A serial killer identified as Glen Rogers chose his last words before execution as praise for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whos-the-democrat-trump-wants-to-face-in-third-term-showdown-spoiler-its-not-biden-8914183">US President Donald Trump</a>.
&ldquo;President Trump, keep making America great. I&rsquo;m ready to go,&rdquo; Glen Rogers, 62, said moments before receiving a lethal injection, as per a report by AP.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/deal-signed-in-pakistan-before-pahalgam-attack-under-scrutiny-heres-why-hint-it-has-trump-asim-munir-link-9074077">Deal signed in Pakistan before Pahalgam attack under scrutiny, here's why. Hint: It has Trump,&nbsp;Asim&nbsp;Munir&nbsp;link</a>
In his final statement, he also thanked his wife, who visited him earlier in the day at the prison, according to visitor logs. He also cryptically said that &ldquo;in the near future, your questions will be answered&rdquo; without going into detail.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-under-assassination-threat-again-ex-fbi-director-under-investigation-after-posting-8647-heres-why-9073730">What does '8647' mean? Ex-FBI Director under fire after post calling for 'assassination' of Trump</a>
Roger was executed for the murder of a woman he met in a bar in 1995. Rogers, a suspected serial killer known as 'Casanova killer' or 'Cross Country Killer', was once investigated for a possible link to the OJ Simpson case in the 1990s. The execution took place at Florida State Prison near Starke. Rogers was pronounced dead at 6:16 p.m., authorities said.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-insists-ukraine-russia-peace-wont-happen-until-he-and-vladimir-putin-get-together-russia-ukraine-peace-talks-in-turkey-9073995">Trump insists Ukraine-Russia peace won't happen until he and Putin 'get together'</a>
Rogers is originally from Hamilton, Ohio. Some of his alleged and proven female victims had similar characteristics: ages in their 30s, a petite frame and red hair.
Florida uses a three-drug cocktail for its lethal injection: a sedative, a paralytic and a drug that stops the heart, according to the Corrections Department.&nbsp;Rogers became the&nbsp;fifth inmate put to death in Florida this year.

World | A serial killer identified as Glen Rogers chose his last words before execution as praise for US President Donald Trump.

A serial killer identified as Glen Rogers chose his last words before execution as praise for US President Donald Trump. “President Trump, keep making America great. I’m ready to go,” Glen Rogers, 62, said moments before receiving a lethal injection, as per a report by AP. Read More | Deal signed in Pakistan before Pahalgam attack under scrutiny, here's why. Hint: It has Trump, Asim Munir link In his final statement, he also thanked his wife, who visited him earlier in the day at the prison, according to visitor logs. He also cryptically said that “in the near future, your questions will be answered” without going into detail. Read More | What does '8647' mean? Ex-FBI Director under fire after post calling for 'assassination' of Trump Roger was executed for the murder of a woman he met in a bar in 1995. Rogers, a suspected serial killer known as 'Casanova killer' or 'Cross Country Killer', was once investigated for a possible link to the OJ Simpson case in the 1990s. The execution took place at Florida State Prison near Starke. Rogers was pronounced dead at 6:16 p.m., authorities said. Read More | Trump insists Ukraine-Russia peace won't happen until he and Putin 'get together' Rogers is originally from Hamilton, Ohio. Some of his alleged and proven female victims had similar characteristics: ages in their 30s, a petite frame and red hair. Florida uses a three-drug cocktail for its lethal injection: a sedative, a paralytic and a drug that stops the heart, according to the Corrections Department. Rogers became the fifth inmate put to death in Florida this year.

'Keep making America great': Serial killer's last words before execution in Florida

In what may be called a major geopolitical shift and an unexpected moment in the contemporary history of West Asia, US President Donald Trump met Syria's leader Ahmed al-Sharaa in Saudi capital Riyadh. Not only did Trump shake hands with Syria's interim president becoming the first leader in 25 years to meet the Syrian counterpart but also announced a major breakthrough by lifting the Assad era sanctions. Trump also went a step forward by urging this 'young, tough guy' to recognise Israel eyeing an expansion to Abraham Accords.&nbsp;
It remains to be seen if this meet between Trump and Al Sharaa opens the doors of new sunrise in Syria. Currently what's pathbreaking is America's embracing Ahmed al- Sharaa aka Abu Mohammad Al-Jolani: once an US designated terrorist whose Al-Nusra front was an offshoot of Osama Bin Laden's Al-Qaeda.&nbsp;
<h2>Ahmed Al- Sharaa: From terrorist to meeting Trump&nbsp;</h2>
The world knew Abu Mohammad al-Julani, a designated terrorist, who was born in 1982 in Riyadh to Syrian parents originally from the Golan Heights. He became involved in jihadist movements during the early 2000s and joined al-Qaeda in Iraq amid the chaos of the US invasion and was later captured by American forces in 2006. After spending five years in detention, he returned to Syria as the civil war erupted in the aftermath of Arab Spring.
He founded the al-Nusra Front, an offshoot of al-Qaeda, which played a major role in the conflict. But by 2016, al-Sharaa publicly broke away from al-Qaeda, rebranding his organization as Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and signaling a shift toward a more localised Syrian agenda.
Ahmed al-Sharaa&rsquo;s rise to power in Syria was the result of a swift military campaign and a carefully managed political transition. In late 2024, forces loyal to al-Sharaa, under the banner of HTS, launched a major offensive against the Syrian Arab Army. This campaign culminated in the capture of Damascus on December 8, forcing then-President Bashar al-Assad to flee the country, seeking refuge in Russia.
Following the fall of the capital, al-Sharaa worked with key political figures, including former Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali, to form a transitional government. Mohammed al-Bashir was appointed to lead this interim administration, aiming to bring stability after years of conflict. Later, Ahmed Al-Sharaa was chosen as interim president.
Ahmed al-Sharaa, previously known by nom de guerre Abu Mohammad al-Julani, began using his real name in late 2024 as part of a deliberate effort to shift his public image. This transition came after the fall of Damascus and the departure of Bashar al-Assad from power. By reverting to his birth name, al-Sharaa signaled a departure from Al-Qaeda links so as to present himself as a legitimate political figure.
This name change was not merely symbolic&mdash;it was a strategic move aimed at gaining international recognition and distancing himself from past affiliations with al-Qaeda.&nbsp;
And he might not be wrong, Al-Sharaa might have rewritten Syria's contemporary history with that handshake with the president of United States in Riyadh. "Attrative guy, tough guy, very strong past," is how Trump later described Sharaa to journalists.

World | Ahmed al-Sharaa might have rewritten Syria's contemporary history with that handshake with Donald Trump, president of United States, in Riyadh: here's his journey from Al-Qaeda terrorist to Syrian president

In what may be called a major geopolitical shift and an unexpected moment in the contemporary history of West Asia, US President Donald Trump met Syria's leader Ahmed al-Sharaa in Saudi capital Riyadh. Not only did Trump shake hands with Syria's interim president becoming the first leader in 25 years to meet the Syrian counterpart but also announced a major breakthrough by lifting the Assad era sanctions. Trump also went a step forward by urging this 'young, tough guy' to recognise Israel eyeing an expansion to Abraham Accords. It remains to be seen if this meet between Trump and Al Sharaa opens the doors of new sunrise in Syria. Currently what's pathbreaking is America's embracing Ahmed al- Sharaa aka Abu Mohammad Al-Jolani: once an US designated terrorist whose Al-Nusra front was an offshoot of Osama Bin Laden's Al-Qaeda. Ahmed Al- Sharaa: From terrorist to meeting Trump The world knew Abu Mohammad al-Julani, a designated terrorist, who was born in 1982 in Riyadh to Syrian parents originally from the Golan Heights. He became involved in jihadist movements during the early 2000s and joined al-Qaeda in Iraq amid the chaos of the US invasion and was later captured by American forces in 2006. After spending five years in detention, he returned to Syria as the civil war erupted in the aftermath of Arab Spring. He founded the al-Nusra Front, an offshoot of al-Qaeda, which played a major role in the conflict. But by 2016, al-Sharaa publicly broke away from al-Qaeda, rebranding his organization as Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and signaling a shift toward a more localised Syrian agenda. Ahmed al-Sharaa’s rise to power in Syria was the result of a swift military campaign and a carefully managed political transition. In late 2024, forces loyal to al-Sharaa, under the banner of HTS, launched a major offensive against the Syrian Arab Army. This campaign culminated in the capture of Damascus on December 8, forcing then-President Bashar al-Assad to flee the country, seeking refuge in Russia. Following the fall of the capital, al-Sharaa worked with key political figures, including former Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali, to form a transitional government. Mohammed al-Bashir was appointed to lead this interim administration, aiming to bring stability after years of conflict. Later, Ahmed Al-Sharaa was chosen as interim president. Ahmed al-Sharaa, previously known by nom de guerre Abu Mohammad al-Julani, began using his real name in late 2024 as part of a deliberate effort to shift his public image. This transition came after the fall of Damascus and the departure of Bashar al-Assad from power. By reverting to his birth name, al-Sharaa signaled a departure from Al-Qaeda links so as to present himself as a legitimate political figure. This name change was not merely symbolic—it was a strategic move aimed at gaining international recognition and distancing himself from past affiliations with al-Qaeda. And he might not be wrong, Al-Sharaa might have rewritten Syria's contemporary history with that handshake with the president of United States in Riyadh. "Attrative guy, tough guy, very strong past," is how Trump later described Sharaa to journalists.

From al-Qaeda terrorist to Trump's 'tough attractive guy': Story of Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa

US President Donald Trump is in Qatar and even before he reached Doha, all eyes were glued to his visit as reports floated about a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-747-8-jumbo-whats-inside-qatars-400m-luxury-airplane-for-donald-trump-9064216">grand gift of a $400 million jet</a>&nbsp;that he would recieve from the Qatari royal family. Amid ethical and legal cocerns about the jet that will be converted to Air Force One, Trump said that he is not a fool to not accept a 'free gift'. Meanwhile, Qatar's prime minister defended his country&rsquo;s offer telling CNN they would not go ahead with the gift if it was deemed illegal and insisted that it was not an effort to wield undue influence within the US.
"It is government to government. The transaction has nothing to do with personnel, whether it&rsquo;s on the US side or on the Qatari side," Qatari prime minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani insisted.&nbsp;
Trump's bonhomie with the Qatari leadership raises many eyeballs. Democrats have accused the US president of selling America to Qatar and a report by Free Press suggest that many in Trump's administration has past links with Qatar.&nbsp;
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-wont-give-up-bagram-its-one-hour-away-from-china-9073340">Trump: Won't give up Bagram, it's one hour away from China</a>
<h2>Trump's circle has a Qatari past</h2>
<ul>
<li>Attorney General Pam Bondi used to work at a Washington, D.C., lobbying firm that received $115,000 a month from Qatar to fight human trafficking, according to a 2019 contract.</li>
<li>White House chief of staff, Susie Wiles, led lobbying firm Mercury Public Affairs when it represented Qatar&rsquo;s embassy in Washington.</li>
<li>FBI Director Kash Patel worked as a consultant for Qatar</li>
<li>Steve Witkoff, president Trump&rsquo;s longtime friend who &nbsp;happens to be a beneficiary of Qatar&rsquo;s largesse: In 2023, Qatar&rsquo;s sovereign wealth fund bought out his faltering investment in New York&rsquo;s Park Lane Hotel for $623 million</li>
<li>Trump organization is planning a new luxury golf resort near Qatar&rsquo;s capital, Doha, in partnership with a Qatari company</li>
<li>Trump&rsquo;s son Donald Trump Jr. will speak next week at the invitation-only Qatar Economic Forum in a session titled "Investing in America"</li>
</ul>
<h2>Trump and Qatar: Newfound camaraderie but there are reasons to be cautious</h2>
Over the years, Qatar's investment in America reflect a calculated strategy to deepen both economic and diplomatic relations, however it has also sparked debate about the extent of foreign influence in American policy-making and institutions. In 2015, the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) pledged to invest $35 billion in the U.S. over five years. The focus was on key sectors like infrastructure, real estate, and technology. By 2019, that target increased to $45 billion, aiming to diversify away from heavy investments in Europe. As per reports, the QIA has invested billions in US real estate, particularly in major cities. In New York City alone, it purchased significant stakes in several Manhattan properties. It also backed the large-scale CityCenterDC project in Washington, D.C., and acquired a major office complex in Los Angeles.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/real-reasons-behind-donald-trumps-nuclear-crusade-us-president-iran-nuclear-weapons-khamenei-explained-9069299">Trump's nuclear crusade: Here's how US vs Iran row begin over nuclear deal - EXPLAINED</a> Qatar also spent over $8 billion on infrastructure at Al Udeid Air Base, which hosts US forces. Plans for an additional $10 billion in upgrades are underway. The country has funneled substantial funds into US universities, supporting educational programs and research. Additionally, it became a minority investor in Monumental Sports &amp; Entertainment, owner of several Washington, D.C. sports franchises.
On political front, following tensions during the 2017 Gulf crisis, Qatar ramped up its lobbying presence in Washington, spending millions to shape America's policy and improve its image.&nbsp;
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-donald-trump-welcomed-in-uae-abu-dhabi-with-traditional-hair-flip-al-ayyala-dance-middle-east-trip-9072331">Trump welcomed in UAE with traditional 'hair flip' Al-Ayyala dance: Here's more about it | WATCH</a>
Despite all of its efforts, America has reason to be cautious: Qatar might not be a friend. It is a seat of the Muslim Brotherhood, a crucial source of financing to Hamas, a diplomatic and energy partner of Iran, a refuge for the Taliban&rsquo;s exiled political leadership - all opposed to US in some way or the other.
While Trump's Doha trip showed exceptional camararderie between him and the Qatari leadership, it is being taken with a pinch of salt in America's political circle. The Democrats have criticised Trump with 'Qatar-a-Lago' jabs and leaders from his own Republican Party have expressed their disappointment over the proposal of Qatari jet being used as Air Force One.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-a-lago-banner-seen-near-trumps-palm-beach-home-amid-controversy-over-400-mn-qatari-jet-9069570">'Qatar-a-Lago' banner seen near Trump's Palm beach home amid controversy over $400-mn Qatari jet: See pics</a>
Though a Sunni-majority nation, Qatar maintains relatively cordial relations with Iran, sharing ownership of the world&rsquo;s largest natural gas field. This cooperation stands in contrast to US efforts to isolate Iran diplomatically and economically. It also funds Al Jazeera, a global media network that has been called out by Trump and many in his administration as well as US' ally Israel.
Qatar attempts to maintain ties with conflicting parties: but its dual-track strategy creates an unpredictable partner whose interests may not always align with Washington&rsquo;s. Moreover, if reports connecting Qatari investment and Trump's team's links to Qatar serve as any precursor to a story, then Trump's bonhomie with Qatar may not be a new found one, but a well-planned strategy by this Middle Eastern nation to be in the heart of power blocs of DC.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

World | Qatar might not be a friend as it looks and US has all the reasons to be cautious: Years of investment and links of Trump's team with Qatar REVEALED

US President Donald Trump is in Qatar and even before he reached Doha, all eyes were glued to his visit as reports floated about a grand gift of a $400 million jet that he would recieve from the Qatari royal family. Amid ethical and legal cocerns about the jet that will be converted to Air Force One, Trump said that he is not a fool to not accept a 'free gift'. Meanwhile, Qatar's prime minister defended his country’s offer telling CNN they would not go ahead with the gift if it was deemed illegal and insisted that it was not an effort to wield undue influence within the US. "It is government to government. The transaction has nothing to do with personnel, whether it’s on the US side or on the Qatari side," Qatari prime minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani insisted. Trump's bonhomie with the Qatari leadership raises many eyeballs. Democrats have accused the US president of selling America to Qatar and a report by Free Press suggest that many in Trump's administration has past links with Qatar. Read More | Trump: Won't give up Bagram, it's one hour away from China Trump's circle has a Qatari past Attorney General Pam Bondi used to work at a Washington, D.C., lobbying firm that received $115,000 a month from Qatar to fight human trafficking, according to a 2019 contract. White House chief of staff, Susie Wiles, led lobbying firm Mercury Public Affairs when it represented Qatar’s embassy in Washington. FBI Director Kash Patel worked as a consultant for Qatar Steve Witkoff, president Trump’s longtime friend who happens to be a beneficiary of Qatar’s largesse: In 2023, Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund bought out his faltering investment in New York’s Park Lane Hotel for $623 million Trump organization is planning a new luxury golf resort near Qatar’s capital, Doha, in partnership with a Qatari company Trump’s son Donald Trump Jr. will speak next week at the invitation-only Qatar Economic Forum in a session titled "Investing in America" Trump and Qatar: Newfound camaraderie but there are reasons to be cautious Over the years, Qatar's investment in America reflect a calculated strategy to deepen both economic and diplomatic relations, however it has also sparked debate about the extent of foreign influence in American policy-making and institutions. In 2015, the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) pledged to invest $35 billion in the U.S. over five years. The focus was on key sectors like infrastructure, real estate, and technology. By 2019, that target increased to $45 billion, aiming to diversify away from heavy investments in Europe. As per reports, the QIA has invested billions in US real estate, particularly in major cities. In New York City alone, it purchased significant stakes in several Manhattan properties. It also backed the large-scale CityCenterDC project in Washington, D.C., and acquired a major office complex in Los Angeles. Read More | Trump's nuclear crusade: Here's how US vs Iran row begin over nuclear deal - EXPLAINED Qatar also spent over $8 billion on infrastructure at Al Udeid Air Base, which hosts US forces. Plans for an additional $10 billion in upgrades are underway. The country has funneled substantial funds into US universities, supporting educational programs and research. Additionally, it became a minority investor in Monumental Sports & Entertainment, owner of several Washington, D.C. sports franchises. On political front, following tensions during the 2017 Gulf crisis, Qatar ramped up its lobbying presence in Washington, spending millions to shape America's policy and improve its image. Read More | Trump welcomed in UAE with traditional 'hair flip' Al-Ayyala dance: Here's more about it | WATCH Despite all of its efforts, America has reason to be cautious: Qatar might not be a friend. It is a seat of the Muslim Brotherhood, a crucial source of financing to Hamas, a diplomatic and energy partner of Iran, a refuge for the Taliban’s exiled political leadership - all opposed to US in some way or the other. While Trump's Doha trip showed exceptional camararderie between him and the Qatari leadership, it is being taken with a pinch of salt in America's political circle. The Democrats have criticised Trump with 'Qatar-a-Lago' jabs and leaders from his own Republican Party have expressed their disappointment over the proposal of Qatari jet being used as Air Force One. Read More | 'Qatar-a-Lago' banner seen near Trump's Palm beach home amid controversy over $400-mn Qatari jet: See pics Though a Sunni-majority nation, Qatar maintains relatively cordial relations with Iran, sharing ownership of the world’s largest natural gas field. This cooperation stands in contrast to US efforts to isolate Iran diplomatically and economically. It also funds Al Jazeera, a global media network that has been called out by Trump and many in his administration as well as US' ally Israel. Qatar attempts to maintain ties with conflicting parties: but its dual-track strategy creates an unpredictable partner whose interests may not always align with Washington’s. Moreover, if reports connecting Qatari investment and Trump's team's links to Qatar serve as any precursor to a story, then Trump's bonhomie with Qatar may not be a new found one, but a well-planned strategy by this Middle Eastern nation to be in the heart of power blocs of DC.

