US&nbsp;President Donald Trump gave a minute-to-minute account of the US&nbsp;drone strikes that killed Iranian military commander Qassem Soleimani in remarks to a Republican fund-raising dinner on Friday night, according to audio obtained by CNN.

With his typical dramatic flourish, Trump recounted the scene as he monitored the strikes from the White House Situation Room when Soleimani was killed.

The president spoke in a ballroom at his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, at a Republican event that raised $10 million for Trump's 2020 re-election campaign and for the Republican National Committee.

Reporters were not allowed in for the event. CNN said it obtained an audio recording of Trump's remarks. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/future-attack-by-terrorist-soleimani-was-imminent-trump-274079">Future attack by terrorist Soleimani was 'imminent' - Trump</a>

The Jan. 3 killing of Soleimani at Baghdad airport prompted Iran to retaliate with missile strikes against US&nbsp;forces in Iraq days later and almost triggered a broad war between the two countries.

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"They're together sir," Trump said military officials told him. "Sir, they have two minutes and 11 seconds. No emotion. 'Two minutes and 11 seconds to live, sir. They're in the car, they're in an armored vehicle. Sir, they have approximately one minute to live, sir. Thirty seconds. Ten, 9, 8 ...' "

"Then all of a sudden, boom," he said. "'They're gone, sir. Cutting off.'"

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/soleimani-was-probably-planning-to-attack-four-us-embassies-donald-trump-273535">Soleimani was 'probably' planning to attack four US embassies - Donald Trump</a>

"I said, where is this guy?" Trump continued. "That was the last I heard from him."

It was the most detailed account that Trump has given of the drone strike, which has drawn criticism from some US&nbsp;lawmakers because neither the president nor his advisers have provided public information to back up their statements that Soleimani presented an "imminent" threat to Americans in the region.

CNN said that in the audio, Trump did not repeat that Soleimani was an imminent threat. Trump said Soleimani was "saying bad things about our country" before the strike, which led to his decision to authorize his killing.

"How much of this shit do we have to listen to?" Trump asked in the audio. "How much are we going to listen to?"

US President Donald Trump gave a minute-to-minute account of the US drone strikes that killed Iranian military commander Qassem Soleimani in remarks to a Republican fund-raising dinner on Friday night, according to audio obtained by CNN.

US President Donald Trump gave a minute-to-minute account of the US drone strikes that killed Iranian military commander Qassem Soleimani in remarks to a Republican fund-raising dinner on Friday night, according to audio obtained by CNN. With his typical dramatic flourish, Trump recounted the scene as he monitored the strikes from the White House Situation Room when Soleimani was killed. The president spoke in a ballroom at his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, at a Republican event that raised $10 million for Trump's 2020 re-election campaign and for the Republican National Committee. Reporters were not allowed in for the event. CNN said it obtained an audio recording of Trump's remarks. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Also read: Future attack by terrorist Soleimani was 'imminent' - Trump The Jan. 3 killing of Soleimani at Baghdad airport prompted Iran to retaliate with missile strikes against US forces in Iraq days later and almost triggered a broad war between the two countries. × "They're together sir," Trump said military officials told him. "Sir, they have two minutes and 11 seconds. No emotion. 'Two minutes and 11 seconds to live, sir. They're in the car, they're in an armored vehicle. Sir, they have approximately one minute to live, sir. Thirty seconds. Ten, 9, 8 ...' " "Then all of a sudden, boom," he said. "'They're gone, sir. Cutting off.'" Also read: Soleimani was 'probably' planning to attack four US embassies - Donald Trump "I said, where is this guy?" Trump continued. "That was the last I heard from him." It was the most detailed account that Trump has given of the drone strike, which has drawn criticism from some US lawmakers because neither the president nor his advisers have provided public information to back up their statements that Soleimani presented an "imminent" threat to Americans in the region. CNN said that in the audio, Trump did not repeat that Soleimani was an imminent threat. Trump said Soleimani was "saying bad things about our country" before the strike, which led to his decision to authorize his killing. "How much of this shit do we have to listen to?" Trump asked in the audio. "How much are we going to listen to?"

Trump gave dramatic account of Soleimani's last minutes before death: Report

The Trump administration on Friday announced a proposal for public school-lunch that reverses former First Lady Michelle Obama's healthy school food reform, that too on her birthday.&nbsp;

According to reports, the new school-lunch proposal will introduce more flexible meal options for school children, a move that critics suggest will lead to more junk making way to the children's platter.&nbsp;

The new set of rules reverses the Obama-era reform championed by Michelle Obama to tackle childhood obesity and provide healthier meals in schools.

The US Department of Agriculture made the announcement that is likely to affect nearly 30 million students at over 90,000 schools across the United States.

The proposals will enter the Federal Register on January 23 and will be open for the public to comment on for the 60 days.

US Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue in a statement said that the reform has been brought into place after getting feedback from districts and schools over food wastage and to devise a way to provide nutritious, appetising meals to school kids.&nbsp;

Michelle Obama’s fight against childhood obesity was translated into the 'Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010'&nbsp;which aimed at bolstering healthy eating habits in children and encouraging&nbsp;them to eat more fruits and vegetables in a day.

The reform aimed at introducing more whole grains-based meals while&nbsp;keeping a tab on portion sizes and calories for school-going kids to maintain a healthy weight.&nbsp;

According to US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, "childhood obesity is a serious problem in the United States putting children and adolescents at risk for poor health".&nbsp;

"Obesity prevalence among children and adolescents is still too high," the CDC states on its website.&nbsp;

The CDC estimates the prevalence of obesity at 18.5 per cent for children and adolescents between 2-19 years, affecting nearly 13.7 million children and adolescents.

The Trump administration on Friday announced a proposal for public school-lunch that reverses former First Lady Michelle Obama's healthy school food reform, that too on her birthday.

The Trump administration on Friday announced a proposal for public school-lunch that reverses former First Lady Michelle Obama's healthy school food reform, that too on her birthday. According to reports, the new school-lunch proposal will introduce more flexible meal options for school children, a move that critics suggest will lead to more junk making way to the children's platter. The new set of rules reverses the Obama-era reform championed by Michelle Obama to tackle childhood obesity and provide healthier meals in schools. The US Department of Agriculture made the announcement that is likely to affect nearly 30 million students at over 90,000 schools across the United States. The proposals will enter the Federal Register on January 23 and will be open for the public to comment on for the 60 days. US Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue in a statement said that the reform has been brought into place after getting feedback from districts and schools over food wastage and to devise a way to provide nutritious, appetising meals to school kids. Michelle Obama’s fight against childhood obesity was translated into the 'Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010' which aimed at bolstering healthy eating habits in children and encouraging them to eat more fruits and vegetables in a day. The reform aimed at introducing more whole grains-based meals while keeping a tab on portion sizes and calories for school-going kids to maintain a healthy weight. According to US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, "childhood obesity is a serious problem in the United States putting children and adolescents at risk for poor health". "Obesity prevalence among children and adolescents is still too high," the CDC states on its website. The CDC estimates the prevalence of obesity at 18.5 per cent for children and adolescents between 2-19 years, affecting nearly 13.7 million children and adolescents.

On Michelle Obama's birthday, Trump administration reverses her 'healthy' school-lunch reform

Taiban said on Friday that the insurgent group is "optimistic" of signing a deal with the United States by the end of this month.

Taliban had also agreed to "scale down" military operations in Afghanistan in order to provide a safe environment for withdrawal of foreign forces from the region, Taliban chief spokesperson Suhail Shaheen told&nbsp;Pakistani daily Dawn.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-open-to-10-day-ceasefire-with-us-talks-with-afghan-government-report-275076">Taliban open to 10-day ceasefire with US, talks with Afghan government: Report</a>

“We have agreed to scale down military operations in days leading up to the signing of the peace agreement with the United States,” Shaheen, said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-special-envoy-zalmay-khalilzad-briefs-pakistan-on-taliban-peace-talks-268258">US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad briefs Pakistan on Taliban peace talks</a>

Shaheen said that the purpose behind the move is "to provide safe environment to foreign forces to withdraw from Afghanistan”. &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-announces-a-pause-in-peace-talks-with-taliban-after-airbase-attack-267989">US announces a pause in peace talks with Taliban after airbase attack</a>

The chief spokesperson's comments came after Taliban is in talks with the US this week in Doha.&nbsp;

Shaheen, however, said that there is no agreement on ceasefire.&nbsp;

"The scaling down will be blanket and shall include all forces including state forces,” Shaheen added.&nbsp;

Shaheen also said that the draft peace agreement is ready.&nbsp;

“It’s now a matter of days", said the spokesperson, adding that the group is "optimistic" that the deal could be signed before the end of this month.&nbsp;

Afghan Presidential Palace said that it is unaware of the deal and affirmed that they need to be taken into confidence before finalising any agreement.&nbsp;

Taliban and the US had been working on a peace deal for a year and were on the brink of an announcement in September 2019 when President Donald Trump called off the process after a US soldier was killed in an attack.&nbsp;

Talks were restarted late in November 2019 after Trump made a surprise visit to Afghanistan. However, an attack near the Bagram military base once again halted the talks. &nbsp;

So far, the Taliban has not negotiated with the Afghanistan government as it considers the regime as "illegitimate".&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

Taiban said on Friday that the insurgent group is "optimistic" of signing a deal with the United States by the end of this month. Taliban had also agreed to "scale down" military operations in Afghanistan in order to provide a safe environment for withdrawal of foreign forces from the region, Taliban chief spokesperson Suhail Shaheen told Pakistani daily Dawn.

