The crowded field of Democratic presidential candidates were nearly unanimous in praising House Democrats' decision to begin an impeachment inquiry into Republican President Donald Trump over accusations he sought foreign help to smear a political rival.

Now comes the hard part.

With impeachment set to overshadow the Democratic presidential primary race, how will candidates draw attention to their key policy issues, ranging from universal healthcare to income inequality?

After months of resisting pressure from fellow Democrats, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced the launch of a formal impeachment effort on Tuesday, accusing Trump of seeking foreign help to damage Democratic presidential front-runner Joe Biden ahead of the November 2020 election.

Trump had pressured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in a July 25 phone call to investigate Biden and his son Hunter, who had worked for a company drilling for gas in Ukraine.

The impeachment inquiry ensures a partisan fight in Congress and on the presidential campaign trail in the coming months.

Kurt Meyer, Democratic party chairman for three rural Iowa counties north of Des Moines, the state's most populous city, said he expects the impeachment proceedings to energize the Democratic base.

"If a highly motivated person drags her mother and her husband and her second cousin twice removed to the polls, then it makes a difference," Meyer said.

But in a sign the probe could energize Trump's base as well, his re-election campaign raised a quarter of a million dollars in just 15 minutes on Tuesday in the immediate aftermath of Pelosi's announcement about the probe.

Trump was quick to portray himself as the victim of partisan Democratic attacks, while his campaign sent repeated fundraising appeals to his supporters on Tuesday pegged to the impeachment launch.

There is also a risk that any substantive policy discussions among the 19 Democrats running for the party's nomination to take on Trump in the 2020 election will be drowned out in the growing battle between allies and foes of Trump, several Democratic strategists and experts said.

"Trump has been the elephant in the room, but the democratic debates so far have been really policy centered. I think impeachment now takes center stage," said Erin O’Brien, associate professor of political science at the University of Massachusetts, Boston.

Doug Heye, a Republican strategist who worked with congressional leaders, said Republican messaging just got simpler, if less positive.

"For Democrats running for president, breaking through on healthcare or the economy just got a lot tougher," he said. "Impeachment will be the dominant topic for a long time."

Subject of Trump's Affection

Biden, who leads polls in the Democratic race to pick a challenger to Trump, said on Tuesday he would back impeachment if the Republican president fails to comply with congressional requests for information on Ukraine and other matters.

Trump has raised unsubstantiated charges that Biden improperly tried to halt a Ukrainian probe of a company with ties to his son, without providing any evidence of wrongdoing by either.

Later on Tuesday as he called into a fundraiser in Baltimore, Maryland, Biden said he "can take these attacks".

“And the reason I am being attacked is that most polls show me beating him by 10 to 15 points. I am not at all surprised I have become the object of his affection and attention," he said.

Biden leads Trump by about 5 percentage points in a hypothetical general election match-up against Trump, according to the Sept. 23-24 Reuters /Ipsos opinion poll released on Tuesday.

In a sign that Biden's supporters are largely standing by their candidate so far, 20 per cent of Democrats and independents said they would vote for him in statewide nominating contests that begin next year according to the latest poll, up 1 percentage point from a similar poll that ran last week.

But the same poll also showed that Americans overall are less supportive of impeaching Trump than they were months ago, highlighting a risk of the move backfiring on Democrats if they are seen overreaching.

"On one level, this whole issue helps Biden, because it makes the president look afraid of Biden," said Kyle Kondik, a political analyst at the University of Virginia. "But the president has a great ability to drag people into the mud with him, and you wonder if that might happen to Biden."

Biden's Democratic rivals, including US Senators Elizabeth Warren, Bernie Sanders, and Kamala Harris, are set to benefit if the front-runner falls off. But most have so far refused to be drawn into specific questions about Biden and his family, and are likely to stay that way for now.

"On the one hand they want to see Biden struggle, but it might undermine the party overall in a general election," Kondik said.

Warren, who edged past Sanders for the first time to rank second behind Biden in the latest Reuters/Ipsos poll with 14 &nbsp;per cent support, said on Twitter the impeachment inquiry was "an overdue but important step."

"No one is above the law not even the president of the United States," Warren said, without mentioning Biden. "Thank you to everyone who protested, organized, and asked the crucial questions to get us to this moment.

So far, Trump has proven remarkably resilient in the face of repeated scandals and retaining strong support from Republicans.

Democrats should act swiftly to convince voters their actions are necessary and prevent Trump from successfully arguing he is being unfairly prosecuted, said Joel Payne, a Democratic strategist who advised Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign.

Rebecca Cordova, 62, from the suburbs of Austin, Texas, who describes herself as an independent but voted for Trump in 2016, said it would take strong evidence of wrongdoing to dissuade her from voting for him again.

“I think the Democrats are just blowing smoke. They’re just trying to start something up like they did with (Russia)," she said, refering to former special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian inteference in the 2016 US presidential election.

"I don’t believe the Russians helped and I don’t believe any of this with the Ukrainians, sorry."

The crowded field of Democratic presidential candidates were nearly unanimous in praising House Democrats' decision to begin an impeachment inquiry into Republican President Donald Trump over accusations he sought foreign help to smear a political rival.

The crowded field of Democratic presidential candidates were nearly unanimous in praising House Democrats' decision to begin an impeachment inquiry into Republican President Donald Trump over accusations he sought foreign help to smear a political rival. Now comes the hard part. With impeachment set to overshadow the Democratic presidential primary race, how will candidates draw attention to their key policy issues, ranging from universal healthcare to income inequality? After months of resisting pressure from fellow Democrats, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced the launch of a formal impeachment effort on Tuesday, accusing Trump of seeking foreign help to damage Democratic presidential front-runner Joe Biden ahead of the November 2020 election. Trump had pressured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in a July 25 phone call to investigate Biden and his son Hunter, who had worked for a company drilling for gas in Ukraine. The impeachment inquiry ensures a partisan fight in Congress and on the presidential campaign trail in the coming months. Kurt Meyer, Democratic party chairman for three rural Iowa counties north of Des Moines, the state's most populous city, said he expects the impeachment proceedings to energize the Democratic base. "If a highly motivated person drags her mother and her husband and her second cousin twice removed to the polls, then it makes a difference," Meyer said. But in a sign the probe could energize Trump's base as well, his re-election campaign raised a quarter of a million dollars in just 15 minutes on Tuesday in the immediate aftermath of Pelosi's announcement about the probe. Trump was quick to portray himself as the victim of partisan Democratic attacks, while his campaign sent repeated fundraising appeals to his supporters on Tuesday pegged to the impeachment launch. There is also a risk that any substantive policy discussions among the 19 Democrats running for the party's nomination to take on Trump in the 2020 election will be drowned out in the growing battle between allies and foes of Trump, several Democratic strategists and experts said. "Trump has been the elephant in the room, but the democratic debates so far have been really policy centered. I think impeachment now takes center stage," said Erin O’Brien, associate professor of political science at the University of Massachusetts, Boston. Doug Heye, a Republican strategist who worked with congressional leaders, said Republican messaging just got simpler, if less positive. "For Democrats running for president, breaking through on healthcare or the economy just got a lot tougher," he said. "Impeachment will be the dominant topic for a long time." Subject of Trump's Affection Biden, who leads polls in the Democratic race to pick a challenger to Trump, said on Tuesday he would back impeachment if the Republican president fails to comply with congressional requests for information on Ukraine and other matters. Trump has raised unsubstantiated charges that Biden improperly tried to halt a Ukrainian probe of a company with ties to his son, without providing any evidence of wrongdoing by either. Later on Tuesday as he called into a fundraiser in Baltimore, Maryland, Biden said he "can take these attacks". “And the reason I am being attacked is that most polls show me beating him by 10 to 15 points. I am not at all surprised I have become the object of his affection and attention," he said. Biden leads Trump by about 5 percentage points in a hypothetical general election match-up against Trump, according to the Sept. 23-24 Reuters /Ipsos opinion poll released on Tuesday. In a sign that Biden's supporters are largely standing by their candidate so far, 20 per cent of Democrats and independents said they would vote for him in statewide nominating contests that begin next year according to the latest poll, up 1 percentage point from a similar poll that ran last week. But the same poll also showed that Americans overall are less supportive of impeaching Trump than they were months ago, highlighting a risk of the move backfiring on Democrats if they are seen overreaching. "On one level, this whole issue helps Biden, because it makes the president look afraid of Biden," said Kyle Kondik, a political analyst at the University of Virginia. "But the president has a great ability to drag people into the mud with him, and you wonder if that might happen to Biden." Biden's Democratic rivals, including US Senators Elizabeth Warren, Bernie Sanders, and Kamala Harris, are set to benefit if the front-runner falls off. But most have so far refused to be drawn into specific questions about Biden and his family, and are likely to stay that way for now. "On the one hand they want to see Biden struggle, but it might undermine the party overall in a general election," Kondik said. Warren, who edged past Sanders for the first time to rank second behind Biden in the latest Reuters/Ipsos poll with 14 per cent support, said on Twitter the impeachment inquiry was "an overdue but important step." "No one is above the law not even the president of the United States," Warren said, without mentioning Biden. "Thank you to everyone who protested, organized, and asked the crucial questions to get us to this moment. So far, Trump has proven remarkably resilient in the face of repeated scandals and retaining strong support from Republicans. Democrats should act swiftly to convince voters their actions are necessary and prevent Trump from successfully arguing he is being unfairly prosecuted, said Joel Payne, a Democratic strategist who advised Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign. Rebecca Cordova, 62, from the suburbs of Austin, Texas, who describes herself as an independent but voted for Trump in 2016, said it would take strong evidence of wrongdoing to dissuade her from voting for him again. “I think the Democrats are just blowing smoke. They’re just trying to start something up like they did with (Russia)," she said, refering to former special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian inteference in the 2016 US presidential election. "I don’t believe the Russians helped and I don’t believe any of this with the Ukrainians, sorry."

Be careful what you wish for: Impeachment inquiry poses risks for 2020 Democrats

The US House of Representatives will launch a formal impeachment inquiry into US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/have-authorised-release-of-fully-declassified-transcript-of-my-call-with-ukraines-president-donald-trump-251831">Donald Trump</a> over reports he sought foreign help to smear a political rival, setting up a dramatic clash between Congress and the White House that has spilled into the 2020 presidential campaign.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced the inquiry on Tuesday after a closed-door meeting with Democratic lawmakers, saying Trump's actions appeared to have undermined national security and violated the US Constitution.

"The president must be held accountable. No one is above the law," said Pelosi, who for months had been reluctant to embrace an impeachment effort.

Trump fired back quickly on Twitter, calling the inquiry "Witch Hunt garbage."

Pelosi's change of heart followed reports that Trump had pressured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in a July 25 phone call to investigate Democratic presidential front-runner Joe Biden and his son.

Trump promised on Tuesday to release a transcript of his phone call. He has acknowledged he discussed Biden in the call, but denied he withheld nearly $400 million in US aid to Ukraine as leverage to get Zelenskiy to launch a probe that would damage Biden, who leads opinion polls in the Democratic race to face Trump in the November 2020 election.

Pelosi said the six congressional committees currently investigating Trump would continue with their probes as part of the inquiry.

"The actions of the Trump presidency revealed a dishonourable fact of the president's betrayal of his oath of office, betrayal of our national security and betrayal of the integrity of our elections," Pelosi said.

The impeachment inquiry could eventually lead to Trump's removal from office. But even if the Democratic-controlled House voted to impeach Trump, the Republican-controlled Senate would have to take the next step of removing him from office after a trial.

It will be the first impeachment inquiry in Congress since the 1998 probe of President Bill Clinton for perjury and obstruction of justice in relation to his affair with White House intern Monica Lewinsky.

The House voted to impeach Clinton in December 1998, but the Democratic president was acquitted two months later by the Senate and remained in office.

Biden said he would back impeachment if the president did not fully comply with congressional investigations.

'This will last forever'

"If we allow a president to get away with shredding the Constitution, that will last forever," Biden told reporters in Wilmington, in his home state of Delaware.

Most Democratic presidential contenders support an impeachment inquiry, including US Senators Elizabeth Warren, Bernie Sanders, Kamala Harris, Cory Booker and Amy Klobuchar; former US Representative Beto O'Rourke; South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg; and former US Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Julian Castro.

"The House must impeach," Warren, the first major contender to call for impeachment following former Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report into Russian interference in the 2016 election, wrote on Twitter on Tuesday.

Trump, who has withstood repeated scandals since taking office in January 2017, said a "complete, fully declassified and unredacted" transcript of the July 25 call would be released on Wednesday.

Democrats are also seeking the original complaint about Trump's call, filed by a whistleblower within the US intelligence community, as well as information on deliberations over the Ukrainian aid.

House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff said his panel was communicating with an attorney representing the whistleblower and that the individual would like to testify this week.

The US Senate approved a resolution on Tuesday calling on the Ukraine whistleblower complaint to be submitted to the Senate and House Intelligence committees. Trump administration officials so far have refused to let the complaint be submitted.

"I cannot imagine any legitimate or straight-faced reason" to object to the legislation, Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said, arguing the only reason would be "to protect the president from accountability."

The House will vote on a similar resolution on Wednesday.

Trump said the transcript would show the Ukraine call was "totally appropriate," that he had not pressured Zelenskiy to investigate Biden and that there had been no "quid pro quo" for U.S. aid in exchange for a probe. Quid pro quo is a Latin phrase meaning favour that is exchanged for favour.

Trump has produced no evidence of wrongdoing by Biden or his son.

"When you see the readout of the call, which I assume you'll see at some point, you'll understand. That call was perfect. It couldn't have been nicer," Trump told reporters at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Trump indicated there was nothing sinister about withholding the aid to Ukraine but he wanted Europe and not just the United States to step up and provide Ukraine assistance.

The money was later released by the Trump administration. Trump told reporters he had wanted the money for Ukraine frozen, but changed his mind after "people called me."

US intelligence agencies and the special counsel previously concluded that Russia boosted Trump's 2016 presidential election bid with a campaign of hacking and propaganda aimed at harming his Democratic opponent, Hillary Clinton.

Senator Bob Menendez, the top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said Congress had not been made aware of any substantive review of security assistance to Ukraine or any policy reason the funds should have been withheld.

The US House of Representatives will launch a formal impeachment inquiry into US President Donald Trump over reports he sought foreign help to smear a political rival, setting up a dramatic clash between Congress and the White House that has spilled into the 2020 presidential campaign.

