<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joementum-biden-ramps-up-2020-bid-with-wind-at-his-back-219560">Democrat Joe Biden</a> made a passionate appeal for national unity Saturday but also took square political aim at Donald Trump, branding the president a "divider in chief" who must be ousted in 2020.

At a boisterous rally in Philadelphia, the former vice president urged voters to end the mean-spirited pettiness and partisan squabbles that have left Americans angry and dispirited in recent years.

"This nation needs to come together," the veteran politician told a crowd estimated at 6,000 in Philadelphia, in the largest rally of his nascent campaign.

"Our president is the divider in chief," he added, accusing Trump of demonizing opponents and using scapegoats to fuel animosity.

"If the American people want a president to add to our division, to lead with a clenched fist, closed hand and a hard heart, to demonize opponents and spew hatred, they don't need me," Biden said in a raised voice. "They've got President Donald Trump."

Biden, 76, came to Washington in a less polarized era, and he cited his work across the aisle during his 36 years in the US Senate to assure Democrats that "compromise is not a dirty word" and can lead to successes going forward.

"Let's stop fighting and start fixing," he said.

The number two to popular president Barack Obama is now making his third White House bid, and relishes his prime position atop the pack of 2020 Democratic contenders.

But the party eminence appeared to ignore the primary jockeying with his Democratic rivals and cast his eye directly at the general election battle against Trump.

After a month of more modest events, the large-scale rally in Pennsylvania's largest city highlighted the importance Democrats place on winning back the swing state that Trump snatched in 2016.

Biden was born and raised in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and the sun-splashed downtown event was a nod to his modest roots.

But far from being the underdog, Biden is looking to cement his status as the man to beat.

He is a blue-collar voter whisperer who claims he is best positioned to defeat Trump. But Biden must also balance the concern that while he is the most experienced candidate out there, he embodies the Washington insider cachet that many voters rejected in 2016 when they chose Trump over former secretary of state Hillary Clinton.

"Maybe he's a little bit establishment, but he was always Joe from Scranton," Mickey Kirzecky, a health care consultant who attended the rally, told AFP.

"He still has that, and I think that's going to be tough for Trump to fight."

Polls give Biden a growing lead over the 22 other hopefuls.

The latest RealClearPolitics aggregate puts him at 39.1 per cent support, more than double the 16.4 per cent of his nearest rival, liberal Senator Bernie Sanders.

No one else is in double digits.

'Beat Trump'

As voters start paying more attention, Biden -- who to date has campaigned mostly in broad strokes -- will be under pressure to flesh out policies on everything from health care and wages to immigration.

Next month he will be expected to provide details on multiple positions -- and engage his party rivals more directly -- when Democrats gather for their first televised debate of the 2020 season.

Biden has already called for a clean energy "revolution," and in his Saturday speech assured that he supports the traditional Democratic goals of protecting voting rights and broadening access to health care.

But Biden warned that none of those goals could be achieved should Trump secure another four years in the White House.

"If you want to know what the first and most important plan in my climate proposal is: Beat Trump," he said. "Beat Trump. Beat Trump."

Blue-collar appeal

Even as some supporters encourage Biden to take the high road, the Democrat displayed a willingness for confrontation as he said the president "embraces dictators and tyrants like (Vladimir) Putin and Kim Jong Un."

Biden has aligned himself closely with Obama, drawing support from African-American voters, and he went out of his way Saturday to praise Obama's "courage," character and vision.

In doing so he took another swipe at the current Republican president, who has routinely boasted about the well-performing US economy.&nbsp;

"President Trump inherited an economy from the Obama/Biden administration that was given to him, just like he inherited everything else in his life," he said.

Biden styles himself, like Trump, as an ardent defender of working-class Americans, someone who can win back the Midwestern, white, male blue-collar voters who went for the Republican in 2016.

Trump has insisted he does not see Biden "as a threat."

But he has bestowed a negative nickname on his rival -- "Sleepy Joe" -- and scheduled a campaign rally for Monday in northern Pennsylvania, near Scranton.

Democrat Joe Biden made a passionate appeal for national unity Saturday but also took square political aim at Donald Trump, branding the president a "divider in chief" who must be ousted in 2020.

Democrat Joe Biden made a passionate appeal for national unity Saturday but also took square political aim at Donald Trump, branding the president a "divider in chief" who must be ousted in 2020. At a boisterous rally in Philadelphia, the former vice president urged voters to end the mean-spirited pettiness and partisan squabbles that have left Americans angry and dispirited in recent years. "This nation needs to come together," the veteran politician told a crowd estimated at 6,000 in Philadelphia, in the largest rally of his nascent campaign. "Our president is the divider in chief," he added, accusing Trump of demonizing opponents and using scapegoats to fuel animosity. "If the American people want a president to add to our division, to lead with a clenched fist, closed hand and a hard heart, to demonize opponents and spew hatred, they don't need me," Biden said in a raised voice. "They've got President Donald Trump." Biden, 76, came to Washington in a less polarized era, and he cited his work across the aisle during his 36 years in the US Senate to assure Democrats that "compromise is not a dirty word" and can lead to successes going forward. "Let's stop fighting and start fixing," he said. The number two to popular president Barack Obama is now making his third White House bid, and relishes his prime position atop the pack of 2020 Democratic contenders. But the party eminence appeared to ignore the primary jockeying with his Democratic rivals and cast his eye directly at the general election battle against Trump. After a month of more modest events, the large-scale rally in Pennsylvania's largest city highlighted the importance Democrats place on winning back the swing state that Trump snatched in 2016. Biden was born and raised in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and the sun-splashed downtown event was a nod to his modest roots. But far from being the underdog, Biden is looking to cement his status as the man to beat. He is a blue-collar voter whisperer who claims he is best positioned to defeat Trump. But Biden must also balance the concern that while he is the most experienced candidate out there, he embodies the Washington insider cachet that many voters rejected in 2016 when they chose Trump over former secretary of state Hillary Clinton. "Maybe he's a little bit establishment, but he was always Joe from Scranton," Mickey Kirzecky, a health care consultant who attended the rally, told AFP. "He still has that, and I think that's going to be tough for Trump to fight." Polls give Biden a growing lead over the 22 other hopefuls. The latest RealClearPolitics aggregate puts him at 39.1 per cent support, more than double the 16.4 per cent of his nearest rival, liberal Senator Bernie Sanders. No one else is in double digits. 'Beat Trump' As voters start paying more attention, Biden -- who to date has campaigned mostly in broad strokes -- will be under pressure to flesh out policies on everything from health care and wages to immigration. Next month he will be expected to provide details on multiple positions -- and engage his party rivals more directly -- when Democrats gather for their first televised debate of the 2020 season. Biden has already called for a clean energy "revolution," and in his Saturday speech assured that he supports the traditional Democratic goals of protecting voting rights and broadening access to health care. But Biden warned that none of those goals could be achieved should Trump secure another four years in the White House. "If you want to know what the first and most important plan in my climate proposal is: Beat Trump," he said. "Beat Trump. Beat Trump." Blue-collar appeal Even as some supporters encourage Biden to take the high road, the Democrat displayed a willingness for confrontation as he said the president "embraces dictators and tyrants like (Vladimir) Putin and Kim Jong Un." Biden has aligned himself closely with Obama, drawing support from African-American voters, and he went out of his way Saturday to praise Obama's "courage," character and vision. In doing so he took another swipe at the current Republican president, who has routinely boasted about the well-performing US economy. "President Trump inherited an economy from the Obama/Biden administration that was given to him, just like he inherited everything else in his life," he said. Biden styles himself, like Trump, as an ardent defender of working-class Americans, someone who can win back the Midwestern, white, male blue-collar voters who went for the Republican in 2016. Trump has insisted he does not see Biden "as a threat." But he has bestowed a negative nickname on his rival -- "Sleepy Joe" -- and scheduled a campaign rally for Monday in northern Pennsylvania, near Scranton.

Let's stop fighting, 'start fixing': Biden offers anti-Trump theme

Chinese telecoms giant Huawei is ready to deal with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-huawei-restricted-from-using-us-suppliers-219260">Washington's crackdown</a> and will reduce its reliance on US components, its founder told Japanese media.

President Donald Trump <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/huawei-founder-says-growth-may-slow-but-only-slightly-after-us-restrictions-219759">effectively barred Huawei from the US market</a> on Wednesday and added it to a list which would restrict US sales to the firm amid an escalating trade war with Beijing.

"We have already been preparing for this," Huawei founder and CEO Ren Zhengfei told a group of Japanese journalists Saturday in his first interview since Trump's move.

Ren said Huawei would continue to develop its own components to reduce its dependence on outside suppliers.

Huawei is a rapidly expanding leader in 5G technology but remains dependent on foreign suppliers.

It buys about $67 billion worth of components each year, including about $11 billion from US suppliers, according to The Nikkei business daily.

The usually elusive Ren, 74, has come out of the shadows in recent months in the face of increasing pressure on his company.

Ren's army background and Huawei's opaque culture have fuelled suspicions in some countries that the firm has links with the Chinese military and intelligence services.

Huawei is also the target of an intense campaign by Washington, which has been trying to persuade allies not to allow China a role in building next-generation 5G mobile networks.&nbsp;

US government agencies are already banned from buying equipment from Huawei.

"We have not done anything which violates the law," Ren said, adding the US measures would have a limited impact.

"It is expected that Huawei's growth may slow, but only slightly," he said, according The Nikkei.

A former army technician, Ren founded Huawei in 1987 with only $5,000, according to company lore.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-china-dominates-tech-space-huawei-rules-the-markets-219246/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Huawei now claims to have nearly 190,000 employees, operates in 170 countries, and reported revenue of more than $100 billion in 2018.

Ren said his company would not yield to pressure from Washington.

"We will not change our management at the request of the US or accept monitoring, as &nbsp;ZTE has done," he said, as quoted by The Nikkei, referring to fellow Chinese telecoms giant ZTE which was also targeted by Washington.

ZTE came close to collapse last year after US firms were banned from selling it vital components over its continued dealings with Iran and North Korea.

Trump later reversed the decision and in return ZTE had to pay a $1 billion fine and accept monitoring by the US Commerce Department.

Chinese telecoms giant Huawei is ready to deal with Washington's crackdown and will reduce its reliance on US components, its founder told Japanese media. President Donald Trump effectively barred Huawei from the US market on Wednesday and added it to a list which would restrict US sales to the firm amid an escalating trade war with Beijing.

Chinese telecoms giant Huawei is ready to deal with Washington's crackdown and will reduce its reliance on US components, its founder told Japanese media. President Donald Trump effectively barred Huawei from the US market on Wednesday and added it to a list which would restrict US sales to the firm amid an escalating trade war with Beijing. "We have already been preparing for this," Huawei founder and CEO Ren Zhengfei told a group of Japanese journalists Saturday in his first interview since Trump's move. Ren said Huawei would continue to develop its own components to reduce its dependence on outside suppliers. Huawei is a rapidly expanding leader in 5G technology but remains dependent on foreign suppliers. It buys about $67 billion worth of components each year, including about $11 billion from US suppliers, according to The Nikkei business daily. The usually elusive Ren, 74, has come out of the shadows in recent months in the face of increasing pressure on his company. Ren's army background and Huawei's opaque culture have fuelled suspicions in some countries that the firm has links with the Chinese military and intelligence services. Huawei is also the target of an intense campaign by Washington, which has been trying to persuade allies not to allow China a role in building next-generation 5G mobile networks. US government agencies are already banned from buying equipment from Huawei. "We have not done anything which violates the law," Ren said, adding the US measures would have a limited impact. "It is expected that Huawei's growth may slow, but only slightly," he said, according The Nikkei. A former army technician, Ren founded Huawei in 1987 with only $5,000, according to company lore. × Huawei now claims to have nearly 190,000 employees, operates in 170 countries, and reported revenue of more than $100 billion in 2018. Ren said his company would not yield to pressure from Washington. "We will not change our management at the request of the US or accept monitoring, as ZTE has done," he said, as quoted by The Nikkei, referring to fellow Chinese telecoms giant ZTE which was also targeted by Washington. ZTE came close to collapse last year after US firms were banned from selling it vital components over its continued dealings with Iran and North Korea. Trump later reversed the decision and in return ZTE had to pay a $1 billion fine and accept monitoring by the US Commerce Department.

Huawei will not bow to US pressure: Founder and CEO Ren Zhengfei

The Kremlin said on Sunday it hopes a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart Donald Trump takes place, but that it has not received a definitive decision from Washington on the matter, Interfax news agency reported.

"We know that Trump has spoken of his desire for a meeting, but unfortunately we also know that (US Secretary of State Mike) <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-meets-pompeo-as-us-seeks-a-way-forward-in-ties-218663">Pompeo did not bring any concrete proposals</a> about organising such a meeting on the sidelines of the G20 meeting in Osaka," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was cited as saying.

Meanwhile, a Kremlin aide said on Tuesday that Russian President Vladimir Putin is open to a new meeting with US President Donald Trump if Moscow receives a formal proposal for such an encounter. The remark came after Putin held talks with US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo.

Trump on Monday said he planned to meet Putin on the sidelines of a meeting of G20 nations in Japan next month, but the Kremlin said it had not yet received any formal request from Washington for such a meeting.

Yuri Ushakov, the Kremlin aide, said Putin's meeting with Pompeo at the Russian Black Sea resort of Sochi had not yielded any breakthrough but had been held in a business-like atmosphere.

The Kremlin said on Sunday it hopes a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart Donald Trump takes place, but that it has not received a definitive decision from Washington on the matter, Interfax news agency reported.

The Kremlin said on Sunday it hopes a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart Donald Trump takes place, but that it has not received a definitive decision from Washington on the matter, Interfax news agency reported. "We know that Trump has spoken of his desire for a meeting, but unfortunately we also know that (US Secretary of State Mike) Pompeo did not bring any concrete proposals about organising such a meeting on the sidelines of the G20 meeting in Osaka," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was cited as saying. Meanwhile, a Kremlin aide said on Tuesday that Russian President Vladimir Putin is open to a new meeting with US President Donald Trump if Moscow receives a formal proposal for such an encounter. The remark came after Putin held talks with US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo. Trump on Monday said he planned to meet Putin on the sidelines of a meeting of G20 nations in Japan next month, but the Kremlin said it had not yet received any formal request from Washington for such a meeting. Yuri Ushakov, the Kremlin aide, said Putin's meeting with Pompeo at the Russian Black Sea resort of Sochi had not yielded any breakthrough but had been held in a business-like atmosphere.

Kremlin waiting for US decision on Putin-Trump meeting: Report

The US has detained an Iranian scientist for nearly seven months for allegedly attempting to ship growth hormones, Iranian media said Sunday, quoting his brother as saying he is being held "hostage".

Masoud Soleimani, 49, a professor and senior stem cell researcher at Tehran's Tarbiat Moddares University, left for the US on October 22, 2018, state news agency IRNA said.&nbsp;

He was to undertake a six-month study in the US but was arrested by the Federal Bureau of Investigation at Chicago airport, according to semi-official news agency ISNA.

