US President Donald Trump on Saturday emplaned for his two-day visit to India.&nbsp;

Taking to Twitter, Trump tweeted out saying, "Departing for India with Melania!" and posted a video along.&nbsp;

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Departing for India with Melania! <a href="https://t.co/sZhb3E1AoB">pic.twitter.com/sZhb3E1AoB</a>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1231598268489973761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Trump is expected to arrive in Ahmedabad on Monday noon after which he will pay a visit to Sabarmati Ashram and will then head straight to the Motera stadium for the 'Namaste Trump' event.

This will be the US &nbsp;President's maiden visit to India.&nbsp;

Trump's visit is divided into three sections. His trip will start from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's home state Gujarat and will head to Agra, Uttar Pradesh.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/namaste-trump-india-gears-up-for-us-president-donald-trumps-visit-282185">Namaste Trump - India gears up for US President Donald Trump's visit</a>

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Trump's second day of the trip will focus on diplomatic engagements in the national capital.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Trump tweeted out saying "Look so forward to being with my great friends in INDIA!"

Also read: <a href="wionews.com/india-news/with-ornate-private-spa-and-food-testing-lab-itc-hotels-uber-luxurious-suite-to-host-trump-in-delhi-282214">With ornate private spa and food testing lab, ITC hotel's uber luxurious suite to host Trump in Delhi</a>&nbsp;

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India looks forward to welcoming <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>. 
 
It is an honour that he will be with us tomorrow, starting with the historic programme in Ahmedabad! <a href="https://t.co/fAVx9OUu1j">https://t.co/fAVx9OUu1j</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1231479457661116416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi also welcomed the US President and tweeted out saying that "India looks forward to welcoming @POTUS @realDonaldTrump"

"It is an honour that he will be with us tomorrow, starting with the historic programme in Ahmedabad!" his tweet read.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump on Saturday emplaned for his two-day visit to India. Taking to Twitter, Trump tweeted out saying, "Departing for India with Melania!" and posted a video along.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday emplaned for his two-day visit to India. Taking to Twitter, Trump tweeted out saying, "Departing for India with Melania!" and posted a video along. Departing for India with Melania! pic.twitter.com/sZhb3E1AoB — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 23, 2020 × Trump is expected to arrive in Ahmedabad on Monday noon after which he will pay a visit to Sabarmati Ashram and will then head straight to the Motera stadium for the 'Namaste Trump' event. This will be the US President's maiden visit to India. Trump's visit is divided into three sections. His trip will start from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's home state Gujarat and will head to Agra, Uttar Pradesh. Also read: Namaste Trump - India gears up for US President Donald Trump's visit × Trump's second day of the trip will focus on diplomatic engagements in the national capital. Earlier in the day, Trump tweeted out saying "Look so forward to being with my great friends in INDIA!" Also read: With ornate private spa and food testing lab, ITC hotel's uber luxurious suite to host Trump in Delhi India looks forward to welcoming @POTUS @realDonaldTrump. It is an honour that he will be with us tomorrow, starting with the historic programme in Ahmedabad! https://t.co/fAVx9OUu1j — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 23, 2020 × Prime Minister Narendra Modi also welcomed the US President and tweeted out saying that "India looks forward to welcoming @POTUS @realDonaldTrump" "It is an honour that he will be with us tomorrow, starting with the historic programme in Ahmedabad!" his tweet read.

Departing for India with Melania! Trump tweets as he emplanes for Ahmedabad

Namaste Trump: US Prez to have jam-packed schedule in India | WION Ground Report | India News United States President Donald Trump will arrive on his maiden two-day visit to India on Monday, becoming the seventh American President to visit the country. He has a jam-packed schedule for around 36 hours which he will spend in India.

Namaste Trump: US Prez to have jam-packed schedule in India

US President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump departs from US for India visit . US President Donald Trump along with First Lady Melania Trump depart from Andrews Air Force Base for a two day visit to India

President Trump, First Lady Melania Trump departs from US for India visit

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his deputy Manish Sisodia will not be present during US First Lady Melania Trump's visit to a Delhi government school in the city on Tuesday as their names were dropped from the guest list for the event, sources said.

Melania, the wife of US President Donald Trump, is scheduled to visit the school to watch "happiness classes" and interact with the students.

Sources in the Delhi government said the US embassy communicated to the city administration on Saturday morning that names of Kejriwal and Sisodia do not figure in the list of invitees for the event.

When contacted, a US embassy spokesperson referred the query to Delhi government on the matter.

According to the original schedule, Kejriwal and Sisodia were to welcome Melania at the school and brief her about rationale behind introduction of happiness classes as well as the Delhi government's overall reform initiatives in the education sector, officials in the city said.

"Names of Kejriwal and Sisodia have been dropped from the list of invitees for the event. We do not know who will receive and brief the First Lady about happiness classes when she visits our school," said a Delhi government official, who wished not to be named.

Though there was no official reaction from the Delhi government on the issue, a series of tweets by Sisodia, credited with educational reform in Delhi schools, indicated the AAP dispensation's unhappiness over it.

He said "happiness class" is "the solution to all hate and narrow mindedness".

"Education is meaningless without happiness. I am happy that Delhi govt schools are showing a path to the world. And the world is curious to know what we are doing in happiness class," he said.

Earlier in the day, the deputy chief minister told reporters that the Delhi government had received a request about Melania's visit to a government school.

`"If she (Melania) wants to come (to a government school), we welcome her," he said.

An AAP functionary argued that in absence of the chief minister and his deputy, who will brief Melania about the 'happiness curriculum'.

"Delhi government's happiness curriculum has been lauded across the globe. Who will brief Melania Trump if the chief minister and the deputy chief minister are not present during her visit," he asked.

Expressing anguish over exclusion of names of the two leaders from the event, Aam Aadmi Party spokesperson Saurabh Bharadwaj said it has been a "protocol" and "convention" that the state leaders are present when any foreign dignitary attends events in their states.

He also alleged that the names of Kejriwal and Sisodia have been dropped from the guest list at the behest of the BJP-led central government. He referred to a press conference by a BJP spokesperson to clarify the saffron party's stand on the issue.

"The BJP is claiming that it (Centre) did not ask the US Embassy to drop the names of Kejriwal and Sisodia from the guest list. The comments actually indicated that there is something fishy," Bhardwaj claimed.

"If it (the Centre) has not asked it (the US Embassy) to drop names of the CM and deputy CM, then it could have simply requested the embassy to include their names," he said.

"Instead of asking the US embassy for the same, holding press conference by a BJP leader is a clear indication that it (BJP) is involved in the entire matter," Bharadwaj said when asked about the issue.

On Kejriwal not being part of the guest list for Melania's visit to the Delhi school, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said that there shouldn't be any "low-level politics or petty politics" on issues which are of national interest.

"India comes under disrepute if we start pulling each other's legs. The Modi government doesn't influence the US, as to whom they invite or not," he said.

The Delhi government introduced the happiness curriculum in July, 2018. According to the curriculum, students studying in classes 1-8 at Delhi government schools spend 45 minutes every day to attend "happiness classes" where they participate in activities like storytelling, meditation and question and answer sessions.

Similarly, for nursery and kindergarten students, the classes are held twice a week.

The Arvind Kejriwal-led government has been spending a large chunk of its budget on education in the city in the last several years.

In its last budget, the Delhi government had set aside 25 per cent of its total budget for the education sector, perhaps highest among other states.

Kejriwal led AAP to a spectacular victory in the assembly elections earlier this month primarily riding on his development agenda including reforms in the health and education sectors.

The reforms initiated by the AAP government have been lauded by several prominent personalities.

