World leaders gathered in Paris will lead global commemorations on Sunday to mark 100 years since the end of World War I at a time of growing nationalism and diplomatic tensions.

Around 70 leaders including US and Russian Presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin will mark the centenary of the 1918 Armistice in the French capital.

British Prime Minister Theresa May and Queen Elizabeth will attend a separate event in London, while New Zealand and Australia are holding their own ceremonies.

The Paris commemorations, centred on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier beneath the Arc de Triomphe, are set to feature warnings about the modern-day danger of nationalism.

"This day is not just about remembering, but should be about a call to action," German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Saturday after visiting the forest clearing in eastern France where the Armistice was signed.

Merkel will give the opening address alongside UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres at a conference called the Paris Peace Forum which will take place after a memorial service on the Champs-Elysees on Sunday morning.

Conceived by French President Emmanuel Macron, the Forum is intended to highlight the importance of international institutions in helping resolve conflicts, avert wars and spread prosperity.

Tensions lurk

But despite the show of unity at the Arc de Triomphe, where school children will read out messages written by soldiers in eight languages, tensions are expected to lurk beneath the surface.

US President Donald Trump, whose hardline nationalism has badly shaken the Western alliance, arrived in Paris on Friday criticising host Macron for being "insulting."

Trump took umbrage at a recent interview in which Macron talked about the need for a European army and listed the US along with Russia and China as a threat to national security.

The "America First" leader, who faced criticism on Saturday for cancelling a trip to an American cemetery because of the rainy weather, will snub the Paris Peace Forum.&nbsp;

Other attendees of the memorial service and Forum include Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Canadian premier Justin Trudeau and Israel's Benyamin Netanyahu, as well as Putin.

With far-right nationalist politicians coming to power from Brazil to Italy to Austria, 40-year-old centrist Macron is set to invoke the war to make the case for international cooperation.

"We want to make these commemorations a time to reflect on the present, not just the past, so that they have a meaning for us today," an aide to Macron said earlier this week.

He will deliver a short speech during Sunday's ceremony, which organisers have made deliberately international and cross-cultural.

The French-born Chinese-American cellist Yo-yo Ma will perform, as will West African singer Angelique Kidjo, and a European youth orchestra with a Russian conductor.&nbsp;

Some 10,000 police have been drafted in to ensure maximum security in a city repeatedly targeted by jihadists since 2015.

Macron is also set to speak later at UN cultural body UNESCO and at the Peace Forum.

The Forum is part of the "fightback" against nationalism worldwide, chief organiser Justin Vaisse told AFP as he played down the significance of Trump's decision not to attend.

"The aim of the forum is to show that there are lots of forces in the international system -- states, NGOs, foundations, intellectuals, companies -- who believe we need a world of rules, an open world and a multilateral world," he said.

Other ceremonies

About 70 current-day nations were involved in the conflict that had six empires and colonial powers at its heart: Austria-Hungary, Britain, France, Germany, Russia and the Ottoman Empire.

Around 10 million soldiers are generally estimated to have been killed during the fighting and more than double that number wounded overall.

Between five and 10 million civilians are estimated to have been killed.

In Britain, church bells are set to ring out across the country at 11 am, at the same time as a national remembrance service at the Cenotaph in London.

In Australia, Prime Minister Scott Morrison will address crowds at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra on Sunday morning.

World leaders gathered in Paris will lead global commemorations on Sunday to mark 100 years since the end of World War I at a time of growing nationalism and diplomatic tensions.

World leaders gathered in Paris will lead global commemorations on Sunday to mark 100 years since the end of World War I at a time of growing nationalism and diplomatic tensions. Around 70 leaders including US and Russian Presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin will mark the centenary of the 1918 Armistice in the French capital. British Prime Minister Theresa May and Queen Elizabeth will attend a separate event in London, while New Zealand and Australia are holding their own ceremonies. The Paris commemorations, centred on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier beneath the Arc de Triomphe, are set to feature warnings about the modern-day danger of nationalism. "This day is not just about remembering, but should be about a call to action," German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Saturday after visiting the forest clearing in eastern France where the Armistice was signed. Merkel will give the opening address alongside UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres at a conference called the Paris Peace Forum which will take place after a memorial service on the Champs-Elysees on Sunday morning. Conceived by French President Emmanuel Macron, the Forum is intended to highlight the importance of international institutions in helping resolve conflicts, avert wars and spread prosperity. Tensions lurk But despite the show of unity at the Arc de Triomphe, where school children will read out messages written by soldiers in eight languages, tensions are expected to lurk beneath the surface. US President Donald Trump, whose hardline nationalism has badly shaken the Western alliance, arrived in Paris on Friday criticising host Macron for being "insulting." Trump took umbrage at a recent interview in which Macron talked about the need for a European army and listed the US along with Russia and China as a threat to national security. The "America First" leader, who faced criticism on Saturday for cancelling a trip to an American cemetery because of the rainy weather, will snub the Paris Peace Forum. Other attendees of the memorial service and Forum include Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Canadian premier Justin Trudeau and Israel's Benyamin Netanyahu, as well as Putin. With far-right nationalist politicians coming to power from Brazil to Italy to Austria, 40-year-old centrist Macron is set to invoke the war to make the case for international cooperation. "We want to make these commemorations a time to reflect on the present, not just the past, so that they have a meaning for us today," an aide to Macron said earlier this week. He will deliver a short speech during Sunday's ceremony, which organisers have made deliberately international and cross-cultural. The French-born Chinese-American cellist Yo-yo Ma will perform, as will West African singer Angelique Kidjo, and a European youth orchestra with a Russian conductor. Some 10,000 police have been drafted in to ensure maximum security in a city repeatedly targeted by jihadists since 2015. Macron is also set to speak later at UN cultural body UNESCO and at the Peace Forum. The Forum is part of the "fightback" against nationalism worldwide, chief organiser Justin Vaisse told AFP as he played down the significance of Trump's decision not to attend. "The aim of the forum is to show that there are lots of forces in the international system -- states, NGOs, foundations, intellectuals, companies -- who believe we need a world of rules, an open world and a multilateral world," he said. Other ceremonies About 70 current-day nations were involved in the conflict that had six empires and colonial powers at its heart: Austria-Hungary, Britain, France, Germany, Russia and the Ottoman Empire. Around 10 million soldiers are generally estimated to have been killed during the fighting and more than double that number wounded overall. Between five and 10 million civilians are estimated to have been killed. In Britain, church bells are set to ring out across the country at 11 am, at the same time as a national remembrance service at the Cenotaph in London. In Australia, Prime Minister Scott Morrison will address crowds at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra on Sunday morning.

World leaders mark 100 years since WWI Armistice in Paris

Around 5,000 Central Americans left Mexico City at dawn Saturday, brushing exhaustion and illness aside to get back on the road towards the United States as part of a migrant caravan that has drawn fury from President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/troops-will-not-fire-on-migrant-caravan-trump-175260">Donald Trump</a>.

Between coughs and sneezes, the migrants packed up their makeshift camp in a sports park, where they had rested for six nights, and headed to the city's metro -- which opened an hour early to transport them toward neighbouring Mexico State.&nbsp;

"We got cold sleeping out in the open, so that's why we're sick now. The kids have got lice, there's not always enough water to bathe them," Adamari Correa, a Guatemalan travelling with her sister and her sister's children, told AFP.

From there, the plan was to set off once again on foot toward Queretaro in central Mexico, still hundreds of kilometres (miles) from the US border.

"I don't want to walk, Mommy!" cried one little girl wrapped in a blanket, as her mother -- a sleeping mat on her back and two large bundles in each hand -- &nbsp;stood in an endless line waiting to board the five designated train, each carrying around 1,000 people, metro authorities estimated.

Some 1,000 police officers kept watch over the operation.

The caravan left San Pedro Sula, Honduras, on October 13 and has covered more than 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) so far.&nbsp;

At least two other caravans have since been established, defying threats from Trump -- who has decried what he describes as an "invasion" and ordered thousands of soldiers to the US-Mexico border.

On Friday, his administration unveiled a controversial new crackdown, announcing it would no longer allow people who enter the US illegally to claim asylum. Instead, those seeking political or other kinds of asylum will be heard exclusively at the border crossings.

Also on Friday, a group of 1,300 Central American migrants fragmented from the caravan to embark on the same path from Mexico City.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/new-migrant-caravan-departs-el-salvador-for-us-174834">New migrant caravan departs El Salvador for </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/new-migrant-caravan-departs-el-salvador-for-us-174834">US</a>

They quickly amassed on the sides of the wide high-speed road that snakes around the capital, leading to the exit toward Queretaro.

Taking the risk

"We're sick from the temperature changes," said Wilson Alexander Mejia, a 27-year-old labourer travelling alone.

"But we're determined to reach the border and beyond."

On the highway, truck drivers stopped to offer rides. Some migrants clung to vehicles; others found a seat perched on the hood, above the engine.&nbsp;

"Thank you Mexico! We go forward!" they yelled to passers-by, waving.

Other caravan members following behind trekked on foot or took public buses to reach the Queretaro exit, where trucks slowed to pick them up.

Under the already intense sun, transport police were also seen helping migrants into one cargo vehicle's two trailers -- but they lacked any ventilation system.

"When you want something, you have to take risks and not care what happens," said Lucas Rocha, a 31-year-old on his second journey to the border. He said if he doesn't make it this time, he'll try again.

Years ago, he rode the notoriously dangerous cargo train route through Mexico known as "La Bestia" -- "the beast."

Along with that route, migrants are routinely robbed and assaulted by organized criminals -- while scrambling onto moving trains sees many get dragged underneath and lose limbs.

Around 5,000 Central Americans left Mexico City at dawn Saturday, brushing exhaustion and illness aside to get back on the road towards the United States as part of a migrant caravan that has drawn fury from President Donald Trump.

Around 5,000 Central Americans left Mexico City at dawn Saturday, brushing exhaustion and illness aside to get back on the road towards the United States as part of a migrant caravan that has drawn fury from President Donald Trump. Between coughs and sneezes, the migrants packed up their makeshift camp in a sports park, where they had rested for six nights, and headed to the city's metro -- which opened an hour early to transport them toward neighbouring Mexico State. "We got cold sleeping out in the open, so that's why we're sick now. The kids have got lice, there's not always enough water to bathe them," Adamari Correa, a Guatemalan travelling with her sister and her sister's children, told AFP. From there, the plan was to set off once again on foot toward Queretaro in central Mexico, still hundreds of kilometres (miles) from the US border. "I don't want to walk, Mommy!" cried one little girl wrapped in a blanket, as her mother -- a sleeping mat on her back and two large bundles in each hand -- stood in an endless line waiting to board the five designated train, each carrying around 1,000 people, metro authorities estimated. Some 1,000 police officers kept watch over the operation. The caravan left San Pedro Sula, Honduras, on October 13 and has covered more than 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) so far. At least two other caravans have since been established, defying threats from Trump -- who has decried what he describes as an "invasion" and ordered thousands of soldiers to the US-Mexico border. On Friday, his administration unveiled a controversial new crackdown, announcing it would no longer allow people who enter the US illegally to claim asylum. Instead, those seeking political or other kinds of asylum will be heard exclusively at the border crossings. Also on Friday, a group of 1,300 Central American migrants fragmented from the caravan to embark on the same path from Mexico City. Also read: New migrant caravan departs El Salvador for US They quickly amassed on the sides of the wide high-speed road that snakes around the capital, leading to the exit toward Queretaro. Taking the risk "We're sick from the temperature changes," said Wilson Alexander Mejia, a 27-year-old labourer travelling alone. "But we're determined to reach the border and beyond." On the highway, truck drivers stopped to offer rides. Some migrants clung to vehicles; others found a seat perched on the hood, above the engine. "Thank you Mexico! We go forward!" they yelled to passers-by, waving. Other caravan members following behind trekked on foot or took public buses to reach the Queretaro exit, where trucks slowed to pick them up. Under the already intense sun, transport police were also seen helping migrants into one cargo vehicle's two trailers -- but they lacked any ventilation system. "When you want something, you have to take risks and not care what happens," said Lucas Rocha, a 31-year-old on his second journey to the border. He said if he doesn't make it this time, he'll try again. Years ago, he rode the notoriously dangerous cargo train route through Mexico known as "La Bestia" -- "the beast." Along with that route, migrants are routinely robbed and assaulted by organized criminals -- while scrambling onto moving trains sees many get dragged underneath and lose limbs.

After 6 days of rest, migrant caravan heads again towards US

Rescue workers recovered multiple bodies on Saturday from the charred remains of residences in a California town ravaged by the most destructive fire to hit the US state.

Firefighters are battling raging blazes at both ends of California, but there is little hope of containing the flames anytime soon.&nbsp;

More than 250,000 people have been ordered to evacuate a wide area near the state capital Sacramento and, in southern California, the Hollywood resort town of Malibu.

In the town of Paradise, in Butte County, rescuers removed remains over a period of several hours and placed them in a black hearse. Pieces of bodies were transported by bucket, while intact remains were carried in body bags.

So far, all the dead have been reported in Paradise, where more than 6,700 buildings -- most of them residences -- have been consumed by the late-season inferno.

US President Donald Trump put the death toll at 11 on Saturday evening -- a count that seemed set to rise with bodies being recovered in Paradise.

"Our hearts are with those fighting the fires, the 52,000 who have evacuated, and the families of the 11 who have died," Trump tweeted.

From miles around, acrid smoke could be seen in the sky around Paradise, the sun barely visible. On the ground, cars were reduced to metal carcasses, while power lines were also gnawed by the flames.

Locals fled the danger, but police told AFP some farmers returned to check on their cattle.

"The magnitude of destruction we have seen is really unbelievable and heartbreaking, and our hearts go to everybody who has been affected by this," said Mark Ghilarducci, the director of the California Office of Emergency Services.

Governor-elect Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency to provide assistance to the hardest-hit areas in the fire-prone state.

The fast-moving blaze in the north, which authorities have named the "Camp Fire," broke out early Thursday.&nbsp;

Fanned by strong winds, it has so far scorched 100,000 acres (40,500 hectares) and is 20 per cent contained, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) said Saturday. So far, three of the more than 3,200 firefighters deployed have been injured.

They estimate they will need three weeks to fully contain the blaze.

Local power authorities have told state officials an outage occurred near the spot where the fire erupted, The Sacramento Bee reported, but there is still no official cause of the Camp blaze.

Trump, who was in France for World War I commemorations, drew criticism online for his somewhat unsympathetic reaction to the devastation earlier on Saturday.

"There is no reason for these massive, deadly and costly forest fires in California except that forest management is so poor," Trump tweeted.&nbsp;

"Billions of dollars are given each year, with so many lives lost, all because of gross mismanagement of the forests. Remedy now, or no more Fed payments!"

Malibu mansions in flames

In southern California, more wildfires burned, including one just north of Los Angeles and another in Ventura County near Thousand Oaks, where a Marine Corps veteran shot dead 12 people in a country music bar on Wednesday.

Authorities said some 200,000 people are under mandatory evacuation orders, including the entire city of Malibu.

The "Woolsey Fire" had consumed around 69,000 acres, destroyed at least 150 homes and was so far not contained, the Ventura County Fire Department said, adding that evacuation orders were issued for some 88,000 homes in the county and neighbouring Los Angeles County.

"We heard this was coming so we set up the sprinklers and we hosed the whole house down," said Malibu resident Patrick Henry. "We pretty much had enough time to get the dogs in the trunk."

Malibu is one of the most in-demand locations in California for stars seeking privacy and luxury.

Reality TV star Kim Kardashian West, who lives just north of coastal Malibu, revealed she was forced to flee her home.&nbsp;

"I heard the flames have hit our property at our home in Hidden Hills but now are more contained and have stopped at the moment," she said on Twitter. "I just pray the winds are in our favour."

Actor Martin Sheen, briefly reported missing by his actor son Charlie, was also forced to evacuate.

"We're fine, we're at Zuma Beach and we're probably going to sleep in the car tonight," Martin Sheen told Fox News 11, adding that it was the worst fire he had seen in 48 years of living in Malibu.

The wildfire reached Paramount Ranch, destroying the Western Town sets used for hundreds of productions including HBO'S sci-fi western "Westworld," officials and the network said.

Director Guillermo del Toro tweeted that Bleak House, his museum of horror movie memorabilia, was also in the path of the flames.

Utter devastation

In Paradise, the flames destroyed hundreds of homes, a hospital, a gas station, several restaurants and numerous vehicles, officials said.

Mandatory evacuation orders were issued for more than 52,000 people in the scenic area in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

"The whole lower side of Paradise is totally engulfed in flames right now," Kevin Winstead, a resident of nearby Magalia, told KIEM TV.

"Not one home will be left standing," he said. "I'm devastated."

The National Weather Service said Saturday strong winds and dry conditions were to continue through the weekend.

Rescue workers recovered multiple bodies on Saturday from the charred remains of residences in a California town ravaged by the most destructive fire to hit the US state.

