United States' Secretary of States Mike Pompeo slammed China over COVID-19 Quad Foreign Ministers' meet in presence of India's Minister of External Affairs S. Jaishankar. Mike Pompeo also discussed post-COVID world order.

Mike Pompeo slams China over COVID-19 in Quad Foreign Ministers' meet

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo have met in Tokyo. While they have been in touch with each other for past few months, amid the COVID crisis--this is the first in-person meeting between the two.

Indian EAM S Jaishankar calls for free and open Indo-Pacific

Pompeo's trip comes despite the coronavirus crisis gripping Washington, which has seen President Donald Trump and a raft of his closest staff and advisors test positive for Covid-19.

Pompeo hails Japan PM Yoshihide Suga 'Force for good' during his visit to Tokyo

S Jaishankar meets Mike Pompeo on the sidelines of QUAD summit

Foreign ministers of all four Quad countries -- US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi will be present for the face to face meeting, a first amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Indian EAM S Jaishankar to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Tokyo

Quad Foreign Ministers to meet in Tokyo today

Indian EAM S Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo meet in Tokyo

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met his American counterpart, Mike Pompeo, on the sidelines of the Quad ministerial meeting on October 6.

QUAD Foreign Ministers' Meet: EAM S Jaishankar says India, US will work for stability in Indo-Pacific

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Tuesday visited Toyko to meet with some of Washington's closest allies in Asia, Japan, Australia and India, to shore up support against what the United States says is China's dangerous and growing regional influence.

Mike Pompeo praises Japan PM amid tensions with China

QUAD Foreign ministers' meet: Indian external affairs Min meets US Secy of State

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;departed for Japan on Sunday&nbsp;but will not go to Mongolia and South Korea as originally planned, the State Department said, after President Donald Trump was diagnosed and hospitalized due to the coronavirus.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/heres-who-has-tested-positive-and-negative-in-trumps-circle-332571">In pics: Here's who has tested positive and negative in Trump's circle</a>

Initially,&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;planned to visit all three countries between October&nbsp;4 and October&nbsp;8. He is still set to leave for Tokyo on Sunday but will be returning to Washington on October&nbsp;6 after consultations with his Japanese counterparts and attending a wider meeting with foreign ministers of India and Australia.

In a statement, the State Department said&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;was expecting to travel to Asia again in October and will work to reschedule the visits in his original itinerary.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anti-china-protests-erupt-in-mongolia-ahead-of-mike-pompeos-visit-331996">Anti-China protests erupt in Mongolia ahead of Mike Pompeo's visit</a>

Pompeo's visit to East Asia, his first to the region in over a year, comes at a time when US&nbsp;ties with Beijing are at their worst in decades. Apart from Trump, the coronavirus has infected his wife Melania and several Republican senators, as well as millions of other Americans.

Anti-China protests erupted in Mongolia last week in&nbsp;Ulaanbaatar&nbsp;demanded the release of ethnic Mongolian arrested in China.

Pompeo has previously criticised China's coercive attempts to assimilate local minorities into the dominant Han population.

Earlier, protests have also erupted in Chuinese province of Inner Mongolia after Chinese government took a decision to teach politics, history, and literature in Mandarin rather than the local language. The Chinese province of Inner Mongolia shares borders with Mongolia.

&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo departed for Japan on Sunday but will not go to Mongolia and South Korea as originally planned, the State Department said, after President Donald Trump was diagnosed and hospitalized due to the coronavirus.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo departed for Japan on Sunday but will not go to Mongolia and South Korea as originally planned, the State Department said, after President Donald Trump was diagnosed and hospitalized due to the coronavirus. Also see: In pics: Here's who has tested positive and negative in Trump's circle Initially, Pompeo planned to visit all three countries between October 4 and October 8. He is still set to leave for Tokyo on Sunday but will be returning to Washington on October 6 after consultations with his Japanese counterparts and attending a wider meeting with foreign ministers of India and Australia. In a statement, the State Department said Pompeo was expecting to travel to Asia again in October and will work to reschedule the visits in his original itinerary. Also read: Anti-China protests erupt in Mongolia ahead of Mike Pompeo's visit Pompeo's visit to East Asia, his first to the region in over a year, comes at a time when US ties with Beijing are at their worst in decades. Apart from Trump, the coronavirus has infected his wife Melania and several Republican senators, as well as millions of other Americans. Anti-China protests erupted in Mongolia last week in Ulaanbaatar demanded the release of ethnic Mongolian arrested in China. Pompeo has previously criticised China's coercive attempts to assimilate local minorities into the dominant Han population. Earlier, protests have also erupted in Chuinese province of Inner Mongolia after Chinese government took a decision to teach politics, history, and literature in Mandarin rather than the local language. The Chinese province of Inner Mongolia shares borders with Mongolia.

Pompeo shortens Asia trip; cuts visits to Mongolia and South Korea

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will cut short his trip to Asia this week, a department spokeswoman said Saturday, visiting Japan but skipping planned stops to South Korea and Mongolia.

The schedule change comes as President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a> is hospitalised near Washington after testing positive for COVID-19.

The US top diplomat will be in Tokyo from Sunday to Tuesday, spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said in a statement, where he will meet with foreign ministers of Australia, India and Japan.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-not-yet-out-of-woods-completes-second-dose-of-remdesivir-doctor-332342">Also read| Trump 'not yet out of woods'; completes second dose of Remdesivir: Doctor</a>

"Secretary Pompeo expects to be traveling to Asia again in October and will work to reschedule visits on that trip, that is now just a few weeks off," she said, without mentioning Trump's illness.

However, Pompeo touched on the topic Friday after reporters asked if Trump's health will change his schedule.

"We're still planning on making the trips, but we're going to take a look at them," he responded. "We'll see which one -- see which or some parts of those trips make sense and which may not, and we'll continue to on an hour-by-hour basis take a look at it."