Trump and Qatar friendship: Not just $400 mn 'gift diplomacy', but years of Qatari influence in US, links from Trump's team | REVEALED

United States President Donald Trump touched down in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) after visiting Qatar, in the final leg of his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-meets-ahmed-al-sharaa-becomes-first-us-president-to-meet-syrian-leader-in-25-years-see-pics-9067927" rel="dofollow">strategic Middle East trip</a>. He was received by UAE&nbsp;President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. With pomp and ceremony, Trump arrived at Qasr Al Watan - the UAE Presidential Palace - in Abu Dhabi, to participate in a state greeting, drink ceremonial tea and have a meeting with UAE officials followed by dinner. As Trump arrived in the palace, women performed Al-Ayyala - a traditional performing art of the Sultanate of Oman and the UAE. Videos of the performance has now gone viral on the internet.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-in-qatar-after-meeting-syrian-leader-in-saudi-arabia-announces-200-billion-boeing-deal-9069455">Trump announces $200 billion Boeing deal in Qatar, expresses hope for Iran nuclear deal to Qatari emir</a>
WATCH here
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-mapdt5q2-ppr2cn1m-f23mo853">
Donald Trump welcomed in UAE with traditional Emirati &lsquo;Al-Ayyala&rsquo; dance featuring symbolic hair-flipping . . . .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DonaldTrump?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DonaldTrump</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TrumpInUAE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TrumpInUAE</a> <a href="https://t.co/VHj8CzIBHb">pic.twitter.com/VHj8CzIBHb</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1923001013159579745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>What is Al-Ayyala?</h2>
As per UNESCO, Al-Ayyala is a popular and expressive cultural performance that involves chanting poetry, drum music and dance, and simulates a battle scene. Girls wearing traditional dresses stand at the front in a row, tossing their long hair from side to side. Two rows of about twenty men face each other, carrying thin bamboo sticks to signify spears or swords. It is inclusive of all ages, genders and social classes.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-a-lago-banner-seen-near-trumps-palm-beach-home-amid-controversy-over-400-mn-qatari-jet-9069570">'Qatar-a-Lago' banner seen near Trump's Palm beach home amid controversy over $400-mn Qatari jet: See pics</a>
<h2>Trump's Qatar trip</h2>
Trump reached Qatar on Wednesday (May 14) - his second stop on a tour of West Asia. On Day 1 of Qatar trip, Trump announced that Qatar Airways signed a massive deal with US-based Boeing to purchase 160 jets, worth $200 billion.&nbsp;Trump also expressed his hopes about the Iran nuclear deal and said in Doha, "I have a feeling it&rsquo;s going to work out." His remark came a day after Trump called Iran the "most destructive force" in the Middle East. "The biggest and most destructive force [in the Middle East] is Iran which has caused unthinkable suffering in Syria, Lebanon, Gaza, Iraq, Yemen and beyond,&rdquo; he said during his visit to Saudi Arabia. He also claimed that India has offered a deal of "zero tariffs" and that no progress would happen in the Russia-Ukraine talks until he arrives alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-offered-trade-deal-with-literally-no-tariffs-donald-trumps-big-claim-amid-tariff-war-during-qatar-trip-9071486">'India offered trade deal with literally no tariffs': Donald Trump's big claim amid tariff war</a>
<h2>Trump in Saudi Arabia</h2>
The United States and Saudi Arabia signed a defence agreement worth nearly $142 billion. The agreement was part of a broader commitment by Saudi Arabia to invest $600 billion in the US. Donald Trump was greeted by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman (MBS) and had lunch with Saudi officials and top US tech giants including Tesla boss Elon Musk. 
Trump also met Syria's Ahmed al-Sharaa - becoming the first US president in 25 years to meet a Syrian leader. Trump announced that he was lifting &ldquo;brutal and crippling" Assad-era sanctions on Syria. Ahmed al-Sharaa was seen in a meeting with Saudi officials including Crown Prince MBS, US President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The US president also urged the interim Syrian leader to recognise Israel.

As US President Donald Trump arrived in Abu Dhabi, he was welcomed with traditional Emirati ‘Al-Ayyala’ dance featuring symbolic hair-flipping. Trending, World

United States President Donald Trump touched down in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) after visiting Qatar, in the final leg of his strategic Middle East trip. He was received by UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. With pomp and ceremony, Trump arrived at Qasr Al Watan - the UAE Presidential Palace - in Abu Dhabi, to participate in a state greeting, drink ceremonial tea and have a meeting with UAE officials followed by dinner. As Trump arrived in the palace, women performed Al-Ayyala - a traditional performing art of the Sultanate of Oman and the UAE. Videos of the performance has now gone viral on the internet. Read More | Trump announces $200 billion Boeing deal in Qatar, expresses hope for Iran nuclear deal to Qatari emir WATCH here Donald Trump welcomed in UAE with traditional Emirati ‘Al-Ayyala’ dance featuring symbolic hair-flipping . . . .#DonaldTrump #TrumpInUAE pic.twitter.com/VHj8CzIBHb — WION (@WIONews) May 15, 2025 What is Al-Ayyala? As per UNESCO, Al-Ayyala is a popular and expressive cultural performance that involves chanting poetry, drum music and dance, and simulates a battle scene. Girls wearing traditional dresses stand at the front in a row, tossing their long hair from side to side. Two rows of about twenty men face each other, carrying thin bamboo sticks to signify spears or swords. It is inclusive of all ages, genders and social classes. Read More | 'Qatar-a-Lago' banner seen near Trump's Palm beach home amid controversy over $400-mn Qatari jet: See pics Trump's Qatar trip Trump reached Qatar on Wednesday (May 14) - his second stop on a tour of West Asia. On Day 1 of Qatar trip, Trump announced that Qatar Airways signed a massive deal with US-based Boeing to purchase 160 jets, worth $200 billion. Trump also expressed his hopes about the Iran nuclear deal and said in Doha, "I have a feeling it’s going to work out." His remark came a day after Trump called Iran the "most destructive force" in the Middle East. "The biggest and most destructive force [in the Middle East] is Iran which has caused unthinkable suffering in Syria, Lebanon, Gaza, Iraq, Yemen and beyond,” he said during his visit to Saudi Arabia. He also claimed that India has offered a deal of "zero tariffs" and that no progress would happen in the Russia-Ukraine talks until he arrives alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin. Read More | 'India offered trade deal with literally no tariffs': Donald Trump's big claim amid tariff war Trump in Saudi Arabia The United States and Saudi Arabia signed a defence agreement worth nearly $142 billion. The agreement was part of a broader commitment by Saudi Arabia to invest $600 billion in the US. Donald Trump was greeted by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman (MBS) and had lunch with Saudi officials and top US tech giants including Tesla boss Elon Musk. Trump also met Syria's Ahmed al-Sharaa - becoming the first US president in 25 years to meet a Syrian leader. Trump announced that he was lifting “brutal and crippling" Assad-era sanctions on Syria. Ahmed al-Sharaa was seen in a meeting with Saudi officials including Crown Prince MBS, US President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The US president also urged the interim Syrian leader to recognise Israel.

Trump welcomed in UAE with traditional 'hair flip' Al-Ayyala dance: Here's more about it | WATCH

US President Donald Trump has said a nuclear deal with Iran is nearly finalised. He said, "We're in very serious negotiations with Iran for long-term peace."

Donald Trump confirms nuclear agreement with Iran, says 'don't want violent course'

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-a-lago-banner-seen-near-trumps-palm-beach-home-amid-controversy-over-400-mn-qatari-jet-9069570">Donald Trump</a> claimed on Thursday (May 15) that India had put forward a proposal for a trade agreement with "no tariffs" or 'zero tariffs". Speaking at a business event in Qatar, the US president claimed that India is "willing to literally charge us no tariff." Meanwhile, the Sensex jumped 1,300 points after Trump's statement.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-in-qatar-after-meeting-syrian-leader-in-saudi-arabia-announces-200-billion-boeing-deal-9069455">Trump announces $200 billion Boeing deal in Qatar, expresses hope for Iran nuclear deal to Qatari emir</a>
Last month, US President JD Vance, during his visit to India, indicated that the US and India had finalised "terms of reference" for a potential tariff deal. Vance made the big announcement the day after meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying that it sets a roadmap towards a final deal between the two nations. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent also suggested that India is likely to be the first country to finalise a bilateral trade agreement with the US.&nbsp;
In March, the US imposed 25% levies on steel and aluminium imports - an extension of tariffs first imposed in 2018 during US President Donald Trump's first term.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-trump-attend-russia-ukraine-peace-talks-in-istanbul-heres-what-we-know-volodymyr-zelensky-donald-trump-vladimir-putin-turkey-talks-9070912">Will Trump attend Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Istanbul? Here's what we know</a>
<h2>Trump's Qatar trip</h2>
Trump reached Qatar on Wednesday (May 14) - his second stop on a tour of West Asia. On Day 1 of Qatar trip, Trump announced that Qatar Airways signed a massive deal with US-based Boeing to purchase 160 jets, worth $200 billion. Trump also expressed his hopes about the Iran nuclear deal and said in Doha, "I have a feeling it&rsquo;s going to work out." His remark came a day after Trump called Iran the "most destructive force" in the Middle East. "The biggest and most destructive force [in the Middle East] is Iran which has caused unthinkable suffering in Syria, Lebanon, Gaza, Iraq, Yemen and beyond,&rdquo; he said during his visit to Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-meets-ahmed-al-sharaa-becomes-first-us-president-to-meet-syrian-leader-in-25-years-see-pics-9067927">Donald Trump meets Ahmed al-Sharaa, becomes first US president to meet Syrian leader in 25 years: See pics</a>
<h2>Trump meets Syrian leader</h2>
Donald Trump became the first US president in 25 years to meet a Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa. No US president has met a Syrian leader since Bill Clinton saw Hafez al-Assad, Bashar&rsquo;s father, in Geneva in 2000 in a failed effort to persuade him to make peace with Israel. Trump announced that he was lifting &ldquo;brutal and crippling" Assad-era sanctions on Syria. Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa was seen in a meeting with Saudi officials including Crown Prince MBS, US President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Read More |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-meets-ahmed-al-sharaa-becomes-first-us-president-to-meet-syrian-leader-in-25-years-see-pics-9067927" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Donald Trump meets Ahmed al-Sharaa, becomes first US president to meet Syrian leader in 25 years: See pics</a>

World | US President Donald Trump claimed on Thursday (May 15) that India had put forward a proposal for a trade agreement with "no tariffs" or 'zero tariffs".

US President Donald Trump claimed on Thursday (May 15) that India had put forward a proposal for a trade agreement with "no tariffs" or 'zero tariffs". Speaking at a business event in Qatar, the US president claimed that India is "willing to literally charge us no tariff." Meanwhile, the Sensex jumped 1,300 points after Trump's statement. Read More | Trump announces $200 billion Boeing deal in Qatar, expresses hope for Iran nuclear deal to Qatari emir Last month, US President JD Vance, during his visit to India, indicated that the US and India had finalised "terms of reference" for a potential tariff deal. Vance made the big announcement the day after meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying that it sets a roadmap towards a final deal between the two nations. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent also suggested that India is likely to be the first country to finalise a bilateral trade agreement with the US. In March, the US imposed 25% levies on steel and aluminium imports - an extension of tariffs first imposed in 2018 during US President Donald Trump's first term. Read More | Will Trump attend Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Istanbul? Here's what we know Trump's Qatar trip Trump reached Qatar on Wednesday (May 14) - his second stop on a tour of West Asia. On Day 1 of Qatar trip, Trump announced that Qatar Airways signed a massive deal with US-based Boeing to purchase 160 jets, worth $200 billion. Trump also expressed his hopes about the Iran nuclear deal and said in Doha, "I have a feeling it’s going to work out." His remark came a day after Trump called Iran the "most destructive force" in the Middle East. "The biggest and most destructive force [in the Middle East] is Iran which has caused unthinkable suffering in Syria, Lebanon, Gaza, Iraq, Yemen and beyond,” he said during his visit to Saudi Arabia. Read More | Donald Trump meets Ahmed al-Sharaa, becomes first US president to meet Syrian leader in 25 years: See pics Trump meets Syrian leader Donald Trump became the first US president in 25 years to meet a Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa. No US president has met a Syrian leader since Bill Clinton saw Hafez al-Assad, Bashar’s father, in Geneva in 2000 in a failed effort to persuade him to make peace with Israel. Trump announced that he was lifting “brutal and crippling" Assad-era sanctions on Syria. Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa was seen in a meeting with Saudi officials including Crown Prince MBS, US President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Read More | Donald Trump meets Ahmed al-Sharaa, becomes first US president to meet Syrian leader in 25 years: See pics

'India offered trade deal with literally no tariffs': Donald Trump's big claim amid tariff war

<div class="x_elementToProof" data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Trade ministers from 21 Asia-Pacific nations kicked off a crucial summit on Thursday, only to be greeted by a sobering economic outlook. The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum warned that regional exports will see near-stagnant growth in 2025, a direct consequence of the sweeping tariffs reimposed under former US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s trade policy revival.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">According to APEC&rsquo;s latest regional trends analysis, exports among member economies are projected to rise by just 0.4 per cent this year, a steep decline from the 5.7 per cent growth recorded in 2024. Regional GDP is also forecast to grow at a sluggish 2.6 per cent, revised down from the previous estimate of 3.3 per cent, as reported by Reuters.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">&ldquo;Trade growth is set to decline sharply across APEC due to lower external demand, particularly in manufacturing and consumer goods, while rising uncertainty over goods-related measures weighs on services trade,&rdquo; APEC said in an official statement, as quoted by Reuters.</div>
<h2 class="x_elementToProof">The Trump tariff effect</h2>
<div class="x_elementToProof">The downturn in trade coincides with the revival of tariff policies by the Trump administration, which has targeted more than half of APEC&rsquo;s member nations. Since the forum&rsquo;s inception in 1989, regional average tariff rates had dropped from 17 per cent to 5.3 per cent by 2021, contributing to a more than nine-fold increase in merchandise trade. However, Trump&rsquo;s recent tariff reinstatements threaten to reverse decades of economic integration.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">&ldquo;We&rsquo;re moving as quickly as we possibly can with folks who want to be ambitious,&rdquo; US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer told CNBC before departing for Jeju, declining further comment on his bilateral meeting schedule, Reuters reported.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">The tariff measures have already triggered visible shifts in trade flows and investor sentiment. Economists warn that if the US continues its protectionist stance, sectors such as manufacturing, electronics, and consumer goods could face long-term disruptions.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">Meanwhile, China&rsquo;s Vice Commerce Minister Li Chenggang also attended the gathering. Although Reuters reports that no formal meeting with Greer has been confirmed, both sides had agreed to reduce steep tariffs during their initial face-to-face talks in Geneva on 10&ndash;11 May.</div>
<h2 class="x_elementToProof">WTO reform &amp; bilateral deals</h2>
<div class="x_elementToProof">The Jeju summit is also being viewed as a staging ground for broader discussions on World Trade Organization (WTO) reforms, a hot-button issue after Washington recently moved to pause US funding to the institution. The Trump administration has long accused the WTO of enabling China&rsquo;s rise through what it terms &ldquo;unfair export advantages.&rdquo;</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">Trade representatives are holding bilateral discussions on the sidelines of the summit, which forms part of the lead-up to the APEC leaders&rsquo; summit later this year in Gyeongju, South Korea.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">APEC, which accounts for 60 per cent of global GDP and half of global trade, remains a key pillar of global economic stability. But with tariff battles heating up and multilateralism on the defensive, the forum faces one of its most pivotal chapters yet.</div>

Business & Economy: APEC's latest report highlights exports among member economies are projected to rise by just 0.4 per cent this year, a steep decline from the 5.7 per cent growth recorded in 2024.

Trade ministers from 21 Asia-Pacific nations kicked off a crucial summit on Thursday, only to be greeted by a sobering economic outlook. The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum warned that regional exports will see near-stagnant growth in 2025, a direct consequence of the sweeping tariffs reimposed under former US President Donald Trump’s trade policy revival. According to APEC’s latest regional trends analysis, exports among member economies are projected to rise by just 0.4 per cent this year, a steep decline from the 5.7 per cent growth recorded in 2024. Regional GDP is also forecast to grow at a sluggish 2.6 per cent, revised down from the previous estimate of 3.3 per cent, as reported by Reuters. “Trade growth is set to decline sharply across APEC due to lower external demand, particularly in manufacturing and consumer goods, while rising uncertainty over goods-related measures weighs on services trade,” APEC said in an official statement, as quoted by Reuters. The Trump tariff effect The downturn in trade coincides with the revival of tariff policies by the Trump administration, which has targeted more than half of APEC’s member nations. Since the forum’s inception in 1989, regional average tariff rates had dropped from 17 per cent to 5.3 per cent by 2021, contributing to a more than nine-fold increase in merchandise trade. However, Trump’s recent tariff reinstatements threaten to reverse decades of economic integration. “We’re moving as quickly as we possibly can with folks who want to be ambitious,” US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer told CNBC before departing for Jeju, declining further comment on his bilateral meeting schedule, Reuters reported. The tariff measures have already triggered visible shifts in trade flows and investor sentiment. Economists warn that if the US continues its protectionist stance, sectors such as manufacturing, electronics, and consumer goods could face long-term disruptions. Meanwhile, China’s Vice Commerce Minister Li Chenggang also attended the gathering. Although Reuters reports that no formal meeting with Greer has been confirmed, both sides had agreed to reduce steep tariffs during their initial face-to-face talks in Geneva on 10–11 May. WTO reform & bilateral deals The Jeju summit is also being viewed as a staging ground for broader discussions on World Trade Organization (WTO) reforms, a hot-button issue after Washington recently moved to pause US funding to the institution. The Trump administration has long accused the WTO of enabling China’s rise through what it terms “unfair export advantages.” Trade representatives are holding bilateral discussions on the sidelines of the summit, which forms part of the lead-up to the APEC leaders’ summit later this year in Gyeongju, South Korea. APEC, which accounts for 60 per cent of global GDP and half of global trade, remains a key pillar of global economic stability. But with tariff battles heating up and multilateralism on the defensive, the forum faces one of its most pivotal chapters yet.

APEC sounds alarm on sluggish trade growth amid escalating US tariff pressure

Bruce Springsteen has always been very vocal about his dislike for Donald Trump. On the opening day of his European tour with his band E Street Band, Bruce spoke about America and how the Trump administration is ruining his &ldquo;beautiful country&rdquo;.&nbsp;
<h2>Bruce Springsteen doesn't like Trump</h2>
He said, &ldquo;The mighty E Street Band is here tonight to call upon the righteous power of art, of music, of rock &lsquo;n roll in dangerous times.&rdquo;
Bruce told the crowd, &ldquo;In my home, the America I love, the America I&rsquo;ve written about, that has been a beacon of hope and liberty for 250 years is currently in the hands of a corrupt, incompetent, and treasonous administration. Tonight we ask all who believe in democracy and the best of our American experiment to rise with us, raise your voices against authoritarianism and let freedom ring!&rdquo;
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Bruce was pretty vocal even during the presidential elections in which Trump won against Kamala Harris. At the time, Bruce would be seen playing in rallies for Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris. He said at one rally, &ldquo;She&rsquo;s running to be the 47th president of the United States. Donald Trump is running to be an American tyrant. He does not understand this country, its history, or what it means to be deeply American. And that&rsquo;s why November 5, I&rsquo;m casting my vote for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz. I urge all of you who believe in the American way to join me.&rdquo;
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/why-jennifer-lopez-was-arrested-while-dating-sean-diddy-combs-9069924" aria-label="Why Jennifer Lopez was arrested while dating Sean 'Diddy' Combs">Why Jennifer Lopez was arrested while dating Sean 'Diddy' Combs</a></h2>

Entertainment On the opening night of his European tour with his E Street Band, Bruce Springsteen made some political messaging and spoke of Trump administration in the US.

