<p>In a major victory for US President Joe Biden ahead of November's crucial midterm elections, the Senate has passed the climate and health bill worth $750 billion.</p>

<p>Marking the biggest investment in US history in the fight against climate change, the bill proposes a series of financial incentives aimed at steering the world's biggest economy away from fossil fuels.</p>

<p>For example, every American who buys an electric vehicle will be allotted up to $7,500 in tax credits and anyone installing solar panels on their roof would see 30 per cent of the cost subsidised.</p>

<p>From wind turbines to the processing of minerals needed for electric car batteries, around $60 billion would be allocated for clean energy manufacturing.</p>

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<p>Through grants for home renovation to improve energy efficiency and access to less polluting modes of transportation, the same amount would go towards programs to help drive investment in underprivileged communities.</p>

<p>In comparison to 2005's levels, the bill aims to help the United States reduce its carbon emissions by 40 percent by 2030.</p>

<p>By reining in skyrocketing prescription drug prices, the bill will help reduce the huge disparities in access to health care across the United States.</p>

<p>In order to yield better results, the nation's health insurance plan for those aged 65 and older, Medicare could be permitted to negotiate prices of certain medications directly with Big Pharma for the first time.</p>

<p>If the prices rise faster than soaring US inflation the plan would require pharmaceutical companies to offer rebates on certain drugs.</p>

<p>Extending benefits under Barack Obama's signature Affordable Care, the bill will ensure cheaper prescription drugs.</p>

<p>Seeking to pare down the federal deficit through the adoption of a minimum corporate tax of 15 percent for all companies, the Inflation Reduction Act will prevent certain massive firms from taking undue advantage of tax havens to pay far less than what they theoretically owe.</p>

<p>Over the next 10 years, the measure could generate more than $258 billion in tax revenue for US government coffers, according to estimates.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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In a major victory for US President Joe Biden ahead of November's crucial midterm elections, the Senate has passed the climate and health bill worth $750 billion.

In a major victory for US President Joe Biden ahead of November's crucial midterm elections, the Senate has passed the climate and health bill worth $750 billion. Marking the biggest investment in US history in the fight against climate change, the bill proposes a series of financial incentives aimed at steering the world's biggest economy away from fossil fuels. For example, every American who buys an electric vehicle will be allotted up to $7,500 in tax credits and anyone installing solar panels on their roof would see 30 per cent of the cost subsidised. From wind turbines to the processing of minerals needed for electric car batteries, around $60 billion would be allocated for clean energy manufacturing. × Through grants for home renovation to improve energy efficiency and access to less polluting modes of transportation, the same amount would go towards programs to help drive investment in underprivileged communities. In comparison to 2005's levels, the bill aims to help the United States reduce its carbon emissions by 40 percent by 2030. By reining in skyrocketing prescription drug prices, the bill will help reduce the huge disparities in access to health care across the United States. In order to yield better results, the nation's health insurance plan for those aged 65 and older, Medicare could be permitted to negotiate prices of certain medications directly with Big Pharma for the first time. If the prices rise faster than soaring US inflation the plan would require pharmaceutical companies to offer rebates on certain drugs. Extending benefits under Barack Obama's signature Affordable Care, the bill will ensure cheaper prescription drugs. Seeking to pare down the federal deficit through the adoption of a minimum corporate tax of 15 percent for all companies, the Inflation Reduction Act will prevent certain massive firms from taking undue advantage of tax havens to pay far less than what they theoretically owe. Over the next 10 years, the measure could generate more than $258 billion in tax revenue for US government coffers, according to estimates. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

What are signature elements in Biden's big climate and health bill?

Hong Kong's new Chief Executive has received a salary hike. John Lee is now paid more than U.S. President Joe Biden. Who are the world's highest paid leaders? Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: World's highest paid leaders

Hong Kong chief John Lee’s $690,000 salary beats Joe Biden’s pay. But he is not the richest paid politician

Reports say the White House tried to discourage Nancy Pelosi from visiting Taiwan during her Asia trip. Was President Biden opposed to her visit? What did the US gain from this brinkmanship? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Did Joe Biden oppose Pelosi's Taiwan visit?

<p>Signing a second executive order aimed at protecting abortion rights, US President Joe Biden said on Wednesday the Supreme Court and Republicans are clueless about the power of American women.</p>

<p>Asking the federal health department to consider allowing Medicaid funds to be used to help facilitate out-of-state travel for abortions, the order is meant to address the recent Supreme Court decision to ban abortion across the US.</p>

<p>As Republicans in US states push a wave of laws restricting abortion the executive order is expected to have a limited impact.</p>

<p>Ahead of November's midterm elections, voters rejected a measure that would have made it easier to restrict abortion rights in red-state Kansas.</p>

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<p>Since the Supreme Court's decision to rescind the 1973 Roe v. Wade verdict that made abortion legal throughout the country, this was the first major test of voter sentiment.</p>

<p>With an unusually heavy turnout, a bid to remove abortion rights from the Kansas constitution was rejected by 59 to 41 percent despite being a Republican stronghold.</p>

<p>Calling on voters to keep up the momentum into the midterms, Planned Parenthood said the Kansas vote "a clear warning to anti-abortion politicians."</p>

<p>Democrats are forecast to lose at least the House of Representatives and maybe the Senate in the November midterms due to soaring inflation and widespread pessimism in the messy aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic.</p>

<p>The midterms are shaping up as rough for Democrats, who even now only control the legislature by a few votes, as it will decide which party controls Congress for the last two years of Biden's first term.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Signing a second executive order aimed at protecting abortion rights, US President Joe Biden said on Wednesday the Supreme Court and Republicans are clueless about the power of American women.

Signing a second executive order aimed at protecting abortion rights, US President Joe Biden said on Wednesday the Supreme Court and Republicans are clueless about the power of American women. Asking the federal health department to consider allowing Medicaid funds to be used to help facilitate out-of-state travel for abortions, the order is meant to address the recent Supreme Court decision to ban abortion across the US. As Republicans in US states push a wave of laws restricting abortion the executive order is expected to have a limited impact. Ahead of November's midterm elections, voters rejected a measure that would have made it easier to restrict abortion rights in red-state Kansas. × Since the Supreme Court's decision to rescind the 1973 Roe v. Wade verdict that made abortion legal throughout the country, this was the first major test of voter sentiment. With an unusually heavy turnout, a bid to remove abortion rights from the Kansas constitution was rejected by 59 to 41 percent despite being a Republican stronghold. Calling on voters to keep up the momentum into the midterms, Planned Parenthood said the Kansas vote "a clear warning to anti-abortion politicians." Democrats are forecast to lose at least the House of Representatives and maybe the Senate in the November midterms due to soaring inflation and widespread pessimism in the messy aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic. The midterms are shaping up as rough for Democrats, who even now only control the legislature by a few votes, as it will decide which party controls Congress for the last two years of Biden's first term. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

'Republicans are clueless about the power of American women': Biden signs second abortion order

<p>In order to strengthen frayed relations with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, the United States will sell them major missile defence systems worth over $5 billion.</p>

<p>As inflation hits 40-year highs and threatens his approval ratings, US President Joe Biden met leaders of the two countries in Saudi Arabia on a trip two weeks ago.</p>

<p>In separate deals, the US State Department approved the potential sale of Patriot missile interceptors to Saudi Arabia and Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile interceptors to the United Arab Emirates, according to the Pentagon.</p>

<p>While Raytheon Technologies is the prime contractor for the Patriot interceptors and equipment, Lockheed Martin was the prime contractor for the THAAD interceptors and equipment.</p>

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<p>The State Department said in a statement that "These missiles are used to defend the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's borders against persistent Houthi cross-border unmanned aerial system and ballistic missile attacks on civilian sites and critical infrastructure in Saudi Arabia."</p>

<p>"The proposed sale will improve the UAE's ability to meet current and future ballistic missile threats in the region, and reduce dependence on US forces," it added.</p>

<p>The potential deals are in the works as the procedural step of notifying Congress is often the first public acknowledgment.</p>

<p>Amid the war in Ukraine and faltering talks to revive a nuclear deal with Iran, the West has increased its efforts to court the major oil-producing state.</p>

<p>Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the US and European countries imposed strict sanctions on Moscow, and in retaliation, Russian President Vladimir Putin halted gas supplies to the bloc.</p>

<p>As a result, European countries are looking to diversify their sources of energy and have asked the world's largest oil exporter, Riyadh to raise production.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>Watch WION's live TV here:</strong></p>

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In order to strengthen frayed relations with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, the United States will sell them major missile defence systems worth over $5 billion.