Pompeo had originally been scheduled to visit Ulaanbaatar on Wednesday and stop in Seoul from Wednesday to Thursday, to meet with senior officials.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will cut short his trip to Asia this week, a department spokeswoman said Saturday, visiting Japan but skipping planned stops to South Korea and Mongolia.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will cut short his trip to Asia this week, a department spokeswoman said Saturday, visiting Japan but skipping planned stops to South Korea and Mongolia. The schedule change comes as President Donald Trump is hospitalised near Washington after testing positive for COVID-19. The US top diplomat will be in Tokyo from Sunday to Tuesday, spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said in a statement, where he will meet with foreign ministers of Australia, India and Japan. Also read| Trump 'not yet out of woods'; completes second dose of Remdesivir: Doctor "Secretary Pompeo expects to be traveling to Asia again in October and will work to reschedule visits on that trip, that is now just a few weeks off," she said, without mentioning Trump's illness. However, Pompeo touched on the topic Friday after reporters asked if Trump's health will change his schedule. "We're still planning on making the trips, but we're going to take a look at them," he responded. "We'll see which one -- see which or some parts of those trips make sense and which may not, and we'll continue to on an hour-by-hour basis take a look at it." Pompeo had originally been scheduled to visit Ulaanbaatar on Wednesday and stop in Seoul from Wednesday to Thursday, to meet with senior officials.

Pompeo to cut short Asia visit amid Trump hospitalisation

Ahead of US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's visit, Mongolians protested against China in Ulaanbaatar. Meanwhile, the US State Department has said that Arunachal Pradesh is Indian territory. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Anti-China Protests in Mongolia

Mongolians took to streets just ahead of US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's visit to the country. On Thursday, dozens of protesters demanded release of ethnic Mongolian arrested in China. The protests took place in Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar.

Protests have also erupted in Chuinese province of Inner Mongolia after Chinese government took a decision to teach politics, history, and literature in Mandarin rather than the local language. Chinese province of Inner Mongolia shares borders with Mongolia.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit Mongolia next week during his Asia tour. His Asia tour includes a visit to Japan and South Korea but not China.

Some of the protesters on Thursday wore facemasks as a precaution against the coronavirus -- were dressed in traditional Mongolian outfits and carried banners showing pictures of alleged Chinese atrocities against ethnic Mongolians. 
Pompeo has previously criticised China's coercive attempts to assimilate local minorities into the dominant Han population.

Ethnic Mongolians in China and elsewhere fear the move -- which limits the opportunity to use Mongolian in schools -- will lead to the language's extinction.

Chinese Foreign minister Wang Yi's visit to Mongolia last month was also overshadowed by protests.

"During the Wang Yi's visit Mongolian leadership should have spoken up and stated that China must release the arrested Inner Mongolians," protester Elbegdorj told AFP.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/internet-explodes-with-memes-after-trump-who-called-covid-19-a-hoax-tests-positive-331985">Internet explodes with memes after Trump, who called COVID-19 a 'hoax', tests positive</a>

Rallies in Inner Mongolia last month were the largest seen for decades, but a crackdown was swift, with armoured vehicles surrounding schools in some areas.&nbsp;

Police also offered cash bounties for leads on ringleaders and publicised the arrests of dozens of suspects accused of gathering signatures and sharing dissenting messages on WeChat.

The clampdown echoes Beijing's moves in Xinjiang and Tibet, where similar policies to assimilate local minorities into the dominant Han population were implemented in line with Xi's vision of national and ideological unity through cultural identity.

"Obtaining an education in its native language is universally recognised human rights," protest organiser Zolzaya Nyamdorj said.

"China is violating those rights."

(With AFP inputs) 
&nbsp;

Mongolians took to streets just ahead of US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's visit to the country. On Thursday, dozens of protesters demanded release of ethnic Mongolian arrested in China.

Mongolians took to streets just ahead of US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's visit to the country. On Thursday, dozens of protesters demanded release of ethnic Mongolian arrested in China. The protests took place in Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar. Protests have also erupted in Chuinese province of Inner Mongolia after Chinese government took a decision to teach politics, history, and literature in Mandarin rather than the local language. Chinese province of Inner Mongolia shares borders with Mongolia. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit Mongolia next week during his Asia tour. His Asia tour includes a visit to Japan and South Korea but not China. Some of the protesters on Thursday wore facemasks as a precaution against the coronavirus -- were dressed in traditional Mongolian outfits and carried banners showing pictures of alleged Chinese atrocities against ethnic Mongolians. Pompeo has previously criticised China's coercive attempts to assimilate local minorities into the dominant Han population. Ethnic Mongolians in China and elsewhere fear the move -- which limits the opportunity to use Mongolian in schools -- will lead to the language's extinction. Chinese Foreign minister Wang Yi's visit to Mongolia last month was also overshadowed by protests. "During the Wang Yi's visit Mongolian leadership should have spoken up and stated that China must release the arrested Inner Mongolians," protester Elbegdorj told AFP. Also Read | Internet explodes with memes after Trump, who called COVID-19 a 'hoax', tests positive Rallies in Inner Mongolia last month were the largest seen for decades, but a crackdown was swift, with armoured vehicles surrounding schools in some areas. Police also offered cash bounties for leads on ringleaders and publicised the arrests of dozens of suspects accused of gathering signatures and sharing dissenting messages on WeChat. The clampdown echoes Beijing's moves in Xinjiang and Tibet, where similar policies to assimilate local minorities into the dominant Han population were implemented in line with Xi's vision of national and ideological unity through cultural identity. "Obtaining an education in its native language is universally recognised human rights," protest organiser Zolzaya Nyamdorj said. "China is violating those rights." (With AFP inputs)

Anti-China protests erupt in Mongolia ahead of Mike Pompeo's visit

Pope Francis refused to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo - who has slammed a 'secret' agreement between China and the Vatican. Is the Vatican turning a blind eye to China's persecution of Christians? WION's Palki tells you more.

Gravitas: Pope Francis refuses to meet the US Secretary of State

In 2018, China and the Vatican reached a provisional agreement. But the agreement has failed to stop the oppression of Catholics in China. WION's Palki tells you how China has used this deal to craft its own version of Christianity.

China-Vatican deal: Did the Pope concede too much? | Gravitas

Why has Pope Francis never slammed China for its persecution of the Uighurs? Why did the Pope stray from the script to avoid mention of Hong Kong? Is this Pope's neutrality or selective activism? WION's Palki makes a case.

Gravitas: The Pope's selective activism

The Vatican has denied US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s request to meet with Pope Francis during his visit to Rome this week. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-endangers-its-moral-authority-pompeo-on-deal-with-china-331174">Also read | 'Vatican endangers its moral authority': Pompeo on deal with China</a> 
 
The Vatican accused Pompeo of trying to use that issue to attract voters in November`s US presidential election.

