’s Press TV cited Araghchi as saying. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-atomic-agency-claims-nuclear-facility-hit-by-terrorism-376886">Also read: Iran atomic agency claims nuclear facility hit by 'terrorism'</a>

In February this year, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had said that Iran could increase its level of uranium enrichment to whatever the country needs, including up to 60%.

Under the 2015 nuclear agreement between Iran and six world powers, Iran is limited to refining uranium to 3.67%.&nbsp;

On Monday, Iran accused arch-foe Israel of sabotaging its key Natanz nuclear site and vowed revenge for an attack that appeared to be the latest episode in a long-running covert war.

Iran said the person who caused an electricity outage in one of the production halls at the underground uranium enrichment plant had been identified. “Necessary measures are being taken to arrest this person,” Iranian state media reported, without giving further details.

The incident occurred amid diplomatic efforts by Iran and the United States to revive Tehran’s 2015 nuclear deal with major powers, an accord Israel fiercely opposed, after former U.S. President Donald Trump abandoned it three years ago.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran is going to begin enriching uranium at 60 per cent purity starting Wednesday, Iran’s chief nuclear negotiator Abbas Araghchi announced on Tuesday, state media reported.

Iran is going to begin enriching uranium at 60 per cent purity starting Wednesday, Iran’s chief nuclear negotiator Abbas Araghchi announced on Tuesday, state media reported. Also read | 'We will take our revenge from the Zionists': Iran blames Israel for Natanz incident “Iran has informed the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) of its plan to start 60 per cent uranium enrichment as of Wednesday,” Iran’s Press TV cited Araghchi as saying. Also read: Iran atomic agency claims nuclear facility hit by 'terrorism' In February this year, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had said that Iran could increase its level of uranium enrichment to whatever the country needs, including up to 60%. Under the 2015 nuclear agreement between Iran and six world powers, Iran is limited to refining uranium to 3.67%. On Monday, Iran accused arch-foe Israel of sabotaging its key Natanz nuclear site and vowed revenge for an attack that appeared to be the latest episode in a long-running covert war. Iran said the person who caused an electricity outage in one of the production halls at the underground uranium enrichment plant had been identified. “Necessary measures are being taken to arrest this person,” Iranian state media reported, without giving further details. The incident occurred amid diplomatic efforts by Iran and the United States to revive Tehran’s 2015 nuclear deal with major powers, an accord Israel fiercely opposed, after former U.S. President Donald Trump abandoned it three years ago. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran to begin enriching uranium at 60 per cent purity: State media

Regeneron is pursuing US&nbsp;approval for its COVID-19 monoclonal antibody cocktail as a preventative treatment after it helped cut the risk of symptomatic infections in households where someone else is ill, the US&nbsp;drugmaker said on Monday.

REGEN-COV, a combination of casirivimab and imdevimab, protected household contacts from exposure to SARS-CoV-2, with 72 per cent&nbsp;protection against symptomatic infections in the first week, and 93 per cent&nbsp;after that, according to trial data released by the company.

In a separate trial, Regeneron also said the treatment reduced overall risk of progressing to symptomatic COVID-19 by 31 per cent, and by 76 per cent&nbsp;after the third day.

Regeneron has enlisted Switzerland’s Roche and its massive biotech facility in South San Francisco to make around 2 million doses annually. The cocktail already has emergency US&nbsp;approval for mild to moderate COVID-19 patients, and the companies are hoping the latest trials convince regulators to expand deployment.

“These data suggest that REGEN-COV can complement widespread vaccination strategies, particularly for those at high risk of infection,” said Myron Cohen, who leads monoclonal antibody efforts for the US&nbsp;National Institutes of Health-sponsored COVID Prevention Network.

A challenge in breaking infection chains, he said, is that some 10% of unvaccinated people in the study who didn’t get the Roche-Regeneron drug while living in a household with an infected individual developed symptomatic infection even with efforts to reduce transmission.

‘HIGH-RISK SETTINGS’

“REGEN-COV could help control outbreaks in high-risk settings” where people haven’t been vaccinated, Cohen said.

In the separate trial, Regeneron said the cocktail also cut symptomatic infection risk and helped nearly halve the total weeks that patients experienced symptoms, with the viral burden - the amount of virus present - cut by more than 90 per cent.

“These data pave the way for REGEN-COV to be used before patients become symptomatic,” Katharine Bar, co-principal investigator and a professor at the University of Pennsylvania hospital, said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Regeneron is pursuing US approval for its COVID-19 monoclonal antibody cocktail as a preventative treatment after it helped cut the risk of symptomatic infections in households where someone else is ill, the US drugmaker said on Monday.

Regeneron is pursuing US approval for its COVID-19 monoclonal antibody cocktail as a preventative treatment after it helped cut the risk of symptomatic infections in households where someone else is ill, the US drugmaker said on Monday. REGEN-COV, a combination of casirivimab and imdevimab, protected household contacts from exposure to SARS-CoV-2, with 72 per cent protection against symptomatic infections in the first week, and 93 per cent after that, according to trial data released by the company. In a separate trial, Regeneron also said the treatment reduced overall risk of progressing to symptomatic COVID-19 by 31 per cent, and by 76 per cent after the third day. Regeneron has enlisted Switzerland’s Roche and its massive biotech facility in South San Francisco to make around 2 million doses annually. The cocktail already has emergency US approval for mild to moderate COVID-19 patients, and the companies are hoping the latest trials convince regulators to expand deployment. “These data suggest that REGEN-COV can complement widespread vaccination strategies, particularly for those at high risk of infection,” said Myron Cohen, who leads monoclonal antibody efforts for the US National Institutes of Health-sponsored COVID Prevention Network. A challenge in breaking infection chains, he said, is that some 10% of unvaccinated people in the study who didn’t get the Roche-Regeneron drug while living in a household with an infected individual developed symptomatic infection even with efforts to reduce transmission. ‘HIGH-RISK SETTINGS’ “REGEN-COV could help control outbreaks in high-risk settings” where people haven’t been vaccinated, Cohen said. In the separate trial, Regeneron said the cocktail also cut symptomatic infection risk and helped nearly halve the total weeks that patients experienced symptoms, with the viral burden - the amount of virus present - cut by more than 90 per cent. “These data pave the way for REGEN-COV to be used before patients become symptomatic,” Katharine Bar, co-principal investigator and a professor at the University of Pennsylvania hospital, said. (With inputs from agencies)

Regeneron to seek US approval for COVID-19 cocktail to be used for prevention

US President Joe Biden&nbsp;promised flexibility in a rare meeting Monday with opposition Republican lawmakers, as well as Democratic allies, to push his more than $2 trillion infrastructure bill.

The massive project is a daring bid to rebuild the United States and also cement Biden's place in history as a president who restored the role of the central government in shaping the often fragmented country.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-joe-bidens-2000000000000-infra-plan-374856/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The White House meeting between Biden and eight members of Congress was meant to show that the new president has made good on his promise to end the divisiveness that turned Washington into a permanent dog fight under Donald Trump.

Four senators and four members of the House of Representatives were invited -- half of them from each party.

"It's a bipartisan meeting here," Biden told reporters in the Oval Office. "I'm prepared to negotiate."

Biden so far has zero support from Republican lawmakers for his giant spending plan, which would pour money into everything from reconstructing the ragged highway system to bringing broadband internet to farming communities and fixing household water supplies.

To pay for this, Biden is proposing a jump in the corporate tax rate from 21 to 28 percent.

What a senior Biden administration official called "a bold once-in-a-generation investment in America" is a must win for a president who has surprised many with his appetite for going big.

Consciously modeling himself on Franklin Roosevelt, or FDR, and his 1930s New Deal program to lift the United States out of the Depression, Biden wants to transform post-Covid America.

Rather than a traditional infrastructure package focusing exclusively on the obvious targets like roads and bridges, Biden wants funds to flood into green technology, schools and every other aspect of the wider economy in a bid to "own the future."

"America's no longer the leader of the world because we're not investing," Biden said last week, referring to the ever-fiercer competition with China.

Polls show broad support from voters for the idea, even if members of Congress are opposed.

Republicans, stung at the way the Democrats forced a $1.9 trillion economic relief bill through Congress in March, say the corporate tax increase will hammer US competitiveness.

Mitch McConnell, the senior Republican senator, said Monday that "less than six percent of this proposal goes to roads and bridges" and would mean "one of the biggest tax hikes in a generation."

Biden insisted Monday that he is ready to negotiate over both the "extent" of the project, "as well as how we pay for it."

However, the White House has made clear there can be no fundamental reduction in the make-up of the package, rejecting Republican complaints that it contains too many leftist pet projects, as opposed to real infrastructure goals.

"We will not be open to doing nothing. Inaction is simply not an option," Biden said last week.

The White House warns that if Republicans don't come aboard, the Democrats will try to pass the mega-bill alone, using a special budget process that allows them to get around the fact that they have only the thinnest of majorities in Congress.

Even this, however, is uncertain. The Democrats would need every one of their senators to hold firm and already at least one -- Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia -- says he opposes the 28 percent tax rate.

Republicans have characterized Biden as paying only lip service to the idea of bipartisanship, while planning to ram the package through anyway.

But Psaki insisted that Biden had already proven his goodwill.

"You don't use the president of the United States' time, multiple times over... if you did not want to authentically hear from the members attending about their ideas about how to move forward this package," she told reporters.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden promised flexibility in a rare meeting Monday with opposition Republican lawmakers, as well as Democratic allies, to push his more than $2 trillion infrastructure bill.

US President Joe Biden promised flexibility in a rare meeting Monday with opposition Republican lawmakers, as well as Democratic allies, to push his more than $2 trillion infrastructure bill. The massive project is a daring bid to rebuild the United States and also cement Biden's place in history as a president who restored the role of the central government in shaping the often fragmented country. The White House meeting between Biden and eight members of Congress was meant to show that the new president has made good on his promise to end the divisiveness that turned Washington into a permanent dog fight under Donald Trump. Four senators and four members of the House of Representatives were invited -- half of them from each party. "It's a bipartisan meeting here," Biden told reporters in the Oval Office. "I'm prepared to negotiate." Biden so far has zero support from Republican lawmakers for his giant spending plan, which would pour money into everything from reconstructing the ragged highway system to bringing broadband internet to farming communities and fixing household water supplies. To pay for this, Biden is proposing a jump in the corporate tax rate from 21 to 28 percent. What a senior Biden administration official called "a bold once-in-a-generation investment in America" is a must win for a president who has surprised many with his appetite for going big. Consciously modeling himself on Franklin Roosevelt, or FDR, and his 1930s New Deal program to lift the United States out of the Depression, Biden wants to transform post-Covid America. Rather than a traditional infrastructure package focusing exclusively on the obvious targets like roads and bridges, Biden wants funds to flood into green technology, schools and every other aspect of the wider economy in a bid to "own the future." "America's no longer the leader of the world because we're not investing," Biden said last week, referring to the ever-fiercer competition with China. Polls show broad support from voters for the idea, even if members of Congress are opposed. Republicans, stung at the way the Democrats forced a $1.9 trillion economic relief bill through Congress in March, say the corporate tax increase will hammer US competitiveness. Mitch McConnell, the senior Republican senator, said Monday that "less than six percent of this proposal goes to roads and bridges" and would mean "one of the biggest tax hikes in a generation." Biden insisted Monday that he is ready to negotiate over both the "extent" of the project, "as well as how we pay for it." However, the White House has made clear there can be no fundamental reduction in the make-up of the package, rejecting Republican complaints that it contains too many leftist pet projects, as opposed to real infrastructure goals. "We will not be open to doing nothing. Inaction is simply not an option," Biden said last week. The White House warns that if Republicans don't come aboard, the Democrats will try to pass the mega-bill alone, using a special budget process that allows them to get around the fact that they have only the thinnest of majorities in Congress. Even this, however, is uncertain. The Democrats would need every one of their senators to hold firm and already at least one -- Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia -- says he opposes the 28 percent tax rate. Republicans have characterized Biden as paying only lip service to the idea of bipartisanship, while planning to ram the package through anyway. But Psaki insisted that Biden had already proven his goodwill. "You don't use the president of the United States' time, multiple times over... if you did not want to authentically hear from the members attending about their ideas about how to move forward this package," she told reporters. (With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden vows flexibility in landmark $2 trillion infrastructure bill

The Capitol riots in the US have left many injured, physically and mentally, but more importantly, it also raised questions on the security of one of the most important buildings of the country.

