The US decision to end sanctions waivers for purchases of Iranian oil later this week will backfire by angering Washington's allies, Tehran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Sunday.

Zarif said US policy is designed to make life hard for the Iranian people so they will "take action" against the Tehran government.

"They are wrong in their analysis. They are wrong in their hope," Zarif told Fox News, insisting instead that the people of Iran will get fired up to resist such pressure.

In May last year, President Donald Trump withdrew Washington from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal with world powers, which had given the Islamic republic sanctions relief in exchange for curbs on its nuclear programme.

Washington reimposed oil sanctions on Iran in November, but initially gave eight countries, including several US allies, six-month reprieves.

Five of the countries -- Greece, Italy, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan -- have already heavily reduced their purchases from Iran.

The others benefiting from waivers so far were China, India, and Turkey.

But the US announced last week that the waivers would end on May 2.

"This is coercion, pure and simple," Zarif said.

"People are not happy. China is not happy, Turkey is not happy, Russia is not happy. France is not happy. US allies are not happy that this is happening and they say that they will find ways of resisting it.

"How they will do it, it's up to them, and it's up to them looking at their own future, if they want to have their lives ruled by the United States."

Zarif said Washington's allies in the Middle East such as Saudi Arabia are pushing the US to bring about regime change in Iran.

"They want -- they have all shown an interest in and dragging the United States into a conflict," said Zarif.

In an interview aired minutes later, US National Security Advisor John Bolton said it was "completely ridiculous" to say that US allies in the region are pressing Trump into a conflict with Iran.

Bolton also downplayed any splits with US allies in Europe, saying that the "glimmer of disagreement that he said is mostly in his own eye".

"There have been statements by Chinese companies that have been importing iranian oil, that they are going to stop. I met ... with the Turkish foreign minister some weeks back I was already talking about the steps they were going to take to avoid buying Iranian oil. We will see how it plays out. We made our position clear," he added.

The US decision to end sanctions waivers for purchases of Iranian oil later this week will backfire by angering Washington's allies, Tehran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Sunday.

The US decision to end sanctions waivers for purchases of Iranian oil later this week will backfire by angering Washington's allies, Tehran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Sunday. Zarif said US policy is designed to make life hard for the Iranian people so they will "take action" against the Tehran government. "They are wrong in their analysis. They are wrong in their hope," Zarif told Fox News, insisting instead that the people of Iran will get fired up to resist such pressure. In May last year, President Donald Trump withdrew Washington from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal with world powers, which had given the Islamic republic sanctions relief in exchange for curbs on its nuclear programme. Washington reimposed oil sanctions on Iran in November, but initially gave eight countries, including several US allies, six-month reprieves. Five of the countries -- Greece, Italy, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan -- have already heavily reduced their purchases from Iran. The others benefiting from waivers so far were China, India, and Turkey. But the US announced last week that the waivers would end on May 2. "This is coercion, pure and simple," Zarif said. "People are not happy. China is not happy, Turkey is not happy, Russia is not happy. France is not happy. US allies are not happy that this is happening and they say that they will find ways of resisting it. "How they will do it, it's up to them, and it's up to them looking at their own future, if they want to have their lives ruled by the United States." Zarif said Washington's allies in the Middle East such as Saudi Arabia are pushing the US to bring about regime change in Iran. "They want -- they have all shown an interest in and dragging the United States into a conflict," said Zarif. In an interview aired minutes later, US National Security Advisor John Bolton said it was "completely ridiculous" to say that US allies in the region are pressing Trump into a conflict with Iran. Bolton also downplayed any splits with US allies in Europe, saying that the "glimmer of disagreement that he said is mostly in his own eye". "There have been statements by Chinese companies that have been importing iranian oil, that they are going to stop. I met ... with the Turkish foreign minister some weeks back I was already talking about the steps they were going to take to avoid buying Iranian oil. We will see how it plays out. We made our position clear," he added.

Ending sanctions waiver will anger US allies: Iran FM Javad Zarif

Criticising a leading US official for the second time in less than a week, North Korea described US National Security Adviser John Bolton's call for Pyongyang to show that it’s serious about giving up its nuclear weapons as 
&nbsp;"nonsense", reported news agency Reuters.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
North Korea's remark comes amid row over its call to replace Secretary of State Mike Pompeo with someone more mature in talks.&nbsp;

North Korea said on Thursday it no longer wanted to deal with Pompeo and that he should be replaced in talks by someone more mature, hours after it announced its first weapons test since nuclear talks broke down.

US President Donald Trump has said he is open to a third summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, but Bolton told Bloomberg News on Wednesday there first needed to be "a real indication from North Korea that they've made the strategic decision to give up nuclear weapons".

"Bolton in an interview with Bloomberg, showed above himself by saying such a nonsense," North Korean Vice Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui told reporters when asked about his recent comments, the Korean Central News Agency said on Saturday.

"Bolton's remarks make me wonder whether they sprang out of incomprehension of the intentions of the top leaders of the DPRK and the US or whether he was just trying to talk with a certain sense of humour for his part, with its own deviation," she said, referring to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, North Korea's official name.

"All things considered, his word has no charm in it and he looks dim-sighted to me," Choe Son Hui was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

Criticising a leading US official for the second time in less than a week, North Korea described US National Security Adviser John Bolton's call for Pyongyang to show that it’s serious about giving up its nuclear weapons as "nonsense", reported news agency Reuters.

Criticising a leading US official for the second time in less than a week, North Korea described US National Security Adviser John Bolton's call for Pyongyang to show that it’s serious about giving up its nuclear weapons as "nonsense", reported news agency Reuters. North Korea's remark comes amid row over its call to replace Secretary of State Mike Pompeo with someone more mature in talks. North Korea said on Thursday it no longer wanted to deal with Pompeo and that he should be replaced in talks by someone more mature, hours after it announced its first weapons test since nuclear talks broke down. US President Donald Trump has said he is open to a third summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, but Bolton told Bloomberg News on Wednesday there first needed to be "a real indication from North Korea that they've made the strategic decision to give up nuclear weapons". "Bolton in an interview with Bloomberg, showed above himself by saying such a nonsense," North Korean Vice Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui told reporters when asked about his recent comments, the Korean Central News Agency said on Saturday. "Bolton's remarks make me wonder whether they sprang out of incomprehension of the intentions of the top leaders of the DPRK and the US or whether he was just trying to talk with a certain sense of humour for his part, with its own deviation," she said, referring to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, North Korea's official name. "All things considered, his word has no charm in it and he looks dim-sighted to me," Choe Son Hui was quoted as saying.

North Korea slams US National Security Adviser Bolton's 'dim-sighted' call for sign of denuclearisation

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on Wednesday met senior officials of the Donald Trump administration in Washington&nbsp;and raised the issue of Pakistan supported terrorism and also exchange views on major foreign policy and security-related issues.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-nsa-bolton-asks-pakistan-to-take-steps-against-jem-202755">American NSA John Bolton</a> met Vijay Gokhale on Wednesday.

“Met with Indian FS Gokhale to advance progress on the US-India strategic partnership &amp; our shared vision for the Indo-Pacific, as well as reiterate that the US stands shoulder-to-shoulder with India in the fight against terrorism,” Bolton said in a tweet.

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Met with Indian FS Gokhale to advance progress on the U.S.-India strategic partnership &amp; our shared vision for the Indo-Pacific, as well as reiterate that the U.S. stands shoulder-to-shoulder with India in the fight against terrorism. Official White House Photo by Keegan Barber. <a href="https://t.co/27MPOFniuK">pic.twitter.com/27MPOFniuK</a>
— John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmbJohnBolton/status/1105982383583563776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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However, the US support came on a day China for the fourth time blocked a bid to get Jaish chief Masood Azhar designated a global terrorist by the UN Security Council.

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China put a technical hold on the move by the US, the UK and France, seeking “more time to examine” the proposal, a diplomat at the United Nations has said.

Post the Pulwama attack by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad, Bolton and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo have emerged as strong supporters of the India-US relationship.

“Both underlined the importance of Pakistan taking tangible and irreversible action against terrorist groups based in territories under its control and denial of a safe haven for these groups to launch cross -border attacks,” the Indian Embassy said in a readout of the meeting.

Gokhale's US trip was scheduled much before the February 14 Pulwama terrorist attack, Mr Gokhale's meetings with Mr Pompeo and his counterparts are being considered significant.

(With inputs from PTI)

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on Wednesday met senior officials of the Donald Trump administration in Washington and raised the issue of Pakistan supported terrorism and also exchange views on major foreign policy and security-related issues.

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on Wednesday met senior officials of the Donald Trump administration in Washington and raised the issue of Pakistan supported terrorism and also exchange views on major foreign policy and security-related issues. American NSA John Bolton met Vijay Gokhale on Wednesday. “Met with Indian FS Gokhale to advance progress on the US-India strategic partnership & our shared vision for the Indo-Pacific, as well as reiterate that the US stands shoulder-to-shoulder with India in the fight against terrorism,” Bolton said in a tweet. Met with Indian FS Gokhale to advance progress on the U.S.-India strategic partnership & our shared vision for the Indo-Pacific, as well as reiterate that the U.S. stands shoulder-to-shoulder with India in the fight against terrorism. Official White House Photo by Keegan Barber. pic.twitter.com/27MPOFniuK — John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) March 14, 2019 × However, the US support came on a day China for the fourth time blocked a bid to get Jaish chief Masood Azhar designated a global terrorist by the UN Security Council. × China put a technical hold on the move by the US, the UK and France, seeking “more time to examine” the proposal, a diplomat at the United Nations has said. Post the Pulwama attack by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad, Bolton and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo have emerged as strong supporters of the India-US relationship. “Both underlined the importance of Pakistan taking tangible and irreversible action against terrorist groups based in territories under its control and denial of a safe haven for these groups to launch cross -border attacks,” the Indian Embassy said in a readout of the meeting. Gokhale's US trip was scheduled much before the February 14 Pulwama terrorist attack, Mr Gokhale's meetings with Mr Pompeo and his counterparts are being considered significant. (With inputs from PTI)

US stands shoulder-to-shoulder with India in the fight against terrorism: American NSA John Bolton

The United States has asked Pakistan to take "meaningful steps" against Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). US National Security Adviser John Bolton who spoke with Pakistani Foreign Minister SM Qureshi in a tweet said&nbsp;encouraged "meaningful steps against JeM and other terrorist groups operating from Pakistan."

Adding further that the Pakistani Foreign Minister assured "me that Pakistan would deal firmly with all terrorists and will continue steps to deescalate tensions with India."

The readout of the same conversation between Bolton and Qureshi from Pakistani Foriegn Ministry, on the other hand, makes no mention of US NSA asking Pakistan to act on JeM.

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Spoke with Pakistani FM Qureshi to encourage meaningful steps against JeM and other terrorist groups operating from Pakistan. The FM assured me that Pakistan would deal firmly with all terrorists and will continue steps to deescalate tensions with India.
— John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmbJohnBolton/status/1105188397541408768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The development comes even as Indian Foreign Secretary is in US and met US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. A read out from the US State Department said, "Secretary Pompeo and Foreign Secretary Gokhale discussed the importance of bringing those responsible for the attack to justice and the urgency of Pakistan taking meaningful action against terrorist groups operating on its soil."

It is important to note that US NSA and Indian NSA Ajit Doval have spoken three times since the Pulwama terror attack whose responsibility was taken by UN-listed terror group JeM emanating from Pakistan.

The first time when the US NSA spoke with Indian NSA was February 15, just a day after Pulwama terror attack and tweeted "Pakistan must crack down on JeM and all terrorists operating from its territory" adding "Countries should uphold UNSC responsibilities to deny safe haven and support for terrorists".

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I expressed condolences to NSA Doval yesterday for the reprehensible terrorist attack on India. Pakistan must crack down on JeM and all terrorists operating from its territory. Countries should uphold UNSC responsibilities to deny safe haven and support for terrorists <a href="https://twitter.com/nsaajit?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nsaajit</a>
— John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmbJohnBolton/status/1096743998625062912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Ministry of External Affairs readout of the Bolton-Doval talks of February 15 had mentioned that Ambassador Bolton supports India's right to self-defence against cross-border terrorism.

He also offered "all assistance" to India to bring the perpetrators and backers of the Pulwama terror attack promptly to justice.

India on February 26 launched strikes against JeM terror camp in Balakot, Pakistan. United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo called the strikes as a "counter-terrorism action". In a statement, he said," following Indian counter-terrorism action on February 26, I spoke with Indian minister of external affairs Sushma Swaraj to emphasise our close security partnership and shared goal of maintaining peace and security in the region". 
&nbsp;

The United States has asked Pakistan to take "meaningful steps" against Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). US National Security Adviser John Bolton who spoke with Pakistani Foreign Minister SM Qureshi in a tweet said encouraged "meaningful steps against JeM and other terrorist groups operating from Pakistan.

The United States has asked Pakistan to take "meaningful steps" against Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). US National Security Adviser John Bolton who spoke with Pakistani Foreign Minister SM Qureshi in a tweet said encouraged "meaningful steps against JeM and other terrorist groups operating from Pakistan." Adding further that the Pakistani Foreign Minister assured "me that Pakistan would deal firmly with all terrorists and will continue steps to deescalate tensions with India." The readout of the same conversation between Bolton and Qureshi from Pakistani Foriegn Ministry, on the other hand, makes no mention of US NSA asking Pakistan to act on JeM. Spoke with Pakistani FM Qureshi to encourage meaningful steps against JeM and other terrorist groups operating from Pakistan. The FM assured me that Pakistan would deal firmly with all terrorists and will continue steps to deescalate tensions with India. — John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) March 11, 2019 × The development comes even as Indian Foreign Secretary is in US and met US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. A read out from the US State Department said, "Secretary Pompeo and Foreign Secretary Gokhale discussed the importance of bringing those responsible for the attack to justice and the urgency of Pakistan taking meaningful action against terrorist groups operating on its soil." It is important to note that US NSA and Indian NSA Ajit Doval have spoken three times since the Pulwama terror attack whose responsibility was taken by UN-listed terror group JeM emanating from Pakistan. The first time when the US NSA spoke with Indian NSA was February 15, just a day after Pulwama terror attack and tweeted "Pakistan must crack down on JeM and all terrorists operating from its territory" adding "Countries should uphold UNSC responsibilities to deny safe haven and support for terrorists". I expressed condolences to NSA Doval yesterday for the reprehensible terrorist attack on India. Pakistan must crack down on JeM and all terrorists operating from its territory. Countries should uphold UNSC responsibilities to deny safe haven and support for terrorists @nsaajit — John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) February 16, 2019 × The Ministry of External Affairs readout of the Bolton-Doval talks of February 15 had mentioned that Ambassador Bolton supports India's right to self-defence against cross-border terrorism. He also offered "all assistance" to India to bring the perpetrators and backers of the Pulwama terror attack promptly to justice. India on February 26 launched strikes against JeM terror camp in Balakot, Pakistan. United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo called the strikes as a "counter-terrorism action". In a statement, he said," following Indian counter-terrorism action on February 26, I spoke with Indian minister of external affairs Sushma Swaraj to emphasise our close security partnership and shared goal of maintaining peace and security in the region".