Rescue workers recovered multiple bodies on Saturday from the charred remains of residences in a California town ravaged by the most destructive fire to hit the US state. Firefighters are battling raging blazes at both ends of California, but there is little hope of containing the flames anytime soon. More than 250,000 people have been ordered to evacuate a wide area near the state capital Sacramento and, in southern California, the Hollywood resort town of Malibu. In the town of Paradise, in Butte County, rescuers removed remains over a period of several hours and placed them in a black hearse. Pieces of bodies were transported by bucket, while intact remains were carried in body bags. So far, all the dead have been reported in Paradise, where more than 6,700 buildings -- most of them residences -- have been consumed by the late-season inferno. US President Donald Trump put the death toll at 11 on Saturday evening -- a count that seemed set to rise with bodies being recovered in Paradise. "Our hearts are with those fighting the fires, the 52,000 who have evacuated, and the families of the 11 who have died," Trump tweeted. From miles around, acrid smoke could be seen in the sky around Paradise, the sun barely visible. On the ground, cars were reduced to metal carcasses, while power lines were also gnawed by the flames. Locals fled the danger, but police told AFP some farmers returned to check on their cattle. "The magnitude of destruction we have seen is really unbelievable and heartbreaking, and our hearts go to everybody who has been affected by this," said Mark Ghilarducci, the director of the California Office of Emergency Services. Governor-elect Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency to provide assistance to the hardest-hit areas in the fire-prone state. The fast-moving blaze in the north, which authorities have named the "Camp Fire," broke out early Thursday. Fanned by strong winds, it has so far scorched 100,000 acres (40,500 hectares) and is 20 per cent contained, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) said Saturday. So far, three of the more than 3,200 firefighters deployed have been injured. They estimate they will need three weeks to fully contain the blaze. Local power authorities have told state officials an outage occurred near the spot where the fire erupted, The Sacramento Bee reported, but there is still no official cause of the Camp blaze. Trump, who was in France for World War I commemorations, drew criticism online for his somewhat unsympathetic reaction to the devastation earlier on Saturday. "There is no reason for these massive, deadly and costly forest fires in California except that forest management is so poor," Trump tweeted. "Billions of dollars are given each year, with so many lives lost, all because of gross mismanagement of the forests. Remedy now, or no more Fed payments!" Malibu mansions in flames In southern California, more wildfires burned, including one just north of Los Angeles and another in Ventura County near Thousand Oaks, where a Marine Corps veteran shot dead 12 people in a country music bar on Wednesday. Authorities said some 200,000 people are under mandatory evacuation orders, including the entire city of Malibu. The "Woolsey Fire" had consumed around 69,000 acres, destroyed at least 150 homes and was so far not contained, the Ventura County Fire Department said, adding that evacuation orders were issued for some 88,000 homes in the county and neighbouring Los Angeles County. "We heard this was coming so we set up the sprinklers and we hosed the whole house down," said Malibu resident Patrick Henry. "We pretty much had enough time to get the dogs in the trunk." Malibu is one of the most in-demand locations in California for stars seeking privacy and luxury. Reality TV star Kim Kardashian West, who lives just north of coastal Malibu, revealed she was forced to flee her home. "I heard the flames have hit our property at our home in Hidden Hills but now are more contained and have stopped at the moment," she said on Twitter. "I just pray the winds are in our favour." Actor Martin Sheen, briefly reported missing by his actor son Charlie, was also forced to evacuate. "We're fine, we're at Zuma Beach and we're probably going to sleep in the car tonight," Martin Sheen told Fox News 11, adding that it was the worst fire he had seen in 48 years of living in Malibu. The wildfire reached Paramount Ranch, destroying the Western Town sets used for hundreds of productions including HBO'S sci-fi western "Westworld," officials and the network said. Director Guillermo del Toro tweeted that Bleak House, his museum of horror movie memorabilia, was also in the path of the flames. Utter devastation In Paradise, the flames destroyed hundreds of homes, a hospital, a gas station, several restaurants and numerous vehicles, officials said. Mandatory evacuation orders were issued for more than 52,000 people in the scenic area in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. "The whole lower side of Paradise is totally engulfed in flames right now," Kevin Winstead, a resident of nearby Magalia, told KIEM TV. "Not one home will be left standing," he said. "I'm devastated." The National Weather Service said Saturday strong winds and dry conditions were to continue through the weekend.

Rescue workers recover multiple bodies in fire-hit California town

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/confident-of-sweeping-january-5-snap-polls-rajapakse-ends-50-year-association-with-sirisenas-party-176670">Confident of 'sweeping' January 5 snap polls, Rajapakse ends </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/confident-of-sweeping-january-5-snap-polls-rajapakse-ends-50-year-association-with-sirisenas-party-176670">50-year</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/confident-of-sweeping-january-5-snap-polls-rajapakse-ends-50-year-association-with-sirisenas-party-176670"> association with Sirisena's party</a>

Sri Lanka's strongman leader Mahinda Rajapakse on Sunday called his five-decade-long association with &nbsp;Sri Lanka Freedom Party, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

According to reports, Rajapakse has now joined hands with the newly-formed Sri Lanka People's Party (SLPP).

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-erdogan-met-in-paris-discussed-how-to-respond-to-khashoggis-killing-176665">Trump, Erdogan met in Paris, discussed how to respond to Khashoggi's killing</a>

US President Donald Trump and his Turkish counterpart Tayyip Erdogan met in Paris on Sunday. The meeting came on the sidelines of a dinner hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron on the occasion of the Armistice Day commemorations.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-alive-to-emerging-threats-in-indo-pacific-concerned-by-modernisation-rate-in-neighbourhood-air-chief-marshal-dhanoa-176655">India is 'very much alive' to emerging threats in Indo-Pacific: Air Chief Marshal Dhanoa</a>

The Indian Air Force is "very much alive" to emerging threats that could arise in the Indo Pacific region, Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa said Sunday, and asserted that his force was prepared to deal with any challenge to protect India's national interests.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/macron-urges-leaders-at-wwi-ceremony-to-build-hope-not-fear-176661">At WWI ceremony Macron urges world leaders to 'build hope, not fear'</a>

French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday urged dozens of world leaders marking a century since the end of World War I to come together for a joint "fight for peace".&nbsp;

"Let us build our hopes rather than playing our fears against each other," he told leaders gathered at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-president-sirisena-usurped-powers-of-mps-speaker-176676">Sri Lanka president Sirisena usurped powers of MPs: Speaker</a>

Sri Lanka's parliamentary Speaker Sunday accused President Maithripala Sirisena of "usurping" the rights of legislators and asked public servants not to carry out his "illegal orders".

Confident of 'sweeping' January 5 snap polls, Rajapakse ends 50-year association with Sirisena's party Sri Lanka's strongman leader Mahinda Rajapakse on Sunday called his five-decade-long association with Sri Lanka Freedom Party, news agency PTI reported.

Confident of 'sweeping' January 5 snap polls, Rajapakse ends 50-year association with Sirisena's party Sri Lanka's strongman leader Mahinda Rajapakse on Sunday called his five-decade-long association with Sri Lanka Freedom Party, news agency PTI reported. According to reports, Rajapakse has now joined hands with the newly-formed Sri Lanka People's Party (SLPP). Trump, Erdogan met in Paris, discussed how to respond to Khashoggi's killing US President Donald Trump and his Turkish counterpart Tayyip Erdogan met in Paris on Sunday. The meeting came on the sidelines of a dinner hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron on the occasion of the Armistice Day commemorations. India is 'very much alive' to emerging threats in Indo-Pacific: Air Chief Marshal Dhanoa The Indian Air Force is "very much alive" to emerging threats that could arise in the Indo Pacific region, Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa said Sunday, and asserted that his force was prepared to deal with any challenge to protect India's national interests. At WWI ceremony Macron urges world leaders to 'build hope, not fear' French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday urged dozens of world leaders marking a century since the end of World War I to come together for a joint "fight for peace". "Let us build our hopes rather than playing our fears against each other," he told leaders gathered at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Sri Lanka president Sirisena usurped powers of MPs: Speaker Sri Lanka's parliamentary Speaker Sunday accused President Maithripala Sirisena of "usurping" the rights of legislators and asked public servants not to carry out his "illegal orders".

News brief: Big stories of the day

French police stopped two topless protesters who approached the motorcade of US President Donald Trump as he made his way up the Champs-Elysees to a ceremony in Paris marking 100 years since the end of World War I.

One of the protesters, with slogans written on her body, got within metres of the rear of the motorcade after jumping over a barricade.

She was grabbed by a police officer, while a second woman could be seen being hauled away by security services on the edge of the famous avenue, live television pictures showed.

Inna Shevchenko, one of the leaders of radical feminist group Femen, appeared to claim responsibility for the protest on Twitter.

"FEMEN activists 'welcomed' the cortege of @realDonaldTrump twice on his way to Arc de Triumph," she wrote.

The motorcade briefly paused due to the breach of security before continuing towards the Arc de Triomphe where commemorations for the Armistice are being held with around 70 world leaders.

Three Femen protesters had demonstrated at the Arc De Triomphe on Saturday morning to denounce "war criminals" among the guests at the commemorations in Paris which include leaders from Europe and Africa.

"Welcome war criminals" was written on one of their placards which they held up, while "Fake peacemakers" and "Real dictators" had been daubed on their bodies.&nbsp;

"Most of them are dictators who don't respect human rights," said 24-year-old protester Tara Lacroix, who was detained by police along with the two others.

French police stopped two topless protesters who approached the motorcade of US President Donald Trump as he made his way up the Champs-Elysees to a ceremony in Paris marking 100 years since the end of World War I.

French police stopped two topless protesters who approached the motorcade of US President Donald Trump as he made his way up the Champs-Elysees to a ceremony in Paris marking 100 years since the end of World War I. One of the protesters, with slogans written on her body, got within metres of the rear of the motorcade after jumping over a barricade. She was grabbed by a police officer, while a second woman could be seen being hauled away by security services on the edge of the famous avenue, live television pictures showed. Inna Shevchenko, one of the leaders of radical feminist group Femen, appeared to claim responsibility for the protest on Twitter. "FEMEN activists 'welcomed' the cortege of @realDonaldTrump twice on his way to Arc de Triumph," she wrote. The motorcade briefly paused due to the breach of security before continuing towards the Arc de Triomphe where commemorations for the Armistice are being held with around 70 world leaders. Three Femen protesters had demonstrated at the Arc De Triomphe on Saturday morning to denounce "war criminals" among the guests at the commemorations in Paris which include leaders from Europe and Africa. "Welcome war criminals" was written on one of their placards which they held up, while "Fake peacemakers" and "Real dictators" had been daubed on their bodies. "Most of them are dictators who don't respect human rights," said 24-year-old protester Tara Lacroix, who was detained by police along with the two others.

Police stop protesters approaching Trump motorcade in Paris

US President Donald Trump and his Turkish counterpart Tayyip Erdogan met in Paris on Sunday. The meeting came on the sidelines of a dinner hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron on the occasion of the Armistice Day commemorations.

The meeting comes amid&nbsp;international pressure mounting&nbsp;on the Trump administration to adopt a stricter stance on Saudi Arabia over the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.&nbsp;

According to a Reuters report, the two leaders discussed how to respond to Khashoggi's killing.&nbsp;

Khashoggi, a critic of ruling Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was murdered at the kingdom's Istanbul consulate by a team sent from Riyadh. Saudi authorities have acknowledged that the killing was premeditated, but his body has not been found.

As per a report published in a Turkish newspaper on Saturday, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-journalist-khashoggi-corpse-went-down-the-drains-report-176538">Khashoggi's killers poured his remains down the drain</a> after dissolving him in acid.

Samples taken from the drains at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul showed traces of acid, pro-government daily Sabah said, without quoting sources, AFP reported.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Erdogan on Saturday noted that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/khashoggi-tapes-given-to-key-foreign-nations-turkeys-erdogan-176556">Turkey has given recordings related to the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi</a> to Saudi Arabia, the United States, Germany, France and Britain.

"We gave the tapes. We gave them to Saudi Arabia, to the United States, Germans, French and British, all of them. They have listened to all the conversations in them. They know," Erdogan said.

"There's no need to distort this issue, they know for certain that the killer, or the killers, is among these 15 people. Saudi Arabia's government can disclose this by making these 15 people talk," Erdogan was quoted by news agency Reuters.

Saudi journalist Khashoggi disappeared at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2. He was a Washington Post columnist and was known to have been critical of the Saudi government and its de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump and his Turkish counterpart Tayyip Erdogan met in Paris on Sunday. The meeting came on the sidelines of a dinner hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron on the occasion of the Armistice Day commemorations.

US President Donald Trump and his Turkish counterpart Tayyip Erdogan met in Paris on Sunday. The meeting came on the sidelines of a dinner hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron on the occasion of the Armistice Day commemorations. The meeting comes amid international pressure mounting on the Trump administration to adopt a stricter stance on Saudi Arabia over the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. According to a Reuters report, the two leaders discussed how to respond to Khashoggi's killing. Khashoggi, a critic of ruling Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was murdered at the kingdom's Istanbul consulate by a team sent from Riyadh. Saudi authorities have acknowledged that the killing was premeditated, but his body has not been found. As per a report published in a Turkish newspaper on Saturday, Khashoggi's killers poured his remains down the drain after dissolving him in acid. Samples taken from the drains at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul showed traces of acid, pro-government daily Sabah said, without quoting sources, AFP reported. Meanwhile, Erdogan on Saturday noted that Turkey has given recordings related to the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi to Saudi Arabia, the United States, Germany, France and Britain. "We gave the tapes. We gave them to Saudi Arabia, to the United States, Germans, French and British, all of them. They have listened to all the conversations in them. They know," Erdogan said. "There's no need to distort this issue, they know for certain that the killer, or the killers, is among these 15 people. Saudi Arabia's government can disclose this by making these 15 people talk," Erdogan was quoted by news agency Reuters. Saudi journalist Khashoggi disappeared at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2. He was a Washington Post columnist and was known to have been critical of the Saudi government and its de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump, Erdogan met in Paris, discussed how to respond to Khashoggi's killing

US President Donald Trump and France's Emmanuel Macron agreed on Saturday on the need for more European defence spending, papering over an earlier Trump tweet that had described Macron's call for a European army as "very insulting".

Meeting for talks at the Elysee a day before commemorations to mark the 100th anniversary of the end of World War One, Macron welcomed Trump under rainy Parisian skies with a firm handshake. But there appeared to be less immediate warmth in the greeting between the two than in the past.

Seated on gilded chairs in the ornate presidential palace, Macron placed his hand on Trump's knee and referred to him as "my friend", while Trump kept more distance, although he also talked up common ground on an issue that had caused friction.

"We want a strong Europe, it's very important to us, and whichever way we can do it the best and more efficient would be something we both want," said Trump.

"We want to help Europe but it has to be fair. Right now the burden sharing has been largely on the United States."

Macron echoed those sentiments, saying he wanted Europe to bear a greater share of the defence costs within NATO, a point he has made repeatedly since taking office, alongside his ambitions for Europe to have its own military capability.

"That's why I do believe my proposals for European defence are totally consistent with that," Macron said in English.

Fresh off US congressional elections that saw his Republican Party's power eroded, Trump's visit is aimed at bolstering the US-European alliance at a symbolic time, with the world marking the centenary of World War One's armistice.

But in a tweet prior to landing in Paris, Trump took a dim view of comments Macron made in a Europe 1 radio interview this week in which he appeared to cast the United States as a threat.

Discussing the growing dangers from cyber-hacking, meddling in electoral processes and the US decision to withdraw from a missile treaty, Macron said Europe needed to protect itself against China, Russia "and even the United States".

Later in the interview, he spoke about the need for a European army, saying:

"Faced by Russia, which is on our borders and which has shown that it can be threatening... we need to have a Europe that can better defend itself by itself, without depending solely on the United States."

Trump, who has pushed NATO allies to pay more for common defense and not rely on the United States, complained.

"Very insulting, but perhaps Europe should first pay its fair share of NATO, which the US subsidizes greatly," Trump said on Twitter.

The Elysee said the misunderstanding, which it said had been caused by "exaggerated" US press reports, was cleared up during more than an hour of talks it described as "substantial" and "very constructive".

"We had a great discussion and we are aligned," the Elysee quoted Trump as saying during the meeting, which covered trade, defence, Syria and the fallout from the murder in Istanbul last month of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

SOLEMN COMMEMORATION

After a lunch with Macron and their wives, Melania and Brigitte, Trump was scheduled to visit an American cemetery at Belleau Wood, east of Paris. But he cancelled the trip due to the weather. White House chief of staff John Kelly, a retired four-star general, and General Joe Dunford, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, will attend the ceremony instead, the White House said.

On Sunday, after a solemn commemoration at the Arc de Triomphe to honour the armistice centenary, Trump is scheduled to visit an American cemetery at Suresnes, on the western outskirts of the capital, where he will make formal remarks.

His trip comes just days after congressional elections delivered results that will complicate his next two years. While Republicans slightly expanded their majority in the US Senate, they lost control of the US House of Representatives to Democrats who may use their newfound power to launch investigations into Trump and stymie his agenda.

While the talks with Trump covered trade and foreign policy, it was not clear if they touched on European concerns about Trump's plans to withdraw the United States from the 1980s Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Agreement.

Macron told Europe 1 radio that the "main victim" of the US withdrawal from the INF accord was Europe and its security.

The French president, who tried but failed earlier this year to talk Trump out of withdrawing from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, has also voiced worries about the impact of sanctions on European companies doing business with Iran.

On Sunday, Trump may also chat briefly with Russian President Vladimir Putin when both are among the 70 world leaders set to gather at the Arc de Triomphe. Trump and Putin are expected to have formal talks later this month when both attend a G-20 summit in Buenos Aires.

US President Donald Trump and France's Emmanuel Macron agreed on Saturday on the need for more European defence spending, papering over an earlier Trump tweet that had described Macron's call for a European army as "very insulting".