The US House of Representatives will launch a formal impeachment inquiry into US President Donald Trump over reports he sought foreign help to smear a political rival, setting up a dramatic clash between Congress and the White House that has spilled into the 2020 presidential campaign. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced the inquiry on Tuesday after a closed-door meeting with Democratic lawmakers, saying Trump's actions appeared to have undermined national security and violated the US Constitution. "The president must be held accountable. No one is above the law," said Pelosi, who for months had been reluctant to embrace an impeachment effort. Trump fired back quickly on Twitter, calling the inquiry "Witch Hunt garbage." Pelosi's change of heart followed reports that Trump had pressured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in a July 25 phone call to investigate Democratic presidential front-runner Joe Biden and his son. Trump promised on Tuesday to release a transcript of his phone call. He has acknowledged he discussed Biden in the call, but denied he withheld nearly $400 million in US aid to Ukraine as leverage to get Zelenskiy to launch a probe that would damage Biden, who leads opinion polls in the Democratic race to face Trump in the November 2020 election. Pelosi said the six congressional committees currently investigating Trump would continue with their probes as part of the inquiry. "The actions of the Trump presidency revealed a dishonourable fact of the president's betrayal of his oath of office, betrayal of our national security and betrayal of the integrity of our elections," Pelosi said. The impeachment inquiry could eventually lead to Trump's removal from office. But even if the Democratic-controlled House voted to impeach Trump, the Republican-controlled Senate would have to take the next step of removing him from office after a trial. It will be the first impeachment inquiry in Congress since the 1998 probe of President Bill Clinton for perjury and obstruction of justice in relation to his affair with White House intern Monica Lewinsky. The House voted to impeach Clinton in December 1998, but the Democratic president was acquitted two months later by the Senate and remained in office. Biden said he would back impeachment if the president did not fully comply with congressional investigations. 'This will last forever' "If we allow a president to get away with shredding the Constitution, that will last forever," Biden told reporters in Wilmington, in his home state of Delaware. Most Democratic presidential contenders support an impeachment inquiry, including US Senators Elizabeth Warren, Bernie Sanders, Kamala Harris, Cory Booker and Amy Klobuchar; former US Representative Beto O'Rourke; South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg; and former US Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Julian Castro. "The House must impeach," Warren, the first major contender to call for impeachment following former Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report into Russian interference in the 2016 election, wrote on Twitter on Tuesday. Trump, who has withstood repeated scandals since taking office in January 2017, said a "complete, fully declassified and unredacted" transcript of the July 25 call would be released on Wednesday. Democrats are also seeking the original complaint about Trump's call, filed by a whistleblower within the US intelligence community, as well as information on deliberations over the Ukrainian aid. House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff said his panel was communicating with an attorney representing the whistleblower and that the individual would like to testify this week. The US Senate approved a resolution on Tuesday calling on the Ukraine whistleblower complaint to be submitted to the Senate and House Intelligence committees. Trump administration officials so far have refused to let the complaint be submitted. "I cannot imagine any legitimate or straight-faced reason" to object to the legislation, Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said, arguing the only reason would be "to protect the president from accountability." The House will vote on a similar resolution on Wednesday. Trump said the transcript would show the Ukraine call was "totally appropriate," that he had not pressured Zelenskiy to investigate Biden and that there had been no "quid pro quo" for U.S. aid in exchange for a probe. Quid pro quo is a Latin phrase meaning favour that is exchanged for favour. Trump has produced no evidence of wrongdoing by Biden or his son. "When you see the readout of the call, which I assume you'll see at some point, you'll understand. That call was perfect. It couldn't have been nicer," Trump told reporters at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Trump indicated there was nothing sinister about withholding the aid to Ukraine but he wanted Europe and not just the United States to step up and provide Ukraine assistance. The money was later released by the Trump administration. Trump told reporters he had wanted the money for Ukraine frozen, but changed his mind after "people called me." US intelligence agencies and the special counsel previously concluded that Russia boosted Trump's 2016 presidential election bid with a campaign of hacking and propaganda aimed at harming his Democratic opponent, Hillary Clinton. Senator Bob Menendez, the top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said Congress had not been made aware of any substantive review of security assistance to Ukraine or any policy reason the funds should have been withheld.

US House to launch Trump impeachment inquiry over Ukraine controversy

Pressure escalated Monday for US Democrats to launch impeachment proceedings against President Donald Trump, who faces accusations that he sought to extort Ukraine into revealing dirt on his political rival Joe Biden.

Pressure escalated Monday for US Democrats to launch impeachment proceedings against President Donald Trump, who faces accusations that he sought to extort Ukraine into revealing dirt on his political rival Joe Biden. A defiant Trump said he is taking the impeachment threat "not at all seriously" and sought to make the controversy about Biden, accusing the former vice president, without evidence, of engaging in corruption in Ukraine. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi warned of "a grave new chapter of lawlessness" as Democrats ramped up demands that the administration release a secret whistleblower complaint that sparked the latest crisis. The complaint reportedly centers on Trump's July phone call with Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky, and a possible attempt to coerce Zelensky into digging up damning information about Biden's son's business dealings in Ukraine. Trump himself acknowledged Sunday that the conversation addressed alleged corruption involving Biden and son Hunter. "The conversation I had was largely congratulatory, was largely corruption... and largely the fact that we don't want our people, like vice president Biden and his son, creating... the corruption already in the Ukraine," Trump said. On Monday, he followed up with a bald attack on the Democratic frontrunner in the 2020 race for the White House. "What Biden did is a disgrace. What his son did is a disgrace. The son took money from Ukraine and from China," Trump said, without providing details. To date there has been no evidence that implicates the Bidens in illegal conduct in Ukraine. 'Impeachable offense' Several Democrats now argue that Trump's call for Ukraine to investigate Biden -- and what they suspect was a threat to condition $250 million in aid to Ukraine on an investigation of Biden -- is impeachable conduct. That view may be pushing House leaders towards a tipping point for launching removal proceedings. "I mean, extorting a foreign leader for the purposes of getting that leader to do your political work to try to find dirt on your opponent is extortion," House Democrat Jim Himes told CNN Monday. "Of course it's an impeachable offense," he added. "I can't tell you that the House will move into impeachment mode right away, but this really ups the ante." With pressure building, a handful of Republicans in the US Senate -- which would hold a trial of Trump should the House impeach him -- have signalled they want the president to be more transparent about the call and the whistleblower's complaint. "I would just urge the president -- you know, he's talking openly about the conversation -- to release as much as possible," Senator Lindsey Graham, a Trump loyalist, told the Hugh Hewitt radio show. On Sunday, Senator Mitt Romney, the Republican presidential nominee in 2012 and no fan of Trump, sounded a severe warning that evidence of Trump asking Ukraine's president to investigate Biden "would be troubling in the extreme." But most congressional Republicans have either defended the president or remained silent. All eyes will be on Washington Thursday, when the administration official who blocked release to Congress of the whistleblower document, acting Director of National Intelligence Joseph Maguire, is scheduled to testify publicly on the issue before a House panel. Launching impeachment proceedings could be a politically risky move ahead of a presidential election, especially given the high hurdle of convicting the president in the Republican-led Senate. Of the 235 House Democrats, 137 of them, plus Republican-turned-independent Justin Amash, support launching an impeachment inquiry, according to a CNN count. Democrat leaders have hesitated to pull the impeachment trigger. But Adam Schiff, chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, said his own reservations about impeachment were fading over Trump's Ukraine call. "I have been very reluctant to go down the path of impeachment (but) the president is pushing us down this road," he said Sunday. "This seems different in kind, and we may very well have crossed the Rubicon here."

Impeachment pressure grows, Trump remains defiant

US President Donald Trump said on Sunday that he discussed Democratic presidential hopeful Joe Biden and his son in a call with Ukraine's president.

Trump's statement to reporters about his July 25 call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky came as the Democratic leader of a key congressional panel said the pursuit of Trump's impeachment may be the "only remedy" to the situation.

Trump's call with Zelensky has been at the center of an escalating battle in Washington since Friday when news outlets reported that Trump repeatedly asked the Ukrainian leader to investigate whether Biden, the Democratic front-runner to take on Trump in next year's election, misused his position when he was vice president.

Trump told reporters at the White House that their phone conversation was mostly congratulatory but also touched on corruption and the Bidens.

"The conversation I had was largely congratulatory, with large corruption, all of the corruption taking place and largely the fact that we don't want our people like Vice President Biden and his son creating to the corruption already in Ukraine," Trump said.

Democrats have said that if Trump asked Zelensky to investigate Biden, it is tantamount to promoting foreign interference in the 2020 election.

Trump has denied doing anything improper. His allies, including Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and his personal attorney, Rudy Giuliani, have defended the president's phone call, which, according to news reports, was the subject of a complaint made by an as-yet-unnamed whistleblower.

If an investigation shows that Trump pressured Ukraine to investigate Biden, the US Congress may have no choice but to pursue impeachment, Democratic House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff said on Sunday.

Schiff had previously shied away from calling for impeachment, but his comments on CNN's "State of the Union" showed his stance had shifted.

"If the president is essentially withholding military aid at the same time that he is trying to browbeat a foreign leader to do something illicit, to provide dirt on his opponent during a presidential campaign, then that may be the only remedy that is co-equal to the evil that conduct represents," Schiff said.

Other legislators have called for the Democratic leadership to pursue impeachment immediately, but Democratic House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi has so far resisted calls to formally begin the process.

In a letter to colleagues later on Sunday, Pelosi warned the administration against keeping the details of the whistleblower complaint secret. The administration has so far resisted sharing the details of the complaint with lawmakers.

"If the administration persists in blocking this whistleblower from disclosing to Congress a serious possible breach of constitutional duties by the president, they will be entering a grave new chapter of lawlessness which will take us into a whole new stage of the investigation," Pelosi wrote.

Romney voices concerns

Senator Mitt Romney, who has clashed with Trump in the past, sounded a rare note of concern among Trump's fellow Republicans, many of whom have remained silent, defended Trump or escalated their attacks on Biden in the days after the reports about the Trump-Zelensky call.

"If the President asked or pressured Ukraine’s president to investigate his political rival, either directly or through his personal attorney, it would be troubling in the extreme," Romney, the 2012 Republican presidential nominee, said in a Twitter post.

Impeachment proceedings in Congress, which begin in the House, can lead to a president being removed from office, but Democrats would need the support of Republicans, who control the Senate.

Multiple news organizations reported on Friday that Trump repeatedly asked Zelensky to investigate whether Biden misused his position as vice president under Democratic President Barack Obama to threaten to withhold US aid unless a prosecutor who was looking into a gas company in which Biden's son was involved was fired.

Biden has confirmed he wanted the prosecutor fired but denies it was to help his son. Biden said the wider US government, the European Union and other international institutions also wanted the prosecutor fired for his alleged failure to pursue major corruption cases.

Biden said on Saturday there should be an investigation into Trump's call, saying it "appears to be an overwhelming abuse of power." He said he never spoke to his son about Ukraine.

US President Donald Trump said on Sunday that he discussed Democratic presidential hopeful Joe Biden and his son in a call with Ukraine's president. Trump's statement to reporters about his July 25 call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky came as the Democratic leader of a key congressional panel said the pursuit of Trump's impeachment may be the "only remedy" to the situation.

US President Donald Trump said on Sunday that he discussed Democratic presidential hopeful Joe Biden and his son in a call with Ukraine's president. Trump's statement to reporters about his July 25 call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky came as the Democratic leader of a key congressional panel said the pursuit of Trump's impeachment may be the "only remedy" to the situation. Trump's call with Zelensky has been at the center of an escalating battle in Washington since Friday when news outlets reported that Trump repeatedly asked the Ukrainian leader to investigate whether Biden, the Democratic front-runner to take on Trump in next year's election, misused his position when he was vice president. Trump told reporters at the White House that their phone conversation was mostly congratulatory but also touched on corruption and the Bidens. "The conversation I had was largely congratulatory, with large corruption, all of the corruption taking place and largely the fact that we don't want our people like Vice President Biden and his son creating to the corruption already in Ukraine," Trump said. Democrats have said that if Trump asked Zelensky to investigate Biden, it is tantamount to promoting foreign interference in the 2020 election. Trump has denied doing anything improper. His allies, including Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and his personal attorney, Rudy Giuliani, have defended the president's phone call, which, according to news reports, was the subject of a complaint made by an as-yet-unnamed whistleblower. If an investigation shows that Trump pressured Ukraine to investigate Biden, the US Congress may have no choice but to pursue impeachment, Democratic House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff said on Sunday. Schiff had previously shied away from calling for impeachment, but his comments on CNN's "State of the Union" showed his stance had shifted. "If the president is essentially withholding military aid at the same time that he is trying to browbeat a foreign leader to do something illicit, to provide dirt on his opponent during a presidential campaign, then that may be the only remedy that is co-equal to the evil that conduct represents," Schiff said. Other legislators have called for the Democratic leadership to pursue impeachment immediately, but Democratic House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi has so far resisted calls to formally begin the process. In a letter to colleagues later on Sunday, Pelosi warned the administration against keeping the details of the whistleblower complaint secret. The administration has so far resisted sharing the details of the complaint with lawmakers. "If the administration persists in blocking this whistleblower from disclosing to Congress a serious possible breach of constitutional duties by the president, they will be entering a grave new chapter of lawlessness which will take us into a whole new stage of the investigation," Pelosi wrote. Romney voices concerns Senator Mitt Romney, who has clashed with Trump in the past, sounded a rare note of concern among Trump's fellow Republicans, many of whom have remained silent, defended Trump or escalated their attacks on Biden in the days after the reports about the Trump-Zelensky call. "If the President asked or pressured Ukraine’s president to investigate his political rival, either directly or through his personal attorney, it would be troubling in the extreme," Romney, the 2012 Republican presidential nominee, said in a Twitter post. Impeachment proceedings in Congress, which begin in the House, can lead to a president being removed from office, but Democrats would need the support of Republicans, who control the Senate. Multiple news organizations reported on Friday that Trump repeatedly asked Zelensky to investigate whether Biden misused his position as vice president under Democratic President Barack Obama to threaten to withhold US aid unless a prosecutor who was looking into a gas company in which Biden's son was involved was fired. Biden has confirmed he wanted the prosecutor fired but denies it was to help his son. Biden said the wider US government, the European Union and other international institutions also wanted the prosecutor fired for his alleged failure to pursue major corruption cases. Biden said on Saturday there should be an investigation into Trump's call, saying it "appears to be an overwhelming abuse of power." He said he never spoke to his son about Ukraine.

Trump says he discussed Biden in call with Ukrainian president Zelensky

As Congress returns from its August recess on Monday, Democratic leaders in Congress are stepping up calls for Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, a Republican, to take action to pass legislation to prevent gun violence.

House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer and other senior Democrats said on Sunday they will gather Monday afternoon to urge McConnell to "end his harmful legislative graveyard" and bring a House-passed bill expanding background checks on gun purchases to the Senate floor as soon as possible.

The House Judiciary Committee is also expected to debate additional gun measures this week.

McConnell said he would not bring a gun bill to the floor of the Republican-majority Senate unless it had the support of President Donald Trump, a Republican who has not provided details of measures he might support to address gun violence.

After a cluster of mass shootings took 36 lives in August, Trump said he favoured action, possibly on tackling mental health issues related to the violence or expanded background checks. The White House has yet to outline any specific proposals.

White House officials said the measures might include expediting the death penalty for mass shooters.

Republican Roy Blunt, a member of the Senate Republican leadership, on Sunday urged Trump to say what he wants. "The president needs to step up here and set some guidelines for what he would do," Blunt said on NBC's "Meet the Press."

Meanwhile, Democratic presidential candidates have been floating their own remedies for mass shootings. One of the candidates, Senator Amy Klobuchar, told CNN on Sunday that she would back an immediate ban on assault weapons.

Previous attempts to pass gun controls after mass shootings, including in the aftermath of the December 2012 murder of 20 children and six staff members at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, have mostly failed in the face of fierce lobbying by the National Rifle Association and other gun groups.

Here are some proposals that could be debated in Congress in the coming weeks and months:

Gun sale background checks

The Democratic-led House of Representatives in February passed legislation to expand background checks on gun buyers. A loophole in federal law allows many sales — perhaps as many as one-fifth — over the internet and at gun shows to go unchecked.

While the bill was touted as being bipartisan, only eight House Republicans backed it, with 188 voting no. This is one measure Democrats are urging McConnell to bring to the floor of the Republican-controlled Senate.

Republican Senator Pat Toomey and Democratic Senator Joe Manchin have been trying to resurrect a somewhat weaker version of the bill, which the Senate defeated in 2013. It exempts from background checks all gun transfers, including sales, between close family members. The House-passed bill only exempts loans and gifts of firearms between such relatives.

Also passed by the House in February and stalled in the Senate is a Democratic bill to extend to 10 days, from the current three business days, the amount of time for a background check if information on an individual is incomplete.

On Aug. 7, Trump said there was strong support for doing something on background checks but he did not embrace a specific proposal.

'RED FLAG’ LEGISLATION

Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham, a Republican, and Senator Richard Blumenthal, a Democrat on the panel, want to create a federal grant program helping states adopt “red flag” laws. These would allow courts and local law enforcement to remove guns from people deemed a risk to communities.

Under the procedure, for example, family members or neighbours of a person thought to have weapons and be a potential danger could tip off authorities, starting the legal process.

The House Judiciary Committee is expected to consider two "red flag" proposals this week. Also on its agenda is legislation that would bar individuals convicted of misdemeanour hate crimes from owning firearms.

Trump has said he wants to ensure that “mentally unstable, seriously ill people aren’t carrying guns.”

COMBATING ‘LIE AND TRY’

Bipartisan Senate legislation would require that state and local law enforcement be quickly notified by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) when someone prohibited from purchasing a gun attempts to do so.

Currently, 37 states and the District of Columbia rely on NICS to conduct their background checks on gun sales, while the rest do it themselves.

Backers of the bill say “lie and try” incidents can be a warning sign of fresh criminal behaviour by individuals. As with most gun-related bills, there is no certainty that it will make it through Congress.

ATTACKING VIOLENT EXTREMISM

The Department of Homeland Security’s “Countering Violent Extremism Grants” program has withered under the Trump administration.

