The United States recorded 865 new deaths in just 24 hours due the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worldwide-lockdown-hardens-as-spain-sees-deadliest-day-289699">coronavirus</a> epidemic with the number of confirmed cases surging to 188,547, according to Johns Hopkins coronavirus resource centre.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-global-cases-cross-800000-death-toll-rises-to-40636-289725">Also Read: Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 800000; death toll rises to 40,636</a>

The US death toll rose from 3,008 at 8:30pm EST on Monday to 3,873 at 8.30pm EST on Tuesday.

As the death toll in the US rose, President Trump said the country should be prepared for painful two weeks.

Watch Video:

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"This is going to be a very painful, a very, very painful two weeks," Trump said at the White House, adding," "I want every American to be prepared for the hard days that lie ahead."

Trump said COVID-19 is not a regular flu, asserting: "Ride it out, don't do anything, just ride it out and think of it as the flu," they said, according to Trump, who said: "But it's not the flu. It is vicious."

"It's absolutely critical for the American people to follow the guidelines for the next 30 days. It's a matter of life and death," the US president added.

Trump informed that 2.2 million people could have died, according to the modeling figures, if no mitigation efforts had been put into place.

The United States recorded 865 new deaths in just 24 hours due the coronavirus epidemic with the number of confirmed cases surging to 188,547, according to Johns Hopkins coronavirus resource centre.

The United States recorded 865 new deaths in just 24 hours due the coronavirus epidemic with the number of confirmed cases surging to 188,547, according to Johns Hopkins coronavirus resource centre. Also Read: Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 800000; death toll rises to 40,636 The US death toll rose from 3,008 at 8:30pm EST on Monday to 3,873 at 8.30pm EST on Tuesday. As the death toll in the US rose, President Trump said the country should be prepared for painful two weeks. Watch Video: "This is going to be a very painful, a very, very painful two weeks," Trump said at the White House, adding," "I want every American to be prepared for the hard days that lie ahead." Trump said COVID-19 is not a regular flu, asserting: "Ride it out, don't do anything, just ride it out and think of it as the flu," they said, according to Trump, who said: "But it's not the flu. It is vicious." "It's absolutely critical for the American people to follow the guidelines for the next 30 days. It's a matter of life and death," the US president added. Trump informed that 2.2 million people could have died, according to the modeling figures, if no mitigation efforts had been put into place.

Follow COVID-19 guidelines for next 30 days, it's a matter of life and death: Trump tells Americans

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/explained-us-president-donald-trumps-misplaced-priorities-289696">Donald Trump </a>has asked Americans to brace for a painful period ahead, but even he doesn't know how long it's going to last.

The Presidential elections are scheduled to take place in about 7 months from today and the campaign trail has already seen major disruption.

Rallies, town hall meetings and public events have been cancelled. Over a dozen Democratic primaries have been delayed.

Given <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/follow-covid-19-guidelines-for-next-30-days-its-a-matter-of-life-and-death-trump-tells-americans-289801">the situation at hand</a>, holding the election will be a herculean task. This is the time when the election campaign should have hit fever pitch, but now it has all gone cold!

Democrats still don't have a candidate to take on Trump. Democratic primaries across 14 states have been delayed.

The latest being New York, which was scheduled to hold it at the end of April, but now it has been pushed to the end of June.

Other states have expanded vote by mail, citing the difficulty of holding elections. Republicans, meanwhile, &nbsp;are still assessing the President's response to the crisis.

Donald Trump's biggest rival right now is not Joe Biden or even Bernie Sanders, but the Wuhan coronavirus. It's threatening the fundamentals of the Presidential election process.

Elections in America have been delayed because of emergencies in the past, but only at the state and local level.

The 9/11 terror attacks of 2001 came on the morning of a municipal primary election in the New York City. It was postponed by 2 weeks. In 2017, Municipal elections in Florida were briefly delayed because of Hurricane Irma. But never has the presidential election been postponed.

The date of the general election is set by the US Federal law and it has been fixed since the year 1845. To change election dates, the federal law will have to be changed which would need legislation enacted by the US Congress and signed by the President.

Furthermore, the American Constitution mandates that the new President’s term must begin on January 20. The US law doesn’t allow a President to stay in office after January 20 even in the case of a national emergency.

Trump initially underplayed the severity of the coronavirus, sparred with governors over their requests for medical supplies and floated the idea of reopening the economy against the advice of public health officials. But he shifted course to back extending the shutdown measures to slow the spread of the virus. 
 
According to a Reuters/Ipsos opinion poll released on Tuesday, the coronavirus had rattled the entire country, with 89 per cent&nbsp;saying they were “very” or “somewhat” concerned by the respiratory disease.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Donald Trump has asked Americans to brace for a painful period ahead, but even he doesn't know how long it's going to last. The Presidential elections are scheduled to take place in about 7 months from today and the campaign trail has already seen major disruption.

US President Donald Trump has asked Americans to brace for a painful period ahead, but even he doesn't know how long it's going to last. The Presidential elections are scheduled to take place in about 7 months from today and the campaign trail has already seen major disruption. Rallies, town hall meetings and public events have been cancelled. Over a dozen Democratic primaries have been delayed. Given the situation at hand, holding the election will be a herculean task. This is the time when the election campaign should have hit fever pitch, but now it has all gone cold! Democrats still don't have a candidate to take on Trump. Democratic primaries across 14 states have been delayed. The latest being New York, which was scheduled to hold it at the end of April, but now it has been pushed to the end of June. Other states have expanded vote by mail, citing the difficulty of holding elections. Republicans, meanwhile, are still assessing the President's response to the crisis. Donald Trump's biggest rival right now is not Joe Biden or even Bernie Sanders, but the Wuhan coronavirus. It's threatening the fundamentals of the Presidential election process. Elections in America have been delayed because of emergencies in the past, but only at the state and local level. The 9/11 terror attacks of 2001 came on the morning of a municipal primary election in the New York City. It was postponed by 2 weeks. In 2017, Municipal elections in Florida were briefly delayed because of Hurricane Irma. But never has the presidential election been postponed. The date of the general election is set by the US Federal law and it has been fixed since the year 1845. To change election dates, the federal law will have to be changed which would need legislation enacted by the US Congress and signed by the President. Furthermore, the American Constitution mandates that the new President’s term must begin on January 20. The US law doesn’t allow a President to stay in office after January 20 even in the case of a national emergency. Trump initially underplayed the severity of the coronavirus, sparred with governors over their requests for medical supplies and floated the idea of reopening the economy against the advice of public health officials. But he shifted course to back extending the shutdown measures to slow the spread of the virus. According to a Reuters/Ipsos opinion poll released on Tuesday, the coronavirus had rattled the entire country, with 89 per cent saying they were “very” or “somewhat” concerned by the respiratory disease. (With inputs from agencies)

Will coronavirus outbreak force a postponement of US Presidential elections?

Famous politicians who got tested for or have contracted coronavirus

The President of the United States of America, Donald Trump, spent two months denying that the coronavirus was a serious threat.

He let the beaches in Florida function as usual and the restaurants in Texas serve beer and steak. The country has the highest number of active cases in the world and counting. The confirmed number is likely to soar when tests for the virus become more widespread.

The United States is facing an emergency of epic proportions. With over 60,000 cases, every hospital in New York is filled to the brim with coronavirus patients. It's equally bad in the 213 cities across America.&nbsp;

The world's richest country has run out of masks - 91.5 per cent of American cities do not have an adequate supply of face-masks for first responders, 92.1 per cent do not have adequate test-kits, 85 per cent do not have ventilators and 62.4 per cent have not received any emergency equipment or supplies from their state. 
 
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Officials in states hard hit by the pandemic have pleaded with the Trump administration and manufacturers to speed up the production of ventilators to cope with a surge in patients struggling to breathe

The safety of every American is under threat, but the US President is busy celebrating his astounding TV ratings. In a series of tweets, he compared the ratings of his official briefings to primetime sitcoms.&nbsp;&nbsp;

From downplaying the virus, Trump has now got down to normalising the pandemic. This indifference and willful neglect could spell catastrophe for an already struggling United States of America. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The President of the United States of America, Donald Trump, spent two months denying that the coronavirus was a serious threat. He let the beaches in Florida function as usual and the restaurants in Texas serve beer and steak.

The President of the United States of America, Donald Trump, spent two months denying that the coronavirus was a serious threat. He let the beaches in Florida function as usual and the restaurants in Texas serve beer and steak. The country has the highest number of active cases in the world and counting. The confirmed number is likely to soar when tests for the virus become more widespread. The United States is facing an emergency of epic proportions. With over 60,000 cases, every hospital in New York is filled to the brim with coronavirus patients. It's equally bad in the 213 cities across America. The world's richest country has run out of masks - 91.5 per cent of American cities do not have an adequate supply of face-masks for first responders, 92.1 per cent do not have adequate test-kits, 85 per cent do not have ventilators and 62.4 per cent have not received any emergency equipment or supplies from their state. WATCH: × Officials in states hard hit by the pandemic have pleaded with the Trump administration and manufacturers to speed up the production of ventilators to cope with a surge in patients struggling to breathe The safety of every American is under threat, but the US President is busy celebrating his astounding TV ratings. In a series of tweets, he compared the ratings of his official briefings to primetime sitcoms. From downplaying the virus, Trump has now got down to normalising the pandemic. This indifference and willful neglect could spell catastrophe for an already struggling United States of America. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: US President Donald Trump's misplaced priorities

President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin discussed plunging oil prices and the coronavirus pandemic Monday, the Kremlin said, as Trump said Moscow is pressing for an end to US sanctions.

The two "expressed serious concern regarding the scope of the spread of the coronavirus" and "discussed closer cooperation," a brief Kremlin statement said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-delays-reforms-vote-holds-back-on-tough-virus-measures-288549">Putin delays reforms vote, holds back on tough virus measures</a>

Trump announced he'd be using the call to raise objections over a Russian-Saudi price war driving down world oil prices and "really hurting" the US energy industry.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/800000-us-physicians-ask-trump-not-to-lift-social-distancing-restrictions-289462">800,000 US physicians ask Trump not to lift 'social distancing' restrictions</a>

"We don’t want to have a dead industry," Trump told Fox News in an interview shortly before talking to Putin. "This is a fight between Saudi Arabia and Russia ... and they both went crazy."

"I never thought I’d be saying that maybe we have to have an oil (prices) increase, because we do," Trump said.

The Kremlin statement after the call merely said they had "exchanged opinions" on the oil market.

&nbsp;Sanctions&nbsp;

Trump also told Fox he expected Putin would use the call to push for a lifting of US sanctions on Russia.

"He'll probably ask for that," Trump told Fox News. "He's been asking that for two years."

The Kremlin statement did not mention sanctions but said unspecified "certain issues" of bilateral relations were aired.

Trump did not say what his response would be, noting that he had put sanctions on Russia but adding: "They don't like that. Frankly we should be able to get along."

The bulk of US sanctions against Russia were imposed over Moscow's annexation of Crimea in Ukraine and what US investigators say was a concerted attempt to interfere in the 2016 presidential election won by Trump.

Last Thursday, Putin told G20 leaders during a conference call that he wanted a moratorium on sanctions as a "matter of life and death" during the global coronavirus outbreak.

In the comments, Putin did not specify which countries he was talking about but Russia is being hit hard by the economic fallout from coronavirus and the parallel oil price drop.

Another point of US-Russian contention is Venezuela, where Washington, supported by dozens of other countries, has been trying unsuccessfully to promote the toppling of leftist strongman Nicolas Maduro. Russia is one of the few countries propping up his government.

"We may discuss that too," Trump said.

Russian state oil company Rosneft said Saturday it is pulling out of Venezuela and argued that US sanctions on a Rosneft subsidiary -- imposed as part of Washington's attempt to cripple the Maduro government's revenue sources -- should now be lifted.

However, Russia remains a key partner to Caracas.

'Every country does it'&nbsp;

Trump has often resisted punishing Moscow, which denies meddling in US politics, but his hand on imposing sanctions was forced by his own Republican party in Congress, which sees the Putin government as hostile.