“Yes, he asked. But the pope had already said clearly that political figures are not received in election periods. That is the reason,” Vatican diplomat Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin said, according to Reuters Wednesday. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/vatican-endangers-its-moral-authority-pompeo-on-deal-with-china-331174" hreflang="en">'Vatican endangers its moral authority': Pompeo on deal with China</a>

Earlier this week, during a visit to Rome, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday said that the Vatican must find the “courage” to confront China.

Pompeo, who was in Rome on Wednesday and due to meet Vatican officials on Thursday, repeated his denunciations of China`s record on religious freedom at an event hosted by the U.S. embassy to the Holy See.

The Vatican's two top diplomats, Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Foreign Minister Archbishop Paul Gallagher, said Francis had declined a request from Pompeo for an audience, as the pope avoids meeting politicians ahead of elections.

The Vatican`s two-year-old agreement with Beijing gives the pope some say over the appointment of Chinese bishops. It was due to expire next month, but is expected to be renewed.

Officials in the Holy See say the agreement is not perfect but call it a step forward, after decades during which Chinese Catholics who recognise the pope were driven underground.

Parolin and Gallagher both described Pompeo's public criticism as a "surprise", coming just before his planned visit.

"Normally when you`re preparing these visits between high-level officials, you negotiate the agenda for what you are going to talk about privately, confidentially. It`s one of the rules of diplomacy," Gallagher said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Vatican has denied US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s request to meet with Pope Francis during his visit to Rome this week. Also read | 'Vatican endangers its moral authority': Pompeo on deal with China The Vatican accused Pompeo of trying to use that issue to attract voters in November`s US presidential election.

The Vatican has denied US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s request to meet with Pope Francis during his visit to Rome this week. Also read | 'Vatican endangers its moral authority': Pompeo on deal with China The Vatican accused Pompeo of trying to use that issue to attract voters in November`s US presidential election. “Yes, he asked. But the pope had already said clearly that political figures are not received in election periods. That is the reason,” Vatican diplomat Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin said, according to Reuters Wednesday. Also read: 'Vatican endangers its moral authority': Pompeo on deal with China Earlier this week, during a visit to Rome, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday said that the Vatican must find the “courage” to confront China. Pompeo, who was in Rome on Wednesday and due to meet Vatican officials on Thursday, repeated his denunciations of China`s record on religious freedom at an event hosted by the U.S. embassy to the Holy See. The Vatican's two top diplomats, Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Foreign Minister Archbishop Paul Gallagher, said Francis had declined a request from Pompeo for an audience, as the pope avoids meeting politicians ahead of elections. The Vatican`s two-year-old agreement with Beijing gives the pope some say over the appointment of Chinese bishops. It was due to expire next month, but is expected to be renewed. Officials in the Holy See say the agreement is not perfect but call it a step forward, after decades during which Chinese Catholics who recognise the pope were driven underground. Parolin and Gallagher both described Pompeo's public criticism as a "surprise", coming just before his planned visit. "Normally when you`re preparing these visits between high-level officials, you negotiate the agenda for what you are going to talk about privately, confidentially. It`s one of the rules of diplomacy," Gallagher said. (With inputs from agencies)

Vatican accuses Pompeo of playing politics, Pope Francies refuses to meet him

Amid escalating tension between Vatican & the United States, Vatican has denied the Mike Pompeo's request to meet Pope Francis.

Your Story: Pope refuses to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo visits Rome Wednesday, just a month ahead of the US elections and hot on the heels of a diplomatic breach with the Vatican, that experts see as an effort to win conservative Catholic votes.

Pompeo will not meet Pope Francis because the pontiff avoids such audiences in campaign periods, a Vatican source said.

Analysts say the pope has also been angered by Pompeo's public calls for a historic Vatican-China accord to be scrapped.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pompeo-says-violence-must-stop-in-nagorno-karabakh-conflict-331278">Also read:&nbsp;Pompeo says violence must stop in Nagorno-Karabakh conflict</a>

Instead, Pompeo will speak at a symposium organised by the Holy See's US embassy in the Italian capital on Wednesday, before meeting the Vatican's Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin on Thursday.

Francis has been working hard to repair ties with China, but his overtures run contrary to US President Donald Trump's efforts to push a religious freedom theme against the Communist country in his campaign for a second term.

Pompeo, an evangelical Christian, went on the offensive earlier this month, calling a Sino-Vatican 2018 agreement on appointing bishops, which is up for renewal, a risk to the church's "moral authority" given Beijing's human rights record. &nbsp;

Powerful cardinal Oscar Maradiaga said the US intervention was unwelcome, and clearly linked to the election campaign.

"They're looking for Donald Trump to get elected, and everything is based on that logic. In this sense, I don't think they're acting in the interests of Americans," he said in an interview with the Repubblica daily on the eve of Pompeo's visit.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-endangers-its-moral-authority-pompeo-on-deal-with-china-331174">Also read|&nbsp;'Vatican endangers its moral authority': Pompeo on deal with China</a>

Francis's opening towards China had particularly angered the "anti-Francis" network close to the US president, he said, led by Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, the Vatican's former envoy to the US, and Steve Bannon, Trump's former advisor.

'Propaganda'

Massimo Faggioli, a theologian at the Villanova Catholic University in the US, said there was a concerted effort under way to "turn a certain anti-Francis and anti-Vatican sentiment, which has become more visible in recent years, into votes for Trump".

"Vatican diplomacy is being used for propaganda," he said.

According to the Pew Research Centre, around half of Catholic registered voters describe themselves as Republicans or lean toward the Republican Party, while roughly the same &nbsp;identify with or lean toward the Democratic Party.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-and-china-prepare-to-renew-historic-deal-angering-us-329409">Also read:&nbsp;Vatican and China prepare to renew historic deal, angering US</a>

A "notable majority of white Catholics" voted for Trump last time, Faggioli said, and "the plan is to keep this bloc of white Catholic voters in some states where it is especially needed".

Pompeo is also set Wednesday to meet Italy's Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte and Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio to discuss US efforts to deter European allies from using equipment by Chinese manufacturer Huawei in developing their 5G networks.

The US accuses Huawei of being a tool for Chinese espionage.

Italy insists its Golden Power law — which allows the government to impose conditions, restrictions or a ban on foreign investment in strategic industries — protects it from risk.

Nonetheless, Conte promised last week to take stronger measures to ensure national security in the country's 5G networks.

Talks will likely also touch on Italy's involvement in China's ambitious "Belt and Road" trade and infrastructure investment plan.