US President Donald Trump and France's Emmanuel Macron agreed on Saturday on the need for more European defence spending, papering over an earlier Trump tweet that had described Macron's call for a European army as "very insulting". Meeting for talks at the Elysee a day before commemorations to mark the 100th anniversary of the end of World War One, Macron welcomed Trump under rainy Parisian skies with a firm handshake. But there appeared to be less immediate warmth in the greeting between the two than in the past. Seated on gilded chairs in the ornate presidential palace, Macron placed his hand on Trump's knee and referred to him as "my friend", while Trump kept more distance, although he also talked up common ground on an issue that had caused friction. "We want a strong Europe, it's very important to us, and whichever way we can do it the best and more efficient would be something we both want," said Trump. "We want to help Europe but it has to be fair. Right now the burden sharing has been largely on the United States." Macron echoed those sentiments, saying he wanted Europe to bear a greater share of the defence costs within NATO, a point he has made repeatedly since taking office, alongside his ambitions for Europe to have its own military capability. "That's why I do believe my proposals for European defence are totally consistent with that," Macron said in English. Fresh off US congressional elections that saw his Republican Party's power eroded, Trump's visit is aimed at bolstering the US-European alliance at a symbolic time, with the world marking the centenary of World War One's armistice. But in a tweet prior to landing in Paris, Trump took a dim view of comments Macron made in a Europe 1 radio interview this week in which he appeared to cast the United States as a threat. Discussing the growing dangers from cyber-hacking, meddling in electoral processes and the US decision to withdraw from a missile treaty, Macron said Europe needed to protect itself against China, Russia "and even the United States". Later in the interview, he spoke about the need for a European army, saying: "Faced by Russia, which is on our borders and which has shown that it can be threatening... we need to have a Europe that can better defend itself by itself, without depending solely on the United States." Trump, who has pushed NATO allies to pay more for common defense and not rely on the United States, complained. "Very insulting, but perhaps Europe should first pay its fair share of NATO, which the US subsidizes greatly," Trump said on Twitter. The Elysee said the misunderstanding, which it said had been caused by "exaggerated" US press reports, was cleared up during more than an hour of talks it described as "substantial" and "very constructive". "We had a great discussion and we are aligned," the Elysee quoted Trump as saying during the meeting, which covered trade, defence, Syria and the fallout from the murder in Istanbul last month of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. SOLEMN COMMEMORATION After a lunch with Macron and their wives, Melania and Brigitte, Trump was scheduled to visit an American cemetery at Belleau Wood, east of Paris. But he cancelled the trip due to the weather. White House chief of staff John Kelly, a retired four-star general, and General Joe Dunford, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, will attend the ceremony instead, the White House said. On Sunday, after a solemn commemoration at the Arc de Triomphe to honour the armistice centenary, Trump is scheduled to visit an American cemetery at Suresnes, on the western outskirts of the capital, where he will make formal remarks. His trip comes just days after congressional elections delivered results that will complicate his next two years. While Republicans slightly expanded their majority in the US Senate, they lost control of the US House of Representatives to Democrats who may use their newfound power to launch investigations into Trump and stymie his agenda. While the talks with Trump covered trade and foreign policy, it was not clear if they touched on European concerns about Trump's plans to withdraw the United States from the 1980s Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Agreement. Macron told Europe 1 radio that the "main victim" of the US withdrawal from the INF accord was Europe and its security. The French president, who tried but failed earlier this year to talk Trump out of withdrawing from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, has also voiced worries about the impact of sanctions on European companies doing business with Iran. On Sunday, Trump may also chat briefly with Russian President Vladimir Putin when both are among the 70 world leaders set to gather at the Arc de Triomphe. Trump and Putin are expected to have formal talks later this month when both attend a G-20 summit in Buenos Aires.

Trump, Macron agree on defence after 'insulting' European army spat

A US appeals court in California ruled on Thursday that President Donald Trump's administration must continue a program begun under former President Barack Obama that protects hundreds of thousands of illegal immigrants who were brought into the country as children.

The decision by the San Francisco-based 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals preserves the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program introduced in 2012 that has shielded from deportation a group of immigrants dubbed "Dreamers" and has given them work permits, though not a path to citizenship.&nbsp;

Trump has taken a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-moves-to-curb-migrants-asylum-claims-176298">stern stance against illegal immigration</a>. His administration announced plans in September 2017 to phase out DACA, arguing that Obama exceeded his constitutional powers when he bypassed Congress and created the program. DACA currently protects roughly 700,000 young adults, mostly Hispanics, with the number previously as high as about 800,000 people.

The three-judge panel unanimously upheld a federal judge`s January injunction maintaining the program, rejecting the administration`s claim that the decision to end DACA was not reviewable by the courts.

The ruling stems from a lawsuit brought by the University of California, the states of California, Maine, Maryland and Minnesota and others challenging Trump`s move to end DACA.

The judges said the plaintiffs made a plausible case that the Republican president`s plan violates the US Constitution`s guarantee of equal protection under the law. The plaintiffs provided evidence of "discriminatory motivation, including the rescission order`s disparate impact on Latinos and persons of Mexican heritage," Judge Kim McLane Wardlaw write in the opinion.&nbsp;

Wardlaw was appointed by Democratic former President Bill Clinton. The other two judges, John Owens and Jacqueline Nguyen, were appointed by Obama, a Democrat. Wardlaw and Nguyen also said the plaintiffs would likely win on their claim that rescinding DACA would violate federal administrative law.&nbsp;

The ruling represented another legal defeat for Trump concerning DACA, although he has won court victories on other parts of his tough immigration policies.

"Another federal court has said what we`ve always known: that Trump`s decision to kill DACA was wrong and that his sole motivation was to deport 800,000 people of color," said Sanaa Abrar of the group United We Dream, which advocates for DACA recipients.

On Monday, the administration took the unusual step of asking the US Supreme Court to review the case even though the appeals court had yet to rule.

Trump said on Wednesday he saw a potential to work with Democrats, who won control of the House of Representatives this week, but would have to see how the Supreme Court rules on the issue.

The ruling was the first by a federal appellate court to review the merits of the decision to rescind DACA.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-2000-migrants-drown-in-mediterranean-this-year-un-175892">More than 2,000 migrants drown in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-2000-migrants-drown-in-mediterranean-this-year-un-175892">Mediterranean</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-2000-migrants-drown-in-mediterranean-this-year-un-175892"> this year: UN</a>

"Far from over"

"In California and across our nation, Dreamers significantly enrich our communities as scholars, entrepreneurs, first responders and much more," said Xavier Becerra, California`s Democratic attorney general. "This fight, of course, is far from over. We will continue to defend Dreamers and DACA all the way to the Supreme Court if necessary."

The Justice Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

San Francisco-based US District Judge William Alsup decided in January the government must continue processing renewals of existing DACA applications while litigation over the legality of Trump`s action is resolved. The administration in February unsuccessfully appealed Alsup`s ruling to the Supreme Court.

Trump`s move last year had called for DACA to begin winding down this past March. Trump`s action sparked an outcry from immigration advocates, business groups, colleges and some religious leaders. There are about 11 million illegal immigrants in the United States, according to the Pew Research Center.&nbsp;

Lawsuits both challenging and supporting Trump`s decision to end DACA have been working their way through the courts, making it likely the issue will wind up in front of the Supreme Court.

The 9th Circuit ruling does not impact a nationwide injunction to preserve DACA issued by US District Judge Nicholas Garaufis in Brooklyn in February, which also has been appealed.

A federal judge in Washington in August ordered the administration to fully restore DACA, including taking new applications. That decision was stayed pending appeal.

Legislation to extend protections for DACA recipients and provide them a path to citizenship failed in Congress this year.&nbsp;

A US appeals court in California ruled on Thursday that President Donald Trump's administration must continue a program begun under former President Barack Obama that protects hundreds of thousands of illegal immigrants who were brought into the country as children.

A US appeals court in California ruled on Thursday that President Donald Trump's administration must continue a program begun under former President Barack Obama that protects hundreds of thousands of illegal immigrants who were brought into the country as children. The decision by the San Francisco-based 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals preserves the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program introduced in 2012 that has shielded from deportation a group of immigrants dubbed "Dreamers" and has given them work permits, though not a path to citizenship. Trump has taken a stern stance against illegal immigration. His administration announced plans in September 2017 to phase out DACA, arguing that Obama exceeded his constitutional powers when he bypassed Congress and created the program. DACA currently protects roughly 700,000 young adults, mostly Hispanics, with the number previously as high as about 800,000 people. The three-judge panel unanimously upheld a federal judge`s January injunction maintaining the program, rejecting the administration`s claim that the decision to end DACA was not reviewable by the courts. The ruling stems from a lawsuit brought by the University of California, the states of California, Maine, Maryland and Minnesota and others challenging Trump`s move to end DACA. The judges said the plaintiffs made a plausible case that the Republican president`s plan violates the US Constitution`s guarantee of equal protection under the law. The plaintiffs provided evidence of "discriminatory motivation, including the rescission order`s disparate impact on Latinos and persons of Mexican heritage," Judge Kim McLane Wardlaw write in the opinion. Wardlaw was appointed by Democratic former President Bill Clinton. The other two judges, John Owens and Jacqueline Nguyen, were appointed by Obama, a Democrat. Wardlaw and Nguyen also said the plaintiffs would likely win on their claim that rescinding DACA would violate federal administrative law. The ruling represented another legal defeat for Trump concerning DACA, although he has won court victories on other parts of his tough immigration policies. "Another federal court has said what we`ve always known: that Trump`s decision to kill DACA was wrong and that his sole motivation was to deport 800,000 people of color," said Sanaa Abrar of the group United We Dream, which advocates for DACA recipients. On Monday, the administration took the unusual step of asking the US Supreme Court to review the case even though the appeals court had yet to rule. Trump said on Wednesday he saw a potential to work with Democrats, who won control of the House of Representatives this week, but would have to see how the Supreme Court rules on the issue. The ruling was the first by a federal appellate court to review the merits of the decision to rescind DACA. Also read: More than 2,000 migrants drown in Mediterranean this year: UN "Far from over" "In California and across our nation, Dreamers significantly enrich our communities as scholars, entrepreneurs, first responders and much more," said Xavier Becerra, California`s Democratic attorney general. "This fight, of course, is far from over. We will continue to defend Dreamers and DACA all the way to the Supreme Court if necessary." The Justice Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment. San Francisco-based US District Judge William Alsup decided in January the government must continue processing renewals of existing DACA applications while litigation over the legality of Trump`s action is resolved. The administration in February unsuccessfully appealed Alsup`s ruling to the Supreme Court. Trump`s move last year had called for DACA to begin winding down this past March. Trump`s action sparked an outcry from immigration advocates, business groups, colleges and some religious leaders. There are about 11 million illegal immigrants in the United States, according to the Pew Research Center. Lawsuits both challenging and supporting Trump`s decision to end DACA have been working their way through the courts, making it likely the issue will wind up in front of the Supreme Court. The 9th Circuit ruling does not impact a nationwide injunction to preserve DACA issued by US District Judge Nicholas Garaufis in Brooklyn in February, which also has been appealed. A federal judge in Washington in August ordered the administration to fully restore DACA, including taking new applications. That decision was stayed pending appeal. Legislation to extend protections for DACA recipients and provide them a path to citizenship failed in Congress this year.

US appeals court rules against Trump on DACA immigration program

Michelle Obama has denounced US President Donald Trump's "birther" campaign which questioned her husband and former US President Barack Obama, calling it bigoted and dangeous.

In her memoir "Becoming", set to come out on Tuesday, Michelle has blasted Trump writing how she reacted in shock the night she learned he would replace her husband in the Oval Office and tried to "block it all out".

According to the Associated Press, Michelle has expressed disbelief in her memoir over how so many women would choose a "misogynist" over Hillary Clinton, "an exceptionally qualified female candidate". She remembers in the book how her body "buzzed with fury" after seeing the infamous "Access Hollywood" tape, in which Trump brags about sexually assaulting women.

In "Becoming", Obama has shared both pain and joy. She has written lovingly of her family and given a detailed account of her courtship with her future husband, whom she met when both were at the Chicago law firm Sidley Austin LLP; she was initially his adviser.

The former US first lady is about to embark on a book tour titled 'Becoming: An intimate conversation with Michelle Obama'. Reflecting on her memoir, Michelle will chronicle the experiences that have shaped her life, from her childhood on the south side of Chicago to her time spent at the White House.

In the meanwhile, Michelle's UK fans were left disappointed after tickets to her book talk quickly sold out. They have emerged on secondary ticketing sites priced $13,000 each or Rs 9.5 lakh.

More than 60,000 people rushed to buy the tickets although the London venue can seat just 2700 people.

Widely praised as a gifted orator and communicator, Michelle Obama has long said she has no interest in running for office, although she held a few campaign-style rallies before the midterms urging people to register to vote. The rallies were part of her work as co-chairman of the nonpartisan, non-profit organization When We All Vote.

Last year, she launched a programme to help empower girls worldwide through education. The Global Girls Alliance aims to support more than 1,500 grassroots organizations combating the challenges girls encounter in their communities.

(With inputs from agencies)

Michelle Obama has denounced US President Donald Trump's "birther" campaign which questioned her husband and former US President Barack Obama, calling it bigoted and dangeous.

Michelle Obama has denounced US President Donald Trump's "birther" campaign which questioned her husband and former US President Barack Obama, calling it bigoted and dangeous. In her memoir "Becoming", set to come out on Tuesday, Michelle has blasted Trump writing how she reacted in shock the night she learned he would replace her husband in the Oval Office and tried to "block it all out". According to the Associated Press, Michelle has expressed disbelief in her memoir over how so many women would choose a "misogynist" over Hillary Clinton, "an exceptionally qualified female candidate". She remembers in the book how her body "buzzed with fury" after seeing the infamous "Access Hollywood" tape, in which Trump brags about sexually assaulting women. In "Becoming", Obama has shared both pain and joy. She has written lovingly of her family and given a detailed account of her courtship with her future husband, whom she met when both were at the Chicago law firm Sidley Austin LLP; she was initially his adviser. The former US first lady is about to embark on a book tour titled 'Becoming: An intimate conversation with Michelle Obama'. Reflecting on her memoir, Michelle will chronicle the experiences that have shaped her life, from her childhood on the south side of Chicago to her time spent at the White House. In the meanwhile, Michelle's UK fans were left disappointed after tickets to her book talk quickly sold out. They have emerged on secondary ticketing sites priced $13,000 each or Rs 9.5 lakh. More than 60,000 people rushed to buy the tickets although the London venue can seat just 2700 people. Widely praised as a gifted orator and communicator, Michelle Obama has long said she has no interest in running for office, although she held a few campaign-style rallies before the midterms urging people to register to vote. The rallies were part of her work as co-chairman of the nonpartisan, non-profit organization When We All Vote. Last year, she launched a programme to help empower girls worldwide through education. The Global Girls Alliance aims to support more than 1,500 grassroots organizations combating the challenges girls encounter in their communities. (With inputs from agencies)

Michelle Obama blasts 'misogynist' Trump in new book

Michelle Obama slams Donald Trump in her memoir

United States President Donald Trump would celebrate Diwali in his Oval Office next Tuesday, the White House has said.

"The President will be celebrating Diwali with a ceremonial lighting of the diya (lamp) in the Oval Office next Tuesday," Deputy Assistant to the president Raj Shah said in a statement on Thursday.

A day earlier Trump had greeted people celebrating the festival of lights the world over and said it is a special opportunity to reflect on the bond of friendship between India and the United States.

Trump said First Lady Melania joins him in sending their best wishes for a very happy and memorable Diwali.

He also recognised the "extraordinary" contributions of Indian-Americans in the development of the United States.

"We recognise the extraordinary contributions of Indian-Americans to the strength and success of our nation. Their achievements in business and industry, public service, education, scientific research, and other fields continue to represent the very best of our American virtues and the spirit of the Diwali season," said Trump, who had celebrated Diwali last year by lighting the ceremonial lamp in the Oval Office.

Asserting that Diwali is a joyous and spiritual time marked by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, Trump said lighting of lamps on the occasion symbolises the true meaning of Diwali, which is triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.

Republican National Committee (RNC) chairperson Ronna McDaniel also greeted people celebrating Diwali.

"We wish you and your family and friends a meaningful celebration of the victory of light over darkness. We at the RNC will continue to honour the traditions of diverse communities that enrich and strengthen our country," she said.

Earlier this week, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had said nearly a billion people from around the world will light the lamp "as a reminder that good ultimately overcomes evil, understanding over ignorance, and kindness over animosity".

"As those celebrating decorate their homes with vibrant lights, I would also like to recognise the achievements of our friends in the United States observing Diwali who make important contributions to our country on a daily basis," he had said.

Top American lawmakers also joined Trump in extending Diwali greetings.

"Wishing a very happy Diwali to everyone around the world celebrating the Festival of Lights!" said Senator Mark Warner, the Co-Chair of the Senate India Caucus.

"These lights are physical, including lanterns, candles, and fireworks, but for those who light the flames, they hold a deeper meaning. Diwali celebrates awareness of one's inner light and light's triumph over darkness. It celebrates goodness over evil and hope over despair," Senator John Cornyn, the Co-Chair of the Senate India Caucus, said.

Indian American lawmaker Raja Krishnamoorthi said, "Happy Diwali to those celebrating the Festival of Lights today, which commemorates the victory of good over evil and illumination of knowledge."