The warm relationship between Trump and Putin -- seen by many Western capitals as an increasingly authoritarian leader responsible for assassinations of opponents at home and abroad -- has been a constant source of controversy in the United States.

In his Fox interview, Trump dismissed reports that Russia and China are seeking to exploit the coronavirus disruption by planting disinformation aimed at putting the United States in a bad light.

"They do it and we do it," he said, calling The Washington Post newspaper, which recently reported on the issue, "fake."

"Every country does it," he said.

Trump then questioned why Russia was considered an enemy by many in the West. As he has often in the past, he again also cast doubt on what was for decades the rock solid transatlantic alliance between the United States and Germany.

"I'm not saying they're babies, I'm not saying they're perfect," he said of the Russians.

"But you know they also fought World War II, they lost 50 million people. They were our partner and now we don't talk to Russia, we talk to Germany."

"Germany was the enemy and Germany is like this wonderful thing. Well, Germany takes advantage of us on trade for years. They pay far too little in NATO."

 
&nbsp;

President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin discussed plunging oil prices and the coronavirus pandemic Monday, the Kremlin said, as Trump said Moscow is pressing for an end to US sanctions.

President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin discussed plunging oil prices and the coronavirus pandemic Monday, the Kremlin said, as Trump said Moscow is pressing for an end to US sanctions. The two "expressed serious concern regarding the scope of the spread of the coronavirus" and "discussed closer cooperation," a brief Kremlin statement said. Also read | Putin delays reforms vote, holds back on tough virus measures Trump announced he'd be using the call to raise objections over a Russian-Saudi price war driving down world oil prices and "really hurting" the US energy industry. Also read | 800,000 US physicians ask Trump not to lift 'social distancing' restrictions "We don’t want to have a dead industry," Trump told Fox News in an interview shortly before talking to Putin. "This is a fight between Saudi Arabia and Russia ... and they both went crazy." "I never thought I’d be saying that maybe we have to have an oil (prices) increase, because we do," Trump said. The Kremlin statement after the call merely said they had "exchanged opinions" on the oil market. Sanctions Trump also told Fox he expected Putin would use the call to push for a lifting of US sanctions on Russia. "He'll probably ask for that," Trump told Fox News. "He's been asking that for two years." The Kremlin statement did not mention sanctions but said unspecified "certain issues" of bilateral relations were aired. Trump did not say what his response would be, noting that he had put sanctions on Russia but adding: "They don't like that. Frankly we should be able to get along." The bulk of US sanctions against Russia were imposed over Moscow's annexation of Crimea in Ukraine and what US investigators say was a concerted attempt to interfere in the 2016 presidential election won by Trump. Last Thursday, Putin told G20 leaders during a conference call that he wanted a moratorium on sanctions as a "matter of life and death" during the global coronavirus outbreak. In the comments, Putin did not specify which countries he was talking about but Russia is being hit hard by the economic fallout from coronavirus and the parallel oil price drop. Another point of US-Russian contention is Venezuela, where Washington, supported by dozens of other countries, has been trying unsuccessfully to promote the toppling of leftist strongman Nicolas Maduro. Russia is one of the few countries propping up his government. "We may discuss that too," Trump said. Russian state oil company Rosneft said Saturday it is pulling out of Venezuela and argued that US sanctions on a Rosneft subsidiary -- imposed as part of Washington's attempt to cripple the Maduro government's revenue sources -- should now be lifted. However, Russia remains a key partner to Caracas. 'Every country does it' Trump has often resisted punishing Moscow, which denies meddling in US politics, but his hand on imposing sanctions was forced by his own Republican party in Congress, which sees the Putin government as hostile. The warm relationship between Trump and Putin -- seen by many Western capitals as an increasingly authoritarian leader responsible for assassinations of opponents at home and abroad -- has been a constant source of controversy in the United States. In his Fox interview, Trump dismissed reports that Russia and China are seeking to exploit the coronavirus disruption by planting disinformation aimed at putting the United States in a bad light. "They do it and we do it," he said, calling The Washington Post newspaper, which recently reported on the issue, "fake." "Every country does it," he said. Trump then questioned why Russia was considered an enemy by many in the West. As he has often in the past, he again also cast doubt on what was for decades the rock solid transatlantic alliance between the United States and Germany. "I'm not saying they're babies, I'm not saying they're perfect," he said of the Russians. "But you know they also fought World War II, they lost 50 million people. They were our partner and now we don't talk to Russia, we talk to Germany." "Germany was the enemy and Germany is like this wonderful thing. Well, Germany takes advantage of us on trade for years. They pay far too little in NATO."

Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin discuss oil price plunge, coronavirus

The leading US government infectious disease expert&nbsp;Dr&nbsp;Anthony&nbsp;Fauci&nbsp;offered a grim prediction on Sunday: the coronavirus could kill as many as 200,000 Americans.

''I mean, looking at what we’re seeing now, I would say between 100,000 and 200,000 … deaths,''&nbsp;Fauci said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/easter-should-be-the-peak-number-trump-on-coronavirus-death-toll-in-us-289340" hreflang="en">Easter should be the peak number: Trump on coronavirus death toll in US</a>

He&nbsp;played down worst-case predictions of one million or more deaths, instead offering a rough estimate of 100,000 to 200,000 deaths and "millions of cases."

Though he quickly added, "I don't want to be held to that ... It's such a moving target that you can so easily be wrong and mislead people."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-ditches-hopes-of-quick-coronavirus-bounce-back-for-us-289337" hreflang="en">Trump ditches hopes of quick coronavirus bounce-back for US</a>

COVID-19 has hit the US with explosive force in recent weeks, following a path seen earlier in parts of Asia and Europe.

It took a month for the US to move from its first confirmed death, on February 29, to its 1,000 deaths.

But in two days this week that number doubled, to nearly 2,200 on Sunday. The case total of 142,356, as tallied by Johns Hopkins University, is the world's highest.

US President Donald Trump has extended the social distancing guidelines till April 30.

The leading US government infectious disease expert Dr Anthony Fauci offered a grim prediction on Sunday: the coronavirus could kill as many as 200,000 Americans.

The leading US government infectious disease expert Dr Anthony Fauci offered a grim prediction on Sunday: the coronavirus could kill as many as 200,000 Americans. ''I mean, looking at what we’re seeing now, I would say between 100,000 and 200,000 … deaths,'' Fauci said. Also read: Easter should be the peak number: Trump on coronavirus death toll in US He played down worst-case predictions of one million or more deaths, instead offering a rough estimate of 100,000 to 200,000 deaths and "millions of cases." Though he quickly added, "I don't want to be held to that ... It's such a moving target that you can so easily be wrong and mislead people." Also read: Trump ditches hopes of quick coronavirus bounce-back for US COVID-19 has hit the US with explosive force in recent weeks, following a path seen earlier in parts of Asia and Europe. It took a month for the US to move from its first confirmed death, on February 29, to its 1,000 deaths. But in two days this week that number doubled, to nearly 2,200 on Sunday. The case total of 142,356, as tallied by Johns Hopkins University, is the world's highest. US President Donald Trump has extended the social distancing guidelines till April 30.

US coronavirus death toll can surge to 200,000, says lead virus expert

President Donald Trump on Sunday abandoned his timetable for life returning to normal in the United States, extending emergency coronavirus restrictions for another month, while Spain suffered its deadliest day.

Trump, who had hoped to shortly re-open much of the US, said the death rate in the country was likely to increase for two weeks and announced "social distancing" guidelines would be in place until at least the end of April.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-state-coronavirus-deaths-increase-by-237-in-past-day-governor-289334" hreflang="en">New York state coronavirus deaths increase by 237 in past day: Governor</a>

More than 40 percent of the world's population has been asked to stay at home to halt the deadly march of a disease that has claimed some 33,880 lives.

Hospitals are rapidly filling with patients in Europe and the United States -- now the focal points of a pandemic that began in Asia but has upended the global economy and upset everyday life in unprecedented ways.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/were-trying-to-keep-our-heads-above-water-us-healthcare-workers-fight-shortages-and-fear-289325" hreflang="en">'We're trying to keep our heads above water': US healthcare workers fight shortages and fear</a>

Spain announced 838 deaths in a 24-hour period, the third consecutive day it has seen a rise.

The US has witnessed explosive growth in coronavirus cases, including a doubling in cases in only two days, with New York hardest hit.

Trump said the better that Americans obey the emergency guidelines to stay home "the faster this whole nightmare will end."

"Nothing would be worse than declaring victory before the victory is won," Trump said, altering his previously upbeat tone.

He said he expected the country to "be well on our way to recovery" by June 1 -- dropping his previous target of mid-April.

''We will defeat this invisible curse, this invisible enemy," he added.

Senior US scientist Anthony Fauci issued a tentative prediction that COVID-19 could claim from 100,000 to 200,000 lives -- a figure Trump described as "horrible."

As of Sunday, more than 3.38 billion people were asked or ordered to follow confinement measures, according to an AFP database, as the virus infects every sphere of life, wiping out millions of jobs, postponing elections and pressing pause on the sporting scene.

Worst-hit Italy, with 10,779 deaths, and Spain, with 6,803 dead, together have accounted for more than half of the world's deaths.

Both countries are clinging to the hope, however, that they are closing in on the peak of the crisis.

President Donald Trump on Sunday abandoned his timetable for life returning to normal in the United States, extending emergency coronavirus restrictions for another month, while Spain suffered its deadliest day.

President Donald Trump on Sunday abandoned his timetable for life returning to normal in the United States, extending emergency coronavirus restrictions for another month, while Spain suffered its deadliest day. Trump, who had hoped to shortly re-open much of the US, said the death rate in the country was likely to increase for two weeks and announced "social distancing" guidelines would be in place until at least the end of April. Also read: New York state coronavirus deaths increase by 237 in past day: Governor More than 40 percent of the world's population has been asked to stay at home to halt the deadly march of a disease that has claimed some 33,880 lives. Hospitals are rapidly filling with patients in Europe and the United States -- now the focal points of a pandemic that began in Asia but has upended the global economy and upset everyday life in unprecedented ways. Also read: 'We're trying to keep our heads above water': US healthcare workers fight shortages and fear Spain announced 838 deaths in a 24-hour period, the third consecutive day it has seen a rise. The US has witnessed explosive growth in coronavirus cases, including a doubling in cases in only two days, with New York hardest hit. Trump said the better that Americans obey the emergency guidelines to stay home "the faster this whole nightmare will end." "Nothing would be worse than declaring victory before the victory is won," Trump said, altering his previously upbeat tone. He said he expected the country to "be well on our way to recovery" by June 1 -- dropping his previous target of mid-April. ''We will defeat this invisible curse, this invisible enemy," he added. Senior US scientist Anthony Fauci issued a tentative prediction that COVID-19 could claim from 100,000 to 200,000 lives -- a figure Trump described as "horrible." As of Sunday, more than 3.38 billion people were asked or ordered to follow confinement measures, according to an AFP database, as the virus infects every sphere of life, wiping out millions of jobs, postponing elections and pressing pause on the sporting scene. Worst-hit Italy, with 10,779 deaths, and Spain, with 6,803 dead, together have accounted for more than half of the world's deaths. Both countries are clinging to the hope, however, that they are closing in on the peak of the crisis.

Trump ditches hopes of quick coronavirus bounce-back for US

President Donald Trump said Sunday that the United States would not pay security costs for Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, appearing to confirm that the royal couple have moved to live in California.

They reportedly flew by private jet from Canada to Los Angeles before the border between the two countries closed because of the deadly coronavirus outbreak.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-ditches-hopes-of-quick-coronavirus-bounce-back-for-us-289337" hreflang="en">Trump ditches hopes of quick virus bounce-back for US</a>

The couple, who had been living in Canada for several months, rocked the royal family earlier this year with their decision to no longer represent the British monarchy and to pursue a new, independent life.

"I am a great friend and admirer of the Queen &amp; the United Kingdom," Trump tweeted.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/easter-should-be-the-peak-number-trump-on-coronavirus-death-toll-in-us-289340" hreflang="en">Easter should be the peak number: Trump on coronavirus death toll in US</a>

"It was reported that Harry and Meghan, who left the Kingdom, would reside permanently in Canada. Now they have left Canada for the US&nbsp;however, the US&nbsp;will not pay for their security protection. They must pay!"

