"President @realDonaldTrump & @FLOTUS will travel to India from February 24-25 to visit Prime Minister @narendramodi! The trip will further strengthen the US-India strategic partnership & highlight the strong & enduring bonds between the American & Indian people," White House said in a tweet.

Trump India Visit: Big Ticket purchases on Agenda? Watch this report

US President Donald Trump will reach India February 24 for a two-day visit accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump, the White House spokesperson said in a statement Monday.

Trump to visit India on Feb 24th; 'Howdy Modi' style event in Gujarat

America's intelligence agency CIA spied on several countries including India and Pakistan. The latest report came weeks ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to India. Meanwhile, Pakistan court convicted global terrorist Hafiz Saeed in terror financing case on Tuesday.

Here are the top ten stories of the day:

India, Pakistan and several other nations spied on by CIA through Swiss encryption firm

Encrypted messages from several countries were reportedly being read by the CIA for decades, including India, through its secretly-owned Switzerland-based company trusted by governments all over the world to keep the communications of their spies, soldiers and diplomats secret. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pakistan-and-several-other-nations-spied-on-by-cia-through-swiss-encryption-firm-280330">Read more</a>

Pakistan court convicts 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed in terror financing case

Pakistan's Anti-Terrorism Court on Wednesday convicted UN-designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed in two terror-financing cases. The court sentenced Saeed for five-years and three-months while a fine of Rs 150,000 was also imposed on Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief in each case.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-convicts-2611-mastermind-hafiz-saeed-in-terror-financing-case-280268">Read more</a>

Need some space? NASA has got the job for you

American astronauts are to ascend to the International Space Station – with an eye toward the Moon and Mars – as NASA announced that applications are being accepted from March 2 to 31 for the next class of Artemis Generation astronauts. Finalisation of candidates is to be completed by the middle of 2021.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-expecting-applications-to-further-expeditions-to-the-moon-mars-and-beyond-280296">Read more</a>

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to work with Goldman Sachs

Duke of Sussex Prince Harry is reportedly entering talks with controversial banking giant Goldman Sachs. The alleged negotiations between Sachs and the British royals could earn the latter upwards of £1billion in corporate deals.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prince-harry-and-meghan-markle-to-work-with-goldman-sachs-280329">Read more</a>

US-Taliban breakthrough appears closer as Afghan President Ghani reports progress

The US and the Taliban appeared closer Wednesday to sealing a deal for an American troop withdrawal from Afghanistan, after Afghan President Ashraf Ghani reported "notable progress" in negotiations and a senior Taliban official said violence could be slashed in the coming days.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-breakthrough-appears-closer-as-ghani-reports-progress-280270">Read more</a>

Iran woman dies of suspected coronavirus infection

An Iranian woman has died of a suspected coronavirus infection, the state daily newspaper IRAN reported on Wednesday, without citing any sources.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-woman-dies-of-suspected-coronavirus-infection-280322">Read more</a>

Indonesia bans 600 nationals from returning home due to connections with ISIS

In a bold move, Indonesia has barred the return of more than 600 of its citizens as they are believed to be fighters of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-bans-600-nationals-from-returning-home-due-to-connections-with-isis-280327">Read more</a>

Kremlin accuses Turkey of failing to 'neutralise terrorists' in Idlib

The Kremlin on Wednesday accused Turkey of failing to "neutralise terrorists" in Syria's last rebel bastion Idlib as tensions escalate with Ankara over the protracted conflict.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-accuses-turkey-of-failing-to-neutralise-terrorists-in-idlib-280328">&nbsp;Read more</a>

Google goes to court over EU antitrust fines

Google is seeking to overturn the first of three hefty European Union antitrust fines at Europe's second-highest court in a landmark case that could determine how EU enforcers take on US tech giants for abuse of market power.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/latest-business-news-google-goes-to-court-for-825-billion-euros-over-eu-antitrust-violations-280222">Read more</a>

Recurring radio signals heard from space after 16 days: Study

Scientists have observed a mysterious space signal deep from space which has been repeating in a 16-day cycle.

The findings are included in the pre-print of a paper on arXiv. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/recurring-radio-signals-heard-from-space-after-16-days-280186">Read more</a>

 
&nbsp;

America's intelligence agency CIA spied on several countries including India and Pakistan. The latest report came weeks ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to India.

America's intelligence agency CIA spied on several countries including India and Pakistan. The latest report came weeks ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to India. Meanwhile, Pakistan court convicted global terrorist Hafiz Saeed in terror financing case on Tuesday. Here are the top ten stories of the day: India, Pakistan and several other nations spied on by CIA through Swiss encryption firm Encrypted messages from several countries were reportedly being read by the CIA for decades, including India, through its secretly-owned Switzerland-based company trusted by governments all over the world to keep the communications of their spies, soldiers and diplomats secret. Read more Pakistan court convicts 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed in terror financing case Pakistan's Anti-Terrorism Court on Wednesday convicted UN-designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed in two terror-financing cases. The court sentenced Saeed for five-years and three-months while a fine of Rs 150,000 was also imposed on Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief in each case. Read more Need some space? NASA has got the job for you American astronauts are to ascend to the International Space Station – with an eye toward the Moon and Mars – as NASA announced that applications are being accepted from March 2 to 31 for the next class of Artemis Generation astronauts. Finalisation of candidates is to be completed by the middle of 2021. Read more Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to work with Goldman Sachs Duke of Sussex Prince Harry is reportedly entering talks with controversial banking giant Goldman Sachs. The alleged negotiations between Sachs and the British royals could earn the latter upwards of £1billion in corporate deals. Read more US-Taliban breakthrough appears closer as Afghan President Ghani reports progress The US and the Taliban appeared closer Wednesday to sealing a deal for an American troop withdrawal from Afghanistan, after Afghan President Ashraf Ghani reported "notable progress" in negotiations and a senior Taliban official said violence could be slashed in the coming days. Read more Iran woman dies of suspected coronavirus infection An Iranian woman has died of a suspected coronavirus infection, the state daily newspaper IRAN reported on Wednesday, without citing any sources. Read more Indonesia bans 600 nationals from returning home due to connections with ISIS In a bold move, Indonesia has barred the return of more than 600 of its citizens as they are believed to be fighters of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. Read more Kremlin accuses Turkey of failing to 'neutralise terrorists' in Idlib The Kremlin on Wednesday accused Turkey of failing to "neutralise terrorists" in Syria's last rebel bastion Idlib as tensions escalate with Ankara over the protracted conflict. Read more Google goes to court over EU antitrust fines Google is seeking to overturn the first of three hefty European Union antitrust fines at Europe's second-highest court in a landmark case that could determine how EU enforcers take on US tech giants for abuse of market power. Read more Recurring radio signals heard from space after 16 days: Study Scientists have observed a mysterious space signal deep from space which has been repeating in a 16-day cycle. The findings are included in the pre-print of a paper on arXiv. Read more

Top 10 world news today: Hafiz Saeed convicted, US-Taliban talks, Idlib crisis and more

&nbsp;A suicide bomber killed six people near a military academy in the Afghan capital, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-breakthrough-appears-closer-as-ghani-reports-progress-280270">Kabul</a>, on Tuesday, the interior ministry said.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-violence-rises-amid-us-taliban-talks-watchdog-277677">Taliban </a>denied involvement in the blast and there was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack.

The bombing took place near the government-run defence university, the Marshal Fahim Military Academy, at the beginning of the morning rush hour.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-breakthrough-appears-closer-as-ghani-reports-progress-280270">US-Taliban breakthrough appears closer as Afghan President Ghani reports progress</a>

It was the first major attack in the capital this year and comes at a time of heightened uncertainty in the country as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-breakthrough-appears-closer-as-ghani-reports-progress-280270">US&nbsp;</a>and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-breakthrough-appears-closer-as-ghani-reports-progress-280270">Taliban </a>negotiators in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-breakthrough-appears-closer-as-ghani-reports-progress-280270">Qatar </a>try to pursue talks towards a peace deal to end 18 years of war.

"Six people including two civilians and four military personnel were killed," interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi told Reuters, adding that 12 people were wounded, five of them civilians.

"It wasn't our work," said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-violence-rises-amid-us-taliban-talks-watchdog-277677">Taliban </a>spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid in a text message to Reuters.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-violence-rises-amid-us-taliban-talks-watchdog-277677">Afghanistan violence rises amid US-Taliban talks</a>

The academy, modelled after European war colleges to train Afghan cadets, has been the scene of several attacks in the past, including an assault last may claimed by Islamic State.

Despite the relative lull of violence in Kabul, militant attacks on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-breakthrough-appears-closer-as-ghani-reports-progress-280270">Afghan </a>and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-breakthrough-appears-closer-as-ghani-reports-progress-280270">US</a>-led security forces have continued over recent months around the country even as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-breakthrough-appears-closer-as-ghani-reports-progress-280270">United States</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-breakthrough-appears-closer-as-ghani-reports-progress-280270">Taliban </a>militants pursue talks to finalise a peace pact.

Afghan President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-breakthrough-appears-closer-as-ghani-reports-progress-280270">Ashraf Ghani</a> condemned the attack in a statement released by his office.

"The great nation of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-violence-rises-amid-us-taliban-talks-watchdog-277677">Afghanistan </a>wants an end to violence, an end to the war, a ceasefire and an enduring peace," he said.

"The government is committed to achieving a dignified and sustainable peace, for which it pursues a clear plan."

A suicide bomber killed six people near a military academy in the Afghan capital, Kabul, on Tuesday, the interior ministry said. The Taliban denied involvement in the blast and there was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack.