Taiban said on Friday that the insurgent group is "optimistic" of signing a deal with the United States by the end of this month. Taliban had also agreed to "scale down" military operations in Afghanistan in order to provide a safe environment for withdrawal of foreign forces from the region, Taliban chief spokesperson Suhail Shaheen told Pakistani daily Dawn. Also read: Taliban open to 10-day ceasefire with US, talks with Afghan government: Report “We have agreed to scale down military operations in days leading up to the signing of the peace agreement with the United States,” Shaheen, said. Also read: US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad briefs Pakistan on Taliban peace talks Shaheen said that the purpose behind the move is "to provide safe environment to foreign forces to withdraw from Afghanistan”. Also read: US announces a pause in peace talks with Taliban after airbase attack The chief spokesperson's comments came after Taliban is in talks with the US this week in Doha. Shaheen, however, said that there is no agreement on ceasefire. "The scaling down will be blanket and shall include all forces including state forces,” Shaheen added. Shaheen also said that the draft peace agreement is ready. “It’s now a matter of days", said the spokesperson, adding that the group is "optimistic" that the deal could be signed before the end of this month. Afghan Presidential Palace said that it is unaware of the deal and affirmed that they need to be taken into confidence before finalising any agreement. Taliban and the US had been working on a peace deal for a year and were on the brink of an announcement in September 2019 when President Donald Trump called off the process after a US soldier was killed in an attack. Talks were restarted late in November 2019 after Trump made a surprise visit to Afghanistan. However, an attack near the Bagram military base once again halted the talks. So far, the Taliban has not negotiated with the Afghanistan government as it considers the regime as "illegitimate". (with inputs from agencies)

Taliban says deal with US can be signed before end of this month: Report

Global markets heaved a sigh of relief when the world's two largest economies signed the first phase of the trade truce, ending an 18-month standoff that feared a further slowdown in the global economy. The deal didn't end the hundreds of billions of dollars of tariffs imposed by both the countries but some reliefs were provided to the Chinese.

The trade war first started when US President Donald Trump accused China of unfair trade practices and intellectual property theft. So, let's look at the key issues and see whether the phase 1 of this deal address them or not.

Tariffs

The good news for China is that the US agreed to reduce half of the total tariffs imposed on its goods in September 2019. However, both countries have not rolled back enormous tariffs imposed on each other's exports. This means Washington's tariffs on $360 billion Chinese goods and Beijing's $110 billion on US goods will continue. The US also agreed that it will not impose tariffs that were supposed to be put in place on December 15.

Intellectual property

China has long been accused of intellectual property theft even by the previous US administrations and was one of the main reasons for the confrontation. This truce deals with intellectual property issue as China has committed to protect trademark, patents and copyrights. China also vowed of stronger criminal and civil laws to punish intellectual property thefts and counterfeiting.

The deal also ensures that US-based pharmaceutical industries get more shields from China as far as patents are concerned.

American businesses have often complained of surrendering technology and trade secrets to China as a necessity to do business in the country. China pledged to eliminate any forced transfer of technology which includes removing pressures of licensing and administrative approvals.

Purchase of American goods

Through this deal, the US President wanted to push US exports to China which is significantly lower than Chinese exports to the US. China vowed that it will purchase $200 billion worth of goods from the US in the next two years. The list of purchase includes $32 billion of agricultural products, $52.4 billion of energy exports, $77.7 billion worth manufactured products and $37.9 billion of services.

China, however, claims that the buying will depend on the market demand and some analysts and experts are also sceptical whether American manufacturers and farmers can produce enough to meet Chinese demands.

China has also relaxed a number of health standards which earlier were used to prevent American imports. These changes will benefit US products, such as dairy, meat, seafood, poultry, among others.

Subsidies and cybersecurity

Trump has complained of China offering massive industrial subsidies to its domestic firms, making it difficult for American businesses to compete. These subsidies were especially granted to solar panel and steel industries. It was a major issue of conflict but the truce has no word on these subsidies.

The trade deal also doesn't comment on other concerning issues such as cybersecurity and Chinese control of cloud computing and data storage.

Currency manipulations

Ahead of signing of the first-phase deal, the US removed its currency manipulator tag from China. In the deal, China pledged that it will not manipulate its currency for gaining unfair trade advantage, a commitment the country made for years to G20 nations and are its obligations to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The US treasury earlier said that China has made “enforceable commitments to refrain from competitive devaluation” and said that it would publish relevant data on exchange rates and external balances.

Access to financial services

With the deal, the US says that its financial services companies have got a better access to Chinese markets. The deal binds China to address concerns of foreign equity limitations and discriminatory regulatory requirements.

Interestingly, China already started giving foreign financial companies more room from 2017. Also, US payment companies' entry in the Chinese market will not be easy as the market is majorly dominated by domestic firms.

Dispute resolving mechanism

The deal also says that future trade disputes be settled through bilateral consultations, which will initiate from working level and escalate to top-tier.

If bilateral engagement doesn't solve the differences, then the affected party can impose penalties or tariffs and the other country cannot in retaliation put more tariffs. In such an act of retaliation, any party can give written notice and the deal could be withdrawn.

Global markets heaved a sigh of relief when the world's two largest economies signed the first phase of the trade truce, ending an 18-month standoff that feared a further slowdown in the global economy.

Global markets heaved a sigh of relief when the world's two largest economies signed the first phase of the trade truce, ending an 18-month standoff that feared a further slowdown in the global economy. The deal didn't end the hundreds of billions of dollars of tariffs imposed by both the countries but some reliefs were provided to the Chinese. The trade war first started when US President Donald Trump accused China of unfair trade practices and intellectual property theft. So, let's look at the key issues and see whether the phase 1 of this deal address them or not. Tariffs The good news for China is that the US agreed to reduce half of the total tariffs imposed on its goods in September 2019. However, both countries have not rolled back enormous tariffs imposed on each other's exports. This means Washington's tariffs on $360 billion Chinese goods and Beijing's $110 billion on US goods will continue. The US also agreed that it will not impose tariffs that were supposed to be put in place on December 15. Intellectual property China has long been accused of intellectual property theft even by the previous US administrations and was one of the main reasons for the confrontation. This truce deals with intellectual property issue as China has committed to protect trademark, patents and copyrights. China also vowed of stronger criminal and civil laws to punish intellectual property thefts and counterfeiting. The deal also ensures that US-based pharmaceutical industries get more shields from China as far as patents are concerned. American businesses have often complained of surrendering technology and trade secrets to China as a necessity to do business in the country. China pledged to eliminate any forced transfer of technology which includes removing pressures of licensing and administrative approvals. Purchase of American goods Through this deal, the US President wanted to push US exports to China which is significantly lower than Chinese exports to the US. China vowed that it will purchase $200 billion worth of goods from the US in the next two years. The list of purchase includes $32 billion of agricultural products, $52.4 billion of energy exports, $77.7 billion worth manufactured products and $37.9 billion of services. China, however, claims that the buying will depend on the market demand and some analysts and experts are also sceptical whether American manufacturers and farmers can produce enough to meet Chinese demands. China has also relaxed a number of health standards which earlier were used to prevent American imports. These changes will benefit US products, such as dairy, meat, seafood, poultry, among others. Subsidies and cybersecurity Trump has complained of China offering massive industrial subsidies to its domestic firms, making it difficult for American businesses to compete. These subsidies were especially granted to solar panel and steel industries. It was a major issue of conflict but the truce has no word on these subsidies. The trade deal also doesn't comment on other concerning issues such as cybersecurity and Chinese control of cloud computing and data storage. Currency manipulations Ahead of signing of the first-phase deal, the US removed its currency manipulator tag from China. In the deal, China pledged that it will not manipulate its currency for gaining unfair trade advantage, a commitment the country made for years to G20 nations and are its obligations to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The US treasury earlier said that China has made “enforceable commitments to refrain from competitive devaluation” and said that it would publish relevant data on exchange rates and external balances. Access to financial services With the deal, the US says that its financial services companies have got a better access to Chinese markets. The deal binds China to address concerns of foreign equity limitations and discriminatory regulatory requirements. Interestingly, China already started giving foreign financial companies more room from 2017. Also, US payment companies' entry in the Chinese market will not be easy as the market is majorly dominated by domestic firms. Dispute resolving mechanism The deal also says that future trade disputes be settled through bilateral consultations, which will initiate from working level and escalate to top-tier. If bilateral engagement doesn't solve the differences, then the affected party can impose penalties or tariffs and the other country cannot in retaliation put more tariffs. In such an act of retaliation, any party can give written notice and the deal could be withdrawn.

