<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-tells-uk-to-walk-away-if-eu-does-not-give-what-it-wants-in-brexit-report-223648">Trump tells UK to 'walk away' if EU does not give what it wants in Brexit: Report</a>

US President Donald Trump&nbsp;said Britain should refuse to pay its 39 billion pound EU divorce bill and "walk away" from<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-against-all-alternative-brexit-options-206122">&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;</a>talks if Brussels does not give the UK what it wants.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-prepared-to-engage-with-iran-without-pre-conditions-pompeo-223645">US prepared to engage with Iran without pre-conditions: Pompeo</a>

The United States was prepared to engage with Iran without pre-conditions about its nuclear program but needed to see the country behaving like "a normal nation", US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Sunday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-three-blasts-hit-kabul-killing-one-and-injuring-17-223589">Afghanistan: Three blasts hit Kabul, killing one and injuring 17</a>

One person was killed and 17 others wounded Sunday in three successive blasts in Kabul, Afghan officials said, capping a murderous week of mayhem across the city.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-defence-minister-says-tiananmen-crackdown-was-justified-223616">Chinese defence minister says Tiananmen crackdown was justified</a>

Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe said on Sunday that the bloody crackdown on protesters around Beijing`s Tiananmen Square 30 years ago was the "correct" decision, citing the country`s "stability" since then.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-lodges-protest-against-harassment-of-guests-at-high-commissions-iftar-party-by-pakistan-agencies-in-islamabad-223652">India lodges protest against harassment of guests at high commission's Iftar party by Pakistan agencies in Islamabad</a>

India has strongly protested against the harassment of guests invited for the Iftar organised by Indian high commission at a hotel in Islamabad and has asked the Pakistani government to investigate the "ugly" incident.

Trump tells UK to 'walk away' if EU does not give what it wants in Brexit: Report US President Donald Trump said Britain should refuse to pay its 39 billion pound EU divorce bill and "walk away" from Brexit talks if Brussels does not give the UK what it wants.

Trump tells UK to 'walk away' if EU does not give what it wants in Brexit: Report US President Donald Trump said Britain should refuse to pay its 39 billion pound EU divorce bill and "walk away" from Brexit talks if Brussels does not give the UK what it wants. US prepared to engage with Iran without pre-conditions: Pompeo The United States was prepared to engage with Iran without pre-conditions about its nuclear program but needed to see the country behaving like "a normal nation", US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Sunday. Afghanistan: Three blasts hit Kabul, killing one and injuring 17 One person was killed and 17 others wounded Sunday in three successive blasts in Kabul, Afghan officials said, capping a murderous week of mayhem across the city. Chinese defence minister says Tiananmen crackdown was justified Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe said on Sunday that the bloody crackdown on protesters around Beijing`s Tiananmen Square 30 years ago was the "correct" decision, citing the country`s "stability" since then. India lodges protest against harassment of guests at high commission's Iftar party by Pakistan agencies in Islamabad India has strongly protested against the harassment of guests invited for the Iftar organised by Indian high commission at a hotel in Islamabad and has asked the Pakistani government to investigate the "ugly" incident.

News brief: Big stories of the day

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-announce-second-term-run-at-june-florida-rally-223437">US President Donald Trump</a> said Britain should refuse to pay its 39 billion pound EU divorce bill and "walk away" from<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-against-all-alternative-brexit-options-206122"> Brexit </a>talks if Brussels does not give the UK what it wants.

In an interview with the Sunday Times newspaper ahead of his state visit to Britain starting Monday, Trump said the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-boris-johnson-would-be-very-good-as-next-uk-prime-minister-223289">next British leader</a> should send arch-Brexiteer Nigel Farage to conduct talks with the EU.

Trump said Britain must leave the EU this year.

“They've got to get it done,” he said. “They have got to get the deal closed.”

“If they don’t get what they want, I would walk away. If you don’t get a fair deal, you walk away.”

Trump repeated his backing for those candidates to succeed Prime Minister Theresa May who have said Britain must leave on the due date of Oct. 31 with or without a deal.

Those candidates include former foreign secretary Boris Johnson, whom Trump praised in an interview with the Sun newspaper on Friday, along with former Brexit minister Dominic Raab and interior minister Sajid Javid.

Trump also said it was a mistake for the Conservatives not to involve Farage, the Brexit Party leader, in negotiations with Brussels after his success in European Parliament elections last month.

“I like Nigel a lot. He has a lot to offer - he is a very smart person,” Trump said. “They won’t bring him in but think how well they would do if they did. They just haven't figured that out yet.”

On the Brexit divorce bill, Trump said, “If I were them, I wouldn’t pay 50 billion dollars. That is a tremendous number.”

Trump also said he would have “to know” veteran Socialist Labour opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn before authorising US intelligence to share its most sensitive secrets with a hard-left government.

He warned British ministers they must be careful not to jeopardize intelligence-sharing by letting Chinese firm Huawei Technologies Co Ltd into Britain’s new 5G mobile phone network.

US President Donald Trump said Britain should refuse to pay its 39 billion pound EU divorce bill and "walk away" from Brexit talks if Brussels does not give the UK what it wants.

US President Donald Trump said Britain should refuse to pay its 39 billion pound EU divorce bill and "walk away" from Brexit talks if Brussels does not give the UK what it wants. In an interview with the Sunday Times newspaper ahead of his state visit to Britain starting Monday, Trump said the next British leader should send arch-Brexiteer Nigel Farage to conduct talks with the EU. Trump said Britain must leave the EU this year. “They've got to get it done,” he said. “They have got to get the deal closed.” “If they don’t get what they want, I would walk away. If you don’t get a fair deal, you walk away.” Trump repeated his backing for those candidates to succeed Prime Minister Theresa May who have said Britain must leave on the due date of Oct. 31 with or without a deal. Those candidates include former foreign secretary Boris Johnson, whom Trump praised in an interview with the Sun newspaper on Friday, along with former Brexit minister Dominic Raab and interior minister Sajid Javid. Trump also said it was a mistake for the Conservatives not to involve Farage, the Brexit Party leader, in negotiations with Brussels after his success in European Parliament elections last month. “I like Nigel a lot. He has a lot to offer - he is a very smart person,” Trump said. “They won’t bring him in but think how well they would do if they did. They just haven't figured that out yet.” On the Brexit divorce bill, Trump said, “If I were them, I wouldn’t pay 50 billion dollars. That is a tremendous number.” Trump also said he would have “to know” veteran Socialist Labour opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn before authorising US intelligence to share its most sensitive secrets with a hard-left government. He warned British ministers they must be careful not to jeopardize intelligence-sharing by letting Chinese firm Huawei Technologies Co Ltd into Britain’s new 5G mobile phone network.

Trump tells UK to 'walk away' if EU does not give what it wants in Brexit: Report

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will meet Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei later this month with Tokyo hoping to mediate between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-concluding-visit-trump-expects-japans-military-to-reinforce-united-states-in-asia-and-beyond-222150">Washington and Tehran</a>, a report said Sunday.

As tensions intensify between Iran and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-mass-stabbing-one-child-among-two-killed-19-injured-222099">Japan's key ally the United States</a>, Abe has reportedly proposed serving as a go-between and is said to be weighing up a state visit to Iran.

According to the Mainichi Shimbun report, Abe's planned meeting with influential Khamenei will be the first such talks between a Japanese premier and Tehran's supreme leader.

US President Donald Trump said last week he remained open to talks with Tehran during his state visit to Tokyo, appearing to have given the green light to Abe's plan.

Abe will also meet <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-not-be-bullied-into-us-talks-president-hassan-rouhani-223523">Iran's president Hassan Rouhani</a> before meeting Khamenei during his tour to Iran from June 12 to 14, the newspaper said, citing unnamed government sources.

Before Trump flew to Japan, the United States had announced it was sending 1,500 extra troops to the region, adding to the aircraft carrier group and nuclear-capable bomber planes already dispatched.

Trump himself threatened "the official end" of the country if Tehran ever attacked US interests.

But last Monday in Tokyo, Trump offered assurances that he can live with the Islamic republic's government, whose toppling has long been a dream for Washington hardliners.

"We're not looking for regime change," Trump said, explaining that he only cared about Iran not achieving nuclear power status.

"I do believe that Iran would like to talk, and if they'd like to talk, we'd like to talk also," Trump added, striking a relatively dovish tone on Iran.

Khamenei has likened negotiations with the Trump administration to "poison" since "they don't stand by anything", referring to Washington's withdrawal from the landmark 2015 nuclear deal signed by Tehran and world powers.

Japan and Iran have kept a good relationship as resource-poor Japan relies heavily on imports of oil from the Middle East, though crude from Iran accounted for just 5.3 per cent of the country's total imports last year.

Watch: In eventful trip to Japan, Trump inks mega defence deal with Abe

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Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will meet Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei later this month with Tokyo hoping to mediate between Washington and Tehran, a report said Sunday.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will meet Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei later this month with Tokyo hoping to mediate between Washington and Tehran, a report said Sunday. As tensions intensify between Iran and Japan's key ally the United States, Abe has reportedly proposed serving as a go-between and is said to be weighing up a state visit to Iran. According to the Mainichi Shimbun report, Abe's planned meeting with influential Khamenei will be the first such talks between a Japanese premier and Tehran's supreme leader. US President Donald Trump said last week he remained open to talks with Tehran during his state visit to Tokyo, appearing to have given the green light to Abe's plan. Abe will also meet Iran's president Hassan Rouhani before meeting Khamenei during his tour to Iran from June 12 to 14, the newspaper said, citing unnamed government sources. Before Trump flew to Japan, the United States had announced it was sending 1,500 extra troops to the region, adding to the aircraft carrier group and nuclear-capable bomber planes already dispatched. Trump himself threatened "the official end" of the country if Tehran ever attacked US interests. But last Monday in Tokyo, Trump offered assurances that he can live with the Islamic republic's government, whose toppling has long been a dream for Washington hardliners. "We're not looking for regime change," Trump said, explaining that he only cared about Iran not achieving nuclear power status. "I do believe that Iran would like to talk, and if they'd like to talk, we'd like to talk also," Trump added, striking a relatively dovish tone on Iran. Khamenei has likened negotiations with the Trump administration to "poison" since "they don't stand by anything", referring to Washington's withdrawal from the landmark 2015 nuclear deal signed by Tehran and world powers. Japan and Iran have kept a good relationship as resource-poor Japan relies heavily on imports of oil from the Middle East, though crude from Iran accounted for just 5.3 per cent of the country's total imports last year. Watch: In eventful trip to Japan, Trump inks mega defence deal with Abe ×

Japan PM Abe to meet Iran's supreme leader Khamenei to mediate with US: Report

Former White House chief strategist and media mogul Steve Bannon spoke exclusively to WION's Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary recently. During the conversation, he spoke about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's landslide victory, US-India relationship, Pakistan, his interest in Hindu spirituality and his love for Bhagavad Gita.

Full transcript of Steve Bannon's interview with Sudhir Chaudhary

In a move likely to plunge the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/strains-in-us-pak-relations-what-does-it-mean-for-india-191158">already strained relations between the United States and Pakistan</a> to a new low, Washington on Friday announced that it has withdrawn its tax exemption programme for Pakistani diplomats.

The move has come a year after the US barred Pakistani diplomats working in Washington from travelling outside a 25-kilometre radius around the city without approval, reports Sputnik.

With the decision turning effective immediately, over 20 members in the Pakistan embassy on Friday surrendered their Tax Exemption cards to the US authorities.

Notably, Pakistan has yet to provide tax exemption facilities to the US diplomats working in Islamabad since they applied for the same last year.&nbsp;

Diplomatic Tax Exemption Cards provides an exemption from sales, occupancy, and other similar taxes for the eligible foreign officials working in the United States, or its territory.

On Thursday, the Pakistani Embassy in the US had said that the two countries were discussing the said matter and were hoping to resolve it soon.

"There are thus ongoing discussions between Pakistan and the US on the status of exemption/refunds on the basis of the principle of reciprocity, which should not be construed as withdrawal of any privileges," the Embassy said in a statement.

Bilateral relations between the US and Pakistan have been strained since January 2018 when President Donald Trump suspended $1.3 billion annual security aid given to Pakistan.

In a move likely to plunge the already strained relations between the United States and Pakistan to a new low, Washington on Friday announced that it has withdrawn its tax exemption programme for Pakistani diplomats.