On Friday, Kejriwal said his government will provide all possible help to the Maharashtra government to implement education reforms which he said reflected "cooperative federalism at its best".&nbsp;

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his deputy Manish Sisodia will not be present during US First Lady Melania Trump's visit to a Delhi government school in the city on Tuesday as their names were dropped from the guest list for the event, sources said.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his deputy Manish Sisodia will not be present during US First Lady Melania Trump's visit to a Delhi government school in the city on Tuesday as their names were dropped from the guest list for the event, sources said. Melania, the wife of US President Donald Trump, is scheduled to visit the school to watch "happiness classes" and interact with the students. Sources in the Delhi government said the US embassy communicated to the city administration on Saturday morning that names of Kejriwal and Sisodia do not figure in the list of invitees for the event. When contacted, a US embassy spokesperson referred the query to Delhi government on the matter. According to the original schedule, Kejriwal and Sisodia were to welcome Melania at the school and brief her about rationale behind introduction of happiness classes as well as the Delhi government's overall reform initiatives in the education sector, officials in the city said. "Names of Kejriwal and Sisodia have been dropped from the list of invitees for the event. We do not know who will receive and brief the First Lady about happiness classes when she visits our school," said a Delhi government official, who wished not to be named. Though there was no official reaction from the Delhi government on the issue, a series of tweets by Sisodia, credited with educational reform in Delhi schools, indicated the AAP dispensation's unhappiness over it. He said "happiness class" is "the solution to all hate and narrow mindedness". "Education is meaningless without happiness. I am happy that Delhi govt schools are showing a path to the world. And the world is curious to know what we are doing in happiness class," he said. Earlier in the day, the deputy chief minister told reporters that the Delhi government had received a request about Melania's visit to a government school. `"If she (Melania) wants to come (to a government school), we welcome her," he said. An AAP functionary argued that in absence of the chief minister and his deputy, who will brief Melania about the 'happiness curriculum'. "Delhi government's happiness curriculum has been lauded across the globe. Who will brief Melania Trump if the chief minister and the deputy chief minister are not present during her visit," he asked. Expressing anguish over exclusion of names of the two leaders from the event, Aam Aadmi Party spokesperson Saurabh Bharadwaj said it has been a "protocol" and "convention" that the state leaders are present when any foreign dignitary attends events in their states. He also alleged that the names of Kejriwal and Sisodia have been dropped from the guest list at the behest of the BJP-led central government. He referred to a press conference by a BJP spokesperson to clarify the saffron party's stand on the issue. "The BJP is claiming that it (Centre) did not ask the US Embassy to drop the names of Kejriwal and Sisodia from the guest list. The comments actually indicated that there is something fishy," Bhardwaj claimed. "If it (the Centre) has not asked it (the US Embassy) to drop names of the CM and deputy CM, then it could have simply requested the embassy to include their names," he said. "Instead of asking the US embassy for the same, holding press conference by a BJP leader is a clear indication that it (BJP) is involved in the entire matter," Bharadwaj said when asked about the issue. On Kejriwal not being part of the guest list for Melania's visit to the Delhi school, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said that there shouldn't be any "low-level politics or petty politics" on issues which are of national interest. "India comes under disrepute if we start pulling each other's legs. The Modi government doesn't influence the US, as to whom they invite or not," he said. The Delhi government introduced the happiness curriculum in July, 2018. According to the curriculum, students studying in classes 1-8 at Delhi government schools spend 45 minutes every day to attend "happiness classes" where they participate in activities like storytelling, meditation and question and answer sessions. Similarly, for nursery and kindergarten students, the classes are held twice a week. The Arvind Kejriwal-led government has been spending a large chunk of its budget on education in the city in the last several years. In its last budget, the Delhi government had set aside 25 per cent of its total budget for the education sector, perhaps highest among other states. Kejriwal led AAP to a spectacular victory in the assembly elections earlier this month primarily riding on his development agenda including reforms in the health and education sectors. The reforms initiated by the AAP government have been lauded by several prominent personalities. On Friday, Kejriwal said his government will provide all possible help to the Maharashtra government to implement education reforms which he said reflected "cooperative federalism at its best".

CM Kejriwal, his deputy Sisodia dropped from Melania's school event

US First Lady Melania Trump is likely to visit a Delhi government school and interact with students on February 25, sources said.

US President Donald Trump, accompanied by wife Melania Trump and a high-level delegation, will arrive in Ahmedabad around noon on February 24 for a little less than 36-hour-long trip. From Ahmedabad, he will travel to Agra before arriving at the national capital for the main leg of the visit.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his deputy Manish Sisodia are likely to give a tour of the school to the US first lady and brief her about the "happiness curriculum" introduced by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, the sources said.

The Delhi government introduced the happiness curriculum in July, 2018. As per the curriculum, students studying in classes 1-8 at Delhi government schools spend 45 minutes every day to attend "Happiness Classes" where they participate in exercises such as storytelling, meditation and question and answer sessions. Similarly, for nursery and KG students, the classes are held twice a week.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/on-trade-deal-with-us-india-says-dont-want-to-set-artificial-deadlines-281734">On trade deal with US, India says 'don't want to set artificial deadlines'</a>

In Ahmedabad, President Trump will address the 'Namaste Trump' event jointly with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the newly built Motera cricket stadium.

After the event, the US President and the First Lady will visit Agra, where they will spend about an hour at the Taj Mahal before the sunset. President Trump will then depart for Delhi.

On the morning of February 25, Trump and the First Lady will be accorded a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

From there, they will go to Rajghat to pay homage at the 'samadhi' of Mahatma Gandhi.

It will be followed by restricted and delegation-level talks between Trump and Modi at Hyderabad House.

Prime Minister Modi will host a lunch for the US president following the talks.

In the afternoon, Trump is expected to attend certain private events at the US Embassy, including a private roundtable with industry representatives.

In the evening, the US president will meet President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

A banquet will be hosted by Kovind and President Trump will depart from India later that evening.&nbsp;

US First Lady Melania Trump is likely to visit a Delhi government school and interact with students on February 25, sources said. US President Donald Trump, accompanied by wife Melania Trump and a high-level delegation, will arrive in Ahmedabad around noon on February 24 for a little less than 36-hour-long trip.

US First Lady Melania Trump is likely to visit a Delhi government school and interact with students on February 25, sources said. US President Donald Trump, accompanied by wife Melania Trump and a high-level delegation, will arrive in Ahmedabad around noon on February 24 for a little less than 36-hour-long trip. From Ahmedabad, he will travel to Agra before arriving at the national capital for the main leg of the visit. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his deputy Manish Sisodia are likely to give a tour of the school to the US first lady and brief her about the "happiness curriculum" introduced by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, the sources said. The Delhi government introduced the happiness curriculum in July, 2018. As per the curriculum, students studying in classes 1-8 at Delhi government schools spend 45 minutes every day to attend "Happiness Classes" where they participate in exercises such as storytelling, meditation and question and answer sessions. Similarly, for nursery and KG students, the classes are held twice a week. Also read: On trade deal with US, India says 'don't want to set artificial deadlines' In Ahmedabad, President Trump will address the 'Namaste Trump' event jointly with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the newly built Motera cricket stadium. After the event, the US President and the First Lady will visit Agra, where they will spend about an hour at the Taj Mahal before the sunset. President Trump will then depart for Delhi. On the morning of February 25, Trump and the First Lady will be accorded a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of the Rashtrapati Bhavan. From there, they will go to Rajghat to pay homage at the 'samadhi' of Mahatma Gandhi. It will be followed by restricted and delegation-level talks between Trump and Modi at Hyderabad House. Prime Minister Modi will host a lunch for the US president following the talks. In the afternoon, Trump is expected to attend certain private events at the US Embassy, including a private roundtable with industry representatives. In the evening, the US president will meet President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. A banquet will be hosted by Kovind and President Trump will depart from India later that evening.

Trump visit: US first lady likely to visit Delhi govt school, interact with students

US President Donald Trump will have a packed schedule on his two-day visit to India. Trump and his wife Melania Trump will be visited by PM Modi at Ahmedabad. Later Trump and Modi will leave for the Motera stadium for 'Namaste Trump' event. Watch the video to know more about Trump's schedule for India visit.

WION Dispatch: Packed schedule of Donald Trump on India's visit, Namaste Trump

Donald Trump in India, Things to watch out for, Namaste Trump Event

A cleanliness drive is going on at the historic Sabarmati Ashram and a thorough security check is also being done. US President Donald Trump will arrive on a 2-day India visit from February 24 with first lady Melania Trump. Apart from Delhi, the US President will also visit Ahmedabad. Watch the full video for more information.