A suicide bomber killed six people near a military academy in the Afghan capital, Kabul, on Tuesday, the interior ministry said. The Taliban denied involvement in the blast and there was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack. The bombing took place near the government-run defence university, the Marshal Fahim Military Academy, at the beginning of the morning rush hour. Also read: US-Taliban breakthrough appears closer as Afghan President Ghani reports progress It was the first major attack in the capital this year and comes at a time of heightened uncertainty in the country as US and Taliban negotiators in Qatar try to pursue talks towards a peace deal to end 18 years of war. "Six people including two civilians and four military personnel were killed," interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi told Reuters, adding that 12 people were wounded, five of them civilians. "It wasn't our work," said Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid in a text message to Reuters. Also read: Afghanistan violence rises amid US-Taliban talks The academy, modelled after European war colleges to train Afghan cadets, has been the scene of several attacks in the past, including an assault last may claimed by Islamic State. Despite the relative lull of violence in Kabul, militant attacks on the Afghan and US-led security forces have continued over recent months around the country even as the United States and Taliban militants pursue talks to finalise a peace pact. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani condemned the attack in a statement released by his office. "The great nation of Afghanistan wants an end to violence, an end to the war, a ceasefire and an enduring peace," he said. "The government is committed to achieving a dignified and sustainable peace, for which it pursues a clear plan."

Six killed in suicide blast in Kabul, Taliban deny attack

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taliban-talks-appear-closer-to-pact-after-marathon-negotiations-in-qatar-193289">US </a>and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taliban-talks-appear-closer-to-pact-after-marathon-negotiations-in-qatar-193289">Taliban </a>appeared closer Wednesday to sealing a deal for an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taliban-talks-appear-closer-to-pact-after-marathon-negotiations-in-qatar-193289">American </a>troop withdrawal from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taliban-talks-appear-closer-to-pact-after-marathon-negotiations-in-qatar-193289">Afghanistan</a>, after Afghan President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taliban-talks-appear-closer-to-pact-after-marathon-negotiations-in-qatar-193289">Ashraf Ghani</a> reported "notable progress" in negotiations and a senior Taliban official said violence could be slashed in the coming days.

Washington and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taliban-talks-appear-closer-to-pact-after-marathon-negotiations-in-qatar-193289">Taliban&nbsp;</a>have been locked in gruelling talks that have stretched over more than a year for an agreement that would see the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taliban-talks-appear-closer-to-pact-after-marathon-negotiations-in-qatar-193289">US </a>pull thousands of troops from Afghanistan in a bid to end America's longest war.

In return, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taliban-talks-appear-closer-to-pact-after-marathon-negotiations-in-qatar-193289">Taliban </a>would provide various security guarantees and launch eventual talks with the Kabul government.

Watch: US-Taliban talks appear closer to pact after marathon negotiations in Qatar

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taliban-talks-appear-closer-to-pact-after-marathon-negotiations-in-qatar-193289/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Ghani said US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had called him to inform him of developments in the talks, which are taking place in Doha.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Today, I was pleased to receive a call from <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecPompeo</a>, informing me of the notable progress made in the ongoing peace talks with the Taliban. The Secretary informed me about the Taliban’s proposal with regards to bringing a significant and enduring reduction in violence.
— Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani/status/1227284075075002369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

A Taliban source in Pakistan told AFP that negotiators would meet again Wednesday in Doha, while in Afghanistan another senior Taliban official suggested the group was poised to reduce attacks.

"If the deal is signed, the Taliban will start a reduction of violence on Friday," the official in Afghanistan said, adding that the insurgents were working to bring any Taliban splinter groups into line.

Citing Afghan and US officials, the New York Times reported that US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taliban-talks-appear-closer-to-pact-after-marathon-negotiations-in-qatar-193289">Donald Trump</a> had given conditional approval to a deal with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taliban-talks-appear-closer-to-pact-after-marathon-negotiations-in-qatar-193289">Taliban</a>.

The two foes have been on the brink of a breakthrough before, with a deal all but complete in September before <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taliban-talks-appear-closer-to-pact-after-marathon-negotiations-in-qatar-193289">Trump </a>nixed it at the last moment amid continued Taliban violence.

The US and the Taliban appeared closer Wednesday to sealing a deal for an American troop withdrawal from Afghanistan, after Afghan President Ashraf Ghani reported "notable progress" in negotiations and a senior Taliban official said violence could be slashed in the coming days.

The US and the Taliban appeared closer Wednesday to sealing a deal for an American troop withdrawal from Afghanistan, after Afghan President Ashraf Ghani reported "notable progress" in negotiations and a senior Taliban official said violence could be slashed in the coming days. Washington and the Taliban have been locked in gruelling talks that have stretched over more than a year for an agreement that would see the US pull thousands of troops from Afghanistan in a bid to end America's longest war. In return, the Taliban would provide various security guarantees and launch eventual talks with the Kabul government. Watch: US-Taliban talks appear closer to pact after marathon negotiations in Qatar Ghani said US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had called him to inform him of developments in the talks, which are taking place in Doha. Today, I was pleased to receive a call from @SecPompeo, informing me of the notable progress made in the ongoing peace talks with the Taliban. The Secretary informed me about the Taliban’s proposal with regards to bringing a significant and enduring reduction in violence. — Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) February 11, 2020 × A Taliban source in Pakistan told AFP that negotiators would meet again Wednesday in Doha, while in Afghanistan another senior Taliban official suggested the group was poised to reduce attacks. "If the deal is signed, the Taliban will start a reduction of violence on Friday," the official in Afghanistan said, adding that the insurgents were working to bring any Taliban splinter groups into line. Citing Afghan and US officials, the New York Times reported that US President Donald Trump had given conditional approval to a deal with the Taliban. The two foes have been on the brink of a breakthrough before, with a deal all but complete in September before Trump nixed it at the last moment amid continued Taliban violence.

US-Taliban breakthrough appears closer as Afghan President Ghani reports progress

US President Donald Trump visit to India will start on February 24 at the Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad. Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold the Kem Chho Trump (Howdy Trump) event.

Nearly 1.25 Lakh people to attend 'Kem Chho Trump' event

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amazons-slow-climate-action-defying-company-policy-over-300-employees-speak-out-277288">Amazon </a>is seeking testimony from US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-seeks-prison-term-of-7-9-years-for-trumps-longtime-adviser-roger-stone-279922">Donald Trump</a> and Defense Secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/defense-chief-esper-denies-us-troop-pullout-from-iraq-after-leaked-letter-confusion-272596">Mark Esper</a>&nbsp;on&nbsp;how the tech giant was shut out of a $10 billion US military cloud computing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-looks-for-defence-to-putins-invincible-hypersonic-missiles-277593">Pentagon </a>contract.

According to court documents made public on Monday, the company wants the Trump administration to hand over documents and emails relating to the contract.

The company is gathering evidence that its fierce rival <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/growth-in-cloud-computing-business-helps-lift-microsoft-corps-quarterly-revenue-2847">Microsoft </a>won the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/amazon-lawsuit-blames-trump-for-loss-of-pentagon-cloud-contract-267341">Joint Enterprise Defense Infrastructure Cloud</a> (JEDI) contract to upgrade the US military's computing networks lucratively.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/amazon-lawsuit-blames-trump-for-loss-of-pentagon-cloud-contract-267341">Amazon lawsuit blames Trump for loss of Pentagon cloud contract</a>

The company alleged that Trump ''exerted undue influence'' on the decision to deny it the $10 billion contract.

Along with Trump and Esper, Amazon seeks to depose former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-defence-chief-rejects-amazons-accusations-of-bias-in-cloud-contract-262268">Defense Secretary</a> James Mattis, Pentagon chief information officer Dana Deasy and four other procurement officials, court records show.

The other individuals "can testify about specific conversations he had with them," Amazon's lawyers said.

''The Department of Defense strongly opposes Amazon's effort to question some of its leaders,'' Department of Defense spokesman Lieutanant Colonel Robert Carver said.

"The request is unnecessary, burdensome and merely seeks to delay getting this important technology into the hands of our warfighters," Carver added.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-defence-chief-rejects-amazons-accusations-of-bias-in-cloud-contract-262268">United States defence chief rejects Amazon's accusations of bias in cloud contract</a>

The JEDI contract is intended to give the military better access to data and technology from remote locations.

The 10-year contract for the Joint Enterprise Defense Infrastructure program, better known as JEDI, will ultimately see all military branches sharing information in a system boosted by artificial intelligence.&nbsp;

An earlier court filing by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-defence-chief-rejects-amazons-accusations-of-bias-in-cloud-contract-262268">Amazon </a>detailed alleged errors that ended with Microsoft being chosen over its Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud computing division, part of the technology group led by Amazon chief Jeff Bezos.

Amazon was considered the lead contender to provide technology for JEDI, with AWS dominating the cloud computing arena and the company already providing classified servers for other government outfits including the CIA.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-defence-chief-rejects-amazons-accusations-of-bias-in-cloud-contract-262268">Pentagon</a>'s mistakes in the contract were "hard to understand and impossible to assess" when separated from Trump's "repeatedly expressed determination to, in the words of the president himself, 'screw Amazon,'" court documents filed by Amazon argued.

The bid protest filed in US Court of Federal Claims urges that the rival JEDI bids be re-evaluated and a new decision reached.

The lawsuit filed by Amazon will not delay implementation of the project, a senior Pentagon official said in December.&nbsp;

Amazon is seeking testimony from US President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Mark Esper on how the tech giant was shut out of a $10 billion US military cloud computing Pentagon contract.