Meghan grew up in Los Angeles and her mother, Doria Ragland, still lives in the city.

The one-time actress has a network of friends and work contacts in Los Angeles, where she could now restart her career.

Disney announced on Thursday that she will narrate a new film about a family of African elephants.

Harry was reportedly caught in a hoax telephone call recently in which he attacked Trump for his stance on climate change.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will formally step back from royal duties on March 31.

President Donald Trump said Sunday that the United States would not pay security costs for Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, appearing to confirm that the royal couple have moved to live in California.

President Donald Trump said Sunday that the United States would not pay security costs for Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, appearing to confirm that the royal couple have moved to live in California. They reportedly flew by private jet from Canada to Los Angeles before the border between the two countries closed because of the deadly coronavirus outbreak. Also read: Trump ditches hopes of quick virus bounce-back for US The couple, who had been living in Canada for several months, rocked the royal family earlier this year with their decision to no longer represent the British monarchy and to pursue a new, independent life. "I am a great friend and admirer of the Queen & the United Kingdom," Trump tweeted. Also read: Easter should be the peak number: Trump on coronavirus death toll in US "It was reported that Harry and Meghan, who left the Kingdom, would reside permanently in Canada. Now they have left Canada for the US however, the US will not pay for their security protection. They must pay!" Meghan grew up in Los Angeles and her mother, Doria Ragland, still lives in the city. The one-time actress has a network of friends and work contacts in Los Angeles, where she could now restart her career. Disney announced on Thursday that she will narrate a new film about a family of African elephants. Harry was reportedly caught in a hoax telephone call recently in which he attacked Trump for his stance on climate change. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will formally step back from royal duties on March 31.

Trump says US won't pay Harry and Meghan security

A poll undertaken by The Washington Post in collaboration with ABC claims that Donald Trump is almost at a “near tie” situation against his Democrat contender in the upcoming US presidential elections, Joe Biden.

The poll, which was released yesterday, put Biden ahead by 49 per cent while Trump’s vote share jumped to 47 per cent from 40 per cent in February.

The COVID-19 pandemic has killed over 1000 people in the United States. Trump has continuously put the economy before the pandemic, for which many people have blamed him.

On the other hand, people favoured Biden for his policies on healthcare.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-coronavirus-death-toll-can-surge-to-200000-says-lead-virus-expert-289362" hreflang="en">US coronavirus death toll can surge to 200,000, says lead virus expert</a>

“[The poll] tests only national sentiment, which would translate into the popular vote, not the state-by-state competition for an electoral college majority”, The Washington Post declared.

As was witnessed in 2016, Hillary Clinton had an edge of over three million votes against Trump, but owing to his victory in the electoral college, he was able to become the president.

According to critics, Biden has not shown interest in curbing coronavirus.

The politician has responded to accusations.

“I’m chomping at the bit,” Biden told reporters on video call. “I wish I were still in the Senate, you know, being able to impact on some things. But I am where I am”, he added, reflecting on his inability to help.

However, many users on Twitter felt that it was the responsibility of not Biden, but of Trump to respond to the pandemic, especially now considering that the US has registered more cases than any country in the world, even surpassing China and Italy.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-death-toll-crosses-33000-worldwide-over-721800-infected-289354" hreflang="en">Coronavirus death toll crosses 33,000 worldwide, over 721,800 infected</a>

The US is now being referred to as the third epicentre of the contagion.

“Almost nothing about what Joe Biden is doing for the next few weeks is gonna matter much for November. And almost everything about what Donald Trump is doing is going to matter a lot”, tweeted Nate Silver, a polling professional.

Earlier, Donald Trump had suggested quarantining New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. However, after NYC’s governor said that any such order would be akin to a “federal declaration of war”, Trump was forced to back off.

The primary fight within the Democratic party is about Biden and Bernie Sanders.&nbsp;

Another poll by the Washington Post and ABC predicted an edge of 55 per cent for Biden against Sanders.

However, owing to the pandemic, the election process has been halted. The number of cases continue to rise in the US, with Trump making a bizarre statement today on how 100,000 deaths would mean the situation was “under control”.

A poll undertaken by The Washington Post in collaboration with ABC claims that Donald Trump is almost at a “near tie” situation against his Democrat contender in the upcoming US presidential elections, Joe Biden.

A poll undertaken by The Washington Post in collaboration with ABC claims that Donald Trump is almost at a “near tie” situation against his Democrat contender in the upcoming US presidential elections, Joe Biden. The poll, which was released yesterday, put Biden ahead by 49 per cent while Trump’s vote share jumped to 47 per cent from 40 per cent in February. The COVID-19 pandemic has killed over 1000 people in the United States. Trump has continuously put the economy before the pandemic, for which many people have blamed him. On the other hand, people favoured Biden for his policies on healthcare. Also read: US coronavirus death toll can surge to 200,000, says lead virus expert “[The poll] tests only national sentiment, which would translate into the popular vote, not the state-by-state competition for an electoral college majority”, The Washington Post declared. As was witnessed in 2016, Hillary Clinton had an edge of over three million votes against Trump, but owing to his victory in the electoral college, he was able to become the president. According to critics, Biden has not shown interest in curbing coronavirus. The politician has responded to accusations. “I’m chomping at the bit,” Biden told reporters on video call. “I wish I were still in the Senate, you know, being able to impact on some things. But I am where I am”, he added, reflecting on his inability to help. However, many users on Twitter felt that it was the responsibility of not Biden, but of Trump to respond to the pandemic, especially now considering that the US has registered more cases than any country in the world, even surpassing China and Italy. Also read: Coronavirus death toll crosses 33,000 worldwide, over 721,800 infected The US is now being referred to as the third epicentre of the contagion. “Almost nothing about what Joe Biden is doing for the next few weeks is gonna matter much for November. And almost everything about what Donald Trump is doing is going to matter a lot”, tweeted Nate Silver, a polling professional. Earlier, Donald Trump had suggested quarantining New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. However, after NYC’s governor said that any such order would be akin to a “federal declaration of war”, Trump was forced to back off. The primary fight within the Democratic party is about Biden and Bernie Sanders. Another poll by the Washington Post and ABC predicted an edge of 55 per cent for Biden against Sanders. However, owing to the pandemic, the election process has been halted. The number of cases continue to rise in the US, with Trump making a bizarre statement today on how 100,000 deaths would mean the situation was “under control”.

Are Trump and Biden heading for a 'near-tie' situation in presidential polls?

In the United States, Coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to wreak havoc. The fatalities doubles in just 3 days. Trump said that quarantine will be be necessary. He issues travel curbs on New York instead. The United States of America is still underprepared for COVID-19. Most cities of U.S. still lacks masks & ventilators.

What made New York vulnerable to COVID-19

United States President Donald Trump recently signed the TAIPEI Act, supporting Taiwan’s aspiration to expand relationships with other countries in the world.

Recently, a lot of countries have severed diplomatic ties with Taiwan in a bid to side with China, which perceives Taiwan as Chinese territory.

The Taiwan Allies International Protection and Enhancement Initiative (TAIPEI) Act was passed in the House of Representatives on March 4. It was earlier approved in the US Senate.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/help-us-after-deaths-on-coronavirus-hit-ship-guests-clamour-to-leave-289039" hreflang="en">'Help us': After deaths on coronavirus-hit ship, guests clamour to leave</a>

The act explicitly calls out China for its excesses in the region, by referring to coercion of Taiwan as a “bullying tactic”. It was penned by Cory Gardner, a Republican senator from Colorado, and a Democrat senator Chris Coons from Delaware.

The act asks for US to support Taiwan in improving relationships with other countries to counter the mounting sense of pressure created by China over Taiwan, the South China Morning Post reported.

“The United States should use every tool to support Taiwan’s standing on the international stage,” Gardner had asserted in a joint announcement.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-cities-facing-major-coronavirus-equipment-shortages-285-million-masks-needed-289072" hreflang="en">US cities facing major coronavirus equipment shortages, 28.5 million masks needed</a>

“This bipartisan legislation demands a whole-of-government approach to ramp up our support for Taiwan, and will send a strong message to nations that there will be consequences for supporting Chinese actions that undermine Taiwan”, he added.

The bill requires the United States to gradually decrease all kinds of engagement with countries that attempt to undermine Taiwan.

China immediately lashed out at the bill, calling it an interference in their internal matters. Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian calls the TAIPEI Act a “severe violation of the one-China principle”.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-china-flexing-military-muscle-in-taiwan-288782/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As of now, Taiwan has diplomatic relations with 15 nations. On China’s behest, eight countries recently severed ties with Taiwan, especially in view of the new president Tsai Ing, who wants democracy in the region.

Tsai referred to this as “part of a series of diplomatic and military acts of coercion” by China.

In January, Tsai won the election by a landslide and asserted Taiwan’s independence in the face of China.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-ozone-layer-is-healing-289054" hreflang="en">The ozone layer is healing!</a>

“We have a separate identity and we’re a country of our own,” she told the BBC.

As per the bill, Taiwan shall be granted membership in all international organisations where statehood is not a prerequisite. Additionally, in places where it is a requirement, Taiwan shall be given observe status.

“Today and on all days, Congress continues to send a message to the world that America stands with Taiwan. … We [must] ensure that Taiwan has a seat at the international decision-making table, including at the United Nations,” House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said when her chamber passed the bill.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-us-virus-cases-exceed-100000-doctors-decry-scarcity-of-drugs-and-equipment-289041" hreflang="en">As US virus cases exceed 100,000, doctors decry scarcity of drugs and equipment</a>

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, Taiwan is one the best performing countries in terms of containment. The country was also left out of all World Health Organisation discussions surrounding the virus, which drew flak from all over the world.

“I’m pleased the President signed this bill into law,” echoed Coons.&nbsp;

“The TAIPEI Act sends a clear message that the United States stands with Taiwan’s free-market democracy. I look forward to finding additional ways to support the positive role Taiwan plays in international affairs.

United States President Donald Trump recently signed the TAIPEI Act, supporting Taiwan’s aspiration to expand relationships with other countries in the world. Recently, a lot of countries have severed diplomatic ties with Taiwan in a bid to side with China, which perceives Taiwan as Chinese territory.

United States President Donald Trump recently signed the TAIPEI Act, supporting Taiwan’s aspiration to expand relationships with other countries in the world. Recently, a lot of countries have severed diplomatic ties with Taiwan in a bid to side with China, which perceives Taiwan as Chinese territory. The Taiwan Allies International Protection and Enhancement Initiative (TAIPEI) Act was passed in the House of Representatives on March 4. It was earlier approved in the US Senate. Also read: 'Help us': After deaths on coronavirus-hit ship, guests clamour to leave The act explicitly calls out China for its excesses in the region, by referring to coercion of Taiwan as a “bullying tactic”. It was penned by Cory Gardner, a Republican senator from Colorado, and a Democrat senator Chris Coons from Delaware. The act asks for US to support Taiwan in improving relationships with other countries to counter the mounting sense of pressure created by China over Taiwan, the South China Morning Post reported. “The United States should use every tool to support Taiwan’s standing on the international stage,” Gardner had asserted in a joint announcement. Also read: US cities facing major coronavirus equipment shortages, 28.5 million masks needed “This bipartisan legislation demands a whole-of-government approach to ramp up our support for Taiwan, and will send a strong message to nations that there will be consequences for supporting Chinese actions that undermine Taiwan”, he added. The bill requires the United States to gradually decrease all kinds of engagement with countries that attempt to undermine Taiwan. China immediately lashed out at the bill, calling it an interference in their internal matters. Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian calls the TAIPEI Act a “severe violation of the one-China principle”. As of now, Taiwan has diplomatic relations with 15 nations. On China’s behest, eight countries recently severed ties with Taiwan, especially in view of the new president Tsai Ing, who wants democracy in the region. Tsai referred to this as “part of a series of diplomatic and military acts of coercion” by China. In January, Tsai won the election by a landslide and asserted Taiwan’s independence in the face of China. Also read: The ozone layer is healing! “We have a separate identity and we’re a country of our own,” she told the BBC. As per the bill, Taiwan shall be granted membership in all international organisations where statehood is not a prerequisite. Additionally, in places where it is a requirement, Taiwan shall be given observe status. “Today and on all days, Congress continues to send a message to the world that America stands with Taiwan. … We [must] ensure that Taiwan has a seat at the international decision-making table, including at the United Nations,” House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said when her chamber passed the bill. Also read: As US virus cases exceed 100,000, doctors decry scarcity of drugs and equipment Amid the coronavirus pandemic, Taiwan is one the best performing countries in terms of containment. The country was also left out of all World Health Organisation discussions surrounding the virus, which drew flak from all over the world. “I’m pleased the President signed this bill into law,” echoed Coons. “The TAIPEI Act sends a clear message that the United States stands with Taiwan’s free-market democracy. I look forward to finding additional ways to support the positive role Taiwan plays in international affairs.