The $10 million federal program was aimed at helping state and local government agencies and nongovernmental organizations, or NGOs, work to stop “extremist” groups from engaging in violence, including mass shootings by followers. Shortly after coming to power in 2017, the Trump administration proposed eliminating the program and since then the grants have withered.

An El Paso, Texas, shooting in August has sparked some calls in and out of Congress for funding of the DHS office.

IMPROVING MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAMS

Republicans and the gun industry have argued that gun violence is rooted in psychological illness and that federal resources should be oriented toward treatment as a way of preventing mass shootings.

“Mental illness and hatred pulls the trigger, not the gun,” Trump said in a speech to the nation, blaming the violence on “mentally ill monsters.”

In the past, congressional Republicans have called for beefing up federal funding of research and treatment of mental illness as a response to gun violence.

Their opponents cite studies showing that few mass shootings are tied to mental illness and that focusing on it is a diversion from tighter gun control laws.

BANNING SEMI-AUTOMATIC WEAPONS

For years, gun control advocates have urged the prohibition of semi-automatic assault rifles that fire rapidly and can carry large magazines of ammunition. They were modelled on guns designed for military use.

Republicans, some Democrats and the gun lobby have fought off such attempts as a violation of the U.S. Constitution’s Second Amendment providing the right to bear arms.

On Aug. 7, Trump told reporters there is “no political appetite” for an assault weapons ban.

A group of House and Senate Democrats is urging passage of legislation they introduced months ago to ban high-capacity magazines holding more than 10 rounds of ammunition, saying these make assault weapons especially lethal. The House Judiciary Committee is expected to consider such legislation this week.

As Congress returns from its August recess on Monday, Democratic leaders in Congress are stepping up calls for Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, a Republican, to take action to pass legislation to prevent gun violence.

As Congress returns from its August recess on Monday, Democratic leaders in Congress are stepping up calls for Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, a Republican, to take action to pass legislation to prevent gun violence. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer and other senior Democrats said on Sunday they will gather Monday afternoon to urge McConnell to "end his harmful legislative graveyard" and bring a House-passed bill expanding background checks on gun purchases to the Senate floor as soon as possible. The House Judiciary Committee is also expected to debate additional gun measures this week. McConnell said he would not bring a gun bill to the floor of the Republican-majority Senate unless it had the support of President Donald Trump, a Republican who has not provided details of measures he might support to address gun violence. After a cluster of mass shootings took 36 lives in August, Trump said he favoured action, possibly on tackling mental health issues related to the violence or expanded background checks. The White House has yet to outline any specific proposals. White House officials said the measures might include expediting the death penalty for mass shooters. Republican Roy Blunt, a member of the Senate Republican leadership, on Sunday urged Trump to say what he wants. "The president needs to step up here and set some guidelines for what he would do," Blunt said on NBC's "Meet the Press." Meanwhile, Democratic presidential candidates have been floating their own remedies for mass shootings. One of the candidates, Senator Amy Klobuchar, told CNN on Sunday that she would back an immediate ban on assault weapons. Previous attempts to pass gun controls after mass shootings, including in the aftermath of the December 2012 murder of 20 children and six staff members at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, have mostly failed in the face of fierce lobbying by the National Rifle Association and other gun groups. Here are some proposals that could be debated in Congress in the coming weeks and months: Gun sale background checks The Democratic-led House of Representatives in February passed legislation to expand background checks on gun buyers. A loophole in federal law allows many sales — perhaps as many as one-fifth — over the internet and at gun shows to go unchecked. While the bill was touted as being bipartisan, only eight House Republicans backed it, with 188 voting no. This is one measure Democrats are urging McConnell to bring to the floor of the Republican-controlled Senate. Republican Senator Pat Toomey and Democratic Senator Joe Manchin have been trying to resurrect a somewhat weaker version of the bill, which the Senate defeated in 2013. It exempts from background checks all gun transfers, including sales, between close family members. The House-passed bill only exempts loans and gifts of firearms between such relatives. Also passed by the House in February and stalled in the Senate is a Democratic bill to extend to 10 days, from the current three business days, the amount of time for a background check if information on an individual is incomplete. On Aug. 7, Trump said there was strong support for doing something on background checks but he did not embrace a specific proposal. 'RED FLAG’ LEGISLATION Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham, a Republican, and Senator Richard Blumenthal, a Democrat on the panel, want to create a federal grant program helping states adopt “red flag” laws. These would allow courts and local law enforcement to remove guns from people deemed a risk to communities. Under the procedure, for example, family members or neighbours of a person thought to have weapons and be a potential danger could tip off authorities, starting the legal process. The House Judiciary Committee is expected to consider two "red flag" proposals this week. Also on its agenda is legislation that would bar individuals convicted of misdemeanour hate crimes from owning firearms. Trump has said he wants to ensure that “mentally unstable, seriously ill people aren’t carrying guns.” COMBATING ‘LIE AND TRY’ Bipartisan Senate legislation would require that state and local law enforcement be quickly notified by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) when someone prohibited from purchasing a gun attempts to do so. Currently, 37 states and the District of Columbia rely on NICS to conduct their background checks on gun sales, while the rest do it themselves. Backers of the bill say “lie and try” incidents can be a warning sign of fresh criminal behaviour by individuals. As with most gun-related bills, there is no certainty that it will make it through Congress. ATTACKING VIOLENT EXTREMISM The Department of Homeland Security’s “Countering Violent Extremism Grants” program has withered under the Trump administration. The $10 million federal program was aimed at helping state and local government agencies and nongovernmental organizations, or NGOs, work to stop “extremist” groups from engaging in violence, including mass shootings by followers. Shortly after coming to power in 2017, the Trump administration proposed eliminating the program and since then the grants have withered. An El Paso, Texas, shooting in August has sparked some calls in and out of Congress for funding of the DHS office. IMPROVING MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAMS Republicans and the gun industry have argued that gun violence is rooted in psychological illness and that federal resources should be oriented toward treatment as a way of preventing mass shootings. “Mental illness and hatred pulls the trigger, not the gun,” Trump said in a speech to the nation, blaming the violence on “mentally ill monsters.” In the past, congressional Republicans have called for beefing up federal funding of research and treatment of mental illness as a response to gun violence. Their opponents cite studies showing that few mass shootings are tied to mental illness and that focusing on it is a diversion from tighter gun control laws. BANNING SEMI-AUTOMATIC WEAPONS For years, gun control advocates have urged the prohibition of semi-automatic assault rifles that fire rapidly and can carry large magazines of ammunition. They were modelled on guns designed for military use. Republicans, some Democrats and the gun lobby have fought off such attempts as a violation of the U.S. Constitution’s Second Amendment providing the right to bear arms. On Aug. 7, Trump told reporters there is “no political appetite” for an assault weapons ban. A group of House and Senate Democrats is urging passage of legislation they introduced months ago to ban high-capacity magazines holding more than 10 rounds of ammunition, saying these make assault weapons especially lethal. The House Judiciary Committee is expected to consider such legislation this week.

Democrats step up calls for gun legislation as US Congress returns

US President Donald Trump was hit with new accusations of racism Saturday after he attacked a prominent African-American lawmaker and branded the majority-black city of Baltimore an "infested mess."

Trump's outburst came in a series of sharply worded tweets aimed at Democratic Representative Elijah Cummings -- a high-profile critic of Trump's administration whose district covers much of Baltimore.

"Cumming (sic) District is a disgusting, rat and rodent-infested mess," the president wrote, calling it "the worst run and most dangerous anywhere in the United States."

"No human being would want to live there," he said -- in an attack ostensibly provoked by Cummings' criticism of the harsh conditions facing would-be asylum seekers at the Mexican border.

"Rep. Elijah Cummings has been a brutal bully, shouting and screaming at the great men &amp; women of Border Patrol about conditions at the Southern Border, when actually his Baltimore district is FAR WORSE and more dangerous," Trump charged.

The president's morning diatribe ignited a storm of criticism, less than two weeks after the US House of Representatives condemned him for "racist" comments targeting a Somali-born lawmaker.

The top Democrat in Congress, Nancy Pelosi -- whose father served as mayor of Baltimore -- accused Trump of a "racist" attack.

"@RepCummings is a champion in the Congress and the country for civil rights and economic justice, a beloved leader in Baltimore, and deeply valued colleague," Pelosi wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;

"We all reject racist attacks against him and support his steadfast leadership."

The Democratic mayor of Baltimore Bernard "Jack" Young &nbsp;-- who is black -- rejected Trump's rhetoric as "hurtful and dangerous."

"It's completely unacceptable for the political leader of our country to denigrate a vibrant American City like Baltimore, and to viciously attack US Representative Elijah Cummings," Young wrote in a statement.

Prominent Democratic presidential candidate, Kamala Harris, tweeted that she was "proud" to have her 2020 campaign headquarters in the Cummings district.&nbsp;

"It's disgraceful the president has chosen to start his morning disparaging this great American city," said Harris, one of two leading black candidates in the race to succeed Trump.

Cummings himself tweeted: "Mr President, I go home to my district daily. Each morning, I wake up, and I go and fight for my neighbours. It is my constitutional duty to conduct oversight of the Executive Branch. But it is my moral duty to fight for my constituents."

As chairman of the House Oversight Committee, Cummings -- one of the most prominent African Americans in Congress -- has launched investigations into Trump administration policies, including reports of poor treatment at migrant detention centres.&nbsp;

Trump's attack was reminiscent of his recent, racially-charged criticism of four young Democratic lawmakers, all women of colour, who he suggested should "go back" to the "crime infested" places they came from. In fact, three were born in the US and all four are American citizens.

Baltimore, a historic port city, presents a mixed picture, with both handsome and affluent neighbourhoods and large poverty-stricken districts. It has one of the country's highest murder rates.&nbsp;

Cummings' district is more than 50 per cent black -- and the city of Baltimore as whole more than 60 per cent.

US President Donald Trump was hit with new accusations of racism Saturday after he attacked a prominent African-American lawmaker and branded the majority-black city of Baltimore an "infested mess.

US President Donald Trump was hit with new accusations of racism Saturday after he attacked a prominent African-American lawmaker and branded the majority-black city of Baltimore an "infested mess." Trump's outburst came in a series of sharply worded tweets aimed at Democratic Representative Elijah Cummings -- a high-profile critic of Trump's administration whose district covers much of Baltimore. "Cumming (sic) District is a disgusting, rat and rodent-infested mess," the president wrote, calling it "the worst run and most dangerous anywhere in the United States." "No human being would want to live there," he said -- in an attack ostensibly provoked by Cummings' criticism of the harsh conditions facing would-be asylum seekers at the Mexican border. "Rep. Elijah Cummings has been a brutal bully, shouting and screaming at the great men & women of Border Patrol about conditions at the Southern Border, when actually his Baltimore district is FAR WORSE and more dangerous," Trump charged. The president's morning diatribe ignited a storm of criticism, less than two weeks after the US House of Representatives condemned him for "racist" comments targeting a Somali-born lawmaker. The top Democrat in Congress, Nancy Pelosi -- whose father served as mayor of Baltimore -- accused Trump of a "racist" attack. "@RepCummings is a champion in the Congress and the country for civil rights and economic justice, a beloved leader in Baltimore, and deeply valued colleague," Pelosi wrote on Twitter. "We all reject racist attacks against him and support his steadfast leadership." The Democratic mayor of Baltimore Bernard "Jack" Young -- who is black -- rejected Trump's rhetoric as "hurtful and dangerous." "It's completely unacceptable for the political leader of our country to denigrate a vibrant American City like Baltimore, and to viciously attack US Representative Elijah Cummings," Young wrote in a statement. Prominent Democratic presidential candidate, Kamala Harris, tweeted that she was "proud" to have her 2020 campaign headquarters in the Cummings district. "It's disgraceful the president has chosen to start his morning disparaging this great American city," said Harris, one of two leading black candidates in the race to succeed Trump. Cummings himself tweeted: "Mr President, I go home to my district daily. Each morning, I wake up, and I go and fight for my neighbours. It is my constitutional duty to conduct oversight of the Executive Branch. But it is my moral duty to fight for my constituents." As chairman of the House Oversight Committee, Cummings -- one of the most prominent African Americans in Congress -- has launched investigations into Trump administration policies, including reports of poor treatment at migrant detention centres. Trump's attack was reminiscent of his recent, racially-charged criticism of four young Democratic lawmakers, all women of colour, who he suggested should "go back" to the "crime infested" places they came from. In fact, three were born in the US and all four are American citizens. Baltimore, a historic port city, presents a mixed picture, with both handsome and affluent neighbourhoods and large poverty-stricken districts. It has one of the country's highest murder rates. Cummings' district is more than 50 per cent black -- and the city of Baltimore as whole more than 60 per cent.

Outrage as Donald Trump brands mostly-black Baltimore 'infested mess'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-defiant-as-lawmakers-blast-his-racist-attacks-on-four-congresswomen-236257">US President Donald Trump</a> said Monday that a "compromise" bipartisan budget agreement has been reached that will boost federal spending by $320 billion and suspend the debt limit beyond the next presidential election.

The deal, should it pass Congress as expected, would allow the federal government to borrow more money and avoid a disastrous default in the coming months, while significantly raising budget caps on defence and domestic outlays.

Trump tweeted that the deal was struck between the White House and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unbowed-trump-intensifies-attacks-on-four-democratic-congresswomen-236766">top Democratic</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-critic-justin-amash-quits-republican-party-233128">Republican leaders</a> in both chambers of Congress "on a two-year Budget and Debt Ceiling, with no poison pills," which could have otherwise derailed the legislation.

The agreement raises the discretionary spending caps for fiscal years 2020 and 2021, pairing it with a suspension of the statutory debt ceiling until the end of July 2021, nearly nine months after the 2020 election.

"This was a real compromise to give another big victory to our Great Military and Vets!" Trump added.

The agreement has faced resistance from conservative Republicans who oppose adding hundreds of billions of dollars in additional spending to the US debt.

Democratic leaders hailed it as a victory for securing robust funding for critical domestic priorities, describing the deal as the largest-ever increase in base funding above the so-called sequestration levels outlined in a 2011 law.

"With this agreement, we strive to avoid another government shutdown, which is so harmful to meeting the needs of the American people and honouring the work of our public employees," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a joint statement.

The deal assures that Washington remains on a borrowing binge, a significant setback for the White House's stated goal of reining in expenditures.

The agreement includes roughly $75 billion in spending increase offsets, substantially less than Trump's administration had sought.

Pelosi, the top Democrat in Congress, had been negotiating the deal with Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin, and the pair were racing against the clock to wrap it up by Friday when the House of Representatives goes on a six-week recess.

Mnuchin warned last week that, barring an agreement, the government could run out of money in early September before Congress reconvenes.

Don't 'bankrupt' country

The compromise, with its boosted spending and narrow savings, is expected to push the annual budget deficit to more than $1 trillion next year.

Shortly before the deal was announced, David McIntosh, president of the conservative, pro-free-enterprise group Club for Growth, said Mnuchin "would best serve @realDonaldTrump if he insists on a better #spendingdeal that doesn't bankrupt our country."

Some conservatives in Congress also expressed discomfort with the extra red ink, especially given the soaring deficit.

"I encouraged President Trump yesterday to hold the line in the budget negotiations," said Congressman Mike Johnson, who chairs the conservative House Republican Study Committee.

The Democratic-led House goes on summer break July 26, but the Senate, controlled by Trump's Republicans, is in session for an additional week.

Both Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell called on their chambers to pass the deal in the coming days and send it to Trump for his signature.

Officials have issued dire warnings that without an increase in the borrowing limit, the US could default on its debt for the first time and they have been urging the legislature to act.

Because the federal government traditionally runs a budget deficit, it has no choice but to borrow to finance government operations, including salaries, retirement benefits, social spending and other expenses already approved by Congress.

US President Donald Trump said Monday that a "compromise" bipartisan budget agreement has been reached that will boost federal spending by $320 billion and suspend the debt limit beyond the next presidential election.