Amazon is seeking testimony from US President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Mark Esper on how the tech giant was shut out of a $10 billion US military cloud computing Pentagon contract. According to court documents made public on Monday, the company wants the Trump administration to hand over documents and emails relating to the contract. The company is gathering evidence that its fierce rival Microsoft won the Joint Enterprise Defense Infrastructure Cloud (JEDI) contract to upgrade the US military's computing networks lucratively. Also read: Amazon lawsuit blames Trump for loss of Pentagon cloud contract The company alleged that Trump ''exerted undue influence'' on the decision to deny it the $10 billion contract. Along with Trump and Esper, Amazon seeks to depose former Defense Secretary James Mattis, Pentagon chief information officer Dana Deasy and four other procurement officials, court records show. The other individuals "can testify about specific conversations he had with them," Amazon's lawyers said. ''The Department of Defense strongly opposes Amazon's effort to question some of its leaders,'' Department of Defense spokesman Lieutanant Colonel Robert Carver said. "The request is unnecessary, burdensome and merely seeks to delay getting this important technology into the hands of our warfighters," Carver added. Also read: United States defence chief rejects Amazon's accusations of bias in cloud contract The JEDI contract is intended to give the military better access to data and technology from remote locations. The 10-year contract for the Joint Enterprise Defense Infrastructure program, better known as JEDI, will ultimately see all military branches sharing information in a system boosted by artificial intelligence. An earlier court filing by Amazon detailed alleged errors that ended with Microsoft being chosen over its Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud computing division, part of the technology group led by Amazon chief Jeff Bezos. Amazon was considered the lead contender to provide technology for JEDI, with AWS dominating the cloud computing arena and the company already providing classified servers for other government outfits including the CIA. The Pentagon's mistakes in the contract were "hard to understand and impossible to assess" when separated from Trump's "repeatedly expressed determination to, in the words of the president himself, 'screw Amazon,'" court documents filed by Amazon argued. The bid protest filed in US Court of Federal Claims urges that the rival JEDI bids be re-evaluated and a new decision reached. The lawsuit filed by Amazon will not delay implementation of the project, a senior Pentagon official said in December.

Amazon wants Trump, Esper to testify in fight for $10 billion Pentagon contract

Donald Trump will visit India on February 24th. India is planning to roll out the red carpet for the American President. WION's Palki Sharma tells you what's on the agenda.

Gravitas: Trump to visit India: What's on agenda?

Donald Trump is all set to visit India. The American President could be eyeing big-ticket defence deals. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how the Trump Administration has cleared the decks for a major defence agreement.

Gravitas: Trump eyes major defence deals with India

Donald Trump is often on television, his tweets dominate the headlines. Despite that, he remains unpredictable. Trump calls India a friend, but he has frequently slammed the Indian leadership over trade. WION's Palki Sharma reviews Trump's policy towards India.

Gravitas: The unpredictable Donald Trump

Donald Trump's erratic foreign policy may be a hit with his supporters. But, it has caused the U.S. more pain than gain. On WION Edit Palki Sharma explores if Trump is India's best bet for a strong relationship with the U.S.

WION Edit: Can India deal with Donald Trump?

Donald Trump Visit: US to focus on trade,defence ties with India

It is official now US President Donald Trump will be visiting India on the 24th and 25th of February. This will be his first visit to India since he took over the office. Watch report:

Wion Dispatch: US President Donald Trump to visit India on February 24 , Trade & defence ties on agenda

US President Donald Trump to visit India on Feb 24 & 25: US Officials

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebooks-sheryl-sandberg-gets-engaged-to-tom-bernthal-278474">Facebook </a>and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-suspends-thousands-of-accounts-that-were-linked-to-saudi-arabia-269402">Twitter </a>have declined House of Representative Speaker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/State-of-the-Union-address-us-house-speaker-nancy-pelosi-tears-up-text-as-trump-ends-state-of-the-union-address-278666">Nancy Pelosi</a>'s request to remove an edited video posted by US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/State-of-the-Union-address-us-house-speaker-nancy-pelosi-tears-up-text-as-trump-ends-state-of-the-union-address-278666">Donald Trump</a> that tried to imply that she apparently tore the paper copy of his State of the Union address while he was honouring the last living Tuskegee Airman and other attendees.

The Democrats are enraged by the response of the social media platforms.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/State-of-the-Union-address-us-house-speaker-nancy-pelosi-tears-up-text-as-trump-ends-state-of-the-union-address-278666">US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi tears up text as Trump ends State of the Union address</a>

Pelosi's chief of staff called Drew Hammill took to Twitter to express his views on the entire incident.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The American people know that the President has no qualms about lying to them – but it is a shame to see Twitter and Facebook, sources of news for millions, do the same. <a href="https://t.co/OatHIOamsD">https://t.co/OatHIOamsD</a>
— Drew Hammill (@Drew_Hammill) <a href="https://twitter.com/Drew_Hammill/status/1225830200627298305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The latest fake video of Speaker Pelosi is deliberately designed to mislead and lie to the American people, and every day that these platforms refuse to take it down is another reminder that they care more about their shareholders’ interests than the public’s interests.
— Drew Hammill (@Drew_Hammill) <a href="https://twitter.com/Drew_Hammill/status/1225830201948590081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Democrats had requested the social media giants to remove the doctored clip and take tougher action.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/all-the-highlights-from-trumps-reality-tv-style-state-of-the-union-address-278726">Highlights from Trump's reality-TV style State of the Union address</a>

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/all-the-highlights-from-trumps-reality-tv-style-state-of-the-union-address-278726">Republicans </a>have argued that such policing could muzzle conservative viewpoints. The five-minute video was posted by Trump on Thursday with the caption '' powerful American stories ripped to shreds by Nancy Pelosi''.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://t.co/QhTWvcY4Ke">pic.twitter.com/QhTWvcY4Ke</a>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1225553117929988097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Both tech titans’ rejected the plea after stating that they did not violate any policy especially when Pelosi had actually torn the US President's speech after his address.

The plea's rejection comes amid heightened debate over responsibility to prevent the spread of misleading or outright false information during the 2020 presidential election.

Facebook and Twitter have declined House of Representative Speaker Nancy Pelosi's request to remove an edited video posted by US President Donald Trump that tried to imply that she apparently tore the paper copy of his State of the Union address while he was honouring the last living Tuskegee Airman and other attendees.

Facebook and Twitter have declined House of Representative Speaker Nancy Pelosi's request to remove an edited video posted by US President Donald Trump that tried to imply that she apparently tore the paper copy of his State of the Union address while he was honouring the last living Tuskegee Airman and other attendees. The Democrats are enraged by the response of the social media platforms. Also read: US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi tears up text as Trump ends State of the Union address Pelosi's chief of staff called Drew Hammill took to Twitter to express his views on the entire incident. The American people know that the President has no qualms about lying to them – but it is a shame to see Twitter and Facebook, sources of news for millions, do the same. https://t.co/OatHIOamsD — Drew Hammill (@Drew_Hammill) February 7, 2020 × The latest fake video of Speaker Pelosi is deliberately designed to mislead and lie to the American people, and every day that these platforms refuse to take it down is another reminder that they care more about their shareholders’ interests than the public’s interests. — Drew Hammill (@Drew_Hammill) February 7, 2020 × Democrats had requested the social media giants to remove the doctored clip and take tougher action. Also see: Highlights from Trump's reality-TV style State of the Union address The Republicans have argued that such policing could muzzle conservative viewpoints. The five-minute video was posted by Trump on Thursday with the caption '' powerful American stories ripped to shreds by Nancy Pelosi''. pic.twitter.com/QhTWvcY4Ke — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 6, 2020 × Both tech titans’ rejected the plea after stating that they did not violate any policy especially when Pelosi had actually torn the US President's speech after his address. The plea's rejection comes amid heightened debate over responsibility to prevent the spread of misleading or outright false information during the 2020 presidential election.

Facebook and Twitter decline Pelosi's plea to remove clip posted by Donald Trump

President Donald Trump said Monday the time has come to pursue trade negotiations with the European Union which he said imposes "incredible" barriers to US goods.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-imposes-record-75-billion-tariffs-on-european-union-256583">Also read: US imposes record $7.5 billion tariffs on EU goods, targeting Airbus, wine and whisky</a> 
 
"Europe has been treating us very badly," Trump said at a White House event with US state governors.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-us-would-tax-french-wine-in-response-to-digital-tax-245250">Also read: Trump threatens tariffs on French wine as he heads to G7</a>

After a reaching a series of trade deals with Canada, Mexico and Japan, and a phase-one agreement with China, Trump said, "The next thing could be Europe, where we talk to them very seriously."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slams-macron-over-digital-tax-on-us-tech-giants-threatens-reciprocal-action-against-french-wine-238733">Also read: Trump slams Macron over digital tax on US tech giants, threatens 'reciprocal action' against French wine</a> 
 
Relations between the two major economies have lingered for months in a tense truce.

Trump has imposed punishing tariffs on EU goods like French wine in a dispute over Airbus, and other goods in a confrontation over tax on digital giants like Google and Amazon.

But so far he has held off on threatened punitive duties on European cars aimed at forcing a change in trade policy. Trump reached a ceasefire with the EU in mid-2018, when the sides agreed to pursue negotiations -- talks that so far have not resulted in anything concrete.

Trump said he focused first on the dispute with China and renegotiating the continental free trade pact with Canada and Mexico because he "didn't want to do the whole world at one time."

But Monday he renewed his complaints about EU trade policy, even claiming improbably that the economic bloc "was really formed so they could treat us badly."&nbsp;

"They have barriers that are incredible," Trump said, adding, "They're ready for a deal."

President Donald Trump said Monday the time has come to pursue trade negotiations with the European Union which he said imposes "incredible" barriers to US goods.

President Donald Trump said Monday the time has come to pursue trade negotiations with the European Union which he said imposes "incredible" barriers to US goods. Also read: US imposes record $7.5 billion tariffs on EU goods, targeting Airbus, wine and whisky "Europe has been treating us very badly," Trump said at a White House event with US state governors. Also read: Trump threatens tariffs on French wine as he heads to G7 After a reaching a series of trade deals with Canada, Mexico and Japan, and a phase-one agreement with China, Trump said, "The next thing could be Europe, where we talk to them very seriously." Also read: Trump slams Macron over digital tax on US tech giants, threatens 'reciprocal action' against French wine Relations between the two major economies have lingered for months in a tense truce. Trump has imposed punishing tariffs on EU goods like French wine in a dispute over Airbus, and other goods in a confrontation over tax on digital giants like Google and Amazon. But so far he has held off on threatened punitive duties on European cars aimed at forcing a change in trade policy. Trump reached a ceasefire with the EU in mid-2018, when the sides agreed to pursue negotiations -- talks that so far have not resulted in anything concrete. Trump said he focused first on the dispute with China and renegotiating the continental free trade pact with Canada and Mexico because he "didn't want to do the whole world at one time." But Monday he renewed his complaints about EU trade policy, even claiming improbably that the economic bloc "was really formed so they could treat us badly." "They have barriers that are incredible," Trump said, adding, "They're ready for a deal."