Rome became the first G7 country to sign up to the plan last year, a move sharply criticised by those who fear the investment scheme will allow key trade secrets and technologies to slip into Beijing's hands.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo visits Rome Wednesday, just a month ahead of the US elections and hot on the heels of a diplomatic breach with the Vatican, that experts see as an effort to win conservative Catholic votes.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo visits Rome Wednesday, just a month ahead of the US elections and hot on the heels of a diplomatic breach with the Vatican, that experts see as an effort to win conservative Catholic votes. Pompeo will not meet Pope Francis because the pontiff avoids such audiences in campaign periods, a Vatican source said. Analysts say the pope has also been angered by Pompeo's public calls for a historic Vatican-China accord to be scrapped. Also read: Pompeo says violence must stop in Nagorno-Karabakh conflict Instead, Pompeo will speak at a symposium organised by the Holy See's US embassy in the Italian capital on Wednesday, before meeting the Vatican's Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin on Thursday. Francis has been working hard to repair ties with China, but his overtures run contrary to US President Donald Trump's efforts to push a religious freedom theme against the Communist country in his campaign for a second term. Pompeo, an evangelical Christian, went on the offensive earlier this month, calling a Sino-Vatican 2018 agreement on appointing bishops, which is up for renewal, a risk to the church's "moral authority" given Beijing's human rights record. Powerful cardinal Oscar Maradiaga said the US intervention was unwelcome, and clearly linked to the election campaign. "They're looking for Donald Trump to get elected, and everything is based on that logic. In this sense, I don't think they're acting in the interests of Americans," he said in an interview with the Repubblica daily on the eve of Pompeo's visit. Also read| 'Vatican endangers its moral authority': Pompeo on deal with China Francis's opening towards China had particularly angered the "anti-Francis" network close to the US president, he said, led by Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, the Vatican's former envoy to the US, and Steve Bannon, Trump's former advisor. 'Propaganda' Massimo Faggioli, a theologian at the Villanova Catholic University in the US, said there was a concerted effort under way to "turn a certain anti-Francis and anti-Vatican sentiment, which has become more visible in recent years, into votes for Trump". "Vatican diplomacy is being used for propaganda," he said. According to the Pew Research Centre, around half of Catholic registered voters describe themselves as Republicans or lean toward the Republican Party, while roughly the same identify with or lean toward the Democratic Party. Also read: Vatican and China prepare to renew historic deal, angering US A "notable majority of white Catholics" voted for Trump last time, Faggioli said, and "the plan is to keep this bloc of white Catholic voters in some states where it is especially needed". Pompeo is also set Wednesday to meet Italy's Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte and Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio to discuss US efforts to deter European allies from using equipment by Chinese manufacturer Huawei in developing their 5G networks. The US accuses Huawei of being a tool for Chinese espionage. Italy insists its Golden Power law — which allows the government to impose conditions, restrictions or a ban on foreign investment in strategic industries — protects it from risk. Nonetheless, Conte promised last week to take stronger measures to ensure national security in the country's 5G networks. Talks will likely also touch on Italy's involvement in China's ambitious "Belt and Road" trade and infrastructure investment plan. Rome became the first G7 country to sign up to the plan last year, a move sharply criticised by those who fear the investment scheme will allow key trade secrets and technologies to slip into Beijing's hands.

Pompeo in tense visit to Vatican as US vote nears

During a visit to Rome, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday said that the Vatican must find the “courage” to confront China.

Pompeo is currently in Rome which is being seen by many as part of the campaigning for the upcoming US elections, and a bid to capture Catholic votes.

Pope Francis is not meeting Pompeo because the pontiff does not meet political leaders during periods of election campaigning, a source from the Vatican told AFP.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/pompeo-in-tense-visit-to-vatican-as-us-vote-nears-331352" hreflang="en">Pompeo in tense visit to Vatican as US vote nears</a>

Many believe that the Pope is displeased with Pompeo’s calls to scrap a historic Vatican-China accord. Today, Pompeo spoke at a symposium which was overseen by the US embassy. He reiterated his wish for the Vatican to stand firm against China, a recurring theme in Donald Trump’s re-election campaign.

"Nowhere is religious freedom under assault more than in China,” Pompeo said. "I call on every faith leader to find the courage to confront religious persecution," he added.

Pompeo also said that for the Catholic Church "earthly considerations shouldn't discourage principled stances". A Sino-Vatican agreement in 2018 is set to be renewed. Pompeo had said that the deal is a risk to the church’s “moral authority” due to China’s human rights record.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/vatican-endangers-its-moral-authority-pompeo-on-deal-with-china-331174" hreflang="en">'Vatican endangers its moral authority': Pompeo on deal with China</a>

After highlighting that "the Holy See reached an agreement with the Chinese Communist Party, hoping to help China's Catholics", US secretary of state Mike Pompeo insisted in an article that the "human rights situation in China has deteriorated severely under the autocratic rule of Xi Jinping, especially for religious believers."

"It’s clear that the Sino-Vatican agreement has not shielded Catholics from the Party’s depredations, to say nothing of the Party’s horrific treatment of Christians, Tibetan Buddhists, Falun Gong devotees, and other religious believers," the US secretary of state Mike Pompeo said in an article on First Things First.

According to the Reuters news agency, Pope Francis has signed off on the two-year extension of the original pact that took effect in 2018, with the Chinese foreign ministry stating that &nbsp;"the two sides will continue to maintain close communication and consultation and improve bilateral relations."&nbsp;

During a visit to Rome, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday said that the Vatican must find the “courage” to confront China. Pompeo is currently in Rome which is being seen by many as part of the campaigning for the upcoming US elections, and a bid to capture Catholic votes.