Bruce Springsteen has always been very vocal about his dislike for Donald Trump. On the opening day of his European tour with his band E Street Band, Bruce spoke about America and how the Trump administration is ruining his “beautiful country”. Bruce Springsteen doesn't like Trump He said, “The mighty E Street Band is here tonight to call upon the righteous power of art, of music, of rock ‘n roll in dangerous times.” Bruce told the crowd, “In my home, the America I love, the America I’ve written about, that has been a beacon of hope and liberty for 250 years is currently in the hands of a corrupt, incompetent, and treasonous administration. Tonight we ask all who believe in democracy and the best of our American experiment to rise with us, raise your voices against authoritarianism and let freedom ring!” Cannes: Tom Cruise gets 5-minute standing ovation for Mission Impossible The Final Reckoning Bruce was pretty vocal even during the presidential elections in which Trump won against Kamala Harris. At the time, Bruce would be seen playing in rallies for Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris. He said at one rally, “She’s running to be the 47th president of the United States. Donald Trump is running to be an American tyrant. He does not understand this country, its history, or what it means to be deeply American. And that’s why November 5, I’m casting my vote for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz. I urge all of you who believe in the American way to join me.” Why Jennifer Lopez was arrested while dating Sean 'Diddy' Combs

Bruce Springsteen calls Trump administration ‘corrupt, incompetent'

US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s first foreign visit of his second term in office has been a mix of major commercial deals, an unexpected policy turn that changes Middle Eastern geopolitics, and the formal offer of a $400 billion aircraft that prompted corruption charges at home. &nbsp;
As it was on his first foreign trip in 2017, Trump&rsquo;s first stop was Saudi Arabia, where he was received with the pomp and circumstance only a rich country run by a royal family can offer. According to the White House, Trump secured $600 billion in several deals in talks with the ruling crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, and business leaders.
Topping the list was what the administration described as &ldquo;the largest defence deal in history,&rdquo; a $142 billion agreement on state-of-the-art military equipment complete with services from major American defence industry companies. &nbsp;
Big commercial deals were expected before Trump left Washington. What was not expected &ndash; a presidential announcement that the United States would lift sanctions against Syria at the behest of MbS, as the crown prince is known. He followed the surprise change of policy with a Saudi-sponsored brief meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa.&nbsp;
Al-Sharaa once led a branch of al-Qaeda and had a $10 million US bounty on his head. The rebel group he put together after breaking with al-Qaeda swept to power in Syria five months ago, ending the iron rule of Bashar al-Assad, who fled into exile in Moscow just before the anti-government forces captured Damascus.
Lifting the sanctions, which Trump described as &ldquo;crippling and brutal&rdquo;, is a huge boost to the new Syrian government as it tries to rebuild ties with the West. &ldquo;Now it&rsquo;s Syria&rsquo;s time to shine,&rdquo; Trump said in a speech. &ldquo;I say good luck, Syria. Show us something very special.&rdquo;&nbsp;
It was the first meeting between leaders of the two countries in 25 years and a milestone in Trump&rsquo;s attempt to bring a measure of stability to the volatile region. Trump urged al-Sharaa to normalise relations with Israel.
Lifting the sanctions on war-shattered Syria was a significant policy shift. The US declared Syria a sponsor of terrorism in 1979 and imposed sanctions twice &ndash; in 2004 and again after the outbreak of the Syrian civil war in 2011.
Even before embarking on his four-day tour of Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, Trump surprised the Middle East with an announcement to end a months-long fierce US bombing campaign against Yemen&rsquo;s Iran-backed Houthi rebels, who had attacked US shipping in the Red Sea, Bab al-Mandab and the Gulf of Aden. &nbsp;
The ceasefire sidelined Israel, which has been left out of Trump&rsquo;s itinerary, unlike in 2017. Trump has made no secret of his irritation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for ignoring suggestions to make efforts to end the war in Gaza and allow the supply of humanitarian aid.
Trump&rsquo;s second stop on his Mideast swing of rich countries on Wednesday took him to Qatar, where his reception was even more lavish than in Saudi Arabia. A cavalry of dozens of camels lined the road to the Qatar Royal Court. As his motorcade neared the entrance, white horses galloped by.
But what made most headlines about the Qatar visit and will go down in history is a gift from the Qatar Royal family &ndash; a Boeing 747 so lavishly furnished that it is known as the Flying Palace. The aircraft is valued at $400 billion and is meant to replace the 38-year-old Air Force One he is now using.&nbsp;
It would be by far the most valuable gift ever received by a US president, and it raised ethical concerns not only from Democrats but also from some of his most loyal Republican allies. They included Laura Loomer, a far-right influencer who has Trump&rsquo;s ear and played a role in personnel decisions.
She tweeted to her millions of social media followers: &ldquo;I love President Trump. I would take a bullet for him. But I have to call a spade a spade. We cannot accept a $400 million &lsquo;gift&rsquo; from jihadis in suits&rdquo; accepting it would leave &ldquo;a stain&rdquo; on Trump&rsquo;s legacy, she added.
The phrase &ldquo;jihadis in suits&rdquo; referred to Qatar&rsquo;s relations with the Moslem Brotherhood and Hamas. Other far-right figures critical of the gift included Ben Shapiro, co-founder of the right-wing media outlet The Daily Wire.&nbsp;
In 2017, Trump said Qatar has &ldquo;historically been a funder of terrorism at a very high level.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Democrats raised both ethical and legal concerns. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer quipped that the plane meant &ldquo;foreign influence with extra leg room&rdquo;. Ethics experts said the gift violated the US Constitution, which has an article specifically about foreign gifts.
Article 1 says: &ldquo;No person holding any office of profit or trust under them shall, without the consent of Congress, accept of any present, emolument, office, or title of any kind whatever from any king, prince, or foreign state.&rdquo;
On the eve of his departure, Trump told reporters, &ldquo;I think it&rsquo;s a great gesture from Qatar. I appreciate it very much. I would never be one to turn down that kind of an offer. I mean, I could be a stupid person and say &lsquo;No we don&rsquo;t want a free, very expensive airplane.&rsquo; But I thought it would be a great gesture.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Officials say that Attorney General Pam Bondi issued a memo giving the green light to the Qatari present. To put that into context, it&rsquo;s worth mentioning that Bondi worked as a lobbyist for Qatar in 2020 and 2022, with a monthly salary of $115,000.&nbsp;
While political antagonists in Washington were debating the ethics and legality of accepting the gift from Qatar, Trump and Qatar&rsquo;s emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, sat down at a conference table in Doha to witness the signing of an agreement for the state-owned airline Qatar Airways to buy up to 210 widebody jets from Boeing.&nbsp;
Qatar Airways said it was the largest widebody order for Boeing and the airline&rsquo;s largest order ever, worth $96 billion.
When the US President returns to Washington on Friday, after the conclusion of his Gulf visit in Abu Dhabi, his administration is certain to portray the Boeing deal as one of the biggest win of a tour that blended commercial deals with politics to the benefit of the leader,&nbsp;his country -- and Syria.&nbsp;

Discover the surprise policy shift as Trump lifts sanctions on Syria, marking a significant geopolitical change and boosting Syria's new government relations with the West.

US President Donald Trump’s first foreign visit of his second term in office has been a mix of major commercial deals, an unexpected policy turn that changes Middle Eastern geopolitics, and the formal offer of a $400 billion aircraft that prompted corruption charges at home. As it was on his first foreign trip in 2017, Trump’s first stop was Saudi Arabia, where he was received with the pomp and circumstance only a rich country run by a royal family can offer. According to the White House, Trump secured $600 billion in several deals in talks with the ruling crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, and business leaders. Topping the list was what the administration described as “the largest defence deal in history,” a $142 billion agreement on state-of-the-art military equipment complete with services from major American defence industry companies. Big commercial deals were expected before Trump left Washington. What was not expected – a presidential announcement that the United States would lift sanctions against Syria at the behest of MbS, as the crown prince is known. He followed the surprise change of policy with a Saudi-sponsored brief meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. Al-Sharaa once led a branch of al-Qaeda and had a $10 million US bounty on his head. The rebel group he put together after breaking with al-Qaeda swept to power in Syria five months ago, ending the iron rule of Bashar al-Assad, who fled into exile in Moscow just before the anti-government forces captured Damascus. Lifting the sanctions, which Trump described as “crippling and brutal”, is a huge boost to the new Syrian government as it tries to rebuild ties with the West. “Now it’s Syria’s time to shine,” Trump said in a speech. “I say good luck, Syria. Show us something very special.” It was the first meeting between leaders of the two countries in 25 years and a milestone in Trump’s attempt to bring a measure of stability to the volatile region. Trump urged al-Sharaa to normalise relations with Israel. Lifting the sanctions on war-shattered Syria was a significant policy shift. The US declared Syria a sponsor of terrorism in 1979 and imposed sanctions twice – in 2004 and again after the outbreak of the Syrian civil war in 2011. Even before embarking on his four-day tour of Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, Trump surprised the Middle East with an announcement to end a months-long fierce US bombing campaign against Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels, who had attacked US shipping in the Red Sea, Bab al-Mandab and the Gulf of Aden. The ceasefire sidelined Israel, which has been left out of Trump’s itinerary, unlike in 2017. Trump has made no secret of his irritation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for ignoring suggestions to make efforts to end the war in Gaza and allow the supply of humanitarian aid. Trump’s second stop on his Mideast swing of rich countries on Wednesday took him to Qatar, where his reception was even more lavish than in Saudi Arabia. A cavalry of dozens of camels lined the road to the Qatar Royal Court. As his motorcade neared the entrance, white horses galloped by. But what made most headlines about the Qatar visit and will go down in history is a gift from the Qatar Royal family – a Boeing 747 so lavishly furnished that it is known as the Flying Palace. The aircraft is valued at $400 billion and is meant to replace the 38-year-old Air Force One he is now using. It would be by far the most valuable gift ever received by a US president, and it raised ethical concerns not only from Democrats but also from some of his most loyal Republican allies. They included Laura Loomer, a far-right influencer who has Trump’s ear and played a role in personnel decisions. She tweeted to her millions of social media followers: “I love President Trump. I would take a bullet for him. But I have to call a spade a spade. We cannot accept a $400 million ‘gift’ from jihadis in suits” accepting it would leave “a stain” on Trump’s legacy, she added. The phrase “jihadis in suits” referred to Qatar’s relations with the Moslem Brotherhood and Hamas. Other far-right figures critical of the gift included Ben Shapiro, co-founder of the right-wing media outlet The Daily Wire. In 2017, Trump said Qatar has “historically been a funder of terrorism at a very high level.” Democrats raised both ethical and legal concerns. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer quipped that the plane meant “foreign influence with extra leg room”. Ethics experts said the gift violated the US Constitution, which has an article specifically about foreign gifts. Article 1 says: “No person holding any office of profit or trust under them shall, without the consent of Congress, accept of any present, emolument, office, or title of any kind whatever from any king, prince, or foreign state.” On the eve of his departure, Trump told reporters, “I think it’s a great gesture from Qatar. I appreciate it very much. I would never be one to turn down that kind of an offer. I mean, I could be a stupid person and say ‘No we don’t want a free, very expensive airplane.’ But I thought it would be a great gesture.” Officials say that Attorney General Pam Bondi issued a memo giving the green light to the Qatari present. To put that into context, it’s worth mentioning that Bondi worked as a lobbyist for Qatar in 2020 and 2022, with a monthly salary of $115,000. While political antagonists in Washington were debating the ethics and legality of accepting the gift from Qatar, Trump and Qatar’s emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, sat down at a conference table in Doha to witness the signing of an agreement for the state-owned airline Qatar Airways to buy up to 210 widebody jets from Boeing. Qatar Airways said it was the largest widebody order for Boeing and the airline’s largest order ever, worth $96 billion. When the US President returns to Washington on Friday, after the conclusion of his Gulf visit in Abu Dhabi, his administration is certain to portray the Boeing deal as one of the biggest win of a tour that blended commercial deals with politics to the benefit of the leader, his country -- and Syria.

Trump’s Gulf tour: Big arms deals, surprise politics, corruption charges

US President Donald Trump has made quite a fortune during his presidency. Trump, who had an estimated $413 million of cash on his balance sheet and a $454 million fraud judgment against him in New York State, saved himself from a financial crisis. In just a year, he more than doubled his fortune from an estimated $2.3 billion to $5.1 billion, according to Forbes.
Trump is also facing an $83.3 million defamation judgment against him for refusing he had raped the writer E Jean Carroll, among other legal bills that were stacking up by the millions.
Critics believe that the Republican and his family not only cashed in on the Trump brand but also made billions after his return to the White House.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-this-to-get-dinner-with-trump-and-vip-tour-chinese-linked-firm-raises-300-mn-to-buy-trump-meme-coin-9068555">All this to get dinner with Trump and VIP tour? Chinese-linked firm raises $300 mn to buy $TRUMP meme coin</a>
<h2>Middle East ventures</h2>
As the Republican takes an interest in the Middle East, signing multi-billion-dollar deals, the Gulf nations have become almost like a second home for the First Family.
In the last year, an Abu Dhabi investment fund bought $2 billion in USD1, a US dollar-backed cryptocurrency that has been issued by the Trump family&rsquo;s crypto exchange, Liberty World Financial.
Trump has also opened a new golf course in Qatar, while new Trump-branded hotels will be opened in Dubai and Jeddah soon. The projects are managed by the Trump Organisation.
Over the weekend, Qatar said that it will donate a modified Boeing 747 worth $400 million, which Trump described as a &ldquo;palace in the sky&rdquo; to the US to be a part of the Air Force One fleet. The aircraft will soon become the property of a future Trump presidential library and will be available for his personal use.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-did-trump-refuse-saudi-drink-during-meeting-with-saudi-crown-prince-netizens-react-9068465">WATCH | Did Trump refuse Saudi drink during meeting with Saudi Crown Prince? Netizens react</a>
<h2>Trump brand</h2>
While the Middle East has promised the president business opportunities, Trump has also cashed in on other places with a range of MAGA merchandise and licensed Trump products, which increased his net worth by millions.
Trump&rsquo;s Truth Social platform, which he launched after the New York court agreed to reduce his bond amount to $175 million, has also proved fruitful to him. While its value has halved since going public, Trump has managed to pocket more than $2.5 billion.
After Trump&rsquo;s win in November&rsquo;s elections, his eldest son, Donald Jr, announced that he would join 1789 Capital, a venture capital firm backed by the media company of Tucker Carlson, the former Fox News host and right-wing influencer.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/defying-gravity-plans-unveiled-for-worlds-first-hanging-tower-suspended-from-orbit-9068913">Defying gravity: Plans unveiled for world's first hanging tower suspended from orbit</a>
Donald Jr, along with the company&rsquo;s founder, Omeed Malik, also launched an invitation-only private members&rsquo; club in Washington, which caters for tech bosses, business leaders, energy tycoons and Trump&rsquo;s inner circle, and has a hefty membership fee of around $500,000.
<h2>World Liberty Financial</h2>
While Trump&rsquo;s second son, Eric Trump, has been working towards the family&rsquo;s crypto efforts, including the UAE deal that could be worth billions of dollars. Following Trump&rsquo;s win, World Liberty&rsquo;s valuation soared. Another coin, $TRUMP, was launched days before his inauguration. It&rsquo;s value jumped up as soon as Trump was sworn in.
Another coin, $TRUMP, launched days before the inauguration, jumped in value after Trump was sworn in. Trump digital assets have increased in value by another 20 per cent after it was announced that he would speak at an exclusive crypto dinner later this month, as the buyers hope their investment will help them in securing an invitation.
Watch | Imran Khan's Sons Speak Up For Ex-Pakistan PM's Release From Jail, Seek Help Of Trump
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/1405_ARJUN_IMRAN_6PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1405_ARJUN_IMRAN_6PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=121&amp;tags=imran khan, pakistan, pti, protest, wion" title="Imran Khan's Sons Speak Up For Ex-Pakistan PM's Release From Jail, Seek Help Of Trump" id="PL_iframe_block-mao4qeyd-qgkzcgf2-1w2c5zbt"></iframe>
&ldquo;Trump is a bit different,&rdquo; said Richard Painter, the chief White House ethics lawyer in the George W Bush administration, as cited by The Times. &ldquo;He&rsquo;s marketing all sorts of exciting things, but it&rsquo;s almost impossible to stop this. He is the president and he can use his own name to sell whatever he wants. The books and the cologne are cheesy and tacky, and it&rsquo;s unethical, but there&rsquo;s not a lot that can be done to stop him.&rdquo;
&ldquo;The social media platform and the family moving into cryptocurrency both have serious policy, as well as ethical, ramifications,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;These are areas where there is not much regulation, but where there might be pressure to introduce new rules in the future. There are trillions of dollars of assets, especially in crypto, and there&rsquo;s a lot of political influence in Washington.&rdquo;

In the last year, an Abu Dhabi investment fund bought $2 billion in USD1, a US dollar-backed cryptocurrency that has been issued by the Trump family’s crypto exchange, Liberty World Financial. World | Business & economy

US President Donald Trump has made quite a fortune during his presidency. Trump, who had an estimated $413 million of cash on his balance sheet and a $454 million fraud judgment against him in New York State, saved himself from a financial crisis. In just a year, he more than doubled his fortune from an estimated $2.3 billion to $5.1 billion, according to Forbes. Trump is also facing an $83.3 million defamation judgment against him for refusing he had raped the writer E Jean Carroll, among other legal bills that were stacking up by the millions. Critics believe that the Republican and his family not only cashed in on the Trump brand but also made billions after his return to the White House. Also read | All this to get dinner with Trump and VIP tour? Chinese-linked firm raises $300 mn to buy $TRUMP meme coin Middle East ventures As the Republican takes an interest in the Middle East, signing multi-billion-dollar deals, the Gulf nations have become almost like a second home for the First Family. In the last year, an Abu Dhabi investment fund bought $2 billion in USD1, a US dollar-backed cryptocurrency that has been issued by the Trump family’s crypto exchange, Liberty World Financial. Trump has also opened a new golf course in Qatar, while new Trump-branded hotels will be opened in Dubai and Jeddah soon. The projects are managed by the Trump Organisation. Over the weekend, Qatar said that it will donate a modified Boeing 747 worth $400 million, which Trump described as a “palace in the sky” to the US to be a part of the Air Force One fleet. The aircraft will soon become the property of a future Trump presidential library and will be available for his personal use. Also read | WATCH | Did Trump refuse Saudi drink during meeting with Saudi Crown Prince? Netizens react Trump brand While the Middle East has promised the president business opportunities, Trump has also cashed in on other places with a range of MAGA merchandise and licensed Trump products, which increased his net worth by millions. Trump’s Truth Social platform, which he launched after the New York court agreed to reduce his bond amount to $175 million, has also proved fruitful to him. While its value has halved since going public, Trump has managed to pocket more than $2.5 billion. After Trump’s win in November’s elections, his eldest son, Donald Jr, announced that he would join 1789 Capital, a venture capital firm backed by the media company of Tucker Carlson, the former Fox News host and right-wing influencer. Also read | Defying gravity: Plans unveiled for world's first hanging tower suspended from orbit Donald Jr, along with the company’s founder, Omeed Malik, also launched an invitation-only private members’ club in Washington, which caters for tech bosses, business leaders, energy tycoons and Trump’s inner circle, and has a hefty membership fee of around $500,000. World Liberty Financial While Trump’s second son, Eric Trump, has been working towards the family’s crypto efforts, including the UAE deal that could be worth billions of dollars. Following Trump’s win, World Liberty’s valuation soared. Another coin, $TRUMP, was launched days before his inauguration. It’s value jumped up as soon as Trump was sworn in. Another coin, $TRUMP, launched days before the inauguration, jumped in value after Trump was sworn in. Trump digital assets have increased in value by another 20 per cent after it was announced that he would speak at an exclusive crypto dinner later this month, as the buyers hope their investment will help them in securing an invitation. Watch | Imran Khan's Sons Speak Up For Ex-Pakistan PM's Release From Jail, Seek Help Of Trump “Trump is a bit different,” said Richard Painter, the chief White House ethics lawyer in the George W Bush administration, as cited by The Times. “He’s marketing all sorts of exciting things, but it’s almost impossible to stop this. He is the president and he can use his own name to sell whatever he wants. The books and the cologne are cheesy and tacky, and it’s unethical, but there’s not a lot that can be done to stop him.” “The social media platform and the family moving into cryptocurrency both have serious policy, as well as ethical, ramifications,” he said. “These are areas where there is not much regulation, but where there might be pressure to introduce new rules in the future. There are trillions of dollars of assets, especially in crypto, and there’s a lot of political influence in Washington.”