Congressman John Sarbanes said the festival of lights serves as an important reminder for all that love and light will always prevail over hate and darkness, and that knowledge and reason will invariably overcome intolerance and ignorance.

Indian American Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal said, "Happy Diwali to the millions around the world celebrating the Festival of Lights! What a beautiful reminder that light prevails over darkness and that goodness will guide us toward a better future."

Congressman Derek Kilmer said, "Diwali is a celebration of our shared aspirations for the world: The triumph of light over darkness. As millions come together to celebrate this holiday, let's join them in striving to embrace the values of Diwali in our politics &amp; our communities."

Tulsi Gabbard, the first Hindu elected to the House of Representatives, in a video message said Diwali is such a special time of year where people all over the world are coming together to light their lamps in honour the return of Lord Ram to His kingdom after many years in exile, and celebrate the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.

United States President Donald Trump would celebrate Diwali in his Oval Office next Tuesday, the White House has said. "The President will be celebrating Diwali with a ceremonial lighting of the diya (lamp) in the Oval Office next Tuesday," Deputy Assistant to the president Raj Shah said in a statement on Thursday.

United States President Donald Trump would celebrate Diwali in his Oval Office next Tuesday, the White House has said. "The President will be celebrating Diwali with a ceremonial lighting of the diya (lamp) in the Oval Office next Tuesday," Deputy Assistant to the president Raj Shah said in a statement on Thursday. A day earlier Trump had greeted people celebrating the festival of lights the world over and said it is a special opportunity to reflect on the bond of friendship between India and the United States. Trump said First Lady Melania joins him in sending their best wishes for a very happy and memorable Diwali. He also recognised the "extraordinary" contributions of Indian-Americans in the development of the United States. "We recognise the extraordinary contributions of Indian-Americans to the strength and success of our nation. Their achievements in business and industry, public service, education, scientific research, and other fields continue to represent the very best of our American virtues and the spirit of the Diwali season," said Trump, who had celebrated Diwali last year by lighting the ceremonial lamp in the Oval Office. Asserting that Diwali is a joyous and spiritual time marked by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, Trump said lighting of lamps on the occasion symbolises the true meaning of Diwali, which is triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Republican National Committee (RNC) chairperson Ronna McDaniel also greeted people celebrating Diwali. "We wish you and your family and friends a meaningful celebration of the victory of light over darkness. We at the RNC will continue to honour the traditions of diverse communities that enrich and strengthen our country," she said. Earlier this week, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had said nearly a billion people from around the world will light the lamp "as a reminder that good ultimately overcomes evil, understanding over ignorance, and kindness over animosity". "As those celebrating decorate their homes with vibrant lights, I would also like to recognise the achievements of our friends in the United States observing Diwali who make important contributions to our country on a daily basis," he had said. Top American lawmakers also joined Trump in extending Diwali greetings. "Wishing a very happy Diwali to everyone around the world celebrating the Festival of Lights!" said Senator Mark Warner, the Co-Chair of the Senate India Caucus. "These lights are physical, including lanterns, candles, and fireworks, but for those who light the flames, they hold a deeper meaning. Diwali celebrates awareness of one's inner light and light's triumph over darkness. It celebrates goodness over evil and hope over despair," Senator John Cornyn, the Co-Chair of the Senate India Caucus, said. Indian American lawmaker Raja Krishnamoorthi said, "Happy Diwali to those celebrating the Festival of Lights today, which commemorates the victory of good over evil and illumination of knowledge." Congressman John Sarbanes said the festival of lights serves as an important reminder for all that love and light will always prevail over hate and darkness, and that knowledge and reason will invariably overcome intolerance and ignorance. Indian American Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal said, "Happy Diwali to the millions around the world celebrating the Festival of Lights! What a beautiful reminder that light prevails over darkness and that goodness will guide us toward a better future." Congressman Derek Kilmer said, "Diwali is a celebration of our shared aspirations for the world: The triumph of light over darkness. As millions come together to celebrate this holiday, let's join them in striving to embrace the values of Diwali in our politics & our communities." Tulsi Gabbard, the first Hindu elected to the House of Representatives, in a video message said Diwali is such a special time of year where people all over the world are coming together to light their lamps in honour the return of Lord Ram to His kingdom after many years in exile, and celebrate the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.

Trump to celebrate Diwali in Oval Office next Tuesday: White House

US National Security Advisor John Bolton said Thursday that more sanctions were possible on Iran just days after a new round of measures touted as the most punishing ever on Tehran entered into force.

Bolton said two rounds of unilateral US sanctions introduced by President Donald Trump in August and most recently on Monday had had a "quite significant" effect on the Iranian economy and the country's actions abroad.

"I think that you're going to see even more sanctions coming into play over time and much tighter enforcement of the sanctions," Bolton told reporters in Paris.

Asked what would be the target of the sanctions, he replied, "There are other things we can do in the terrorism and counterterrorism area."

The International Monetary Fund forecasts that the sanctions will cause Iran's economy to contract 1.5 per cent this year and 3.6 per cent next year -- pain that Trump has boasted about.

"We've seen indications that it has affected their belligerent activity in Iraq, Syria and Yemen. Not enough yet, but it's beginning to have that effect," Bolton said.

"We've seen a continuation and exacerbation of political discontent inside Iran. That opposition continues to manifest itself. Economically the Iranian currency is going through the floor, inflation has quadrupled and the country is clearly in recession."

He said "the objective is still to drive Iranians exports of oil to zero" despite waivers given to the biggest buyers of Iranian oil, including China, India and South Korea.&nbsp;

"It's with some satisfaction that I noticed today the price of oil is down. We have worked with the Saudis, the Emiratis, and other producers to make sure production is up so that historic buyers of Iranian oil are not disadvantaged," he added.

US National Security Advisor John Bolton said Thursday that more sanctions were possible on Iran just days after a new round of measures touted as the most punishing ever on Tehran entered into force.

US National Security Advisor John Bolton said Thursday that more sanctions were possible on Iran just days after a new round of measures touted as the most punishing ever on Tehran entered into force. Bolton said two rounds of unilateral US sanctions introduced by President Donald Trump in August and most recently on Monday had had a "quite significant" effect on the Iranian economy and the country's actions abroad. "I think that you're going to see even more sanctions coming into play over time and much tighter enforcement of the sanctions," Bolton told reporters in Paris. Asked what would be the target of the sanctions, he replied, "There are other things we can do in the terrorism and counterterrorism area." The International Monetary Fund forecasts that the sanctions will cause Iran's economy to contract 1.5 per cent this year and 3.6 per cent next year -- pain that Trump has boasted about. "We've seen indications that it has affected their belligerent activity in Iraq, Syria and Yemen. Not enough yet, but it's beginning to have that effect," Bolton said. "We've seen a continuation and exacerbation of political discontent inside Iran. That opposition continues to manifest itself. Economically the Iranian currency is going through the floor, inflation has quadrupled and the country is clearly in recession." He said "the objective is still to drive Iranians exports of oil to zero" despite waivers given to the biggest buyers of Iranian oil, including China, India and South Korea. "It's with some satisfaction that I noticed today the price of oil is down. We have worked with the Saudis, the Emiratis, and other producers to make sure production is up so that historic buyers of Iranian oil are not disadvantaged," he added.

US's Bolton says more sanctions likely on Iran

President Donald Trump said on Friday he had not discussed the probe into Russia's meddling in the 2016 US presidential election with Matt Whitaker before appointing him as acting attorney general, and it was up to Whitaker whether he wanted to be involved with the investigation.

Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump defended his choice of Whitaker, who has been panned by critics for his past comments on the probe, saying the former US attorney had an excellent reputation and came highly recommended by former Iowa Governor Terry Branstad, who is now Trump's ambassador to China.

Trump repeatedly emphasized that he did not know Whitaker, whom he had tapped on Wednesday to lead the Justice Department on a temporary basis after forcing Attorney General Jeff Sessions out of the job.

"Matt Whitaker - I don’t know Matt Whitaker," Trump said.

After Trump named Whitaker acting attorney general, a Justice Department spokeswoman said he would oversee all matters under the department's jurisdiction, including the Russia investigation being led by Special Counsel Robert Mueller.

Mueller is probing both Russia's interference and whether Trump's presidential campaign may have colluded with Moscow.

Whitaker has publicly criticized the investigation as being too broad, and Democrats have called on him to recuse himself, saying his appointment this week appeared to be an effort by Trump to impede the investigation.

"No matter who I put in, they go after him," Trump said. "He's a highly respected man, especially by law enforcement, and I think he's going to do a great job."

US intelligence agencies have said Russia interfered in the election in an attempt to tip it towards Trump and away from his Democratic opponent, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

Russia has denied interfering, and Trump has repeatedly said there was no collusion between his campaign and Moscow.

"I didn’t speak to Matt Whitaker about it," Trump said of the Russia probe, adding he did not rule out sitting down for an interview with Mueller.

"I haven't ruled out anything," he said. "I haven't even thought about it."

President Donald Trump said on Friday he had not discussed the probe into Russia's meddling in the 2016 US presidential election with Matt Whitaker before appointing him as acting attorney general, and it was up to Whitaker whether he wanted to be involved with the investigation.

President Donald Trump said on Friday he had not discussed the probe into Russia's meddling in the 2016 US presidential election with Matt Whitaker before appointing him as acting attorney general, and it was up to Whitaker whether he wanted to be involved with the investigation. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump defended his choice of Whitaker, who has been panned by critics for his past comments on the probe, saying the former US attorney had an excellent reputation and came highly recommended by former Iowa Governor Terry Branstad, who is now Trump's ambassador to China. Trump repeatedly emphasized that he did not know Whitaker, whom he had tapped on Wednesday to lead the Justice Department on a temporary basis after forcing Attorney General Jeff Sessions out of the job. "Matt Whitaker - I don’t know Matt Whitaker," Trump said. After Trump named Whitaker acting attorney general, a Justice Department spokeswoman said he would oversee all matters under the department's jurisdiction, including the Russia investigation being led by Special Counsel Robert Mueller. Mueller is probing both Russia's interference and whether Trump's presidential campaign may have colluded with Moscow. Whitaker has publicly criticized the investigation as being too broad, and Democrats have called on him to recuse himself, saying his appointment this week appeared to be an effort by Trump to impede the investigation. "No matter who I put in, they go after him," Trump said. "He's a highly respected man, especially by law enforcement, and I think he's going to do a great job." US intelligence agencies have said Russia interfered in the election in an attempt to tip it towards Trump and away from his Democratic opponent, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. Russia has denied interfering, and Trump has repeatedly said there was no collusion between his campaign and Moscow. "I didn’t speak to Matt Whitaker about it," Trump said of the Russia probe, adding he did not rule out sitting down for an interview with Mueller. "I haven't ruled out anything," he said. "I haven't even thought about it."

Trump says he did not discuss Russia probe with acting attorney general

Watch: WION Fineprint, 9th November, 2018

The Trump administration unveiled new rules on Thursday to sharply limit migrant asylum claims by barring individuals who cross the US southern border illegally from seeking asylum.

Immigrant advocates denounced the move, saying it violated existing US law that allows people fleeing persecution and violence in their home countries to apply for asylum regardless of whether they enter illegally or not.

The regulations released on Thursday, in conjunction with an order expected to be signed by President Donald Trump, would effectively ban migrants who cross the US border with Mexico illegally from qualifying for asylum.

Once the plan goes into full effect, migrants entering at the US southern border would only be eligible for asylum if they report at official ports of entry, officials said.

"What we are attempting to do is trying to funnel ... asylum claims through the ports of entry where we are better resourced, have better capabilities and better manpower and staffing to actually handle those claims in an expeditious and efficient manner," a senior administration official told reporters in a news briefing on Thursday, on condition of anonymity.

The Trump administration has already made it more difficult for migrants to qualify for asylum in the United States. Administration officials have said existing US asylum rules encourage illegal immigration and bog down legitimate claims.

In June, then-Attorney General Jeff Sessions issued an appellate decision that sharply narrowed the circumstances under which immigrants can use violence at home as grounds for US asylum.&nbsp;

Sessions, who resigned at Trump`s request this week, also instructed immigration judges and asylum officers to view illegal border-crossing as a "serious adverse factor" in deciding a case and to consider whether applicants could have escaped danger by relocating within their own countries.

Trump made his hard-line policies toward immigration a key issue ahead of Tuesday`s midterm elections, sending thousands of US troops to help secure the southern border and repeatedly drawing attention to a caravan of Central American migrants trekking through Mexico toward the United States.

Currently, US asylum rules do not bar people who enter the country without authorization, and the Immigration and Nationality Act, which governs the US immigration system, specifically allows people who arrive in the United States, whether or not they do so at a designated port of entry, to apply for asylum.

The administration`s plan, which invokes the same authority Trump used to justify his travel ban on citizens of several Muslim-majority nations, is likely to be quickly challenged in court.

The move would largely affect migrants from Central America`s Northern Triangle - Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador - who cross the US border with Mexico to flee violence and poverty in their home countries.

"The vast majority of aliens who enter illegally today come from the Northern Triangle countries," the regulation`s text says. "Channelling those aliens to ports of entry would encourage these aliens to first avail themselves of offers of asylum from Mexico."&nbsp;

Immigrant advocates denounced the administration`s move as unlawful, and said the plan to funnel migrants to ports of entry was just a way to cut asylum claims overall.

"Congress has directly spoken to this question as to whether individuals can be rendered ineligible for asylum if they cross between ports of entry and has specifically said people are eligible regardless of where they cross," said Lee Gelernt, an attorney with the American Civil Liberties Union.

"Ports of entry ... are overcrowded," said Jonathan Ryan, executive director of RAICES, a Texas-based immigrant defence group. "Asylum-seekers have been left to camp out for days and weeks on bridges at the border, when they should be guaranteed a right to enter the country for a fair hearing."

The Trump administration unveiled new rules on Thursday to sharply limit migrant asylum claims by barring individuals who cross the US southern border illegally from seeking asylum.

The Trump administration unveiled new rules on Thursday to sharply limit migrant asylum claims by barring individuals who cross the US southern border illegally from seeking asylum. Immigrant advocates denounced the move, saying it violated existing US law that allows people fleeing persecution and violence in their home countries to apply for asylum regardless of whether they enter illegally or not. The regulations released on Thursday, in conjunction with an order expected to be signed by President Donald Trump, would effectively ban migrants who cross the US border with Mexico illegally from qualifying for asylum. Once the plan goes into full effect, migrants entering at the US southern border would only be eligible for asylum if they report at official ports of entry, officials said. "What we are attempting to do is trying to funnel ... asylum claims through the ports of entry where we are better resourced, have better capabilities and better manpower and staffing to actually handle those claims in an expeditious and efficient manner," a senior administration official told reporters in a news briefing on Thursday, on condition of anonymity. The Trump administration has already made it more difficult for migrants to qualify for asylum in the United States. Administration officials have said existing US asylum rules encourage illegal immigration and bog down legitimate claims. In June, then-Attorney General Jeff Sessions issued an appellate decision that sharply narrowed the circumstances under which immigrants can use violence at home as grounds for US asylum. Sessions, who resigned at Trump`s request this week, also instructed immigration judges and asylum officers to view illegal border-crossing as a "serious adverse factor" in deciding a case and to consider whether applicants could have escaped danger by relocating within their own countries. Trump made his hard-line policies toward immigration a key issue ahead of Tuesday`s midterm elections, sending thousands of US troops to help secure the southern border and repeatedly drawing attention to a caravan of Central American migrants trekking through Mexico toward the United States. Currently, US asylum rules do not bar people who enter the country without authorization, and the Immigration and Nationality Act, which governs the US immigration system, specifically allows people who arrive in the United States, whether or not they do so at a designated port of entry, to apply for asylum. The administration`s plan, which invokes the same authority Trump used to justify his travel ban on citizens of several Muslim-majority nations, is likely to be quickly challenged in court. The move would largely affect migrants from Central America`s Northern Triangle - Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador - who cross the US border with Mexico to flee violence and poverty in their home countries. "The vast majority of aliens who enter illegally today come from the Northern Triangle countries," the regulation`s text says. "Channelling those aliens to ports of entry would encourage these aliens to first avail themselves of offers of asylum from Mexico." Immigrant advocates denounced the administration`s move as unlawful, and said the plan to funnel migrants to ports of entry was just a way to cut asylum claims overall. "Congress has directly spoken to this question as to whether individuals can be rendered ineligible for asylum if they cross between ports of entry and has specifically said people are eligible regardless of where they cross," said Lee Gelernt, an attorney with the American Civil Liberties Union. "Ports of entry ... are overcrowded," said Jonathan Ryan, executive director of RAICES, a Texas-based immigrant defence group. "Asylum-seekers have been left to camp out for days and weeks on bridges at the border, when they should be guaranteed a right to enter the country for a fair hearing."

Trump administration moves to curb migrants' asylum claims

The Donald Trump administration wants to make changes in the existing H-1B provisions for it to play a better role in attracting highly skilled foreign workers as opposed to the what it has now evolved into an "outsourcing" role, the White House said Thursday.

"The president's overall instinct -- and he said this publicly a number of times -- he wants to find ways to make sure that people who graduate in a highly skilled area like technology stay in the country. He finds that a very positive part of the overall immigration," White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Coordination Chris Liddell told a Washington audience on Thursday.

During the Washington Post's live discussion on new technology, when asked about the president's thoughts on H- 1B immigration, Liddell said, "He (Trump) has talked about merit immigration, clearly that (H-1B) fits in merit immigration."