Trump to visit Mahatma Gandhi's Sabarmati Ashram directly form Ahmedabad airport

US&nbsp;President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senator-schumer-outlines-documents-he-wants-for-impeachment-trial-269912">Donald Trump</a> said on Tuesday he had not&nbsp;yet&nbsp;bought a&nbsp;Christmas&nbsp;present for the first lady, just a day before the holiday that could bring a more <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-canadian-military-tracker-norad-eyes-santa-christmas-gift-from-north-korea-269861">ominous&nbsp;gift</a>&nbsp;from North Korea.

During a video teleconference with members of the US&nbsp;Armed Forces from his resort residence in Palm Beach, Florida, Trump said in response to a question he picked out "a beautiful card" for first lady&nbsp;Melania&nbsp;Trump.

"I'm still working on a&nbsp;Christmas&nbsp;present. There's a little time left. Not too much, but a little time," he said.

Another holiday surprise may be on the president's mind.

Earlier this month, Pyongyang warned Washington of a possible "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-canadian-military-tracker-norad-eyes-santa-christmas-gift-from-north-korea-269861">Christmas&nbsp;gift</a>," after North Korean leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-discusses-strengthening-military-as-deadline-for-potential-us-concessions-approaches-269527">Kim Jong Un</a> gave the United States until year-end to propose new concessions in talks over his country's nuclear arsenal.

Many experts have speculated that the&nbsp;gift&nbsp;could refer to a long-range missile test. But Trump <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/well-deal-with-it-successfully-donald-trump-on-north-koreas-christmas-gift-threat-270065">brushed off concerns</a> as he spoke to reporters from his resort.

"We'll see what happens," he said. "Maybe it's a present where he sends me a beautiful vase as opposed to a missile test," he joked. "You never know."

This would not be the first time Trump has marked an important occasion with a card for the first lady.

When asked in April 2018 on television show "Fox and Friends" what he got his wife for her birthday, Trump said, "I better not get into that because I may get in trouble. Maybe I didn't get her so much." He added that he was very busy and got her a beautiful card and flowers.

Trump has visited the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-democrats-to-probe-into-pences-stay-at-trump-hotel-in-ireland-248189">Trump International Golf Course</a> each day after he arrived on Friday night, delivering remarks to young conservatives at an&nbsp;event on Saturday as well.

US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday he had not yet bought a Christmas present for the first lady, just a day before the holiday that could bring a more ominous gift from North Korea.

US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday he had not yet bought a Christmas present for the first lady, just a day before the holiday that could bring a more ominous gift from North Korea. During a video teleconference with members of the US Armed Forces from his resort residence in Palm Beach, Florida, Trump said in response to a question he picked out "a beautiful card" for first lady Melania Trump. "I'm still working on a Christmas present. There's a little time left. Not too much, but a little time," he said. Another holiday surprise may be on the president's mind. Earlier this month, Pyongyang warned Washington of a possible "Christmas gift," after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un gave the United States until year-end to propose new concessions in talks over his country's nuclear arsenal. Many experts have speculated that the gift could refer to a long-range missile test. But Trump brushed off concerns as he spoke to reporters from his resort. "We'll see what happens," he said. "Maybe it's a present where he sends me a beautiful vase as opposed to a missile test," he joked. "You never know." This would not be the first time Trump has marked an important occasion with a card for the first lady. When asked in April 2018 on television show "Fox and Friends" what he got his wife for her birthday, Trump said, "I better not get into that because I may get in trouble. Maybe I didn't get her so much." He added that he was very busy and got her a beautiful card and flowers. Trump has visited the Trump International Golf Course each day after he arrived on Friday night, delivering remarks to young conservatives at an event on Saturday as well.

US President Donald Trump 'still working' on Christmas present for the First Lady

President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump took part in the lighting of the National Christmas Tree Thursday (December 5), the same day that Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi directed a House committee to draft articles of impeachment against President Trump, a historic step that sets up a fight over whether to oust him from office.

Christmas Season in Washington: From articles of impeachment to the National Christmas Tree

First lady of U.S. Melania Trump defends her son after Pamela Karlan makes a joke on it, after that Karlan apologises for her comment.

Melania Trump defends her son after Karlan's joke

A hedge fund billionaire has been arrested on sex trafficking charges in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rainbows-fill-new-yorks-streets-as-gay-pride-parade-celebrates-50-year-anniversary-of-stonewall-riots-231855">New York area</a>, after having long been followed by accusations of molesting young girls, US media reported.

Jeffrey Epstein, who is expected to appear before a federal magistrate on Monday, was arrested Saturday at a New Jersey airport after arriving from Paris in his private jet, CBS Miami reported.

A source familiar with the case told the television station Epstein was charged with one count of sex trafficking and one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking.

Epstein had long been the subject of accusations of paying young girls for sexual massages at his Palm Beach, Florida mansion.

A police investigation found that he had engaged in sex with underage girls, some as young as 13, according to reporting by the Miami Herald.

But Epstein avoided federal prosecution in those cases with a 2007 plea deal negotiated by R&nbsp;Alexander Acosta, now the US labour secretary and at the time the top federal prosecutor in Miami.

Under the deal, he pleaded guilty to a state charge of soliciting prostitution from a minor and was sentenced to 18 months in the county jail.

The Miami Herald investigation found that Epstein was granted work release privileges that allowed him to leave jail for 12 hours a day, six days a week, and that he was released after 13 months.

The revelations threw a spotlight on Epstein, a well-connected financier whose friends included US President Donald Trump and former president Bill Clinton.

It also drew attention to Acosta's role in negotiating the plea deal.

A hedge fund billionaire has been arrested on sex trafficking charges in the New York area, after having long been followed by accusations of molesting young girls, US media reported.

A hedge fund billionaire has been arrested on sex trafficking charges in the New York area, after having long been followed by accusations of molesting young girls, US media reported. Jeffrey Epstein, who is expected to appear before a federal magistrate on Monday, was arrested Saturday at a New Jersey airport after arriving from Paris in his private jet, CBS Miami reported. A source familiar with the case told the television station Epstein was charged with one count of sex trafficking and one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking. Epstein had long been the subject of accusations of paying young girls for sexual massages at his Palm Beach, Florida mansion. A police investigation found that he had engaged in sex with underage girls, some as young as 13, according to reporting by the Miami Herald. But Epstein avoided federal prosecution in those cases with a 2007 plea deal negotiated by R Alexander Acosta, now the US labour secretary and at the time the top federal prosecutor in Miami. Under the deal, he pleaded guilty to a state charge of soliciting prostitution from a minor and was sentenced to 18 months in the county jail. The Miami Herald investigation found that Epstein was granted work release privileges that allowed him to leave jail for 12 hours a day, six days a week, and that he was released after 13 months. The revelations threw a spotlight on Epstein, a well-connected financier whose friends included US President Donald Trump and former president Bill Clinton. It also drew attention to Acosta's role in negotiating the plea deal.

United States billionaire Jeffrey Epstein arrested on sex trafficking charges: Reports

A controversial wooden statue of US First Lady Melania Trump has been unveiled near her home town of Sevnica, in the small Alpine country of Slovenia. Local sculptor, Ales Zupevc, working under the direction of American artist Brad Downey, built and carved the life-sized monument of Melania, but many raised their eyebrows when they saw the final look of the sculpture.

Melania Trump statue unveiled in Slovenia

Turkey's First Lady Emine Erdogan recently attracted criticism after she was spotted carrying a handbag that was priced $50,000 during her trip to Japan with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Photos of Emine Erdogan's arrival at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo with President Recep Erdogan caught the attention of social media users who were quick to point out $50,000 French high fashion luxury brand Hermes handbag of Turkey's first lady.&nbsp;

The price tag of the handbag was equivalent to a year's minimum wage of 11 people when Turkey is trying to recover from a currency crisis, reported Ahval news.

The Erdogans in the past have come under criticism for their lavish lifestyle, which critics claim, contradicts their seemingly humble and pious discourse.