How much fortune did Trump make during his presidency? Middle East ventures, Trump brand, and more

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-meets-ahmed-al-sharaa-becomes-first-us-president-to-meet-syrian-leader-in-25-years-see-pics-9067927" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump</a>&rsquo;s adviser and tech billionaire Elon Musk joined him for a VIP lunch in Saudi Arabia hosted by Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman (MBS). Soon after, in an event in Riyadh, Musk announced that Saudi Arabia would authorize the use of SpaceX's Starlink service for aviation and maritime shipping.
Apart from Musk, OpenAI's Sam Altman, Stephen Schwarzman of Blackstone, Larry Fink of BlackRock and Jane Fraser of Citigroup, Andy Jassy, the chief executive of Amazon, Jensen Huang, chief executive of Nvidia were also present at the VIP lunch.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-warns-iran-against-rejecting-nuclear-deal-will-impose-maximum-pressure-policy-if-rejected-9067039">Trump warns Iran against rejecting nuclear deal, will impose 'maximum pressure' policy if rejected</a>
<h2>Musk's Starlink in Saudi</h2>
"I&rsquo;d also like to thank the Kingdom for approving Starlink for maritime and aviation use," Musk said during the Saudi-US Investment Forum, which coincided with a White House-led visit to the Kingdom.
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-meets-ahmed-al-sharaa-becomes-first-us-president-to-meet-syrian-leader-in-25-years-see-pics-9067927">Donald Trump meets Ahmed al-Sharaa, becomes first US president to meet Syrian leader in 25 years: See pics</a>
Musk also revealed that he showed Tesla Optimus robots to Trump and MBS.&nbsp;"I think they were very impressed," he noted.
Addressing a panel at Saudi-US Investment Forum 2025, Musk said,&nbsp;"It would be very exciting to have autonomous vehicles here in the kingdom."&nbsp;His remarks came before speeches by Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-in-saudi-arabia-meets-crown-prince-mbs-elon-musk-joins-in-for-vip-lunch-9064561">Donald Trump in Saudi Arabia, meets Crown Prince MBS; Elon Musk joins in for VIP lunch: See pics here</a>
<h2>Trump secures $ 1 trillion Saudi investment pledge</h2>
On Day 1 of Trump's West Asia visit, he announced a haul of over $1 trillion in investments with Saudi Arabia. He also signed a defence deal worth $142 billion.
"With this trip, we&rsquo;re adding over $1 trillion more in terms of investment into our country and buying our products," Trump told the U.S.-Saudi Investment Forum in Riyadh.&nbsp;As he arrived in Riyadh, Crown Prince MBS welcomed him at the King Khalid International Airport.

World | US President Donald Trump’s adviser and tech billionaire Elon Musk joined him for a VIP lunch in Saudi Arabia hosted by Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman (MBS)

US President Donald Trump’s adviser and tech billionaire Elon Musk joined him for a VIP lunch in Saudi Arabia hosted by Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman (MBS). Soon after, in an event in Riyadh, Musk announced that Saudi Arabia would authorize the use of SpaceX's Starlink service for aviation and maritime shipping. Apart from Musk, OpenAI's Sam Altman, Stephen Schwarzman of Blackstone, Larry Fink of BlackRock and Jane Fraser of Citigroup, Andy Jassy, the chief executive of Amazon, Jensen Huang, chief executive of Nvidia were also present at the VIP lunch. Read More | Trump warns Iran against rejecting nuclear deal, will impose 'maximum pressure' policy if rejected Musk's Starlink in Saudi "I’d also like to thank the Kingdom for approving Starlink for maritime and aviation use," Musk said during the Saudi-US Investment Forum, which coincided with a White House-led visit to the Kingdom. WATCH | Donald Trump meets Ahmed al-Sharaa, becomes first US president to meet Syrian leader in 25 years: See pics Musk also revealed that he showed Tesla Optimus robots to Trump and MBS. "I think they were very impressed," he noted. Addressing a panel at Saudi-US Investment Forum 2025, Musk said, "It would be very exciting to have autonomous vehicles here in the kingdom." His remarks came before speeches by Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Read More | Donald Trump in Saudi Arabia, meets Crown Prince MBS; Elon Musk joins in for VIP lunch: See pics here Trump secures $ 1 trillion Saudi investment pledge On Day 1 of Trump's West Asia visit, he announced a haul of over $1 trillion in investments with Saudi Arabia. He also signed a defence deal worth $142 billion. "With this trip, we’re adding over $1 trillion more in terms of investment into our country and buying our products," Trump told the U.S.-Saudi Investment Forum in Riyadh. As he arrived in Riyadh, Crown Prince MBS welcomed him at the King Khalid International Airport.

Starlink, Tesla robots and more: Here's why Elon Musk accompanied Trump in his Saudi Arabia visit

The trump memecoin deca-millionaires are an odd bunch, even by crypto standards.
Beyond being outrageous, the biggest winners, of course, have been the coin's creators.
In this next report, we dive into the accusations of trump's crypto conflicts and the memecoin market.
Who is winning and who is losing...Take a look...

Donald Trump Memecoin makes $455 mn for traders

Donald Trump spoke about the recent Indo-Pak ceasefire and claimed that his administration helped broker it.

Donald Trump links India-Pakistan ceasefire to trade again, Indian govt rejects claims

Donald Trump Repeats India-Pakistan Ceasefire Claim, ‘I Said, Let's Not Trade Nuclear Missiles..'

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-embarks-on-middle-east-tour-with-focus-on-business-regional-tensions-9057057" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump</a> has arrived in Saudi Arabia, in what will be the first stop of a three-day tour that will also see him visit Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, also known as MBS greeted him on his arrival.
<figure class="image"><img alt="Cover (87)" src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/05/13/2I0plMnOD1EipAExO0Kh.png" style="width: 1280px;">
<figcaption>Photograph: (AFP)</figcaption>
</figure>
&ldquo;The era of peace will return, and the commander-in-chief of the US armed forces will be in Washington to help safeguard the Gulf&rsquo;s security and stand by its people &ndash; because he knows them well and believes in the importance of their friendship,&rdquo; said Eric Trump while speaking to&nbsp;Saudi Arabia&rsquo;s Asharq al-Awsat newspaper.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-donald-trumps-middle-east-man-jared-kushner-working-behind-the-scenes-for-expansion-of-abraham-accords-9058520">Is Donald Trump's 'Middle East man' Jared Kushner working behind the scenes for expansion of Abraham Accords?</a>
As Trump arrived in Saudi Arabia, Royal Saudi Air Force's F-15 fighter jets escorted Air Force One.&nbsp;At least five fighter jets came flanking of the AF1's wings, three on the right side, two on the left side, just as the plane approached for landing.
Read More |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-embarks-on-middle-east-tour-with-focus-on-business-regional-tensions-9057057" target="_blank" rel="noopener">US President Trump embarks on Middle East tour with focus on business &amp; regional tensions</a>
&ldquo;On behalf of President Trump, THANK YOU!&rdquo; Dan Scavino, Assistant to Trump and the White House Deputy Chief of Staff posted on X with a video from the flight. WATCH here&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-mambtcsy-advjyh09-rq12pcg7">
Air Force One about to go wheels down in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia with Saudi F-15 fighter jets bringing us in. On behalf of President Trump, THANK YOU! 🇺🇸🇸🇦 <a href="https://t.co/UDzPyylyF8">https://t.co/UDzPyylyF8</a> <a href="https://t.co/Nd6DnRGtZD">pic.twitter.com/Nd6DnRGtZD</a>
&mdash; Dan Scavino (@Scavino47) <a href="https://twitter.com/Scavino47/status/1922191139546812793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
While Israel&rsquo;s war in Gaza and Iran&rsquo;s nuclear ambitions remain front and center, the White House has framed the visit as a &ldquo;historic return&rdquo; to a region Trump first visited as president in 2017&mdash;when he famously posed over a glowing orb with Saudi and Egyptian leaders in Riyadh. By choosing again to begin his overseas travels within the oil-producing Gulf&mdash;instead of with long-standing Western partners&mdash;Trump is demonstrating the rising geopolitical influence of the region, and also emphasising his long-established personal and commercial connections there.

US President Donald Trump has arrived in Saudi Arabia, in what will be the first stop of a three-day tour that will also see him visit Qatar and the United Arab Emirates

US President Donald Trump has arrived in Saudi Arabia, in what will be the first stop of a three-day tour that will also see him visit Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, also known as MBS greeted him on his arrival. Photograph: (AFP) “The era of peace will return, and the commander-in-chief of the US armed forces will be in Washington to help safeguard the Gulf’s security and stand by its people – because he knows them well and believes in the importance of their friendship,” said Eric Trump while speaking to Saudi Arabia’s Asharq al-Awsat newspaper. Read More | Is Donald Trump's 'Middle East man' Jared Kushner working behind the scenes for expansion of Abraham Accords? As Trump arrived in Saudi Arabia, Royal Saudi Air Force's F-15 fighter jets escorted Air Force One. At least five fighter jets came flanking of the AF1's wings, three on the right side, two on the left side, just as the plane approached for landing. Read More | US President Trump embarks on Middle East tour with focus on business & regional tensions “On behalf of President Trump, THANK YOU!” Dan Scavino, Assistant to Trump and the White House Deputy Chief of Staff posted on X with a video from the flight. WATCH here Air Force One about to go wheels down in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia with Saudi F-15 fighter jets bringing us in. On behalf of President Trump, THANK YOU! 🇺🇸🇸🇦 https://t.co/UDzPyylyF8 pic.twitter.com/Nd6DnRGtZD — Dan Scavino (@Scavino47) May 13, 2025 While Israel’s war in Gaza and Iran’s nuclear ambitions remain front and center, the White House has framed the visit as a “historic return” to a region Trump first visited as president in 2017—when he famously posed over a glowing orb with Saudi and Egyptian leaders in Riyadh. By choosing again to begin his overseas travels within the oil-producing Gulf—instead of with long-standing Western partners—Trump is demonstrating the rising geopolitical influence of the region, and also emphasising his long-established personal and commercial connections there.

US President Trump arrives in Saudi Arabia on his first trip of second term; MBS welcomes him | Pics here

In his first public remarks since a temporary truce over tariffs with the United States, Chinese President Xi Jinping has taken aim at "bullying" and "hegemonism" stating that there are no winners in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-trade-deal-finalised-trumps-trade-representative-says-geneva-talks-productive-substantial-progress-made-9058674" rel="dofollow">trade wars</a>.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian also said that China made it clear to the United States to "stop smearing and shifting blame" on the causes of its fentanyl crisis.&nbsp;"Fentanyl is the United States' issue, it is not China's issue," Jian said.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-us-conclude-difficult-but-useful-fourth-round-of-nuclear-talks-iranian-prez-wont-dismantle-facilities-9058591" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Iran, US conclude &lsquo;difficult but useful&rsquo; fourth round of nuclear talks, Iranian Prez won&rsquo;t &lsquo;dismantle&rsquo; facilities</a>
<h2>What the Chinese President said&nbsp;</h2>
Addressing a gathering of Latin American and Caribbean officials in Beijing, Jinping said that great changes unseen in a century are accelerating, which have &ldquo;made unity and cooperation among nations indispensable,&rdquo; CNN reported.
&nbsp;&ldquo;There are no winners in tariff wars or trade wars. Bullying or hegemonism only leads to self-isolation,&rdquo; he added.
Read More |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-donald-trumps-middle-east-man-jared-kushner-working-behind-the-scenes-for-expansion-of-abraham-accords-9058520" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Is Donald Trump's 'Middle East man' Jared Kushner working behind the scenes for expansion of Abraham Accords?</a>
&ldquo;In the face of seething undercurrents of geopolitical and bloc confrontation, and the surging tide of unilateralism and protectionism, China stands ready to join hands with our Latin American and Caribbean partners,&rdquo; CNN quoted Jinping saying.
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After successful negotiations over the weekend in Geneva, <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> reached an agreement with China to retain U.S. reciprocal tariffs on China, reduce Chinese retaliation and eliminate harmful countermeasures, and establish a path for future discussions regarding opportunities for&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/PrfZRLnYGQ">pic.twitter.com/PrfZRLnYGQ</a>
&mdash; United States Trade Representative (@USTradeRep) <a href="https://twitter.com/USTradeRep/status/1922047147777917365?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2025</a></blockquote>
This comes a day after the US and China announced that they would strategically roll back drastic tariff measures against each other&rsquo;s goods for an initial 90-day period.
Read More |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-donald-trump-xi-jinping-call-us-president-trade-war-9011352" target="_blank" rel="noopener">'First stop threatening, blackmailing China': Beijing calls out Trump over 'fake' Xi call. Was US prez bluffing to end trade war?</a>
<h2>US-China Trade War</h2>
The meeting was the first face-to-face interaction between senior American and Chinese economic officials since Trump took office and launched a global tariff blitz that started with declaring a national emergency over the U.S. fentanyl crisis, imposing a new 20% tariff on Chinese goods in February. Trump followed with a 34% "reciprocal" duty on Chinese imports in April, and subsequent rounds pushed the rates into triple digits, bringing nearly $600 billion in two-way trade to a standstill.
This development comes after Trump said on Friday that an 80% tariff on Chinese goods "seems right," suggesting for the first time a specific reduction target.

World | In his first public remarks since a temporary truce over tariffs with the United States, Chinese President Xi Jinping has taken aim at "bullying" and "hegemonism" stating that there are no winners in trade wars.

In his first public remarks since a temporary truce over tariffs with the United States, Chinese President Xi Jinping has taken aim at "bullying" and "hegemonism" stating that there are no winners in trade wars. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian also said that China made it clear to the United States to "stop smearing and shifting blame" on the causes of its fentanyl crisis. "Fentanyl is the United States' issue, it is not China's issue," Jian said. Read More | Iran, US conclude ‘difficult but useful’ fourth round of nuclear talks, Iranian Prez won’t ‘dismantle’ facilities What the Chinese President said Addressing a gathering of Latin American and Caribbean officials in Beijing, Jinping said that great changes unseen in a century are accelerating, which have “made unity and cooperation among nations indispensable,” CNN reported. “There are no winners in tariff wars or trade wars. Bullying or hegemonism only leads to self-isolation,” he added. Read More | Is Donald Trump's 'Middle East man' Jared Kushner working behind the scenes for expansion of Abraham Accords? “In the face of seething undercurrents of geopolitical and bloc confrontation, and the surging tide of unilateralism and protectionism, China stands ready to join hands with our Latin American and Caribbean partners,” CNN quoted Jinping saying. After successful negotiations over the weekend in Geneva, @POTUS reached an agreement with China to retain U.S. reciprocal tariffs on China, reduce Chinese retaliation and eliminate harmful countermeasures, and establish a path for future discussions regarding opportunities for… pic.twitter.com/PrfZRLnYGQ — United States Trade Representative (@USTradeRep) May 12, 2025 This comes a day after the US and China announced that they would strategically roll back drastic tariff measures against each other’s goods for an initial 90-day period. Read More | 'First stop threatening, blackmailing China': Beijing calls out Trump over 'fake' Xi call. Was US prez bluffing to end trade war? US-China Trade War The meeting was the first face-to-face interaction between senior American and Chinese economic officials since Trump took office and launched a global tariff blitz that started with declaring a national emergency over the U.S. fentanyl crisis, imposing a new 20% tariff on Chinese goods in February. Trump followed with a 34% "reciprocal" duty on Chinese imports in April, and subsequent rounds pushed the rates into triple digits, bringing nearly $600 billion in two-way trade to a standstill. This development comes after Trump said on Friday that an 80% tariff on Chinese goods "seems right," suggesting for the first time a specific reduction target.

Xi Jinping's 'self-isolation' message to Trump after trade deal, China says 'stop shifting blame' on fentanyl

Indian student Priya Saxena studying in America's South Dakota School of Mines and Technology received a doctorate in chemical and biological engineering and a master's degree in chemical engineering on May 12. She is one of the many who face <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deportation-of-indian-student-with-less-than-30-days-for-graduation-temporarily-blocked-by-us-judge-8967167" rel="dofollow">deportation </a>under the Trump administration's stringent crackdown on immigrants.&nbsp;
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Here is Dr.Priya Saxena graduating with a Doctorate after Kristi Noem tried to deport her! 😡 <a href="https://t.co/gIIzkKSnld">pic.twitter.com/gIIzkKSnld</a>
&mdash; Suzie rizzio (@Suzierizzo1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Suzierizzo1/status/1922003937500020961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2025</a></blockquote>
Saxena received a deportation notice over a four-year-old misdemeanour conviction for refusing to yield to flashing yellow lights. Saxena&rsquo;s student visa was valid until 2027. She sued the Homeland Security Department and its head Kristi Noem.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-international-student-deportations-indian-student-akshar-patels-case-exposes-how-govt-checks-criminal-databases-9018238">REVEALED: Indian student Akshar Patel's case exposes how Trump govt checks into FBI criminal databases for deportations</a>
In her suit, Saxena stated that she &ldquo;has not been involved in any political activity, has not attended any demonstrations, and has not made any statements about controversial public matters.&rdquo;
A judge ruled in Saxena's favour &nbsp;that prevented the government from terminating her visa until a hearing on May 13 and thus she was allowed to get the degree she had been working toward for five years.&nbsp;
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deportation-of-indian-student-with-less-than-30-days-for-graduation-temporarily-blocked-by-us-judge-8967167">Deportation of Indian student&nbsp;with less than 30 days for graduation temporarily blocked by US judge</a>
<h2>'Humiliation' for Kristi Noem</h2>
Kristi Noem's alma institution, Dakota State University, awarded her an honorary degree in public service. She studied political science at the campus.
According to The Daily Mail, Noem endured the &ldquo;ultimate humiliation&rdquo; as she failed to garner any cheers but faced protesters who heckled her.
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Congratulations to the graduates of Dakota State University! I am so proud of South Dakota. It was an honor to give the commencement speech to some of the many men and women who will make South Dakota&rsquo;s future bright. <a href="https://t.co/MTS6vlrDVu">pic.twitter.com/MTS6vlrDVu</a>
&mdash; Secretary Kristi Noem (@Sec_Noem) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sec_Noem/status/1921352388733997351?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
Both the student senate and the general faculty voted against awarding Noem an honorary degree, contending that doing so would be a politicised gesture with negative implications for international students.
"One thing that immediately came to my brain when I heard she was coming here was I was genuinely scared of the massive amounts of international students that we have on campus," The Daily Mail quoted one of the demonstrators as saying.
The Trump administration has been instructing international students to self-deport themselves by revoking their visas. The Homeland Security Department cited petty crimes such as shoplifting, drunk driving, etc as reasons for deportation, reports suggest that students were deported due to their alleged involvement in campus activism.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-indian-students-in-trumps-us-are-facing-deportation-drunk-driving-shoplifting-speeding-8941370">Why Indian students in Trump's US facing deportation: 'Drunk driving, shoplifting, speeding'</a>

World | Indian student Priya Saxena, on Trump's deportation list, received a doctorate and a master's degree in America's South Dakota School of Mines and Technology

Indian student Priya Saxena studying in America's South Dakota School of Mines and Technology received a doctorate in chemical and biological engineering and a master's degree in chemical engineering on May 12. She is one of the many who face deportation under the Trump administration's stringent crackdown on immigrants. Here is Dr.Priya Saxena graduating with a Doctorate after Kristi Noem tried to deport her! 😡 pic.twitter.com/gIIzkKSnld — Suzie rizzio (@Suzierizzo1) May 12, 2025 Saxena received a deportation notice over a four-year-old misdemeanour conviction for refusing to yield to flashing yellow lights. Saxena’s student visa was valid until 2027. She sued the Homeland Security Department and its head Kristi Noem. Read More | REVEALED: Indian student Akshar Patel's case exposes how Trump govt checks into FBI criminal databases for deportations In her suit, Saxena stated that she “has not been involved in any political activity, has not attended any demonstrations, and has not made any statements about controversial public matters.” A judge ruled in Saxena's favour that prevented the government from terminating her visa until a hearing on May 13 and thus she was allowed to get the degree she had been working toward for five years. Read More | Deportation of Indian student with less than 30 days for graduation temporarily blocked by US judge 'Humiliation' for Kristi Noem Kristi Noem's alma institution, Dakota State University, awarded her an honorary degree in public service. She studied political science at the campus. According to The Daily Mail, Noem endured the “ultimate humiliation” as she failed to garner any cheers but faced protesters who heckled her. Congratulations to the graduates of Dakota State University! I am so proud of South Dakota. It was an honor to give the commencement speech to some of the many men and women who will make South Dakota’s future bright. pic.twitter.com/MTS6vlrDVu — Secretary Kristi Noem (@Sec_Noem) May 10, 2025 Both the student senate and the general faculty voted against awarding Noem an honorary degree, contending that doing so would be a politicised gesture with negative implications for international students. "One thing that immediately came to my brain when I heard she was coming here was I was genuinely scared of the massive amounts of international students that we have on campus," The Daily Mail quoted one of the demonstrators as saying. The Trump administration has been instructing international students to self-deport themselves by revoking their visas. The Homeland Security Department cited petty crimes such as shoplifting, drunk driving, etc as reasons for deportation, reports suggest that students were deported due to their alleged involvement in campus activism. Read More | Why Indian students in Trump's US facing deportation: 'Drunk driving, shoplifting, speeding'

Embarrassment for Kristi Noem as Indian student on Trump's deportation list gets loud cheers at grad ceremony