US China trade deal: What were the key issues and are they resolved?

After the ''Howdy, Modi!'' event in Houston in September last year, a grand reception is now being planned for United States President Donald Trump for his possible visit to India next month.

According to reports, the event dubbed as ''Kem chho, Mr President'' will be held in Gujarat's Ahmedabad.

The event is slated to take place during one of the three days stipulated for Trump's visit.

Trump will most likely attend the event in Ahmedabad after visiting New Delhi, the Indian capital.

Meanwhile, Americans of Gujarati origin are likely to join the ''Howdy Trump''&nbsp;show.

The sheer number of Indian-origin voters in the US, especially Gujaratis is politically significant.

<h6><img alt="gggg" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="98637496-8bb2-48d4-927c-03c19be55301" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%284%29_20.jpg" /> 
Image:&nbsp;US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hold a meeting at UN Headquarters in New York, September 24, 2019, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

According to sources, Trump and PM Modi are also expected to sign a short-term trade deal that could grant the US companies more access to Indian markets and restore benefits to India that were withdrawn last summer.

Besides that, they will also discuss a longer-term trade pact that could include a free trade agreement.

Reports further suggested that the trade deal was moving in a positive direction, with Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal constantly staying in touch with his American counterparts. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
However, it's imperative to remember that days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his second term, the Trump administration terminated India’s eligibility for the preferential trade system.

The US president has also routinely railed against India alleging it of high tariffs and trade imbalance.

<h6><img alt="iii" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fcda8d60-cafd-44de-b850-f33c1c9c3966" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_43.jpg" /> 
Image:&nbsp;US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hold a meeting at UN Headquarters in New York, September 24, 2019, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

However, ties between the two nations have improved considerably on the security front. Especially when the United States warned Pakistan on issues of terrorism and extended its support on Kashmir at the United Nations Security Council.

The joint appearance of Trump and Modi at the 'Howdy Modi!' outreach to the Indian diaspora was seen as a testament to the chemistry shared by the two world leaders.

Trump's visit to India is aimed at solidifying existing ties and taking partnership between the two nations to the next level.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/it-isnt-like-youve-got-china-on-your-border-when-trump-shocked-modi-with-his-remark-274653">It isn't like you've got China on your border: When Trump shocked Modi with his remark</a>

After the ''Howdy, Modi!'' event in Houston in September last year, a grand reception is now being planned for United States President Donald Trump for his possible visit to India next month.

After the ''Howdy, Modi!'' event in Houston in September last year, a grand reception is now being planned for United States President Donald Trump for his possible visit to India next month. According to reports, the event dubbed as ''Kem chho, Mr President'' will be held in Gujarat's Ahmedabad. The event is slated to take place during one of the three days stipulated for Trump's visit. Trump will most likely attend the event in Ahmedabad after visiting New Delhi, the Indian capital. Meanwhile, Americans of Gujarati origin are likely to join the ''Howdy Trump'' show. The sheer number of Indian-origin voters in the US, especially Gujaratis is politically significant. Image: US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hold a meeting at UN Headquarters in New York, September 24, 2019, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly | AFP According to sources, Trump and PM Modi are also expected to sign a short-term trade deal that could grant the US companies more access to Indian markets and restore benefits to India that were withdrawn last summer. Besides that, they will also discuss a longer-term trade pact that could include a free trade agreement. Reports further suggested that the trade deal was moving in a positive direction, with Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal constantly staying in touch with his American counterparts. However, it's imperative to remember that days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his second term, the Trump administration terminated India’s eligibility for the preferential trade system. The US president has also routinely railed against India alleging it of high tariffs and trade imbalance. Image: US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hold a meeting at UN Headquarters in New York, September 24, 2019, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly | AFP However, ties between the two nations have improved considerably on the security front. Especially when the United States warned Pakistan on issues of terrorism and extended its support on Kashmir at the United Nations Security Council. The joint appearance of Trump and Modi at the 'Howdy Modi!' outreach to the Indian diaspora was seen as a testament to the chemistry shared by the two world leaders. Trump's visit to India is aimed at solidifying existing ties and taking partnership between the two nations to the next level. Also read: It isn't like you've got China on your border: When Trump shocked Modi with his remark

'Howdy Trump'? US President to visit Ahmedabad, Delhi in February

A 'Howdy Modi!'-style three-day event is planned in Ahmedabad to welcome the US President Donald Trump, who is to visit India in February.

Donald Trump likely to attend 'Howdy Modi!' like event in Ahmedabad

The US Senate on Thursday took formal steps to formally consider allegations of ousting US President Donald Trump, even abusing his power, even major issues such as witness his impeachment trial but will remain in the air.

Trump impeachment: Senate begins trial, all 100 senators sworn-in as jurors

Iran's supreme leader is expected to lead the main weekly Muslim prayers in Tehran on Friday, after a traumatic month in which the country had appeared on the brink of war with the United States and accidentally downed a Ukrainian passenger jet.

The last time <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khamenei-to-lead-friday-prayers-for-first-time-since-2012-274495">Ayatollah Ali Khamenei</a> led Friday prayers at Tehran's Mosalla mosque was in February 2012, on the 33rd anniversary of the Islamic revolution and at a time of crisis over the Iran nuclear issue.

His Friday appearance comes at a tumultuous moment for the country which had seemed headed for conflict earlier in January after the United States killed its top general <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eleven-us-troops-injured-in-january-8-iran-missile-attack-in-iraq-274776">Qasem Soleimani</a> in a drone strike in Baghdad, prompting Iran to retaliate against US military targets in Iraq with a volley of missiles.

The strike, which caused significant material damage, wounded 11 US troops, according to a statement by US Central Command released Thursday, which contradicted the military's previous assessment of no casualties.

Earlier in the day President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/us-iran-conflict-a-high-stakes-bet-on-who-blinks-first-274636">Hassan Rouhani</a> emphasized in a televised speech that Iran "is working daily to prevent military confrontation or war", and maintained that a dialogue with the world was still "possible".&nbsp;

Tensions between Washington and Tehran seemed to subside in the wake of the accidental downing of a Ukrainian passenger airliner hours after Iran's retaliatory strikes, as Tehran was on high alert for US reprisals.

The tragedy killed 176 people, mostly Iranians and Canadians.&nbsp;

Canada's foreign minister on Thursday vowed to push Iran for answers about the tragedy.

Ottawa said earlier that US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trumps-impeachment-trial-officialy-gets-underway-274778">Donald Trump's</a> policies had contributed to the heightened tensions that led to the catastrophe.

In June 2019, Iran and the United States had also appeared to be on the brink of direct military confrontation after Tehran shot down a US drone it said had violated its airspace. &nbsp;

Trump said he called off retaliatory strikes at the last minute.&nbsp;

The animosity between Washington and Tehran has increased since Trump withdrew the United States from the landmark 2015 nuclear deal in 2018 and reimposed biting sanctions.

In Iran, the air disaster sparked public outrage and anti-government demonstrations took place every day from Saturday to Wednesday.&nbsp;

Security forces were deployed across the capital in response to the protests.&nbsp;

According to a&nbsp;journalist, around 50 riot police with batons, motorbikes and what appeared to be a tear gas launcher were posted at a major junction in north Tehran on Thursday evening.

Concentrated in the capital, the protests appeared smaller than a wave of national demonstrations in November, prompted by a fuel price hike. They had been met with a crackdown that left at least 300 people dead, according to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/icj-ruling-on-urgent-measures-in-rohingya-case-on-january-23-gambia-274450">Amnesty International</a>.&nbsp;

Rouhani implicitly acknowledged a crisis of confidence in authorities, but called Wednesday for "national unity", better governance and greater pluralism.

On Thursday, Rouhani also defended the policy of openness that he has pursued since his first election in 2013, and which Iran's ultra-conservatives criticise.&nbsp;

"Of course, it's difficult," he acknowledged, but added, "the people elected us to lower tensions and animosity" between the Islamic republic and the world.