His visa was cancelled and he was transferred to Dayton prison in Atlanta, IRNA said.

According to Iran's English language state-run channel Press TV, Soleimani was invited by the Mayo Clinic, a university hospital in Minnesota, to conduct a research program.

"For months we weren't given any clear answers until we managed to find out where he was by hiring a lawyer and following up," IRNA quoted Soleimani's brother, Rasoul, as saying.

During Soleimani's sole court appearance on May 14, he was told he was charged with "trying to transfer some 'growth hormone vials' via two students to Iran," the brother told ISNA.

"The vials were not subject to sanctions and have a purely medical use ... the Americans' absurd claims have baffled everyone inside and outside the country," Rasoul Soleimani added.

IRNA said Rasoul had emphasised that his "brother is certainly the hostage of the US government".

Rasoul said that the family had not previously talked to the media because of Iran's "national security", according to ISNA.

The head of Tarbiat Moddares University Mohammad Taghi Ahmadi was quoted by ISNA as saying that &nbsp;prosecutors' claims Soleimani violated US sanctions by trying to procure a medical substance are "ridiculous and unacceptable."&nbsp;

"The professor has not made any purchase directly ... the charges levelled against him are ridiculous and unacceptable," Ahmadi said. &nbsp;

"His detention is a harassment operation," he added.

Iran's deputy science minister Salar Amoli told ISNA that "two individuals detained with the professor" have been released.&nbsp;

He said his ministry is coordinating with Iran's foreign ministry to secure Soleimani's release but did not name the other two who were allegedly arrested.

The Iranian academic was secretly indicted on June 12, 2018, by the FBI for unspecified reasons, Press TV reported, quoting two American lawyers.

US President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal in May last year, and his administration has since reimposed punishing sanctions.

Tensions between Washington and Tehran have recently ratcheted up further as the US has increased its military presence in the region over alleged "Iranian threats."

The US has detained an Iranian scientist for nearly seven months for allegedly attempting to ship growth hormones, Iranian media said Sunday, quoting his brother as saying he is being held "hostage".

The US has detained an Iranian scientist for nearly seven months for allegedly attempting to ship growth hormones, Iranian media said Sunday, quoting his brother as saying he is being held "hostage". Masoud Soleimani, 49, a professor and senior stem cell researcher at Tehran's Tarbiat Moddares University, left for the US on October 22, 2018, state news agency IRNA said. He was to undertake a six-month study in the US but was arrested by the Federal Bureau of Investigation at Chicago airport, according to semi-official news agency ISNA. His visa was cancelled and he was transferred to Dayton prison in Atlanta, IRNA said. According to Iran's English language state-run channel Press TV, Soleimani was invited by the Mayo Clinic, a university hospital in Minnesota, to conduct a research program. "For months we weren't given any clear answers until we managed to find out where he was by hiring a lawyer and following up," IRNA quoted Soleimani's brother, Rasoul, as saying. During Soleimani's sole court appearance on May 14, he was told he was charged with "trying to transfer some 'growth hormone vials' via two students to Iran," the brother told ISNA. "The vials were not subject to sanctions and have a purely medical use ... the Americans' absurd claims have baffled everyone inside and outside the country," Rasoul Soleimani added. IRNA said Rasoul had emphasised that his "brother is certainly the hostage of the US government". Rasoul said that the family had not previously talked to the media because of Iran's "national security", according to ISNA. The head of Tarbiat Moddares University Mohammad Taghi Ahmadi was quoted by ISNA as saying that prosecutors' claims Soleimani violated US sanctions by trying to procure a medical substance are "ridiculous and unacceptable." "The professor has not made any purchase directly ... the charges levelled against him are ridiculous and unacceptable," Ahmadi said. "His detention is a harassment operation," he added. Iran's deputy science minister Salar Amoli told ISNA that "two individuals detained with the professor" have been released. He said his ministry is coordinating with Iran's foreign ministry to secure Soleimani's release but did not name the other two who were allegedly arrested. The Iranian academic was secretly indicted on June 12, 2018, by the FBI for unspecified reasons, Press TV reported, quoting two American lawyers. US President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal in May last year, and his administration has since reimposed punishing sanctions. Tensions between Washington and Tehran have recently ratcheted up further as the US has increased its military presence in the region over alleged "Iranian threats."

US holds Iran scientist 'hostage' for seven months: Brother

President Donald Trump has declared himself "strongly Pro-Life", days after two US states passed tough new restrictions on abortions but said exceptions should be made for pregnancies resulting from rape or incest.

The US president spelt out his position on abortion -&nbsp;set to feature prominently at next year's election -&nbsp;in his first comments on the hot-button issue since Alabama's governor signed a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alabama-senate-bans-nearly-all-abortions-including-rape-cases-218840">near-total ban on the termination of pregnancy</a>.

"As most people know, and for those who would like to know, I am strongly Pro-Life, with the three exceptions -&nbsp;Rape, Incest and protecting the Life of the mother -&nbsp;the same position taken by Ronald Reagan," Trump tweeted late Saturday.

Trump, who is seeking to expand on his conservative support ahead of his re-election bid, added, "The Radical Left, with late-term abortion (and worse), is imploding on this issue.

"We must stick together and Win for Life in 2020."

Alabama's governor on Wednesday<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alabama-governor-signs-nations-strictest-abortion-ban-219055"> signed a near-total prohibition on abortions</a> widely seen as the country's most restrictive ban, and the Missouri legislature on Friday made the procedure illegal from eight weeks of pregnancy.

Neither makes exceptions for rape or incest -&nbsp;only for cases where the mother's life is in danger.

Republican-led legislatures in Georgia, Ohio, Mississippi, Kentucky, Iowa and North Dakota have also enacted laws banning abortion from the moment a fetal heartbeat is detected.

Supporters hope that legal battles over the laws will reach the Supreme Court, as they pursue the long-sought conservative goal of overturning its landmark 1973 abortion ruling, known as Roe v Wade.

Roe v Wade guarantees women's rights to abortion as long as the fetus is not viable -&nbsp;around 24 weeks of pregnancy.

Trump, a bombastic, twice-divorced billionaire, won over the evangelical vote during his 2016 campaign by promising to appoint anti-abortion justices at the Supreme Court.

He has since brought two conservative appointees to the highest court in the land -&nbsp;Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh -&nbsp;shifting the balance of the nine-person bench.

In a series of tweets on the deeply polarising issue, Trump said the US had "come very far in the last two years" on abortion, and praised "two great new Supreme Court Justices".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
As most people know, and for those who would like to know, I am strongly Pro-Life, with the three exceptions - Rape, Incest and protecting the Life of the mother - the same position taken by Ronald Reagan. We have come very far in the last two years with 105 wonderful new.....
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1129954110747422720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
....Federal Judges (many more to come), two great new Supreme Court Justices, the Mexico City Policy, and a whole new &amp; positive attitude about the Right to Life. The Radical Left, with late term abortion (and worse), is imploding on this issue. We must stick together and Win....
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1129954115205914625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
....for Life in 2020. If we are foolish and do not stay UNITED as one, all of our hard fought gains for Life can, and will, rapidly disappear!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1129954116489404416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

On Sunday, defenders of women's reproductive rights are set to march in protest against Alabama's new abortion law in four of the Southern state's cities, including the capital Montgomery.

"People should have the right to make the decisions that are best for their bodies without state interference," organisers said on Facebook.

President Donald Trump has declared himself "strongly Pro-Life", days after two US states passed tough new restrictions on abortions but said exceptions should be made for pregnancies resulting from rape or incest.

President Donald Trump has declared himself "strongly Pro-Life", days after two US states passed tough new restrictions on abortions but said exceptions should be made for pregnancies resulting from rape or incest. The US president spelt out his position on abortion - set to feature prominently at next year's election - in his first comments on the hot-button issue since Alabama's governor signed a near-total ban on the termination of pregnancy. "As most people know, and for those who would like to know, I am strongly Pro-Life, with the three exceptions - Rape, Incest and protecting the Life of the mother - the same position taken by Ronald Reagan," Trump tweeted late Saturday. Trump, who is seeking to expand on his conservative support ahead of his re-election bid, added, "The Radical Left, with late-term abortion (and worse), is imploding on this issue. "We must stick together and Win for Life in 2020." Alabama's governor on Wednesday signed a near-total prohibition on abortions widely seen as the country's most restrictive ban, and the Missouri legislature on Friday made the procedure illegal from eight weeks of pregnancy. Neither makes exceptions for rape or incest - only for cases where the mother's life is in danger. Republican-led legislatures in Georgia, Ohio, Mississippi, Kentucky, Iowa and North Dakota have also enacted laws banning abortion from the moment a fetal heartbeat is detected. Supporters hope that legal battles over the laws will reach the Supreme Court, as they pursue the long-sought conservative goal of overturning its landmark 1973 abortion ruling, known as Roe v Wade. Roe v Wade guarantees women's rights to abortion as long as the fetus is not viable - around 24 weeks of pregnancy. Trump, a bombastic, twice-divorced billionaire, won over the evangelical vote during his 2016 campaign by promising to appoint anti-abortion justices at the Supreme Court. He has since brought two conservative appointees to the highest court in the land - Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh - shifting the balance of the nine-person bench. In a series of tweets on the deeply polarising issue, Trump said the US had "come very far in the last two years" on abortion, and praised "two great new Supreme Court Justices". As most people know, and for those who would like to know, I am strongly Pro-Life, with the three exceptions - Rape, Incest and protecting the Life of the mother - the same position taken by Ronald Reagan. We have come very far in the last two years with 105 wonderful new..... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 19, 2019 × ....Federal Judges (many more to come), two great new Supreme Court Justices, the Mexico City Policy, and a whole new & positive attitude about the Right to Life. The Radical Left, with late term abortion (and worse), is imploding on this issue. We must stick together and Win.... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 19, 2019 × ....for Life in 2020. If we are foolish and do not stay UNITED as one, all of our hard fought gains for Life can, and will, rapidly disappear! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 19, 2019 × On Sunday, defenders of women's reproductive rights are set to march in protest against Alabama's new abortion law in four of the Southern state's cities, including the capital Montgomery. "People should have the right to make the decisions that are best for their bodies without state interference," organisers said on Facebook.

Trump spells out his position on abortion, says 'Pro-Life' but favours exceptions for rape, incest

Major crude producers are set to meet Sunday to discuss how to stabilise a volatile oil market amid rising US-Iran tensions in the Gulf, which threaten to disrupt supply.&nbsp;

Key OPEC members and other major suppliers including Russia will assess the oil market and examine compliance to production cuts agreed late last year.

But the subject of Iran, which is not present, will dominate the one-day meeting of the OPEC+ group.

It comes days after sabotage attacks against tankers in highly sensitive Gulf waters and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-led-warplanes-pound-yemen-rebels-after-pipeline-attack-219178">bombing of a Saudi pipeline by Iran-aligned Yemen rebels</a>.

The meeting also comes as the full impact of re-instated US sanctions against Tehran kicks in, slashing the Islamic Republic's crude exports.

Hours before the meeting in Jeddah, host Saudi Arabia said it does not seek war with Iran but is ready to defend its interests.

The meeting is set to make recommendations ahead of a key OPEC summit in late June, to be attended by Iran.

President Donald Trump said last month Saudi Arabia and other OPEC members had agreed to his request to boost oil production in order to tamp down rising prices.

Massive drops in exports by Iran and Venezuela plus output cuts of 1.2 million barrels per day, implemented by the OPEC+ group since January, have cut supply.

But UAE Energy Minister Suheil al-Mazrouei said inventories were still building up.

He told reporters Saturday that the job of balancing the market was not yet complete, a hint that any ramp-up in production could send prices crashing as they did in late 2018.

Iran exports tumble

OPEC and the International Energy Agency said earlier this month that global oil supply fell in April due to US sanctions on Iran tightened and OPEC+ production cuts.

The IEA said Iranian crude production fell in April to 2.6 million bpd, down from 3.9 million before Washington announced in May 2018 it would withdraw from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal and re-impose sanctions.

Iran's output is already at its lowest level in over five years but could tumble in May to levels not seen since the devastating 1980-1988 Iran-Iraq war.

Energy intelligence firm Kpler sees Iranian exports plunging from 1.4 million bpd in April to around half a million barrels in May -- down from 2.5 million in normal circumstances.

Venezuela's output is also tumbling, down by over half since the third quarter of last year.

Kpler data shows OPEC+ members have kept to agreed production cuts.

But exporters fear a rush to raise production to plug the gap left by Iranian exports could backfire, triggering a new supply glut.&nbsp;

Gulf tensions

Sunday's meeting comes amid soaring Gulf tensions after the mysterious sabotage of several tankers off the Emirati coast and drone attacks, claimed by Iran-aligned Yemen rebels, which shut a key Saudi crude pipeline.

Both attacks targeted routes built as alternatives to the Strait of Hormuz, the conduit for almost all Gulf exports.

Iran has repeatedly threatened to close the Strait in case of war with the US, which said this month it was sending an aircraft carrier and strike group to the region.

Saudi Arabia accused Iran of ordering the pipeline attacks, targeting "the security of oil supplies... and the global economy".

Saudi foreign affairs minister Adel al-Jubeir said Sunday his country does not want war with Iran, but was ready to defend its interests.

Riyadh "does not want a war, is not looking for it and will do everything to prevent it", he told journalists in Riyadh.

Saudi Arabia called Saturday for urgent meetings of the Gulf Cooperation Council and the Arab League to discuss escalating tensions, government news agency SPA said.

It also said Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had spoken with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo about enhancing security in the region.&nbsp;

Saudi Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih said last month the kingdom was ready to boost supplies in case of any shortage due to the Iran embargo.

That is likely to infuriate Iran and raise questions over the future of OPEC, of which Iran is an influential member.&nbsp;

Iranian Oil Minister Bijan Namdar Zanganeh has said Washington's stated aim of bringing Iran's oil exports "to zero" was "an illusion".

Major crude producers are set to meet Sunday to discuss how to stabilise a volatile oil market amid rising US-Iran tensions in the Gulf, which threaten to disrupt supply.