"While the citizens struggle with price hikes, the Palace does not step back from luxury," Cumhuriyet newspaper remarked in reference to the 1,150-room presidential complex built under Erdogan's rule.&nbsp;

The limited edition bag in black shiny alligator variant is big enough to -- as it says in its description--- fit an iPhone Plus.

Similarly, US first lady Melania Trump stirred controversy with an ultra expensive Hermès Birkin black crocodile bag back in June.

The price tag of the luxury handbag was said to be about $63,000.

Turkey's First Lady Emine Erdogan recently attracted criticism after she was spotted carrying a handbag that was priced $50,000 during her trip to Japan with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Turkey's First Lady Emine Erdogan recently attracted criticism after she was spotted carrying a handbag that was priced $50,000 during her trip to Japan with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Photos of Emine Erdogan's arrival at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo with President Recep Erdogan caught the attention of social media users who were quick to point out $50,000 French high fashion luxury brand Hermes handbag of Turkey's first lady. The price tag of the handbag was equivalent to a year's minimum wage of 11 people when Turkey is trying to recover from a currency crisis, reported Ahval news. The Erdogans in the past have come under criticism for their lavish lifestyle, which critics claim, contradicts their seemingly humble and pious discourse. "While the citizens struggle with price hikes, the Palace does not step back from luxury," Cumhuriyet newspaper remarked in reference to the 1,150-room presidential complex built under Erdogan's rule. The limited edition bag in black shiny alligator variant is big enough to -- as it says in its description--- fit an iPhone Plus. Similarly, US first lady Melania Trump stirred controversy with an ultra expensive Hermès Birkin black crocodile bag back in June. The price tag of the luxury handbag was said to be about $63,000.

Turkey's First Lady criticised for carrying $50,000 handbag: Report

Stephanie Grisham, the communications director for first lady Melania Trump and a longtime aide to President Donald Trump, will succeed Sarah Sanders as White House press secretary, Mrs Trump announced on Tuesday.

Melania Trump announced the development in a tweet to close out the president's search for a press secretary after Sanders decided to resign and go back home to Arkansas earlier this month.

Grisham, 42, a fixture in the Arizona Republican Party, was one of Trump's first hires for his presidential campaign - as a press aide in 2015. She served as a deputy press secretary in the White House when he took office in January 2017 and eventually moved over to the first lady's operation.

A clue that the president was leaning toward Grisham for the job was when aides said she had now been added to the White House team going with Trump to the G20 summit in Osaka, Japan, this week.

Grisham will also hold the more strategic post of communications director, the first lady tweeted.

"I am pleased to announce @StephGrisham45 will be the next @PressSec &amp; Comms Director!" Melania Trump wrote.

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I am pleased to announce <a href="https://twitter.com/StephGrisham45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StephGrisham45</a> will be the next <a href="https://twitter.com/PressSec?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PressSec</a> &amp; Comms Director! She has been with us since 2015 - <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@potus</a> &amp; I can think of no better person to serve the Administration &amp; our country. Excited to have Stephanie working for both sides of the <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WhiteHouse</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BeBest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BeBest</a>
— Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS/status/1143560381048283138?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"She has been with us since 2015 - @POTUS &amp; I can think of no better person to serve the Administration &amp; our country."

The fact that Mrs Trump announced the appointment, instead of the president himself, showed that the first lady was willing to part with Grisham for the greater good.

Grisham will have the dual role of press secretary and communications director. Sanders had essentially been doing both roles as well, without the communications director title.

Grisham was viewed internally as the candidate with the best rapport with President Trump, a key requirement.

With his tweets and multiple exchanges with reporters, Trump is in many ways his own press secretary and communications director, and Sanders' role grew to being a senior adviser.

Whether Grisham would bring back the daily press briefing was unclear. Trump has all but ended the practice and it has been more than three months since the last one.

The other top candidate had been Sanders' principal deputy press secretary, Hogan Gidley.

Tony Sayegh, a former Treasury Department spokesman, had been considered as well but was in the midst of a move home to New York. Former State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert withdrew herself from consideration.

Gidley tweeted his congratulations to Grisham.

"Amazing announcement! So proud and blessed to have my good friend @StephGrisham45 working with our team. She is a rockstar and perfect to fill Sarah’s shoes!" he said.

Sanders is contemplating a political future in Arkansas, considering a 2022 run for state governor, a position once held by her father, Republican Mike Huckabee.

Stephanie Grisham, the communications director for first lady Melania Trump and a longtime aide to President Donald Trump, will succeed Sarah Sanders as White House press secretary, Mrs Trump announced on Tuesday.

Stephanie Grisham, the communications director for first lady Melania Trump and a longtime aide to President Donald Trump, will succeed Sarah Sanders as White House press secretary, Mrs Trump announced on Tuesday. Melania Trump announced the development in a tweet to close out the president's search for a press secretary after Sanders decided to resign and go back home to Arkansas earlier this month. Grisham, 42, a fixture in the Arizona Republican Party, was one of Trump's first hires for his presidential campaign - as a press aide in 2015. She served as a deputy press secretary in the White House when he took office in January 2017 and eventually moved over to the first lady's operation. A clue that the president was leaning toward Grisham for the job was when aides said she had now been added to the White House team going with Trump to the G20 summit in Osaka, Japan, this week. Grisham will also hold the more strategic post of communications director, the first lady tweeted. "I am pleased to announce @StephGrisham45 will be the next @PressSec & Comms Director!" Melania Trump wrote. I am pleased to announce @StephGrisham45 will be the next @PressSec & Comms Director! She has been with us since 2015 - @potus & I can think of no better person to serve the Administration & our country. Excited to have Stephanie working for both sides of the @WhiteHouse. #BeBest — Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) June 25, 2019 × "She has been with us since 2015 - @POTUS & I can think of no better person to serve the Administration & our country." The fact that Mrs Trump announced the appointment, instead of the president himself, showed that the first lady was willing to part with Grisham for the greater good. Grisham will have the dual role of press secretary and communications director. Sanders had essentially been doing both roles as well, without the communications director title. Grisham was viewed internally as the candidate with the best rapport with President Trump, a key requirement. With his tweets and multiple exchanges with reporters, Trump is in many ways his own press secretary and communications director, and Sanders' role grew to being a senior adviser. Whether Grisham would bring back the daily press briefing was unclear. Trump has all but ended the practice and it has been more than three months since the last one. The other top candidate had been Sanders' principal deputy press secretary, Hogan Gidley. Tony Sayegh, a former Treasury Department spokesman, had been considered as well but was in the midst of a move home to New York. Former State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert withdrew herself from consideration. Gidley tweeted his congratulations to Grisham. "Amazing announcement! So proud and blessed to have my good friend @StephGrisham45 working with our team. She is a rockstar and perfect to fill Sarah’s shoes!" he said. Sanders is contemplating a political future in Arkansas, considering a 2022 run for state governor, a position once held by her father, Republican Mike Huckabee.

Stephanie Grisham to be new White House press secretary

US President Donald Trump has kicked off his re-election campaign with a rally in Orlando, Florida. Campaign advisers say Trump will seek to connect his first term to the goals he hopes to achieve with four more years as president.

Trump officially launches his 2020 re-election bid

A oak tree planted by President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron at the White House has died. Watch this video to know more.

Oak tree in White House dies

From British Dailies To The Royal Watchers, Melania Trump's Fashion Diplomacy Have Been Fueling Headlines.

Gravitas: First Lady's Fashion Diplomacy

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

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - June 05th, 2019

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump joined Queen Elizabeth II and more than 300 D-Day veterans in Portsmouth on Wednesday for a national ceremony of remembrance on the 75th anniversary of the allied military invasion remembered as a turning point of World War II.

Donald Trump reads a tribute on behalf of United States

US President Donald Trump on Sunday played golf with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and presented a trophy to the winner of a sumo tournament, turning to personal diplomacy for the second day of a Japan visit shadowed by tough trade talk.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-urges-greater-japanese-investment-in-us-knocks-trade-advantage-221583">Trump is unhappy with Japan's large trade surplus</a> and is considering putting high tariffs on its auto exports if a bilateral trade agreement is not reached. The United States and China are also engaged in an expensive trade war that has pounded financial markets worldwide.

