The EU's chief diplomat on Tuesday warned President Donald Trump he did not have the power to change the format of&nbsp;G7&nbsp;summit, after the US leader said he wanted to invite several other countries, including Russia.

Russia was expelled from the club of the world's leading industrial nations in 2014 after annexing Crimea from Ukraine, but Trump says the current membership is outdated.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-bats-for-g20-after-us-president-trumps-invitation-to-attend-for-g7-302769" hreflang="en">Russia bats for G20 after US President Trump's invitation to attend for G7</a>

Leaders from the Group of Seven: the US, Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan had been scheduled to meet by videoconference this month but Trump said on Saturday that he plans to hold an in-person&nbsp;summit&nbsp;later, possibly in September.

Calling the current lineup of countries "very outdated" the US leader also said he planned to invite other countries, including Russia, to join the meeting.

But EU foreign affairs high representative Josep Borrell said that Russia had not changed course since 2014 and should not be re-admitted.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-bid-to-counter-china-invite-india-russia-to-g7-302693">Trump's bid to counter China: Invite India, Russia to G7</a>

"The prerogative of the&nbsp;G7&nbsp;chair, in this case the United States, is to issue guest invitations, guest invitations reflect the host's priorities," Borrell said.

"But changing membership, changing the format on a permanent basis, is not a prerogative of the&nbsp;G7&nbsp;chair."

Later the Indian government said that Trump had invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the&nbsp;G7&nbsp;summit.

Trump and Modi spoke by phone on Tuesday and the US president "conveyed his desire to expand the ambit of the grouping beyond the existing membership, to include other important countries including India," the Delhi government said in a statement.

Modi commended Trump "for his creative and far-sighted approach, acknowledging the fact that such an expanded forum would be in keeping with the emerging realities of the post-COVID world," the statement added.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau rejected the idea of inviting Russian President Vladimir Putin, citing his "continued disrespect and flaunting of international rules and norms".

The EU's chief diplomat on Tuesday warned President Donald Trump he did not have the power to change the format of G7 summit, after the US leader said he wanted to invite several other countries, including Russia.

The EU's chief diplomat on Tuesday warned President Donald Trump he did not have the power to change the format of G7 summit, after the US leader said he wanted to invite several other countries, including Russia. Russia was expelled from the club of the world's leading industrial nations in 2014 after annexing Crimea from Ukraine, but Trump says the current membership is outdated. Also read: Russia bats for G20 after US President Trump's invitation to attend for G7 Leaders from the Group of Seven: the US, Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan had been scheduled to meet by videoconference this month but Trump said on Saturday that he plans to hold an in-person summit later, possibly in September. Calling the current lineup of countries "very outdated" the US leader also said he planned to invite other countries, including Russia, to join the meeting. But EU foreign affairs high representative Josep Borrell said that Russia had not changed course since 2014 and should not be re-admitted. Also read: Trump's bid to counter China: Invite India, Russia to G7 "The prerogative of the G7 chair, in this case the United States, is to issue guest invitations, guest invitations reflect the host's priorities," Borrell said. "But changing membership, changing the format on a permanent basis, is not a prerogative of the G7 chair." Later the Indian government said that Trump had invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the G7 summit. Trump and Modi spoke by phone on Tuesday and the US president "conveyed his desire to expand the ambit of the grouping beyond the existing membership, to include other important countries including India," the Delhi government said in a statement. Modi commended Trump "for his creative and far-sighted approach, acknowledging the fact that such an expanded forum would be in keeping with the emerging realities of the post-COVID world," the statement added. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau rejected the idea of inviting Russian President Vladimir Putin, citing his "continued disrespect and flaunting of international rules and norms".

Trump does not possess power to change format of G7: EU

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has told his employees that he stands by his decision to not challenge inflammatory posts by US President Donald Trump in the wake of his employees staging a rare public protest.

A group of Facebook staffers walked off the job on Monday. They complained the company should have acted against Trump’s posts containing the phrase “when the looting starts, the shooting starts.”

On Friday, Twitter Inc affixed a warning label to a Trump tweet about widespread protests over the death of a black man in Minnesota that included the phrase “when the looting starts, the shooting starts.”

Twitter said the post violated its rules against glorifying violence but was left up as a public interest exception, with reduced options for interactions and distribution.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-employees-walk-out-after-accusing-zuckerberg-of-inadequate-policing-302499">Also read |&nbsp;</a><a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/facebook-employees-walk-out-after-accusing-zuckerberg-of-inadequate-policing-302499" hreflang="en">Facebook employees walk out after accusing Zuckerberg of 'inadequate policing'</a>

Facebook declined to act on the same message, and Zuckerberg sought to distance his company from the fight between the president and Twitter. He maintained that while he found Trump’s remarks “deeply offensive,” they did not violate company policy against incitements to violence.

Zuckerberg told his employees on a video chat that Facebook had conducted a thorough review and was right to leave the posts unchallenged, a company spokeswoman said.

She said Zuckerberg also acknowledged the decision had upset many employees and said the company was looking into “non-binary” options beyond either leaving up such posts or taking them down.

One Facebook employee, who tweeted criticism on Monday, posted again on Twitter during the all-hands meeting to express disappointment.

“It’s crystal clear today that leadership refuses to stand with us,” Facebook employee Brandon Dail wrote on Twitter. Dail’s LinkedIn profile describes him as a user interface engineer at Facebook in Seattle.

Timothy Aveni, a junior software engineer on Facebook’s team dedicated to fighting misinformation, announced his resignation in protest over that decision.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-will-not-be-arbiters-of-truth-says-zuckerberg-after-trump-threat-301827">Also read |&nbsp;Facebook will not be 'arbiters of truth', says Zuckerberg after Trump threat</a>

“Mark always told us that he would draw the line at speech that calls for violence. He showed us on Friday that this was a lie. Facebook will keep moving the goalposts every time Trump escalates, finding excuse after excuse not to act,” he wrote in a Facebook post.

Civil rights leaders who attended an hour-long video call on Monday night with Zuckerberg and other top Facebook executives called the CEO’s defense of the hands-off approach to Trump’s “incomprehensible.”

“He did not demonstrate understanding of historic or modern-day voter suppression and he refuses to acknowledge how Facebook is facilitating Trump’s call for violence against protesters,” said a joint statement from leaders of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund and Color of Change.

Some critics posted calls on Twitter for Facebook’s independent oversight board to weigh in. But the board will not review any cases until early fall, and users initially will only be able to appeal to the board about removed content, not content that Facebook has decided to leave untouched. The board, which can overrule Zuckerberg, will only review a small slice of content decisions.

Zuckerberg spoke with Trump on Friday, as first reported by news website Axios.

(with inputs from Reuters)

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has told his employees that he stands by his decision to not challenge inflammatory posts by US President Donald Trump in the wake of his employees staging a rare public protest.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has told his employees that he stands by his decision to not challenge inflammatory posts by US President Donald Trump in the wake of his employees staging a rare public protest. A group of Facebook staffers walked off the job on Monday. They complained the company should have acted against Trump’s posts containing the phrase “when the looting starts, the shooting starts.” On Friday, Twitter Inc affixed a warning label to a Trump tweet about widespread protests over the death of a black man in Minnesota that included the phrase “when the looting starts, the shooting starts.” Twitter said the post violated its rules against glorifying violence but was left up as a public interest exception, with reduced options for interactions and distribution. Also read | Facebook employees walk out after accusing Zuckerberg of 'inadequate policing' Facebook declined to act on the same message, and Zuckerberg sought to distance his company from the fight between the president and Twitter. He maintained that while he found Trump’s remarks “deeply offensive,” they did not violate company policy against incitements to violence. Zuckerberg told his employees on a video chat that Facebook had conducted a thorough review and was right to leave the posts unchallenged, a company spokeswoman said. She said Zuckerberg also acknowledged the decision had upset many employees and said the company was looking into “non-binary” options beyond either leaving up such posts or taking them down. One Facebook employee, who tweeted criticism on Monday, posted again on Twitter during the all-hands meeting to express disappointment. “It’s crystal clear today that leadership refuses to stand with us,” Facebook employee Brandon Dail wrote on Twitter. Dail’s LinkedIn profile describes him as a user interface engineer at Facebook in Seattle. Timothy Aveni, a junior software engineer on Facebook’s team dedicated to fighting misinformation, announced his resignation in protest over that decision. Also read | Facebook will not be 'arbiters of truth', says Zuckerberg after Trump threat “Mark always told us that he would draw the line at speech that calls for violence. He showed us on Friday that this was a lie. Facebook will keep moving the goalposts every time Trump escalates, finding excuse after excuse not to act,” he wrote in a Facebook post. Civil rights leaders who attended an hour-long video call on Monday night with Zuckerberg and other top Facebook executives called the CEO’s defense of the hands-off approach to Trump’s “incomprehensible.” “He did not demonstrate understanding of historic or modern-day voter suppression and he refuses to acknowledge how Facebook is facilitating Trump’s call for violence against protesters,” said a joint statement from leaders of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund and Color of Change. Some critics posted calls on Twitter for Facebook’s independent oversight board to weigh in. But the board will not review any cases until early fall, and users initially will only be able to appeal to the board about removed content, not content that Facebook has decided to leave untouched. The board, which can overrule Zuckerberg, will only review a small slice of content decisions. Zuckerberg spoke with Trump on Friday, as first reported by news website Axios. (with inputs from Reuters)

After staff walkout, Facebook CEO Zuckerberg defends no action on Trump posts

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to U.S. President Donald Trump over the phone on Tuesday evening.

Gravitas: PM Modi speaks to Donald Trump

U.S. President Donald Trump is trying to create a new bloc to counter China. What's at stake for India? Why is there stiff opposition to inviting Russia?

Gravitas: Trump delays 'outdated' G7 Summit

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Gravitas: SpaceX Space Station mission | New era in space exploration

United States House of Representative Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Tuesday has promised legislation on the issues raised by the murder of George Floyd, whereas, other lawmakers threatened to use troops against the protestors.&nbsp;

According to Pelosi, racial profiling has been a "universal" issue and "we must be rid of."

She said: "In a matter of just a short time ... decisions will be made and I think the American people will be well served."

Like other Democrats, Pelosi went on to attack US President Donald Trump for handling the protests after tear gas and rubber bullets were used on protestors to clear the area outside the White House.&nbsp;

Another Democratic leader Chuck Schumer lashed out on Trump, questioning his leadership skills.&nbsp;

"The nation needs calm and steady leadership, a sure hand and a big heart, qualities that President Trump has never displayed," Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said.

The leader had called for passage of law enforcement reform legislation by July 4.

US presidential candidate Joe Biden hit at Trump for "using the American military against the American people" as the protests took political overtures ahead of the US elections in November.

"He tear-gassed peaceful protesters and fired rubber bullets. For a photo," Biden tweeted, adding, "For our children, for the very soul of our country, we must defeat him."&nbsp;

United States House of Representative Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Tuesday has promised legislation on the issues raised by the murder of George Floyd, whereas, other lawmakers threatened to use troops against the protestors.

United States House of Representative Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Tuesday has promised legislation on the issues raised by the murder of George Floyd, whereas, other lawmakers threatened to use troops against the protestors. According to Pelosi, racial profiling has been a "universal" issue and "we must be rid of." She said: "In a matter of just a short time ... decisions will be made and I think the American people will be well served." Like other Democrats, Pelosi went on to attack US President Donald Trump for handling the protests after tear gas and rubber bullets were used on protestors to clear the area outside the White House. Another Democratic leader Chuck Schumer lashed out on Trump, questioning his leadership skills. "The nation needs calm and steady leadership, a sure hand and a big heart, qualities that President Trump has never displayed," Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said. The leader had called for passage of law enforcement reform legislation by July 4. US presidential candidate Joe Biden hit at Trump for "using the American military against the American people" as the protests took political overtures ahead of the US elections in November. "He tear-gassed peaceful protesters and fired rubber bullets. For a photo," Biden tweeted, adding, "For our children, for the very soul of our country, we must defeat him."

Nancy Pelosi promises legislation on the issues raised by murder of George Floyd

In the poll of registered voters conducted between 25-28 May, 53 per cent of respondents said that they would vote for Mr Biden over 43 percent who favoured Mr Trump

Trump's re-election dented by COVID-19?

G7 leaders of the UK and Canada have opposed Russia's return to the G7,&nbsp;deepening a rift over US President Donald Trump's wish for the country to rejoin.

"Russia was excluded from the G7 after it invaded Crimea a number of years ago, and its continued disrespect and flaunting of international rules and norms is why it remains outside of the G7, and it will continue to remain out," Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said at a news conference.

The G7 summit, which the US hosts this year, convenes the leaders of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the UK to discuss matters of co-operation.

Russia was expelled from the group, previously known as the G8, in 2014 in response to its annexation of Crimea.

Earlier, a spokesman for the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he would veto any proposal to allow Russia to rejoin the group.

Unless Russia ceases its "aggressive and destabilising activity", the UK would not support the country's readmission to the group, Mr Johnson's spokesman said.

"Russia was removed from the G7 group of nations following its&nbsp;annexation of Crimea and we are yet to see evidence of changed behaviour which would justify its readmittance," the spokesman told reporters.

The president had said the G7's "outdated group of countries" should be expanded to include others, including Russia.

The White House said making "progress toward convening the G7" with Russia was among the topics Trump and Putin discussed in a phone call.

<ul>
</ul>

Trump said on Saturday he would postpone the G7 summit scheduled to take place this month until September.