In order to strengthen frayed relations with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, the United States will sell them major missile defence systems worth over $5 billion. As inflation hits 40-year highs and threatens his approval ratings, US President Joe Biden met leaders of the two countries in Saudi Arabia on a trip two weeks ago. In separate deals, the US State Department approved the potential sale of Patriot missile interceptors to Saudi Arabia and Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile interceptors to the United Arab Emirates, according to the Pentagon. While Raytheon Technologies is the prime contractor for the Patriot interceptors and equipment, Lockheed Martin was the prime contractor for the THAAD interceptors and equipment. × The State Department said in a statement that "These missiles are used to defend the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's borders against persistent Houthi cross-border unmanned aerial system and ballistic missile attacks on civilian sites and critical infrastructure in Saudi Arabia." "The proposed sale will improve the UAE's ability to meet current and future ballistic missile threats in the region, and reduce dependence on US forces," it added. The potential deals are in the works as the procedural step of notifying Congress is often the first public acknowledgment. Amid the war in Ukraine and faltering talks to revive a nuclear deal with Iran, the West has increased its efforts to court the major oil-producing state. Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the US and European countries imposed strict sanctions on Moscow, and in retaliation, Russian President Vladimir Putin halted gas supplies to the bloc. As a result, European countries are looking to diversify their sources of energy and have asked the world's largest oil exporter, Riyadh to raise production. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Saudi Arabia to purchase major missile defence systems from United States

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="3">Ever since the killing of Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri in Kabul by the United States, questions have been raised about Pakistan’s involvement in giving the country information about the terrorist’s whereabouts. Last week, General Qamar Javed Bajwa, the head of the Pakistani Army, asked the US for assistance to obtain an early loan from the IMF. Additionally, according to sources, he engaged in a telephone conversation with the US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman, about his efforts to pull Pakistan out of the economic mess. The US feels that the Taliban has violated the deal signed between the two by giving shelter to the Al-Qaeda chief, ANI reported.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="5">According to a report in the Times of Israel, experts believe that the White House may have used pressure methods and sought a trade-off with the country, the US supporting Pakistan during its financial crisis in exchange for Pakistan disclosing the information about the Al-Qaeda chief. Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute (AEI) Michael Rubin observes that it is unclear from where the drone that fired the two missiles into the terrorist home flew. He further stated that it would be much clearer that Bajwa was involved in the killing if the drones that came from Pakistan.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="5"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-condemn-zawahiri-killing-while-saudi-welcomes-the-move-502760">Here's how world is reacting to the killing of Al-Qaeda chief Zawahiri</a></strong></p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="6">Michael argued that it’s time to make Pakistan deliver all of Al Qaeda’s assets immediately and abide by all FATF counterterrorism recommendations. He further stated that it is time that the Biden administration should use caution while allowing the South Asian country to profit from its continued support for terrorism.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="7"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-conducts-drone-strike-in-afghanistan-kills-al-qaeda-chief-ayman-al-zawahiri-report-502737">US kills Al-Qaeda terror group chief Ayman al-Zawahiri in Afghanistan drone strike</a></strong></p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="7">Since June 2018, Pakistan has been included in the ‘grey list' of countries with weak anti-money laundering and counter-terror financing policies by the Paris-based global watchdog.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="7">Pakistan’s imports, exports, remittances, and restricted access to foreign credit have all suffered due to being added to the grey list. The country was added to the list as it was unsuccessful in implementing the worldwide standards and has made little effort in the investigation and prosecution of leaders of terrorist groups designated by the UN.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="7"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ever since the killing of Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri in Kabul by the United States, questions have been raised about Pakistan’s involvement in giving the country information about the terrorist’s whereabouts.

Ever since the killing of Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri in Kabul by the United States, questions have been raised about Pakistan’s involvement in giving the country information about the terrorist’s whereabouts. Last week, General Qamar Javed Bajwa, the head of the Pakistani Army, asked the US for assistance to obtain an early loan from the IMF. Additionally, according to sources, he engaged in a telephone conversation with the US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman, about his efforts to pull Pakistan out of the economic mess. The US feels that the Taliban has violated the deal signed between the two by giving shelter to the Al-Qaeda chief, ANI reported. According to a report in the Times of Israel, experts believe that the White House may have used pressure methods and sought a trade-off with the country, the US supporting Pakistan during its financial crisis in exchange for Pakistan disclosing the information about the Al-Qaeda chief. Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute (AEI) Michael Rubin observes that it is unclear from where the drone that fired the two missiles into the terrorist home flew. He further stated that it would be much clearer that Bajwa was involved in the killing if the drones that came from Pakistan. Also read | Here's how world is reacting to the killing of Al-Qaeda chief Zawahiri Michael argued that it’s time to make Pakistan deliver all of Al Qaeda’s assets immediately and abide by all FATF counterterrorism recommendations. He further stated that it is time that the Biden administration should use caution while allowing the South Asian country to profit from its continued support for terrorism. Also read | US kills Al-Qaeda terror group chief Ayman al-Zawahiri in Afghanistan drone strike Since June 2018, Pakistan has been included in the ‘grey list' of countries with weak anti-money laundering and counter-terror financing policies by the Paris-based global watchdog. Pakistan’s imports, exports, remittances, and restricted access to foreign credit have all suffered due to being added to the grey list. The country was added to the list as it was unsuccessful in implementing the worldwide standards and has made little effort in the investigation and prosecution of leaders of terrorist groups designated by the UN. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan might have given info about Zawahiri to get money from US: Report

On 2nd August, a US drone strike sealed the fate of Al-Qaeda chief Ayman Al-Zawahiri, killing him in Kabul, Afghanistan. The US President Joe Biden said that justice has been delivered.

Al-Qaeda chief killed in US air strike in Kabul

In pics - Flash floods continue to wreak havoc in Kentucky, claim at least 37 lives

In the biggest blow to the Al-Qaeda group since its founder Osama bin Laden was killed in 2011, United States has now confirmed that they have killed Al-Qaeda leader and Bin Laden's successor Ayman Al-Zawahiri. The Al-Qaeda supremo was killed in a US airstrike in Afghanistan on Sunday. While delivering his speech at the White House, US President Joe Biden stated that Justice has now delivered.

Ayman Al-Zawahiri killed | If you are a threat to our country, US will find you: US Prez Joe Biden

President Joe Biden announced Monday that Al-Qaida chief Ayman Al-Zawahiri was killed in a U.S. drone strike in Kabul. Biden also added that killing of Al-Zawahiri is a long-sought justice.

Killing of Al-Qaida chief Al-Zawahiri is long-sought justice, says US President Biden

<p>The United States used Pakistan airspace for the drone which killed Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahri in the heart of the Afghanistan capital Kabul, South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported citing security analysts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US President Joe Biden said on Monday (August 1) that Zawahiri was killed in a "precision" strike. His death comes as the biggest blow to the militant group since its founder Osama bin Laden was killed in 2011.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report further added that Pakistan gave permission to the US to use its airspace. The security analysts also believed that Islamabad could have provided human intelligence to confirm the whereabouts of Zawahri.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-ayman-al-zawahiri-this-man-is-touted-to-helm-al-qaeda-502851">After Ayman al-Zawahiri, this man is touted to helm Al-Qaeda</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As quoted by SCMP, Abdul Basit, a research fellow at the S Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore said, "The drone definitely entered Pakistani airspace over Balochistan and entered Afghanistan."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Basit mentioned the 2003 agreement and suggested that the operation was probably conducted on the terms of that agreement. Notably, under the 2003 agreement, Pakistan provided an air corridor for US military flights to and from Afghanistan during the time when it occupied the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted, Basit said, when the United States pulled out from Afghanistan in August last year, "The 2003 agreement expired" but, "it was kept intact to keep the airspace open for the US."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-condemn-zawahiri-killing-while-saudi-welcomes-the-move-502760" hreflang="en">Here's how world is reacting to the killing of Al-Qaeda chief Zawahiri</a></strong></p>

<p>Zawahiri succeeded bin Laden and including the deadly 9/11 attacks, he was believed to be the mastermind who steered Al-Qaeda's other operations. He was also bin Laden's personal doctor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by the website, Jonathan Schroden, who is a military operations analyst, also agreed that the drone did cross Pakistani airspace.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While announcing the operation, Biden said that "justice had been delivered". He also added that the warning "no matter how long it takes, no matter where you hide, if you are a threat to our people, the United States will find you and take you out."&nbsp;</p>

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The United States used Pakistan airspace for the drone which killed Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahri in the heart of the Afghanistan capital Kabul, South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported citing security analysts.

The United States used Pakistan airspace for the drone which killed Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahri in the heart of the Afghanistan capital Kabul, South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported citing security analysts. US President Joe Biden said on Monday (August 1) that Zawahiri was killed in a "precision" strike. His death comes as the biggest blow to the militant group since its founder Osama bin Laden was killed in 2011. The report further added that Pakistan gave permission to the US to use its airspace. The security analysts also believed that Islamabad could have provided human intelligence to confirm the whereabouts of Zawahri. ALSO READ | After Ayman al-Zawahiri, this man is touted to helm Al-Qaeda As quoted by SCMP, Abdul Basit, a research fellow at the S Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore said, "The drone definitely entered Pakistani airspace over Balochistan and entered Afghanistan." Basit mentioned the 2003 agreement and suggested that the operation was probably conducted on the terms of that agreement. Notably, under the 2003 agreement, Pakistan provided an air corridor for US military flights to and from Afghanistan during the time when it occupied the country. As quoted, Basit said, when the United States pulled out from Afghanistan in August last year, "The 2003 agreement expired" but, "it was kept intact to keep the airspace open for the US." ALSO READ | Here's how world is reacting to the killing of Al-Qaeda chief Zawahiri Zawahiri succeeded bin Laden and including the deadly 9/11 attacks, he was believed to be the mastermind who steered Al-Qaeda's other operations. He was also bin Laden's personal doctor. As quoted by the website, Jonathan Schroden, who is a military operations analyst, also agreed that the drone did cross Pakistani airspace. While announcing the operation, Biden said that "justice had been delivered". He also added that the warning "no matter how long it takes, no matter where you hide, if you are a threat to our people, the United States will find you and take you out." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US used Pakistan airspace to carry out drone strike that killed Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahri: Report

US President Joe Biden said that "justice has been delivered" after al Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri was killed in a CIA drone strike in Afghanistan. Zawahiri was the mastermind behind 9/11 attacks and Bin Laden's successor.

