NATO and Russia did not make significant progress on saving the Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF) in talks at the alliance headquarters on Friday, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said.

Barring a last-minute decision by Russia to destroy a new medium-range missile that <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/two-us-soldiers-killed-in-afghanistan-nato-230514&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwipxeKE553jAhVUg-YKHRw9A_cQFjAAegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw32BVzsLyKd1nw__K9YRz9E">NATO</a> says violates the INF, the United States is set to pull out of the accord on Aug. 2, arguing that it needs to develop its own warheads to deter Moscow.

Moscow says it is fully compliant with the INF treaty negotiated by <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-treated-us-unfairly-says-trump-during-state-of-the-union-address-195468&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwipxeKE553jAhVUg-YKHRw9A_cQFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3IZsdXI7UaWUwfigXpnSKi">US&nbsp;President</a> Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, which eliminated the medium-range missile arsenals of the world's two biggest nuclear powers.

"We have not seen any signs of a breakthrough," Stoltenberg told reporters after a meeting of the NATO-Russia Council, a closed-door forum that allows for dialogue between the two sides' diplomats and officials.

Stoltenberg said the chances of a resolution were "going down, day by day" but that <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/opinions/russias-resurgence-and-chinas-rise-will-test-nato-219295&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwipxeKE553jAhVUg-YKHRw9A_cQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw15HleKAxQr69Ybh6oAlcW4">NATO</a> had not given up on trying to convince Moscow to destroy the SSC-8 ground-launched cruise missile, which it says the treaty ban on land-based missiles with a range of 500 km to 5,500 km (300-3,400 miles).

The breakdown of the treaty, the latest in a growing list of East-West tensions, is of grave concern because medium-range rockets would allow Russia to launch a nuclear attack on Europe at very short notice, Western experts and officials say.

NATO and Russia did not make significant progress on saving the Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF) in talks at the alliance headquarters on Friday, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said.

NATO and Russia did not make significant progress on saving the Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF) in talks at the alliance headquarters on Friday, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said. Barring a last-minute decision by Russia to destroy a new medium-range missile that NATO says violates the INF, the United States is set to pull out of the accord on Aug. 2, arguing that it needs to develop its own warheads to deter Moscow. Moscow says it is fully compliant with the INF treaty negotiated by US President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, which eliminated the medium-range missile arsenals of the world's two biggest nuclear powers. "We have not seen any signs of a breakthrough," Stoltenberg told reporters after a meeting of the NATO-Russia Council, a closed-door forum that allows for dialogue between the two sides' diplomats and officials. Stoltenberg said the chances of a resolution were "going down, day by day" but that NATO had not given up on trying to convince Moscow to destroy the SSC-8 ground-launched cruise missile, which it says the treaty ban on land-based missiles with a range of 500 km to 5,500 km (300-3,400 miles). The breakdown of the treaty, the latest in a growing list of East-West tensions, is of grave concern because medium-range rockets would allow Russia to launch a nuclear attack on Europe at very short notice, Western experts and officials say.

No breakthrough with Russia on INF treaty dispute: NATO's Stoltenberg

The US on Thursday warned European countries they were making a "bad decision" by leaving their nationals who fought with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belgium-takes-back-six-islamic-state-children-227306">Islamic State group</a> in Syria instead of repatriating them to face justice.

The collapse of the IS "caliphate" has left <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/islamic-state-in-afghanistan-aspires-to-attack-us-marine-general-frank-mckenzie-226736">US-backed Syrian rebel forces</a> holding thousands of foreign fighters and many Western countries are reluctant to take them back due to public opposition and fears they could pose a threat.

But James Jeffrey, the US special representative on Syria and Washington's ambassador to the global coalition to defeat ISIS, said that by dodging their responsibility for their citizens, rich countries were risking fresh violence.

"We're talking about countries with per capita incomes about the same as the United States... putting the burden on informal local authorities who are detached from a state structure in the middle of a war zone," Jeffrey told reporters at a meeting of the coalition in Brussels.

"That's a bad decision. Period. If those people break out -&nbsp;many of them are dangerous -&nbsp;they will kill people."

Repatriation is a sensitive issue for Western nations such as France and Britain, which have suffered attacks by homegrown extremists and have little interest in seeing more return.