During a visit to Rome, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday said that the Vatican must find the “courage” to confront China. Pompeo is currently in Rome which is being seen by many as part of the campaigning for the upcoming US elections, and a bid to capture Catholic votes. Pope Francis is not meeting Pompeo because the pontiff does not meet political leaders during periods of election campaigning, a source from the Vatican told AFP. Also read: Pompeo in tense visit to Vatican as US vote nears Many believe that the Pope is displeased with Pompeo’s calls to scrap a historic Vatican-China accord. Today, Pompeo spoke at a symposium which was overseen by the US embassy. He reiterated his wish for the Vatican to stand firm against China, a recurring theme in Donald Trump’s re-election campaign. "Nowhere is religious freedom under assault more than in China,” Pompeo said. "I call on every faith leader to find the courage to confront religious persecution," he added. Pompeo also said that for the Catholic Church "earthly considerations shouldn't discourage principled stances". A Sino-Vatican agreement in 2018 is set to be renewed. Pompeo had said that the deal is a risk to the church’s “moral authority” due to China’s human rights record. Also read: 'Vatican endangers its moral authority': Pompeo on deal with China After highlighting that "the Holy See reached an agreement with the Chinese Communist Party, hoping to help China's Catholics", US secretary of state Mike Pompeo insisted in an article that the "human rights situation in China has deteriorated severely under the autocratic rule of Xi Jinping, especially for religious believers." "It’s clear that the Sino-Vatican agreement has not shielded Catholics from the Party’s depredations, to say nothing of the Party’s horrific treatment of Christians, Tibetan Buddhists, Falun Gong devotees, and other religious believers," the US secretary of state Mike Pompeo said in an article on First Things First. According to the Reuters news agency, Pope Francis has signed off on the two-year extension of the original pact that took effect in 2018, with the Chinese foreign ministry stating that "the two sides will continue to maintain close communication and consultation and improve bilateral relations."

Vatican must show 'courage' against China, suggests US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit Greece next week in a show of support following high tensions in the Mediterranean with Turkey, the State Department announced Thursday.

Pompeo will also travel to Italy, with a stop in Vatican City, to discuss religious freedom, and Croatia on the September 27-October 2 trip.

In his second trip to Greece in less than a year, Pompeo will go both to the northern city of Thessaloniki and the southern island of Crete, where he will meet with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greece-says-its-close-to-resuming-maritime-talks-with-turkey-329270">Also read:&nbsp;Greece says it's close to resuming maritime talks with Turkey</a>

Pompeo will "renew our shared commitment to advance security, peace and prosperity in the Eastern Mediterranean and celebrate the strongest US-Greek relationship in decades," the State Department said.

In Crete, he will visit the NATO base at Souda Bay "to underscore the strong US security partnership with NATO ally Greece," it said.

Historic tensions flared last month when Turkey sent a vessel backed by military frigates to hunt for oil and gas reserves in waters also claimed by Greece.

Greece responded with naval exercises as a warning and has enjoyed especially vocal backing from France.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-sanctions-against-iran-venezuelas-maduro-329294">Also read:&nbsp;US imposes sanctions against Iran, Venezuela's Maduro</a>

But the tone has recently softened between Greece and Turkey, also a NATO member, with the two agreeing Tuesday to begin exploratory talks on their dispute.

Pompeo earlier this month also discussed the row on a visit to Cyprus, the majority-Greek island whose northern third is occupied by Turkey.

The United States recently lifted a decades-long arms embargo on Cyprus, outraging Turkey.

But President Donald Trump has maintained warm relations with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who controversially helped persuade the US leader to pull troops from Syria.

Relations have been growing for several years between Washington and Athens, which has been building energy ties with US ally Israel.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit Greece next week in a show of support following high tensions in the Mediterranean with Turkey, the State Department announced Thursday.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit Greece next week in a show of support following high tensions in the Mediterranean with Turkey, the State Department announced Thursday. Pompeo will also travel to Italy, with a stop in Vatican City, to discuss religious freedom, and Croatia on the September 27-October 2 trip. In his second trip to Greece in less than a year, Pompeo will go both to the northern city of Thessaloniki and the southern island of Crete, where he will meet with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. Also read: Greece says it's close to resuming maritime talks with Turkey Pompeo will "renew our shared commitment to advance security, peace and prosperity in the Eastern Mediterranean and celebrate the strongest US-Greek relationship in decades," the State Department said. In Crete, he will visit the NATO base at Souda Bay "to underscore the strong US security partnership with NATO ally Greece," it said. Historic tensions flared last month when Turkey sent a vessel backed by military frigates to hunt for oil and gas reserves in waters also claimed by Greece. Greece responded with naval exercises as a warning and has enjoyed especially vocal backing from France. Also read: US imposes sanctions against Iran, Venezuela's Maduro But the tone has recently softened between Greece and Turkey, also a NATO member, with the two agreeing Tuesday to begin exploratory talks on their dispute. Pompeo earlier this month also discussed the row on a visit to Cyprus, the majority-Greek island whose northern third is occupied by Turkey. The United States recently lifted a decades-long arms embargo on Cyprus, outraging Turkey. But President Donald Trump has maintained warm relations with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who controversially helped persuade the US leader to pull troops from Syria. Relations have been growing for several years between Washington and Athens, which has been building energy ties with US ally Israel.

Pompeo to show support for Greece amid Turkey tensions

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres has said that the global body would not give in to US demands to reimpose sanctions on Iran until he gets such nod from its security council.&nbsp;

Last month, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced a 30-day process that will reimpose sanctions on Iran, a move rejected by 13 of the UNSC members saying that the mechanism is void as Washington left the 2015 nuclear agreement in 2018.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-slap-sanctions-on-over-two-dozen-targets-tied-to-iran-arms-328984">US to slap sanctions on over two dozen targets tied to Iran arms</a>

The secretary-general in a letter addressed to the council president said the "Security Council has taken no action subsequent to the receipt of the letter of the US Secretary of state, neither have any of its members or its president".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-us-faces-maximum-isolation-as-world-powers-dismiss-sanctions-328980">Iran says US faces 'maximum isolation' as world powers dismiss sanctions</a>

He added the UNSC presidents for August and Septembers have indicated that they couldn't take any action in this matter.

Therefore, "it is not for the secretary-general to proceed as if no such uncertainty exists," he added.&nbsp;

Pompeo on Saturday warned of "consequences" to countries that "fail to fulfil their obligations to implement" the sanctions on Iran.&nbsp;

Major US allies the UK, France and Germany on Friday told the council that UN sanctions relief on Iran would continue and any move to reimpose these measures would be incapable of legal effect."

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres has said that the global body would not give in to US demands to reimpose sanctions on Iran until he gets such nod from its security council.