US National Security Adviser Bolton asks Pakistan to take steps against JeM

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump is open to a third summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un but some time may have to go by before this takes place, Trump's national security adviser said on Sunday.

Speaking on ABC, John Bolton said the United States has no illusions about North Korea's capabilities, but Trump remains confident in his personal relationship with the North Korean leader.&nbsp;

Bolton's comments came after two US&nbsp;think tanks and Seoul's spy agency said last week that North Korea was rebuilding a rocket launch site at Sohae in the west of the country.&nbsp;

There have also been reports from South Korea's intelligence service of new activity at a factory at Sanumdong near Pyongyang that produced North Korea's first intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of reaching the United States.&nbsp;

Bolton declined to discuss those reports or say whether a new North Korean missile launch would scuttle engagement with the United States. He said, however, that it was a mistake to assume North Korea would "automatically" comply with its obligations.

"The president's confident in his personal relationship with Kim Jong Un. He's invested a lot of time in trying to develop that relationship," Bolton told ABC's "This Week."

"He said he's open to a third summit, none has been scheduled, and some time may have to go by. &nbsp;But he’s prepared to engage again because he does think that the prospects for North Korea, which he’s been trying to persuade Kim Jong Un to accept if they denuclearized, are really quite spectacular," Bolton said.

Trump told reporters Friday he would be disappointed if Pyongyang were to resume weapons testing and reiterated his belief in his good relationship with the North Korean leader, despite the recent collapse of their second summit in Hanoi.

North Korea has frozen nuclear and missile testing since 2017, and Trump has pointed to this as a positive outcome from nearly a year of high-level engagement with North Korea.

Bolton said he thought Kim has a "very clear idea" where Trump stands on missile tests. US&nbsp;intelligence is constantly watching North Korea, he said.

"We see exactly what they’re doing now. &nbsp;We see it unblinkingly, and we don't have any illusions about what their capabilities are," he said.

Bolton said he was unaware of any recent US&nbsp;contact with North Korea, but that he would be talking Monday with his South Korean counterpart, who may have been in touch with the North.

US President Donald Trump is open to a third summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un but some time may have to go by before this takes place, Trump's national security adviser said on Sunday.

US President Donald Trump is open to a third summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un but some time may have to go by before this takes place, Trump's national security adviser said on Sunday. Speaking on ABC, John Bolton said the United States has no illusions about North Korea's capabilities, but Trump remains confident in his personal relationship with the North Korean leader. Bolton's comments came after two US think tanks and Seoul's spy agency said last week that North Korea was rebuilding a rocket launch site at Sohae in the west of the country. There have also been reports from South Korea's intelligence service of new activity at a factory at Sanumdong near Pyongyang that produced North Korea's first intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of reaching the United States. Bolton declined to discuss those reports or say whether a new North Korean missile launch would scuttle engagement with the United States. He said, however, that it was a mistake to assume North Korea would "automatically" comply with its obligations. "The president's confident in his personal relationship with Kim Jong Un. He's invested a lot of time in trying to develop that relationship," Bolton told ABC's "This Week." "He said he's open to a third summit, none has been scheduled, and some time may have to go by. But he’s prepared to engage again because he does think that the prospects for North Korea, which he’s been trying to persuade Kim Jong Un to accept if they denuclearized, are really quite spectacular," Bolton said. Trump told reporters Friday he would be disappointed if Pyongyang were to resume weapons testing and reiterated his belief in his good relationship with the North Korean leader, despite the recent collapse of their second summit in Hanoi. North Korea has frozen nuclear and missile testing since 2017, and Trump has pointed to this as a positive outcome from nearly a year of high-level engagement with North Korea. Bolton said he thought Kim has a "very clear idea" where Trump stands on missile tests. US intelligence is constantly watching North Korea, he said. "We see exactly what they’re doing now. We see it unblinkingly, and we don't have any illusions about what their capabilities are," he said. Bolton said he was unaware of any recent US contact with North Korea, but that he would be talking Monday with his South Korean counterpart, who may have been in touch with the North.

Some time may pass before a third North Korea summit: Bolton

US President Donald Trump's national security advisor said Sunday that members of Venezuela's military have been in conversation with National Assembly members about how they might move to support the opposition.

National Security Advisor John Bolton stopped short of predicting the ouster of President Nicolas Maduro but said momentum is on the side of Juan Guaido, the National Assembly leader who proclaimed himself acting president.

"There are countless conversations going on between members of the National Assembly and members of the military in Venezuela, talking about what might come, how they might move to support the opposition," Bolton said in an interview on ABC's "This Week."

His comments came a day after thousands rallied in Caracas against the Maduro government amid a massive blackout that has left the capital and much of the country without power for four days.

Maduro supporters also rallied behind the embattled leftist president, who blamed "imperialism" for the country's problems and claimed the electrical grid was crippled by a "cyber attack."

Bolton said it was significant that the Maduro regime has refrained from arresting Guaido, who has been recognized by more than 50 countries as Venezuela's acting president.

"One reason for that is Maduro fears if he gave that order, it would not be obeyed," he said.

Asked if he was certain Maduro was on his way out, Bolton said, "I'm not certain of anything, but I do think Guaido has the momentum."

US President Donald Trump's national security advisor said Sunday that members of Venezuela's military have been in conversation with National Assembly members about how they might move to support the opposition.

US President Donald Trump's national security advisor said Sunday that members of Venezuela's military have been in conversation with National Assembly members about how they might move to support the opposition. National Security Advisor John Bolton stopped short of predicting the ouster of President Nicolas Maduro but said momentum is on the side of Juan Guaido, the National Assembly leader who proclaimed himself acting president. "There are countless conversations going on between members of the National Assembly and members of the military in Venezuela, talking about what might come, how they might move to support the opposition," Bolton said in an interview on ABC's "This Week." His comments came a day after thousands rallied in Caracas against the Maduro government amid a massive blackout that has left the capital and much of the country without power for four days. Maduro supporters also rallied behind the embattled leftist president, who blamed "imperialism" for the country's problems and claimed the electrical grid was crippled by a "cyber attack." Bolton said it was significant that the Maduro regime has refrained from arresting Guaido, who has been recognized by more than 50 countries as Venezuela's acting president. "One reason for that is Maduro fears if he gave that order, it would not be obeyed," he said. Asked if he was certain Maduro was on his way out, Bolton said, "I'm not certain of anything, but I do think Guaido has the momentum."

Venezuela military members in contact with opposition: Bolton

John Bolton, US President Donald Trump`s national security adviser, shakes stars-and-stripes maracas as he dreams of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro behind bars in an orange prison suit.

"Guantanamero ... Maduro Guantanamero ...," Bolton sings in a caricature by Venezuelan cartoonist Fernando Pinilla - a play on both the well-known Cuban song, and the US military detention center at Guantanamo Bay.

A mounted copy of the cartoon from Miami newspaper Diario Las Americas has joined the trophy wall in Bolton`s West Wing office, which until now has been dominated by mementos associated with his signature foreign policy fight: Iran.

One cartoon features an ayatollah hearing about Trump`s withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal.

The new addition is a sign of how Bolton`s hawkish focus has zeroed in on a new target - getting Maduro to leave Venezuela. It`s a battle he has waged on Twitter, where his acid-tongued trolling of the socialist leader has made him one of the Trump administration`s fiercest voices on the issue.

The United States has led an international effort to recognise opposition leader Juan Guaido as the legitimate interim president of Venezuela, considering Maduro`s 2018 re-election a sham.

Since January, Bolton has fired off more than 130 withering missives directed at Maduro, accounting for three quarters of all his Twitter activity in that time and more than a third of all his tweets since Trump named him national security adviser in March 2018.

A spokesman for Bolton declined comment on the strategy.

Bolton, a veteran neoconservative who critics call a warmonger, has tweeted far more about Venezuela in his time as national security adviser than any other topic, including Iran (34 tweets) or the Middle East and Syria (29 tweets).

It was Bolton`s most viral Venezuela tweet that was the genesis for the cartoon that now graces his office.

"I wish Nicolas Maduro and his top advisors a long, quiet retirement, living on a nice beach somewhere far from Venezuela," Bolton said, a zing that has since been retweeted 19,000 times and liked 39,000 times.

The next day, Bolton talked about the tweet with conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt, and added a threat: "The sooner he takes advantage of that, the sooner he`s likely to have a nice, quiet retirement on a pretty beach, rather than being in some other beach area like Guantanamo," Bolton said.

In Caracas, Pinilla heard about Bolton`s warning and was inspired.

"It was easy to imagine that it would be the soundtrack of that arrest, which is our dream," said Pinilla, who said he was surprised and honored when he learned from Reuters that his work was hanging on Bolton`s wall.&nbsp;

`I DREAM OF BOLTON`

Bolton`s war of words has rankled his targets.

Earlier this month, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza held up his phone at a United Nations press conference, brandishing a Bolton tweet warning countries and companies against buying oil and gold from Maduro`s government.

"What he’s trying to do here is give orders," Arreaza complained to reporters.

Arreaza follows Bolton on Twitter. Bolton does not follow him back.

"Bolton`s gangster-style language and threats are proof of the most sublime diplomatic practice. How regrettable that US foreign policy has fallen into the hands of such a gang," Arreaza tweeted last week.

While Bolton has far fewer followers than Maduro - 543,000 to Maduro`s 3.5 million - Bolton has stronger stats on "engagement," a measurement of how readers connect with a message, noted Matthias Luefkens, who produces an annual "Twiplomacy" study on how world leaders use Twitter.

"His language is very bold, very daring, direct. It`s not diplomatic language that he uses," said Luefkens, who works for the public relations firm BCW Global in Geneva.

The strategy bypasses the time-sucking layers of approvals needed to release a traditional White House statement and also side-steps the media.

"It`s the Trump formula of avoiding the gatekeepers," said Philip Seib, who writes about diplomacy and social media at the University of Southern California`s School for Communication and Journalism.

Bolton`s brash style won fans in Caracas among supporters of opposition leader Guaido, like Martha Anez. She gushed about the mustachioed Trump adviser as she welcomed her friends to a crochet circle in her home in a well-to-do district earlier this month.

"I dream of Bolton!" Anez quipped. "The first thing I do in the morning, even before my coffee, is check whether or not the gringos have said they will intervene. Here we need a square in honor of Bolton! Because he has helped us," she said.

John Bolton, US President Donald Trump`s national security adviser, shakes stars-and-stripes maracas as he dreams of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro behind bars in an orange prison suit.

John Bolton, US President Donald Trump`s national security adviser, shakes stars-and-stripes maracas as he dreams of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro behind bars in an orange prison suit. "Guantanamero ... Maduro Guantanamero ...," Bolton sings in a caricature by Venezuelan cartoonist Fernando Pinilla - a play on both the well-known Cuban song, and the US military detention center at Guantanamo Bay. A mounted copy of the cartoon from Miami newspaper Diario Las Americas has joined the trophy wall in Bolton`s West Wing office, which until now has been dominated by mementos associated with his signature foreign policy fight: Iran. One cartoon features an ayatollah hearing about Trump`s withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal. The new addition is a sign of how Bolton`s hawkish focus has zeroed in on a new target - getting Maduro to leave Venezuela. It`s a battle he has waged on Twitter, where his acid-tongued trolling of the socialist leader has made him one of the Trump administration`s fiercest voices on the issue. The United States has led an international effort to recognise opposition leader Juan Guaido as the legitimate interim president of Venezuela, considering Maduro`s 2018 re-election a sham. Since January, Bolton has fired off more than 130 withering missives directed at Maduro, accounting for three quarters of all his Twitter activity in that time and more than a third of all his tweets since Trump named him national security adviser in March 2018. A spokesman for Bolton declined comment on the strategy. Bolton, a veteran neoconservative who critics call a warmonger, has tweeted far more about Venezuela in his time as national security adviser than any other topic, including Iran (34 tweets) or the Middle East and Syria (29 tweets). It was Bolton`s most viral Venezuela tweet that was the genesis for the cartoon that now graces his office. "I wish Nicolas Maduro and his top advisors a long, quiet retirement, living on a nice beach somewhere far from Venezuela," Bolton said, a zing that has since been retweeted 19,000 times and liked 39,000 times. The next day, Bolton talked about the tweet with conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt, and added a threat: "The sooner he takes advantage of that, the sooner he`s likely to have a nice, quiet retirement on a pretty beach, rather than being in some other beach area like Guantanamo," Bolton said. In Caracas, Pinilla heard about Bolton`s warning and was inspired. "It was easy to imagine that it would be the soundtrack of that arrest, which is our dream," said Pinilla, who said he was surprised and honored when he learned from Reuters that his work was hanging on Bolton`s wall. `I DREAM OF BOLTON` Bolton`s war of words has rankled his targets. Earlier this month, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza held up his phone at a United Nations press conference, brandishing a Bolton tweet warning countries and companies against buying oil and gold from Maduro`s government. "What he’s trying to do here is give orders," Arreaza complained to reporters. Arreaza follows Bolton on Twitter. Bolton does not follow him back. "Bolton`s gangster-style language and threats are proof of the most sublime diplomatic practice. How regrettable that US foreign policy has fallen into the hands of such a gang," Arreaza tweeted last week. While Bolton has far fewer followers than Maduro - 543,000 to Maduro`s 3.5 million - Bolton has stronger stats on "engagement," a measurement of how readers connect with a message, noted Matthias Luefkens, who produces an annual "Twiplomacy" study on how world leaders use Twitter. "His language is very bold, very daring, direct. It`s not diplomatic language that he uses," said Luefkens, who works for the public relations firm BCW Global in Geneva. The strategy bypasses the time-sucking layers of approvals needed to release a traditional White House statement and also side-steps the media. "It`s the Trump formula of avoiding the gatekeepers," said Philip Seib, who writes about diplomacy and social media at the University of Southern California`s School for Communication and Journalism. Bolton`s brash style won fans in Caracas among supporters of opposition leader Guaido, like Martha Anez. She gushed about the mustachioed Trump adviser as she welcomed her friends to a crochet circle in her home in a well-to-do district earlier this month. "I dream of Bolton!" Anez quipped. "The first thing I do in the morning, even before my coffee, is check whether or not the gringos have said they will intervene. Here we need a square in honor of Bolton! Because he has helped us," she said.

Move over ayatollahs: Bolton turns tweets and talons on Maduro

US National Security Adviser John Bolton told his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval on Friday that America supports India's right to self-defence.