Now, after a few months of the riots, a previously undisclosed document has revealed that the former VP, Mike Pence, tried to regain control of the Capitol during the riots.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/revelatory-mike-pence-signs-seven-figure-two-book-deal-for-memoir-376006">Revelatory: Mike Pence signs seven-figure two-book deal for memoir</a>

“Clear the Capitol,” Pence had said as the&nbsp;supporters of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a> marched into the Capitol with the aim of destroying the federal property and interfere with the official ceremony declaring Joe Biden as the winner of the US election 2020.

The undisclosed document had been prepared by the officials of the Pentagon for internal use. It revealed new details of how the authorities tried to assert control and re-gain order.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-blocks-phrase-hang-mike-pence-as-trump-supporters-turn-against-him-355959">Twitter blocks phrase 'Hang Mike Pence' as Trump supporters turn against him</a>

Chuck Schumer, the senate majority leader, and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi were also heard desperately seeking help and asking the army to deploy the national guard.

“We need help,” Schummer could be heard yelling more than an hour after the breach of the Capitol chambers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-may-not-have-pence-as-running-mate-report-367892" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-may-not-have-pence-as-running-mate-report-367892&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjggPql3e3vAhXFzjgGHU_iAYoQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2-h6MIzziDxQhEhzGcOcdp" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-may-not-have-pence-as-running-mate-report-367892" target="_blank">Donald Trump may not have&nbsp;Pence&nbsp;as running mate: Report</a>

Similarly, the chairman of the joint chiefs of staff, Gen Mark Milley, also urged Pentagon leaders to “establish order”.

The document also noted that the former US President and the main man accused of the riot, Donald Trump, did not ask his supporters to call off the riot, which led to a slowed response from the military.

It also called out the law enforcement officers for not being able to control the riot and highlighted bureaucratic delays, intelligence missteps and tactical errors from the government led by Trump.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-raised-funds-through-morally-incorrect-ways-in-us-election-2020-reports-375249">Trump raised funds through morally incorrect ways in US election 2020: Reports</a>

The report, however, fails to draw a complete picture of how did the rioters get full access so quickly into the Capitol, which later led to the death of five people and several others injured.

As the rioters marched towards the Capitol around 2:10 pm, the authorities were struggling to control the situation even two hours later as &nbsp;Capitol police chief, Steven Sund called Maj Gen William Walker, commander of the DC national guard to ask for at least 200 national guard members, and more if available.

Around 4:08 pm, according to the document, Pence demanded a deadline for securing the building, while holed into a safety bunker.

Trump broke his silence around 4:17 pm asking his supporters to “go home and go in peace”. Soon after, around 4:30 pm, military plans were finalised.

Pelosi and Schummer called for help to Gen Milley and other Pentagon officers around 4:40 pm in which the leaders “accuse[d] the national security apparatus of knowing that protesters planned to conduct an assault on the Capitol,” the Pentagon said.

The Capitol riots in the US have left many injured, physically and mentally, but more importantly, it also raised questions on the security of one of the most important buildings of the country.

The Capitol riots in the US have left many injured, physically and mentally, but more importantly, it also raised questions on the security of one of the most important buildings of the country. Now, after a few months of the riots, a previously undisclosed document has revealed that the former VP, Mike Pence, tried to regain control of the Capitol during the riots. Also read | Revelatory: Mike Pence signs seven-figure two-book deal for memoir “Clear the Capitol,” Pence had said as the supporters of Donald Trump marched into the Capitol with the aim of destroying the federal property and interfere with the official ceremony declaring Joe Biden as the winner of the US election 2020. The undisclosed document had been prepared by the officials of the Pentagon for internal use. It revealed new details of how the authorities tried to assert control and re-gain order. Also read | Twitter blocks phrase 'Hang Mike Pence' as Trump supporters turn against him Chuck Schumer, the senate majority leader, and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi were also heard desperately seeking help and asking the army to deploy the national guard. “We need help,” Schummer could be heard yelling more than an hour after the breach of the Capitol chambers. Also read | Donald Trump may not have Pence as running mate: Report Similarly, the chairman of the joint chiefs of staff, Gen Mark Milley, also urged Pentagon leaders to “establish order”. The document also noted that the former US President and the main man accused of the riot, Donald Trump, did not ask his supporters to call off the riot, which led to a slowed response from the military. It also called out the law enforcement officers for not being able to control the riot and highlighted bureaucratic delays, intelligence missteps and tactical errors from the government led by Trump. Also read | Trump raised funds through morally incorrect ways in US election 2020: Reports The report, however, fails to draw a complete picture of how did the rioters get full access so quickly into the Capitol, which later led to the death of five people and several others injured. As the rioters marched towards the Capitol around 2:10 pm, the authorities were struggling to control the situation even two hours later as Capitol police chief, Steven Sund called Maj Gen William Walker, commander of the DC national guard to ask for at least 200 national guard members, and more if available. Around 4:08 pm, according to the document, Pence demanded a deadline for securing the building, while holed into a safety bunker. Trump broke his silence around 4:17 pm asking his supporters to “go home and go in peace”. Soon after, around 4:30 pm, military plans were finalised. Pelosi and Schummer called for help to Gen Milley and other Pentagon officers around 4:40 pm in which the leaders “accuse[d] the national security apparatus of knowing that protesters planned to conduct an assault on the Capitol,” the Pentagon said.

'Clear the Capitol': Mike Pence's plea for help in Capitol riot revealed in Pentagon's document

Doctors and medical workers in Myanmar have urged for help as they believe the military personnel specifically target civilians to lure the doctors into their trap. Meanwhile, Canada's prime minister, Justin Trudeau, has warned Canada against climate change.

Click on headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/doctors-become-myanmar-militarys-targets-for-helping-injured-locals-376744" hreflang="en">Doctors become Myanmar military's targets for helping injured locals</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/03/11/186590-1.jpg?itok=m9pi8sZ_" />

Doctors have also revealed that the military used to shoot at passing-by ambulances, raid hospitals, medical centres and violently attack medical personnel.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prepare-for-whats-after-justin-trudeau-warns-canada-against-climate-change-376746">'Prepare for what's after': Justin Trudeau warns Canada against climate change</a>

<img src="https://www.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/04/11/190976-justin-trudeau.jpg?itok=BH26yCyU" />

"While we are fighting to end the pandemic... we must prepare for what comes after," he said during his speech.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-21-workers-trapped-in-coal-mine-after-flooding-in-xinjiang-376747" hreflang="en">China: 21 workers trapped in coal mine after flooding in Xinjiang</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/12/40266-gold%25252520miners-20180202063901.jpg?itok=BYmjsO8Y" />

The miners were trapped in the Fengyuan coal mine in the Hutubi County on Saturday evening. They were carrying out upgrading works at the site.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-china-lac-standoff-both-sides-discuss-further-disengagement-in-ladakh-376711" hreflang="en">India-China LAC Standoff: Both sides discuss further disengagement in Ladakh</a>

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-mourns-the-loss-of-prince-philip-376749">UK mourns the loss of Prince Philip</a></div>

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Doctors and medical workers in Myanmar have urged for help as they believe the military personnel specifically target civilians to lure the doctors into their trap.

Doctors and medical workers in Myanmar have urged for help as they believe the military personnel specifically target civilians to lure the doctors into their trap. Meanwhile, Canada's prime minister, Justin Trudeau, has warned Canada against climate change. Click on headlines to read more Doctors become Myanmar military's targets for helping injured locals Doctors have also revealed that the military used to shoot at passing-by ambulances, raid hospitals, medical centres and violently attack medical personnel. 'Prepare for what's after': Justin Trudeau warns Canada against climate change "While we are fighting to end the pandemic... we must prepare for what comes after," he said during his speech. China: 21 workers trapped in coal mine after flooding in Xinjiang The miners were trapped in the Fengyuan coal mine in the Hutubi County on Saturday evening. They were carrying out upgrading works at the site. India-China LAC Standoff: Both sides discuss further disengagement in Ladakh UK mourns the loss of Prince Philip

Morning news brief: Myanmar doctors targeted, Trudeau's warning, and more

US president&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;introduced&nbsp;initial actions to address the increasing gun violence within the nation. The EU chief was left without a chair at women's rights discussion, which created a verbal spat between Turkey, EU and even Italy.

Click on headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-border-crisis-us-weighing-sending-warships-to-black-sea-amid-tensions-376188" hreflang="en">Russia-Ukraine crisis: US weighing sending warships to Black Sea amid tensions</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/11/25/171063-russia-chases-off-us-warship.jpg?itok=exm3IzeZ" />

The Defense official also said the Navy is continuing to fly reconnaissance aircraft in international airspace over the Black Sea to monitor Russian naval activity and any troops movements in Crimea.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dictator-turkey-and-italy-get-into-spat-after-eu-chief-left-without-chair-during-equal-rights-talk-376196">'Dictator': Turkey and Italy get into spat after EU chief left without chair</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/04/09/190721-eu-mixup.jpg?itok=Dcq8KUcQ" />

The European Union’s first female chief, Ursula von der Leyen, was left speechless after the president of the European Council, Charles Michel, the former Belgian prime minister and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan took the chairs, one of which was supposed to be Ursula’s.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-at-risk-of-facing-another-wave-of-coronavirus-despite-vaccines-who-376198">UK at risk of facing another wave of coronavirus despite vaccines: WHO</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/09/22/161075-tested.jpg?itok=_a9PrroE" />

A&nbsp;senior World Health Organization has warned that the success of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccine</a>&nbsp;programme is not enough to protect the country from another wave of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-blacklists-myanmar-state-owned-gems-enterprise-376197" hreflang="en">US blacklists Myanmar state-owned gems enterprise</a>

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-joe-biden-introduces-limited-gun-control-measures-376202" hreflang="en">US President Joe Biden introduces limited gun control measures</a>

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US president Joe Biden introduced initial actions to address the increasing gun violence within the nation. The EU chief was left without a chair at women's rights discussion, which created a verbal spat between Turkey, EU and even Italy.

US president Joe Biden introduced initial actions to address the increasing gun violence within the nation. The EU chief was left without a chair at women's rights discussion, which created a verbal spat between Turkey, EU and even Italy. Click on headlines to read more Russia-Ukraine crisis: US weighing sending warships to Black Sea amid tensions The Defense official also said the Navy is continuing to fly reconnaissance aircraft in international airspace over the Black Sea to monitor Russian naval activity and any troops movements in Crimea. 'Dictator': Turkey and Italy get into spat after EU chief left without chair The European Union’s first female chief, Ursula von der Leyen, was left speechless after the president of the European Council, Charles Michel, the former Belgian prime minister and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan took the chairs, one of which was supposed to be Ursula’s. UK at risk of facing another wave of coronavirus despite vaccines: WHO A senior World Health Organization has warned that the success of the vaccine programme is not enough to protect the country from another wave of coronavirus. US blacklists Myanmar state-owned gems enterprise US President Joe Biden introduces limited gun control measures

Morning news brief: Italy calls Turkey leader a 'dictator', UK cases may rise, and more

After China sent&nbsp;more fighter jets into Taiwan's air defense zone, the US has warned China over&nbsp;increasingly aggressive moves against Taiwan, the&nbsp;Philippines. Meanwhile,&nbsp;US president&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;has also decided to take action against the increasing gun violence.