Donald Trump signs TAIPEI act, recognises Taiwan's international presence

Donald Trump: The man who refuses to socially distance during a pandemic

President Trump said Saturday he was considering imposing a quarantine on New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. Trump said he was mulling the quarantine, while at the same walking back urging to quickly reopen the economy.

President Trump said Saturday he was considering imposing a quarantine on New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. Trump said he was mulling the quarantine, while at the same walking back urging to quickly reopen the economy. Trump said he was unsure about whether the United States will reopen for business by April 12th following shutdowns in major cities across the country. Asked whether he thought the United States would open by Easter Sunday, Trump said at the White House on Saturday, "We'll see, what happens," he said As of Friday the coronavirus had infected more than 100,000 people in the United States, now the world leader in cases of COVID-19, the illness named after the new virus was first identified in China late last year.

Trump says he may quarantine New York, New Jersey

US President Donald Trump on Saturday launched a scathing attack on 'lamestream media' and said one of the reasons that fake news has become so prevalent and far-reaching is the fact that corrupt “journalists” base their stories on sources that they make up to distort a narrative or story.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday launched a scathing attack on 'lamestream media' and said one of the reasons that fake news has become so prevalent and far-reaching is the fact that corrupt “journalists” base their stories on sources that they make up to distort a narrative or story. ''One of the reasons that Fake News has become so prevalent & far reaching is the fact that corrupt “journalists” base their stories on SOURCES that they make up in order to totally distort a narrative or story. When you see, “five sources say”, don’t believe the story, it is very often FAKE NEWS,'' the president said in a tweet. Media should be forces to reveal sources, he said and added, if they did that, the media would be trusted again. So much of the Lamestream Media is writing and broadcasting stories with facts that are made up and knowingly wrong. They are doing it by quoting unnamed sources that simply do not exist. These are very dangerous & corrupt people, who will do anything to win. NAME YOUR SOURCES! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 28, 2020 × ''Lamestream Media should be forced to reveal sources, very much as they did in the long ago past. If they did that, the media would be trusted again, and Fake News would largely be a thing if the past!,'' he said in another tweet. Trump also accused the media of quoting unnamed sources that did not exist. ''So much of the Lamestream Media is writing and broadcasting stories with facts that are made up and knowingly wrong. They are doing it by quoting unnamed sources that simply do not exist. These are very dangerous & corrupt people, who will do anything to win. NAME YOUR SOURCES!,'' he said in another tweet. As of Friday the coronavirus had infected more than 100,000 people in the United States, now the world leader in cases of COVID-19, the illness named after the new virus was first identified in China late last year.

Trump rips into 'lamestream media' amid rising COVID-19 cases in US

China and the United States should "unite to fight" the deadly coronavirus pandemic that has ravaged the globe, said President Xi Jinping in a call with his US counterpart on Friday, according to state media.

The two countries have clashed in recent weeks over the virus, but Xi told Trump China "wishes to continue sharing all information and experience with the&nbsp;US," as per media reports.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-the-chinese-virus-or-wuhan-virus-only-coronavirus-china-288816" hreflang="en">Not the 'Chinese virus' or 'Wuhan virus', only coronavirus: China</a>

Trump also tweeted about the conversation, saying he and Xi were "working closely together."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-tops-world-in-virus-cases-overtaking-china-and-italy-288788" hreflang="en">US tops world in virus cases, overtaking China and Italy</a>

"China has been through much and has developed a strong understanding of the virus," he said,&nbsp;notably omitting the term "China virus," which he has used several times in the past week.

Earlier at a press conference, Trump&nbsp;had mentioned&nbsp;he was due to speak with Xi, but took a more cautious tone. “Number one, you don’t know what the numbers are in China,” he said of the case numbers, which have dropped dramatically in the past few weeks.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 530,000 worldwide on Friday and global deaths rose past 24,000, as COVID-19 spreads across Europe and North America. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-tops-world-in-virus-cases-overtaking-china-and-italy-288788">US tops world in virus cases, overtaking China and Italy</a> 
 
COVID-19 has now infected more than 350,536 people, according to Johns Hopkins University, and killed at least 15,328 people. Around 122,203 people of that tally have recovered, according to Hopkins. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-testing-kits-and-ventilators-are-they-the-difference-between-life-and-death-288763" hreflang="en">Coronavirus testing kits and ventilators, are they the difference between life and death?</a>

According to the news reports, The United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/pandemic-will-cut-global-investment-flows-more-than-feared-un-288745">Pandemic will cut global investment flows more than feared, says&nbsp;UN</a>

In the United States, more than 83,000 people have tested positive for COVID-19, edging out Italy, which has reported the most deaths, and China, where the virus was first detected in December in the metropolis of Wuhan.

China and the United States should "unite to fight" the deadly coronavirus pandemic that has ravaged the globe, said President Xi Jinping in a call with his US counterpart on Friday, according to state media.

China and the United States should "unite to fight" the deadly coronavirus pandemic that has ravaged the globe, said President Xi Jinping in a call with his US counterpart on Friday, according to state media. The two countries have clashed in recent weeks over the virus, but Xi told Trump China "wishes to continue sharing all information and experience with the US," as per media reports. Also read: Not the 'Chinese virus' or 'Wuhan virus', only coronavirus: China Trump also tweeted about the conversation, saying he and Xi were "working closely together." Also read: US tops world in virus cases, overtaking China and Italy "China has been through much and has developed a strong understanding of the virus," he said, notably omitting the term "China virus," which he has used several times in the past week. Earlier at a press conference, Trump had mentioned he was due to speak with Xi, but took a more cautious tone. “Number one, you don’t know what the numbers are in China,” he said of the case numbers, which have dropped dramatically in the past few weeks. Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 530,000 worldwide on Friday and global deaths rose past 24,000, as COVID-19 spreads across Europe and North America. Also read: US tops world in virus cases, overtaking China and Italy COVID-19 has now infected more than 350,536 people, according to Johns Hopkins University, and killed at least 15,328 people. Around 122,203 people of that tally have recovered, according to Hopkins. Also read: Coronavirus testing kits and ventilators, are they the difference between life and death? According to the news reports, The United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment. Also read: Pandemic will cut global investment flows more than feared, says UN In the United States, more than 83,000 people have tested positive for COVID-19, edging out Italy, which has reported the most deaths, and China, where the virus was first detected in December in the metropolis of Wuhan.

Jinping says China and US must 'unite to fight coronavirus'

As the Coronavirus outbreak on the aircraft carrier of US Navy. 25 sailors test positive in USS Roosevelt. Now Navy is set to test all 5 thousand sailors on the board.

Coronavirus in Aircraft: 25 sailors test Positive in U.S.S Roosevelt

In an interesting development on Friday, US President Donald Trump refrained from writing coronavirus pandemic as "Chinese virus" amid the tense row with China over the same.&nbsp;

"Just finished a very good conversation with President Xi of China. Discussed in great detail the CoronaVirus that is ravaging large parts of our Planet," Trump wrote on Twitter a day after the G20 virtual summit on coronavirus battle.

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Just finished a very good conversation with President Xi of China. Discussed in great detail the CoronaVirus that is ravaging large parts of our Planet. China has been through much &amp; has developed a strong understanding of the Virus. We are working closely together. Much respect!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1243407157321560071?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Earlier this week, the US angered China after the country's Secretary of State Mike Pompe and the President both kept on referring the deadly coronavirus as &nbsp;"Wuhan virus" while accusing China of putting the world at risk by not revealing more details about the outbreak. The virus was first reported in the Chinese city of Wuhan.&nbsp;

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-tense-row-with-us-china-offers-to-share-information-on-covid-19-288701"> Amid tense row with US, China offers to share information on COVID-19</a>

On Thursday, Pompeo also refrained from calling coronavirus "Chinese virus " as he wrote about his conversation with German Foreign Minister.&nbsp;

"Good to speak with German Foreign Minister @HeikoMaas and reinforce our shared commitment to addressing global challenges together. Whether working together to contain the coronavirus outbreak or to bring peace to #Afghanistan - we are better together," Pompeo tweeted.

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Good to speak with German Foreign Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/HeikoMaas?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HeikoMaas</a> and reinforce our shared commitment to addressing global challenges together. Whether working together to contain the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirus</a> outbreak or to bring peace to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> - we are better together. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WunderbarTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WunderbarTogether</a>
— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1243209130409627649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, the US overtook China in highest confirmed cases with over 85,000 infections.

However, the fatality rate in the country is much lower than in Italy and China.

In the US, the current fatality rate is 1.4 per cent, as opposed to Italy’s ten per cent and China’s four per cent.

Regardless, the surge in cases has overwhelmed the American health infrastructure.

The deadly virus has killed more than 21,000 people globally, but Beijing has appeared to bring it under control and has sent aid overseas, including 40 tons of medical supplies to US ally Italy, which has the world's highest death toll.

In an interesting development on Friday, US President Donald Trump refrained from writing coronavirus pandemic as "Chinese virus" amid the tense row with China over the same.

In an interesting development on Friday, US President Donald Trump refrained from writing coronavirus pandemic as "Chinese virus" amid the tense row with China over the same. "Just finished a very good conversation with President Xi of China. Discussed in great detail the CoronaVirus that is ravaging large parts of our Planet," Trump wrote on Twitter a day after the G20 virtual summit on coronavirus battle. Just finished a very good conversation with President Xi of China. Discussed in great detail the CoronaVirus that is ravaging large parts of our Planet. China has been through much & has developed a strong understanding of the Virus. We are working closely together. Much respect! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 27, 2020 × Earlier this week, the US angered China after the country's Secretary of State Mike Pompe and the President both kept on referring the deadly coronavirus as "Wuhan virus" while accusing China of putting the world at risk by not revealing more details about the outbreak. The virus was first reported in the Chinese city of Wuhan. Also read: Amid tense row with US, China offers to share information on COVID-19 On Thursday, Pompeo also refrained from calling coronavirus "Chinese virus " as he wrote about his conversation with German Foreign Minister. "Good to speak with German Foreign Minister @HeikoMaas and reinforce our shared commitment to addressing global challenges together. Whether working together to contain the coronavirus outbreak or to bring peace to #Afghanistan - we are better together," Pompeo tweeted. Good to speak with German Foreign Minister @HeikoMaas and reinforce our shared commitment to addressing global challenges together. Whether working together to contain the #coronavirus outbreak or to bring peace to #Afghanistan - we are better together. #WunderbarTogether — Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) March 26, 2020 × Meanwhile, the US overtook China in highest confirmed cases with over 85,000 infections. However, the fatality rate in the country is much lower than in Italy and China. In the US, the current fatality rate is 1.4 per cent, as opposed to Italy’s ten per cent and China’s four per cent. Regardless, the surge in cases has overwhelmed the American health infrastructure. The deadly virus has killed more than 21,000 people globally, but Beijing has appeared to bring it under control and has sent aid overseas, including 40 tons of medical supplies to US ally Italy, which has the world's highest death toll.