Britain has even gone as far as stripping some former IS fighters and supporters of citizenship, but the US insists they should be brought home to face the courts.

"They should be prevented from killing people and the best way to do that is to bring them back to Europe and to deal with them in the justice systems of the respective countries," Jeffrey said.&nbsp;

"That's what we're doing in the relatively limited number of cases we have. But we are doing it, why can't they?"

As well as opposition to the cost of detaining the fighters, there are also worries that it could prove difficult to successfully prosecute fighters in European courts for crimes committed in Iraq or Syria.

The coalition met on the sidelines of a NATO defence ministers' gathering, and Jeffrey said the new US Acting Defense Secretary Mark Esper wanted allies to help the fight against the last remnants of IS in northeast Syria.

The Syrian civil war is likely to come up when Trump meets President Vladimir Putin of Russia -&nbsp;the Syrian government's key backer -&nbsp;at the G20 which starts in Osaka, Japan on Friday.

Jeffrey said the US was in constant contact with Russia over the conflict and had warned Moscow that any use of chemical weapons in the regime's ongoing assault on the city of Idlib could trigger a military response.

"If chemical weapons are used in Idlib, which is always a possibility, we have made it clear that we will take very very firm action," Jeffrey said, pointing out that the US has already carried out strikes in retaliation for Syrian chemical weapons attacks twice.

The US on Thursday warned European countries they were making a "bad decision" by leaving their nationals who fought with the Islamic State group in Syria instead of repatriating them to face justice.

The US on Thursday warned European countries they were making a "bad decision" by leaving their nationals who fought with the Islamic State group in Syria instead of repatriating them to face justice. The collapse of the IS "caliphate" has left US-backed Syrian rebel forces holding thousands of foreign fighters and many Western countries are reluctant to take them back due to public opposition and fears they could pose a threat. But James Jeffrey, the US special representative on Syria and Washington's ambassador to the global coalition to defeat ISIS, said that by dodging their responsibility for their citizens, rich countries were risking fresh violence. "We're talking about countries with per capita incomes about the same as the United States... putting the burden on informal local authorities who are detached from a state structure in the middle of a war zone," Jeffrey told reporters at a meeting of the coalition in Brussels. "That's a bad decision. Period. If those people break out - many of them are dangerous - they will kill people." Repatriation is a sensitive issue for Western nations such as France and Britain, which have suffered attacks by homegrown extremists and have little interest in seeing more return. Britain has even gone as far as stripping some former IS fighters and supporters of citizenship, but the US insists they should be brought home to face the courts. "They should be prevented from killing people and the best way to do that is to bring them back to Europe and to deal with them in the justice systems of the respective countries," Jeffrey said. "That's what we're doing in the relatively limited number of cases we have. But we are doing it, why can't they?" As well as opposition to the cost of detaining the fighters, there are also worries that it could prove difficult to successfully prosecute fighters in European courts for crimes committed in Iraq or Syria. The coalition met on the sidelines of a NATO defence ministers' gathering, and Jeffrey said the new US Acting Defense Secretary Mark Esper wanted allies to help the fight against the last remnants of IS in northeast Syria. The Syrian civil war is likely to come up when Trump meets President Vladimir Putin of Russia - the Syrian government's key backer - at the G20 which starts in Osaka, Japan on Friday. Jeffrey said the US was in constant contact with Russia over the conflict and had warned Moscow that any use of chemical weapons in the regime's ongoing assault on the city of Idlib could trigger a military response. "If chemical weapons are used in Idlib, which is always a possibility, we have made it clear that we will take very very firm action," Jeffrey said, pointing out that the US has already carried out strikes in retaliation for Syrian chemical weapons attacks twice.

Bad decision by Europe to leave its nationals who fought for Islamic State in Syria: US

Two US service members were killed in Afghanistan on Wednesday, NATO said, the latest international casualties as the US and the Taliban prepare for a new round of talks.&nbsp;

NATO's Resolute Support mission in Afghanistan gave no further details, but the deaths came less than 24 hours after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made an unannounced visit to Kabul and said he hopes for a peace deal with the Taliban "before September 1".&nbsp;

"In accordance with US Department of Defence policy, the names of the service members are being withheld until 24 hours after notification of next of kin is complete," NATO said in a statement.