US President Donald Trump said Monday that a "compromise" bipartisan budget agreement has been reached that will boost federal spending by $320 billion and suspend the debt limit beyond the next presidential election. The deal, should it pass Congress as expected, would allow the federal government to borrow more money and avoid a disastrous default in the coming months, while significantly raising budget caps on defence and domestic outlays. Trump tweeted that the deal was struck between the White House and the top Democratic and Republican leaders in both chambers of Congress "on a two-year Budget and Debt Ceiling, with no poison pills," which could have otherwise derailed the legislation. The agreement raises the discretionary spending caps for fiscal years 2020 and 2021, pairing it with a suspension of the statutory debt ceiling until the end of July 2021, nearly nine months after the 2020 election. "This was a real compromise to give another big victory to our Great Military and Vets!" Trump added. The agreement has faced resistance from conservative Republicans who oppose adding hundreds of billions of dollars in additional spending to the US debt. Democratic leaders hailed it as a victory for securing robust funding for critical domestic priorities, describing the deal as the largest-ever increase in base funding above the so-called sequestration levels outlined in a 2011 law. "With this agreement, we strive to avoid another government shutdown, which is so harmful to meeting the needs of the American people and honouring the work of our public employees," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a joint statement. The deal assures that Washington remains on a borrowing binge, a significant setback for the White House's stated goal of reining in expenditures. The agreement includes roughly $75 billion in spending increase offsets, substantially less than Trump's administration had sought. Pelosi, the top Democrat in Congress, had been negotiating the deal with Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin, and the pair were racing against the clock to wrap it up by Friday when the House of Representatives goes on a six-week recess. Mnuchin warned last week that, barring an agreement, the government could run out of money in early September before Congress reconvenes. Don't 'bankrupt' country The compromise, with its boosted spending and narrow savings, is expected to push the annual budget deficit to more than $1 trillion next year. Shortly before the deal was announced, David McIntosh, president of the conservative, pro-free-enterprise group Club for Growth, said Mnuchin "would best serve @realDonaldTrump if he insists on a better #spendingdeal that doesn't bankrupt our country." Some conservatives in Congress also expressed discomfort with the extra red ink, especially given the soaring deficit. "I encouraged President Trump yesterday to hold the line in the budget negotiations," said Congressman Mike Johnson, who chairs the conservative House Republican Study Committee. The Democratic-led House goes on summer break July 26, but the Senate, controlled by Trump's Republicans, is in session for an additional week. Both Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell called on their chambers to pass the deal in the coming days and send it to Trump for his signature. Officials have issued dire warnings that without an increase in the borrowing limit, the US could default on its debt for the first time and they have been urging the legislature to act. Because the federal government traditionally runs a budget deficit, it has no choice but to borrow to finance government operations, including salaries, retirement benefits, social spending and other expenses already approved by Congress.

US President Donald Trump, Democrats reach two-year budget deal that raises debt ceiling

The United States President Donald Trump doubled down his comments in which he told <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-tells-democratic-congresswomen-to-go-back-to-fix-countries-they-came-from-235979">"progressive"&nbsp;Democratic congresswomen to "go back"</a> where they came from.&nbsp;

He also said that they&nbsp;"hate Israel with a true and unbridled passion," indicating he may have been referring to Ilhan Omar of Minnesota and Rashida Tlaib of Michigan, who have&nbsp;recently&nbsp;been embroiled in controversies related to the Jewish state.

"So sad to see the Democrats sticking up for people who speak so badly of our Country and who, in addition, hate Israel with a true and unbridled passion. Whenever confronted, they call their adversaries, including Nancy Pelosi, 'RACIST'," &nbsp;Trump said on Twitter.

"Their disgusting language and the many terrible things they say about the United States must not be allowed to go unchallenged," Trump added in another tweet.

Trump also said that he looks forward to seeing Democrats "at the ballot box" in 2020.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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So sad to see the Democrats sticking up for people who speak so badly of our Country and who, in addition, hate Israel with a true and unbridled passion. Whenever confronted, they call their adversaries, including Nancy Pelosi, “RACIST.” Their disgusting language.....
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1150556162393300992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Donald Trump on Sunday sparked a firestorm on social media after in a series of tweets he told "progressive" Congresswomen to go back to their own countries and "help fix the totally broken and crime-infested places."

While he did not mention names, Trump appeared to be referring to first-year Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York, Ilhan Omar of Minnesota, Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts, and Rashida Tlaib of Michigan - a group known as "the squad" that has been very critical of Trump.

Trump's tweets received outrage from seniors leaders of Democrats including House of Representative Nancy Pelosi. She called Trump's tweet "Xenophobic".

"When @realDonaldTrump tells four American Congresswomen to go back to their countries, he reaffirms his plan to 'Make America Great Again' has always been about making America white again," she said on micro-blogging site.

"Our diversity is our strength and our unity is our power," Pelosi added.&nbsp;

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When <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> tells four American Congresswomen to go back to their countries, he reaffirms his plan to “Make America Great Again” has always been about making America white again. 
 
Our diversity is our strength and our unity is our power. <a href="https://t.co/ODqqHneyES">https://t.co/ODqqHneyES</a>
— Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerPelosi/status/1150408691713265665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Tlaib, who was born in Detroit, is the first American of Palestinian descent elected to Congress, while Omar, who fled war-torn Somalia as a child and came to the United States as a refugee, is the first black Muslim woman in Congress.

Ocasio-Cortez, who was born in New York, is of Puerto Rican ancestry, and Pressley, who was born in Cincinnati, is the first African American elected to Congress from Massachusetts.

Meanwhile, no senior Republican lawmakers have reacted on Trump's comments.

The United States President Donald Trump doubled down his comments in which he told "progressive" Democratic congresswomen to "go back" where they came from. He also said that they "hate Israel with a true and unbridled passion," indicating he may have been referring to Ilhan Omar of Minnesota and Rashida Tlaib of Michigan, who have recently been embroiled in controversies related to the Jewish state.

The United States President Donald Trump doubled down his comments in which he told "progressive" Democratic congresswomen to "go back" where they came from. He also said that they "hate Israel with a true and unbridled passion," indicating he may have been referring to Ilhan Omar of Minnesota and Rashida Tlaib of Michigan, who have recently been embroiled in controversies related to the Jewish state. "So sad to see the Democrats sticking up for people who speak so badly of our Country and who, in addition, hate Israel with a true and unbridled passion. Whenever confronted, they call their adversaries, including Nancy Pelosi, 'RACIST'," Trump said on Twitter. "Their disgusting language and the many terrible things they say about the United States must not be allowed to go unchallenged," Trump added in another tweet. Trump also said that he looks forward to seeing Democrats "at the ballot box" in 2020. So sad to see the Democrats sticking up for people who speak so badly of our Country and who, in addition, hate Israel with a true and unbridled passion. Whenever confronted, they call their adversaries, including Nancy Pelosi, “RACIST.” Their disgusting language..... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 15, 2019 × Donald Trump on Sunday sparked a firestorm on social media after in a series of tweets he told "progressive" Congresswomen to go back to their own countries and "help fix the totally broken and crime-infested places." While he did not mention names, Trump appeared to be referring to first-year Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York, Ilhan Omar of Minnesota, Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts, and Rashida Tlaib of Michigan - a group known as "the squad" that has been very critical of Trump. Trump's tweets received outrage from seniors leaders of Democrats including House of Representative Nancy Pelosi. She called Trump's tweet "Xenophobic". "When @realDonaldTrump tells four American Congresswomen to go back to their countries, he reaffirms his plan to 'Make America Great Again' has always been about making America white again," she said on micro-blogging site. "Our diversity is our strength and our unity is our power," Pelosi added. When @realDonaldTrump tells four American Congresswomen to go back to their countries, he reaffirms his plan to “Make America Great Again” has always been about making America white again. Our diversity is our strength and our unity is our power. https://t.co/ODqqHneyES — Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) July 14, 2019 × Tlaib, who was born in Detroit, is the first American of Palestinian descent elected to Congress, while Omar, who fled war-torn Somalia as a child and came to the United States as a refugee, is the first black Muslim woman in Congress. Ocasio-Cortez, who was born in New York, is of Puerto Rican ancestry, and Pressley, who was born in Cincinnati, is the first African American elected to Congress from Massachusetts. Meanwhile, no senior Republican lawmakers have reacted on Trump's comments.

Sad to see Democrats sticking up for Israel haters, says Donald Trump after tweet backlash

The US House of Representatives on Friday approved legislation to permanently compensate first responders to the September&nbsp;11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Centre who have been suffering from cancers and other illnesses as a result of working at the contaminated site.

The House voted 402-12 to pass the "Never Forget the Heroes Act" that had been championed by Jon Stewart, the popular former host of the late-night comedy programme The Daily Show, and highlighted by recent gripping testimony by a dying 9/11 New York police detective.

"On September 11th and its aftermath, our brave first responders were there for us. We must always be there for them," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said just before the vote on the bill.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said the legislation will be brought to a vote in his chamber soon.

Without prompt action by Congress, victims of the attack would see steeply reduced benefits due to a lack of funding.

Former New York Detective Luis Alvarez died last month shortly after his testimony to the US House Judiciary Committee in which he urged a replenishment of the fund.

At that same hearing, Stewart delivered impassioned testimony in which he chastised some lawmakers for not acting quickly enough to continue helping the police, firefighters and other workers immediately following the Sept. 11 attack.

If passed by the Senate and signed into law by President Donald Trump, the victims' fund would be authorized through 2092 and they could file claims until October 2089.

It would end the string of temporary measures that have required constant lobbying by groups trying to avert an interruption in benefits to help those sickened by toxic materials released into the atmosphere and ground following the impact of commercial jetliners that were hijacked and flown directly into the twin towers.

Government officials told responders at the time that it was safe to work at the site, despite questions by many experts.

The US House of Representatives on Friday approved legislation to permanently compensate first responders to the September 11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Centre who have been suffering from cancers and other illnesses as a result of working at the contaminated site.

The US House of Representatives on Friday approved legislation to permanently compensate first responders to the September 11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Centre who have been suffering from cancers and other illnesses as a result of working at the contaminated site. The House voted 402-12 to pass the "Never Forget the Heroes Act" that had been championed by Jon Stewart, the popular former host of the late-night comedy programme The Daily Show, and highlighted by recent gripping testimony by a dying 9/11 New York police detective. "On September 11th and its aftermath, our brave first responders were there for us. We must always be there for them," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said just before the vote on the bill. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said the legislation will be brought to a vote in his chamber soon. Without prompt action by Congress, victims of the attack would see steeply reduced benefits due to a lack of funding. Former New York Detective Luis Alvarez died last month shortly after his testimony to the US House Judiciary Committee in which he urged a replenishment of the fund. At that same hearing, Stewart delivered impassioned testimony in which he chastised some lawmakers for not acting quickly enough to continue helping the police, firefighters and other workers immediately following the Sept. 11 attack. If passed by the Senate and signed into law by President Donald Trump, the victims' fund would be authorized through 2092 and they could file claims until October 2089. It would end the string of temporary measures that have required constant lobbying by groups trying to avert an interruption in benefits to help those sickened by toxic materials released into the atmosphere and ground following the impact of commercial jetliners that were hijacked and flown directly into the twin towers. Government officials told responders at the time that it was safe to work at the site, despite questions by many experts.

US House approves funding for 9/11 responders, sends to Senate

United States's Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Friday issued a warning to US government about risk of running out cash as early as September, reports said.

Mnuchin in a letter addressed to House of representative Nancy Pelosi, said, "there is a scenario in which we run out cash in early September before Congress reconvenes."

"As such, I request that Congress increase the debt ceiling before Congress leaves for summer recess," Mnuchin added in the letter.

Meanwhile, Pelosi and Mnuchin on Tuesday discussed ways to reach agreement on extending US borrowing authority and spending limits for the 2020 fiscal year that begins on October 1.

A Pelosi spokesman said the 20-minute telephone conversation was productive and the two plan to speak again on Wednesday.

According to a report, both will again speak on call over the weekend.

By September or October, the Treasury Department could exhaust its current borrowing authority, adding pressure on Congress and the Trump administration to reach a deal on a new extension.

Congress is scheduled to be in recess through almost all of August and the first week of September, raising questions about whether a debt limit and spending deal can be enacted before the break.

(With inputs from agencies)

United States's Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Friday issued a warning to US government about risk of running out cash as early as September, reports said.

United States's Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Friday issued a warning to US government about risk of running out cash as early as September, reports said. Mnuchin in a letter addressed to House of representative Nancy Pelosi, said, "there is a scenario in which we run out cash in early September before Congress reconvenes." "As such, I request that Congress increase the debt ceiling before Congress leaves for summer recess," Mnuchin added in the letter. Meanwhile, Pelosi and Mnuchin on Tuesday discussed ways to reach agreement on extending US borrowing authority and spending limits for the 2020 fiscal year that begins on October 1. A Pelosi spokesman said the 20-minute telephone conversation was productive and the two plan to speak again on Wednesday. According to a report, both will again speak on call over the weekend. By September or October, the Treasury Department could exhaust its current borrowing authority, adding pressure on Congress and the Trump administration to reach a deal on a new extension. Congress is scheduled to be in recess through almost all of August and the first week of September, raising questions about whether a debt limit and spending deal can be enacted before the break. (With inputs from agencies)

US government to soon run out cash: Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin

US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Thursday was all praises for<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-asks-mps-to-take-150-kilometres-march-on-gandhi-jayanti-234213"> Prime Minister Narendra Modi's</a> oratory skills, saying the Indian leader is "spectacular" and had the people in the "palm of his hands".

"I had the opportunity to visit India with President (Barack) Obama. After President Obama and Prime Minister Modi had an exchange with the business community, we went to a room where the two leaders made their appearance. I must say Prime Minister Modi made one of the most fantastic speeches ever I have heard," she said in a conversation with Chairman of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) John Chambers at the second edition of the event.

"He (Modi) spoke in English. It was very inspirational and he spoke about values about all the things we talk about like valuing our planet and people... But it was quite spectacular and different. We have our vision, knowledge and strategy. But the message is important and he is a master in that. He had the audience in the palm of his hands," she remarked.&nbsp;

Calling herself a "worshipper" of Mahatma Gandhi, she recalled an incident saying, "I was wearing a hat in the school and a nun asked me that "who do think you are? Mahatma Gandhi?" I had no idea about it."&nbsp;

"I went to the library and there was a lot of books on Mahatma Gandhi back in the 1950s. At college, I used to get all the books on Mahatma Gandhi in the class. I learnt more and more about him. I became completely worshipping at the shrine of Mahatma Gandhi," she continued.

She said that civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr. had visited India in the 1950s where he studied about Mahatma Gandhi and learnt about non-violence and "satyagraha", which she stressed was "insistence of truth".

"The 150th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and the 90th anniversary of Martin Luther King is a strong connection for all of us," Pelosi underlined while calling "satyagraha" as a spiritual gift that India has given to the US.

The Speaker underlined that the US is "blessed" with the Indian diaspora in her country.

"We have a running start on how we go forward in this particular relationship. We have to be respectful of India's priorities. There is a need to recognise the public part of the public-private partnership," Pelosi said.&nbsp;

The House Speaker called "strategic" and "partnership" as two important words in the US-India bilateral ties.

"There is an opportunity to lift the values of the whole world, create more markets, and be more entrepreneurial through the US-India strategic partnership."&nbsp;

"We all have to play a role in eradication of diseases, preservation of our planet and also to end corruption which is rampant in so many places and hampers economic growth that is needed in good markets for US and India for their businesses to take advantage of," she said while calling for continuous cooperation between the two countries.&nbsp;

Pelosi also termed the US relationship with China as "complicated".

"If you look at China, you can talk about growing middle class and growing economy. But it is also a very repressive place. Three million Uighurs in "education" camps, what they are doing in Hong Kong to diminish democracy there and the diminishing culture, language and religion in Tibet," she said.

However, Pelosi hailed China for taking "giant steps" in reducing carbon emissions in the Asian country.

"We do work together on climate in spite of the fact that they tried so many things to reduce pollution, which is a political and health problem in China," she further said.

US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Thursday was all praises for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's oratory skills, saying the Indian leader is "spectacular" and had the people in the "palm of his hands".

