US Secretary of Defence Mark Esper will likely be visiting Pakistan in the third week of March 2020, sources in the Pakistani government confirmed to WION.

The dates for Mark Esper’s visit to Pakistan will either be March 18 or &nbsp;March 19, the sources said.

During the visit, Esper is likely to have a courtesy call with the Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan. The talks would focus on bilateral security cooperation as the US gears up to exit from Afghanistan.

The sources also said that Esper’s visit would be a follow up to the talks and bilateral meeting held between Pakistani PM Khan and US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum held in Davos in January.

Earlier, the US Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross also visited Pakistan, right after he visited India in February 2020.

The visit of Mark Esper to Pakistan comes in the backdrop of Taliban deal where Pakistan was seen as a key facilitator and enabler of the peace pact.

The US has already suspended the Coalition Support Funds to Pakistan, the reimbursements worth $ 9.8 Billion which the US owes to Pakistan for utilising Pakistani territory during its war on terror in Afghanistan.

The United States had also suspended the military training program for Pakistan but restored in December last year.

A matter of the Coalition support fund is likely to be taken up during the bilateral talks.

On July 23 last year, Esper took charge as the Secretary of Defence of United States.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

US Secretary of Defence Mark Esper will likely be visiting Pakistan in the third week of March 2020, sources in the Pakistani government confirmed to WION. The dates for Mark Esper’s visit to Pakistan will either be March 18 or March 19, the sources said.

US Secretary of Defence Mark Esper will likely be visiting Pakistan in the third week of March 2020, sources in the Pakistani government confirmed to WION. The dates for Mark Esper’s visit to Pakistan will either be March 18 or March 19, the sources said. During the visit, Esper is likely to have a courtesy call with the Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan. The talks would focus on bilateral security cooperation as the US gears up to exit from Afghanistan. The sources also said that Esper’s visit would be a follow up to the talks and bilateral meeting held between Pakistani PM Khan and US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum held in Davos in January. Earlier, the US Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross also visited Pakistan, right after he visited India in February 2020. The visit of Mark Esper to Pakistan comes in the backdrop of Taliban deal where Pakistan was seen as a key facilitator and enabler of the peace pact. The US has already suspended the Coalition Support Funds to Pakistan, the reimbursements worth $ 9.8 Billion which the US owes to Pakistan for utilising Pakistani territory during its war on terror in Afghanistan. The United States had also suspended the military training program for Pakistan but restored in December last year. A matter of the Coalition support fund is likely to be taken up during the bilateral talks. On July 23 last year, Esper took charge as the Secretary of Defence of United States.

US Secretary of Defence Mark Esper likely to visit Pakistan in March: Sources

US President Donald Trump said on Saturday that he planned to continue political rallies despite coronavirus concerns.

Despite Coronovirus outbreak, US President Trump decides to continue his rallies

US President Donald Trump on Friday starred with White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney and replaced him with conservative jurist and close aide Mark Meadows, who was a strong Trump defender during the Democratic impeachment campaign.

US President Trump replaces acting chief of staff Mulvaney with North Carolina lawmaker

The US-Taliban peace deal is on a fragile footing. Violence, differences between the parties and the divisions between politicians could make the deal worthless.

Earlier this week, when the reports of the violence in Helmand trickled in, a spokesperson for the US &nbsp;forces in Afghanistan blamed the Taliban for breaking the promise to maintain peace in Afghanistan.

The Taliban ramped up violence against the Afghan Security forces, despite US President Donald Trump's calls for peace.&nbsp;

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani stakes claim to the Presidency, but his challenger Abdullah Abdullah has rejected the election results.

On the other side, the Taliban doesn't even recognise the legitimacy of the Afghan government. These differences make peace negotiations more tricky.&nbsp;

As the events are playing out on the ground, it looks like the US still has a long way to go&nbsp;before it can exit the Afghanistan quagmire. There are many hurdles in this path to peace. 
 
The agreement did not include the Afghanistan government led&nbsp;by Ashraf Ghani. At the same time, the United States gave the Taliban an upper hand by conducting a one-way negotiation.

The ambiguity in the agreement does not help, if the parties involved want to ensure peace in Afghanistan - a lot of it depends on the difficult negotiations between the Taliban and the Afghan government.

The US-Taliban agreement seems to be clear on one thing - troop withdrawal, a promise that was central to Donald Trump's election campaign.

The US has agreed to reduce its troops from around 12 thousand to 8,600 in 135 days. If the Taliban follows through on its promises - all troops of America and its allies will leave Afghanistan within fourteen months.

Amid the chaos, the question now is whether Donald Trump will prioritise the withdrawal of American troops before everything else.&nbsp; 
 
An exit without a deal could lead to an escalation in fighting - some experts even claim that it will lead to a new civil war.

The Taliban reportedly controls well over 50 per cent of Afghanistan and they could potentially seize control of Afghanistan if America just walks away.

Any potential peace deal would include a comprehensive ceasefire without it, the fighting will spiral out of control. The Trump administration should resist the urge for an urgent withdrawal.

Otherwise, its historic peace deal with the Taliban will fail to end the war in Afghanistan. 
 
(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

The US-Taliban peace deal is on a fragile footing. Violence, differences between the parties and the divisions between politicians could make the deal worthless.

The US-Taliban peace deal is on a fragile footing. Violence, differences between the parties and the divisions between politicians could make the deal worthless. Earlier this week, when the reports of the violence in Helmand trickled in, a spokesperson for the US forces in Afghanistan blamed the Taliban for breaking the promise to maintain peace in Afghanistan. The Taliban ramped up violence against the Afghan Security forces, despite US President Donald Trump's calls for peace. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani stakes claim to the Presidency, but his challenger Abdullah Abdullah has rejected the election results. On the other side, the Taliban doesn't even recognise the legitimacy of the Afghan government. These differences make peace negotiations more tricky. As the events are playing out on the ground, it looks like the US still has a long way to go before it can exit the Afghanistan quagmire. There are many hurdles in this path to peace. The agreement did not include the Afghanistan government led by Ashraf Ghani. At the same time, the United States gave the Taliban an upper hand by conducting a one-way negotiation. The ambiguity in the agreement does not help, if the parties involved want to ensure peace in Afghanistan - a lot of it depends on the difficult negotiations between the Taliban and the Afghan government. The US-Taliban agreement seems to be clear on one thing - troop withdrawal, a promise that was central to Donald Trump's election campaign. The US has agreed to reduce its troops from around 12 thousand to 8,600 in 135 days. If the Taliban follows through on its promises - all troops of America and its allies will leave Afghanistan within fourteen months. Amid the chaos, the question now is whether Donald Trump will prioritise the withdrawal of American troops before everything else. An exit without a deal could lead to an escalation in fighting - some experts even claim that it will lead to a new civil war. The Taliban reportedly controls well over 50 per cent of Afghanistan and they could potentially seize control of Afghanistan if America just walks away. Any potential peace deal would include a comprehensive ceasefire without it, the fighting will spiral out of control. The Trump administration should resist the urge for an urgent withdrawal. Otherwise, its historic peace deal with the Taliban will fail to end the war in Afghanistan. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: Is the US-Taliban peace deal on fragile footing?

Western forces will only leave Afghanistan if the Taliban make good on their commitment to reducing bloodshed, the head of NATO warned Wednesday, as attacks surge.

The militants have ramped up violence against Afghan forces since signing a deal with Washington at the weekend, casting doubt over peace talks between Kabul and the Taliban, due to begin on March 10.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/hours-after-trump-call-taliban-attacks-kill-20-in-afghanistan-officials-284194">Hours after Trump call, Taliban attacks kill 20 in Afghanistan: Officials</a>

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said&nbsp;that a "long and hard" road to peace lay ahead but warned the Taliban that if they reneged on the agreement, foreign forces would not leave.

"It is a very difficult situation and the Taliban must honour their commitment. We need to see a reduction in violence," Stoltenberg said&nbsp;in an interview in Zagreb, where he attended a meeting of EU defence ministers.

"We can only deliver our side of the deal if the Taliban deliver their side of the deal."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/first-time-in-11-days-of-truce-us-hits-taliban-with-air-strike-military-spokesperson-284201">First time in 11 days of truce, US hits Taliban with air strike: Military spokesperson</a>

US President Donald Trump has touted the deal, signed in Doha, as a way to end the bloody 18-year US military presence in Afghanistan.

But overnight, Taliban militants killed at least 20 Afghan soldiers and policemen in a string of attacks in the latest breach of the partial truce.

Under the terms of the deal, the US and other foreign forces will quit Afghanistan within 14 months, subject to Taliban security guarantees and a pledge by the insurgents to hold talks with the government of President Ashraf Ghani.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/you-are-tough-people-i-understand-you-are-fighting-for-your-homeland-trump-to-taliban-284181">You are tough people;&nbsp;I understand you are fighting for your homeland: Trump to Taliban</a>

NATO, which has a 16,000-strong training and support mission in Afghanistan, has long insisted it would only leave when conditions were right -- in particular that terrorists could not use the country as a springboard for attacks abroad.

"The agreement that was signed on Saturday was an important first step, but it's only a first step," said Stoltenberg, who as prime minister of Norway sent troops to Afghanistan following the US-led invasion that overthrew the Taliban in 2001.

"The road towards peace will be long and hard and we have to be prepared for disappointments."

"At the same time, there is no alternative. The only way to have a peaceful solution is a negotiated agreement and to talk to the Taliban."

With an election coming up in November, Trump is keen to make good on a pledge to end America's longest war, but observers say it appears the Taliban have yet to be convinced to come to the negotiating table with Kabul.

Barely three days after signing the partial truce deal, the Taliban announced they were resuming their offensive against Afghan government forces.

In a sign of their intent, the militants have mounted 30 attacks in 15 of the country's 34 provinces in the space of 24 hours, according to the Afghan interior ministry.

Western forces will only leave Afghanistan if the Taliban make good on their commitment to reducing bloodshed, the head of NATO warned Wednesday, as attacks surge.

Western forces will only leave Afghanistan if the Taliban make good on their commitment to reducing bloodshed, the head of NATO warned Wednesday, as attacks surge. The militants have ramped up violence against Afghan forces since signing a deal with Washington at the weekend, casting doubt over peace talks between Kabul and the Taliban, due to begin on March 10. Also read: Hours after Trump call, Taliban attacks kill 20 in Afghanistan: Officials NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said that a "long and hard" road to peace lay ahead but warned the Taliban that if they reneged on the agreement, foreign forces would not leave. "It is a very difficult situation and the Taliban must honour their commitment. We need to see a reduction in violence," Stoltenberg said in an interview in Zagreb, where he attended a meeting of EU defence ministers. "We can only deliver our side of the deal if the Taliban deliver their side of the deal." Also read: First time in 11 days of truce, US hits Taliban with air strike: Military spokesperson US President Donald Trump has touted the deal, signed in Doha, as a way to end the bloody 18-year US military presence in Afghanistan. But overnight, Taliban militants killed at least 20 Afghan soldiers and policemen in a string of attacks in the latest breach of the partial truce. Under the terms of the deal, the US and other foreign forces will quit Afghanistan within 14 months, subject to Taliban security guarantees and a pledge by the insurgents to hold talks with the government of President Ashraf Ghani. Also read: You are tough people; I understand you are fighting for your homeland: Trump to Taliban NATO, which has a 16,000-strong training and support mission in Afghanistan, has long insisted it would only leave when conditions were right -- in particular that terrorists could not use the country as a springboard for attacks abroad. "The agreement that was signed on Saturday was an important first step, but it's only a first step," said Stoltenberg, who as prime minister of Norway sent troops to Afghanistan following the US-led invasion that overthrew the Taliban in 2001. "The road towards peace will be long and hard and we have to be prepared for disappointments." "At the same time, there is no alternative. The only way to have a peaceful solution is a negotiated agreement and to talk to the Taliban." With an election coming up in November, Trump is keen to make good on a pledge to end America's longest war, but observers say it appears the Taliban have yet to be convinced to come to the negotiating table with Kabul. Barely three days after signing the partial truce deal, the Taliban announced they were resuming their offensive against Afghan government forces. In a sign of their intent, the militants have mounted 30 attacks in 15 of the country's 34 provinces in the space of 24 hours, according to the Afghan interior ministry.