"Justice has been delivered", says Biden after US drone strike in Afghanistan kills AL-Zawahiri

<p>Ayman al-Zawahiri has been on&nbsp;the radar of the United States for several years. He has been running the affairs of al-Qaeda ever since its chief Osama bin Laden&nbsp;was killed in 2011.</p>

<p>He has been in hiding for several years, successfully giving the slip to the US armed forces. Until the announcement by Joe Biden, Zawahiri had been rumoured to be in Pakistan's tribal area or in Afghanistan.</p>

<p>The US drone strike that killed the world’s most wanted terrorist on the balcony of his safe house in Kabul city was the result of months of meticulous planning by the counter-terrorism and intelligence officials.</p>

<p>Among the preparations was a small-scale model of Zawahiri’s safe house constructed by intelligence officials and placed inside the White House Situation Room for Biden to examine as he debated his options, reports CNN.</p>

<p>Notably, Biden wanted not to repeat the US drone strike incident 11 months ago during the chaotic US military withdrawal from Afghanistan in which 10 civilians, including seven children, had been killed.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-condemn-zawahiri-killing-while-saudi-welcomes-the-move-502760" hreflang="en">Here's how world is reacting to the killing of al Qaeda chief Zawahiri</a></p>

<p>According to the White House, during the months-long planning to carry out this weekend's strike, Biden repeatedly told his officials to ensure that no civilians, including members of Zawahiri’s family, were killed. And as per their plan, no civilians were killed or injured.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/node/502737" hreflang="en">Al Qaeda leader Zawahiri killed in US strike in Afghanistan, says Biden</a></p>

<p>A US official privy to the developments spoke to Reuters on the condition of anonymity while disclosing on how Zawahiri was taken out.</p>

<ul>
	<li>The US government for several years had been aware of a network that supported Zawahiri. And following the United States’ withdrawal from Afghanistan last year, officials had been keeping an eye for indications of al Qaeda’s presence in the country.</li>
	<li>This year, officials traced Zawahiri’s family, his wife, his daughter and her children, to a safe house in Kabul and subsequently identified Zawahiri at the same location.</li>
	<li>Over several months, intelligence officials grew more confident that they had correctly identified Zawahiri at the Kabul safe house and in early April started briefing senior administration officials. Jake Sullivan, National Security Adviser, subsequently briefed President Biden.</li>
	<li>“We were able to build a pattern of life through multiple independent sources of information to inform the operation,” the official said.</li>
	<li>Once Zawahiri arrived at the Kabul safe house, officials were not aware of him leaving it and they identified him on its balcony — where he was ultimately struck — on multiple occasions, the official said.</li>
	<li>Officials investigated the construction and nature of the safe house and scrutinized its occupants to ensure the United States could confidently conduct an operation to kill Zawahiri without threatening the structural integrity of the building and minimizing the risk to civilians and Zawahiri’s family, the official said.</li>
	<li>Biden “asked detailed questions about what we knew and how we knew it” and closely examined a model of the safe house the intelligence community had built and brought to the meeting.</li>
	<li>Then the president convened his key Cabinet members and advisers on July 25 for a final briefing and discuss how killing Zawahiri would affect America’s relationship with the Taliban, the official said. After soliciting views from others in the room, Biden authorised “a precise tailored air strike”.</li>
</ul>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ayman al-Zawahiri has been on the radar of the United States for several years. He has been running the affairs of al-Qaeda ever since its chief Osama bin Laden was killed in 2011.

Ayman al-Zawahiri has been on the radar of the United States for several years. He has been running the affairs of al-Qaeda ever since its chief Osama bin Laden was killed in 2011. He has been in hiding for several years, successfully giving the slip to the US armed forces. Until the announcement by Joe Biden, Zawahiri had been rumoured to be in Pakistan's tribal area or in Afghanistan. The US drone strike that killed the world’s most wanted terrorist on the balcony of his safe house in Kabul city was the result of months of meticulous planning by the counter-terrorism and intelligence officials. Among the preparations was a small-scale model of Zawahiri’s safe house constructed by intelligence officials and placed inside the White House Situation Room for Biden to examine as he debated his options, reports CNN. Notably, Biden wanted not to repeat the US drone strike incident 11 months ago during the chaotic US military withdrawal from Afghanistan in which 10 civilians, including seven children, had been killed. Also read | Here's how world is reacting to the killing of al Qaeda chief Zawahiri According to the White House, during the months-long planning to carry out this weekend's strike, Biden repeatedly told his officials to ensure that no civilians, including members of Zawahiri’s family, were killed. And as per their plan, no civilians were killed or injured. Also read | Al Qaeda leader Zawahiri killed in US strike in Afghanistan, says Biden A US official privy to the developments spoke to Reuters on the condition of anonymity while disclosing on how Zawahiri was taken out. The US government for several years had been aware of a network that supported Zawahiri. And following the United States’ withdrawal from Afghanistan last year, officials had been keeping an eye for indications of al Qaeda’s presence in the country. This year, officials traced Zawahiri’s family, his wife, his daughter and her children, to a safe house in Kabul and subsequently identified Zawahiri at the same location. Over several months, intelligence officials grew more confident that they had correctly identified Zawahiri at the Kabul safe house and in early April started briefing senior administration officials. Jake Sullivan, National Security Adviser, subsequently briefed President Biden. “We were able to build a pattern of life through multiple independent sources of information to inform the operation,” the official said. Once Zawahiri arrived at the Kabul safe house, officials were not aware of him leaving it and they identified him on its balcony — where he was ultimately struck — on multiple occasions, the official said. Officials investigated the construction and nature of the safe house and scrutinized its occupants to ensure the United States could confidently conduct an operation to kill Zawahiri without threatening the structural integrity of the building and minimizing the risk to civilians and Zawahiri’s family, the official said. Biden “asked detailed questions about what we knew and how we knew it” and closely examined a model of the safe house the intelligence community had built and brought to the meeting. Then the president convened his key Cabinet members and advisers on July 25 for a final briefing and discuss how killing Zawahiri would affect America’s relationship with the Taliban, the official said. After soliciting views from others in the room, Biden authorised “a precise tailored air strike”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Safe house, mock drills and meticulous planning: The secret operation behind al-Zawahiri’s killing

<p>The United States dealt a massive blow to the Al-Qaeda terrorist organisation by killing its chief Ayman al-Zawahiri in a drone strike in Afghanistan’s Kabul city over the weekend.</p>

<p>While addressing the nation, President Joe Biden confirmed the attack on Monday evening, saying that, “Justice has been delivered” and hoped Zawahiri’s death will bring “closure” to families of the 3,000 people killed in the 9/11 attack in the United States.</p>

<p>Zawahiri became the Al-Qaeda chief in 2011 after the death of Osama bin Laden at the hands of US forces in Pakistan.</p>

<p>Now with Zawahiri’s death, a leadership vacuum has emerged in the terrorist organisation. Though there is no official confirmation as to who would succeed Zawahiri, reports have been swirling around that Saif al-Adel, a former Egyptian colonel, will take the mantle.</p>

<p><strong>Who is Saif al-Adel?</strong></p>

<p>According to Middle East Institute, Adel will most likely head Al-Qaeda. According to US intelligence agencies, he is a former Egyptian army officer who is the founding member of Al-Qaeda. He was earlier associated with another terror group Maktab al-Khidmat (MAK).</p>

<p>MAK was founded by Osama bin Laden in the 1980s to provide money and recruit fighters around the world. It enlisted and transported thousands of men to Afghanistan to fight the Russians. The group later got split, in which bin Laden-led extremist faction formed Al-Qaeda.</p>

<p>Adel was also once bin Laden's security chief and is on the FBI's most-wanted list&nbsp;since 2001 in connection with Al-Qaeda’s 1998 bombings of US embassies in Kenya and Tanzania.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-condemn-zawahiri-killing-while-saudi-welcomes-the-move-502760" hreflang="en">Here's how world is reacting to the killing of Al-Qaeda chief Zawahiri</a></p>

<p>The FBI has raised his bounty to $10 million.</p>

<p>He has been highly active in Iran in recent times and reportedly keeps issuing directives through Telegram&nbsp;to terrorist groups in Syria.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-the-us-use-a-secret-weapon-to-kill-al-qaeda-chief-ayman-al-zawahiri-502790">Did the US use a secret weapon to kill Al-Qaeda Chief Ayman al-Zawahiri?</a></p>

<p>ABC News had earlier reported that US forces have been looking for Adel since 1993, when he orchestrated the ambush of US forces and helicopters in Mogadishu, Somalia in which 18 Americans died. Adel was 30 at that time.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


The United States dealt a massive blow to the Al-Qaeda terrorist organisation by killing its chief Ayman al-Zawahiri in a drone strike in Afghanistan’s Kabul city over the weekend.