G7 leaders of the UK and Canada have opposed Russia's return to the G7, deepening a rift over US President Donald Trump's wish for the country to rejoin. "Russia was excluded from the G7 after it invaded Crimea a number of years ago, and its continued disrespect and flaunting of international rules and norms is why it remains outside of the G7, and it will continue to remain out," Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said at a news conference.

G7 leaders of the UK and Canada have opposed Russia's return to the G7, deepening a rift over US President Donald Trump's wish for the country to rejoin. "Russia was excluded from the G7 after it invaded Crimea a number of years ago, and its continued disrespect and flaunting of international rules and norms is why it remains outside of the G7, and it will continue to remain out," Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said at a news conference. The G7 summit, which the US hosts this year, convenes the leaders of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the UK to discuss matters of co-operation. Russia was expelled from the group, previously known as the G8, in 2014 in response to its annexation of Crimea. Earlier, a spokesman for the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he would veto any proposal to allow Russia to rejoin the group. Unless Russia ceases its "aggressive and destabilising activity", the UK would not support the country's readmission to the group, Mr Johnson's spokesman said. "Russia was removed from the G7 group of nations following its annexation of Crimea and we are yet to see evidence of changed behaviour which would justify its readmittance," the spokesman told reporters. The president had said the G7's "outdated group of countries" should be expanded to include others, including Russia. The White House said making "progress toward convening the G7" with Russia was among the topics Trump and Putin discussed in a phone call. Trump said on Saturday he would postpone the G7 summit scheduled to take place this month until September.

UK, Canada reject Russia's return after Trump summit invite

President Donald Trump threatened to deploy the military if states and cities failed to quell the protests sparked by the death of George Floyd.

Calling himself the "law and order" president, Trump said that&nbsp;he was deploying thousands of "heavily armed" soldiers and police to prevent further protests in Washington, where buildings and monuments have been vandalized near the White House.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tensions-rise-in-us-as-fires-burn-near-white-house-amid-riots-302482">Also read: Tensions rise in US as fires burn near White House amid riots</a>

“My first and highest duty as president is to defend our great country and the American people,” Trump said. “I swore an oath to uphold the laws of our nation and that is exactly what I will do.” 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/official-autopsy-reveals-floyds-homicide-caused-by-neck-compression-302503">Also read: Official autopsy reveals Floyd's 'homicide' caused by 'neck compression'</a>

"What happened in the city last night was a total disgrace," he said during a nationwide address.

"I am dispatching thousands and thousands of heavily armed soldiers, military personnel and law enforcement officers to stop the rioting, looting, vandalism, assaults and the wanton destruction of property."

"I want the organizers of this terror to be on notice that you will face severe criminal penalties and lengthy sentences in jail," Trump said as police could be heard using tear gas and stun grenades to clear protestors just outside the White House. 
 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/01/142782-untitled-design.jpg?itok=JMSBCNtG" />

Fireworks explode behind Ferguson Police during a protest against the death in Minneapolis police custody of African-American man George Floyd, in Ferguson, Missouri, U.S. May 31, 2020. (Reuters Photo) 
 
As Trump spoke, riot police and military police used tear gas to clear protesters out of a public square in front of the White House. Trump took a walk through the square after his remarks.

One week after Floyd died in Minneapolis, an autopsy blamed his videotaped death squarely on a white police officer who pinned him down by the neck with his knee for nearly nine minutes as Floyd pleaded, "I can't breathe!" 
 
"The evidence is consistent with mechanical asphyxia as the cause of death, and homicide as the manner of death," Aleccia Wilson, a University of Michigan expert who examined his body at the family's request, told a news conference.

The unrest has been the most widespread in the United States since 1968 when cities went up in flames over the slaying of civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr. and rekindled memories of 1992 riots in Los Angeles after police were acquitted in the brutal beating of black motorist Rodney King. 
 
(With inputs from AFP)

President Donald Trump threatened to deploy the military if states and cities failed to quell the protests sparked by the death of George Floyd. Calling himself the "law and order" president, Trump said that he was deploying thousands of "heavily armed" soldiers and police to prevent further protests in Washington, where buildings and monuments have been vandalized near the White House.

President Donald Trump threatened to deploy the military if states and cities failed to quell the protests sparked by the death of George Floyd. Calling himself the "law and order" president, Trump said that he was deploying thousands of "heavily armed" soldiers and police to prevent further protests in Washington, where buildings and monuments have been vandalized near the White House. Also read: Tensions rise in US as fires burn near White House amid riots “My first and highest duty as president is to defend our great country and the American people,” Trump said. “I swore an oath to uphold the laws of our nation and that is exactly what I will do.” Also read: Official autopsy reveals Floyd's 'homicide' caused by 'neck compression' "What happened in the city last night was a total disgrace," he said during a nationwide address. "I am dispatching thousands and thousands of heavily armed soldiers, military personnel and law enforcement officers to stop the rioting, looting, vandalism, assaults and the wanton destruction of property." "I want the organizers of this terror to be on notice that you will face severe criminal penalties and lengthy sentences in jail," Trump said as police could be heard using tear gas and stun grenades to clear protestors just outside the White House. Fireworks explode behind Ferguson Police during a protest against the death in Minneapolis police custody of African-American man George Floyd, in Ferguson, Missouri, U.S. May 31, 2020. (Reuters Photo) As Trump spoke, riot police and military police used tear gas to clear protesters out of a public square in front of the White House. Trump took a walk through the square after his remarks. One week after Floyd died in Minneapolis, an autopsy blamed his videotaped death squarely on a white police officer who pinned him down by the neck with his knee for nearly nine minutes as Floyd pleaded, "I can't breathe!" "The evidence is consistent with mechanical asphyxia as the cause of death, and homicide as the manner of death," Aleccia Wilson, a University of Michigan expert who examined his body at the family's request, told a news conference. The unrest has been the most widespread in the United States since 1968 when cities went up in flames over the slaying of civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr. and rekindled memories of 1992 riots in Los Angeles after police were acquitted in the brutal beating of black motorist Rodney King. (With inputs from AFP)

Unrest in Washington a 'total disgrace', mobilizing 'heavily armed' military to stop protests: Trump

US President Donald Trump on Monday said that his administration is fully committed to George and his family and justice will be served.

In recent days our nation has been gripped by professional anarchists, violent mobs, arsonists, looters, criminals, rioters, Antifa and others, Trump said and urged the state governors to deploy the National Guard in sufficient numbers that will dominate the streets.&nbsp;

Mayors and Governors must establish an overwhelming law enforcement presence until the violence has been quelled, Trump noted.

''We are putting everybody on warning, our 7 o'clock curfew will be strictly enforced. Those who threaten innocent life and property will be arrested, detained and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,'' Trump said.&nbsp;

''If a city or state refuses to take the actions that are necessary to defend the life and property of their residents then I will deploy the United States Military and quickly solve the problem for them,'' he said.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump on Monday said that his administration is fully committed to George and his family and justice will be served. In recent days our nation has been gripped by professional anarchists, violent mobs, arsonists, looters, criminals, rioters, Antifa and others, Trump said and urged the state governors to deploy the National Guard in sufficient numbers that will dominate the streets.

US President Donald Trump on Monday said that his administration is fully committed to George and his family and justice will be served. In recent days our nation has been gripped by professional anarchists, violent mobs, arsonists, looters, criminals, rioters, Antifa and others, Trump said and urged the state governors to deploy the National Guard in sufficient numbers that will dominate the streets. Mayors and Governors must establish an overwhelming law enforcement presence until the violence has been quelled, Trump noted. ''We are putting everybody on warning, our 7 o'clock curfew will be strictly enforced. Those who threaten innocent life and property will be arrested, detained and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,'' Trump said. ''If a city or state refuses to take the actions that are necessary to defend the life and property of their residents then I will deploy the United States Military and quickly solve the problem for them,'' he said.

Fully committed to justice to George and his family, says Trump

Former United States&nbsp;President Barack Obama on Monday condemned violence amid protests over the death of George Floyd and called for political solutions to address protesters' grievances about criminal justice.&nbsp;

"The protests represent a genuine and legitimate frustration over a decades-long failure to reform police practices and the broader criminal justice system. We should condemn the few who resort to violence-not the overwhelming majority who deserve our respect and support," Obama tweeted.

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1. The protests represent a genuine and legitimate frustration over a decades-long failure to reform police practices and the broader criminal justice system. We should condemn the few who resort to violence––not the overwhelming majority who deserve our respect and support.
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) <a href="https://twitter.com/BarackObama/status/1267534335340666895?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"The point of protest is to raise public awareness, to put a spotlight on injustice, and to make the powers that be uncomfortable. But eventually, we have to translate those aspirations into specific laws and institutional practices," he added.

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2. The point of protest is to raise public awareness, to put a spotlight on injustice, and to make the powers that be uncomfortable. But eventually, we have to translate those aspirations into specific laws and institutional practices.
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) <a href="https://twitter.com/BarackObama/status/1267534336410124296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile,&nbsp;Donald Trump on Monday said that all Americans are rightly ''sickened by the brutal death'' of George Floyd and his administration is fully committed to providing justice to George and his family.

"All Americans were rightly sickened and revolted by the brutal death of George Floyd. My administration is fully committed, the justice will be fully served for George and his family and He will not have died in vain," Trump said during a press briefing.

Demonstrators across the United States have been protesting since May 25, when George Floyd, a 46-years-old African American man, died under the police custody in the city of Minneapolis.

Around 4,000 people across the United States have been arrested during the massive protests over the death of George Floyd.

Former United States President Barack Obama on Monday condemned violence amid protests over the death of George Floyd and called for political solutions to address protesters' grievances about criminal justice.

Former United States President Barack Obama on Monday condemned violence amid protests over the death of George Floyd and called for political solutions to address protesters' grievances about criminal justice. "The protests represent a genuine and legitimate frustration over a decades-long failure to reform police practices and the broader criminal justice system. We should condemn the few who resort to violence-not the overwhelming majority who deserve our respect and support," Obama tweeted. 1. The protests represent a genuine and legitimate frustration over a decades-long failure to reform police practices and the broader criminal justice system. We should condemn the few who resort to violence––not the overwhelming majority who deserve our respect and support. — Barack Obama (@BarackObama) June 1, 2020 × "The point of protest is to raise public awareness, to put a spotlight on injustice, and to make the powers that be uncomfortable. But eventually, we have to translate those aspirations into specific laws and institutional practices," he added. 2. The point of protest is to raise public awareness, to put a spotlight on injustice, and to make the powers that be uncomfortable. But eventually, we have to translate those aspirations into specific laws and institutional practices. — Barack Obama (@BarackObama) June 1, 2020 × Meanwhile, Donald Trump on Monday said that all Americans are rightly ''sickened by the brutal death'' of George Floyd and his administration is fully committed to providing justice to George and his family. "All Americans were rightly sickened and revolted by the brutal death of George Floyd. My administration is fully committed, the justice will be fully served for George and his family and He will not have died in vain," Trump said during a press briefing. Demonstrators across the United States have been protesting since May 25, when George Floyd, a 46-years-old African American man, died under the police custody in the city of Minneapolis. Around 4,000 people across the United States have been arrested during the massive protests over the death of George Floyd.

Barack Obama applauds activists, condemns violence in protests in US

The United States is currently dealing with two crises: the coronavirus pandemic, which has killed over 100,000 in the country, and protests against racism and police brutality .

The protests began in the United States after a black man, George Floyd was knelt on and killed by a policeman in Minneapolis, a city in the US state of Minnesota. The man died on May 25, raising concerns of race-oriented state brutality in the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/racism-haunts-america-as-african-americans-struggle-for-equality-302462" hreflang="en">Racism haunts America as African-Americans struggle for equality</a>

This is the election year in the US. However, when American cities were burning, the President - Donald Trump in Cape Canaveral to witness the launch of the SpaceX-NASA flight to the International Space Station.

<h6><img alt="oo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1ba1c778-dcb7-40c7-9c02-60c5e17733bc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_104.jpg" /> 
Protests in the United States | AFP</h6>

While speaking at the facility, he declared - “mobs won’t call the shots”. He blamed "the radical left" ---for the violence.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-united-states-the-biggest-violator-of-human-rights-302486/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, the protests did not simmer. In fact, right outside his residence - the White House, protesters were seen clashing with the secret service.

After three years in power, Donald Trump is facing a pandemic, a protest, and an election.

"When the looting starts, the shooting starts"

On Friday, he called the protesters "thugs". Then he tweeted: when the looting starts, the shooting starts.&nbsp;These are the words of a former Miami police chief in the 1960s which spurred race riots in that decade.

On Saturday - he wanted to unleash "the most vicious dogs, the most ominous weapons" on the protesters. He was talking about the crowd that had gathered outside the White House.

Additionally, Trump wants to declare ANTIFA (the anti-fascist movement) a terrorist movement. However, the group doesn't have a leader, or a defined structure or any membership roles.

It represents activists - who share similar philosophy and tactics and are usually far left and anti-fascist.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/trumps-america-burns-as-protests-spread-like-wildfire-302449" hreflang="en">Trump's America burns as protests spread like wildfire!</a>

The President, however, cannot officially designate the ANTIFA as terrorists.

Firstly, it is impossible to know exactly how many people identify themselves as part of the “ANTIFA. Secondly, the United States does not have a domestic terrorism law.

The law, as it exists right now - applies to foreign entities, and not domestic groups.

Nonetheless, the President has made the pronouncements on Twitter.

According to a report, Trump's own advisers are worried about his tweets, for they feel his content is “pouring fuel on an already incendiary situation".

The Democrats have latched onto this. Joe Biden, his co-contender in the upcoming elections, is taking on Trump for these remarks.