Major crude producers are set to meet Sunday to discuss how to stabilise a volatile oil market amid rising US-Iran tensions in the Gulf, which threaten to disrupt supply. Key OPEC members and other major suppliers including Russia will assess the oil market and examine compliance to production cuts agreed late last year. But the subject of Iran, which is not present, will dominate the one-day meeting of the OPEC+ group. It comes days after sabotage attacks against tankers in highly sensitive Gulf waters and the bombing of a Saudi pipeline by Iran-aligned Yemen rebels. The meeting also comes as the full impact of re-instated US sanctions against Tehran kicks in, slashing the Islamic Republic's crude exports. Hours before the meeting in Jeddah, host Saudi Arabia said it does not seek war with Iran but is ready to defend its interests. The meeting is set to make recommendations ahead of a key OPEC summit in late June, to be attended by Iran. President Donald Trump said last month Saudi Arabia and other OPEC members had agreed to his request to boost oil production in order to tamp down rising prices. Massive drops in exports by Iran and Venezuela plus output cuts of 1.2 million barrels per day, implemented by the OPEC+ group since January, have cut supply. But UAE Energy Minister Suheil al-Mazrouei said inventories were still building up. He told reporters Saturday that the job of balancing the market was not yet complete, a hint that any ramp-up in production could send prices crashing as they did in late 2018. Iran exports tumble OPEC and the International Energy Agency said earlier this month that global oil supply fell in April due to US sanctions on Iran tightened and OPEC+ production cuts. The IEA said Iranian crude production fell in April to 2.6 million bpd, down from 3.9 million before Washington announced in May 2018 it would withdraw from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal and re-impose sanctions. Iran's output is already at its lowest level in over five years but could tumble in May to levels not seen since the devastating 1980-1988 Iran-Iraq war. Energy intelligence firm Kpler sees Iranian exports plunging from 1.4 million bpd in April to around half a million barrels in May -- down from 2.5 million in normal circumstances. Venezuela's output is also tumbling, down by over half since the third quarter of last year. Kpler data shows OPEC+ members have kept to agreed production cuts. But exporters fear a rush to raise production to plug the gap left by Iranian exports could backfire, triggering a new supply glut. Gulf tensions Sunday's meeting comes amid soaring Gulf tensions after the mysterious sabotage of several tankers off the Emirati coast and drone attacks, claimed by Iran-aligned Yemen rebels, which shut a key Saudi crude pipeline. Both attacks targeted routes built as alternatives to the Strait of Hormuz, the conduit for almost all Gulf exports. Iran has repeatedly threatened to close the Strait in case of war with the US, which said this month it was sending an aircraft carrier and strike group to the region. Saudi Arabia accused Iran of ordering the pipeline attacks, targeting "the security of oil supplies... and the global economy". Saudi foreign affairs minister Adel al-Jubeir said Sunday his country does not want war with Iran, but was ready to defend its interests. Riyadh "does not want a war, is not looking for it and will do everything to prevent it", he told journalists in Riyadh. Saudi Arabia called Saturday for urgent meetings of the Gulf Cooperation Council and the Arab League to discuss escalating tensions, government news agency SPA said. It also said Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had spoken with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo about enhancing security in the region. Saudi Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih said last month the kingdom was ready to boost supplies in case of any shortage due to the Iran embargo. That is likely to infuriate Iran and raise questions over the future of OPEC, of which Iran is an influential member. Iranian Oil Minister Bijan Namdar Zanganeh has said Washington's stated aim of bringing Iran's oil exports "to zero" was "an illusion".

Oil producers meet to discuss output amid Iran tension

The US Commerce Department said on Friday it may soon scale back restrictions on Huawei Technologies after this week's blacklisting would have made it nearly impossible for the Chinese company to service its existing customers.

The Commerce Department, which had effectively halted Huawei's ability to buy American-made parts and components, is considering issuing a temporary general license to "prevent the interruption of existing network operations and equipment," a spokeswoman said.

Potential beneficiaries of the license could, for example, include internet access and mobile phone service providers in thinly populated places such as Wyoming and eastern Oregon that purchased network equipment from Huawei in recent years.

In effect, the Commerce Department would allow Huawei to purchase US&nbsp;goods so it can help existing customers maintain the reliability of networks and equipment, but the Chinese firm still would not be allowed to buy American parts and components to manufacture new products.

The potential rule roll back suggests changes to Huawei's supply chain may have immediate, far-reaching and unintended consequences.

The blacklisting, officially known as placing Huawei on the Commerce Department's entity list, was one or two efforts by the Trump administration this week allegedly made in an attempt to thwart national security risks. In an executive order, President Donald Trump also effectively barred the use of its equipment in US&nbsp;telecom networks.

The United States believes <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-huawei-restricted-from-using-us-suppliers-219260">Huawei's smartphones</a> and network equipment could be used by China to spy on Americans, allegations the company has repeatedly denied.

The latest Commerce move comes as China has struck a more aggressive tone in its trade war with the United States, suggesting talks between the world's two largest economies would be meaningless unless Washington changed course.

A spokesman for Huawei, the world's largest telecommunications equipment maker, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Out of $70 billion Huawei spent buying components in 2018, some $11 billion went to US&nbsp;firms including Qualcomm, Intel Corp and Micron Technology Inc. If the Commerce Department issues the license, US&nbsp;suppliers would still need separate licenses to conduct new business with Huawei, which would be extremely difficult to obtain, the spokeswoman said.

The temporary general license would last for 90 days, she said and would be posted in the Federal Register, just as the rule adding Huawei to the entity list will be published in the government publication on Tuesday.

"The goal is to prevent collateral harm on non-Huawei entities that use their equipment," said Washington lawyer Kevin Wolf, a former Commerce Department official.

The entity listing bans Huawei and 68 affiliates in 26 countries from buying American-made goods and technology without licenses that would likely be denied.

The entities list identifies companies believed to be involved in activities contrary to the national security or foreign policy interests of the United States.

In a final rule posted on Thursday, the government tied Huawei's entity listing to a criminal case pending against the company in Brooklyn, New York.

The US&nbsp;prosecutors unsealed the indictment in January accusing the company of engaging in bank fraud to obtain embargoed US&nbsp;goods and services in Iran and to move money out of the country via the international banking system.

Huawei Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou, daughter of the company's founder, was arrested in Canada in December in connection with the indictment, a move that has led to a three-way diplomatic crisis involving the US, China and Canada.

Meng, who was released on bail, remains in Vancouver and is fighting extradition. She has maintained her innocence, and Huawei has entered a plea of not guilty in New York.

Trump injected other considerations into the criminal case after Meng's arrest when he told Reuters he would intervene if it helped close a trade deal.

The US Commerce Department said on Friday it may soon scale back restrictions on Huawei Technologies after this week's blacklisting would have made it nearly impossible for the Chinese company to service its existing customers.

The US Commerce Department said on Friday it may soon scale back restrictions on Huawei Technologies after this week's blacklisting would have made it nearly impossible for the Chinese company to service its existing customers. The Commerce Department, which had effectively halted Huawei's ability to buy American-made parts and components, is considering issuing a temporary general license to "prevent the interruption of existing network operations and equipment," a spokeswoman said. Potential beneficiaries of the license could, for example, include internet access and mobile phone service providers in thinly populated places such as Wyoming and eastern Oregon that purchased network equipment from Huawei in recent years. In effect, the Commerce Department would allow Huawei to purchase US goods so it can help existing customers maintain the reliability of networks and equipment, but the Chinese firm still would not be allowed to buy American parts and components to manufacture new products. The potential rule roll back suggests changes to Huawei's supply chain may have immediate, far-reaching and unintended consequences. The blacklisting, officially known as placing Huawei on the Commerce Department's entity list, was one or two efforts by the Trump administration this week allegedly made in an attempt to thwart national security risks. In an executive order, President Donald Trump also effectively barred the use of its equipment in US telecom networks. The United States believes Huawei's smartphones and network equipment could be used by China to spy on Americans, allegations the company has repeatedly denied. The latest Commerce move comes as China has struck a more aggressive tone in its trade war with the United States, suggesting talks between the world's two largest economies would be meaningless unless Washington changed course. A spokesman for Huawei, the world's largest telecommunications equipment maker, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Out of $70 billion Huawei spent buying components in 2018, some $11 billion went to US firms including Qualcomm, Intel Corp and Micron Technology Inc. If the Commerce Department issues the license, US suppliers would still need separate licenses to conduct new business with Huawei, which would be extremely difficult to obtain, the spokeswoman said. The temporary general license would last for 90 days, she said and would be posted in the Federal Register, just as the rule adding Huawei to the entity list will be published in the government publication on Tuesday. "The goal is to prevent collateral harm on non-Huawei entities that use their equipment," said Washington lawyer Kevin Wolf, a former Commerce Department official. The entity listing bans Huawei and 68 affiliates in 26 countries from buying American-made goods and technology without licenses that would likely be denied. The entities list identifies companies believed to be involved in activities contrary to the national security or foreign policy interests of the United States. In a final rule posted on Thursday, the government tied Huawei's entity listing to a criminal case pending against the company in Brooklyn, New York. The US prosecutors unsealed the indictment in January accusing the company of engaging in bank fraud to obtain embargoed US goods and services in Iran and to move money out of the country via the international banking system. Huawei Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou, daughter of the company's founder, was arrested in Canada in December in connection with the indictment, a move that has led to a three-way diplomatic crisis involving the US, China and Canada. Meng, who was released on bail, remains in Vancouver and is fighting extradition. She has maintained her innocence, and Huawei has entered a plea of not guilty in New York. Trump injected other considerations into the criminal case after Meng's arrest when he told Reuters he would intervene if it helped close a trade deal.

US may scale back Huawei trade restrictions to help existing customers

The US&nbsp;Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin defied a congressional subpoena seeking six years of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/standoff-intensifies-as-democrats-subpoena-trump-tax-returns-217679">President Donald Trump's tax returns </a>on Friday, all but guaranteeing a federal court battle with Congress over the records.

In a widely expected move, Mnuchin rejected a demand for the documents from House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard Neal, saying the panel lacks "a legitimate legislative purpose" for obtaining the tax records that Democrats view as critical to their efforts to investigate Trump and his presidency.

"We are unable to provide the requested information in response to the committee's subpoena," Mnuchin said in a letter to Neal, released ahead of a 5 p.m. EDT (2100 GMT) deadline for delivering the documents.

Neal later issued a statement, saying he was "consulting with counsel on how best to enforce the subpoenas moving forward."

Hours earlier, the Democratic chairman had said he was inclined to turn to federal court to obtain Trump's tax returns if the administration missed the deadline. "We will likely proceed to court as quickly as next week," Neal had told reporters.

Asked whether he would also pursue contempt charges against administration officials, Neal told reporters: "I don't see that right now as an option. I think that the better option for us is to proceed with a court case."

Trump's refusal to cooperate in numerous congressional probes of him, his family and his presidency is forcing Democrats, who control the House of Representatives, to look to the courts to enforce their oversight powers under the US&nbsp;Constitution.

The likely decision to avoid contempt proceedings disappointed some Democrats on Neal's tax panel.

"This is a way for some congressmen to go south on the issue: leave it to the courts. It really absents us from our responsibilities," said Representative Bill Pascrell, who helped lead the push to obtain Trump's tax returns.

OTHER DEMOCRATS MOVE TOWARD CONTEMPT

Unlike Neal, other top Democrats faced with administration defiance over inquiries have moved toward contempt charges.

House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler's panel voted last week to recommend that the House cite Attorney General William Barr with contempt of Congress for defying a subpoena for US&nbsp;Special Counsel Robert Mueller's unredacted Russia investigation report.

Trump's decision to assert executive privilege over Mueller-related material last week has stymied efforts by Democrats to get current and former members of the executive branch to testify, including Mueller himself, according to congressional aides.

Democrats had sought to have Mueller testify by May 23, but sources familiar with the matter said on Friday that Mueller was unlikely to appear before the committee.

Democrats could move forward with more contempt citations as early as next week. Nadler has threatened to hold former White House counsel Don McGahn in contempt if he fails to show up for a hearing slated for Tuesday.

House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff is also planning "enforcement action" against the Justice Department over a separate Mueller-related subpoena.

Democratic leaders are considering bundling separate contempt citations into a single House of Representatives package to bring to a floor vote later this year.

On Wednesday, White House counsel Pat Cipollone sent a letter to Nadler, saying Congress has no right to conduct a "do-over" of Mueller's Russia probe, and that it would not participate in his committee's investigation.

But congressional pressure on Trump is only expected to intensify.

Schiff's committee meets on Monday to release closed-door testimony by former Trump lawyer Michael Cohen, who is in prison. Cohen talked to the panel in March about issues including Trump's involvement in pursuing a Moscow tower project during the 2016 presidential election. Trump at the time publicly denied any links to Russia.

On Thursday, House Oversight Committee Chairman Elijah Cummings announced another probe into the Trump administration, targeting what Cummings called "secret ethics waivers" allowing political appointees to continue working on matters they worked on before entering government.

In a statement, Cummings said he had requested that the administration turns over copies of waivers for political appointees to let them conduct official business, despite potential conflicts of interest.

The US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin defied a congressional subpoena seeking six years of President Donald Trump's tax returns on Friday, all but guaranteeing a federal court battle with Congress over the records.

The US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin defied a congressional subpoena seeking six years of President Donald Trump's tax returns on Friday, all but guaranteeing a federal court battle with Congress over the records. In a widely expected move, Mnuchin rejected a demand for the documents from House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard Neal, saying the panel lacks "a legitimate legislative purpose" for obtaining the tax records that Democrats view as critical to their efforts to investigate Trump and his presidency. "We are unable to provide the requested information in response to the committee's subpoena," Mnuchin said in a letter to Neal, released ahead of a 5 p.m. EDT (2100 GMT) deadline for delivering the documents. Neal later issued a statement, saying he was "consulting with counsel on how best to enforce the subpoenas moving forward." Hours earlier, the Democratic chairman had said he was inclined to turn to federal court to obtain Trump's tax returns if the administration missed the deadline. "We will likely proceed to court as quickly as next week," Neal had told reporters. Asked whether he would also pursue contempt charges against administration officials, Neal told reporters: "I don't see that right now as an option. I think that the better option for us is to proceed with a court case." Trump's refusal to cooperate in numerous congressional probes of him, his family and his presidency is forcing Democrats, who control the House of Representatives, to look to the courts to enforce their oversight powers under the US Constitution. The likely decision to avoid contempt proceedings disappointed some Democrats on Neal's tax panel. "This is a way for some congressmen to go south on the issue: leave it to the courts. It really absents us from our responsibilities," said Representative Bill Pascrell, who helped lead the push to obtain Trump's tax returns. OTHER DEMOCRATS MOVE TOWARD CONTEMPT Unlike Neal, other top Democrats faced with administration defiance over inquiries have moved toward contempt charges. House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler's panel voted last week to recommend that the House cite Attorney General William Barr with contempt of Congress for defying a subpoena for US Special Counsel Robert Mueller's unredacted Russia investigation report. Trump's decision to assert executive privilege over Mueller-related material last week has stymied efforts by Democrats to get current and former members of the executive branch to testify, including Mueller himself, according to congressional aides. Democrats had sought to have Mueller testify by May 23, but sources familiar with the matter said on Friday that Mueller was unlikely to appear before the committee. Democrats could move forward with more contempt citations as early as next week. Nadler has threatened to hold former White House counsel Don McGahn in contempt if he fails to show up for a hearing slated for Tuesday. House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff is also planning "enforcement action" against the Justice Department over a separate Mueller-related subpoena. Democratic leaders are considering bundling separate contempt citations into a single House of Representatives package to bring to a floor vote later this year. On Wednesday, White House counsel Pat Cipollone sent a letter to Nadler, saying Congress has no right to conduct a "do-over" of Mueller's Russia probe, and that it would not participate in his committee's investigation. But congressional pressure on Trump is only expected to intensify. Schiff's committee meets on Monday to release closed-door testimony by former Trump lawyer Michael Cohen, who is in prison. Cohen talked to the panel in March about issues including Trump's involvement in pursuing a Moscow tower project during the 2016 presidential election. Trump at the time publicly denied any links to Russia. On Thursday, House Oversight Committee Chairman Elijah Cummings announced another probe into the Trump administration, targeting what Cummings called "secret ethics waivers" allowing political appointees to continue working on matters they worked on before entering government. In a statement, Cummings said he had requested that the administration turns over copies of waivers for political appointees to let them conduct official business, despite potential conflicts of interest.