The United States dealt a massive blow to the Al-Qaeda terrorist organisation by killing its chief Ayman al-Zawahiri in a drone strike in Afghanistan’s Kabul city over the weekend. While addressing the nation, President Joe Biden confirmed the attack on Monday evening, saying that, “Justice has been delivered” and hoped Zawahiri’s death will bring “closure” to families of the 3,000 people killed in the 9/11 attack in the United States. Zawahiri became the Al-Qaeda chief in 2011 after the death of Osama bin Laden at the hands of US forces in Pakistan. Now with Zawahiri’s death, a leadership vacuum has emerged in the terrorist organisation. Though there is no official confirmation as to who would succeed Zawahiri, reports have been swirling around that Saif al-Adel, a former Egyptian colonel, will take the mantle. Who is Saif al-Adel? According to Middle East Institute, Adel will most likely head Al-Qaeda. According to US intelligence agencies, he is a former Egyptian army officer who is the founding member of Al-Qaeda. He was earlier associated with another terror group Maktab al-Khidmat (MAK). MAK was founded by Osama bin Laden in the 1980s to provide money and recruit fighters around the world. It enlisted and transported thousands of men to Afghanistan to fight the Russians. The group later got split, in which bin Laden-led extremist faction formed Al-Qaeda. Adel was also once bin Laden's security chief and is on the FBI's most-wanted list since 2001 in connection with Al-Qaeda’s 1998 bombings of US embassies in Kenya and Tanzania. Also read | Here's how world is reacting to the killing of Al-Qaeda chief Zawahiri The FBI has raised his bounty to $10 million. He has been highly active in Iran in recent times and reportedly keeps issuing directives through Telegram to terrorist groups in Syria. Also read | Did the US use a secret weapon to kill Al-Qaeda Chief Ayman al-Zawahiri? ABC News had earlier reported that US forces have been looking for Adel since 1993, when he orchestrated the ambush of US forces and helicopters in Mogadishu, Somalia in which 18 Americans died. Adel was 30 at that time. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

After Ayman al-Zawahiri, this man is touted to helm Al-Qaeda

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="4">A nuclear war would have no winners, and such a war should not be started, said Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (August 1). Putin&nbsp;made the remark in a letter to the attendees of a conference on the non-proliferation treaty (NPT). He&nbsp;said, "We proceed from the fact that there can be no winners in a nuclear war and it should never be unleashed, and we stand for equal and indivisible security for all members of the world community." These words stood in contrast to prior ones made by Russian leaders, which the West considers to be nuclear threats, Reuters reported.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="5">In his remarks to the NPT summit, he&nbsp;seemed to want to strike a soothing note and present Russia as a responsible nuclear power.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="5"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-invasion-might-have-caused-ukraines-harvest-to-be-half-than-the-usual-zelensky-502629">Russian invasion might have caused Ukraine’s harvest to be half than the usual: Zelensky</a></strong></p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="6">Given Russia's defeats in Ukraine, "none of us can take lightly the threat posed by a potential resort to tactical nuclear weapons or low-yield nuclear weapons," according to Cia director Williams Burns.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="7">According to Russia, the West is waging a ‘proxy war’ against it, whose military doctrine permits the deployment of nuclear weapons in the event of an existential threat to the Russian state.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="7"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-ukraine-grain-ship-departs-odessa-port-bound-for-turkey-502497">First Ukraine grain ship departs Odessa port</a></strong></p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="8">Remarks made by US President Joe Biden asking for a discussion on a nuclear weapons limitation framework to replace a treaty that expires in 2026 were questioned earlier by a source in the Russian foreign ministry on Monday (August 1).</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="9">Russia stated that it expects to deploy the weapons by the end of the summer after conducting the maiden test flight of its new Samrat intercontinental ballistic missile, which is capable of launching nuclear attacks against the United States by autumn.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="9"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


A nuclear war would have no winners, and such a war should not be started, said Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (August 1). Putin made the remark in a letter to the attendees of a conference on the non-proliferation treaty (NPT).

A nuclear war would have no winners, and such a war should not be started, said Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (August 1). Putin made the remark in a letter to the attendees of a conference on the non-proliferation treaty (NPT). He said, "We proceed from the fact that there can be no winners in a nuclear war and it should never be unleashed, and we stand for equal and indivisible security for all members of the world community." These words stood in contrast to prior ones made by Russian leaders, which the West considers to be nuclear threats, Reuters reported. In his remarks to the NPT summit, he seemed to want to strike a soothing note and present Russia as a responsible nuclear power. Also read | Russian invasion might have caused Ukraine’s harvest to be half than the usual: Zelensky Given Russia's defeats in Ukraine, "none of us can take lightly the threat posed by a potential resort to tactical nuclear weapons or low-yield nuclear weapons," according to Cia director Williams Burns. According to Russia, the West is waging a ‘proxy war’ against it, whose military doctrine permits the deployment of nuclear weapons in the event of an existential threat to the Russian state. Also read | First Ukraine grain ship departs Odessa port Remarks made by US President Joe Biden asking for a discussion on a nuclear weapons limitation framework to replace a treaty that expires in 2026 were questioned earlier by a source in the Russian foreign ministry on Monday (August 1). Russia stated that it expects to deploy the weapons by the end of the summer after conducting the maiden test flight of its new Samrat intercontinental ballistic missile, which is capable of launching nuclear attacks against the United States by autumn. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘No winners in a nuclear war and it should never be unleashed’: Vladimir Putin

<p>The death of Al Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri by the US forces brings an end to the “trail of murder and violence against American citizens”, US President Joe Biden announced in an address to the nation.</p>

<p>The 71-year-old terrorist, who is the key architect of the 9/11 attack, was killed in an air strike carried out by the Central Intelligences Agency (CIA) in Kabul over the weekend, Biden said.</p>

<p>“Al Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri has been killed in an air strike in Kabul. Justice has been delivered. No matter how long it takes, no matter where you hide, if you are a threat to our people, the US will find you and take you out,” Biden said on Monday evening.</p>

<p>“People around the world no longer need to fear the vicious and determined killer. The United States continues to demonstrate our resolve and our capacity to defend the American people against those who seek to do us harm," Biden added.</p>

<p>The fall of such a towering figure in the terrorist group is likely to bring greater disarray within the organisation than the bin Laden’s death in 2011, since no successor was announced.</p>

<p>Here’s what you should know about the Al-Zawahri, an eye surgeon-turned-terrorist who became the most wanted man.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Ayman al-Zawahiri?</strong></h2>

<p>Zawahiri was born in 1951 in a comfortable neighborhood in Cairo, Egypt. His father is a prominent physician, and his grandfather is considered one of the renowned scholars.</p>

<p>His grandfather, Rabia'a al-Zawahiri, was an imam at al-Azhar University in Cairo. His great-uncle, Abdel Rahman Azzam, was the first secretary of the Arab League.</p>

<p>At a young age, Zawahiri became involved with Egypt's radical Islamist community and was reportedly arrested at 15 for joining the outlawed Muslim Brotherhood.</p>

<p>He was jailed for three years in Egypt for militancy and imprisoned for the involvement in the 1981 assassination of president Anwar Sadat and the massacre of foreign tourists at Luxor in 1997.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-conducts-drone-strike-in-afghanistan-kills-al-qaeda-chief-ayman-al-zawahiri-report-502737" hreflang="en">Al Qaeda leader Zawahiri killed in U.S. strike in Afghanistan, says Biden</a></p>

<p>By that time, Zawahiri, a young doctor, was already a proscribed terrorist who conspired to oust the Egyptian government for years and sought to replace it with fundamentalist Islamic rule.</p>

<h2><strong>Links with Osama bin Laden</strong></h2>

<p>By 1985, Zawahiri had left Egypt for Peshawar, Pakistan, where he worked as a surgeon treating the fighters who were engaged with Soviet troops in Afghanistan, according to CNN.</p>

<p>It said that that this is where Zawahiri met bin Laden, a prominent Mujahedeen leader at the time. The two bonded well, linked by their common bond as "Afghan Arabs." He also acted as bin Laden's personal physician.</p>

<p>Years later, both reunited in Afghanistan, and in early 1998, bin Laden and Zawahiri announced the formation of the World Islamic Front for the Jihad Against the Jews and the Crusaders, formally merging the Egyptian Islamic Jihad and al Qaeda.</p>

<p>Together with bin Laden and other terrorist leaders, Zawahiri issued a "fatwa" in 1998 calling for attacks against Americans.</p>

<h2><strong>Ayman al-Zawahiri's role in the 9/11 attacks and aftermath</strong></h2>

<p>Al-Zawahri is considered the architect of the 9/11 terror attacks in 2001 when nearly 3,000 people were killed in the attacks on the twin towers of the World Trade Center and Pentagon.</p>

<p>Both bin Laden and he escaped US forces in Afghanistan in late 2001. In May 2003, Zawahiri was found involved in suicide bombings in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, killed 23 people, including nine Americans, days after a tape thought to contain Zawahiri's voice was released.</p>

<h2><strong>Ayman al-Zawahiri starts leading Al-Qaeda</strong></h2>

<p>After US forces killed bin Laden in 2011, Zawahiri became Al-Qaeda's leader.</p>

<p>He is credited for reshaping the organisation from a centralized planner of terror attacks into the head of a franchise chain. He led the creation of a network of autonomous branches around the region, including in Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, North Africa, Somalia and Asia.</p>

<p>When the 2001 US invasion of Afghanistan dismantled al Qaeda’s safe haven and killed its members, al-Zawahri ensured the terrorist organisation’s survival. He rebuilt its leadership in the Afghan-Pakistan border region and installed allies as lieutenants in key positions.</p>

<p>He also became the movement’s public face, putting out a constant stream of video messages.</p>

<p>The last known public address by Zawahiri was an audio message released on July 13 by the media arm of al Qaeda.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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The death of Al Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri by the US forces brings an end to the “trail of murder and violence against American citizens”, US President Joe Biden announced in an address to the nation.