The United States is currently dealing with two crises: the coronavirus pandemic, which has killed over 100,000 in the country, and protests against racism and police brutality .

The United States is currently dealing with two crises: the coronavirus pandemic, which has killed over 100,000 in the country, and protests against racism and police brutality . The protests began in the United States after a black man, George Floyd was knelt on and killed by a policeman in Minneapolis, a city in the US state of Minnesota. The man died on May 25, raising concerns of race-oriented state brutality in the country. Also read: Racism haunts America as African-Americans struggle for equality This is the election year in the US. However, when American cities were burning, the President - Donald Trump in Cape Canaveral to witness the launch of the SpaceX-NASA flight to the International Space Station. Protests in the United States | AFP While speaking at the facility, he declared - “mobs won’t call the shots”. He blamed "the radical left" ---for the violence. However, the protests did not simmer. In fact, right outside his residence - the White House, protesters were seen clashing with the secret service. After three years in power, Donald Trump is facing a pandemic, a protest, and an election. "When the looting starts, the shooting starts" On Friday, he called the protesters "thugs". Then he tweeted: when the looting starts, the shooting starts. These are the words of a former Miami police chief in the 1960s which spurred race riots in that decade. On Saturday - he wanted to unleash "the most vicious dogs, the most ominous weapons" on the protesters. He was talking about the crowd that had gathered outside the White House. Additionally, Trump wants to declare ANTIFA (the anti-fascist movement) a terrorist movement. However, the group doesn't have a leader, or a defined structure or any membership roles. It represents activists - who share similar philosophy and tactics and are usually far left and anti-fascist. Also read: Trump's America burns as protests spread like wildfire! The President, however, cannot officially designate the ANTIFA as terrorists. Firstly, it is impossible to know exactly how many people identify themselves as part of the “ANTIFA. Secondly, the United States does not have a domestic terrorism law. The law, as it exists right now - applies to foreign entities, and not domestic groups. Nonetheless, the President has made the pronouncements on Twitter. According to a report, Trump's own advisers are worried about his tweets, for they feel his content is “pouring fuel on an already incendiary situation". The Democrats have latched onto this. Joe Biden, his co-contender in the upcoming elections, is taking on Trump for these remarks.

Can Donald Trump actually label ANTIFA as a terrorist organisation?

America and its President leave no opportunity in commenting on the affairs of others. In offering mediation where none was sought. Now their own house is a mess.

America and its President leave no opportunity in commenting on the affairs of others. In offering mediation where none was sought. Now their own house is a mess. What is the world saying? Some are highlighting how just and equitable their own society is, others are using this turmoil to score propaganda points. Canada Prime minister Justin Trudeau, the epitome of political correctness says that many Canadians from diverse backgrounds are watching. He says anti-black racism is real and that the world must oppose it "unconscious bias," as the Canadian Prime minister said. He seems to have achieved some self-realisation during this lockdown. Trudeau himself was embroiled in allegations of racism last year. The controversy was front page news as Justin Trudeau performed wearing blackface makeup several times in his youth. Once in a turban and robes and at other times in an Afro wig, he had to apologise for this unconscious bias in his re-election bid. Turkey Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan put out a series of posts condemning George Floyd's death and on the racist and fascist approach of the US government. The President said Turkey always stands against all attacks on humanity and about how he will fight to protect the rights of all humanity. For Erdogan, charity seems to begin miles away and ends by the time it reaches home. Turkey has led a targeted campaign against the Kurds for years. Thousands of Kurds have been displaced by ongoing violence. Their human rights situation was the worst in 2019. Somebody who is targeting societies of perceived enemies should avoid giving sermons on human rights. Iran Iran's foreign minister Javad Zarif decided to be a little creative about it. He put out an edited version of a US State Department press release. Every mention of Iran's suppression was swapped with the United States. The caption had a hashtag attached world against racism. It indeed is the world against the treatment of blacks in America and it is against the treatment of women, homosexuals and Jews in Iran as rightly pointed out by Mike Pompeo. Russia The Russian foreign ministry said: "This incident is far from the first in a series of lawless conduct and unjustified violence by US law enforcement." It is the same country that tried to stifle pro-democracy protests last year. China China had a busy weekend and a lot to say. Hua Chun Ying is a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson. She shared a tweet by the US State Department about Hong Kong protests. The caption read: "I can't breathe." The last words of George Floyd. Hu Xijin --- the editor of the state-run Global Times also compared the unrest in the US to that in Hong Kong. He urged the US President to go talk to the demonstrators. Just like he urged Beijing to talk to Hong Kong rioters. In the end, neither Beijing nor Washington took his advice. In any case, anything coming out of China on human rights is preposterous. Their record is an unmitigated disaster. America deserves much criticism for what's happening. America's leaders who sit in judgment of others have failed miserably to walk the talk on equality, justice, and human rights but those living in glass houses like China and Iran shouldn't throw stones at others.

Countries around the world condemn racist attack in US

The United States of America is deeply divided and the superpower is burning. First, the pandemic killed more than one lakh people, then the economy began bleeding with the lockdown and now riots are spreading across the country.

The United States of America is deeply divided and the superpower is burning. First, the pandemic killed more than one lakh people, then the economy began bleeding with the lockdown and now riots are spreading across the country. The death of an unarmed black man in police custody has triggered violent mass protests. Public anger has exploded, much like a volcano. People are pouring out on the streets protesting. Many are marching peacefully. Many more, are indulging in violence and looting. They are clashing with the police. Social distancing is distant history. Large crowds are coming together. They are fighting the police with sticks and stones. New York is America's biggest coronavirus hotspot. It accounts for the highest number of deaths. On Saturday, a police car was set on fire. Protesters threw bricks and rocks at the police. In response, the police hit back with full force and brutality. They rammed a car into a group of protesters in Brooklyn. These scenes are not unique to New York. Similar stories are playing out across America. The black community, which is in minority says it has had enough. They are out on the streets. In the middle of a deadly pandemic and, they are demanding serious reforms, especially for the police force. This is not a war zone. This a high seat of power now overrun by angry Americans. It is near the White House with protesters burning fires and clashing with the police. As the violent protest erupted outside his home, America's commander in chief took refuge in an underground bunker in the White House. A facility that has been used to protect the president during terrorist attacks. Now he is hiding there from his own people as his country turns into a battleground. Make America great again, he said. Evidently, it hasn't gone as per plan. There were clashes in Portland. Stores were looted in Chicago. Thieves broke through the store entrance and grabbed whatever they could get their hands on from furniture to television sets. This is a political wildfire and the president is adding fuel through his tweets. Minneapolis-- where it began-- continues to burn. A tanker almost rammed into a group of protesters on a highway on Sunday. No protester was hurt but they overpowered the driver of the tanker. They beat him up and he suffered injuries. There are protestors of all descriptions. Some, as the president says, are thugs. Others are genuinely out for a cause. Whatever the motive, the issue is real and serious. Americans clashing with the police. Streets and cars are on fire. Stores are being looted. Journalists are being attacked. There's a complete breakdown of law and order. This is Trump's America for you, a superpower. With all its faultlines exposed. Its moral authority and credibility fast eroding.

Trump's America burns as protests spread

Should President Donald Trump and Twitter ultimately part ways, his campaign has a backup plan at the ready to get his voice out.&nbsp;

Tensions between Trump and the messaging platform escalated last week after Twitter began to label some of his tweets with a fact-check. Trump responded with an executive order that threatens to curtail some legal protections enjoyed by social media companies.

Trump’s campaign has been building an alternative channel for him for months, a smartphone app that aims to become a one-stop news, information and entertainment platform for his supporters, in part because of concerns that the president would lose access to the Twitter platform, said his campaign manager, Brad Parscale.

The Trump app, which was launched in April, has since often placed among the Top 10 in Apple's rankings of news apps, sometimes above those of individual news organizations such as CNN, the New York Times and Reuters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-considering-offering-citizenship-to-hong-kongers-amid-crisis-with-china-302621" hreflang="en">United States 'considering' offering citizenship to Hong Kongers amid crisis with China</a>

“We have always been worried about Twitter and Facebook taking us offline and this serves as a backup,” Parscale told Reuters.

He spoke before Twitter for the first time prompted readers to check the facts in Trump's tweets last week, warning that his claims about mail-in ballots were false and had been debunked by fact checkers.

For supporters, the new app is where they can get the latest campaign news, watch campaign-produced, prime-time shows hosted by Trump allies and earn reward points for making phone calls or signing people up for the app.

For the campaign, it is a pandemic-proof substitute to Trump's signature rallies, and a key tool to collect crucial data that can help micro-target voters ahead of November's election. Trump will face presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden in the Nov. 3 contest.

With millions of Americans stuck at home and campaign rallies paused due to the coronavirus, successful digital organizing can make a difference, digital strategists in both parties say.

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Signing into the app requires a cellphone number, which then allows the campaign to send the user regular text messages lauding Trump or asking for donations.

“The most important, golden thing in politics is a cellphone number," said Parscale, who ran Trump's digital efforts in 2016 before leading the 2020 campaign. “When we receive cellphone numbers, it really allows us to identify them across the databases. Who are they, voting history, everything."

Reward points that users can earn by getting other people to sign up for the app can be used to buy campaign gear or even score a meeting with Trump himself, the campaign said.&nbsp;

'Digital mousetrap'

Biden’s campaign has a phone app as well, where supporters can donate or volunteer, and text people directly with campaign messaging.

But unlike Trump's app, it provides little information, such as social media streams or news releases. Nor does it connect to the virtual campaign events Biden has been holding nearly daily during the coronavirus pandemic. The app is not ranked by Apple as among its 200 most popular for news.&nbsp;

The Biden campaign said it uses its app almost solely for organizing supporters, not for pushing content.&nbsp;

By contrast, according to Stefan Smith, a Democratic digital strategist who worked for Pete Buttigieg’s 2020 presidential campaign, the Trump app has created a “walled garden” or “digital mousetrap” where voters ideally stay as long as possible, interacting with the app’s steady stream of content.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/four-police-officers-shot-in-violent-protests-after-trump-vows-to-bring-in-us-military-302581" hreflang="en">Four police officers shot in violent protests after Trump vows to bring in US military</a>

"The Trump campaign is a media company with an electoral component," Smith said.&nbsp;

The Trump campaign hired Texas-based company Phunware to build the app.&nbsp;

If they so choose, users can rely on the app as a primary, if heavily filtered, information source, one where Trump’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic is championed and the economy is poised for a quick recovery and the federal probe into Trump's collusion with Russia was a politically motivated hoax.

Not included is less favorable coverage of the president. On Monday, the app contained a campaign statement framed like a news article that said Trump had been working to unite the county in the wake of nationwide protests over the police shooting of George Floyd in Minneapolis.

There was no mention of a combative conference call Trump had with U.S. governors in which he urged them to act more aggressively toward the protesters.

Bill Bigby, a Trump supporter in Scranton, Pennsylvania, said the app has now become his go-to source for the latest news.&nbsp;

"We have learned that you can’t trust anything the media says about Trump," Bigby, 56, said. "They just don’t like him."

Parscale said that was exactly the goal the campaign had in mind.

“I think everything we do is to counter the media,” Parscale said. “This is another tool in the tool shed to fight that fight, and it’s a big tool.”

Should President Donald Trump and Twitter ultimately part ways, his campaign has a backup plan at the ready to get his voice out. Tensions between Trump and the messaging platform escalated last week after Twitter began to label some of his tweets with a fact-check.

Should President Donald Trump and Twitter ultimately part ways, his campaign has a backup plan at the ready to get his voice out. Tensions between Trump and the messaging platform escalated last week after Twitter began to label some of his tweets with a fact-check. Trump responded with an executive order that threatens to curtail some legal protections enjoyed by social media companies. Trump’s campaign has been building an alternative channel for him for months, a smartphone app that aims to become a one-stop news, information and entertainment platform for his supporters, in part because of concerns that the president would lose access to the Twitter platform, said his campaign manager, Brad Parscale. The Trump app, which was launched in April, has since often placed among the Top 10 in Apple's rankings of news apps, sometimes above those of individual news organizations such as CNN, the New York Times and Reuters. Also read: United States 'considering' offering citizenship to Hong Kongers amid crisis with China “We have always been worried about Twitter and Facebook taking us offline and this serves as a backup,” Parscale told Reuters. He spoke before Twitter for the first time prompted readers to check the facts in Trump's tweets last week, warning that his claims about mail-in ballots were false and had been debunked by fact checkers. For supporters, the new app is where they can get the latest campaign news, watch campaign-produced, prime-time shows hosted by Trump allies and earn reward points for making phone calls or signing people up for the app. For the campaign, it is a pandemic-proof substitute to Trump's signature rallies, and a key tool to collect crucial data that can help micro-target voters ahead of November's election. Trump will face presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden in the Nov. 3 contest. With millions of Americans stuck at home and campaign rallies paused due to the coronavirus, successful digital organizing can make a difference, digital strategists in both parties say. Signing into the app requires a cellphone number, which then allows the campaign to send the user regular text messages lauding Trump or asking for donations. “The most important, golden thing in politics is a cellphone number," said Parscale, who ran Trump's digital efforts in 2016 before leading the 2020 campaign. “When we receive cellphone numbers, it really allows us to identify them across the databases. Who are they, voting history, everything." Reward points that users can earn by getting other people to sign up for the app can be used to buy campaign gear or even score a meeting with Trump himself, the campaign said. 'Digital mousetrap' Biden’s campaign has a phone app as well, where supporters can donate or volunteer, and text people directly with campaign messaging. But unlike Trump's app, it provides little information, such as social media streams or news releases. Nor does it connect to the virtual campaign events Biden has been holding nearly daily during the coronavirus pandemic. The app is not ranked by Apple as among its 200 most popular for news. The Biden campaign said it uses its app almost solely for organizing supporters, not for pushing content. By contrast, according to Stefan Smith, a Democratic digital strategist who worked for Pete Buttigieg’s 2020 presidential campaign, the Trump app has created a “walled garden” or “digital mousetrap” where voters ideally stay as long as possible, interacting with the app’s steady stream of content. Also read: Four police officers shot in violent protests after Trump vows to bring in US military "The Trump campaign is a media company with an electoral component," Smith said. The Trump campaign hired Texas-based company Phunware to build the app. If they so choose, users can rely on the app as a primary, if heavily filtered, information source, one where Trump’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic is championed and the economy is poised for a quick recovery and the federal probe into Trump's collusion with Russia was a politically motivated hoax. Not included is less favorable coverage of the president. On Monday, the app contained a campaign statement framed like a news article that said Trump had been working to unite the county in the wake of nationwide protests over the police shooting of George Floyd in Minneapolis. There was no mention of a combative conference call Trump had with U.S. governors in which he urged them to act more aggressively toward the protesters. Bill Bigby, a Trump supporter in Scranton, Pennsylvania, said the app has now become his go-to source for the latest news. "We have learned that you can’t trust anything the media says about Trump," Bigby, 56, said. "They just don’t like him." Parscale said that was exactly the goal the campaign had in mind. “I think everything we do is to counter the media,” Parscale said. “This is another tool in the tool shed to fight that fight, and it’s a big tool.”