After Pompeo, Trump refrains from calling coronavirus, 'Chinese virus'

The Senate on March 25 approved a $2 trillion stimulus package to provide a start to an economy reeling from the coronavirus pandemic. The United States has emerged as a hotbed for COVID-19 with several cases increasing every day. Watch report:

Coronavirus: US Senate passes $2 trillion stimulus bill:  Direct payments into individuals

US President Donald Trump has requested novel coronavirus test kits from South Korea, his counterpart Moon Jae-in said Wednesday, as Washington pushes for a quick reopening of the world's biggest economy.

The South was once the hardest-hit country outside China, where the virus first emerged, but appears to have brought its outbreak under control thanks to a huge testing and contact-tracing effort.

By midnight on Tuesday more than 367,000 people in the South had been tested -- processes that are free to anyone referred by doctors, those who have links to a confirmed case, and individuals who test positive.

The US has the third-highest number of confirmed cases globally with 55,000, behind China and Italy, and did little testing initially.

Trump's request for test kits came as he called for a quick end to social distancing and declared the beginning of the end of the health crisis in the US.

"President Trump of the United States... made a request to us for the urgent provision of quarantine items such as diagnostic kits," Moon said while visiting a test developer in Seoul.

During their phone call Moon told Trump the equipment could require US FDA approval, which Trump said he would seek "within the day", the South's presidential Blue House said earlier in a separate statement.

"If there is a domestic surplus, I will support as much as possible," Moon told Trump.No indication was given on quantities, or whether the supplies would be donated or provided on a commercial basis.

The White House confirmed that the two leaders spoke on Tuesday, but did not say whether Trump made any such request.

Trump, who is keen to get his reelection campaign back on track, on Tuesday said social distancing has caused too much pain to the US economy, adding "we lose thousands and thousands of people a year to the flu. We don't turn the country off."

Seoul and Washington are in a security alliance but their relations have recently been strained by the Trump administration's demands the South pay billions of dollars more towards the costs of 28,500 US troops stationed in the country to protect it from the nuclear-armed North.

US President Donald Trump has requested novel coronavirus test kits from South Korea, his counterpart Moon Jae-in said Wednesday, as Washington pushes for a quick reopening of the world's biggest economy.

US President Donald Trump has requested novel coronavirus test kits from South Korea, his counterpart Moon Jae-in said Wednesday, as Washington pushes for a quick reopening of the world's biggest economy. The South was once the hardest-hit country outside China, where the virus first emerged, but appears to have brought its outbreak under control thanks to a huge testing and contact-tracing effort. By midnight on Tuesday more than 367,000 people in the South had been tested -- processes that are free to anyone referred by doctors, those who have links to a confirmed case, and individuals who test positive. The US has the third-highest number of confirmed cases globally with 55,000, behind China and Italy, and did little testing initially. Trump's request for test kits came as he called for a quick end to social distancing and declared the beginning of the end of the health crisis in the US. "President Trump of the United States... made a request to us for the urgent provision of quarantine items such as diagnostic kits," Moon said while visiting a test developer in Seoul. During their phone call Moon told Trump the equipment could require US FDA approval, which Trump said he would seek "within the day", the South's presidential Blue House said earlier in a separate statement. "If there is a domestic surplus, I will support as much as possible," Moon told Trump.No indication was given on quantities, or whether the supplies would be donated or provided on a commercial basis. The White House confirmed that the two leaders spoke on Tuesday, but did not say whether Trump made any such request. Trump, who is keen to get his reelection campaign back on track, on Tuesday said social distancing has caused too much pain to the US economy, adding "we lose thousands and thousands of people a year to the flu. We don't turn the country off." Seoul and Washington are in a security alliance but their relations have recently been strained by the Trump administration's demands the South pay billions of dollars more towards the costs of 28,500 US troops stationed in the country to protect it from the nuclear-armed North.

Trump requests virus test kits from South Korea: Seoul

World leaders are to hold online crisis talks Thursday on the coronavirus pandemic that has forced three billion people into lockdown and claimed more than 21,000 lives.

With the disease tearing around the globe at a terrifying pace, warnings are multiplying over its economic consequences, with experts saying it could cause more damage than the Great Depression.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-coronavirus-cases-near-70000-more-than-1000-dead-288573" hreflang="en">US coronavirus cases near 70,000, more than 1,000 dead</a>

And amid squabbling between the leaders of China and the US over who is to blame, UN&nbsp;Secretary General Antonio Guterres called for the world to act together to halt the menace.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-requests-virus-test-kits-from-south-korea-seoul-288559" hreflang="en">Trump requests virus test kits from South Korea: Seoul</a>

"COVID-19 is threatening the whole of humanity -- and the whole of humanity must fight back," Guterres said, launching an appeal for $2 billion to help the world's poor.

"Global action and solidarity are crucial," he said. "Individual country responses are not going to be enough."

The death toll from the virus, which emerged in China late last year, continued to grow, with the&nbsp;US becoming the sixth country to hit four figures.&nbsp;

At least 1,041 people are now known to have died in the United States, with almost 70,000 confirmed infections, a tally by Johns Hopkins University showed, while globally the number of infections is closing in on half a million.

World leaders are to hold online crisis talks Thursday on the coronavirus pandemic that has forced three billion people into lockdown and claimed more than 21,000 lives.

World leaders are to hold online crisis talks Thursday on the coronavirus pandemic that has forced three billion people into lockdown and claimed more than 21,000 lives. With the disease tearing around the globe at a terrifying pace, warnings are multiplying over its economic consequences, with experts saying it could cause more damage than the Great Depression. Also read: US coronavirus cases near 70,000, more than 1,000 dead And amid squabbling between the leaders of China and the US over who is to blame, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres called for the world to act together to halt the menace. Also read: Trump requests virus test kits from South Korea: Seoul "COVID-19 is threatening the whole of humanity -- and the whole of humanity must fight back," Guterres said, launching an appeal for $2 billion to help the world's poor. "Global action and solidarity are crucial," he said. "Individual country responses are not going to be enough." The death toll from the virus, which emerged in China late last year, continued to grow, with the US becoming the sixth country to hit four figures. At least 1,041 people are now known to have died in the United States, with almost 70,000 confirmed infections, a tally by Johns Hopkins University showed, while globally the number of infections is closing in on half a million.

World leaders to hold crisis talks as virus toll tops 21,000

Leaders of the G20 major economies are holding an online summit Thursday in a bid to fend off a coronavirus-triggered recession, after criticism the group has been slow to address the crisis.

US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin joined the emergency videoconference chaired by Saudi Arabia's King Salman, who is also under pressure to end an oil price war with Moscow that has roiled energy markets.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-countries-are-using-robots-to-fight-coronavirus-pandemic-288627"> How countries are using robots to fight coronavirus pandemic?</a>

The talks come as the global death toll from COVID-19 soared to more than 21,000 and over three billion people were locked down in their homes, triggering a massive financial shock worldwide.

"As the world confronts the COVID-19 pandemic and the challenges to healthcare systems and the global economy, we convene this extraordinary G20 summit to unite efforts towards a global response," the king of Saudi Arabia, which currently holds the G20 presidency, said on Twitter.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-coronavirus-cases-near-70000-more-than-1000-dead-288573"> US coronavirus cases near 70,000, more than 1,000 dead</a>

The meeting, expected to be held at 1200 GMT, comes as the world's 20 most industrialised countries scramble to defend their virus-wracked economies amid forecasts they will likely plunge into a deep recession.

On Wednesday, the financial ratings agency Moody's estimated the G20's overall gross domestic product would contract by 0.5 per cent this year, with the US economy shrinking by 2.0 per cent and the eurozone by 2.2 per cent.

"The G20 economies will experience an unprecedented shock in the first half of this year and will contract in 2020 as a whole," Moody's said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-reports-second-consecutive-day-of-no-new-local-coronavirus-transmissions-imported-cases-rise-288566">China reports second consecutive day of no new local coronavirus transmissions, imported cases rise</a>

While wealthy nations including the US have unveiled mammoth stimulus packages, there has so far been no collective action plan from the G20, and concerns are mounting for poorer countries without access to capital markets and adequate health facilities.

The IMF and World Bank on Wednesday urged G20 leaders to support its call for governments to put debt payments from the world's poorest nations on hold.

World Health Organisation chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus also urged G20 nations to offer support to "low and middle-income countries", including those from Sub-Saharan Africa.

'Missing in action'

This week, French President Emmanuel Macron and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping pushed for an emergency G20 summit to limit the impact of the pandemic.

French presidential sources said the virtual meeting would focus on "coordination on the health level" as well as sending a "strong signal" to financial markets over efforts to stabilise the global economy.

But with world leaders divided, the meeting stands in contrast to the G20 summits following the 2008 financial crisis, when the group swung into action to mobilise assistance for vulnerable countries.

"The G20 is missing in action today, unlike 2008," said Ian Bremmer, president and founder of the Eurasia Group risk consultancy firm.

Talk of global coordination has yet to resonate under Trump's isolationist presidency.

On Wednesday, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo took aim at China, saying the top diplomats of the Group of Seven agreed with him that Beijing was waging a "disinformation" campaign about the pandemic.

At the G7 talks, a day before the G20 summit, Pompeo alleged Beijing was engaged in a social media campaign that included conspiracy theories that the US was behind the virus, first detected in the Chinese metropolis of Wuhan.&nbsp;

"If G20 leaders can put politics aside and reach a collective G20 agreement, countries have a better chance of success or of delivering more stimulus than on their own," Markus Engels, from the Global Solutions Initiative, a network of think tanks, told AFP.

"Coordination among the G20 sends a strong message of unity and confidence, both of which are urgently needed now."

Crude oil prices -- hammered by the outbreak's impact on demand as well as by a price war between Saudi Arabia and Russia -- are also expected to be at the centre of the discussions.

Riyadh faces pressure from Washington to row back on its decision to hike production and offer the biggest price cuts in two decades, in retaliation for Russia's refusal to tighten supply as the virus saps demand.

On Wednesday, Pompeo urged Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to "rise to the occasion" and "reassure global energy and financial markets".

The G20 members will be joined by leaders from other affected countries including Spain, Jordan, Singapore and Switzerland, Riyadh said.

Leaders from international organisations such as the United Nations, the World Bank, the World Health Organisation and the World Trade Organisation will also participate.

 
&nbsp;

Leaders of the G20 major economies are holding an online summit Thursday in a bid to fend off a coronavirus-triggered recession, after criticism the group has been slow to address the crisis.

Leaders of the G20 major economies are holding an online summit Thursday in a bid to fend off a coronavirus-triggered recession, after criticism the group has been slow to address the crisis. US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin joined the emergency videoconference chaired by Saudi Arabia's King Salman, who is also under pressure to end an oil price war with Moscow that has roiled energy markets. Also read: How countries are using robots to fight coronavirus pandemic? The talks come as the global death toll from COVID-19 soared to more than 21,000 and over three billion people were locked down in their homes, triggering a massive financial shock worldwide. "As the world confronts the COVID-19 pandemic and the challenges to healthcare systems and the global economy, we convene this extraordinary G20 summit to unite efforts towards a global response," the king of Saudi Arabia, which currently holds the G20 presidency, said on Twitter. Also read: US coronavirus cases near 70,000, more than 1,000 dead The meeting, expected to be held at 1200 GMT, comes as the world's 20 most industrialised countries scramble to defend their virus-wracked economies amid forecasts they will likely plunge into a deep recession. On Wednesday, the financial ratings agency Moody's estimated the G20's overall gross domestic product would contract by 0.5 per cent this year, with the US economy shrinking by 2.0 per cent and the eurozone by 2.2 per cent. "The G20 economies will experience an unprecedented shock in the first half of this year and will contract in 2020 as a whole," Moody's said. Also read: China reports second consecutive day of no new local coronavirus transmissions, imported cases rise While wealthy nations including the US have unveiled mammoth stimulus packages, there has so far been no collective action plan from the G20, and concerns are mounting for poorer countries without access to capital markets and adequate health facilities. The IMF and World Bank on Wednesday urged G20 leaders to support its call for governments to put debt payments from the world's poorest nations on hold. World Health Organisation chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus also urged G20 nations to offer support to "low and middle-income countries", including those from Sub-Saharan Africa. 'Missing in action' This week, French President Emmanuel Macron and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping pushed for an emergency G20 summit to limit the impact of the pandemic. French presidential sources said the virtual meeting would focus on "coordination on the health level" as well as sending a "strong signal" to financial markets over efforts to stabilise the global economy. But with world leaders divided, the meeting stands in contrast to the G20 summits following the 2008 financial crisis, when the group swung into action to mobilise assistance for vulnerable countries. "The G20 is missing in action today, unlike 2008," said Ian Bremmer, president and founder of the Eurasia Group risk consultancy firm. Talk of global coordination has yet to resonate under Trump's isolationist presidency. On Wednesday, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo took aim at China, saying the top diplomats of the Group of Seven agreed with him that Beijing was waging a "disinformation" campaign about the pandemic. At the G7 talks, a day before the G20 summit, Pompeo alleged Beijing was engaged in a social media campaign that included conspiracy theories that the US was behind the virus, first detected in the Chinese metropolis of Wuhan. "If G20 leaders can put politics aside and reach a collective G20 agreement, countries have a better chance of success or of delivering more stimulus than on their own," Markus Engels, from the Global Solutions Initiative, a network of think tanks, told AFP. "Coordination among the G20 sends a strong message of unity and confidence, both of which are urgently needed now." Crude oil prices -- hammered by the outbreak's impact on demand as well as by a price war between Saudi Arabia and Russia -- are also expected to be at the centre of the discussions. Riyadh faces pressure from Washington to row back on its decision to hike production and offer the biggest price cuts in two decades, in retaliation for Russia's refusal to tighten supply as the virus saps demand. On Wednesday, Pompeo urged Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to "rise to the occasion" and "reassure global energy and financial markets". The G20 members will be joined by leaders from other affected countries including Spain, Jordan, Singapore and Switzerland, Riyadh said. Leaders from international organisations such as the United Nations, the World Bank, the World Health Organisation and the World Trade Organisation will also participate.