Europe has been treating us very badly, time for 'very serious' trade negotiations: Donald Trump

The United States on Friday (February 7) offered $100m aid to China and other countries who are fighting coronavirus. The number of deaths due to China's coronavirus epidemic jumped to 722, surpassing the toll from the SARS outbreak on the mainland and Hong Kong almost two decades ago.

Coronavirus Outbreak: US offers $100m aid to China

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-death-toll-jumps-to-722-surpasses-toll-from-the-sars-outbreak-279328">Coronavirus death toll jumps to 722, surpasses toll from SARS outbreak</a>

<img alt="Coronavirus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7e1b0412-02ac-413b-a453-eb679985510d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_6.jpg" />

China has struggled to contain the current virus despite having placed some 56 million people under effective lockdown in Hubei&nbsp;and its provincial capital, Wuhan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/morning-news-brief-trump-impeachment-coronavirus-death-toll-and-lots-more-278935">Two days after his acquittal, Trump ousts two star impeachment witnesses</a>

<img alt="Trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d96b308c-5653-41b7-995d-09bfcb40140b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_7.jpg" />

Two days after Trump was acquitted by the Republican-controlled Senate on charges of trying to pressure Ukraine to investigate a political rival, Vindman -- the top Ukraine expert at the White House's National Security Council -- was escorted out of the building, according to his lawyer.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democratic-candidates-question-sanders-electability-at-new-hampshire-debate-279323">Democratic candidates question Sanders' electability at New Hampshire debate</a>

<img alt="Debate" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d31015dd-6a1a-40ac-b273-c29e3c594e2c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_8.jpg" />

The candidates said Sanders, a self-identified democratic socialist who finished in a dead heat in the first contest in Iowa earlier this week with Pete Buttigieg, the former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, was out of step with everyday Americans.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-new-zealand-2nd-odi-live-score-india-win-the-toss-opt-to-bowl-279311">India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI Live score</a>

<img alt="ODI" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a72b071a-6e67-48f5-9eda-94a609b40d84" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_9.jpg" />

&nbsp;India won the toss and elected bowl in the second ODI of three match series against New Zealand.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-wuhan-virus-outbreak-where-is-xi-jinping-279301">Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Wuhan virus outbreak, where is Xi Jinping?</a>

&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-wuhan-virus-outbreak-where-is-xi-jinping-279301/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Good morning! Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. Coronavirus death toll jumps to 722, surpasses toll from SARS outbreak China has struggled to contain the current virus despite having placed some 56 million people under effective lockdown in Hubei and its provincial capital, Wuhan.

Good morning! Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. Coronavirus death toll jumps to 722, surpasses toll from SARS outbreak China has struggled to contain the current virus despite having placed some 56 million people under effective lockdown in Hubei and its provincial capital, Wuhan. Two days after his acquittal, Trump ousts two star impeachment witnesses Two days after Trump was acquitted by the Republican-controlled Senate on charges of trying to pressure Ukraine to investigate a political rival, Vindman -- the top Ukraine expert at the White House's National Security Council -- was escorted out of the building, according to his lawyer. Democratic candidates question Sanders' electability at New Hampshire debate The candidates said Sanders, a self-identified democratic socialist who finished in a dead heat in the first contest in Iowa earlier this week with Pete Buttigieg, the former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, was out of step with everyday Americans. India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI Live score India won the toss and elected bowl in the second ODI of three match series against New Zealand. Watch: Gravitas: Wuhan virus outbreak, where is Xi Jinping? ×

Morning News Brief: Coronavirus death toll, 2 impeachment witnesses ousted, and more 

US President Donald Trump's administration on Friday ousted the two witnesses who provided the most damaging testimony during his impeachment investigation: Army Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Vindman and Ambassador Gordon Sondland.

US President Donald Trump's administration on Friday ousted the two witnesses who provided the most damaging testimony during his impeachment investigation: Army Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Vindman and Ambassador Gordon Sondland. Two days after Trump was acquitted by the Republican-controlled Senate on charges of trying to pressure Ukraine to investigate a political rival, Vindman -- the top Ukraine expert at the White House's National Security Council -- was escorted out of the building, according to his lawyer. "Vindman was asked to leave for telling the truth," said his lawyer, David Pressman. Hours later, Sondland said he had been fired from his post as U.S ambassador to the European Union. The two men served as star witnesses during the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives' impeachment investigation last year. Vindman's twin brother Yevgeny, who worked as a lawyer at the NSC, also was escorted out of the White House, according to Michael Volkov, who represented Vindman when he testified in the impeachment inquiry. Trump has said he is still upset with Democrats and government officials involved in the impeachment investigation, even after he was acquitted on Wednesday. "I'm not happy with him. You think I'm supposed to be happy with him?" he said of Vindman on Friday. An NSC spokesman declined to comment. Vindman, a decorated combat veteran, testified in November that he "couldn't believe what I was hearing" when he listened in on a July 25 phone call between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelenskiy that became the focus of the inquiry. Trump asked Zelenskiy to launch investigations into both Democratic rival Joe Biden and a discredited theory that Ukraine, not Russia, colluded with Democrats to harm Trump in the 2016 US presidential election. Sondland, a wealthy Republican donor and Oregon hotelier who served as U.S. Ambassador to the European Union, testified that he was following Trump's orders when he pushed Ukrainian officials to carry out investigations sought by the president. "I am grateful to President Trump for having given me the opportunity to serve," he said. The White House and State Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Sondland's removal. "This is as clear a case of retribution as I've seen during my 27 years in the Senate," said Democratic Senator Dianne Feinstein. Biden's campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination suffered a serious setback when he came in fourth place at the Democrats' first state contest in Iowa this week. Vindman's two-year stint at the White House had been due to end in July. An Army spokesperson said both brothers had been reassigned to the Army, but declined to give further information "out of respect for their privacy." Another senior White House aide who testified over impeachment, Jennifer Williams, left this week for a post at the U.S. military's Central Command, according to Bloomberg News. Vindman downplayed concerns that he would suffer payback for speaking out when he testified to Congress. "I will be fine for telling the truth," he said.

Two days after his acquittal, Trump ousts two star impeachment witnesses

Two days after his acquittal, Trump ousts two-star impeachment witnesses

US President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday (February 6) unleashed his fury over being charged in the impeachment trial and thanked his family for standing by him through it all. Trump said, 'I've always said they're lousy politicians, but they do two things. They're vicious and mean vicious.'

Donald Trump lashes out at the democrats

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/as-coronavirus-death-toll-rises-over-635-president-xi-says-china-starting-peoples-war-279156">As coronavirus death toll rises over 635, President Xi says China starting 'people's war'</a>

<img alt="coronavirus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b33696b8-bc26-4c81-9452-db4cd0ac207b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%283%29_48.jpg" /> 
The death toll in&nbsp;China's&nbsp;coronavirus continued to rise on Friday with authorities reporting at least 636 deaths with infections rising past 31,000. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-coronavirus-death-toll-rises-over-635-president-xi-says-china-starting-peoples-war-279156">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-killed-chief-of-al-qaeda-in-arabian-peninsula-in-yemen-trump-279162">US killed chief of Al-Qaeda in Arabian Peninsula in Yemen: Trump</a>

<img alt="Military chief of Al-Qaeda network in Yemen Qassim al-Rimi " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="23caa27f-945e-46d6-acc4-759cf9c13807" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/127729-qassim1main.jpg" />

US President Donald Trump has confirmed that US forces had killed its founder and leader Qassim al-Rimi. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-killed-chief-of-al-qaeda-in-arabian-peninsula-in-yemen-trump-279162">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-two-palestinians-killed-16-israelis-hurt-in-violence-over-trump-plan-279166">At&nbsp;least&nbsp;two&nbsp;Palestinians&nbsp;killed,&nbsp;16&nbsp;Israelis&nbsp;hurt&nbsp;in&nbsp;violence&nbsp;over&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;plan</a>

<img alt="A Palestinian hurls stones at Israeli troops" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="108cbef5-458a-485f-8775-9cf9ed5112a9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%287%29_23.jpg" />

At&nbsp;least&nbsp;two&nbsp;Palestinians&nbsp;were&nbsp;killed&nbsp;in the occupied West Bank and&nbsp;16&nbsp;Israelis&nbsp;were&nbsp;hurt&nbsp;on Thursday in a surge of&nbsp;violence&nbsp;that erupted amid Palestinian anger at a&nbsp;US&nbsp;peace&nbsp;plan. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-two-palestinians-killed-16-israelis-hurt-in-violence-over-trump-plan-279166">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/basque-double-dumps-barcelona-and-real-madrid-out-of-copa-del-rey-279158">Basque double dumps Barcelona and Real Madrid out of Copa del Rey</a>

<img alt="Real Madrid and Barcelona" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="eb818dda-eb2b-4f94-a576-45acac5327fd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/127726-113918-untitled-design-60.jpg" /> 
Barcelona&nbsp;and&nbsp;Real Madrid&nbsp;both crashed out of the Copa del Rey on Thursday night as Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad pulled off a shock Basque double to reach the semi-finals. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/basque-double-dumps-barcelona-and-real-madrid-out-of-copa-del-rey-279158">Read more</a>&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-jet-skids-off-runway-in-istanbul-279154">Gravitas: Jet skids off runway in Istanbul</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-jet-skids-off-runway-in-istanbul-279154/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Good morning! Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. As coronavirus death toll rises over 635, President Xi says China starting 'people's war' The death toll in China's coronavirus continued to rise on Friday with authorities reporting at least 636 deaths with infections rising past 31,000.