In a move likely to plunge the already strained relations between the United States and Pakistan to a new low, Washington on Friday announced that it has withdrawn its tax exemption programme for Pakistani diplomats. The move has come a year after the US barred Pakistani diplomats working in Washington from travelling outside a 25-kilometre radius around the city without approval, reports Sputnik. With the decision turning effective immediately, over 20 members in the Pakistan embassy on Friday surrendered their Tax Exemption cards to the US authorities. Notably, Pakistan has yet to provide tax exemption facilities to the US diplomats working in Islamabad since they applied for the same last year. Diplomatic Tax Exemption Cards provides an exemption from sales, occupancy, and other similar taxes for the eligible foreign officials working in the United States, or its territory. On Thursday, the Pakistani Embassy in the US had said that the two countries were discussing the said matter and were hoping to resolve it soon. "There are thus ongoing discussions between Pakistan and the US on the status of exemption/refunds on the basis of the principle of reciprocity, which should not be construed as withdrawal of any privileges," the Embassy said in a statement. Bilateral relations between the US and Pakistan have been strained since January 2018 when President Donald Trump suspended $1.3 billion annual security aid given to Pakistan.

US withdraws tax exemption for Pakistan's diplomats

UK Labour opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn said on Saturday US President Donald Trump`s comments endorsing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-boris-johnson-would-be-very-good-as-next-uk-prime-minister-223289">Conservative front-runner Boris Johnson as the next prime minister </a>were an "unacceptable interference" in Britain`s affairs.

In an interview with the Sun newspaper ahead of his three-day state visit to Britain next week, Trump said of the former foreign secretary, "I think Boris would do a very good job. I think he would be excellent."

Other Conservative lawmakers in the leadership race had sought his backing, he said, although not environment minister Michael Gove, who has criticised his stance on Iran.

Veteran Socialist Corbyn, who has declined an invitation to attend a state banquet with Trump during the visit, said: "President Trump’s attempt to decide who will be Britain’s next prime minister is an entirely unacceptable interference in our country’s democracy."

He added in a statement on Saturday, "The next prime minister should be chosen not by the US president, nor by 100,000 unrepresentative Conservative party members, but by the British people in a general election."

After failing three times this year to get parliament to back her plan for leaving the European Union, Prime Minister Theresa May said last week she would step down as leader of the governing Conservative Party on June 7 to open the way for a contest to succeed her.

So far, 12 Members of Parliament have said they will stand in the leadership election. They will be whittled down by their fellow lawmakers to a final two before the grassroots party members make the final choice.

Trump praised Johnson on his last visit to Britain in July 2018, saying that he thought he had the skills needed to be prime minister, shortly after Johnson resigned in protest at May`s handling of Brexit.

Johnson, who has said he would be prepared to take Britain out of the EU without a deal on October 31, has not commented on Trump`s latest endorsement.

Corbyn himself has been widely accused of failing to clarify Labour`s position on Brexit by not saying outright whether or not it is decisively in favour of a second referendum on Brexit.&nbsp;

Trump also praised current foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt, also a Conservative leadership candidate, for his pledge to increase British defence spending.

He arrives in Britain on Monday for a state visit at the invitation of Queen Elizabeth before attending World War Two commemorations in France and visiting Ireland.

It is only the third state visit of a US president to Britain.

UK Labour opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn said on Saturday US President Donald Trump`s comments endorsing Conservative front-runner Boris Johnson as the next prime minister were an "unacceptable interference" in Britain`s affairs.

UK Labour opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn said on Saturday US President Donald Trump`s comments endorsing Conservative front-runner Boris Johnson as the next prime minister were an "unacceptable interference" in Britain`s affairs. In an interview with the Sun newspaper ahead of his three-day state visit to Britain next week, Trump said of the former foreign secretary, "I think Boris would do a very good job. I think he would be excellent." Other Conservative lawmakers in the leadership race had sought his backing, he said, although not environment minister Michael Gove, who has criticised his stance on Iran. Veteran Socialist Corbyn, who has declined an invitation to attend a state banquet with Trump during the visit, said: "President Trump’s attempt to decide who will be Britain’s next prime minister is an entirely unacceptable interference in our country’s democracy." He added in a statement on Saturday, "The next prime minister should be chosen not by the US president, nor by 100,000 unrepresentative Conservative party members, but by the British people in a general election." After failing three times this year to get parliament to back her plan for leaving the European Union, Prime Minister Theresa May said last week she would step down as leader of the governing Conservative Party on June 7 to open the way for a contest to succeed her. So far, 12 Members of Parliament have said they will stand in the leadership election. They will be whittled down by their fellow lawmakers to a final two before the grassroots party members make the final choice. Trump praised Johnson on his last visit to Britain in July 2018, saying that he thought he had the skills needed to be prime minister, shortly after Johnson resigned in protest at May`s handling of Brexit. Johnson, who has said he would be prepared to take Britain out of the EU without a deal on October 31, has not commented on Trump`s latest endorsement. Corbyn himself has been widely accused of failing to clarify Labour`s position on Brexit by not saying outright whether or not it is decisively in favour of a second referendum on Brexit. Trump also praised current foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt, also a Conservative leadership candidate, for his pledge to increase British defence spending. He arrives in Britain on Monday for a state visit at the invitation of Queen Elizabeth before attending World War Two commemorations in France and visiting Ireland. It is only the third state visit of a US president to Britain.

Jeremy Corbyn accuses Trump of interfering in UK politics

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-to-end-trade-privileges-for-india-on-june-5-223286">US President Trump to end trade privileges for India on June 5</a>

In a blow to India, US President Donald Trump on Friday said that the United States would end its preferential trade treatment for India on June 5, reported news agency Reuters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/disgruntled-city-employee-kills-11-in-virginia-suspect-also-killed-223288">11 killed in mass shooting at government building in Virginia Beach</a>

A disgruntled public utility employee opened fire on co-workers at city offices in Virginia Beach, Virginia, on Friday afternoon, killing 11 people and wounding at least six others before he was fatally shot by police, authorities said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-boris-johnson-would-be-very-good-as-next-uk-prime-minister-223289">Trump says Boris Johnson would be 'very good' as next UK prime minister</a>

US President Donald Trump threw his weight behind Boris Johnson's campaign to be Britain's next prime minister and urged all candidates to pledge to boost defence spending, in a striking intervention ahead of his state visit next week.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/committed-to-ensure-women-empowerment-children-welfare-smriti-irani-223291">Committed to ensure women empowerment, children welfare: Smriti Irani</a>

Newly-appointed Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani Friday said she is "committed to take all appropriate steps" to ensure women empowerment and welfare of children in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-preparing-antitrust-probe-of-google-report-223296">US preparing antitrust probe of Google: Report</a>

The US Department of Justice is preparing an antitrust investigation of Internet titan Google, the Wall Street Journal reported on Friday.

&nbsp;

US President Trump to end trade privileges for India on June 5 In a blow to India, US President Donald Trump on Friday said that the United States would end its preferential trade treatment for India on June 5, reported news agency Reuters.

US President Trump to end trade privileges for India on June 5 In a blow to India, US President Donald Trump on Friday said that the United States would end its preferential trade treatment for India on June 5, reported news agency Reuters. 11 killed in mass shooting at government building in Virginia Beach A disgruntled public utility employee opened fire on co-workers at city offices in Virginia Beach, Virginia, on Friday afternoon, killing 11 people and wounding at least six others before he was fatally shot by police, authorities said. Trump says Boris Johnson would be 'very good' as next UK prime minister US President Donald Trump threw his weight behind Boris Johnson's campaign to be Britain's next prime minister and urged all candidates to pledge to boost defence spending, in a striking intervention ahead of his state visit next week. Committed to ensure women empowerment, children welfare: Smriti Irani Newly-appointed Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani Friday said she is "committed to take all appropriate steps" to ensure women empowerment and welfare of children in the country. US preparing antitrust probe of Google: Report The US Department of Justice is preparing an antitrust investigation of Internet titan Google, the Wall Street Journal reported on Friday.

US President Donald Trump threw his weight behind Boris Johnson's campaign to be Britain's next prime minister and urged all candidates to pledge to boost defence spending, in a striking intervention ahead of his state visit next week.

"I think Boris would do a very good job. I think he would be excellent," Trump told the Sun newspaper about the former foreign secretary and leading Brexit campaigner, who is a front runner to succeed Theresa May as head of the Conservative Party.

Trump arrives in Britain on Monday for a three-day state visit at the invitation of Queen Elizabeth before attending World War Two commemorations in France and visiting Ireland.

He told the Sun that other Conservative lawmakers had sought his endorsement - though not environment minister Michael Gove, who has criticised his stance on Iran.

Trump also praised foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt's pledge to increase British defence spending.

"Yup. Like him," Trump said when asked about Hunt. "The UK should be able to defend themselves. It's a great and very special place," he said, noting that higher British defence spending could boost exports of U.S. military equipment.

Trump praised Johnson on his last visit to Britain in July 2018, saying that he thought Johnson had the skills needed to be prime minister, shortly after Johnson resigned in protest at May's handling of Brexit.

After failing three times this year to get parliament to back her plan for leaving the European Union, May said last week that she would step down as Conservative Party leader on June 7 to open the way for a contest to succeed her.

Most of the frontrunners are expected to push for a cleaner break with the European Union.

Trump criticised Britain's handling of Brexit talks, telling the Sun that "the UK allowed the European Union to have all the cards", though he added that he still had respect for May.

The two leaders will meet at May's Downing Street residence in central London on Tuesday when talks will cover their differences over how to manage the security risks posed by Iran's nuclear programme and Chinese tech company Huawei.

Trump will also spend time with Queen Elizabeth and her heir, Prince Charles, but is not scheduled to meet younger royals including the queen's grandson Prince Harry and his new American wife Meghan Markle.

Asked about criticism from Markle during the 2016 election campaign, Trump denied having noticed it.

"I didn’t know that she was nasty," he said. But he wished her well in her new life as a princess. "I am sure she will do excellently," he told the Sun.

US President Donald Trump threw his weight behind Boris Johnson's campaign to be Britain's next prime minister and urged all candidates to pledge to boost defence spending, in a striking intervention ahead of his state visit next week.

US President Donald Trump threw his weight behind Boris Johnson's campaign to be Britain's next prime minister and urged all candidates to pledge to boost defence spending, in a striking intervention ahead of his state visit next week. "I think Boris would do a very good job. I think he would be excellent," Trump told the Sun newspaper about the former foreign secretary and leading Brexit campaigner, who is a front runner to succeed Theresa May as head of the Conservative Party. Trump arrives in Britain on Monday for a three-day state visit at the invitation of Queen Elizabeth before attending World War Two commemorations in France and visiting Ireland. He told the Sun that other Conservative lawmakers had sought his endorsement - though not environment minister Michael Gove, who has criticised his stance on Iran. Trump also praised foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt's pledge to increase British defence spending. "Yup. Like him," Trump said when asked about Hunt. "The UK should be able to defend themselves. It's a great and very special place," he said, noting that higher British defence spending could boost exports of U.S. military equipment. Trump praised Johnson on his last visit to Britain in July 2018, saying that he thought Johnson had the skills needed to be prime minister, shortly after Johnson resigned in protest at May's handling of Brexit. After failing three times this year to get parliament to back her plan for leaving the European Union, May said last week that she would step down as Conservative Party leader on June 7 to open the way for a contest to succeed her. Most of the frontrunners are expected to push for a cleaner break with the European Union. Trump criticised Britain's handling of Brexit talks, telling the Sun that "the UK allowed the European Union to have all the cards", though he added that he still had respect for May. The two leaders will meet at May's Downing Street residence in central London on Tuesday when talks will cover their differences over how to manage the security risks posed by Iran's nuclear programme and Chinese tech company Huawei. Trump will also spend time with Queen Elizabeth and her heir, Prince Charles, but is not scheduled to meet younger royals including the queen's grandson Prince Harry and his new American wife Meghan Markle. Asked about criticism from Markle during the 2016 election campaign, Trump denied having noticed it. "I didn’t know that she was nasty," he said. But he wished her well in her new life as a princess. "I am sure she will do excellently," he told the Sun.

Trump says Boris Johnson would be 'very good' as next UK prime minister

In a blow to India, US President Donald Trump on Friday said that the United States would end its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/suspension-of-preferential-trade-status-for-india-under-gsp-is-done-deal-us-222997">preferential trade treatment </a>for India on June 5, reported news agency Reuters.

Trump had announced his intention to remove India from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program in early March.