Saudi chairs G20 crisis talks as coronavirus threatens global recession

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday praised Japan's decision to delay the Tokyo Olympics over the coronavirus pandemic and indicated he will attend the rescheduled games next year.

"Congratulations to Prime Minister Abe of Japan, and the IOC, on their very wise decision to present the Olympics in 2021," Trump tweeted. "It will be a great success, and I look forward to being there!"

Trump faces a reelection battle this year and his campaign has likewise been upended by the global pandemic, which has prompted governments to order mass shutdowns of movement and economic activity.

So far the International Olympic Committee and Japan have not set a date for the rescheduled Games next year. If Trump does not secure a second term in November's vote, he will leave office in January 2021.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday praised Japan's decision to delay the Tokyo Olympics over the coronavirus pandemic and indicated he will attend the rescheduled games next year.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday praised Japan's decision to delay the Tokyo Olympics over the coronavirus pandemic and indicated he will attend the rescheduled games next year. "Congratulations to Prime Minister Abe of Japan, and the IOC, on their very wise decision to present the Olympics in 2021," Trump tweeted. "It will be a great success, and I look forward to being there!" Trump faces a reelection battle this year and his campaign has likewise been upended by the global pandemic, which has prompted governments to order mass shutdowns of movement and economic activity. So far the International Olympic Committee and Japan have not set a date for the rescheduled Games next year. If Trump does not secure a second term in November's vote, he will leave office in January 2021.

Donald Trump praises 2020 Tokyo Olympics delay, says will attend in 2021

US President Donald Trump called for the protection of Asian Americans after charges that his use of the term "Chinese virus" had aggravated a backlash. Watch report:

Donald Trump: Spreading of coronavirus not fault of Asian Americans

A week after millions of Americans began taking shelter at home from the coronavirus, states warned on Tuesday against easing restrictions too soon even though the clampdown is devastating the U.S. economy.

President Donald Trump said on Monday he was considering how to restart business life when a 15-day shutdown ends next week, even as the highly contagious virus spreads rapidly and poorly equipped hospitals struggle with a wave of deadly cases.

A Republican, Trump is seeking to win re-election in November on a promise of economic growth.

Governor Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat whose state of New York has become the epicenter of the U.S. outbreak with 25,665 cases, strongly opposed allowing people to travel, socialize and get back to workplaces too quickly.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cure-cant-be-worse-than-problem-announces-trump-as-he-vows-to-reopen-us-economy-amid-covid-19-crisis-288294" hreflang="en">'Cure can't be worse than problem', announces Trump as he vows to reopen US economy amid COVID-19 crisis</a>

"If you ask the American people to choose between public health and the economy, then it's no contest. No American is going to say accelerate the economy at the cost of human life," he said at a convention center in Manhattan that is being repurposed to fit beds for coronavirus patients.

Cuomo said the projected need for hospital beds in New York at the peak of the outbreak has jumped to 140,000, compared with the 53,000 that are available and that the apex of the outbreak could still be 14-21 days away

Maryland Governor Larry Hogan, a Republican, told CNN on Tuesday: "We don't think that we're going to be in any way ready to be out of this in five or six days or so, or whenever this 15 days is up from the time that they started this imaginary clock."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/could-united-states-become-the-next-epicentre-of-covid-19-288258" hreflang="en">Could United States become the next epicentre of COVID-19?</a>

More than 42,000 people in the United States have contracted COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by the virus, and at least 620 have died. The World Health Organization on Tuesday warned that the United States has the potential to become the global epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic, citing a "very large acceleration" in infections.

Senior Pentagon leaders said on Tuesday that the outbreak could continue for months.

Trump issued guidelines last week that he said aimed to slow the spread of the disease over 15 days, including curbing unnecessary travel. Economic activity has ground to a halt in major states such as New York and California.

The coronavirus has shuttered thousands of U.S. businesses, thrown millions out of work and led state governors to order about 100 million people - nearly a third of the nation's population - to stay at home.

There were signs that nerves had begun fraying after days of people working from home, looking after children whose schools are shut and severely scaling back on everyday activities.

Steve Rubinstein, a small bottle of hand sanitizer dangling from his belt loop, was juggling his two small children as they played in a New York park. Both he and his wife are working from home.

"It's very challenging, my wife and I both work, we have fulltime jobs," he said. "But it's, yeah, it's nonstop, it's relentless," Rubinstein, 35, added about balancing work demands and keeping their children safe and entertained.

Trump told a White House news conference on Monday that "America will again and soon be open for business," saying the crisis should not "turn into a long-lasting financial problem."

Rapidly reopening the economy might backfire, with higher deaths and people remaining fearful of going out, according to investors who remain anxious about the coronavirus’ uncertain trajectory and its economic toll.

“Markets will react badly because they have learned that this approach doesn’t work,” Axel Merk, chief investment officer of Merk Investments, said. “From a medical point of view, you have to break the exponential growth and you do that with shelter in place policies.”

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-spreading-of-coronavirus-not-fault-of-asian-americans-288166/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Wall street jumps

After taking a beating for most days in recent weeks, Wall Street bounced from three-year lows on Tuesday amid signs that Washington was nearing a deal on a $2 trillion package to rescue the economy from coronavirus. All three main U.S. stock indexes jumped more than 5%.

Negotiators predicted the U.S. Senate could pass the stimulus bill, which includes financial aid for ordinary Americans, small businesses and critically affected industries, as soon as Tuesday.

After criticism from Cuomo and others that Trump was not wielding special powers to force businesses to make medical equipment likes masks and ventilators, the federal government said on Tuesday it would use the Defense Production Act to procure 60,000 coronavirus test kits.

Peter Gaynor, the Federal Emergency Management Agency administrator, told CNN the Trump administration had decided to use the act because "there are some test kits we need to get our hands on." It would be the first time the act is being used for the coronavirus crisis.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-state-accounts-for-over-5-of-global-coronavirus-cases-numbers-expected-to-increase-288271" hreflang="en">New York state accounts for over 5% of global coronavirus cases, numbers expected to increase</a>

For right now, Birx said people in the United States should continue to follow the guidelines of social distancing.

"What the president is doing is looking for the future ... not looking to change what we're doing now," she said.

Stephen Moore, an economic commentator said by Trump's aides to be influencing the president, told Reuters on Monday there was a re-examination in the White House of the wisdom of “a full scale … shutdown of the economy.”

He said there were some who thought that “if we go on too long with the economy shut down, the human toll for that could be greater than the risk of the virus."

Despite the huge changes to daily life, many Americans still say they are willing to make sacrifices.

Christine Schindler, 58, a former receptionist, was alone waiting for a bus on Manhattan’s Upper West Side on Tuesday. She said she thought it was dangerous to lift the restrictions too early for the sake of the economy.

“It’s going to come back up anyway, really, once things hit the bottom,” she said. “This is supposed to be the number one economy in the world.”

A week after millions of Americans began taking shelter at home from the coronavirus, states warned on Tuesday against easing restrictions too soon even though the clampdown is devastating the U.

A week after millions of Americans began taking shelter at home from the coronavirus, states warned on Tuesday against easing restrictions too soon even though the clampdown is devastating the U.S. economy. President Donald Trump said on Monday he was considering how to restart business life when a 15-day shutdown ends next week, even as the highly contagious virus spreads rapidly and poorly equipped hospitals struggle with a wave of deadly cases. A Republican, Trump is seeking to win re-election in November on a promise of economic growth. Governor Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat whose state of New York has become the epicenter of the U.S. outbreak with 25,665 cases, strongly opposed allowing people to travel, socialize and get back to workplaces too quickly. Also read: 'Cure can't be worse than problem', announces Trump as he vows to reopen US economy amid COVID-19 crisis "If you ask the American people to choose between public health and the economy, then it's no contest. No American is going to say accelerate the economy at the cost of human life," he said at a convention center in Manhattan that is being repurposed to fit beds for coronavirus patients. Cuomo said the projected need for hospital beds in New York at the peak of the outbreak has jumped to 140,000, compared with the 53,000 that are available and that the apex of the outbreak could still be 14-21 days away Maryland Governor Larry Hogan, a Republican, told CNN on Tuesday: "We don't think that we're going to be in any way ready to be out of this in five or six days or so, or whenever this 15 days is up from the time that they started this imaginary clock." Also read: Could United States become the next epicentre of COVID-19? More than 42,000 people in the United States have contracted COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by the virus, and at least 620 have died. The World Health Organization on Tuesday warned that the United States has the potential to become the global epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic, citing a "very large acceleration" in infections. Senior Pentagon leaders said on Tuesday that the outbreak could continue for months. Trump issued guidelines last week that he said aimed to slow the spread of the disease over 15 days, including curbing unnecessary travel. Economic activity has ground to a halt in major states such as New York and California. The coronavirus has shuttered thousands of U.S. businesses, thrown millions out of work and led state governors to order about 100 million people - nearly a third of the nation's population - to stay at home. There were signs that nerves had begun fraying after days of people working from home, looking after children whose schools are shut and severely scaling back on everyday activities. Steve Rubinstein, a small bottle of hand sanitizer dangling from his belt loop, was juggling his two small children as they played in a New York park. Both he and his wife are working from home. "It's very challenging, my wife and I both work, we have fulltime jobs," he said. "But it's, yeah, it's nonstop, it's relentless," Rubinstein, 35, added about balancing work demands and keeping their children safe and entertained. Trump told a White House news conference on Monday that "America will again and soon be open for business," saying the crisis should not "turn into a long-lasting financial problem." Rapidly reopening the economy might backfire, with higher deaths and people remaining fearful of going out, according to investors who remain anxious about the coronavirus’ uncertain trajectory and its economic toll. “Markets will react badly because they have learned that this approach doesn’t work,” Axel Merk, chief investment officer of Merk Investments, said. “From a medical point of view, you have to break the exponential growth and you do that with shelter in place policies.” Wall street jumps After taking a beating for most days in recent weeks, Wall Street bounced from three-year lows on Tuesday amid signs that Washington was nearing a deal on a $2 trillion package to rescue the economy from coronavirus. All three main U.S. stock indexes jumped more than 5%. Negotiators predicted the U.S. Senate could pass the stimulus bill, which includes financial aid for ordinary Americans, small businesses and critically affected industries, as soon as Tuesday. After criticism from Cuomo and others that Trump was not wielding special powers to force businesses to make medical equipment likes masks and ventilators, the federal government said on Tuesday it would use the Defense Production Act to procure 60,000 coronavirus test kits. Peter Gaynor, the Federal Emergency Management Agency administrator, told CNN the Trump administration had decided to use the act because "there are some test kits we need to get our hands on." It would be the first time the act is being used for the coronavirus crisis. Also read: New York state accounts for over 5% of global coronavirus cases, numbers expected to increase For right now, Birx said people in the United States should continue to follow the guidelines of social distancing. "What the president is doing is looking for the future ... not looking to change what we're doing now," she said. Stephen Moore, an economic commentator said by Trump's aides to be influencing the president, told Reuters on Monday there was a re-examination in the White House of the wisdom of “a full scale … shutdown of the economy.” He said there were some who thought that “if we go on too long with the economy shut down, the human toll for that could be greater than the risk of the virus." Despite the huge changes to daily life, many Americans still say they are willing to make sacrifices. Christine Schindler, 58, a former receptionist, was alone waiting for a bus on Manhattan’s Upper West Side on Tuesday. She said she thought it was dangerous to lift the restrictions too early for the sake of the economy. “It’s going to come back up anyway, really, once things hit the bottom,” she said. “This is supposed to be the number one economy in the world.”