The death of Al Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri by the US forces brings an end to the “trail of murder and violence against American citizens”, US President Joe Biden announced in an address to the nation. The 71-year-old terrorist, who is the key architect of the 9/11 attack, was killed in an air strike carried out by the Central Intelligences Agency (CIA) in Kabul over the weekend, Biden said. “Al Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri has been killed in an air strike in Kabul. Justice has been delivered. No matter how long it takes, no matter where you hide, if you are a threat to our people, the US will find you and take you out,” Biden said on Monday evening. “People around the world no longer need to fear the vicious and determined killer. The United States continues to demonstrate our resolve and our capacity to defend the American people against those who seek to do us harm," Biden added. The fall of such a towering figure in the terrorist group is likely to bring greater disarray within the organisation than the bin Laden’s death in 2011, since no successor was announced. Here’s what you should know about the Al-Zawahri, an eye surgeon-turned-terrorist who became the most wanted man. Who is Ayman al-Zawahiri? Zawahiri was born in 1951 in a comfortable neighborhood in Cairo, Egypt. His father is a prominent physician, and his grandfather is considered one of the renowned scholars. His grandfather, Rabia'a al-Zawahiri, was an imam at al-Azhar University in Cairo. His great-uncle, Abdel Rahman Azzam, was the first secretary of the Arab League. At a young age, Zawahiri became involved with Egypt's radical Islamist community and was reportedly arrested at 15 for joining the outlawed Muslim Brotherhood. He was jailed for three years in Egypt for militancy and imprisoned for the involvement in the 1981 assassination of president Anwar Sadat and the massacre of foreign tourists at Luxor in 1997. Also read | Al Qaeda leader Zawahiri killed in U.S. strike in Afghanistan, says Biden By that time, Zawahiri, a young doctor, was already a proscribed terrorist who conspired to oust the Egyptian government for years and sought to replace it with fundamentalist Islamic rule. Links with Osama bin Laden By 1985, Zawahiri had left Egypt for Peshawar, Pakistan, where he worked as a surgeon treating the fighters who were engaged with Soviet troops in Afghanistan, according to CNN. It said that that this is where Zawahiri met bin Laden, a prominent Mujahedeen leader at the time. The two bonded well, linked by their common bond as "Afghan Arabs." He also acted as bin Laden's personal physician. Years later, both reunited in Afghanistan, and in early 1998, bin Laden and Zawahiri announced the formation of the World Islamic Front for the Jihad Against the Jews and the Crusaders, formally merging the Egyptian Islamic Jihad and al Qaeda. Together with bin Laden and other terrorist leaders, Zawahiri issued a "fatwa" in 1998 calling for attacks against Americans. Ayman al-Zawahiri's role in the 9/11 attacks and aftermath Al-Zawahri is considered the architect of the 9/11 terror attacks in 2001 when nearly 3,000 people were killed in the attacks on the twin towers of the World Trade Center and Pentagon. Both bin Laden and he escaped US forces in Afghanistan in late 2001. In May 2003, Zawahiri was found involved in suicide bombings in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, killed 23 people, including nine Americans, days after a tape thought to contain Zawahiri's voice was released. Ayman al-Zawahiri starts leading Al-Qaeda After US forces killed bin Laden in 2011, Zawahiri became Al-Qaeda's leader. He is credited for reshaping the organisation from a centralized planner of terror attacks into the head of a franchise chain. He led the creation of a network of autonomous branches around the region, including in Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, North Africa, Somalia and Asia. When the 2001 US invasion of Afghanistan dismantled al Qaeda’s safe haven and killed its members, al-Zawahri ensured the terrorist organisation’s survival. He rebuilt its leadership in the Afghan-Pakistan border region and installed allies as lieutenants in key positions. He also became the movement’s public face, putting out a constant stream of video messages. The last known public address by Zawahiri was an audio message released on July 13 by the media arm of al Qaeda. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Who is Ayman al-Zawahiri, the Al-Qaeda chief killed by US strike?

<p>United States President Joe Biden said that Washington has expressed its readiness to open talks with Moscow, the Russian state-controlled news television network RT reported on Monday (August 1). The report mentioned that the negotiation is apparently "a new arms control framework" with Russia to potentially replace the New START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty).&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by the RT website, Biden said: "Today, my Administration is ready to expeditiously negotiate a new arms control framework to replace New START when it expires in 2026. But negotiation requires a willing partner operating in good faith."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-military-will-not-sit-idly-by-ahead-of-nancy-pelosis-taiwan-visit-502554">China says military will 'not sit idly by' ahead of Nancy Pelosi's Taiwan visit</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Biden claimed that Moscow "has shattered peace in Europe" with its "brutal and unprovoked" military operation in Ukraine, which became "an attack on fundamental tenets of international order."&nbsp;</p>

<p>On February 24, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered to invade Ukraine, what Moscow calls it "special military operations".&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the report, Biden further stated: "In this context, Russia should demonstrate that it is ready to resume work on nuclear arms control with the United States."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-can-build-a-bomb-but-has-no-intention-of-doing-so-says-nuclear-chief-502593">Iran can build atom bomb but has no intention of doing so, says nuclear chief</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>New START</strong></p>

<p>Importantly, the New START is a nuclear arms reduction treaty between the US and Russia with the formal name of Measures for the Further Reduction and Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms. It was signed on 8 April 2010 in Prague. After ratification, it entered into force on 5 February 2011.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US mentioned that the New START limits all Russian deployed intercontinental-range nuclear weapons. The deal also limits the deployed Avangard and Sarmat, which are said to be the two most operationally available new long-range nuclear weapons of Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The New START basically limits every Russian nuclear warhead that is loaded onto an intercontinental-range ballistic missile that can reach the United States in approximately 30 minutes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Biden to&nbsp;China</strong></p>

<p>While mentioning China, Biden asked Beijing to take part in talks on nuclear disarmament. As per the report, he said: "China also has a responsibility as an NPT nuclear weapons state and a member of the P5 to engage in talks that will reduce the risk of miscalculation and address destabilizing military dynamics."</p>

<p>"There is no benefit to any of our nations, or for the world, to resist&nbsp;substantive engagement on arms control and nuclear non-proliferation,"&nbsp;Biden added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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United States President Joe Biden said that Washington has expressed its readiness to open talks with Moscow, the Russian state-controlled news television network RT reported on Monday (August 1).

United States President Joe Biden said that Washington has expressed its readiness to open talks with Moscow, the Russian state-controlled news television network RT reported on Monday (August 1). The report mentioned that the negotiation is apparently "a new arms control framework" with Russia to potentially replace the New START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty). As quoted by the RT website, Biden said: "Today, my Administration is ready to expeditiously negotiate a new arms control framework to replace New START when it expires in 2026. But negotiation requires a willing partner operating in good faith." ALSO READ | China says military will 'not sit idly by' ahead of Nancy Pelosi's Taiwan visit Biden claimed that Moscow "has shattered peace in Europe" with its "brutal and unprovoked" military operation in Ukraine, which became "an attack on fundamental tenets of international order." On February 24, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered to invade Ukraine, what Moscow calls it "special military operations". As per the report, Biden further stated: "In this context, Russia should demonstrate that it is ready to resume work on nuclear arms control with the United States." ALSO READ | Iran can build atom bomb but has no intention of doing so, says nuclear chief New START Importantly, the New START is a nuclear arms reduction treaty between the US and Russia with the formal name of Measures for the Further Reduction and Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms. It was signed on 8 April 2010 in Prague. After ratification, it entered into force on 5 February 2011. US mentioned that the New START limits all Russian deployed intercontinental-range nuclear weapons. The deal also limits the deployed Avangard and Sarmat, which are said to be the two most operationally available new long-range nuclear weapons of Russia. The New START basically limits every Russian nuclear warhead that is loaded onto an intercontinental-range ballistic missile that can reach the United States in approximately 30 minutes. Biden to China While mentioning China, Biden asked Beijing to take part in talks on nuclear disarmament. As per the report, he said: "China also has a responsibility as an NPT nuclear weapons state and a member of the P5 to engage in talks that will reduce the risk of miscalculation and address destabilizing military dynamics." "There is no benefit to any of our nations, or for the world, to resist substantive engagement on arms control and nuclear non-proliferation," Biden added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Joe Biden offers to negotiate a new arms control framework with Russia to replace New START