NATO chief warns of hard road to Afghan peace as violence soars

Former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg will reassess the future of his Democratic presidential campaign after his disappointing showing on Super Tuesday, but a campaign official said that did not mean his candidacy would end on Wednesday.

"As our campaign manager said before the polls closed tonight, any campaign would reassess after tonight, after next week, after any time there was a vote," said Bloomberg national press secretary Julie Wood.

Results in the 14 Super Tuesday nominating contests showed the billionaire businessman gaining little traction with voters.

Watch: US Presidential Elections 2020: Joe Biden celebrates a 'Super Tuesday' with big wins

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-presidential-elections-2020-joe-biden-celebrates-a-super-tuesday-with-big-wins-284111/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Bloomberg adopted a novel strategy for his White House bid, opting out of the first four nominating contests and hoping a $500 million-plus ad blitz would generate a momentum-building series of wins on Super Tuesday.

Another campaign official told Reuters it was inaccurate to suggest Bloomberg’s presidential run could end on Wednesday.

Bloomberg was unlikely to win any states, although he will likely pick up some of the 1,357 pledged delegates available. He was projected to win in American Samoa, a US&nbsp;territory that awards a total of six delegates. He also picked up some delegates in Colorado and early results showed him No. 2 in delegate-rich California.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-moves-ahead-in-us-presidential-race-scores-big-wins-on-super-tuesday-284077">Joe Biden moves ahead in US presidential race; scores big wins on Super Tuesday</a>

"As the results come in, here’s what is clear: No matter how many delegates we win tonight, we have done something no one thought was possible," Bloomberg told supporters in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Tuesday evening.

"In just three months, we’ve gone from 1 per cent&nbsp;in the polls to being a contender for the Democratic nomination for president."

After entering the race in November, more than six months after his main competitors, Bloomberg spent nearly three-quarters of a billion dollars on his campaign, much of it on ads arguing that he could defeat Republican President Donald Trump in the November election.

He hired thousands of staffers and mounted a vigorous national tour focused on Super Tuesday states, and began to rise in national opinion polls.

But Bloomberg was dogged by criticism of his past support as mayor of "stop and frisk," a policy that encouraged police to stop and search pedestrians and ensnared disproportionate numbers of blacks and Latinos. He was also slammed in two Democratic debates for past sexist remarks.

Joe Biden's decisive win in South Carolina on Saturday and the subsequent endorsements of former rivals Pete Buttigieg and Amy Klobuchar led to a surge in support for the former vice president, who was projected to win at least eight states on Tuesday.

Former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg will reassess the future of his Democratic presidential campaign after his disappointing showing on Super Tuesday, but a campaign official said that did not mean his candidacy would end on Wednesday.

Former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg will reassess the future of his Democratic presidential campaign after his disappointing showing on Super Tuesday, but a campaign official said that did not mean his candidacy would end on Wednesday. "As our campaign manager said before the polls closed tonight, any campaign would reassess after tonight, after next week, after any time there was a vote," said Bloomberg national press secretary Julie Wood. Results in the 14 Super Tuesday nominating contests showed the billionaire businessman gaining little traction with voters. Watch: US Presidential Elections 2020: Joe Biden celebrates a 'Super Tuesday' with big wins Bloomberg adopted a novel strategy for his White House bid, opting out of the first four nominating contests and hoping a $500 million-plus ad blitz would generate a momentum-building series of wins on Super Tuesday. Another campaign official told Reuters it was inaccurate to suggest Bloomberg’s presidential run could end on Wednesday. Bloomberg was unlikely to win any states, although he will likely pick up some of the 1,357 pledged delegates available. He was projected to win in American Samoa, a US territory that awards a total of six delegates. He also picked up some delegates in Colorado and early results showed him No. 2 in delegate-rich California. Also read: Joe Biden moves ahead in US presidential race; scores big wins on Super Tuesday "As the results come in, here’s what is clear: No matter how many delegates we win tonight, we have done something no one thought was possible," Bloomberg told supporters in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Tuesday evening. "In just three months, we’ve gone from 1 per cent in the polls to being a contender for the Democratic nomination for president." After entering the race in November, more than six months after his main competitors, Bloomberg spent nearly three-quarters of a billion dollars on his campaign, much of it on ads arguing that he could defeat Republican President Donald Trump in the November election. He hired thousands of staffers and mounted a vigorous national tour focused on Super Tuesday states, and began to rise in national opinion polls. But Bloomberg was dogged by criticism of his past support as mayor of "stop and frisk," a policy that encouraged police to stop and search pedestrians and ensnared disproportionate numbers of blacks and Latinos. He was also slammed in two Democratic debates for past sexist remarks. Joe Biden's decisive win in South Carolina on Saturday and the subsequent endorsements of former rivals Pete Buttigieg and Amy Klobuchar led to a surge in support for the former vice president, who was projected to win at least eight states on Tuesday.

Bloomberg to reassess campaign as ad blitz fails to win Super Tuesday voters

The United States on Wednesday (March 4) conducted an airstrike against Taliban. It is the first such attack since the troop withdrawal agreement was signed.

WION Dispatch: How long peace will last in Afghanistan?

Tornadoes ripped through Tennessee early Tuesday, leaving at least 25 people dead, destroying buildings and toppling power lines hours before the southern US state voted in Super Tuesday primaries.

Voting hours were extended due to the devastation the twisters wrought when they touched down shortly after midnight, rubble was strewn across the state capital Nashville.

Residents ran for their lives as their homes came down around them. Tens of thousands lost power to their homes, officials said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-rises-to-eight-as-tornadoes-devastate-tennessee-284047">Death toll rises to eight as tornadoes devastate Tennessee</a>

"Take&nbsp;cover&nbsp;now! This&nbsp;is&nbsp;an&nbsp;extremely&nbsp;dangerous storm!" the National Weather Service tweeted as one tornado tore through an area west of Nashville.

A television broadcast showed cars piled up, hangars destroyed and what appeared to be dozens of aircraft smashed into each other at Nashville's John C. Tune Airport.

The Nashville Police Department circulated aerial photographs of many buildings missing roofs and homes destroyed standing next to houses that escaped damage.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tornadoes-thunderstorms-to-hit-us-south-and-midwest-again-weather-forecasters-211147">Tornadoes, thunderstorms to hit US&nbsp;south and midwest again</a>

"In the hours ahead, we will continue deploying search and rescue teams, opening shelters across the state, and sending emergency personnel to our communities hit hardest," Governor Bill Lee wrote on Twitter.

Lee said late Tuesday that the toll had risen to 25 during the day.

Among the victims were two people in Nashville killed after being struck by debris, police said.

Mayor John Cooper said around 150 people had been transported to medical facilities while nearly 50 buildings had collapsed in the city, the hub of the US country music scene.

US President Donald Trump said that he would visit the stricken areas Friday.

"We send our love and our prayers of the nation to every family that was affected, and we will get there and we will recover and we will rebuild and we will help them," Trump said.

The series of severe storms that passed through Tennessee caused major damage to buildings, roads, bridges, utilities and businesses, the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) said.

"Tornado damage has been reported throughout West and Middle Tennessee including downtown Nashville," it added.

Overturned tractor trailers and other vehicles littered interstate highways.&nbsp;

Tornadoes ripped through Tennessee early Tuesday, leaving at least 25 people dead, destroying buildings and toppling power lines hours before the southern US state voted in Super Tuesday primaries.

Tornadoes ripped through Tennessee early Tuesday, leaving at least 25 people dead, destroying buildings and toppling power lines hours before the southern US state voted in Super Tuesday primaries. Voting hours were extended due to the devastation the twisters wrought when they touched down shortly after midnight, rubble was strewn across the state capital Nashville. Residents ran for their lives as their homes came down around them. Tens of thousands lost power to their homes, officials said. Also read: Death toll rises to eight as tornadoes devastate Tennessee "Take cover now! This is an extremely dangerous storm!" the National Weather Service tweeted as one tornado tore through an area west of Nashville. A television broadcast showed cars piled up, hangars destroyed and what appeared to be dozens of aircraft smashed into each other at Nashville's John C. Tune Airport. The Nashville Police Department circulated aerial photographs of many buildings missing roofs and homes destroyed standing next to houses that escaped damage. Also read: Tornadoes, thunderstorms to hit US south and midwest again "In the hours ahead, we will continue deploying search and rescue teams, opening shelters across the state, and sending emergency personnel to our communities hit hardest," Governor Bill Lee wrote on Twitter. Lee said late Tuesday that the toll had risen to 25 during the day. Among the victims were two people in Nashville killed after being struck by debris, police said. Mayor John Cooper said around 150 people had been transported to medical facilities while nearly 50 buildings had collapsed in the city, the hub of the US country music scene. US President Donald Trump said that he would visit the stricken areas Friday. "We send our love and our prayers of the nation to every family that was affected, and we will get there and we will recover and we will rebuild and we will help them," Trump said. The series of severe storms that passed through Tennessee caused major damage to buildings, roads, bridges, utilities and businesses, the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) said. "Tornado damage has been reported throughout West and Middle Tennessee including downtown Nashville," it added. Overturned tractor trailers and other vehicles littered interstate highways.

Tornadoes tear though Tennessee, 25 dead

Amid reports that the Taliban had resumed violence in Afghanistan just days after the US and Taliban signed a historic agreement in Qatar, President Donald Trump on Tuesday (local time) confirmed that he had spoken with the Taliban leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar over the phone.

"I did. I spoke to the leader of the Taliban today. We had a good conversation. We've agreed there's no violence. We don't want violence. We'll see what happens. They're dealing with Afghanistan, but we'll see what happens," Trump said as he departed the White House.

According to USA Today, the Taliban disclosed Trump's phone call with its leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the Taliban's chief negotiator and one of its founding members, before the White House did.

This comes three days after the United States and Taliban signed a historic agreement to bring peace to Afghanistan by the withdrawal of US forces.

Amid reports that the Taliban had resumed violence in Afghanistan just days after the US and Taliban signed a historic agreement in Qatar, President Donald Trump on Tuesday (local time) confirmed that he had spoken with the Taliban leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar over the phone.