"I have determined that India has not assured the United States that India will provide <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-is-not-a-tariff-king-has-the-right-to-protect-specific-sectors-under-wto-experts-212214">equitable and reasonable</a> access to its markets," Reuters report said Trump as saying in a statement on Friday.

India is the biggest beneficiary of the GSP, which allows preferential duty-free imports of up to $5.6 billion from the South Asian nation, the report added.

Indian officials have raised the prospect of higher import duties on more than 20 US goods if Trump drops India from the programme.

Twenty-four members of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-lawmakers-urge-trump-administration-to-not-end-indias-trade-privileges-215783">US Congress</a> sent the administration a letter on May 3 urging it not to terminate India's access to the GSP.

Trump had time and again called India&nbsp;&nbsp;'tariff king'&nbsp;and imposes "tremendously high" import duties on American goods.

In a blow to India, US President Donald Trump on Friday said that the United States would end its preferential trade treatment for India on June 5, reported news agency Reuters.

In a blow to India, US President Donald Trump on Friday said that the United States would end its preferential trade treatment for India on June 5, reported news agency Reuters. Trump had announced his intention to remove India from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program in early March. "I have determined that India has not assured the United States that India will provide equitable and reasonable access to its markets," Reuters report said Trump as saying in a statement on Friday. India is the biggest beneficiary of the GSP, which allows preferential duty-free imports of up to $5.6 billion from the South Asian nation, the report added. Indian officials have raised the prospect of higher import duties on more than 20 US goods if Trump drops India from the programme. Twenty-four members of the US Congress sent the administration a letter on May 3 urging it not to terminate India's access to the GSP. Trump had time and again called India 'tariff king' and imposes "tremendously high" import duties on American goods.

US President Trump to end trade privileges for India on June 5

United States President Donald Trump on Friday (local time) said that he will officially announce his bid for a second term as president in 2020 on June 18 during a rally in Florida.

First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President Mike Pence and second lady Karen Pence will also be part of the event in Orlando, Trump said on Twitter.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/big-democratic-field-taking-shape-for-2020-us-presidential-race-213249">Big Democratic field taking shape for 2020 US presidential race</a>

Trump wrote on his official Twitter handle, "I will be announcing my Second Term Presidential Run with First Lady Melania, Vice President Mike Pence, and Second Lady Karen Pence on June 18th in Orlando, Florida, at the 20,000 seat Amway Center. Join us for this Historic Rally!".

In November 2016, Trump defeated Democrat Hillary Clinton to win the White House.

Trump had made it clear that he would seek re-election shortly after he assumed office in January 2017. Since then, he has conducted numerous political rallies, the first in February 2017, CNN reported.

If re-elected, Trump will become the 16th US President to retain office after completing the first term.&nbsp;

United States President Donald Trump on Friday (local time) said that he will officially announce his bid for a second term as president in 2020 on June 18 during a rally in Florida.

United States President Donald Trump on Friday (local time) said that he will officially announce his bid for a second term as president in 2020 on June 18 during a rally in Florida. First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President Mike Pence and second lady Karen Pence will also be part of the event in Orlando, Trump said on Twitter. Also read: Big Democratic field taking shape for 2020 US presidential race Trump wrote on his official Twitter handle, "I will be announcing my Second Term Presidential Run with First Lady Melania, Vice President Mike Pence, and Second Lady Karen Pence on June 18th in Orlando, Florida, at the 20,000 seat Amway Center. Join us for this Historic Rally!". In November 2016, Trump defeated Democrat Hillary Clinton to win the White House. Trump had made it clear that he would seek re-election shortly after he assumed office in January 2017. Since then, he has conducted numerous political rallies, the first in February 2017, CNN reported. If re-elected, Trump will become the 16th US President to retain office after completing the first term.

Trump to announce second term run at June Florida rally

On Saturday, India’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry issued a statement saying it will continue to build on strong ties with the US. “India as part of our bilateral trade discussions, had offered resolution on significant US requests in an effort to find a mutually acceptable way forward,” the government said in the statement. “It is unfortunate that this did not find acceptance by the US.”

Donald Trump to end preferential trade treatment for India on June 5

How does the U.S. and the world see PM Modi's thumping win in the Indian Elections? We ask the man who steered U.S. President Donald Trump's campaign in 2014. Listen to this exclusive conversation between Steve Bannon and WION's Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary.

Gravitas: How Does The World See Modi's Win? An Exclusive Interview With Steve Bannon

President Donald Trump pressed the flesh at the US Air Force Academy's graduation on Thursday, shaking nearly a thousand hands in several hours. Addressing the academy's 2019 class, Trump said he was given the option of just shaking the hand of the top cadet, but declined it.

Trump shakes nearly 1,000 hands at Air Force Academy

In this exclusive interview with WION's Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary; Steve Bannon, former White House chief strategist, and media moghul speaks on India-US future relations after Indian PM Narendra Modi's landslide victory.

Steve Bannon to WION: On India-US ties after PM Modi's Victory for second term

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pulled off an electoral victory this year which resonated across the world. Many global leaders, including US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, congratulated him for the massive mandate in India's general elections. Steve Bannon, former White House chief strategist, and media moghul has said that the western media is absolutely stunned by PM Modi's victory. In an exclusive interview with WION's Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary, Bannon, the former executive chairman of Breitbart News, said he has been incredibly impressed with Modi.

Impressed with Modi, his victory bodes well for India-US ties: Steve Bannon to WION

The United States is attempting to check on&nbsp;reports&nbsp;that a senior&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-executes-its-special-envoy-to-us-after-hanoi-summit-collapse-223029">North&nbsp;Korean&nbsp;official involved in Pyongyang</a>'s non-proliferation talks with Washington has been executed, Secretary of State Mike&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;said on Friday.

"We've seen the reporting to which you are referring,"&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;told a news conference in Berlin in answer to a reporter's question. "We're doing our best to check it out. I don't have anything else to add to that today."

Earlier on Friday, a South&nbsp;Korean&nbsp;newspaper reported that nuclear envoy Kim Hyok Choi had been executed as part of a purge of officials who steered negotiations for a failed summit between leader Kim Jong Un and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-still-has-confidence-in-north-koreas-kim-jong-un-221636">US President Donald Trump</a>.

The United States is attempting to check on reports that a senior North Korean official involved in Pyongyang's non-proliferation talks with Washington has been executed, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Friday.

The United States is attempting to check on reports that a senior North Korean official involved in Pyongyang's non-proliferation talks with Washington has been executed, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Friday. "We've seen the reporting to which you are referring," Pompeo told a news conference in Berlin in answer to a reporter's question. "We're doing our best to check it out. I don't have anything else to add to that today." Earlier on Friday, a South Korean newspaper reported that nuclear envoy Kim Hyok Choi had been executed as part of a purge of officials who steered negotiations for a failed summit between leader Kim Jong Un and US President Donald Trump.

US checking reports of North Korean envoy's execution: Pompeo

Tens of thousands of Iranians marking the annual "Quds (Jerusalem) Day" in the Islamic Republic on Friday condemned a planned Middle East peace plan touted by US President Donald Trump as the "deal of the century."&nbsp;

State television said state-sponsored marches were being held in 950 communities across Iran and showed demonstrators carrying banners with slogans such as "Jerusalem is the eternal capital of Palestine" and "Death to America".

"No to the deal of the century" read a banner splashed across the news screen on state TV, which also showed a Quds Day march in neighbouring Iraq`s capital Baghdad.

Iran`s Revolutionary Guards said on Wednesday that Washington’s long-awaited Israeli-Palestinian peace plan was doomed to fail and that the Palestinian resistance movement would respond firmly to those who proposed it.

Palestinian officials have already spurned the plan, believing it will be heavily biased in favour of Israel.

Opposition to Israel is a cornerstone of Shi`ite-led Iran. It backs Palestinian and Lebanese Islamist militant groups opposed to peace with Israel, which Tehran refuses to recognise.

Iran`s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has said the Trump plan would fail, and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-too-great-to-be-intimidated-rouhani-218701">President Hassan Rouhani </a>said on Wednesday that the deal of the century would be the "bankruptcy of the century" for its who proponents.

Israel, the United States and its chief Sunni Arab ally Saudi Arabia accuse Iran of fomenting tension in the Middle East and of sponsoring terrorism. Tehran denies this.

Quds Day was launched by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the leader of Iran`s 1979 Islamic revolution, and is held on the last Friday of the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan.

Tens of thousands of Iranians marking the annual "Quds (Jerusalem) Day" in the Islamic Republic on Friday condemned a planned Middle East peace plan touted by US President Donald Trump as the "deal of the century.

Tens of thousands of Iranians marking the annual "Quds (Jerusalem) Day" in the Islamic Republic on Friday condemned a planned Middle East peace plan touted by US President Donald Trump as the "deal of the century." State television said state-sponsored marches were being held in 950 communities across Iran and showed demonstrators carrying banners with slogans such as "Jerusalem is the eternal capital of Palestine" and "Death to America". "No to the deal of the century" read a banner splashed across the news screen on state TV, which also showed a Quds Day march in neighbouring Iraq`s capital Baghdad. Iran`s Revolutionary Guards said on Wednesday that Washington’s long-awaited Israeli-Palestinian peace plan was doomed to fail and that the Palestinian resistance movement would respond firmly to those who proposed it. Palestinian officials have already spurned the plan, believing it will be heavily biased in favour of Israel. Opposition to Israel is a cornerstone of Shi`ite-led Iran. It backs Palestinian and Lebanese Islamist militant groups opposed to peace with Israel, which Tehran refuses to recognise. Iran`s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has said the Trump plan would fail, and President Hassan Rouhani said on Wednesday that the deal of the century would be the "bankruptcy of the century" for its who proponents. Israel, the United States and its chief Sunni Arab ally Saudi Arabia accuse Iran of fomenting tension in the Middle East and of sponsoring terrorism. Tehran denies this. Quds Day was launched by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the leader of Iran`s 1979 Islamic revolution, and is held on the last Friday of the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan.

Iranians march to back Palestinians, reject Trump Mideast plan

US President Donald Trump, struggling to stem a surge of illegal immigrants across the southern border, vowed on Thursday to impose a tariff on all goods coming from Mexico starting at 5 per cent&nbsp;and ratcheting higher until the flow of border-crossers ceases.

Trump said in a statement that the tariffs would start at 5 per cent&nbsp;on June 10 then go to 10 per cent&nbsp;on July 1, 15 per cent&nbsp;on August&nbsp;1, 20 per cent&nbsp;on September&nbsp;1 and go up to 25 per cent&nbsp;on October&nbsp;1 unless Mexico takes steps to stop the surge.

Trump's move was a dramatic escalation of his battle to control a tide of illegal immigrants that has increased despite his efforts to build a border wall and take other steps.

The US&nbsp;officials said 80,000 people are being held in custody with an average of 4,500 arriving daily.

"If the illegal migration crisis is alleviated through effective actions taken by Mexico, to be determined in our sole discretion and judgment, the tariffs will be removed," Trump said.

Mexico's deputy foreign minister for North America, Jesus Seade, said on Thursday that it would be disastrous if Trump goes through with his threat to impose the tariffs.

Trump said he was acting under the powers granted to him by the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. He campaigned for election in 2016 on a vow to crack down on illegal immigration and has been frustrated that the flow has increased in recent months.

"Mexico’s passive cooperation in allowing this mass incursion constitutes an emergency and extraordinary threat to the national security and economy of the United States," Trump said in the statement.

"Mexico has very strong immigration laws and could easily halt the illegal flow of migrants, including by returning them to their home countries," he said.

White House acting chief of staff Mick Mulvaney, asked in a conference call with reporters which products from Mexico could be affected by the tariffs, said: "All of them."

US President Donald Trump, struggling to stem a surge of illegal immigrants across the southern border, vowed on Thursday to impose a tariff on all goods coming from Mexico starting at 5 per cent and ratcheting higher until the flow of border-crossers ceases.