US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Thursday was all praises for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's oratory skills, saying the Indian leader is "spectacular" and had the people in the "palm of his hands". "I had the opportunity to visit India with President (Barack) Obama. After President Obama and Prime Minister Modi had an exchange with the business community, we went to a room where the two leaders made their appearance. I must say Prime Minister Modi made one of the most fantastic speeches ever I have heard," she said in a conversation with Chairman of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) John Chambers at the second edition of the event. "He (Modi) spoke in English. It was very inspirational and he spoke about values about all the things we talk about like valuing our planet and people... But it was quite spectacular and different. We have our vision, knowledge and strategy. But the message is important and he is a master in that. He had the audience in the palm of his hands," she remarked. Calling herself a "worshipper" of Mahatma Gandhi, she recalled an incident saying, "I was wearing a hat in the school and a nun asked me that "who do think you are? Mahatma Gandhi?" I had no idea about it." "I went to the library and there was a lot of books on Mahatma Gandhi back in the 1950s. At college, I used to get all the books on Mahatma Gandhi in the class. I learnt more and more about him. I became completely worshipping at the shrine of Mahatma Gandhi," she continued. She said that civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr. had visited India in the 1950s where he studied about Mahatma Gandhi and learnt about non-violence and "satyagraha", which she stressed was "insistence of truth". "The 150th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and the 90th anniversary of Martin Luther King is a strong connection for all of us," Pelosi underlined while calling "satyagraha" as a spiritual gift that India has given to the US. The Speaker underlined that the US is "blessed" with the Indian diaspora in her country. "We have a running start on how we go forward in this particular relationship. We have to be respectful of India's priorities. There is a need to recognise the public part of the public-private partnership," Pelosi said. The House Speaker called "strategic" and "partnership" as two important words in the US-India bilateral ties. "There is an opportunity to lift the values of the whole world, create more markets, and be more entrepreneurial through the US-India strategic partnership." "We all have to play a role in eradication of diseases, preservation of our planet and also to end corruption which is rampant in so many places and hampers economic growth that is needed in good markets for US and India for their businesses to take advantage of," she said while calling for continuous cooperation between the two countries. Pelosi also termed the US relationship with China as "complicated". "If you look at China, you can talk about growing middle class and growing economy. But it is also a very repressive place. Three million Uighurs in "education" camps, what they are doing in Hong Kong to diminish democracy there and the diminishing culture, language and religion in Tibet," she said. However, Pelosi hailed China for taking "giant steps" in reducing carbon emissions in the Asian country. "We do work together on climate in spite of the fact that they tried so many things to reduce pollution, which is a political and health problem in China," she further said.

US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi praises PM Modi's oratory skills, says he had 'audience in the palm of his hands'

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called for President Donald Trump's Labor secretary, Alexander Acosta, to resign amid renewed concerns over his handling of sex abuse charges involving wealthy US financier Jeffrey Epstein.

Acosta "must step down," she said in a tweet late Monday night.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
.<a href="https://twitter.com/SecretaryAcosta?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecretaryAcosta</a> must step down. As US Attorney, he engaged in an unconscionable agreement w/ Jeffrey Epstein kept secret from courageous, young victims preventing them from seeking justice. This was known by <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> when he appointed him to the cabinet. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AcostaResign?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AcostaResign</a>
— Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerPelosi/status/1148428641849806849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"As US Attorney, he engaged in an unconscionable agreement w/ Jeffrey Epstein kept secret from courageous, young victims preventing them from seeking justice," she wrote, adding that Trump was aware of the deal when he appointed Acosta to his Cabinet.

White House senior adviser Kellyanne Conway told reporters on Tuesday that Acosta was "doing a great job."

She downplayed attention on his role in the case, saying the focus should be on Epstein. Asked if the president had confidence in Acosta, Conway pointed to the strength of the US economy.

Representatives for Acosta did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

On Monday, US prosecutors in New York accused Epstein, 66, of sex trafficking in an indictment that detailed how he lured dozens of girls, some as young as 14, to his luxury homes and coerced them into performing sex acts. Epstein has pleaded not guilty.

The prosecutors said they were not bound by the 2008 Florida deal struck by Acosta, then the US Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, that allowed Epstein to plea to a lesser offence. Epstein served 13 months in jail with leave during the day and registered as a sex offender.

Epstein's case drew renewed attention earlier this year after a Miami Herald report highlighted the plea deal and victims' ongoing struggle for justice. In

February, a federal judge in Florid ruled that the agreement between Acosta and Epstein violated the victims' rights.

The White House at the time said it was looking into the matter.

Acosta's role in the Florida deal for Epstein was raised at his confirmation hearing in the Republican-led Senate. He has served as Labor secretary since April 2017. 
&nbsp;

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called for President Donald Trump's Labor secretary, Alexander Acosta, to resign amid renewed concerns over his handling of sex abuse charges involving wealthy US financier Jeffrey Epstein.

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called for President Donald Trump's Labor secretary, Alexander Acosta, to resign amid renewed concerns over his handling of sex abuse charges involving wealthy US financier Jeffrey Epstein. Acosta "must step down," she said in a tweet late Monday night. .@SecretaryAcosta must step down. As US Attorney, he engaged in an unconscionable agreement w/ Jeffrey Epstein kept secret from courageous, young victims preventing them from seeking justice. This was known by @POTUS when he appointed him to the cabinet. #AcostaResign — Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) July 9, 2019 × "As US Attorney, he engaged in an unconscionable agreement w/ Jeffrey Epstein kept secret from courageous, young victims preventing them from seeking justice," she wrote, adding that Trump was aware of the deal when he appointed Acosta to his Cabinet. White House senior adviser Kellyanne Conway told reporters on Tuesday that Acosta was "doing a great job." She downplayed attention on his role in the case, saying the focus should be on Epstein. Asked if the president had confidence in Acosta, Conway pointed to the strength of the US economy. Representatives for Acosta did not immediately respond to a request for comment. On Monday, US prosecutors in New York accused Epstein, 66, of sex trafficking in an indictment that detailed how he lured dozens of girls, some as young as 14, to his luxury homes and coerced them into performing sex acts. Epstein has pleaded not guilty. The prosecutors said they were not bound by the 2008 Florida deal struck by Acosta, then the US Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, that allowed Epstein to plea to a lesser offence. Epstein served 13 months in jail with leave during the day and registered as a sex offender. Epstein's case drew renewed attention earlier this year after a Miami Herald report highlighted the plea deal and victims' ongoing struggle for justice. In February, a federal judge in Florid ruled that the agreement between Acosta and Epstein violated the victims' rights. The White House at the time said it was looking into the matter. Acosta's role in the Florida deal for Epstein was raised at his confirmation hearing in the Republican-led Senate. He has served as Labor secretary since April 2017.

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi calls for Acosta to resign over Epstein deal

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is expected to visit the US from July 20 during which he would have his first face-to-face meeting with US President Donald Trump, a media report said on Saturday. The

Pak PM to undertake maiden trip to US

The US Supreme Court agreed on Friday to hear a challenge to President Donald Trump's attempt to shut down a program that shields hundreds of thousands of young undocumented immigrants from deportation.

The nation's highest court agreed to hear arguments in the case during its October term with a decision expected next year, at the height of the 2020 presidential campaign.

President Barack Obama signed an executive order in 2012 protecting the young immigrants known as "Dreamers" from deportation but Trump, who takes a hardline stance on immigration, moved to end the program after taking office.

The Supreme Court will rule on the legality of the Trump administration's effort to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program which extends protection to the estimated 700,000 "Dreamers."

Several lower courts have ruled previously in the politically sensitive case, allowing it to continue, and the nine-member Supreme Court, where conservatives hold a five to four majority, will have the final say.

Two of the conservative justices on the bench were appointed by Trump.

Many of the "Dreamers" were brought to the United States by their parents when they were children and have never lived anywhere else.

Trump ordered an end to the DACA program in September 2017 but temporarily extended the protections from deportation and the case has been tangled up in the courts since then.

Several Democratic presidential candidates pledged during two days of debates this week to provide protection to "Dreamers" if elected to the White House.

Nancy Pelosi, the Democratic speaker of the House of Representatives, also spoke out in favour of the "Dreamers."

"The Supreme Court must now uphold the rulings of lower courts across the country, which have determined that the Trump Administration's cruel decision to terminate DACA was illegal," Pelosi said in a statement.

"In rescinding DACA and its vital protections, the Trump Administration forced hundreds of thousands of brave young men and women to live under a cloud of fear and uncertainty," she said.

The US Supreme Court agreed on Friday to hear a challenge to President Donald Trump's attempt to shut down a program that shields hundreds of thousands of young undocumented immigrants from deportation.

The US Supreme Court agreed on Friday to hear a challenge to President Donald Trump's attempt to shut down a program that shields hundreds of thousands of young undocumented immigrants from deportation. The nation's highest court agreed to hear arguments in the case during its October term with a decision expected next year, at the height of the 2020 presidential campaign. President Barack Obama signed an executive order in 2012 protecting the young immigrants known as "Dreamers" from deportation but Trump, who takes a hardline stance on immigration, moved to end the program after taking office. The Supreme Court will rule on the legality of the Trump administration's effort to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program which extends protection to the estimated 700,000 "Dreamers." Several lower courts have ruled previously in the politically sensitive case, allowing it to continue, and the nine-member Supreme Court, where conservatives hold a five to four majority, will have the final say. Two of the conservative justices on the bench were appointed by Trump. Many of the "Dreamers" were brought to the United States by their parents when they were children and have never lived anywhere else. Trump ordered an end to the DACA program in September 2017 but temporarily extended the protections from deportation and the case has been tangled up in the courts since then. Several Democratic presidential candidates pledged during two days of debates this week to provide protection to "Dreamers" if elected to the White House. Nancy Pelosi, the Democratic speaker of the House of Representatives, also spoke out in favour of the "Dreamers." "The Supreme Court must now uphold the rulings of lower courts across the country, which have determined that the Trump Administration's cruel decision to terminate DACA was illegal," Pelosi said in a statement. "In rescinding DACA and its vital protections, the Trump Administration forced hundreds of thousands of brave young men and women to live under a cloud of fear and uncertainty," she said.

US Supreme Court to take up 'Dreamers' case

Speaker Nancy Pelosi wanted clause on Child Protection

U.S Congress approves border funding

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mark-zuckerbergs-deepfake-video-posted-on-instagram-226388">Facebook Inc Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg </a>on Wednesday said his social media company took too long to flag as false an altered video of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi that appeared to show the Democratic Representative slurring and tripping through a speech.

Zuckerberg, speaking at a conference in Aspen Colorado, said the slow response was "an execution mistake on our side."

The video, a type of realistic alteration known as a "deep fake," was slowed to make Pelosi's speech seem slurred and edited to make it appear that she repeatedly stumbled over her words. After the video surfaced last month, it was widely shared on Facebook, Twitter and Alphabet Inc's YouTube.

YouTube took down the video, citing policy violations, but <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-spends-226-million-to-keep-mark-zuckerberg-safe-209975">Facebook</a> did not remove the clip, only limiting its distribution and telling users trying to share it that it might be misleading.

"It took a while for our system to flag the video and for our fact checkers to rate it as false... and during that time it got more distribution than our policies should have allowed," Zuckerberg said.

Pelosi criticized Facebook's refusal to remove the video and said the incident had convinced her the company knowingly enabled Russian election interference.

Misinformation through altered videos is a rising concern in the run-up to the 2020 US presidential election, especially as artificial intelligence (AI) is now being used to produce clips that look genuine and realistically appear to show people saying words they have not spoken. The term "deep fake" is a combination of "deep learning" and "fake."

After the Pelosi video, Zuckerberg himself was portrayed in a spoof deep fake video on Instagram in which he appears to say "whoever controls the data, controls the future." Facebook, which owns Instagram, did not to take down the video.

Zuckerberg said Facebook is considering developing a specific policy on deep fakes.

"This is a little bit of sausage making here because we are going through the policy process of thinking through what the deep fake policy should be," he said. "This is certainly an important area as the AI technology gets better."

Facebook Inc Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg on Wednesday said his social media company took too long to flag as false an altered video of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi that appeared to show the Democratic Representative slurring and tripping through a speech.

Facebook Inc Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg on Wednesday said his social media company took too long to flag as false an altered video of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi that appeared to show the Democratic Representative slurring and tripping through a speech. Zuckerberg, speaking at a conference in Aspen Colorado, said the slow response was "an execution mistake on our side." The video, a type of realistic alteration known as a "deep fake," was slowed to make Pelosi's speech seem slurred and edited to make it appear that she repeatedly stumbled over her words. After the video surfaced last month, it was widely shared on Facebook, Twitter and Alphabet Inc's YouTube. YouTube took down the video, citing policy violations, but Facebook did not remove the clip, only limiting its distribution and telling users trying to share it that it might be misleading. "It took a while for our system to flag the video and for our fact checkers to rate it as false... and during that time it got more distribution than our policies should have allowed," Zuckerberg said. Pelosi criticized Facebook's refusal to remove the video and said the incident had convinced her the company knowingly enabled Russian election interference. Misinformation through altered videos is a rising concern in the run-up to the 2020 US presidential election, especially as artificial intelligence (AI) is now being used to produce clips that look genuine and realistically appear to show people saying words they have not spoken. The term "deep fake" is a combination of "deep learning" and "fake." After the Pelosi video, Zuckerberg himself was portrayed in a spoof deep fake video on Instagram in which he appears to say "whoever controls the data, controls the future." Facebook, which owns Instagram, did not to take down the video. Zuckerberg said Facebook is considering developing a specific policy on deep fakes. "This is a little bit of sausage making here because we are going through the policy process of thinking through what the deep fake policy should be," he said. "This is certainly an important area as the AI technology gets better."

Facebook Chief Mark Zuckerberg says delay in flagging fake Pelosi video was 'execution mistake'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/factbox-clash-between-trump-us-house-democrats-shifts-into-courts-228730">US House Democrats</a> said they plan to pass a $4.5 billion aid package aimed at addressing the migrant surge along the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-closure-of-us-mexico-border-next-week-to-stem-asylum-surge-206626">US-Mexico border</a> later on Tuesday, citing an urgency to act following reports of poor conditions facing young children at overcrowded facilities.

"This week we have to solve the humanitarian crisis," Hakeem Jeffries, the House of Representatives Democratic Caucus chairman, told reporters, predicting that the funding package would pass the House with a "strong Democratic vote."

Lawmakers were rushing to add language before the vote to mandate better health and nutrition standards at border facilities.&nbsp;

That came after some liberal Democrats expressed alarm that not enough was being done to improve conditions at the border, where the number of migrants apprehended surged in May to the highest level since 2006.

Last week, the Associated Press reported on squalid conditions facing migrant children being detained by US authorities, including a lack of access to food, beds and hygiene products such as soap and toothpaste.

Republican US President Donald Trump, despite having requested the $4.5 billion border aid package, on Monday night threatened to veto the House bill, saying the provisions added by Democrats - who control the chamber - would make the country "less safe."

But Jeffries said he expected Trump to sign the bill into law despite his threat, citing the president's recent reversals on other issues such as tariffs.

"There is no decency to having these children subjected to these horrific conditions," Jeffries said.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, seeking to galvanize her caucus, told them the House would need a strong vote to prevail.

"A vote against this bill is a vote for Donald Trump and his inhumane, outside-the-circle of civilized attitude toward the children," she said at a closed-door Tuesday morning meeting, according to a senior Democratic aide.

Democratic leaders said they would add language to protect the health of migrants in the custody of US Border Patrol agents, including standards for medical care and nutrition.&nbsp;

The bill's language would also set a three-month limit for any unaccompanied child migrant to spend at an intake shelter unless notice is given.

It was unclear whether the changes would be enough for some Democrats who fear the Trump administration could use some of the money for other purposes, such as deportations of migrants.

Representative Ilhan Omar said she objected to $155 million in the bill that would go to US marshals, a law enforcement agency within the Department of Justice.

"There's no good outcome here," said Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who has compared the detention centres for undocumented immigrants at the border to "concentration camps."&nbsp;

She said she is worried over whether the funding will "go to the places that we need it to go."

The House legislation would also reinstate hundreds of millions of dollars in aid to El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras that was cut off by the Trump administration.

The Republican-majority Senate was proceeding with its own, bipartisan, $4.6 billion versions of the legislation and was expected to vote soon.

US House Democrats said they plan to pass a $4.5 billion aid package aimed at addressing the migrant surge along the US-Mexico border later on Tuesday, citing an urgency to act following reports of poor conditions facing young children at overcrowded facilities.