Amid reports that the Taliban had resumed violence in Afghanistan just days after the US and Taliban signed a historic agreement in Qatar, President Donald Trump on Tuesday (local time) confirmed that he had spoken with the Taliban leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar over the phone. "I did. I spoke to the leader of the Taliban today. We had a good conversation. We've agreed there's no violence. We don't want violence. We'll see what happens. They're dealing with Afghanistan, but we'll see what happens," Trump said as he departed the White House. According to USA Today, the Taliban disclosed Trump's phone call with its leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the Taliban's chief negotiator and one of its founding members, before the White House did. This comes three days after the United States and Taliban signed a historic agreement to bring peace to Afghanistan by the withdrawal of US forces.

'We had a good conversation': Donald Trump confirms speaking to Taliban leader

First US airstrike against Taliban since peace deal

The Taliban killed at least 20 Afghan soldiers and policemen in a string of overnight attacks, government officials told AFP Wednesday, hours after US President Donald Trump said he had a "very good" chat with the insurgents' political chief.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-8-policemen-killed-in-taliban-attack-271470">Afghanistan: 8 policemen killed in Taliban attack</a>

The militants have ramped up violence against Afghan security forces in recent days, ending a partial truce put in place during the run-up to a landmark US-Taliban withdrawal deal signed in Doha on Saturday.

"Taliban fighters attacked at least three army outposts in Imam Sahib district of Kunduz last night, killing at least 10 soldiers and four police," said Safiullah Amiri, a member of the provincial council.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/10-afghan-soldiers-killed-in-taliban-attack-270736">10 Afghan soldiers killed in Taliban attack</a>

A defence ministry official speaking to AFP on condition of anonymity confirmed the army toll while the provincial police spokesman Hejratullah Akbari confirmed the police fatalities.

The insurgents also attacked police in central Uruzgan province Tuesday night, with the governor's spokesman Zergai Ebadi telling AFP: "Unfortunately, six police were killed and seven wounded."

The violence has cast a pall on the nascent Afghan peace process, with the insurgents clashing with Kabul over a prisoner exchange dispute ahead of talks that are due to begin on March 10.

But on Tuesday, Trump told reporters in Washington that he had a "very good" relationship with Taliban political chief Mullah Baradar, with the pair speaking on the phone for 35 minutes, according to the insurgents.

"The relationship is very good that I have with the mullah. We had a good long conversation today and you know, they want to cease the violence, they'd like to cease violence also," he said.

Trump has touted the Doha deal as a way to end the bloody, 18-year US military presence in Afghanistan -- right in time for his November reelection bid.

Under the terms of the deal, the US and other foreign forces will quit Afghanistan within 14 months, subject to Taliban security guarantees and a pledge by the insurgents to hold talks with the national government in Kabul.

The agreement also includes a commitment to exchange 5,000 Taliban prisoners held by the Afghan government in return for 1,000 captives -- something the militants have cited as a prerequisite for talks but which President Ashraf Ghani has refused to do before negotiations start.

The Taliban killed at least 20 Afghan soldiers and policemen in a string of overnight attacks, government officials told AFP Wednesday, hours after US President Donald Trump said he had a "very good" chat with the insurgents' political chief.

The Taliban killed at least 20 Afghan soldiers and policemen in a string of overnight attacks, government officials told AFP Wednesday, hours after US President Donald Trump said he had a "very good" chat with the insurgents' political chief. Also read: Afghanistan: 8 policemen killed in Taliban attack The militants have ramped up violence against Afghan security forces in recent days, ending a partial truce put in place during the run-up to a landmark US-Taliban withdrawal deal signed in Doha on Saturday. "Taliban fighters attacked at least three army outposts in Imam Sahib district of Kunduz last night, killing at least 10 soldiers and four police," said Safiullah Amiri, a member of the provincial council. Also read: 10 Afghan soldiers killed in Taliban attack A defence ministry official speaking to AFP on condition of anonymity confirmed the army toll while the provincial police spokesman Hejratullah Akbari confirmed the police fatalities. The insurgents also attacked police in central Uruzgan province Tuesday night, with the governor's spokesman Zergai Ebadi telling AFP: "Unfortunately, six police were killed and seven wounded." The violence has cast a pall on the nascent Afghan peace process, with the insurgents clashing with Kabul over a prisoner exchange dispute ahead of talks that are due to begin on March 10. But on Tuesday, Trump told reporters in Washington that he had a "very good" relationship with Taliban political chief Mullah Baradar, with the pair speaking on the phone for 35 minutes, according to the insurgents. "The relationship is very good that I have with the mullah. We had a good long conversation today and you know, they want to cease the violence, they'd like to cease violence also," he said. Trump has touted the Doha deal as a way to end the bloody, 18-year US military presence in Afghanistan -- right in time for his November reelection bid. Under the terms of the deal, the US and other foreign forces will quit Afghanistan within 14 months, subject to Taliban security guarantees and a pledge by the insurgents to hold talks with the national government in Kabul. The agreement also includes a commitment to exchange 5,000 Taliban prisoners held by the Afghan government in return for 1,000 captives -- something the militants have cited as a prerequisite for talks but which President Ashraf Ghani has refused to do before negotiations start.

Hours after Trump call, Taliban attacks kill 20 in Afghanistan: Officials

Days after the United States signed a peace accord with the Taliban and paving a way for the foreign troop withdrawal from Afghanistan, US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/we-had-a-good-conversation-donald-trump-confirms-speaking-to-taliban-leader-284073">Donald Trump spoke a senior official of the insurgents' group</a>.

"You are a tough people and have a great country and I understand that you are fighting for your homeland. We have been there for 19 years and that is a very long time and withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan now is in the interest of everyone," Trump told Abdul Ghani Baradar&nbsp;during the first direct exchange between the US leadership and the Taliban leadership.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-had-no-right-to-sign-peace-agreement-iran-opposes-afghan-deal-with-taliban-283576">US had 'no right' to sign peace agreement: Iran opposes Afghan deal with Taliban</a>

"We had a good conversation. We've agreed there's no violence. We don't want violence. We'll see what happens. They're dealing with Afghanistan, but we'll see what happens," Trump said in an official statement after the phone call.

The latest development comes days after the United States and Taliban signed a historic agreement to bring peace to Afghanistan by the withdrawal of US forces from the war-torn country, provided the militants open talks with Kabul and fulfil their other promises.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/finally-working-to-end-longest-war-says-trump-as-us-taliban-sign-deal-to-pull-foreign-forces-from-afghanistan-283522"> 'Finally working to end longest war', says Trump as US, Taliban sign deal to pull foreign forces from Afghanistan</a>

The Taliban swept to power in 1996 with a hardline interpretation of Islamic sharia law, banning women from working, closing girls' schools, and forbidding music and other entertainment.

Since the US-led invasion that ousted them after the September 11, 2001 attacks, America has spent more than $1 trillion on fighting and rebuilding in the country.

About 2,400 US soldiers have been killed, along with tens of thousands of Afghan troops, civilians and Taliban fighters.

&nbsp;

Days after the United States signed a peace accord with the Taliban and paving a way for the foreign troop withdrawal from Afghanistan, US President Donald Trump spoke a senior official of the insurgents' group.

Days after the United States signed a peace accord with the Taliban and paving a way for the foreign troop withdrawal from Afghanistan, US President Donald Trump spoke a senior official of the insurgents' group. "You are a tough people and have a great country and I understand that you are fighting for your homeland. We have been there for 19 years and that is a very long time and withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan now is in the interest of everyone," Trump told Abdul Ghani Baradar during the first direct exchange between the US leadership and the Taliban leadership. Also read: US had 'no right' to sign peace agreement: Iran opposes Afghan deal with Taliban "We had a good conversation. We've agreed there's no violence. We don't want violence. We'll see what happens. They're dealing with Afghanistan, but we'll see what happens," Trump said in an official statement after the phone call. The latest development comes days after the United States and Taliban signed a historic agreement to bring peace to Afghanistan by the withdrawal of US forces from the war-torn country, provided the militants open talks with Kabul and fulfil their other promises. Also read: 'Finally working to end longest war', says Trump as US, Taliban sign deal to pull foreign forces from Afghanistan The Taliban swept to power in 1996 with a hardline interpretation of Islamic sharia law, banning women from working, closing girls' schools, and forbidding music and other entertainment. Since the US-led invasion that ousted them after the September 11, 2001 attacks, America has spent more than $1 trillion on fighting and rebuilding in the country. About 2,400 US soldiers have been killed, along with tens of thousands of Afghan troops, civilians and Taliban fighters.

You are tough people; I understand you are fighting for your homeland: Trump to Taliban

During the Trumps' two-day visit to India, First Lady of the United States Melania Trump visited a government school in Delhi to experience the Kejriwal government's brainchild "happiness class" which includes 45 minutes of the unique activity-based curriculum such as meditation and mental exercises.

Launched in July 2018, this innovative idea is a programme implemented by the government of the capital city. Students are encouraged to take part in many activities such as meditation, street plays, storytelling and others. The concept is aimed at reducing anxiety and stress among children.

Chief Minister of Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal, tweeted "FLOTUS &nbsp;will attend happiness class in our school today. Great day for our teachers, students and Delhiites.For centuries, India has taught spirituality to the world. Am happy that she will take back the msg of happiness from our school."

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FLOTUS</a> will attend happiness class in our school today. Great day for our teachers, students and Delhiites. For centuries, India has taught spirituality to the world. Am happy that she will take back the msg of happiness from our school
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1232137449356156929?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/donald-trump-visit-india-day-2-schedule-low-down-on-trumps-jam-packed-delhi-schedule-today-282518">Also Read: A low-down on Trump's jam-packed Delhi schedule today&nbsp;</a>

The first lady attended the class wearing an elegant white dress with a modest design at the government school in South Delhi's Moti Bagh. She was seated near the blackboard while teachers read out some lines from a playbook to the children.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Delhi: First Lady of the United States, Melania Trump watches a dance performance by students at Sarvodaya Co-Ed Senior Secondary School in Nanakpura. <a href="https://t.co/dBCuTzvymF">pic.twitter.com/dBCuTzvymF</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1232220965377060869?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The 45th President of the United States, accompanied with his family, landed in Delhi on Monday night after addressing people in Ahmedabad at the 'Namaste Trump' event and enjoying a tour of the Taj Mahal in Agra.

"Welcome to our school @FLOTUS! We hope you would have a great time here in #HappinessClass It's just 18 months old initiative but early results have made us confident that @HappinessDelhi is the ultimate solution to all violence &amp; hate in mindsets that we r facing worldwide," said Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in a tweet.

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And here is the First Lady of United States <a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FLOTUS</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappinessClass?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappinessClass</a> <a href="https://t.co/sFYlKvSsE8">pic.twitter.com/sFYlKvSsE8</a>
— Manish Sisodia (@msisodia) <a href="https://twitter.com/msisodia/status/1232204371628150790?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The US Embassy had reported that Chief Minister of Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal and his deputy Manish Sisodia were dropped from the Delhi government school event where Melania Trump will attend as they did not wish to politicise the visit.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/donald-trump-in-india-us-president-gets-guard-of-honour-and-visits-raj-ghat-with-first-lady-melania-trump-282353#bilateral-talk-underway-282580">In Pics: Donald Trump in India — US President gets guard of honour and visits Raj Ghat with first lady Melania Trump</a>

A spokesperson for the US Embassy issued a statement saying, "While the US embassy had no objection to the presence of the Chief Minister and the Deputy Chief Minister, we appreciate their recognition that this is not a political event and that it is best to ensure that the focus is on education, the school, and the students."