At the same time, he acknowledged that legislatively, the issue might get caught up in a border discussion.

A former executive at Microsoft and General Motors, Liddell is tasked with overseeing and coordinating President Trump's policy process.

"To the extent that we can from a regulatory point of view rather than a legislative point of view, because the H-1B system to a large extent is governed by legislation -- but to the extent that we can modify the regulatory point of view to promote it to be more highly skilled as opposed to outsourcing roles, there are 1,20,000 H-1Bs. So it's quite a big pool," the White House official said.

"Traditionally, unfortunately, they have gone to lower-skilled outsourcing types of jobs," Liddell said.&nbsp;

The Trump administration, he said, would love to find ways to change that as more people are coming out with PhDs in the tech sector.

"So the president is 100 per cent aligned with that. We'll try and do it as much as we can by regulatory; if it can be done legislatively as well in some way that would as part of a merit-based system, that would be fantastic," Liddell said.

The top White House official emphasised that there is a need to carry on reforms in H-1B to keep more talented graduates in this country.&nbsp;

This is an incredibly constructive part of the immigration debate, which, unfortunately, doesn't get a lot of focus, he said.

Liddell said President Trump has repeatedly spoken about merit-based reform as part of the immigration platform. The Silicon Valley and the tech industry should welcome that as a concept, he said.

"Relatively, as a country, a very small proportion of the people who come in as legal immigrants do it on a merit-based system relative to any other country I know, he said.

"So promoting the concept of merit-based immigration, which clearly would be at least partially orientated towards the tech sector, I would think that there should be a high degree of alignment on," Liddell said.&nbsp;

The Donald Trump administration wants to make changes in the existing H-1B provisions for it to play a better role in attracting highly skilled foreign workers as opposed to the what it has now evolved into an "outsourcing" role, the White House said Thursday.

The Donald Trump administration wants to make changes in the existing H-1B provisions for it to play a better role in attracting highly skilled foreign workers as opposed to the what it has now evolved into an "outsourcing" role, the White House said Thursday. "The president's overall instinct -- and he said this publicly a number of times -- he wants to find ways to make sure that people who graduate in a highly skilled area like technology stay in the country. He finds that a very positive part of the overall immigration," White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Coordination Chris Liddell told a Washington audience on Thursday. During the Washington Post's live discussion on new technology, when asked about the president's thoughts on H- 1B immigration, Liddell said, "He (Trump) has talked about merit immigration, clearly that (H-1B) fits in merit immigration." At the same time, he acknowledged that legislatively, the issue might get caught up in a border discussion. A former executive at Microsoft and General Motors, Liddell is tasked with overseeing and coordinating President Trump's policy process. "To the extent that we can from a regulatory point of view rather than a legislative point of view, because the H-1B system to a large extent is governed by legislation -- but to the extent that we can modify the regulatory point of view to promote it to be more highly skilled as opposed to outsourcing roles, there are 1,20,000 H-1Bs. So it's quite a big pool," the White House official said. "Traditionally, unfortunately, they have gone to lower-skilled outsourcing types of jobs," Liddell said. The Trump administration, he said, would love to find ways to change that as more people are coming out with PhDs in the tech sector. "So the president is 100 per cent aligned with that. We'll try and do it as much as we can by regulatory; if it can be done legislatively as well in some way that would as part of a merit-based system, that would be fantastic," Liddell said. The top White House official emphasised that there is a need to carry on reforms in H-1B to keep more talented graduates in this country. This is an incredibly constructive part of the immigration debate, which, unfortunately, doesn't get a lot of focus, he said. Liddell said President Trump has repeatedly spoken about merit-based reform as part of the immigration platform. The Silicon Valley and the tech industry should welcome that as a concept, he said. "Relatively, as a country, a very small proportion of the people who come in as legal immigrants do it on a merit-based system relative to any other country I know, he said. "So promoting the concept of merit-based immigration, which clearly would be at least partially orientated towards the tech sector, I would think that there should be a high degree of alignment on," Liddell said.

Trump wants H-1B visas in more highly-skilled as opposed to outsourcing roles: White House 

Congressional Democrats on Thursday demanded emergency hearings in the US House of Representatives to investigate President Donald Trump's ouster of Attorney General Jeff Sessions, calling the move an effort to undermine a federal probe into Russian meddling in the 2016 US election.

Trump forced the resignation of Sessions on Wednesday, a day after elections in which his fellow Republicans lost control of the House but increased their majority in the Senate.

In a letter saying the move placed the country "in the throes of a constitutional crisis," House Judiciary Committee Democrats demanded action from the panel's Republican Chairman Bob Goodlatte, and called for bipartisan legislation to protect Special Counsel Robert Mueller from any effort to stymie the probe.&nbsp;

A spokeswoman for Goodlatte had no comment on the letter.

Congressional Democrats, including newly elected members of the House of Representatives, held a conference call on Thursday to discuss Sessions' ouster, Democratic lawmakers and aides said.

Mueller is investigating Russia's alleged interference in the 2016 election and any collusion by Trump's campaign. Trump, who denies any collusion, has long complained about the probe, calling it a witch hunt. He had frequently publicly castigated Sessions for recusing himself last year from the case.

During the Thursday conference call, House Democrats said they would attempt to include legislation protecting Mueller's investigation into an appropriations bill that Congress is due to consider later this year.

"This (Sessions' ouster) just makes us all the more want to make sure we have that special counsel protection bill passed or added to any spending bill that may be moving in the (end-of-year) session," said Representative Mark Pocan of Wisconsin.

"We are watching what appears to be continued obstruction by this White House,” Pocan said in a telephone interview. He said Democrats were concerned about what the Trump administration might do next concerning the special counsel probe: "Anyone writing even a dime store novel knows what the next couple of steps are on this."

The office of House Speaker Paul Ryan, a Republican, did not respond to a request for comment on the Democrats' request to put protections for the special counsel probe into spending legislation.

Trump named Sessions' chief of staff, Matthew Whitaker, as acting attorney general, saying he would soon nominate a permanent replacement for review by the Senate.

That drew criticism from Democrats because Whitaker, who would now take over responsibility for overseeing Mueller and his investigation, has been critical of the Mueller probe, saying it should be scaled back.

Separately, House Judiciary Democrats called on Whitaker in a letter to recuse himself and keep the Mueller investigation under the supervision of Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, a career Justice Department official who has given the special counsel full scope to pursue leads. Rosenstein had the role of supervising the probe because of Sessions' recusal.&nbsp;

The Democrats said they also want the Justice Department to protect the integrity of Mueller's investigation and to preserve relevant documents.

"The forced firing of Attorney General Sessions appears to be part of an ongoing pattern of behaviour by the president seeking to undermine (the) investigation into Russian interference," said the letter to Goodlatte, written by Representative Jerrold Nadler, the committee’s top Democrat, and 16 other Democrats who sit on the panel.

Nadler is expected to become House Judiciary chairman when a Democratic House majority, elected in Tuesday’s midterm elections, takes over in the new Congress that convenes in January.

"The president's actions have plunged the country into peril," the Democrats added. "By forcing the firing (of) the attorney general, the president now threatens the rule of law itself."

Bipartisan bills to protect Mueller from politically motivated removal have been introduced in the House and Senate. One was approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee in April, making it eligible for a full Senate vote. But no action is expected.

Moscow denies interfering in the 2016 election.

Congressional Democrats on Thursday demanded emergency hearings in the US House of Representatives to investigate President Donald Trump's ouster of Attorney General Jeff Sessions, calling the move an effort to undermine a federal probe into Russian meddling in the 2016 US election.

Congressional Democrats on Thursday demanded emergency hearings in the US House of Representatives to investigate President Donald Trump's ouster of Attorney General Jeff Sessions, calling the move an effort to undermine a federal probe into Russian meddling in the 2016 US election. Trump forced the resignation of Sessions on Wednesday, a day after elections in which his fellow Republicans lost control of the House but increased their majority in the Senate. In a letter saying the move placed the country "in the throes of a constitutional crisis," House Judiciary Committee Democrats demanded action from the panel's Republican Chairman Bob Goodlatte, and called for bipartisan legislation to protect Special Counsel Robert Mueller from any effort to stymie the probe. A spokeswoman for Goodlatte had no comment on the letter. Congressional Democrats, including newly elected members of the House of Representatives, held a conference call on Thursday to discuss Sessions' ouster, Democratic lawmakers and aides said. Mueller is investigating Russia's alleged interference in the 2016 election and any collusion by Trump's campaign. Trump, who denies any collusion, has long complained about the probe, calling it a witch hunt. He had frequently publicly castigated Sessions for recusing himself last year from the case. During the Thursday conference call, House Democrats said they would attempt to include legislation protecting Mueller's investigation into an appropriations bill that Congress is due to consider later this year. "This (Sessions' ouster) just makes us all the more want to make sure we have that special counsel protection bill passed or added to any spending bill that may be moving in the (end-of-year) session," said Representative Mark Pocan of Wisconsin. "We are watching what appears to be continued obstruction by this White House,” Pocan said in a telephone interview. He said Democrats were concerned about what the Trump administration might do next concerning the special counsel probe: "Anyone writing even a dime store novel knows what the next couple of steps are on this." The office of House Speaker Paul Ryan, a Republican, did not respond to a request for comment on the Democrats' request to put protections for the special counsel probe into spending legislation. Trump named Sessions' chief of staff, Matthew Whitaker, as acting attorney general, saying he would soon nominate a permanent replacement for review by the Senate. That drew criticism from Democrats because Whitaker, who would now take over responsibility for overseeing Mueller and his investigation, has been critical of the Mueller probe, saying it should be scaled back. Separately, House Judiciary Democrats called on Whitaker in a letter to recuse himself and keep the Mueller investigation under the supervision of Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, a career Justice Department official who has given the special counsel full scope to pursue leads. Rosenstein had the role of supervising the probe because of Sessions' recusal. The Democrats said they also want the Justice Department to protect the integrity of Mueller's investigation and to preserve relevant documents. "The forced firing of Attorney General Sessions appears to be part of an ongoing pattern of behaviour by the president seeking to undermine (the) investigation into Russian interference," said the letter to Goodlatte, written by Representative Jerrold Nadler, the committee’s top Democrat, and 16 other Democrats who sit on the panel. Nadler is expected to become House Judiciary chairman when a Democratic House majority, elected in Tuesday’s midterm elections, takes over in the new Congress that convenes in January. "The president's actions have plunged the country into peril," the Democrats added. "By forcing the firing (of) the attorney general, the president now threatens the rule of law itself." Bipartisan bills to protect Mueller from politically motivated removal have been introduced in the House and Senate. One was approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee in April, making it eligible for a full Senate vote. But no action is expected. Moscow denies interfering in the 2016 election.

United States: Democrats seek hearings on Donald Trump's ouster of Jeff Sessions

Trump proposes banning refuge for illegal immigrants

North Korea postponed talks with the United States on Thursday "because they weren't ready," US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley said as she urged Pyongyang to implement a June deal between the two countries.

Speaking to reporters before and after a closed-door UN Security Council meeting on North Korea sanctions, Haley said it is now North Korea's turn to act. She also criticized Russia for trying to lift banking restrictions that are intended to curb the Asian nation's nuclear program.

"There's no time to stall or no time to delay or try and get past not going through with what was agreed in Singapore," said Haley, who will step down at the end of the year.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and US President Donald Trump pledged to work toward denuclearisation at their landmark June summit in Singapore. But the agreement was short on specifics and negotiations have made little headway.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had been due to meet North Korean officials in New York on Thursday, but the State Department said on Wednesday it would be postponed to a later date. It gave no reason for the delay.

The North Korean mission to the United Nations did not respond to a request for comment.

Describing the relationship between Washington and Pyongyang as "cordial," Haley said she did not think there was a "major issue" and she believed the talks would be rescheduled.

The UN Security Council met to discuss sanctions on North Korea on Thursday at the request of Russia. Haley has accused Russia of cheating on UN sanctions on North Korea.

After the short meeting, she told reporters Russia is looking to lift banking restrictions, which she said they are not following appropriately.

"We're concerned about the humanitarian situation in North Korea, but the truth always comes out," she said. "So now we know what their agenda is, we know exactly why they're trying to do it and we're not going to let it happen."

Russia's envoy did not speak to reporters after exiting the meeting. The Russian UN mission issued a statement later saying North Korea faces "serious humanitarian problems" due to the UN sanctions resolutions and urged the Security Council to fix the problem.

"We consider such a situation to be absolutely unacceptable and actually violating the decisions of the council as they should not be directed against the population of the DPRK (North Korea) or the activity of humanitarian agencies," the Russian mission said.

AID IN LIMBO

Several requests by humanitarian groups for approval to ship aid goods to North Korea have been in limbo for months after the United States repeatedly asked for more time to consider them, an issue some diplomats had planned to raise in Thursday's meeting, according to documents seen by Reuters.

The UN Security Council has unanimously backed sanctions since 2006 to choke off funding for Pyongyang's nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Aid groups, however, can request exemptions to send humanitarian assistance to the impoverished, isolated Asian state.

Requests are made to the 15-member Security Council's North Korea sanctions committee, which operates by consensus.

China and Russia have said the Security Council should reward Pyongyang for "positive developments" this year. But the United States and other Western powers say sanctions must be enforced until there is full denuclearisation.

"We have given a lot of carrots up until now. We're not going to get rid of the stick because they have not done anything to warrant getting rid of the sanctions yet," Haley said.

According to committee documents, a September request by a US-based charity and August requests by an Ireland-based aid group and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) have yet to be given the green light.

"Our goal is to make sure that we don't do anything if it's going to be compromised and not go to the people," Haley said. "If it can be used in a different way, if we think they'll use it for another purpose, we are taking our time in vetting that very carefully."

North Korea postponed talks with the United States on Thursday "because they weren't ready," US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley said as she urged Pyongyang to implement a June deal between the two countries.

North Korea postponed talks with the United States on Thursday "because they weren't ready," US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley said as she urged Pyongyang to implement a June deal between the two countries. Speaking to reporters before and after a closed-door UN Security Council meeting on North Korea sanctions, Haley said it is now North Korea's turn to act. She also criticized Russia for trying to lift banking restrictions that are intended to curb the Asian nation's nuclear program. "There's no time to stall or no time to delay or try and get past not going through with what was agreed in Singapore," said Haley, who will step down at the end of the year. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and US President Donald Trump pledged to work toward denuclearisation at their landmark June summit in Singapore. But the agreement was short on specifics and negotiations have made little headway. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had been due to meet North Korean officials in New York on Thursday, but the State Department said on Wednesday it would be postponed to a later date. It gave no reason for the delay. The North Korean mission to the United Nations did not respond to a request for comment. Describing the relationship between Washington and Pyongyang as "cordial," Haley said she did not think there was a "major issue" and she believed the talks would be rescheduled. The UN Security Council met to discuss sanctions on North Korea on Thursday at the request of Russia. Haley has accused Russia of cheating on UN sanctions on North Korea. After the short meeting, she told reporters Russia is looking to lift banking restrictions, which she said they are not following appropriately. "We're concerned about the humanitarian situation in North Korea, but the truth always comes out," she said. "So now we know what their agenda is, we know exactly why they're trying to do it and we're not going to let it happen." Russia's envoy did not speak to reporters after exiting the meeting. The Russian UN mission issued a statement later saying North Korea faces "serious humanitarian problems" due to the UN sanctions resolutions and urged the Security Council to fix the problem. "We consider such a situation to be absolutely unacceptable and actually violating the decisions of the council as they should not be directed against the population of the DPRK (North Korea) or the activity of humanitarian agencies," the Russian mission said. AID IN LIMBO Several requests by humanitarian groups for approval to ship aid goods to North Korea have been in limbo for months after the United States repeatedly asked for more time to consider them, an issue some diplomats had planned to raise in Thursday's meeting, according to documents seen by Reuters. The UN Security Council has unanimously backed sanctions since 2006 to choke off funding for Pyongyang's nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Aid groups, however, can request exemptions to send humanitarian assistance to the impoverished, isolated Asian state. Requests are made to the 15-member Security Council's North Korea sanctions committee, which operates by consensus. China and Russia have said the Security Council should reward Pyongyang for "positive developments" this year. But the United States and other Western powers say sanctions must be enforced until there is full denuclearisation. "We have given a lot of carrots up until now. We're not going to get rid of the stick because they have not done anything to warrant getting rid of the sanctions yet," Haley said. According to committee documents, a September request by a US-based charity and August requests by an Ireland-based aid group and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) have yet to be given the green light. "Our goal is to make sure that we don't do anything if it's going to be compromised and not go to the people," Haley said. "If it can be used in a different way, if we think they'll use it for another purpose, we are taking our time in vetting that very carefully."

North Korea postponed US talks because 'they weren't ready': Nikki Haley

The US-bound migrant caravan that has so thoroughly irked President Donald Trump has decided to resume its trek north after resting in Mexico City for nearly a week and failing to secure buses for the journey.

In a sports arena turned into a makeshift shelter, a vote was held Thursday mainly among male travellers and the verdict was to keep going and leave at dawn on Friday.

The group of some 5,500 people, most of them Hondurans, began arriving in the Mexican capital on Sunday.

They have been travelling since October 13, mainly on foot, and covered&nbsp;more than 940 miles (1,500 km), but are still weeks away from the US border.&nbsp;

Most of them are fleeing grinding poverty and violence from powerful street gangs.