Donald Trump to visit Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, his First major foreign trip in his second term

In an announcement on May 11, US President Donald Trump revealed plans to sign an executive order that will drastically reduce the cost of prescription drugs for Americans.
The order, set to be signed at 9:00 am (US EST) on May 12, will implement a &ldquo;most favoured nation&rdquo; (MFN) policy, which ties the US price of prescription drugs to the lowest price paid for the same medications by any other country in the world. Trump asserts that this move could cut drug prices by as much as 30 per cent to 80 per cent, offering relief to millions of American consumers who face some of the highest pharmaceutical costs globally.
In a social media post on Truth Social, Trump framed the move as a long-overdue correction to what he described as a rigged system that has burdened US citizens with excessively high drug prices. He explained that, while drug prices in the US are sometimes five to ten times higher than in other nations, American consumers have had little to no recourse.
Trump blamed pharmaceutical companies for using research and development (R&amp;D) costs as a rationale for the pricing disparity, suggesting that these costs were disproportionately &ldquo;borne by the &lsquo;suckers&rsquo; of America, alone&rdquo;.
&ldquo;For many years, the world has wondered why prescription drugs and pharmaceuticals in the United States were so much higher in price than they were in any other nation,&rdquo; Trump said in his social media post. &ldquo;Sometimes being five to ten times more expensive than the same drug, manufactured in the exact same laboratory or plant, by the same company.&rdquo;
The announcement came as a direct challenge to the pharmaceutical industry's lobbying efforts and an ongoing debate over US drug pricing. The industry, led by trade group PhRMA, has consistently argued against government-imposed price controls, claiming they undermine innovation and hurt patients by limiting access to new treatments. Despite this, Trump insisted that the pharmaceutical sector&rsquo;s arguments about the negative impact on innovation were embarrassing and unfounded.
According to Trump, this policy would not only ensure fairness for American consumers but would also bring about global pricing changes, leading to higher prices abroad in order to &ldquo;equalise&rdquo; the global pharmaceutical market.
&ldquo;This is the kind of fairness we&rsquo;ve been fighting for. The United States will finally be treated fairly,&rdquo; Trump said in his post. &ldquo;We will save trillions of dollars, and our citizens&rsquo; healthcare costs will be reduced by numbers never even thought of before.&rdquo;
<h2 dir="ltr">The background</h2>
The policy follows a pattern from Trump&rsquo;s first term, when he sought to tackle drug pricing by introducing a &ldquo;Most Favoured Nation&rdquo; policy that would have linked the prices of certain drugs to those paid by other developed nations. The initiative, which sought to lower the price of drugs administered in doctor&rsquo;s offices, was met with fierce opposition from the pharmaceutical industry and ultimately blocked by federal courts.
The Biden administration chose not to pursue the policy further, opting instead to include drug price negotiations for Medicare under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022.
Trump&rsquo;s latest announcement appears to build upon his earlier efforts, proposing a more expansive application of MFN pricing that could impact a broader range of drugs.
Despite the anticipated benefits for American consumers, the move has drawn sharp criticism from several quarters, including some senior Republicans and industry leaders.
Trump, however, dismissed these concerns, suggesting that the pharmaceutical industry had long manipulated the system to its benefit and that the costs of R&amp;D were inflated as a means of justifying excessive drug prices. He emphasised that the policy would bring substantial savings to both the federal government and individual consumers, ultimately benefiting American taxpayers.
While the policy&rsquo;s details remain unclear, it is widely expected that the MFN pricing would apply primarily to Medicare, the government health insurance program for seniors. Under the 2020 proposal, which was struck down by courts, Medicare would have paid the lowest price available for certain drugs among a group of 22 peer nations, including France and Japan.
The US pharmaceutical industry, however, strongly opposed the idea of linking US drug prices to those in other countries, arguing that foreign governments impose strict price controls that suppress competition and innovation. Drugmakers contend that higher prices in the US help fund research and the development of new therapies. Critics of the MFN approach argue that it would lead to higher costs in other countries and could result in shortages of certain medications.
The Trump administration&rsquo;s 2020 proposal faced a similar backlash and was eventually blocked by federal courts. However, Trump&rsquo;s team is determined to push the policy forward, citing the benefits to both American taxpayers and patients. Additionally, there is growing pressure within the administration to reduce the overall cost of prescription drugs, which remain one of the largest expenses for US households.
<h2 dir="ltr">Challenges ahead?</h2>
It remains to be seen whether Trump&rsquo;s new executive order will face similar legal challenges as its predecessor or whether it will be implemented without significant opposition. Experts warn that the road ahead could be fraught with legal hurdles, and some analysts remain sceptical about the effectiveness of such a policy.
As the situation unfolds, the debate over drug pricing in the US is likely to intensify, with both sides of the argument preparing for a lengthy legal and political battle. Whether Trump&rsquo;s proposal succeeds in lowering costs for Americans remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: prescription drug prices will be a central issue for the foreseeable future.
For now, Americans are left wondering whether the president&rsquo;s bold claims about cutting drug prices by as much as 80 per cent will materialise into a reality or if they will become yet another point of contention in the ongoing struggle over US healthcare reform.
(With inputs from agencies)

Business & Economy: Trump asserts that this move could cut drug prices by as much as 30 per cent to 80 per cent, offering relief to millions of American consumers.

In an announcement on May 11, US President Donald Trump revealed plans to sign an executive order that will drastically reduce the cost of prescription drugs for Americans. The order, set to be signed at 9:00 am (US EST) on May 12, will implement a “most favoured nation” (MFN) policy, which ties the US price of prescription drugs to the lowest price paid for the same medications by any other country in the world. Trump asserts that this move could cut drug prices by as much as 30 per cent to 80 per cent, offering relief to millions of American consumers who face some of the highest pharmaceutical costs globally. In a social media post on Truth Social, Trump framed the move as a long-overdue correction to what he described as a rigged system that has burdened US citizens with excessively high drug prices. He explained that, while drug prices in the US are sometimes five to ten times higher than in other nations, American consumers have had little to no recourse. Trump blamed pharmaceutical companies for using research and development (R&D) costs as a rationale for the pricing disparity, suggesting that these costs were disproportionately “borne by the ‘suckers’ of America, alone”. “For many years, the world has wondered why prescription drugs and pharmaceuticals in the United States were so much higher in price than they were in any other nation,” Trump said in his social media post. “Sometimes being five to ten times more expensive than the same drug, manufactured in the exact same laboratory or plant, by the same company.” The announcement came as a direct challenge to the pharmaceutical industry's lobbying efforts and an ongoing debate over US drug pricing. The industry, led by trade group PhRMA, has consistently argued against government-imposed price controls, claiming they undermine innovation and hurt patients by limiting access to new treatments. Despite this, Trump insisted that the pharmaceutical sector’s arguments about the negative impact on innovation were embarrassing and unfounded. According to Trump, this policy would not only ensure fairness for American consumers but would also bring about global pricing changes, leading to higher prices abroad in order to “equalise” the global pharmaceutical market. “This is the kind of fairness we’ve been fighting for. The United States will finally be treated fairly,” Trump said in his post. “We will save trillions of dollars, and our citizens’ healthcare costs will be reduced by numbers never even thought of before.” The background The policy follows a pattern from Trump’s first term, when he sought to tackle drug pricing by introducing a “Most Favoured Nation” policy that would have linked the prices of certain drugs to those paid by other developed nations. The initiative, which sought to lower the price of drugs administered in doctor’s offices, was met with fierce opposition from the pharmaceutical industry and ultimately blocked by federal courts. The Biden administration chose not to pursue the policy further, opting instead to include drug price negotiations for Medicare under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. Trump’s latest announcement appears to build upon his earlier efforts, proposing a more expansive application of MFN pricing that could impact a broader range of drugs. Despite the anticipated benefits for American consumers, the move has drawn sharp criticism from several quarters, including some senior Republicans and industry leaders. Trump, however, dismissed these concerns, suggesting that the pharmaceutical industry had long manipulated the system to its benefit and that the costs of R&D were inflated as a means of justifying excessive drug prices. He emphasised that the policy would bring substantial savings to both the federal government and individual consumers, ultimately benefiting American taxpayers. While the policy’s details remain unclear, it is widely expected that the MFN pricing would apply primarily to Medicare, the government health insurance program for seniors. Under the 2020 proposal, which was struck down by courts, Medicare would have paid the lowest price available for certain drugs among a group of 22 peer nations, including France and Japan. The US pharmaceutical industry, however, strongly opposed the idea of linking US drug prices to those in other countries, arguing that foreign governments impose strict price controls that suppress competition and innovation. Drugmakers contend that higher prices in the US help fund research and the development of new therapies. Critics of the MFN approach argue that it would lead to higher costs in other countries and could result in shortages of certain medications. The Trump administration’s 2020 proposal faced a similar backlash and was eventually blocked by federal courts. However, Trump’s team is determined to push the policy forward, citing the benefits to both American taxpayers and patients. Additionally, there is growing pressure within the administration to reduce the overall cost of prescription drugs, which remain one of the largest expenses for US households. Challenges ahead? It remains to be seen whether Trump’s new executive order will face similar legal challenges as its predecessor or whether it will be implemented without significant opposition. Experts warn that the road ahead could be fraught with legal hurdles, and some analysts remain sceptical about the effectiveness of such a policy. As the situation unfolds, the debate over drug pricing in the US is likely to intensify, with both sides of the argument preparing for a lengthy legal and political battle. Whether Trump’s proposal succeeds in lowering costs for Americans remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: prescription drug prices will be a central issue for the foreseeable future. For now, Americans are left wondering whether the president’s bold claims about cutting drug prices by as much as 80 per cent will materialise into a reality or if they will become yet another point of contention in the ongoing struggle over US healthcare reform. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump plans major move to cut drug prices by up to 80%

President Donald Trump is Set to Unveil a New Plan Aimed at Slashing US Prescription Drug Prices by 30 to 80 Percent.

Donald Trump to unveil new drug price plan

In a significant diplomatic and economic development, the United States and China have announced &ldquo;substantial progress&rdquo; in trade talks held in Geneva on May 10&ndash;11, raising hopes of de-escalation in a tariff war that has rattled global markets for months.
Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, leading Beijing&rsquo;s delegation, said the talks with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer were &ldquo;candid, in-depth, and constructive,&rdquo; according to Reuters. He added that both sides agreed to establish a formal consultation mechanism to address economic and trade issues of mutual concern.
Bessent told Reuters that President Donald Trump had been &ldquo;fully informed&rdquo; of the discussions and that a detailed joint statement would be released on Monday. &ldquo;We made substantial progress&hellip; in the spirit of cooperation, shared interest, and mutual respect,&rdquo; he said.
<h2 class="x_elementToProof">Trump&rsquo;s tariff saga</h2>
This diplomatic thaw follows President Donald Trump&rsquo;s unexpected escalation earlier this year, when he slapped a 145 per cent tariff on a wide swath of Chinese imports, ranging from steel and electric vehicles to electronics, textiles, and rare earth metals. The US administration justified the move by declaring a national economic emergency, citing the ballooning $1.2 trillion trade deficit with China, according to the US Department of Commerce. In swift retaliation, China&rsquo;s Ministry of Commerce imposed reciprocal tariffs on key American exports, including agricultural produce, semiconductors, industrial machinery, and pharmaceuticals. While Beijing insisted it did not seek a trade war, Vice Premier He told Reuters that China was &ldquo;prepared to fight to the end.&rdquo;
The consequences were immediate and severe. Bloomberg Economics estimates that nearly $300 billion in cross-border trade was wiped out in just the first quarter of 2025, fuelling recession fears across global markets. The ripple effects hit multiple sectors hard. Technology giants such as Apple, NVIDIA, and Tesla suffered increased production costs and delays, with S&amp;P Global reporting that over 60 per cent of US electronics firms experienced severe supply chain disruptions by March 2025.&nbsp;
In the automotive sector, tit-for-tat tariffs on vehicles and components crushed exports on both sides, prompting several global manufacturers to relocate operations, according to Automotive News China. Even average American consumers weren&rsquo;t spared &mdash; prices for electronics, apparel, and furniture surged, much of it imported from China. In its April forecast, the International Monetary Fund warned that prolonged tariffs could push global inflation up by as much as 1.5 per cent in 2025.
<h2 class="x_elementToProof">A step towards stability?</h2>
Despite deep-rooted differences, both delegations signalled optimism. &ldquo;This meeting has laid the foundation for resolving differences through equal-footed dialogue,&rdquo; He Lifeng said, as stated in Reuters. He also noted that China was ready to work with the US in expanding the list of cooperative outcomes and &ldquo;making the pie of mutual benefits bigger.&rdquo;
Greer acknowledged the tough negotiating style of the Chinese side and said the pace of consensus showed that &ldquo;perhaps the differences were not as great as previously thought,&rdquo; told to Reuters.
Both leaders praised the Swiss government for its hospitality. &ldquo;The venue helped facilitate the productivity we achieved,&rdquo; said Bessent, adding that further consultations would follow soon.
<h2 class="x_elementToProof">What lies ahead?</h2>
According to Reuters, a joint statement outlining initial agreements and next steps is expected on Monday. Sources familiar with the talks say both sides have considered rolling back a portion of the February tariffs in exchange for mutual concessions on digital trade, intellectual property protections, and agricultural imports.
While it&rsquo;s too early to declare the trade war over, analysts see this weekend&rsquo;s progress as a pivotal turn. &ldquo;We may be witnessing the beginning of a recalibration in global trade dynamics,&rdquo; said Alicia Garc&iacute;a Herrero, Chief Economist for Asia Pacific at Natixis, quoted by Bloomberg.
The coming days will be crucial as the world waits for the official roadmap. For now, Geneva has offered a glimmer of hope &mdash; that diplomacy, not tariffs, may once again guide the world&rsquo;s two largest economies.

Business & Economy: US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed that President Trump was fully briefed, anticipating a detailed joint statement to be unveiled on Monday.

In a significant diplomatic and economic development, the United States and China have announced “substantial progress” in trade talks held in Geneva on May 10–11, raising hopes of de-escalation in a tariff war that has rattled global markets for months. Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, leading Beijing’s delegation, said the talks with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer were “candid, in-depth, and constructive,” according to Reuters. He added that both sides agreed to establish a formal consultation mechanism to address economic and trade issues of mutual concern. Bessent told Reuters that President Donald Trump had been “fully informed” of the discussions and that a detailed joint statement would be released on Monday. “We made substantial progress… in the spirit of cooperation, shared interest, and mutual respect,” he said. Trump’s tariff saga This diplomatic thaw follows President Donald Trump’s unexpected escalation earlier this year, when he slapped a 145 per cent tariff on a wide swath of Chinese imports, ranging from steel and electric vehicles to electronics, textiles, and rare earth metals. The US administration justified the move by declaring a national economic emergency, citing the ballooning $1.2 trillion trade deficit with China, according to the US Department of Commerce. In swift retaliation, China’s Ministry of Commerce imposed reciprocal tariffs on key American exports, including agricultural produce, semiconductors, industrial machinery, and pharmaceuticals. While Beijing insisted it did not seek a trade war, Vice Premier He told Reuters that China was “prepared to fight to the end.” The consequences were immediate and severe. Bloomberg Economics estimates that nearly $300 billion in cross-border trade was wiped out in just the first quarter of 2025, fuelling recession fears across global markets. The ripple effects hit multiple sectors hard. Technology giants such as Apple, NVIDIA, and Tesla suffered increased production costs and delays, with S&P Global reporting that over 60 per cent of US electronics firms experienced severe supply chain disruptions by March 2025. In the automotive sector, tit-for-tat tariffs on vehicles and components crushed exports on both sides, prompting several global manufacturers to relocate operations, according to Automotive News China. Even average American consumers weren’t spared — prices for electronics, apparel, and furniture surged, much of it imported from China. In its April forecast, the International Monetary Fund warned that prolonged tariffs could push global inflation up by as much as 1.5 per cent in 2025. A step towards stability? Despite deep-rooted differences, both delegations signalled optimism. “This meeting has laid the foundation for resolving differences through equal-footed dialogue,” He Lifeng said, as stated in Reuters. He also noted that China was ready to work with the US in expanding the list of cooperative outcomes and “making the pie of mutual benefits bigger.” Greer acknowledged the tough negotiating style of the Chinese side and said the pace of consensus showed that “perhaps the differences were not as great as previously thought,” told to Reuters. Both leaders praised the Swiss government for its hospitality. “The venue helped facilitate the productivity we achieved,” said Bessent, adding that further consultations would follow soon. What lies ahead? According to Reuters, a joint statement outlining initial agreements and next steps is expected on Monday. Sources familiar with the talks say both sides have considered rolling back a portion of the February tariffs in exchange for mutual concessions on digital trade, intellectual property protections, and agricultural imports. While it’s too early to declare the trade war over, analysts see this weekend’s progress as a pivotal turn. “We may be witnessing the beginning of a recalibration in global trade dynamics,” said Alicia García Herrero, Chief Economist for Asia Pacific at Natixis, quoted by Bloomberg. The coming days will be crucial as the world waits for the official roadmap. For now, Geneva has offered a glimmer of hope — that diplomacy, not tariffs, may once again guide the world’s two largest economies.

US-China trade talks mark ‘substantial progress’ following months of tariff tensions

U.S. President Donald Trump's administration intends to accept a Boeing (BA.N), opens new tab 747-8 plane as a gift from the Qatari royal family that would be outfitted to serve as Air Force One, according to a source briefed on the matter.