The Deputy CM of Delhi issued a statement, offering his respect to the concerns expressed by the United States Embassy. The government of Delhi has been highlighting the work it has done for its schools, including improvements to infrastructure and quality of education.

During the Trumps' two-day visit to India, First Lady of the United States Melania Trump visited a government school in Delhi to experience the Kejriwal government's brainchild "happiness class" which includes 45 minutes of the unique activity-based curriculum such as meditation and mental exercises.

During the Trumps' two-day visit to India, First Lady of the United States Melania Trump visited a government school in Delhi to experience the Kejriwal government's brainchild "happiness class" which includes 45 minutes of the unique activity-based curriculum such as meditation and mental exercises. Launched in July 2018, this innovative idea is a programme implemented by the government of the capital city. Students are encouraged to take part in many activities such as meditation, street plays, storytelling and others. The concept is aimed at reducing anxiety and stress among children. Chief Minister of Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal, tweeted "FLOTUS will attend happiness class in our school today. Great day for our teachers, students and Delhiites.For centuries, India has taught spirituality to the world. Am happy that she will take back the msg of happiness from our school." .@FLOTUS will attend happiness class in our school today. Great day for our teachers, students and Delhiites. For centuries, India has taught spirituality to the world. Am happy that she will take back the msg of happiness from our school — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) February 25, 2020 × Also Read: A low-down on Trump's jam-packed Delhi schedule today The first lady attended the class wearing an elegant white dress with a modest design at the government school in South Delhi's Moti Bagh. She was seated near the blackboard while teachers read out some lines from a playbook to the children. #WATCH Delhi: First Lady of the United States, Melania Trump watches a dance performance by students at Sarvodaya Co-Ed Senior Secondary School in Nanakpura. pic.twitter.com/dBCuTzvymF — ANI (@ANI) February 25, 2020 × The 45th President of the United States, accompanied with his family, landed in Delhi on Monday night after addressing people in Ahmedabad at the 'Namaste Trump' event and enjoying a tour of the Taj Mahal in Agra. "Welcome to our school @FLOTUS! We hope you would have a great time here in #HappinessClass It's just 18 months old initiative but early results have made us confident that @HappinessDelhi is the ultimate solution to all violence & hate in mindsets that we r facing worldwide," said Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in a tweet. And here is the First Lady of United States @FLOTUS in #HappinessClass pic.twitter.com/sFYlKvSsE8 — Manish Sisodia (@msisodia) February 25, 2020 × The US Embassy had reported that Chief Minister of Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal and his deputy Manish Sisodia were dropped from the Delhi government school event where Melania Trump will attend as they did not wish to politicise the visit. In Pics: Donald Trump in India — US President gets guard of honour and visits Raj Ghat with first lady Melania Trump A spokesperson for the US Embassy issued a statement saying, "While the US embassy had no objection to the presence of the Chief Minister and the Deputy Chief Minister, we appreciate their recognition that this is not a political event and that it is best to ensure that the focus is on education, the school, and the students." The Deputy CM of Delhi issued a statement, offering his respect to the concerns expressed by the United States Embassy. The government of Delhi has been highlighting the work it has done for its schools, including improvements to infrastructure and quality of education.

Melania Trump visits Delhi government school; sits in "Happiness Class" initiative

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-close-to-88000-people-infected-more-than-3000-dead-globally-283606">Coronavirus: Close to 88,000 people infected, more than 3,000 dead globally</a>

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South Korea has been worst affected outside mainland China. The prevention and control efforts against the epidemic have been tightened up across the country. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-close-to-88000-people-infected-more-than-3000-dead-globally-283606">READ MORE</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pete-buttigieg-the-first-openly-gay-us-presidential-candidate-drops-out-of-race-283611">Pete Buttigieg, the first openly gay US presidential candidate, drops out of race</a>

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Pete Buttigieg had risen rapidly from being a virtual unknown to becoming a national political figure, but he scored poorly in the latest primary in South Carolina, coming fourth with just eight percent. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pete-buttigieg-the-first-openly-gay-us-presidential-candidate-drops-out-of-race-283611">READ MORE</a>

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-president-ashraf-ghani-rejects-taliban-demand-to-free-5000-prisoners-283605">Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani rejects Taliban demand to free 5,000 prisoners</a>

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Ashraf Ghani's aides said Donald Trump's decision to meet the Taliban could pose a challenge to the government at a time when the US troop withdrawal becomes imminent. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-president-ashraf-ghani-rejects-taliban-demand-to-free-5000-prisoners-283605">READ MORE</a> 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/presidential-elections-will-determine-how-us-foreign-policy-is-redefined-283495">Opinion: Presidential elections will determine how US foreign policy is redefined 
 
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With Donald J. Trump the undisputed Republican candidate and Bernie Sanders the Democratic frontrunner, the fight for the highest office in the land could be one between two very different but no less radical visions of America’s role in the world. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/presidential-elections-will-determine-how-us-foreign-policy-is-redefined-283495">READ MORE</a>

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-real-madrids-vinicius-jr-record-breaking-goal-topple-barcelona-in-el-clasico-283609">La Liga: Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr record breaking goal topple Barcelona in El Clasico 
 
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This was Zinedine Zidane's first home victory against Barcelona in La Liga. At the age of 19 years and 233 days, Vinicius Jr became the youngest player in the 21st century to score in an El Clasico. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-real-madrids-vinicius-jr-record-breaking-goal-topple-barcelona-in-el-clasico-283609">READ MORE</a>

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. Coronavirus: Close to 88,000 people infected, more than 3,000 dead globally South Korea has been worst affected outside mainland China.

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. Coronavirus: Close to 88,000 people infected, more than 3,000 dead globally South Korea has been worst affected outside mainland China. The prevention and control efforts against the epidemic have been tightened up across the country. READ MORE Pete Buttigieg, the first openly gay US presidential candidate, drops out of race Pete Buttigieg had risen rapidly from being a virtual unknown to becoming a national political figure, but he scored poorly in the latest primary in South Carolina, coming fourth with just eight percent. READ MORE Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani rejects Taliban demand to free 5,000 prisoners Ashraf Ghani's aides said Donald Trump's decision to meet the Taliban could pose a challenge to the government at a time when the US troop withdrawal becomes imminent. READ MORE Opinion: Presidential elections will determine how US foreign policy is redefined With Donald J. Trump the undisputed Republican candidate and Bernie Sanders the Democratic frontrunner, the fight for the highest office in the land could be one between two very different but no less radical visions of America’s role in the world. READ MORE La Liga: Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr record breaking goal topple Barcelona in El Clasico This was Zinedine Zidane's first home victory against Barcelona in La Liga. At the age of 19 years and 233 days, Vinicius Jr became the youngest player in the 21st century to score in an El Clasico. READ MORE

Morning News Brief: Coronavirus death-toll, Buttgieg drops out of Presidential race and more

John Oliver took on the US President Donald Trump in lieu of his comments on coronavirus. On his Last Week Tonight show, the popular US TV host addressed issues surrounding the widespread coronavirus crisis.

As Trump and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said it's not a matter of "if, but when" the virus will spread in the U.S. At the same time, "one of Trump's top advisers" was on TV saying that "we have contained this. I won't say airtight, but pretty close to airtight” -- John Oliver replied, "Well, which is it? Because airtight vs. close to airtight is a pretty crucial distinction. It's the difference between having a working submarine and a cool metal tube to die in."

John Oliver also played a clip from a press conference in which he said he was putting Vice President Mike Pence "in charge" of a task force managing the crisis, which led to some confusion among the reporters about whether Alex Azar, Secretary of Health and Human Services, was still overseeing the government's response to the crisis.

"Trump didn't seem interested in clarifying their roles, or, indeed, really being there at all," Oliver said, showing a clip of Trump walking out of the press conference amid the confusion.

John said, "He just left," Oliver said. "This was a press conference meant to calm the nation, and with the most basic question of who would be running things seemingly up in the air, he just fucked right off," Oliver said. "I know we used to only see 'Businessman Trump,' but it is nice to occasionally get a glimpse of the absentee father in him too."

John Oliver took on the US President Donald Trump in lieu of his comments on coronavirus. On his Last Week Tonight show, the popular US TV host addressed issues surrounding the widespread coronavirus crisis.

John Oliver took on the US President Donald Trump in lieu of his comments on coronavirus. On his Last Week Tonight show, the popular US TV host addressed issues surrounding the widespread coronavirus crisis. As Trump and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said it's not a matter of "if, but when" the virus will spread in the U.S. At the same time, "one of Trump's top advisers" was on TV saying that "we have contained this. I won't say airtight, but pretty close to airtight” -- John Oliver replied, "Well, which is it? Because airtight vs. close to airtight is a pretty crucial distinction. It's the difference between having a working submarine and a cool metal tube to die in." John Oliver also played a clip from a press conference in which he said he was putting Vice President Mike Pence "in charge" of a task force managing the crisis, which led to some confusion among the reporters about whether Alex Azar, Secretary of Health and Human Services, was still overseeing the government's response to the crisis. "Trump didn't seem interested in clarifying their roles, or, indeed, really being there at all," Oliver said, showing a clip of Trump walking out of the press conference amid the confusion. John said, "He just left," Oliver said. "This was a press conference meant to calm the nation, and with the most basic question of who would be running things seemingly up in the air, he just fucked right off," Oliver said. "I know we used to only see 'Businessman Trump,' but it is nice to occasionally get a glimpse of the absentee father in him too."

John Oliver trolls Donald Trump for 'lying about the spread of a deadly disease'

On February 29 the United States and Taliban signed a landmark deal at Doha calling for all US troops to withdraw from the country within the next 14 months. Strategic Baluchistan has always been a target in the war against the Taliban. So ho are the Balochs viewing this peace deal. Watch report:

How Balochs are looking at Afghan US peace deal

After nearly two decades of conflict that has ravaged Afghanistan's impoverished population, the United States and the Taliban signed a historic accord Saturday that Washington hopes will mark the beginning of the end of its longest war.

The pact signed in Doha would see the Pentagon and foreign partner forces pull all their troops from Afghanistan within 14 months, provided the Taliban stick to pledges to open a dialogue with the Western-backed Kabul government and push back against jihadist groups including Al-Qaeda.

Supporters of the deal, which was signed in Doha after more than a year of fractious talks, say it marks a critical first step toward peace, though many Afghans fear it amounts to little more than a dressed-up surrender that will ultimately see the Taliban return to power.

"There is no doubt we have won the war. ... This (is) why they are signing a peace treaty," chief Taliban negotiator Abbas Stanikzai said.

Months of speculation about when the deal would be signed, and what its contents would be, culminated in a plush conference room in the Qatari capital, when Taliban fighter-turned-dealmaker Mullah Baradar signed the accord along with Washington's chief negotiator Zalmay Khalilzad.

The pair then shook hands, as people in the room shouted, "Allahu Akbar" (God is greatest).

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo looked on and alluded to the difficult work that remains to be done.

"I know there will be a temptation to declare victory, but a victory for Afghans will only be achieved when they can live in peace and prosper," he said.