<p>The White House announced on Sunday that the United Stated President Joe Biden is “doing well” and “continuing his isolation” after he tested positive for Covid for the second time. According to an official statement released by the White House physician Dr Kevin O’Connor, Biden contracted a “rebound” case of COVID-19 which can be the result of an antiviral drug Paxlovid.<br />
<br />
"Given his rebound positivity which we reported yesterday, we continued daily monitoring. This morning, unsurprisingly, his SARS-CoV-2 antigen testing remained positive," the official memo read.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-signs-russian-naval-doctrine-marks-us-nato-as-main-threats-to-national-security-502301" hreflang="en">Putin signs Russian naval doctrine, marks US, NATO as main threats to security</a></p>

<p>Biden finished his isolation period on Wednesday after testing positive for the first time but the second positive means that he will have to stay in isolation once again. However, the doctors said that the situation is completely under control and the symptoms have been mild so far.</p>

<p>"Biden will continue to conduct the business of the American people from the Executive Residence," the physician said on Sunday when asked about the plan of action going forward.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-dead-as-un-peacekeeping-forces-open-fire-in-democratic-republic-of-congo-502364" hreflang="en">Two dead as UN peacekeepers open fire in Democratic Republic of Congo</a></p>

<p>As a result of testing positive for the second time, Biden had to cancel a number of official trips, including visits to key constituencies where the President’s popularity has taken a hit lately.</p>

<p>Earlier, Biden tweeted a video of himself sitting outside the White House and video chatting with his family. He also posted on social media about the bipartisan bill to “expand healthcare access for those exposed to toxic burn pits” which saw a number of Republicans changing their votes.</p>

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<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


The White House announced on Sunday that the United Stated President Joe Biden is “doing well” and “continuing his isolation” after he tested positive for Covid for the second time.

The White House announced on Sunday that the United Stated President Joe Biden is “doing well” and “continuing his isolation” after he tested positive for Covid for the second time. According to an official statement released by the White House physician Dr Kevin O’Connor, Biden contracted a “rebound” case of COVID-19 which can be the result of an antiviral drug Paxlovid. "Given his rebound positivity which we reported yesterday, we continued daily monitoring. This morning, unsurprisingly, his SARS-CoV-2 antigen testing remained positive," the official memo read. Also read | Putin signs Russian naval doctrine, marks US, NATO as main threats to security Biden finished his isolation period on Wednesday after testing positive for the first time but the second positive means that he will have to stay in isolation once again. However, the doctors said that the situation is completely under control and the symptoms have been mild so far. "Biden will continue to conduct the business of the American people from the Executive Residence," the physician said on Sunday when asked about the plan of action going forward. Also read | Two dead as UN peacekeepers open fire in Democratic Republic of Congo As a result of testing positive for the second time, Biden had to cancel a number of official trips, including visits to key constituencies where the President’s popularity has taken a hit lately. Earlier, Biden tweeted a video of himself sitting outside the White House and video chatting with his family. He also posted on social media about the bipartisan bill to “expand healthcare access for those exposed to toxic burn pits” which saw a number of Republicans changing their votes. WATCH WION LIVE HERE - (With inputs from agencies)

Joe Biden 'feeling well and isolating' after testing positive for COVID-19 again

<p>Days after recovering from COVID-19, US President Joe Biden has contracted the virus again and has returned to isolation, the White House said.</p>

<p>Presidential physician Kevin O’Connor in a memorandum said, “This, in fact, represents ‘rebound’ positivity, wherein the patients who are treated with the drug Paxlovid, as Biden was, clear the virus but test positive after completing their course.”</p>

<p>The 79-year-old leader “tested positive late Saturday morning, by antigen testing”,&nbsp;following four consecutive days of negative tests, and “will reinitiate strict isolation procedures”,&nbsp;O’Connor said.</p>

<p>“The president has experienced no re-emergence of symptoms and continues to feel quite well. This being the case, there is no reason to reinitiate treatment at this time,” he added.</p>

<p>Amidst concerns raised on Biden’s health, the 79-year-old took to Twitter to explain his condition.</p>

<p>“Folks, today I tested positive for Covid again. This happens with a small minority of folks. I’ve got no symptoms, but I am going to isolate for the safety of everyone around me. I’m still at work, and will be back on the road soon,” he said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">While COVID is still with us, our fight against this virus is making a difference. We can now protect ourselves from serious illness due to COVID, and COVID deaths are down nearly 90%.</p>
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1553426194326077440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Biden had ended his five-day Covid isolation earlier on Wednesday, as he appeared energetic while telling his admirers that his quick recovery should inspire Americans to take advantage of free vaccines and treatments.</p>

<p>He also compared his quick recovery to Trump’s more serious affliction with the disease in October 2020, before Covid vaccines were available.</p>

<p>“When my predecessor got Covid, he had to get helicoptered to Walter Reed Medical Center. He was severely ill. Thankfully, he recovered. When I got Covid, I worked from upstairs of the White House,” he said.</p>

<p>Biden further said that taking preventative tests, being fully vaccinated and then using the Paxlovid therapeutic prevents deaths and is available at no cost.</p>

<p>“You don’t need to be the&nbsp;president to get these tools,” he said.</p>

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Days after recovering from COVID-19, US President Joe Biden has contracted the virus again and has returned to isolation, the White House said. Presidential physician Kevin O’Connor in a memorandum said, “This, in fact, represents ‘rebound’ positivity, wherein the patients who are treated with the drug Paxlovid, as Biden was, clear the virus but test positive after completing their course.

Days after recovering from COVID-19, US President Joe Biden has contracted the virus again and has returned to isolation, the White House said. Presidential physician Kevin O’Connor in a memorandum said, “This, in fact, represents ‘rebound’ positivity, wherein the patients who are treated with the drug Paxlovid, as Biden was, clear the virus but test positive after completing their course.” The 79-year-old leader “tested positive late Saturday morning, by antigen testing”, following four consecutive days of negative tests, and “will reinitiate strict isolation procedures”, O’Connor said. “The president has experienced no re-emergence of symptoms and continues to feel quite well. This being the case, there is no reason to reinitiate treatment at this time,” he added. Amidst concerns raised on Biden’s health, the 79-year-old took to Twitter to explain his condition. “Folks, today I tested positive for Covid again. This happens with a small minority of folks. I’ve got no symptoms, but I am going to isolate for the safety of everyone around me. I’m still at work, and will be back on the road soon,” he said. While COVID is still with us, our fight against this virus is making a difference. We can now protect ourselves from serious illness due to COVID, and COVID deaths are down nearly 90%. — Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) July 30, 2022 × Biden had ended his five-day Covid isolation earlier on Wednesday, as he appeared energetic while telling his admirers that his quick recovery should inspire Americans to take advantage of free vaccines and treatments. He also compared his quick recovery to Trump’s more serious affliction with the disease in October 2020, before Covid vaccines were available. “When my predecessor got Covid, he had to get helicoptered to Walter Reed Medical Center. He was severely ill. Thankfully, he recovered. When I got Covid, I worked from upstairs of the White House,” he said. Biden further said that taking preventative tests, being fully vaccinated and then using the Paxlovid therapeutic prevents deaths and is available at no cost. “You don’t need to be the president to get these tools,” he said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Days after recovery, US President Joe Biden contracts Covid again

US President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19, according to the White House, forcing him back into isolation after several days of testing negative.

US President Joe Biden tests positive for COVID-19 again, returns to isolation

For two consecutive quarters now - the American economy has contracted. For many economists this would mean the beginning of a recession. But American leaders argue - the US is not in a recession. Who is right? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Is America in a recession?

Xi Jinping has issued a warning to Joe Biden. The Chinese President has warned his American counterpart against "playing with fire" over Taiwan. Will this warning trigger a conflict? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Xi Jinping threatens Joe Biden

Joe Biden told China's Xi Jinping that US policy on Taiwan has not changed and Washington has strongly opposed unilateral efforts to change the status quo or undermine peace and stability across the Taiwan.

Biden told Xi that US opposes unilateral move to change Taiwan's status quo

U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese Leader Xi Jinping spoke at length Thursday morning amid a potential visit by U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan, which Beijing has warned would “be met with forceful responses.” White House Bureau Chief Patsy Widakuswara has this report.

WION-VOA Co-Production: Will U.S. House speaker visit Taiwan?