US Treasury Secretary Mnuchin rejects subpoena for Trump tax returns

The US&nbsp;President Donald Trump on Friday denied friction with his hawkish foreign policy advisers on Iran, specifically giving statements of support to White House national security adviser John Bolton and Secretary of State<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-us-lawmakers-press-pompeo-for-answers-on-iran-arms-control-report-219258"> Mike Pompeo</a>.

Trump called "bullshit" a variety of news reports that he had chafed at his advisers and privately expressed concerns that they were trying to steer him into a war with Iran.

The US&nbsp;officials said on Thursday that Trump had told his advisers, including acting<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-picks-ex-boeing-executive-shanahan-as-defense-secretary-217433"> Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan</a>, that he did not want to get into a war with Iran.

"They (the news media) put out messages that I'm angry with my people. I'm not angry with my people. I make my own decisions," Trump said at a realtor's convention in Washington. "Mike Pompeo is doing a great job. Bolton is doing a great job."

Trump during the 2016 presidential campaign promised to stay out of conflicts abroad after what he viewed as costly wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

But he also has said he will do what it takes to protect US&nbsp;interests abroad. The recent deployment of a US&nbsp;aircraft carrier group has raised tensions in the Gulf region and fanned fears of armed conflict.

Trump has approved sanctions against Tehran aimed at crippling the Iranian economy and forcing Iranian leaders to the negotiating table. The United States wants Iran to give up its nuclear and ballistic missile programs and stop other activities it believes are destabilising in the Middle East.

Pompeo laid out a lengthy list of demands on Iran a year ago that critics inside and outside Tehran said showed he was pushing for regime change.

Bolton has a long reputation as a hawk who believes the United States needs to get tough with Iran and has pushed a hard line inside the administration since joining the White House more than a year ago.

While he has been tough on Iran, Trump told reporters last week that he sometimes has to "temper" Bolton.

"We are all frustrated with this notion that we are escalating, that we are seeking conflict," said a senior administration official, who spoke to a small group of reporters under the condition of anonymity. "Nothing could be further from the truth. We are seeking de-escalation."

The official was asked about the notion of Bolton and Pompeo trying to "herd" Trump down the path of war. "Herding Trump down any path is an unsuccessful strategy. There are many witnesses to that," the official said.

Bolton's views on Iran are well-documented, the official said, but stressed, "He has no illusions. He serves the president and he accepted this job because he believes in the president's policies, and he carries them out."

As for Trump's overture to Iran seeking direct talks, there are no indications from the Iranians that they are ready to engage, the official said: "Not yet. We're sitting by the phone."

US intelligence showed heightened activity by Iran or its proxies that US&nbsp;officials took as a threat against American targets in the region.

The US President Donald Trump on Friday denied friction with his hawkish foreign policy advisers on Iran, specifically giving statements of support to White House national security adviser John Bolton and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

The US President Donald Trump on Friday denied friction with his hawkish foreign policy advisers on Iran, specifically giving statements of support to White House national security adviser John Bolton and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. Trump called "bullshit" a variety of news reports that he had chafed at his advisers and privately expressed concerns that they were trying to steer him into a war with Iran. The US officials said on Thursday that Trump had told his advisers, including acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan, that he did not want to get into a war with Iran. "They (the news media) put out messages that I'm angry with my people. I'm not angry with my people. I make my own decisions," Trump said at a realtor's convention in Washington. "Mike Pompeo is doing a great job. Bolton is doing a great job." Trump during the 2016 presidential campaign promised to stay out of conflicts abroad after what he viewed as costly wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. But he also has said he will do what it takes to protect US interests abroad. The recent deployment of a US aircraft carrier group has raised tensions in the Gulf region and fanned fears of armed conflict. Trump has approved sanctions against Tehran aimed at crippling the Iranian economy and forcing Iranian leaders to the negotiating table. The United States wants Iran to give up its nuclear and ballistic missile programs and stop other activities it believes are destabilising in the Middle East. Pompeo laid out a lengthy list of demands on Iran a year ago that critics inside and outside Tehran said showed he was pushing for regime change. Bolton has a long reputation as a hawk who believes the United States needs to get tough with Iran and has pushed a hard line inside the administration since joining the White House more than a year ago. While he has been tough on Iran, Trump told reporters last week that he sometimes has to "temper" Bolton. "We are all frustrated with this notion that we are escalating, that we are seeking conflict," said a senior administration official, who spoke to a small group of reporters under the condition of anonymity. "Nothing could be further from the truth. We are seeking de-escalation." The official was asked about the notion of Bolton and Pompeo trying to "herd" Trump down the path of war. "Herding Trump down any path is an unsuccessful strategy. There are many witnesses to that," the official said. Bolton's views on Iran are well-documented, the official said, but stressed, "He has no illusions. He serves the president and he accepted this job because he believes in the president's policies, and he carries them out." As for Trump's overture to Iran seeking direct talks, there are no indications from the Iranians that they are ready to engage, the official said: "Not yet. We're sitting by the phone." US intelligence showed heightened activity by Iran or its proxies that US officials took as a threat against American targets in the region.

US President Trump denies friction with top aides over Iran policy

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - May 18th, 2019

President Donald Trump on Friday announced a deal to lift US tariffs on steel and aluminium imports from Canada and Mexico that had created friction between the neighbours and blocked a new North American free trade agreement.

"I'm pleased to announce that we've just reached an agreement with Canada and Mexico and will be selling our product into those countries, without the imposition of tariffs," Trump said at an event in the US capital.

His statement came moments after Canada released the text of the agreement between Ottawa and Washington in which they agreed to eliminate US tariffs on steel and aluminium, and Canada's retaliatory measures, within no more than two days.

Mexico confirmed it had reached a similar agreement with the United States.

"Trump's strategy has worked," US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said in a statement,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-delays-decision-on-auto-tariffs-for-up-to-six-months-219505"> crediting the tariffs with reviving US</a> steel and aluminium manufacturers.

The steep US tariffs imposed last year -- 25 per cent on steel and 10 per cent on aluminium -- became a major stumbling block to ratifying a new North American trade pact negotiated last year by the three countries.

Canada and Mexico initially were exempted from the tariffs Trump enforced using a national security argument, as part of his hardline trade tactics.&nbsp;

Once America's neighbours were included, the levies drew retaliation with tariffs on a host of US products.

Even after the governments agreed to a revised free trade deal -- the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement, or USMCA -- the tariffs remained in place, but officials in Ottawa and Mexico City said they would not sign unless Washington removed the metals duties.

Not making sense

Speaking to reporters in Ottawa, Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said there was a shared recognition that "these tariffs were harming workers and consumers on both sides of the border" and "didn't make a lot of sense" in the context of a new free trade deal.

"Obviously these continued tariffs on steel and aluminium and our countermeasures represented significant barriers to moving forward with the new NAFTA agreement," he said, referring to the 24-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement.

"Now that we've had a full lift on these tariffs we are going to work with the United States on timing for ratification but we're very optimistic we are going to be able to move forward well in the coming weeks," Trudeau said.

Mexican chief trade negotiator Jesus Seade likewise tweeted that the lifting of tariffs "clears the way towards ratification of USMCA."

Some key members of the US Congress had said they would not agree to vote for the three-country free trade pact unless the Trump's metals tariffs ended.

"Hopefully Congress will approve it quickly," said Trump.

Democratic US Senator Chuck Schumer applauded the decision to remove the metals tariffs but said there are other concerns about the USMCA.

"It is a good thing these tariffs will be lifted, and we should urge our allies to join us in preventing China's predatory practices," Schumer said in a statement.&nbsp;

However, "There are still many other issues that are outstanding before Democrats would support the USMCA."

According to the agreement, Canada and Mexico will withdraw all complaints lodged against the United States at the World Trade Organization.

The two countries also agreed to monitor imports of steel and aluminium to ensure metals that are sold at "dumped prices" -- below the cost of production -- are not purchased in or shipped through Canada and Mexico.

In addition, they agreed to a provision to reimpose steep duties if imports of the metals "surge meaningfully beyond historic volumes of trade over a period of time."

The US Trade Representative's office said the agreement "provides for aggressive monitoring and a mechanism to prevent surges in imports of steel and aluminium."&nbsp;

"This agreement is great news for American farmers that have been subject to retaliatory tariffs from Canada and Mexico," USTR said.&nbsp;

US tariffs on steel and aluminium from Europe remain in place, as does the EU retaliation. Some countries, including South Korea, accepted export quotas to avoid the tariffs.

President Donald Trump on Friday announced a deal to lift US tariffs on steel and aluminium imports from Canada and Mexico that had created friction between the neighbours and blocked a new North American free trade agreement.

President Donald Trump on Friday announced a deal to lift US tariffs on steel and aluminium imports from Canada and Mexico that had created friction between the neighbours and blocked a new North American free trade agreement. "I'm pleased to announce that we've just reached an agreement with Canada and Mexico and will be selling our product into those countries, without the imposition of tariffs," Trump said at an event in the US capital. His statement came moments after Canada released the text of the agreement between Ottawa and Washington in which they agreed to eliminate US tariffs on steel and aluminium, and Canada's retaliatory measures, within no more than two days. Mexico confirmed it had reached a similar agreement with the United States. "Trump's strategy has worked," US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said in a statement, crediting the tariffs with reviving US steel and aluminium manufacturers. The steep US tariffs imposed last year -- 25 per cent on steel and 10 per cent on aluminium -- became a major stumbling block to ratifying a new North American trade pact negotiated last year by the three countries. Canada and Mexico initially were exempted from the tariffs Trump enforced using a national security argument, as part of his hardline trade tactics. Once America's neighbours were included, the levies drew retaliation with tariffs on a host of US products. Even after the governments agreed to a revised free trade deal -- the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement, or USMCA -- the tariffs remained in place, but officials in Ottawa and Mexico City said they would not sign unless Washington removed the metals duties. Not making sense Speaking to reporters in Ottawa, Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said there was a shared recognition that "these tariffs were harming workers and consumers on both sides of the border" and "didn't make a lot of sense" in the context of a new free trade deal. "Obviously these continued tariffs on steel and aluminium and our countermeasures represented significant barriers to moving forward with the new NAFTA agreement," he said, referring to the 24-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement. "Now that we've had a full lift on these tariffs we are going to work with the United States on timing for ratification but we're very optimistic we are going to be able to move forward well in the coming weeks," Trudeau said. Mexican chief trade negotiator Jesus Seade likewise tweeted that the lifting of tariffs "clears the way towards ratification of USMCA." Some key members of the US Congress had said they would not agree to vote for the three-country free trade pact unless the Trump's metals tariffs ended. "Hopefully Congress will approve it quickly," said Trump. Democratic US Senator Chuck Schumer applauded the decision to remove the metals tariffs but said there are other concerns about the USMCA. "It is a good thing these tariffs will be lifted, and we should urge our allies to join us in preventing China's predatory practices," Schumer said in a statement. However, "There are still many other issues that are outstanding before Democrats would support the USMCA." According to the agreement, Canada and Mexico will withdraw all complaints lodged against the United States at the World Trade Organization. The two countries also agreed to monitor imports of steel and aluminium to ensure metals that are sold at "dumped prices" -- below the cost of production -- are not purchased in or shipped through Canada and Mexico. In addition, they agreed to a provision to reimpose steep duties if imports of the metals "surge meaningfully beyond historic volumes of trade over a period of time." The US Trade Representative's office said the agreement "provides for aggressive monitoring and a mechanism to prevent surges in imports of steel and aluminium." "This agreement is great news for American farmers that have been subject to retaliatory tariffs from Canada and Mexico," USTR said. US tariffs on steel and aluminium from Europe remain in place, as does the EU retaliation. Some countries, including South Korea, accepted export quotas to avoid the tariffs.

Donald Trump lifts steel, aluminum tariffs on Canada, Mexico

Iraqis have endured successive wars but spiralling tensions between Washington and Tehran have many convinced that new conflict looms between their key allies and that they will pay the price.

In Washington, some commentators shrug off the bellicose talk towards Tehran saying it will abate when President Donald Trump reins in his hawkish national security adviser John Bolton to avoid a new -- and potentially far larger -- foreign military commitment.

But in Baghdad, the Pentagon's deployment to the Gulf of a carrier group led by the USS Abraham Lincoln accompanied by B-52 bombers have many people persuaded the US threats are very real.

In March 2003, warplanes from the Lincoln flew sortie after sortie over Iraq in the "shock and awe" bombing blitz that signalled the start of the US-led invasion.

The carrier had first deployed to the region in the aftermath of the 1991 Gulf War which ousted Saddam Hussein's forces from Kuwait.

In May 2003, it was from Lincoln's flight deck that president George W Bush announced the "end of major combat operations" in Iraq in front of a large banner proclaiming: "Mission Accomplished".

The victory declaration was to prove horribly premature, but to Iraqis, the nuclear-powered carrier remains a potent symbol of Washington's readiness to use its formidable military might.

The Lincoln "does not move just for the sake of exerting psychological pressure", said civil rights activist Aysar Jarjafji.

"It is deployed for a reason and returns home only when it has accomplished its mission," she said.

Iraq 'first loser'

Columnist Hussein Rashid agreed. "There is no question about it, there will be war," he said.&nbsp;

"And Iraq will be the first loser.&nbsp;

"The Abraham Lincoln bombed Iraq. We have a bad memory of that."

Taxi driver Abu Hammudi too believes war is coming.&nbsp;

It is Ramadan and the streets of Baghdad are largely deserted during the day as Muslims await the iftar meal that marks the end of their dawn-to-dusk fast.

"The city is empty, it's like wartime," he said.

"I remember perfectly well how Baghdad was bombed in 1991. It was a horrific night. No one had expected it to happen but it did."

Like many taxi drivers in Baghdad, Hammudi drives an Iranian-manufactured yellow Saipa.

The neighbouring countries, which have centuries-old religious and cultural ties, have massively expanded cross-border trade since the US-led overthrow of Saddam's regime, which fought a devastating 1980-88 war against Iran.