With rallies halted and tweets fact-checked, Trump campaign turns to smartphone app

The United States has been embroiled in a series of protests after an African American man, George Floyd was killed by a police officer in Minneapolis. A reminder of police brutality against people of colour, the police action prompted a series of protests that have now gone global, with offshoots in cities like London.

The European Union recently expressed “shock” over the incident. Josep Borrell, a top EU diplomat called it an “abuse of power” and expressed disbelief at the police excesses involved in the case.

"Like the people of the United States, we are shocked and appalled by the death of George Floyd ... all societies must remain vigilant against the excessive use of force," Borrell told reporters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unrest-in-washington-a-total-disgrace-mobilizing-heavily-armed-military-to-stop-protests-trump-302497">Trump says he is mobilizing 'heavily armed' military to stop protests</a>

When Floyd was pinned down by an officer called&nbsp;Chauvin, he was heard on the tape saying “I can’t breathe, I can’t breathe, please”. The officer had knelt his knee on Floyd’s neck for over eight minutes, which led to his demise. He soon went into a cardiac arrest and was pronounced dead an hour later.

While referring to the incident, Borrell also referred to Floyd’s death as a “very unhappy” one.

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"We condemn racism of any kind ... we trust in the ability of the Americans to come together, to heal as a nation”, he added.

The video of Floyd’s arrest went viral. The 46-year-old man had gone to a store to buy cigarettes when the store incharge accused him of using a counterfeit 20 Dollar bill, after which the police got involved.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/four-police-officers-shot-in-violent-protests-after-trump-vows-to-bring-in-us-military-302581" hreflang="en">Four police officers shot in violent protests after Trump vows to bring in US military</a>

In the video, the police officer is visible clearly pinning his knee on the man’s neck, to which he was pleading against. Later, when he fell unconscious, the bystanders asked the officers to check his pulse, after which he was taken to a hospital.

Borrell also said,&nbsp;"All lives matter, black lives also matter."

Earlier on May 26, Borrell had claimed that the world was witnessing the end of a “US-led system” with rising concerns between the US and China, which many are calling the beginning of a cold war.

The United States is currently reeling from the effects of COVID-19, which has killed more 104,000 people in the country alone - the highest toll for any single nation.

(With inputs from Reuters)

The United States has been embroiled in a series of protests after an African American man, George Floyd was killed by a police officer in Minneapolis. A reminder of police brutality against people of colour, the police action prompted a series of protests that have now gone global, with offshoots in cities like London.

The United States has been embroiled in a series of protests after an African American man, George Floyd was killed by a police officer in Minneapolis. A reminder of police brutality against people of colour, the police action prompted a series of protests that have now gone global, with offshoots in cities like London. The European Union recently expressed “shock” over the incident. Josep Borrell, a top EU diplomat called it an “abuse of power” and expressed disbelief at the police excesses involved in the case. "Like the people of the United States, we are shocked and appalled by the death of George Floyd ... all societies must remain vigilant against the excessive use of force," Borrell told reporters. Also read: Trump says he is mobilizing 'heavily armed' military to stop protests When Floyd was pinned down by an officer called Chauvin, he was heard on the tape saying “I can’t breathe, I can’t breathe, please”. The officer had knelt his knee on Floyd’s neck for over eight minutes, which led to his demise. He soon went into a cardiac arrest and was pronounced dead an hour later. While referring to the incident, Borrell also referred to Floyd’s death as a “very unhappy” one. "We condemn racism of any kind ... we trust in the ability of the Americans to come together, to heal as a nation”, he added. The video of Floyd’s arrest went viral. The 46-year-old man had gone to a store to buy cigarettes when the store incharge accused him of using a counterfeit 20 Dollar bill, after which the police got involved. Also read: Four police officers shot in violent protests after Trump vows to bring in US military In the video, the police officer is visible clearly pinning his knee on the man’s neck, to which he was pleading against. Later, when he fell unconscious, the bystanders asked the officers to check his pulse, after which he was taken to a hospital. Borrell also said, "All lives matter, black lives also matter." Earlier on May 26, Borrell had claimed that the world was witnessing the end of a “US-led system” with rising concerns between the US and China, which many are calling the beginning of a cold war. The United States is currently reeling from the effects of COVID-19, which has killed more 104,000 people in the country alone - the highest toll for any single nation. (With inputs from Reuters)

EU 'shocked and appalled' by George Floyd's murder, calls it 'abuse of power'

Australia is investigating a US police attack on two Australian television journalists outside the White House, the foreign minister said Tuesday, expressing "strong concerns" about the assault caught live on camera. 
 
"We have asked the Australian embassy in Washington, DC to investigate this incident," Marise Payne said after the journalists were slammed with a riot shield, punched and hit with a baton while broadcasting from the protest.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/horrified-by-george-floyds-death-says-new-zealand-pm-jacinda-ardern-302598" hreflang="en">'Horrified' by George Floyd's death, says New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern</a> 
 
"I want to get further advice on how we would go about registering Australia's strong concerns with the responsible local authorities in Washington," she said, indicating a formal complaint would follow.&nbsp; 
 
Footage showed 7NEWS reporter Amelia Brace being clubbed with a truncheon and cameraman Tim Myers being hit with a riot shield and punched in the face by police clearing Washington's Lafayette Square of protesters on Monday. 
 
The journalists said they were later shot with rubber bullets and tear-gassed, which Brace said left the pair "a bit sore". 
 
The incident was widely broadcast in Australia, causing consternation in a country that has been a close US ally. 
 
US police -- with support from military personnel -- had forcibly cleared the square of peaceful protesters to allow President Donald Trump to leave the White House for a photo opportunity.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/four-police-officers-shot-in-violent-protests-after-trump-vows-to-bring-in-us-military-302581" hreflang="en">Four police officers shot in violent protests after Trump vows to bring in US military</a> 
 
Trump has faced fierce criticism for his handling of week-long protests over the death in custody of an unarmed African-American man in Minneapolis. 
 
George Floyd died after a white police officer knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes. 
 
In several cities, the demonstrations have spiralled into rioting, violent confrontations with police and looting, prompting National Guard deployments to around two dozen US states and strictly enforced curfews. 
 
Payne steered clear of criticising Trump directly,&nbsp;highlighting the delicate balancing act US allies face when registering unease with his administration. 
 
"This is obviously a very troubling period in the United States and a very tough period at so many levels," she told ABC radio. 
 
"We are always supportive of people's right to peaceful protest and we encourage all involved on both sides to exercise restraint and avoid violence." &nbsp;

Australia is investigating a US police attack on two Australian television journalists outside the White House, the foreign minister said Tuesday, expressing "strong concerns" about the assault caught live on camera.

Australia is investigating a US police attack on two Australian television journalists outside the White House, the foreign minister said Tuesday, expressing "strong concerns" about the assault caught live on camera. "We have asked the Australian embassy in Washington, DC to investigate this incident," Marise Payne said after the journalists were slammed with a riot shield, punched and hit with a baton while broadcasting from the protest. Also read: 'Horrified' by George Floyd's death, says New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern "I want to get further advice on how we would go about registering Australia's strong concerns with the responsible local authorities in Washington," she said, indicating a formal complaint would follow. Footage showed 7NEWS reporter Amelia Brace being clubbed with a truncheon and cameraman Tim Myers being hit with a riot shield and punched in the face by police clearing Washington's Lafayette Square of protesters on Monday. The journalists said they were later shot with rubber bullets and tear-gassed, which Brace said left the pair "a bit sore". The incident was widely broadcast in Australia, causing consternation in a country that has been a close US ally. US police -- with support from military personnel -- had forcibly cleared the square of peaceful protesters to allow President Donald Trump to leave the White House for a photo opportunity. Also read: Four police officers shot in violent protests after Trump vows to bring in US military Trump has faced fierce criticism for his handling of week-long protests over the death in custody of an unarmed African-American man in Minneapolis. George Floyd died after a white police officer knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes. In several cities, the demonstrations have spiralled into rioting, violent confrontations with police and looting, prompting National Guard deployments to around two dozen US states and strictly enforced curfews. Payne steered clear of criticising Trump directly, highlighting the delicate balancing act US allies face when registering unease with his administration. "This is obviously a very troubling period in the United States and a very tough period at so many levels," she told ABC radio. "We are always supportive of people's right to peaceful protest and we encourage all involved on both sides to exercise restraint and avoid violence."

Australia probes US police assault on its journalists

Former US Vice President Joe Biden decried the use of force by US President&nbsp;Donald Trump as an mere attempt&nbsp;"for a photo."

Trump spurred fresh outrage Monday after police used tear gas to clear protesters from outside the White House so he could pose for photographs at a nearby church damaged during civil unrest.

<img alt="Trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5d03c3cf-4870-42ee-8959-0c9af0d7d0cf" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2828%29_9.jpg" /> 
US&nbsp;President Donald Trump talks to reporters as he holds a Bible during a photo opportunity in front of St. John's Episcopal Church in the midst of ongoing protests over racial inequality in the wake of the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis police custody, outside the White House in Washington, US, June 1, 2020|REUTERS

The move earned him a sharp rebuke from the city mayor, the Episcopal bishop, and leading Democrats.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unrest-in-washington-a-total-disgrace-mobilizing-heavily-armed-military-to-stop-protests-trump-302497" hreflang="en">Trump says he is mobilizing 'heavily armed' military to stop protests</a>

Biden, the presumptive Democratic presidential candidate in the November election, slammed Trump for "using the American military against the American people," after the president vowed to order an army crackdown on the sweeping civil unrest.

"He tear-gassed peaceful protesters and fired rubber bullets. For a photo," Biden tweeted late Monday. "For our children, for the very soul of our country, we must defeat him."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
He's using the American military against the American people. 
 
He tear-gassed peaceful protesters and fired rubber bullets. 
 
For a photo. 
 
For our children, for the very soul of our country, we must defeat him. But I mean it when I say this: we can only do it together. <a href="https://t.co/G1yE67q9Nz">https://t.co/G1yE67q9Nz</a>
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1267634400080117761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Biden also announced he would speak Tuesday in Philadelphia "on the civil unrest facing communities across America."

Trump's visit to the historic St John's Church, across the street from the White House came after he delivered an address denouncing vandalism that has followed anti-racism protests that have gripped the country for a week.&nbsp;

As he spoke, law enforcement, including military police, could be seen firing tear gas to clear peaceful protesters in Lafayette Park, outside the White House, so the president could walk over to the church.

"We have a great country," Trump declared just outside the Episcopal church, where he held up a Bible. He did not answer questions from reporters before leaving again.&nbsp;

Former US Vice President Joe Biden decried the use of force by US President Donald Trump as an mere attempt "for a photo." Trump spurred fresh outrage Monday after police used tear gas to clear protesters from outside the White House so he could pose for photographs at a nearby church damaged during civil unrest.

Former US Vice President Joe Biden decried the use of force by US President Donald Trump as an mere attempt "for a photo." Trump spurred fresh outrage Monday after police used tear gas to clear protesters from outside the White House so he could pose for photographs at a nearby church damaged during civil unrest. US President Donald Trump talks to reporters as he holds a Bible during a photo opportunity in front of St. John's Episcopal Church in the midst of ongoing protests over racial inequality in the wake of the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis police custody, outside the White House in Washington, US, June 1, 2020|REUTERS The move earned him a sharp rebuke from the city mayor, the Episcopal bishop, and leading Democrats. Also read: Trump says he is mobilizing 'heavily armed' military to stop protests Biden, the presumptive Democratic presidential candidate in the November election, slammed Trump for "using the American military against the American people," after the president vowed to order an army crackdown on the sweeping civil unrest. "He tear-gassed peaceful protesters and fired rubber bullets. For a photo," Biden tweeted late Monday. "For our children, for the very soul of our country, we must defeat him." He's using the American military against the American people. He tear-gassed peaceful protesters and fired rubber bullets. For a photo. For our children, for the very soul of our country, we must defeat him. But I mean it when I say this: we can only do it together. https://t.co/G1yE67q9Nz — Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) June 2, 2020 × Biden also announced he would speak Tuesday in Philadelphia "on the civil unrest facing communities across America." Trump's visit to the historic St John's Church, across the street from the White House came after he delivered an address denouncing vandalism that has followed anti-racism protests that have gripped the country for a week. As he spoke, law enforcement, including military police, could be seen firing tear gas to clear peaceful protesters in Lafayette Park, outside the White House, so the president could walk over to the church. "We have a great country," Trump declared just outside the Episcopal church, where he held up a Bible. He did not answer questions from reporters before leaving again.