Bolton telephoned Doval Friday morning to express his condolences for the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pulwama-attack-india-slams-pakistan-yet-again-says-islamabad-cannot-claim-its-unaware-of-jem-presence-197702">terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir </a>and offered the US' full support to India in confronting terrorism.&nbsp;

"I told Ajit Doval today that we support India's right to self-defence. I have spoken to him twice, including this morning... And expressed the US' condolences over the terrorist attack,"&nbsp;he told.

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NSA Bolton offers all assistance to India to bring the perpetrators &amp; backer of the attack promptly to justice: MEA <a href="https://t.co/vnxqQkNaaZ">pic.twitter.com/vnxqQkNaaZ</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1096618893261656064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Bolton said the US has been very clear to Pakistan on ending support to terrorist safe havens.&nbsp;

"We have been very clear on that score... And, we are continuing to be in discussions we are going to have with the Pakistanis,"&nbsp;he said.&nbsp;

Earlier, the White House and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo asked Pakistan to end its support to terrorist safe havens inside the country.

"We stand with #India as it confronts terrorism. Pakistan must not provide safe haven for terrorists to threaten international security,"&nbsp;Pompeo said on Twitter.

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The U.S. condemns yesterday’s horrific terror attack on Indian security forces. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. We stand with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> as it confronts terrorism. Pakistan must not provide safe haven for terrorists to threaten international security.
— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1096474341649403905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In a stern message to Pakistan, the White House asked Islamabad to "immediately end" its "support" to all terror groups and not to provide "safe haven" to them, as the US condemned the brutal Pulwama terror attack claimed the lives of at least 40 CRPF soldiers.

Pakistan-based <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-terror-attack-nia-begins-investigation-7-detained-after-raids-197621">Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM)</a> has claimed responsibility for the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on Thursday that left at least 40 CRPF soldiers dead and five others critically wounded.

"The United States calls on Pakistan to end immediately the support and safe haven provided to all terrorist groups operating on its soil, whose only goal is to sow chaos, violence, and terror in the region," White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said in a late night statement on Thursday.

US National Security Adviser John Bolton told his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval on Friday that America supports India's right to self-defence. Bolton telephoned Doval Friday morning to express his condolences for the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir and offered the US' full support to India in confronting terrorism.

US National Security Adviser John Bolton told his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval on Friday that America supports India's right to self-defence. Bolton telephoned Doval Friday morning to express his condolences for the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir and offered the US' full support to India in confronting terrorism. "I told Ajit Doval today that we support India's right to self-defence. I have spoken to him twice, including this morning... And expressed the US' condolences over the terrorist attack," he told. NSA Bolton offers all assistance to India to bring the perpetrators & backer of the attack promptly to justice: MEA pic.twitter.com/vnxqQkNaaZ — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) February 16, 2019 × Bolton said the US has been very clear to Pakistan on ending support to terrorist safe havens. "We have been very clear on that score... And, we are continuing to be in discussions we are going to have with the Pakistanis," he said. Earlier, the White House and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo asked Pakistan to end its support to terrorist safe havens inside the country. "We stand with #India as it confronts terrorism. Pakistan must not provide safe haven for terrorists to threaten international security," Pompeo said on Twitter. The U.S. condemns yesterday’s horrific terror attack on Indian security forces. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. We stand with #India as it confronts terrorism. Pakistan must not provide safe haven for terrorists to threaten international security. — Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) February 15, 2019 × In a stern message to Pakistan, the White House asked Islamabad to "immediately end" its "support" to all terror groups and not to provide "safe haven" to them, as the US condemned the brutal Pulwama terror attack claimed the lives of at least 40 CRPF soldiers. Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) has claimed responsibility for the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on Thursday that left at least 40 CRPF soldiers dead and five others critically wounded. "The United States calls on Pakistan to end immediately the support and safe haven provided to all terrorist groups operating on its soil, whose only goal is to sow chaos, violence, and terror in the region," White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said in a late night statement on Thursday.

'We support India's right to self-defence': US NSA Bolton tells his Indian counterpart Doval

24 hours after the Pulwama terror attack, US National Security Advisor (NSA) John Bolton in a telephone conversation with his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval extended support to New Delhi's "right to self-defence against cross border terrorism" and offered assistance to bring the perpetrators to justice.&nbsp;

In a release, the minister of external affairs (MEA) said, "Ambassador Bolton supported India's right to self-defence against cross-border terrorism. He offered all assistance to India to bring the perpetrators and backers of the attack promptly to justice. NSA Doval appreciated U.S. support."

Both the NSAs "vowed to work together" to ensure that Pakistan "cease to be a safe haven" for Jaish-e-Muhammad (JEM) and other terrorist groups.

Jaish-e-Muhammad claimed responsibility for the terror attack.

India and US also "resolved to hold Pakistan to account" for its "obligations under UN resolutions and to remove all obstacles to designating" JeM leader Masood Azhar as a global terrorist.

India approached United Nation Security Council's 1267 Committee in 2016 to designate Azhar as a global terrorist but Bejing blocked it citing lack of consensus.&nbsp;

The United States was one of the first countries to condemn the terror attack and called out Pakistan not to provide safe haven to terrorists. The White House in a statement called on "Pakistan to end immediately the support and safe haven provided to all terrorist groups operating on its soil, whose only goal is to sow chaos, violence, and terror in the region."&nbsp;

The US state department in a statement said, "The UN designated, Pakistan-based terrorist group Jaish-e-Muhammad has claimed responsibility for this heinous act. We call on all countries to uphold their responsibilities pursuant to UN Security Council resolutions to deny safe haven and support for terrorists."&nbsp;

Earlier, in a tweet, US Secretary of state, Mike Pompeo said, "The U.S. condemns yesterday’s horrific terror attack on Indian security forces. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. We stand with #India as it confronts terrorism. Pakistan must not provide safe haven for terrorists to threaten international security."

48 Countries including US, Germany, Russia, France, China, UK, South Korea, Israel have condemned the Pulwama terror attack.&nbsp;

24 hours after the Pulwama terror attack, US National Security Advisor (NSA) John Bolton in a telephone conversation with his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval extended support to New Delhi's "right to self-defence against cross border terrorism" and offered assistance to bring the perpetrators to justice.

24 hours after the Pulwama terror attack, US National Security Advisor (NSA) John Bolton in a telephone conversation with his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval extended support to New Delhi's "right to self-defence against cross border terrorism" and offered assistance to bring the perpetrators to justice. In a release, the minister of external affairs (MEA) said, "Ambassador Bolton supported India's right to self-defence against cross-border terrorism. He offered all assistance to India to bring the perpetrators and backers of the attack promptly to justice. NSA Doval appreciated U.S. support." Both the NSAs "vowed to work together" to ensure that Pakistan "cease to be a safe haven" for Jaish-e-Muhammad (JEM) and other terrorist groups. Jaish-e-Muhammad claimed responsibility for the terror attack. India and US also "resolved to hold Pakistan to account" for its "obligations under UN resolutions and to remove all obstacles to designating" JeM leader Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. India approached United Nation Security Council's 1267 Committee in 2016 to designate Azhar as a global terrorist but Bejing blocked it citing lack of consensus. The United States was one of the first countries to condemn the terror attack and called out Pakistan not to provide safe haven to terrorists. The White House in a statement called on "Pakistan to end immediately the support and safe haven provided to all terrorist groups operating on its soil, whose only goal is to sow chaos, violence, and terror in the region." The US state department in a statement said, "The UN designated, Pakistan-based terrorist group Jaish-e-Muhammad has claimed responsibility for this heinous act. We call on all countries to uphold their responsibilities pursuant to UN Security Council resolutions to deny safe haven and support for terrorists." Earlier, in a tweet, US Secretary of state, Mike Pompeo said, "The U.S. condemns yesterday’s horrific terror attack on Indian security forces. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. We stand with #India as it confronts terrorism. Pakistan must not provide safe haven for terrorists to threaten international security." 48 Countries including US, Germany, Russia, France, China, UK, South Korea, Israel have condemned the Pulwama terror attack.

Pulwama attack: US supports India's right to self-defence, offers help to bring perpetrators to justice 

Twenty-five countries have pledged $100 million in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-enlists-50-countries-at-un-to-show-support-197489">aid to Venezuela</a>, a top US official said Thursday, as the crisis-hit country's Supreme Court took aim at oil executives appointed by the opposition.

Venezuela is plagued by hyperinflation and major shortages of basic goods, and two men -- <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/showdown-looms-as-venezuelan-opposition-leader-guaido-sets-aid-entry-date-197058">opposition leader Juan Guaido</a> and President Nicolas Maduro -- are vying for control of the country.

The United States is among more than 50 countries that have recognized Guaido as interim president, but Maduro -- backed by the country's military as well as Russia, China and dozens of other states -- has so far refused to relinquish his office.

US national security advisor John Bolton made the announcement on the aid pledged to Venezuela following an Organization of American States conference on assisting the country.

"Today, 25 countries, united at the OAS-hosted Conference on Humanitarian Assistance in Support of Venezuela pledged $100 million in humanitarian assistance," Bolton tweeted.

According to David Smolanksy, coordinator of an OAS working group on migration and refugees from Venezuela, the money will go directly to aid collection centres set up on the borders with Colombia and Brazil and on the Caribbean island of Curazao.

At the opening of the conference in Washington, Guaido's representative in the United States, Carlos Vecchio, said the priority is to get aid into Venezuela on February 23 -- a month after Guaido declared himself Venezuela's interim president.

Blockade at the border&nbsp;

Guaido and Maduro have been locked in a battle over allowing aid into the country, and the military reinforced a blockade on Thursday at the border with Colombia, where the opposition leader has vowed to bring in desperately-needed goods.

AFP journalists saw several new freight containers blocking the road that connects the town of Urena in Venezuela to Cucuta in Colombia, where tons of US aid has been piling up for a week.

Venezuela is enduring the biggest economic crisis in its modern history, with hyperinflation predicted to hit 10 million per cent this year according to the International Monetary Fund.

On Wednesday, the opposition-controlled National Assembly -- which is headed by Guaido -- appointed executives to form new boards for Venezuelan state oil firm PDVSA and its US-based affiliate Citgo.

Venezuela's Supreme Court took aim at the move the following day, ordering that the new appointees face criminal prosecution.

The high court -- which is packed with Maduro loyalists -- ruled that the executives were named by a legislature whose decisions are "null," and that the appointees should face prosecution for crimes including "usurpation," "corruption," "organized crime" and "terrorism."

The Supreme Court decision set in motion the process of extraditing the accused, most of whom are in the United States, and freezing their accounts.

Guaido celebrated the appointments as a "step forward in the reconstruction of PDVSA," but Maduro had warned that those accepting "illegal" appointments would face justice.

The United States, which is leading the push to topple Maduro, has sanctioned key regime financial assets including the Citgo subsidiary, and President Donald Trump has refused to rule out military action against the leftist leader.

Twenty-five countries have pledged $100 million in aid to Venezuela, a top US official said Thursday, as the crisis-hit country's Supreme Court took aim at oil executives appointed by the opposition.

Twenty-five countries have pledged $100 million in aid to Venezuela, a top US official said Thursday, as the crisis-hit country's Supreme Court took aim at oil executives appointed by the opposition. Venezuela is plagued by hyperinflation and major shortages of basic goods, and two men -- opposition leader Juan Guaido and President Nicolas Maduro -- are vying for control of the country. The United States is among more than 50 countries that have recognized Guaido as interim president, but Maduro -- backed by the country's military as well as Russia, China and dozens of other states -- has so far refused to relinquish his office. US national security advisor John Bolton made the announcement on the aid pledged to Venezuela following an Organization of American States conference on assisting the country. "Today, 25 countries, united at the OAS-hosted Conference on Humanitarian Assistance in Support of Venezuela pledged $100 million in humanitarian assistance," Bolton tweeted. According to David Smolanksy, coordinator of an OAS working group on migration and refugees from Venezuela, the money will go directly to aid collection centres set up on the borders with Colombia and Brazil and on the Caribbean island of Curazao. At the opening of the conference in Washington, Guaido's representative in the United States, Carlos Vecchio, said the priority is to get aid into Venezuela on February 23 -- a month after Guaido declared himself Venezuela's interim president. Blockade at the border Guaido and Maduro have been locked in a battle over allowing aid into the country, and the military reinforced a blockade on Thursday at the border with Colombia, where the opposition leader has vowed to bring in desperately-needed goods. AFP journalists saw several new freight containers blocking the road that connects the town of Urena in Venezuela to Cucuta in Colombia, where tons of US aid has been piling up for a week. Venezuela is enduring the biggest economic crisis in its modern history, with hyperinflation predicted to hit 10 million per cent this year according to the International Monetary Fund. On Wednesday, the opposition-controlled National Assembly -- which is headed by Guaido -- appointed executives to form new boards for Venezuelan state oil firm PDVSA and its US-based affiliate Citgo. Venezuela's Supreme Court took aim at the move the following day, ordering that the new appointees face criminal prosecution. The high court -- which is packed with Maduro loyalists -- ruled that the executives were named by a legislature whose decisions are "null," and that the appointees should face prosecution for crimes including "usurpation," "corruption," "organized crime" and "terrorism." The Supreme Court decision set in motion the process of extraditing the accused, most of whom are in the United States, and freezing their accounts. Guaido celebrated the appointments as a "step forward in the reconstruction of PDVSA," but Maduro had warned that those accepting "illegal" appointments would face justice. The United States, which is leading the push to topple Maduro, has sanctioned key regime financial assets including the Citgo subsidiary, and President Donald Trump has refused to rule out military action against the leftist leader.

25 countries pledge $100 million in humanitarian aid to crisis-hit Venezuela

Iranians will chant "Death to America" as long as Washington continues its hostile policies, but the slogan is directed at President Donald Trump and US leaders, not the American nation, Iran's supreme leader said on Friday.

"As long as America continues its wickedness, the Iranian nation will not abandon 'Death to America'," Ayatollah Ali Khamenei told a gathering of Iranian Air Force officers marking the 40th anniversary of Iran's Islamic Revolution, according to his official website.

Trump pulled out of Iran's 2015 nuclear deal with world powers last year and re-imposed sanctions on Tehran, dealing a blow to the country's economy.

"'Death to America' means death to Trump, (National Security Adviser) John Bolton, and (Secretary of State Mike) Pompeo. It means death to American rulers," Ayatollah Khamenei said.

European signatories of the nuclear deal have been trying to save the accord, but Khamenei said they could not be trusted.

"I recommend that one should not trust the Europeans just as the Americans," Khamenei said. "We don't say, don't have contacts with them, but it's an issue of trust."

The European Union has stepped up criticism of Iran's ballistic missiles programme while remaining committed to the 2015 nuclear deal.

Iranians will chant "Death to America" as long as Washington continues its hostile policies, but the slogan is directed at President Donald Trump and US leaders, not the American nation, Iran's supreme leader said on Friday.