<p>A video clip uploaded by the Democratic party on its official Twitter account has gone viral with people accusing it of being a "deepfake" video.</p>

<p>In the 17-second clip, the US president is seen speaking about the January 6 Capitol riots in which he&nbsp;says: "You can't be pro-insurrection and pro-cop, you can't be pro-insurrection and pro-democracy, you can't be pro-insurrection and pro-American" as he hits out at former US president Donald Trump.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">“You can’t be pro-insurrection and pro-American.” —<a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoeBiden</a> <a href="https://t.co/ufJxWPruj4">pic.twitter.com/ufJxWPruj4</a></p>
— The Democrats (@TheDemocrats) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheDemocrats/status/1551980769005944832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The post has currently liked by over 6,500 people with over 1,300 retweets. Social media users have cast doubt over Biden's appearance who looks different in another video shot on the same day but experts say it is due to lighting.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="qme"><a href="https://t.co/nheNeOlmHn">https://t.co/nheNeOlmHn</a></p>
— Five Times August (@FiveTimesAugust) <a href="https://twitter.com/FiveTimesAugust/status/1552110764139454466?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Why is he looking like that and why isn't he blinking??</p>
— ZUBY: (@ZubyMusic) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZubyMusic/status/1552096874949218304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Why is one of his eyes way bigger than the other?</p>
— Dan O'Donnell (@DanODonnellShow) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanODonnellShow/status/1552133206425616384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>In fact, the White House released another longer version of the video which is over 11 minutes as some doubted the Twitter video since they said the president does not blink but the YouTube video clearly shows the president blinking as he addresses viewers.</p>

<p>The commonly held belief that a person in deepfake videos does not blink is not true as experts say they do blink.</p>

<p>In the video, Biden commented on the Congressional committee report on the Captial riots in 2021 as right-wing Trump followers stormed the building. Newsmax commentator Benny Johnson in a tweet said: "Count how many times Joe Biden blinks in this video" as many thought the video was a creation of an AI machine.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">👀 WATCH: Biden Goes 40 Seconds Without Blinking <a href="https://t.co/DvEw7WOXpu">https://t.co/DvEw7WOXpu</a></p>
— Adam Kredo (@Kredo0) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kredo0/status/1552392218857570306?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Deepfake videos have proliferated in recent years with several targeting US President Biden and ex-president Trump including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, however, the current video created a social media storm as users were not able to properly discern claiming it was a deepfake based on the president's appearance.</p>

<p>(With inputs from Agencies)</p>

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A video clip uploaded by the Democratic party on its official Twitter account has gone viral with people accusing it of being a "deepfake" video. In the 17-second clip, the US president is seen speaking about the January 6 Capitol riots in which he says: "You can't be pro-insurrection and pro-cop, you can't be pro-insurrection and pro-democracy, you can't be pro-insurrection and pro-American" as he hits out at former US president Donald Trump.

A video clip uploaded by the Democratic party on its official Twitter account has gone viral with people accusing it of being a "deepfake" video. In the 17-second clip, the US president is seen speaking about the January 6 Capitol riots in which he says: "You can't be pro-insurrection and pro-cop, you can't be pro-insurrection and pro-democracy, you can't be pro-insurrection and pro-American" as he hits out at former US president Donald Trump. “You can’t be pro-insurrection and pro-American.” —@JoeBiden pic.twitter.com/ufJxWPruj4 — The Democrats (@TheDemocrats) July 26, 2022 × The post has currently liked by over 6,500 people with over 1,300 retweets. Social media users have cast doubt over Biden's appearance who looks different in another video shot on the same day but experts say it is due to lighting. https://t.co/nheNeOlmHn — Five Times August (@FiveTimesAugust) July 27, 2022 × Why is he looking like that and why isn't he blinking?? — ZUBY: (@ZubyMusic) July 27, 2022 × Why is one of his eyes way bigger than the other? — Dan O'Donnell (@DanODonnellShow) July 27, 2022 × In fact, the White House released another longer version of the video which is over 11 minutes as some doubted the Twitter video since they said the president does not blink but the YouTube video clearly shows the president blinking as he addresses viewers. The commonly held belief that a person in deepfake videos does not blink is not true as experts say they do blink. In the video, Biden commented on the Congressional committee report on the Captial riots in 2021 as right-wing Trump followers stormed the building. Newsmax commentator Benny Johnson in a tweet said: "Count how many times Joe Biden blinks in this video" as many thought the video was a creation of an AI machine. 👀 WATCH: Biden Goes 40 Seconds Without Blinking https://t.co/DvEw7WOXpu — Adam Kredo (@Kredo0) July 27, 2022 × Deepfake videos have proliferated in recent years with several targeting US President Biden and ex-president Trump including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, however, the current video created a social media storm as users were not able to properly discern claiming it was a deepfake based on the president's appearance. (With inputs from Agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Social media users claim President Biden's clip a deepfake as video goes viral

<p>Warning US President Joe Biden against playing with fire, Chinese President Xi Jinping highlighted that the historical ins and outs of the Taiwan question are crystal clear.</p>

<p>Xi told Biden ''The fact and status quo that both sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to one and same China.''</p>

<p>Not allowing any room for “Taiwan independence” forces, Xi said China firmly opposes separatist moves toward it.</p>

<p>"On Taiwan, President Biden underscored that the United States policy has not changed and that the United States strongly opposes unilateral efforts to change the status quo or undermine peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait," according to the White House.</p>

<p>With China’s refusal to condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, differing perspectives on global health, economic policy, and human rights have long tested the relationship between the world's two leading economies.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Today I spoke with President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China as part of our efforts to deepen lines of communication, responsibly manage our differences, and address issues of mutual interest. <a href="https://t.co/mwIeg35h8j">pic.twitter.com/mwIeg35h8j</a></p>
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1552711742681137152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>China has been on the offensive ever since reports emerged about US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s potential visit to Taiwan.</p>

<p>Since Republican Newt Gingrich visited the island in 1997, Pelosi would be the highest-ranking US elected official to travel to Taiwan.</p>

<p>Blaming the US for the deteriorating relationship between the two countries, Zhao Lijian, a spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry, told reporters that “If the US insists on going its own way and challenging China’s bottom line, it will surely be met with forceful responses.”</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/us-congress-poised-to-pass-long-awaited-china-semiconductor-bill-501580">Also see | US&nbsp;Congress passes long-awaited bill to boost chipmakers, compete with China</a></strong></p>

<p>John Kirby, a US national security spokesman, told reporters at a White House briefing “The president wants to make sure that the lines of communication with President Xi remain open because they need to.”</p>

<p>“There are issues where we can cooperate with China on, and there are issues where obviously there are friction and tension.”</p>

<p>“This is one of the most consequential bilateral relationships in the world today, with ramifications well beyond both individual countries,” Kirby said.</p>

<p>Jinping, who is seeking an unprecedented third term in office at a congress of China's ruling Communist Party, has an interest in avoiding escalation as per analysts.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Warning US President Joe Biden against playing with fire, Chinese President Xi Jinping highlighted that the historical ins and outs of the Taiwan question are crystal clear.

Warning US President Joe Biden against playing with fire, Chinese President Xi Jinping highlighted that the historical ins and outs of the Taiwan question are crystal clear. Xi told Biden ''The fact and status quo that both sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to one and same China.'' Not allowing any room for “Taiwan independence” forces, Xi said China firmly opposes separatist moves toward it. "On Taiwan, President Biden underscored that the United States policy has not changed and that the United States strongly opposes unilateral efforts to change the status quo or undermine peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait," according to the White House. With China’s refusal to condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, differing perspectives on global health, economic policy, and human rights have long tested the relationship between the world's two leading economies. Today I spoke with President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China as part of our efforts to deepen lines of communication, responsibly manage our differences, and address issues of mutual interest. pic.twitter.com/mwIeg35h8j — President Biden (@POTUS) July 28, 2022 × China has been on the offensive ever since reports emerged about US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s potential visit to Taiwan. Since Republican Newt Gingrich visited the island in 1997, Pelosi would be the highest-ranking US elected official to travel to Taiwan. Blaming the US for the deteriorating relationship between the two countries, Zhao Lijian, a spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry, told reporters that “If the US insists on going its own way and challenging China’s bottom line, it will surely be met with forceful responses.” Also see | US Congress passes long-awaited bill to boost chipmakers, compete with China John Kirby, a US national security spokesman, told reporters at a White House briefing “The president wants to make sure that the lines of communication with President Xi remain open because they need to.” “There are issues where we can cooperate with China on, and there are issues where obviously there are friction and tension.” “This is one of the most consequential bilateral relationships in the world today, with ramifications well beyond both individual countries,” Kirby said. Jinping, who is seeking an unprecedented third term in office at a congress of China's ruling Communist Party, has an interest in avoiding escalation as per analysts. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

'Those who play with fire will perish by it': Xi Jinping warns Joe Biden over Taiwan

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidkVg9uu6DQP4c" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>The Joe Biden administration in the US has halted its plans of inoculating individuals younger than 50 with the second booster shots. Instead, the resources will be directed to accelerate a fall vaccination campaign where reformulated vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna will be used to jab the populace, in order to protect it from the most contagious strain of the virus - the omicron subvariant BA.5.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US government is of the view that another wave of the pandemic may be around the corner in the winter or after it. Thus by inoculating the revamped jabs, which the pharma companies claim to provide better immunity, the government is trying to extend the immunity shield to all.</p>

<p>It is pertinent to note that only Americans over 50 and those over 12 with certain immune deficiencies were allowed to take the second booster shot. With immunities waning in individuals, the second booster shot was expected to be the safeguard.</p>

<p>Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/millions-develop-long-lasting-problems-with-sense-of-smell-or-taste-after-covid-19-study-501475" target="_blank">Millions develop long-lasting problems with sense of smell or taste after COVID-19: Study</a></p>

<p>However, the more contagious variant of the citrus threw a monkey wrench into the plans. Pfizer and Moderna have claimed that they can roll out the reformulated vaccines at the earliest. The US government wants the vaccines on its shelves latest by mid-September.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, all US adults will be receiving the 'updated' Covid jab while children might also get a nod. However, the sudden pivot on the strategy of booster shots has invited mixed reactions.</p>

<p>Some believe that the government's policy is confusing the ordinary folks while other are of the view that it is best to have an updated vaccine than an old one which is not as effective on the new virus strain.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-bats-for-next-gen-covid-vaccines-500953" target="_blank">White House bats for next-gen Covid vaccines</a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

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The Joe Biden administration in the US has halted its plans of inoculating individuals younger than 50 with the second booster shots. Instead, the resources will be directed to accelerate a fall vaccination campaign where reformulated vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna will be used to jab the populace, in order to protect it from the most contagious strain of the virus - the omicron subvariant BA.