US President Donald Trump, struggling to stem a surge of illegal immigrants across the southern border, vowed on Thursday to impose a tariff on all goods coming from Mexico starting at 5 per cent and ratcheting higher until the flow of border-crossers ceases. Trump said in a statement that the tariffs would start at 5 per cent on June 10 then go to 10 per cent on July 1, 15 per cent on August 1, 20 per cent on September 1 and go up to 25 per cent on October 1 unless Mexico takes steps to stop the surge. Trump's move was a dramatic escalation of his battle to control a tide of illegal immigrants that has increased despite his efforts to build a border wall and take other steps. The US officials said 80,000 people are being held in custody with an average of 4,500 arriving daily. "If the illegal migration crisis is alleviated through effective actions taken by Mexico, to be determined in our sole discretion and judgment, the tariffs will be removed," Trump said. Mexico's deputy foreign minister for North America, Jesus Seade, said on Thursday that it would be disastrous if Trump goes through with his threat to impose the tariffs. Trump said he was acting under the powers granted to him by the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. He campaigned for election in 2016 on a vow to crack down on illegal immigration and has been frustrated that the flow has increased in recent months. "Mexico’s passive cooperation in allowing this mass incursion constitutes an emergency and extraordinary threat to the national security and economy of the United States," Trump said in the statement. "Mexico has very strong immigration laws and could easily halt the illegal flow of migrants, including by returning them to their home countries," he said. White House acting chief of staff Mick Mulvaney, asked in a conference call with reporters which products from Mexico could be affected by the tariffs, said: "All of them."

Trump plans 5% tariff on Mexican imports over illegal immigration

The Trump administration has said it is not going back on its decision to terminate India's designation as a beneficiary developing nation under the key GSP trade programme, terming the suspension a "done deal".

The Generalised System of Preference (GSP) is the largest and oldest US trade preference programme and is designed to promote economic development by allowing duty-free entry for thousands of products from designated beneficiary countries.

On March 4, President Donald Trump announced that the US intended to<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/i-intend-to-end-indias-preferential-trade-treatment-under-gsp-program-trump-201179"> terminate India's designation as a beneficiary</a> developing country under the GSP programme.

The 60-day notice period ended on May 3. A formal notification is now expected anytime.

The Trump administration has prioritised working with the Government of India to ensure that US companies have a level playing field, a senior State Department official told reporters on Thursday, hours after Narendra Modi was sworn in as Prime Minister for a second time following his spectacular electoral victory in the general elections.

"The persistent market access issues, which we were engaged with our Indian counterparts over the last year, led us to announce in March that we would be suspending or withdrawing India's benefits under the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delay-generalised-system-of-preferences-eligibility-decision-till-indian-elections-us-209980">generalised system of Preferences</a> Program," said the official who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

"That suspension is a done deal. Now the task is how do we look ahead; how do we work under the second Modi Administration, to identify a path forward?" the official said, reflecting the Trump administration's decision that the GSP termination is final.

Under the GSP programme, nearly 2,000 products including auto components and textile materials can enter the US duty-free if the beneficiary developing countries meet the eligibility criteria established by Congress.

India was the largest beneficiary of the program in 2017 with $5.7 billion in imports to the US given duty-free status and Turkey the fifth largest with $1.7 billion in covered imports, according to a Congressional Research Service report issued in January.

"We believe there's enormous potential to grow our trade relationship and to help stimulate the jobs that Prime Minister Modi is committed to bringing to an overwhelmingly young Indian population.

"We believe that if India is prepared to address policies including data localisation and e-commerce measures, that served to stifle international investment from top tier companies, that we can continue to make significant progress moving forward," the official said.

Noting that President Trump has already made the announcement regarding his decision to terminate the designation of India as a beneficiary nation under GSP, the official said there was a 60-day notification to Congress.

The official said that does not rule out in the future, being able to achieve the reforms and the market access that the US needs under this programme to restore benefits.

"But I think we need to be looking forward at how do we relaunch an ambitious set of discussions between our trade teams in order to address these outstanding irritants," the official said, asserting that there is every reason to believe that the GSP suspension will move forward.

Responding to questions, the official reiterated that India needed to address some of its major concerns, in particular, those related to market access and data localisation.

"Data localisation is a phenomenon that's been taking place globally where we've seen increasing digital protectionism. While we recognise that there are legitimate security and privacy and law enforcement issues related to data protection, we're looking at nearly eight per cent of India's GDP, about $160 billion is associated with IT firms who depend upon the free flow of data," the official said.

So, the US does not want to see market access barriers to American firms in India when the Indian companies currently enjoy largely unfettered access to the US markets, the official said.

These issues, as well as that surrounding e-commerce, will certainly be a topic of conversation with the Indians, the official said.

The senior State Department official said there has been significant growth in the bilateral trade relationship as well as a narrowing of the trade deficit.

The bilateral trade is now at about $142 billion. US exports last year increased by 28 per cent. The trade deficits for goods and services stands at about $24 billion, which is about 11.9 per cent reduction.

"We have also seen strategic Indian investments in aviation, defence, oil and gas. In the last year, India has imported more than $3.3 billion worth of US crude and is contracted to import $2 billion worth of liquefied natural gas annually which obviously brings tangible benefits to both our economies and our people," the official said.

At the same time, the official asserted that the tension remained between the two countries.

"India remains one of the least open major economies in the world. The Trump administration is committed to ensuring free and fair and reciprocal trade.

And we've prioritised working with the government of India to ensure that US companies have a level playing field," the official said.&nbsp;

The Trump administration has said it is not going back on its decision to terminate India's designation as a beneficiary developing nation under the key GSP trade programme, terming the suspension a "done deal".

The Trump administration has said it is not going back on its decision to terminate India's designation as a beneficiary developing nation under the key GSP trade programme, terming the suspension a "done deal". The Generalised System of Preference (GSP) is the largest and oldest US trade preference programme and is designed to promote economic development by allowing duty-free entry for thousands of products from designated beneficiary countries. On March 4, President Donald Trump announced that the US intended to terminate India's designation as a beneficiary developing country under the GSP programme. The 60-day notice period ended on May 3. A formal notification is now expected anytime. The Trump administration has prioritised working with the Government of India to ensure that US companies have a level playing field, a senior State Department official told reporters on Thursday, hours after Narendra Modi was sworn in as Prime Minister for a second time following his spectacular electoral victory in the general elections. "The persistent market access issues, which we were engaged with our Indian counterparts over the last year, led us to announce in March that we would be suspending or withdrawing India's benefits under the generalised system of Preferences Program," said the official who spoke on the condition of anonymity. "That suspension is a done deal. Now the task is how do we look ahead; how do we work under the second Modi Administration, to identify a path forward?" the official said, reflecting the Trump administration's decision that the GSP termination is final. Under the GSP programme, nearly 2,000 products including auto components and textile materials can enter the US duty-free if the beneficiary developing countries meet the eligibility criteria established by Congress. India was the largest beneficiary of the program in 2017 with $5.7 billion in imports to the US given duty-free status and Turkey the fifth largest with $1.7 billion in covered imports, according to a Congressional Research Service report issued in January. "We believe there's enormous potential to grow our trade relationship and to help stimulate the jobs that Prime Minister Modi is committed to bringing to an overwhelmingly young Indian population. "We believe that if India is prepared to address policies including data localisation and e-commerce measures, that served to stifle international investment from top tier companies, that we can continue to make significant progress moving forward," the official said. Noting that President Trump has already made the announcement regarding his decision to terminate the designation of India as a beneficiary nation under GSP, the official said there was a 60-day notification to Congress. The official said that does not rule out in the future, being able to achieve the reforms and the market access that the US needs under this programme to restore benefits. "But I think we need to be looking forward at how do we relaunch an ambitious set of discussions between our trade teams in order to address these outstanding irritants," the official said, asserting that there is every reason to believe that the GSP suspension will move forward. Responding to questions, the official reiterated that India needed to address some of its major concerns, in particular, those related to market access and data localisation. "Data localisation is a phenomenon that's been taking place globally where we've seen increasing digital protectionism. While we recognise that there are legitimate security and privacy and law enforcement issues related to data protection, we're looking at nearly eight per cent of India's GDP, about $160 billion is associated with IT firms who depend upon the free flow of data," the official said. So, the US does not want to see market access barriers to American firms in India when the Indian companies currently enjoy largely unfettered access to the US markets, the official said. These issues, as well as that surrounding e-commerce, will certainly be a topic of conversation with the Indians, the official said. The senior State Department official said there has been significant growth in the bilateral trade relationship as well as a narrowing of the trade deficit. The bilateral trade is now at about $142 billion. US exports last year increased by 28 per cent. The trade deficits for goods and services stands at about $24 billion, which is about 11.9 per cent reduction. "We have also seen strategic Indian investments in aviation, defence, oil and gas. In the last year, India has imported more than $3.3 billion worth of US crude and is contracted to import $2 billion worth of liquefied natural gas annually which obviously brings tangible benefits to both our economies and our people," the official said. At the same time, the official asserted that the tension remained between the two countries. "India remains one of the least open major economies in the world. The Trump administration is committed to ensuring free and fair and reciprocal trade. And we've prioritised working with the government of India to ensure that US companies have a level playing field," the official said.

Suspension of preferential trade status for India under GSP is 'done deal': US

China&nbsp;hopes&nbsp;Canada&nbsp;understands&nbsp;the&nbsp;consequences&nbsp;of&nbsp;siding&nbsp;with the United States and doing its bidding,&nbsp;China's foreign ministry said on Friday after US&nbsp;Vice President Mike Pence called for the release of two <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-formally-arrests-two-canadians-detained-for-months-on-national-security-grounds-219091">Canadians detained in&nbsp;China</a>.

Chinese authorities detained Canadian businessman Michael Spavor and former diplomat Michael Kovrig in December, shortly after&nbsp;Canada&nbsp;arrested&nbsp;China-based Huawei Technologies Co Ltd's Chief Financial Officer, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-cfo-house-arrest-contrasts-with-canadians-detained-in-china-220064">Meng Wanzhou</a>, on a US warrant.

She faces extradition to the United States on charges she conspired to defraud global banks about Huawei's relationship with a company operating in Iran. She and the company have denied the charges and&nbsp;China&nbsp;has called for her release.

Asked about Pence comments that US&nbsp;President Donald Trump would speak with Chinese President Xi Jinping about the detained Canadians at a G20 meeting in Japan in June, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang implied&nbsp;Canada&nbsp;was to blame for its problems in&nbsp;China.

"We hope that the Canadian side will come to understand the full&nbsp;consequences&nbsp;of pulling chestnuts from the fire on behalf of the United States, and not inflict more harm on themselves," Geng told reporters, without elaborating.

Pence, who has taken a hard line on&nbsp;China, discussed the detained Canadians with<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pence-trudeau-to-discuss-huawei-and-china-trade-issues-in-ottawa-official-222633"> Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Ottawa</a> on Thursday, where they also talked about Huawei andChina&nbsp;trade issues.

Kovrig and Spavor were formally charged with espionage this month.&nbsp;China&nbsp;has also cut off imports of key Canadian commodities in an effort to press it.

Canada&nbsp;has called the arrests arbitrary.

During his visit, Pence thanked&nbsp;Canada&nbsp;for standing up for the rule of law in detaining Meng.

While&nbsp;Canada&nbsp;says&nbsp;China&nbsp;has made no specific link between the detentions of the two men and Meng's arrest, experts and former diplomats say they have no doubt it is&nbsp;using their cases to pressure&nbsp;Canada.

China hopes Canada understands the consequences of siding with the United States and doing its bidding, China's foreign ministry said on Friday after US Vice President Mike Pence called for the release of two Canadians detained in China.

China hopes Canada understands the consequences of siding with the United States and doing its bidding, China's foreign ministry said on Friday after US Vice President Mike Pence called for the release of two Canadians detained in China. Chinese authorities detained Canadian businessman Michael Spavor and former diplomat Michael Kovrig in December, shortly after Canada arrested China-based Huawei Technologies Co Ltd's Chief Financial Officer, Meng Wanzhou, on a US warrant. She faces extradition to the United States on charges she conspired to defraud global banks about Huawei's relationship with a company operating in Iran. She and the company have denied the charges and China has called for her release. Asked about Pence comments that US President Donald Trump would speak with Chinese President Xi Jinping about the detained Canadians at a G20 meeting in Japan in June, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang implied Canada was to blame for its problems in China. "We hope that the Canadian side will come to understand the full consequences of pulling chestnuts from the fire on behalf of the United States, and not inflict more harm on themselves," Geng told reporters, without elaborating. Pence, who has taken a hard line on China, discussed the detained Canadians with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Ottawa on Thursday, where they also talked about Huawei andChina trade issues. Kovrig and Spavor were formally charged with espionage this month. China has also cut off imports of key Canadian commodities in an effort to press it. Canada has called the arrests arbitrary. During his visit, Pence thanked Canada for standing up for the rule of law in detaining Meng. While Canada says China has made no specific link between the detentions of the two men and Meng's arrest, experts and former diplomats say they have no doubt it is using their cases to pressure Canada.