The Taliban swept to power in 1996 with a hardline interpretation of Islamic sharia law, banning women from working, closing girls' schools, and forbidding music and other entertainment.

Since the US-led invasion that ousted them after the September 11, 2001 attacks, America has spent more than $1 trillion on fighting and rebuilding in the country.

About 2,400 US soldiers have been killed, along with tens of thousands of Afghan troops, civilians and Taliban fighters.

'Powerful path'

President Donald Trump, who has promised to finish America's "endless wars", &nbsp;hailed the agreement&nbsp;as a move to end American's longest war and bring US&nbsp;troops home from&nbsp;Afghanistan.

"We are working to finally end America’s longest war and bring our troops back home," a White House statement quoted Trump as saying of the deal signed earlier in Doha.

The Doha accord has left many Afghans fretting that their relatively recent freedoms under the country's new constitution may be on the chopping block for the sake of peace.

Even the requirement for a "permanent and comprehensive ceasefire" was listed only as an agenda item -- and not a precondition -- for future talks between Kabul and the Taliban, slated to begin March 10 in Oslo.&nbsp;

"Today is a dark day, and as I was watching the deal being signed, I had this bad feeling that it would result in their return to power rather than in peace," Afghan activist Zahra Hussaini, 28, told AFP.&nbsp;

In Kabul, small groups gathered in cafes to watch the signing, but the reaction was muted.

Questions swirl around the position of the Afghan government, which was excluded from the direct US-Taliban talks.

The country faces a fresh political crisis after President Ashraf Ghani's main rival contested the results of elections last year and has threatened to set up a rival administration.&nbsp;

"We have the political will and the capacity to make peace because of the resilience of our society, the dynamism of our economy and the capability of our state," Ghani said.

The signing followed a week-long partial truce in Afghanistan aimed at building confidence between the warring parties and showing that the Taliban can control their fighters.

The US, which currently has between 12,000 and 13,000 troops in Afghanistan, will draw that number down to 8,600 within 135 days of the signing.

If the Taliban abide by the terms of the accord, the US and its partners "will complete the withdrawal of all remaining forces from Afghanistan" within 14 months, in a "conditions-based" pullback.

The two sides also agreed to swap thousands of prisoners in a "confidence-building measure".

'Important first step'

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg heralded the agreement as a "first step to lasting peace".&nbsp;

"We have to be prepared for setbacks, spoilers, there is no easy way to peace but this is an important first step," he said in Kabul.

Still, he left the door open for NATO forces to return if the security situation deteriorates, while the US said it "would not hesitate to nullify" the accord if necessary.

Ahead of the signing, the insurgents said they had halted all hostilities on February 22, only the second nationwide ceasefire in 19 years of warfare.

The Taliban's pledge to guarantee Afghanistan is never again used by jihadist movements such as Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State group to plot attacks abroad will be key to the deal's durability.

Its sheltering of Al-Qaeda was the main reason for the US invasion following the 9/11 attacks.

The Taliban, which had risen to power in the 1990s, suffered a swift defeat and retreated before re-emerging to lead a deadly insurgency against the new Western-backed government in Kabul.

After the NATO combat mission ended in December 2014, the bulk of Western forces withdrew, leaving Afghanistan in an increasingly precarious position.

After nearly two decades of conflict that has ravaged Afghanistan's impoverished population, the United States and the Taliban signed a historic accord Saturday that Washington hopes will mark the beginning of the end of its longest war.

After nearly two decades of conflict that has ravaged Afghanistan's impoverished population, the United States and the Taliban signed a historic accord Saturday that Washington hopes will mark the beginning of the end of its longest war. The pact signed in Doha would see the Pentagon and foreign partner forces pull all their troops from Afghanistan within 14 months, provided the Taliban stick to pledges to open a dialogue with the Western-backed Kabul government and push back against jihadist groups including Al-Qaeda. Supporters of the deal, which was signed in Doha after more than a year of fractious talks, say it marks a critical first step toward peace, though many Afghans fear it amounts to little more than a dressed-up surrender that will ultimately see the Taliban return to power. "There is no doubt we have won the war. ... This (is) why they are signing a peace treaty," chief Taliban negotiator Abbas Stanikzai said. Months of speculation about when the deal would be signed, and what its contents would be, culminated in a plush conference room in the Qatari capital, when Taliban fighter-turned-dealmaker Mullah Baradar signed the accord along with Washington's chief negotiator Zalmay Khalilzad. The pair then shook hands, as people in the room shouted, "Allahu Akbar" (God is greatest). US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo looked on and alluded to the difficult work that remains to be done. "I know there will be a temptation to declare victory, but a victory for Afghans will only be achieved when they can live in peace and prosper," he said. The Taliban swept to power in 1996 with a hardline interpretation of Islamic sharia law, banning women from working, closing girls' schools, and forbidding music and other entertainment. Since the US-led invasion that ousted them after the September 11, 2001 attacks, America has spent more than $1 trillion on fighting and rebuilding in the country. About 2,400 US soldiers have been killed, along with tens of thousands of Afghan troops, civilians and Taliban fighters. 'Powerful path' President Donald Trump, who has promised to finish America's "endless wars", hailed the agreement as a move to end American's longest war and bring US troops home from Afghanistan. "We are working to finally end America’s longest war and bring our troops back home," a White House statement quoted Trump as saying of the deal signed earlier in Doha. The Doha accord has left many Afghans fretting that their relatively recent freedoms under the country's new constitution may be on the chopping block for the sake of peace. Even the requirement for a "permanent and comprehensive ceasefire" was listed only as an agenda item -- and not a precondition -- for future talks between Kabul and the Taliban, slated to begin March 10 in Oslo. "Today is a dark day, and as I was watching the deal being signed, I had this bad feeling that it would result in their return to power rather than in peace," Afghan activist Zahra Hussaini, 28, told AFP. In Kabul, small groups gathered in cafes to watch the signing, but the reaction was muted. Questions swirl around the position of the Afghan government, which was excluded from the direct US-Taliban talks. The country faces a fresh political crisis after President Ashraf Ghani's main rival contested the results of elections last year and has threatened to set up a rival administration. "We have the political will and the capacity to make peace because of the resilience of our society, the dynamism of our economy and the capability of our state," Ghani said. The signing followed a week-long partial truce in Afghanistan aimed at building confidence between the warring parties and showing that the Taliban can control their fighters. The US, which currently has between 12,000 and 13,000 troops in Afghanistan, will draw that number down to 8,600 within 135 days of the signing. If the Taliban abide by the terms of the accord, the US and its partners "will complete the withdrawal of all remaining forces from Afghanistan" within 14 months, in a "conditions-based" pullback. The two sides also agreed to swap thousands of prisoners in a "confidence-building measure". 'Important first step' NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg heralded the agreement as a "first step to lasting peace". "We have to be prepared for setbacks, spoilers, there is no easy way to peace but this is an important first step," he said in Kabul. Still, he left the door open for NATO forces to return if the security situation deteriorates, while the US said it "would not hesitate to nullify" the accord if necessary. Ahead of the signing, the insurgents said they had halted all hostilities on February 22, only the second nationwide ceasefire in 19 years of warfare. The Taliban's pledge to guarantee Afghanistan is never again used by jihadist movements such as Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State group to plot attacks abroad will be key to the deal's durability. Its sheltering of Al-Qaeda was the main reason for the US invasion following the 9/11 attacks. The Taliban, which had risen to power in the 1990s, suffered a swift defeat and retreated before re-emerging to lead a deadly insurgency against the new Western-backed government in Kabul. After the NATO combat mission ended in December 2014, the bulk of Western forces withdrew, leaving Afghanistan in an increasingly precarious position.

'Finally working to end longest war', says Trump as US, Taliban sign deal to pull foreign forces from Afghanistan

Recalling hid maiden visit to India, US President Donald Trump on Sunday said that he&nbsp;"never be excited about a crowd again".

On February 24, Trump visited India for the first time along with first lady Melania Trump. Both received a rousing welcome with over one lakh people participated in the "Namaste Trump" event in Ahemdabad.

Addressing a rally in South Carolina, the US president recalled the mega event at the Motera stadium and said, "In India, I hate to say this to you, they actually have a 129,000-seat stadium. Did you see it? The place was packed, and they did better than most."

"They gave me credit for 100,000. That was not bad. It's 129 (thousand)... The stadium holds 100 (thousand). They had a field that's about three times...It's cricket. It's the biggest stadium. And they had 129," he said.

Trump said he shared the stage with Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is a "great guy" and is "loved by people of India".

"We had an amazing thing. And I went in, and here's the problem. This is a big crowd and normally, I like talking about my crowd because I get the crowds like nobody. But, I just got back from 140 or 50 or 60,000 people and now I am coming here. What does this place hold, 15? It's hard to be enthused. You understand that?

"I may never be excited again about a crowd after going to India. Think of this, they have 1.5 billion people. We have 350, so we are doing pretty well, I will tell you what, but I love this crowd and I love that crowd too," the US president told his supporters.

Trump arrived in Ahmedabad&nbsp;on February 24 where he and Melania were given a grand reception. From Ahmedabad, he and his delegation travelled to Agra where they visited the Taj Mahal.

In the last leg of their visit, Trump and Melania visited New Delhi. The US President received a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday morning.

Following this, Trump held bilateral talks with&nbsp;Prime Minister Modi during which three agreements were finalised. The couple wrapped up their visit by attending a banquet hosted by President Ram Nath Kovind.

The US president and his delegation left India on the evening of February 25.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Recalling hid maiden visit to India, US President Donald Trump on Sunday said that he "never be excited about a crowd again". On February 24, Trump visited India for the first time along with first lady Melania Trump.

Recalling hid maiden visit to India, US President Donald Trump on Sunday said that he "never be excited about a crowd again". On February 24, Trump visited India for the first time along with first lady Melania Trump. Both received a rousing welcome with over one lakh people participated in the "Namaste Trump" event in Ahemdabad. Addressing a rally in South Carolina, the US president recalled the mega event at the Motera stadium and said, "In India, I hate to say this to you, they actually have a 129,000-seat stadium. Did you see it? The place was packed, and they did better than most." "They gave me credit for 100,000. That was not bad. It's 129 (thousand)... The stadium holds 100 (thousand). They had a field that's about three times...It's cricket. It's the biggest stadium. And they had 129," he said. Trump said he shared the stage with Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is a "great guy" and is "loved by people of India". "We had an amazing thing. And I went in, and here's the problem. This is a big crowd and normally, I like talking about my crowd because I get the crowds like nobody. But, I just got back from 140 or 50 or 60,000 people and now I am coming here. What does this place hold, 15? It's hard to be enthused. You understand that? "I may never be excited again about a crowd after going to India. Think of this, they have 1.5 billion people. We have 350, so we are doing pretty well, I will tell you what, but I love this crowd and I love that crowd too," the US president told his supporters. Trump arrived in Ahmedabad on February 24 where he and Melania were given a grand reception. From Ahmedabad, he and his delegation travelled to Agra where they visited the Taj Mahal. In the last leg of their visit, Trump and Melania visited New Delhi. The US President received a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday morning. Following this, Trump held bilateral talks with Prime Minister Modi during which three agreements were finalised. The couple wrapped up their visit by attending a banquet hosted by President Ram Nath Kovind. The US president and his delegation left India on the evening of February 25. (With inputs from agencies)

I may never be excited again about a crowd after going to India: US President Donald Trump

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hails-historic-doha-peace-deal-between-us-and-taliban-283526">Trump hails historic Doha peace deal between US and Taliban </a>&nbsp;

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On the campaign trail, Trump had declared that he would end America's long wars and bring back American soldiers, and with this peace deal, the president seems to be moving in that very direction.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-revives-white-house-hopes-with-south-carolina-victory-283523">Biden revives White House hopes with South Carolina victory</a>

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All of the major television networks projected the 77-year-old Biden as the winner in South Carolina just minutes after polls closed in the state at 7:00 pm (0000 GMT).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-china-reports-35-more-virus-deaths-573-new-cases-283524">Coronavirus: China reports 35 more virus deaths, 573 new cases</a>

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The National Health Commission also reported 573 new infections, bringing the total number of cases in mainland China to 79,824.