States reject Trump talk of restarting US economy early

China's imported virus cases spike as fears grow of second wave

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Nobel-winning peace negotiator Ahtisaari has coronavirus

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US newspapers call on China to reverse expulsion of journalists

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Taiwan says WHO ignored its coronavirus questions at start of outbreak

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Could United States become the next epicentre of COVID-19?

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Emergency G20 summit on Covid-19 on Thursday via video conference

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Man dies from hantavirus on bus in China, other passengers tested positive

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New York state accounts for over 5% of global coronavirus cases, numbers expected to increase

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Italian coronavirus cases seen '10 times higher' than official tally

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'Cure can't be worse than problem', announces Trump as he vows to reopen US economy as COVID-19 cases rise

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China's imported virus cases spike as fears grow of second wave Read more here Nobel-winning peace negotiator Ahtisaari has coronavirus Read more here US newspapers call on China to reverse expulsion of journalists Read more here Taiwan says WHO ignored its coronavirus questions at start of outbreak Read more here Could United States become the next epicentre of COVID-19?

China's imported virus cases spike as fears grow of second wave Read more here Nobel-winning peace negotiator Ahtisaari has coronavirus Read more here US newspapers call on China to reverse expulsion of journalists Read more here Taiwan says WHO ignored its coronavirus questions at start of outbreak Read more here Could United States become the next epicentre of COVID-19? Read more here Emergency G20 summit on Covid-19 on Thursday via video conference Read more here Man dies from hantavirus on bus in China, other passengers tested positive Read more here New York state accounts for over 5% of global coronavirus cases, numbers expected to increase Read more here Italian coronavirus cases seen '10 times higher' than official tally Read more here 'Cure can't be worse than problem', announces Trump as he vows to reopen US economy as COVID-19 cases rise Read more here

Top 10 world news: US next COVID-19 epicentre, China fears second wave, and more!

As global leaders scramble to choose between retaining economic activity to prevent the halt of growth and locking down their countries in order to prevent an outbreak, United States President Donald Trump has chosen to strike a balance.

As the virus is expected to peak in the United States soon, Trump is attempting to avoid an economic meltdown while hoping to contain the virus.

"Our country was not built to be shut down," the President announced on Monday. "We are going to be opening up our country for business because our country was meant to be open".

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-spreading-of-coronavirus-not-fault-of-asian-americans-288166/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We are going to get it all going again very soon," he said. Additionally, he openly said that he was not looking at months, but only a few weeks.

The United States recently recorded over 40,000 cases. 100 deaths were also witnessed, a first for the country since coronavirus reached the nation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-state-accounts-for-over-5-of-global-coronavirus-cases-numbers-expected-to-increase-288271" hreflang="en">New York state accounts for over 5% of global coronavirus cases, numbers expected to increase</a>

One of the members of Donald Trump’s coronavirus task force, Dr Deborah Birx claimed that the virus was spreading five times faster in New York than other states.

The president has claimed that things are “bad”, but is sceptical about social distancing.

&nbsp;"If it were up to the doctors, they may say let's keep it shut down, let's shut down the entire world", he claimed.

The conflict has brought out the differing approaches that can be undertaken during a pandemic, which is to lock down the country to save lives, or to forego this in favour of protecting economic growth.

CNN reported that the administration is considering limiting work to younger people, who are less prone to critical complications.

In the face of potential unemployment, the administration is facing a dilemma.&nbsp;

However, most states in the United States have imposed directed people to stay at home, with businesses closed, and schools shut.

<h6><img alt="ppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b819ce09-f89a-43c2-9e9c-9173aa131a26" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%284%29_47.jpg" /> 
US President Donald Trump speaks during the daily briefing on the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, at the White House, March 23, 2020, in Washington, DC | AFP 
 
&nbsp;</h6>

The US healthcare system is currently ill-equipped to deal with the influx of patients.

The President insisted that “we can do two things at once”, implying that the country need not impose a lockdown and shut down the economy.

However, global trends have made it abundantly clear that there is no middle ground in a situation like this. Countries can either shut their societies down to contain the virus, or work as usual and risk infection.

The man at the helm of the president's task force: Dr Anthony Fauci, was nowhere to be seen alongside Trump. Instead, he attended meetings attacking the pandemic.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/could-united-states-become-the-next-epicentre-of-covid-19-288258" hreflang="en">Could United States become the next epicentre of COVID-19?</a>

With the number of coronavirus cases rising rapidly, the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the United States could become the next epicentre of the pandemic.

“A very large acceleration” in the number of coronavirus cases has been recorded recently.

Out of the new cases recorded in the last 24 hours, 85 per cent came from Europe and the United States. Out of these, 40 per cent cases alone came from the US.

Recently, the president tweeted out and reaffirmed his faith in Americans to aptly deal with the virus.

"Our people want to return to work," he said on Twitter. "They will practice Social Distancing and all else, and Seniors will be watched over protectively &amp; lovingly. We can do two things together. THE CURE CANNOT BE WORSE (by far) THAN THE PROBLEM!"

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-spain-virus-death-toll-rises-by-514-to-2696-288261" hreflang="en">COVID-19: Spain virus death toll rises by 514 to 2,696</a>

(With inputs from agencies)

As global leaders scramble to choose between retaining economic activity to prevent the halt of growth and locking down their countries in order to prevent an outbreak, United States President Donald Trump has chosen to strike a balance.

As global leaders scramble to choose between retaining economic activity to prevent the halt of growth and locking down their countries in order to prevent an outbreak, United States President Donald Trump has chosen to strike a balance. As the virus is expected to peak in the United States soon, Trump is attempting to avoid an economic meltdown while hoping to contain the virus. "Our country was not built to be shut down," the President announced on Monday. "We are going to be opening up our country for business because our country was meant to be open". "We are going to get it all going again very soon," he said. Additionally, he openly said that he was not looking at months, but only a few weeks. The United States recently recorded over 40,000 cases. 100 deaths were also witnessed, a first for the country since coronavirus reached the nation. Also read: New York state accounts for over 5% of global coronavirus cases, numbers expected to increase One of the members of Donald Trump’s coronavirus task force, Dr Deborah Birx claimed that the virus was spreading five times faster in New York than other states. The president has claimed that things are “bad”, but is sceptical about social distancing. "If it were up to the doctors, they may say let's keep it shut down, let's shut down the entire world", he claimed. The conflict has brought out the differing approaches that can be undertaken during a pandemic, which is to lock down the country to save lives, or to forego this in favour of protecting economic growth. CNN reported that the administration is considering limiting work to younger people, who are less prone to critical complications. In the face of potential unemployment, the administration is facing a dilemma. However, most states in the United States have imposed directed people to stay at home, with businesses closed, and schools shut. US President Donald Trump speaks during the daily briefing on the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, at the White House, March 23, 2020, in Washington, DC | AFP The US healthcare system is currently ill-equipped to deal with the influx of patients. The President insisted that “we can do two things at once”, implying that the country need not impose a lockdown and shut down the economy. However, global trends have made it abundantly clear that there is no middle ground in a situation like this. Countries can either shut their societies down to contain the virus, or work as usual and risk infection. The man at the helm of the president's task force: Dr Anthony Fauci, was nowhere to be seen alongside Trump. Instead, he attended meetings attacking the pandemic. Also read: Could United States become the next epicentre of COVID-19? With the number of coronavirus cases rising rapidly, the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the United States could become the next epicentre of the pandemic. “A very large acceleration” in the number of coronavirus cases has been recorded recently. Out of the new cases recorded in the last 24 hours, 85 per cent came from Europe and the United States. Out of these, 40 per cent cases alone came from the US. Recently, the president tweeted out and reaffirmed his faith in Americans to aptly deal with the virus. "Our people want to return to work," he said on Twitter. "They will practice Social Distancing and all else, and Seniors will be watched over protectively & lovingly. We can do two things together. THE CURE CANNOT BE WORSE (by far) THAN THE PROBLEM!" Also read: COVID-19: Spain virus death toll rises by 514 to 2,696 (With inputs from agencies)

'Cure can't be worse than problem', announces Trump as he vows to reopen US economy amid COVID-19 crisis

Publishers of three US&nbsp;newspapers urged China on Tuesday to reverse a decision to force out about a dozen of their American journalists, saying in an open letter that the expulsions come at a time of "shared crisis" for the world.

China announced on March 18 it was revoking the press accreditations of all American journalists in the China bureaus of the three newspapers that were due to expire at the end of 2020, effectively expelling them.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-expel-us-journalists-escalates-bitter-row-with-washington-287103">China to expel US journalists, escalates bitter row with Washington</a>

"We strongly urge the Chinese government to reverse its decision to force the Americans working for our news organizations to leave," the publishers of News Corp's Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post and the New York Times said.

The decision "uniquely damaging and reckless" as the world is fighting a global coronavirus pandemic, they said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-imported-virus-cases-spike-as-fears-grow-of-second-wave-288149">China's imported virus cases spike as fears grow of second wave</a>

"Perhaps more than any major news event in modern history, this moment underscores the urgent importance of both probing, accurate, on-the-ground reporting from the centers of the pandemic and of sharing the information."

The expulsions were the latest escalation in a dispute with the United States over media freedom and access, which last month saw the United States require that Chinese state media register as foreign embassies.

China then expelled three Wall Street Journal reporters - two Americans and an Australian - after the paper published an opinion column calling China the "real sick man of Asia".

The United States then cut the number of journalists allowed to work at four major Chinese state media outlets there from 160 to 100, citing a "deepening crackdown" on independent reporting in China.

China's Foreign Ministry has said its measures are "necessary" and "reciprocal" against "escalating discrimination and oppression against Chinese media" by the United States.

Publishers of three US newspapers urged China on Tuesday to reverse a decision to force out about a dozen of their American journalists, saying in an open letter that the expulsions come at a time of "shared crisis" for the world.

Publishers of three US newspapers urged China on Tuesday to reverse a decision to force out about a dozen of their American journalists, saying in an open letter that the expulsions come at a time of "shared crisis" for the world. China announced on March 18 it was revoking the press accreditations of all American journalists in the China bureaus of the three newspapers that were due to expire at the end of 2020, effectively expelling them. Also read: China to expel US journalists, escalates bitter row with Washington "We strongly urge the Chinese government to reverse its decision to force the Americans working for our news organizations to leave," the publishers of News Corp's Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post and the New York Times said. The decision "uniquely damaging and reckless" as the world is fighting a global coronavirus pandemic, they said. Also read: China's imported virus cases spike as fears grow of second wave "Perhaps more than any major news event in modern history, this moment underscores the urgent importance of both probing, accurate, on-the-ground reporting from the centers of the pandemic and of sharing the information." The expulsions were the latest escalation in a dispute with the United States over media freedom and access, which last month saw the United States require that Chinese state media register as foreign embassies. China then expelled three Wall Street Journal reporters - two Americans and an Australian - after the paper published an opinion column calling China the "real sick man of Asia". The United States then cut the number of journalists allowed to work at four major Chinese state media outlets there from 160 to 100, citing a "deepening crackdown" on independent reporting in China. China's Foreign Ministry has said its measures are "necessary" and "reciprocal" against "escalating discrimination and oppression against Chinese media" by the United States.