The Joe Biden administration in the US has halted its plans of inoculating individuals younger than 50 with the second booster shots. Instead, the resources will be directed to accelerate a fall vaccination campaign where reformulated vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna will be used to jab the populace, in order to protect it from the most contagious strain of the virus - the omicron subvariant BA.5. The US government is of the view that another wave of the pandemic may be around the corner in the winter or after it. Thus by inoculating the revamped jabs, which the pharma companies claim to provide better immunity, the government is trying to extend the immunity shield to all. It is pertinent to note that only Americans over 50 and those over 12 with certain immune deficiencies were allowed to take the second booster shot. With immunities waning in individuals, the second booster shot was expected to be the safeguard. Read More: Millions develop long-lasting problems with sense of smell or taste after COVID-19: Study However, the more contagious variant of the citrus threw a monkey wrench into the plans. Pfizer and Moderna have claimed that they can roll out the reformulated vaccines at the earliest. The US government wants the vaccines on its shelves latest by mid-September. According to reports, all US adults will be receiving the 'updated' Covid jab while children might also get a nod. However, the sudden pivot on the strategy of booster shots has invited mixed reactions. Some believe that the government's policy is confusing the ordinary folks while other are of the view that it is best to have an updated vaccine than an old one which is not as effective on the new virus strain. Read more: White House bats for next-gen Covid vaccines (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Biden administration to roll out updated Covid jabs after halting booster doses

<p>US President Joe Biden’s administration has offered Russia a deal to secure the release of its two citizens held by Moscow.</p>

<p>Citing people close to the matter, CNN reported that in order to bring home Brittney Griner and Paul Whelan, Russian arms trafficker Viktor Bout has been offered in exchange.</p>

<p>It quoted a senior administration official as saying, “We communicated a substantial offer that we believe could be successful based on a history of conversations with the Russians.”</p>

<p>For the first time since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will speak with his Kremlin counterpart.</p>

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<p>Blinken told reporters that a phone call “in the coming days” with Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov “will not be a negotiation about Ukraine.”</p>

<p>It will focus on the release of detained Americans along with a grain deal to avoid a food crisis.</p>

<p>Reflecting the mounting pressure on the administration over Griner and Whelan, the public acknowledgment of the offer comes at a time when the US has otherwise shunned Russia.</p>

<p>While WNBA star Griner was jailed in Moscow for drug possession, Whelan has been held by Russia for alleged espionage since 2018.</p>

<p>Claiming concerns that they only incentivise countries to detain Americans so they can be used as bargaining chips, the US government has long resisted prisoner swaps.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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US President Joe Biden’s administration has offered Russia a deal to secure the release of its two citizens held by Moscow. Citing people close to the matter, CNN reported that in order to bring home Brittney Griner and Paul Whelan, Russian arms trafficker Viktor Bout has been offered in exchange.

US President Joe Biden’s administration has offered Russia a deal to secure the release of its two citizens held by Moscow. Citing people close to the matter, CNN reported that in order to bring home Brittney Griner and Paul Whelan, Russian arms trafficker Viktor Bout has been offered in exchange. It quoted a senior administration official as saying, “We communicated a substantial offer that we believe could be successful based on a history of conversations with the Russians.” For the first time since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will speak with his Kremlin counterpart. × Blinken told reporters that a phone call “in the coming days” with Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov “will not be a negotiation about Ukraine.” It will focus on the release of detained Americans along with a grain deal to avoid a food crisis. Reflecting the mounting pressure on the administration over Griner and Whelan, the public acknowledgment of the offer comes at a time when the US has otherwise shunned Russia. While WNBA star Griner was jailed in Moscow for drug possession, Whelan has been held by Russia for alleged espionage since 2018. Claiming concerns that they only incentivise countries to detain Americans so they can be used as bargaining chips, the US government has long resisted prisoner swaps. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Biden offers deal to Russia for release of its two citizens held by Moscow

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is going to speak to Russian foreign minister Lavrov soon. The release of Americans detained is on the agenda.

Blinken to speak to Lavrov soon: Release of Americans detained is on the agenda

<p>Insisting that he won his second bid for the White House and would not allow his perceived enemies to bar a return, former US President Donald Trump on Tuesday ignored pressure from some fellow Republicans to avoid repeating his false claims about a stolen 2020 election.</p>

<p>Although he stopped short of declaring his candidacy in the 2024 presidential election, Trump predicted Republicans would retake the Senate in his first speech in Washington since leaving office 18 months ago.</p>

<p>In a 93-minute speech to the conservative America First Policy Institute, Trump said "I ran the first time and I won. Then I ran a second time and I did much better ... and you know what? That's going to be the story for a long time, what a disgrace it was. But we may just have to do it again."</p>

<p>Predicting a future federal government controlled by Republicans, Trump used his speech to paint a picture of an America plagued by crime.</p>

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<p>Highlighting that he would use the National Guard to stop violence in states and cities, Trump added that he will relocate the urban homeless to tent encampments on the outskirts of American cities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It comes after the congressional committee investigating the January 6 Capitol riot depicted Trump as ignoring pleas of family and aides to intervene as he watched his supporters on live TV target the seat of Congress for hours.</p>

<p>Dismissing the panel as ''hacks and thugs'', Trump said it wants to damage his reputation so that he won't be able to run in the presidential election in 2024.</p>

<p>Rendering him unfit to return to the White House, the committee is trying to build a case that Trump's efforts to overturn his defeat in November 2020 by Democrat Joe Biden constitutes dereliction of duty and illegal conduct.</p>

<p>With some 40 per cent of Republicans saying he is at least partly to blame for the Capitol riot, a Reuters/Ipsos poll showed that Trump's standing has weakened slightly even though he still remains the leading figure in the Republican Party.</p>

<p>Among those maneuvering for possible Republican primary challenges in 2024 is Florida Governor Ron DeSantis who can take advantage of Trump's waning popularity.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>Watch WION's live TV here:</strong></p>

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Insisting that he won his second bid for the White House and would not allow his perceived enemies to bar a return, former US President Donald Trump on Tuesday ignored pressure from some fellow Republicans to avoid repeating his false claims about a stolen 2020 election.

Insisting that he won his second bid for the White House and would not allow his perceived enemies to bar a return, former US President Donald Trump on Tuesday ignored pressure from some fellow Republicans to avoid repeating his false claims about a stolen 2020 election. Although he stopped short of declaring his candidacy in the 2024 presidential election, Trump predicted Republicans would retake the Senate in his first speech in Washington since leaving office 18 months ago. In a 93-minute speech to the conservative America First Policy Institute, Trump said "I ran the first time and I won. Then I ran a second time and I did much better ... and you know what? That's going to be the story for a long time, what a disgrace it was. But we may just have to do it again." Predicting a future federal government controlled by Republicans, Trump used his speech to paint a picture of an America plagued by crime. × Highlighting that he would use the National Guard to stop violence in states and cities, Trump added that he will relocate the urban homeless to tent encampments on the outskirts of American cities. It comes after the congressional committee investigating the January 6 Capitol riot depicted Trump as ignoring pleas of family and aides to intervene as he watched his supporters on live TV target the seat of Congress for hours. Dismissing the panel as ''hacks and thugs'', Trump said it wants to damage his reputation so that he won't be able to run in the presidential election in 2024. Rendering him unfit to return to the White House, the committee is trying to build a case that Trump's efforts to overturn his defeat in November 2020 by Democrat Joe Biden constitutes dereliction of duty and illegal conduct. With some 40 per cent of Republicans saying he is at least partly to blame for the Capitol riot, a Reuters/Ipsos poll showed that Trump's standing has weakened slightly even though he still remains the leading figure in the Republican Party. Among those maneuvering for possible Republican primary challenges in 2024 is Florida Governor Ron DeSantis who can take advantage of Trump's waning popularity. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Donald Trump ignores pressure from fellow Republicans, teases 2024 run in DC return

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