But it was all smiles on Sunday as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-trade-differences-in-the-background-trump-and-abe-do-diplomacy-over-golf-and-sumo-221677">two leaders played golf</a> and later, with wives Melania and Akie, watched giant sumo wrestlers grapple on the final day of a 15-day tournament won by rising Japanese star Asanoyama.

Trump, the first US president to watch sumo in the sport's homeland, waved to the audience as he entered the hallowed Kokugikan and then saluted them with applause as they waved and raised their phones to take photos.

Arriving just in time for Asanoyama's bout, Trump nodded as Abe gestured in explanation, later watching as the three final wrestlers, wearing only traditional loincloths, lifted their legs high and stamped them to the ground in a ritual entrance.

The two couples used armchairs instead of sitting cross-legged on the "zabuton" cushions traditional for close ringside seats.

Trump, using a special set of wooden stairs fitted to the sumo ring, presented the 25-year-old Asanoyama with the President's Cup, a trophy topped with a bald eagle, the US national bird.

"In honour of your outstanding achievement as Sumo Grand Champion, I hereby award you the United States President's Cup," Trump said, reading from a prize certificate.

Security was tight, with fans forced to pass through metal detectors. The traditional throwing of cushions to mark an exciting round was prohibited.

Burgers and trade beefs

The two met early at a suburban golf course. Trump, dressed in a red pullover, and Abe, wearing a blue blazer and white pants, smiled for photographers before taking off for their game, which took place in 30 degree Celsius (86 F) temperatures as an unseasonal heat wave blasts Japan.

Abe's office later posted a "selfie" picture on the course with Trump and Abe smiling together, Trump wearing a red "USA" cap. Abe said in the post he hoped to make the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-japan-to-open-trade-talks-amid-china-deal-optimism-210692">Japan-US alliance</a> "even more unshakeable."

Despite the bonhomie, trade was never far from mind.

"Great progress being made in our trade negotiations with Japan. Agriculture and beef heavily in play," Trump tweeted after arriving back in Tokyo from the suburban golf course where the two played 16 holes.

"Much will wait until after their July elections where I anticipate big numbers."

Later, prior to the start of dinner at a traditional Japanese restaurant where the food is handed to the diners on paddles, Trump said the two had had a productive day.

"The prime minister and I talked a lot today about trade and military and various others things," he said. "I think we had a very productive day."

An election for the upper house of parliament is likely to take place in July, though there is also speculation Abe may call a snap election for the lower house at the same time.

Beef was also heavily in play at lunch. The golf was followed by double cheeseburgers made with US beef, Japan's Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

The president's state visit is meant to showcase the strength of the Japan-US relationship, but tensions over trade have provided a backdrop of uncertainty.

During remarks to business leaders on Saturday night, Trump ribbed Japan over its trading "edge" while saying progress had been made.

"With this deal, we hope to address the trade imbalance, remove barriers to United States exports, and ensure fairness and reciprocity in our relationship. And we're getting closer," he said.

"Just last week, US beef exports gained full access to Japan and to the markets in Japan for the first time since the year 2000. We welcome your support in these efforts, and we hope to have several further announcements soon, and some very big ones over the next few months."

US officials have played down prospects of any major progress on the president's trip.

The two leaders are also likely to discuss North Korea's nuclear and missile programs, another point where their thinking diverges.

Though Japan has said North Korea's recent missile launches were a violation of UN resolutions aimed at halting Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programs, Trump said on Sunday he was not concerned about them and was confident that the country's leader, Kim Jong Un, would keep his promises.

Also read: US President Trump reaches Japan on four-day visit

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&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump on Sunday played golf with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and presented a trophy to the winner of a sumo tournament, turning to personal diplomacy for the second day of a Japan visit shadowed by tough trade talk.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday played golf with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and presented a trophy to the winner of a sumo tournament, turning to personal diplomacy for the second day of a Japan visit shadowed by tough trade talk. Trump is unhappy with Japan's large trade surplus and is considering putting high tariffs on its auto exports if a bilateral trade agreement is not reached. The United States and China are also engaged in an expensive trade war that has pounded financial markets worldwide. But it was all smiles on Sunday as the two leaders played golf and later, with wives Melania and Akie, watched giant sumo wrestlers grapple on the final day of a 15-day tournament won by rising Japanese star Asanoyama. Trump, the first US president to watch sumo in the sport's homeland, waved to the audience as he entered the hallowed Kokugikan and then saluted them with applause as they waved and raised their phones to take photos. Arriving just in time for Asanoyama's bout, Trump nodded as Abe gestured in explanation, later watching as the three final wrestlers, wearing only traditional loincloths, lifted their legs high and stamped them to the ground in a ritual entrance. The two couples used armchairs instead of sitting cross-legged on the "zabuton" cushions traditional for close ringside seats. Trump, using a special set of wooden stairs fitted to the sumo ring, presented the 25-year-old Asanoyama with the President's Cup, a trophy topped with a bald eagle, the US national bird. "In honour of your outstanding achievement as Sumo Grand Champion, I hereby award you the United States President's Cup," Trump said, reading from a prize certificate. Security was tight, with fans forced to pass through metal detectors. The traditional throwing of cushions to mark an exciting round was prohibited. Burgers and trade beefs The two met early at a suburban golf course. Trump, dressed in a red pullover, and Abe, wearing a blue blazer and white pants, smiled for photographers before taking off for their game, which took place in 30 degree Celsius (86 F) temperatures as an unseasonal heat wave blasts Japan. Abe's office later posted a "selfie" picture on the course with Trump and Abe smiling together, Trump wearing a red "USA" cap. Abe said in the post he hoped to make the Japan-US alliance "even more unshakeable." Despite the bonhomie, trade was never far from mind. "Great progress being made in our trade negotiations with Japan. Agriculture and beef heavily in play," Trump tweeted after arriving back in Tokyo from the suburban golf course where the two played 16 holes. "Much will wait until after their July elections where I anticipate big numbers." Later, prior to the start of dinner at a traditional Japanese restaurant where the food is handed to the diners on paddles, Trump said the two had had a productive day. "The prime minister and I talked a lot today about trade and military and various others things," he said. "I think we had a very productive day." An election for the upper house of parliament is likely to take place in July, though there is also speculation Abe may call a snap election for the lower house at the same time. Beef was also heavily in play at lunch. The golf was followed by double cheeseburgers made with US beef, Japan's Foreign Ministry said in a statement. The president's state visit is meant to showcase the strength of the Japan-US relationship, but tensions over trade have provided a backdrop of uncertainty. During remarks to business leaders on Saturday night, Trump ribbed Japan over its trading "edge" while saying progress had been made. "With this deal, we hope to address the trade imbalance, remove barriers to United States exports, and ensure fairness and reciprocity in our relationship. And we're getting closer," he said. "Just last week, US beef exports gained full access to Japan and to the markets in Japan for the first time since the year 2000. We welcome your support in these efforts, and we hope to have several further announcements soon, and some very big ones over the next few months." US officials have played down prospects of any major progress on the president's trip. The two leaders are also likely to discuss North Korea's nuclear and missile programs, another point where their thinking diverges. Though Japan has said North Korea's recent missile launches were a violation of UN resolutions aimed at halting Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programs, Trump said on Sunday he was not concerned about them and was confident that the country's leader, Kim Jong Un, would keep his promises. Also read: US President Trump reaches Japan on four-day visit ×

Trade beef aside, Trump and Abe bond over burgers, sumo and golf

The White House said that US President Donald Trump and his wife Melania will be the first foreign state guests to visit Japan and meet with Crown Prince Naruhito after his elevation to emperor. Watch full video to know more.

Donald Trump to be first foreign leader to meet Japan's new emperor

The US Secret Service said Friday that agents intervened after a man in a wheelchair set fire to his jacket near one of the entrances to the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/grave-breaches-in-trump-white-house-security-clearances-whistleblower-to-congress-207305&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwi8r-bniM3hAhWJMI8KHYmEB7YQFggIMAE&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2FknSWGaVpkaqvPbsZTMtf">White House</a>.

The incident occurred at 2.45 pm outside the fence on the north side of the grounds.