Click on headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-set-to-introduce-reforms-in-increasing-gun-violence-375987">Biden set to introduce reforms in increasing gun violence</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/03/30/189585-untitled-design-11.jpg?itok=uYKhuafv" />

Joe Biden will be focusing more on ‘ghost guns’ which are homemade weapons as they cannot even be traced when found on crime scenes.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/politicians-no-longer-exempt-from-sexual-harassment-rules-says-australian-prime-minister-scott-morrison-375989">Politicians no longer exempt from sexual harassment rules: Scott Morrison</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/03/15/187176-8.jpg?itok=_M6bdfEC" />

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said his government would overhaul the country's sexual discrimination laws to make members of parliament, judges and public servants accountable for harassing colleagues in the workplace.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warns-china-over-increasingly-aggressive-moves-against-taiwan-philippines-375980" hreflang="en">US warns China over increasingly aggressive moves against Taiwan, Philippines</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/04/08/190582-untitled-design.jpg?itok=_6FMMoPM" />

China sent more fighter jets into Taiwan's air defense zone on Wednesday in a stepped-up show of force around the island Beijing claims as its own, and Taiwan's foreign minister said it would fight to the end if China attacks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-begins-study-on-covid-19-vaccine-side-effects-375988" hreflang="en">US begins study on COVID-19 vaccine side-effects</a>

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After China sent more fighter jets into Taiwan's air defense zone, the US has warned China over increasingly aggressive moves against Taiwan, the Philippines. Meanwhile, US president Joe Biden has also decided to take action against the increasing gun violence.

After China sent more fighter jets into Taiwan's air defense zone, the US has warned China over increasingly aggressive moves against Taiwan, the Philippines. Meanwhile, US president Joe Biden has also decided to take action against the increasing gun violence. Click on headlines to read more Biden set to introduce reforms in increasing gun violence Joe Biden will be focusing more on ‘ghost guns’ which are homemade weapons as they cannot even be traced when found on crime scenes. Politicians no longer exempt from sexual harassment rules: Scott Morrison Prime Minister Scott Morrison said his government would overhaul the country's sexual discrimination laws to make members of parliament, judges and public servants accountable for harassing colleagues in the workplace. US warns China over increasingly aggressive moves against Taiwan, Philippines China sent more fighter jets into Taiwan's air defense zone on Wednesday in a stepped-up show of force around the island Beijing claims as its own, and Taiwan's foreign minister said it would fight to the end if China attacks. US begins study on COVID-19 vaccine side-effects Use-of-force expert testifies in Floyd murder trial says 'no force was reasonable'

Morning news brief: US to take action against China and gun violence, and more

Former US vice president, Mike Pence, is back in the news after completing his term at the White House with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>, but this time it is about seven figures and two books.

Pence has signed a two-book deal which is reportedly worth millions of dollars in which he will be penning down his memories from his time at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/the-white-house">White House.</a>

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-blocks-phrase-hang-mike-pence-as-trump-supporters-turn-against-him-355959">Twitter blocks phrase 'Hang Mike Pence' as Trump supporters turn against him</a>

With the announcement of this deal, Pence has become the first high-position leader from Trump’s inner circle to pen such a memoir.

The autobiography is currently untitled and is scheduled for release in 2023. The book deal has been finalised with Simon &amp; Schuster, in seven figures, somewhere between $3 million to $4 million.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-may-not-have-pence-as-running-mate-report-367892" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-may-not-have-pence-as-running-mate-report-367892&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjggPql3e3vAhXFzjgGHU_iAYoQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2-h6MIzziDxQhEhzGcOcdp" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-may-not-have-pence-as-running-mate-report-367892" target="_blank">Donald Trump may not have&nbsp;Pence&nbsp;as running mate: Report</a>

"I am grateful to have the opportunity to tell the story of my life in&nbsp;service to the American people, from serving in Congress, to the Indiana governor's office and as vice-president of the United States," Pence said in a statement.

"I look forward to working with the outstanding team at Simon &amp; Schuster to invite readers on a journey from a small town in Indiana to Washington, DC."

His memoir, which comes after Trump supporters chanted "Hang Mike Pence" during the Capitol riots, is expected to be "revelatory", according to Simon &amp; Schuster’s vice-president, Dana Canedy.

"Vice-President Pence’s life and work, his journey as a Christian, the challenges and triumphs he has faced, and the lessons he has learned, tells an American story of extraordinary public service during a time of unrivaled public interest in our government and politics,"&nbsp;Canedy said.

"His revelatory autobiography will be the definitive book on one of the most consequential presidencies in American history."

Former US vice president, Mike Pence, is back in the news after completing his term at the White House with Donald Trump, but this time it is about seven figures and two books.

Former US vice president, Mike Pence, is back in the news after completing his term at the White House with Donald Trump, but this time it is about seven figures and two books. Pence has signed a two-book deal which is reportedly worth millions of dollars in which he will be penning down his memories from his time at the White House. Also read | Twitter blocks phrase 'Hang Mike Pence' as Trump supporters turn against him With the announcement of this deal, Pence has become the first high-position leader from Trump’s inner circle to pen such a memoir. The autobiography is currently untitled and is scheduled for release in 2023. The book deal has been finalised with Simon & Schuster, in seven figures, somewhere between $3 million to $4 million. Also read | Donald Trump may not have Pence as running mate: Report "I am grateful to have the opportunity to tell the story of my life in service to the American people, from serving in Congress, to the Indiana governor's office and as vice-president of the United States," Pence said in a statement. "I look forward to working with the outstanding team at Simon & Schuster to invite readers on a journey from a small town in Indiana to Washington, DC." His memoir, which comes after Trump supporters chanted "Hang Mike Pence" during the Capitol riots, is expected to be "revelatory", according to Simon & Schuster’s vice-president, Dana Canedy. "Vice-President Pence’s life and work, his journey as a Christian, the challenges and triumphs he has faced, and the lessons he has learned, tells an American story of extraordinary public service during a time of unrivaled public interest in our government and politics," Canedy said. "His revelatory autobiography will be the definitive book on one of the most consequential presidencies in American history."

Revelatory: Mike Pence signs seven-figure two-book deal for memoir

US President Joe Biden will push through his $2 trillion infrastructure plan without the support of Republican lawmakers if he cannot reach a bipartisan deal.

Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm said on Sunday Biden would prefer that his plan have Republican backing but, if that does not work, he would likely support using a procedural strategy called reconciliation to allow Democrats to pass it in the Senate.

Biden’s plan would raise the corporate income tax rate after deductions to 28% from the current 21 per cent. His predecessor as president, Donald Trump, and Republican lawmakers cut the corporate rate from 35 per cent to 21 per cent in 2017.

"As he has said, he was sent to the presidency to do a job for America. And if the vast majority of Americans, Democrats and Republicans, across the country support spending on our country and not allowing us to lose the race globally, then he`s going to do that," Granholm told CNN.

Since taking office in January, the Democratic president has repeatedly said he wants to work with Republicans. But the infrastructure plan so far looks unlikely to draw more bipartisan support than his first, a $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package that passed with only Democratic support last month, using reconciliation.

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell, last week, vowed to fight it "every step of the way."

US President Joe Biden will push through his $2 trillion infrastructure plan without the support of Republican lawmakers if he cannot reach a bipartisan deal. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm said on Sunday Biden would prefer that his plan have Republican backing but, if that does not work, he would likely support using a procedural strategy called reconciliation to allow Democrats to pass it in the Senate.

US President Joe Biden will push through his $2 trillion infrastructure plan without the support of Republican lawmakers if he cannot reach a bipartisan deal. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm said on Sunday Biden would prefer that his plan have Republican backing but, if that does not work, he would likely support using a procedural strategy called reconciliation to allow Democrats to pass it in the Senate. Biden’s plan would raise the corporate income tax rate after deductions to 28% from the current 21 per cent. His predecessor as president, Donald Trump, and Republican lawmakers cut the corporate rate from 35 per cent to 21 per cent in 2017. "As he has said, he was sent to the presidency to do a job for America. And if the vast majority of Americans, Democrats and Republicans, across the country support spending on our country and not allowing us to lose the race globally, then he`s going to do that," Granholm told CNN. Since taking office in January, the Democratic president has repeatedly said he wants to work with Republicans. But the infrastructure plan so far looks unlikely to draw more bipartisan support than his first, a $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package that passed with only Democratic support last month, using reconciliation. Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell, last week, vowed to fight it "every step of the way."

Biden to push through infrastructure plan even without Republican support

WASHINGTON — With more than 1 in 10 households reporting that they lack enough to eat, the Biden administration is accelerating a vast campaign of hunger relief that will temporarily increase assistance by tens of billions of dollars and set the stage for what officials envision as lasting expansions of aid.

The effort to rush more food assistance to more people is notable both for the scale of its ambition and the variety of its legislative and administrative actions. The campaign has increased food stamps by more than $1 billion a month, provided needy children a dollar a day for snacks, expanded a produce allowance for pregnant women and children, and authorized the largest children’s summer feeding program in history.

“We haven’t seen an expansion of food assistance of this magnitude since the founding of the modern food stamp program in 1977,” said James P. Ziliak, an economist at the University of Kentucky who studies nutrition programs. “It’s a profound change.”

While dollars and decisions are flowing from the Agriculture Department, the tone has been set by President Joe Biden, who issued an executive order in January telling aides to “address the growing hunger crisis” and later lamented the car lines “half a mile each, just to get a box of food.”

The push reflects an extraordinary shift in the politics of poverty — driven, paradoxically, both by the spread of hardship to more working-class and white families and the growing recognition of poverty’s disproportionate toll on minorities. With hunger especially pronounced among Black and Latino households, vital to the Democrats’ coalition, the administration is framing its efforts not just as a response to pandemic needs but as part of a campaign for racial justice.

“This crisis has revealed how fragile many Americans’ economic lives are and also the inequities of who is struggling the most,” said Stacy Dean, who is leading the effort as a senior official at the Agriculture Department after a prominent career as an anti-hunger advocate. “It’s an incredibly painful picture, and it is even more so for communities of color.”

Like other policies being pursued by the White House — including a temporary child allowance that is expected to cut child poverty nearly in half — the effort to reduce hunger reflects a new willingness among Democrats to embrace an identity as poverty fighters that they once feared would alienate the middle class.

To understand what the new policies mean at the kitchen table, consider the experience of Dakota Kirby, 29, a single mother in Indianapolis who lost her job as a caregiver for an elderly woman at the start of the pandemic. Having recently started the job, Kirby assumed she could not get unemployment benefits and did not apply.

That left her relying on nutritional aid and a trickle of child support to feed a 6-year-old daughter and a year-old son.

“It got a little rough there,” said Kirby, adding that she hesitates to complain since “there’s families that have it way worse.”

Even when she budgeted carefully, her $509 a month in food stamps ran out within three weeks. She trimmed her portions and skipped meals so the children could eat. She got help from a food bank until her children rebelled at butter beans and tuna. She pawned her television set, but still came up short at the checkout line.

“It was humiliating,” she said, to jettison frozen pizzas in line as strangers looked on. “I’ve never had that kind of problem. It makes you really sad and angry as a mom. Especially when it’s through no fault of your own.”

Kirby recently received a 15% increase in food stamps, mandated by Congress in December, which was so unexpected she refused to spend it, for fear she would get in trouble.

In addition, both children will now qualify for a program called Pandemic-EBT, which offers electronic vouchers for groceries to replace meals lost during school closings. (Previously only her older child qualified.) And she will receive more money for produce under the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, or WIC.

Combined, monthly aid from the three programs will rise to $930 from $665. Put differently, each person in the home will now receive $10 a day to eat, an increase of 40%.