Huawei case: We hope that Canada understands consequences of siding with US, says China

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-invited-by-saudi-arabia-to-talks-over-iran-tensions-221847">Saudi Arabia's King Salman</a> told an emergency Arab summit on Friday that decisive action was needed to stop Iranian "escalations" following attacks on Gulf oil assets, as US officials said a military deployment had deterred Tehran.

The right of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to defend their interests after the attacks on oil pumping stations in the kingdom and tankers off the UAE was supported in a Gulf Arab states and a separate communique issued after the wider summit.

Tehran denies any involvement in the attacks and in a sign of regional tensions, Iraq, which has good ties with neighbouring Iran and Washington, said it objected to the Arab communique, which stated that any cooperation with Tehran should be based on "non-interference in other countries".

"The absence of a firm deterrent stance against Iranian behaviour is what led to the escalation we see today," King Salman told the two consecutive meetings late on Thursday.

The ruler of the world's top crude exporter said Shi'ite Iran's development of nuclear and missile capabilities and its threats on world oil supplies posed a risk to regional and global security.

The US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Thursday that attacks on four vessels near a major bunkering hub, just outside the Strait of Hormuz, were "efforts by Iranians to raise the price of crude oil around the world."

Riyadh accused Tehran of ordering the drone strikes. The attacks were claimed by the Iran-aligned Houthi group which has been battling a Saudi-led military coalition in Yemen for four years.

The US&nbsp;national security adviser John Bolton said on Thursday that evidence of Iran being behind the tanker attacks would be presented to the UN Security Council as early as next week.

"The kingdom is keen to preserve the stability and security of the region, to spare it the scourge of war and to realise peace and stability," King Salman said.

Iran, which is locked in several proxy wars with Saudi Arabia in the region, rejected what it called "baseless" accusations made at the summit, Iranian state news agency IRNA reported.

"We see the Saudi effort to mobilise (regional) opinion as part of the hopeless process followed by America and the Zionist regime (Israel) against Iran," IRNA quoted Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi as saying.

IRAQ PLEA

Iraqi President Barham Salih, asking the gathering to support Iraq's stability, said that rising tensions with Iran could spark a war if not managed well and voiced hope that Iran's security would not be targeted.

Pompeo has warned Iraqi leaders that if they failed to keep in check Iran-backed militias, which now form part of Baghdad's security apparatus, the United States would respond with force.

Tensions have risen between the United States and Iran after US&nbsp;President Donald Trump a year ago withdrew Washington from a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran, re-imposed sanctions and boosted its military presence in the Gulf.

Bolton has said that Iranian mines were "almost certainly" used in the tanker attacks. An Iranian official dismissed that as "a ludicrous claim."

The Islamic Republic has said it would defend itself against any aggression. Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri has said Tehran was not allowed to pursue the development of nuclear weapons as it was banned by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The final communique said regional stability required the establishment of an independent Palestinian state along 1967 borders to include Gaza, the West Bank and East Jerusalem.

MILITARY DEPLOYMENT

The US&nbsp;special envoy for Iran, Brian Hook, said on Thursday that a repositioning of US&nbsp;military assets in the region had deterred Iran, but that the United States would respond with military force if its interests are targeted.

The United States has deployed 900 additional troops to the region and extended the stay of 600 other service members, after speeding up the deployment of an aircraft carrier strike group and sending bombers and additional Patriot missiles.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi told the summit it was time to renew discussions on joint Arab defence mechanisms.

The United States and the UAE, which hosts a US&nbsp;air base, on Wednesday activated a defence cooperation agreement signed earlier this year.

Gulf states have a joint defence force under the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), but the alliance has been fractured by a boycott imposed on Qatar by Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain and non-GCC Egypt since mid-2017.

The Gulf communique said the six nations had discussed the GCC defence mechanism during their meeting.

Qatari Prime Minister Abdullah bin Nasser Al Thani, whose country hosts the largest US military base in the region, attended the summits, the most senior Qatari official to visit the kingdom since the embargo.

Saudi Arabia's King Salman told an emergency Arab summit on Friday that decisive action was needed to stop Iranian "escalations" following attacks on Gulf oil assets, as US officials said a military deployment had deterred Tehran.

Saudi Arabia's King Salman told an emergency Arab summit on Friday that decisive action was needed to stop Iranian "escalations" following attacks on Gulf oil assets, as US officials said a military deployment had deterred Tehran. The right of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to defend their interests after the attacks on oil pumping stations in the kingdom and tankers off the UAE was supported in a Gulf Arab states and a separate communique issued after the wider summit. Tehran denies any involvement in the attacks and in a sign of regional tensions, Iraq, which has good ties with neighbouring Iran and Washington, said it objected to the Arab communique, which stated that any cooperation with Tehran should be based on "non-interference in other countries". "The absence of a firm deterrent stance against Iranian behaviour is what led to the escalation we see today," King Salman told the two consecutive meetings late on Thursday. The ruler of the world's top crude exporter said Shi'ite Iran's development of nuclear and missile capabilities and its threats on world oil supplies posed a risk to regional and global security. The US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Thursday that attacks on four vessels near a major bunkering hub, just outside the Strait of Hormuz, were "efforts by Iranians to raise the price of crude oil around the world." Riyadh accused Tehran of ordering the drone strikes. The attacks were claimed by the Iran-aligned Houthi group which has been battling a Saudi-led military coalition in Yemen for four years. The US national security adviser John Bolton said on Thursday that evidence of Iran being behind the tanker attacks would be presented to the UN Security Council as early as next week. "The kingdom is keen to preserve the stability and security of the region, to spare it the scourge of war and to realise peace and stability," King Salman said. Iran, which is locked in several proxy wars with Saudi Arabia in the region, rejected what it called "baseless" accusations made at the summit, Iranian state news agency IRNA reported. "We see the Saudi effort to mobilise (regional) opinion as part of the hopeless process followed by America and the Zionist regime (Israel) against Iran," IRNA quoted Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi as saying. IRAQ PLEA Iraqi President Barham Salih, asking the gathering to support Iraq's stability, said that rising tensions with Iran could spark a war if not managed well and voiced hope that Iran's security would not be targeted. Pompeo has warned Iraqi leaders that if they failed to keep in check Iran-backed militias, which now form part of Baghdad's security apparatus, the United States would respond with force. Tensions have risen between the United States and Iran after US President Donald Trump a year ago withdrew Washington from a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran, re-imposed sanctions and boosted its military presence in the Gulf. Bolton has said that Iranian mines were "almost certainly" used in the tanker attacks. An Iranian official dismissed that as "a ludicrous claim." The Islamic Republic has said it would defend itself against any aggression. Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri has said Tehran was not allowed to pursue the development of nuclear weapons as it was banned by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The final communique said regional stability required the establishment of an independent Palestinian state along 1967 borders to include Gaza, the West Bank and East Jerusalem. MILITARY DEPLOYMENT The US special envoy for Iran, Brian Hook, said on Thursday that a repositioning of US military assets in the region had deterred Iran, but that the United States would respond with military force if its interests are targeted. The United States has deployed 900 additional troops to the region and extended the stay of 600 other service members, after speeding up the deployment of an aircraft carrier strike group and sending bombers and additional Patriot missiles. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi told the summit it was time to renew discussions on joint Arab defence mechanisms. The United States and the UAE, which hosts a US air base, on Wednesday activated a defence cooperation agreement signed earlier this year. Gulf states have a joint defence force under the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), but the alliance has been fractured by a boycott imposed on Qatar by Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain and non-GCC Egypt since mid-2017. The Gulf communique said the six nations had discussed the GCC defence mechanism during their meeting. Qatari Prime Minister Abdullah bin Nasser Al Thani, whose country hosts the largest US military base in the region, attended the summits, the most senior Qatari official to visit the kingdom since the embargo.

Saudi Arabia says firm stand needed to deter Iran, Iraq demurs

US President Donald Trump on Thursday scornfully rejected 'disgusting' talk among Democrats about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/charging-trump-was-not-an-option-says-us-special-counsel-robert-mueller-222592">launching an impeachment inquiry against him </a>in the aftermath of the Russia probe, saying he did nothing to merit such an outcome.

Talking to reporters on the White House South Lawn ahead of a trip to Colorado, Trump grew animated in reacting to a statement from US Special Counsel Robert Mueller on Wednesday.

Mueller said his report on Russian collusion in the 2016 presidential campaign did not clear Trump of obstruction of justice and indicated it was up to Congress to decide whether he should be impeached.

Mueller's statement fueled an increase in calls from Democratic lawmakers for impeachment proceedings, and US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi, reacting to Mueller's statement, said "nothing is off the table."

Asked if he expected to be impeached, Trump said,&nbsp;"I don't see how ... It's a dirty, filthy, disgusting word ... It's a giant presidential harassment."

He cited the US Constitution's language that a president can be charged with "high crimes and misdemeanors."

"There was no crime. There was no misdemeanor," he said.

While House Democrats have yet to decide whether to pursue impeachment, they are pressing forward with a number of investigations spinning off from the Russia probe.

The Trump administration is fighting those congressional efforts, including an attempt by the Democratic chairman of the House tax-writing panel to obtain the president's tax returns.

The top Democrat on the Senate Finance Committee, Ron Wyden, said on Thursday the US Treasury had been "unresponsive" to questions about Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin's decision not to comply with the House demand for Trump's returns, and he threatened to attempt to block any Treasury nominees if the department was not forthcoming.

"Congress has a constitutional obligation to conduct oversight of the executive branch," he said in a statement.

HELP FROM RUSSIA?

In a morning tweet, Trump had left the impression that he was acknowledging that Russian interference helped him win the 2016 election over Democrat Hillary Clinton. Answering questions from reporters, he later said the exact opposite.

"No, Russia did not help me get elected," he said, adding that he needed no help in winning the election.

Trump heaped scorn on Mueller, calling him "totally conflicted" in part because he had wanted to head the FBI.

"I told him NO. The next day he was named Special Counsel - A total Conflict of Interest. NICE!," Trump said on Twitter, without providing evidence that Mueller, a Republican, had sought the FBI job.

Speaking to reporters, Trump also said that Mueller is a close friend of former FBI Director James Comey, who Trump fired weeks after taking office in early 2017.

"I think Mueller is a true 'never Trumper,'" Trump said.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday scornfully rejected 'disgusting' talk among Democrats about launching an impeachment inquiry against him in the aftermath of the Russia probe, saying he did nothing to merit such an outcome.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday scornfully rejected 'disgusting' talk among Democrats about launching an impeachment inquiry against him in the aftermath of the Russia probe, saying he did nothing to merit such an outcome. Talking to reporters on the White House South Lawn ahead of a trip to Colorado, Trump grew animated in reacting to a statement from US Special Counsel Robert Mueller on Wednesday. Mueller said his report on Russian collusion in the 2016 presidential campaign did not clear Trump of obstruction of justice and indicated it was up to Congress to decide whether he should be impeached. Mueller's statement fueled an increase in calls from Democratic lawmakers for impeachment proceedings, and US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi, reacting to Mueller's statement, said "nothing is off the table." Asked if he expected to be impeached, Trump said, "I don't see how ... It's a dirty, filthy, disgusting word ... It's a giant presidential harassment." He cited the US Constitution's language that a president can be charged with "high crimes and misdemeanors." "There was no crime. There was no misdemeanor," he said. While House Democrats have yet to decide whether to pursue impeachment, they are pressing forward with a number of investigations spinning off from the Russia probe. The Trump administration is fighting those congressional efforts, including an attempt by the Democratic chairman of the House tax-writing panel to obtain the president's tax returns. The top Democrat on the Senate Finance Committee, Ron Wyden, said on Thursday the US Treasury had been "unresponsive" to questions about Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin's decision not to comply with the House demand for Trump's returns, and he threatened to attempt to block any Treasury nominees if the department was not forthcoming. "Congress has a constitutional obligation to conduct oversight of the executive branch," he said in a statement. HELP FROM RUSSIA? In a morning tweet, Trump had left the impression that he was acknowledging that Russian interference helped him win the 2016 election over Democrat Hillary Clinton. Answering questions from reporters, he later said the exact opposite. "No, Russia did not help me get elected," he said, adding that he needed no help in winning the election. Trump heaped scorn on Mueller, calling him "totally conflicted" in part because he had wanted to head the FBI. "I told him NO. The next day he was named Special Counsel - A total Conflict of Interest. NICE!," Trump said on Twitter, without providing evidence that Mueller, a Republican, had sought the FBI job. Speaking to reporters, Trump also said that Mueller is a close friend of former FBI Director James Comey, who Trump fired weeks after taking office in early 2017. "I think Mueller is a true 'never Trumper,'" Trump said.