US House Democrats said they plan to pass a $4.5 billion aid package aimed at addressing the migrant surge along the US-Mexico border later on Tuesday, citing an urgency to act following reports of poor conditions facing young children at overcrowded facilities. "This week we have to solve the humanitarian crisis," Hakeem Jeffries, the House of Representatives Democratic Caucus chairman, told reporters, predicting that the funding package would pass the House with a "strong Democratic vote." Lawmakers were rushing to add language before the vote to mandate better health and nutrition standards at border facilities. That came after some liberal Democrats expressed alarm that not enough was being done to improve conditions at the border, where the number of migrants apprehended surged in May to the highest level since 2006. Last week, the Associated Press reported on squalid conditions facing migrant children being detained by US authorities, including a lack of access to food, beds and hygiene products such as soap and toothpaste. Republican US President Donald Trump, despite having requested the $4.5 billion border aid package, on Monday night threatened to veto the House bill, saying the provisions added by Democrats - who control the chamber - would make the country "less safe." But Jeffries said he expected Trump to sign the bill into law despite his threat, citing the president's recent reversals on other issues such as tariffs. "There is no decency to having these children subjected to these horrific conditions," Jeffries said. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, seeking to galvanize her caucus, told them the House would need a strong vote to prevail. "A vote against this bill is a vote for Donald Trump and his inhumane, outside-the-circle of civilized attitude toward the children," she said at a closed-door Tuesday morning meeting, according to a senior Democratic aide. Democratic leaders said they would add language to protect the health of migrants in the custody of US Border Patrol agents, including standards for medical care and nutrition. The bill's language would also set a three-month limit for any unaccompanied child migrant to spend at an intake shelter unless notice is given. It was unclear whether the changes would be enough for some Democrats who fear the Trump administration could use some of the money for other purposes, such as deportations of migrants. Representative Ilhan Omar said she objected to $155 million in the bill that would go to US marshals, a law enforcement agency within the Department of Justice. "There's no good outcome here," said Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who has compared the detention centres for undocumented immigrants at the border to "concentration camps." She said she is worried over whether the funding will "go to the places that we need it to go." The House legislation would also reinstate hundreds of millions of dollars in aid to El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras that was cut off by the Trump administration. The Republican-majority Senate was proceeding with its own, bipartisan, $4.6 billion versions of the legislation and was expected to vote soon.

United States House Democrats rush to pass border aid bill before July 4, Trump vows veto

President Donald Trump said Saturday he was delaying a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-orders-immigration-sweep-targeting-2000-families-report-229375">planned immigration sweep</a> for two weeks to allow time for his Republican Party and opposition Democrats to find a political solution to the hot-button issue.

The mass round-up of as many as 2,000 families who had been served with deportation orders or failed to show up for court appointments was expected to begin in up to 10 cities as early as Sunday.

"At the request of Democrats, I have delayed the Illegal Immigration Removal Process (Deportation) for two weeks to see if the Democrats and Republicans can get together and work out a solution to the Asylum and Loophole problems at the Southern Border," he tweeted Saturday.

He added, "If not, Deportations start!"&nbsp;

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At the request of Democrats, I have delayed the Illegal Immigration Removal Process (Deportation) for two weeks to see if the Democrats and Republicans can get together and work out a solution to the Asylum and Loophole problems at the Southern Border. If not, Deportations start!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1142506687020130306?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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It was not immediately clear what legislative measures might be considered in the two-week reprieve. Immigration reform is a long-sought goal by lawmakers in both parties but meaningful change has remained elusive amid partisan rancour.

Democratic US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi had urged Trump to call off the raids, alluding to his stated reason for scuttling a military strike on Iran in retaliation for its drowning of an unmanned US spy drone -- as many as 150 lives would be lost, he said.

"I would hope he would apply that same value to avoiding the collateral damage to tens of thousands of children who are frightened by his actions," Pelosi said in a statement.

She later tweeted, "Mr President, the delay is welcome. Time is needed for comprehensive immigration reform. Families belong together."

No help from major cities

Major US cities said to be targets of the now-postponed raids had vowed not to cooperate, with city leaders and civic groups from New York to San Francisco warning undocumented foreigners of their rights.

In Texas, an immigrant and refugee advocacy group called RAICES put out a tweet reminding immigrants of their rights if their home or place of work is raided, they can refuse to open the door, remain silent, refrain from signing anything and ask to speak to a lawyer.

"Only good faith bipartisan efforts will fix the system and ensure our country lives up to its own highest values and ideals," said Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms of Atlanta, one of the cities girding for operations that Trump warned of on Monday.

US news outlets reported that the family roundups had been expected in up to 10 cities including Houston, Chicago, New York and Miami.

Earlier Saturday, Trump depicted the planned operation as "going by the rules, going by our court system, and taking people out of our country who came into our country illegally. They came into our country illegally and we're taking them out legally."

Much as he did to get elected in 2016, Trump is focusing on illegal migration as red meat to rally his conservative base as he seeks another term in 2020.

Earlier this month, Trump rattled world markets and defied his advisers by threatening tariffs on all Mexican imports unless it cracked down more on people pouring across the border into the United States.

Migrant apprehensions at the US border with Mexico reached 144,000 in May, the highest number in 13 years.&nbsp;

Mexico avoided the duties after agreeing to bolster security on its southern border and expand its policy of taking back migrants, most of them from violence-riven Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador, as the United States processes their asylum claims.

President Donald Trump said Saturday he was delaying a planned immigration sweep for two weeks to allow time for his Republican Party and opposition Democrats to find a political solution to the hot-button issue.

President Donald Trump said Saturday he was delaying a planned immigration sweep for two weeks to allow time for his Republican Party and opposition Democrats to find a political solution to the hot-button issue. The mass round-up of as many as 2,000 families who had been served with deportation orders or failed to show up for court appointments was expected to begin in up to 10 cities as early as Sunday. "At the request of Democrats, I have delayed the Illegal Immigration Removal Process (Deportation) for two weeks to see if the Democrats and Republicans can get together and work out a solution to the Asylum and Loophole problems at the Southern Border," he tweeted Saturday. He added, "If not, Deportations start!" At the request of Democrats, I have delayed the Illegal Immigration Removal Process (Deportation) for two weeks to see if the Democrats and Republicans can get together and work out a solution to the Asylum and Loophole problems at the Southern Border. If not, Deportations start! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 22, 2019 × It was not immediately clear what legislative measures might be considered in the two-week reprieve. Immigration reform is a long-sought goal by lawmakers in both parties but meaningful change has remained elusive amid partisan rancour. Democratic US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi had urged Trump to call off the raids, alluding to his stated reason for scuttling a military strike on Iran in retaliation for its drowning of an unmanned US spy drone -- as many as 150 lives would be lost, he said. "I would hope he would apply that same value to avoiding the collateral damage to tens of thousands of children who are frightened by his actions," Pelosi said in a statement. She later tweeted, "Mr President, the delay is welcome. Time is needed for comprehensive immigration reform. Families belong together." No help from major cities Major US cities said to be targets of the now-postponed raids had vowed not to cooperate, with city leaders and civic groups from New York to San Francisco warning undocumented foreigners of their rights. In Texas, an immigrant and refugee advocacy group called RAICES put out a tweet reminding immigrants of their rights if their home or place of work is raided, they can refuse to open the door, remain silent, refrain from signing anything and ask to speak to a lawyer. "Only good faith bipartisan efforts will fix the system and ensure our country lives up to its own highest values and ideals," said Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms of Atlanta, one of the cities girding for operations that Trump warned of on Monday. US news outlets reported that the family roundups had been expected in up to 10 cities including Houston, Chicago, New York and Miami. Earlier Saturday, Trump depicted the planned operation as "going by the rules, going by our court system, and taking people out of our country who came into our country illegally. They came into our country illegally and we're taking them out legally." Much as he did to get elected in 2016, Trump is focusing on illegal migration as red meat to rally his conservative base as he seeks another term in 2020. Earlier this month, Trump rattled world markets and defied his advisers by threatening tariffs on all Mexican imports unless it cracked down more on people pouring across the border into the United States. Migrant apprehensions at the US border with Mexico reached 144,000 in May, the highest number in 13 years. Mexico avoided the duties after agreeing to bolster security on its southern border and expand its policy of taking back migrants, most of them from violence-riven Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador, as the United States processes their asylum claims.

Donald Trump says planned immigration sweep delayed for two weeks

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.

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China on Monday strongly backed the Hong Kong government on a controversial bill that would allow extraditions to the mainland and voiced opposition to "outside interference" following a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/government-has-become-dictatorship-hong-kong-protestors-call-on-supporters-to-rally-outside-parliament-225932">massive protest against the legislation</a>.

Organisers said more than a million people marched against the law, bringing central Hong Kong to a standstill at the weekend as the semi-autonomous city's pro-Beijing government battles a major political crisis.

Critics of the proposed legislation say it would erode precious freedoms in the city, and leave dissidents at the mercy of Beijing's opaque justice system.

Beijing was unmoved by the protest, with foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang saying it "will continue to firmly support" the Hong Kong administration.

"Second, we firmly oppose any outside interference in the legislative affairs" of the city, he said at a regular press briefing, adding that "some countries have made some irresponsible remarks about the amendment".

In pictures:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-a-million-marching-in-hong-kong-225756">Why a million marching in Hong Kong?</a>

Chinese state-run media earlier slammed the Hong Kong protest organisers for "collusion with the West", and pointed to meetings between Hong Kong opposition figures and senior US officials.

The Chinese-language edition of the nationalistic Global Times dismissed Sunday's mass demonstration, one of the biggest shows of public anger since Hong Kong was returned to Chinese rule in 1997.

"It is very noteworthy that some international forces have significantly strengthened their interaction with the Hong Kong opposition in recent months," the paper said, describing the exchanges as "collusion".

The editorial pointed to meetings between Hong Kong opposition figures and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, as well as House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Hong Kong's pro-Beijing chief executive Carrie Lam struck a defiant tone in the wake of the protest, refusing to scrap the extradition bill.

The law's opponents have called for another demonstration on Wednesday.

'Hoodwinked'

The English-language China Daily said in an editorial more than 700,000 people had backed the legislation through an online petition, "countering a protest by about 240,000 people" -- the more conservative attendance figure given by police.

"Unfortunately, some Hong Kong residents have been hoodwinked by the opposition camp and their foreign allies into supporting the anti-extradition campaign," the state-run paper said.

Geng also pointed to the petition in support of the bill.&nbsp;

Coverage of the protest was muted in mainland China, with the state broadcaster ignoring the protest on Sunday's main evening news.

The official Xinhua news agency's English-language service repeated the city administration's position on the law "in response to a public procession".

Searches for the demonstration on China's Twitter-like Weibo platform yielded no results, and instead showed older content about unrelated events.

A mainland student in China told AFP his WeChat social media account was suspended for two days after he posted a picture of the protest in a three-person group chat.

"I feel awful, it's my first time being blocked," said the student, who did not participate in the protest.

A 50-year agreement between Hong Kong's former colonial ruler, Britain, and China means the city is guaranteed freedoms of speech and assembly unseen on the Chinese mainland.

But activists and opposition politicians are increasingly warning that these liberties are being eroded as Beijing tightens its grip on the city.

The proposed law would allow extraditions to any country with which Hong Kong does not already have a treaty, including mainland China.

Supporters say the law is needed to stop the city becoming a safe haven for mainland fugitives, but critics fear Beijing would use the law to go after its opponents.&nbsp;

China on Monday strongly backed the Hong Kong government on a controversial bill that would allow extraditions to the mainland and voiced opposition to "outside interference" following a massive protest against the legislation.

China on Monday strongly backed the Hong Kong government on a controversial bill that would allow extraditions to the mainland and voiced opposition to "outside interference" following a massive protest against the legislation. Organisers said more than a million people marched against the law, bringing central Hong Kong to a standstill at the weekend as the semi-autonomous city's pro-Beijing government battles a major political crisis. Critics of the proposed legislation say it would erode precious freedoms in the city, and leave dissidents at the mercy of Beijing's opaque justice system. Beijing was unmoved by the protest, with foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang saying it "will continue to firmly support" the Hong Kong administration. "Second, we firmly oppose any outside interference in the legislative affairs" of the city, he said at a regular press briefing, adding that "some countries have made some irresponsible remarks about the amendment". In pictures: Why a million marching in Hong Kong? Chinese state-run media earlier slammed the Hong Kong protest organisers for "collusion with the West", and pointed to meetings between Hong Kong opposition figures and senior US officials. The Chinese-language edition of the nationalistic Global Times dismissed Sunday's mass demonstration, one of the biggest shows of public anger since Hong Kong was returned to Chinese rule in 1997. "It is very noteworthy that some international forces have significantly strengthened their interaction with the Hong Kong opposition in recent months," the paper said, describing the exchanges as "collusion". The editorial pointed to meetings between Hong Kong opposition figures and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, as well as House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Hong Kong's pro-Beijing chief executive Carrie Lam struck a defiant tone in the wake of the protest, refusing to scrap the extradition bill. The law's opponents have called for another demonstration on Wednesday. 'Hoodwinked' The English-language China Daily said in an editorial more than 700,000 people had backed the legislation through an online petition, "countering a protest by about 240,000 people" -- the more conservative attendance figure given by police. "Unfortunately, some Hong Kong residents have been hoodwinked by the opposition camp and their foreign allies into supporting the anti-extradition campaign," the state-run paper said. Geng also pointed to the petition in support of the bill. Coverage of the protest was muted in mainland China, with the state broadcaster ignoring the protest on Sunday's main evening news. The official Xinhua news agency's English-language service repeated the city administration's position on the law "in response to a public procession". Searches for the demonstration on China's Twitter-like Weibo platform yielded no results, and instead showed older content about unrelated events. A mainland student in China told AFP his WeChat social media account was suspended for two days after he posted a picture of the protest in a three-person group chat. "I feel awful, it's my first time being blocked," said the student, who did not participate in the protest. A 50-year agreement between Hong Kong's former colonial ruler, Britain, and China means the city is guaranteed freedoms of speech and assembly unseen on the Chinese mainland. But activists and opposition politicians are increasingly warning that these liberties are being eroded as Beijing tightens its grip on the city. The proposed law would allow extraditions to any country with which Hong Kong does not already have a treaty, including mainland China. Supporters say the law is needed to stop the city becoming a safe haven for mainland fugitives, but critics fear Beijing would use the law to go after its opponents.

China backs Hong Kong extradition law, opposes 'foreign interference'

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Saturday hit out at President Donald Trump over the immigration deal reached with Mexico in exchange for halting tariffs on the Central American country, saying "threats and tantrums are no way to negotiate foreign policy."

Pelosi, in a statement, accused Trump of taking actions that "undermined America`s preeminent leadership role in the world" and slammed him for repeatedly threatening tariffs on Mexico, which she described as US` " close friend and neighbour to the south," The Hill reported.

"The Trump Administration must also do much more to cooperate in a meaningful way with Mexico in cracking down on smuggling networks. [Its] failure to do so thus far is unconscionable and irresponsible. Threats and tantrums are no way to negotiate foreign policy," she said in the statement.In response, Trump fired back at Pelosi, calling her "nervous."

"Nervous Nancy Pelosi &amp; the Democrat House are getting nothing done. Perhaps they could lead the way with the USMCA, the spectacular &amp; very popular new Trade Deal that replaces NAFTA, the worst Trade Deal in the history of the U.S.A. Great for our Farmers, Manufacturers &amp; Unions!" he tweeted.

Asserting that everyone was "very excited" about the new deal, Trump thanked the Mexican leadership and American representatives for "working hard and long" to reach an agreement on immigration."

I would like to thank the President of Mexico, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, and his foreign minister, Marcelo Ebrard, together with all of the many representatives of both the United States and Mexico, for working so long and hard to get our agreement on immigration completed! Everyone very excited about the new deal with Mexico!" the US President said.

Meanwhile, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said that Trump could go ahead and slap tariffs on Mexico if it did not comply with the immigration deal.

Trump had on Friday announced that his administration reached an agreement with Mexico over immigration, owing to which tariffs on the Central American country were "indefinitely suspended," after days of gruelling negotiations between the two sides.

The US President had threatened to impose a five per cent tariff on all Mexican goods from June 10, which would increase by another five per cent every month and ultimately reach 25 per cent by October.

According to the deal, Mexico has agreed to strengthen its security presence at the southern border to stop the flow of Central American migrants from entering the US and boost intelligence sharing with Washington.