Iranians will chant "Death to America" as long as Washington continues its hostile policies, but the slogan is directed at President Donald Trump and US leaders, not the American nation, Iran's supreme leader said on Friday. "As long as America continues its wickedness, the Iranian nation will not abandon 'Death to America'," Ayatollah Ali Khamenei told a gathering of Iranian Air Force officers marking the 40th anniversary of Iran's Islamic Revolution, according to his official website. Trump pulled out of Iran's 2015 nuclear deal with world powers last year and re-imposed sanctions on Tehran, dealing a blow to the country's economy. "'Death to America' means death to Trump, (National Security Adviser) John Bolton, and (Secretary of State Mike) Pompeo. It means death to American rulers," Ayatollah Khamenei said. European signatories of the nuclear deal have been trying to save the accord, but Khamenei said they could not be trusted. "I recommend that one should not trust the Europeans just as the Americans," Khamenei said. "We don't say, don't have contacts with them, but it's an issue of trust." The European Union has stepped up criticism of Iran's ballistic missiles programme while remaining committed to the 2015 nuclear deal.

'Death to America' aimed at Trump, not American nation, Iran leader says

United States President Donald Trump's national security adviser, John Bolton, on Tuesday denounced Venezuela's attorney general for what he described&nbsp;were threats against opposition leader Juan Guaido, who has been recognised by Washington as the country's interim president.

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We denounce the illegitimate former Venezuelan Attorney General's threats against President Juan Guaido. Let me reiterate - there will be serious consequences for those who attempt to subvert democracy and harm Guaido.
— John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmbJohnBolton/status/1090323542812569602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Labelling Venezuelan Attorney General Tarek Saab an "illegitimate former" Venezuelan official, Bolton said in a message on Twitter "there will be serious consequences for those who attempt to subvert democracy and harm Guaido."

Earlier on Tuesday, Saab called on the Venezuelan top court to open an investigation into the self-declared president, accusing him of helping foreign countries to interfere in internal matters.

United States President Donald Trump's national security adviser, John Bolton, on Tuesday denounced Venezuela's attorney general for what he described were threats against opposition leader Juan Guaido, who has been recognised by Washington as the country's interim president.

United States President Donald Trump's national security adviser, John Bolton, on Tuesday denounced Venezuela's attorney general for what he described were threats against opposition leader Juan Guaido, who has been recognised by Washington as the country's interim president. We denounce the illegitimate former Venezuelan Attorney General's threats against President Juan Guaido. Let me reiterate - there will be serious consequences for those who attempt to subvert democracy and harm Guaido. — John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) January 29, 2019 × Labelling Venezuelan Attorney General Tarek Saab an "illegitimate former" Venezuelan official, Bolton said in a message on Twitter "there will be serious consequences for those who attempt to subvert democracy and harm Guaido." Earlier on Tuesday, Saab called on the Venezuelan top court to open an investigation into the self-declared president, accusing him of helping foreign countries to interfere in internal matters.

Trump security adviser denounces 'threats' against Venezuela's Opposition leader Juan Guaido

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-bangla-plane-crash-that-killed-51-was-caused-by-pilot-smoking-in-cockpit-193269">US-Bangla plane crash that killed 51 was caused by pilot smoking in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-bangla-plane-crash-that-killed-51-was-caused-by-pilot-smoking-in-cockpit-193269">cockpit</a>

The US-Bangla airline Bombardier UBG-211 crash that occurred in March last year took place as the pilot who was in charge of the flight had smoked inside the cockpit despite restrictions, authorities confirmed on Sunday.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-india-vs-new-zealand-3rd-odi-nz-are-at-10-1-after-2-overs-193266">India vs New Zealand, 3rd ODI: Catch all the live updates here</a>

India's bowlers struck early, sending both Kiwi openers back to the pavilion. New Zealand were 59/3 after 16.2 overs at 9 am IST with skipper Kane Williamson departing after his openers.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uss-bolton-warns-venezuela-of-significant-response-if-juan-guaido-is-threatened-193282">US's Bolton warns Venezuela of 'significant response' if Juan </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uss-bolton-warns-venezuela-of-significant-response-if-juan-guaido-is-threatened-193282">Guaido</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uss-bolton-warns-venezuela-of-significant-response-if-juan-guaido-is-threatened-193282"> is threatened</a>

National Security Adviser of the United States John Bolton said that any violence and intimidation against US diplomats, Venezuela's "democratic leader" Juan Guaido or the National Assembly will be met with a "significant response" from the US.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-dam-burst-death-toll-touches-58-rescuers-find-bus-full-of-bodies-193259">Brazil dam burst: Death toll touches 58, rescuers find bus full of bodies</a>

Fears of a second dam breach at a Brazilian mining complex receded Sunday, enabling a search to resume for the more than 300 people still missing two days after a dam collapse that has killed at least 58 people.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/to-defeat-obesity-hunger-climate-change-govts-must-curb-influence-of-big-corporations-lancet-193275">To defeat obesity, hunger &amp; climate change, </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/to-defeat-obesity-hunger-climate-change-govts-must-curb-influence-of-big-corporations-lancet-193275">govts</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/to-defeat-obesity-hunger-climate-change-govts-must-curb-influence-of-big-corporations-lancet-193275"> must curb </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/to-defeat-obesity-hunger-climate-change-govts-must-curb-influence-of-big-corporations-lancet-193275">influence</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/to-defeat-obesity-hunger-climate-change-govts-must-curb-influence-of-big-corporations-lancet-193275"> of big corporations: Lancet</a>

To defeat the intertwined pandemics of obesity, hunger and climate change, governments must curb the political influence of major corporations, said a major report Monday calling for a 'global treaty' similar to one for tobacco control.

Bu this will not happen unless ordinary citizens demand a "radical rethink" of the relationship between policymakers and business, nearly four dozen experts from The Lancet Commission on Obesity concluded.

US-Bangla plane crash that killed 51 was caused by pilot smoking in cockpit The US-Bangla airline Bombardier UBG-211 crash that occurred in March last year took place as the pilot who was in charge of the flight had smoked inside the cockpit despite restrictions, authorities confirmed on Sunday.

US-Bangla plane crash that killed 51 was caused by pilot smoking in cockpit The US-Bangla airline Bombardier UBG-211 crash that occurred in March last year took place as the pilot who was in charge of the flight had smoked inside the cockpit despite restrictions, authorities confirmed on Sunday. India vs New Zealand, 3rd ODI: Catch all the live updates here India's bowlers struck early, sending both Kiwi openers back to the pavilion. New Zealand were 59/3 after 16.2 overs at 9 am IST with skipper Kane Williamson departing after his openers. US's Bolton warns Venezuela of 'significant response' if Juan Guaido is threatened National Security Adviser of the United States John Bolton said that any violence and intimidation against US diplomats, Venezuela's "democratic leader" Juan Guaido or the National Assembly will be met with a "significant response" from the US. Brazil dam burst: Death toll touches 58, rescuers find bus full of bodies Fears of a second dam breach at a Brazilian mining complex receded Sunday, enabling a search to resume for the more than 300 people still missing two days after a dam collapse that has killed at least 58 people. To defeat obesity, hunger & climate change, govts must curb influence of big corporations: Lancet To defeat the intertwined pandemics of obesity, hunger and climate change, governments must curb the political influence of major corporations, said a major report Monday calling for a 'global treaty' similar to one for tobacco control. Bu this will not happen unless ordinary citizens demand a "radical rethink" of the relationship between policymakers and business, nearly four dozen experts from The Lancet Commission on Obesity concluded.

News brief: Big stories of the day

National Security Adviser of the United States John Bolton said that any violence and intimidation against US diplomats, Venezuela's "democratic leader" Juan Guaido or the National Assembly will be met with a "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-calls-on-world-to-pick-a-side-on-venezuela-europeans-set-to-recognize-guaido-193131">significant response</a>" by the US.&nbsp;

"Any violence and intimidation against US diplomatic personnel, Venezuela’s democratic leader, Juan Guiado, or the National Assembly itself would represent a grave assault on the rule of law and will be met with a significant response," Bolton tweeted on Sunday (local time).&nbsp;

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Any violence and intimidation against U.S. diplomatic personnel, Venezuela’s democratic leader, Juan Guiado, or the National Assembly itself would represent a grave assault on the rule of law and will be met with a significant response. 2/2
— John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmbJohnBolton/status/1089569353421463554?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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He also said that Cuba's "support and control" over current Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's armed forces are "well known".&nbsp;

"Cuba’s support and control over Maduro’s security and paramilitary forces are well known," he said in another tweet.

Last week, the US and a few of its allies recognised Guaido as Venezuela's interim president.&nbsp;

The move was met by Maduro severing all diplomatic ties with the US and ordering all American diplomats to leave the country. He also directed all Venezuelan diplomats to return from the US.&nbsp;

However, on Saturday, Venezuela`s Foreign Ministry suspended the expulsion of the US diplomats, The Hill reported.&nbsp;

Earlier, US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo labelled Maduro`s regime in Venezuela as an "illegitimate mafia state" and called for all nations to "pick sides" in the crisis while addressing a UN Security Council emergency meeting.&nbsp;

On January 23, Guaido, the opposition leader and National Assembly President, proclaimed himself as President of Venezuela to crowds of cheering protesters. He was immediately recognised as interim President by the USA.&nbsp;

Maduro, in turn, labelled it as a coup attempt by the US.&nbsp;

Countries like Russia, Bolivia, Iran, and Turkey have extended their support to Maduro and slammed international interference in the South American nation.&nbsp;

National Security Adviser of the United States John Bolton said that any violence and intimidation against US diplomats, Venezuela's "democratic leader" Juan Guaido or the National Assembly will be met with a "significant response" by the US.

National Security Adviser of the United States John Bolton said that any violence and intimidation against US diplomats, Venezuela's "democratic leader" Juan Guaido or the National Assembly will be met with a "significant response" by the US. "Any violence and intimidation against US diplomatic personnel, Venezuela’s democratic leader, Juan Guiado, or the National Assembly itself would represent a grave assault on the rule of law and will be met with a significant response," Bolton tweeted on Sunday (local time). Any violence and intimidation against U.S. diplomatic personnel, Venezuela’s democratic leader, Juan Guiado, or the National Assembly itself would represent a grave assault on the rule of law and will be met with a significant response. 2/2 — John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) January 27, 2019 × He also said that Cuba's "support and control" over current Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's armed forces are "well known". "Cuba’s support and control over Maduro’s security and paramilitary forces are well known," he said in another tweet. Last week, the US and a few of its allies recognised Guaido as Venezuela's interim president. The move was met by Maduro severing all diplomatic ties with the US and ordering all American diplomats to leave the country. He also directed all Venezuelan diplomats to return from the US. However, on Saturday, Venezuela`s Foreign Ministry suspended the expulsion of the US diplomats, The Hill reported. Earlier, US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo labelled Maduro`s regime in Venezuela as an "illegitimate mafia state" and called for all nations to "pick sides" in the crisis while addressing a UN Security Council emergency meeting. On January 23, Guaido, the opposition leader and National Assembly President, proclaimed himself as President of Venezuela to crowds of cheering protesters. He was immediately recognised as interim President by the USA. Maduro, in turn, labelled it as a coup attempt by the US. Countries like Russia, Bolivia, Iran, and Turkey have extended their support to Maduro and slammed international interference in the South American nation.

US's Bolton warns Venezuela of 'significant response' if Juan Guaido is threatened

Iran's foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on Friday targetted US National Security Advisor John Bolton in a tweet and called him a "bully."

In a tweet, Zarif posted screenshots of two media reports, a decade apart, on Bolton calling for an air strike on Iran.&nbsp;

"Same bull. Same bully. Same delusion", Zarif tweeted with two different articles from 2009 and 2019.

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Same bull. Same bully. Same delusion.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/10YearChallenge?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#10YearChallenge</a> <a href="https://t.co/KgUAejJcar">pic.twitter.com/KgUAejJcar</a>
— Javad Zarif (@JZarif) <a href="https://twitter.com/JZarif/status/1086242142488530944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The articles quoted Bolton's demand for launching an air strike on Iran.

Earlier this week, reports stated that Bolton has&nbsp;asked the Pentagon in September to prepare military options for attacking Iran following the&nbsp;attacks on US Diplomatic sites in Iraq.

Tensions between Iran and the US have been heightened after President Donald Trump withdrew the US from the nuclear deal and re-imposed sanctions on Iran. 
&nbsp;

Iran's foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on Friday targetted US National Security Advisor John Bolton in a tweet and called him a "bully." In a tweet, Zarif posted screenshots of two media reports, a decade apart, on Bolton calling for an air strike on Iran.

Iran's foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on Friday targetted US National Security Advisor John Bolton in a tweet and called him a "bully." In a tweet, Zarif posted screenshots of two media reports, a decade apart, on Bolton calling for an air strike on Iran. "Same bull. Same bully. Same delusion", Zarif tweeted with two different articles from 2009 and 2019. Same bull. Same bully. Same delusion.#10YearChallenge pic.twitter.com/KgUAejJcar — Javad Zarif (@JZarif) January 18, 2019 × The articles quoted Bolton's demand for launching an air strike on Iran. Earlier this week, reports stated that Bolton has asked the Pentagon in September to prepare military options for attacking Iran following the attacks on US Diplomatic sites in Iraq. Tensions between Iran and the US have been heightened after President Donald Trump withdrew the US from the nuclear deal and re-imposed sanctions on Iran.

Iran's foreign minister calls Bolton 'bully', targets him with '10-year challenge'

US President Donald Trump's national security adviser on Sunday set out conditions for the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-team-coming-to-discuss-syria-troops-withdrawal-turkey-186239">withdrawal of American troops from Syria</a>, saying the defence of allies must first be assured.

The comments by John Bolton during a visit to Israel signalled a far more gradual US withdrawal than initially set out by Trump, whose December 19 announcement concerned allies and led to the resignation of defence secretary Jim Mattis.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-troops-withdrawal-will-not-have-security-impact-on-afghanistan-presidential-spokesman-185677">US pullout from Syria angers Iraq</a>

Trump himself has more recently spoken of "slowly" sending troops home "over a period of time", and Bolton laid out some of the conditions required before it takes place.

"We're going to be discussing the president's decision to withdraw, but to do so from northeast Syria in a way that makes sure that ISIS is defeated and is not able to revive itself and become a threat again," Bolton said when meeting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem.

"And to make sure that the defence of Israel and our other friends in the region is absolutely assured, and to take care of those who have fought with us against ISIS and other terrorist groups."

Israel is especially worried over whether the withdrawal will allow its main enemy Iran to expand its presence in the neighbouring country.&nbsp;

Netanyahu has pledged to continue to act against Iran in Syria.

Israel has carried out hundreds of air strikes in Syria against what it says are Iranian military targets and deliveries of advanced weapons to Hezbollah, a Shiite Lebanese militia backed by Tehran.