The migrants have asked Mexican authorities to provide them with transport. On Thursday, some 200 of them demonstrated outside the local office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees to press for 150 buses.

On some stretches of the trip, some of the migrants have been riding on trucks.&nbsp;

However, one person fell off and died when the group was in Chiapas state in the south.&nbsp;

Since then, Mexican police accompanying the caravan have barred the travellers from hanging off the side of such trucks.

Two other caravans with about 2,000 people each are making their way through southern Mexico.

Trump made immigration a central issue ahead of Tuesday's midterm elections, using it to fire up his largely white, conservative base.&nbsp;

The vote was seen as a referendum on his presidency so far.&nbsp;

In the end, Trump's Republicans kept their majority in the Senate but lost the House of Representatives to the Democrats.

Calling the caravan a "national emergency," Trump has threatened to deploy as many as 15,000 troops to the border with Mexico. Some 4,800 had been deployed as of Monday, the Pentagon said.

The US-bound migrant caravan that has so thoroughly irked President Donald Trump has decided to resume its trek north after resting in Mexico City for nearly a week and failing to secure buses for the journey.

The US-bound migrant caravan that has so thoroughly irked President Donald Trump has decided to resume its trek north after resting in Mexico City for nearly a week and failing to secure buses for the journey. In a sports arena turned into a makeshift shelter, a vote was held Thursday mainly among male travellers and the verdict was to keep going and leave at dawn on Friday. The group of some 5,500 people, most of them Hondurans, began arriving in the Mexican capital on Sunday. They have been travelling since October 13, mainly on foot, and covered more than 940 miles (1,500 km), but are still weeks away from the US border. Most of them are fleeing grinding poverty and violence from powerful street gangs. The migrants have asked Mexican authorities to provide them with transport. On Thursday, some 200 of them demonstrated outside the local office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees to press for 150 buses. On some stretches of the trip, some of the migrants have been riding on trucks. However, one person fell off and died when the group was in Chiapas state in the south. Since then, Mexican police accompanying the caravan have barred the travellers from hanging off the side of such trucks. Two other caravans with about 2,000 people each are making their way through southern Mexico. Trump made immigration a central issue ahead of Tuesday's midterm elections, using it to fire up his largely white, conservative base. The vote was seen as a referendum on his presidency so far. In the end, Trump's Republicans kept their majority in the Senate but lost the House of Representatives to the Democrats. Calling the caravan a "national emergency," Trump has threatened to deploy as many as 15,000 troops to the border with Mexico. Some 4,800 had been deployed as of Monday, the Pentagon said.

Central American caravan to resume trip after rest

"In the words of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=donald+trump">Donald Trump</a>, let's make cricket great again," former Australian cricketer Shane Warne said in a column for Melbourne's Herald Sun.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Warne penned down his thoughts to help current Australian cricket out of its current crisis.&nbsp;

He also urged the sport's beleaguered governing <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+australia">Cricket Australia</a> to make better use of other former top players.

Australian cricket team has been struggling since a ball-tampering scandal in March following which Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameroon Bancroft were banned.

Warne said he was "frustrated" at the state of Australian cricket.

"Cricket Australia is in disarray - fact. CA has lost control and sight of what it was trying to achieve, to make cricket Australia's favourite sport.

"That was its slogan and it was right but it has lost its way and thankfully heads are starting to roll."&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ball-tampering-scandal-independent-review-finds-cricket-australia-arrogant-174132">Ball-tampering scandal: Independent review finds 'arrogant' CA also responsible for </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ball-tampering-scandal-independent-review-finds-cricket-australia-arrogant-174132">incident</a>

The leg-spin icon said retired cricketers needed to play a bigger part in steering the sport, calling on a host of former teammates to rally behind the game.

"I put my hand up to (outgoing team performance boss) Pat Howard a few times, told him I was available if they needed me," he told the newspaper.

"I've always been happy to get involved in any role if Cricket Australia thought I could help the team. I'm sure all the ex-players would be the same."&nbsp;

He questioned why retired stars such as Michael Clarke had not been appointed as a batting consultant, or Glenn McGrath to help the fast bowlers.

"We've got a lot of spinners coming through who I've helped in an informal role. And I'm more than happy to help in a formal basis if required," he said.

"Why not ask Glenn McGrath, offer him a contract to help with the fast bowlers.

"We are not playing the Australian way at the moment, at any level."&nbsp;

Warne said "we just think we are going to produce cricketers" but argued that would not happen until the right people were involved and the right environment was put in place.

He advocated more game time for top players in the Sheffield Shield and said: "Stop the Twenty20 greed."&nbsp;

"The talent in Australia is good. It comes back to how they are being taught to play, more importantly the style they are being taught to play," he added.

"In the words of Donald Trump, let's make cricket great again," former Australian cricketer Shane Warne said in a column for Melbourne's Herald Sun. Warne penned down his thoughts to help current Australian cricket out of its current crisis.

"In the words of Donald Trump, let's make cricket great again," former Australian cricketer Shane Warne said in a column for Melbourne's Herald Sun. Warne penned down his thoughts to help current Australian cricket out of its current crisis. He also urged the sport's beleaguered governing Cricket Australia to make better use of other former top players. Australian cricket team has been struggling since a ball-tampering scandal in March following which Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameroon Bancroft were banned. Warne said he was "frustrated" at the state of Australian cricket. "Cricket Australia is in disarray - fact. CA has lost control and sight of what it was trying to achieve, to make cricket Australia's favourite sport. "That was its slogan and it was right but it has lost its way and thankfully heads are starting to roll." Ball-tampering scandal: Independent review finds 'arrogant' CA also responsible for incident The leg-spin icon said retired cricketers needed to play a bigger part in steering the sport, calling on a host of former teammates to rally behind the game. "I put my hand up to (outgoing team performance boss) Pat Howard a few times, told him I was available if they needed me," he told the newspaper. "I've always been happy to get involved in any role if Cricket Australia thought I could help the team. I'm sure all the ex-players would be the same." He questioned why retired stars such as Michael Clarke had not been appointed as a batting consultant, or Glenn McGrath to help the fast bowlers. "We've got a lot of spinners coming through who I've helped in an informal role. And I'm more than happy to help in a formal basis if required," he said. "Why not ask Glenn McGrath, offer him a contract to help with the fast bowlers. "We are not playing the Australian way at the moment, at any level." Warne said "we just think we are going to produce cricketers" but argued that would not happen until the right people were involved and the right environment was put in place. He advocated more game time for top players in the Sheffield Shield and said: "Stop the Twenty20 greed." "The talent in Australia is good. It comes back to how they are being taught to play, more importantly the style they are being taught to play," he added.

Shane Warne: In words of Donald Trump, let's make cricket great again

White House has barred CNN reporter, Jim Acosta, after a heated exchange when a visibly angry US President Donald Trump called the former "enemy of the people" and a "terrible person" after being asked why he "demonized immigrants" 
&nbsp; 
The day after his party lost its lock on the US Congress, President Donald Trump walked into a White House press conference ready for political combat.&nbsp;

The news conference, which stretched close to 90 minutes, quickly turned raucous when some reporters pushed him on whether his campaign rhetoric on migrants from central America was divisive - and on developments in a federal investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election and any coordination between Moscow and the Trump campaign, reported news agency Reuters.

Trump aggressively pushed back.

"CNN should be ashamed of itself, having you working for them," Trump told CNN correspondent Jim Acosta, who wrestled with a White House staffer who forcibly pulled the microphone from his hands.

"You are a rude, terrible person," Trump told Acosta.

White House has barred CNN reporter, Jim Acosta, after a heated exchange when a visibly angry US President Donald Trump called the former "enemy of the people" and a "terrible person" after being asked why he "demonized immigrants" The day after his party lost its lock on the US Congress, President Donald Trump walked into a White House press conference ready for political combat.

White House has barred CNN reporter, Jim Acosta, after a heated exchange when a visibly angry US President Donald Trump called the former "enemy of the people" and a "terrible person" after being asked why he "demonized immigrants" The day after his party lost its lock on the US Congress, President Donald Trump walked into a White House press conference ready for political combat. The news conference, which stretched close to 90 minutes, quickly turned raucous when some reporters pushed him on whether his campaign rhetoric on migrants from central America was divisive - and on developments in a federal investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election and any coordination between Moscow and the Trump campaign, reported news agency Reuters. Trump aggressively pushed back. "CNN should be ashamed of itself, having you working for them," Trump told CNN correspondent Jim Acosta, who wrestled with a White House staffer who forcibly pulled the microphone from his hands. "You are a rude, terrible person," Trump told Acosta.

White House revokes CNN reporter's press pass after furious exchange with Trump

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced that he is not scheduled to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin during his Paris visit this weekend, news agency AFP reported. He also added that he will not stop Russia collusion probe.

According to reports, US President Donald <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-says-putin-trump-will-speak-briefly-in-paris-this-weekend-176091">Trump was expected to "briefly" speak with his Russian counterpart</a> when the two presidents meet in Paris this weekend for World War I centenary events, an advisor for the Russian leader said Wednesday.

"It has been agreed that the leaders of the US and Russia will talk only briefly in Paris, it will be a standing meeting," foreign policy advisor Yuri Ushakov said, Russian news agencies reported.

The prospect of a full meeting between Putin and Trump had prompted huge international media interest, the advisor said, adding that the French organisers had expressed concern this could overshadow the commemorations.&nbsp;

Trump said Monday he did not expect to hold talks with Putin during the November 11 events, which 60 heads of state and government are expected to attend.

Meanwhile, Trump also stated that he will meet North Korea's leader Kim Jong-Un 'early next year', adding that although he is 'happy' with North Korea talks, there is 'no rush,' news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

In a wide-ranging news conference after congressional elections, Trump said he was willing to accede to North Korea's key demand of easing sanctions "but they have to be responsive to us."

(With inputs from AFP)

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced that he is not scheduled to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin during his Paris visit this weekend, news agency AFP reported.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced that he is not scheduled to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin during his Paris visit this weekend, news agency AFP reported. He also added that he will not stop Russia collusion probe. According to reports, US President Donald Trump was expected to "briefly" speak with his Russian counterpart when the two presidents meet in Paris this weekend for World War I centenary events, an advisor for the Russian leader said Wednesday. "It has been agreed that the leaders of the US and Russia will talk only briefly in Paris, it will be a standing meeting," foreign policy advisor Yuri Ushakov said, Russian news agencies reported. The prospect of a full meeting between Putin and Trump had prompted huge international media interest, the advisor said, adding that the French organisers had expressed concern this could overshadow the commemorations. Trump said Monday he did not expect to hold talks with Putin during the November 11 events, which 60 heads of state and government are expected to attend. Meanwhile, Trump also stated that he will meet North Korea's leader Kim Jong-Un 'early next year', adding that although he is 'happy' with North Korea talks, there is 'no rush,' news agency AFP reported. In a wide-ranging news conference after congressional elections, Trump said he was willing to accede to North Korea's key demand of easing sanctions "but they have to be responsive to us." (With inputs from AFP)

Trump says no meeting with Putin set during Paris visit, hopes to meet North Korea's Kim 'early next year'

Republican Brian Kemp's campaign said on Wednesday he had won Georgia's high-profile governor's race, but Democratic candidate Stacey Abrams vowed not to concede until all ballots were counted.

"Simply put, it is mathematically impossible for Stacey Abrams to win or force a run-off election," Kemp spokesman Cody Hall said in a statement Wednesday evening. "Brian Kemp will now begin his transition as governor-elect of Georgia."

Abrams, 44, is trying to become the first black woman elected governor of a US state. Unofficial results from Tuesday`s election showed Kemp leading by more than 60,000 votes and just over the 50 percent threshold he needs to avoid a runoff under Georgia state law.

Abrams'&nbsp;campaign manager Lauren Groh-Wargo said there were thousands more mail, provisional and absentee ballots, however, still to be tallied.

The Democratic campaign cited an "incredible amount of irregularities" on Election Day, including rejected ballots and broken voting machines, and said it would consider all options including litigation to ensure a fair election.

The Georgia contest was among three dozen governor elections on Tuesday.&nbsp;

In some states, the races were seen as an early test of the parties` strength ahead of the 2020 presidential race. Democrats seized seven Republican-held governorships, including in several states that helped deliver Republican President Donald Trump`s surprise win in 2016, without suffering any losses.

But Republicans triumphed in Florida and Ohio, both swing states that could play an outsized role in 2020.

In Florida, Democrat Andrew Gillum lost his attempt to become the state`s first black governor, suffering a narrow defeat to Republican Ron DeSantis in a racially charged contest.

Republicans also scored a major victory in Ohio`s governor race, where Mike DeWine, the state attorney general, defeated Democrat Richard Cordray.

But in Wisconsin, Democrat Tony Evers appeared to pull off a narrow win to deny Republican incumbent Scott Walker a third term.

Democrats also won gubernatorial races in three other states - Michigan, Pennsylvania and Kansas - that supported Trump in 2016.

In Michigan, Democrat Gretchen Whitmer turned back Republican Bill Schuette, while in Kansas, Democrat Laura Kelly defeated Kris Kobach, a staunch Trump ally.

Democratic candidates also triumphed in Illinois, Maine, New Mexico and Nevada, where Republicans had held the governorships.&nbsp;

'Every vote counted'

The races in Florida and Georgia were seen as a test of whether liberal candidates could prevail in Southern states, where centrist Democrats have repeatedly lost, by appealing to a coalition of young and minority voters.

Both DeSantis and Kemp had strong support from Trump, who travelled to their states in the closing days of the campaigns to energise Republicans at "Make America Great Again" rallies. Democratic former President Barack Obama swooped in to boost the Democrats.

Kemp, 55, oversees elections in his current role as secretary of state, a potential conflict of interest that drew repeated criticism from Democrats during the campaign. He refused to step down from his position and denied Democratic accusations that he used his office to suppress minority voters.

The fight for state power received less attention than the battle for control of the U.S. Congress but could have a major impact on issues such as congressional redistricting and healthcare.

Governors and hundreds of legislators elected this year will be in office when each state redraws congressional districts after the 2020 Census.

Going into Tuesday, Republicans controlled 33 governors` mansions and two-thirds of state legislative chambers.

Democrats, playing catch-up after a net loss of 13 governorships and more than 900 state legislative seats during the eight-year Obama administration, fielded their largest slate of legislative candidates in more than three decades.

The party flipped six legislative chambers on Tuesday and now has complete control of state government in Colorado, New York, Illinois, Maine and New Mexico.

Republican Brian Kemp's campaign said on Wednesday he had won Georgia's high-profile governor's race, but Democratic candidate Stacey Abrams vowed not to concede until all ballots were counted.

Republican Brian Kemp's campaign said on Wednesday he had won Georgia's high-profile governor's race, but Democratic candidate Stacey Abrams vowed not to concede until all ballots were counted. "Simply put, it is mathematically impossible for Stacey Abrams to win or force a run-off election," Kemp spokesman Cody Hall said in a statement Wednesday evening. "Brian Kemp will now begin his transition as governor-elect of Georgia." Abrams, 44, is trying to become the first black woman elected governor of a US state. Unofficial results from Tuesday`s election showed Kemp leading by more than 60,000 votes and just over the 50 percent threshold he needs to avoid a runoff under Georgia state law. Abrams' campaign manager Lauren Groh-Wargo said there were thousands more mail, provisional and absentee ballots, however, still to be tallied. The Democratic campaign cited an "incredible amount of irregularities" on Election Day, including rejected ballots and broken voting machines, and said it would consider all options including litigation to ensure a fair election. The Georgia contest was among three dozen governor elections on Tuesday. In some states, the races were seen as an early test of the parties` strength ahead of the 2020 presidential race. Democrats seized seven Republican-held governorships, including in several states that helped deliver Republican President Donald Trump`s surprise win in 2016, without suffering any losses. But Republicans triumphed in Florida and Ohio, both swing states that could play an outsized role in 2020. In Florida, Democrat Andrew Gillum lost his attempt to become the state`s first black governor, suffering a narrow defeat to Republican Ron DeSantis in a racially charged contest. Republicans also scored a major victory in Ohio`s governor race, where Mike DeWine, the state attorney general, defeated Democrat Richard Cordray. But in Wisconsin, Democrat Tony Evers appeared to pull off a narrow win to deny Republican incumbent Scott Walker a third term. Democrats also won gubernatorial races in three other states - Michigan, Pennsylvania and Kansas - that supported Trump in 2016. In Michigan, Democrat Gretchen Whitmer turned back Republican Bill Schuette, while in Kansas, Democrat Laura Kelly defeated Kris Kobach, a staunch Trump ally. Democratic candidates also triumphed in Illinois, Maine, New Mexico and Nevada, where Republicans had held the governorships. 'Every vote counted' The races in Florida and Georgia were seen as a test of whether liberal candidates could prevail in Southern states, where centrist Democrats have repeatedly lost, by appealing to a coalition of young and minority voters. Both DeSantis and Kemp had strong support from Trump, who travelled to their states in the closing days of the campaigns to energise Republicans at "Make America Great Again" rallies. Democratic former President Barack Obama swooped in to boost the Democrats. Kemp, 55, oversees elections in his current role as secretary of state, a potential conflict of interest that drew repeated criticism from Democrats during the campaign. He refused to step down from his position and denied Democratic accusations that he used his office to suppress minority voters. The fight for state power received less attention than the battle for control of the U.S. Congress but could have a major impact on issues such as congressional redistricting and healthcare. Governors and hundreds of legislators elected this year will be in office when each state redraws congressional districts after the 2020 Census. Going into Tuesday, Republicans controlled 33 governors` mansions and two-thirds of state legislative chambers. Democrats, playing catch-up after a net loss of 13 governorships and more than 900 state legislative seats during the eight-year Obama administration, fielded their largest slate of legislative candidates in more than three decades. The party flipped six legislative chambers on Tuesday and now has complete control of state government in Colorado, New York, Illinois, Maine and New Mexico.