Good morning! Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. As coronavirus death toll rises over 635, President Xi says China starting 'people's war' The death toll in China's coronavirus continued to rise on Friday with authorities reporting at least 636 deaths with infections rising past 31,000. Read more US killed chief of Al-Qaeda in Arabian Peninsula in Yemen: Trump US President Donald Trump has confirmed that US forces had killed its founder and leader Qassim al-Rimi. Read more At least two Palestinians killed, 16 Israelis hurt in violence over Trump plan At least two Palestinians were killed in the occupied West Bank and 16 Israelis were hurt on Thursday in a surge of violence that erupted amid Palestinian anger at a US peace plan. Read more Basque double dumps Barcelona and Real Madrid out of Copa del Rey Barcelona and Real Madrid both crashed out of the Copa del Rey on Thursday night as Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad pulled off a shock Basque double to reach the semi-finals. Read more Gravitas: Jet skids off runway in Istanbul

Morning News Brief: Coronavirus death toll rises, US kills Al-Qaeda chief in Arabian Peninsula and more

At&nbsp;least&nbsp;two&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-israel-strikes-in-gaza-after-palestinians-fire-projectiles-278765">Palestinians&nbsp;</a>were&nbsp;killed&nbsp;in the occupied West Bank and&nbsp;16&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/donald-trumps-peace-plan-puts-israel-on-the-cutting-edge-278513">Israelis&nbsp;</a>were&nbsp;hurt&nbsp;on Thursday in a surge of&nbsp;violence&nbsp;that erupted amid Palestinian anger at a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/donald-trumps-peace-plan-puts-israel-on-the-cutting-edge-278513">US&nbsp;peace&nbsp;plan</a>.

In Jerusalem, an Arab citizen of Israel was&nbsp;killed&nbsp;after he shot and slightly wounded an Israeli paramilitary border policeman at an entrance to the walled Old City, Israeli authorities said, calling the attack politically motivated.

The peace proposal announced by US&nbsp;President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-takes-impeachment-victory-lap-over-vicious-democrats-279141">Donald&nbsp;Trump</a>&nbsp;on January&nbsp;28 would give Israel most of what it has sought during decades of conflict, including the disputed holy city of Jerusalem and nearly all the occupied land on which it has built settlements.

With&nbsp;violence&nbsp;on the rise, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/car-ramming-incident-in-jerusalem-to-be-investigated-as-terror-attack-israeli-police-278974">Israeli military</a> said it was sending reinforcements to the West Bank, where Israeli troops in the city of Jenin shot dead a 19-year-old man during clashes.&nbsp;Palestinians&nbsp;said he had thrown rocks at soldiers who came to demolish the home of a Palestinian involved in the 2018 killing of a Jewish settler.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/car-ramming-incident-in-jerusalem-to-be-investigated-as-terror-attack-israeli-police-278974">Soldiers target of attack in car ramming incident in Jerusalem: Israel Army</a>

In a separate incident in Jenin, a Palestinian officer in the police station was&nbsp;killed&nbsp;by what Palestinian authorities said was Israeli gunfire. Israeli officials did not comment, and Israeli media reported he was shot by troops by mistake.

In a scene reminiscent of a wave of Palestinian street attacks in 2015, a car ran down Israeli soldiers on a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/donald-trumps-peace-plan-puts-israel-on-the-cutting-edge-278513">Jerusalem </a>sidewalk, injuring at&nbsp;least&nbsp;14 of them, Israeli police said.

The assailant fled and was arrested later in the day, the Israeli military said, without immediately identifying the driver. Israel's YNet news website identified him as a 25-year-old Palestinian.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/donald-trumps-peace-plan-puts-israel-on-the-cutting-edge-278513">Donald Trump's peace plan puts Israel on the cutting edge</a>

On a road to a Jewish settlement in the West Bank, a suspected Palestinian gunman slightly wounded an Israeli soldier before fleeing, the Israeli military said.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas condemned Israel for the deaths, linking them to what&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;has billed as the "deal of the century".

Trump&nbsp;senior adviser Jared Kushner, the face of the US&nbsp;plan, said Abbas bore some responsibility for the surge in&nbsp;violence.

"I think he does have responsibility," Kushner said of Abbas moments after briefing United Nations Security Council ambassadors on the&nbsp;plan's details. "He calls for days of rage in response and he said that before he even saw the&nbsp;plan."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jared-kushner-to-present-peace-plan-details-to-unsc-278479">Kushner </a>added that he met personally with Abbas four times as he was crafting the proposal, but "they chose not to meet with us again."

Also watch: Jared Kushner to present peace plan details to UNSC

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jared-kushner-to-present-peace-plan-details-to-unsc-278479/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The&nbsp;Palestinians, who have long shunned the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/donald-trumps-peace-plan-puts-israel-on-the-cutting-edge-278513">Trump&nbsp;</a>administration, accusing it of bias towards Israel, say the&nbsp;plan&nbsp;falls far short of their demands for a viable independent state and other rights.

Israel supports the&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;plan. The Arab League opposes it, while the European Union has rejected parts of it.

Visiting Israeli security forces in the West Bank after Thursday's incidents, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also accused Abbas of inciting&nbsp;violence.

"We will do everything necessary to protect our security, to define our borders and to ensure our future," Netanyahu said in a statement. "We will do it with you or without you."

On Wednesday, Israeli troops shot dead a 17-year-old Palestinian elsewhere in the West Bank, saying he had thrown a firebomb at them during a violent protest against&nbsp;Trump's&nbsp;plan. He was the first fatality since the blueprint was announced.

The Israel-Gaza border has also been shaken by several days of&nbsp;violence.

Palestinians&nbsp;have launched mortar fire, rockets and balloon-borne explosives into Israel, causing panic but no serious casualties. Israel has carried out nightly airstrikes against sites belonging to Gaza's ruling Hamas Islamists.

At least two Palestinians were killed in the occupied West Bank and 16 Israelis were hurt on Thursday in a surge of violence that erupted amid Palestinian anger at a US peace plan.

At least two Palestinians were killed in the occupied West Bank and 16 Israelis were hurt on Thursday in a surge of violence that erupted amid Palestinian anger at a US peace plan. In Jerusalem, an Arab citizen of Israel was killed after he shot and slightly wounded an Israeli paramilitary border policeman at an entrance to the walled Old City, Israeli authorities said, calling the attack politically motivated. The peace proposal announced by US President Donald Trump on January 28 would give Israel most of what it has sought during decades of conflict, including the disputed holy city of Jerusalem and nearly all the occupied land on which it has built settlements. With violence on the rise, the Israeli military said it was sending reinforcements to the West Bank, where Israeli troops in the city of Jenin shot dead a 19-year-old man during clashes. Palestinians said he had thrown rocks at soldiers who came to demolish the home of a Palestinian involved in the 2018 killing of a Jewish settler. Also read: Soldiers target of attack in car ramming incident in Jerusalem: Israel Army In a separate incident in Jenin, a Palestinian officer in the police station was killed by what Palestinian authorities said was Israeli gunfire. Israeli officials did not comment, and Israeli media reported he was shot by troops by mistake. In a scene reminiscent of a wave of Palestinian street attacks in 2015, a car ran down Israeli soldiers on a Jerusalem sidewalk, injuring at least 14 of them, Israeli police said. The assailant fled and was arrested later in the day, the Israeli military said, without immediately identifying the driver. Israel's YNet news website identified him as a 25-year-old Palestinian. Also read: Donald Trump's peace plan puts Israel on the cutting edge On a road to a Jewish settlement in the West Bank, a suspected Palestinian gunman slightly wounded an Israeli soldier before fleeing, the Israeli military said. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas condemned Israel for the deaths, linking them to what Trump has billed as the "deal of the century". Trump senior adviser Jared Kushner, the face of the US plan, said Abbas bore some responsibility for the surge in violence. "I think he does have responsibility," Kushner said of Abbas moments after briefing United Nations Security Council ambassadors on the plan's details. "He calls for days of rage in response and he said that before he even saw the plan." Kushner added that he met personally with Abbas four times as he was crafting the proposal, but "they chose not to meet with us again." Also watch: Jared Kushner to present peace plan details to UNSC The Palestinians, who have long shunned the Trump administration, accusing it of bias towards Israel, say the plan falls far short of their demands for a viable independent state and other rights. Israel supports the Trump plan. The Arab League opposes it, while the European Union has rejected parts of it. Visiting Israeli security forces in the West Bank after Thursday's incidents, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also accused Abbas of inciting violence. "We will do everything necessary to protect our security, to define our borders and to ensure our future," Netanyahu said in a statement. "We will do it with you or without you." On Wednesday, Israeli troops shot dead a 17-year-old Palestinian elsewhere in the West Bank, saying he had thrown a firebomb at them during a violent protest against Trump's plan. He was the first fatality since the blueprint was announced. The Israel-Gaza border has also been shaken by several days of violence. Palestinians have launched mortar fire, rockets and balloon-borne explosives into Israel, causing panic but no serious casualties. Israel has carried out nightly airstrikes against sites belonging to Gaza's ruling Hamas Islamists.

At least two Palestinians killed, 16 Israelis hurt in violence over Trump plan

By Andrew G Jones

A US strike which killed Iranian general Qasem Soleimani in Baghdad in January, and the counter-strike by the Iranian military on US targets in Iraq, raised serious questions about the legitimate use of force. When military force was used against targets within its territory, Iraq’s sovereignty was breached.

As a country caught in the middle of the long-running feud between the US and Iran, Iraq has already suffered a great deal in this latest escalation. A senior Iraqi militia commander, Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, was also killed in the US strike.

In the weeks since, thousands of protesters have taken to the streets in Iraq. While some continue to demonstrate against the government, others – many of them supporters of Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr – are demanding the withdrawal of US troops from the country.