Earlier in the day, Bolton told journalists travelling with him that conditions such as guarantees on the safety of Kurdish allies must be met before American troops are withdrawn, NBC News reported.

Bolton also said all 2,000 US forces may not be pulled out, according to the report.

He said the withdrawal would take place in northeastern Syria, while some forces could remain to the south at the al-Tanf garrison as part of efforts to counter Iran's presence.

'Condition the withdrawal'

"There are objectives that we want to accomplish that condition the withdrawal," said Bolton, according to NBC.

"Timetables or the timing of the withdrawal occurs as a result of the fulfilment of the conditions and the establishment of the circumstances that we want to see. And once that's done, then you talk about a timetable."

Kurdish-led forces control a large swathe of Syria's north and northeast, some of it seized from the Islamic State group.

Despite backing from the US-led coalition and success in pushing back IS, Kurdish-led forces have at times incurred heavy losses.

A US withdrawal could leave them exposed to an attack by neighbouring Turkey -- where Bolton travels on Monday -- and its Syrian proxies.

The Kurds have invited Damascus to send troops into some of the territory it controls, to act as a bulwark against pro-Turkish forces.

Bolton's visit was part of a US effort to reassure allies after Trump's announcement.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who also met Netanyahu last week, leaves on Tuesday for an eight-day trip to Amman, Cairo, Manama, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Riyadh, Muscat, and Kuwait City.

Netanyahu used Sunday's meeting to again push for the United States and other countries to recognise Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights, the strategic plateau it seized from Syria in the 1967 Six-Day War and later annexed.

He said he planned to take Bolton to visit the Golan before he leaves for Turkey on Monday if weather permits.

"The Golan Heights is tremendously important for our security and I think that when you're there you'll be able to understand perfectly why we'll never leave the Golan Heights," Netanyahu said alongside Bolton.

"And why it's important that all countries recognise Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights. I've discussed this with the president."

US President Donald Trump's national security adviser on Sunday set out conditions for the withdrawal of American troops from Syria, saying the defence of allies must first be assured.

US President Donald Trump's national security adviser on Sunday set out conditions for the withdrawal of American troops from Syria, saying the defence of allies must first be assured. The comments by John Bolton during a visit to Israel signalled a far more gradual US withdrawal than initially set out by Trump, whose December 19 announcement concerned allies and led to the resignation of defence secretary Jim Mattis. Also read: US pullout from Syria angers Iraq Trump himself has more recently spoken of "slowly" sending troops home "over a period of time", and Bolton laid out some of the conditions required before it takes place. "We're going to be discussing the president's decision to withdraw, but to do so from northeast Syria in a way that makes sure that ISIS is defeated and is not able to revive itself and become a threat again," Bolton said when meeting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem. "And to make sure that the defence of Israel and our other friends in the region is absolutely assured, and to take care of those who have fought with us against ISIS and other terrorist groups." Israel is especially worried over whether the withdrawal will allow its main enemy Iran to expand its presence in the neighbouring country. Netanyahu has pledged to continue to act against Iran in Syria. Israel has carried out hundreds of air strikes in Syria against what it says are Iranian military targets and deliveries of advanced weapons to Hezbollah, a Shiite Lebanese militia backed by Tehran. Earlier in the day, Bolton told journalists travelling with him that conditions such as guarantees on the safety of Kurdish allies must be met before American troops are withdrawn, NBC News reported. Bolton also said all 2,000 US forces may not be pulled out, according to the report. He said the withdrawal would take place in northeastern Syria, while some forces could remain to the south at the al-Tanf garrison as part of efforts to counter Iran's presence. 'Condition the withdrawal' "There are objectives that we want to accomplish that condition the withdrawal," said Bolton, according to NBC. "Timetables or the timing of the withdrawal occurs as a result of the fulfilment of the conditions and the establishment of the circumstances that we want to see. And once that's done, then you talk about a timetable." Kurdish-led forces control a large swathe of Syria's north and northeast, some of it seized from the Islamic State group. Despite backing from the US-led coalition and success in pushing back IS, Kurdish-led forces have at times incurred heavy losses. A US withdrawal could leave them exposed to an attack by neighbouring Turkey -- where Bolton travels on Monday -- and its Syrian proxies. The Kurds have invited Damascus to send troops into some of the territory it controls, to act as a bulwark against pro-Turkish forces. Bolton's visit was part of a US effort to reassure allies after Trump's announcement. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who also met Netanyahu last week, leaves on Tuesday for an eight-day trip to Amman, Cairo, Manama, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Riyadh, Muscat, and Kuwait City. Netanyahu used Sunday's meeting to again push for the United States and other countries to recognise Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights, the strategic plateau it seized from Syria in the 1967 Six-Day War and later annexed. He said he planned to take Bolton to visit the Golan before he leaves for Turkey on Monday if weather permits. "The Golan Heights is tremendously important for our security and I think that when you're there you'll be able to understand perfectly why we'll never leave the Golan Heights," Netanyahu said alongside Bolton. "And why it's important that all countries recognise Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights. I've discussed this with the president."

National security advisor John Bolton sets conditions for US Syria withdrawal

White House national security adviser John Bolton added a new condition on Sunday to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/syria-troop-withdrawal-is-donald-trump-burying-the-post-war-liberal-world-order-186963">the US&nbsp;withdrawal from Syria</a>, saying Turkey must agree to protect the United States' Kurdish allies.

President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/syrian-surprise-how-trumps-phone-call-changed-the-war-187008">Donald Trump's abrupt decision to announce a US&nbsp;pull-out from Syria</a> left open many questions, chiefly whether Kurds fighters operating in northern Syria would now be targetted by their long-time enemy Turkey.

Bolton, on a four-day trip to Israel and Turkey, said he would stress in talks with Turkish officials, including President Tayyip Erdogan, that the Kurds must be safeguarded.

"We don't think the Turks ought to undertake military action that's not fully coordinated with and agreed to by the United States at a minimum so they don't endanger our troops, but also so that they meet the president's requirement that the Syrian opposition forces that have fought with us are not endangered," Bolton told reporters ahead of talks with Israeli officials.

Bolton, who will travel to Turkey on Monday, said the United States will talk to Turkey to find out what its objectives and capabilities were.

But Bolton said Trump's position is Turkey may not kill the Kurds and that the US&nbsp;withdrawal would not take place without an agreement on that.

White House national security adviser John Bolton added a new condition on Sunday to the US withdrawal from Syria, saying Turkey must agree to protect the United States' Kurdish allies.

White House national security adviser John Bolton added a new condition on Sunday to the US withdrawal from Syria, saying Turkey must agree to protect the United States' Kurdish allies. President Donald Trump's abrupt decision to announce a US pull-out from Syria left open many questions, chiefly whether Kurds fighters operating in northern Syria would now be targetted by their long-time enemy Turkey. Bolton, on a four-day trip to Israel and Turkey, said he would stress in talks with Turkish officials, including President Tayyip Erdogan, that the Kurds must be safeguarded. "We don't think the Turks ought to undertake military action that's not fully coordinated with and agreed to by the United States at a minimum so they don't endanger our troops, but also so that they meet the president's requirement that the Syrian opposition forces that have fought with us are not endangered," Bolton told reporters ahead of talks with Israeli officials. Bolton, who will travel to Turkey on Monday, said the United States will talk to Turkey to find out what its objectives and capabilities were. But Bolton said Trump's position is Turkey may not kill the Kurds and that the US withdrawal would not take place without an agreement on that.

Turkey should not attack Kurds after US pulls out of Syria: Bolton

US national security advisor John Bolton said Friday he would visit Turkey and Israel to coordinate on Syria, after President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw all US forces.

Bolton said he would head in January to both Turkey -- which has enthusiastically backed Trump's sudden move -- as well as Israel, a close US ally where the pullout has caused concern.

"We will discuss our continued work confronting security challenges facing allies and partners in the region, including the next phase of the fight against ISIS, as the US begins to bring troops home from Syria," Bolton tweeted.

Trump last week unexpectedly said he was pulling all 2,000 troops from Syria, declaring that the United States had achieved its objective as the Islamic State extremist movement had been "knocked" out.

Islamic State, also known as ISIS, has lost nearly all of its territory, although thousands of its jihadists are thought to remain in war-battered Syria.

The United States, meanwhile, robustly defended Israel's right to strike inside Syria after criticism from Russia, which backs President Bashar al-Assad and will see its clout grow with the US pullout.

Moscow condemned Israel's alleged Tuesday missile strikes near Damascus, the latest of hundreds of raids Israel says are aimed at Iranian forces and their Hezbollah allies.

"The United States fully supports Israel's right to defend itself against the Iranian regime's aggressive adventurism, and we will continue to ensure that Israel has the military capacity to do so decisively," State Department spokesman Robert Palladino said in a statement.

"The commitment of the Trump administration and the American people to ensuring Israel's security is both enduring and unshakable," he said.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been delighted by Trump's hard line on Iran and landmark move of the US embassy in Israel to Jerusalem, but the pullout from Syria has caused unease concern in the Jewish state.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is set to meet next week in Brazil with Netanyahu in the wake of the Syria pullout decision, which triggered the resignation of Defense Secretary Jim Mattis.

Bolton said he would head in January to both Turkey -- which has enthusiastically backed Trump's sudden move -- as well as Israel, a close US ally where the pullout has caused concern.

US national security advisor John Bolton said Friday he would visit Turkey and Israel to coordinate on Syria, after President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw all US forces. Bolton said he would head in January to both Turkey -- which has enthusiastically backed Trump's sudden move -- as well as Israel, a close US ally where the pullout has caused concern. "We will discuss our continued work confronting security challenges facing allies and partners in the region, including the next phase of the fight against ISIS, as the US begins to bring troops home from Syria," Bolton tweeted. Trump last week unexpectedly said he was pulling all 2,000 troops from Syria, declaring that the United States had achieved its objective as the Islamic State extremist movement had been "knocked" out. Islamic State, also known as ISIS, has lost nearly all of its territory, although thousands of its jihadists are thought to remain in war-battered Syria. The United States, meanwhile, robustly defended Israel's right to strike inside Syria after criticism from Russia, which backs President Bashar al-Assad and will see its clout grow with the US pullout. Moscow condemned Israel's alleged Tuesday missile strikes near Damascus, the latest of hundreds of raids Israel says are aimed at Iranian forces and their Hezbollah allies. "The United States fully supports Israel's right to defend itself against the Iranian regime's aggressive adventurism, and we will continue to ensure that Israel has the military capacity to do so decisively," State Department spokesman Robert Palladino said in a statement. "The commitment of the Trump administration and the American people to ensuring Israel's security is both enduring and unshakable," he said. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been delighted by Trump's hard line on Iran and landmark move of the US embassy in Israel to Jerusalem, but the pullout from Syria has caused unease concern in the Jewish state. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is set to meet next week in Brazil with Netanyahu in the wake of the Syria pullout decision, which triggered the resignation of Defense Secretary Jim Mattis.

US security advisor John Bolton heads to Turkey, Israel after Syria pullout

The United States plans to counter the rapidly expanding Chinese and Russian economic and political influence in Africa, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/no-trump-putin-meeting-while-russia-holds-ukraine-ship-john-bolton-183876">US national security adviser John Bolton</a> said on Thursday, calling business practices of the two nations "corrupt" and "predatory."

Washington's No 1 priority will be developing economic ties with the region to create opportunities for American businesses and protecting the independence of African countries along with US national security interests, he said in a speech at the Heritage Foundation.

"Great-power competitors, namely China and Russia, are rapidly expanding their financial and political influence across Africa," Bolton said.

"They are deliberately and aggressively targeting their investments in the region to gain a competitive advantage over the United States."

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, leaders of the world's two largest economies, have been trying to resolve trade disputes that have roiled markets.

"China uses bribes, opaque agreements, and the strategic use of debt to hold states in Africa captive to Beijing's wishes and demands. Its investment ventures are riddled with corruption," Bolton said. He had equally harsh words for Russia.

"Across the continent, Russia advances its political and economic relationships with little regard for the rule of law or accountable and transparent governance," he said.

He accused Moscow of selling arms and energy in exchange for votes at the United Nations "that keep strongmen in power, undermine peace and security, and run counter to the best interests of the African people."

Bolton said "predatory practices" by China and Russia stunt economic growth in Africa and threaten nations' economic independence.

He said the United States was developing the "Prosper Africa" initiative to support US investment in Africa and a growing middle class in the region. He gave no details.

Landry Signe, a fellow at the Brookings Institution's Africa Growth Initiative in Washington, welcomed the administration's focus on trade and investment as opposed to security, but wanted details on planned US action.

"The Trump administration's new Africa Strategy reflects a more accurate understanding of the fast-changing dynamics within Africa," he said, "but the strategy doesn't seem sufficient to effectively address the United States' threatened economic, security, and influence interests."

Judd Devermont, director of the Africa Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, said release of an Africa strategy was welcome after two years of "conflicting narratives" by the administration.

Devermont said he was disappointed that China dominated Bolton's presentation, which lacked details on US plans.

"China loomed over everything, and loomed over really important issues on trade and investment, and transparency," said Devermont. "We didn't get many details on what the 'Prosper Africa' approach looks like and how it would be resourced. Those should have been the headlines of the strategy."

"We need a greater articulation on what are the sectors that the US government wants to prioritise in Africa for US investment," Devermont said, "They should be transparent with the Africans to explain why certain countries are getting the bulk of the investment."

China's policies in Africa have concerned Washington as the United States seeks to ramp up development finance in the face of China's global ambitions.

In July, the head of the US Overseas Private Investment Corp (OPIC) said China was saddling poor nations with unsustainable debt through large infrastructure projects that are not economically viable.

Bolton said the American approach contrasted with China's "bait and switch" policies. "The way we do business is much more straightforward."

In October Trump signed legislation overhauling the way the federal government lends money for foreign development, creating a $60 billion agency intended largely to respond to China’s growing influence. The new U.S. International Development Finance Corp combines OPIC and other government development organizations.

Xi's "Belt and Road" initiative, unveiled in 2013, aims to build an infrastructure network connecting China by land and sea to Southeast Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Africa.

Bolton said the lack of economic progress in Africa has created a climate conducive to violent conflict and the proliferation of terrorism.

He said the United States has little to show for the billions of dollars it has poured into Africa. He said the administration will work to ensure US aid is used more efficiently and effectively, with investments in health, education, government and fiscal transparency measures and rule of law.

"We will make certain that ALL aid to the region - whether for security, humanitarian, or development needs - advances US interests," he said, adding that Washington will also re-evaluate its support for UN peacekeeping missions.

The United States plans to counter the rapidly expanding Chinese and Russian economic and political influence in Africa, US national security adviser John Bolton said on Thursday, calling business practices of the two nations "corrupt" and "predatory.