"A male subject operating an electronic wheelchair-type scooter lit his outer jacket on fire while sitting along Pennsylvania Ave. outside the North Fence Line," the Secret Service said on Twitter. "Uniformed Division Officers immediately responded, extinguished the fire and rendered first aid."

The responding officers carried the man into nearby Lafayette Park.

As a precaution, authorities barred pedestrians from the stretch of Pennsylvania Ave. in front of the White House and entirely blocked vehicular traffic on an adjacent street.

"The male subject has been transported to a local hospital with what appears to be non-life threatening injuries," the Secret Service.

Citing unnamed law enforcement sources,&nbsp;News agency reported that the man had mental health issues.

While President Donald Trump was inside the White House at the time of the incident, he was never in any danger, authorities said.

A man fatally shot himself outside the White House in March 2018.

Trump and first lady Melania Trump were en route to the president's Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida on that occasion.

The shooting came about a week after a woman apparently suffering from mental disorders crashed her vehicle into one of the security barricades that protect the presidential residence.

In May 2017, the Secret Service detained a woman who jumped over a security barrier surrounding the White House.

She apparently intended to scale the north fence bordering the White House grounds, the Secret Service said then.

Two similar incidents took place in March 2017.

On March 10, a man identified as Jonathan T&nbsp;Tran climbed over the White House fence carrying pepper spray and moved around in the gardens and yard for almost 17 minutes before being arrested.

Eighteen days later, the Secret Service arrested a man carrying a package and making suspicious remarks near the White House.

The US Secret Service said Friday that agents intervened after a man in a wheelchair set fire to his jacket near one of the entrances to the White House. The incident occurred at 2.

The US Secret Service said Friday that agents intervened after a man in a wheelchair set fire to his jacket near one of the entrances to the White House. The incident occurred at 2.45 pm outside the fence on the north side of the grounds. "A male subject operating an electronic wheelchair-type scooter lit his outer jacket on fire while sitting along Pennsylvania Ave. outside the North Fence Line," the Secret Service said on Twitter. "Uniformed Division Officers immediately responded, extinguished the fire and rendered first aid." The responding officers carried the man into nearby Lafayette Park. As a precaution, authorities barred pedestrians from the stretch of Pennsylvania Ave. in front of the White House and entirely blocked vehicular traffic on an adjacent street. "The male subject has been transported to a local hospital with what appears to be non-life threatening injuries," the Secret Service. Citing unnamed law enforcement sources, News agency reported that the man had mental health issues. While President Donald Trump was inside the White House at the time of the incident, he was never in any danger, authorities said. A man fatally shot himself outside the White House in March 2018. Trump and first lady Melania Trump were en route to the president's Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida on that occasion. The shooting came about a week after a woman apparently suffering from mental disorders crashed her vehicle into one of the security barricades that protect the presidential residence. In May 2017, the Secret Service detained a woman who jumped over a security barrier surrounding the White House. She apparently intended to scale the north fence bordering the White House grounds, the Secret Service said then. Two similar incidents took place in March 2017. On March 10, a man identified as Jonathan T Tran climbed over the White House fence carrying pepper spray and moved around in the gardens and yard for almost 17 minutes before being arrested. Eighteen days later, the Secret Service arrested a man carrying a package and making suspicious remarks near the White House.

Man sets fire to jacket in front of White House

Mike Pence and Melania Trump will meet with Fabiana Rosales, Guaido's wife

Gravitas: The Return Of Melania Body-Double Theory

Australia's former foreign minister says she was mistaken for the spouse of a politician by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/melania-trumps-wardrobe-choices-during-africa-trip-stirs-controversy-170144#melania-trump-concluded-her-africa-trip-170130">US First Lady Melania Trump</a>, in her latest comments on the subordinate role of women in conservative politics.

Julie Bishop has been vocal about the treatment of senior female politicians since she stepped down after the ouster of former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull last year.

Bishop, who was Australia's first female foreign minister and deputy leader of the Liberal Party, is among several senior politicians from the centre-right government set to quit parliament at upcoming national elections amid expectations of an opposition win.

She told a talk in Adelaide Saturday that Melania thought her partner David Patton was Australia's foreign minister, instead of her, after President Donald Trump stuck up a conversation with him, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported.

"Melania, standing by, assumed David was the foreign minister and she said to me: 'Julie, will you be coming to my ladies' lunch tomorrow?," Bishop said of the encounter at the UN General Assembly Leaders' week in 2017.

"And I said 'No, David's going to the partners' lunch'. She thought about that for a while, thinking: 'Why would Australia's foreign minister come to the partners' lunch?'

"So this went on for a while until the president explained that I was the foreign minister."

Australia's embattled minority government has been accused of having a "women problem", with Prime Minister Scott Morrison recently boosting the number of female politicians in his cabinet to counter the criticism.

One cabinet minister who is also leaving parliament, Kelly O'Dwyer, reportedly said as a warning in a party meeting several months ago that the Liberals were widely viewed by voters as "homophobic, anti-women, climate-change deniers".&nbsp;

Bishop said she was not comfortable being the only woman among 18 men in cabinet after Turnbull's predecessor Tony Abbott won national elections in 2013.&nbsp;

"This isn't fine. This is not completely normal," she said of the situation.

There have been growing calls for the Liberals to introduce quotas to improve the low levels of female representation in the party.

This is not the first time the issue of sexism has been raised in Australian politics.

Former prime minister Julia Gillard became a torchbearer for women around the world in 2012 with her fiery speech about misogyny in parliament, where she accused Abbott of sexism.

Australia's former foreign minister says she was mistaken for the spouse of a politician by US First Lady Melania Trump, in her latest comments on the subordinate role of women in conservative politics.

Australia's former foreign minister says she was mistaken for the spouse of a politician by US First Lady Melania Trump, in her latest comments on the subordinate role of women in conservative politics. Julie Bishop has been vocal about the treatment of senior female politicians since she stepped down after the ouster of former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull last year. Bishop, who was Australia's first female foreign minister and deputy leader of the Liberal Party, is among several senior politicians from the centre-right government set to quit parliament at upcoming national elections amid expectations of an opposition win. She told a talk in Adelaide Saturday that Melania thought her partner David Patton was Australia's foreign minister, instead of her, after President Donald Trump stuck up a conversation with him, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported. "Melania, standing by, assumed David was the foreign minister and she said to me: 'Julie, will you be coming to my ladies' lunch tomorrow?," Bishop said of the encounter at the UN General Assembly Leaders' week in 2017. "And I said 'No, David's going to the partners' lunch'. She thought about that for a while, thinking: 'Why would Australia's foreign minister come to the partners' lunch?' "So this went on for a while until the president explained that I was the foreign minister." Australia's embattled minority government has been accused of having a "women problem", with Prime Minister Scott Morrison recently boosting the number of female politicians in his cabinet to counter the criticism. One cabinet minister who is also leaving parliament, Kelly O'Dwyer, reportedly said as a warning in a party meeting several months ago that the Liberals were widely viewed by voters as "homophobic, anti-women, climate-change deniers". Bishop said she was not comfortable being the only woman among 18 men in cabinet after Turnbull's predecessor Tony Abbott won national elections in 2013. "This isn't fine. This is not completely normal," she said of the situation. There have been growing calls for the Liberals to introduce quotas to improve the low levels of female representation in the party. This is not the first time the issue of sexism has been raised in Australian politics. Former prime minister Julia Gillard became a torchbearer for women around the world in 2012 with her fiery speech about misogyny in parliament, where she accused Abbott of sexism.

Melania Trump 'mistook former female Australia foreign minister for partner'

US President Donald Trump on Friday visited communities in eastern Alabama devastated by tornadoes that tore through homes and businesses, killing 23 people.

Trump and his wife Melania Trump took a helicopter tour of the area before going to the homes of some victims in the tiny and especially hard-hit community of Beauregard, near the border with Georgia.

Their motorcade passed trees knocked down like kindling and homes scattered in pieces.

"This is unbelievable," Trump said as he and Alabama Governor Kay Ivey surveyed the devastation. He said he had seen "unbelievable" destruction from the air, too.