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Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. Trump hails historic Doha peace deal between US and Taliban On the campaign trail, Trump had declared that he would end America's long wars and bring back American soldiers, and with this peace deal, the president seems to be moving in that very direction.

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. Trump hails historic Doha peace deal between US and Taliban On the campaign trail, Trump had declared that he would end America's long wars and bring back American soldiers, and with this peace deal, the president seems to be moving in that very direction. Biden revives White House hopes with South Carolina victory All of the major television networks projected the 77-year-old Biden as the winner in South Carolina just minutes after polls closed in the state at 7:00 pm (0000 GMT). Coronavirus: China reports 35 more virus deaths, 573 new cases The National Health Commission also reported 573 new infections, bringing the total number of cases in mainland China to 79,824.

Morning News Brief: Trump hails Afghan peace deal, Biden wins South Carolina, and more

The United States and the Taliban signed the historic peace deal in Doha on Saturday after After 18 years of war in Afghanistan. Reacting to the peace deal, US President Donald Trump Warned the Taliban that the US Will go back if bad things happen again in Afghanistan.

On the campaign trail, Trump had declared that he would end America's long wars and bring back American soldiers, and with this peace deal, the president seems to be moving in that very direction.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/whats-in-the-landmark-us-taliban-deal-283511">What's in the landmark US-Taliban deal?</a>

Speaking after the deal-signing, Trump said that both sides were tired of the long and drawn-out war. He paid tribute to all the men, women and children who lost their lives over the last 20 years in Afghanistan.

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And said that he would personally meet Taliban leaders in the near future. But the president also had a subtle warning for the Taliban. He said that if the Taliban went back on its promises, the United States would return to the country with speed and force like no one has ever seen.

Along with the US, several NATO troops have also been deployed in Afghanistan.

As the Taliban and US signed the peace deal in Doha, NATO chief Stoltenberg and Pentagon chief Mark Esper were holding talks with Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani. Welcoming the deal, Stoltenberg said that the path to peace would be long and difficult.

Pentagon chief Esper asked US troops in Afghanistan to stay vigilant. He said that Afghanistan is still a very dangerous place and that it was America's responsibility to ensure the safe transfer of power to the Afghan security forces.

Meanwhile, US Sectretary of State Mike Pompeo urged Taliban to keep their end of the deal and cut ties with al-Qaeda. Taliban responded by saying that they are committed to the agreement and will enforce it.

The United States and the Taliban signed the historic peace deal in Doha on Saturday after After 18 years of war in Afghanistan. Reacting to the peace deal, US President Donald Trump Warned the Taliban that the US Will go back if bad things happen again in Afghanistan.

The United States and the Taliban signed the historic peace deal in Doha on Saturday after After 18 years of war in Afghanistan. Reacting to the peace deal, US President Donald Trump Warned the Taliban that the US Will go back if bad things happen again in Afghanistan. On the campaign trail, Trump had declared that he would end America's long wars and bring back American soldiers, and with this peace deal, the president seems to be moving in that very direction. Also read: What's in the landmark US-Taliban deal? Speaking after the deal-signing, Trump said that both sides were tired of the long and drawn-out war. He paid tribute to all the men, women and children who lost their lives over the last 20 years in Afghanistan. × And said that he would personally meet Taliban leaders in the near future. But the president also had a subtle warning for the Taliban. He said that if the Taliban went back on its promises, the United States would return to the country with speed and force like no one has ever seen. Along with the US, several NATO troops have also been deployed in Afghanistan. As the Taliban and US signed the peace deal in Doha, NATO chief Stoltenberg and Pentagon chief Mark Esper were holding talks with Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani. Welcoming the deal, Stoltenberg said that the path to peace would be long and difficult. Pentagon chief Esper asked US troops in Afghanistan to stay vigilant. He said that Afghanistan is still a very dangerous place and that it was America's responsibility to ensure the safe transfer of power to the Afghan security forces. Meanwhile, US Sectretary of State Mike Pompeo urged Taliban to keep their end of the deal and cut ties with al-Qaeda. Taliban responded by saying that they are committed to the agreement and will enforce it.

Trump hails historic Doha peace deal between US and Taliban  

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/33-turkish-soldiers-killed-in-airstrike-by-syrian-regime-forces-in-idlib-283217">33 Turkish soldiers killed in airstrike by Syrian regime forces in Idlib</a>

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The heavy losses in northwestern Idlib come after weeks of growing tensions between rebel supporter Ankara and Damascus ally Moscow.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/33-turkish-soldiers-killed-in-airstrike-by-syrian-regime-forces-in-idlib-283217">READ MORE</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prominent-cleric-dies-as-coronavirus-death-toll-rises-to-26-in-iran-283194">Prominent cleric dies as coronavirus death toll rises to 26 in Iran</a>

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In a dramatic development last week, the country's deputy health minister Iraj Harirchi had admitted in a press conference that he too was suffering from the virus. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prominent-cleric-dies-as-coronavirus-death-toll-rises-to-26-in-iran-283194">READ MORE</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/us-taliban-peace-deal-what-to-expect-283170">Opinion: US-Taliban peace deal — What to expect?</a>

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The agreement could mark the start of a new era for Afghanistan, but there are questions about the Taliban's intentions.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/us-taliban-peace-deal-what-to-expect-283170">READ MORE</a>

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/staff-of-cult-french-film-magazine-cahiers-du-cinema-quit-en-masse-283216">Staff of cult French film magazine 'Cahiers du cinema' quit en masse</a>

<img alt="staff" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e77d4dc2-0e62-4035-8999-55fd18d01466" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/130696-untitled-design-2020-02-28t072652202.jpg" />

The monthly which once employed legends like Jean-Luc Godard and Francois Truffaut before they went on to change cinema history, was sold earlier this month to a group of film producers and tech tycoons.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/staff-of-cult-french-film-magazine-cahiers-du-cinema-quit-en-masse-283216">READ MORE</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-steven-spielberg-will-not-direct-the-fifth-instalment-of-indiana-jones-reports-283173">Steven Spielberg will not direct the fifth instalment of 'Indiana Jones': Reports</a>

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In the franchise's 39-year-old history, this would be the first time that Spielberg will not be directing the film. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-steven-spielberg-will-not-direct-the-fifth-instalment-of-indiana-jones-reports-283173">READ MORE</a>

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. 33 Turkish soldiers killed in airstrike by Syrian regime forces in Idlib The heavy losses in northwestern Idlib come after weeks of growing tensions between rebel supporter Ankara and Damascus ally Moscow.

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. 33 Turkish soldiers killed in airstrike by Syrian regime forces in Idlib The heavy losses in northwestern Idlib come after weeks of growing tensions between rebel supporter Ankara and Damascus ally Moscow.READ MORE Prominent cleric dies as coronavirus death toll rises to 26 in Iran In a dramatic development last week, the country's deputy health minister Iraj Harirchi had admitted in a press conference that he too was suffering from the virus. READ MORE Opinion: US-Taliban peace deal — What to expect? The agreement could mark the start of a new era for Afghanistan, but there are questions about the Taliban's intentions.READ MORE Staff of cult French film magazine 'Cahiers du cinema' quit en masse The monthly which once employed legends like Jean-Luc Godard and Francois Truffaut before they went on to change cinema history, was sold earlier this month to a group of film producers and tech tycoons.READ MORE Steven Spielberg will not direct the fifth instalment of 'Indiana Jones': Reports In the franchise's 39-year-old history, this would be the first time that Spielberg will not be directing the film. READ MORE

Morning News Brief: 33 killed in Syria, coronavirus in Iran and more

The US President Donald Trump placed Vice President Mike Pence in charge of the U.S. response to the looming global health crisis. Nearly three months after the spread of coronavirus, the reported cases of the coronavirus has now spiked to over 81,000 worldwide. New cases in China are declining while the rest of the world is reeling under the outbreak.

Donald Trump picks Pence to head coronavirus response team

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with Wion’s daily news brief.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-us-coronavirus-spread-not-inevitable-mulls-new-travel-bans-282969">Trump says US coronavirus spread 'not inevitable,' mulls new travel bans</a>

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President Donald Trump on Wednesday said it was not inevitable that the novel coronavirus would continue to spread in the United States, as he said he is considering travel restrictions on Italy and South Korea and appointed his vice president to lead the response. 
&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-confirms-latin-americas-first-coronavirus-case-us-reports-57-cases-282954">Brazil confirms Latin America's first coronavirus case; US reports 57 cases</a>

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The United States reported 57 cases of the virus with President Trump declaring that he would meet US officials for a briefing on the coronavirus on Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-open-to-any-initiative-after-talks-to-save-nuclear-deal-282943">Iran open to 'any initiative' after talks to save nuclear deal</a>

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After talks with the remaining parties to the deal in Vienna, Iranian negotiator Abbas Araghchi said he was 'fully prepared' to reverse measures that apparently violated Tehran's commitments -- but only if the other side reciprocated.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/wuhan-the-chinese-city-infamous-as-coronavirus-epicenter-has-a-rich-history-282894">OPINION | Wuhan, the Chinese city infamous as coronavirus epicenter, has a rich history</a>

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Historically, settlements have flourished on river banks. By that distinction, Wuhan can rightly be called the cradle of the Chinese civilisation. After all, the city sits on the confluence of the two mighty rivers- Yangtze &amp; Han.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/call-me-harry-says-informal-uk-prince-as-he-starts-last-round-of-royal-duties-282930">'Call me Harry,' says informal UK prince as he starts last round of royal duties</a>

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Britain's Prince Harry started the last round of his royal duties on an informal note on Wednesday, making it clear the audience listening to his speech on sustainable travel in Edinburgh should simply call him Harry.

Watch |&nbsp;Coronavirus Outbreak: US records over 60 cases

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Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with Wion’s daily news brief. Trump says US coronavirus spread 'not inevitable,' mulls new travel bans President Donald Trump on Wednesday said it was not inevitable that the novel coronavirus would continue to spread in the United States, as he said he is considering travel restrictions on Italy and South Korea and appointed his vice president to lead the response.