Republican declares Georgia governor win, Democrat does not concede

Just a day after US midterm polls, Attorney General <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/fears-for-russia-probe-as-trump-fires-jeff-sessions-176156">Jeff Sessions was fired from the Trump administration</a>. US President Donald Trump on Thursday tweeted out announcing the same, thanking Sessions for his service. Sessions is the latest to hop on the bandwagon of this year's White House exits.

Sessions' exit closely followed former US Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley's resignation who put down her papers in October. Trump said that she had done a "fantastic job" and would leave at the end of the year.

"She told me probably six months ago," Trump told reporters, adding that she told him that "I want to take a little time off."

"Nikki Haley, ambassador to the United Nations, has been very special to me. She has done an incredible job. She is a fantastic person, very importantly, but she also is somebody who gets it. She has been at the United Nations from the beginning with us, right from the beginning, and worked with us on the campaign," the US president said.

Both these exits have joined over two dozens more US diplomats who called it quits at the White House this year, or were forced out.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
....We thank Attorney General Jeff Sessions for his service, and wish him well! A permanent replacement will be nominated at a later date.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1060256623439110146?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Besides Former Secretary of State Rex Tillerson's firing in March, the Trump administration asked over a dozen more diplomats to leave this year or had them replaced. Some of the names on the list include FBI Deputy Director&nbsp;Andrew McCabe, Deputy National Security Adviser for Strategy Nadia Schadlow, Homeland Security Adviser Tom Bossert and National Security Adviser HR McMaster.

Scores of top US officials resigned in 2018, some of the prominent names included White House Counsel Donald McGahn, White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations Joe Hagin, White House Special Counsel Ty Cobb, and Trump's lead lawyer John Dowd, among a few others.

Trump has often outsourced the job of booting employees to his chief of staff - and then announced the departures via Twitter, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

When Trump decided to fire FBI chief James Comey, the White House released a letter from the president to Comey on May 9, 2017 explaining that he was being dismissed on the recommendation of Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein.

On Kelly's first day on the job as chief of staff on July 31, 2017, Trump directed him to fire Communications Director Anthony Scaramucci, who had been in the job for a mere 10 days.

According to a Reuters report, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson was travelling in Africa when he heard by phone from Kelly that the axe was coming, and so cut his trip short. Trump made the firing official via an early morning Twitter post a few days later on March 13, 2018, and then followed up with a phone call to Tillerson that afternoon. The decision came after months of tension between the two men and reports Tillerson had privately called Trump a "moron."

"Mike Pompeo, Director of the CIA, will become our new Secretary of State. He will do a fantastic job! Thank you to Rex Tillerson for his service! Gina Haspel will become the new Director of the CIA, and the first woman so chosen. Congratulations to all!," Trump tweeted out on March 13.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Mike Pompeo, Director of the CIA, will become our new Secretary of State. He will do a fantastic job! Thank you to Rex Tillerson for his service! Gina Haspel will become the new Director of the CIA, and the first woman so chosen. Congratulations to all!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/973540316656623616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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US media reported the same stating that Tillerson learnt about his dismissal only after he saw Trump's tweet.&nbsp;

President Donald Trump's administration has been marred by a series of top officials' exits. With Sessions' leaving right after the midterms, the shake-up at the Department of Justice has raised concerns about the ongoing probe of Russian meddling in the 2016 US presidential election led by Special Counsel Robert Mueller.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Democrats captured the House in the midterms and have their agenda set on achieving better healthcare infrastructure and pronouncing more trouble for the US President, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/newly-emboldened-democrats-want-healthcare-protected-and-trump-impeached-poll-176262">probably eyeing his impeachment</a>.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Just a day after US midterm polls, Attorney General Jeff Sessions was fired from the Trump administration. US President Donald Trump on Thursday tweeted out announcing the same, thanking Sessions for his service.

Just a day after US midterm polls, Attorney General Jeff Sessions was fired from the Trump administration. US President Donald Trump on Thursday tweeted out announcing the same, thanking Sessions for his service. Sessions is the latest to hop on the bandwagon of this year's White House exits. Sessions' exit closely followed former US Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley's resignation who put down her papers in October. Trump said that she had done a "fantastic job" and would leave at the end of the year. "She told me probably six months ago," Trump told reporters, adding that she told him that "I want to take a little time off." "Nikki Haley, ambassador to the United Nations, has been very special to me. She has done an incredible job. She is a fantastic person, very importantly, but she also is somebody who gets it. She has been at the United Nations from the beginning with us, right from the beginning, and worked with us on the campaign," the US president said. Both these exits have joined over two dozens more US diplomats who called it quits at the White House this year, or were forced out. ....We thank Attorney General Jeff Sessions for his service, and wish him well! A permanent replacement will be nominated at a later date. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 7, 2018 × Besides Former Secretary of State Rex Tillerson's firing in March, the Trump administration asked over a dozen more diplomats to leave this year or had them replaced. Some of the names on the list include FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe, Deputy National Security Adviser for Strategy Nadia Schadlow, Homeland Security Adviser Tom Bossert and National Security Adviser HR McMaster. Scores of top US officials resigned in 2018, some of the prominent names included White House Counsel Donald McGahn, White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations Joe Hagin, White House Special Counsel Ty Cobb, and Trump's lead lawyer John Dowd, among a few others. Trump has often outsourced the job of booting employees to his chief of staff - and then announced the departures via Twitter, news agency Reuters reported. When Trump decided to fire FBI chief James Comey, the White House released a letter from the president to Comey on May 9, 2017 explaining that he was being dismissed on the recommendation of Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein. On Kelly's first day on the job as chief of staff on July 31, 2017, Trump directed him to fire Communications Director Anthony Scaramucci, who had been in the job for a mere 10 days. According to a Reuters report, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson was travelling in Africa when he heard by phone from Kelly that the axe was coming, and so cut his trip short. Trump made the firing official via an early morning Twitter post a few days later on March 13, 2018, and then followed up with a phone call to Tillerson that afternoon. The decision came after months of tension between the two men and reports Tillerson had privately called Trump a "moron." "Mike Pompeo, Director of the CIA, will become our new Secretary of State. He will do a fantastic job! Thank you to Rex Tillerson for his service! Gina Haspel will become the new Director of the CIA, and the first woman so chosen. Congratulations to all!," Trump tweeted out on March 13. Mike Pompeo, Director of the CIA, will become our new Secretary of State. He will do a fantastic job! Thank you to Rex Tillerson for his service! Gina Haspel will become the new Director of the CIA, and the first woman so chosen. Congratulations to all! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 13, 2018 × US media reported the same stating that Tillerson learnt about his dismissal only after he saw Trump's tweet. President Donald Trump's administration has been marred by a series of top officials' exits. With Sessions' leaving right after the midterms, the shake-up at the Department of Justice has raised concerns about the ongoing probe of Russian meddling in the 2016 US presidential election led by Special Counsel Robert Mueller. Meanwhile, the Democrats captured the House in the midterms and have their agenda set on achieving better healthcare infrastructure and pronouncing more trouble for the US President, probably eyeing his impeachment.

Shake-up in Trump administration: Big White House dismissals and resignations of 2018

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-fires-attorney-general-jeff-sessions-vows-to-fight-democrats-if-they-launch-probes-176119">Trump fires Attorney General Jeff Sessions, vows to fight Democrats if they launch probes</a>

President Donald Trump on Wednesday forced out Attorney General Jeff Sessions a day after congressional elections, and vowed to fight if the US House of Representatives' new Democratic majority&nbsp;launches probes into his administration.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-revokes-press-pass-of-cnn-reporter-after-furious-exchange-with-trump-176127">White House revokes CNN reporter's press pass after </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-revokes-press-pass-of-cnn-reporter-after-furious-exchange-with-trump-176127">furious</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-revokes-press-pass-of-cnn-reporter-after-furious-exchange-with-trump-176127"> exchange with Trump</a>

White House has barred CNN reporter, Jim Acosta, after a heated exchange when a visibly angry US President Donald Trump called the former "enemy of the people" and a "terrible person" after being asked why he "demonized immigrants"

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-christian-woman-asia-bibi-leaves-jail-flies-out-of-multan-176122">Pakistani Christian woman Asia Bibi leaves jail, flies out of Multan</a>

A Pakistani Christian woman who spent eight years on death row for blasphemy has been freed from jail and is believed to have already flown out of the city of Multan where she was being held, heading for an unknown destination, her lawyer said Thursday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-christian-woman-asia-bibi-leaves-jail-flies-out-of-multan-176122">Delhi chokes after Diwali as several places record AQI at 999</a>

A day after Diwali a thick haze engulfed the national capital region which recorded an overall Air Quality Index of 319. The AQI at several other places in the national capital reached 999 marks falling in the hazardous category.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/fuel-prices-down-again-petrol-at-rs-7821-per-litre-in-delhi-8372-per-litre-in-mumbai-176126">Fuel prices down again, petrol at Rs 78.21 per litre in Delhi, Rs 83.72 per litre in Mumbai</a>

Fuel prices in the country continued to decline on Thursday with prices of petrol reaching Rs 78.21 per litre in Delhi and Rs 83.72 per litre in Mumbai. While petrol reduced by 21 paise in Delhi and 20 paise in Mumbai, diesel witnessed a reduction of 18 paise in the national capital and 19 paise in Mumbai.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Trump fires Attorney General Jeff Sessions, vows to fight Democrats if they launch probes President Donald Trump on Wednesday forced out Attorney General Jeff Sessions a day after congressional elections, and vowed to fight if the US House of Representatives' new Democratic majority launches probes into his administration.

Trump fires Attorney General Jeff Sessions, vows to fight Democrats if they launch probes President Donald Trump on Wednesday forced out Attorney General Jeff Sessions a day after congressional elections, and vowed to fight if the US House of Representatives' new Democratic majority launches probes into his administration. White House revokes CNN reporter's press pass after furious exchange with Trump White House has barred CNN reporter, Jim Acosta, after a heated exchange when a visibly angry US President Donald Trump called the former "enemy of the people" and a "terrible person" after being asked why he "demonized immigrants" Pakistani Christian woman Asia Bibi leaves jail, flies out of Multan A Pakistani Christian woman who spent eight years on death row for blasphemy has been freed from jail and is believed to have already flown out of the city of Multan where she was being held, heading for an unknown destination, her lawyer said Thursday. Delhi chokes after Diwali as several places record AQI at 999 A day after Diwali a thick haze engulfed the national capital region which recorded an overall Air Quality Index of 319. The AQI at several other places in the national capital reached 999 marks falling in the hazardous category. Fuel prices down again, petrol at Rs 78.21 per litre in Delhi, Rs 83.72 per litre in Mumbai Fuel prices in the country continued to decline on Thursday with prices of petrol reaching Rs 78.21 per litre in Delhi and Rs 83.72 per litre in Mumbai. While petrol reduced by 21 paise in Delhi and 20 paise in Mumbai, diesel witnessed a reduction of 18 paise in the national capital and 19 paise in Mumbai.

Democrats have a clear message for party leaders who will take control of the US House of Representatives next year, according to a Reuters/Ipsos national opinion poll: Protect their healthcare and impeach President Donald Trump.

The poll released on Thursday found that 43 per cent of people who identified as Democrats want impeachment to be a top priority for Congress. That goal was second in priority only to healthcare, which played a major role in Democratic campaigns' closing arguments before Tuesday's elections.

They may be disappointed: Party leaders on Wednesday vowed to use their newly won majority to impose a new level of scrutiny on the Trump White House but said impeachment would require evidence of action to subvert the Constitution that was so overwhelming that it would trouble even Trump's supporters.

Democratic Party leaders had practical reasons for caution. While they were poised to gain at least 30 House seats, more than the 23 they needed for a majority, Republicans strengthened their control of the US Senate, which has the power to determine guilt or innocence in an impeachment proceeding.

"I want him out of office," said Aprille Evans-Wright, 73, a mobile home park manager in Reno, Nevada, who responded to the poll. "He won't show us his tax returns. He lies consistently. He is leading people astray and he's holding children prisoner at the border."

The American public at large was far less supportive of impeachment proceedings, with just 24 per cent of overall respondents listing it among their top three goals for the new Congress.

About 18 per cent of Democrats wanted Congress to review Trump's tax returns, with 11 per cent of respondents overall citing that as a priority.

Fifty-four per cent of Democrats and 55 per cent of Republicans surveyed said the new Congress should prioritize addressing the US healthcare system. But the poll did not delve into how they would like to see the system changed.

Democrats had focused their messages through the final weeks of the campaign on protecting health insurance coverage for people with pre-existing conditions, which was assured by the 2010 Affordable Care Act, often known as Obamacare, that Republicans have repeatedly tried to repeal.

Democrats' third-most-often-cited priority was the environment, mentioned by 40 per cent of respondents.

After healthcare, Republicans' top priorities were improving border security, which 54 per cent of respondents cited; immigration reform, cited by 40 per cent, and cutting taxes, with 37 per cent support.

One in four Democrats said they would like to see Congress protect the ongoing investigation by former FBI Director Robert Mueller into whether Trump's 2016 presidential campaign colluded with Russia. Both Trump and Moscow have denied that charge.

Trump so far has refused to be interviewed by Mueller.

"I would like the truth to come out about him and Russia," said Wendy McMillan, 53, of Rochester, New York. "I just have a really big feeling that Russia had a hand in him being elected."

The online poll gathered responses from 904 Democrats and 840 Republicans from October 30 to November 5. That was before Tuesday's election, though by that time most opinion polls and nonpartisan forecasters had predicted that Democrats would win control of the House.

The poll asked respondents to list the top three priorities for Congress to address in the 2019-20 session. 
&nbsp;

Democrats have a clear message for party leaders who will take control of the US House of Representatives next year, according to a Reuters/Ipsos national opinion poll: Protect their healthcare and impeach President Donald Trump.

Democrats have a clear message for party leaders who will take control of the US House of Representatives next year, according to a Reuters/Ipsos national opinion poll: Protect their healthcare and impeach President Donald Trump. The poll released on Thursday found that 43 per cent of people who identified as Democrats want impeachment to be a top priority for Congress. That goal was second in priority only to healthcare, which played a major role in Democratic campaigns' closing arguments before Tuesday's elections. They may be disappointed: Party leaders on Wednesday vowed to use their newly won majority to impose a new level of scrutiny on the Trump White House but said impeachment would require evidence of action to subvert the Constitution that was so overwhelming that it would trouble even Trump's supporters. Democratic Party leaders had practical reasons for caution. While they were poised to gain at least 30 House seats, more than the 23 they needed for a majority, Republicans strengthened their control of the US Senate, which has the power to determine guilt or innocence in an impeachment proceeding. "I want him out of office," said Aprille Evans-Wright, 73, a mobile home park manager in Reno, Nevada, who responded to the poll. "He won't show us his tax returns. He lies consistently. He is leading people astray and he's holding children prisoner at the border." The American public at large was far less supportive of impeachment proceedings, with just 24 per cent of overall respondents listing it among their top three goals for the new Congress. About 18 per cent of Democrats wanted Congress to review Trump's tax returns, with 11 per cent of respondents overall citing that as a priority. Fifty-four per cent of Democrats and 55 per cent of Republicans surveyed said the new Congress should prioritize addressing the US healthcare system. But the poll did not delve into how they would like to see the system changed. Democrats had focused their messages through the final weeks of the campaign on protecting health insurance coverage for people with pre-existing conditions, which was assured by the 2010 Affordable Care Act, often known as Obamacare, that Republicans have repeatedly tried to repeal. Democrats' third-most-often-cited priority was the environment, mentioned by 40 per cent of respondents. After healthcare, Republicans' top priorities were improving border security, which 54 per cent of respondents cited; immigration reform, cited by 40 per cent, and cutting taxes, with 37 per cent support. One in four Democrats said they would like to see Congress protect the ongoing investigation by former FBI Director Robert Mueller into whether Trump's 2016 presidential campaign colluded with Russia. Both Trump and Moscow have denied that charge. Trump so far has refused to be interviewed by Mueller. "I would like the truth to come out about him and Russia," said Wendy McMillan, 53, of Rochester, New York. "I just have a really big feeling that Russia had a hand in him being elected." The online poll gathered responses from 904 Democrats and 840 Republicans from October 30 to November 5. That was before Tuesday's election, though by that time most opinion polls and nonpartisan forecasters had predicted that Democrats would win control of the House. The poll asked respondents to list the top three priorities for Congress to address in the 2019-20 session.

Newly emboldened Democrats want healthcare protected and Trump impeached: Poll

WION Dispatch: Donald Trump fires US Attorney General Jeff Sessions

Donald Trump gets angry at reporter on being asked about migrant caravan

The new Democrat majority in the US House of Representatives is likely to back President Donald Trump's trade war with China and could even egg him on, but will offer tougher scrutiny of his negotiations with allies, trade experts and lawmakers say.