“That’s a big old jump!” she said, surprised at the news. “It will help tremendously.”

The Biden effort marks a sharp change from the philosophy of the Trump administration, which sought to narrow eligibility for food stamps and expand work rules.

So far, the expansion of aid has brought only modest conservative complaint. But what supporters called “nutritional assistance,” critics often call “welfare.” Past expansions of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, as the food stamp program is formally known, brought counterattacks from conservatives who argued that the program undercut work and marriage.

Angela Rachidi of the conservative American Enterprise Institute said the Biden administration had overstated the need for additional assistance and understated the risks. She noted that the government had spent vast sums to expand other programs and that Congress had substantially raised SNAP benefits for many families at the start of the pandemic. (In addition to increased SNAP, Kirby received $8,200 in stimulus payments and will get a $6,600 child allowance.)

Rachidi credited strict welfare rules for pre-pandemic reductions in poverty — child poverty fell to a record low — and warned that a lasting aid expansion would put that progress at risk.

“This has been on the agenda of Democrats and left-leaning advocacy groups for a long time — they’re expanding programs that discourage work and encourage dependency,” she said. “There’s a clear intention to make these changes permanent, and I think many Republicans have been asleep at the wheel.”

Scenes of crowded food banks have provided some of the most arresting images of the pandemic and brought hunger issues a rare spotlight. A recent Census Bureau survey found that, over the previous week alone, 8.4% of adults said their households “sometimes” lacked enough to eat and 2.3% said they “often” did. That translates into 23 million hungry adults, plus millions of children.

Differences in data collection complicate pre-pandemic comparisons, though multiple estimates suggest hunger levels higher than those of the Great Recession.

At the John Boner Neighborhood Center in Indianapolis, requests for emergency food have become so common that the agency has started to stock food boxes.

“We have people who’ve never needed assistance before, and we have that population that needed it before but need it more now,” said Carla James, a staff member.

Interviews with neighborhood residents suggest the aid expansions have done much to reduce hardship, but with their reach varying greatly from household to household.

While Kirby got no unemployment aid, Sonya Radford quickly received jobless benefits, which more than replaced the income she lost when her job as a nursing assistant ended, and she enrolled in SNAP. That combination left her better able to feed her three children than before the pandemic, when she often relied on food pantries.

“With the benefits, we’re pretty well off,” she said.

Anna Chaney quit her job as a DoorDash driver to watch her daughter and two grandchildren when their schools closed. She has since seen both hardship and plenty. For seven months, surviving on SNAP was such a struggle that she cut portions and diluted the chicken soup. Then she suddenly got $16,000 in overdue unemployment benefits. She filled the freezer with meat and took the family on vacation.

“I wish that the lawmakers would have realized prior to us being in a pandemic that poor people needed more,” she said. “It took more of the middle class, and some of the upper class, to find that they needed help for people to act. For me to go in and tell the Indiana Legislature, ‘Hey, guys, $75 isn’t enough to eat for a week,’ that’s going to be a real hard sell. But when the whole world is suffering, that’s a different situation.”

The Biden administration shares the hope — that demonstrating the value of the aid expansions, most of them temporary, will lead to permanent change. “We can build a stronger, longer-lasting safety net,” Dean said.

Speaking at an anti-hunger conference last month, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack outlined a kaleidoscope of recent initiatives. They include new subsidies to food banks, an outreach campaign in WIC, food aid for homeless young adults, grants for Puerto Rico and the Mariana Islands, and efforts to deliver more nutritious food.

Perhaps the most important change since the start of the pandemic involves the temporary growth of SNAP benefits, which reach about 1 in 8 Americans and 1 in 4 children.

The Biden administration settled legal challenges last week that will further raise benefits beyond those Democrats twice pushed through Congress last year. A federal judge ruled last fall that the Trump administration had erred in denying the poorest 40% of households the initial increase; in agreeing to raise those benefits, Biden administration officials will expand assistance by more than a $1 billion a month.

With the new increase, average benefits will have grown temporarily by roughly three-quarters during the crisis.

Pandemic-EBT, the replacement for school meals, is a large temporary program that could lead to lasting change. Child hunger routinely rises when schools let out, and nutrition advocates have long called for a large summer feeding program. By extending Pandemic-EBT through the summer, Congress is essentially running a pilot program, at a cost of roughly $6 billion, and Biden officials have signaled an interest in making it permanent.

Less immediate but potentially of great importance is a process the Biden team has started to reexamine adequacy of SNAP benefits in normal times. The benefits are based on a budget called the Thrifty Food Plan, which experts have long argued underestimates the costs of feeding a family. Elaine Waxman of the Urban Institute and two colleagues found benefits would have to grow 27% (or $15 billion a year in pre-crisis terms) to meet minimal needs.

In 2018, Congress, then under Republican control, authorized the Agriculture Department to reevaluate the cost of a healthy diet, and Biden’s order urged officials to accelerate the work. While awaiting an internal study, officials have indicated they expect to raise benefits significantly.

“The Thrifty Food Plan is just too thrifty,” Dean recently said.

Speaking at the recent conference, Vilsack cast these efforts as part of a fight for racial justice. A former agriculture secretary under President Barack Obama, he called himself an “older white guy” and added, “I haven’t had the experience of being Black.” But he said an equity commission in the department would reevaluate policies to ensure racial fairness.

Reassured by a reporter that her benefit increase had not been a mistake, Kirby, the Indianapolis mother, recently returned to the grocery store where her shortage of funds had led to humiliation in the checkout line.

This time, she brought her children, no longer afraid they would ask for food she could not afford. She bought the frozen pizzas she had been forced to discard in the earlier visit and “some expensive stuff, like meat sauce for spaghetti.”

“I don’t even know how to explain it,” referring to her eased worries. “It’s like a physical relief. I just knew everything would be OK.”

WASHINGTON — With more than 1 in 10 households reporting that they lack enough to eat, the Biden administration is accelerating a vast campaign of hunger relief that will temporarily increase assistance by tens of billions of dollars and set the stage for what officials envision as lasting expansions of aid.

WASHINGTON — With more than 1 in 10 households reporting that they lack enough to eat, the Biden administration is accelerating a vast campaign of hunger relief that will temporarily increase assistance by tens of billions of dollars and set the stage for what officials envision as lasting expansions of aid. The effort to rush more food assistance to more people is notable both for the scale of its ambition and the variety of its legislative and administrative actions. The campaign has increased food stamps by more than $1 billion a month, provided needy children a dollar a day for snacks, expanded a produce allowance for pregnant women and children, and authorized the largest children’s summer feeding program in history. “We haven’t seen an expansion of food assistance of this magnitude since the founding of the modern food stamp program in 1977,” said James P. Ziliak, an economist at the University of Kentucky who studies nutrition programs. “It’s a profound change.” While dollars and decisions are flowing from the Agriculture Department, the tone has been set by President Joe Biden, who issued an executive order in January telling aides to “address the growing hunger crisis” and later lamented the car lines “half a mile each, just to get a box of food.” The push reflects an extraordinary shift in the politics of poverty — driven, paradoxically, both by the spread of hardship to more working-class and white families and the growing recognition of poverty’s disproportionate toll on minorities. With hunger especially pronounced among Black and Latino households, vital to the Democrats’ coalition, the administration is framing its efforts not just as a response to pandemic needs but as part of a campaign for racial justice. “This crisis has revealed how fragile many Americans’ economic lives are and also the inequities of who is struggling the most,” said Stacy Dean, who is leading the effort as a senior official at the Agriculture Department after a prominent career as an anti-hunger advocate. “It’s an incredibly painful picture, and it is even more so for communities of color.” Like other policies being pursued by the White House — including a temporary child allowance that is expected to cut child poverty nearly in half — the effort to reduce hunger reflects a new willingness among Democrats to embrace an identity as poverty fighters that they once feared would alienate the middle class. To understand what the new policies mean at the kitchen table, consider the experience of Dakota Kirby, 29, a single mother in Indianapolis who lost her job as a caregiver for an elderly woman at the start of the pandemic. Having recently started the job, Kirby assumed she could not get unemployment benefits and did not apply. That left her relying on nutritional aid and a trickle of child support to feed a 6-year-old daughter and a year-old son. “It got a little rough there,” said Kirby, adding that she hesitates to complain since “there’s families that have it way worse.” Even when she budgeted carefully, her $509 a month in food stamps ran out within three weeks. She trimmed her portions and skipped meals so the children could eat. She got help from a food bank until her children rebelled at butter beans and tuna. She pawned her television set, but still came up short at the checkout line. “It was humiliating,” she said, to jettison frozen pizzas in line as strangers looked on. “I’ve never had that kind of problem. It makes you really sad and angry as a mom. Especially when it’s through no fault of your own.” Kirby recently received a 15% increase in food stamps, mandated by Congress in December, which was so unexpected she refused to spend it, for fear she would get in trouble. In addition, both children will now qualify for a program called Pandemic-EBT, which offers electronic vouchers for groceries to replace meals lost during school closings. (Previously only her older child qualified.) And she will receive more money for produce under the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, or WIC. Combined, monthly aid from the three programs will rise to $930 from $665. Put differently, each person in the home will now receive $10 a day to eat, an increase of 40%. “That’s a big old jump!” she said, surprised at the news. “It will help tremendously.” The Biden effort marks a sharp change from the philosophy of the Trump administration, which sought to narrow eligibility for food stamps and expand work rules. So far, the expansion of aid has brought only modest conservative complaint. But what supporters called “nutritional assistance,” critics often call “welfare.” Past expansions of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, as the food stamp program is formally known, brought counterattacks from conservatives who argued that the program undercut work and marriage. Angela Rachidi of the conservative American Enterprise Institute said the Biden administration had overstated the need for additional assistance and understated the risks. She noted that the government had spent vast sums to expand other programs and that Congress had substantially raised SNAP benefits for many families at the start of the pandemic. (In addition to increased SNAP, Kirby received $8,200 in stimulus payments and will get a $6,600 child allowance.) Rachidi credited strict welfare rules for pre-pandemic reductions in poverty — child poverty fell to a record low — and warned that a lasting aid expansion would put that progress at risk. “This has been on the agenda of Democrats and left-leaning advocacy groups for a long time — they’re expanding programs that discourage work and encourage dependency,” she said. “There’s a clear intention to make these changes permanent, and I think many Republicans have been asleep at the wheel.” Scenes of crowded food banks have provided some of the most arresting images of the pandemic and brought hunger issues a rare spotlight. A recent Census Bureau survey found that, over the previous week alone, 8.4% of adults said their households “sometimes” lacked enough to eat and 2.3% said they “often” did. That translates into 23 million hungry adults, plus millions of children. Differences in data collection complicate pre-pandemic comparisons, though multiple estimates suggest hunger levels higher than those of the Great Recession. At the John Boner Neighborhood Center in Indianapolis, requests for emergency food have become so common that the agency has started to stock food boxes. “We have people who’ve never needed assistance before, and we have that population that needed it before but need it more now,” said Carla James, a staff member. Interviews with neighborhood residents suggest the aid expansions have done much to reduce hardship, but with their reach varying greatly from household to household. While Kirby got no unemployment aid, Sonya Radford quickly received jobless benefits, which more than replaced the income she lost when her job as a nursing assistant ended, and she enrolled in SNAP. That combination left her better able to feed her three children than before the pandemic, when she often relied on food pantries. “With the benefits, we’re pretty well off,” she said. Anna Chaney quit her job as a DoorDash driver to watch her daughter and two grandchildren when their schools closed. She has since seen both hardship and plenty. For seven months, surviving on SNAP was such a struggle that she cut portions and diluted the chicken soup. Then she suddenly got $16,000 in overdue unemployment benefits. She filled the freezer with meat and took the family on vacation. “I wish that the lawmakers would have realized prior to us being in a pandemic that poor people needed more,” she said. “It took more of the middle class, and some of the upper class, to find that they needed help for people to act. For me to go in and tell the Indiana Legislature, ‘Hey, guys, $75 isn’t enough to eat for a week,’ that’s going to be a real hard sell. But when the whole world is suffering, that’s a different situation.” The Biden administration shares the hope — that demonstrating the value of the aid expansions, most of them temporary, will lead to permanent change. “We can build a stronger, longer-lasting safety net,” Dean said. Speaking at an anti-hunger conference last month, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack outlined a kaleidoscope of recent initiatives. They include new subsidies to food banks, an outreach campaign in WIC, food aid for homeless young adults, grants for Puerto Rico and the Mariana Islands, and efforts to deliver more nutritious food. Perhaps the most important change since the start of the pandemic involves the temporary growth of SNAP benefits, which reach about 1 in 8 Americans and 1 in 4 children. The Biden administration settled legal challenges last week that will further raise benefits beyond those Democrats twice pushed through Congress last year. A federal judge ruled last fall that the Trump administration had erred in denying the poorest 40% of households the initial increase; in agreeing to raise those benefits, Biden administration officials will expand assistance by more than a $1 billion a month. With the new increase, average benefits will have grown temporarily by roughly three-quarters during the crisis. Pandemic-EBT, the replacement for school meals, is a large temporary program that could lead to lasting change. Child hunger routinely rises when schools let out, and nutrition advocates have long called for a large summer feeding program. By extending Pandemic-EBT through the summer, Congress is essentially running a pilot program, at a cost of roughly $6 billion, and Biden officials have signaled an interest in making it permanent. Less immediate but potentially of great importance is a process the Biden team has started to reexamine adequacy of SNAP benefits in normal times. The benefits are based on a budget called the Thrifty Food Plan, which experts have long argued underestimates the costs of feeding a family. Elaine Waxman of the Urban Institute and two colleagues found benefits would have to grow 27% (or $15 billion a year in pre-crisis terms) to meet minimal needs. In 2018, Congress, then under Republican control, authorized the Agriculture Department to reevaluate the cost of a healthy diet, and Biden’s order urged officials to accelerate the work. While awaiting an internal study, officials have indicated they expect to raise benefits significantly. “The Thrifty Food Plan is just too thrifty,” Dean recently said. Speaking at the recent conference, Vilsack cast these efforts as part of a fight for racial justice. A former agriculture secretary under President Barack Obama, he called himself an “older white guy” and added, “I haven’t had the experience of being Black.” But he said an equity commission in the department would reevaluate policies to ensure racial fairness. Reassured by a reporter that her benefit increase had not been a mistake, Kirby, the Indianapolis mother, recently returned to the grocery store where her shortage of funds had led to humiliation in the checkout line. This time, she brought her children, no longer afraid they would ask for food she could not afford. She bought the frozen pizzas she had been forced to discard in the earlier visit and “some expensive stuff, like meat sauce for spaghetti.” “I don’t even know how to explain it,” referring to her eased worries. “It’s like a physical relief. I just knew everything would be OK.”