The United States plans to counter the rapidly expanding Chinese and Russian economic and political influence in Africa, US national security adviser John Bolton said on Thursday, calling business practices of the two nations "corrupt" and "predatory." Washington's No 1 priority will be developing economic ties with the region to create opportunities for American businesses and protecting the independence of African countries along with US national security interests, he said in a speech at the Heritage Foundation. "Great-power competitors, namely China and Russia, are rapidly expanding their financial and political influence across Africa," Bolton said. "They are deliberately and aggressively targeting their investments in the region to gain a competitive advantage over the United States." US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, leaders of the world's two largest economies, have been trying to resolve trade disputes that have roiled markets. "China uses bribes, opaque agreements, and the strategic use of debt to hold states in Africa captive to Beijing's wishes and demands. Its investment ventures are riddled with corruption," Bolton said. He had equally harsh words for Russia. "Across the continent, Russia advances its political and economic relationships with little regard for the rule of law or accountable and transparent governance," he said. He accused Moscow of selling arms and energy in exchange for votes at the United Nations "that keep strongmen in power, undermine peace and security, and run counter to the best interests of the African people." Bolton said "predatory practices" by China and Russia stunt economic growth in Africa and threaten nations' economic independence. He said the United States was developing the "Prosper Africa" initiative to support US investment in Africa and a growing middle class in the region. He gave no details. Landry Signe, a fellow at the Brookings Institution's Africa Growth Initiative in Washington, welcomed the administration's focus on trade and investment as opposed to security, but wanted details on planned US action. "The Trump administration's new Africa Strategy reflects a more accurate understanding of the fast-changing dynamics within Africa," he said, "but the strategy doesn't seem sufficient to effectively address the United States' threatened economic, security, and influence interests." Judd Devermont, director of the Africa Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, said release of an Africa strategy was welcome after two years of "conflicting narratives" by the administration. Devermont said he was disappointed that China dominated Bolton's presentation, which lacked details on US plans. "China loomed over everything, and loomed over really important issues on trade and investment, and transparency," said Devermont. "We didn't get many details on what the 'Prosper Africa' approach looks like and how it would be resourced. Those should have been the headlines of the strategy." "We need a greater articulation on what are the sectors that the US government wants to prioritise in Africa for US investment," Devermont said, "They should be transparent with the Africans to explain why certain countries are getting the bulk of the investment." China's policies in Africa have concerned Washington as the United States seeks to ramp up development finance in the face of China's global ambitions. In July, the head of the US Overseas Private Investment Corp (OPIC) said China was saddling poor nations with unsustainable debt through large infrastructure projects that are not economically viable. Bolton said the American approach contrasted with China's "bait and switch" policies. "The way we do business is much more straightforward." In October Trump signed legislation overhauling the way the federal government lends money for foreign development, creating a $60 billion agency intended largely to respond to China’s growing influence. The new U.S. International Development Finance Corp combines OPIC and other government development organizations. Xi's "Belt and Road" initiative, unveiled in 2013, aims to build an infrastructure network connecting China by land and sea to Southeast Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Africa. Bolton said the lack of economic progress in Africa has created a climate conducive to violent conflict and the proliferation of terrorism. He said the United States has little to show for the billions of dollars it has poured into Africa. He said the administration will work to ensure US aid is used more efficiently and effectively, with investments in health, education, government and fiscal transparency measures and rule of law. "We will make certain that ALL aid to the region - whether for security, humanitarian, or development needs - advances US interests," he said, adding that Washington will also re-evaluate its support for UN peacekeeping missions.

US to counter China, Russia influence in Africa: Bolton

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said on Wednesday that White House National Security Adviser John Bolton is heading a US plan to assassinate him and put an end to the so-called Bolivarian Revolution under way in the South American country since 1999.

"Today, I come once again to denounce the plot being prepared by the White House to violate Venezuelan democracy, to assassinate me and to impose a dictatorial government in Venezuela," the head of state said at a press conference.

Maduro said that the alleged conspirators "recently" designated Bolton to head the plot "to fill Venezuela with violence and to seek foreign military intervention, a coup d'etat, to assassinate President Maduro and to impose what they call a transitory government council."

According to the Venezuelan leader, Bolton has been assigning missions to Brazilian President-elect Jair Bolsonaro "for military provocations in southern Venezuela, on the border" shared by the two nations.

Brazilian Vice President-elect "Hamilton Mourao ... every day establishes the pattern for what the policy of that government will be ... every day says he's going to invade Venezuela, that Brazil is going to use its military forces," Maduro claimed.

The Chavista leader said that, on the other hand, "one almost never hears a word" from Bolsonaro and he predicted that "there will be peace and cooperation" between the two countries despite the fact that the Brazilian vice president, he said, is a "crazy coward."

However, Maduro reiterated that Bolton's plan to kill him "is already under development" and, to accomplish it, "he's preparing several places where mercenary and paramilitary forces are being trained together with Colombia."

"The Colombian government of Ivan Duque ... does not want diplomatic or political relations, or communication with Venezuela's legitimate government. It's complicit in John Bolton's plan to bring violence to our country and thus I denounce it, and our armed forces had to be more and more prepared," Maduro stressed.

He said that a paramilitary group called G8 is training in Colombia's Norte de Santander province, and that a total of 734 Colombian and Venezuelan mercenaries are being trained to undertake "false positive" activities, that is making attacks on military units along the border and engaging in escalating violence to confuse public opinion and justify other military actions against Venezuela.

He also said that forces are being trained at Eglin Air Force Base in the US with the mission conducting of a "surgical attack" on Venezuelan air and military bases.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said on Wednesday that White House National Security Adviser John Bolton is heading a US plan to assassinate him and put an end to the so-called Bolivarian Revolution under way in the South American country since 1999.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said on Wednesday that White House National Security Adviser John Bolton is heading a US plan to assassinate him and put an end to the so-called Bolivarian Revolution under way in the South American country since 1999. "Today, I come once again to denounce the plot being prepared by the White House to violate Venezuelan democracy, to assassinate me and to impose a dictatorial government in Venezuela," the head of state said at a press conference. Maduro said that the alleged conspirators "recently" designated Bolton to head the plot "to fill Venezuela with violence and to seek foreign military intervention, a coup d'etat, to assassinate President Maduro and to impose what they call a transitory government council." According to the Venezuelan leader, Bolton has been assigning missions to Brazilian President-elect Jair Bolsonaro "for military provocations in southern Venezuela, on the border" shared by the two nations. Brazilian Vice President-elect "Hamilton Mourao ... every day establishes the pattern for what the policy of that government will be ... every day says he's going to invade Venezuela, that Brazil is going to use its military forces," Maduro claimed. The Chavista leader said that, on the other hand, "one almost never hears a word" from Bolsonaro and he predicted that "there will be peace and cooperation" between the two countries despite the fact that the Brazilian vice president, he said, is a "crazy coward." However, Maduro reiterated that Bolton's plan to kill him "is already under development" and, to accomplish it, "he's preparing several places where mercenary and paramilitary forces are being trained together with Colombia." "The Colombian government of Ivan Duque ... does not want diplomatic or political relations, or communication with Venezuela's legitimate government. It's complicit in John Bolton's plan to bring violence to our country and thus I denounce it, and our armed forces had to be more and more prepared," Maduro stressed. He said that a paramilitary group called G8 is training in Colombia's Norte de Santander province, and that a total of 734 Colombian and Venezuelan mercenaries are being trained to undertake "false positive" activities, that is making attacks on military units along the border and engaging in escalating violence to confuse public opinion and justify other military actions against Venezuela. He also said that forces are being trained at Eglin Air Force Base in the US with the mission conducting of a "surgical attack" on Venezuelan air and military bases.

US adviser John Bolton heading plan to assassinate me: Maduro

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-studying-new-auto-tariffs-after-general-motors-announces-job-cuts-180128">US President Donald Trump</a> has invited Brazil's President-elect Jair Bolsonaro to the United States, National Security Advisor John Bolton tweeted on Thursday following a meeting with the right-wing former army captain, who takes office in January.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Enjoyed a wide-ranging, very productive discussion w/ Brazil’s President-elect Bolsonaro &amp; his national security team. I extended an invitation from Pres. Trump for <a href="https://twitter.com/jairbolsonaro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JairBolsonaro</a> to visit the US. We look forward to a dynamic partnership w/ Brazil. <a href="https://t.co/KrGF7mYDaA">pic.twitter.com/KrGF7mYDaA</a>
— John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmbJohnBolton/status/1068097703895285761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Bolton described the meeting, which included members of Bolsonaro's national security team, as "wide-ranging" and "very productive."

Bolsonaro is an admirer of the US president and, like Trump, took the political establishment by surprise when he won office in October, riding a wave of anger against traditional politicians.

He has vowed to sweep out corruption, crack down on crime and align Brazil closely with the United States in a shift towards conservative nationalism.

Bolsonaro has threatened to follow Trump's lead and pull Brazil out of the Paris climate agreement, despite having the world's biggest rainforest in the Amazon.

(With inputs from Reuters)

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&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump has invited Brazil's President-elect Jair Bolsonaro to the United States, National Security Advisor John Bolton tweeted on Thursday following a meeting with the right-wing former army captain, who takes office in January.

US President Donald Trump has invited Brazil's President-elect Jair Bolsonaro to the United States, National Security Advisor John Bolton tweeted on Thursday following a meeting with the right-wing former army captain, who takes office in January. Enjoyed a wide-ranging, very productive discussion w/ Brazil’s President-elect Bolsonaro & his national security team. I extended an invitation from Pres. Trump for @JairBolsonaro to visit the US. We look forward to a dynamic partnership w/ Brazil. pic.twitter.com/KrGF7mYDaA — John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) November 29, 2018 × Bolton described the meeting, which included members of Bolsonaro's national security team, as "wide-ranging" and "very productive." Bolsonaro is an admirer of the US president and, like Trump, took the political establishment by surprise when he won office in October, riding a wave of anger against traditional politicians. He has vowed to sweep out corruption, crack down on crime and align Brazil closely with the United States in a shift towards conservative nationalism. Bolsonaro has threatened to follow Trump's lead and pull Brazil out of the Paris climate agreement, despite having the world's biggest rainforest in the Amazon. (With inputs from Reuters) ×

Trump has invited Brazil's President-elect Bolsonaro to US: John Bolton

US National Security Advisor John Bolton vowed Tuesday to "squeeze" Iran "until the pips squeak", a week after a tough new round of sanctions came into force.

President Donald Trump has dramatically increased pressure on Tehran, withdrawing from an international agreement aimed at ending its nuclear programme and introducing several rounds of unilateral US sanctions.

The latest tranche of measures have been touted as the toughest yet, and aim to significantly reduce Iran's vital oil exports and cut off its banks from international finance.

Speaking in Singapore ahead of a summit, Bolton said: "We think the government is under real pressure and it's our intention to squeeze them very hard.

"As the British say, squeeze them until the pips squeak.

"We are also going to significantly increase the enforcement of sanctions."

The US measures have been opposed by other parties to the deal aimed at ending Iran's nuclear drive -- Britain, France, Germany, China and Russia -- who have vowed to keep the accord alive.

"There's no doubt Iran has already started to try and find ways to evade the sanctions both on oil in particular and financial markets," Bolton added.

UN inspectors say Iran is abiding by the agreement.

Bolton, however, said that "most of the countries of Europe have passed through denial and anger and many of them are already at acceptance that we're out of the deal.

"Others are getting to that point."

In the face of widespread opposition to the sanctions, Washington issued exemptions to eight countries to its ban on buying oil from major producer Iran.

Washington is demanding that Tehran end policies rooted in the 1979 Islamist revolution, including its support for regional proxies such as the Lebanese militia Hezbollah and its development of missiles.

The only support for the US position has come from Iran's regional rivals, notably Saudi Arabia and Israel.

The International Monetary Fund has forecast that the sanctions will cause Iran's economy to contract 1.5 per cent this year and 3.6 per cent next year.

US National Security Advisor John Bolton vowed Tuesday to "squeeze" Iran "until the pips squeak", a week after a tough new round of sanctions came into force. President Donald Trump has dramatically increased pressure on Tehran, withdrawing from an international agreement aimed at ending its nuclear programme and introducing several rounds of unilateral US sanctions.

US National Security Advisor John Bolton vowed Tuesday to "squeeze" Iran "until the pips squeak", a week after a tough new round of sanctions came into force. President Donald Trump has dramatically increased pressure on Tehran, withdrawing from an international agreement aimed at ending its nuclear programme and introducing several rounds of unilateral US sanctions. The latest tranche of measures have been touted as the toughest yet, and aim to significantly reduce Iran's vital oil exports and cut off its banks from international finance. Speaking in Singapore ahead of a summit, Bolton said: "We think the government is under real pressure and it's our intention to squeeze them very hard. "As the British say, squeeze them until the pips squeak. "We are also going to significantly increase the enforcement of sanctions." The US measures have been opposed by other parties to the deal aimed at ending Iran's nuclear drive -- Britain, France, Germany, China and Russia -- who have vowed to keep the accord alive. "There's no doubt Iran has already started to try and find ways to evade the sanctions both on oil in particular and financial markets," Bolton added. UN inspectors say Iran is abiding by the agreement. Bolton, however, said that "most of the countries of Europe have passed through denial and anger and many of them are already at acceptance that we're out of the deal. "Others are getting to that point." In the face of widespread opposition to the sanctions, Washington issued exemptions to eight countries to its ban on buying oil from major producer Iran. Washington is demanding that Tehran end policies rooted in the 1979 Islamist revolution, including its support for regional proxies such as the Lebanese militia Hezbollah and its development of missiles. The only support for the US position has come from Iran's regional rivals, notably Saudi Arabia and Israel. The International Monetary Fund has forecast that the sanctions will cause Iran's economy to contract 1.5 per cent this year and 3.6 per cent next year.

US security chief Bolton vows to 'squeeze' Iran

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

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

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

US's Bolton says more sanctions likely on Iran

US national security adviser John Bolton said on Wednesday the Trump administration wants sanctions on Iran's crude exports to strain Tehran, but does not want to harm countries that depend on the oil.

The United States is preparing to impose the new sanctions on Iran's oil industry after Washington withdrew from a nuclear deal between Tehran and other global powers earlier this year, but is also considering offering waivers to some allies that rely on Iranian supplies.

"We want to achieve maximum pressure but we don't want to harm friends and allies either," Bolton said in a talk at the Hamilton Society.

Bolton said the administration understands that a number of countries, some close geographically to Iran which he visited last week, and others "may not be able to go all the way, all the way to zero immediately." It was a more conciliatory tone about the sanctions from Bolton, a proponent of being tough on Iran and winding down its crude exports to zero.

Still, Bolton said that consequences can already be seen in Iran including the collapse of the rial, its currency. "I think it's important that we not relax in the effort," he said.

In a presidential memorandum addressed to secretaries of State, Treasury and Energy, Trump said he determined there was sufficient supply of petroleum and petroleum products elsewhere than Iran to permit a reduction in purchases from the Islamic Republic.