That said, Khamenei, who maintains that the West is not trustworthy, bans dialogue with Trump.&nbsp;

On Thursday, Rouhani said Iran's "daily enrichment" of uranium was currently "higher" than before the conclusion of the 2015 nuclear deal.

Rouhani, who instigated the negotiations, made the comments while justifying his nuclear policy and Iran's progressive disengagement from the accord. He also stated his willingness to continue dialogue on the agreement.&nbsp;

In response to the US withdrawal from the deal and sanctions, an increasingly frustrated Iran has hit back with a step-by-step suspension of its own commitments under the deal, which drastically limited its nuclear activities.

On Tuesday, Germany, the UK and France, the three European parties to the deal, announced they had triggered a dispute mechanism in response to the latest step back from the deal by Tehran.

Germany on Thursday confirmed a Washington Post report that the US had threatened to impose a 25 percent tariff on imports of European cars if EU governments continued to back the nuclear deal.

Iranian Foreign Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/countries-demand-iran-compensate-relatives-of-plane-crash-victims-274765">Mohammad Javad Zarif</a> accused the European parties of having "sold out" the deal to avoid trade reprisals from the United States, and said Trump was again behaving like a "high school bully".

Iran's supreme leader is expected to lead the main weekly Muslim prayers in Tehran on Friday, after a traumatic month in which the country had appeared on the brink of war with the United States and accidentally downed a Ukrainian passenger jet.

Iran's supreme leader is expected to lead the main weekly Muslim prayers in Tehran on Friday, after a traumatic month in which the country had appeared on the brink of war with the United States and accidentally downed a Ukrainian passenger jet. The last time Ayatollah Ali Khamenei led Friday prayers at Tehran's Mosalla mosque was in February 2012, on the 33rd anniversary of the Islamic revolution and at a time of crisis over the Iran nuclear issue. His Friday appearance comes at a tumultuous moment for the country which had seemed headed for conflict earlier in January after the United States killed its top general Qasem Soleimani in a drone strike in Baghdad, prompting Iran to retaliate against US military targets in Iraq with a volley of missiles. The strike, which caused significant material damage, wounded 11 US troops, according to a statement by US Central Command released Thursday, which contradicted the military's previous assessment of no casualties. Earlier in the day President Hassan Rouhani emphasized in a televised speech that Iran "is working daily to prevent military confrontation or war", and maintained that a dialogue with the world was still "possible". Tensions between Washington and Tehran seemed to subside in the wake of the accidental downing of a Ukrainian passenger airliner hours after Iran's retaliatory strikes, as Tehran was on high alert for US reprisals. The tragedy killed 176 people, mostly Iranians and Canadians. Canada's foreign minister on Thursday vowed to push Iran for answers about the tragedy. Ottawa said earlier that US President Donald Trump's policies had contributed to the heightened tensions that led to the catastrophe. In June 2019, Iran and the United States had also appeared to be on the brink of direct military confrontation after Tehran shot down a US drone it said had violated its airspace. Trump said he called off retaliatory strikes at the last minute. The animosity between Washington and Tehran has increased since Trump withdrew the United States from the landmark 2015 nuclear deal in 2018 and reimposed biting sanctions. In Iran, the air disaster sparked public outrage and anti-government demonstrations took place every day from Saturday to Wednesday. Security forces were deployed across the capital in response to the protests. According to a journalist, around 50 riot police with batons, motorbikes and what appeared to be a tear gas launcher were posted at a major junction in north Tehran on Thursday evening. Concentrated in the capital, the protests appeared smaller than a wave of national demonstrations in November, prompted by a fuel price hike. They had been met with a crackdown that left at least 300 people dead, according to Amnesty International. Rouhani implicitly acknowledged a crisis of confidence in authorities, but called Wednesday for "national unity", better governance and greater pluralism. On Thursday, Rouhani also defended the policy of openness that he has pursued since his first election in 2013, and which Iran's ultra-conservatives criticise. "Of course, it's difficult," he acknowledged, but added, "the people elected us to lower tensions and animosity" between the Islamic republic and the world. That said, Khamenei, who maintains that the West is not trustworthy, bans dialogue with Trump. On Thursday, Rouhani said Iran's "daily enrichment" of uranium was currently "higher" than before the conclusion of the 2015 nuclear deal. Rouhani, who instigated the negotiations, made the comments while justifying his nuclear policy and Iran's progressive disengagement from the accord. He also stated his willingness to continue dialogue on the agreement. In response to the US withdrawal from the deal and sanctions, an increasingly frustrated Iran has hit back with a step-by-step suspension of its own commitments under the deal, which drastically limited its nuclear activities. On Tuesday, Germany, the UK and France, the three European parties to the deal, announced they had triggered a dispute mechanism in response to the latest step back from the deal by Tehran. Germany on Thursday confirmed a Washington Post report that the US had threatened to impose a 25 percent tariff on imports of European cars if EU governments continued to back the nuclear deal. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif accused the European parties of having "sold out" the deal to avoid trade reprisals from the United States, and said Trump was again behaving like a "high school bully".

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to lead Friday 'prayers' in Tehran amid Iranian tumult

The World is One News, WION examines global issues with in-depth analysis. We provide much more than the news of the day. Our aim is to empower people to explore their world.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - January 17, 2020

The Senate impeachment trial on whether to remove US President Donald Trump from office formally began on Thursday even as a congressional watchdog found that the White House broke the law by withholding security aid for Ukraine approved by Congress.

The Senate impeachment trial on whether to remove US President Donald Trump from office formally began on Thursday even as a congressional watchdog found that the White House broke the law by withholding security aid for Ukraine approved by Congress. The assessment from the nonpartisan Government Accountability Office (GAO) was a setback for Trump, but it was unclear if it would figure in his trial in the Republican-led Senate given that key questions such as whether witnesses will testify or new evidence will be considered remain unanswered. Democrat Adam Schiff, who heads a team of seven House of Representatives members who will serve as prosecutors, appeared on the Senate floor to read the two charges passed by the House on December 18 that accused Trump of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress arising from his dealings with Ukraine. US Chief Justice John Roberts, wearing his black judicial robe, took an oath to preside over the trial and then swore in the assembled senators who will serve as jurors, asking if they would "do impartial justice." The 99 senators present signed their assent one by one. One senator - Republican Jim Inhofe - was in his home state of Oklahoma to be with a family member facing a medical issue, according to his office, but was due to sign next week. The Senate is expected to acquit Trump, as none of its 53 Republicans has voiced support for removing him, a step that requires a two-thirds majority. Trump has denied wrongdoing and has called the impeachment process a sham. Opening statements were due to start on Tuesday. The abuse of power cited in the House articles of impeachment included Trump's withholding of $391 million in security aid for Ukraine, a move Democrats have said was aimed at pressuring Kiev into investigating political rival Joe Biden, the president's possible Democratic opponent in the Nov. 3 election. Congress had approved the funds to help Ukraine combat Russia-backed separatists. The money was ultimately provided in September after the controversy spilled into public view. The GAO said the U.S. Constitution does not grant a president authority to unilaterally withhold funds, as Trump did. Instead, a president can only withhold spending in limited circumstances spelled out by law, its report said. "Faithful execution of the law does not permit the President to substitute his own policy priorities for those that Congress has enacted into law," the GAO said on Thursday. The GAO's findings are not legally binding, but its reports are seen by lawmakers as objective, reliable and generally uncontested. It has no prosecutorial power. Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen, who sought the GAO investigation, said the findings undercut Republican arguments that there was nothing wrong with Trump's action. "We now have a clear, lucid finding that the Trump administration violated the law and we know that the president ordered the administration to commit an illegal act," he told Reuters. Republican Senator John Cornyn said that while there may have been a civil violation of the law, it was not a criminal matter and certainly not an impeachable act. "The Constitution says you impeach presidents for treason, bribery, and high crimes and misdemeanors. And it's none of those things," said Cornyn, a former judge. Monitoring an ambassador? It is only the third impeachment trial in U.S. history and no president has been removed as a direct result of the process. Richard Nixon resigned in 1974 before the full House could vote to impeach him. The House impeached Andrew Johnson in 1868 and Bill Clinton in 1998, but the Senate did not convict them. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said the GAO report bolstered Democrats' argument that the Senate trial should include new evidence and hear from witnesses. Schiff indicated that the House prosecutors may call Lev Parnas, an associate of Trump's personal lawyer, Rudy Giuliani, if the Senate permits testimony in the trial. Documents released this week indicated Parnas, a Ukraine-born U.S. citizen, helped Giuliani investigate Biden and his son Hunter, and was also involved in monitoring the movements of former US Ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch before Trump removed her in May. In an interview with Reuters, Giuliani said he pushed Trump to fire Yovanovitch but did not know if Parnas put her under surveillance. Giuliani said he was disappointed with Parnas' decision to cooperate with impeachment investigators. "I considered him a friend and I considered him to be a man who had character and now I consider him to be a man who will say whatever his phony lawyer wants him to say," Giuliani said. Parnas told MSNBC on Wednesday that Trump knew "exactly what was going on," and his lawyer has released several photos of Parnas with the president. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump repeated his assertion that he did not know Parnas. He called the whole thing a "big hoax."