Trump says impeachment is 'dirty, filthy, disgusting word'

US Special Counsel Robert Mueller said on Wednesday his probe into Russian interference in the 2016 election was never going to end with criminal charges against President Donald Trump but he did not clear him and indicated it was up to Congress to decide whether he should be impeached.

In his first public comments since starting the investigation in May 2017, Mueller said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/charging-trump-was-not-an-option-says-us-special-counsel-robert-mueller-222592">Justice Department</a> policy prevented him from bringing charges against a sitting president or filing sealed charges, telling reporters it was "not an option we would consider."

But he also said his two-year investigation did not clear Trump of improper behaviour and, while he did not use the word "impeachment," he pointed out there were other ways to hold presidents accountable.

"The Constitution requires a process other than the criminal justice system to formally accuse a sitting president of wrongdoing," Mueller said as he announced his resignation from the Justice Department.

Congressional Democrats are debating whether to try to move ahead with impeachment in the Democratic-majority US House of Representatives, even though the Republican-controlled Senate would be unlikely to complete the process outlined in the US Constitution for removing a president from office by convicting him.

The White House and several top Republicans responded to Mueller's comments on Wednesday by saying it was time to move on to other matters, while several candidates for the Democratic presidential nomination, called for impeachment.

One candidate, US Senator Kamala Harris, wrote on Twitter: "What Robert Mueller basically did was return an impeachment referral."

Calls to launch impeachment proceedings against Trump have grown among some Democrats, who have been frustrated by White House efforts to thwart congressional subpoenas seeking records and testimony related to the Russia investigation and other matters related to Trump and his family.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has been more cautious and is arguing that lawmakers should push ahead with their investigations before deciding whether to impeach Trump.

On Wednesday she said she was sticking with that plan.

"Nothing is off the table, but we do want to make such a compelling case, such an ironclad case, that even the Republican Senate, which at the time seems to be not an objective jury, will be convinced of the path that we have to take as a country,” she said at a San Francisco event.

Jerrold Nadler, the Democratic chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, said he would hold Trump "accountable" but declined to say whether he would bring impeachment charges.

"With respect to impeachment, all options are on the table and nothing should be ruled out," he said at a news conference after Mueller's appearance.

A redacted version of Mueller's report was published in April. It concluded that Russia repeatedly interfered in the 2016 election and that Trump's election campaign had multiple contacts with Russian officials, but did not establish a criminal conspiracy with Moscow to win the White House.

Mueller's report declined to make a judgment on whether Trump obstructed justice, although it outlined 10 instances in which Trump tried to have Mueller fired or otherwise impede the investigation.

"If we had confidence that the president clearly did not commit a crime, we would have said so," Mueller said. "We did not, however, make a determination as to whether the president did commit a crime."

Matthew Jacobs, a former federal prosecutor, said he thought Mueller was "saying in his own way that a crime was committed."

A source close to Trump said the Mueller statement amounted to a "bad day for the home team."

"Mueller’s statement today was a direct assault on the president," said the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity. "And it will only empower the Democrats to be bolder and more aggressive in their move to impeach him."

Trump declares 'case closed'

Trump, who has repeatedly denounced Mueller's investigation as a "witch hunt" and "hoax" meant to hobble his presidency, still took to Twitter to say the matter was settled.

"Nothing changes from the Mueller Report," he wrote. "There was insufficient evidence and therefore, in our Country, a person is innocent. The case is closed! Thank you."

Mueller, a Republican who headed the FBI from 2001 to 2013, said he would not elaborate beyond what was contained in his 448-page report, signalling to Democrats that he was unlikely to provide them more ammunition for impeachment if he were to testify to a congressional committee.

Mueller, 74, said his office is formally closing its doors and he is now returning to life as a private citizen.

"Beyond what I've said here today and what is contained in our written work, I do not believe it is appropriate for me to speak further," he said, adding that he would not go beyond what was in his report in any future testimony to Congress.

He did not take questions after making his statement.

It was not clear whether Mueller would testify to Congress. He made clear he would prefer not to, although House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff said he still expects to hear from the special counsel.

"While I understand his reluctance to answer hypotheticals or deviate from the carefully worded conclusions he drew on his charging decisions, there are, nevertheless, a great many questions he can answer that go beyond the report," Schiff said.

The House Judiciary Committee's top Republican, Representative Doug Collins, said relitigating Mueller's findings would only divide the country. "It is time to move on from the investigation and start focusing on real solutions for the American people," he said.

Only one Republican so far, Representative Justin Amash, has said Trump has committed impeachable offences. "The ball is in our court, Congress," he wrote on Twitter.

Mueller's investigation ensnared dozens of people, including several top Trump advisers and a series of Russian nationals and companies.

Among them are his former campaign chairman, Paul Manafort, who is serving 7-1/2 years in prison for financial crimes and lobbying violations, and his former personal lawyer, Michael Cohen, who recently began a three-year sentence for campaign-finance violations and lying to Congress.

Since the report's release, Democratic lawmakers have tried without success to get the unredacted version and underlying evidence.

Barr now is leading a review of the origins of the Russia investigation in what is the third known inquiry into the FBI's handling of the matter. Trump harbours suspicions that the Democratic administration of President Barack Obama started the investigation in 2016 to undermine his presidency.

In attacking Mueller's probe, Trump also has often attacked the integrity of the FBI and its investigators.

Mueller appeared to offer a response to that criticism on Wednesday.

The prosecutors, FBI agents, analysts and others who worked with him were "of the highest integrity," he said.

He also defended the need to conduct the probe in the first place, saying Russia's actions during the election campaign to interfere "needed to be investigated and understood."

US Special Counsel Robert Mueller said on Wednesday his probe into Russian interference in the 2016 election was never going to end with criminal charges against President Donald Trump but he did not clear him and indicated it was up to Congress to decide whether he should be impeached.

US Special Counsel Robert Mueller said on Wednesday his probe into Russian interference in the 2016 election was never going to end with criminal charges against President Donald Trump but he did not clear him and indicated it was up to Congress to decide whether he should be impeached. In his first public comments since starting the investigation in May 2017, Mueller said Justice Department policy prevented him from bringing charges against a sitting president or filing sealed charges, telling reporters it was "not an option we would consider." But he also said his two-year investigation did not clear Trump of improper behaviour and, while he did not use the word "impeachment," he pointed out there were other ways to hold presidents accountable. "The Constitution requires a process other than the criminal justice system to formally accuse a sitting president of wrongdoing," Mueller said as he announced his resignation from the Justice Department. Congressional Democrats are debating whether to try to move ahead with impeachment in the Democratic-majority US House of Representatives, even though the Republican-controlled Senate would be unlikely to complete the process outlined in the US Constitution for removing a president from office by convicting him. The White House and several top Republicans responded to Mueller's comments on Wednesday by saying it was time to move on to other matters, while several candidates for the Democratic presidential nomination, called for impeachment. One candidate, US Senator Kamala Harris, wrote on Twitter: "What Robert Mueller basically did was return an impeachment referral." Calls to launch impeachment proceedings against Trump have grown among some Democrats, who have been frustrated by White House efforts to thwart congressional subpoenas seeking records and testimony related to the Russia investigation and other matters related to Trump and his family. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has been more cautious and is arguing that lawmakers should push ahead with their investigations before deciding whether to impeach Trump. On Wednesday she said she was sticking with that plan. "Nothing is off the table, but we do want to make such a compelling case, such an ironclad case, that even the Republican Senate, which at the time seems to be not an objective jury, will be convinced of the path that we have to take as a country,” she said at a San Francisco event. Jerrold Nadler, the Democratic chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, said he would hold Trump "accountable" but declined to say whether he would bring impeachment charges. "With respect to impeachment, all options are on the table and nothing should be ruled out," he said at a news conference after Mueller's appearance. A redacted version of Mueller's report was published in April. It concluded that Russia repeatedly interfered in the 2016 election and that Trump's election campaign had multiple contacts with Russian officials, but did not establish a criminal conspiracy with Moscow to win the White House. Mueller's report declined to make a judgment on whether Trump obstructed justice, although it outlined 10 instances in which Trump tried to have Mueller fired or otherwise impede the investigation. "If we had confidence that the president clearly did not commit a crime, we would have said so," Mueller said. "We did not, however, make a determination as to whether the president did commit a crime." Matthew Jacobs, a former federal prosecutor, said he thought Mueller was "saying in his own way that a crime was committed." A source close to Trump said the Mueller statement amounted to a "bad day for the home team." "Mueller’s statement today was a direct assault on the president," said the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity. "And it will only empower the Democrats to be bolder and more aggressive in their move to impeach him." Trump declares 'case closed' Trump, who has repeatedly denounced Mueller's investigation as a "witch hunt" and "hoax" meant to hobble his presidency, still took to Twitter to say the matter was settled. "Nothing changes from the Mueller Report," he wrote. "There was insufficient evidence and therefore, in our Country, a person is innocent. The case is closed! Thank you." Mueller, a Republican who headed the FBI from 2001 to 2013, said he would not elaborate beyond what was contained in his 448-page report, signalling to Democrats that he was unlikely to provide them more ammunition for impeachment if he were to testify to a congressional committee. Mueller, 74, said his office is formally closing its doors and he is now returning to life as a private citizen. "Beyond what I've said here today and what is contained in our written work, I do not believe it is appropriate for me to speak further," he said, adding that he would not go beyond what was in his report in any future testimony to Congress. He did not take questions after making his statement. It was not clear whether Mueller would testify to Congress. He made clear he would prefer not to, although House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff said he still expects to hear from the special counsel. "While I understand his reluctance to answer hypotheticals or deviate from the carefully worded conclusions he drew on his charging decisions, there are, nevertheless, a great many questions he can answer that go beyond the report," Schiff said. The House Judiciary Committee's top Republican, Representative Doug Collins, said relitigating Mueller's findings would only divide the country. "It is time to move on from the investigation and start focusing on real solutions for the American people," he said. Only one Republican so far, Representative Justin Amash, has said Trump has committed impeachable offences. "The ball is in our court, Congress," he wrote on Twitter. Mueller's investigation ensnared dozens of people, including several top Trump advisers and a series of Russian nationals and companies. Among them are his former campaign chairman, Paul Manafort, who is serving 7-1/2 years in prison for financial crimes and lobbying violations, and his former personal lawyer, Michael Cohen, who recently began a three-year sentence for campaign-finance violations and lying to Congress. Since the report's release, Democratic lawmakers have tried without success to get the unredacted version and underlying evidence. Barr now is leading a review of the origins of the Russia investigation in what is the third known inquiry into the FBI's handling of the matter. Trump harbours suspicions that the Democratic administration of President Barack Obama started the investigation in 2016 to undermine his presidency. In attacking Mueller's probe, Trump also has often attacked the integrity of the FBI and its investigators. Mueller appeared to offer a response to that criticism on Wednesday. The prosecutors, FBI agents, analysts and others who worked with him were "of the highest integrity," he said. He also defended the need to conduct the probe in the first place, saying Russia's actions during the election campaign to interfere "needed to be investigated and understood."

Mueller says he could not charge Trump as Congress weighs impeachment

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday he was unaware of any effort to move the USS John S. McCain that was stationed near the site of his recent speech in Japan.

A US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed to Reuters that an initial request had been made to keep the John McCain out of sight during Trump`s speech but was scrapped by senior Navy officials.

Trump has long criticized the late senator on a variety of fronts and has kept up his attacks on McCain even following his death in August.

McCain, the unsuccessful 2008 Republican presidential nominee, was shot down during the Vietnam War and tortured by his North Vietnamese Communist captors during more than five years as a prisoner of war.

The USS John S. McCain is named for the late senator`s father and grandfather, who were both Navy admirals.

Trump wrote on Twitter,&nbsp;"I was not informed about anything having to do with the Navy Ship USS John S. McCain during my recent visit to Japan." The White House declined to comment.

The Wall Street Journal, which first reported the news, said the White House wanted the US Navy to move the ship, named for the late Arizona senator, "out of sight." It cited an email between US military officials.

The email to Navy and Air Force officials had a number of directives, including "USS John McCain needs to be out of sight," and asking officials to "please confirm" that directive "will be satisfied."