Biden rebukes Trump's photo op in front of riot-damaged church

Four St Louis police officers were hit by gunfire late on Monday during violent protests over the death of a black man in police custody, hours after President Donald Trump vowed to use the US&nbsp;military to halt the spreading clashes.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unrest-in-washington-a-total-disgrace-mobilizing-heavily-armed-military-to-stop-protests-trump-302497">Trump says he is mobilizing 'heavily armed' military to stop protests</a>

Trump deepened outrage by posing at a church clutching a bible after law enforcement officers used teargas and rubber bullets to clear the way for him to walk there after he made his remarks in the White House Rose Garden.

<img alt="Donald Trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2addd040-6e98-4d0e-b654-a0d429e8ce48" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2829%29_6.jpg" /> 
US&nbsp;President Donald Trump talks to reporters as he holds a Bible during a photo opportunity in front of St. John's Episcopal Church in the midst of ongoing protests over racial inequality in the wake of the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis police custody, outside the White House in Washington, US, June 1, 2020. (Image Courtesy: REUTERS)

Demonstrators set fire to a strip mall in Los Angeles, looted stores in New York City and clashed with police in St Louis, Missouri, where four officers were taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

<img alt="US" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e4d22007-b931-455e-b471-9666bceca7d9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2830%29_7.jpg" /> 
People climb into a damaged store during a protest against the death in Minneapolis police custody of George Floyd, in the Manhattan borough of New York City, US, June 1, 2020|&nbsp;REUTERS

"Officers are still taking gunfire downtown &amp; we will share more info as it available," St Louis Police said on Twitter.

Trump has condemned the killing of George Floyd, a 46-year-old African American who died after a white policeman pinned his neck under a knee for nearly nine minutes in Minneapolis on May 25, and has promised justice. But he said rightful protests could not be drowned out by an "angry mob".

"Mayors and governors must establish an overwhelming law enforcement presence until the violence has been quelled," Trump said. "If a city or state refuses to take the actions that are necessary to defend the life and property of their residents, then I will deploy the United States military and quickly solve the problem for them."

Following his address, Trump walked through an area that had been cleared by police to nearby St. John's Episcopal Church, where he posed for pictures with his daughter, Ivanka, and U.S. Attorney General William Barr.

The presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church diocese in Washington D. C., Michael Curry, was among those who criticized Trump's use of the historic church for a photo opportunity.

"In so doing, he used a church building and the Holy Bible for partisan political purposes," he said on Twitter. The church suffered minor fire damage during protests on Monday night.

The White House said it was clearing the area before a curfew.

A few hours later, thousands of people marched through Brooklyn, shouting "Justice now!" while cars drove alongside, some drivers honking in support.

Television images showed crowds smashing windows and looting luxury stores along Fifth Avenue in Manhattan before the city's 11 p.m. curfew. Mayor Bill de Blasio said the curfew would be moved to 8 p.m. on Tuesday.

Two police officers were struck by a car at a demonstration in Buffalo, New York, on Monday night. Officials said the driver and passengers were believed to be in custody. It was not immediately clear whether the incident was intentional.

Four St Louis police officers were hit by gunfire late on Monday during violent protests over the death of a black man in police custody, hours after President Donald Trump vowed to use the US military to halt the spreading clashes.

Four St Louis police officers were hit by gunfire late on Monday during violent protests over the death of a black man in police custody, hours after President Donald Trump vowed to use the US military to halt the spreading clashes. Also read: Trump says he is mobilizing 'heavily armed' military to stop protests Trump deepened outrage by posing at a church clutching a bible after law enforcement officers used teargas and rubber bullets to clear the way for him to walk there after he made his remarks in the White House Rose Garden. US President Donald Trump talks to reporters as he holds a Bible during a photo opportunity in front of St. John's Episcopal Church in the midst of ongoing protests over racial inequality in the wake of the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis police custody, outside the White House in Washington, US, June 1, 2020. (Image Courtesy: REUTERS) Demonstrators set fire to a strip mall in Los Angeles, looted stores in New York City and clashed with police in St Louis, Missouri, where four officers were taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. People climb into a damaged store during a protest against the death in Minneapolis police custody of George Floyd, in the Manhattan borough of New York City, US, June 1, 2020| REUTERS "Officers are still taking gunfire downtown & we will share more info as it available," St Louis Police said on Twitter. Trump has condemned the killing of George Floyd, a 46-year-old African American who died after a white policeman pinned his neck under a knee for nearly nine minutes in Minneapolis on May 25, and has promised justice. But he said rightful protests could not be drowned out by an "angry mob". "Mayors and governors must establish an overwhelming law enforcement presence until the violence has been quelled," Trump said. "If a city or state refuses to take the actions that are necessary to defend the life and property of their residents, then I will deploy the United States military and quickly solve the problem for them." Following his address, Trump walked through an area that had been cleared by police to nearby St. John's Episcopal Church, where he posed for pictures with his daughter, Ivanka, and U.S. Attorney General William Barr. The presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church diocese in Washington D. C., Michael Curry, was among those who criticized Trump's use of the historic church for a photo opportunity. "In so doing, he used a church building and the Holy Bible for partisan political purposes," he said on Twitter. The church suffered minor fire damage during protests on Monday night. The White House said it was clearing the area before a curfew. A few hours later, thousands of people marched through Brooklyn, shouting "Justice now!" while cars drove alongside, some drivers honking in support. Television images showed crowds smashing windows and looting luxury stores along Fifth Avenue in Manhattan before the city's 11 p.m. curfew. Mayor Bill de Blasio said the curfew would be moved to 8 p.m. on Tuesday. Two police officers were struck by a car at a demonstration in Buffalo, New York, on Monday night. Officials said the driver and passengers were believed to be in custody. It was not immediately clear whether the incident was intentional.

Four police officers shot in violent protests after Trump vows to bring in US military

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam accused foreign governments on Tuesday of "double standards" in their reaction to Beijing's plans to impose national security laws on the city, pointing to anti-police brutality protests in the United States.

Semi-autonomous&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;has been rocked by months of huge and often violent pro-democracy protests over the past year, which riot police have stamped out with more than 9,000 arrests.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-rioters-have-infiltrated-american-states-china-hits-out-at-us-over-george-floyd-protests-302318">'Hong Kong rioters have infiltrated American states': China hits out at US over George Floyd protests</a>

Washington has been critical of&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's response to the demonstrations with US President Donald Trump last week vowing to end the city's special trading status after Beijing announced plans to impose a sweeping national security law on the business hub.

In her first public appearance after Washington said it will remove Hong Kong's preferential treatment in US&nbsp;law in response to Beijing's plans, Lam warned countries threatening actions against the city that they may hurt their own interests.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-warns-us-to-stop-interfering-calls-withdrawing-special-us-status-double-edged-sword-301695">Hong Kong warns US to stop interfering; calls withdrawing special US status double-edged sword</a>

"They are very concerned about their own national security, but on our national security...they look through tinted glasses," Lam told a weekly news conference.

"In the US., we see how the riots were being handled by the local governments, compared to the stance they adopted when almost the same riots happened in Hong Kong last year."

"We have seen most clearly in recent weeks the double standards that are around," Lam, who was selected as city leader by a pro-Beijing committee, told reporters.

"You know there are riots in the United States and we see how local governments reacted. And then in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong, when we had similar riots, we saw what position they adopted then."

Both Chinese and&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;officials have seized on the unrest gripping the US in their propaganda drive to justify their own crackdown on pro-democracy protests and the national security law plans.

Having lost patience with Hong Kong after large-scale and often-violent pro-democracy protests in the Chinese-ruled city last year, Beijing authorities last month advanced plans to introduce laws tackling secession, subversion, terrorism and foreign interference.

The laws could also see Chinese intelligence agencies set up shop in the global financial hub.

U.S. President Donald Trump, saying Hong Kong was no longer sufficiently autonomous from Beijing as promised at the time of the 1997 handover of the territory by Britain, said Hong Kong will no longer be treated differently from China in U.S. law.

Hong Kong and Beijing authorities insist rights and freedoms will be preserved, remarks echoed by Lam on Tuesday. She said "public concerns" about the legislation were understandable as a draft was yet to be finalised.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam accused foreign governments on Tuesday of "double standards" in their reaction to Beijing's plans to impose national security laws on the city, pointing to anti-police brutality protests in the United States.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam accused foreign governments on Tuesday of "double standards" in their reaction to Beijing's plans to impose national security laws on the city, pointing to anti-police brutality protests in the United States. Semi-autonomous Hong Kong has been rocked by months of huge and often violent pro-democracy protests over the past year, which riot police have stamped out with more than 9,000 arrests. Also read: 'Hong Kong rioters have infiltrated American states': China hits out at US over George Floyd protests Washington has been critical of Hong Kong's response to the demonstrations with US President Donald Trump last week vowing to end the city's special trading status after Beijing announced plans to impose a sweeping national security law on the business hub. In her first public appearance after Washington said it will remove Hong Kong's preferential treatment in US law in response to Beijing's plans, Lam warned countries threatening actions against the city that they may hurt their own interests. Also read: Hong Kong warns US to stop interfering; calls withdrawing special US status double-edged sword "They are very concerned about their own national security, but on our national security...they look through tinted glasses," Lam told a weekly news conference. "In the US., we see how the riots were being handled by the local governments, compared to the stance they adopted when almost the same riots happened in Hong Kong last year." "We have seen most clearly in recent weeks the double standards that are around," Lam, who was selected as city leader by a pro-Beijing committee, told reporters. "You know there are riots in the United States and we see how local governments reacted. And then in Hong Kong, when we had similar riots, we saw what position they adopted then." Both Chinese and Hong Kong officials have seized on the unrest gripping the US in their propaganda drive to justify their own crackdown on pro-democracy protests and the national security law plans. Having lost patience with Hong Kong after large-scale and often-violent pro-democracy protests in the Chinese-ruled city last year, Beijing authorities last month advanced plans to introduce laws tackling secession, subversion, terrorism and foreign interference. The laws could also see Chinese intelligence agencies set up shop in the global financial hub. U.S. President Donald Trump, saying Hong Kong was no longer sufficiently autonomous from Beijing as promised at the time of the 1997 handover of the territory by Britain, said Hong Kong will no longer be treated differently from China in U.S. law. Hong Kong and Beijing authorities insist rights and freedoms will be preserved, remarks echoed by Lam on Tuesday. She said "public concerns" about the legislation were understandable as a draft was yet to be finalised.

Hong Kong leader accuses US of 'double standards' over protests

As protests raged outside the White House over the killing of George Floyd on Friday night, US President Donald Trump was rushed to a special secure bunker be the Secret Service agents.

Floyd’s death in police custody in Minneapolis on Monday has sparked protests in several cities across the US, including Washington DC.&nbsp;

As protesters converged on the White House on Friday, the New York Times report said, “Secret Service agents abruptly rushed the president to the underground bunker used in the past during terrorist attacks.”

Hardened to withstand the force of a passenger jet crashing into the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-will-not-invoke-control-of-national-guard-amid-protests-advisor-302196">White House</a>, the bunker is the same one that sheltered vice president Dick Cheney during the terror attacks of September 11, 2001. “The president and his family were rattled by their experience on Friday night, according to several advisers,” the Times report said.

The US president has been widely criticized for his response to the protests that have rocked the nation since video of Floyd’s death began spreading on social media.

Trump has not addressed the nation since the protests and has repeatedly sent inflammatory messages over Twitter.

Late on Friday, Trump tweeted that protesters could have been attacked with “vicious dogs and ominous weapons” wielded by the US Secret Service and accused the DC mayor for supposedly not providing police to protect the White House.

“They let the ‘protesters’ <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/george-floyd-protests-spread-far-and-wide-at-least-25-us-cities-impose-curfew-302194">scream and rant</a> as much as they wanted, but whenever someone got too frisky or out of line, they would quickly come down on them, hard – didn’t know what hit them,” Trump said.

“If they had [breached the fence],” the president continued, “they would have been greeted with the most vicious dogs, and most ominous weapons, I have ever seen. That’s when people would have been really badly hurt, at least.”

As protests raged outside the White House over the killing of George Floyd on Friday night, US President Donald Trump was rushed to a special secure bunker be the Secret Service agents.

As protests raged outside the White House over the killing of George Floyd on Friday night, US President Donald Trump was rushed to a special secure bunker be the Secret Service agents. Floyd’s death in police custody in Minneapolis on Monday has sparked protests in several cities across the US, including Washington DC. As protesters converged on the White House on Friday, the New York Times report said, “Secret Service agents abruptly rushed the president to the underground bunker used in the past during terrorist attacks.” Hardened to withstand the force of a passenger jet crashing into the White House, the bunker is the same one that sheltered vice president Dick Cheney during the terror attacks of September 11, 2001. “The president and his family were rattled by their experience on Friday night, according to several advisers,” the Times report said. The US president has been widely criticized for his response to the protests that have rocked the nation since video of Floyd’s death began spreading on social media. Trump has not addressed the nation since the protests and has repeatedly sent inflammatory messages over Twitter. Late on Friday, Trump tweeted that protesters could have been attacked with “vicious dogs and ominous weapons” wielded by the US Secret Service and accused the DC mayor for supposedly not providing police to protect the White House. “They let the ‘protesters’ scream and rant as much as they wanted, but whenever someone got too frisky or out of line, they would quickly come down on them, hard – didn’t know what hit them,” Trump said. “If they had [breached the fence],” the president continued, “they would have been greeted with the most vicious dogs, and most ominous weapons, I have ever seen. That’s when people would have been really badly hurt, at least.”