Biden's effort to combat hunger marks ‘a profound change’

Former US President Donald Trump recently extended wishes on the occasion of Easter, but not how you’d expect. After being banned from Twitter and Facebook in the aftermath of the Capitol riot, Trump has been assessing other ways to get his word out.

He is currently working on a social media platform of his own, and has also launched a new website to highlight his presidency. On the website, one can also book meetings and send out personal greetings.

“Happy Easter to ALL”, Donald Trump told journalists from Mar-a-Lago. He has been&nbsp;sending messages to journalists in view of the ongoing ban, as reported by The Guardian.

But in classic Trump style, this wasn’t enough, he added the following - “Including the Radical Left CRAZIES who rigged our Presidential Election, and want to destroy our Country!”

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" hreflang="en">'Lot of explaining to do': Trump advised to stay away from Matt Gaetz amid his sex scandal</a>

Trump has made claims of a rigged elections since losing to Joe Biden in November, but has provided no concrete proof. Joe Biden received 7 million more votes than Trump and also won the electoral college with 306-232 votes.

A few hours into the outburst, Trump extended a much simpler greeting -“Happy Easter!”

Recent reports claim Trump’s presidential campaign used pre-checked boxes and unclear design to gather millions of dollars from donors through fundraising emails.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/capitol-police-sues-trump-for-physical-and-emotional-damage-in-capitol-riot-374427" hreflang="en">Capitol police sues Trump for 'physical and emotional' damage in Capitol riot</a>

The campaign and this idea was the brainchild of a for-profit organisation, WinRed. While the practice is completely legal, it is usually hailed as “unfair, unethical and inappropriate”.

The revelation was made by The New York Times that described this “dark pattern” as a practice of digital marketing that “should be in textbooks of what you shouldn’t do” in politics.

Former US President Donald Trump recently extended wishes on the occasion of Easter, but not how you’d expect. After being banned from Twitter and Facebook in the aftermath of the Capitol riot, Trump has been assessing other ways to get his word out.

Former US President Donald Trump recently extended wishes on the occasion of Easter, but not how you’d expect. After being banned from Twitter and Facebook in the aftermath of the Capitol riot, Trump has been assessing other ways to get his word out. He is currently working on a social media platform of his own, and has also launched a new website to highlight his presidency. On the website, one can also book meetings and send out personal greetings. “Happy Easter to ALL”, Donald Trump told journalists from Mar-a-Lago. He has been sending messages to journalists in view of the ongoing ban, as reported by The Guardian. But in classic Trump style, this wasn’t enough, he added the following - “Including the Radical Left CRAZIES who rigged our Presidential Election, and want to destroy our Country!” Also read: 'Lot of explaining to do': Trump advised to stay away from Matt Gaetz amid his sex scandal Trump has made claims of a rigged elections since losing to Joe Biden in November, but has provided no concrete proof. Joe Biden received 7 million more votes than Trump and also won the electoral college with 306-232 votes. A few hours into the outburst, Trump extended a much simpler greeting -“Happy Easter!” Recent reports claim Trump’s presidential campaign used pre-checked boxes and unclear design to gather millions of dollars from donors through fundraising emails. Also read: Capitol police sues Trump for 'physical and emotional' damage in Capitol riot The campaign and this idea was the brainchild of a for-profit organisation, WinRed. While the practice is completely legal, it is usually hailed as “unfair, unethical and inappropriate”. The revelation was made by The New York Times that described this “dark pattern” as a practice of digital marketing that “should be in textbooks of what you shouldn’t do” in politics.

Donald Trump extends Easter wishes, especially to 'Radical Left CRAZIES'

The former US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a> arranged an enormous amount of funds for his grand US election 2020 campaign. He has managed to stay in the headlines even after losing the election, and this time he is in the news for morally incorrect collection of funds.

Reports claim Trump’s presidential campaign used pre-checked boxes and unclear design to gather millions of dollars from donors through fundraising emails.

The campaign and this idea was the brainchild of a for-profit organisation, WinRed. While the practice is completely legal, it is usually hailed as “unfair, unethical and inappropriate”.

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" hreflang="en">'Lot of explaining to do': Trump advised to stay away from Matt Gaetz amid his sex scandal</a>

The revelation was made by The New York Times that described this “dark pattern” as a practice of digital marketing that “should be in textbooks of what you shouldn’t do” in politics.

“The recurring donations swelled Mr Trump’s treasury in September and October, just as his finances were deteriorating. He was then able to use tens of millions of dollars he raised after the election, under the guise of fighting his unfounded fraud claims, to help cover the refunds he owed,” the Times reported.

As per reports, the Trump campaign and the Republican National Committee gathered more than 530,000 refunds with returns of $64.3 million. Joe Biden, who the election, returned 37,000 online refunds which were worth $5.6 million.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/capitol-police-sues-trump-for-physical-and-emotional-damage-in-capitol-riot-374427" hreflang="en">Capitol police sues Trump for 'physical and emotional' damage in Capitol riot</a>

“In effect, the money that Mr Trump eventually had to refund amounted to an interest-free loan from unwitting supporters at the most important juncture of the 2020 race,” the Times wrote.

Trump’s campaign, however, has not given a straight answer about the same.

“Our campaign was built by the hardworking men and women of America and cherishing their investments was paramount to anything else we did,” Jason Miller, a spokesperson for Trump’s campaign, was quoted by the Times.

The former US President Donald Trump arranged an enormous amount of funds for his grand US election 2020 campaign. He has managed to stay in the headlines even after losing the election, and this time he is in the news for morally incorrect collection of funds.

The former US President Donald Trump arranged an enormous amount of funds for his grand US election 2020 campaign. He has managed to stay in the headlines even after losing the election, and this time he is in the news for morally incorrect collection of funds. Reports claim Trump’s presidential campaign used pre-checked boxes and unclear design to gather millions of dollars from donors through fundraising emails. The campaign and this idea was the brainchild of a for-profit organisation, WinRed. While the practice is completely legal, it is usually hailed as “unfair, unethical and inappropriate”. Also read | 'Lot of explaining to do': Trump advised to stay away from Matt Gaetz amid his sex scandal The revelation was made by The New York Times that described this “dark pattern” as a practice of digital marketing that “should be in textbooks of what you shouldn’t do” in politics. “The recurring donations swelled Mr Trump’s treasury in September and October, just as his finances were deteriorating. He was then able to use tens of millions of dollars he raised after the election, under the guise of fighting his unfounded fraud claims, to help cover the refunds he owed,” the Times reported. As per reports, the Trump campaign and the Republican National Committee gathered more than 530,000 refunds with returns of $64.3 million. Joe Biden, who the election, returned 37,000 online refunds which were worth $5.6 million. Also read | Capitol police sues Trump for 'physical and emotional' damage in Capitol riot “In effect, the money that Mr Trump eventually had to refund amounted to an interest-free loan from unwitting supporters at the most important juncture of the 2020 race,” the Times wrote. Trump’s campaign, however, has not given a straight answer about the same. “Our campaign was built by the hardworking men and women of America and cherishing their investments was paramount to anything else we did,” Jason Miller, a spokesperson for Trump’s campaign, was quoted by the Times.

Trump raised funds through morally incorrect ways in US election 2020: Reports

The former US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a> has been advised to stay away from his aid Matt Gaetz who is being investigated for allegedly having a sexual relationship with an underage girl.

Gaetz is a Republican Congressman who is being investigated for "sexual conduct with women". However, he has denied these accusations, describing them to be "as searing as they are false".

He has also claimed to be a victim of an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-ally-matt-gaetz-calls-himself-victim-of-extortion-by-justice-department-374695">'extortion'</a> plan by the Justice Department. He made these allegations during an interview.

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>

However, several Republicans have said the chances of Gaetz returning to Congress are very slim, especially due to the inner conflict and less support for him within the party.

"I don't hope for anybody to be guilty of anything but it sounds like [Gaetz has] got a lot of explaining to do," Barry Bennett, a longtime Republican operative and former Trump adviser was quoted saying by the Associated Press.

"People underestimate Donald Trump's political ear … For something like this, a 10ft pole is not long enough. The former president should stay as far away from this as possible."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/capitol-police-sues-trump-for-physical-and-emotional-damage-in-capitol-riot-374427" hreflang="en">Capitol police sues Trump for 'physical and emotional' damage in Capitol riot</a>

Gaetz's former leader, Donald Trump, has also reportedly claimed Gaetz's affair to be "really bad" but he also believes the accusations against him could be a "smear".

House minority leader Kevin McCarthy, a Republican, has also claimed the accusations against Gaetz to be "serious".

"If in fact these allegations are true, of course being removed from the Judiciary committee is the least that could be done. From what we've heard so far, this would be a matter for the ethics committee," Democratic House Speaker,&nbsp;Nancy Pelosi said.