US newspapers call on China to reverse expulsion of journalists

ICMR has prescribed anti-malaria drug hydroxychloroquine for health workers and family members of coronavirus patients who are at high risk. US President Donald Trump says, this drug can be a game changer

WION Fineprint: Drug Hydroxychloroquine is a game changer-Trump

Republicans and Democrats in the U.S. Senate on Saturday scrambled to complete a deal on a $1 trillion-plus bill aimed at stemming the coronavirus pandemic's economic fallout for workers, industries and small businesses.

Republicans and Democrats in the U.S. Senate on Saturday scrambled to complete a deal on a $1 trillion-plus bill aimed at stemming the coronavirus pandemic's economic fallout for workers, industries and small businesses. But after the second day of marathon closed-door negotiations, there was no sign of an overarching deal between negotiators, despite Republicans' claims of bipartisan agreement on specific issues including unemployment insurance and small business assistance. "The past two days of intense bipartisan talks are very close to a resolution," said Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, who intends to hold a vote to pass the sprawling package on Monday. He said he has asked committee chairmen to produce final language for the bill by late Saturday. White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow told reporters he expects the final legislative package to be worth $1.3 trillion to $1.4 trillion to combat the effects of a health crisis that many fear will lead to a spike in unemployment as businesses close and the economy falters. Combined with actions undertaken by the U.S. Federal Reserve and the administration, the prospective bill would have a $2 trillion net impact on a U.S. economy facing powerful headwind spawned by the outbreak, according to White House officials. Republican Senator Mike Crapo, who chairs the Senate Banking Committee, said the legislation could contain $300 billion to $500 billion in stabilization funds that the Federal Reserve could use as the basis for much larger infusions of liquidity for businesses of all sizes and configurations. Democratic leader Chuck Schumer, who met twice on Saturday with Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, agreed that progress was being made. "I'm optimistic we can get a deal. We're going to continue working through the night," the New York Democrat told reporters. Lawmakers from both sides said they were at or near agreement on proposals to provide $350 billion or more in assistance for small businesses and to enhance unemployment insurance coverage for people made jobless by the outbreak. Democrats pressed for all coronavirus-affected workers to receive full pay for four months. "We haven't dotted the i's and crossed the t's. But conceptually, I think we're there," Schumer told CNN. Democrats have also called for a $100 billion "Marshall Plan" for U.S. hospitals to pay for protective gear, equipment such as ventilators, beds and additional doctors and nurses. "I suspect that we'll have a bill by tomorrow that will have significant Democratic priorities, significant Republican priorities and hopefully we can pass the bill Monday morning," Republican Senator Lamar Alexander told reporters. Major U.S. airlines and their unions also called on Congress to include federal cash grants to support industry paychecks. But their plea did not appear to find support with senators or the administration. The prospective legislation already includes $58 billion in loans and loan guarantees for passenger airlines and air cargo carriers. Republican lawmakers said the bill will also include a funding response to the Trump administration's request for $45.8 billion in extra funding for the Department of Health and Human Services, the Veterans Administration and the Defense Department.

US Senate races to agree on massive coronavirus relief package

New York and Illinois followed California Friday in locking down to stem the coronavirus pandemic as President Donald Trump declared the United States was already "winning" the war despite a rapid rise in confirmed cases and deaths.

The move effectively seals off America's largest cities, New York, Los Angeles and Chicago, with the states of New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Nevada following suit.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-us-and-mexico-plan-to-close-border-to-non-essential-travel-287634">Coronavirus pandemic: US and Mexico plan to close border to 'non-essential travel'</a>

But Trump insisted there was no need for a national lockdown, arguing that other parts of the US weren't hurting as much as its most populous states.

Governor Andrew Cuomo ordered non-essential businesses to close and banned gatherings in New York state, a day after his counterpart Gavin Newsom told California's 40 million residents to stay home.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-has-been-terming-coronavirus-as-chinese-virus-but-is-it-really-wrong-287691">Trump has been terming coronavirus as 'Chinese virus'. But is it really wrong?</a>

"We're all in quarantine now," Cuomo told reporters, warning of civil fines and mandatory closures for anyone violating the order, which takes effect on Sunday evening.

The restrictions so far imposed in seven states now cover around 100 million people.

The escalation came as COVID-19-linked deaths in the US rose to 249, more than doubling in three days, with more than 19,000 confirmed infections, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/can-the-duration-of-covid-19-treatment-be-minimised-by-using-a-combination-of-drugs-287565">Can the duration of COVID-19 treatment be minimised by using a combination of drugs?</a>

Among the new cases was a staffer in the office of Vice President Mike Pence, the pointman for Washington's response to the coronavirus outbreak.

"Neither President Trump nor Vice President Pence had close contact with the individual," Pence's press secretary Katie Miller said of the latest confirmed case to brush the inner circle of US leadership.

Despite the surge in cases, Trump said the world's number one power was "winning" and "going to win this war."

"Those are really two hotbeds. Those are probably the two hottest of them all in terms of hotspots," Trump told the daily White House news conference, adding that states in the American Midwest&nbsp;were not registering as many confirmed cases.

"So no, we're working with the governors and I don't think we'll ever find that necessary," he added.

But shortly afterwards Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker announced an immediate stay-at-home order for the state "to avoid the loss of potentially tens of thousands of lives."

"The only strategy available to us to limit the increase in cases... is to mitigate the spread of coronavirus in the most robust manner possible," he said.

The order is in place from Saturday evening until April 7, Pritzker added.

The head of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Todd Semonite, said the agency was working on refitting more than 10,000 hotel and dormitory rooms in New York into temporary hospitals to alleviate the burden on health centers.

"We would like to think we can do this in three or four weeks and try to go as fast as we can," he said.

The number of confirmed infections in New York state jumped past 8,000 Friday, largely because of an increase in testing, as Cuomo announced he would pass an executive order mandating that only essential businesses can remain open from late Sunday.

He stressed that essential services included grocery stores, pharmacies and food delivery.

Cuomo said "non-essential gatherings of individuals of any size" were canceled.

New York and Illinois followed California Friday in locking down to stem the coronavirus pandemic as President Donald Trump declared the United States was already "winning" the war despite a rapid rise in confirmed cases and deaths.

New York and Illinois followed California Friday in locking down to stem the coronavirus pandemic as President Donald Trump declared the United States was already "winning" the war despite a rapid rise in confirmed cases and deaths. The move effectively seals off America's largest cities, New York, Los Angeles and Chicago, with the states of New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Nevada following suit. Also read: Coronavirus pandemic: US and Mexico plan to close border to 'non-essential travel' But Trump insisted there was no need for a national lockdown, arguing that other parts of the US weren't hurting as much as its most populous states. Governor Andrew Cuomo ordered non-essential businesses to close and banned gatherings in New York state, a day after his counterpart Gavin Newsom told California's 40 million residents to stay home. Also read: Trump has been terming coronavirus as 'Chinese virus'. But is it really wrong? "We're all in quarantine now," Cuomo told reporters, warning of civil fines and mandatory closures for anyone violating the order, which takes effect on Sunday evening. The restrictions so far imposed in seven states now cover around 100 million people. The escalation came as COVID-19-linked deaths in the US rose to 249, more than doubling in three days, with more than 19,000 confirmed infections, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University. Also read: Can the duration of COVID-19 treatment be minimised by using a combination of drugs? Among the new cases was a staffer in the office of Vice President Mike Pence, the pointman for Washington's response to the coronavirus outbreak. "Neither President Trump nor Vice President Pence had close contact with the individual," Pence's press secretary Katie Miller said of the latest confirmed case to brush the inner circle of US leadership. Despite the surge in cases, Trump said the world's number one power was "winning" and "going to win this war." "Those are really two hotbeds. Those are probably the two hottest of them all in terms of hotspots," Trump told the daily White House news conference, adding that states in the American Midwest were not registering as many confirmed cases. "So no, we're working with the governors and I don't think we'll ever find that necessary," he added. But shortly afterwards Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker announced an immediate stay-at-home order for the state "to avoid the loss of potentially tens of thousands of lives." "The only strategy available to us to limit the increase in cases... is to mitigate the spread of coronavirus in the most robust manner possible," he said. The order is in place from Saturday evening until April 7, Pritzker added. The head of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Todd Semonite, said the agency was working on refitting more than 10,000 hotel and dormitory rooms in New York into temporary hospitals to alleviate the burden on health centers. "We would like to think we can do this in three or four weeks and try to go as fast as we can," he said. The number of confirmed infections in New York state jumped past 8,000 Friday, largely because of an increase in testing, as Cuomo announced he would pass an executive order mandating that only essential businesses can remain open from late Sunday. He stressed that essential services included grocery stores, pharmacies and food delivery. Cuomo said "non-essential gatherings of individuals of any size" were canceled.

Coronavirus pandemic: Trump says US on top as outbreak shuts largest cities

A staffer in the office of US Vice President Mike Pence, the point man for Washington's response to the coronavirus outbreak, has tested positive for the illness, a spokeswoman said Friday.

"Neither President Trump nor Vice President Pence had close contact with the individual. Further contact tracing is being conducted," Pence's press secretary Katie Miller said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-trump-says-us-on-top-as-outbreak-shuts-largest-cities-287738">Coronavirus pandemic: Trump says US on top as outbreak shuts largest cities</a>

Pence has appeared at Trump's side at the daily White House press conferences to announce developments in the US fight against the outbreak.

It is the latest case of COVID-19 to brush the inner circle of US leadership.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hoax-everything-under-control-and-pandemic-a-timeline-of-how-donald-trump-denied-coronavirus-outbreak-287559">'Hoax', 'everything under control' and 'pandemic': A timeline of how Donald Trump denied coronavirus outbreak</a>

An attendee at a political conference last month featuring Trump and Pence tested positive for the illness, and multiple political figures who regularly meet with the president and vice president have gone into preventive self-quarantine.

Trump tested negative for the novel coronavirus last week. He agreed to the test after coming in contact with several members of a Brazilian presidential delegation visiting his Florida resort who have since been found to have the virus.

The news came as COVID-19-linked deaths in the US rose to 216, more than doubling in three days, with more than 16,600 confirmed infections, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University.

On Friday, New York and Illinois followed California in locking down to stem the coronavirus pandemic, effectively sealing off America's largest cities of New York, Los Angeles and Chicago.

A staffer in the office of US Vice President Mike Pence, the point man for Washington's response to the coronavirus outbreak, has tested positive for the illness, a spokeswoman said Friday.

A staffer in the office of US Vice President Mike Pence, the point man for Washington's response to the coronavirus outbreak, has tested positive for the illness, a spokeswoman said Friday. "Neither President Trump nor Vice President Pence had close contact with the individual. Further contact tracing is being conducted," Pence's press secretary Katie Miller said. Also read: Coronavirus pandemic: Trump says US on top as outbreak shuts largest cities Pence has appeared at Trump's side at the daily White House press conferences to announce developments in the US fight against the outbreak. It is the latest case of COVID-19 to brush the inner circle of US leadership. Also read: 'Hoax', 'everything under control' and 'pandemic': A timeline of how Donald Trump denied coronavirus outbreak An attendee at a political conference last month featuring Trump and Pence tested positive for the illness, and multiple political figures who regularly meet with the president and vice president have gone into preventive self-quarantine. Trump tested negative for the novel coronavirus last week. He agreed to the test after coming in contact with several members of a Brazilian presidential delegation visiting his Florida resort who have since been found to have the virus. The news came as COVID-19-linked deaths in the US rose to 216, more than doubling in three days, with more than 16,600 confirmed infections, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University. On Friday, New York and Illinois followed California in locking down to stem the coronavirus pandemic, effectively sealing off America's largest cities of New York, Los Angeles and Chicago.

Staffer in US vice president's office tests positive for virus: Spokeswoman

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