Under the law, the US president must periodically issue a "determination" on whether there is sufficient supply in the market from non-Iranian sources for countries to significantly cut their Iranian purchases.

The administration's renewed sanctions are set to come into effect on November 5.

Under US law, Washington can sanction the financial institutions of foreign countries that fail to significantly reduce their purchases of Iranian oil and petroleum products.

The purpose of the law, which came into effect during the Obama administration, was to put pressure on Iran to curtail its nuclear program by forcing its major oil customers to reduce their purchases.

Three of Iran's five largest buyers of crude - China, India and Turkey - have resisted calls by Washington to end their oil purchases outright.

This week South Korea asked Secretary of State Mike Pompeo for "maximum flexibility" on its request for a waiver to prevent companies there from being hit by the sanctions. Other countries, including Iraq and Afghanistan, depend on some imports from Iran.

The administration has said it is considering waivers on a case-by-case basis.

US national security adviser John Bolton said on Wednesday the Trump administration wants sanctions on Iran's crude exports to strain Tehran, but does not want to harm countries that depend on the oil.

US national security adviser John Bolton said on Wednesday the Trump administration wants sanctions on Iran's crude exports to strain Tehran, but does not want to harm countries that depend on the oil. The United States is preparing to impose the new sanctions on Iran's oil industry after Washington withdrew from a nuclear deal between Tehran and other global powers earlier this year, but is also considering offering waivers to some allies that rely on Iranian supplies. "We want to achieve maximum pressure but we don't want to harm friends and allies either," Bolton said in a talk at the Hamilton Society. Bolton said the administration understands that a number of countries, some close geographically to Iran which he visited last week, and others "may not be able to go all the way, all the way to zero immediately." It was a more conciliatory tone about the sanctions from Bolton, a proponent of being tough on Iran and winding down its crude exports to zero. Still, Bolton said that consequences can already be seen in Iran including the collapse of the rial, its currency. "I think it's important that we not relax in the effort," he said. In a presidential memorandum addressed to secretaries of State, Treasury and Energy, Trump said he determined there was sufficient supply of petroleum and petroleum products elsewhere than Iran to permit a reduction in purchases from the Islamic Republic. Under the law, the US president must periodically issue a "determination" on whether there is sufficient supply in the market from non-Iranian sources for countries to significantly cut their Iranian purchases. The administration's renewed sanctions are set to come into effect on November 5. Under US law, Washington can sanction the financial institutions of foreign countries that fail to significantly reduce their purchases of Iranian oil and petroleum products. The purpose of the law, which came into effect during the Obama administration, was to put pressure on Iran to curtail its nuclear program by forcing its major oil customers to reduce their purchases. Three of Iran's five largest buyers of crude - China, India and Turkey - have resisted calls by Washington to end their oil purchases outright. This week South Korea asked Secretary of State Mike Pompeo for "maximum flexibility" on its request for a waiver to prevent companies there from being hit by the sanctions. Other countries, including Iraq and Afghanistan, depend on some imports from Iran. The administration has said it is considering waivers on a case-by-case basis.

US doesn't want to harm friends, allies with Iran sanctions: John Bolton

The White House has invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to Washington, US National Security Adviser John Bolton said on Friday.

Putin and Trump have met several times on the sidelines of multilateral gatherings, but had only one bilateral summit, in the Finnish capital in July.

"We have invited president Putin to Washington," Bolton said. It was not immediately clear if Putin had accepted the invitation.

After the Helsinki encounter, Trump was accused by opponents, and even some members of his own Republican Party, of failing to stand up to the Russian leader.

The topic of Putin visiting the United States is a highly-charged one, because US intelligence agencies allege that Russia interfered in the 2016 presidential election to help Trump win. Russian denies any election meddling.

Trump has said it is in US interests to establish a solid working relationship with Putin.

Trump and Putin plan to hold a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of events in Paris on Nov. 11 to commemorate the centenary of the end of World War One.

Bolton, who was speaking at a news conference on a visit to ex-Soviet Georgia, said their Paris meeting would be brief.

The White House has invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to Washington, US National Security Adviser John Bolton said on Friday. Putin and Trump have met several times on the sidelines of multilateral gatherings, but had only one bilateral summit, in the Finnish capital in July.

The White House has invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to Washington, US National Security Adviser John Bolton said on Friday. Putin and Trump have met several times on the sidelines of multilateral gatherings, but had only one bilateral summit, in the Finnish capital in July. "We have invited president Putin to Washington," Bolton said. It was not immediately clear if Putin had accepted the invitation. After the Helsinki encounter, Trump was accused by opponents, and even some members of his own Republican Party, of failing to stand up to the Russian leader. The topic of Putin visiting the United States is a highly-charged one, because US intelligence agencies allege that Russia interfered in the 2016 presidential election to help Trump win. Russian denies any election meddling. Trump has said it is in US interests to establish a solid working relationship with Putin. Trump and Putin plan to hold a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of events in Paris on Nov. 11 to commemorate the centenary of the end of World War One. Bolton, who was speaking at a news conference on a visit to ex-Soviet Georgia, said their Paris meeting would be brief.

White House has invited Putin to Washington: NSA John Bolton

Donald Trump wishes to meet his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin when the two visit Paris on November 11 for World War I commemorations, the US president's National Security Advisor John Bolton said on Tuesday.

"I think President Trump will look forward to seeing you in Paris on the sidelines of the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Armistice," Bolton told Putin in televised remarks as the two met for talks in Moscow.

Putin said: "It would be useful to continue a direct dialogue with the president of the United States... for example in Paris, if the American side is interested."

Both leaders will be in Paris for the November 11 World War I commemorations, which 60 heads of state and government are expected to attend.

Trump and Putin held their first bilateral summit in Helsinki in July, after which the US president came under strong criticism at home for adopting a very conciliatory tone with his Russian counterpart.

Bolton met Monday with several senior Russian officials before his talks with Putin.

His visit comes after Trump announced that the United States would pull out of the Cold War-era Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF) signed by president Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev, the last Soviet leader.

Donald Trump wishes to meet his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin when the two visit Paris on November 11 for World War I commemorations, the US president's National Security Advisor John Bolton said on Tuesday.

Donald Trump wishes to meet his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin when the two visit Paris on November 11 for World War I commemorations, the US president's National Security Advisor John Bolton said on Tuesday. "I think President Trump will look forward to seeing you in Paris on the sidelines of the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Armistice," Bolton told Putin in televised remarks as the two met for talks in Moscow. Putin said: "It would be useful to continue a direct dialogue with the president of the United States... for example in Paris, if the American side is interested." Both leaders will be in Paris for the November 11 World War I commemorations, which 60 heads of state and government are expected to attend. Trump and Putin held their first bilateral summit in Helsinki in July, after which the US president came under strong criticism at home for adopting a very conciliatory tone with his Russian counterpart. Bolton met Monday with several senior Russian officials before his talks with Putin. His visit comes after Trump announced that the United States would pull out of the Cold War-era Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF) signed by president Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev, the last Soviet leader.

Trump wants to meet Putin in Paris on November 11: US's Bolton

US National Security Advisor John Bolton met Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu Tuesday during a visit to Moscow, after President Donald Trump announced plans to withdraw from a nuclear arms treaty.

"Today, there are a large number of problems in the world that we could solve through joint efforts," Shoigu said in comments carried by the RIA Novosti agency.&nbsp;

He mentioned "strategic questions linked to nuclear deterrence as well as to the solution of major, long-running conflicts."

The minister said the first summit between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin this summer had shown ties between the two countries were gradually being reestablished.

Bolton for his part said he had been sent to Moscow with the task of "deepening and strengthening" dialogue with Russia, in comments translated into Russian.

Bolton is expected to meet with Putin later Tuesday.&nbsp;

Trump sparked concern globally at the weekend by saying he wanted to jettison the three-decade-old Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF) signed by former US president Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev, the last Soviet leader.

Signed in 1987, the INF resolved a crisis over Soviet nuclear-tipped ballistic missiles targeting Western capitals.

In Moscow on Monday, Bolton said the pact seemed to have run its course, accusing Russia of violating the treaty.&nbsp;

Russia rejects the claims and accuses Washington of violations.

US-Russia ties are under deep strain over accusations Moscow meddled in the 2016 US presidential election. The two states are also at odds over Russian support for Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria's civil war, and the conflict in Ukraine.

US National Security Advisor John Bolton met Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu Tuesday during a visit to Moscow, after President Donald Trump announced plans to withdraw from a nuclear arms treaty.

US National Security Advisor John Bolton met Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu Tuesday during a visit to Moscow, after President Donald Trump announced plans to withdraw from a nuclear arms treaty. "Today, there are a large number of problems in the world that we could solve through joint efforts," Shoigu said in comments carried by the RIA Novosti agency. He mentioned "strategic questions linked to nuclear deterrence as well as to the solution of major, long-running conflicts." The minister said the first summit between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin this summer had shown ties between the two countries were gradually being reestablished. Bolton for his part said he had been sent to Moscow with the task of "deepening and strengthening" dialogue with Russia, in comments translated into Russian. Bolton is expected to meet with Putin later Tuesday. Trump sparked concern globally at the weekend by saying he wanted to jettison the three-decade-old Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF) signed by former US president Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev, the last Soviet leader. Signed in 1987, the INF resolved a crisis over Soviet nuclear-tipped ballistic missiles targeting Western capitals. In Moscow on Monday, Bolton said the pact seemed to have run its course, accusing Russia of violating the treaty. Russia rejects the claims and accuses Washington of violations. US-Russia ties are under deep strain over accusations Moscow meddled in the 2016 US presidential election. The two states are also at odds over Russian support for Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria's civil war, and the conflict in Ukraine.

John Bolton, in Russia for nuclear talks, meets defence minister Shoigu

Six days after Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi disappeared, US President Donald Trump tried to play down the crisis, saying "hopefully that will sort itself out".

It did not, and on October 10, amid a growing outcry, Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner and national security adviser John Bolton pressed Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, in what one US official described as a "stern" phone call, to identify who was responsible for Khashoggi's disappearance or death.

Trump then seemed to give Saudi Arabia the benefit of the doubt, suggesting "rogue killers" may have been to blame and criticizing a growing view that this was a case of state murder.

He changed his tone once again late this week, raising the prospect of sanctions against Riyadh.

But when Saudi Arabia finally admitted on Saturday that Khashoggi was dead, saying he was killed in a fight inside the consulate, Trump said the official explanation was "credible" even as Republican and Democratic lawmakers responded with anger and disbelief.

Over the last two weeks, Trump has at times spoken of punishing Saudi Arabia but appeared reluctant to follow through against a close economic and security ally in the Middle East, a key player in ensuring the stability of global oil markets, and a major customer of arms deals that he says are "tremendous".

"Trump's dug himself into a hole," said Aaron David Miller, a former Middle East adviser to both Democratic and Republican administrations. "He will have to take some kind of action."

Behind the scenes, though, Trump's aides scrambled to craft a response, especially as the bipartisan outcry in the Washington establishment grew.

When news of Khashoggi's disappearance first broke, aides made clear to White House chief of staff John Kelly that the case was not going away, two senior White House officials said.

Kushner, who had cultivated a close personal relationship with the crown prince, commonly known as MbS, urged Trump to act with caution to avoid upsetting a critical strategic and economic relationship, a senior administration official said.

Kushner was heavily involved in making Saudi Arabia Trump's first stop on his maiden international trip as president last year.

As grim allegations emerged from Turkey about Khashoggi’s death and the Saudis stuck to their denials, Trump felt pressure from congressional Democrats and some of his own Republicans.

US&nbsp;Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican close to Trump, accused MbS of ordering Khashoggi's murder and called him a "wrecking ball" jeopardizing relations with the United States.

When Riyadh came out with its official version of what happened inside the consulate, Graham quickly tweeted he was "skeptical of the new Saudi narrative".

'Not a US citizen'

Trump sought to justify his muted response by pointing out the incident occurred in Turkey and that Khashoggi, a US&nbsp;resident and columnist for the Washington Post, was "not a United States citizen".

Critics accused Trump of trying to give the Saudis diplomatic cover and buy time for them to get their story straight, something Trump's aides denied.

At the same time, Peter Navarro, Trump’s White House trade chief and architect of his “Buy American” policy to ease restrictions on foreign arms sales, was stressing the importance of Saudi weapons deals and the implications for US&nbsp;jobs, another administration official told Reuters.

Trump repeatedly touted the $110 billion in weapons deals he announced during his visit to Saudi Arabia last year, and insisted around 500,000 US&nbsp;jobs were at stake. Experts have dismissed the sales and jobs numbers as highly exaggerated.

Some Trump aides raised doubts about the veracity of the Turkish government’s leaks of what it says happened to Khashoggi.

But as the days dragged on and evidence of Khashoggi’s death mounted, Trump's view began to shift, White House officials said.

He ordered Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to drop what he was doing and fly to Riyadh for talks at mid-week, and was then briefed by him at the White House on Thursday.

Critics slammed Pompeo for appearing to hold court in a festive manner with MbS, undercutting the severity of the US&nbsp;message.

But one senior White House official countered, saying Pompeo told the Saudi royals that “you need to give us some legitimate information soon, people aren’t just going to let it drag on.'”

Speaking to reporters during a trip to Arizona on Friday, Trump said he was ready to “listen to what Congress has to say” about actions to be taken in the Khashoggi case, yet also made clear he wanted to continue to protect defense contracts, and U.S. jobs dependent on them.

Congress has already triggered a mechanism for the U.S. Treasury Department to consider human rights sanctions against Saudi Arabia and some lawmakers have vowed to block further arms sales to Riyadh, a move that Trump is likely to oppose.

Six days after Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi disappeared, US President Donald Trump tried to play down the crisis, saying "hopefully that will sort itself out".