Trump impeachment trial opens as watchdog faults White House on Ukraine

The Supreme Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei took it upon himself to convey a vigorous defense of his military forces after they shot down a civilian plane. He portrays his country as united amid crisis, and rail against the Trump administration as "clowns" trying to deceive the Iranian people.

WION Dispatch: Iranian Supreme leader hits out at US, calls Trump 'clown'

The historic impeachment trial of President Trump is underway in the Senate with the swearing-in of senators and the presentation of the two charges of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. Watch report on what all happened in the Senate on January 16.

Senate begins trial on Donald Trump's impeachment

The 45-year-old US congresswoman Ayanna Pressley unveiled a bold new look on Thursday. The freshman representative from Massachusetts is completely bald, a condition she revealed was caused by alopecia.

In an interview with The Root, Pressley&nbsp;said she felt it was important to talk about the issue publicly because as a black woman, her political brand had become synonymous with Afrocentric hairstyles like&nbsp;enegalese twists.

The US congresswomen, who is one of four high profile progressive female lawmakers known as " The Squad' expressed her struggles with alopecia, revealing a video of her bald for the first time.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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"My twists have become such a synonymous &amp; a conflated part of not only my personal identity &amp; how I show up in the world, but my political brand. And that's why I think it's important that I'm transparent about this new normal &amp; living with alopecia." — <a href="https://twitter.com/AyannaPressley?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AyannaPressley</a> <a href="https://t.co/jqraqZeiKr">pic.twitter.com/jqraqZeiKr</a>
— The Root (@TheRoot) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRoot/status/1217858858384797699?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Alopecia is a medical term for baldness but the world refers it to alopecia areata, a common disorder resulting in unpredicted hair loss.

When she adopted the enegalese twists look, she said it "would be filtered and interpreted by some as a political statement that was militant". But her look won paise amongst black girls and women very quickly.&nbsp;

<img alt="Congresswomen Ayanna Pressley makes her way to the stage during the Election Day Massachusetts Democratic Coordinated Campaign Election Night Celebration" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b7f174c6-6729-48d8-acee-eafe21e5d85e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%286%29_12.jpg" />

<h6>Congresswomen Ayanna Pressley makes her way to the stage during the Election Day Massachusetts Democratic Coordinated Campaign Election Night Celebration.AFP</h6>

"I walk into rooms and little girls are wearing t-shirts that say 'My Congresswoman wears braids,' and we receive letters from all over the globe," she said.

Later, she was forced to switch her hairstyle, she started experimenting with lace-froy wigs which resulted as hair loss. She noticed the excessive hair loss when she went for an appointment to get her hair retwisted.&nbsp;

"From there it accelerated very quickly. I've been waking up every morning to sink fulls of air," Pressley said, leading her to turn to home remedies like wearing a bonnet and sleeping on a silk pillowcase, all to no avail.

"I think it's important that I'm transparent about this new normal," Pressley said.

<img alt="Congresswomen Ayanna Pressley " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f9ece73a-1fb7-4418-b47f-2d9adcf832a6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%288%29_11.jpg" />

<h6>Congresswomen Ayanna Pressley. Picture Credits:&nbsp;@TheRoot</h6>

In July 2019, the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology said that Africans Americans experiences alopecia areata at a much higher rate than any other racial group. The researchers suggested the cause is genetic and environmental factors.&nbsp;

She lost her final strands of hair on the eve of the House of Representatives vote on Donald Trump impeachment. After casting her vote she went to the bathroom stall feeling " Ashamed" and " embarrassed".

"I also felt that I was participating in a cultural betrayal", as all the girls who supported her previous braid style she owed an explanation to them. Despite her husband and others stating that it was a private matter.

<img alt="Congresswomen Ayanna Pressley. Picture Credits: @TheRoot" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="70e28f76-f914-4927-a478-0b884d262b86" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%289%29_14.jpg" />

<h6>Congresswomen Ayanna Pressley. Picture Credits: @TheRoot</h6>

"The reality is that I'm black, and I'm a black woman, and I'm a black woman in politics, and everything I do is political," she said, adding that going public as part of her journey toward acceptance and empowerment.

Members of "The Squad" and others praised Pressley on Twitter. "You are stunningly gorgeous and a magnificent black queen," wrote fellow Democrat Ilhan Omar.&nbsp;

"I know women and young girls around the world will wear their crowns more proudly today because of you. Your courage is inspiring and I am so proud to be your sister in service," Omar wrote.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
You are stunningly gorgeous and a magnificent black queen. 
 
I know women and young girls around the world will wear their crowns more proudly today because of you. 
 
Your courage is inspiring and I am so proud to be your sister in service! <a href="https://t.co/zmGBxYuK5r">https://t.co/zmGBxYuK5r</a>
— Ilhan Omar (@IlhanMN) <a href="https://twitter.com/IlhanMN/status/1217929078109548544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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( Inputs from AFP)

&nbsp;

The 45-year-old US congresswoman Ayanna Pressley unveiled a bold new look on Thursday. The freshman representative from Massachusetts is completely bald, a condition she revealed was caused by alopecia.

The 45-year-old US congresswoman Ayanna Pressley unveiled a bold new look on Thursday. The freshman representative from Massachusetts is completely bald, a condition she revealed was caused by alopecia. In an interview with The Root, Pressley said she felt it was important to talk about the issue publicly because as a black woman, her political brand had become synonymous with Afrocentric hairstyles like enegalese twists. The US congresswomen, who is one of four high profile progressive female lawmakers known as " The Squad' expressed her struggles with alopecia, revealing a video of her bald for the first time. "My twists have become such a synonymous & a conflated part of not only my personal identity & how I show up in the world, but my political brand. And that's why I think it's important that I'm transparent about this new normal & living with alopecia." — @AyannaPressley pic.twitter.com/jqraqZeiKr — The Root (@TheRoot) January 16, 2020 × Alopecia is a medical term for baldness but the world refers it to alopecia areata, a common disorder resulting in unpredicted hair loss. When she adopted the enegalese twists look, she said it "would be filtered and interpreted by some as a political statement that was militant". But her look won paise amongst black girls and women very quickly. Congresswomen Ayanna Pressley makes her way to the stage during the Election Day Massachusetts Democratic Coordinated Campaign Election Night Celebration.AFP "I walk into rooms and little girls are wearing t-shirts that say 'My Congresswoman wears braids,' and we receive letters from all over the globe," she said. Later, she was forced to switch her hairstyle, she started experimenting with lace-froy wigs which resulted as hair loss. She noticed the excessive hair loss when she went for an appointment to get her hair retwisted. "From there it accelerated very quickly. I've been waking up every morning to sink fulls of air," Pressley said, leading her to turn to home remedies like wearing a bonnet and sleeping on a silk pillowcase, all to no avail. "I think it's important that I'm transparent about this new normal," Pressley said. Congresswomen Ayanna Pressley. Picture Credits: @TheRoot In July 2019, the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology said that Africans Americans experiences alopecia areata at a much higher rate than any other racial group. The researchers suggested the cause is genetic and environmental factors. She lost her final strands of hair on the eve of the House of Representatives vote on Donald Trump impeachment. After casting her vote she went to the bathroom stall feeling " Ashamed" and " embarrassed". "I also felt that I was participating in a cultural betrayal", as all the girls who supported her previous braid style she owed an explanation to them. Despite her husband and others stating that it was a private matter. Congresswomen Ayanna Pressley. Picture Credits: @TheRoot "The reality is that I'm black, and I'm a black woman, and I'm a black woman in politics, and everything I do is political," she said, adding that going public as part of her journey toward acceptance and empowerment. Members of "The Squad" and others praised Pressley on Twitter. "You are stunningly gorgeous and a magnificent black queen," wrote fellow Democrat Ilhan Omar. "I know women and young girls around the world will wear their crowns more proudly today because of you. Your courage is inspiring and I am so proud to be your sister in service," Omar wrote. You are stunningly gorgeous and a magnificent black queen. I know women and young girls around the world will wear their crowns more proudly today because of you. Your courage is inspiring and I am so proud to be your sister in service! https://t.co/zmGBxYuK5r — Ilhan Omar (@IlhanMN) January 16, 2020 × ( Inputs from AFP)

US congresswomen 'Ayanna Pressley' reveals her bald look

Trump's impeachment trial whether to remove the US President from office officially got underway in the Senate on Thursday.