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with Wion’s daily news brief. Trump says US coronavirus spread 'not inevitable,' mulls new travel bans President Donald Trump on Wednesday said it was not inevitable that the novel coronavirus would continue to spread in the United States, as he said he is considering travel restrictions on Italy and South Korea and appointed his vice president to lead the response. Brazil confirms Latin America's first coronavirus case; US reports 57 cases The United States reported 57 cases of the virus with President Trump declaring that he would meet US officials for a briefing on the coronavirus on Wednesday. Iran open to 'any initiative' after talks to save nuclear deal After talks with the remaining parties to the deal in Vienna, Iranian negotiator Abbas Araghchi said he was 'fully prepared' to reverse measures that apparently violated Tehran's commitments -- but only if the other side reciprocated. OPINION | Wuhan, the Chinese city infamous as coronavirus epicenter, has a rich history Historically, settlements have flourished on river banks. By that distinction, Wuhan can rightly be called the cradle of the Chinese civilisation. After all, the city sits on the confluence of the two mighty rivers- Yangtze & Han. 'Call me Harry,' says informal UK prince as he starts last round of royal duties Britain's Prince Harry started the last round of his royal duties on an informal note on Wednesday, making it clear the audience listening to his speech on sustainable travel in Edinburgh should simply call him Harry. Watch | Coronavirus Outbreak: US records over 60 cases

Morning News Brief: Trump on coronavirus, Iran nuclear deal, and more

US President Donald Trump said Wednesday he was appointed Vice President Mike Pence to lead the US response to the novel coronavirus.

"I'm going to be announcing exactly right now that I'm going to be putting our vice president Mike Pence in charge," Trump said.&nbsp;

"Mike will be working with the professionals and doctors and everybody else that's working on the team."

US President Donald Trump said Wednesday he was appointed Vice President Mike Pence to lead the US response to the novel coronavirus. "I'm going to be announcing exactly right now that I'm going to be putting our vice president Mike Pence in charge," Trump said.

US President Donald Trump said Wednesday he was appointed Vice President Mike Pence to lead the US response to the novel coronavirus. "I'm going to be announcing exactly right now that I'm going to be putting our vice president Mike Pence in charge," Trump said. "Mike will be working with the professionals and doctors and everybody else that's working on the team."

Donald Trump appoints Vice-President Mike Pence man in charge of coronavirus response

President Donald Trump on Wednesday said it was not inevitable that the novel coronavirus would continue to spread in the United States, as he said he is considering travel restrictions on Italy and South Korea and appointed his vice president to lead the response.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/it-was-great-trip-very-successful-trump-after-his-two-day-india-visit-282956">'It was great, trip very successful': Trump after his two-day India visit</a>

His optimism about containing the pathogen contradicted a senior health official in his own administration and came as authorities said they had identified the first case in the US that was of unknown origin.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-hails-harvey-weinsteins-conviction-282749">US President Donald Trump hails Harvey Weinstein's conviction</a>

"I don't think it's inevitable. I think that there's a chance that it could get worse, a chance it could get fairly substantially worse, but nothing's inevitable," Trump told reporters at the White House.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-confirms-latin-americas-first-coronavirus-case-us-reports-57-cases-282954">Brazil confirms Latin America's first coronavirus case; US reports 57 cases</a>

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention urged Americans Tuesday to be prepared to cancel mass gatherings and urged schools and businesses to develop teleworking plans, amid dire warnings that countries are not ready to contain an outbreak that has infected 80,000 people, mostly in China.

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"It's not so much a question of if this will happen anymore, but rather more a question of exactly when this will happen," said the CDC's Nancy Messonnier.&nbsp;

As of Wednesday, there were 60 cases in the United States -- 15 detected through the public health system, and 45 repatriated from abroad, either from a cruise ship off Japan or from&nbsp;Wuhan, the Chinese city where the first cases were identified.

The CDC later said the latest case caught in California "did not have relevant travel history or exposure to another known patient" -- meaning it could represent the first instance of "community spread" in the US, though this was not yet confirmed.

Community spread means the spread of an illness for which the source of the infection is unknown.

Foreign nationals travelling from China within the past two weeks are currently banned from entering the US, and Trump said more countries, including South Korea and Italy where the disease has rapidly spread, could also be added to the list.

"At the right time we may do it, right now it's not the right time," he said in response to a reporter's question.&nbsp;

"Italy is, you know, a deeper problem, and we're checking people coming in very, very strongly from those and at some point, we may cut that off," he later added.

On Wednesday night the State Department raised its travel advisory caution level for South Korea to the second-highest, now urging Americans to reconsider travelling there.

The president added that Vice President Mike Pence had been assigned to lead the charge in coordinating the government's response and reporting back to him, taking over the role from health secretary Alex Azar.&nbsp;

Trump's briefing came after US lawmakers accused the administration of downplaying the crisis and underfunding the response.

On Monday, the White House asked Congress to make at least $2.5 billion available for preparedness and response, including developing treatments and vaccines and buying equipment for a strategic national stockpile.

Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said the figure was "too little and too late," proposing instead $8.5 billion. Trump later told reporters he would be happy to accept more money.

Trump also took to Twitter earlier in the day to insist his administration is "doing a GREAT job," blaming the media Wednesday for trying to stoke fear in a tweet in which he spelt the name of the virus incorrectly.

"Low Ratings Fake News MSDNC (Comcast) &amp; @CNN are doing everything possible to make the Caronavirus look as bad as possible, including panicking markets, if possible," he tweeted, using a derogatory name for cable news network MSNBC that suggests it is connected to the Democratic National Committee

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Low Ratings Fake News MSDNC (Comcast) &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/CNN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CNN</a> are doing everything possible to make the Caronavirus look as bad as possible, including panicking markets, if possible. Likewise their incompetent Do Nothing Democrat comrades are all talk, no action. USA in great shape! <a href="https://twitter.com/CDCgov?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CDCgov</a>.....
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1232652371832004608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Wall Street stocks finished mostly lower Wednesday, stabilizing somewhat after a two-session rout amid growing worries over the economic impact of the coronavirus epidemic.

With cases being reported in more countries&nbsp;and lockdowns in nations including Austria, Italy and Spain&nbsp;traders are worried about the impact on the global economy.

In the US, officials have voiced fears for the supply of medical products because a high proportion of ingredients used to make medicine comes from China.

The Food and Drug Administration has also identified personal protective equipment, such as face masks, respirators and gowns, as being among products at risk of shortages.

President Donald Trump on Wednesday said it was not inevitable that the novel coronavirus would continue to spread in the United States, as he said he is considering travel restrictions on Italy and South Korea and appointed his vice president to lead the response.

President Donald Trump on Wednesday said it was not inevitable that the novel coronavirus would continue to spread in the United States, as he said he is considering travel restrictions on Italy and South Korea and appointed his vice president to lead the response. Also read: 'It was great, trip very successful': Trump after his two-day India visit His optimism about containing the pathogen contradicted a senior health official in his own administration and came as authorities said they had identified the first case in the US that was of unknown origin. Also read: US President Donald Trump hails Harvey Weinstein's conviction "I don't think it's inevitable. I think that there's a chance that it could get worse, a chance it could get fairly substantially worse, but nothing's inevitable," Trump told reporters at the White House. Also read: Brazil confirms Latin America's first coronavirus case; US reports 57 cases The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention urged Americans Tuesday to be prepared to cancel mass gatherings and urged schools and businesses to develop teleworking plans, amid dire warnings that countries are not ready to contain an outbreak that has infected 80,000 people, mostly in China. × "It's not so much a question of if this will happen anymore, but rather more a question of exactly when this will happen," said the CDC's Nancy Messonnier. As of Wednesday, there were 60 cases in the United States -- 15 detected through the public health system, and 45 repatriated from abroad, either from a cruise ship off Japan or from Wuhan, the Chinese city where the first cases were identified. The CDC later said the latest case caught in California "did not have relevant travel history or exposure to another known patient" -- meaning it could represent the first instance of "community spread" in the US, though this was not yet confirmed. Community spread means the spread of an illness for which the source of the infection is unknown. Foreign nationals travelling from China within the past two weeks are currently banned from entering the US, and Trump said more countries, including South Korea and Italy where the disease has rapidly spread, could also be added to the list. "At the right time we may do it, right now it's not the right time," he said in response to a reporter's question. "Italy is, you know, a deeper problem, and we're checking people coming in very, very strongly from those and at some point, we may cut that off," he later added. On Wednesday night the State Department raised its travel advisory caution level for South Korea to the second-highest, now urging Americans to reconsider travelling there. The president added that Vice President Mike Pence had been assigned to lead the charge in coordinating the government's response and reporting back to him, taking over the role from health secretary Alex Azar. Trump's briefing came after US lawmakers accused the administration of downplaying the crisis and underfunding the response. On Monday, the White House asked Congress to make at least $2.5 billion available for preparedness and response, including developing treatments and vaccines and buying equipment for a strategic national stockpile. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said the figure was "too little and too late," proposing instead $8.5 billion. Trump later told reporters he would be happy to accept more money. Trump also took to Twitter earlier in the day to insist his administration is "doing a GREAT job," blaming the media Wednesday for trying to stoke fear in a tweet in which he spelt the name of the virus incorrectly. "Low Ratings Fake News MSDNC (Comcast) & @CNN are doing everything possible to make the Caronavirus look as bad as possible, including panicking markets, if possible," he tweeted, using a derogatory name for cable news network MSNBC that suggests it is connected to the Democratic National Committee Low Ratings Fake News MSDNC (Comcast) & @CNN are doing everything possible to make the Caronavirus look as bad as possible, including panicking markets, if possible. Likewise their incompetent Do Nothing Democrat comrades are all talk, no action. USA in great shape! @CDCgov..... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 26, 2020 × Wall Street stocks finished mostly lower Wednesday, stabilizing somewhat after a two-session rout amid growing worries over the economic impact of the coronavirus epidemic. With cases being reported in more countries and lockdowns in nations including Austria, Italy and Spain traders are worried about the impact on the global economy. In the US, officials have voiced fears for the supply of medical products because a high proportion of ingredients used to make medicine comes from China. The Food and Drug Administration has also identified personal protective equipment, such as face masks, respirators and gowns, as being among products at risk of shortages.

US coronavirus spread 'not inevitable,' mulls new travel bans: Donald Trump

An employee stormed the Molson Coors complex in Milwaukee in US and killed five co-workers before turning the gun on himself in one of the city's deadliest shootings.

Mass Shooting at Milwaukee kills 6 people including Gunman

During US President Donald Trump's visit to India on February 24 and 25, both countries signed three agreements in health and oil sectors. 
 
In a noteworthy gesture, the health departments of both countries sealed a pact&nbsp;to deal with mental health challenges through innovative measures.

The agreement will enable India to learn from the experience of the US in treating mental health issues. It will also facilitate greater access to traditional Indian medicines and therapies to treat mental health challenges in America.

World Health Organisation (WHO) has estimated that more than 300 million people suffer from depression across the world. It has further stated that there is one death by suicide every 40 seconds and each year more than 800,000 people end their own lives.&nbsp;

Furthermore, the National Mental Health Survey, 2016, conducted across 12 Indian states, has stated that 150 million persons are in need of mental health interventions and care.

According to a report, the US suicide rate increased on average by about 1 per cent a year from 2000 through 2006 and by 2 per cent a year from 2006 through 2016.

It's heartening to see that governments, people and organisations across the globe have acknowledged the challenges related to&nbsp;mental health. In 2018, the UK government had appointed Loneliness Minister for cross-government work on loneliness.