The former US President Donald Trump has been advised to stay away from his aid Matt Gaetz who is being investigated for allegedly having a sexual relationship with an underage girl.

The former US President Donald Trump has been advised to stay away from his aid Matt Gaetz who is being investigated for allegedly having a sexual relationship with an underage girl. Gaetz is a Republican Congressman who is being investigated for "sexual conduct with women". However, he has denied these accusations, describing them to be "as searing as they are false". He has also claimed to be a victim of an 'extortion' plan by the Justice Department. He made these allegations during an interview. Also read | Trump's ally under investigation for sexual relationship with underage girls However, several Republicans have said the chances of Gaetz returning to Congress are very slim, especially due to the inner conflict and less support for him within the party. "I don't hope for anybody to be guilty of anything but it sounds like [Gaetz has] got a lot of explaining to do," Barry Bennett, a longtime Republican operative and former Trump adviser was quoted saying by the Associated Press. "People underestimate Donald Trump's political ear … For something like this, a 10ft pole is not long enough. The former president should stay as far away from this as possible." Also read | Capitol police sues Trump for 'physical and emotional' damage in Capitol riot Gaetz's former leader, Donald Trump, has also reportedly claimed Gaetz's affair to be "really bad" but he also believes the accusations against him could be a "smear". House minority leader Kevin McCarthy, a Republican, has also claimed the accusations against Gaetz to be "serious". "If in fact these allegations are true, of course being removed from the Judiciary committee is the least that could be done. From what we've heard so far, this would be a matter for the ethics committee," Democratic House Speaker, Nancy Pelosi said.

'Lot of explaining to do': Trump advised to stay away from Matt Gaetz amid his sex scandal

After the Baltimore plant destroyed 15 million doses of Johnson &amp; Johnson coronavirus vaccine, the US has decided to halt the production of AstraZeneca there. Meanwhile, people continued partying despite repeated warnings from the authorities, defying coronavirus restrictions.

Click on headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-stops-astrazeneca-vaccine-production-at-baltimore-plant-375212" hreflang="en">US stops AstraZeneca vaccine production at Baltimore plant</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/03/12/186850-astrazeneca.jpg?itok=KJqdQd91" />

The US government has stopped a Baltimore manufacturing plant that ruined 15 million doses of Johnson &amp; Johnson's COVID-19 vaccine from making the vaccine developed by AstraZeneca Plc.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jordan-in-security-sweep-kings-half-brother-put-under-house-arrest-375211">Jordan in security sweep, king's half-brother put under house arrest</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/04/04/190116-jordan20210404072434.jpg?itok=2SYx1Wss" />

Videos posted online showed a heavy police deployment in the Dabouq area near the royal palaces, while the former crown prince Hamzah bin Hussein said he was confined to his home.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/data-of-more-than-500-million-facebook-accounts-posted-online-reports-375213">Data of more than 500 million Facebook accounts posted online: Reports</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/10/13/164638-facebook.jpg?itok=S-3a7kW0" />

Sensitive information such as email address, name, phone number, anniversaries and birthdays, relationship status and more has now been posted on an online hackers forum.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/barcelona-people-continued-to-party-despite-warnings-from-police-375206" hreflang="en">Barcelona: People continued to party despite warnings from Police</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/barcelona-people-continued-to-party-despite-warnings-from-police-375206/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/virus-killing-robot-being-tested-on-swiss-airplanes-375193" hreflang="en">'Virus Killing' robot being tested on Swiss airplanes</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/virus-killing-robot-being-tested-on-swiss-airplanes-375193/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

After the Baltimore plant destroyed 15 million doses of Johnson & Johnson coronavirus vaccine, the US has decided to halt the production of AstraZeneca there. Meanwhile, people continued partying despite repeated warnings from the authorities, defying coronavirus restrictions.

After the Baltimore plant destroyed 15 million doses of Johnson & Johnson coronavirus vaccine, the US has decided to halt the production of AstraZeneca there. Meanwhile, people continued partying despite repeated warnings from the authorities, defying coronavirus restrictions. Click on headlines to read more US stops AstraZeneca vaccine production at Baltimore plant The US government has stopped a Baltimore manufacturing plant that ruined 15 million doses of Johnson & Johnson's COVID-19 vaccine from making the vaccine developed by AstraZeneca Plc. Jordan in security sweep, king's half-brother put under house arrest Videos posted online showed a heavy police deployment in the Dabouq area near the royal palaces, while the former crown prince Hamzah bin Hussein said he was confined to his home. Data of more than 500 million Facebook accounts posted online: Reports Sensitive information such as email address, name, phone number, anniversaries and birthdays, relationship status and more has now been posted on an online hackers forum. Barcelona: People continued to party despite warnings from Police 'Virus Killing' robot being tested on Swiss airplanes

Morning news brief: Jordan's security sweep, Facebook data leak, and more

A US Capitol police officer succumbed to his injuries, while a second is in stable and non-threatening condition after a vehicle rammed through security and crashed into a barrier at the Washington complex.

The Friday incident forced the Capitol Hill into lockdown less than three months after a mob assault on Congress.

Capitol Police shot dead the driver after he jumped out of the car and lunged at them with a knife, Acting Chief Yogananda Pittman told reporters.

President Joe Biden, who was with first lady Jill Biden at Camp David for the Easter holiday, offered his "heartfelt condolences" to the family of William Evans, the veteran policeman killed in the attack.

"Jill and I were heartbroken to learn of the violent attack at a security checkpoint on the US Capitol grounds," Biden said in a statement.

National Guard troops were mobilised Friday and staff at the huge Capitol complex ordered to stay away from windows and seek cover after alerts went out over the incident shortly after 1:00 pm (1700 GMT).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-capitol-on-lockdown-over-security-threat-375046">Also read |&nbsp;Officers hurt near US Capitol after being rammed by vehicle</a>

US media&nbsp;said officials had identified the attacker as Noah Green, a 25-year-old Black man from Indiana and an adherent of the Black nationalist Nation of Islam movement. Some of his online postings in March suggested a level of despair and paranoia. He said he was unemployed and had health problems, and made references to biblical concepts of the end of times.&nbsp;

In one post he spoke of being tormented by the FBI and CIA, hospitalised and subjected to "mind control," and called the government "the #1 enemy of Black people!"

He also said he was a follower of Louis Farrakhan, the leader of the Nation of Islam, who promotes Black nationalist, anti-white and anti-Semitic thinking.

Facebook said it had removed Green's account from the social network as well as Instagram, and that it would remove "any content that praises, supports, or represents the attack or the suspect."&nbsp;

Pittman said there was no immediate indication of his motivation or police file on him.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi ordered flags lowered to half-staff on the Capitol, calling Evans "a martyr for our democracy."

"Members of Congress, staff and Capitol workers, and indeed all Americans, are united in appreciation for the courage of the US Capitol Police," she said.

Biden also lowered White House flags.

The attack came months after the January assault on Congress by hundreds of supporters of then-president Donald Trump.

One Capitol Police officer died as a result of the attack, as well as four other individuals who took part or were nearby.

More than 300 people have been charged in the January attack, including members of armed extremist groups like the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers, and 100 more are expected to be charged, according to Justice Department court filings.

A US Capitol police officer succumbed to his injuries, while a second is in stable and non-threatening condition after a vehicle rammed through security and crashed into a barrier at the Washington complex.

A US Capitol police officer succumbed to his injuries, while a second is in stable and non-threatening condition after a vehicle rammed through security and crashed into a barrier at the Washington complex. The Friday incident forced the Capitol Hill into lockdown less than three months after a mob assault on Congress. Capitol Police shot dead the driver after he jumped out of the car and lunged at them with a knife, Acting Chief Yogananda Pittman told reporters. President Joe Biden, who was with first lady Jill Biden at Camp David for the Easter holiday, offered his "heartfelt condolences" to the family of William Evans, the veteran policeman killed in the attack. "Jill and I were heartbroken to learn of the violent attack at a security checkpoint on the US Capitol grounds," Biden said in a statement. National Guard troops were mobilised Friday and staff at the huge Capitol complex ordered to stay away from windows and seek cover after alerts went out over the incident shortly after 1:00 pm (1700 GMT). Also read | Officers hurt near US Capitol after being rammed by vehicle US media said officials had identified the attacker as Noah Green, a 25-year-old Black man from Indiana and an adherent of the Black nationalist Nation of Islam movement. Some of his online postings in March suggested a level of despair and paranoia. He said he was unemployed and had health problems, and made references to biblical concepts of the end of times. In one post he spoke of being tormented by the FBI and CIA, hospitalised and subjected to "mind control," and called the government "the #1 enemy of Black people!" He also said he was a follower of Louis Farrakhan, the leader of the Nation of Islam, who promotes Black nationalist, anti-white and anti-Semitic thinking. Facebook said it had removed Green's account from the social network as well as Instagram, and that it would remove "any content that praises, supports, or represents the attack or the suspect." Pittman said there was no immediate indication of his motivation or police file on him. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi ordered flags lowered to half-staff on the Capitol, calling Evans "a martyr for our democracy." "Members of Congress, staff and Capitol workers, and indeed all Americans, are united in appreciation for the courage of the US Capitol Police," she said. Biden also lowered White House flags. The attack came months after the January assault on Congress by hundreds of supporters of then-president Donald Trump. One Capitol Police officer died as a result of the attack, as well as four other individuals who took part or were nearby. More than 300 people have been charged in the January attack, including members of armed extremist groups like the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers, and 100 more are expected to be charged, according to Justice Department court filings.

Officer killed, another injured in US Capitol car-ramming attack

Officials from the United States, Japan and South Korea met and showed a united front Friday on concerns about North Korea's nuclear and missile programmes.

The meeting came as a review by the Biden administration on how to deal with North Korea is in its final stages, following Donald Trump's unusually personal diplomacy with Kim Jong-un.

Jake Sullivan, Joe Biden's national security advisor, held a rare in-person meeting jointly with his counterparts from South Korea and Japan, Suh Hoon and Shigeru Kitamura, at the US Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.

The three officials said in a joint statement that they "shared their concerns about North Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile programs" and promised "concerted trilateral cooperation towards denuclearisation."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-aide-to-meet-japan-south-korea-on-next-steps-on-the-north-374870">Also read |&nbsp;Biden aide to meet Japan, South Korea on next steps on the North</a>

"They agreed on the imperative for full implementation of relevant UN Security Council resolutions by the international community, including North Korea, preventing proliferation and cooperating to strengthen deterrence and maintain peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula," the statement said.

The security officials also discussed the fights against Covid-19 and climate change, and ways to restore democracy in Myanmar.

Biden has sharply criticised Trump's meetings with Kim, saying he legitimised one of the world's most ruthless leaders, but has also said he is open to diplomacy.

Biden administration officials are widely expected to support a resumption of lower-level talks rather than high-stakes, high-drama summits.

Biden has also warned North Korea of consequences for violations of UN Security Council resolutions after Pyongyang recently tested what US officials judged to be ballistic missiles.

Media reports added Sullivan also spoke to Japan and South Korea about the global shortage of semiconductors, as supply chains have been disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Annapolis talks mark rare in-person diplomacy for the Biden administration amid the pandemic and Sullivan's first trilateral since taking office. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin last month jointly visited both Tokyo and Seoul on their first foreign trips.

Officials from the United States, Japan and South Korea met and showed a united front Friday on concerns about North Korea's nuclear and missile programmes. The meeting came as a review by the Biden administration on how to deal with North Korea is in its final stages, following Donald Trump's unusually personal diplomacy with Kim Jong-un.