Led by House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff, the prosecutors presented and read out the articles of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-impeachment-trial-opens-as-watchdog-faults-white-house-on-ukraine-274763">impeachment to the senate.</a> The formal opening of the inquiry was marked by the swearing-in of Chief Justice John Roberts who issued the oath to all 100 senators to take part as jurors in the trial.

US constitution lays out that the chief justice will preside over the entire trial.

Even as the impeachment proceedings got underway at Capitol Hill, a handful of protesters staged demonstrations outside. Several groups like 'women's march' and 'rise and resist' took part in the protests.

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The major flashpoint between the democrats and the republicans in this trial is about the introduction of new witnesses. Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer said that they have asked for 4 fact-based witnesses to testify.

There are already indications that the republicans are not going to concede ground. Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell called the president's impeachment a purely partisan performance by the democrats. He accused them of handing out souvenirs once the articles of impeachment were adopted in the house.

President Trump reacted to the trial by claiming innocence.

He said he was being impeached for a perfect phone call with the Ukranian president. Trump expects the proceedings in the Senate to move ahead rather quickly.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Lev Parnas, an associate of Trump's personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani,&nbsp;during an MSNBC interview spoke about Trump's attempts last July to persuade Ukraine to announce an investigation into Hunter Biden, who is the son of Democratic US presidential contender Joe Biden, and held a seat on the board of a Ukrainian energy company.

Trump said on Thursday he did not know Lev Parnas.

Trump told reporters he does not know Parnas and called the news of his statements "a big hoax."

Trump's impeachment trial whether to remove the US President from office officially got underway in the Senate on Thursday. Led by House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff, the prosecutors presented and read out the articles of impeachment to the senate.

Trump's impeachment trial whether to remove the US President from office officially got underway in the Senate on Thursday. Led by House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff, the prosecutors presented and read out the articles of impeachment to the senate. The formal opening of the inquiry was marked by the swearing-in of Chief Justice John Roberts who issued the oath to all 100 senators to take part as jurors in the trial. US constitution lays out that the chief justice will preside over the entire trial. Even as the impeachment proceedings got underway at Capitol Hill, a handful of protesters staged demonstrations outside. Several groups like 'women's march' and 'rise and resist' took part in the protests. × The major flashpoint between the democrats and the republicans in this trial is about the introduction of new witnesses. Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer said that they have asked for 4 fact-based witnesses to testify. There are already indications that the republicans are not going to concede ground. Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell called the president's impeachment a purely partisan performance by the democrats. He accused them of handing out souvenirs once the articles of impeachment were adopted in the house. President Trump reacted to the trial by claiming innocence. He said he was being impeached for a perfect phone call with the Ukranian president. Trump expects the proceedings in the Senate to move ahead rather quickly. Meanwhile, Lev Parnas, an associate of Trump's personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani, during an MSNBC interview spoke about Trump's attempts last July to persuade Ukraine to announce an investigation into Hunter Biden, who is the son of Democratic US presidential contender Joe Biden, and held a seat on the board of a Ukrainian energy company. Trump said on Thursday he did not know Lev Parnas. Trump told reporters he does not know Parnas and called the news of his statements "a big hoax."

US President Trump's impeachment trial officialy gets underway in Senate

Priority #1 of the POTUS is to give American citizens a full shower flow. Trump plans to approve new dishwashers. Besides, POTUS also thinks energy-efficient light bulbs make people look orange. WION's Palki Sharma summarises Trump's tryst with dishwashers.

Gravitas: Trump's tryst with dishwashers

There is a sense of optimism across the world after the U.S. and China signed the Phase 1 of the trade deal. While the conflict is far from over, this is a welcome development. So how will impact India and the world? WION's Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas: Phase 1 Of U.S.-China trade deal: Impact on India & world

The White House violated federal law by withholding security aid approved by lawmakers for Ukraine, a nonpartisan congressional watchdog said on Thursday, in a blow for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-trump-knew-exactly-what-was-going-on-giuliani-associate-on-ukraine-row-274734">US&nbsp;President Donald Trump</a> as the Senate prepared to hold a trial on whether to remove him from office.

The Democratic-led House of Representatives on Wednesday sent the Senate two charges it passed last month accusing Trump of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress arising from his dealings with Ukraine, clearing the way for only the third impeachment trial of a president to begin in earnest next week.

The abuse of power cited by the House included Trump's withholding of $391 million in security aid for Ukraine, a move Democrats have said was aimed at pressuring Kiev into investigating political rival Joe Biden, the Republican president's possible Democratic opponent in the November&nbsp;3 US&nbsp;election.

"Faithful execution of the law does not permit the President to substitute his own policy priorities for those that Congress has enacted into law," the Government Accountability Office (GAO) concluded, referring to the fact that Congress had already voted to appropriate the funds.

An arm of Congress, the GAO is viewed as a top auditing agency for the federal government that advises lawmakers and various government entities on how taxpayer dollars are spent.

While the agency's assessment was a setback to Trump, it was unclear how or even if it would figure in his trial in the Republican-led Senate given that key issues such as whether witnesses will appear or new evidence will be considered remain up in the air.

Democrats said the GAO report showed the importance of the Senate hearing from witnesses and considering new documents in the trial.

"This reinforces - again - the need for documents and eyewitnesses in the Senate," House Speaker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/adam-schiff-to-lead-prosecution-in-us-senate-on-trump-impeachment-trial-pelosi-274484">Nancy Pelosi</a> told a news conference.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, a Republican, has said senators should consider only the evidence amassed by the House.

The House voted on Wednesday 228-193, largely along party lines, to give the Senate the task of putting Trump on trial. The Senate is expected to acquit him, keeping Trump in office, as none of its 53 Republicans has voiced support for removing him, a step that requires a two-thirds majority.

Trump has denied wrongdoing and has called the impeachment process a sham.

Democrat sought report

The GAO issued its opinion after receiving a letter inquiring about the aid from Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen. The agency's findings are not legally binding, but its reports are seen by lawmakers as objective, reliable and generally uncontested. The GAO has no prosecutorial power.

Its report noted that the US&nbsp;Constitution grants a president no unilateral authority to withhold funds in the way that Trump did. Instead, a president has a "strictly circumscribed authority" to withhold spending only in limited circumstances expressly provided by law. Holding up money for a policy reason, which the Trump administration did in this case, is not permitted, the report said.

Congress approved the $391 million to help Ukraine combat Russia-backed separatists in the eastern part of the country. The money ultimately was provided to Kiev in September after the controversy had spilled into public view.

A pivotal event leading to Trump's impeachment was a July 25 call in which he asked Ukraine's president to investigate Biden and his son Hunter Biden over unsubstantiated allegations of corruption and to look into a discredited theory that Ukraine, not Russia, interfered in the 2016 US&nbsp;election.

Democrats have said Trump abused his power by asking a foreign government to interfere in a US&nbsp;election for his own benefit at the expense of American national security.

Republicans have argued that Trump's actions did not rise to the level of impeachable offenses. They have accused Democrats of using the Ukraine affair as a way to nullify Trump's 2016 election victory.

Ceremony, rather than substance, was expected to mark Thursday's proceedings in the Senate, with the seven House "managers" named to prosecute Trump to present the articles of impeachment to the Senate at noon (1700 GMT).

The Senate later in the day will invite US&nbsp;Chief Justice John Roberts to the chamber to be sworn in to preside over the trial and, eventually, to swear in all 100 senators to serve as jurors. It will then formally notify the White House of Trump's impending trial.

The White House violated federal law by withholding security aid approved by lawmakers for Ukraine, a nonpartisan congressional watchdog said on Thursday, in a blow for US President Donald Trump as the Senate prepared to hold a trial on whether to remove him from office.