The continued US military presence in the country, against the wishes of the Iraqi government and parliament, is a breach of international law.

Force and intervention

Public international law maintains a tight grip on the rules surrounding the use of force. Article 2(4) of the UN Charter prohibits the use of force, except in self-defence against an armed attack or collective action authorised by the UN Security Council.

Beyond this, there are very few truly accepted justifications which a country can rely on to legitimately use force within another’s territory. One exception is a doctrine called “intervention by invitation”, where one country is given express permission to take military action in another country by that country’s government.

Alongside other rules that govern this kind of interaction, there are also rules on when a state overstays its welcome and becomes in breach of its international obligations. For example, the Definition of Aggression, a text adopted by the UN which outlines what is considered aggression under international law, sets out that if the state intervening breaks the conditions, or extends its presence on the territory, this counts as an act of aggression.

This was put forward as a claim in a case between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda in 2005. The DRC claimed that Uganda’s ongoing use of force on its territory after it had stopped giving consent, amounted to aggression.

Although in this particular case the International Court of Justice did not find Uganda’s actions were an act of aggression, the court did rule that Uganda had breached the UN Charter’s basic prohibition of force. As a result it was clearly established that a country cannot maintain a military presence within another country after it has been asked to leave.

US refusal to withdraw

The presence of US troops in Iraq dates to the invasion which overthrew Saddam Hussain’s regime in 2003. Whatever the legal status of that conflict, the presence of US forces has been legitimised since that point through the consent of the Iraqi government. In more recent years, American and Iraqi forces have maintained friendly relations, working together to fight the threat of Islamic State.

The closeness of Iraq’s relationship with the US is part of a wider balancing act. Iraq also needs to maintain its relationship with Iran, to which it has become much closer since the fall of Hussein. But since the drone attack which killed Soleimani and al-Muhandis, this balance has shifted. The country’s alliances have been put under increased strain amid growing anti-US sentiment.

In the aftermath of the US strike in January, Iraq’s parliament voted on the future presence of US troops in the country. MPs passed a non-binding resolution stating that the Iraqi government should: “Work to end the presence of any foreign troops on Iraqi soil and prohibit them from using its land, airspace or water for any reason.”

During a subsequent phone call with US secretary of state, Mike Pompeo, Iraq’s prime minister, Adel Abdul-Mahdi, requested a US withdrawal. But instead of heeding the Iraqi authorities’ decision, the US State Department declared that it would not discuss the withdrawal of US troops as their presence in Iraq was “appropriate”. It claimed that there was instead a need for “a conversation between the US and Iraqi governments not just regarding security, but about our financial, economic, and diplomatic partnership.”

Implications under international law

Despite the undeniable power and influence the US has over global events and international policy, the country remains subject to international law. By refusing to withdraw its troops as the Iraqi government requested, the US finds itself at least in breach of Article 2(4) of the UN Charter. A case could also be made that this amounts to an act of aggression.

There is a very real danger of Iraq becoming the battleground for a fight between Iran and the US to which it is not a party. In a country already scarred by decades of conflict, Iraq urgently wants to avoid such a circumstance. As such, it’s now for the US to heed the country’s request and to withdraw its troops in line with its international obligations, and for both the US and Iran to avoid further escalating an already tense situation.

It is up to the international community as a whole to ensure respect of the rule of law. But as the world’s most powerful nation, the US must demonstrate its willingness to comply with its responsibilities and uphold the ideals of international law.

(Andrew G Jones is Lecturer of Law, Coventry University)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/us-refusal-to-withdraw-troops-from-iraq-is-a-breach-of-international-law-131088">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

By Andrew G Jones A US strike which killed Iranian general Qasem Soleimani in Baghdad in January, and the counter-strike by the Iranian military on US targets in Iraq, raised serious questions about the legitimate use of force.

By Andrew G Jones A US strike which killed Iranian general Qasem Soleimani in Baghdad in January, and the counter-strike by the Iranian military on US targets in Iraq, raised serious questions about the legitimate use of force. When military force was used against targets within its territory, Iraq’s sovereignty was breached. As a country caught in the middle of the long-running feud between the US and Iran, Iraq has already suffered a great deal in this latest escalation. A senior Iraqi militia commander, Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, was also killed in the US strike. In the weeks since, thousands of protesters have taken to the streets in Iraq. While some continue to demonstrate against the government, others – many of them supporters of Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr – are demanding the withdrawal of US troops from the country. The continued US military presence in the country, against the wishes of the Iraqi government and parliament, is a breach of international law. Force and intervention Public international law maintains a tight grip on the rules surrounding the use of force. Article 2(4) of the UN Charter prohibits the use of force, except in self-defence against an armed attack or collective action authorised by the UN Security Council. Beyond this, there are very few truly accepted justifications which a country can rely on to legitimately use force within another’s territory. One exception is a doctrine called “intervention by invitation”, where one country is given express permission to take military action in another country by that country’s government. Alongside other rules that govern this kind of interaction, there are also rules on when a state overstays its welcome and becomes in breach of its international obligations. For example, the Definition of Aggression, a text adopted by the UN which outlines what is considered aggression under international law, sets out that if the state intervening breaks the conditions, or extends its presence on the territory, this counts as an act of aggression. This was put forward as a claim in a case between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda in 2005. The DRC claimed that Uganda’s ongoing use of force on its territory after it had stopped giving consent, amounted to aggression. Although in this particular case the International Court of Justice did not find Uganda’s actions were an act of aggression, the court did rule that Uganda had breached the UN Charter’s basic prohibition of force. As a result it was clearly established that a country cannot maintain a military presence within another country after it has been asked to leave. US refusal to withdraw The presence of US troops in Iraq dates to the invasion which overthrew Saddam Hussain’s regime in 2003. Whatever the legal status of that conflict, the presence of US forces has been legitimised since that point through the consent of the Iraqi government. In more recent years, American and Iraqi forces have maintained friendly relations, working together to fight the threat of Islamic State. The closeness of Iraq’s relationship with the US is part of a wider balancing act. Iraq also needs to maintain its relationship with Iran, to which it has become much closer since the fall of Hussein. But since the drone attack which killed Soleimani and al-Muhandis, this balance has shifted. The country’s alliances have been put under increased strain amid growing anti-US sentiment. In the aftermath of the US strike in January, Iraq’s parliament voted on the future presence of US troops in the country. MPs passed a non-binding resolution stating that the Iraqi government should: “Work to end the presence of any foreign troops on Iraqi soil and prohibit them from using its land, airspace or water for any reason.” During a subsequent phone call with US secretary of state, Mike Pompeo, Iraq’s prime minister, Adel Abdul-Mahdi, requested a US withdrawal. But instead of heeding the Iraqi authorities’ decision, the US State Department declared that it would not discuss the withdrawal of US troops as their presence in Iraq was “appropriate”. It claimed that there was instead a need for “a conversation between the US and Iraqi governments not just regarding security, but about our financial, economic, and diplomatic partnership.” Implications under international law Despite the undeniable power and influence the US has over global events and international policy, the country remains subject to international law. By refusing to withdraw its troops as the Iraqi government requested, the US finds itself at least in breach of Article 2(4) of the UN Charter. A case could also be made that this amounts to an act of aggression. There is a very real danger of Iraq becoming the battleground for a fight between Iran and the US to which it is not a party. In a country already scarred by decades of conflict, Iraq urgently wants to avoid such a circumstance. As such, it’s now for the US to heed the country’s request and to withdraw its troops in line with its international obligations, and for both the US and Iran to avoid further escalating an already tense situation. It is up to the international community as a whole to ensure respect of the rule of law. But as the world’s most powerful nation, the US must demonstrate its willingness to comply with its responsibilities and uphold the ideals of international law. (Andrew G Jones is Lecturer of Law, Coventry University) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

US refusal to withdraw troops from Iraq is a breach of international law

Yesterday, during the State of the Union address, Donald Trump made multiple claims about the booming economy, decreased unemployment, increased inequality. Here, we fact check all his claims!

Trump claimed that more than seven million jobs have been added to the US economy since he became the president.

As part of his ''Great American comeback'' plan, Trump is outlining how he has not only improved the economy, but also revitalised it.

"My fellow citizens: three years ago, we launched the great American comeback. Tonight, I stand before you to share the incredible results. Jobs are booming; incomes are soaring; poverty is plummeting; crime is falling; confidence is surging, and our country is thriving and highly respected again'', Trump had announced during his speech.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-acquitted-of-impeachment-charges-in-republican-majority-senate-278933">US President Donald Trump acquitted of impeachment charges in Republican-majority Senate</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-decoding-trumps-state-of-the-union-address-278925/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Have jobs really been added? 
As per data, the United States had been experiencing steady growth in jobs and income years before Trump came to power.

In fact, 35 months before he took office, the economy added eight million jobs.

And 35 months since Trump took office, only 6.7 million new jobs have been created, FactCheck reported.

Based on this data, it seems like job growth has declined instead of improving.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-blasts-new-york-city-for-protecting-alien-who-killed-a-92-year-old-woman-278791" hreflang="en">Donald Trump blasts New York City for protecting 'alien' who killed a 92-year-old woman</a> 
 
The lowest unemployment rate in over half a century? 
The US president claimed that the current unemployment rate is the lowest in over half a century. In December last year, it was 3.5 per cent.

If figures are to believed, the unemployment rate was down to 4.7 per cent by the time he took office. This is well below the historical norm of 5.6 per cent which has remained the median monthly rate in the US, every month since 1948. 
 
In essence, it seems like Trump may be taking credit for a boom that began under the Obama administration.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/State-of-the-Union-address-us-house-speaker-nancy-pelosi-tears-up-text-as-trump-ends-state-of-the-union-address-278666">US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi tears up text as Trump ends State of the Union address</a> 
&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-wion-fact-check-did-trump-create-7-million-jobs-278923/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Is the economy booming? 
Recently, the US president claimed that the economy is the best it has ever been.