The newspaper said a tarpaulin was hung over the ship’s name ahead of Trump`s trip and sailors were directed to remove coverings from the destroyer that bore its name.

It also said sailors assigned to the ship, who generally wear caps bearing its name, were given the day off during Trump`s visit to the nearby USS Wasp. However, the US official said sailors on the ship were given the day off because of Memorial Day.

Speaking with reporters en route to Singapore, acting US Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan said he had not approved any movement of the ship, but would ask his chief of staff to look into the details of what happened.

"I would never dishonour the memory of a great American patriot like Senator McCain. I also think it`s important, I`d never disrespect the young men and women that crew that ship," Shanahan said.&nbsp;

Commander Clay Doss, a spokesman for the Navy`s Seventh Fleet, said the tarpaulin was taken down on Saturday before Trump`s visit to the area. "All ships remained in normal configuration during the President`s visit," Doss said.

Meghan McCain, the late senator`s eldest daughter, criticized Trump on Twitter on Wednesday, saying, Trump "will always be deeply threatened by the greatness of my dad`s incredible life ... nine months since he passed, Trump won`t let him RIP. So I have to stand up for him."

The destroyer was involved in a 2017 collision that killed 10 crew members and is currently undergoing repairs.

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday he was unaware of any effort to move the USS John S. McCain that was stationed near the site of his recent speech in Japan.

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday he was unaware of any effort to move the USS John S. McCain that was stationed near the site of his recent speech in Japan. A US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed to Reuters that an initial request had been made to keep the John McCain out of sight during Trump`s speech but was scrapped by senior Navy officials. Trump has long criticized the late senator on a variety of fronts and has kept up his attacks on McCain even following his death in August. McCain, the unsuccessful 2008 Republican presidential nominee, was shot down during the Vietnam War and tortured by his North Vietnamese Communist captors during more than five years as a prisoner of war. The USS John S. McCain is named for the late senator`s father and grandfather, who were both Navy admirals. Trump wrote on Twitter, "I was not informed about anything having to do with the Navy Ship USS John S. McCain during my recent visit to Japan." The White House declined to comment. The Wall Street Journal, which first reported the news, said the White House wanted the US Navy to move the ship, named for the late Arizona senator, "out of sight." It cited an email between US military officials. The email to Navy and Air Force officials had a number of directives, including "USS John McCain needs to be out of sight," and asking officials to "please confirm" that directive "will be satisfied." The newspaper said a tarpaulin was hung over the ship’s name ahead of Trump`s trip and sailors were directed to remove coverings from the destroyer that bore its name. It also said sailors assigned to the ship, who generally wear caps bearing its name, were given the day off during Trump`s visit to the nearby USS Wasp. However, the US official said sailors on the ship were given the day off because of Memorial Day. Speaking with reporters en route to Singapore, acting US Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan said he had not approved any movement of the ship, but would ask his chief of staff to look into the details of what happened. "I would never dishonour the memory of a great American patriot like Senator McCain. I also think it`s important, I`d never disrespect the young men and women that crew that ship," Shanahan said. Commander Clay Doss, a spokesman for the Navy`s Seventh Fleet, said the tarpaulin was taken down on Saturday before Trump`s visit to the area. "All ships remained in normal configuration during the President`s visit," Doss said. Meghan McCain, the late senator`s eldest daughter, criticized Trump on Twitter on Wednesday, saying, Trump "will always be deeply threatened by the greatness of my dad`s incredible life ... nine months since he passed, Trump won`t let him RIP. So I have to stand up for him." The destroyer was involved in a 2017 collision that killed 10 crew members and is currently undergoing repairs.

Trump says he was not told of request to move USS John McCain 'out of sight'

China has demonstrated more than enough sincerity to reach a mutually beneficial deal and end trade tensions with the United States. However, trapped in hegemonic ideology, the U.S. has responded by unilateral and protectionist tariff hikes that put world economy in danger, according to a commentary published by China's Xinhua News Agency on Sunday.

China's utmost sincerity in trade talks a sign of strength

The threat of Iranian President Hassan Rouhani to withdraw partially from the landmark nuclear deal of 2015, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), comes as a reaction to the US’s attempts in recent weeks to reduce Iran’s oil exports to zero.&nbsp;

Riled by the US sanctions, Iran wants to see who are standing by it and demands that remaining signatories to the deal — the UK, China, France, Germany and Russia — ease restrictions on its banking and oil sectors in the next 60 days, failing which, Tehran has threatened, it will remove caps on uranium enrichment levels and resume work on the Arak nuclear facility.

From 2006 onwards, the UNSC has treated the Iranian nuclear enrichment issue as one falling within the remit of Chapter VII of the UN Charter, dealing with action with regard to threats to and breaches of “international peace and security”.&nbsp;

The European Union’s economic sanctions against Iran (and Syria) have been far-reaching in immiserating the lives of ordinary people. What is worse, the bulk of the EU’s sanctions have been adopted without the authority and support of the UNSC – an organ in whose hands the coercive activities are centralised and monopolised, according to Chapter VIII of the UN Charter.&nbsp;

By the decision adopted on July 26, 2010, the EU Council, though, attempting to follow the position taken by the UNSC, has introduced sanctions against Iran that go beyond those adopted within the UN system and began encompassing trade between EU states and Iran.

The US enacted major sanctions against Iran since the Iranian Revolution of 1979, freezing the Iranian government’s assets. Sanctions played a major part in the US policy of dual containment (Iran and Iraq) in the 1980s, while Israel’s role in formulating and implementing the sanctions policy of the US dominated the discourse in the 1990s.&nbsp; 
 
From the role the Carter and Reagan Administrations played in the Iran–Iraq war, the numerous sanctions imposed on Iran by the Clinton Administration and the aggressive and confrontational policy toward Iran adopted by the George W Bush Administration after the events of September 11, 2001, is a continuum that runs well into the Trump administration with exception to the interregnum of the Obama administration. And since 1984, Iran’s nuclear programme has almost never been off the US and Israeli radar.

It is a no-brainer, therefore, that the US-Iran relationship is one of unceasing hostility, bad faith and distrust, with occasional dash of rapprochement for the last four decades, firmed up by, in particular, President Bush in his “axis of evil” speech on January 29, 2002, in which Iran was accused, along with Iraq and North Korea, of aggressively pursuing weapons of mass destruction and exporting terror.&nbsp;

Fourteen years down the line, the narrative remains unchanged with President Donald Trump naming Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps a terrorist organisation. The Guard is not only the official protector of the Islamic revolution, but also has enough economic leverage controlling some 20 per cent to 40 per cent of Iran’s economy.

It is thus obvious that trade restrictions against Iran have become more divorced from the original aim of stalling the nuclear enrichment effort and refocused on the overall trade and economic relations between Iran and the EU.&nbsp;

As an instance of how, over the last four decades, American policymakers have increasingly used sanctions to punish countries that transgress US and international norms, or attack US interests, the Helms-Burton bill targeting Cuba and the Iran–Libya Sanctions Act (ILSA) should come to mind as they were both strongly influenced by special interest lobbying – the American Israel Political Action Committee in the case of Iran, the families of the Pan Am bombing victims in the case of Libya, and the Cuban-American community with respect to Helms-Burton.&nbsp;

Should Iran go ahead with its threat, there will be consequences, foremost of which is the frittering away of goodwill among countries who are generally convinced of American skullduggery and its policies of threat and intimidation towards Iran.&nbsp;

President Hassan Rouhani, therefore, may well be advised to stave off knee-jerk reactions and adventurism that might amount to nuclear blackmail. It still enjoys the support of a few European countries. A diplomatic misstep can knock Rouhani off the rocker.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-curbs-against-iran-far-removed-from-original-aim-2754657">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;

The threat of Iranian President Hassan Rouhani to withdraw partially from the landmark nuclear deal of 2015, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), comes as a reaction to the US’s attempts in recent weeks to reduce Iran’s oil exports to zero.

The threat of Iranian President Hassan Rouhani to withdraw partially from the landmark nuclear deal of 2015, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), comes as a reaction to the US’s attempts in recent weeks to reduce Iran’s oil exports to zero. Riled by the US sanctions, Iran wants to see who are standing by it and demands that remaining signatories to the deal — the UK, China, France, Germany and Russia — ease restrictions on its banking and oil sectors in the next 60 days, failing which, Tehran has threatened, it will remove caps on uranium enrichment levels and resume work on the Arak nuclear facility. From 2006 onwards, the UNSC has treated the Iranian nuclear enrichment issue as one falling within the remit of Chapter VII of the UN Charter, dealing with action with regard to threats to and breaches of “international peace and security”. The European Union’s economic sanctions against Iran (and Syria) have been far-reaching in immiserating the lives of ordinary people. What is worse, the bulk of the EU’s sanctions have been adopted without the authority and support of the UNSC – an organ in whose hands the coercive activities are centralised and monopolised, according to Chapter VIII of the UN Charter. By the decision adopted on July 26, 2010, the EU Council, though, attempting to follow the position taken by the UNSC, has introduced sanctions against Iran that go beyond those adopted within the UN system and began encompassing trade between EU states and Iran. The US enacted major sanctions against Iran since the Iranian Revolution of 1979, freezing the Iranian government’s assets. Sanctions played a major part in the US policy of dual containment (Iran and Iraq) in the 1980s, while Israel’s role in formulating and implementing the sanctions policy of the US dominated the discourse in the 1990s. From the role the Carter and Reagan Administrations played in the Iran–Iraq war, the numerous sanctions imposed on Iran by the Clinton Administration and the aggressive and confrontational policy toward Iran adopted by the George W Bush Administration after the events of September 11, 2001, is a continuum that runs well into the Trump administration with exception to the interregnum of the Obama administration. And since 1984, Iran’s nuclear programme has almost never been off the US and Israeli radar. It is a no-brainer, therefore, that the US-Iran relationship is one of unceasing hostility, bad faith and distrust, with occasional dash of rapprochement for the last four decades, firmed up by, in particular, President Bush in his “axis of evil” speech on January 29, 2002, in which Iran was accused, along with Iraq and North Korea, of aggressively pursuing weapons of mass destruction and exporting terror. Fourteen years down the line, the narrative remains unchanged with President Donald Trump naming Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps a terrorist organisation. The Guard is not only the official protector of the Islamic revolution, but also has enough economic leverage controlling some 20 per cent to 40 per cent of Iran’s economy. It is thus obvious that trade restrictions against Iran have become more divorced from the original aim of stalling the nuclear enrichment effort and refocused on the overall trade and economic relations between Iran and the EU. As an instance of how, over the last four decades, American policymakers have increasingly used sanctions to punish countries that transgress US and international norms, or attack US interests, the Helms-Burton bill targeting Cuba and the Iran–Libya Sanctions Act (ILSA) should come to mind as they were both strongly influenced by special interest lobbying – the American Israel Political Action Committee in the case of Iran, the families of the Pan Am bombing victims in the case of Libya, and the Cuban-American community with respect to Helms-Burton. Should Iran go ahead with its threat, there will be consequences, foremost of which is the frittering away of goodwill among countries who are generally convinced of American skullduggery and its policies of threat and intimidation towards Iran. President Hassan Rouhani, therefore, may well be advised to stave off knee-jerk reactions and adventurism that might amount to nuclear blackmail. It still enjoys the support of a few European countries. A diplomatic misstep can knock Rouhani off the rocker. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Curbs against Iran far removed from original aim of stalling the nuclear enrichment effort

Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex has opted out of the British royal family`s meeting with United States President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, who are scheduled to visit the United Kingdom in early June. 
 
Queen Elizabeth II will be hosting Trump and his wife on their three-day visit in June. This will be the first official state visit of the US president to the UK. 
In the capital, Harry is scheduled to have a private lunch with the US president and William and Kate will have tea with Trump on his second day in the country.William and Kate will also join Prince Charles, Duchess Camilla, and Trump for a welcome ceremony at Buckingham Palace.&nbsp; 
 
Markle definitely won`t make an appearance at any of these events, media reports state.&nbsp; 
 
During all these engagements, Meghan, who just gave birth a couple of weeks ago, will likely be hanging out at Frogmore Cottage with her newborn son, Archie enjoying the peace and privacy of her maternity leave. 
 