Mexico has also said that it would take stringent action against human and drug trafficking rings.

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Saturday hit out at President Donald Trump over the immigration deal reached with Mexico in exchange for halting tariffs on the Central American country, saying "threats and tantrums are no way to negotiate foreign policy.

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Saturday hit out at President Donald Trump over the immigration deal reached with Mexico in exchange for halting tariffs on the Central American country, saying "threats and tantrums are no way to negotiate foreign policy." Pelosi, in a statement, accused Trump of taking actions that "undermined America`s preeminent leadership role in the world" and slammed him for repeatedly threatening tariffs on Mexico, which she described as US` " close friend and neighbour to the south," The Hill reported. "The Trump Administration must also do much more to cooperate in a meaningful way with Mexico in cracking down on smuggling networks. [Its] failure to do so thus far is unconscionable and irresponsible. Threats and tantrums are no way to negotiate foreign policy," she said in the statement.In response, Trump fired back at Pelosi, calling her "nervous." "Nervous Nancy Pelosi & the Democrat House are getting nothing done. Perhaps they could lead the way with the USMCA, the spectacular & very popular new Trade Deal that replaces NAFTA, the worst Trade Deal in the history of the U.S.A. Great for our Farmers, Manufacturers & Unions!" he tweeted. Asserting that everyone was "very excited" about the new deal, Trump thanked the Mexican leadership and American representatives for "working hard and long" to reach an agreement on immigration." I would like to thank the President of Mexico, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, and his foreign minister, Marcelo Ebrard, together with all of the many representatives of both the United States and Mexico, for working so long and hard to get our agreement on immigration completed! Everyone very excited about the new deal with Mexico!" the US President said. Meanwhile, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said that Trump could go ahead and slap tariffs on Mexico if it did not comply with the immigration deal. Trump had on Friday announced that his administration reached an agreement with Mexico over immigration, owing to which tariffs on the Central American country were "indefinitely suspended," after days of gruelling negotiations between the two sides. The US President had threatened to impose a five per cent tariff on all Mexican goods from June 10, which would increase by another five per cent every month and ultimately reach 25 per cent by October. According to the deal, Mexico has agreed to strengthen its security presence at the southern border to stop the flow of Central American migrants from entering the US and boost intelligence sharing with Washington. Mexico has also said that it would take stringent action against human and drug trafficking rings.

Threat and tantrums no way to negotiate: Pelosi slams Trump over Mexico immigration deal

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - June 07th, 2019

Donald Trump should be sent to "prison," US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi told fellow Democrats in a closed-door meeting about whether to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/impeachment-is-not-a-quick-bye-bye-birdie-nancy-pelosi-224875">launch impeachment proceedings</a> against the president, Politico reported Thursday.

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/mueller-looks-like-a-fool-and-pelosi-is-a-disgrace-trump-in-normandy-225206">Pelosi, Trump's political nemesis</a> in Congress, has long stated she is not ready to proceed with what would be a deeply divisive impeachment action, and that she would prefer to see the president defeated at the ballot box next year.

But in a meeting late Tuesday with House committee chairmen, she clashed with Judiciary chairman Jerry Nadler over whether to begin an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amash-becomes-first-republican-lawmaker-to-call-for-trump-impeachment-219754">impeachment</a> inquiry, using language that ramped up the rhetoric surrounding top Democrats and Trump.

"I don't want to see him impeached, I want to see him in prison," Pelosi said, according to Politico which cited multiple Democratic sources familiar with the meeting.

Pelosi prefers to see Trump lose the 2020 election and then face prosecution for his alleged crimes, the sources told the US media outlet.

Many Democrats say they believe Trump broke the law by allegedly seeking to obstruct investigations into Russia's interference in the 2016 US election.

He is also accused of paying pre-election hush money to two women who claimed to have had affairs with Trump, and of violating constitutional prohibitions on presidents receiving financial benefits from foreign governments.

But Pelosi has argued that launching an impeachment inquiry should only be done if there are sufficient public support and significant bipartisan backing.

Polls show a majority of Americans currently oppose impeachment, and to date, only one House Republican has expressed support for removing the president.

'Out of touch'

Asked about Pelosi's "prison" comment, White House director of strategic communications Mercedes Schlapp offered an acerbic response.

"How shocking. The Democrats are radical and out of touch," and refusing to work with the president on issues like the current crisis along the US border with Mexico, Schlapp told Fox News.

"They're more focused on attacking this president, undermining this president than they are to solving the (country's) major problems."

Trump also had fresh criticism of the first and only female speaker of the House.

"I call her nervous Nancy," Trump told Fox. "Nancy Pelosi is a disaster... And let her do what she wants. You know what, I think they're in big trouble."

Pelosi has toughened her language about the president in recent weeks. She has said Trump "is engaged in a cover-up" and that his staff and family should stage an "intervention" with the president.

She has also sought to project unity within her Democratic Party on the path forward regarding impeachment.

"Make no mistake, we know exactly what path we're on," she told reporters Wednesday. "We know exactly what actions we need to take."

With Trump's administration stonewalling various Democratic-led investigations, several of the party's lawmakers have publicly called for impeachment.

Many of them point to the report by special counsel Robert Mueller as confirmation of Trump's wrongdoing.&nbsp;

The report did not find any clear evidence to charge members of Trump's campaign with conspiring with Russia, but neither did it exonerate the president on obstruction of justice.

Rather, Mueller outlined 10 instances of potential obstruction that he uncovered during the probe.

A Pelosi spokeswoman, Ashley Etienne, said Pelosi and the chairmen had a "productive meeting" about the state of play with Mueller's report.

"They agreed to keep all options on the table," Etienne said.

Donald Trump should be sent to "prison," US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi told fellow Democrats in a closed-door meeting about whether to launch impeachment proceedings against the president, Politico reported Thursday.

Donald Trump should be sent to "prison," US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi told fellow Democrats in a closed-door meeting about whether to launch impeachment proceedings against the president, Politico reported Thursday. Pelosi, Trump's political nemesis in Congress, has long stated she is not ready to proceed with what would be a deeply divisive impeachment action, and that she would prefer to see the president defeated at the ballot box next year. But in a meeting late Tuesday with House committee chairmen, she clashed with Judiciary chairman Jerry Nadler over whether to begin an impeachment inquiry, using language that ramped up the rhetoric surrounding top Democrats and Trump. "I don't want to see him impeached, I want to see him in prison," Pelosi said, according to Politico which cited multiple Democratic sources familiar with the meeting. Pelosi prefers to see Trump lose the 2020 election and then face prosecution for his alleged crimes, the sources told the US media outlet. Many Democrats say they believe Trump broke the law by allegedly seeking to obstruct investigations into Russia's interference in the 2016 US election. He is also accused of paying pre-election hush money to two women who claimed to have had affairs with Trump, and of violating constitutional prohibitions on presidents receiving financial benefits from foreign governments. But Pelosi has argued that launching an impeachment inquiry should only be done if there are sufficient public support and significant bipartisan backing. Polls show a majority of Americans currently oppose impeachment, and to date, only one House Republican has expressed support for removing the president. 'Out of touch' Asked about Pelosi's "prison" comment, White House director of strategic communications Mercedes Schlapp offered an acerbic response. "How shocking. The Democrats are radical and out of touch," and refusing to work with the president on issues like the current crisis along the US border with Mexico, Schlapp told Fox News. "They're more focused on attacking this president, undermining this president than they are to solving the (country's) major problems." Trump also had fresh criticism of the first and only female speaker of the House. "I call her nervous Nancy," Trump told Fox. "Nancy Pelosi is a disaster... And let her do what she wants. You know what, I think they're in big trouble." Pelosi has toughened her language about the president in recent weeks. She has said Trump "is engaged in a cover-up" and that his staff and family should stage an "intervention" with the president. She has also sought to project unity within her Democratic Party on the path forward regarding impeachment. "Make no mistake, we know exactly what path we're on," she told reporters Wednesday. "We know exactly what actions we need to take." With Trump's administration stonewalling various Democratic-led investigations, several of the party's lawmakers have publicly called for impeachment. Many of them point to the report by special counsel Robert Mueller as confirmation of Trump's wrongdoing. The report did not find any clear evidence to charge members of Trump's campaign with conspiring with Russia, but neither did it exonerate the president on obstruction of justice. Rather, Mueller outlined 10 instances of potential obstruction that he uncovered during the probe. A Pelosi spokeswoman, Ashley Etienne, said Pelosi and the chairmen had a "productive meeting" about the state of play with Mueller's report. "They agreed to keep all options on the table," Etienne said.

Nancy Pelosi told Democrats she'd like Donald Trump 'in prison': Report

US President Donald Trump on Thursday gave his views on both US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Special Counsel Robert Mueller shortly before attending a ceremony to mark the 75th WWII anniversary of D-Day in Normandy, France.

"I think she's a disgrace... She's a nasty, vindictive, horrible person," Trump told the Fox News Channel during a taped interview at the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in Colleville-sur-Mer shortly before the commemorations began.

Pelosi is under pressure from some Democrats to begin impeachment of Trump, who last week called impeachment "a dirty, filthy, disgusting word."

Trump also said Mueller, who oversaw a much-anticipated probe into Russian interference in the 2016 US presidential election, had made a "such a fool out of himself."

Last week, Mueller made his first public comments since starting the investigation in May 2017, saying his probe was never going to end with criminal charges against Trump but he did not clear the Republican president and indicated it was up to Congress to decide whether he should be impeached

US President Donald Trump on Thursday gave his views on both US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Special Counsel Robert Mueller shortly before attending a ceremony to mark the 75th WWII anniversary of D-Day in Normandy, France.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday gave his views on both US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Special Counsel Robert Mueller shortly before attending a ceremony to mark the 75th WWII anniversary of D-Day in Normandy, France. "I think she's a disgrace... She's a nasty, vindictive, horrible person," Trump told the Fox News Channel during a taped interview at the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in Colleville-sur-Mer shortly before the commemorations began. Pelosi is under pressure from some Democrats to begin impeachment of Trump, who last week called impeachment "a dirty, filthy, disgusting word." Trump also said Mueller, who oversaw a much-anticipated probe into Russian interference in the 2016 US presidential election, had made a "such a fool out of himself." Last week, Mueller made his first public comments since starting the investigation in May 2017, saying his probe was never going to end with criminal charges against Trump but he did not clear the Republican president and indicated it was up to Congress to decide whether he should be impeached

Mueller looks like a 'fool' and Pelosi is a 'disgrace': Trump in Normandy

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - June 06th, 2019

Impeachment of a US&nbsp;president does not mean an immediate ouster from office, or as House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi put it on Wednesday, a "bye, bye birdie."&nbsp;

Pelosi is under pressure from some Democrats to begin impeachment of Republican President Donald Trump, who last week called impeachment "a dirty, filthy, disgusting word."&nbsp;

She has tried to tamp down Democrats` demands to move against Trump and she talked to reporters about the issue.

"Do you know most people think that impeachment means you’re out of office?" she asked reporters. “They think that you get impeached, you’re gone. And that is completely not true ...

"It’s not the means to the end that people think -&nbsp; all you do is a vote to impeach, bye bye birdie. It isn’t that."&nbsp;

The US&nbsp;Constitution empowers Congress to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amash-becomes-first-republican-lawmaker-to-call-for-trump-impeachment-219754">impeach and remove the president from office</a>, but no president has ever been removed as a direct result of a Senate impeachment trial.

The House is now controlled by Democrats. So they might be able to pass an impeachment resolution. But the Senate, where impeachment would have to be adjudicated, is controlled by Republicans, who are unlikely to vote to remove Trump.

Here is how the impeachment process works.&nbsp;

Why Impeachment?

The founders of the United States created the office of the presidency and feared that its powers could be abused. So they included impeachment as a key part of the Constitution.

They gave the House "the sole power of impeachment;" the Senate "the sole power to try all impeachments;" and the chief justice of the Supreme Court the duty of presiding over impeachment trials in the Senate.

The president, under the Constitution, can be removed from office for "treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanours." What exactly high crimes and misdemeanours mean is unclear. Historically, it can encompass corruption and other abuses, including trying to obstruct judicial proceedings.

House Democrats are investigating whether Trump tried to obstruct Special Counsel Robert Mueller`s inquiry into Russian interference in the 2016 US&nbsp;presidential election campaign.

A redacted version of Mueller`s final report, released in mid-April, outlined multiple instances in which Trump tried to thwart the probe. While it stopped short of concluding Trump had committed a crime, the report did not exonerate him.

"In terms of the crimes committed, we know that he obstructed justice,” Pelosi said on Wednesday.

How does it work?

Impeachment begins in the House, which debates and votes on whether to bring charges against the president via approval of an impeachment resolution, or "articles of impeachment," by a simple majority of the House`s 435 members.&nbsp;

If the House approves such a resolution, a trial is held in the 100-member Senate. House members act as the prosecutors; the senators as jurors; the chief justice of the Supreme Court presides. A two-thirds vote of the senators is needed to convict and remove a president from office. This has never happened.

Presidents Andrew Johnson in 1868 and Bill Clinton in 1998 were impeached by the House, but both of them remained in office after being acquitted by the Senate. President Richard Nixon resigned in 1974 before Congress could impeach him.

Supreme Court

Trump has said on Twitter that he would ask the Supreme Court to intervene if Democrats tried to impeach him. But the founders explicitly rejected making a Senate conviction appealable to the federal judiciary.

Standards of Proof

In a typical criminal court case, jurors are told to convict only if there is "proof beyond a reasonable doubt," a fairly stringent standard. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-democrats-leave-open-option-of-trump-impeachment-after-mueller-report-212483">Impeachment proceedings </a>are different. The House and Senate can set their own standards for proof.

Before he became president in 1974, Republican Vice President Gerald Ford said: "An impeachable offence is whatever a majority of the House of Representatives considers it to be at a given moment in history." Ford replaced Nixon.

Party&nbsp;Breakdown

The House has 235 Democrats, 197 Republicans and three vacant seats. As a result, the Democrats could impeach Trump with no Republican support.

In 1998, when Republicans had a House majority, the chamber voted largely along party lines to impeach Clinton, a Democrat.

The Senate now has 53 Republicans, 45 Democrats and two independents who usually vote with the Democrats. Conviction and removal of a president would require 67 votes. So, for Trump to be removed from office, at least 20 Republicans and all the Democrats and independents would have to vote to convict.&nbsp;

Who would replace Trump?

In the unlikely event the Senate convicted Trump, Vice President Mike Pence would become president for the remainder of Trump`s term, which ends on Jan. 20, 2021.

Impeachment of a US president does not mean an immediate ouster from office, or as House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi put it on Wednesday, a "bye, bye birdie.