Officials from the United States, Japan and South Korea met and showed a united front Friday on concerns about North Korea's nuclear and missile programmes. The meeting came as a review by the Biden administration on how to deal with North Korea is in its final stages, following Donald Trump's unusually personal diplomacy with Kim Jong-un. Jake Sullivan, Joe Biden's national security advisor, held a rare in-person meeting jointly with his counterparts from South Korea and Japan, Suh Hoon and Shigeru Kitamura, at the US Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. The three officials said in a joint statement that they "shared their concerns about North Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile programs" and promised "concerted trilateral cooperation towards denuclearisation." Also read | Biden aide to meet Japan, South Korea on next steps on the North "They agreed on the imperative for full implementation of relevant UN Security Council resolutions by the international community, including North Korea, preventing proliferation and cooperating to strengthen deterrence and maintain peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula," the statement said. The security officials also discussed the fights against Covid-19 and climate change, and ways to restore democracy in Myanmar. Biden has sharply criticised Trump's meetings with Kim, saying he legitimised one of the world's most ruthless leaders, but has also said he is open to diplomacy. Biden administration officials are widely expected to support a resumption of lower-level talks rather than high-stakes, high-drama summits. Biden has also warned North Korea of consequences for violations of UN Security Council resolutions after Pyongyang recently tested what US officials judged to be ballistic missiles. Media reports added Sullivan also spoke to Japan and South Korea about the global shortage of semiconductors, as supply chains have been disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic. The Annapolis talks mark rare in-person diplomacy for the Biden administration amid the pandemic and Sullivan's first trilateral since taking office. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin last month jointly visited both Tokyo and Seoul on their first foreign trips.

US, Japan, South Korea officials show united front on the North

A little after three months of the deadly Capitol riot, another attack took place at the US Capitol building leaving one officer dead and another injured. Meanwhile, Joe Biden&nbsp;has decided to lift sanctions&nbsp;on top Hague prosecutor.

Click on headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/officer-killed-another-injured-in-us-capitol-car-ramming-attack-375072" hreflang="en">Officer killed, another injured in US Capitol car-ramming attack</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/04/03/190042-commotion-outside-the-us-capitol-after-the-attack.jpg?itok=doHay-1e" />

A US Capitol police officer succumbed to his injuries, while a second remained injured after a vehicle rammed through security and crashed into a barrier at the Washington complex.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-lifts-trump-sanctions-on-top-hague-prosecutor-seeks-cooperation-375073">Biden lifts Trump sanctions on top Hague prosecutor, seeks cooperation</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/03/20/188097-joe-biden.jpg?itok=iqL0FdmM" />

With this, Biden is trying to resolve an intense disagreement with European allies as the new administration seeks a more cooperative approach.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imf-approves-23-billion-aid-package-for-kenya-amid-coronavirus-crisis-375077">IMF approves $2.3 billion aid package for Kenya amid coronavirus crisis</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/03/13/186932-oof-2.jpg?itok=bBElyVw5" />

The funds will be divided over a period of 38 months, starting with an immediate disbursement of nearly $307.5 million “usable for budget support”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-confirms-will-join-iran-nuclear-deal-meet-375067" hreflang="en">US confirms will join Iran Nuclear deal meet</a>

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-outbreak-in-chinas-ruili-near-myanmar-375039" hreflang="en">Covid outbreak in China's Ruili near Myanmar</a></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

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A little after three months of the deadly Capitol riot, another attack took place at the US Capitol building leaving one officer dead and another injured. Meanwhile, Joe Biden has decided to lift sanctions on top Hague prosecutor.

A little after three months of the deadly Capitol riot, another attack took place at the US Capitol building leaving one officer dead and another injured. Meanwhile, Joe Biden has decided to lift sanctions on top Hague prosecutor. Click on headlines to read more Officer killed, another injured in US Capitol car-ramming attack A US Capitol police officer succumbed to his injuries, while a second remained injured after a vehicle rammed through security and crashed into a barrier at the Washington complex. Biden lifts Trump sanctions on top Hague prosecutor, seeks cooperation With this, Biden is trying to resolve an intense disagreement with European allies as the new administration seeks a more cooperative approach. IMF approves $2.3 billion aid package for Kenya amid coronavirus crisis The funds will be divided over a period of 38 months, starting with an immediate disbursement of nearly $307.5 million “usable for budget support”. US confirms will join Iran Nuclear deal meet Covid outbreak in China's Ruili near Myanmar

Morning news brief: US Capitol attack, Biden reverses Trump's sanctions, and more

US President Joe Biden has revoked&nbsp;sanctions imposed by Donald Trump on the top prosecutor of the International Criminal Court.

With this, Biden is trying to resolve an intense disagreement with European allies as the new administration seeks a more cooperative approach.

Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda had launched an investigation into alleged war crimes by US military personnel in Afghanistan. Former secretary of state Mike Pompeo, to this end, last year denounced the "kangaroo court" in The Hague and imposed both financial sanctions and a US visa ban on its Gambian-born chief prosecutor.

Bensouda is leaving her job in June and will be replaced by British human rights lawyer Karim Khan, who now can open his work without the burden of looming sanctions.

The court in The Hague further annoyed the United States by opening an investigation into alleged war crimes in the Palestinian territories by Israel, a US ally which rejects the authority of the court.

Biden said the United States still has concerns with the ICC. But "the threat and imposition of financial sanctions against the Court, its personnel, and those who assist it are not an effective or appropriate strategy," he said in a statement.&nbsp;

Pompeo's successor, Antony Blinken, said the United States continued to "disagree strongly" with the moves on Afghanistan and Israel.

"We believe, however, that our concerns about these cases would be better addressed through engagement with all stakeholders in the ICC process rather than through the imposition of sanctions," Blinken said in a statement.

Biden revoked an executive order by Trump on the sanctions, also lifting sanctions against senior ICC official Phakiso Mochochoko and visa bans on other court staff.

Blinken said he was encouraged by reforms being undertaken by the court, which has also come under scrutiny over internal matters including judges' salaries.

He noted that the United States has supported specific international judicial initiatives to provide accountability for war crimes or crimes against humanity including in the Balkans, Cambodia and Rwanda.

Blinken announced the decision days before the administration needed to respond to a lawsuit against Trump's executive order filed by the Open Society Justice Initiative, which promotes human rights and democracy.

Human Rights Watch praised Biden for ending "this unprecedented&nbsp;and downright warped&nbsp;use of sanctions" and turning the page on Trump's "assault&nbsp;on the global rule of law."

Trump had, in his final weeks in office, granted clemency to three US troops convicted of crimes in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, with one of the men later meeting him.

US President Joe Biden has revoked sanctions imposed by Donald Trump on the top prosecutor of the International Criminal Court. With this, Biden is trying to resolve an intense disagreement with European allies as the new administration seeks a more cooperative approach.

US President Joe Biden has revoked sanctions imposed by Donald Trump on the top prosecutor of the International Criminal Court. With this, Biden is trying to resolve an intense disagreement with European allies as the new administration seeks a more cooperative approach. Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda had launched an investigation into alleged war crimes by US military personnel in Afghanistan. Former secretary of state Mike Pompeo, to this end, last year denounced the "kangaroo court" in The Hague and imposed both financial sanctions and a US visa ban on its Gambian-born chief prosecutor. Bensouda is leaving her job in June and will be replaced by British human rights lawyer Karim Khan, who now can open his work without the burden of looming sanctions. The court in The Hague further annoyed the United States by opening an investigation into alleged war crimes in the Palestinian territories by Israel, a US ally which rejects the authority of the court. Biden said the United States still has concerns with the ICC. But "the threat and imposition of financial sanctions against the Court, its personnel, and those who assist it are not an effective or appropriate strategy," he said in a statement. Pompeo's successor, Antony Blinken, said the United States continued to "disagree strongly" with the moves on Afghanistan and Israel. "We believe, however, that our concerns about these cases would be better addressed through engagement with all stakeholders in the ICC process rather than through the imposition of sanctions," Blinken said in a statement. Biden revoked an executive order by Trump on the sanctions, also lifting sanctions against senior ICC official Phakiso Mochochoko and visa bans on other court staff. Blinken said he was encouraged by reforms being undertaken by the court, which has also come under scrutiny over internal matters including judges' salaries. He noted that the United States has supported specific international judicial initiatives to provide accountability for war crimes or crimes against humanity including in the Balkans, Cambodia and Rwanda. Blinken announced the decision days before the administration needed to respond to a lawsuit against Trump's executive order filed by the Open Society Justice Initiative, which promotes human rights and democracy. Human Rights Watch praised Biden for ending "this unprecedented and downright warped use of sanctions" and turning the page on Trump's "assault on the global rule of law." Trump had, in his final weeks in office, granted clemency to three US troops convicted of crimes in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, with one of the men later meeting him.

Biden lifts Trump sanctions on top Hague prosecutor, seeks cooperation

United States President Joe Biden administration attempts to overturn the legacy of former President Donald Trump. It has taken another huge step in that direction by lifting Trump imposed sanctions on the ICC prosecutors.

United States: President Joe Biden's effort to undo Donald Trump's legacy

The US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a> held his first cabinet meeting since taking the office in January and mainly discussed the newly-proposed&nbsp;$2.3 trillion infrastructure proposal. Meanwhile, US' medical expert, Dr Anthony Fauci, has claimed that the country may not need the AstraZeneca <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine</a>.

Click on headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-holds-first-cabinet-meeting-a-day-after-proposing-infrastructure-plan-374860" hreflang="en">Biden holds first Cabinet meeting a day after proposing infrastructure plan</a>

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Biden, at the meeting on Thursday afternoon, tasked five members of his Cabinet to take the lead on selling the infrastructure proposal to the American people and Congress.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-watered-down-unsc-warnings-against-myanmar-violence-western-countries-374861">China 'watered down' UNSC warnings against Myanmar violence: Western countries</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/03/27/189291-myanmar.jpg?itok=FnvTha5B" />

Diplomats have also reported that while the western countries wanted to use and stress on the 'killings' of hundreds of civilians, China asked to alternate the world with 'deaths'.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fauci-says-us-may-not-need-astrazeneca-covid-vaccine-374863">Fauci says US may not need AstraZeneca Covid vaccine</a>

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The AstraZeneca vaccine, once hailed as another milestone in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, has been dogged by questions since late last year.

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The US President Joe Biden held his first cabinet meeting since taking the office in January and mainly discussed the newly-proposed $2.3 trillion infrastructure proposal.

The US President Joe Biden held his first cabinet meeting since taking the office in January and mainly discussed the newly-proposed $2.3 trillion infrastructure proposal. Meanwhile, US' medical expert, Dr Anthony Fauci, has claimed that the country may not need the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine. Click on headlines to read more Biden holds first Cabinet meeting a day after proposing infrastructure plan Biden, at the meeting on Thursday afternoon, tasked five members of his Cabinet to take the lead on selling the infrastructure proposal to the American people and Congress. China 'watered down' UNSC warnings against Myanmar violence: Western countries Diplomats have also reported that while the western countries wanted to use and stress on the 'killings' of hundreds of civilians, China asked to alternate the world with 'deaths'. Fauci says US may not need AstraZeneca Covid vaccine The AstraZeneca vaccine, once hailed as another milestone in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, has been dogged by questions since late last year. George Floyd Murder Trial Day 3: Floyd’s girlfriend details their opioid addiction Pak U-turns decision to import of sugar, cotton from India

Morning news brief: Biden's first cabinet meet, UNSC accuses China, and more

US President Joe Biden held his first in-person Cabinet meeting one day after announcing his massive infrastructure plan.

Biden, at the meeting on Thursday afternoon, tasked five members of his Cabinet to take the lead on selling the infrastructure proposal to the American people&nbsp;and Congress.

The US president, in brief remarks at the top of the meeting, announced that Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm, Housing and Urban Development Secretary Marcia Fudge, Labor Secretary Marty Walsh and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo would take on the additional responsibility.