The White House violated federal law by withholding security aid approved by lawmakers for Ukraine, a nonpartisan congressional watchdog said on Thursday, in a blow for US President Donald Trump as the Senate prepared to hold a trial on whether to remove him from office. The Democratic-led House of Representatives on Wednesday sent the Senate two charges it passed last month accusing Trump of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress arising from his dealings with Ukraine, clearing the way for only the third impeachment trial of a president to begin in earnest next week. The abuse of power cited by the House included Trump's withholding of $391 million in security aid for Ukraine, a move Democrats have said was aimed at pressuring Kiev into investigating political rival Joe Biden, the Republican president's possible Democratic opponent in the November 3 US election. "Faithful execution of the law does not permit the President to substitute his own policy priorities for those that Congress has enacted into law," the Government Accountability Office (GAO) concluded, referring to the fact that Congress had already voted to appropriate the funds. An arm of Congress, the GAO is viewed as a top auditing agency for the federal government that advises lawmakers and various government entities on how taxpayer dollars are spent. While the agency's assessment was a setback to Trump, it was unclear how or even if it would figure in his trial in the Republican-led Senate given that key issues such as whether witnesses will appear or new evidence will be considered remain up in the air. Democrats said the GAO report showed the importance of the Senate hearing from witnesses and considering new documents in the trial. "This reinforces - again - the need for documents and eyewitnesses in the Senate," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi told a news conference. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, a Republican, has said senators should consider only the evidence amassed by the House. The House voted on Wednesday 228-193, largely along party lines, to give the Senate the task of putting Trump on trial. The Senate is expected to acquit him, keeping Trump in office, as none of its 53 Republicans has voiced support for removing him, a step that requires a two-thirds majority. Trump has denied wrongdoing and has called the impeachment process a sham. Democrat sought report The GAO issued its opinion after receiving a letter inquiring about the aid from Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen. The agency's findings are not legally binding, but its reports are seen by lawmakers as objective, reliable and generally uncontested. The GAO has no prosecutorial power. Its report noted that the US Constitution grants a president no unilateral authority to withhold funds in the way that Trump did. Instead, a president has a "strictly circumscribed authority" to withhold spending only in limited circumstances expressly provided by law. Holding up money for a policy reason, which the Trump administration did in this case, is not permitted, the report said. Congress approved the $391 million to help Ukraine combat Russia-backed separatists in the eastern part of the country. The money ultimately was provided to Kiev in September after the controversy had spilled into public view. A pivotal event leading to Trump's impeachment was a July 25 call in which he asked Ukraine's president to investigate Biden and his son Hunter Biden over unsubstantiated allegations of corruption and to look into a discredited theory that Ukraine, not Russia, interfered in the 2016 US election. Democrats have said Trump abused his power by asking a foreign government to interfere in a US election for his own benefit at the expense of American national security. Republicans have argued that Trump's actions did not rise to the level of impeachable offenses. They have accused Democrats of using the Ukraine affair as a way to nullify Trump's 2016 election victory. Ceremony, rather than substance, was expected to mark Thursday's proceedings in the Senate, with the seven House "managers" named to prosecute Trump to present the articles of impeachment to the Senate at noon (1700 GMT). The Senate later in the day will invite US Chief Justice John Roberts to the chamber to be sworn in to preside over the trial and, eventually, to swear in all 100 senators to serve as jurors. It will then formally notify the White House of Trump's impending trial.

White House broke law by withholding Ukraine aid: Congressional agency

After tensions between the US and Iran reached a tipping point leaving West Asia on the boil. The war of words between the several sides have intensified now and there has been a call for de-escalation from several countries. The tensions revolve around the 2015 nuclear agreement. The Iranian foreign minister Javad Zarif has hit out at France, Germany and Britain for triggering the dispute mechanism of that nuclear agreement. Watch report:

Fineprint: Iran foreign minister hits out at E3 nations over breach of 2015 nuclear deal

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/key-elements-of-the-us-china-trade-deal-a-pact-to-pause-the-economic-conflict-274516">Key elements of the US-China trade deal: A pact to pause the economic conflict</a>

China agreed to buy $200 billion more in US goods over two years than it did in 2017 before the trade war erupted, according to the agreement signed Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranians-bury-dead-from-downed-plane-after-days-of-rage-on-the-street-274513">Iranians bury dead from downed plane after days of rage on the street</a>

Emotions have been running high as the victims of the January 8 crash are mourned. The national flag was ripped from the coffin of one victim when relatives collected the body and the mother shouted "Tear it off," an online video post showed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-speed-news-watch-top-national-and-international-news-of-the-morning-january-16-2020-274518">Watch: Top national and international news of the morning - January 16, 2020</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-the-first-time-us-census-to-count-sikhs-as-separate-ethnic-group-274473">In a first, US census to count Sikhs as separate ethnic group</a>

US Census Deputy Director Ron Jarmin said, "It's clear that a separate code is needed to ensure an accurate count of Sikhs in the United States, recognising a unique identity."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/jamie-foxx-on-lack-of-diversity-at-oscars-we-dont-start-these-movies-to-win-awards-274519">Jamie Foxx on lack of diversity at Oscars: We don't start these movies to win awards</a>

The film 'Just Mercy' tackles the subjects of wrongful convictions and racism. It was snubbed by the Academy when nominations were revealed on Monday.

Key elements of the US-China trade deal: A pact to pause the economic conflict China agreed to buy $200 billion more in US goods over two years than it did in 2017 before the trade war erupted, according to the agreement signed Wednesday.

Key elements of the US-China trade deal: A pact to pause the economic conflict China agreed to buy $200 billion more in US goods over two years than it did in 2017 before the trade war erupted, according to the agreement signed Wednesday. Iranians bury dead from downed plane after days of rage on the street Emotions have been running high as the victims of the January 8 crash are mourned. The national flag was ripped from the coffin of one victim when relatives collected the body and the mother shouted "Tear it off," an online video post showed. Watch: Top national and international news of the morning - January 16, 2020 In a first, US census to count Sikhs as separate ethnic group US Census Deputy Director Ron Jarmin said, "It's clear that a separate code is needed to ensure an accurate count of Sikhs in the United States, recognising a unique identity." Jamie Foxx on lack of diversity at Oscars: We don't start these movies to win awards The film 'Just Mercy' tackles the subjects of wrongful convictions and racism. It was snubbed by the Academy when nominations were revealed on Monday.

News brief: Top news stories this Morning - January 16, 2020

US President Donald Trump "knew exactly what was going on" with an alleged campaign to pressure Ukrainian officials to investigate political rival Joe Biden, an indicted member his inner circle told US media.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/adam-schiff-to-lead-prosecution-in-us-senate-on-trump-impeachment-trial-pelosi-274484">Also Read: Adam Schiff to lead prosecution in US Senate on Trump impeachment trial</a>

Trump has strongly denied allegations he ordered a campaign pressuring Ukrainian officials to investigate the business dealings of former vice president Biden and his son, part of the impeachment inquiry that will formally read out charges facing the president in the Senate Thursday.

Lev Parnas, an associate of Trump's personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani, told MSNBC on Wednesday that "President Trump knew exactly what was going on."

"He was aware of all my movements. I wouldn't do anything without the consent of Rudy Giuliani or the president."

On Tuesday Democrats released newly acquired files that showed Giuliani working with Parnas early last year to pressure Kiev to investigate Biden.

They also showed the two, working with Ukrainian officials, trying to force out the US ambassador to the country, Marie Yovanovitch, who was eventually removed by Trump.

Parnas, a Soviet-born American, was arrested on charges of campaign finance violations in October as he attempted to flee the country, and was ordered to turn over key documents to House investigators.

Representative Adam Schiff, who had led the investigation and who will now lead the prosecution against Trump, said previously that Parnas "reportedly worked with Giuliani to pressure Ukraine for dirt on Trump's opponents."

The president has denied all wrongdoing, and sought to distance himself from Parnas when he was arrested in October -- along with his business partner.

"I don't know those gentlemen... I don't know what they do," Trump said last year. "Maybe you will have to ask Rudy."

US President Donald Trump "knew exactly what was going on" with an alleged campaign to pressure Ukrainian officials to investigate political rival Joe Biden, an indicted member his inner circle told US media.

US President Donald Trump "knew exactly what was going on" with an alleged campaign to pressure Ukrainian officials to investigate political rival Joe Biden, an indicted member his inner circle told US media. Also Read: Adam Schiff to lead prosecution in US Senate on Trump impeachment trial Trump has strongly denied allegations he ordered a campaign pressuring Ukrainian officials to investigate the business dealings of former vice president Biden and his son, part of the impeachment inquiry that will formally read out charges facing the president in the Senate Thursday. Lev Parnas, an associate of Trump's personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani, told MSNBC on Wednesday that "President Trump knew exactly what was going on." "He was aware of all my movements. I wouldn't do anything without the consent of Rudy Giuliani or the president." On Tuesday Democrats released newly acquired files that showed Giuliani working with Parnas early last year to pressure Kiev to investigate Biden. They also showed the two, working with Ukrainian officials, trying to force out the US ambassador to the country, Marie Yovanovitch, who was eventually removed by Trump. Parnas, a Soviet-born American, was arrested on charges of campaign finance violations in October as he attempted to flee the country, and was ordered to turn over key documents to House investigators. Representative Adam Schiff, who had led the investigation and who will now lead the prosecution against Trump, said previously that Parnas "reportedly worked with Giuliani to pressure Ukraine for dirt on Trump's opponents." The president has denied all wrongdoing, and sought to distance himself from Parnas when he was arrested in October -- along with his business partner. "I don't know those gentlemen... I don't know what they do," Trump said last year. "Maybe you will have to ask Rudy."