Trump was 'rushed to underground bunker' as protests raged outside White House: Report

The country worst-hit from novel coronavirus, the United States recorded 598 new deaths on Sunday, taking the overall toll to 104,356, according to Johns Hopkins University's tally.

The total number of COVID-19 cases in the country rose to 1,788,762, far more than any other country. as per the tally at 8:30 pm (0030 GMT Monday).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/curfew-imposed-in-40-cities-including-washington-dc-as-protests-spread-across-us-302235">Curfew imposed in 40 cities including Washington DC as protests spread across US</a>

The US is far from recovering from the virus and protests, violence in the last few days over the killing of a black man allegedly by a police officer has rocked the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tanker-truck-drives-into-george-floyd-protests-in-minneapolis-driver-handed-over-to-police-302238">Tanker truck drives into George Floyd protests in Minneapolis; driver handed over to police</a>

Major cities in the country were put under curfew as violence escalated across the country, with several reports of arson, looting, vandalism, and clashes between police and protesters.&nbsp;

The protests erupted after last Monday a shocking video surfaced which showed an unarmed black man George Floyd getting killed in Minneapolis by a police officer who knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes.&nbsp;

Initially, the demonstrations were limited to Minneapolis, but afterward, it reached across the country, where protesters demanded justice for the black man.

However, large-scale incidents of violence, looting, and building set on fire were also reported, which led to the imposition of curfew in many areas.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, after cutting off ties with World Health Organization, US President Donald Trump on Saturday said that he will skip the G7 meeting scheduled for June, saying that it's an "outdated group of countries".

Trump said he would invite Russia, South Korea, Australia, and India to attend the G7 Summit in the fall.&nbsp;

(With inputs from AFP) 
&nbsp;

The country worst-hit from novel coronavirus, the United States recorded 598 new deaths on Sunday, taking the overall toll to 104,356, according to Johns Hopkins University's tally.

The country worst-hit from novel coronavirus, the United States recorded 598 new deaths on Sunday, taking the overall toll to 104,356, according to Johns Hopkins University's tally. The total number of COVID-19 cases in the country rose to 1,788,762, far more than any other country. as per the tally at 8:30 pm (0030 GMT Monday). Also read | Curfew imposed in 40 cities including Washington DC as protests spread across US The US is far from recovering from the virus and protests, violence in the last few days over the killing of a black man allegedly by a police officer has rocked the country. Also read | Tanker truck drives into George Floyd protests in Minneapolis; driver handed over to police Major cities in the country were put under curfew as violence escalated across the country, with several reports of arson, looting, vandalism, and clashes between police and protesters. The protests erupted after last Monday a shocking video surfaced which showed an unarmed black man George Floyd getting killed in Minneapolis by a police officer who knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes. Initially, the demonstrations were limited to Minneapolis, but afterward, it reached across the country, where protesters demanded justice for the black man. However, large-scale incidents of violence, looting, and building set on fire were also reported, which led to the imposition of curfew in many areas. Meanwhile, after cutting off ties with World Health Organization, US President Donald Trump on Saturday said that he will skip the G7 meeting scheduled for June, saying that it's an "outdated group of countries". Trump said he would invite Russia, South Korea, Australia, and India to attend the G7 Summit in the fall. (With inputs from AFP)

US records nearly 600 new coronavirus deaths as Minneapolis killing intensifies violence across country

The Kremlin on Monday rejected accusations it had played any role in protests rocking the United States, after former US&nbsp;National Security Advisor Susan Rice raised the possibility of Russian involvement.&nbsp;

Unrest has swept US&nbsp;cities since last week, after peaceful protests over the death of a black man in the custody of a white police officer turned violent. On Saturday Rice told CNN that fostering violence at protests was "right out of the Russian playbook".

"We see it all the time, we've seen it for years and frankly every day on social media where they take any painful divisive issue....and they play on both sides," she said. "Their aim is to divide us, to cause us to come into combat with each other, and to disintegrate from within."

"I would not be surprised to learn they have fomented some of these extremists on both sides using social media. I wouldn't be surprised to learn that they are funding it in some way, shape or form and that's something that we need to take seriously."

Asked about Rice's comments, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "We have never interfered in international affairs and we don't intend to interfere now."

"Any insinuations that have been mentioned are absolutely wrong, erroneous, and, as far as we understand, such insinuations can in no way reflect Washington's official position," said Peskov.

Russia has previously denied U.S. allegations it meddled in the 2016 presidential election to try to help Donald Trump get elected and says it is keen to try to rebuild battered ties with Washington.

The Kremlin on Monday rejected accusations it had played any role in protests rocking the United States, after former US National Security Advisor Susan Rice raised the possibility of Russian involvement.

The Kremlin on Monday rejected accusations it had played any role in protests rocking the United States, after former US National Security Advisor Susan Rice raised the possibility of Russian involvement. Unrest has swept US cities since last week, after peaceful protests over the death of a black man in the custody of a white police officer turned violent. On Saturday Rice told CNN that fostering violence at protests was "right out of the Russian playbook". "We see it all the time, we've seen it for years and frankly every day on social media where they take any painful divisive issue....and they play on both sides," she said. "Their aim is to divide us, to cause us to come into combat with each other, and to disintegrate from within." "I would not be surprised to learn they have fomented some of these extremists on both sides using social media. I wouldn't be surprised to learn that they are funding it in some way, shape or form and that's something that we need to take seriously." Asked about Rice's comments, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "We have never interfered in international affairs and we don't intend to interfere now." "Any insinuations that have been mentioned are absolutely wrong, erroneous, and, as far as we understand, such insinuations can in no way reflect Washington's official position," said Peskov. Russia has previously denied U.S. allegations it meddled in the 2016 presidential election to try to help Donald Trump get elected and says it is keen to try to rebuild battered ties with Washington.

Kremlin rejects idea floated by Obama-era security advisor it stoked US protests

Facebook employees critical of CEO Mark Zuckerberg's decision not to remove&nbsp;an inflammatory comment from U.S. President Donald Trump took their dissent public over the weekend on Twitter, praising the rival social media firm for taking action and rebuking their own employer.

Many tech workers at companies including Facebook, Google and Amazon have become active on social justice issues in recent years and urged their employers take action and change policies.&nbsp;

Still, the criticism of Zuckerberg marked a rare case of high-level employees publicly taking their own CEO to task, with at least three of the seven critical posts seen by Reuters coming from people who identified themselves as senior managers.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/facebook-will-not-be-arbiters-of-truth-says-zuckerberg-after-trump-threat-301827" hreflang="en">Facebook will not be 'arbiters of truth', says Zuckerberg after Trump threat</a>

“Mark is wrong, and I will endeavor in the loudest possible way to change his mind," wrote Ryan Freitas, whose Twitter account identifies him as director of product design for Facebook’s News Feed. He added he had mobilized "50+ likeminded folks" to lobby for internal change.

Jason Toff, identified as director of product management, wrote: "I work at Facebook and I am not proud of how we’re showing up. The majority of coworkers I’ve spoken to feel the same way. We are making our voice heard."

Facebook did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the employee dissent.

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Twitter on Friday hid a tweet from Trump that included the phrase "when the looting starts, the shooting starts" behind a warning label. It explained the tweet violated Twitter's rules against "glorifying violence" but was being left up as a "public service exception."&nbsp;

Facebook declined to take action on the same message, with Zuckerberg saying in a Facebook post on Friday that while he found the remarks "deeply offensive," the company decided they did not violate its policy against "incitements to violence."

Some of the dissenting employees directly praised Twitter's response.

"Respect to @Twitter’s integrity team for making the enforcement call," wrote David Gillis, identified as a director of product design. In a long Twitter thread he said he understood the logic of Facebook's decision, but said: "I think it would have been right for us to make a 'spirit of the policy' exception that took more context into account."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/facebook-plans-to-shift-to-work-from-home-lesser-salary-packages-expected-300372" hreflang="en">Facebook plans to shift to work-from-home; lesser salary packages expected</a>

Toff was one of several Facebook employees who were organizing fundraisers for non-profit groups assisting protesters in Minnesota. Zuckerberg said in a Facebook post early Monday that the company would contribute an additional $10 million to social justice causes.&nbsp;

"Giving a platform to incite violence and spread disinformation is unacceptable, regardless who you are or if it’s newsworthy," wrote another Facebook manager, Andrew Crow, head of design for the Portal product. "I disagree with Mark’s position and will work to make change happen."

Facebook employees critical of CEO Mark Zuckerberg's decision not to remove an inflammatory comment from U.S. President Donald Trump took their dissent public over the weekend on Twitter, praising the rival social media firm for taking action and rebuking their own employer.

Facebook employees critical of CEO Mark Zuckerberg's decision not to remove an inflammatory comment from U.S. President Donald Trump took their dissent public over the weekend on Twitter, praising the rival social media firm for taking action and rebuking their own employer. Many tech workers at companies including Facebook, Google and Amazon have become active on social justice issues in recent years and urged their employers take action and change policies. Still, the criticism of Zuckerberg marked a rare case of high-level employees publicly taking their own CEO to task, with at least three of the seven critical posts seen by Reuters coming from people who identified themselves as senior managers. Also read: Facebook will not be 'arbiters of truth', says Zuckerberg after Trump threat “Mark is wrong, and I will endeavor in the loudest possible way to change his mind," wrote Ryan Freitas, whose Twitter account identifies him as director of product design for Facebook’s News Feed. He added he had mobilized "50+ likeminded folks" to lobby for internal change. Jason Toff, identified as director of product management, wrote: "I work at Facebook and I am not proud of how we’re showing up. The majority of coworkers I’ve spoken to feel the same way. We are making our voice heard." Facebook did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the employee dissent. Twitter on Friday hid a tweet from Trump that included the phrase "when the looting starts, the shooting starts" behind a warning label. It explained the tweet violated Twitter's rules against "glorifying violence" but was being left up as a "public service exception." Facebook declined to take action on the same message, with Zuckerberg saying in a Facebook post on Friday that while he found the remarks "deeply offensive," the company decided they did not violate its policy against "incitements to violence." Some of the dissenting employees directly praised Twitter's response. "Respect to @Twitter’s integrity team for making the enforcement call," wrote David Gillis, identified as a director of product design. In a long Twitter thread he said he understood the logic of Facebook's decision, but said: "I think it would have been right for us to make a 'spirit of the policy' exception that took more context into account." Also read: Facebook plans to shift to work-from-home; lesser salary packages expected Toff was one of several Facebook employees who were organizing fundraisers for non-profit groups assisting protesters in Minnesota. Zuckerberg said in a Facebook post early Monday that the company would contribute an additional $10 million to social justice causes. "Giving a platform to incite violence and spread disinformation is unacceptable, regardless who you are or if it’s newsworthy," wrote another Facebook manager, Andrew Crow, head of design for the Portal product. "I disagree with Mark’s position and will work to make change happen."

Facebook's Zuckerberg faces employee blowback over ruling on Trump comments

'Anonymous', a group of hacktivists that has remained silent in recent years returned on May 31&nbsp;claiming to be more expressive. The group has raised cyberwar against the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) after the death&nbsp;of George Floyd.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitters-blue-bird-goes-black-to-show-solidarity-with-protestors-in-the-us-302400" hreflang="en">Twitter’s blue bird goes black to show solidarity with protestors in the US</a>

Protests erupted in at least 30 US cities over the death of George Floyd at the hands of a police officer in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The police officer had allegedly knelt on his neck until he stopped breathing.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-supremacists-or-antifa-or-multiple-theories-float-on-who-caused-violence-in-us-302348" hreflang="en">White supremacists or Antifa or _ ? Multiple theories float on who caused violence in US</a>

The video was posted by Anonymous' Facebook account and has been making rounds on the internet.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://t.co/wy2aUwhaUD">pic.twitter.com/wy2aUwhaUD</a>
— MARIO//JUSTICE FOR GEORGE FLOYD (@HennyOnMyLips) <a href="https://twitter.com/HennyOnMyLips/status/1266855370699476994?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In the video, a figure appears that says: “Police brutality and murder is a widespread problem in the United States, which has undoubtedly infected nearly every jurisdiction in the country. But, the Minneapolis police department is among the worst and has a horrible track record of violence and corruption. This week’s brutal killing of George Floyd, which has sparked protests and national outrage, is just the tip of the iceberg in a long list of high profile cases of wrongful deaths at the hands of officers in your state.”

Through some tweets, Anonymous has also threatened to leak all the 'proofs' against &nbsp;Donald Trump, Jeffery Epstein, Princess Diana's death, the Royal Family, Bill Gates, Naomi Campbell's involvement, and many more.

After these posts, the group has been deleting these accounts and disappearing from social media platforms. &nbsp;

Ever since the threat, the Minneapolis Police Department's website has reportedly been showing signs of a hack.&nbsp;

Another night of unrest in every corner of the United States left the country charred and shattered. The death of George Floyd after his arrest on Monday has triggered a tide of protests in the country, unleashing long-simmering rage over racial bias in the US criminal justice system.