However, as per the recent official estimate, the American GDP grew by 2.3 per cent last year, compared to 2.9 per cent growth in 2018. The figure was the same in 2015, which was long before Trump's tenure began.

Even then, it's a lot lesser compared to previous administrations. In 2004, the rate was 3.8 per cent while in 2005 it was 3.5 per cent.

In fact, for the year 2020, economists predict that the US GDP will grow only by 1.9 per cent.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-donald-trump-update-news-our-borders-are-secure-our-values-are-renewed-%20Trump-in-State-of-the-Union-address" hreflang="en">Maduro an illegitimate ruler, a tyrant who brutalizes his people: Trump in State of the Union address</a> 
&nbsp;

Have the wages increased? 
Trump also claimed that Americans are earning higher wages. However, according to the Bureau of Labour Statistics, Trump's claims that wages in the US are rising quickly after decades of falling income is false.

In fact, during Obama's last four years in office, average weekly earnings went up by 4.9 per cent.

When Bush Junior was in power, the weekly earnings increased by 4.2 per cent.

With Trump in office, the wages have gone up only by 2.6 per cent.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-the-state-of-the-union-address-278582" hreflang="en">EXPLAINED: What is the State of the Union address</a>

The data has been compiled from several economic surveys and statistics released by US government agencies.

Yesterday, during the State of the Union address, Donald Trump made multiple claims about the booming economy, decreased unemployment, increased inequality. Here, we fact check all his claims!

Yesterday, during the State of the Union address, Donald Trump made multiple claims about the booming economy, decreased unemployment, increased inequality. Here, we fact check all his claims! Trump claimed that more than seven million jobs have been added to the US economy since he became the president. As part of his ''Great American comeback'' plan, Trump is outlining how he has not only improved the economy, but also revitalised it. "My fellow citizens: three years ago, we launched the great American comeback. Tonight, I stand before you to share the incredible results. Jobs are booming; incomes are soaring; poverty is plummeting; crime is falling; confidence is surging, and our country is thriving and highly respected again'', Trump had announced during his speech. Also read: US President Donald Trump acquitted of impeachment charges in Republican-majority Senate Have jobs really been added? As per data, the United States had been experiencing steady growth in jobs and income years before Trump came to power. In fact, 35 months before he took office, the economy added eight million jobs. And 35 months since Trump took office, only 6.7 million new jobs have been created, FactCheck reported. Based on this data, it seems like job growth has declined instead of improving. Also read: Donald Trump blasts New York City for protecting 'alien' who killed a 92-year-old woman The lowest unemployment rate in over half a century? The US president claimed that the current unemployment rate is the lowest in over half a century. In December last year, it was 3.5 per cent. If figures are to believed, the unemployment rate was down to 4.7 per cent by the time he took office. This is well below the historical norm of 5.6 per cent which has remained the median monthly rate in the US, every month since 1948. In essence, it seems like Trump may be taking credit for a boom that began under the Obama administration. Also read: US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi tears up text as Trump ends State of the Union address Is the economy booming? Recently, the US president claimed that the economy is the best it has ever been. However, as per the recent official estimate, the American GDP grew by 2.3 per cent last year, compared to 2.9 per cent growth in 2018. The figure was the same in 2015, which was long before Trump's tenure began. Even then, it's a lot lesser compared to previous administrations. In 2004, the rate was 3.8 per cent while in 2005 it was 3.5 per cent. In fact, for the year 2020, economists predict that the US GDP will grow only by 1.9 per cent. Also read: Maduro an illegitimate ruler, a tyrant who brutalizes his people: Trump in State of the Union address Have the wages increased? Trump also claimed that Americans are earning higher wages. However, according to the Bureau of Labour Statistics, Trump's claims that wages in the US are rising quickly after decades of falling income is false. In fact, during Obama's last four years in office, average weekly earnings went up by 4.9 per cent. When Bush Junior was in power, the weekly earnings increased by 4.2 per cent. With Trump in office, the wages have gone up only by 2.6 per cent. EXPLAINED: What is the State of the Union address The data has been compiled from several economic surveys and statistics released by US government agencies.

More jobs? Booming economy? Fact-checking Trump's claims from State of the Union address

United States President Donald Trump was acquitted of both impeachment charges in the Senate today.

The voting clearly happened along party lines, with Republic led Senate protecting him. The Democrats, on the other hand, all wanted him convicted.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-acquitted-of-impeachment-charges-in-republican-majority-senate-278933">US President Donald Trump acquitted of impeachment charges in Republican-majority Senate</a>

There was one unexpected twist in the trial as Mitt Romney, a&nbsp;Republican leader from Utah&nbsp;decided to vote in favour of convicting Trump on the charge of abuse of power for the involvement of Ukraine in the US elections. This made Romney the first US senator in history to go against his own president and party.

<h6><img alt="pppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="11b2383f-a90c-426c-baef-058f7f5e7476" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_78.jpg" /> 
US Senator Mitt Romney (R-UT) returns from a recess during the impeachment trial proceedings of US President Donald Trump on Capitol Hill January 30, 2020, in Washington, DC | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

"The president's purpose was personal and political. Accordingly, the president is guilty of appalling abuse of public trust," Romney said in a floor speech.

"What he did was not perfect, no. It was a flagrant assault under electoral rights, our national security and our fundamental values. Corrupting an election to keep one's self in the office is perhaps the most abusive and destructive violation of one's oath of office that I can imagine", he added.

Romney issued a statement reflecting on the State of the Union address but did not mention his vote against the president. He did, however, mentioned in his speech that the Republicans will ''vehemently denounce'' his words and that he would draw disapproval from the conservative party. "I'm sure to hear abuse from the president and his supporters," he said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
My statement on tonight's State of the Union address: <a href="https://t.co/i4cBEfucLr">pic.twitter.com/i4cBEfucLr</a>
— Senator Mitt Romney (@SenatorRomney) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenatorRomney/status/1224901384551718917?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

On December 18, Donald Trump was charged with two articles of impeachment including abuse of power and the obstruction of Congress. The voting in the Senate happened mostly along party lines, as it earlier did in the Democratic majority House of Representatives.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/State-of-the-Union-address-us-house-speaker-nancy-pelosi-tears-up-text-as-trump-ends-state-of-the-union-address-278666">US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi tears up text as Trump ends State of the Union address</a> 
 
After months of back-and-forth, United States President Donald Trump was acquitted of all charges. Earlier, Trump was impeached in the House, but this trajectory failed to hold its ground in the Senate.

In the Senate, the call was close, as 52 people chose to acquit him, while 48 people voted in favour of the impeachment charge of abusing power.&nbsp;

<img alt="pppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bdcfe519-5e3c-45c2-963b-4e31fbfc1eec" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29_59.jpg" />

The Democrats had accused Trump of abusing power by requesting Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden, Trump's Democratic rival. Mitt Romney was the only Republican Senator who voted to convict Trump on this charge, alongside the Democrats, none of whom voted to acquit.

On the other charge of obstruction of Congress, the Senate voted 53-47 to acquit him. He was suspected of blocking witnesses and documents that were sought by the House. All Republicans, including Romney, voted to acquit him, while no Democrats did.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Had failed presidential candidate <a href="https://twitter.com/MittRomney?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MittRomney</a> devoted the same energy and anger to defeating a faltering Barack Obama as he sanctimoniously does to me, he could have won the election. Read the Transcripts!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1225288731235700737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Trump lashed out against Romney on Twitter and reiterated ''Read the transcripts!''

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-the-state-of-the-union-address-278582" hreflang="en">EXPLAINED: What is the State of the Union address</a>

United States President Donald Trump was acquitted of both impeachment charges in the Senate today. The voting clearly happened along party lines, with Republic led Senate protecting him.

United States President Donald Trump was acquitted of both impeachment charges in the Senate today. The voting clearly happened along party lines, with Republic led Senate protecting him. The Democrats, on the other hand, all wanted him convicted. Also read: US President Donald Trump acquitted of impeachment charges in Republican-majority Senate There was one unexpected twist in the trial as Mitt Romney, a Republican leader from Utah decided to vote in favour of convicting Trump on the charge of abuse of power for the involvement of Ukraine in the US elections. This made Romney the first US senator in history to go against his own president and party. US Senator Mitt Romney (R-UT) returns from a recess during the impeachment trial proceedings of US President Donald Trump on Capitol Hill January 30, 2020, in Washington, DC | AFP "The president's purpose was personal and political. Accordingly, the president is guilty of appalling abuse of public trust," Romney said in a floor speech. "What he did was not perfect, no. It was a flagrant assault under electoral rights, our national security and our fundamental values. Corrupting an election to keep one's self in the office is perhaps the most abusive and destructive violation of one's oath of office that I can imagine", he added. Romney issued a statement reflecting on the State of the Union address but did not mention his vote against the president. He did, however, mentioned in his speech that the Republicans will ''vehemently denounce'' his words and that he would draw disapproval from the conservative party. "I'm sure to hear abuse from the president and his supporters," he said. My statement on tonight's State of the Union address: pic.twitter.com/i4cBEfucLr — Senator Mitt Romney (@SenatorRomney) February 5, 2020 × On December 18, Donald Trump was charged with two articles of impeachment including abuse of power and the obstruction of Congress. The voting in the Senate happened mostly along party lines, as it earlier did in the Democratic majority House of Representatives. Also read: US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi tears up text as Trump ends State of the Union address After months of back-and-forth, United States President Donald Trump was acquitted of all charges. Earlier, Trump was impeached in the House, but this trajectory failed to hold its ground in the Senate. In the Senate, the call was close, as 52 people chose to acquit him, while 48 people voted in favour of the impeachment charge of abusing power. The Democrats had accused Trump of abusing power by requesting Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden, Trump's Democratic rival. Mitt Romney was the only Republican Senator who voted to convict Trump on this charge, alongside the Democrats, none of whom voted to acquit. On the other charge of obstruction of Congress, the Senate voted 53-47 to acquit him. He was suspected of blocking witnesses and documents that were sought by the House. All Republicans, including Romney, voted to acquit him, while no Democrats did. Had failed presidential candidate @MittRomney devoted the same energy and anger to defeating a faltering Barack Obama as he sanctimoniously does to me, he could have won the election. Read the Transcripts! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 6, 2020 × Trump lashed out against Romney on Twitter and reiterated ''Read the transcripts!'' EXPLAINED: What is the State of the Union address

Mitt Romney becomes first Senator in US history to vote against own party's president

President Donald Trump celebrated his impeachment acquittal Thursday in a rambling, emotional speech raging against the investigations that have overshadowed his entire administration.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-acquitted-of-impeachment-charges-in-republican-majority-senate-278933">Also read: US President Donald Trump acquitted of impeachment charges in Republican-majority Senate</a>

Trump gathered scores of loyal Republican legislators, his legal team, his wife Melania and White House aides in the ceremonial East Room and brandished the front page of The Washington Post-reading: "Trump acquitted."