Donald Trump plans to accept luxury 747 plane from Qatar to use as Air Force One

India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire on Saturday (May 10). While US President Donald Trump claimed credit for the India-Pakistan ceasefire, India's statement did not mention the United States. India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar&nbsp;reiterated India's commitment to fighting against terrorism but did not mention Trump or the US in his statement. Moreover, India's Ministry of Defence also briefed the nation on Pakistan's misinformation campaign, Operation Sindoor and ceasefire but did not mention the United States.
However, Trump and his team have claimed credit for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pakistan-operation-sindoor-pahalgam-terror-attack-agree-for-ceasefire-foreign-secretary-vikram-misri-9055414" rel="dofollow">ceasefire </a>between the two nuclear nations. This is despite US Vice President JD Vance saying a day before that America would not directly "intervene" in the matter as it is "none of America's business".
<h2>Trump and his team take credit</h2>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indo-pak-war-i-am-pleased-to-announce-that-india-and-pakistan-have-agreed-to-a-full-to-a-full-and-immediate-ceasefire-trump-on-truth-social-9055334" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump</a> shared a post on Truth Social announcing that India and Pakistan "have agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire" and that "common sense and great intelligence" have prevailed. He congratulated both the countries for the ceasefire. The US Department of State in a statement called the ceasefire a 'US-brokered.'&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-maife4q7-yb8rxwby-ya1yw0h1">
<a href="https://t.co/lRPhZpugBV">pic.twitter.com/lRPhZpugBV</a>
&mdash; Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1921174163848401313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
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US claims credit for India, Pakistan 'understanding' achieved on ceasing military hostilities. State dept says it was a "U.S.-Brokered Ceasefire" between India and Pakistan <a href="https://t.co/ycqOdH1rB6">pic.twitter.com/ycqOdH1rB6</a>
&mdash; Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1921210971873309069?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in a post on X said that US Vice President JD Vance and Rubio engaged with senior Indian and Pakistani officials over 48 hours to confirm the ceasefire. Rubio also said that they spoke to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistani&nbsp;Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir, Indian National Security Advisors Ajit Doval and Pakistani NSA Asim Malik.
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Over the past 48 hours, <a href="https://twitter.com/VP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VP</a> Vance and I have engaged with senior Indian and Pakistani officials, including Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shehbaz Sharif, External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir, and National Security Advisors Ajit&hellip;
&mdash; Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecRubio/status/1921175185836708140?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-s-400-to-brahmos-missile-base-india-exposes-pakistans-misinformation-campaign-after-announcing-ceasefire-9055483">From S-400 to BrahMos missile base: India EXPOSES Pakistan&rsquo;s misinformation campaign after announcing ceasefire</a>
US Vice President JD Vance congratulated President Trump on the ceasefire, particularly Secretary Rubio. He also praised Indian and Pakistani leaders for their hard work and willingness for a ceasefire.&nbsp;
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Great work from the President&rsquo;s team, especially Secretary Rubio. And my gratitude to the leaders of India and Pakistan for their hard work and willingness to engage in this ceasefire. <a href="https://t.co/ddDzFMAT3H">https://t.co/ddDzFMAT3H</a>
&mdash; JD Vance (@JDVance) <a href="https://twitter.com/JDVance/status/1921188620452393411?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
Meanwhile, Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif also gave credit to Trump and his team for "proactive role for peace in the region." He thanked US Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Rubio for their valuable contributions for peace in South Asia. He hailed the United States "for facilitating" the ceasefire and highlighted that Pakistan&nbsp;accepted it in the interest of regional peace and stability.
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We thank President Trump for his leadership and proactive role for peace in the region . Pakistan appreciates the United States for facilitating this outcome, which we have accepted in the interest of regional peace and stability. We also thank Vice President JD Vance and&hellip;
&mdash; Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMShehbaz/status/1921220993101525318?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>'None of our business': Vance</h2>
A day before, in an interview with&nbsp;Fox News, US V-P Vance had said, "What we can do is try to encourage these folks to de-escalate a little bit. But we're not going to get involved in the middle of a war that&rsquo;s fundamentally none of our business and has nothing to do with America&rsquo;s ability to control it."
<h2>No mention of Trump in India's statement</h2>
India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri addressed a press conference but did not mention Trump, Rubio, Vance or the United States. Misri said, "Pakistan's Directors General of Military Operations (DGMO) called the Indian DGMO at 15:35 hours earlier this afternoon. It was agreed between them that both sides would stop all firing and military action on land and in the air and sea with effect from 1700 hours Indian Standard Time. Today, instructions have been given on both sides to give effect to this understanding. The Directors General of Military Operations will talk again on the 12th of May at 1200 hours ."&nbsp;
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Foreign Secretary ShriVikram Misri has confirmed the implementation of a ceasefire under <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OperationSindoor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OperationSindoor</a>. At 15:35 hrs today, the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of Pakistan contacted his Indian counterpart, and both sides agreed to halt all military action&mdash;on&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/a1PfmiBZpg">pic.twitter.com/a1PfmiBZpg</a>
&mdash; Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpokespersonMoD/status/1921209160370102660?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-rollback-of-action-pakistan-after-pahlagam-indus-waters-treaty-visa-cancellation-diplomatic-action-9055595">India firm on its stance on terror, no rollback of actions against Pakistan including Indus Waters Treaty: Govt Sources after ceasefire</a>
<h2 class="Paragraph SCXW98635770 BCX0" lang="EN-US" paraeid="{72e8589b-a918-43af-8099-c19f10be8cb5}{39}" paraid="1106180353" >Operation Sindoor</h2>
In a powerful and strategic response to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indo-pak-war-operation-sindoor-top-jem-and-let-members-killed-reports-9054511" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Indian Armed Forces</a>&nbsp;on&nbsp;early&nbsp;Wednesday (May 7) launched a series of precision strikes against nine terror camps&nbsp;located&nbsp;deep inside Pakistan and&nbsp;Pakistan-occupied Kashmir&nbsp;(PoK) under&nbsp;code-named&nbsp;Operation Sindoor.&nbsp;As per reports, at least five dreaded terrorists from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jaish-e-mohammed" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Jaish-e-Mohammed</a>&nbsp;(JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)&mdash;two Pakistan-based terror outfits have been eliminated.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a briefing on May 10 said that Operation Sindoor that Pakistan targeted hospitals and schools during its attack by violating airspace in 26 locations.&nbsp;
Earlier on May 7, when India conducted Operation Sindoor, women officers Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri informed that India exercised its right to respond. They said that India's actions were measured and non-escalatory, proportionate and responsible.&nbsp;
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indo-pak-tensions-india-to-consider-any-future-act-of-terror-as-act-of-war-govt-sources-9055241">Indo-Pak tensions | 'India to consider any future act of terror as act of war': Govt sources</a>

While US President Donald Trump claimed credit for the India-Pakistan ceasefire, India's statement did not mention the United States | India News, World, Pakistan

India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire on Saturday (May 10). While US President Donald Trump claimed credit for the India-Pakistan ceasefire, India's statement did not mention the United States. India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar reiterated India's commitment to fighting against terrorism but did not mention Trump or the US in his statement. Moreover, India's Ministry of Defence also briefed the nation on Pakistan's misinformation campaign, Operation Sindoor and ceasefire but did not mention the United States. However, Trump and his team have claimed credit for the ceasefire between the two nuclear nations. This is despite US Vice President JD Vance saying a day before that America would not directly "intervene" in the matter as it is "none of America's business". Trump and his team take credit Donald Trump shared a post on Truth Social announcing that India and Pakistan "have agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire" and that "common sense and great intelligence" have prevailed. He congratulated both the countries for the ceasefire. The US Department of State in a statement called the ceasefire a 'US-brokered.' pic.twitter.com/lRPhZpugBV — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 10, 2025 US claims credit for India, Pakistan 'understanding' achieved on ceasing military hostilities. State dept says it was a "U.S.-Brokered Ceasefire" between India and Pakistan pic.twitter.com/ycqOdH1rB6 — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) May 10, 2025 US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in a post on X said that US Vice President JD Vance and Rubio engaged with senior Indian and Pakistani officials over 48 hours to confirm the ceasefire. Rubio also said that they spoke to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistani Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir, Indian National Security Advisors Ajit Doval and Pakistani NSA Asim Malik. Over the past 48 hours, @VP Vance and I have engaged with senior Indian and Pakistani officials, including Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shehbaz Sharif, External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir, and National Security Advisors Ajit… — Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) May 10, 2025 Read More | From S-400 to BrahMos missile base: India EXPOSES Pakistan’s misinformation campaign after announcing ceasefire US Vice President JD Vance congratulated President Trump on the ceasefire, particularly Secretary Rubio. He also praised Indian and Pakistani leaders for their hard work and willingness for a ceasefire. Great work from the President’s team, especially Secretary Rubio. And my gratitude to the leaders of India and Pakistan for their hard work and willingness to engage in this ceasefire. https://t.co/ddDzFMAT3H — JD Vance (@JDVance) May 10, 2025 Meanwhile, Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif also gave credit to Trump and his team for "proactive role for peace in the region." He thanked US Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Rubio for their valuable contributions for peace in South Asia. He hailed the United States "for facilitating" the ceasefire and highlighted that Pakistan accepted it in the interest of regional peace and stability. We thank President Trump for his leadership and proactive role for peace in the region . Pakistan appreciates the United States for facilitating this outcome, which we have accepted in the interest of regional peace and stability. We also thank Vice President JD Vance and… — Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) May 10, 2025 'None of our business': Vance A day before, in an interview with Fox News, US V-P Vance had said, "What we can do is try to encourage these folks to de-escalate a little bit. But we're not going to get involved in the middle of a war that’s fundamentally none of our business and has nothing to do with America’s ability to control it." No mention of Trump in India's statement India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri addressed a press conference but did not mention Trump, Rubio, Vance or the United States. Misri said, "Pakistan's Directors General of Military Operations (DGMO) called the Indian DGMO at 15:35 hours earlier this afternoon. It was agreed between them that both sides would stop all firing and military action on land and in the air and sea with effect from 1700 hours Indian Standard Time. Today, instructions have been given on both sides to give effect to this understanding. The Directors General of Military Operations will talk again on the 12th of May at 1200 hours ." Foreign Secretary ShriVikram Misri has confirmed the implementation of a ceasefire under #OperationSindoor. At 15:35 hrs today, the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of Pakistan contacted his Indian counterpart, and both sides agreed to halt all military action—on… pic.twitter.com/a1PfmiBZpg — Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) May 10, 2025 Read More | India firm on its stance on terror, no rollback of actions against Pakistan including Indus Waters Treaty: Govt Sources after ceasefire Operation Sindoor In a powerful and strategic response to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, the Indian Armed Forces on early Wednesday (May 7) launched a series of precision strikes against nine terror camps located deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) under code-named Operation Sindoor. As per reports, at least five dreaded terrorists from Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)—two Pakistan-based terror outfits have been eliminated. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a briefing on May 10 said that Operation Sindoor that Pakistan targeted hospitals and schools during its attack by violating airspace in 26 locations. Earlier on May 7, when India conducted Operation Sindoor, women officers Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri informed that India exercised its right to respond. They said that India's actions were measured and non-escalatory, proportionate and responsible. Read More | Indo-Pak tensions | 'India to consider any future act of terror as act of war': Govt sources

From 'none of our business' to Trump claiming credit for Indo-Pak ceasefire: Here's what we know

The US Federal Reserve decided to keep key interest rates unchanged at 4.25 per cent &ndash; 4.5 per cent on May 07, even as US President Trump pushed for the central bank to cut rates immediately.
The Fed cited economic uncertainty due to Trump's trade wars on multiple fronts and recent mixed business activity data.
"In support of our goals, today the Federal Open Market Committee decided to leave our policy interest rate unchanged. The risks of higher unemployment and higher inflation appear to have risen, and we believe that the current stance of monetary policy leaves us well positioned to respond, in a timely way, to potential economic developments," said Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell.
The decision reflects the central bank's cautious stance in managing inflationary pressures and a possible economic slowdown, which is in line with market expectations.
&ldquo;Uncertainty about the economic outlook has increased further,&rdquo; the post-meeting statement said. &ldquo;The Committee is attentive to the risks to both sides of its dual mandate and judges that the risks of higher unemployment and higher inflation have risen.&rdquo;
The Federal Reserve and the stock market had expected lower rates this year as the economy slows down. But the tariffs could throw a wrench in those gears, Fed Chair Jerome Powell said, declining to commit to any rate cuts in 2025.
<h2 dir="ltr">Power play: Trump pushes, Powell holds</h2>
Donald Trump, who promised lower rates while campaigning for re-election last year, has frequently lashed out on Powell and the Federal Reserve for not easing the monetary policies. Trump has called on the Fed to lower rates "pre-emptively" and flirted with firing the head of the bank, criticising Powell as "a major loser" and "Mr Too Late" for not cutting rates fast enough.
In response toTrump and Vice President JD Vance&rsquo;s repeated calls for lower interest rates, asserting the Fed&rsquo;s independence Powell said, &ldquo;We are always going to do the same thing...use our tools to foster maximum employment and price stability...That&rsquo;s all we are going to consider,&rdquo; he said, adding that political pressure has &ldquo;no effect at all&rdquo; on the Federal Open Market Committee&rsquo;s decisions.
Warning against the possible implications of the tariffs, Powell said, &ldquo;If the large increases in tariffs that have been announced are sustained, they are likely to generate a rise in inflation, a slowdown in economic growth, and an increase in unemployment&rdquo;. He also warned these effects could be long-lasting depending on how the situation evolves.&nbsp;
Further replying to a question at the press conference about the supply chain disruption he said, &ldquo;I mean, we don&rsquo;t have the kind of tools that are good at dealing with supply chain problems&hellip;We don&rsquo;t have that at all. That&rsquo;s a job for the administration and for the private sector more than anything.&rdquo;
In theory, the Fed could lower interest rates to boost demand&mdash;but &ldquo;that would be a very inefficient way to try to fix supply chain problems,&rdquo; he added.
<h2 dir="ltr">The US economy</h2>
Real gross domestic product (GDP) of the United States decreased at an annual rate of 0.3 per cent in the first quarter of 2025 (January to March), according to the advance estimate released by the US Bureau of Economic Analysis, while the fourth quarter saw an increase of 2.4 per cent in real GDP.
Compared to the fourth quarter, the downturn in real GDP in the first quarter reflected an upturn in imports and a downturn in consumer and government spending that were partly offset by upturns in investment and exports. Despite the recent decline, many economists expect the economy will return to positive growth in the second quarter.
Employment growth remained positive despite Trump&rsquo;s efforts to pare down the federal workforce. The nonfarm payrolls increased by 177,000 in April, and the unemployment rate held at 4.2 per cent, giving the Fed room to breathe if it expects a further economic slowdown.
Inflation, one of the biggest concerns of the central bank, has been ticking lower and approaching the Fed&rsquo;s 2 per cent target, but tariffs are expected to result in at least a one-time rise in prices. However, Trump has pushed the Fed to cut rates as inflation has eased. The central bank&rsquo;s preferred gauge showed headline inflation at 2.3 per cent, or 2.6 per cent on core that excludes food and energy.
While the economic indicators offer a mixed bag, it all depends on what happens with tariffs.
Powell said there are cases in which it would be appropriate for the Fed to cut rates this year, but there are cases in which it wouldn&rsquo;t.
&ldquo;And we just don&rsquo;t know until we know more about how this is going to settle out and what the economic implications are for employment and for inflation. I couldn&rsquo;t confidently say that I know what the appropriate path will be,&rdquo; Powell said at a news conference following the central bank&rsquo;s latest policy decision.
Although Powell said tariffs won&rsquo;t change the Fed&rsquo;s mission to keep unemployment and inflation low, they could complicate it.
<h2 dir="ltr">Trade deals in focus</h2>
On April 02, US President Donald Trump announced steep tariffs on dozens of trading partners, but he later announced a 90-day pause on the levies. Governments from around the world have been trying to strike deals with the United States before the new deadline passes.
According to recent media reports, Washington is close to finalising trade deals with India and Israel. The US administration is also in talks with several other countries, including Japan, South Korea, and Vietnam. Trump has said he wants nations to strike new deals with the US as he tries to radically reshape the global trading system.
The country is also set to start a high-stakes meeting with China in Switzerland this weekend as a rapidly escalating trade war continues to threaten the two largest economies, however both have indicated that the focus will only be on &ldquo;de-escalation&rdquo;.&nbsp;
On May 06, The US President has teased what he called a "major trade deal", which would mark the first such agreement to be announced since he imposed tariffs on dozens of America's trading partners.&nbsp;
At a post-meeting press conference, the Fed Chair said, &ldquo;We are entering a new phase where the administration is entering into beginning talks with a number of our important trading partners, and that has the potential to change the (economic) picture materially or not.&rdquo;
&ldquo;The Trump administration is considering nearly 18 trade proposals, and some of them are in advanced stages,&rdquo; said Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on May 06.
<h2 dir="ltr">Markets reaction</h2>
The US stocks bounced around on May 07 as investors assessed Fed Chair Jerome Powell&rsquo;s remarks about the outlook for the economy after the central bank held rates steady, matching the market expectations.
As per Bloomberg data, the Dow Jones Futures was up 284.97 points, or 0.7 per cent, after briefly sliding as the decision to hold rates steady was announced. The S&amp;P 500 was up 0.43 per cent after shifting between gains and losses, and the Nasdaq Composite was up 0.27 per cent. The US dollar index, which measures the dollar&rsquo;s strength against six major foreign currencies, gained 0.39 per cent.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

Business & Economy: The US Federal Reserve decided to keep key interest rates unchanged at 4.25 per cent – 4.5 per cent, even as US President Trump pushed to cut rates.

The US Federal Reserve decided to keep key interest rates unchanged at 4.25 per cent – 4.5 per cent on May 07, even as US President Trump pushed for the central bank to cut rates immediately. The Fed cited economic uncertainty due to Trump's trade wars on multiple fronts and recent mixed business activity data. "In support of our goals, today the Federal Open Market Committee decided to leave our policy interest rate unchanged. The risks of higher unemployment and higher inflation appear to have risen, and we believe that the current stance of monetary policy leaves us well positioned to respond, in a timely way, to potential economic developments," said Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. The decision reflects the central bank's cautious stance in managing inflationary pressures and a possible economic slowdown, which is in line with market expectations. “Uncertainty about the economic outlook has increased further,” the post-meeting statement said. “The Committee is attentive to the risks to both sides of its dual mandate and judges that the risks of higher unemployment and higher inflation have risen.” The Federal Reserve and the stock market had expected lower rates this year as the economy slows down. But the tariffs could throw a wrench in those gears, Fed Chair Jerome Powell said, declining to commit to any rate cuts in 2025. Power play: Trump pushes, Powell holds Donald Trump, who promised lower rates while campaigning for re-election last year, has frequently lashed out on Powell and the Federal Reserve for not easing the monetary policies. Trump has called on the Fed to lower rates "pre-emptively" and flirted with firing the head of the bank, criticising Powell as "a major loser" and "Mr Too Late" for not cutting rates fast enough. In response toTrump and Vice President JD Vance’s repeated calls for lower interest rates, asserting the Fed’s independence Powell said, “We are always going to do the same thing...use our tools to foster maximum employment and price stability...That’s all we are going to consider,” he said, adding that political pressure has “no effect at all” on the Federal Open Market Committee’s decisions. Warning against the possible implications of the tariffs, Powell said, “If the large increases in tariffs that have been announced are sustained, they are likely to generate a rise in inflation, a slowdown in economic growth, and an increase in unemployment”. He also warned these effects could be long-lasting depending on how the situation evolves. Further replying to a question at the press conference about the supply chain disruption he said, “I mean, we don’t have the kind of tools that are good at dealing with supply chain problems…We don’t have that at all. That’s a job for the administration and for the private sector more than anything.” In theory, the Fed could lower interest rates to boost demand—but “that would be a very inefficient way to try to fix supply chain problems,” he added. The US economy Real gross domestic product (GDP) of the United States decreased at an annual rate of 0.3 per cent in the first quarter of 2025 (January to March), according to the advance estimate released by the US Bureau of Economic Analysis, while the fourth quarter saw an increase of 2.4 per cent in real GDP. Compared to the fourth quarter, the downturn in real GDP in the first quarter reflected an upturn in imports and a downturn in consumer and government spending that were partly offset by upturns in investment and exports. Despite the recent decline, many economists expect the economy will return to positive growth in the second quarter. Employment growth remained positive despite Trump’s efforts to pare down the federal workforce. The nonfarm payrolls increased by 177,000 in April, and the unemployment rate held at 4.2 per cent, giving the Fed room to breathe if it expects a further economic slowdown. Inflation, one of the biggest concerns of the central bank, has been ticking lower and approaching the Fed’s 2 per cent target, but tariffs are expected to result in at least a one-time rise in prices. However, Trump has pushed the Fed to cut rates as inflation has eased. The central bank’s preferred gauge showed headline inflation at 2.3 per cent, or 2.6 per cent on core that excludes food and energy. While the economic indicators offer a mixed bag, it all depends on what happens with tariffs. Powell said there are cases in which it would be appropriate for the Fed to cut rates this year, but there are cases in which it wouldn’t. “And we just don’t know until we know more about how this is going to settle out and what the economic implications are for employment and for inflation. I couldn’t confidently say that I know what the appropriate path will be,” Powell said at a news conference following the central bank’s latest policy decision. Although Powell said tariffs won’t change the Fed’s mission to keep unemployment and inflation low, they could complicate it. Trade deals in focus On April 02, US President Donald Trump announced steep tariffs on dozens of trading partners, but he later announced a 90-day pause on the levies. Governments from around the world have been trying to strike deals with the United States before the new deadline passes. According to recent media reports, Washington is close to finalising trade deals with India and Israel. The US administration is also in talks with several other countries, including Japan, South Korea, and Vietnam. Trump has said he wants nations to strike new deals with the US as he tries to radically reshape the global trading system. The country is also set to start a high-stakes meeting with China in Switzerland this weekend as a rapidly escalating trade war continues to threaten the two largest economies, however both have indicated that the focus will only be on “de-escalation”. On May 06, The US President has teased what he called a "major trade deal", which would mark the first such agreement to be announced since he imposed tariffs on dozens of America's trading partners. At a post-meeting press conference, the Fed Chair said, “We are entering a new phase where the administration is entering into beginning talks with a number of our important trading partners, and that has the potential to change the (economic) picture materially or not.” “The Trump administration is considering nearly 18 trade proposals, and some of them are in advanced stages,” said Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on May 06. Markets reaction The US stocks bounced around on May 07 as investors assessed Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s remarks about the outlook for the economy after the central bank held rates steady, matching the market expectations. As per Bloomberg data, the Dow Jones Futures was up 284.97 points, or 0.7 per cent, after briefly sliding as the decision to hold rates steady was announced. The S&P 500 was up 0.43 per cent after shifting between gains and losses, and the Nasdaq Composite was up 0.27 per cent. The US dollar index, which measures the dollar’s strength against six major foreign currencies, gained 0.39 per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

US Federal Reserve holds key rates amid tariff-driven uncertainties, warns against inflation

US President Donald Trump delivered a blunt message to Canada just before welcoming its new prime minister, Mark Carney, to the White House on Tuesday (May 06).
Posting on Truth Social, Trump claimed the United States &ldquo;doesn&rsquo;t need ANYTHING&rdquo; from its northern neighbour, not its cars, energy, or lumber.
&ldquo;I very much want to work with him, but cannot understand one simple TRUTH &mdash; Why is America subsidizing Canada by $200 Billion Dollars a year, in addition to giving them FREE Military Protection, and many other things?&rdquo; Trump wrote.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-canada-mark-carney-election-win-51st-state-us-canada-trade-war-9026857" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;51st state&rsquo; threat, trade tensions: Trump, Canada&rsquo;s Mark Carney to meet after 'anti-Trump' election win | What&rsquo;s at stake</a>
&ldquo;We don&rsquo;t need their Cars, we don&rsquo;t need their Energy, we don&rsquo;t need their Lumber, we don&rsquo;t need ANYTHING they have, other than their friendship, which hopefully we will always maintain.&rdquo;
<h2>Carney gets frosty welcome</h2>
Trump said Carney would be arriving at the White House shortly, adding that his &ldquo;only question of consequence&rdquo; would be why the US needs anything from Canada at all.
The comments come at a time when relations between the two countries remain strained following Canada&rsquo;s recent federal election. Carney, the new Liberal leader, ran a campaign heavily critical of Trump and used his victory speech to declare that Canada would &ldquo;never&rdquo; yield to US pressure.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-announces-two-new-national-holidays-but-expects-people-to-work-on-them-9041365" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump announces two new national holidays, but expects people to work on them</a>
<h2>Trump&rsquo;s numbers don&rsquo;t add up</h2>
The President&rsquo;s claim that the US is &ldquo;subsidising&rdquo; Canada by $200 billion a year is not supported by official data.
According to US government figures, the total trade deficit with Canada in 2024 stood at $35.7 billion. If only goods are counted, the deficit rises to $70.6 billion, still far below Trump&rsquo;s $200 billion figure.
<h2>Trade and tariffs remain sore points</h2>
Since returning to office, Trump has imposed heavy tariffs on Canadian goods and threatened key trade agreements. His approach has shaken long-standing ties between the two allies and played a major role in shaping Canada&rsquo;s recent election.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-does-trump-want-to-reopen-reopening-alcatraz-notorious-prison-closed-since-1963-9040899" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Why does Trump want to reopen Alcatraz, notorious prison closed since 1963?</a>
Mark Carney, a former Bank of England governor, was elected after vowing to protect Canadian sovereignty and push back against what he described as Trump&rsquo;s bullying tactics.