Trump strongly disapproves and has piled huge pressure on Iraq to reduce its economic dependence on it neighbour since he abandoned his predecessor Barack Obama's 2015 nuclear deal with Iran last year.

'Interests at stake'

But in Iraq, the Trump administration faces the hard reality that US military trainers and contractors work in the same ministries and businesses as those of Iran.

"American interests are present in Iraq and militias linked to Iran are also present here," said Jarjafji, sipping an after-iftar drink at a Baghdad cafe.

She was referring to Iraq's Hashed al-Shaabi paramilitary force, which is dominated by Iranian-trained Shiite militias.

Those Iranian military trainers, like their US counterparts working with the regular army, played a major role in helping Baghdad defeat the Islamic State group fighters who overran much of the north and west of Iraq in 2014.

But it those same Iranian-trained militias which Washington said on Thursday pose the "imminent" threat to US personnel in Iraq that prompted the latest military deployments.

Washington has blacklisted Iran's Revolutionary Guards -- the parallel army which provides the training -- as a "terrorist" organisation.

Iraqi militia commanders on Thursday dismissed the US allegation as a "provocation" and "psychological warfare".

And Washington's assessment of the immediacy of the threat is not shared by all of its allies in the coalition it forged to fight IS.

"There has been no increased threat from Iranian-backed forces in Iraq and Syria," British coalition spokesman Major General Chris Ghika said on Tuesday.

Iraqi university professor Issa al-Abbadi said he was still hopeful that the realities on the ground would lead moderate voices to prevail.

"There could be a deal. Interests are at stake," he said of the uneasy coexistence between Washington and Tehran in Iraq.&nbsp;

"Victory in war is in avoiding it."&nbsp;

Iraqis have endured successive wars but spiralling tensions between Washington and Tehran have many convinced that new conflict looms between their key allies and that they will pay the price.

Iraqis have endured successive wars but spiralling tensions between Washington and Tehran have many convinced that new conflict looms between their key allies and that they will pay the price. In Washington, some commentators shrug off the bellicose talk towards Tehran saying it will abate when President Donald Trump reins in his hawkish national security adviser John Bolton to avoid a new -- and potentially far larger -- foreign military commitment. But in Baghdad, the Pentagon's deployment to the Gulf of a carrier group led by the USS Abraham Lincoln accompanied by B-52 bombers have many people persuaded the US threats are very real. In March 2003, warplanes from the Lincoln flew sortie after sortie over Iraq in the "shock and awe" bombing blitz that signalled the start of the US-led invasion. The carrier had first deployed to the region in the aftermath of the 1991 Gulf War which ousted Saddam Hussein's forces from Kuwait. In May 2003, it was from Lincoln's flight deck that president George W Bush announced the "end of major combat operations" in Iraq in front of a large banner proclaiming: "Mission Accomplished". The victory declaration was to prove horribly premature, but to Iraqis, the nuclear-powered carrier remains a potent symbol of Washington's readiness to use its formidable military might. The Lincoln "does not move just for the sake of exerting psychological pressure", said civil rights activist Aysar Jarjafji. "It is deployed for a reason and returns home only when it has accomplished its mission," she said. Iraq 'first loser' Columnist Hussein Rashid agreed. "There is no question about it, there will be war," he said. "And Iraq will be the first loser. "The Abraham Lincoln bombed Iraq. We have a bad memory of that." Taxi driver Abu Hammudi too believes war is coming. It is Ramadan and the streets of Baghdad are largely deserted during the day as Muslims await the iftar meal that marks the end of their dawn-to-dusk fast. "The city is empty, it's like wartime," he said. "I remember perfectly well how Baghdad was bombed in 1991. It was a horrific night. No one had expected it to happen but it did." Like many taxi drivers in Baghdad, Hammudi drives an Iranian-manufactured yellow Saipa. The neighbouring countries, which have centuries-old religious and cultural ties, have massively expanded cross-border trade since the US-led overthrow of Saddam's regime, which fought a devastating 1980-88 war against Iran. Trump strongly disapproves and has piled huge pressure on Iraq to reduce its economic dependence on it neighbour since he abandoned his predecessor Barack Obama's 2015 nuclear deal with Iran last year. 'Interests at stake' But in Iraq, the Trump administration faces the hard reality that US military trainers and contractors work in the same ministries and businesses as those of Iran. "American interests are present in Iraq and militias linked to Iran are also present here," said Jarjafji, sipping an after-iftar drink at a Baghdad cafe. She was referring to Iraq's Hashed al-Shaabi paramilitary force, which is dominated by Iranian-trained Shiite militias. Those Iranian military trainers, like their US counterparts working with the regular army, played a major role in helping Baghdad defeat the Islamic State group fighters who overran much of the north and west of Iraq in 2014. But it those same Iranian-trained militias which Washington said on Thursday pose the "imminent" threat to US personnel in Iraq that prompted the latest military deployments. Washington has blacklisted Iran's Revolutionary Guards -- the parallel army which provides the training -- as a "terrorist" organisation. Iraqi militia commanders on Thursday dismissed the US allegation as a "provocation" and "psychological warfare". And Washington's assessment of the immediacy of the threat is not shared by all of its allies in the coalition it forged to fight IS. "There has been no increased threat from Iranian-backed forces in Iraq and Syria," British coalition spokesman Major General Chris Ghika said on Tuesday. Iraqi university professor Issa al-Abbadi said he was still hopeful that the realities on the ground would lead moderate voices to prevail. "There could be a deal. Interests are at stake," he said of the uneasy coexistence between Washington and Tehran in Iraq. "Victory in war is in avoiding it."

War talk grips Iraq as storied US carrier returns to Gulf

The U.S. has reached a deal with Canada and Mexico to remove U.S. tariffs from steel and aluminum from the two countries. U.S. President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made their announcements simultaneously.

Trump, Trudeau announce lifting of metals tariffs

Brexit: What is due to happen in British politics before October 31

Iranian Foreign Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-zarif-says-no-possibility-of-talks-with-us-report-219497">Mohammad Javad Zarif </a>said on Saturday he did not believe war would break out in the region as Tehran did not want a conflict and no country had the "illusion it could confront Iran", the state news agency IRNA reported.

Tensions have escalated in recent days, with growing concerns about a potential US-Iran conflict.&nbsp;

"There will be no war because neither we want a war, nor has anyone the idea or illusion that it can confront Iran in the region," Zarif told IRNA before ending his visit to Beijing.

Washington a year ago withdrew from a nuclear deal with Tehran and re-imposed sanctions, prompting a deterioration in relations.

But the crisis has deepened in recent week, with the US deploying an aircraft carrier strike group and B-52 bomber to the Gulf over alleged threats from Iran.

Earlier this week the United States pulled some diplomatic staff from its embassy in Baghdad following weekend <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-calls-ship-attacks-off-uae-alarming-urges-probe-218315">attacks on four oil tankers in the Gulf</a>.

On Sunday, the United Arab Emirates said that four commercial vessels of various nationalities had been targeted by acts of sabotage off the UAE port of Fujairah.

A day later, Saudi Arabia said two of its oil tankers were damaged.

Fujairah port is the only terminal in the UAE located on the Arabian Sea coast, bypassing the Strait of Hormuz, a global shipping route through which most Gulf oil exports pass, and which Iran has repeatedly threatened to close in case of a military confrontation with the United States.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-military-says-no-increased-iran-threat-in-syria-or-iraq-218944/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Saturday he did not believe war would break out in the region as Tehran did not want a conflict and no country had the "illusion it could confront Iran", the state news agency IRNA reported.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Saturday he did not believe war would break out in the region as Tehran did not want a conflict and no country had the "illusion it could confront Iran", the state news agency IRNA reported. Tensions have escalated in recent days, with growing concerns about a potential US-Iran conflict. "There will be no war because neither we want a war, nor has anyone the idea or illusion that it can confront Iran in the region," Zarif told IRNA before ending his visit to Beijing. Washington a year ago withdrew from a nuclear deal with Tehran and re-imposed sanctions, prompting a deterioration in relations. But the crisis has deepened in recent week, with the US deploying an aircraft carrier strike group and B-52 bomber to the Gulf over alleged threats from Iran. Earlier this week the United States pulled some diplomatic staff from its embassy in Baghdad following weekend attacks on four oil tankers in the Gulf. On Sunday, the United Arab Emirates said that four commercial vessels of various nationalities had been targeted by acts of sabotage off the UAE port of Fujairah. A day later, Saudi Arabia said two of its oil tankers were damaged. Fujairah port is the only terminal in the UAE located on the Arabian Sea coast, bypassing the Strait of Hormuz, a global shipping route through which most Gulf oil exports pass, and which Iran has repeatedly threatened to close in case of a military confrontation with the United States. ×

There will be no war, we don't want it and no one can confront Iran: Foreign Minister Javad Zarif

Missouri`s Senate passed a bill on Thursday to ban abortions eight weeks after conception, except for medical emergencies, the latest attempt in a Republican-controlled state legislature to restrict the rights of women to terminate their pregnancies.

The vote came a day after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alabama-governor-signs-nations-strictest-abortion-ban-219055">Alabama`s governor</a> signed into law the country`s most restrictive abortion bill, outlawing nearly all abortions, absent a medical emergency.

The Missouri bill now goes back to the state House of Representatives, where it originated, for final legislative action. The House is expected to approve the bill.&nbsp;

The Alabama and Missouri measures, along with similar legislation proposed in more than a dozen other states, represent the latest efforts by political conservatives to challenge Roe v. Wade, the landmark US&nbsp;Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion nationwide.

The renewed push to overturn or roll back that 1973 decision comes after abortion foes were emboldened by President Donald Trump`s appointment of two new Supreme Court justices, giving conservatives a solid majority on the high court.

It also has thrust the emotional abortion debate back into the forefront of national politics in the run-up to the 2020 US&nbsp;presidential election, and at a time when rates of abortion have sharply declined.

The Missouri legislation, dubbed Missouri Stands for the Unborn bill, passed the Senate on a straight party-line vote, with 24 Republicans supporting it and 10 Democrats opposed.&nbsp;

Should the measure win final passage in the House, the ban would go into effect on Aug. 28, with or without the governor`s signature.

A WAVE OF STATE LEGISLATION

Governor Mike Parson, a Republican, is expected to the sign the bill, which he has said would make Missouri "one of the strongest pro-life states in the country."

The bill would outlaw abortion even in the case of rape or incest after eight weeks of pregnancy, with violations by doctors punishable by prison sentences, though women who seek out the procedure would not be subject to criminal prosecution.

The measure also would ban abortions altogether, except for medical emergencies, should Roe v. Wade be overturned.

As of May, legislation to restrict abortions has been introduced in at least 16 states this year. Governors in four of those states have signed bills into law banning the procedure if an embryonic heartbeat can be detected, generally considered to be as early as six weeks.&nbsp;

The recent flurry of statehouse action has reignited clashes between religious conservatives and others who say protections for the sanctity of life should extend to the unborn, and those, including civil libertarians, who see such measures as an infringement on the rights of women to control their own bodies.

Abortion-rights activists argue that rolling back 45 years of legal precedent to criminalize abortion would expose many women to dangerous health risks posed by illegal abortion providers.

Some Republicans pushing for abortion restrictions acknowledge they are doing so as a deliberate strategy of instigating court challenges that will ultimately force the US Supreme Court to reconsider Roe v. Wade.

Roe held that the due process clause of the 14th Amendment provides a fundamental right to privacy that protects a woman`s right to abortion.

It also allowed states to place restrictions on the procedure from the time a fetus could viably survive outside the womb, except in cases in which a woman`s health was otherwise at risk. The opinion stated that viability is usually placed at about seven months (28 weeks) but may occur earlier, even at 24 weeks. A full-term pregnancy typically is about 40 weeks.

Nearly one in four women in the United States will undergo an abortion by the age of 45, though the overall US&nbsp;abortion rate dropped by 25 per cent between 2008 and 2014 - from 19.3 to 14.6 per 1,000 women, according to Guttmacher Institute research published in 2017 in the American Journal of Public Health.

Guttmacher said available information suggested that improved contraceptive use, especially among young women who account for a third of unintended pregnancies, was a key factor.

Parson said the number of annual abortions in Missouri had fallen from a high of more than 20,000 to a recent all-time low of fewer than 3,000. He cited "decades of conservative pro-life leadership" for the decline.

Missouri`s Senate passed a bill on Thursday to ban abortions eight weeks after conception, except for medical emergencies, the latest attempt in a Republican-controlled state legislature to restrict the rights of women to terminate their pregnancies.

Missouri`s Senate passed a bill on Thursday to ban abortions eight weeks after conception, except for medical emergencies, the latest attempt in a Republican-controlled state legislature to restrict the rights of women to terminate their pregnancies. The vote came a day after Alabama`s governor signed into law the country`s most restrictive abortion bill, outlawing nearly all abortions, absent a medical emergency. The Missouri bill now goes back to the state House of Representatives, where it originated, for final legislative action. The House is expected to approve the bill. The Alabama and Missouri measures, along with similar legislation proposed in more than a dozen other states, represent the latest efforts by political conservatives to challenge Roe v. Wade, the landmark US Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion nationwide. The renewed push to overturn or roll back that 1973 decision comes after abortion foes were emboldened by President Donald Trump`s appointment of two new Supreme Court justices, giving conservatives a solid majority on the high court. It also has thrust the emotional abortion debate back into the forefront of national politics in the run-up to the 2020 US presidential election, and at a time when rates of abortion have sharply declined. The Missouri legislation, dubbed Missouri Stands for the Unborn bill, passed the Senate on a straight party-line vote, with 24 Republicans supporting it and 10 Democrats opposed. Should the measure win final passage in the House, the ban would go into effect on Aug. 28, with or without the governor`s signature. A WAVE OF STATE LEGISLATION Governor Mike Parson, a Republican, is expected to the sign the bill, which he has said would make Missouri "one of the strongest pro-life states in the country." The bill would outlaw abortion even in the case of rape or incest after eight weeks of pregnancy, with violations by doctors punishable by prison sentences, though women who seek out the procedure would not be subject to criminal prosecution. The measure also would ban abortions altogether, except for medical emergencies, should Roe v. Wade be overturned. As of May, legislation to restrict abortions has been introduced in at least 16 states this year. Governors in four of those states have signed bills into law banning the procedure if an embryonic heartbeat can be detected, generally considered to be as early as six weeks. The recent flurry of statehouse action has reignited clashes between religious conservatives and others who say protections for the sanctity of life should extend to the unborn, and those, including civil libertarians, who see such measures as an infringement on the rights of women to control their own bodies. Abortion-rights activists argue that rolling back 45 years of legal precedent to criminalize abortion would expose many women to dangerous health risks posed by illegal abortion providers. Some Republicans pushing for abortion restrictions acknowledge they are doing so as a deliberate strategy of instigating court challenges that will ultimately force the US Supreme Court to reconsider Roe v. Wade. Roe held that the due process clause of the 14th Amendment provides a fundamental right to privacy that protects a woman`s right to abortion. It also allowed states to place restrictions on the procedure from the time a fetus could viably survive outside the womb, except in cases in which a woman`s health was otherwise at risk. The opinion stated that viability is usually placed at about seven months (28 weeks) but may occur earlier, even at 24 weeks. A full-term pregnancy typically is about 40 weeks. Nearly one in four women in the United States will undergo an abortion by the age of 45, though the overall US abortion rate dropped by 25 per cent between 2008 and 2014 - from 19.3 to 14.6 per 1,000 women, according to Guttmacher Institute research published in 2017 in the American Journal of Public Health. Guttmacher said available information suggested that improved contraceptive use, especially among young women who account for a third of unintended pregnancies, was a key factor. Parson said the number of annual abortions in Missouri had fallen from a high of more than 20,000 to a recent all-time low of fewer than 3,000. He cited "decades of conservative pro-life leadership" for the decline.