Trump has imposed tariffs on $250 billion of Chinese goods to pressure Beijing to stop intellectual property theft and forced technology transfers, improve market access for US firms and cut its high-tech industrial subsidy program - major shifts away from China's state-led economic model.

Democrats, the traditional party of trade unions, largely support such moves, especially for their hoped-for effect on helping American workers.

"I think Trump has a free hand to pursue his aggressive approach. If anything, the Blue Wave (of Democrats) will be as hawkish, if not more hawkish, than Trump on China," Gary Hufbauer, a senior fellow and trade expert at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, said.

Beijing has retaliated by largely cutting off purchases of US soybeans and imposing its own tariffs on farm products, steps that some experts had believed could hurt farm state Republicans in Tuesday's congressional elections. China was the biggest buyer of US soybeans before the trade war.

But the tariffs were at best a minor issue in most races, even in hard-hit states such as North Dakota, Indiana and Missouri, which voted in Republican senators, strengthening Trump's hand in the chamber.

Scott Kennedy, head of China studies at the Strategic and International Studies in Washington, said there is growing bipartisan concern in Washington about increasing state control of China's economy, military activity in the South China Sea and security issues surrounding Chinese technology companies.

"President Trump has paid no political price for taking a tough line on China," he said. "I still see the short term-political and long-term strategic signals on China still pointing in the same direction." &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi, who made a pitch to return as speaker on Wednesday, has applauded Trump's initial round of tariffs on China as a "leverage point" to negotiate fairer trade for US products in the country.

"The United States must take strong, smart and strategic action against China's brazenly unfair trade policies," Pelosi said in March.

Those Democrats who may be upset that Trump's tariffs on Chinese goods and steel and aluminum will raise business costs and prices also face a practical problem in that they have little legislative means to stop them, since they are the result of executive orders, which do not need Congressional approval.

Trump has signalled in the past week that he believes a deal with Chinese President Xi Jinping is achievable. The two are due to meet on the sidelines of the G20 leaders' summit at the end of November.

If things do not go well, he has threatened to impose tariffs on about $267 billion worth of remaining Chinese imports to the United States. Currently, 10 per cent tariffs on $200 billion of products are scheduled to rise to 25 per cent on January 1, 2019.

"House Democrats are the most protectionist group in Congress," said Derek Scissors, a China scholar at the American Enterprise Institute in Washington. If Trump makes a deal that fails to achieve significant changes to China's practices, "they'll jump all over him," he said.

Representative Richard Neal, the expected new Democratic chairman of the tax-and-trade focused House Ways and Means Committee, sees China as a "big challenge" that both parties and multiple administrations have tried to tackle, a Democratic aide to the panel told Reuters.

China too appears to have few illusions that the election results will earn it a reprieve from the Trump administration.

"Particularly on trade, both (US) parties agree. So, it will have little impact," said Wu Baiyi, the director of the Institute of American Studies at the state-run Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.

The Global Times, a nationalist Chinese tabloid, said in an editorial late on Wednesday that the Republicans' loss of the House "will hardly have any direct bearing on Trump's China policy".

"China doesn't need to be deluded by a perceived change in US&nbsp;politics. We should just go about our own business," the paper said.

CANADA, MEXICO A DIFFERENT STORY

The bipartisan unity is less secure when it comes to trade talks with allies, however, and the new Democrat majority could make it more difficult to win congressional approval for a revamp of the North American Free Trade Agreement with Canada and Mexico.

Neal and Representative Bill Pascrell, who is set to chair the Ways and Means trade subcommittee, are promising to haul Trump's top trade lieutenants into hearings not only to explain their strategy on China but also on future trade negotiations with the European Union, Japan and Britain.

In a letter to fellow Democrats on Wednesday, Pascrell said that Republicans had refused to bring administration witnesses into hearings on tariffs or NAFTA negotiations.

"Without hesitation, I would hold regular meetings and public hearings with members of this administration to impose transparency and assert Congress' constitutional role in setting trade policy," Pascrell said.

The recent deal to change the terms of NAFTA is expected to be submitted to Congress for approval in the spring of 2019.

The Ways and Means aide said Neal will insist on ensuring that new labour and environmental standards included in the revamped deal can be adequately enforced. Labor and environmental groups have criticized the provisions as weak.

If Democrats hold out for changes, it may force a reopening of negotiations, analysts and lobbyists said. Democrats forced a similar rethink of the first version of the US-South Korea Free Trade Agreement in 2007 that took nearly three years to complete.

Emily Davis, a spokeswoman for the office of US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, said the agency was "very confident" that Congress will approve the current deal because of the benefits to US workers and businesses.

"From the beginning, Ambassador Lighthizer has worked closely with Democrats and Republicans in the House and Senate on the renegotiation of this agreement," Davis said.

The new Democrat majority in the US House of Representatives is likely to back President Donald Trump's trade war with China and could even egg him on, but will offer tougher scrutiny of his negotiations with allies, trade experts and lawmakers say.

The new Democrat majority in the US House of Representatives is likely to back President Donald Trump's trade war with China and could even egg him on, but will offer tougher scrutiny of his negotiations with allies, trade experts and lawmakers say. Trump has imposed tariffs on $250 billion of Chinese goods to pressure Beijing to stop intellectual property theft and forced technology transfers, improve market access for US firms and cut its high-tech industrial subsidy program - major shifts away from China's state-led economic model. Democrats, the traditional party of trade unions, largely support such moves, especially for their hoped-for effect on helping American workers. "I think Trump has a free hand to pursue his aggressive approach. If anything, the Blue Wave (of Democrats) will be as hawkish, if not more hawkish, than Trump on China," Gary Hufbauer, a senior fellow and trade expert at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, said. Beijing has retaliated by largely cutting off purchases of US soybeans and imposing its own tariffs on farm products, steps that some experts had believed could hurt farm state Republicans in Tuesday's congressional elections. China was the biggest buyer of US soybeans before the trade war. But the tariffs were at best a minor issue in most races, even in hard-hit states such as North Dakota, Indiana and Missouri, which voted in Republican senators, strengthening Trump's hand in the chamber. Scott Kennedy, head of China studies at the Strategic and International Studies in Washington, said there is growing bipartisan concern in Washington about increasing state control of China's economy, military activity in the South China Sea and security issues surrounding Chinese technology companies. "President Trump has paid no political price for taking a tough line on China," he said. "I still see the short term-political and long-term strategic signals on China still pointing in the same direction." House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi, who made a pitch to return as speaker on Wednesday, has applauded Trump's initial round of tariffs on China as a "leverage point" to negotiate fairer trade for US products in the country. "The United States must take strong, smart and strategic action against China's brazenly unfair trade policies," Pelosi said in March. Those Democrats who may be upset that Trump's tariffs on Chinese goods and steel and aluminum will raise business costs and prices also face a practical problem in that they have little legislative means to stop them, since they are the result of executive orders, which do not need Congressional approval. Trump has signalled in the past week that he believes a deal with Chinese President Xi Jinping is achievable. The two are due to meet on the sidelines of the G20 leaders' summit at the end of November. If things do not go well, he has threatened to impose tariffs on about $267 billion worth of remaining Chinese imports to the United States. Currently, 10 per cent tariffs on $200 billion of products are scheduled to rise to 25 per cent on January 1, 2019. "House Democrats are the most protectionist group in Congress," said Derek Scissors, a China scholar at the American Enterprise Institute in Washington. If Trump makes a deal that fails to achieve significant changes to China's practices, "they'll jump all over him," he said. Representative Richard Neal, the expected new Democratic chairman of the tax-and-trade focused House Ways and Means Committee, sees China as a "big challenge" that both parties and multiple administrations have tried to tackle, a Democratic aide to the panel told Reuters. China too appears to have few illusions that the election results will earn it a reprieve from the Trump administration. "Particularly on trade, both (US) parties agree. So, it will have little impact," said Wu Baiyi, the director of the Institute of American Studies at the state-run Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. The Global Times, a nationalist Chinese tabloid, said in an editorial late on Wednesday that the Republicans' loss of the House "will hardly have any direct bearing on Trump's China policy". "China doesn't need to be deluded by a perceived change in US politics. We should just go about our own business," the paper said. CANADA, MEXICO A DIFFERENT STORY The bipartisan unity is less secure when it comes to trade talks with allies, however, and the new Democrat majority could make it more difficult to win congressional approval for a revamp of the North American Free Trade Agreement with Canada and Mexico. Neal and Representative Bill Pascrell, who is set to chair the Ways and Means trade subcommittee, are promising to haul Trump's top trade lieutenants into hearings not only to explain their strategy on China but also on future trade negotiations with the European Union, Japan and Britain. In a letter to fellow Democrats on Wednesday, Pascrell said that Republicans had refused to bring administration witnesses into hearings on tariffs or NAFTA negotiations. "Without hesitation, I would hold regular meetings and public hearings with members of this administration to impose transparency and assert Congress' constitutional role in setting trade policy," Pascrell said. The recent deal to change the terms of NAFTA is expected to be submitted to Congress for approval in the spring of 2019. The Ways and Means aide said Neal will insist on ensuring that new labour and environmental standards included in the revamped deal can be adequately enforced. Labor and environmental groups have criticized the provisions as weak. If Democrats hold out for changes, it may force a reopening of negotiations, analysts and lobbyists said. Democrats forced a similar rethink of the first version of the US-South Korea Free Trade Agreement in 2007 that took nearly three years to complete. Emily Davis, a spokeswoman for the office of US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, said the agency was "very confident" that Congress will approve the current deal because of the benefits to US workers and businesses. "From the beginning, Ambassador Lighthizer has worked closely with Democrats and Republicans in the House and Senate on the renegotiation of this agreement," Davis said.

Democrat-led House seen backing Trump’s China trade war, scrutinizing talks with allies

Democrats seized control of the lower house of Congress in midterm elections Tuesday, dealing a stern rebuke to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/mitt-romney-wins-senate-seat-may-act-as-check-on-trump-175990">Donald Trump</a> almost two years into his polarizing, rollercoaster presidency.

Fox and NBC television networks called the result in the US House of Representatives, while confirming expectations that Trump's Republicans will retain control of the Senate.

The result upends the balance of power in Washington, where Trump has enjoyed an easy ride from Republican dominance of both houses of Congress since his shock election in 2016.

Democrats will now be able to block legislation and light a fire under Trump's feet with investigations of his opaque finances and Russian interference in his 2016 election, and possibly push for impeachment.

The verdicts in the House and Senate were based on incomplete results as vote counting continued across the country and some states were still voting in a congressional election cast as an unofficial referendum on Trump.

Giddy predictions by Democrats of a so-called "blue wave" landslide in the House were still premature, even if a majority appeared guaranteed.

Trump was watching the results roll in from the White House, where he spent the day holed up with friends and family.

Democrats confident 
Americans voted enthusiastically, with long lines quickly forming at polling stations from New York to California and from Missouri to Georgia.

All 435 seats in the House of Representatives, 35 seats in the 100-member Senate and 36 governorships were up for grabs.

Democrats quickly made important gains in the House, but Republicans defended in crucial races, like incumbent Andy Barr of Kentucky, whose House seat had seemed at risk.

In the Senate, Republican Mike Braun snatched the seat from Democratic Senator Joe Donnelly, but corruption scandal-tainted Senator Bob Menendez saved his seat for the Democrats in New Jersey.

Pollsters, gun shy after getting their 2016 presidential prediction wrong, urged caution.

Trump had fought hard before polling day, crisscrossing the country to claim that Democrats would introduce socialism and making incendiary attacks on illegal immigration that opponents denounced as racist.

Even so, Democrats were highly confident, with Nancy Pelosi, the party's top leader in the House, saying "it's just a question of the size of the victory."

Former vice president Joe Biden, often touted as a possible Democratic candidate to take on Trump in 2020, said he'd have been "dumbfounded" not to win the House.

Results were to continue trickling in through the night, with the last polls closing in Alaska at 0600 GMT Wednesday.

Buzz on the streets 
According to Michael McDonald of the US Elections Project, 38.4 million Americans cast their ballots early ahead of this election, compared with 27.4 million in the 2014 midterm.

And on the streets there was a palpable buzz all day.

"We have already seen huge turnout, people out and about knocking on doors, making sure everybody gets out there, but I think turnout will be very, very high," Democratic candidate Katie Porter, who is running in Irvine, California, against two-term Republican incumbent Mimi Walters, told AFP.

On the other side of the country, in Atlanta, Georgia, voters waited in line for nearly two hours to cast ballots, according to local media reports.

Trump himself noted the energy as he wrapped up a punishing schedule of rallies around the country that were intended to boost Republican candidates -- and his own brand heading towards reelection in 2020.

"The midterm elections used to be, like, boring," Trump told a crowd in Cleveland, Ohio, on Monday. "Now it's like the hottest thing."

Jobs and fear 
Voting in Chicago, James Gerlock, 27, a Republican, said he wanted to see more of the soaring economic growth that Trump says is the fruit of his business-friendly policies.

"I am extremely happy with the economy," Gerlock said. "I just want to keep everything moving, because I'm loving it."

But Democrats have been fired up by anger at Trump's extraordinary attacks over the last few weeks against immigrants, claiming that his opponents seek to throw open the borders to "drug dealers, predators and bloodthirsty MS-13 killers."

Trump has sent soldiers to the Mexican border, threatened to have illegal immigrants shot if they throw stones, and vowed to restrict citizenship rights.

Beto O'Rourke, a charismatic Democrat who lost in a closely watched bid to dethrone Republican Senator Ted Cruz in Texas, told voters that Trump was wrong, describing his state as built from "immigrants, asylum seekers and refugees."

Democrats seized control of the lower house of Congress in midterm elections Tuesday, dealing a stern rebuke to Donald Trump almost two years into his polarizing, rollercoaster presidency.

Democrats seized control of the lower house of Congress in midterm elections Tuesday, dealing a stern rebuke to Donald Trump almost two years into his polarizing, rollercoaster presidency. Fox and NBC television networks called the result in the US House of Representatives, while confirming expectations that Trump's Republicans will retain control of the Senate. The result upends the balance of power in Washington, where Trump has enjoyed an easy ride from Republican dominance of both houses of Congress since his shock election in 2016. Democrats will now be able to block legislation and light a fire under Trump's feet with investigations of his opaque finances and Russian interference in his 2016 election, and possibly push for impeachment. The verdicts in the House and Senate were based on incomplete results as vote counting continued across the country and some states were still voting in a congressional election cast as an unofficial referendum on Trump. Giddy predictions by Democrats of a so-called "blue wave" landslide in the House were still premature, even if a majority appeared guaranteed. Trump was watching the results roll in from the White House, where he spent the day holed up with friends and family. Democrats confident Americans voted enthusiastically, with long lines quickly forming at polling stations from New York to California and from Missouri to Georgia. All 435 seats in the House of Representatives, 35 seats in the 100-member Senate and 36 governorships were up for grabs. Democrats quickly made important gains in the House, but Republicans defended in crucial races, like incumbent Andy Barr of Kentucky, whose House seat had seemed at risk. In the Senate, Republican Mike Braun snatched the seat from Democratic Senator Joe Donnelly, but corruption scandal-tainted Senator Bob Menendez saved his seat for the Democrats in New Jersey. Pollsters, gun shy after getting their 2016 presidential prediction wrong, urged caution. Trump had fought hard before polling day, crisscrossing the country to claim that Democrats would introduce socialism and making incendiary attacks on illegal immigration that opponents denounced as racist. Even so, Democrats were highly confident, with Nancy Pelosi, the party's top leader in the House, saying "it's just a question of the size of the victory." Former vice president Joe Biden, often touted as a possible Democratic candidate to take on Trump in 2020, said he'd have been "dumbfounded" not to win the House. Results were to continue trickling in through the night, with the last polls closing in Alaska at 0600 GMT Wednesday. Buzz on the streets According to Michael McDonald of the US Elections Project, 38.4 million Americans cast their ballots early ahead of this election, compared with 27.4 million in the 2014 midterm. And on the streets there was a palpable buzz all day. "We have already seen huge turnout, people out and about knocking on doors, making sure everybody gets out there, but I think turnout will be very, very high," Democratic candidate Katie Porter, who is running in Irvine, California, against two-term Republican incumbent Mimi Walters, told AFP. On the other side of the country, in Atlanta, Georgia, voters waited in line for nearly two hours to cast ballots, according to local media reports. Trump himself noted the energy as he wrapped up a punishing schedule of rallies around the country that were intended to boost Republican candidates -- and his own brand heading towards reelection in 2020. "The midterm elections used to be, like, boring," Trump told a crowd in Cleveland, Ohio, on Monday. "Now it's like the hottest thing." Jobs and fear Voting in Chicago, James Gerlock, 27, a Republican, said he wanted to see more of the soaring economic growth that Trump says is the fruit of his business-friendly policies. "I am extremely happy with the economy," Gerlock said. "I just want to keep everything moving, because I'm loving it." But Democrats have been fired up by anger at Trump's extraordinary attacks over the last few weeks against immigrants, claiming that his opponents seek to throw open the borders to "drug dealers, predators and bloodthirsty MS-13 killers." Trump has sent soldiers to the Mexican border, threatened to have illegal immigrants shot if they throw stones, and vowed to restrict citizenship rights. Beto O'Rourke, a charismatic Democrat who lost in a closely watched bid to dethrone Republican Senator Ted Cruz in Texas, told voters that Trump was wrong, describing his state as built from "immigrants, asylum seekers and refugees."

US midterm elections: In stern rebuke to Trump, Democrats take control of House

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