No group immediately claimed responsibility for the incident, but previous attacks on US-led NATO forces have been claimed by the Taliban.

The blast brings to nine the number of US service members killed in Afghanistan so far this year, compared to 12 killed in all of 2018.

In his visit with President Ashraf Ghani, Pompeo said peace was Washington's "highest priority". Last September the US began a fresh push to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table to end America's longest war.

The next round of talks between the Taliban and the US are set to begin on June 29 in Doha.

The talks have centred on four issues: counter-terrorism, the foreign troop presence, an intra-Afghan dialogue, and a permanent ceasefire.

The US now has some 14,000 troops in Afghanistan -- down from a peak of around 100,000 -- most of them deployed to train and advise Afghan counterparts.

Nearly 2,300 American soldiers have died and more than 20,400 have been wounded in the country since a US-led coalition ousted the Taliban in 2001.

Two US service members were killed in Afghanistan on Wednesday, NATO said, the latest international casualties as the US and the Taliban prepare for a new round of talks.

Two US service members were killed in Afghanistan on Wednesday, NATO said, the latest international casualties as the US and the Taliban prepare for a new round of talks. NATO's Resolute Support mission in Afghanistan gave no further details, but the deaths came less than 24 hours after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made an unannounced visit to Kabul and said he hopes for a peace deal with the Taliban "before September 1". "In accordance with US Department of Defence policy, the names of the service members are being withheld until 24 hours after notification of next of kin is complete," NATO said in a statement. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the incident, but previous attacks on US-led NATO forces have been claimed by the Taliban. The blast brings to nine the number of US service members killed in Afghanistan so far this year, compared to 12 killed in all of 2018. In his visit with President Ashraf Ghani, Pompeo said peace was Washington's "highest priority". Last September the US began a fresh push to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table to end America's longest war. The next round of talks between the Taliban and the US are set to begin on June 29 in Doha. The talks have centred on four issues: counter-terrorism, the foreign troop presence, an intra-Afghan dialogue, and a permanent ceasefire. The US now has some 14,000 troops in Afghanistan -- down from a peak of around 100,000 -- most of them deployed to train and advise Afghan counterparts. Nearly 2,300 American soldiers have died and more than 20,400 have been wounded in the country since a US-led coalition ousted the Taliban in 2001.

Two US soldiers killed in Afghanistan: NATO

The United States President Donald Trump has nominated Mark Esper to be the Secretary of Defence, the White House said late Friday, news agency AFP reported.

Esper, who is Secretary of the Army, was named acting Pentagon chief after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/patrick-shanahan-withdraws-from-consideration-to-be-us-defence-secretary-228501">Patrick Shanahan withdrew his name from consideration</a> for the role this week, citing family concerns.

Trump also said he plans to nominate David Norquist, who currently serves as the Pentagon's comptroller, to be deputy defence secretary.

Esper, who is yet to be confirmed by the Senate, is the third man to lead the Pentagon in last six months.&nbsp;

He replaces Shanahan who was thrust into the role in an acting capacity in January after Jim Mattis abruptly resigned over policy differences with Trump.&nbsp;

Unlike Shanahan, who had no military experience, 55-year-old Esper served in the 1991 Gulf War as part of the famous 101st Airborne Division of the US Army.

Esper had been a senior executive at the Raytheon defence firm for seven years when he was tapped by Trump to be Army Secretary in 2017.

Meanwhile, as acting Secretary&nbsp;Esper will make his international debut as he&nbsp;will travel to the NATO Defence Ministerial meeting in Brussels later this week.

"The focus of his meetings will be reinforcing the US commitment to strengthening the NATO alliance, ensuring more equitable burden sharing, bolstering NATO readiness and addressing regional security issues," the statement said.

The meeting comes as NATO grapples with a dispute between alliance members the United States and Turkey over Ankara's decision to purchase a Russian air defence system.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

The United States President Donald Trump has nominated Mark Esper to be the Secretary of Defence, the White House said late Friday, news agency AFP reported. Esper, who is Secretary of the Army, was named acting Pentagon chief after Patrick Shanahan withdrew his name from consideration for the role this week, citing family concerns.