Some rallies have turned violent as demonstrators blocked traffic, set fires and clashed with riot police, some of whom fired tear gas and plastic bullets to restore order.

'Anonymous', a group of hacktivists that has remained silent in recent years returned on May 31 claiming to be more expressive. The group has raised cyberwar against the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) after the death of George Floyd.

'Anonymous', a group of hacktivists that has remained silent in recent years returned on May 31 claiming to be more expressive. The group has raised cyberwar against the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) after the death of George Floyd. Also read: Twitter’s blue bird goes black to show solidarity with protestors in the US Protests erupted in at least 30 US cities over the death of George Floyd at the hands of a police officer in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The police officer had allegedly knelt on his neck until he stopped breathing. Also read: White supremacists or Antifa or _ ? Multiple theories float on who caused violence in US The video was posted by Anonymous' Facebook account and has been making rounds on the internet. pic.twitter.com/wy2aUwhaUD — MARIO//JUSTICE FOR GEORGE FLOYD (@HennyOnMyLips) May 30, 2020 × In the video, a figure appears that says: “Police brutality and murder is a widespread problem in the United States, which has undoubtedly infected nearly every jurisdiction in the country. But, the Minneapolis police department is among the worst and has a horrible track record of violence and corruption. This week’s brutal killing of George Floyd, which has sparked protests and national outrage, is just the tip of the iceberg in a long list of high profile cases of wrongful deaths at the hands of officers in your state.” Through some tweets, Anonymous has also threatened to leak all the 'proofs' against Donald Trump, Jeffery Epstein, Princess Diana's death, the Royal Family, Bill Gates, Naomi Campbell's involvement, and many more. After these posts, the group has been deleting these accounts and disappearing from social media platforms. Ever since the threat, the Minneapolis Police Department's website has reportedly been showing signs of a hack. Another night of unrest in every corner of the United States left the country charred and shattered. The death of George Floyd after his arrest on Monday has triggered a tide of protests in the country, unleashing long-simmering rage over racial bias in the US criminal justice system. Some rallies have turned violent as demonstrators blocked traffic, set fires and clashed with riot police, some of whom fired tear gas and plastic bullets to restore order.

'Anonymous': Hacktivists launch cyberwar against Minneapolis Police Department over George Floyd's murder

At a time when the United States is burning because of the unrest triggered by the murder of a black man, several theories are being floated over who instigated violence, arson, looting, and vandalism.&nbsp;

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, who earlier blamed white supremacists and outsiders to create chaos on the state, on Sunday said, "We have reason to believe that bad actors continue to infiltrate the rightful protests of George Floyd’s murder, which is why we are extending the curfew by one day".

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We have reason to believe that bad actors continue to infiltrate the rightful protests of George Floyd’s murder, which is why we are extending the curfew by one day.
— Governor Tim Walz (@GovTimWalz) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovTimWalz/status/1267132906595631104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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A senior police official in New York City said that anarchists had planned to start the mischief even before the protests erupted, through encrypted communication to raise bail money and recruit medics, New York Times reported.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-records-nearly-600-new-coronavirus-deaths-as-minneapolis-killing-intensifies-violence-across-country-302256">US records nearly 600 new coronavirus deaths as Minneapolis killing intensifies violence across country</a>

"They prepared to commit property damage and directed people who were following them that this should be done selectively and only in wealthier areas or at high-end stores run by corporate entities," the cop told reporters in a telephone briefing.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/curfew-imposed-in-40-cities-including-washington-dc-as-protests-spread-across-us-302235">Curfew imposed in 40 cities including Washington DC as protests spread across US</a>

However, Keith Ellison, Minnesota’s attorney general suggested that nobody still knows who instigated or committed the act on NBC’s 'Meet the Press'.

"There’s been a lot of videotape taken by demonstrators of people who are very suspicious, who really did start breaking windows," he said.

The Trump administration blamed the radical left-wing organisation Antifa for the chaos and aims to declare it as a terrorist organisation.

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The United States of America will be designating ANTIFA as a Terrorist Organization.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1267129644228247552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Antifa, a short name for ant-fascist, has earlier also been accused of vandalism.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

At a time when the United States is burning because of the unrest triggered by the murder of a black man, several theories are being floated over who instigated violence, arson, looting, and vandalism.

At a time when the United States is burning because of the unrest triggered by the murder of a black man, several theories are being floated over who instigated violence, arson, looting, and vandalism. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, who earlier blamed white supremacists and outsiders to create chaos on the state, on Sunday said, "We have reason to believe that bad actors continue to infiltrate the rightful protests of George Floyd’s murder, which is why we are extending the curfew by one day". We have reason to believe that bad actors continue to infiltrate the rightful protests of George Floyd’s murder, which is why we are extending the curfew by one day. — Governor Tim Walz (@GovTimWalz) May 31, 2020 × A senior police official in New York City said that anarchists had planned to start the mischief even before the protests erupted, through encrypted communication to raise bail money and recruit medics, New York Times reported. Also read | US records nearly 600 new coronavirus deaths as Minneapolis killing intensifies violence across country "They prepared to commit property damage and directed people who were following them that this should be done selectively and only in wealthier areas or at high-end stores run by corporate entities," the cop told reporters in a telephone briefing. Also read | Curfew imposed in 40 cities including Washington DC as protests spread across US However, Keith Ellison, Minnesota’s attorney general suggested that nobody still knows who instigated or committed the act on NBC’s 'Meet the Press'. "There’s been a lot of videotape taken by demonstrators of people who are very suspicious, who really did start breaking windows," he said. The Trump administration blamed the radical left-wing organisation Antifa for the chaos and aims to declare it as a terrorist organisation. The United States of America will be designating ANTIFA as a Terrorist Organization. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 31, 2020 × Antifa, a short name for ant-fascist, has earlier also been accused of vandalism.

White supremacists or Antifa or _ ? Multiple theories float on who caused violence in US

The war of words between China and the United States has intensified with Beijing now warning of strong countermeasures against any move that damages China's interests. Watch the WION ground report from Hong Kong.

China slams US: US drafting sanctions on Chinese firms

The &nbsp;‘Boone City bargain’ and the ‘ Emerald City consensus’- allegorical and metaphorical references to post-Cold War frameworks or bargains- &nbsp;were the defining features of American political life, according to the American scholar of scholars and the writer of writers, &nbsp;Professor Andrew Bacevich in his lucid, eminently readable and very engaging book, ‘ The Age of Illusions: How America &nbsp;Squandered its Post-Cold War Victory’. The former, emerging out of the context of the Second World War, defined by certain sobriety, was where freedom had a moral foundation and the latter, incubated in the post-Cold War context was characterized by four intersecting ideas: neoliberal globalization and its spread and advancement, a militarized quest for leadership or hegemony, akin to a post-colonial form of an empire, a presidency that was quasi monarchical and a conception of ‘freedom, an ancient word now drastically revised. The new conception of freedom emphasized autonomy, with traditional moral prohibitions declared obsolete and the removal of constraints maximizing choice. Order and abundance together would underwrite freedom relieving Americans of existential concerns about safety and survival’.

This American idea and conception of modernity was to be transplanted across the world in the service of American interests, holds Professor Bacevich. Each of the elements undergirding the ‘Emerald City Consensus’ was encouraged by academics and journalists – aka Francis Fukuyamas and Thomas Friedman’s of the world- connected to Washington, the former by way of ‘boosterism’- that is intellectual and philosophical gloss referred to as ‘The End of History’, where American inspired democracy and capitalism were the only game in town- and the latter by giving the ‘Emerald City Consensus’ the simulated sheen and framework of coherence. This consensus was validated and reinforced by each of the Post-Cold War presidents, ranging from Bill Clinton, to George Bush Jr and finally Barack Obama, in varying contexts, permutations ad combinations.

While these bargains were riven by contradictions, which inhered in them, and the subsurface anxieties that these generated were pointed out by intellectuals and writers but because they lacked clout, these alarm bells were ignored. Incubating under the cover or patina of the post-Cold War ‘ Emerald City Consensus’ was massive inequality and an assault to democracy, whose early portents were insurgent presidential candidates, Pat Buchanan, Ross Perot and even Hillary Clinton( not a presidential candidate then but an aspirant to power through her husband, Bill Clinton). These inchoate trends were obscured by the seeming transfer of the baton of power to a younger, new generation of politicians.

Beneath the surface, America was changing and had changed, a fact that became painfully evident in 2016 and emblematized by-elections that year. This had to do with the paradoxes of privilege and inequality that undercut democracy. As Professor Bacevich posits, ‘ in a nation that had once prided itself on being immune to class distinctions- simply being American sufficed as identity-such distinctions were becoming omnipresent. ‘On a daily basis, tens of millions of Americans were enduring what one writer called “financial impotence” according to Professor Bacevich. ‘ In the 2016 election, financial impotence was to turn into political outrage , bringing the post-Cold war era to an abrupt end’.

The implication here is that the elements undergirding the Emerald city consensus created conditions propitious for Donald Trump’s rise to US presidency who turned the election into a plebiscite.&nbsp;

Trump’ ascendancy, a metaphor for the malaises identified by Professor Bacevich, was greeted with howls of protest and continues to be done so by mainstream American media. But, according to the good professor, ‘obsessing about Trump, impeded efforts to understand what his election actually signified, diverting attention from matters of far greater relevance to the wellbeing of the United States and the planet as a whole. It was Obama mania turned inside out and magnified’. ‘ What the president’s most prominent opponents have yet to appreciate, according to Professor Bacevich, is that the Emerald City consensus is as defunct as the Boone City consensus that preceded it. They confuse cause for effect. They charge him with dividing America when, in fact, it was a pervasive division that vaulted him to the centre of American politics in the first place’. &nbsp;Assessing this in a grim tone, Professor Bacevich adds, ‘Trump did not create this cleavage. He merely turned it to his advantage. So regardless of the date or terms of Trump’s departure from office, the schism that allowed him to become president is likely to persist after he is gone. It’s that schism […] that merits more attention than it has received’. All in all, asserts Professor Bacevich, ‘Trump’s America did not differ appreciably from pre-Trump America. While a noxious and venal die-hard, the president turned out not to be the disruptive force that his critics have charged him with being’.

Amidst all this, the hat has accrued, according to Professor Bacevich, is that that the West has lost its claim to primacy and, ‘no less important is the fact that belief in the inherent superiority of Western civilization has now become politically and morally unacceptable’.

Calling attention to the American political establishment’s aversion or inability to brook dissent, Professor Bacevich points out to the need of enlarging the discussion now and developing a new consensus and even social contact around issues like Climate change. ‘Around this’ new conception of citizenship can emerge and also an enlightened notion of leadership’. Implying that this potential change will not be top-down, Professor Bacevich leaves the proverbial ball for this to crystallize in the court of the American people. The alternative, too bleak to countenance, can lead to ‘ even something worse than Trump’

All in all, Professor Andrew Bacevich’s book is a lucid and brilliant exposition of what ails America and the deeper, underlying sources of Trump’s ascent to power. &nbsp;The good professor articulates a trenchant critique of the post-war American establishment and what in his schema are and have been its warped preferences-conceptually and in policy terms. While his overall assessment is suggestive or reflective of his political preference-that of conservativism, laced with religious beliefs, these instead of detracting from his core arguments add weight to his overall thesis. But the analysis is more or less monofocal, at times, devolving into mere polemic. Moreover, Professor Bacevich, while delineating the core elements of the ‘ Emerald City consensus’ elides over the context of some foreign policy goals of the United States. For example, the bombings in Yugoslavia were not motivated by some fetish over militarism by the grid lock at the UN Security council and other structural and contextual factors. Similarly, globalization, in its pure form may not be an unalloyed good but surely it has lifted millions out of poverty worldwide.

The rise of China, in some senses, accrues from globalization. Last but not the least, while rallying around climate change is a laudable and noble objective, and a clarion but it implies the United States retreating into itself. The world of states is a ruthless one defined by the quest for power and its maximization. Where would a retreat leave the United States and its allies? While professor Bacevich alludes to ‘enlightened leadership’, he is curiously silent on its nature and content. However, &nbsp;by its very nature, ‘The Age of Illusions: How America Squandered its Cold War Victory’ constitutes essential reading for all those who seek to understand the trajectory of this peculiar nation after the second world war, during and after the Cold War. While it should be of immense interest to policymakers, policy intellectuals, and anyone interested in a fairer, just world, its ultimate readership should be the American people, upon who may rest the future of their nation and by extension that of the world. It is then time a real and robust conversation inspired by the eminent Professor Bacevich should begin!

&nbsp;(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) .&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The ‘Boone City bargain’ and the ‘ Emerald City consensus’- allegorical and metaphorical references to post-Cold War frameworks or bargains- were the defining features of American political life, according to the American scholar of scholars and the writer of writers, Professor Andrew Bacevich in his lucid, eminently readable and very engaging book, ‘ The Age of Illusions: How America Squandered its Post-Cold War Victory’.