Impeachment of a US president does not mean an immediate ouster from office, or as House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi put it on Wednesday, a "bye, bye birdie." Pelosi is under pressure from some Democrats to begin impeachment of Republican President Donald Trump, who last week called impeachment "a dirty, filthy, disgusting word." She has tried to tamp down Democrats` demands to move against Trump and she talked to reporters about the issue. "Do you know most people think that impeachment means you’re out of office?" she asked reporters. “They think that you get impeached, you’re gone. And that is completely not true ... "It’s not the means to the end that people think - all you do is a vote to impeach, bye bye birdie. It isn’t that." The US Constitution empowers Congress to impeach and remove the president from office, but no president has ever been removed as a direct result of a Senate impeachment trial. The House is now controlled by Democrats. So they might be able to pass an impeachment resolution. But the Senate, where impeachment would have to be adjudicated, is controlled by Republicans, who are unlikely to vote to remove Trump. Here is how the impeachment process works. Why Impeachment? The founders of the United States created the office of the presidency and feared that its powers could be abused. So they included impeachment as a key part of the Constitution. They gave the House "the sole power of impeachment;" the Senate "the sole power to try all impeachments;" and the chief justice of the Supreme Court the duty of presiding over impeachment trials in the Senate. The president, under the Constitution, can be removed from office for "treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanours." What exactly high crimes and misdemeanours mean is unclear. Historically, it can encompass corruption and other abuses, including trying to obstruct judicial proceedings. House Democrats are investigating whether Trump tried to obstruct Special Counsel Robert Mueller`s inquiry into Russian interference in the 2016 US presidential election campaign. A redacted version of Mueller`s final report, released in mid-April, outlined multiple instances in which Trump tried to thwart the probe. While it stopped short of concluding Trump had committed a crime, the report did not exonerate him. "In terms of the crimes committed, we know that he obstructed justice,” Pelosi said on Wednesday. How does it work? Impeachment begins in the House, which debates and votes on whether to bring charges against the president via approval of an impeachment resolution, or "articles of impeachment," by a simple majority of the House`s 435 members. If the House approves such a resolution, a trial is held in the 100-member Senate. House members act as the prosecutors; the senators as jurors; the chief justice of the Supreme Court presides. A two-thirds vote of the senators is needed to convict and remove a president from office. This has never happened. Presidents Andrew Johnson in 1868 and Bill Clinton in 1998 were impeached by the House, but both of them remained in office after being acquitted by the Senate. President Richard Nixon resigned in 1974 before Congress could impeach him. Supreme Court Trump has said on Twitter that he would ask the Supreme Court to intervene if Democrats tried to impeach him. But the founders explicitly rejected making a Senate conviction appealable to the federal judiciary. Standards of Proof In a typical criminal court case, jurors are told to convict only if there is "proof beyond a reasonable doubt," a fairly stringent standard. Impeachment proceedings are different. The House and Senate can set their own standards for proof. Before he became president in 1974, Republican Vice President Gerald Ford said: "An impeachable offence is whatever a majority of the House of Representatives considers it to be at a given moment in history." Ford replaced Nixon. Party Breakdown The House has 235 Democrats, 197 Republicans and three vacant seats. As a result, the Democrats could impeach Trump with no Republican support. In 1998, when Republicans had a House majority, the chamber voted largely along party lines to impeach Clinton, a Democrat. The Senate now has 53 Republicans, 45 Democrats and two independents who usually vote with the Democrats. Conviction and removal of a president would require 67 votes. So, for Trump to be removed from office, at least 20 Republicans and all the Democrats and independents would have to vote to convict. Who would replace Trump? In the unlikely event the Senate convicted Trump, Vice President Mike Pence would become president for the remainder of Trump`s term, which ends on Jan. 20, 2021.

Impeachment is not a quick bye, bye birdie: Nancy  Pelosi

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-pro-impeachment-republican-total-lightweight-219968">Donald Trump</a>, engaged in personal attacks on House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi, retweeted a heavily edited video that falsely claimed the Democratic leader had difficulty speaking to reporters.

In a Twitter posting late on Thursday, the Republican president wrote, "PELOSI STAMMERS THROUGH NEWS CONFERENCE." Accompanying the tweet was a heavily edited Fox Business Network clip of Pelosi's 23-minute news conference earlier in the day.

At the bottom of the Fox Business screen is the headline, "Pelosi Urges Trump 'Intervention"; Stammers Through News Conference." The one-minute-and-47-second segment included critical commentary about Pelosi.

During her news conference on Thursday, Pelosi suggested that Trump aides or family members hold an "intervention" with him to address his anger over House investigations of the president and his business dealings.

In recent days, as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-pelosi-trade-barbs-as-impeachment-talk-stirs-anger-221219">Trump ramped up his attacks on Pelosi</a>, some heavily edited videos have circulated on the internet that alter the cadence of her words by slowing them down, making her speech seem slurred when in fact it is not.

A Reuters review of Pelosi's news conference on Thursday shows her covering a wide range of topics and speaking in a mostly animated way, jousting with reporters at times and at other times reading from a statement.

Like many politicians, she occasionally stumbled over a word before correcting herself.

Without reading from a statement, Pelosi discussed infrastructure investments throughout US history. She recounted actions taken during President Thomas Jefferson's administration during the early 1800s and moved effortlessly through the presidencies of Theodore Roosevelt 100 years later and Dwight Eisenhower in the middle of the 20th century.

Nonetheless, the Fox Business video depicted Pelosi stumbling over words and replayed four times in rapid succession the speaker holding up two fingers when talking about "three things" related to House investigations of Trump.

In the actual video of the news conference, she mistakenly held up two fingers when talking about those three elements, but then corrected herself by holding up three fingers.

At the White House on Friday, before departing on a trip to Japan, Trump was asked by a reporter about altered videos of Pelosi.

He responded that he did not know anything about the videos, and echoed an assertion he made on Thursday that the speaker, who is 79, has "lost it."

"Look, you think Nancy is the same as she was? She's not. Maybe we can all say that" Trump, 72, said on Friday.

He <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-speaker-nancy-pelosi-says-trump-is-engaged-in-a-cover-up-220648">blamed Pelosi</a> for starting the fight. "She said terrible things. So I just responded in kind."

The White House did not respond to further requests for comment.

Watch: Japan's sumo fans welcome Trump Trophy but wish he'd sit cross-legged

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A spokesman for Pelosi, asked about Trump retweeting the Fox Business video, said Republican attacks on the California congresswoman actually helped Democrats win control of the House in last November's elections when a record number of women and minorities were elected to Congress.

Senator Amy Klobuchar, who is seeking the Democratic nomination for president in next year's elections, said in an interview on CNN, "It is unbelievable to me that the president would be involved in this kind of disinformation campaign."

She said such incidents highlight the need for legislation to bring transparency to online political ads, as well as new privacy protections.

US President Donald Trump, engaged in personal attacks on House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi, retweeted a heavily edited video that falsely claimed the Democratic leader had difficulty speaking to reporters.

US President Donald Trump, engaged in personal attacks on House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi, retweeted a heavily edited video that falsely claimed the Democratic leader had difficulty speaking to reporters. In a Twitter posting late on Thursday, the Republican president wrote, "PELOSI STAMMERS THROUGH NEWS CONFERENCE." Accompanying the tweet was a heavily edited Fox Business Network clip of Pelosi's 23-minute news conference earlier in the day. At the bottom of the Fox Business screen is the headline, "Pelosi Urges Trump 'Intervention"; Stammers Through News Conference." The one-minute-and-47-second segment included critical commentary about Pelosi. During her news conference on Thursday, Pelosi suggested that Trump aides or family members hold an "intervention" with him to address his anger over House investigations of the president and his business dealings. In recent days, as Trump ramped up his attacks on Pelosi, some heavily edited videos have circulated on the internet that alter the cadence of her words by slowing them down, making her speech seem slurred when in fact it is not. A Reuters review of Pelosi's news conference on Thursday shows her covering a wide range of topics and speaking in a mostly animated way, jousting with reporters at times and at other times reading from a statement. Like many politicians, she occasionally stumbled over a word before correcting herself. Without reading from a statement, Pelosi discussed infrastructure investments throughout US history. She recounted actions taken during President Thomas Jefferson's administration during the early 1800s and moved effortlessly through the presidencies of Theodore Roosevelt 100 years later and Dwight Eisenhower in the middle of the 20th century. Nonetheless, the Fox Business video depicted Pelosi stumbling over words and replayed four times in rapid succession the speaker holding up two fingers when talking about "three things" related to House investigations of Trump. In the actual video of the news conference, she mistakenly held up two fingers when talking about those three elements, but then corrected herself by holding up three fingers. At the White House on Friday, before departing on a trip to Japan, Trump was asked by a reporter about altered videos of Pelosi. He responded that he did not know anything about the videos, and echoed an assertion he made on Thursday that the speaker, who is 79, has "lost it." "Look, you think Nancy is the same as she was? She's not. Maybe we can all say that" Trump, 72, said on Friday. He blamed Pelosi for starting the fight. "She said terrible things. So I just responded in kind." The White House did not respond to further requests for comment. Watch: Japan's sumo fans welcome Trump Trophy but wish he'd sit cross-legged × A spokesman for Pelosi, asked about Trump retweeting the Fox Business video, said Republican attacks on the California congresswoman actually helped Democrats win control of the House in last November's elections when a record number of women and minorities were elected to Congress. Senator Amy Klobuchar, who is seeking the Democratic nomination for president in next year's elections, said in an interview on CNN, "It is unbelievable to me that the president would be involved in this kind of disinformation campaign." She said such incidents highlight the need for legislation to bring transparency to online political ads, as well as new privacy protections.

Trump retweets doctored video of Pelosi to portray her as having 'lost it'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-speaker-nancy-pelosi-says-trump-is-engaged-in-a-cover-up-220648">Democratic congressional leader Nancy Pelosi</a> on Thursday said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-walks-out-on-democrats-as-impeachment-talk-heats-up-220944">Donald Trump</a> is angry that her party is not rushing to impeach him, as the relationship reached new lows with the rivals trading crude personal barbs.

It was the second straight day of a very public war of words between Trump and the speaker of the House of Representatives, who earlier questioned the president's mental fitness for office and expressed hope that those close to Trump would stage an intervention "for the good of the country."

Trump responded by branding Pelosi "crazy Nancy," in what appeared to be the first time he ascribed a pejorative nickname to the woman who is his congressional nemesis.

The back-and-forth attacks are highlighting the bitter feud that has swelled since the release last month of the special counsel's report on Russian interference in the 2016 US election.

According to Pelosi, Trump's strategy is to get his opponents to commit themselves to impeachment -- a process that would almost certainly pass in the House, and then fail in the Republican-controlled Senate, ultimately energizing Trump's core voters during his re-election bid.

"The White House is just crying out for impeachment," she told journalists.

Trump is "disappointed" that the Democrats are holding off for now, Pelosi said, even as they intensify congressional investigations into the president's links to Russia and his alleged obstruction of justice -- probes that Trump is trying to block.

"It may take us to a place that is unavoidable in terms of impeachment or not, but we're not at that place," she said.

Under pressure from the congressional probes, Trump on Thursday ordered the US intelligence community to "fully cooperate" with an investigation into what he has termed "spying" on his 2016 election campaign.

According to Trump, court-approved surveillance of his campaign's links to Russians amounted to "spying." He has even called the probe treason and indicated he would like to see criminal charges brought against his investigators.

Pelosi, who repeated her charge that Trump was engaged in a "cover-up," goaded the president, declaring that she was praying for him and that she wished "his family or his staff or his administration would have an intervention for the good of the country."

'Extremely stable genius'&nbsp;

Trump responded with demeaning accusations, branding her "crazy Nancy" and questioning her mental fitness.

"She's not the same person," he told reporters at the White House during a prolonged rant. "She's lost it."

Trump watched Pelosi during their meeting "and she was all crazy with the hands and everything," he said, waving his arms around for emphasis. "She is a mess."

The remarks came in a week of legal setbacks for Trump, including a federal judge's ruling that a House subpoena of Trump financial records was lawful.

"I think what really got to him was these court cases and the fact that the House Democratic caucus is not on a path to impeachment, and that's where he wants us to be," Pelosi said Thursday.

A day earlier Pelosi and other Democrats came to the White House to discuss infrastructure, only to have the president abruptly cancel the talks and proclaim there could be no progress on policy issues until Democrats end their "phoney" investigations.

Pelosi said Trump threw a "temper tantrum" at the meeting, pounded his fists on the table and then stormed out.

Trump vehemently disputed the account, and during his press event, Thursday took the unusual step of calling separately on five aides to defend their boss's behaviour.

"Very calm," said Kellyanne Conway, counsellor to the president. "They said you were fuming, temper tantrum, rage. It's a lie."

The president went so far as to praise himself as "an extremely stable genius," a line that swiftly boomeranged back at Trump in the form of a withering Pelosi tweet.

"When the 'extremely stable genius' starts acting more presidential, I'll be happy to work with him on infrastructure, trade and other issues," she posted on Twitter.

&nbsp;Impeachment indecision&nbsp;

Several Democratic lawmakers and 2020 presidential contenders are eager to move forward with impeachment proceedings, citing what they say is Trump's obstruction of justice and refusal to respect congressional oversight powers.

But there are concerns among senior Democrats that the impeachment tactic could backfire, energizing Trump's base ahead of the 2020 election.

Asked directly if he was seeking that outcome, Trump was cautious.

"I don't think anybody wants to be impeached," he said while expressing confidence that American voters would see the process as "a bad thing for our country."&nbsp;

Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who is close to Trump, said Democrats had hoped the Mueller report would sink the president and that they still haven't given up.

"After two years of a political rectal exam, nobody's been looked at more than Trump. They found nothing," Graham told Fox News late Wednesday.

Democrats insisting on impeachment "is just political revenge, (and) it's going to blow up in their face."

Democratic congressional leader Nancy Pelosi on Thursday said Donald Trump is angry that her party is not rushing to impeach him, as the relationship reached new lows with the rivals trading crude personal barbs.

Democratic congressional leader Nancy Pelosi on Thursday said Donald Trump is angry that her party is not rushing to impeach him, as the relationship reached new lows with the rivals trading crude personal barbs. It was the second straight day of a very public war of words between Trump and the speaker of the House of Representatives, who earlier questioned the president's mental fitness for office and expressed hope that those close to Trump would stage an intervention "for the good of the country." Trump responded by branding Pelosi "crazy Nancy," in what appeared to be the first time he ascribed a pejorative nickname to the woman who is his congressional nemesis. The back-and-forth attacks are highlighting the bitter feud that has swelled since the release last month of the special counsel's report on Russian interference in the 2016 US election. According to Pelosi, Trump's strategy is to get his opponents to commit themselves to impeachment -- a process that would almost certainly pass in the House, and then fail in the Republican-controlled Senate, ultimately energizing Trump's core voters during his re-election bid. "The White House is just crying out for impeachment," she told journalists. Trump is "disappointed" that the Democrats are holding off for now, Pelosi said, even as they intensify congressional investigations into the president's links to Russia and his alleged obstruction of justice -- probes that Trump is trying to block. "It may take us to a place that is unavoidable in terms of impeachment or not, but we're not at that place," she said. Under pressure from the congressional probes, Trump on Thursday ordered the US intelligence community to "fully cooperate" with an investigation into what he has termed "spying" on his 2016 election campaign. According to Trump, court-approved surveillance of his campaign's links to Russians amounted to "spying." He has even called the probe treason and indicated he would like to see criminal charges brought against his investigators. Pelosi, who repeated her charge that Trump was engaged in a "cover-up," goaded the president, declaring that she was praying for him and that she wished "his family or his staff or his administration would have an intervention for the good of the country." 'Extremely stable genius' Trump responded with demeaning accusations, branding her "crazy Nancy" and questioning her mental fitness. "She's not the same person," he told reporters at the White House during a prolonged rant. "She's lost it." Trump watched Pelosi during their meeting "and she was all crazy with the hands and everything," he said, waving his arms around for emphasis. "She is a mess." The remarks came in a week of legal setbacks for Trump, including a federal judge's ruling that a House subpoena of Trump financial records was lawful. "I think what really got to him was these court cases and the fact that the House Democratic caucus is not on a path to impeachment, and that's where he wants us to be," Pelosi said Thursday. A day earlier Pelosi and other Democrats came to the White House to discuss infrastructure, only to have the president abruptly cancel the talks and proclaim there could be no progress on policy issues until Democrats end their "phoney" investigations. Pelosi said Trump threw a "temper tantrum" at the meeting, pounded his fists on the table and then stormed out. Trump vehemently disputed the account, and during his press event, Thursday took the unusual step of calling separately on five aides to defend their boss's behaviour. "Very calm," said Kellyanne Conway, counsellor to the president. "They said you were fuming, temper tantrum, rage. It's a lie." The president went so far as to praise himself as "an extremely stable genius," a line that swiftly boomeranged back at Trump in the form of a withering Pelosi tweet. "When the 'extremely stable genius' starts acting more presidential, I'll be happy to work with him on infrastructure, trade and other issues," she posted on Twitter. Impeachment indecision Several Democratic lawmakers and 2020 presidential contenders are eager to move forward with impeachment proceedings, citing what they say is Trump's obstruction of justice and refusal to respect congressional oversight powers. But there are concerns among senior Democrats that the impeachment tactic could backfire, energizing Trump's base ahead of the 2020 election. Asked directly if he was seeking that outcome, Trump was cautious. "I don't think anybody wants to be impeached," he said while expressing confidence that American voters would see the process as "a bad thing for our country." Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who is close to Trump, said Democrats had hoped the Mueller report would sink the president and that they still haven't given up. "After two years of a political rectal exam, nobody's been looked at more than Trump. They found nothing," Graham told Fox News late Wednesday. Democrats insisting on impeachment "is just political revenge, (and) it's going to blow up in their face."

Trump, Pelosi trade barbs as impeachment talk stirs anger

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