The United States President Donald Trump has nominated Mark Esper to be the Secretary of Defence, the White House said late Friday, news agency AFP reported. Esper, who is Secretary of the Army, was named acting Pentagon chief after Patrick Shanahan withdrew his name from consideration for the role this week, citing family concerns. Trump also said he plans to nominate David Norquist, who currently serves as the Pentagon's comptroller, to be deputy defence secretary. Esper, who is yet to be confirmed by the Senate, is the third man to lead the Pentagon in last six months. He replaces Shanahan who was thrust into the role in an acting capacity in January after Jim Mattis abruptly resigned over policy differences with Trump. Unlike Shanahan, who had no military experience, 55-year-old Esper served in the 1991 Gulf War as part of the famous 101st Airborne Division of the US Army. Esper had been a senior executive at the Raytheon defence firm for seven years when he was tapped by Trump to be Army Secretary in 2017. Meanwhile, as acting Secretary Esper will make his international debut as he will travel to the NATO Defence Ministerial meeting in Brussels later this week. "The focus of his meetings will be reinforcing the US commitment to strengthening the NATO alliance, ensuring more equitable burden sharing, bolstering NATO readiness and addressing regional security issues," the statement said. The meeting comes as NATO grapples with a dispute between alliance members the United States and Turkey over Ankara's decision to purchase a Russian air defence system. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump nominates Mark Esper as Secretary of Defence: White House

Two top US senators have moved an amendment to change the US Armed Controls Export Act to bring India on a par with NATO allies, Israel, Australia, New Zealand and Korea for purposes of selling military items under the ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) list.

India can soon get Nato ally-like status

A car bomb targeting a US convoy exploded in the Afghan capital on Friday, wounding four US service members and causing a number of other casualties, officials said, in the second attack in the city in two days.

The Taliban claimed responsibility for the blast, which came a day after the Islamic State militant group claimed a suicide attack outside a military training academy that killed at least six people.

A spokesman for US Forces in Afghanistan said a car bomb hit a US convoy and four service members had suffered minor injuries but gave no other details.

However, there were conflicting reports about the total number of casualties caused by the blast.

An Afghan security official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak publicly, said as many as nine people had been killed and six civilians wounded in the blast.

The Taliban's main spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, said in a statement the attack targeted a convoy of foreign forces, killing 10 of them and destroying two vehicles.

The explosion, which sent a plume of white smoke into the sky, occurred on the busy Jalalabad road in the city's east, an area with several large security compounds which has seen repeated attacks over the years.

Photographs circulating on social media showed a heavily damaged white armoured Land Cruiser of a type often used by international organisations, surrounded by firefighters.

Kabul has been on high alert, with security checkpoints reinforced across the city, in recent days.

Friday's attack, shortly before next week's Eid holiday, came as a delegation of Taliban officials met senior Afghan politicians in Moscow for discussions about a possible peace process to end 18 years of war in Afghanistan.

The Taliban have been talking with US diplomats for several months about plans to agree a withdrawal of more than 20,000 US and NATO coalition troops in exchange for an agreement to prevent Afghanistan from once again being used as a base for militant attacks.

A car bomb targeting a US convoy exploded in the Afghan capital on Friday, wounding four US service members and causing a number of other casualties, officials said, in the second attack in the city in two days.

A car bomb targeting a US convoy exploded in the Afghan capital on Friday, wounding four US service members and causing a number of other casualties, officials said, in the second attack in the city in two days. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the blast, which came a day after the Islamic State militant group claimed a suicide attack outside a military training academy that killed at least six people. A spokesman for US Forces in Afghanistan said a car bomb hit a US convoy and four service members had suffered minor injuries but gave no other details. However, there were conflicting reports about the total number of casualties caused by the blast. An Afghan security official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak publicly, said as many as nine people had been killed and six civilians wounded in the blast. The Taliban's main spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, said in a statement the attack targeted a convoy of foreign forces, killing 10 of them and destroying two vehicles. The explosion, which sent a plume of white smoke into the sky, occurred on the busy Jalalabad road in the city's east, an area with several large security compounds which has seen repeated attacks over the years. Photographs circulating on social media showed a heavily damaged white armoured Land Cruiser of a type often used by international organisations, surrounded by firefighters. Kabul has been on high alert, with security checkpoints reinforced across the city, in recent days. Friday's attack, shortly before next week's Eid holiday, came as a delegation of Taliban officials met senior Afghan politicians in Moscow for discussions about a possible peace process to end 18 years of war in Afghanistan. The Taliban have been talking with US diplomats for several months about plans to agree a withdrawal of more than 20,000 US and NATO coalition troops in exchange for an agreement to prevent Afghanistan from once again being used as a base for militant attacks.