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres has said that the global body would not give in to US demands to reimpose sanctions on Iran until he gets such nod from its security council. Last month, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced a 30-day process that will reimpose sanctions on Iran, a move rejected by 13 of the UNSC members saying that the mechanism is void as Washington left the 2015 nuclear agreement in 2018. Also read | US to slap sanctions on over two dozen targets tied to Iran arms The secretary-general in a letter addressed to the council president said the "Security Council has taken no action subsequent to the receipt of the letter of the US Secretary of state, neither have any of its members or its president". Also read | Iran says US faces 'maximum isolation' as world powers dismiss sanctions He added the UNSC presidents for August and Septembers have indicated that they couldn't take any action in this matter. Therefore, "it is not for the secretary-general to proceed as if no such uncertainty exists," he added. Pompeo on Saturday warned of "consequences" to countries that "fail to fulfil their obligations to implement" the sanctions on Iran. Major US allies the UK, France and Germany on Friday told the council that UN sanctions relief on Iran would continue and any move to reimpose these measures would be incapable of legal effect."

UN to not reimpose sanctions on Iran until nod given by Security Council: Guterres

The sanctions were suspended in 2015 following a multilateral nuclear deal with Iran in July that year.

US reimposes sanctions on Iran

The US will break with almost every other UN security council member state including its closest allies by declaring UN sanctions back in effect on Iran.

US threatens to take new measures against Iran

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Saturday thanked Colombian President Ivan Duque for his stance against Venezuela`s President Nicolas Maduro and pledged continued assistance to help fight drug trafficking.

In the fourth stop on his tour of South America, Pompeo said the partnership between Colombia and the United States was a force for good in the region.

"Your support for interim (Venezuelan) president Juan Guaido and the democratic transition for a sovereign Venezuela free of malign influence ... is incredibly valued," Pompeo told Duque in a joint press conference in Bogota.

Pompeo has used the tour to increase pressure on Maduro, who has overseen a six-year economic collapse and has been indicted in the United States on narcoterrorism charges, to resign.

A report this week by United Nations investigators found Maduro`s government has committed systematic human rights violations including killings and torture amounting to crimes against humanity.

"The international community has to act to bring this situation to an end," said Duque, who calls Maduro a dictator and often accuses him of sheltering and supporting members of Colombian rebel groups.

The Colombian government is among more than 50 countries which consider Venezuela`s opposition leader Guaido to be the country`s interim president.

Pompeo said the United States will continue to provide expertise and resources to help Colombia fight drug trafficking.

Colombia faces constant pressure from the United States, a major destination for cocaine, to reduce the size of crops of coca, the drug`s chief ingredient.

Duque has set a target to destroy 130,000 hectares (321,237 acres) of coca this year, up from 100,000 hectares last year, and has signaled aerial spraying of the herbicide glyphosate could restart. 
&nbsp;

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Saturday thanked Colombian President Ivan Duque for his stance against Venezuela`s President Nicolas Maduro and pledged continued assistance to help fight drug trafficking.

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Saturday thanked Colombian President Ivan Duque for his stance against Venezuela`s President Nicolas Maduro and pledged continued assistance to help fight drug trafficking. In the fourth stop on his tour of South America, Pompeo said the partnership between Colombia and the United States was a force for good in the region. "Your support for interim (Venezuelan) president Juan Guaido and the democratic transition for a sovereign Venezuela free of malign influence ... is incredibly valued," Pompeo told Duque in a joint press conference in Bogota. Pompeo has used the tour to increase pressure on Maduro, who has overseen a six-year economic collapse and has been indicted in the United States on narcoterrorism charges, to resign. A report this week by United Nations investigators found Maduro`s government has committed systematic human rights violations including killings and torture amounting to crimes against humanity. "The international community has to act to bring this situation to an end," said Duque, who calls Maduro a dictator and often accuses him of sheltering and supporting members of Colombian rebel groups. The Colombian government is among more than 50 countries which consider Venezuela`s opposition leader Guaido to be the country`s interim president. Pompeo said the United States will continue to provide expertise and resources to help Colombia fight drug trafficking. Colombia faces constant pressure from the United States, a major destination for cocaine, to reduce the size of crops of coca, the drug`s chief ingredient. Duque has set a target to destroy 130,000 hectares (321,237 acres) of coca this year, up from 100,000 hectares last year, and has signaled aerial spraying of the herbicide glyphosate could restart.

Pompeo hails Colombia's stance on Maduro, pledges more help in drugs fight

Early on Monday, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo claimed that the US Ambassador to China Terry Branstad was leaving his post soon.

Branstad, 73, was once a governor of Iowa, and no clear reasons have been put out for this sudden departure.

Currently, the relationship between US and China is strained at best. This is over issues of bilateral trade, and the US becoming more wary of handing over data to Chinese companies, claiming they were feeding the data to China’s Communist Party. The COVID-19 pandemic has also strained relations between both the countries.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/entire-world-beginning-to-unite-against-china-says-us-secretary-of-state-mike-pompeo-324734" hreflang="en">Entire world beginning to unite against China, says US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo</a>

The US embassy has not officially confirmed his departure yet.

"I thank Ambassador Terry Branstad for his more than three years of service to the American people as U.S. Ambassador to the People's Republic of China," Pompeo tweeted.

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Ambassador Branstad has contributed to rebalancing U.S.-China relations so that it is results-oriented, reciprocal, and fair. This will have lasting, positive effects on U.S. foreign policy in the Asia-Pacific for decades to come.
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"Ambassador Branstad has contributed to rebalancing U.S.-China relations so that it is results-oriented, reciprocal, and fair," he added.

CNN reported that Branstad was leaving the post before the upcoming November presidential elections in the US, in which Democrat Biden and Republican Trump are rivals.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/china-seeking-to-destroy-uighurs-looking-forward-to-your-public-callout-pompeo-hits-out-at-iran-leader-ayatollah-ali-khamenei-324661" hreflang="en">China seeking to destroy Uighurs, looking forward to your public callout: Pompeo hits out at Iran leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei</a>

China also had only good things to say about Branstad, once calling him an “old friend of the Chinese people.”.

President Xi Jinping had visited Iowa decades ago, whereby Branstad first forged ties with him.

Last week, China’s People’s Daily had refused to publish an article by Branstad, which incited a war of words among the two countries on press freedom.

Wang Wenbin, the spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry in a news conference said that they had not received a notice about Branstad leaving yet.

Early on Monday, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo claimed that the US Ambassador to China Terry Branstad was leaving his post soon. Branstad, 73, was once a governor of Iowa, and no clear reasons have been put out for this sudden departure.