Six days after Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi disappeared, US President Donald Trump tried to play down the crisis, saying "hopefully that will sort itself out". It did not, and on October 10, amid a growing outcry, Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner and national security adviser John Bolton pressed Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, in what one US official described as a "stern" phone call, to identify who was responsible for Khashoggi's disappearance or death. Trump then seemed to give Saudi Arabia the benefit of the doubt, suggesting "rogue killers" may have been to blame and criticizing a growing view that this was a case of state murder. He changed his tone once again late this week, raising the prospect of sanctions against Riyadh. But when Saudi Arabia finally admitted on Saturday that Khashoggi was dead, saying he was killed in a fight inside the consulate, Trump said the official explanation was "credible" even as Republican and Democratic lawmakers responded with anger and disbelief. Over the last two weeks, Trump has at times spoken of punishing Saudi Arabia but appeared reluctant to follow through against a close economic and security ally in the Middle East, a key player in ensuring the stability of global oil markets, and a major customer of arms deals that he says are "tremendous". "Trump's dug himself into a hole," said Aaron David Miller, a former Middle East adviser to both Democratic and Republican administrations. "He will have to take some kind of action." Behind the scenes, though, Trump's aides scrambled to craft a response, especially as the bipartisan outcry in the Washington establishment grew. When news of Khashoggi's disappearance first broke, aides made clear to White House chief of staff John Kelly that the case was not going away, two senior White House officials said. Kushner, who had cultivated a close personal relationship with the crown prince, commonly known as MbS, urged Trump to act with caution to avoid upsetting a critical strategic and economic relationship, a senior administration official said. Kushner was heavily involved in making Saudi Arabia Trump's first stop on his maiden international trip as president last year. As grim allegations emerged from Turkey about Khashoggi’s death and the Saudis stuck to their denials, Trump felt pressure from congressional Democrats and some of his own Republicans. US Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican close to Trump, accused MbS of ordering Khashoggi's murder and called him a "wrecking ball" jeopardizing relations with the United States. When Riyadh came out with its official version of what happened inside the consulate, Graham quickly tweeted he was "skeptical of the new Saudi narrative". 'Not a US citizen' Trump sought to justify his muted response by pointing out the incident occurred in Turkey and that Khashoggi, a US resident and columnist for the Washington Post, was "not a United States citizen". Critics accused Trump of trying to give the Saudis diplomatic cover and buy time for them to get their story straight, something Trump's aides denied. At the same time, Peter Navarro, Trump’s White House trade chief and architect of his “Buy American” policy to ease restrictions on foreign arms sales, was stressing the importance of Saudi weapons deals and the implications for US jobs, another administration official told Reuters. Trump repeatedly touted the $110 billion in weapons deals he announced during his visit to Saudi Arabia last year, and insisted around 500,000 US jobs were at stake. Experts have dismissed the sales and jobs numbers as highly exaggerated. Some Trump aides raised doubts about the veracity of the Turkish government’s leaks of what it says happened to Khashoggi. But as the days dragged on and evidence of Khashoggi’s death mounted, Trump's view began to shift, White House officials said. He ordered Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to drop what he was doing and fly to Riyadh for talks at mid-week, and was then briefed by him at the White House on Thursday. Critics slammed Pompeo for appearing to hold court in a festive manner with MbS, undercutting the severity of the US message. But one senior White House official countered, saying Pompeo told the Saudi royals that “you need to give us some legitimate information soon, people aren’t just going to let it drag on.'” Speaking to reporters during a trip to Arizona on Friday, Trump said he was ready to “listen to what Congress has to say” about actions to be taken in the Khashoggi case, yet also made clear he wanted to continue to protect defense contracts, and U.S. jobs dependent on them. Congress has already triggered a mechanism for the U.S. Treasury Department to consider human rights sanctions against Saudi Arabia and some lawmakers have vowed to block further arms sales to Riyadh, a move that Trump is likely to oppose.

Trump a reluctant critic of Saudi Arabia despite pressure to act

Two of President Donald Trump's top advisers got into a heated exchange outside the Oval Office on Thursday as passions boiled over about how to handle illegal immigration, two sources familiar with the incident said.

The altercation occurred between White House Chief of Staff John Kelly, who is a former homeland security secretary, and Trump's national security adviser, John Bolton, the sources said.

One source described the argument as a "tense exchange" but said that it had blown over, and that it involved the job performance of Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen, a former deputy to Kelly. Another source said it was "not a big deal."

Trump, asked about the incident, told reporters: "That I have not heard about."

A senior White House official said later that Nielsen and Bolton had a nice conversation in Bolton's office after the exchange and agreed the goal was to protect borders.

Earlier this year, the New York Times reported that Nielsen was close to resigning after being criticized by Trump at a Cabinet meeting for what he said was her failure to secure US&nbsp;borders.

White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said in a statement: "While we are passionate about solving the issue of illegal immigration, we are not angry at one another. However, we are furious at the failure of Congressional Democrats to help us address this growing crisis."

Trump threatened on Thursday to deploy the military and close the southern US&nbsp;border as Hondurans and Salvadorans joined thousands of migrants in Guatemala hoping to travel north.

"I must, in the strongest of terms, ask Mexico to stop this onslaught – and if unable to do so I will call up the US&nbsp;Military and CLOSE OUR SOUTHERN BORDER!' Trump said in a tweet.

Two of President Donald Trump's top advisers got into a heated exchange outside the Oval Office on Thursday as passions boiled over about how to handle illegal immigration, two sources familiar with the incident said.

Two of President Donald Trump's top advisers got into a heated exchange outside the Oval Office on Thursday as passions boiled over about how to handle illegal immigration, two sources familiar with the incident said. The altercation occurred between White House Chief of Staff John Kelly, who is a former homeland security secretary, and Trump's national security adviser, John Bolton, the sources said. One source described the argument as a "tense exchange" but said that it had blown over, and that it involved the job performance of Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen, a former deputy to Kelly. Another source said it was "not a big deal." Trump, asked about the incident, told reporters: "That I have not heard about." A senior White House official said later that Nielsen and Bolton had a nice conversation in Bolton's office after the exchange and agreed the goal was to protect borders. Earlier this year, the New York Times reported that Nielsen was close to resigning after being criticized by Trump at a Cabinet meeting for what he said was her failure to secure US borders. White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said in a statement: "While we are passionate about solving the issue of illegal immigration, we are not angry at one another. However, we are furious at the failure of Congressional Democrats to help us address this growing crisis." Trump threatened on Thursday to deploy the military and close the southern US border as Hondurans and Salvadorans joined thousands of migrants in Guatemala hoping to travel north. "I must, in the strongest of terms, ask Mexico to stop this onslaught – and if unable to do so I will call up the US Military and CLOSE OUR SOUTHERN BORDER!' Trump said in a tweet.

Two top Trump aides tangle outside Oval Office over immigration

US national security adviser John Bolton has vowed to further intensify the Trump administration's tough approach to China, saying Beijing's "behaviour needs to be adjusted in the trade area, in the international, military and political areas."

Speaking in a radio interview on the Hugh Hewitt Show recorded on Thursday and aired on Friday, Bolton said President Donald Trump believed China had taken advantage of the international order for far too long and not enough Americans had stood up to it.

"Now's the time to do it" he said.

Bolton said Trump's tough approach towards China, a country the administration saw as the "major issue this century," had left Beijing "confused."

"They've never seen an American president this tough before. I think their behaviour needs to be adjusted in the trade area, in the international, military and political areas, in a whole range of areas," he said.

"Perhaps we'll see at the G20 meeting in Argentina next month Xi Jinping willing to come to talk turkey on some of these issues," he added.

Bolton's remarks came amid a series of administration broadsides against China that goes beyond a trade war. These have included accusing Beijing of trying to undermine Trump ahead of next month's congressional elections and of taking reckless military actions in the South China Sea.

US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said on Friday Trump would go through with plans to meet Xi at the G20 summit if it looked possible to chart "a positive direction." But he said re-launching trade talks with China would require Beijing to commit to taking action on structural reforms to its economy.

Bolton called recent Chinese behaviour in the South China Sea, where a US warship had a near collision with a Chinese vessel last month, "dangerous" and said the United States was determined to keep international sea lanes open.

"This is something the Chinese need to understand," he said, adding that allies including Britain and Australia were also sailing through the South China Sea to make this point.

"We're going to do a lot more on that," he said.

"I think we could see more exploitation of mineral resources in the South China Sea with or without Chinese cooperation. They need to know they have not achieved a fait accompli here. This is not a Chinese province and will not be."

Bolton did not elaborate on his remark about mineral exploitation in the strategic waterway, which China claims almost in its entirety in spite of several rival claimants.

Bolton said China's violation of international norms in trade and business had allowed it to gain substantial economic and military strength.

"If they're put back in the proper place they would be if they weren't allowed to steal our technology, their military capabilities would be substantially reduced. And a lot of the tensions we see caused by China would be reduced," Bolton said.

He indicated that Washington was prepared to take more action to restrict sensitive high-tech exports to China.

"We did this and continue to do it in terms of dual-use technology that could affect nuclear, chemical or biological weapons or ballistic-missile development.

"I think in cyberspace, we're entitled to do the same thing ... We want to do it in ways that protect our open economy, but deny others the ability to take advantage of it."

Bolton said he expected a second summit between Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un "sometime in the next couple of months," but said it remained to be seen if the diplomatic effort to persuade Pyongyang to give up its nuclear weapons would be successful.

"The president has held the door open for North Korea," he said. "They need to denuclearize completely and irreversibly. And if they do that and walk through the door, the future could be very different for the North Korean people.

"The future remains uncertain on the president's diplomacy. He's optimistic. He presses hard. He does not have stars in his eyes about this. Neither does Mike Pompeo, neither does Jim Mattis, neither do I," Bolton said, referring to the U.S. secretaries of defence and state.

US national security adviser John Bolton has vowed to further intensify the Trump administration's tough approach to China, saying Beijing's "behaviour needs to be adjusted in the trade area, in the international, military and political areas.

US national security adviser John Bolton has vowed to further intensify the Trump administration's tough approach to China, saying Beijing's "behaviour needs to be adjusted in the trade area, in the international, military and political areas." Speaking in a radio interview on the Hugh Hewitt Show recorded on Thursday and aired on Friday, Bolton said President Donald Trump believed China had taken advantage of the international order for far too long and not enough Americans had stood up to it. "Now's the time to do it" he said. Bolton said Trump's tough approach towards China, a country the administration saw as the "major issue this century," had left Beijing "confused." "They've never seen an American president this tough before. I think their behaviour needs to be adjusted in the trade area, in the international, military and political areas, in a whole range of areas," he said. "Perhaps we'll see at the G20 meeting in Argentina next month Xi Jinping willing to come to talk turkey on some of these issues," he added. Bolton's remarks came amid a series of administration broadsides against China that goes beyond a trade war. These have included accusing Beijing of trying to undermine Trump ahead of next month's congressional elections and of taking reckless military actions in the South China Sea. US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said on Friday Trump would go through with plans to meet Xi at the G20 summit if it looked possible to chart "a positive direction." But he said re-launching trade talks with China would require Beijing to commit to taking action on structural reforms to its economy. Bolton called recent Chinese behaviour in the South China Sea, where a US warship had a near collision with a Chinese vessel last month, "dangerous" and said the United States was determined to keep international sea lanes open. "This is something the Chinese need to understand," he said, adding that allies including Britain and Australia were also sailing through the South China Sea to make this point. "We're going to do a lot more on that," he said. "I think we could see more exploitation of mineral resources in the South China Sea with or without Chinese cooperation. They need to know they have not achieved a fait accompli here. This is not a Chinese province and will not be." Bolton did not elaborate on his remark about mineral exploitation in the strategic waterway, which China claims almost in its entirety in spite of several rival claimants. Bolton said China's violation of international norms in trade and business had allowed it to gain substantial economic and military strength. "If they're put back in the proper place they would be if they weren't allowed to steal our technology, their military capabilities would be substantially reduced. And a lot of the tensions we see caused by China would be reduced," Bolton said. He indicated that Washington was prepared to take more action to restrict sensitive high-tech exports to China. "We did this and continue to do it in terms of dual-use technology that could affect nuclear, chemical or biological weapons or ballistic-missile development. "I think in cyberspace, we're entitled to do the same thing ... We want to do it in ways that protect our open economy, but deny others the ability to take advantage of it." Bolton said he expected a second summit between Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un "sometime in the next couple of months," but said it remained to be seen if the diplomatic effort to persuade Pyongyang to give up its nuclear weapons would be successful. "The president has held the door open for North Korea," he said. "They need to denuclearize completely and irreversibly. And if they do that and walk through the door, the future could be very different for the North Korean people. "The future remains uncertain on the president's diplomacy. He's optimistic. He presses hard. He does not have stars in his eyes about this. Neither does Mike Pompeo, neither does Jim Mattis, neither do I," Bolton said, referring to the U.S. secretaries of defence and state.

US vows to get even tougher on China, says Beijing's 'behaviour needs to be adjusted'

The White House on Thursday said that it's&nbsp;going extra length for countries like India and Iraq to find substitute for Iranian oil.&nbsp;

The US National Security Advisor John Bolton told reporters at a White House news conference that he had conversations (with Indian officials on purchase of Iranian oil). Others in the administration have had conversations with senior Indian officials, he was quoted as saying according to news agency PTI.&nbsp;

Bolton who last month met his Indian counterpart Ajit K Doval here, a week after the two-plus-two dialogue in New Delhi, said the Trump Administration has made its views clear to Indians on Iran.

"One of the things I think that's important, whether it's for Iraq or India or anyone else -- particularly that's been a purchaser of Iranian oil -- we've gone to really extra lengths to try and find substitute sellers of oil so that there would be alternative supplies at market rates," Bolton was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

"That will help. This is something, obviously, the Obama administration wasn't doing at all. And I think this will help toward our effort of persuading companies and governments, particularly in Asia, that there are alternatives to Iran that they can pursue," he reportedly said&nbsp;in response to a question.&nbsp;

According to Bolton, as the second wave of sanctions come back onto Iran on November 4, the objective of the Trump administration is to put maximum pressure on the government in Tehran.&nbsp;

"It's our objective that there be no waivers from the sanctions, that exports of Iranian oil and gas drop to zero," he said.&nbsp;

"I might say, also, that we're not going to stop with the resumption of the sanctions that existed pre-2015. We're looking at others that we can impose as well," Bolton said.&nbsp;

The White House on Thursday said that it's going extra length for countries like India and Iraq to find substitute for Iranian oil. The US National Security Advisor John Bolton told reporters at a White House news conference that he had conversations (with Indian officials on purchase of Iranian oil).

The White House on Thursday said that it's going extra length for countries like India and Iraq to find substitute for Iranian oil. The US National Security Advisor John Bolton told reporters at a White House news conference that he had conversations (with Indian officials on purchase of Iranian oil). Others in the administration have had conversations with senior Indian officials, he was quoted as saying according to news agency PTI. Bolton who last month met his Indian counterpart Ajit K Doval here, a week after the two-plus-two dialogue in New Delhi, said the Trump Administration has made its views clear to Indians on Iran. "One of the things I think that's important, whether it's for Iraq or India or anyone else -- particularly that's been a purchaser of Iranian oil -- we've gone to really extra lengths to try and find substitute sellers of oil so that there would be alternative supplies at market rates," Bolton was quoted as saying. "That will help. This is something, obviously, the Obama administration wasn't doing at all. And I think this will help toward our effort of persuading companies and governments, particularly in Asia, that there are alternatives to Iran that they can pursue," he reportedly said in response to a question. According to Bolton, as the second wave of sanctions come back onto Iran on November 4, the objective of the Trump administration is to put maximum pressure on the government in Tehran. "It's our objective that there be no waivers from the sanctions, that exports of Iranian oil and gas drop to zero," he said. "I might say, also, that we're not going to stop with the resumption of the sanctions that existed pre-2015. We're looking at others that we can impose as well," Bolton said.

Going extra length to find substitute for Iranian oil for countries like India: US

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