Afghanistan: At least nine killed, six injured as blast hits Kabul, says security official

Two guards loyal to Khalifa Haftar's self-styled Libyan National Army were killed in an attack Saturday claimed by the Islamic State group, an LNA source said.

Four guards were also kidnapped in the attack on a checkpoint in the central region of Zella, the same source said.

IS said in a brief statement that it had targeted "Haftar's militias".

The media arm of Haftar's LNA said in a statement a "terrorist attack" had been repelled but did not give any details.

The raid in Zella, close to an oilfield some 800 kilometres (500 miles) southeast of the capital Tripoli, is the third IS attack targeting Haftar's forces in recent weeks.

At least nine people were killed in a May 4 attack in the southern city of Sebha, then five days later gunmen killed two civilians in Ghodwa in southern Libya.

The LNA launched an operation in January to purge southern Libya "of terrorist groups and criminals".&nbsp;

After securing support from local tribes, it seized several towns.&nbsp;

Haftar then launched an offensive on April 4 against Tripoli, the seat of the internationally recognised Government of National Accord (GNA).

The LNA made initial gains but pro-GNA forces launched a counter-offensive, resulting in a stalemate on the southern outskirts of the city.

The fighting around Tripoli between Libya's two main factions has created fears that IS could re-emerge in the country.

The jihadists were pushed out of their stronghold Sirte by forces loyal to the GNA in December 2016.

But despite losing its main territory, east of Tripoli, IS has repeatedly shown itself capable of launching deadly attacks.

Libya has been mired in chaos since the NATO-backed uprising that deposed and killed dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011.

Two guards loyal to Khalifa Haftar's self-styled Libyan National Army were killed in an attack Saturday claimed by the Islamic State group, an LNA source said. Four guards were also kidnapped in the attack on a checkpoint in the central region of Zella, the same source said.

Two guards loyal to Khalifa Haftar's self-styled Libyan National Army were killed in an attack Saturday claimed by the Islamic State group, an LNA source said. Four guards were also kidnapped in the attack on a checkpoint in the central region of Zella, the same source said. IS said in a brief statement that it had targeted "Haftar's militias". The media arm of Haftar's LNA said in a statement a "terrorist attack" had been repelled but did not give any details. The raid in Zella, close to an oilfield some 800 kilometres (500 miles) southeast of the capital Tripoli, is the third IS attack targeting Haftar's forces in recent weeks. At least nine people were killed in a May 4 attack in the southern city of Sebha, then five days later gunmen killed two civilians in Ghodwa in southern Libya. The LNA launched an operation in January to purge southern Libya "of terrorist groups and criminals". After securing support from local tribes, it seized several towns. Haftar then launched an offensive on April 4 against Tripoli, the seat of the internationally recognised Government of National Accord (GNA). The LNA made initial gains but pro-GNA forces launched a counter-offensive, resulting in a stalemate on the southern outskirts of the city. The fighting around Tripoli between Libya's two main factions has created fears that IS could re-emerge in the country. The jihadists were pushed out of their stronghold Sirte by forces loyal to the GNA in December 2016. But despite losing its main territory, east of Tripoli, IS has repeatedly shown itself capable of launching deadly attacks. Libya has been mired in chaos since the NATO-backed uprising that deposed and killed dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011.

Two dead in Libya attack claimed by Islamic State: Report

The United States has asked Turkey to delay taking delivery of the S-400 Russian missile defence system, currently scheduled for July, in return for potentially approving the formation of a working group that Ankara has sought to establish, a source familiar with the matter said on Monday.

But a senior Turkish official reiterated Ankara's position that it would not back down from its planned purchase of the system, a procurement that has widened a diplomatic rift between the two NATO allies.