Missouri Senate passes bill to ban abortions after eight weeks

Is The American Dream Getting Over For People From Other Countries?

Gravitas: Trump's 'Visa' Wall: What It Means

Is Trump's New Immigration Plan Good Or Bad For Indians?

Gravitas: Trump's New Immigration Policy: Impact On India

President Donald Trump on Friday announced a six-month delay in imposing steep tariffs on auto imports, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ready-to-negotiate-limited-trade-agreement-with-us-including-cars-european-union-219488">seeking to pressure Europe</a> and Japan into bargaining table concessions on trade.

The decision marked a temporary reprieve from what would have been a sizeable escalation in Trump's multi-front trade wars.

Trump's threat targets a major chunk of global economic activity with profound disruptions. Hundreds of billions of dollars in autos are manufactured, shipped and sold internationally every year.

In a proclamation, the president directed US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer to update him within 180 days on the outcome of negotiations with the EU, Japan and "any other country" Lighthizer deems appropriate.

By leaving the threat of tariffs, Trump's move raises the temperature in European capitals already angered by the imposition of punishing US duties on steel and aluminium last year.

But Trump's decision also preserved a truce declared last year with European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker in which both sides agreed to cease trade hostilities while efforts continued to resolve the trade dispute.

In response to the metal tariffs, the EU has already imposed stinging duties on American exports like motorcycles, orange juice, whiskey and blue jeans.

"We note that the US postpones a decision on car tariffs for 180 days," European Trade Commissioner Cecilia Malmstrom said on Twitter.

She confirmed an existing offer that "the EU is prepared to negotiate a limited trade agreement including cars."

The six-month delay had been expected this week as industry sources confirmed media reports that Trump would hold off -- delighting markets which had feared sharp economic consequences of such a move.&nbsp;

'Competition must be improved'

In his proclamation on Friday, Trump described the US auto sector as facing decline due to unfair foreign competition.

A report by Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross concluded that America's shrinking share of the auto market jeopardized its research, development and manufacturing -- all "vital to national security," according to Trump.

In conclusion likely to invite challenges from manufacturers and industry analysts, Trump said America's defence industrial base relied on the domestic auto sector for technological advances essential to US "military superiority."

Citing Ross's conclusions, Trump pointed to a doubling of US imports over the last 34 years but accused Europe and Japan of raising "significant barriers" to accepting American exports in return.

In that same period, the domestic market share of American-owned manufacturers fell to just 22 per cent from 67 per cent, he said.

"In light of all of these factors, domestic conditions of competition must be improved by reducing imports," Trump said.

Reacting to the announcement, Dieter Kempf, head of the German industrial federation, said, "cars do not threaten the national security of the United States."

Charlie Chesbrough, the senior economist at Cox Automotive, said that by jacking up tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese merchandise last week Trump had shown Brussels his tariff threats were not idle.

"I think it's a signal to everybody that he means business," Chesbrough told AFP.&nbsp;

"I think in general it's a good news story in that it buys the industry a little more time to try to get the president to change his mind about the tariffs."

The United States imported almost $200 billion worth of autos in 2017, according to the proclamation.

But, while foreign-branded autos are popular in the United States, many automakers have championed their US-based manufacturing operations in places like Alabama, Kentucky and South Carolina.

They warned that a fresh tariff battle would also jeopardize their ability to export US-made products internationally and put jobs at risk.

According to research from American University, many Japanese and German-branded cars sold in the United States have more US and Canadian-made content than do some models from American brands.

The Honda Ridgeline pickup has 75 per cent US-Canadian content while the Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan is 70 per cent US-Canadian-made.

Ford Motor Company's Lincoln Continental, in contrast, is only 65 per cent US-Canadian made.

"The two economic spaces need each other," said Bernhard Mattes, head of the German automakers' federation.

"The goal of the talks ought to be to broaden the possibilities for free trade."

President Donald Trump on Friday announced a six-month delay in imposing steep tariffs on auto imports, seeking to pressure Europe and Japan into bargaining table concessions on trade.

President Donald Trump on Friday announced a six-month delay in imposing steep tariffs on auto imports, seeking to pressure Europe and Japan into bargaining table concessions on trade. The decision marked a temporary reprieve from what would have been a sizeable escalation in Trump's multi-front trade wars. Trump's threat targets a major chunk of global economic activity with profound disruptions. Hundreds of billions of dollars in autos are manufactured, shipped and sold internationally every year. In a proclamation, the president directed US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer to update him within 180 days on the outcome of negotiations with the EU, Japan and "any other country" Lighthizer deems appropriate. By leaving the threat of tariffs, Trump's move raises the temperature in European capitals already angered by the imposition of punishing US duties on steel and aluminium last year. But Trump's decision also preserved a truce declared last year with European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker in which both sides agreed to cease trade hostilities while efforts continued to resolve the trade dispute. In response to the metal tariffs, the EU has already imposed stinging duties on American exports like motorcycles, orange juice, whiskey and blue jeans. "We note that the US postpones a decision on car tariffs for 180 days," European Trade Commissioner Cecilia Malmstrom said on Twitter. She confirmed an existing offer that "the EU is prepared to negotiate a limited trade agreement including cars." The six-month delay had been expected this week as industry sources confirmed media reports that Trump would hold off -- delighting markets which had feared sharp economic consequences of such a move. 'Competition must be improved' In his proclamation on Friday, Trump described the US auto sector as facing decline due to unfair foreign competition. A report by Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross concluded that America's shrinking share of the auto market jeopardized its research, development and manufacturing -- all "vital to national security," according to Trump. In conclusion likely to invite challenges from manufacturers and industry analysts, Trump said America's defence industrial base relied on the domestic auto sector for technological advances essential to US "military superiority." Citing Ross's conclusions, Trump pointed to a doubling of US imports over the last 34 years but accused Europe and Japan of raising "significant barriers" to accepting American exports in return. In that same period, the domestic market share of American-owned manufacturers fell to just 22 per cent from 67 per cent, he said. "In light of all of these factors, domestic conditions of competition must be improved by reducing imports," Trump said. Reacting to the announcement, Dieter Kempf, head of the German industrial federation, said, "cars do not threaten the national security of the United States." Charlie Chesbrough, the senior economist at Cox Automotive, said that by jacking up tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese merchandise last week Trump had shown Brussels his tariff threats were not idle. "I think it's a signal to everybody that he means business," Chesbrough told AFP. "I think in general it's a good news story in that it buys the industry a little more time to try to get the president to change his mind about the tariffs." The United States imported almost $200 billion worth of autos in 2017, according to the proclamation. But, while foreign-branded autos are popular in the United States, many automakers have championed their US-based manufacturing operations in places like Alabama, Kentucky and South Carolina. They warned that a fresh tariff battle would also jeopardize their ability to export US-made products internationally and put jobs at risk. According to research from American University, many Japanese and German-branded cars sold in the United States have more US and Canadian-made content than do some models from American brands. The Honda Ridgeline pickup has 75 per cent US-Canadian content while the Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan is 70 per cent US-Canadian-made. Ford Motor Company's Lincoln Continental, in contrast, is only 65 per cent US-Canadian made. "The two economic spaces need each other," said Bernhard Mattes, head of the German automakers' federation. "The goal of the talks ought to be to broaden the possibilities for free trade."

Trump delays decision on auto tariffs for up to six months

Iran's foreign minister said Thursday there is "no possibility" of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-urges-china-russia-concrete-action-to-save-nuclear-deal-219407">negotiations with the United States</a> to reduce spiralling tensions, Japan's Kyodo news agency reported.

"No, there is no possibility for negotiations," the news agency cited Mohammad Javad Zarif as telling reporters in Tokyo, where he is meeting with Japanese officials.

Kyodo said the comment was in response to a question on whether he would be open to bilateral talks with Washington aimed at easing tensions.

It did not immediately carry additional comments from Zarif, but public broadcaster NHK also quoted the foreign minister as describing US pressure on Iran as an "act of suicide".

Zarif also reportedly dismissed US President Donald Trump's assertion in a tweet that Iran would soon seek negotiations.

"I don't know why President Trump is confident, but it's totally wrong," NHK quoted Zarif as saying.

The quotes on NHK were published in Japanese, and it was not immediately clear whether they were translated from English or Farsi.

The top Iranian diplomat, who met with Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Thursday, earlier accused Washington of an "unacceptable" escalation in tensions, and said Tehran was showing "maximum restraint".

Washington withdrew a year ago from a nuclear deal with Tehran and re-imposed sanctions, prompting a deterioration in relations.

But the crisis has deepened in recent week, with the US deploying an aircraft carrier strike group and B-52 bomber to the Gulf over alleged threats from Iran.

Iran's foreign minister said Thursday there is "no possibility" of negotiations with the United States to reduce spiralling tensions, Japan's Kyodo news agency reported.

Iran's foreign minister said Thursday there is "no possibility" of negotiations with the United States to reduce spiralling tensions, Japan's Kyodo news agency reported. "No, there is no possibility for negotiations," the news agency cited Mohammad Javad Zarif as telling reporters in Tokyo, where he is meeting with Japanese officials. Kyodo said the comment was in response to a question on whether he would be open to bilateral talks with Washington aimed at easing tensions. It did not immediately carry additional comments from Zarif, but public broadcaster NHK also quoted the foreign minister as describing US pressure on Iran as an "act of suicide". Zarif also reportedly dismissed US President Donald Trump's assertion in a tweet that Iran would soon seek negotiations. "I don't know why President Trump is confident, but it's totally wrong," NHK quoted Zarif as saying. The quotes on NHK were published in Japanese, and it was not immediately clear whether they were translated from English or Farsi. The top Iranian diplomat, who met with Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Thursday, earlier accused Washington of an "unacceptable" escalation in tensions, and said Tehran was showing "maximum restraint". Washington withdrew a year ago from a nuclear deal with Tehran and re-imposed sanctions, prompting a deterioration in relations. But the crisis has deepened in recent week, with the US deploying an aircraft carrier strike group and B-52 bomber to the Gulf over alleged threats from Iran.

Iran's Zarif says 'no possibility' of talks with US: Report

London warned British-Iranian dual nationals against all travel to Iran on Friday due to Tehran's "continued arbitrary detention and mistreatment" of such citizens.

The move comes as Britain continues to try to secure the release from jail of dual national Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe.

Tehran has also recently sentenced an Iranian British Council employee, Aras Amiri, to 10 years in prison on charges of spying.

In a statement, the Foreign Office said British-Iranian dual nationals faced an "unacceptably higher risk of arbitrary detention and mistreatment" than nationals of other countries.

"The security forces may be suspicious of people with British connections, including those with links to institutions based in the UK, or which receive public funds from, or have perceived links to, the British government," the statement said.

British-Iranian mother Zaghari-Ratcliffe was arrested by Iranian authorities in 2016 as she was leaving Tehran.

Zaghari-Ratcliffe, who worked for the Thomson Reuters Foundation, was put on trial and is now serving a five-year jail sentence for allegedly trying to topple the Iranian government.

"Dual nationals face an intolerable risk of mistreatment if they visit Iran," Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said.

"Despite the UK providing repeated opportunities to resolve this issue, the Iranian regime's conduct has worsened.

"Having exhausted all other options, I must now advise all British-Iranian dual nationals against travelling to Iran.

"The dangers they face include arbitrary detention and lack of access to basic legal rights, as we have seen in the case of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, who has been separated from her family since 2016."

The Iranian government does not recognise dual nationality, meaning the Foreign Office's ability to provide consular support is limited.

Hunt added: "Regrettably, I must also offer a message of caution to Iranian nationals resident in the UK -- but who return to visit family and friends -- especially where the Iranian government may perceive them to have personal links to UK institutions or the British government."

London warned British-Iranian dual nationals against all travel to Iran on Friday due to Tehran's "continued arbitrary detention and mistreatment" of such citizens.

London warned British-Iranian dual nationals against all travel to Iran on Friday due to Tehran's "continued arbitrary detention and mistreatment" of such citizens. The move comes as Britain continues to try to secure the release from jail of dual national Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe. Tehran has also recently sentenced an Iranian British Council employee, Aras Amiri, to 10 years in prison on charges of spying. In a statement, the Foreign Office said British-Iranian dual nationals faced an "unacceptably higher risk of arbitrary detention and mistreatment" than nationals of other countries. "The security forces may be suspicious of people with British connections, including those with links to institutions based in the UK, or which receive public funds from, or have perceived links to, the British government," the statement said. British-Iranian mother Zaghari-Ratcliffe was arrested by Iranian authorities in 2016 as she was leaving Tehran. Zaghari-Ratcliffe, who worked for the Thomson Reuters Foundation, was put on trial and is now serving a five-year jail sentence for allegedly trying to topple the Iranian government. "Dual nationals face an intolerable risk of mistreatment if they visit Iran," Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said. "Despite the UK providing repeated opportunities to resolve this issue, the Iranian regime's conduct has worsened. "Having exhausted all other options, I must now advise all British-Iranian dual nationals against travelling to Iran. "The dangers they face include arbitrary detention and lack of access to basic legal rights, as we have seen in the case of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, who has been separated from her family since 2016." The Iranian government does not recognise dual nationality, meaning the Foreign Office's ability to provide consular support is limited. Hunt added: "Regrettably, I must also offer a message of caution to Iranian nationals resident in the UK -- but who return to visit family and friends -- especially where the Iranian government may perceive them to have personal links to UK institutions or the British government."

UK warns British-Iranians against all travel to Iran

President Donald Trump on Friday said it is a "good thing" if Iran is confused by US policy.

In a tweet, Trump lambasted the media for what he said was its "fraudulent and highly inaccurate coverage of Iran."

But in his view, the coverage had one positive effect.

"At least Iran doesn't know what to think, which at this point may very well be a good thing!" he tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
The Fake News Media is hurting our Country with its fraudulent and highly inaccurate coverage of Iran. It is scattershot, poorly sourced (made up), and DANGEROUS. At least Iran doesn’t know what to think, which at this point may very well be a good thing!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1129382204990214144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The White House has sent mixed signals in recent days, amid multiple US media reports of infighting in Trump's cabinet over how hard to push Washington's arch-foe Iran.