However, the Duchess has not made any statement about it so far, and she probably isn`t upset about missing this because she`s definitely not a Trump fan. 
According to reports, before joining the royal family, Markle, a proud feminist, had made her stance on Trump clear during the US presidential elections in 2016.&nbsp; 
 
Describing Trump`s politics as "misogynistic" and "divisive", Markle also spoke of her support for his presidential opponent at the time, Hillary Clinton. 
Appearing on The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore three years ago, Meghan said, "It`s really the moment I go; we film Suits in Toronto and I might just stay in Canada... Trump is divisive, think about female voters alone, right?" 
 
"I think it was in 2012, the Republican Party lost the female vote by 12 points; that is a huge number and with as misogynistic as Trump is, and so vocal about it...Trump has made it easy to see that you don`t really want that kind of world that he`s painting," she added.&nbsp;

Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex has opted out of the British royal family`s meeting with United States President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, who are scheduled to visit the United Kingdom in early June.

Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex has opted out of the British royal family`s meeting with United States President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, who are scheduled to visit the United Kingdom in early June. Queen Elizabeth II will be hosting Trump and his wife on their three-day visit in June. This will be the first official state visit of the US president to the UK. In the capital, Harry is scheduled to have a private lunch with the US president and William and Kate will have tea with Trump on his second day in the country.William and Kate will also join Prince Charles, Duchess Camilla, and Trump for a welcome ceremony at Buckingham Palace. Markle definitely won`t make an appearance at any of these events, media reports state. During all these engagements, Meghan, who just gave birth a couple of weeks ago, will likely be hanging out at Frogmore Cottage with her newborn son, Archie enjoying the peace and privacy of her maternity leave. However, the Duchess has not made any statement about it so far, and she probably isn`t upset about missing this because she`s definitely not a Trump fan. According to reports, before joining the royal family, Markle, a proud feminist, had made her stance on Trump clear during the US presidential elections in 2016. Describing Trump`s politics as "misogynistic" and "divisive", Markle also spoke of her support for his presidential opponent at the time, Hillary Clinton. Appearing on The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore three years ago, Meghan said, "It`s really the moment I go; we film Suits in Toronto and I might just stay in Canada... Trump is divisive, think about female voters alone, right?" "I think it was in 2012, the Republican Party lost the female vote by 12 points; that is a huge number and with as misogynistic as Trump is, and so vocal about it...Trump has made it easy to see that you don`t really want that kind of world that he`s painting," she added.

Meghan Markle opts out of meeting with Donald Trump during his UK state visit

They are used in everything from lightbulbs to guided missiles, but with China controlling 95 per cent of the world's supply of rare earth metals, they are also a potentially powerful weapon in Beijing's trade war with Washington.

Here are some key questions and answers on the prized elements.

What are rare earths?

The bedrock of electrical manufacturing, rare earths are 17 elements that serve as key components in devices ranging from hi-tech smartphones and cameras to flat-screen televisions and computers.

China dominates the global supply chain -- and Washington relies heavily on the Asian superpower to access the metals. So much so that the commodities have not been subject to the tariff increases imposed by Donald Trump's administration on Chinese goods.

But Chinese state media is now suggesting that rare earth exports to the US could be cut in retaliation for American measures, sparking fear among manufacturers.

Why is China threatening to restrict exports?

Simply put, rare earths give Beijing tremendous political and economic leverage in its spat with the United States.

The US this month threatened to cut supplies of US technology to Chinese telecom giant Huawei, citing security concerns and intensifying a trade spat that has seen both countries slap tit-for-tat tariffs on each other.

While Beijing has so far only issued cryptic warnings to suggest that rare earths could be its next weapon, "as a retaliatory trade measure, it's a no-brainer on the surface", according to OANDA senior market analyst Jeffrey Halley.

If Beijing chooses to make good on these threats, the impact on US manufacturers could be disastrous.

"China could shut down nearly every automobile, computer, smartphone and aircraft assembly line outside of China if they chose to embargo these materials," James Kennedy, president of ThREE Consulting, wrote last week in National Defense, a US industry publication.

Have we been here before?

China has been accused of using its rare earth leverage for political and economic reasons in the past.

In 2014, the World Trade Organization ruled the country had violated global trade rules by restricting exports of the metals, claiming environmental damage from mining and the need to conserve supplies.

The US, European Union and Japan had appealed to the WTO, accusing Beijing of curbing exports to give domestic tech firms an edge over foreign rivals.&nbsp;

The WTO panel ruled that the quotas were "designed to achieve industrial policy goals rather than conservation".

Four years earlier, Japanese industry sources said China temporarily cut off exports to Japan in 2010 when a territorial row flared between the Asian rivals, charges that Beijing denied.

How likely is it to make good on its threat this time?

Analysts say Beijing may not pull the trigger just yet, possibly because any restriction could spark a chase for alternative sources of rare earths.

Despite its dominance oversupply, China is not the only country with sizeable reserves of the metals.

The United States Geological Survey estimated last year there were 120 million tonnes of deposits worldwide including 44 million in China and 22 million in both Brazil and Vietnam.

If rare earths aren't all that rare, why is no one else producing them?

For much of the last century, the US-dominated rare earths production.&nbsp;

But mining the metals creates huge amounts of toxic waste and in 2003 California's Mountain Pass mine -- then the sole US miner of rare earths -- ceased production, following an environmental disaster a few years earlier.

China filled the void -- helped in no small part by lax regulations and lower costs -- and grew quickly to become the leading producer of the metals.

Rare earths "are abundant across the globe", said OANDA's Halley, but added that many countries are turned off by the heavy costs -- financial and environmental -- incurred in the production process.

"Much like everyone would like a new airport nearby, just not next door to them... the world has reaped what it has sown by handing the keys to China in this respect", he said.

They are used in everything from lightbulbs to guided missiles, but with China controlling 95 per cent of the world's supply of rare earth metals, they are also a potentially powerful weapon in Beijing's trade war with Washington.

They are used in everything from lightbulbs to guided missiles, but with China controlling 95 per cent of the world's supply of rare earth metals, they are also a potentially powerful weapon in Beijing's trade war with Washington. Here are some key questions and answers on the prized elements. What are rare earths? The bedrock of electrical manufacturing, rare earths are 17 elements that serve as key components in devices ranging from hi-tech smartphones and cameras to flat-screen televisions and computers. China dominates the global supply chain -- and Washington relies heavily on the Asian superpower to access the metals. So much so that the commodities have not been subject to the tariff increases imposed by Donald Trump's administration on Chinese goods. But Chinese state media is now suggesting that rare earth exports to the US could be cut in retaliation for American measures, sparking fear among manufacturers. Why is China threatening to restrict exports? Simply put, rare earths give Beijing tremendous political and economic leverage in its spat with the United States. The US this month threatened to cut supplies of US technology to Chinese telecom giant Huawei, citing security concerns and intensifying a trade spat that has seen both countries slap tit-for-tat tariffs on each other. While Beijing has so far only issued cryptic warnings to suggest that rare earths could be its next weapon, "as a retaliatory trade measure, it's a no-brainer on the surface", according to OANDA senior market analyst Jeffrey Halley. If Beijing chooses to make good on these threats, the impact on US manufacturers could be disastrous. "China could shut down nearly every automobile, computer, smartphone and aircraft assembly line outside of China if they chose to embargo these materials," James Kennedy, president of ThREE Consulting, wrote last week in National Defense, a US industry publication. Have we been here before? China has been accused of using its rare earth leverage for political and economic reasons in the past. In 2014, the World Trade Organization ruled the country had violated global trade rules by restricting exports of the metals, claiming environmental damage from mining and the need to conserve supplies. The US, European Union and Japan had appealed to the WTO, accusing Beijing of curbing exports to give domestic tech firms an edge over foreign rivals. The WTO panel ruled that the quotas were "designed to achieve industrial policy goals rather than conservation". Four years earlier, Japanese industry sources said China temporarily cut off exports to Japan in 2010 when a territorial row flared between the Asian rivals, charges that Beijing denied. How likely is it to make good on its threat this time? Analysts say Beijing may not pull the trigger just yet, possibly because any restriction could spark a chase for alternative sources of rare earths. Despite its dominance oversupply, China is not the only country with sizeable reserves of the metals. The United States Geological Survey estimated last year there were 120 million tonnes of deposits worldwide including 44 million in China and 22 million in both Brazil and Vietnam. If rare earths aren't all that rare, why is no one else producing them? For much of the last century, the US-dominated rare earths production. But mining the metals creates huge amounts of toxic waste and in 2003 California's Mountain Pass mine -- then the sole US miner of rare earths -- ceased production, following an environmental disaster a few years earlier. China filled the void -- helped in no small part by lax regulations and lower costs -- and grew quickly to become the leading producer of the metals. Rare earths "are abundant across the globe", said OANDA's Halley, but added that many countries are turned off by the heavy costs -- financial and environmental -- incurred in the production process. "Much like everyone would like a new airport nearby, just not next door to them... the world has reaped what it has sown by handing the keys to China in this respect", he said.

Rare earths: The latest weapon in the US-China trade war

The US State Department said Tuesday that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-military-identifies-more-remains-of-american-war-dead-handed-over-by-north-korea-222369">North Korea</a>'s overall program of weapons of mass destruction violated UN resolutions after President Donald Trump brushed off recent missile launches.

Choosing words carefully after Trump's latest warm words for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/endemic-corruption-in-north-korea-people-survive-by-paying-bribes-un-report-222287">North Korean</a> leader Kim Jong Un, State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus declined to say if North Korea's launches were of ballistic missiles or constituted weapons of mass destruction (WMD).

"I think the entire North Korean WMD program, it's in conflict with the UN Security (Council) resolutions," Ortagus told reporters.

She said the United States wanted a favourable relationship between Trump and Kim with a goal to "negotiate a peaceful end to the North Korean WMD program."

Watch: North Korea demands immediate return of Cargo Ship seized by US

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korea-demands-immediate-return-of-cargo-ship-seized-by-us-218720/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We have said many times and we will continue to reiterate that the economic sanctions will remain in place until we're there," she said.

When he arrived in Japan for a weekend state visit, Trump tweeted that North Korea had tested "some small weapons" that had "disturbed some of my people, and others, but not me."

He appeared to be referring to his National Security Advisor John Bolton, who said Saturday there was "no doubt" that North Korea's launches had contravened United Nations Security Council resolutions.

North Korea wasted no time piling onto Bolton, who has long promoted a hawkish foreign policy, calling him a "human defect" and "war maniac."

North Korea has previously called for Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to be excluded from negotiations after he apparently pressed Trump at his February summit with Kim in Hanoi not to accept sanctions relief without further action by Pyongyang in ending its nuclear program.

The US State Department said Tuesday that North Korea's overall program of weapons of mass destruction violated UN resolutions after President Donald Trump brushed off recent missile launches.

The US State Department said Tuesday that North Korea's overall program of weapons of mass destruction violated UN resolutions after President Donald Trump brushed off recent missile launches. Choosing words carefully after Trump's latest warm words for North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus declined to say if North Korea's launches were of ballistic missiles or constituted weapons of mass destruction (WMD). "I think the entire North Korean WMD program, it's in conflict with the UN Security (Council) resolutions," Ortagus told reporters. She said the United States wanted a favourable relationship between Trump and Kim with a goal to "negotiate a peaceful end to the North Korean WMD program." Watch: North Korea demands immediate return of Cargo Ship seized by US "We have said many times and we will continue to reiterate that the economic sanctions will remain in place until we're there," she said. When he arrived in Japan for a weekend state visit, Trump tweeted that North Korea had tested "some small weapons" that had "disturbed some of my people, and others, but not me." He appeared to be referring to his National Security Advisor John Bolton, who said Saturday there was "no doubt" that North Korea's launches had contravened United Nations Security Council resolutions. North Korea wasted no time piling onto Bolton, who has long promoted a hawkish foreign policy, calling him a "human defect" and "war maniac." North Korea has previously called for Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to be excluded from negotiations after he apparently pressed Trump at his February summit with Kim in Hanoi not to accept sanctions relief without further action by Pyongyang in ending its nuclear program.

US says North Korea program violates UN resolutions, after Trump tweet

US President Donald Trump can expect a warm welcome from the sumo wrestling community when he presents a custom-made "Trump Award" to the winner of the Summer Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo on May 26.

Japan's sumo fans welcome Trump Trophy but wish he'd sit cross-legged

President Trump said he wasn’t bothered by North Korea’s latest round of missile tests and the U.S. wasn’t seeking regime change in Iran, striking conciliatory notes on the two nations’ nuclear programs as he wrapped up his second trip to Japan since taking office.

Did North Korea violate United Nations resolutions?

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