Moreover, fund allocations also have to be increased. Funds allocated to the National Mental Health Programme were not increased in the Union Budget for FY 2020. It was brought down to Rs 40 crore from Rs 50 crore in FY2018.&nbsp;

Also, more trained psychiatrists and psychologists should be made available at government health care centres to meet WHO prescribed norms so that people can avail mental health treatment at a cheaper cost.

Mental illness, like any other disease, does not discriminate. It affects all age groups, children, youth, elderly people. To tackle depression, loneliness and anxiety, it's important to deal with the illness at home, offices, schools and colleges. 
 
Other countries should also learn from this collaboration between the world's two largest democracies to deal with mental health challenges, and come together to tackle mental illness. 
 
Governments must, through there policies including programmes, educate people and organisations about the effects of mental health problems. Globally, we need to increase our efforts to tackle mental health problems.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

During US President Donald Trump's visit to India on February 24 and 25, both countries signed three agreements in health and oil sectors. In a noteworthy gesture, the health departments of both countries sealed a pact to deal with mental health challenges through innovative measures.

During US President Donald Trump's visit to India on February 24 and 25, both countries signed three agreements in health and oil sectors. In a noteworthy gesture, the health departments of both countries sealed a pact to deal with mental health challenges through innovative measures. The agreement will enable India to learn from the experience of the US in treating mental health issues. It will also facilitate greater access to traditional Indian medicines and therapies to treat mental health challenges in America. World Health Organisation (WHO) has estimated that more than 300 million people suffer from depression across the world. It has further stated that there is one death by suicide every 40 seconds and each year more than 800,000 people end their own lives. Furthermore, the National Mental Health Survey, 2016, conducted across 12 Indian states, has stated that 150 million persons are in need of mental health interventions and care. According to a report, the US suicide rate increased on average by about 1 per cent a year from 2000 through 2006 and by 2 per cent a year from 2006 through 2016. It's heartening to see that governments, people and organisations across the globe have acknowledged the challenges related to mental health. In 2018, the UK government had appointed Loneliness Minister for cross-government work on loneliness. Moreover, fund allocations also have to be increased. Funds allocated to the National Mental Health Programme were not increased in the Union Budget for FY 2020. It was brought down to Rs 40 crore from Rs 50 crore in FY2018. Also, more trained psychiatrists and psychologists should be made available at government health care centres to meet WHO prescribed norms so that people can avail mental health treatment at a cheaper cost. Mental illness, like any other disease, does not discriminate. It affects all age groups, children, youth, elderly people. To tackle depression, loneliness and anxiety, it's important to deal with the illness at home, offices, schools and colleges. Other countries should also learn from this collaboration between the world's two largest democracies to deal with mental health challenges, and come together to tackle mental illness. Governments must, through there policies including programmes, educate people and organisations about the effects of mental health problems. Globally, we need to increase our efforts to tackle mental health problems. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

India-US agreement on mental health is highly praiseworthy

US First Lady Melania Trump on Thursday tweeted two pictures of her with US President Donald Trump facing the Taj Mahal in Agra.

Donald Trump and his wife Melania had&nbsp;visited the Taj Mahal on the first day of their trip to India.&nbsp;

In the video, Trump and Melania were seen walking hand in hand where a guide shared the insights of the 17th-century masterpiece.&nbsp;

"One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the breathtaking Taj Mahal!" she said.

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One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the breathtaking Taj Mahal! <a href="https://t.co/7Oz7h431Q0">pic.twitter.com/7Oz7h431Q0</a>
— Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS/status/1232772322840338432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FLOTUS</a> at Taj Mahal <a href="https://t.co/Sp2qMOTg4c">pic.twitter.com/Sp2qMOTg4c</a>
— Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS/status/1232839327614427137?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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US President Donald Trump had also expressed his pleasure after visiting Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world, by describing it a "timeless testament to the rich and diverse beauty of Indian culture".&nbsp;

Trump's daughter Ivanka and Jared also explored the beauty of the historic site and also posed for the cameras.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath had presented a portrait of Taj Mahal to Trump and the first lady after they concluded their visit and departed for Delhi.&nbsp;

During the visit, India and the US on Tuesday finalised defence deals worth USD 3 billion under which 30 military helicopters will be procured from two American defence majors for Indian armed forces.

The deals will include procurement of 24 MH-60 Romeo helicopters by India from the US at USD 2.6 billion. Another contract to acquire six AH-64E Apache helicopters for USD 800 million from the US is also on the table.

President Trump "reaffirmed the strong strategic partnership, vibrant economic ties and expanding security relationship between our two countries. Wonderful trip, but glad to be home! Thank you India!" said White House Press Secretary Stephanie Grisham.

(With inputs from PTI)

US First Lady Melania Trump on Thursday tweeted two pictures of her with US President Donald Trump facing the Taj Mahal in Agra. Donald Trump and his wife Melania had visited the Taj Mahal on the first day of their trip to India.

US First Lady Melania Trump on Thursday tweeted two pictures of her with US President Donald Trump facing the Taj Mahal in Agra. Donald Trump and his wife Melania had visited the Taj Mahal on the first day of their trip to India. In the video, Trump and Melania were seen walking hand in hand where a guide shared the insights of the 17th-century masterpiece. "One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the breathtaking Taj Mahal!" she said. One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the breathtaking Taj Mahal! pic.twitter.com/7Oz7h431Q0 — Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) February 26, 2020 × .@POTUS & @FLOTUS at Taj Mahal pic.twitter.com/Sp2qMOTg4c — Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) February 27, 2020 × US President Donald Trump had also expressed his pleasure after visiting Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world, by describing it a "timeless testament to the rich and diverse beauty of Indian culture". Trump's daughter Ivanka and Jared also explored the beauty of the historic site and also posed for the cameras. Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath had presented a portrait of Taj Mahal to Trump and the first lady after they concluded their visit and departed for Delhi. During the visit, India and the US on Tuesday finalised defence deals worth USD 3 billion under which 30 military helicopters will be procured from two American defence majors for Indian armed forces. The deals will include procurement of 24 MH-60 Romeo helicopters by India from the US at USD 2.6 billion. Another contract to acquire six AH-64E Apache helicopters for USD 800 million from the US is also on the table. President Trump "reaffirmed the strong strategic partnership, vibrant economic ties and expanding security relationship between our two countries. Wonderful trip, but glad to be home! Thank you India!" said White House Press Secretary Stephanie Grisham. (With inputs from PTI)

Melania Trump tweets video of Taj Mahal, calls it 'breathtaking'

US President Donald Trump's re-election campaign said on Wednesday that it had filed a libel suit against New York Times, accusing it of intentionally publishing false and defamatory opinion piece which claimed Trump's "overarching deal" with Russia in the 2016 elections.

Responding to the questions on the suit during White House press conference, Trump said that the news organisation "got a lot wrong over the last number of years".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-asks-new-york-times-to-disclose-sources-that-us-is-ramping-up-cyber-attacks-on-russia-228519">Donald Trump asks New York Times to disclose sources that US is ramping up cyber attacks on Russia</a>

"If you read it, you'll see it's beyond an opinion. That's not an opinion. That's something much more than an opinion. They did a bad thing. And there'll be more coming."

The lawsuit is on the opinion published in the New York Times on March 27, 2017 by Max Frankel, with a headline: "The Real Trump-Russia Quid Pro Quo”. A subhead from the opinion piece said: "The campaign and the Kremlin had an overarching deal: help beat Hillary Clinton for a new pro-Russian foreign policy."&nbsp;

The opinion added: “Collusion – or a lack of it – turns out to have been the rhetorical trap that ensnared President Trump’s pursuers.”

“There was no need for detailed electoral collusion between the Trump campaign and Vladimir Putin’s oligarchy because they had an overarching deal: the quid of help in the campaign against Hillary Clinton for the quo of a new pro-Russian foreign policy, starting with relief from the Obama administration’s burdensome economic sanctions. The Trumpites knew about the quid and held out the prospect of the quo.”

The New York Times knowingly "published false and defamatory statements" against Trump, the draft copy of the suit said. &nbsp;

"The Times' own previous reporting had confirmed the falsity of these statements. But The Times published these statements anyway, knowing them to be false, and knowing it would misinform and mislead its own readers," it said, blaming the media organisation's "extreme bias against and animosity toward the campaign", and "exuberance to improperly influence the presidential election in November 2020".&nbsp;

Replying to the suit, a New York Times spokesperson said: "The Trump campaign has turned to the courts to try to punish an opinion writer for having an opinion they find unacceptable. Fortunately, the law protects the right of Americans to express their judgements and conclusions, especially about events of public importance. We look forward to vindicating that right in this case."

US President Donald Trump's re-election campaign said on Wednesday that it had filed a libel suit against New York Times, accusing it of intentionally publishing false and defamatory opinion piece which claimed Trump's "overarching deal" with Russia in the 2016 elections.

US President Donald Trump's re-election campaign said on Wednesday that it had filed a libel suit against New York Times, accusing it of intentionally publishing false and defamatory opinion piece which claimed Trump's "overarching deal" with Russia in the 2016 elections. Responding to the questions on the suit during White House press conference, Trump said that the news organisation "got a lot wrong over the last number of years". Also read: Donald Trump asks New York Times to disclose sources that US is ramping up cyber attacks on Russia "If you read it, you'll see it's beyond an opinion. That's not an opinion. That's something much more than an opinion. They did a bad thing. And there'll be more coming." The lawsuit is on the opinion published in the New York Times on March 27, 2017 by Max Frankel, with a headline: "The Real Trump-Russia Quid Pro Quo”. A subhead from the opinion piece said: "The campaign and the Kremlin had an overarching deal: help beat Hillary Clinton for a new pro-Russian foreign policy." The opinion added: “Collusion – or a lack of it – turns out to have been the rhetorical trap that ensnared President Trump’s pursuers.” “There was no need for detailed electoral collusion between the Trump campaign and Vladimir Putin’s oligarchy because they had an overarching deal: the quid of help in the campaign against Hillary Clinton for the quo of a new pro-Russian foreign policy, starting with relief from the Obama administration’s burdensome economic sanctions. The Trumpites knew about the quid and held out the prospect of the quo.” The New York Times knowingly "published false and defamatory statements" against Trump, the draft copy of the suit said. "The Times' own previous reporting had confirmed the falsity of these statements. But The Times published these statements anyway, knowing them to be false, and knowing it would misinform and mislead its own readers," it said, blaming the media organisation's "extreme bias against and animosity toward the campaign", and "exuberance to improperly influence the presidential election in November 2020". Replying to the suit, a New York Times spokesperson said: "The Trump campaign has turned to the courts to try to punish an opinion writer for having an opinion they find unacceptable. Fortunately, the law protects the right of Americans to express their judgements and conclusions, especially about events of public importance. We look forward to vindicating that right in this case."

Trump campaign sues New York Times over Russia opinion piece

Today was the business end of Donald Trump's visit to India. After holding talks with PM Modi, the US President took questions from the press - giving his take on the trade negotiations and even the Citizenship Amendment Law. This report gets you the highlights.

Gravitas: Trump's visit to India, highlights from Day 2

US President Donald Trump wrapped up his visit to India today. India and the US have elevated their ties. This report tells you all about the road ahead for the India-US partnership.

Gravitas: India- US ties, the road ahead

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