Relatives of one victim, Marshall Lynn Grimes, showed the president the 59-year-old's cherished motorcycle vest and Bible. Trump hugged members of the family.

The president and Melania Trump then visited a disaster relief center at the Providence Baptist Church in Opelika, the county seat, to meet with survivors, volunteers, and first responders.

Tables at the church were piled high with donated clothes, toiletries and other items. Twenty-three crosses were set up on a lawn outside.

Trump met privately with more victims' families inside the church. He said he talked with one woman who lost 10 people in the storm.

"I said how did it go, and she said I lost 10," Trump said. "I've never seen anything like it."

He told dozens of community volunteers gathered in the church auditorium that the first responders were doing an "A-plus job."

"We're gonna take care," Trump said. "We couldn't get here fast enough ... I wanted to come the day it happened."

He also signed Bibles brought by some of the volunteers.

Sunday's tornadoes were the deadliest to hit the state since 2013. All 23 victims, including four children and seven members of one family, were killed in or around Beauregard, in rural Lee County about 10 miles (16 km) southeast of Auburn.

Dozens of people were injured and about 100 houses were destroyed by 170 mile-per-hour (264 km-per-hour) winds, officials said.

Mobile homes were tossed over and ripped open, their contents strewn across a landscape littered with debris and uprooted trees. In some places, shreds of houses had hung from the limbs of the few trees left standing.

The worst of the twisters, stirred up by a late-winter "supercell" thunderstorm, were ranked by forecasters at step four of the six-step Enhanced Fujita scale of tornado strength.

It was the greatest loss of life from a tornado since an EF-5 storm ripped through Moore, Oklahoma, in May 2013, killing 24 people and injuring 375 others.

US President Donald Trump on Friday visited communities in eastern Alabama devastated by tornadoes that tore through homes and businesses, killing 23 people. Trump and his wife Melania Trump took a helicopter tour of the area before going to the homes of some victims in the tiny and especially hard-hit community of Beauregard, near the border with Georgia.

US President Donald Trump on Friday visited communities in eastern Alabama devastated by tornadoes that tore through homes and businesses, killing 23 people. Trump and his wife Melania Trump took a helicopter tour of the area before going to the homes of some victims in the tiny and especially hard-hit community of Beauregard, near the border with Georgia. Their motorcade passed trees knocked down like kindling and homes scattered in pieces. "This is unbelievable," Trump said as he and Alabama Governor Kay Ivey surveyed the devastation. He said he had seen "unbelievable" destruction from the air, too. Relatives of one victim, Marshall Lynn Grimes, showed the president the 59-year-old's cherished motorcycle vest and Bible. Trump hugged members of the family. The president and Melania Trump then visited a disaster relief center at the Providence Baptist Church in Opelika, the county seat, to meet with survivors, volunteers, and first responders. Tables at the church were piled high with donated clothes, toiletries and other items. Twenty-three crosses were set up on a lawn outside. Trump met privately with more victims' families inside the church. He said he talked with one woman who lost 10 people in the storm. "I said how did it go, and she said I lost 10," Trump said. "I've never seen anything like it." He told dozens of community volunteers gathered in the church auditorium that the first responders were doing an "A-plus job." "We're gonna take care," Trump said. "We couldn't get here fast enough ... I wanted to come the day it happened." He also signed Bibles brought by some of the volunteers. Sunday's tornadoes were the deadliest to hit the state since 2013. All 23 victims, including four children and seven members of one family, were killed in or around Beauregard, in rural Lee County about 10 miles (16 km) southeast of Auburn. Dozens of people were injured and about 100 houses were destroyed by 170 mile-per-hour (264 km-per-hour) winds, officials said. Mobile homes were tossed over and ripped open, their contents strewn across a landscape littered with debris and uprooted trees. In some places, shreds of houses had hung from the limbs of the few trees left standing. The worst of the twisters, stirred up by a late-winter "supercell" thunderstorm, were ranked by forecasters at step four of the six-step Enhanced Fujita scale of tornado strength. It was the greatest loss of life from a tornado since an EF-5 storm ripped through Moore, Oklahoma, in May 2013, killing 24 people and injuring 375 others.

Trump sees 'unbelievable' tornado damage in Alabama visit

Joshua Trump was invited, by First Lady Melania, to Donald Trump's State of the Union address Wednesday morning.

Joshua is not related&nbsp;to the Trumps but he has been bullied at school — he was forced to drop out — because of his surname.

The 11-year-old walked into the House of Representatives looking, well, presidential in a white shirt and dark tie — and soon fell off to sleep.&nbsp;

Images of Joshua taking a nap during Trump's 82-minute&nbsp;speech quickly went viral on Twitter.&nbsp;

Twitter couldn't get enough of it.

"Joshua Trump is a Trump I can get behind," one user said.&nbsp;

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Joshua Trump is a Trump I can get behind. <a href="https://t.co/fCO2o7duj7">pic.twitter.com/fCO2o7duj7</a>
— Brian Tyler Cohen (@briantylercohen) <a href="https://twitter.com/briantylercohen/status/1092997537257086978?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Joshua Trump rules," said another.

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JOSHUA TRUMP RULES <a href="https://t.co/Opc88adMfB">pic.twitter.com/Opc88adMfB</a>
— Josh Weinberg (@josh_weinberg) <a href="https://twitter.com/josh_weinberg/status/1092991215232966656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Joshua, a middle school student from Delaware sat two seats up from First Lady Melania Trump.

Joshua had to drop out of school in 2017 because of constant&nbsp;bullying by other students over his surname, after which he told his mother he had lost the will to live.

He was home-schooled for a year and then Joshua's parents decided to change schools where they&nbsp;were instructed by teachers to not use that surname any more.

National fame was never my goal, said the sixth-grader adding that he just wanted to fit in.

"They say are you related to Donald Trump? And I say, 'Would I be here if I'm related to him?" the schoolboy told the news site Inside Edition in December.&nbsp;

Joshua was one of the 13 people to receive special invitations to the address by the president and first lady.

Melania Trump has made her anti-bullying campaign the centrepiece of her legacy as first lady, although there have been few concrete steps aside from public appearances and roundtable discussions.&nbsp;

(With inputs from AFP)

Joshua Trump was invited, by First Lady Melania, to Donald Trump's State of the Union address Wednesday morning. Joshua is not related to the Trumps but he has been bullied at school — he was forced to drop out — because of his surname.

Joshua Trump was invited, by First Lady Melania, to Donald Trump's State of the Union address Wednesday morning. Joshua is not related to the Trumps but he has been bullied at school — he was forced to drop out — because of his surname. The 11-year-old walked into the House of Representatives looking, well, presidential in a white shirt and dark tie — and soon fell off to sleep. Images of Joshua taking a nap during Trump's 82-minute speech quickly went viral on Twitter. Twitter couldn't get enough of it. "Joshua Trump is a Trump I can get behind," one user said. Joshua Trump is a Trump I can get behind. pic.twitter.com/fCO2o7duj7 — Brian Tyler Cohen (@briantylercohen) February 6, 2019 × "Joshua Trump rules," said another. JOSHUA TRUMP RULES pic.twitter.com/Opc88adMfB — Josh Weinberg (@josh_weinberg) February 6, 2019 × Joshua, a middle school student from Delaware sat two seats up from First Lady Melania Trump. Joshua had to drop out of school in 2017 because of constant bullying by other students over his surname, after which he told his mother he had lost the will to live. He was home-schooled for a year and then Joshua's parents decided to change schools where they were instructed by teachers to not use that surname any more. National fame was never my goal, said the sixth-grader adding that he just wanted to fit in. "They say are you related to Donald Trump? And I say, 'Would I be here if I'm related to him?" the schoolboy told the news site Inside Edition in December. Joshua was one of the 13 people to receive special invitations to the address by the president and first lady. Melania Trump has made her anti-bullying campaign the centrepiece of her legacy as first lady, although there have been few concrete steps aside from public appearances and roundtable discussions. (With inputs from AFP)

Special invitee Joshua Trump falls off to sleep at Trump's State of the Union address

Former First Lady Hillary Clinton's 17-year run as the woman Americans admire most is over.