Early on Monday, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo claimed that the US Ambassador to China Terry Branstad was leaving his post soon. Branstad, 73, was once a governor of Iowa, and no clear reasons have been put out for this sudden departure. Currently, the relationship between US and China is strained at best. This is over issues of bilateral trade, and the US becoming more wary of handing over data to Chinese companies, claiming they were feeding the data to China’s Communist Party. The COVID-19 pandemic has also strained relations between both the countries. Also read: Entire world beginning to unite against China, says US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo The US embassy has not officially confirmed his departure yet. "I thank Ambassador Terry Branstad for his more than three years of service to the American people as U.S. Ambassador to the People's Republic of China," Pompeo tweeted. Ambassador Branstad has contributed to rebalancing U.S.-China relations so that it is results-oriented, reciprocal, and fair. This will have lasting, positive effects on U.S. foreign policy in the Asia-Pacific for decades to come. — Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) September 14, 2020 × "Ambassador Branstad has contributed to rebalancing U.S.-China relations so that it is results-oriented, reciprocal, and fair," he added. CNN reported that Branstad was leaving the post before the upcoming November presidential elections in the US, in which Democrat Biden and Republican Trump are rivals. Also read: China seeking to destroy Uighurs, looking forward to your public callout: Pompeo hits out at Iran leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei China also had only good things to say about Branstad, once calling him an “old friend of the Chinese people.”. President Xi Jinping had visited Iowa decades ago, whereby Branstad first forged ties with him. Last week, China’s People’s Daily had refused to publish an article by Branstad, which incited a war of words among the two countries on press freedom. Wang Wenbin, the spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry in a news conference said that they had not received a notice about Branstad leaving yet.

US ambassador to China Branstad is leaving post, suggests US Secretary of State Pompeo

China's latest move comes days after Washington announced new restrictions on staff working for Beijing's foreign missions

Beijing to impose restrictions on all US diplomats in China

Long-delayed peace talks between the Taliban and Afghan government negotiators will begin Saturday in Qatar, officials said, marking a potentially momentous milestone in Afghanistan's 19-year-old war.&nbsp;

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will travel to Doha for the opening of the US-backed negotiations, as President Donald Trump seeks to honor his pledge to halt the country's "endless wars" overseas with just two months to go until he faces re-election.

The talks had originally been slated to start in March but were repeatedly pushed back amid disputes over a prisoner exchange that included the release of hundreds of battle-hardened Taliban fighters.

Trump announced Pompeo would depart Thursday "on a historic trip to Doha, Qatar, for the beginning of intra-Afghan peace negotiations."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/prisoners-sought-by-taliban-leave-for-doha-paving-way-for-peace-talks-326682">Also read:&nbsp;Prisoners sought by Taliban leave for Doha, paving way for peace talks</a>

The insurgents, the Afghan government and Qatari officials all confirmed on Thursday the talks would begin Saturday following an opening ceremony in Doha.

Pompeo, in a statement, called the talks a "historic" opportunity to end decades of war and bloodshed, adding "This opportunity must not be squandered".&nbsp;

Qatar's foreign ministry said the talks "are a serious and important step towards establishing sustainable peace in Afghanistan".

Afghanistan's former chief executive Abdullah Abdullah, who now heads the High Council for National Reconciliation (HCNR), was set to fly to Qatar on Friday.&nbsp;

"HCNR hopes that after a long wait, talks will lead to permanent peace &amp; stability &amp; an end to war," the council said on Twitter.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-say-team-in-qatar-for-afghan-peace-talks-325434">Also read:&nbsp;Taliban say team in Qatar for Afghan peace talks</a>

The talks come as Trump faces uncertain prospects in the November 3 election and he has pushed hard to pull back US forces from Afghanistan, where they rose to more than 12,000 under his watch to pressure the Taliban and Islamic State.

The number fell to about 8,600 in July following a February accord between Washington and the Taliban, and is expected to be around 4,500 in October.

Freed insurgents

Trump believes pushing ahead could boost his standing among voters fed up with conflicts that began almost two decades ago, after the September 11, 2001 Al Qaeda attacks.

The announcement of the start of peace talks was delivered just hours after a final hurdle -- the fate of six Taliban prisoners linked to the killings of French and Australian civilians and troops -- appeared to have been resolved.

Peace talks were delayed for six months as the Taliban and Kabul conducted a US-brokered prisoner exchange. The Taliban released 1,000 Afghan troops, while Kabul freed 5,000 insurgents.&nbsp;

Paris and Canberra had objected to the freeing of six militants tied to killing French and Australian nationals, but a compromise appeared to have been struck by sending the insurgents into custody in Qatar.

Late on Thursday, the Taliban confirmed the six prisoners had arrived in Doha. They had been flown out of Kabul on a special plane, a Taliban source in Pakistan had told AFP earlier on Thursday.&nbsp;

The six included a former Afghan soldier charged with the killing of five French soldiers and injuring 13 others in 2012.

Another former Afghan soldier who murdered three Australia troops was also among the six.

The Taliban official said another two Taliban prisoners who murdered Frenchwoman Bettina Goislard, an employee of the UN refugee agency, had been released in Afghanistan's Wardak province.

Their release had also been initially opposed by Goislard's family and Paris.

The Afghan government did not immediately confirm the claim.

Long-delayed peace talks between the Taliban and Afghan government negotiators will begin Saturday in Qatar, officials said, marking a potentially momentous milestone in Afghanistan's 19-year-old war.