"We will buy the s-400s in July. Our position has not changed," he said.

But the source said talks on the issue continued.

US officials have called Turkey's planned purchase of the S-400 missile defence system "deeply problematic," saying it would risk Ankara's partnership in the joint strike fighter F-35 program because it would compromise the jets, made by Lockheed Martin Corp.

The United States and other NATO allies that own F-35s fear the radar on the system will learn how to spot and track the jet, making it less able to evade Russian weapons.

Ankara has been pushing Washington to establish a working group to assess the risks the system would be posing to the F-35 jet. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had dismissed the proposal but there has been a renewed effort in Washington to try to use the offer to open a channel for further dialogue with Ankara, another source briefed on the matter said.

The disagreement is the latest in a series of diplomatic disputes between the United States and Turkey. They include Turkish demands that Washington extradites cleric Fethullah Gulen, differences over Middle East policy and the war in Syria, and sanctions on Iran.

In protest at Ankara's planned Russian missile defence system purchase, the United States in late March halted delivery of equipment related to the stealthy F-35 fighter aircraft to Turkey.

On Monday, the top civilian in the US Air Force, Secretary Heather Wilson, confirmed to reporters in Washington on Monday that shipments of F-35 support gear to Turkey were still halted. She added that discussions were ongoing regarding those shipments.

But Wilson said Turkish pilots continued their F-35 training program in Arizona.

The United States has asked Turkey to delay taking delivery of the S-400 Russian missile defence system, currently scheduled for July, in return for potentially approving the formation of a working group that Ankara has sought to establish, a source familiar with the matter said on Monday.

The United States has asked Turkey to delay taking delivery of the S-400 Russian missile defence system, currently scheduled for July, in return for potentially approving the formation of a working group that Ankara has sought to establish, a source familiar with the matter said on Monday. But a senior Turkish official reiterated Ankara's position that it would not back down from its planned purchase of the system, a procurement that has widened a diplomatic rift between the two NATO allies. "We will buy the s-400s in July. Our position has not changed," he said. But the source said talks on the issue continued. US officials have called Turkey's planned purchase of the S-400 missile defence system "deeply problematic," saying it would risk Ankara's partnership in the joint strike fighter F-35 program because it would compromise the jets, made by Lockheed Martin Corp. The United States and other NATO allies that own F-35s fear the radar on the system will learn how to spot and track the jet, making it less able to evade Russian weapons. Ankara has been pushing Washington to establish a working group to assess the risks the system would be posing to the F-35 jet. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had dismissed the proposal but there has been a renewed effort in Washington to try to use the offer to open a channel for further dialogue with Ankara, another source briefed on the matter said. The disagreement is the latest in a series of diplomatic disputes between the United States and Turkey. They include Turkish demands that Washington extradites cleric Fethullah Gulen, differences over Middle East policy and the war in Syria, and sanctions on Iran. In protest at Ankara's planned Russian missile defence system purchase, the United States in late March halted delivery of equipment related to the stealthy F-35 fighter aircraft to Turkey. On Monday, the top civilian in the US Air Force, Secretary Heather Wilson, confirmed to reporters in Washington on Monday that shipments of F-35 support gear to Turkey were still halted. She added that discussions were ongoing regarding those shipments. But Wilson said Turkish pilots continued their F-35 training program in Arizona.

US asks Turkey to delay taking delivery of Russian S-400 missile; Ankara unlikely to back down

The head of NATO told Britain on Tuesday it must preserve <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-executive-facing-extradition-to-appear-in-canada-court-217056">secure mobile networks</a> as it weighs the risks of allowing China to help develop its 5G infrastructure.

Jens Stoltenberg's comments in London came in the middle of a furious <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-may-sacks-defence-minister-williamson-over-huawei-leak-215201">British government debate</a> over whether to let Huawei roll out its next-generation mobile service.

The private Chinese firm currently has the most advanced and cheapest 5G capacities in the world.

But the United States has warned its close ally that it might have to limit security and intelligence sharing with Britain if it allowed China to play a significant role.

Washington's broader geopolitical concerns have been heightened by a law enacted by Beijing in 2017 obliging Chinese companies to aid the government on national security issues.

Stoltenberg said ahead of a meeting later Tuesday with British Prime Minister Theresa May that network security remained of utmost importance to the Western military alliance.