"This is what the result is," he said to a standing ovation.

<img alt="hhhh" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="761d46d9-cdb9-466b-96a2-a76ac5140c79" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%288%29_19.jpg" />

[This still image taken from a US Senate webcast shows House impeachment manager Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA) during the impeachment trial in the Senate Chamber at the US Capitol on February 3, 2020 in Washington, DC | AFP]

Trump is on a victory lap after Wednesday's Senate vote clearing him of abusing his office and obstructing Congress.

But the event in the White House was an unusual mixture of Trump bitterly recounting Democratic-led investigations of his alleged corruption, joking and praise for those who stood by him.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/State-of-the-Union-address-us-house-speaker-nancy-pelosi-tears-up-text-as-trump-ends-state-of-the-union-address-278666">US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi tears up text as Trump ends State of the Union address</a>

It was "not a news conference, not a speech, it's not anything," Trump said. "It's a celebration."

Trump said he'd been "through hell" but we ended up "winning" against "vicious" Democrats.

Trump now hopes to seize the momentum to push his reelection campaign against a divided Democratic party.

He began earlier Thursday with an appearance at the annual National Prayer Breakfast, a multi-faith gathering for Washington power brokers, business leaders and conservative evangelicals.

The theme of the breakfast was "love your enemy."

But from the moment he entered to the strains of "Hail to the Chief," Trump made his feelings clear by holding up a copy of USA Today with another banner headline proclaiming his acquittal.

In a tired, raspy voice, Trump indicated he was in no mood for forgiveness, saying he'd been "put through a terrible ordeal by some very dishonest and corrupt people."

He also ripped into Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi, who as speaker of the House led his impeachment, and Mitt Romney, the lone Republican senator to support the charges.

"I don't like people who use their faith as justification for doing what they know is wrong," he said in a clear reference to Romney, a devout Mormon who cited his faith as a reason for breaking ranks with Trump.

"Nor do I like people who say 'I pray for you' when they know that's not so," he added in a jab at Pelosi, who has often spoken of praying for Trump, and who has seated an arm's length away.

Right before Trump spoke, Harvard professor Arthur Patterson called on the audience to address the "contempt and polarization that is tearing our societies apart."

Verdict reveals divisions

Trump was impeached in the Democratic-led House last December over his attempts to push Ukraine into opening what would have been a politically damaging corruption probe into election rival Joe Biden.

But the Senate, where Trump's Republicans hold a majority, cleared him Wednesday in a party line vote illustrating the divisions running through the country ahead of the November polls.

Even though several conceded Trump's behavior was wrong, Republicans ultimately stayed loyal, voting to clear the president of charges of abuse of power, by 52 to 48, and of obstruction of Congress, by 53 to 47 -- far from the two-thirds supermajority required for conviction.

Romney, a longtime Trump foe, risked White House wrath to vote alongside Democrats on the first count, saying Trump was "guilty of an appalling abuse of public trust." He voted not guilty on the second charge.

Trump's impeachment and trial will leave a permanent stain on his record, as it did for the only two presidents to have encountered the same fate, Andrew Johnson in 1868 and Bill Clinton in 1998.

While the White House immediately declared that Trump had obtained "full vindication and exoneration," Pelosi warned that by clearing Trump Republicans had "normalized lawlessness."

"There can be no acquittal without a trial, and there is no trial without witnesses, documents and evidence," said the top Democrat in Congress -- who a day earlier ripped up her copy of Trump's State of the Union address on live television.&nbsp;

"Sadly, because of the Republican Senate's betrayal of the Constitution, the president remains an ongoing threat."&nbsp;

But as he wound down the Senate proceedings, Republican majority leader Mitch McConnell said he was confident impeachment would ultimately damage the Democrats.

"They thought this was a great idea. At least for the short term, it has been a colossal political mistake."

President Donald Trump celebrated his impeachment acquittal Thursday in a rambling, emotional speech raging against the investigations that have overshadowed his entire administration.

President Donald Trump celebrated his impeachment acquittal Thursday in a rambling, emotional speech raging against the investigations that have overshadowed his entire administration. Also read: US President Donald Trump acquitted of impeachment charges in Republican-majority Senate Trump gathered scores of loyal Republican legislators, his legal team, his wife Melania and White House aides in the ceremonial East Room and brandished the front page of The Washington Post-reading: "Trump acquitted." "This is what the result is," he said to a standing ovation. [This still image taken from a US Senate webcast shows House impeachment manager Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA) during the impeachment trial in the Senate Chamber at the US Capitol on February 3, 2020 in Washington, DC | AFP] Trump is on a victory lap after Wednesday's Senate vote clearing him of abusing his office and obstructing Congress. But the event in the White House was an unusual mixture of Trump bitterly recounting Democratic-led investigations of his alleged corruption, joking and praise for those who stood by him. Also read: US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi tears up text as Trump ends State of the Union address It was "not a news conference, not a speech, it's not anything," Trump said. "It's a celebration." Trump said he'd been "through hell" but we ended up "winning" against "vicious" Democrats. Trump now hopes to seize the momentum to push his reelection campaign against a divided Democratic party. He began earlier Thursday with an appearance at the annual National Prayer Breakfast, a multi-faith gathering for Washington power brokers, business leaders and conservative evangelicals. The theme of the breakfast was "love your enemy." But from the moment he entered to the strains of "Hail to the Chief," Trump made his feelings clear by holding up a copy of USA Today with another banner headline proclaiming his acquittal. In a tired, raspy voice, Trump indicated he was in no mood for forgiveness, saying he'd been "put through a terrible ordeal by some very dishonest and corrupt people." He also ripped into Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi, who as speaker of the House led his impeachment, and Mitt Romney, the lone Republican senator to support the charges. "I don't like people who use their faith as justification for doing what they know is wrong," he said in a clear reference to Romney, a devout Mormon who cited his faith as a reason for breaking ranks with Trump. "Nor do I like people who say 'I pray for you' when they know that's not so," he added in a jab at Pelosi, who has often spoken of praying for Trump, and who has seated an arm's length away. Right before Trump spoke, Harvard professor Arthur Patterson called on the audience to address the "contempt and polarization that is tearing our societies apart." Verdict reveals divisions Trump was impeached in the Democratic-led House last December over his attempts to push Ukraine into opening what would have been a politically damaging corruption probe into election rival Joe Biden. But the Senate, where Trump's Republicans hold a majority, cleared him Wednesday in a party line vote illustrating the divisions running through the country ahead of the November polls. Even though several conceded Trump's behavior was wrong, Republicans ultimately stayed loyal, voting to clear the president of charges of abuse of power, by 52 to 48, and of obstruction of Congress, by 53 to 47 -- far from the two-thirds supermajority required for conviction. Romney, a longtime Trump foe, risked White House wrath to vote alongside Democrats on the first count, saying Trump was "guilty of an appalling abuse of public trust." He voted not guilty on the second charge. Trump's impeachment and trial will leave a permanent stain on his record, as it did for the only two presidents to have encountered the same fate, Andrew Johnson in 1868 and Bill Clinton in 1998. While the White House immediately declared that Trump had obtained "full vindication and exoneration," Pelosi warned that by clearing Trump Republicans had "normalized lawlessness." "There can be no acquittal without a trial, and there is no trial without witnesses, documents and evidence," said the top Democrat in Congress -- who a day earlier ripped up her copy of Trump's State of the Union address on live television. "Sadly, because of the Republican Senate's betrayal of the Constitution, the president remains an ongoing threat." But as he wound down the Senate proceedings, Republican majority leader Mitch McConnell said he was confident impeachment would ultimately damage the Democrats. "They thought this was a great idea. At least for the short term, it has been a colossal political mistake."

Donald Trump takes impeachment victory lap over 'vicious' Democrats

Donald Trump snubbed Nancy Pelosi. She responded by ripping a copy of his speech. Trump's State of the Union address was high on drama. WION's Palki Sharma brings you a recap.

Gravitas: Drama at Trump's State of the Union address

U.S. President Donald Trump says his administration created 7 million jobs. His critics raise questions over the claims. Who is right? WION's Palki Sharma brings you a fact check.

Gravitas: WION Fact Check, Did Trump create 7 million jobs?

Trump says the U.S. has made a 'comeback' under his presidency. Opposition calls Trump's claims a 'manifesto of mistruths'. Who is telling the truth? WION's Palki Sharma decodes the events playing out in American politics with Simon Marks.

Gravitas: Decoding Trump's State of the Union address

United States Senate has acquitted US President Donald Trump on Wednesday in his impeachment trial, Trump was saved by fellow Republicans who rallied to protect him nine months before he asks voters in a deeply divided America to give him a second White House term.

Senate clears Trump in impeachment trial

donald-trump

Donald Trump, News on Donald Trump, stories on Donald Trump, articles on Donald Trump, Donald Trump stories at Wion, Donald Trump news, Donald Trump latest news

donald trump