World: Posting on Truth Social, Trump claimed the United States “doesn’t need ANYTHING” from its northern neighbour, not its cars, energy, or lumber.

US President Donald Trump delivered a blunt message to Canada just before welcoming its new prime minister, Mark Carney, to the White House on Tuesday (May 06). Posting on Truth Social, Trump claimed the United States “doesn’t need ANYTHING” from its northern neighbour, not its cars, energy, or lumber. “I very much want to work with him, but cannot understand one simple TRUTH — Why is America subsidizing Canada by $200 Billion Dollars a year, in addition to giving them FREE Military Protection, and many other things?” Trump wrote. Also read: ‘51st state’ threat, trade tensions: Trump, Canada’s Mark Carney to meet after 'anti-Trump' election win | What’s at stake “We don’t need their Cars, we don’t need their Energy, we don’t need their Lumber, we don’t need ANYTHING they have, other than their friendship, which hopefully we will always maintain.” Carney gets frosty welcome Trump said Carney would be arriving at the White House shortly, adding that his “only question of consequence” would be why the US needs anything from Canada at all. The comments come at a time when relations between the two countries remain strained following Canada’s recent federal election. Carney, the new Liberal leader, ran a campaign heavily critical of Trump and used his victory speech to declare that Canada would “never” yield to US pressure. Also read: Trump announces two new national holidays, but expects people to work on them Trump’s numbers don’t add up The President’s claim that the US is “subsidising” Canada by $200 billion a year is not supported by official data. According to US government figures, the total trade deficit with Canada in 2024 stood at $35.7 billion. If only goods are counted, the deficit rises to $70.6 billion, still far below Trump’s $200 billion figure. Trade and tariffs remain sore points Since returning to office, Trump has imposed heavy tariffs on Canadian goods and threatened key trade agreements. His approach has shaken long-standing ties between the two allies and played a major role in shaping Canada’s recent election. Also read: Why does Trump want to reopen Alcatraz, notorious prison closed since 1963? Mark Carney, a former Bank of England governor, was elected after vowing to protect Canadian sovereignty and push back against what he described as Trump’s bullying tactics.

‘We don’t need ANYTHING from Canada’: Trump blasts Canada ahead of first meeting with PM Carney at White House

US President Donald Trump on Monday (May 5) was caught rambling when asked to explain his reasoning behind his order to reopen the notorious Alcatraz prison in San Francisco Bay.
On Sunday (May 4), Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, &ldquo;REBUILD, AND OPEN ALCATRAZ!&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-we-want-them-back-in-trump-admins-new-deportation-plan-include-1000-dollars-stipend-and-flight-assistance-9040077">'If we want them back in...': Trump admin's new deportation plan includes $1000 stipend, flight assistance and more</a>
&ldquo;For too long, America has been plagued by vicious, violent, and repeat Criminal Offenders, the dregs of society, who will never contribute anything other than Misery and Suffering. When we were a more serious Nation, in times past, we did not hesitate to lock up the most dangerous criminals, and keep them far away from anyone they could harm,&rdquo; he had said.
Trump said that the prison will be used &ldquo;to house America's most ruthless and violent Offenders,&rdquo; and his decision &ldquo;will serve as a symbol of Law, Order, and JUSTICE.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/is-trump-okay-us-president-gives-offtrack-reply-to-alcatraz-question-internet-calls-him-a-word-salad-video-9038757">Is Trump okay? US president gives off-track reply to Alcatraz question, internet calls him 'a word salad' | VIDEO</a>
<h2>Alcatraz prison</h2>
Alcatraz has been closed since 1963 due to high operating costs and had only remained open for 29 years, according to the US Bureau of Prisons. The reasons for its closure also include the high cost of supplying the island facility through a boat and the crumbling infrastructure.
The prison held several known criminals in past, including Prohibition-era mob boss Al Capone. According to the FBI, 36 inmates have attempted to escape the prison but were either caught or did not survive.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alcatraz-trump-wants-to-send-toughest-criminals-once-housed-al-capone-real-story-of-prison-of-last-resort-9037067">'Prison of last resort': Alcatraz, where Trump wants to send toughest criminals, once housed Al Capone. Here is its story</a>
The prison was also featured in the 1979 Hollywood film &ldquo;Escape from Alcatraz,&rdquo; starring Clinton Eastwood. Some social media users noted the film was recently aired on Saturday (May 3) on WLRN in South Florida, where Trump was staying at his Mar-a-Lago resort, hinting that&rsquo;s how Trump got the idea to reopen the long-shuttered penitentiary.
Democratic lawmaker and former House speaker Nancy Pelosi called Trump&rsquo;s plans to be not serious.
&ldquo;Alcatraz closed as a federal penitentiary more than sixty years ago. It is now a very popular national park and major tourist attraction. The President&rsquo;s proposal is not a serious one,&rdquo; she wrote on X.
In his immigration crackdown, Trump has invoked a wartime law to deport Venezuelan gang members and send them to a notorious prison in El Salvador, for which he is facing legal troubles. He also reopened the detention centre at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, to hold the &ldquo;worst criminal aliens.&rdquo;
Watch | Why does Trump want to reopen reopening Alcatraz, notorious prison closed since 1963
&nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/0505_ARJUN_PRISON_10AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/0505_ARJUN_PRISON_10AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=126&amp;tags=US, Trump, World News, WION" title="US President Donald Trump orders feds to re-open Alcatraz prison" id="PL_iframe_block-machj2gy-f21i44c7-57veghw6"></iframe>

While taking questions after confirming the NFL 2027 draft will take place in Washington, Trump was asked by a reporter, “How did you decide to reopen Alcatraz?” World | Trending

US President Donald Trump on Monday (May 5) was caught rambling when asked to explain his reasoning behind his order to reopen the notorious Alcatraz prison in San Francisco Bay. On Sunday (May 4), Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, “REBUILD, AND OPEN ALCATRAZ!” Also read | 'If we want them back in...': Trump admin's new deportation plan includes $1000 stipend, flight assistance and more “For too long, America has been plagued by vicious, violent, and repeat Criminal Offenders, the dregs of society, who will never contribute anything other than Misery and Suffering. When we were a more serious Nation, in times past, we did not hesitate to lock up the most dangerous criminals, and keep them far away from anyone they could harm,” he had said. Trump said that the prison will be used “to house America's most ruthless and violent Offenders,” and his decision “will serve as a symbol of Law, Order, and JUSTICE.” Also read | Is Trump okay? US president gives off-track reply to Alcatraz question, internet calls him 'a word salad' | VIDEO Alcatraz prison Alcatraz has been closed since 1963 due to high operating costs and had only remained open for 29 years, according to the US Bureau of Prisons. The reasons for its closure also include the high cost of supplying the island facility through a boat and the crumbling infrastructure. The prison held several known criminals in past, including Prohibition-era mob boss Al Capone. According to the FBI, 36 inmates have attempted to escape the prison but were either caught or did not survive. Also read | 'Prison of last resort': Alcatraz, where Trump wants to send toughest criminals, once housed Al Capone. Here is its story The prison was also featured in the 1979 Hollywood film “Escape from Alcatraz,” starring Clinton Eastwood. Some social media users noted the film was recently aired on Saturday (May 3) on WLRN in South Florida, where Trump was staying at his Mar-a-Lago resort, hinting that’s how Trump got the idea to reopen the long-shuttered penitentiary. Democratic lawmaker and former House speaker Nancy Pelosi called Trump’s plans to be not serious. “Alcatraz closed as a federal penitentiary more than sixty years ago. It is now a very popular national park and major tourist attraction. The President’s proposal is not a serious one,” she wrote on X. In his immigration crackdown, Trump has invoked a wartime law to deport Venezuelan gang members and send them to a notorious prison in El Salvador, for which he is facing legal troubles. He also reopened the detention centre at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, to hold the “worst criminal aliens.” Watch | Why does Trump want to reopen reopening Alcatraz, notorious prison closed since 1963

Why does Trump want to reopen Alcatraz, notorious prison closed since 1963?

A group of pro-Palestenian supporters allegedly occupied an academic building at the University of Washington and were later arrested. They demanded that the school sever ties with Boeing for its role in supplying weapons used in the Gaza war, according to the university and a spokesperson for the group. &nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-macdlmwt-qfjxq8ta-rftgd4bg">
Breaking: Several law enforcement agencies have arrived on scene to break up the criminal Gaza occupation at the University of Washington. Authorities have issued an order to disperse of face arrest. <a href="https://t.co/fBDcz5y6ub">pic.twitter.com/fBDcz5y6ub</a>
&mdash; Katie Daviscourt 📸 (@KatieDaviscourt) <a href="https://twitter.com/KatieDaviscourt/status/1919634762555130276?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2025</a></blockquote>
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-we-want-them-back-in-trump-admins-new-deportation-plan-include-1000-dollars-stipend-and-flight-assistance-9040077">'If we want them back in...': Trump admin's new deportation plan includes $1000 stipend, flight assistance and more</a>
The university said in a statement that the Interdisciplinary Engineering Building was occupied by the protesters shortly before 5 p.m. The engineering building was partially funded by Boeing, according to the university&rsquo;s website. "UW police are on-site at the Interdisciplinary Engineering Building, which was occupied by a few dozen individuals starting just before the building closed at 5 p.m.," the university said.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-macdm2tz-c3imhfn1-pkmtwx7b">
BREAKING: Law enforcement has breached the mechanical engineering building at the University of Washington. An operation is underway to remove Gaza camp occupiers. Developing&hellip;<a href="https://t.co/yu8gbSsOKm">pic.twitter.com/yu8gbSsOKm</a>
&mdash; NextGenUSA 🇺🇸 (@Next_GenUSA) <a href="https://twitter.com/Next_GenUSA/status/1919697442829730050?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2025</a></blockquote>
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-pro-palestine-columbia-activist-arrested-at-us-citizenship-interview-8963146">Columbia pro-Palestine activist arrested after arriving at immigration office for US citizenship interview: Who is he</a>
The students were part of a group - Students United for Palestinian Equality &amp; Return - said that they hoped "to remove the influence of Boeing and other manufacturing companies from our educational space." Charges including trespassing, property destruction, disorderly conduct and conspiracy was pressed on the students.
Protesters called for the building to be renamed after a teenage engineering student who they say was killed in an airstrike in Gaza.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-indian-students-in-trumps-us-are-facing-deportation-drunk-driving-shoplifting-speeding-8941370">Why Indian students in Trump's US facing deportation: 'Drunk driving, shoplifting, speeding'</a>
<h2>Visas of Pro-Palestine supporters revoked</h2>
Earlier, the US Immigration officials sent notices to foreign students who took part in pro-Palestine protests. In March, visas of hundreds of international students, including many from India, was revoked. Students received emails from the US State Department instructing them to self-deport as their visas have been revoked. While these emails cited petty crimes such as shoplifting, drunk driving, etc as reasons for deportation, many reports suggest that students were deported due to their alleged involvement in campus activism. According to a report by the Associated Press, most students received letters due to their activities in support of the Gaza crisis on the internet.&nbsp;
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-vs-harvard-university-mcmahon-says-university-should-no-longer-seek-grants-from-govt-9040508">Trump vs Harvard University: McMahon says university should no longer seek grants from govt</a>

World | A group of pro-Palestinian supporters allegedly occupied an academic building at the University of Washington and demanded that the school sever ties with Boeing

A group of pro-Palestenian supporters allegedly occupied an academic building at the University of Washington and were later arrested. They demanded that the school sever ties with Boeing for its role in supplying weapons used in the Gaza war, according to the university and a spokesperson for the group. Breaking: Several law enforcement agencies have arrived on scene to break up the criminal Gaza occupation at the University of Washington. Authorities have issued an order to disperse of face arrest. pic.twitter.com/fBDcz5y6ub — Katie Daviscourt 📸 (@KatieDaviscourt) May 6, 2025 Read More | 'If we want them back in...': Trump admin's new deportation plan includes $1000 stipend, flight assistance and more The university said in a statement that the Interdisciplinary Engineering Building was occupied by the protesters shortly before 5 p.m. The engineering building was partially funded by Boeing, according to the university’s website. "UW police are on-site at the Interdisciplinary Engineering Building, which was occupied by a few dozen individuals starting just before the building closed at 5 p.m.," the university said. BREAKING: Law enforcement has breached the mechanical engineering building at the University of Washington. An operation is underway to remove Gaza camp occupiers. Developing…pic.twitter.com/yu8gbSsOKm — NextGenUSA 🇺🇸 (@Next_GenUSA) May 6, 2025 Read More | Columbia pro-Palestine activist arrested after arriving at immigration office for US citizenship interview: Who is he The students were part of a group - Students United for Palestinian Equality & Return - said that they hoped "to remove the influence of Boeing and other manufacturing companies from our educational space." Charges including trespassing, property destruction, disorderly conduct and conspiracy was pressed on the students. Protesters called for the building to be renamed after a teenage engineering student who they say was killed in an airstrike in Gaza. Read More | Why Indian students in Trump's US facing deportation: 'Drunk driving, shoplifting, speeding' Visas of Pro-Palestine supporters revoked Earlier, the US Immigration officials sent notices to foreign students who took part in pro-Palestine protests. In March, visas of hundreds of international students, including many from India, was revoked. Students received emails from the US State Department instructing them to self-deport as their visas have been revoked. While these emails cited petty crimes such as shoplifting, drunk driving, etc as reasons for deportation, many reports suggest that students were deported due to their alleged involvement in campus activism. According to a report by the Associated Press, most students received letters due to their activities in support of the Gaza crisis on the internet. Read More | Trump vs Harvard University: McMahon says university should no longer seek grants from govt

Masked pro-Palestinian protesters arrested after occupying University of Washington building

The US Department of Homeland Security on Monday said that the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-an-alien-breaks-law-trump-admins-big-warning-to-green-card-holders-says-its-a-privilege-not-a-right-9038846">Trump</a>&nbsp;administration will offer a $1,000 stipend and travel assistance to migrants who elect to voluntarily "self-deport" from America.&nbsp;The stipend and potential airfare for migrants who voluntarily depart would cost less than an actual deportation, the agency said. The average cost of arresting, detaining and deporting someone without legal status is currently about $17,000, according to DHS.
"If you are here illegally, self-deportation is the best, safest and most cost-effective way to leave the United States to avoid arrest. DHS is now offering illegal aliens financial travel assistance and a stipend to return to their home country through the CBP Home App,&rdquo; Secretary Kristi Noem said, according to news agency AP.
In the announcement, DHS said people who choose to leave "may help preserve" the ability to return legally, but did not cite any specific pathway or program. "If they're good, if we want them back in, we're going to work with them to get them back in as quickly as we can," he said.
&ldquo;The first use of travel assistance has already proven successful. An illegal alien that the Biden Administration allowed into our country recently utilized the program to receive a ticket for a flight from Chicago to Honduras,&rdquo; the agency said.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-trump-orders-new-limitations-on-research-aimed-at-enhancing-pathogen-9039052">US President Trump orders new limitations on research aimed at enhancing pathogen</a>
The Trump administration has deported 152,000 people since January 20, according to DHS, lower than the 195,000 deported from February-April last year under his Democratic predecessor Joe Biden. This is despite&nbsp;Trump pledging to deport millions of people ahead of his oath-taking in January. Trump's administration has tried to encourage migrants to leave voluntarily by threatening steep fines, trying to strip away legal status, and deporting migrants to notorious prisons in Guantanamo Bay and El Salvador.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-pak-tensions-centre-orders-civil-defence-drills-to-test-public-alert-system-response-9040211">India-Pak tensions: Centre orders civil defence drills to test public alert system &amp; response</a> However, the immigrant advocacy group Make the Road New York criticised the stipend program and said migrants considering the offer should consult with an attorney.
Natalia Aristizabal, the group's deputy director, while speaking to news agency Reuters called the program "cruel" and "misleading" and said the Trump administration failed to note the barriers that many migrants would face to return to the U.S. Trump administration will offer a $1,000 stipend and travel assistance to migrants who elect to voluntarily "self-deport" from The US, the Department of Homeland Security said on Monday.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-admin-in-us-begins-student-loan-collections-after-almost-four-years-9039056">Took student loan in US? It's time to pay back or Trump admin will deduct it from your salary: All you need to know</a>
&nbsp;

World | The Trump administration will offer a $1,000 stipend and travel assistance to migrants who elect to voluntarily "self-deport" from America

The US Department of Homeland Security on Monday said that the Trump administration will offer a $1,000 stipend and travel assistance to migrants who elect to voluntarily "self-deport" from America. The stipend and potential airfare for migrants who voluntarily depart would cost less than an actual deportation, the agency said. The average cost of arresting, detaining and deporting someone without legal status is currently about $17,000, according to DHS. "If you are here illegally, self-deportation is the best, safest and most cost-effective way to leave the United States to avoid arrest. DHS is now offering illegal aliens financial travel assistance and a stipend to return to their home country through the CBP Home App,” Secretary Kristi Noem said, according to news agency AP. In the announcement, DHS said people who choose to leave "may help preserve" the ability to return legally, but did not cite any specific pathway or program. "If they're good, if we want them back in, we're going to work with them to get them back in as quickly as we can," he said. “The first use of travel assistance has already proven successful. An illegal alien that the Biden Administration allowed into our country recently utilized the program to receive a ticket for a flight from Chicago to Honduras,” the agency said. Read More | US President Trump orders new limitations on research aimed at enhancing pathogen The Trump administration has deported 152,000 people since January 20, according to DHS, lower than the 195,000 deported from February-April last year under his Democratic predecessor Joe Biden. This is despite Trump pledging to deport millions of people ahead of his oath-taking in January. Trump's administration has tried to encourage migrants to leave voluntarily by threatening steep fines, trying to strip away legal status, and deporting migrants to notorious prisons in Guantanamo Bay and El Salvador. Read More | India-Pak tensions: Centre orders civil defence drills to test public alert system & response However, the immigrant advocacy group Make the Road New York criticised the stipend program and said migrants considering the offer should consult with an attorney. Natalia Aristizabal, the group's deputy director, while speaking to news agency Reuters called the program "cruel" and "misleading" and said the Trump administration failed to note the barriers that many migrants would face to return to the U.S. Trump administration will offer a $1,000 stipend and travel assistance to migrants who elect to voluntarily "self-deport" from The US, the Department of Homeland Security said on Monday. Read More | Took student loan in US? It's time to pay back or Trump admin will deduct it from your salary: All you need to know