President Trump knew exactly what was going on: Giuliani associate on Ukraine row

The US-China trade deal has provided a boost to mobilise American aircraft manufacturer Boeing. The planemaker’s widebody aircraft factory in Everett, Boeing Chief Executive Dennis Muilenburg cautioned that it was “tough to predict” the timing of a potential trade deal between the United States and China. He added, "We are hopeful that if there is a trade solution, it will be beneficial to airplane orders".

Aircraft manufacturer Boeing celebrates US-China trade deal

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/donald-trump-considering-a-visit-to-india-sources-274193">US President Donald Trump</a>'s shaky grasp of geography includes not knowing that India shares a border with China, according to a new book by a pair of reporters for The Washington Post.

The book, "A Very Stable Genius" by Philip Rucker and Carol Leonnig, highlights episodes of volatile behaviour by the president along with his ignorance of basic geography and history.

"It's not like you've got China on your border," the authors quoted Trump as telling Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a meeting between the two leaders.

India and China share a border and the two countries went to war in 1962 over a disputed Himalayan section of the frontier.

Following Trump's border comment and seeming dismissal of the threat China poses to India, "Modi's eyes bulged out in surprise," according to the book, excerpts of which were published in the Post on Wednesday.

"Modi's expression gradually shifted, from shock and concern to resignation," it said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trumps-impeachment-what-happens-next-274216">US President Donald Trump's impeachment - What happens next</a>

After the meeting, "the Indians took a step back" in their diplomatic relations with the United States, a Trump aide told the authors.

The book also recounts a tour by Trump of a memorial for the USS Arizona, a US warship that was sunk by Japanese planes in the December 7, 1941 surprise attack on Pearl Harbour.

"Hey, John, what's this all about? What's this a tour of?" Trump is quoted as asking his then-chief of staff John Kelly.

"Trump had heard the phrase 'Pearl Harbor' and appeared to understand that he was visiting the scene of a historic battle, but he did not seem to know much else," the book said.

"He was at times dangerously uninformed," the book quotes a former senior White House adviser as saying.

The book said Trump lobbied then secretary of state Rex Tillerson in 2017 to help get rid of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act which prevents US firms from bribing foreign officials for business deals.

"It's just so unfair that American companies aren't allowed to pay bribes to get business overseas," Trump is quoted as saying. "We're going to change that."

The book also recounts an exchange between Trump and Anthony Scaramucci, who served briefly as White House communications director and is now a fierce critic of the president.

Scaramucci said he once asked Trump, "Are you an act?"

"I'm a total act and I don't understand why people don't get it," Trump reportedly replied.

US President Donald Trump's shaky grasp of geography includes not knowing that India shares a border with China, according to a new book by a pair of reporters for The Washington Post.

US President Donald Trump's shaky grasp of geography includes not knowing that India shares a border with China, according to a new book by a pair of reporters for The Washington Post. The book, "A Very Stable Genius" by Philip Rucker and Carol Leonnig, highlights episodes of volatile behaviour by the president along with his ignorance of basic geography and history. "It's not like you've got China on your border," the authors quoted Trump as telling Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a meeting between the two leaders. India and China share a border and the two countries went to war in 1962 over a disputed Himalayan section of the frontier. Following Trump's border comment and seeming dismissal of the threat China poses to India, "Modi's eyes bulged out in surprise," according to the book, excerpts of which were published in the Post on Wednesday. "Modi's expression gradually shifted, from shock and concern to resignation," it said. Also read: US President Donald Trump's impeachment - What happens next After the meeting, "the Indians took a step back" in their diplomatic relations with the United States, a Trump aide told the authors. The book also recounts a tour by Trump of a memorial for the USS Arizona, a US warship that was sunk by Japanese planes in the December 7, 1941 surprise attack on Pearl Harbour. "Hey, John, what's this all about? What's this a tour of?" Trump is quoted as asking his then-chief of staff John Kelly. "Trump had heard the phrase 'Pearl Harbor' and appeared to understand that he was visiting the scene of a historic battle, but he did not seem to know much else," the book said. "He was at times dangerously uninformed," the book quotes a former senior White House adviser as saying. The book said Trump lobbied then secretary of state Rex Tillerson in 2017 to help get rid of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act which prevents US firms from bribing foreign officials for business deals. "It's just so unfair that American companies aren't allowed to pay bribes to get business overseas," Trump is quoted as saying. "We're going to change that." The book also recounts an exchange between Trump and Anthony Scaramucci, who served briefly as White House communications director and is now a fierce critic of the president. Scaramucci said he once asked Trump, "Are you an act?" "I'm a total act and I don't understand why people don't get it," Trump reportedly replied.

It isn't like you've got China on your border: When Trump shocked Modi with his remark

US President Donald Trump signed "phase one" trade deal with China, the deal includes a massive increase in exports to the Asian economic power. The deal is expected to boost exports from U.S. farmers and manufacturers and will lower tensions in a long-running dispute between the two biggest economies of the world.

Winners & Losers of US-China Trade Deal

The United States has resumed joint military operations with the Iraqi forces after a long pause due to risen tensions after the death of top Iranian general General Qassem Soleimani after a US drone strike conducted near Baghdad airport.

The American based newspaper quoted two US military officials who said the Pentagon wanted to resume these operations to pick up the fight against the Islamic State group.

The operations were halted, two days after the drone strike on January 5. Iran retaliated by attack two US army bases in Iraq with Ballistic Missiles.&nbsp;

Though Iran's media claimed 80 casualties, according to the Whitehouse no casualties were inflicted.

The attacks just resulted in further sanctions on Iran.

On the same day after the halt, Iraqi lawmakers passed a bill in the parliament to expel 5,000 US troops that are present in Iraq and Prime Minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi asked Whitehouse to work out a road map for the troop withdrawal. But the US rejected the bill.

Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo on Monday said that top Iraqi leaders still support the US troops despite public appeals to get rid of them.

He even, in fact, said that the forces were critical to the fight against the Islamic State group.

Pompeo said at a forum at Stanford University: "They won't say so publicly. But privately they all welcome the fact that America is still there executing its counter-terror campaign,".&nbsp;

The United States has resumed joint military operations with the Iraqi forces after a long pause due to risen tensions after the death of top Iranian general General Qassem Soleimani after a US drone strike conducted near Baghdad airport.

The United States has resumed joint military operations with the Iraqi forces after a long pause due to risen tensions after the death of top Iranian general General Qassem Soleimani after a US drone strike conducted near Baghdad airport. The American based newspaper quoted two US military officials who said the Pentagon wanted to resume these operations to pick up the fight against the Islamic State group. The operations were halted, two days after the drone strike on January 5. Iran retaliated by attack two US army bases in Iraq with Ballistic Missiles. Though Iran's media claimed 80 casualties, according to the Whitehouse no casualties were inflicted. The attacks just resulted in further sanctions on Iran. On the same day after the halt, Iraqi lawmakers passed a bill in the parliament to expel 5,000 US troops that are present in Iraq and Prime Minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi asked Whitehouse to work out a road map for the troop withdrawal. But the US rejected the bill. Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo on Monday said that top Iraqi leaders still support the US troops despite public appeals to get rid of them. He even, in fact, said that the forces were critical to the fight against the Islamic State group. Pompeo said at a forum at Stanford University: "They won't say so publicly. But privately they all welcome the fact that America is still there executing its counter-terror campaign,".

US to resume joint military operations with Iraq to fight against IS

US & China sign first phase of deal, world markets surge

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - January 16, 2020

The House on Wednesday formally presented two articles of impeachment to the Senate after voting to approve the seven managers to prosecute the case against President Donald Trump.

House sends two articles of impeachment to the Senate

Reports say that U.S. President Donald Trump could visit India next month. Officials from both sides are said to be working out the dates. If Trump visits India, then it will be his first official visit to the country. Palki Sharma explains the context and implications.

Gravitas: Reports, Donald Trump could visit India next month

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - January 15, 2020

This comes at a time when the Centre is facing protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and a proposed pan-India National Register of Citizen (NRC) and also amid concerns expressed by US lawmakers over the situation in Kashmir.

US President Donald Trump may visit India in February

Trump, at a rally in Wisconsin on Tuesday, sided with the self-described democratic socialist.

US Prez Donald Trump holds rally in Wisconsin

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