The Trump administration has ordered non-essential diplomatic staff out of Iraq, citing threats from Iranian-backed Iraqi armed groups, and sent an aircraft carrier and heavy B-52 bombers to the region.

According to US media reports, Trump's long-hawkish national security advisor John Bolton is pushing a hard line on Iran, but others in the administration are resisting.

Trump himself said recently that he has to "temper" Bolton.

On Thursday, when asked if there would be a war with Iran, Trump told CNN: "I hope not."

US coalition partners in Iraq had suggested earlier this week that the threat level there had not risen significantly, and members of Congress demanded to see the information behind the administration's apparent preparation for possible conflict.

President Donald Trump on Friday said it is a "good thing" if Iran is confused by US policy. In a tweet, Trump lambasted the media for what he said was its "fraudulent and highly inaccurate coverage of Iran.

President Donald Trump on Friday said it is a "good thing" if Iran is confused by US policy. In a tweet, Trump lambasted the media for what he said was its "fraudulent and highly inaccurate coverage of Iran." But in his view, the coverage had one positive effect. "At least Iran doesn't know what to think, which at this point may very well be a good thing!" he tweeted. The Fake News Media is hurting our Country with its fraudulent and highly inaccurate coverage of Iran. It is scattershot, poorly sourced (made up), and DANGEROUS. At least Iran doesn’t know what to think, which at this point may very well be a good thing! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 17, 2019 × The White House has sent mixed signals in recent days, amid multiple US media reports of infighting in Trump's cabinet over how hard to push Washington's arch-foe Iran. The Trump administration has ordered non-essential diplomatic staff out of Iraq, citing threats from Iranian-backed Iraqi armed groups, and sent an aircraft carrier and heavy B-52 bombers to the region. According to US media reports, Trump's long-hawkish national security advisor John Bolton is pushing a hard line on Iran, but others in the administration are resisting. Trump himself said recently that he has to "temper" Bolton. On Thursday, when asked if there would be a war with Iran, Trump told CNN: "I hope not." US coalition partners in Iraq had suggested earlier this week that the threat level there had not risen significantly, and members of Congress demanded to see the information behind the administration's apparent preparation for possible conflict.

Donald Trump says 'good thing' that Iran confused by US stance

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning, May 17th 2019

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britains-may-to-agree-departure-after-latest-brexit-deal-bid-219257">British Prime Minister Theresa May to set out timetable for her departure after latest Brexit deal bid</a>

British Prime Minister Theresa May will set out a timetable for her departure in early June after the latest attempt to get her Brexit deal approved by parliament, the chairman of a powerful Conservative committee said on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-tells-aides-he-does-not-want-us-war-with-iran-219259">Trump tells aides he does not want US war with Iran</a>

US President Donald Trump has told his top advisers he does not want to get the United States involved in a&nbsp;war with Iran, three US officials said on Thursday. "He doesn`t want to go to war. It`s not who he is," one official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-us-lawmakers-press-pompeo-for-answers-on-iran-arms-control-report-219258">Top US lawmakers press Pompeo for answers on Iran arms control report</a>

The chairmen of three congressional committees on national security on Thursday pressed US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to explain whether a Trump administration arms control report was politicised and slanted assessments about Iran.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-huawei-restricted-from-using-us-suppliers-219260">China's Huawei restricted from using US suppliers</a>

The Trump administration on Thursday officially added China's Huawei Technologies Co Ltd to a trade blacklist, immediately enacting restrictions that will make it extremely difficult for the telecom giant to do business with US companies.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-proposes-new-us-immigration-plan-favouring-skills-over-family-ties-219269">Trump proposes new US immigration plan favouring skills over family ties</a>

US President Donald Trump on Thursday said he wants to overhaul the immigration system to favour young, educated, English-speaking applicants with job offers instead of people with family ties to Americans, a plan with little chance of advancing in Congress.

British Prime Minister Theresa May to set out timetable for her departure after latest Brexit deal bid British Prime Minister Theresa May will set out a timetable for her departure in early June after the latest attempt to get her Brexit deal approved by parliament, the chairman of a powerful Conservative committee said on Thursday.

British Prime Minister Theresa May to set out timetable for her departure after latest Brexit deal bid British Prime Minister Theresa May will set out a timetable for her departure in early June after the latest attempt to get her Brexit deal approved by parliament, the chairman of a powerful Conservative committee said on Thursday. Trump tells aides he does not want US war with Iran US President Donald Trump has told his top advisers he does not want to get the United States involved in a war with Iran, three US officials said on Thursday. "He doesn`t want to go to war. It`s not who he is," one official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. Top US lawmakers press Pompeo for answers on Iran arms control report The chairmen of three congressional committees on national security on Thursday pressed US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to explain whether a Trump administration arms control report was politicised and slanted assessments about Iran. China's Huawei restricted from using US suppliers The Trump administration on Thursday officially added China's Huawei Technologies Co Ltd to a trade blacklist, immediately enacting restrictions that will make it extremely difficult for the telecom giant to do business with US companies. Trump proposes new US immigration plan favouring skills over family ties US President Donald Trump on Thursday said he wants to overhaul the immigration system to favour young, educated, English-speaking applicants with job offers instead of people with family ties to Americans, a plan with little chance of advancing in Congress.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The same week <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/victory-awaits-in-china-trade-war-trump-tells-farmers-218859">US&nbsp;President Donald Trump</a> announced sweeping increases on tariffs against Chinese goods, Chinese buyers dropped orders for 3,247 metric tonnes of US pork - the biggest cancellation in more than a year, according to US Department of Agriculture data released on Thursday.

The cancellation came during the week ended May 9, a blow to the $6.5 billion export market for American pork, vital to the burgeoning US meat industry. 
Prior to the trade war, China and Hong Kong combined were the second largest export market for US pork.

For months, the US&nbsp;farm sector - which has been among the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-consumers-businesses-to-pay-for-tariffs-on-chinese-goods-expert-219096"> hardest hit by the trade war</a> between the world`s two largest economies - has been banking on China increasing its US&nbsp;pork purchases due to African swine fever (ASF).

But the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/top-facts-how-us-china-talks-differ-from-any-other-trade-deal-217563">trade war</a>, and China`s tariffs against US pork, is showing signs of slowing China`s willingness to load up on the meat, say industry analysts.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-says-itll-fight-trade-war-to-the-finish-218704/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Earlier this year, China cancelled sales of 53 metric tonnes in the week ended February&nbsp;28, sales of 999 metric tonnes in the week ended March 21, and 214 metric tonnes in the week ended April 18, according to USDA data.

Market analysts said the cancellation news on Thursday weighed on the lean hog futures market.

"It`s just disappointing that this trade war could drag on for months and that means more tariffs on pork," said Dennis Smith, commodity broker with Archer Financial Services. "This should not be happening. We should be selling a lot of pork to China, because of ASF."

African swine fever kills almost all pigs infected, though it is not harmful to people. The disease has spread rapidly across China, the world`s top pork producer. In neighbouring Vietnam, the government said it will mobilize its military and police forces to combat an outbreak.

USDA said on Thursday that it will soon begin testing sick and dead pigs for the hog virus that has killed herds across Asia in an effort to minimize devastation if the disease enters the United States.&nbsp;

The same week US President Donald Trump announced sweeping increases on tariffs against Chinese goods, Chinese buyers dropped orders for 3,247 metric tonnes of US pork - the biggest cancellation in more than a year, according to US Department of Agriculture data released on Thursday.

The same week US President Donald Trump announced sweeping increases on tariffs against Chinese goods, Chinese buyers dropped orders for 3,247 metric tonnes of US pork - the biggest cancellation in more than a year, according to US Department of Agriculture data released on Thursday. The cancellation came during the week ended May 9, a blow to the $6.5 billion export market for American pork, vital to the burgeoning US meat industry. Prior to the trade war, China and Hong Kong combined were the second largest export market for US pork. For months, the US farm sector - which has been among the hardest hit by the trade war between the world`s two largest economies - has been banking on China increasing its US pork purchases due to African swine fever (ASF). But the trade war, and China`s tariffs against US pork, is showing signs of slowing China`s willingness to load up on the meat, say industry analysts. × Earlier this year, China cancelled sales of 53 metric tonnes in the week ended February 28, sales of 999 metric tonnes in the week ended March 21, and 214 metric tonnes in the week ended April 18, according to USDA data. Market analysts said the cancellation news on Thursday weighed on the lean hog futures market. "It`s just disappointing that this trade war could drag on for months and that means more tariffs on pork," said Dennis Smith, commodity broker with Archer Financial Services. "This should not be happening. We should be selling a lot of pork to China, because of ASF." African swine fever kills almost all pigs infected, though it is not harmful to people. The disease has spread rapidly across China, the world`s top pork producer. In neighbouring Vietnam, the government said it will mobilize its military and police forces to combat an outbreak. USDA said on Thursday that it will soon begin testing sick and dead pigs for the hog virus that has killed herds across Asia in an effort to minimize devastation if the disease enters the United States.

China cancels US pork import order as US-China trade war drags on

US President Donald Trump has told his top advisers he does not want to get the United States involved in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/is-a-war-coming-between-the-us-and-iran-219109">war with Iran</a>, three US officials said on Thursday.

"He doesn`t want to go to war. It`s not who he is," one official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Trump has communicated to his national security team and other aides that wants to keep tensions with Tehran from boiling over into an armed conflict, the officials said.

But he has also made clear that he will protect US&nbsp;interests in the region, one official said. US intelligence showed heightened activity by Iran or its proxies that US officials took as a threat against American targets in the region.

Trump won the 2016 election in part by promising to stay out of conflicts abroad after what he viewed as costly wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Earlier this year he ordered US&nbsp;troops out of Syria but was persuaded to leave some in.

Trump told reporters on Thursday that he hoped the United States was not heading to war with Iran as he met with Switzerland President Ueli Maurer, whose nation has served as a liaison conduit between the two countries since they do not have diplomatic relations.&nbsp;

"Hope not," Trump said when asked by reporters if Washington was going to war with Tehran.

Tensions have escalated in recent days with increasing concerns about a potential US-Iran conflict. Earlier this week the United States pulled some diplomatic staff from its embassy in Baghdad following weekend attacks on four oil tankers in the Gulf.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-new-flashpoint-in-us-iran-standoff-218475/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"The president has been clear, the United States does not seek military conflict with Iran, and he is open to talks with Iranian leadership. However, Iran’s default option for 40 years has been violence, and we will protect US&nbsp;personnel and interests in the region," said Garrett Marquis, spokesman for the White House National Security Council.

A White House statement said the two leaders discussed "a range of international issues, including the crises in the Middle East and in Venezuela."

Trump has said publicly he wants to pursue a diplomatic route with Iran a year after withdrawing the United States from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. He has said privately that he was worried that some of his advisers, such as White House national security adviser John Bolton, were pushing for war, two officials said.

The Pentagon has prepared options for potentially sending US&nbsp;troops to the region if needed ranging from a relatively small number of troops up to 120,000, although officials stressed these are the types of options that are always considered for hot zones.

White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders told Fox News Channel`s "Fox &amp; Friends" that there is no friction between Trump and his advisers and he welcomes different viewpoints.

"He’s the one the American people elected. He’s going to take in the information and the guidance from all of his national security team and he then will make a decision on what he thinks is the best and safest thing for the American people," she said.

US&nbsp;House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Thursday welcomed what she called Trump`s lack of "appetite" for military conflict with Tehran.

US President Donald Trump has told his top advisers he does not want to get the United States involved in a war with Iran, three US officials said on Thursday. "He doesn`t want to go to war.

US President Donald Trump has told his top advisers he does not want to get the United States involved in a war with Iran, three US officials said on Thursday. "He doesn`t want to go to war. It`s not who he is," one official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. Trump has communicated to his national security team and other aides that wants to keep tensions with Tehran from boiling over into an armed conflict, the officials said. But he has also made clear that he will protect US interests in the region, one official said. US intelligence showed heightened activity by Iran or its proxies that US officials took as a threat against American targets in the region. Trump won the 2016 election in part by promising to stay out of conflicts abroad after what he viewed as costly wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Earlier this year he ordered US troops out of Syria but was persuaded to leave some in. Trump told reporters on Thursday that he hoped the United States was not heading to war with Iran as he met with Switzerland President Ueli Maurer, whose nation has served as a liaison conduit between the two countries since they do not have diplomatic relations. "Hope not," Trump said when asked by reporters if Washington was going to war with Tehran. Tensions have escalated in recent days with increasing concerns about a potential US-Iran conflict. Earlier this week the United States pulled some diplomatic staff from its embassy in Baghdad following weekend attacks on four oil tankers in the Gulf. × "The president has been clear, the United States does not seek military conflict with Iran, and he is open to talks with Iranian leadership. However, Iran’s default option for 40 years has been violence, and we will protect US personnel and interests in the region," said Garrett Marquis, spokesman for the White House National Security Council. A White House statement said the two leaders discussed "a range of international issues, including the crises in the Middle East and in Venezuela." Trump has said publicly he wants to pursue a diplomatic route with Iran a year after withdrawing the United States from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. He has said privately that he was worried that some of his advisers, such as White House national security adviser John Bolton, were pushing for war, two officials said. The Pentagon has prepared options for potentially sending US troops to the region if needed ranging from a relatively small number of troops up to 120,000, although officials stressed these are the types of options that are always considered for hot zones. White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders told Fox News Channel`s "Fox & Friends" that there is no friction between Trump and his advisers and he welcomes different viewpoints. "He’s the one the American people elected. He’s going to take in the information and the guidance from all of his national security team and he then will make a decision on what he thinks is the best and safest thing for the American people," she said. US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Thursday welcomed what she called Trump`s lack of "appetite" for military conflict with Tehran.

Trump tells aides he does not want US war with Iran

US President Donald Trump has unveiled a new merit and points-based immigration policy that replaces the existing green cards with 'Build America' visa and substantially hikes the quota for young and highly-skilled workers from 12 to 57 per cent, a move likely to benefit thousands of Indian professionals.

Indians Likely To Benefit As Trump Unveils New Immigration Policy For Merit-based Professionals

Oil edged higher to $73 a barrel on Friday, supported by a host of supply cuts and concern of further disruption to Middle East shipments as tensions rise, and was heading for a weekly gain.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-urges-china-russia-concrete-action-to-save-nuclear-deal-219407">US sanctions on Iran</a> have cut the OPEC member's crude exports further in May, adding to supply curbs resulting from an OPEC-led pact. Meanwhile, rising tension in the Middle East this week has raised a concern about additional supply disruption.

Brent crude was up 43 cents to $73.05 a barrel at 1101 GMT. The global benchmark is up about 3 per cent this week, having ended last week steady and fallen the week before. US West Texas Intermediate crude added 60 cents to $63.47.