'If we want them back in...': Trump admin's new deportation plan includes $1000 stipend, flight assistance and more

<div data-olk-copy-source="MailCompose">The fast-fashion e-commerce giants, Shein and Temu are recalibrating their global strategies as the US tightens its grip on low-cost imports. With new tariffs and the elimination of a critical trade exemption threatening their profits, both companies are aggressively expanding their digital presence in Europe and Latin America, according to Reuters.</div>
<div></div>
<div>In April, Shein increased its digital ad spending by 35 per cent in France and the United Kingdom, while China&rsquo;s PDD Group's Temu upped its ad investments by 40 per cent and 20 per cent in the same markets, respectively. This marks a deliberate shift away from the US, where the recent end of the &ldquo;de minimis&rdquo; exemption has raised the cost of doing business. According to Reuters, this exemption had previously allowed packages valued under $800 to enter the country tariff-free as a loophole Shein and Temu had used to rapidly scale their business by shipping cheap products directly to American consumers.</div>
<div></div>
<div>As per Reuters, the withdrawal of this benefit came into effect on May 2 and has already begun reshaping digital ad trends. Both companies slashed their advertising in the US last month in anticipation of the policy change. At the same time, they&rsquo;ve reportedly begun increasing prices to absorb the impact of new duties as a move that could hurt their appeal among cost-conscious American shoppers.</div>
<div></div>
<div>Singapore-based Shein and Temu were among the most aggressive ad buyers during the last holiday season, driving up digital ad bid rates as they fought to dominate the US market with ultra-affordable products like $12 dresses and $5 accessories. Their low pricing strategies had also disrupted legacy retailers such as Gap, H&amp;M, Zara, and even US dollar stores.</div>
<div></div>
<div>While their European push includes markets like Germany, Italy, and Spain, the UK and France have seen the most pronounced uptick in advertising. According to Reuters, Shein downloads in the UK surged by 25 per cent last month, while Temu downloads more than doubled. However, daily app usage saw only modest growth, with Shein&rsquo;s UK active user base rising 5 per cent and Temu&rsquo;s by 10 per cent.</div>
<div></div>
<div>Year-on-year, Temu ramped up its UK ad spending by 20 per cent and an astonishing 115 per cent in France, while Shein saw a 100 per cent rise in the UK and 45 per cent in France, as per Reuters data from Sensor Tower.</div>
<div></div>
<h2>Brazil Becomes the Next Battleground</h2>
<div>The rivalry is also heating up in Latin America. According to Reuters, Shein boosted its ad spending in Brazil by 140 per cent compared to last April. The company, which manufactures locally in Brazil to better serve Latin American markets, is facing increasing competition from Temu, which is preparing for a formal launch in the region this June.</div>
<div></div>
<div>Reuters also reported that Temu&rsquo;s Brazilian ad spending skyrocketed 800-fold year-on-year, following a playbook it used when it entered the US market in September 2022. As noted by Kara Lee, brand and digital analyst at Sensor Tower, "both companies appear to be employing similar market penetration strategies: spend aggressively, dominate visibility, and localize production".</div>
<div></div>
<h2>Trump Tariffs Hit US Fashion Economy</h2>
<div>The ramifications of these trade shifts go far beyond Shein and Temu. The broader US fashion industry is now bracing for a significant economic impact. The American apparel market projected to be worth $365.7 billion in 2025 which stands to lose up to $18 billion in revenue due to the elimination of the de minimis exemption and the broader tariff regime, according to an analysis by the National Retail Federation and Trade Partnership Worldwide.</div>
<div></div>
<div>As per data cited by eMarketer, retail apparel prices are expected to rise by at least 8 per cent due to retaliatory tariffs, and potentially as much as 17 per cent when all proposed duties are considered. These cost increases will likely hit low- to middle-income families hardest, particularly those who rely on affordable fashion options. While some US retailers may benefit from reduced competition; the immediate outlook remains uncertain. Supply chains are being restructured, logistics costs are climbing, and price-sensitive shoppers are becoming harder to retain all consequences of a global fashion market jolted by protectionist trade policies.</div>
<div></div>
<div></div>

Business & Economy: Shein and Temu are aggressively expanding their digital presence in Europe and Latin America amid Trump tariff escalation.

The fast-fashion e-commerce giants, Shein and Temu are recalibrating their global strategies as the US tightens its grip on low-cost imports. With new tariffs and the elimination of a critical trade exemption threatening their profits, both companies are aggressively expanding their digital presence in Europe and Latin America, according to Reuters. In April, Shein increased its digital ad spending by 35 per cent in France and the United Kingdom, while China’s PDD Group's Temu upped its ad investments by 40 per cent and 20 per cent in the same markets, respectively. This marks a deliberate shift away from the US, where the recent end of the “de minimis” exemption has raised the cost of doing business. According to Reuters, this exemption had previously allowed packages valued under $800 to enter the country tariff-free as a loophole Shein and Temu had used to rapidly scale their business by shipping cheap products directly to American consumers. As per Reuters, the withdrawal of this benefit came into effect on May 2 and has already begun reshaping digital ad trends. Both companies slashed their advertising in the US last month in anticipation of the policy change. At the same time, they’ve reportedly begun increasing prices to absorb the impact of new duties as a move that could hurt their appeal among cost-conscious American shoppers. Singapore-based Shein and Temu were among the most aggressive ad buyers during the last holiday season, driving up digital ad bid rates as they fought to dominate the US market with ultra-affordable products like $12 dresses and $5 accessories. Their low pricing strategies had also disrupted legacy retailers such as Gap, H&M, Zara, and even US dollar stores. While their European push includes markets like Germany, Italy, and Spain, the UK and France have seen the most pronounced uptick in advertising. According to Reuters, Shein downloads in the UK surged by 25 per cent last month, while Temu downloads more than doubled. However, daily app usage saw only modest growth, with Shein’s UK active user base rising 5 per cent and Temu’s by 10 per cent. Year-on-year, Temu ramped up its UK ad spending by 20 per cent and an astonishing 115 per cent in France, while Shein saw a 100 per cent rise in the UK and 45 per cent in France, as per Reuters data from Sensor Tower. Brazil Becomes the Next Battleground The rivalry is also heating up in Latin America. According to Reuters, Shein boosted its ad spending in Brazil by 140 per cent compared to last April. The company, which manufactures locally in Brazil to better serve Latin American markets, is facing increasing competition from Temu, which is preparing for a formal launch in the region this June. Reuters also reported that Temu’s Brazilian ad spending skyrocketed 800-fold year-on-year, following a playbook it used when it entered the US market in September 2022. As noted by Kara Lee, brand and digital analyst at Sensor Tower, "both companies appear to be employing similar market penetration strategies: spend aggressively, dominate visibility, and localize production". Trump Tariffs Hit US Fashion Economy The ramifications of these trade shifts go far beyond Shein and Temu. The broader US fashion industry is now bracing for a significant economic impact. The American apparel market projected to be worth $365.7 billion in 2025 which stands to lose up to $18 billion in revenue due to the elimination of the de minimis exemption and the broader tariff regime, according to an analysis by the National Retail Federation and Trade Partnership Worldwide. As per data cited by eMarketer, retail apparel prices are expected to rise by at least 8 per cent due to retaliatory tariffs, and potentially as much as 17 per cent when all proposed duties are considered. These cost increases will likely hit low- to middle-income families hardest, particularly those who rely on affordable fashion options. While some US retailers may benefit from reduced competition; the immediate outlook remains uncertain. Supply chains are being restructured, logistics costs are climbing, and price-sensitive shoppers are becoming harder to retain all consequences of a global fashion market jolted by protectionist trade policies.

Shein and Temu pivot to Europe as the US tariffs threaten fast-fashion fortunes

The Trump administration on Monday has said that it will resume collecting defaulted student loans stating that "there will not be any mass loan forgiveness." It&rsquo;s expected to affect the more than 5 million borrowers who are in default. The Department of Education stated in a release that it&nbsp;has not collected on defaulted loans since March 2020. The Education Department urged student borrowers in default to contact the student aid office&rsquo;s Default Resolution Group and make a monthly payment, enroll in an income-driven repayment plan, or sign up for loan rehabilitation.
"American taxpayers will no longer be forced to serve as collateral for irresponsible student loan policies," said US Secretary of Education Linda McMahon in a statement.
The Education Department in its release also said, "The previous Administration failed to process applications for borrowers who applied for income-driven repayment and continued to push misguided &ldquo;on-ramps&rdquo; and illegal loan forgiveness schemes to win points with borrowers and mask rising delinquency and default rates."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-mac2l611-wxz0ngq5-gr4wklri">
Starting today, May 5, the Department is resuming collections to protect taxpayers from shouldering the cost of student loans. Federal student loans are financed by the American people and must be paid back. <a href="https://t.co/yQmP12Tojy">https://t.co/yQmP12Tojy</a> <a href="https://t.co/BIlSBPLHhB">pic.twitter.com/BIlSBPLHhB</a>
&mdash; U.S. Department of Education (@usedgov) <a href="https://twitter.com/usedgov/status/1919422713854132389?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/is-trump-okay-us-president-gives-offtrack-reply-to-alcatraz-question-internet-calls-him-a-word-salad-video-9038757">Is Trump okay? US president gives off-track reply to Alcatraz question, internet calls him 'a word salad' | VIDEO</a>
As part of its move to resume collection of these debts, the government has restarted the Treasury Offset Program, which collects debts by garnishing federal and state payments, such as tax returns or social security benefits.
"Going forward, the Department of Education, in conjunction with the Department of Treasury, will shepherd the student loan program responsibly and according to the law, which means helping borrowers return to repayment&mdash;both for the sake of their own financial health and our nation&rsquo;s economic outlook," it added.
This comes as the Trump administration attempts to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-administration-forgives-an-additional-74-billion-in-student-loans-710506" rel="dofollow">roll back former President Joe Biden&rsquo;s policies</a>, including those around student loan forgiveness.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-pakistans-army-cant-handle-a-real-war-9039201">Why Pakistan's army can't handle a real war?</a>
<h2>Who will be affected by student loan collections?</h2>
Federal student loans go into default after 270 days without payment. When a student loan goes in default, it is reflected on the credit report, as per CNN. A student can check on the status of loan by reaching out to student loan servicer or visiting the Federal Student Aid website for more information.
According to the Department of Education&rsquo;s website, student can no longer receive deferment or forbearance, which allows them to temporarily stop making payments on your loan.&nbsp;
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-an-alien-breaks-law-trump-admins-big-warning-to-green-card-holders-says-its-a-privilege-not-a-right-9038846">'If an alien breaks law...': Trump admin's big warning to Green card holders, says it's a 'privilege, not a right'</a>

World | The Trump administration on Monday has said that it will resume collecting defaulted student loans stating that "there will not be any mass loan forgiveness."

The Trump administration on Monday has said that it will resume collecting defaulted student loans stating that "there will not be any mass loan forgiveness." It’s expected to affect the more than 5 million borrowers who are in default. The Department of Education stated in a release that it has not collected on defaulted loans since March 2020. The Education Department urged student borrowers in default to contact the student aid office’s Default Resolution Group and make a monthly payment, enroll in an income-driven repayment plan, or sign up for loan rehabilitation. "American taxpayers will no longer be forced to serve as collateral for irresponsible student loan policies," said US Secretary of Education Linda McMahon in a statement. The Education Department in its release also said, "The previous Administration failed to process applications for borrowers who applied for income-driven repayment and continued to push misguided “on-ramps” and illegal loan forgiveness schemes to win points with borrowers and mask rising delinquency and default rates." Starting today, May 5, the Department is resuming collections to protect taxpayers from shouldering the cost of student loans. Federal student loans are financed by the American people and must be paid back. https://t.co/yQmP12Tojy pic.twitter.com/BIlSBPLHhB — U.S. Department of Education (@usedgov) May 5, 2025 Read More | Is Trump okay? US president gives off-track reply to Alcatraz question, internet calls him 'a word salad' | VIDEO As part of its move to resume collection of these debts, the government has restarted the Treasury Offset Program, which collects debts by garnishing federal and state payments, such as tax returns or social security benefits. "Going forward, the Department of Education, in conjunction with the Department of Treasury, will shepherd the student loan program responsibly and according to the law, which means helping borrowers return to repayment—both for the sake of their own financial health and our nation’s economic outlook," it added. This comes as the Trump administration attempts to roll back former President Joe Biden’s policies, including those around student loan forgiveness. Read More | Why Pakistan's army can't handle a real war? Who will be affected by student loan collections? Federal student loans go into default after 270 days without payment. When a student loan goes in default, it is reflected on the credit report, as per CNN. A student can check on the status of loan by reaching out to student loan servicer or visiting the Federal Student Aid website for more information. According to the Department of Education’s website, student can no longer receive deferment or forbearance, which allows them to temporarily stop making payments on your loan. Read More | 'If an alien breaks law...': Trump admin's big warning to Green card holders, says it's a 'privilege, not a right'

Took student loan in US? It's time to pay back or Trump admin will deduct it from your salary: All you need to know

In a continued crackdown on immigration, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/is-trump-okay-us-president-gives-offtrack-reply-to-alcatraz-question-internet-calls-him-a-word-salad-video-9038757" rel="dofollow">Trump </a>administration in the United States has now warned green card holders that it is a "privilege" and "not a right" and can be revoked.&nbsp;
In a recent post on X, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said, "Green cards and visas will be revoked if an alien breaks the law." The message comes as part of a wider crackdown under a policy known as &lsquo;Catch-And-Revoke.&rsquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-mabyq0kb-qdggphf0-uigkxhbh">
We continuously work alongside our <a href="https://twitter.com/DHSgov?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DHSgov</a> partners to rigorously vet all aliens even after a visa or green card has been obtained. This vigilance is essential to making America safe again. Break the laws and you will lose your green card or visa privilege. <a href="https://t.co/VM0gjhsFXQ">pic.twitter.com/VM0gjhsFXQ</a>
&mdash; USCIS (@USCIS) <a href="https://twitter.com/USCIS/status/1918289373939785835?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2025</a></blockquote>
The X post further highlighted that green card holders must respect the laws and values of America. It warned that if gren card holders 'advocate for violence, endorse or support terrorist activity,' their cards will be revoked and they will not be eligible to stay in the United States. "Coming to America and receiving a visa or green card is a privilege. Our laws and values must be respected. If you advocate for violence, endorse or support terrorist activity, or encourage others to do so, you are no longer eligible to stay in the US," the post stated.
"This vigilance is essential to making America safe again. Break the laws and you will lose your green card or visa privilege," USCIS post on X added.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-mabyqjx7-qst0sh4t-uqt2m7r0">
Having a visa or green card is a privilege that can be taken away. Our rigorous security vetting does not end once you've been granted access to the U.S. If you come to our country and break the law, there will be consequences, and you will lose your privileges. <a href="https://t.co/fyK0y0QKAs">pic.twitter.com/fyK0y0QKAs</a>
&mdash; USCIS (@USCIS) <a href="https://twitter.com/USCIS/status/1917993986469322881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio backed the policy, saying: &ldquo;Whenever the government catches non-US citizens breaking our laws, we will take action to revoke their status. The era of abusing our nation&rsquo;s generosity is over.&rdquo;
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deportation-of-indian-student-with-less-than-30-days-for-graduation-temporarily-blocked-by-us-judge-8967167">Deportation of Indian student&nbsp;with less than 30 days for graduation temporarily blocked by US judge</a>
<h2>Social media activities may lead to rejection of visas</h2>
Earlier in March, the USCIS had announced that it is scanning visa applicants' social media handles under a new proposal. This included scanning of posts on Instagram, Facebook, X, TikTok or any other social profiles.
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, in a statement, said that it will now take "aliens&rsquo; antisemitic activity on social media and the physical harassment of Jewish individuals as grounds for denying immigration benefit requests."
According to USCIS, posts supporting "antisemitic terrorism, violent antisemitic ideologies, antisemitic terrorist organizations such as Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Hezbollah and &nbsp;Yemen's Houthis" &mdash; will be treated as grounds for denying visas.
As per reports, applicants may be asked to list their social media handles on nine immigration forms, though not passwords.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-tells-its-nationals-in-pakistan-to-return-at-the-earliest-gives-deadline-to-pakistanis-for-exiting-india-8997408">India issues clarification on visas to Hindu Pakistanis, tells its nationals in Pakistan "to return at the earliest"</a>
<h3>Indian students face deportation</h3>
Visas of hundreds of international students in the United States, including many from India, have been revoked. Students received emails from the US State Department instructing them to self-deport as their visas have been revoked. While these emails cited petty crimes such as shoplifting, drunk driving, etc as reasons for deportation, many reports suggest that students were deported due to their alleged involvement in campus activism.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/travel/5-countries-where-indians-can-work-remotely-without-a-visa-9017199">5 Countries Where Indians Can Work Remotely Without a Visa</a>

The Trump administration in the United States has now warned green card holders that it is a "privilege" and "not a right" and can be revoked. Here's why

In a continued crackdown on immigration, the Trump administration in the United States has now warned green card holders that it is a "privilege" and "not a right" and can be revoked. In a recent post on X, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said, "Green cards and visas will be revoked if an alien breaks the law." The message comes as part of a wider crackdown under a policy known as ‘Catch-And-Revoke.’ We continuously work alongside our @DHSgov partners to rigorously vet all aliens even after a visa or green card has been obtained. This vigilance is essential to making America safe again. Break the laws and you will lose your green card or visa privilege. pic.twitter.com/VM0gjhsFXQ — USCIS (@USCIS) May 2, 2025 The X post further highlighted that green card holders must respect the laws and values of America. It warned that if gren card holders 'advocate for violence, endorse or support terrorist activity,' their cards will be revoked and they will not be eligible to stay in the United States. "Coming to America and receiving a visa or green card is a privilege. Our laws and values must be respected. If you advocate for violence, endorse or support terrorist activity, or encourage others to do so, you are no longer eligible to stay in the US," the post stated. "This vigilance is essential to making America safe again. Break the laws and you will lose your green card or visa privilege," USCIS post on X added. Having a visa or green card is a privilege that can be taken away. Our rigorous security vetting does not end once you've been granted access to the U.S. If you come to our country and break the law, there will be consequences, and you will lose your privileges. pic.twitter.com/fyK0y0QKAs — USCIS (@USCIS) May 1, 2025 Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio backed the policy, saying: “Whenever the government catches non-US citizens breaking our laws, we will take action to revoke their status. The era of abusing our nation’s generosity is over.” Read More | Deportation of Indian student with less than 30 days for graduation temporarily blocked by US judge Social media activities may lead to rejection of visas Earlier in March, the USCIS had announced that it is scanning visa applicants' social media handles under a new proposal. This included scanning of posts on Instagram, Facebook, X, TikTok or any other social profiles. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, in a statement, said that it will now take "aliens’ antisemitic activity on social media and the physical harassment of Jewish individuals as grounds for denying immigration benefit requests." According to USCIS, posts supporting "antisemitic terrorism, violent antisemitic ideologies, antisemitic terrorist organizations such as Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Hezbollah and Yemen's Houthis" — will be treated as grounds for denying visas. As per reports, applicants may be asked to list their social media handles on nine immigration forms, though not passwords. Read More | India issues clarification on visas to Hindu Pakistanis, tells its nationals in Pakistan "to return at the earliest" Indian students face deportation Visas of hundreds of international students in the United States, including many from India, have been revoked. Students received emails from the US State Department instructing them to self-deport as their visas have been revoked. While these emails cited petty crimes such as shoplifting, drunk driving, etc as reasons for deportation, many reports suggest that students were deported due to their alleged involvement in campus activism. Read More | 5 Countries Where Indians Can Work Remotely Without a Visa

'If an alien breaks law...': Trump admin's big warning to Green card holders, says it's a 'privilege, not a right'

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