Long-delayed peace talks between the Taliban and Afghan government negotiators will begin Saturday in Qatar, officials said, marking a potentially momentous milestone in Afghanistan's 19-year-old war. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will travel to Doha for the opening of the US-backed negotiations, as President Donald Trump seeks to honor his pledge to halt the country's "endless wars" overseas with just two months to go until he faces re-election. The talks had originally been slated to start in March but were repeatedly pushed back amid disputes over a prisoner exchange that included the release of hundreds of battle-hardened Taliban fighters. Trump announced Pompeo would depart Thursday "on a historic trip to Doha, Qatar, for the beginning of intra-Afghan peace negotiations." Also read: Prisoners sought by Taliban leave for Doha, paving way for peace talks The insurgents, the Afghan government and Qatari officials all confirmed on Thursday the talks would begin Saturday following an opening ceremony in Doha. Pompeo, in a statement, called the talks a "historic" opportunity to end decades of war and bloodshed, adding "This opportunity must not be squandered". Qatar's foreign ministry said the talks "are a serious and important step towards establishing sustainable peace in Afghanistan". Afghanistan's former chief executive Abdullah Abdullah, who now heads the High Council for National Reconciliation (HCNR), was set to fly to Qatar on Friday. "HCNR hopes that after a long wait, talks will lead to permanent peace & stability & an end to war," the council said on Twitter. Also read: Taliban say team in Qatar for Afghan peace talks The talks come as Trump faces uncertain prospects in the November 3 election and he has pushed hard to pull back US forces from Afghanistan, where they rose to more than 12,000 under his watch to pressure the Taliban and Islamic State. The number fell to about 8,600 in July following a February accord between Washington and the Taliban, and is expected to be around 4,500 in October. Freed insurgents Trump believes pushing ahead could boost his standing among voters fed up with conflicts that began almost two decades ago, after the September 11, 2001 Al Qaeda attacks. The announcement of the start of peace talks was delivered just hours after a final hurdle -- the fate of six Taliban prisoners linked to the killings of French and Australian civilians and troops -- appeared to have been resolved. Peace talks were delayed for six months as the Taliban and Kabul conducted a US-brokered prisoner exchange. The Taliban released 1,000 Afghan troops, while Kabul freed 5,000 insurgents. Paris and Canberra had objected to the freeing of six militants tied to killing French and Australian nationals, but a compromise appeared to have been struck by sending the insurgents into custody in Qatar. Late on Thursday, the Taliban confirmed the six prisoners had arrived in Doha. They had been flown out of Kabul on a special plane, a Taliban source in Pakistan had told AFP earlier on Thursday. The six included a former Afghan soldier charged with the killing of five French soldiers and injuring 13 others in 2012. Another former Afghan soldier who murdered three Australia troops was also among the six. The Taliban official said another two Taliban prisoners who murdered Frenchwoman Bettina Goislard, an employee of the UN refugee agency, had been released in Afghanistan's Wardak province. Their release had also been initially opposed by Goislard's family and Paris. The Afghan government did not immediately confirm the claim.

After months of delays, 'historic' Afghan peace talks to open

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday said that there was "substantial chances" that a senior official in Kremlin ordered opposition leader Alexei Navalny's poisoning.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday said that there was "substantial chances" that a senior official in Kremlin ordered opposition leader Alexei Navalny's poisoning. Also read: Trump's Nobel Peace Prize nomination a 'testament to his bold diplomacy and vision': White House "I think people all around the world see this kind of activity for what it is," Pompeo said in a radio interview. Also read: Russia calls Germany's handling of requests on Navalny 'inappropriate' "And when they see the effort to poison a dissident, and they recognize that there is a substantial chance that this actually came from senior Russian officials, I think this is not good for the Russian people," he told conservative host Ben Shapiro. Navalny has been the most visible critic within Russia of President Vladimir Putin and mysteriously got critically ill while taking a flight in Siberia. Later, he was flown for treatment to Germany, where doctors said he was poisoned. Pompeo regurgitated that the United States and its European allies all wanted Russia to "hold those responsible for this accountable" and said Washington would also try to identify the perpetrators. "It's something that we'll take a look at, we'll evaluate, and we'll make sure we do our part to do whatever we can to reduce the risk that things like this happen again." These remarks by the US Secretary of State come despite Trump's comment last week that he had seen no proof that Navalny was poisoned. Trump has sought warmer relations with Putin, although his administration has still pushed sanctions over Ukraine and other concerns. (Inputs from AFP)

Alexei Navalny's poisoning likely by 'senior Russian officials': Mike Pompeo

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-states-asked-to-be-ready-to-distribute-coronavirus-vaccine-by-november-1-report-324847">US states asked to be ready to distribute coronavirus vaccine by November 1: Report</a>

<img alt="Coronavirus vaccine" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8a223ae6-f3d1-464a-a97e-8716b4fa48ce" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/vaccine2.jpg" />

US President Donald Trump had promised to bring in the vaccine before the US elections which takes place on November 3.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-international-criminal-court-prosecutor-fatou-bensouda-over-investigation-of-us-soldiers-in-alleged-war-crimes-in-afghanistan-324849">US sanctions International Criminal Court prosecutor Fatou Bensouda</a>

<img alt="ICC santions" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e207e529-ae43-485e-a113-c4f40c92e71e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Pompeo2.jpg" />

US sanctions were also initiated against Phakiso Mochochoko, director of the ICC's Jurisdiction, Complementary and Cooperation Division.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-tit-for-tat-move-us-imposes-fresh-restrictions-on-chinese-diplomats-324854">In tit-for-tat move, US imposes fresh restrictions on Chinese diplomats</a>

<img alt="Pompeo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="eb0e7908-0b57-4824-9682-8b8ba29dcf0b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Pompeo_0.jpg" />

US President Donald Trump has taken a tough stance against China in the run-up to US Presidential Elections 2020 slated to be held in November.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-Dwayne-Johnson-reveals-he-and-family-have-recovered-from-COVID-19-urges-fans-to-wear-masks-324852">Dwayne Johnson reveals he and family have recovered from COVID-19, urges fans to wear masks</a>

<img alt="Johnson" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6e233e57-ac75-4249-9fe8-5caf4c8c7192" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Johnson1.jpg" />

Johnson said in the Instagram post that he and his spouse, Lauren and their daughters, Jasmine, 4, and Tiana, 2, caught the virus about 2-1/2 weeks ago.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-is-america-still-burning-324839">Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Why is America still burning?</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-is-america-still-burning-324839/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

US states asked to be ready to distribute coronavirus vaccine by November 1: Report US President Donald Trump had promised to bring in the vaccine before the US elections which takes place on November 3.

US states asked to be ready to distribute coronavirus vaccine by November 1: Report US President Donald Trump had promised to bring in the vaccine before the US elections which takes place on November 3. US sanctions International Criminal Court prosecutor Fatou Bensouda US sanctions were also initiated against Phakiso Mochochoko, director of the ICC's Jurisdiction, Complementary and Cooperation Division. In tit-for-tat move, US imposes fresh restrictions on Chinese diplomats US President Donald Trump has taken a tough stance against China in the run-up to US Presidential Elections 2020 slated to be held in November. Dwayne Johnson reveals he and family have recovered from COVID-19, urges fans to wear masks Johnson said in the Instagram post that he and his spouse, Lauren and their daughters, Jasmine, 4, and Tiana, 2, caught the virus about 2-1/2 weeks ago. Watch: Gravitas: Why is America still burning?

Morning news brief: US states asked to be ready to distribute COVID-19 vaccine, US sanctions ICC prosecutor & more

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