"The Middle East is acting as a tinderbox for conflict," said Stephen Brennock of oil broker PVM. "So long as this remains the case, the energy complex will continue to be supported by bullish supply-side signals."

The mounting tension overshadowed bearish developments for oil prices this week, such as an unexpected increase in US crude inventories.

A Saudi-led military coalition in Yemen carried out several air strikes on the Houthi-held capital Sanaa on Thursday after the Iranian-aligned movement claimed responsibility for drone attacks on two Saudi oil pumping stations.

Earlier this week, staff were evacuated from the US embassy in Baghdad, while US President Donald Trump ordered the deployment of an aircraft carrier group, B-52 bombers and Patriot missiles to the Middle East.

"When tensions are this high, with the US deploying a sizable military force, even a mistake or a tactical error by Iran could ignite the Middle East powder keg," Stephen Innes, head of trading and market strategy at SPI Asset Management, told Reuters by email.

"There are lots of supply risks with tensions this high."

Besides the drop in Iranian exports, Russian shipments have been disrupted and the North Sea - home to the crude underpinning Brent futures - is seeing tighter supply due to oilfield maintenance and outages.

The market is also awaiting a decision from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and other producers over whether to continue with supply cuts that have boosted prices more than 30% so far this year.

A meeting of an OPEC-led ministerial committee in Saudi Arabia this weekend will assess member states' commitment to their deal reducing oil production and may make a recommendation on whether to extend or adjust the pact.

Oil edged higher to $73 a barrel on Friday, supported by a host of supply cuts and concern of further disruption to Middle East shipments as tensions rise, and was heading for a weekly gain.

Oil edged higher to $73 a barrel on Friday, supported by a host of supply cuts and concern of further disruption to Middle East shipments as tensions rise, and was heading for a weekly gain. US sanctions on Iran have cut the OPEC member's crude exports further in May, adding to supply curbs resulting from an OPEC-led pact. Meanwhile, rising tension in the Middle East this week has raised a concern about additional supply disruption. Brent crude was up 43 cents to $73.05 a barrel at 1101 GMT. The global benchmark is up about 3 per cent this week, having ended last week steady and fallen the week before. US West Texas Intermediate crude added 60 cents to $63.47. "The Middle East is acting as a tinderbox for conflict," said Stephen Brennock of oil broker PVM. "So long as this remains the case, the energy complex will continue to be supported by bullish supply-side signals." The mounting tension overshadowed bearish developments for oil prices this week, such as an unexpected increase in US crude inventories. A Saudi-led military coalition in Yemen carried out several air strikes on the Houthi-held capital Sanaa on Thursday after the Iranian-aligned movement claimed responsibility for drone attacks on two Saudi oil pumping stations. Earlier this week, staff were evacuated from the US embassy in Baghdad, while US President Donald Trump ordered the deployment of an aircraft carrier group, B-52 bombers and Patriot missiles to the Middle East. "When tensions are this high, with the US deploying a sizable military force, even a mistake or a tactical error by Iran could ignite the Middle East powder keg," Stephen Innes, head of trading and market strategy at SPI Asset Management, told Reuters by email. "There are lots of supply risks with tensions this high." Besides the drop in Iranian exports, Russian shipments have been disrupted and the North Sea - home to the crude underpinning Brent futures - is seeing tighter supply due to oilfield maintenance and outages. The market is also awaiting a decision from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and other producers over whether to continue with supply cuts that have boosted prices more than 30% so far this year. A meeting of an OPEC-led ministerial committee in Saudi Arabia this weekend will assess member states' commitment to their deal reducing oil production and may make a recommendation on whether to extend or adjust the pact.

Oil lifted to $73 by real and threatened supply cuts

The United States on Thursday imposed sanctions on five Russians over abuses including the killing of a prominent opposition leader, days after top-level talks seemed to ease tensions between the two powers.

The State Department highlighted the actions against the five people, plus one legal entity, as it submitted an annual report required by Congress on actions taken under a law on human rights in Russia.

The law, which blocks any US assets of blacklisted people and bars them from travelling to the United States, is named after Sergei Magnitsky, an anti-corruption accountant who died in Russian custody in 2009.

Among the five newly blacklisted figures are Ruslan Geremeyev, an interior ministry official in the restive North Caucasus region of Chechnya who is close to its leader Ramzan Kadyrov.

On his Telegram account, Kadyrov said the sanctions, were "clear proof that the United States is afraid of us."

Geremeyev has faced accusations of involvement in the 2015 killing in central Moscow of Boris Nemtsov, a former deputy prime minister who became a leading critic of President Vladimir Putin.

The US Treasury Department said Russian investigators twice tried but were blocked from bringing charges against Geremeyev as the possible organizer of the killing of Nemtsov -- the most high-profile assassination of a dissident since Putin rose to power two decades ago.

The United States also slapped sanctions on two Russian investigators, Elena Anatolievna Trikulya and Gennady Vyacheslavovich Karlov, for allegedly concealing facts over the detention and death of Magnitsky.

"Nearly 10 years after his death, we remain concerned by the impunity for this and other violent crimes against activists, journalists, whistleblowers and political opposition," State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said in a statement.

She also voiced concern about "the intense atmosphere of intimidation for those who work to uncover corruption or human rights violations in the Russian Federation."

The Kremlin on Friday promised reciprocal measures "in one way or another".

"Everything will be done in the national interest," President Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists.

The Russian embassy in Washington earlier said the "unconstructive" US decisions "run counter to a positive outlook of the recent Russia-US talks in Sochi".

The sanctions came just two days after Secretary of State Mike Pompeo met Putin in the Russian resort of Sochi, with both sides voicing optimism at finding areas on which to work together.

Pompeo said he still had deep disagreements with Putin but believed the two powers could cooperate on issues including finding a political settlement in war-ravaged Syria and seeking a denuclearization deal with North Korea.

Also, hit with sanctions were the Terek Special Rapid Response Team in Chechnya and its commander, Abuzayed Vismuradov.

The Treasury Department said that the force had engaged in extrajudicial killings and torture, including a crackdown on gay men that has drawn international condemnation.

The United States on Thursday imposed sanctions on five Russians over abuses including the killing of a prominent opposition leader, days after top-level talks seemed to ease tensions between the two powers.

The United States on Thursday imposed sanctions on five Russians over abuses including the killing of a prominent opposition leader, days after top-level talks seemed to ease tensions between the two powers. The State Department highlighted the actions against the five people, plus one legal entity, as it submitted an annual report required by Congress on actions taken under a law on human rights in Russia. The law, which blocks any US assets of blacklisted people and bars them from travelling to the United States, is named after Sergei Magnitsky, an anti-corruption accountant who died in Russian custody in 2009. Among the five newly blacklisted figures are Ruslan Geremeyev, an interior ministry official in the restive North Caucasus region of Chechnya who is close to its leader Ramzan Kadyrov. On his Telegram account, Kadyrov said the sanctions, were "clear proof that the United States is afraid of us." Geremeyev has faced accusations of involvement in the 2015 killing in central Moscow of Boris Nemtsov, a former deputy prime minister who became a leading critic of President Vladimir Putin. The US Treasury Department said Russian investigators twice tried but were blocked from bringing charges against Geremeyev as the possible organizer of the killing of Nemtsov -- the most high-profile assassination of a dissident since Putin rose to power two decades ago. The United States also slapped sanctions on two Russian investigators, Elena Anatolievna Trikulya and Gennady Vyacheslavovich Karlov, for allegedly concealing facts over the detention and death of Magnitsky. "Nearly 10 years after his death, we remain concerned by the impunity for this and other violent crimes against activists, journalists, whistleblowers and political opposition," State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said in a statement. She also voiced concern about "the intense atmosphere of intimidation for those who work to uncover corruption or human rights violations in the Russian Federation." The Kremlin on Friday promised reciprocal measures "in one way or another". "Everything will be done in the national interest," President Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists. The Russian embassy in Washington earlier said the "unconstructive" US decisions "run counter to a positive outlook of the recent Russia-US talks in Sochi". The sanctions came just two days after Secretary of State Mike Pompeo met Putin in the Russian resort of Sochi, with both sides voicing optimism at finding areas on which to work together. Pompeo said he still had deep disagreements with Putin but believed the two powers could cooperate on issues including finding a political settlement in war-ravaged Syria and seeking a denuclearization deal with North Korea. Also, hit with sanctions were the Terek Special Rapid Response Team in Chechnya and its commander, Abuzayed Vismuradov. The Treasury Department said that the force had engaged in extrajudicial killings and torture, including a crackdown on gay men that has drawn international condemnation.

Kremlin pledges response after US imposes sanctions on its five Russians

The US&nbsp;law enforcement officers raided the Venezuelan Embassy on Thursday to oust a small group protesting US&nbsp;policy toward the oil-rich country, paving the way for the diplomatic compound to be handed to the US&nbsp;envoy of opposition leader Juan Guaido.

Since mid-April, members of three activist groups have been occupying the embassy, a red brick building in the upscale Georgetown neighbourhood of Washington, where they say they are "invited guests" of the Venezuelan government.

The activists oppose US&nbsp;intervention in Venezuela to oust <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-maduro-cracks-down-venezuela-legislators-see-intimidation-217687">President Nicolas Maduro</a> in favour of Guaido, self-proclaimed interim president of the OPEC-member nation.

"I am here standing before you announcing that we have recovered this building thanks to the Venezuelan diaspora," Carlos Vecchio, Guaido`s representative in Washington, told a group of supporters outside the building late on Thursday.

Vecchio also thanked President Donald Trump`s administration. The building was undergoing safety checks and would be open for business soon, he said.

Authorities arrested the last four protesters on Thursday after utilities for the building were cut off and they ignored an eviction order, the groups say.

A spokesman for Pepco, Washington`s energy utility, said the company does not discuss service to individual properties.

The US&nbsp;Secret Service confirmed officers had helped agents from the State Department`s Diplomatic Security Service execute arrest warrants against people inside the embassy.

A US&nbsp;State Department spokeswoman said the government of Guaido, whom the United States recognizes as the leader of Venezuela, asked for US assistance in removing the protesters from the embassy.

"The Venezuelan government, led by Interim President<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/juan-guaido-blasts-venezuela-regime-after-security-forces-block-congress-218827"> Juan Guaido</a> ... has asked the trespassers to depart the premises," the spokeswoman said.

Neither agency identified what charges the protesters faced.

Tensions have escalated between the United States and Venezuela as Washington has ratcheted up pressure against the government of Maduro, which it says is illegitimate.

The United States has imposed sanctions against Venezuelan leaders, ordered the withdrawal of diplomatic personnel from Venezuela in March and, on Wednesday, suspended passenger and cargo flights between the United States and Venezuela.

Maduro, who has branded Guaido a US puppet seeking to oust him in a coup, broke off relations with Washington after it recognized Guaido and recalled diplomatic and consular staff.

Representatives of Guaido took control of three of the country`s diplomatic properties in the United States in March.

At its peak, about 50 people from three groups had occupied the Venezuelan Embassy, according to Medea Benjamin, a co-founder of Code Pink, one of the groups involved.

The US law enforcement officers raided the Venezuelan Embassy on Thursday to oust a small group protesting US policy toward the oil-rich country, paving the way for the diplomatic compound to be handed to the US envoy of opposition leader Juan Guaido.

The US law enforcement officers raided the Venezuelan Embassy on Thursday to oust a small group protesting US policy toward the oil-rich country, paving the way for the diplomatic compound to be handed to the US envoy of opposition leader Juan Guaido. Since mid-April, members of three activist groups have been occupying the embassy, a red brick building in the upscale Georgetown neighbourhood of Washington, where they say they are "invited guests" of the Venezuelan government. The activists oppose US intervention in Venezuela to oust President Nicolas Maduro in favour of Guaido, self-proclaimed interim president of the OPEC-member nation. "I am here standing before you announcing that we have recovered this building thanks to the Venezuelan diaspora," Carlos Vecchio, Guaido`s representative in Washington, told a group of supporters outside the building late on Thursday. Vecchio also thanked President Donald Trump`s administration. The building was undergoing safety checks and would be open for business soon, he said. Authorities arrested the last four protesters on Thursday after utilities for the building were cut off and they ignored an eviction order, the groups say. A spokesman for Pepco, Washington`s energy utility, said the company does not discuss service to individual properties. The US Secret Service confirmed officers had helped agents from the State Department`s Diplomatic Security Service execute arrest warrants against people inside the embassy. A US State Department spokeswoman said the government of Guaido, whom the United States recognizes as the leader of Venezuela, asked for US assistance in removing the protesters from the embassy. "The Venezuelan government, led by Interim President Juan Guaido ... has asked the trespassers to depart the premises," the spokeswoman said. Neither agency identified what charges the protesters faced. Tensions have escalated between the United States and Venezuela as Washington has ratcheted up pressure against the government of Maduro, which it says is illegitimate. The United States has imposed sanctions against Venezuelan leaders, ordered the withdrawal of diplomatic personnel from Venezuela in March and, on Wednesday, suspended passenger and cargo flights between the United States and Venezuela. Maduro, who has branded Guaido a US puppet seeking to oust him in a coup, broke off relations with Washington after it recognized Guaido and recalled diplomatic and consular staff. Representatives of Guaido took control of three of the country`s diplomatic properties in the United States in March. At its peak, about 50 people from three groups had occupied the Venezuelan Embassy, according to Medea Benjamin, a co-founder of Code Pink, one of the groups involved.

US federal agents arrest protesters occupying Venezuelan Embassy

donald-trump

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

donald trump

Let's stop fighting, 'start fixing': Biden offers anti-Trump theme

Huawei will not bow to US pressure: Founder and CEO Ren Zhengfei

Kremlin waiting for US decision on Putin-Trump meeting: Report

US holds Iran scientist 'hostage' for seven months: Brother

Trump spells out his position on abortion, says 'Pro-Life' but favours exceptions for rape, incest

Oil producers meet to discuss output amid Iran tension

US may scale back Huawei trade restrictions to help existing customers

US Treasury Secretary Mnuchin rejects subpoena for Trump tax returns

US President Trump denies friction with top aides over Iran policy

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - May 18th, 2019

Donald Trump lifts steel, aluminum tariffs on Canada, Mexico

War talk grips Iraq as storied US carrier returns to Gulf

Trump, Trudeau announce lifting of metals tariffs

Brexit: What is due to happen in British politics before October 31

There will be no war, we don't want it and no one can confront Iran: Foreign Minister Javad Zarif

Missouri Senate passes bill to ban abortions after eight weeks

Gravitas: Trump's 'Visa' Wall: What It Means

Gravitas: Trump's New Immigration Policy: Impact On India

Gravitas: Trump's 'Visa' Wall: What It Means

Trump delays decision on auto tariffs for up to six months

Iran's Zarif says 'no possibility' of talks with US: Report

UK warns British-Iranians against all travel to Iran

Donald Trump says 'good thing' that Iran confused by US stance

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning, May 17th 2019

News brief: Big stories of the day

China cancels US pork import order as US-China trade war drags on