The ‘Boone City bargain’ and the ‘ Emerald City consensus’- allegorical and metaphorical references to post-Cold War frameworks or bargains- were the defining features of American political life, according to the American scholar of scholars and the writer of writers, Professor Andrew Bacevich in his lucid, eminently readable and very engaging book, ‘ The Age of Illusions: How America Squandered its Post-Cold War Victory’. The former, emerging out of the context of the Second World War, defined by certain sobriety, was where freedom had a moral foundation and the latter, incubated in the post-Cold War context was characterized by four intersecting ideas: neoliberal globalization and its spread and advancement, a militarized quest for leadership or hegemony, akin to a post-colonial form of an empire, a presidency that was quasi monarchical and a conception of ‘freedom, an ancient word now drastically revised. The new conception of freedom emphasized autonomy, with traditional moral prohibitions declared obsolete and the removal of constraints maximizing choice. Order and abundance together would underwrite freedom relieving Americans of existential concerns about safety and survival’. This American idea and conception of modernity was to be transplanted across the world in the service of American interests, holds Professor Bacevich. Each of the elements undergirding the ‘Emerald City Consensus’ was encouraged by academics and journalists – aka Francis Fukuyamas and Thomas Friedman’s of the world- connected to Washington, the former by way of ‘boosterism’- that is intellectual and philosophical gloss referred to as ‘The End of History’, where American inspired democracy and capitalism were the only game in town- and the latter by giving the ‘Emerald City Consensus’ the simulated sheen and framework of coherence. This consensus was validated and reinforced by each of the Post-Cold War presidents, ranging from Bill Clinton, to George Bush Jr and finally Barack Obama, in varying contexts, permutations ad combinations. While these bargains were riven by contradictions, which inhered in them, and the subsurface anxieties that these generated were pointed out by intellectuals and writers but because they lacked clout, these alarm bells were ignored. Incubating under the cover or patina of the post-Cold War ‘ Emerald City Consensus’ was massive inequality and an assault to democracy, whose early portents were insurgent presidential candidates, Pat Buchanan, Ross Perot and even Hillary Clinton( not a presidential candidate then but an aspirant to power through her husband, Bill Clinton). These inchoate trends were obscured by the seeming transfer of the baton of power to a younger, new generation of politicians. Beneath the surface, America was changing and had changed, a fact that became painfully evident in 2016 and emblematized by-elections that year. This had to do with the paradoxes of privilege and inequality that undercut democracy. As Professor Bacevich posits, ‘ in a nation that had once prided itself on being immune to class distinctions- simply being American sufficed as identity-such distinctions were becoming omnipresent. ‘On a daily basis, tens of millions of Americans were enduring what one writer called “financial impotence” according to Professor Bacevich. ‘ In the 2016 election, financial impotence was to turn into political outrage , bringing the post-Cold war era to an abrupt end’. The implication here is that the elements undergirding the Emerald city consensus created conditions propitious for Donald Trump’s rise to US presidency who turned the election into a plebiscite. Trump’ ascendancy, a metaphor for the malaises identified by Professor Bacevich, was greeted with howls of protest and continues to be done so by mainstream American media. But, according to the good professor, ‘obsessing about Trump, impeded efforts to understand what his election actually signified, diverting attention from matters of far greater relevance to the wellbeing of the United States and the planet as a whole. It was Obama mania turned inside out and magnified’. ‘ What the president’s most prominent opponents have yet to appreciate, according to Professor Bacevich, is that the Emerald City consensus is as defunct as the Boone City consensus that preceded it. They confuse cause for effect. They charge him with dividing America when, in fact, it was a pervasive division that vaulted him to the centre of American politics in the first place’. Assessing this in a grim tone, Professor Bacevich adds, ‘Trump did not create this cleavage. He merely turned it to his advantage. So regardless of the date or terms of Trump’s departure from office, the schism that allowed him to become president is likely to persist after he is gone. It’s that schism […] that merits more attention than it has received’. All in all, asserts Professor Bacevich, ‘Trump’s America did not differ appreciably from pre-Trump America. While a noxious and venal die-hard, the president turned out not to be the disruptive force that his critics have charged him with being’. Amidst all this, the hat has accrued, according to Professor Bacevich, is that that the West has lost its claim to primacy and, ‘no less important is the fact that belief in the inherent superiority of Western civilization has now become politically and morally unacceptable’. Calling attention to the American political establishment’s aversion or inability to brook dissent, Professor Bacevich points out to the need of enlarging the discussion now and developing a new consensus and even social contact around issues like Climate change. ‘Around this’ new conception of citizenship can emerge and also an enlightened notion of leadership’. Implying that this potential change will not be top-down, Professor Bacevich leaves the proverbial ball for this to crystallize in the court of the American people. The alternative, too bleak to countenance, can lead to ‘ even something worse than Trump’ All in all, Professor Andrew Bacevich’s book is a lucid and brilliant exposition of what ails America and the deeper, underlying sources of Trump’s ascent to power. The good professor articulates a trenchant critique of the post-war American establishment and what in his schema are and have been its warped preferences-conceptually and in policy terms. While his overall assessment is suggestive or reflective of his political preference-that of conservativism, laced with religious beliefs, these instead of detracting from his core arguments add weight to his overall thesis. But the analysis is more or less monofocal, at times, devolving into mere polemic. Moreover, Professor Bacevich, while delineating the core elements of the ‘ Emerald City consensus’ elides over the context of some foreign policy goals of the United States. For example, the bombings in Yugoslavia were not motivated by some fetish over militarism by the grid lock at the UN Security council and other structural and contextual factors. Similarly, globalization, in its pure form may not be an unalloyed good but surely it has lifted millions out of poverty worldwide. The rise of China, in some senses, accrues from globalization. Last but not the least, while rallying around climate change is a laudable and noble objective, and a clarion but it implies the United States retreating into itself. The world of states is a ruthless one defined by the quest for power and its maximization. Where would a retreat leave the United States and its allies? While professor Bacevich alludes to ‘enlightened leadership’, he is curiously silent on its nature and content. However, by its very nature, ‘The Age of Illusions: How America Squandered its Cold War Victory’ constitutes essential reading for all those who seek to understand the trajectory of this peculiar nation after the second world war, during and after the Cold War. While it should be of immense interest to policymakers, policy intellectuals, and anyone interested in a fairer, just world, its ultimate readership should be the American people, upon who may rest the future of their nation and by extension that of the world. It is then time a real and robust conversation inspired by the eminent Professor Bacevich should begin! (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) .

The Age of illusions: How America squandered its cold war victory

The United States, which has already seen the worst of coronavirus crisis and still struggling to contain the deaths and infections, is now seeing widespread violence following the death of an unarmed black man in Minneapolis.

And in such a tense situation, where on one hand, incidents of police brutality are reported, there are also stories where the cops are leading by an example to let protesters continue peaceful demonstrations and helping them too.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-records-nearly-600-new-coronavirus-deaths-as-minneapolis-killing-intensifies-violence-across-country-302256">US records nearly 600 new coronavirus deaths as Minneapolis killing intensifies violence across country</a>

A Twitter user posted a video reportedly of Georgia where protesters were shouting slogans, 'Walk with us', and the cops were seen marching peacefully with the crowd.&nbsp;

A similar video was also shared in which New Jersey police were seen walking with the protesters.

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In New Jersey police have literally started marching with protesters.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BLACK_LIVES_MATTER?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BLACK_LIVES_MATTER</a> 
<a href="https://t.co/w6FJ3qowUG">pic.twitter.com/w6FJ3qowUG</a>
— Joshua Potash (@JoshuaPotash) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoshuaPotash/status/1266895422397779968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;Another video is gaining a lot of attention where policemen were seen kneeling down on the ground and shaking hands with people in Oakland, California.&nbsp;

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It’s a start.. ✊🏾This just happened live, Oakland,CA <a href="https://t.co/Ufeait0ovP">pic.twitter.com/Ufeait0ovP</a>
— Maria (@mmaarriiaab) <a href="https://twitter.com/mmaarriiaab/status/1267325971163561984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Take a look at these posts shared by users showing the soft side of the police.&nbsp;

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Genesee County Sheriff (Flint, Michigan) Chris Swanson put down his helmet and baton and asked protesters how he could help. 
 
The protesters chanted "walk with us" so the Sheriff joined — and walked alongside the protesters in solidarity. 
 
Leadership.🌎❤️ <a href="https://t.co/Vs3941C2o8">pic.twitter.com/Vs3941C2o8</a>
— Rex Chapman🏇🏼 (@RexChapman) <a href="https://twitter.com/RexChapman/status/1267107339833925634?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

&nbsp;

However, several reports also claimed of police's high-handed actions, most recently of the two NYPD cars ramming into a crowd of protesters in Brooklyn.&nbsp;

In Atlanta, policemen implementing a curfew stopped two college students driving a car, shot Tasers at them,and dragged them out of their vehicle, the New York Times reported.&nbsp;

The protests erupted in Minneapolis and then spread across the country after a video surfaced last Monday that showed a black man George Floyd pleading as a police officer knelt on his neck for several minutes following which Floyd was killed.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The United States, which has already seen the worst of coronavirus crisis and still struggling to contain the deaths and infections, is now seeing widespread violence following the death of an unarmed black man in Minneapolis.

The United States, which has already seen the worst of coronavirus crisis and still struggling to contain the deaths and infections, is now seeing widespread violence following the death of an unarmed black man in Minneapolis. And in such a tense situation, where on one hand, incidents of police brutality are reported, there are also stories where the cops are leading by an example to let protesters continue peaceful demonstrations and helping them too. Also read | US records nearly 600 new coronavirus deaths as Minneapolis killing intensifies violence across country A Twitter user posted a video reportedly of Georgia where protesters were shouting slogans, 'Walk with us', and the cops were seen marching peacefully with the crowd. A similar video was also shared in which New Jersey police were seen walking with the protesters. In New Jersey police have literally started marching with protesters.#BLACK_LIVES_MATTER pic.twitter.com/w6FJ3qowUG — Joshua Potash (@JoshuaPotash) May 31, 2020 × Another video is gaining a lot of attention where policemen were seen kneeling down on the ground and shaking hands with people in Oakland, California. It’s a start.. ✊🏾This just happened live, Oakland,CA pic.twitter.com/Ufeait0ovP — Maria (@mmaarriiaab) June 1, 2020 × Take a look at these posts shared by users showing the soft side of the police. Genesee County Sheriff (Flint, Michigan) Chris Swanson put down his helmet and baton and asked protesters how he could help. The protesters chanted "walk with us" so the Sheriff joined — and walked alongside the protesters in solidarity. Leadership.🌎❤️ pic.twitter.com/Vs3941C2o8 — Rex Chapman🏇🏼 (@RexChapman) May 31, 2020 × However, several reports also claimed of police's high-handed actions, most recently of the two NYPD cars ramming into a crowd of protesters in Brooklyn. In Atlanta, policemen implementing a curfew stopped two college students driving a car, shot Tasers at them,and dragged them out of their vehicle, the New York Times reported. The protests erupted in Minneapolis and then spread across the country after a video surfaced last Monday that showed a black man George Floyd pleading as a police officer knelt on his neck for several minutes following which Floyd was killed.

Amid widespread anger over police brutality, some cops win hearts in US

U.S. President Donald Trump on Saturday (May 30) pledged that his "administration will stop mob violence, and will stop it cold."

Donald Trump: My administration will stop mob violence and will stop it cold

US President Donald Trump has announced that he would have to postpone a Group of Seven summit (G7 summit) until September or later, although he had hoped to hold it next month.

"I'm postponing it because I don't feel that as a G7 it properly represents what's going on in the world," Trump said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protestors-would-have-met-vicious-dogs-had-white-house-fence-been-breached-trump-302056">Also read:&nbsp;Protestors would have met 'vicious dogs' had White House fence been breached: Trump</a>

He also declared his intention of expanding the list of invitees and include Australia, Russia, South Korea and India. The original list of invitees has members that are the world's most advanced economies. However, Trump believes the list is&nbsp;a "very outdated group of countries" in its current format.

While the intention of expanding the guest list for this meeting has been made clear, it is still unclear if the change will be a permanent change or not. On several previous occasions, he suggested Russia be added given what he described as Moscow's global strategic importance.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-resumes-human-spaceflight-from-us-soil-with-historic-spacex-launch-302070">Also read:&nbsp;NASA resumes human spaceflight from US soil with historic SpaceX launch</a>

White House spokeswoman Alyssa Farah said Trump wants the countries to discuss China at the summit.

Donald Trump has endorsed the idea of in-person G7 Summit&nbsp;as, critics&nbsp;believe, this gives him a chance to showcase how US has handled the pandemic and is back to normalcy. French President Emmanuel Macron backed the idea of an in-person meeting, according to the White House.

However, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau declined to endorse it, saying there were too many health-related questions. German Chancellor Angela Merkel said earlier this week she could not attend.

US President Donald Trump has announced that he would have to postpone a Group of Seven summit (G7 summit) until September or later, although he had hoped to hold it next month.

US President Donald Trump has announced that he would have to postpone a Group of Seven summit (G7 summit) until September or later, although he had hoped to hold it next month. "I'm postponing it because I don't feel that as a G7 it properly represents what's going on in the world," Trump said. Also read: Protestors would have met 'vicious dogs' had White House fence been breached: Trump He also declared his intention of expanding the list of invitees and include Australia, Russia, South Korea and India. The original list of invitees has members that are the world's most advanced economies. However, Trump believes the list is a "very outdated group of countries" in its current format. While the intention of expanding the guest list for this meeting has been made clear, it is still unclear if the change will be a permanent change or not. On several previous occasions, he suggested Russia be added given what he described as Moscow's global strategic importance. Also read: NASA resumes human spaceflight from US soil with historic SpaceX launch White House spokeswoman Alyssa Farah said Trump wants the countries to discuss China at the summit. Donald Trump has endorsed the idea of in-person G7 Summit as, critics believe, this gives him a chance to showcase how US has handled the pandemic and is back to normalcy. French President Emmanuel Macron backed the idea of an in-person meeting, according to the White House. However, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau declined to endorse it, saying there were too many health-related questions. German Chancellor Angela Merkel said earlier this week she could not attend.

Trump postpones G7 Summit; talks about inviting India

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