Another former First Lady, Michelle Obama, has deposed Clinton as America's most admired woman, according to a Gallup poll published on Thursday.

Former President Barack Obama was named the man Americans admire most for the 11th year in a row, Gallup said.

President Donald Trump finished second in the poll for the fourth year in a row.

Gallup has conducted the annual poll every year since 1946 with the exception of 1976.

Fifteen per cent of the 1,025 Americans polled said the woman they admire most is Michelle Obama, who is currently on a tour promoting her book "Becoming."

Talk show host Oprah Winfrey was second with five per cent followed by Hillary Clinton and First Lady Melania Trump with four per cent.

Hillary Clinton, the 2016 Democratic presidential nominee and a former US senator and secretary of state, has topped the list 22 times including the past 17 years in a row.

Nineteen per cent of those polled said Barack Obama was the man they admired most.

Trump was second with 13 per cent followed by former president George W&nbsp;Bush and Pope Francis, who was tied with two per cent.

Gallup said the survey conducted December 3-12 had a margin of error of plus or minus four percentage points.

Former First Lady Hillary Clinton's 17-year run as the woman Americans admire most is over. Another former First Lady, Michelle Obama, has deposed Clinton as America's most admired woman, according to a Gallup poll published on Thursday.

Former First Lady Hillary Clinton's 17-year run as the woman Americans admire most is over. Another former First Lady, Michelle Obama, has deposed Clinton as America's most admired woman, according to a Gallup poll published on Thursday. Former President Barack Obama was named the man Americans admire most for the 11th year in a row, Gallup said. President Donald Trump finished second in the poll for the fourth year in a row. Gallup has conducted the annual poll every year since 1946 with the exception of 1976. Fifteen per cent of the 1,025 Americans polled said the woman they admire most is Michelle Obama, who is currently on a tour promoting her book "Becoming." Talk show host Oprah Winfrey was second with five per cent followed by Hillary Clinton and First Lady Melania Trump with four per cent. Hillary Clinton, the 2016 Democratic presidential nominee and a former US senator and secretary of state, has topped the list 22 times including the past 17 years in a row. Nineteen per cent of those polled said Barack Obama was the man they admired most. Trump was second with 13 per cent followed by former president George W Bush and Pope Francis, who was tied with two per cent. Gallup said the survey conducted December 3-12 had a margin of error of plus or minus four percentage points.

Former President Barack obama, Michelle tops most admired in America list; Trump at 2nd

WION Dispatch: Trump asks seven-year-old kid about Santa Claus' existence

The US government shutdown may have temporarily dimmed Washington's National Christmas Tree but never fear, Santa Claus still came to town —with the military tracking his path across the globe.

Just as it has since the 1950s the Canadian and American defence agency NORAD delivered live updates on the man in the red suit's international gift delivery route.

NORAD eased the fears of good little boys and girls concerned the tracker might be down, after US lawmakers failed to agree on a budget, triggering a partial shutdown of federal services, including the maintenance of the Christmas tree outside the White House.

"In the event of a government shutdown, NORAD will continue with its 63-year tradition of NORAD Tracks Santa on December 24," the agency tweeted of the tracker, the Pentagon's largest public outreach program.

"Military personnel who conduct NORAD Tracks Santa are supported by approximately 1,500 volunteers who make the program possible each and every year."

A 3-D interactive website showed Santa on his delivery route, allowing users to click and learn more about the various cities along the way.

Shortly before 1100 GMT, Father Christmas's reindeer-powered sleigh was heading home to the North Pole, having delivered more than 7.2 billion gifts.

In addition to tracking St Nick, volunteers donning military garb and Santa hats also respond to tens of thousands of calls and emails from eager children hoping to probe for details including their Christmas wish lists.

Do you believe in Santa?&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/on-christmas-eve-trump-tells-a-child-belief-in-santa-is-marginal-186296">The Trumps</a>, who cancelled their holiday trip to Mar a Lago, their residence and club in Florida, in light of the shutdown, took turn fielding calls from the White House on Monday evening.

"Hello, is this Coleman? Merry Christmas. How are you? How old are you?" Trump said when answering one call.

But he went on to raise doubts about Santa's existence, asking: "Are you still a believer in Santa Claus? 'Cuz at seven it's marginal, right?"

Melania apparently managed to skirt the sensitive issue in calls she answered.

"I want to wish you a Merry Christmas. Thank you. Nice talking to you," she told one caller.

The couple later attended a Christmas Eve service at the Washington National Cathedral.

The Santa tracker presented by the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) dates to 1955 when a Colorado newspaper advertisement misprinted a phone number to connect children with Santa and mistakenly directed them to the military nerve centre hotline.

To avoid disappointing the eager children, NORAD's director of operations at the time, Colonel Harry Shoup, ordered his staff to check the radar to see where Santa might be and update the children on his location.

Decades later volunteers are armed with a 14-page playbook with talking points to respond to queries from excited children.

The Defense Department is able to follow Santa's journey thanks to satellites that pick up heat from lead reindeer Rudolph's bright red nose, which "gives off an infrared signature similar to a missile launch," according to Politico magazine.

And for those kids sceptical of Santa's existence?

"Historical data and more than 60 years of NORAD tracking information lead us to believe Santa Claus is alive and well in the hearts of people throughout the world," the Pentagon's handbook reads.

The US government shutdown may have temporarily dimmed Washington's National Christmas Tree but never fear, Santa Claus still came to town —with the military tracking his path across the globe.

The US government shutdown may have temporarily dimmed Washington's National Christmas Tree but never fear, Santa Claus still came to town —with the military tracking his path across the globe. Just as it has since the 1950s the Canadian and American defence agency NORAD delivered live updates on the man in the red suit's international gift delivery route. NORAD eased the fears of good little boys and girls concerned the tracker might be down, after US lawmakers failed to agree on a budget, triggering a partial shutdown of federal services, including the maintenance of the Christmas tree outside the White House. "In the event of a government shutdown, NORAD will continue with its 63-year tradition of NORAD Tracks Santa on December 24," the agency tweeted of the tracker, the Pentagon's largest public outreach program. "Military personnel who conduct NORAD Tracks Santa are supported by approximately 1,500 volunteers who make the program possible each and every year." A 3-D interactive website showed Santa on his delivery route, allowing users to click and learn more about the various cities along the way. Shortly before 1100 GMT, Father Christmas's reindeer-powered sleigh was heading home to the North Pole, having delivered more than 7.2 billion gifts. In addition to tracking St Nick, volunteers donning military garb and Santa hats also respond to tens of thousands of calls and emails from eager children hoping to probe for details including their Christmas wish lists. Do you believe in Santa? The Trumps, who cancelled their holiday trip to Mar a Lago, their residence and club in Florida, in light of the shutdown, took turn fielding calls from the White House on Monday evening. "Hello, is this Coleman? Merry Christmas. How are you? How old are you?" Trump said when answering one call. But he went on to raise doubts about Santa's existence, asking: "Are you still a believer in Santa Claus? 'Cuz at seven it's marginal, right?" Melania apparently managed to skirt the sensitive issue in calls she answered. "I want to wish you a Merry Christmas. Thank you. Nice talking to you," she told one caller. The couple later attended a Christmas Eve service at the Washington National Cathedral. The Santa tracker presented by the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) dates to 1955 when a Colorado newspaper advertisement misprinted a phone number to connect children with Santa and mistakenly directed them to the military nerve centre hotline. To avoid disappointing the eager children, NORAD's director of operations at the time, Colonel Harry Shoup, ordered his staff to check the radar to see where Santa might be and update the children on his location. Decades later volunteers are armed with a 14-page playbook with talking points to respond to queries from excited children. The Defense Department is able to follow Santa's journey thanks to satellites that pick up heat from lead reindeer Rudolph's bright red nose, which "gives off an infrared signature similar to a missile launch," according to Politico magazine. And for those kids sceptical of Santa's existence? "Historical data and more than 60 years of NORAD tracking information lead us to believe Santa Claus is alive and well in the hearts of people throughout the world," the Pentagon's handbook reads.

Military Santa tracker 'NORAD' live despite US government shutdown

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