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A Cabinet that looks like America. <a href="https://t.co/XZNOSTE2GJ">pic.twitter.com/XZNOSTE2GJ</a>
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1377792787211505666?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"I want to thank them in advance for the role they're going to play with this added assignment I'm asking them to take on. And we'll be discussing that today, among other things," Biden said of the meeting.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-outlines-far-reaching-plan-to-reengineer-us-infrastructure-374638">Also read |&nbsp;Biden outlines far-reaching plan to reengineer US infrastructure</a>

Biden also issued a directive to his Cabinet members, asking them to follow through on the "Buy American" executive action he took back in January.

Vice President Kamala Harris and White House chief of staff Ron Klain, both members of the Cabinet, were in attendance. And so were the 15 confirmed head of departments, plus seven Cabinet-level department heads.

The full Cabinet did not meet in the room that bears its name, and instead assembled in the more spacious East Room to allow for social distancing. All attendees, including the president, wore masks.&nbsp;

The focus of the meeting remained on packaging the benefits of the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief bill that Biden signed into law in March.

US President Joe Biden held his first in-person Cabinet meeting one day after announcing his massive infrastructure plan. Biden, at the meeting on Thursday afternoon, tasked five members of his Cabinet to take the lead on selling the infrastructure proposal to the American people and Congress.

US President Joe Biden held his first in-person Cabinet meeting one day after announcing his massive infrastructure plan. Biden, at the meeting on Thursday afternoon, tasked five members of his Cabinet to take the lead on selling the infrastructure proposal to the American people and Congress. The US president, in brief remarks at the top of the meeting, announced that Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm, Housing and Urban Development Secretary Marcia Fudge, Labor Secretary Marty Walsh and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo would take on the additional responsibility. A Cabinet that looks like America. pic.twitter.com/XZNOSTE2GJ — President Biden (@POTUS) April 2, 2021 × "I want to thank them in advance for the role they're going to play with this added assignment I'm asking them to take on. And we'll be discussing that today, among other things," Biden said of the meeting. Also read | Biden outlines far-reaching plan to reengineer US infrastructure Biden also issued a directive to his Cabinet members, asking them to follow through on the "Buy American" executive action he took back in January. Vice President Kamala Harris and White House chief of staff Ron Klain, both members of the Cabinet, were in attendance. And so were the 15 confirmed head of departments, plus seven Cabinet-level department heads. The full Cabinet did not meet in the room that bears its name, and instead assembled in the more spacious East Room to allow for social distancing. All attendees, including the president, wore masks. The focus of the meeting remained on packaging the benefits of the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief bill that Biden signed into law in March.

Biden holds first Cabinet meeting a day after proposing infrastructure plan

US President Joe Biden will convene his first Cabinet meeting on Thursday -- being expected to be used to promote his new infrastructure plan.

The meeting will be held a week after the full Cabinet was confirmed and a day after Biden released his infrastructure plan in Pittsburgh, which will likely dominate Washington through the summer and shape next year’s midterm elections.

The full Cabinet won’t meet in the room that bears its name, instead assembling in the more spacious East Room to allow for social distancing. All attendees, including the president, will wear masks.&nbsp;

The focus of the meeting will be on how to package the benefits of the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief bill that Biden signed into law this month.

All 16 permanent members of the Cabinet -- the vice-president and heads of the executive departments, including Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin -- will attend in person. So will other Cabinet-ranked officials, including White House chief of staff Ron Klain and Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-outlines-far-reaching-plan-to-reengineer-us-infrastructure-374638">Also read |&nbsp;Biden outlines far-reaching plan to reengineer US infrastructure</a>

In all, 25 people will attend, the White House said. For some, it will be their first time meeting other members of the Cabinet, given that the pandemic curtailed inauguration celebrations and other social gatherings.

The White House press pool will be present for Biden’s remarks but probably will be ushered from the room before other speakers begin.

US President Joe Biden will convene his first Cabinet meeting on Thursday -- being expected to be used to promote his new infrastructure plan. The meeting will be held a week after the full Cabinet was confirmed and a day after Biden released his infrastructure plan in Pittsburgh, which will likely dominate Washington through the summer and shape next year’s midterm elections.

US President Joe Biden will convene his first Cabinet meeting on Thursday -- being expected to be used to promote his new infrastructure plan. The meeting will be held a week after the full Cabinet was confirmed and a day after Biden released his infrastructure plan in Pittsburgh, which will likely dominate Washington through the summer and shape next year’s midterm elections. The full Cabinet won’t meet in the room that bears its name, instead assembling in the more spacious East Room to allow for social distancing. All attendees, including the president, will wear masks. The focus of the meeting will be on how to package the benefits of the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief bill that Biden signed into law this month. All 16 permanent members of the Cabinet -- the vice-president and heads of the executive departments, including Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin -- will attend in person. So will other Cabinet-ranked officials, including White House chief of staff Ron Klain and Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines. Also read | Biden outlines far-reaching plan to reengineer US infrastructure In all, 25 people will attend, the White House said. For some, it will be their first time meeting other members of the Cabinet, given that the pandemic curtailed inauguration celebrations and other social gatherings. The White House press pool will be present for Biden’s remarks but probably will be ushered from the room before other speakers begin.

Biden to hold first Cabinet meeting amid infrastructure push

Matt Gaetz, a close ally of Donald Trump who is under investigation for having a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old girl. He has now claimed to be a victim of 'extortion'.

Gaetz, a 38-year-old Republican Congressman, claimed to be a victim of an 'extortion' plan by the Justice Department. He made these allegations during an interview.

David McGee, a former justice department employee has been named in this accusation. McGee, however, has denied these allegations saying the claims are "completely false".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/capitol-police-sues-trump-for-physical-and-emotional-damage-in-capitol-riot-374427" hreflang="en">Capitol police sues Trump for 'physical and emotional' damage in Capitol riot</a>

"This is a blatant attempt to distract from the fact he’s under investigation for sex trafficking of minors," McGee said. "I have no connection with that case at all, other than one of a thousand people who have heard the rumors."

The Fox News host, Tucker Carlson, who interviewed Gaetz described it as "one of the weirdest interviews I’ve ever conducted".

"I don’t think that clarified much," Carlson said on air. "But it certainly showed this is a deeply interesting story, and we will be following it. Don’t quite understand it, but we will bring you more when we find out."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-video-teaser-removed-by-facebook-lara-trump-374661" hreflang="en">Donald Trump's video teaser removed by Facebook: Lara Trump</a>

Gaetz has been accused of having an inappropriate sexual relationship with a 17-year-old who was allegedly paid to travel with him.

Calling it a planned criminal extortion plan, he said in a statement, "Over the past several weeks my family and I have been victims of an organised criminal extortion involving a former DoJ [Department of Justice] official, seeking $25m while threatening to smear my name."

He has also claimed that his father has been wearing a recording device on the FBI's order "to catch these criminals". He has urged the justice department to release those recordings.

Matt Gaetz, a close ally of Donald Trump who is under investigation for having a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old girl. He has now claimed to be a victim of 'extortion'.

Matt Gaetz, a close ally of Donald Trump who is under investigation for having a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old girl. He has now claimed to be a victim of 'extortion'. Gaetz, a 38-year-old Republican Congressman, claimed to be a victim of an 'extortion' plan by the Justice Department. He made these allegations during an interview. David McGee, a former justice department employee has been named in this accusation. McGee, however, has denied these allegations saying the claims are "completely false". Also read | Capitol police sues Trump for 'physical and emotional' damage in Capitol riot "This is a blatant attempt to distract from the fact he’s under investigation for sex trafficking of minors," McGee said. "I have no connection with that case at all, other than one of a thousand people who have heard the rumors." The Fox News host, Tucker Carlson, who interviewed Gaetz described it as "one of the weirdest interviews I’ve ever conducted". "I don’t think that clarified much," Carlson said on air. "But it certainly showed this is a deeply interesting story, and we will be following it. Don’t quite understand it, but we will bring you more when we find out." Also read | Donald Trump's video teaser removed by Facebook: Lara Trump Gaetz has been accused of having an inappropriate sexual relationship with a 17-year-old who was allegedly paid to travel with him. Calling it a planned criminal extortion plan, he said in a statement, "Over the past several weeks my family and I have been victims of an organised criminal extortion involving a former DoJ [Department of Justice] official, seeking $25m while threatening to smear my name." He has also claimed that his father has been wearing a recording device on the FBI's order "to catch these criminals". He has urged the justice department to release those recordings.

Trump's ally, Matt Gaetz, calls himself victim of 'extortion' by justice department

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a> unveiled the much-awaited $2.3 trillion plan to rebuild America's crumbling infrastructure. Meanwhile, a US-based factory destroyed 15 million doses of the&nbsp;Johnson &amp; Johnson <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine</a>. Towards Europe, Macron has ordered a nationwide closure of schools amid a surge in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> cases.

Click on headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-outlines-plan-to-reengineer-us-infrastructure-374638" hreflang="en">Biden outlines plan to reengineer US infrastructure</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/03/12/186762-joe-biden.jpg?itok=kEjQaoZ2" />

The $2.3 trillion plan to rebuild America's crumbling infrastructure proposes doubling federal funding for mass transit and spending $80 billion to expand and modernise passenger rail service.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-15-million-doses-of-johnson-johnson-coronavirus-vaccine-destroyed-374630">Nearly 15 million doses of Johnson &amp; Johnson coronavirus vaccine destroyed</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/03/06/185827-johnson-and-johnson.jpg?itok=smdlsjsd" />

The pharmaceutical company claims the authorities found a batch of doses at a Baltimore plant, run by Emergent BioSolutions, 'that did not meet quality standards'.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-orders-closure-of-schools-amid-surge-in-coronavirus-cases-374640" hreflang="en">Macron orders closure of schools amid surge in coronavirus cases</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/02/16/183060-french-president-emmanuel-macron.jpg?itok=2uFoYXfg" />

Amid a surge of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;cases in France, President Emmanuel Macron has announced a nationwide closure of schools and a limited lockdown to contain the spread of the virus.

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US President Joe Biden unveiled the much-awaited $2.3 trillion plan to rebuild America's crumbling infrastructure. Meanwhile, a US-based factory destroyed 15 million doses of the Johnson & Johnson coronavirus vaccine.

US President Joe Biden unveiled the much-awaited $2.3 trillion plan to rebuild America's crumbling infrastructure. Meanwhile, a US-based factory destroyed 15 million doses of the Johnson & Johnson coronavirus vaccine. Towards Europe, Macron has ordered a nationwide closure of schools amid a surge in coronavirus cases. Click on headlines to read more Biden outlines plan to reengineer US infrastructure The $2.3 trillion plan to rebuild America's crumbling infrastructure proposes doubling federal funding for mass transit and spending $80 billion to expand and modernise passenger rail service. Nearly 15 million doses of Johnson & Johnson coronavirus vaccine destroyed The pharmaceutical company claims the authorities found a batch of doses at a Baltimore plant, run by Emergent BioSolutions, 'that did not meet quality standards'. Macron orders closure of schools amid surge in coronavirus cases Amid a surge of coronavirus cases in France, President Emmanuel Macron has announced a nationwide closure of schools and a limited lockdown to contain the spread of the virus. George Floyd Murder Trial Day 3: New footage from inside a convenience store played Straight Talk: Myanmar's Special Envoy to UN speaks to Wion

Morning news brief: Biden's $2.3 trillion plan, 15 million J&J vaccines destroyed and more

Chinese furniture maker Hong Jinshi first created a couple of pint-sized statues of former U.S. President Donald Trump meditating in a Buddhist pose as a fun project for himself last year. Six months on, Hong's amusing hobby has turned into a small side-hustle, with a workshop in the town of Dehua in Fujian province on track to produce an inaugural batch of 250 statues of Trump dressed in Buddhist robes with his legs crossed.

Buddhism & Donald Trump- sounds amusing? Trump's Buddha statue a hit on Chinese e-commerce website

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