"Huawei and 5G network is extremely important," Stoltenberg told a London business conference.

He conceded that Britain and all other NATO members had the right to make their own decisions about China and 5G.

"Having said that, of course, what matters for NATO is that these decisions are made in a way that makes sure that they have secure networks," Stoltenberg said.

"There is no way we can escape addressing those issues," he added.

"We are going to make sure our networks are safe."

The Huawei debate has pushed Britain into the heart of China's heated battle for global dominance with the United States.

It has also splintered May's cabinet between those who view China as a vital trade partner in Britain's post-Brexit future and ministers who side with Washington's view of Beiging as a threat.

May fired defence minister Gavin Williamson -- one of the cabinet's big critics of China -- earlier this month over a leak alleging that her government will allow Huawei to play a limited 5G role.

The head of NATO told Britain on Tuesday it must preserve secure mobile networks as it weighs the risks of allowing China to help develop its 5G infrastructure. Jens Stoltenberg's comments in London came in the middle of a furious British government debate over whether to let Huawei roll out its next-generation mobile service.

The head of NATO told Britain on Tuesday it must preserve secure mobile networks as it weighs the risks of allowing China to help develop its 5G infrastructure. Jens Stoltenberg's comments in London came in the middle of a furious British government debate over whether to let Huawei roll out its next-generation mobile service. The private Chinese firm currently has the most advanced and cheapest 5G capacities in the world. But the United States has warned its close ally that it might have to limit security and intelligence sharing with Britain if it allowed China to play a significant role. Washington's broader geopolitical concerns have been heightened by a law enacted by Beijing in 2017 obliging Chinese companies to aid the government on national security issues. Stoltenberg said ahead of a meeting later Tuesday with British Prime Minister Theresa May that network security remained of utmost importance to the Western military alliance. "Huawei and 5G network is extremely important," Stoltenberg told a London business conference. He conceded that Britain and all other NATO members had the right to make their own decisions about China and 5G. "Having said that, of course, what matters for NATO is that these decisions are made in a way that makes sure that they have secure networks," Stoltenberg said. "There is no way we can escape addressing those issues," he added. "We are going to make sure our networks are safe." The Huawei debate has pushed Britain into the heart of China's heated battle for global dominance with the United States. It has also splintered May's cabinet between those who view China as a vital trade partner in Britain's post-Brexit future and ministers who side with Washington's view of Beiging as a threat. May fired defence minister Gavin Williamson -- one of the cabinet's big critics of China -- earlier this month over a leak alleging that her government will allow Huawei to play a limited 5G role.

NATO chief Stoltenberg warns Britain over Huawei risk

US and Chinese officials say a historic deal ending their ongoing trade war could be imminent, but a key question is how can Washington be sure Beijing will live up to its end of the bargain?

With up to 100 Chinese officials reportedly expected next week in Washington, with the possibility of unveiling a grand agreement after months of tensions, that question is hanging over the talks.

Beijing may make eye-popping offers to buy American energy and agriculture exports as a means of cutting the soaring US-China trade deficit ($378.7 billion in 2018, including services trade), but all eyes will be on whether the agreement has any teeth.

US Vice President Mike Pence said Friday the enforcement mechanism would be key to the decision on whether to remove the punishing US tariffs which now cover more than $250 billion in Chinese imports.

"The reason enforcement has become central to this negotiation is the long history of China not living up to the spirit of the commitments it has made in the WTO and in bilateral negotiations with the US and other countries," Edward Alden, a trade expert at the Council on Foreign Relations, told AFP.

US President Donald Trump has repeatedly accused China of stealing from the United States by buying less from America than it sells.

But Trump also has demanded structural changes to the Chinese economy, including an end to the forced transfer of American technology, theft of intellectual property and the massive role the Chinese government plays in markets and industry.

US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, who is leading the US delegation along with Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, has insisted Washington will not accept empty promises and will demand verification Beijing is keeping its word.

Reaching trade agreements with China can be especially challenging, given that its regulations are not transparent, Alden said.

"China can change its laws in ways that please the United States, but then use regulatory tools to thwart implementation."

'That's the core'

To ensure strict compliance, US negotiators have proposed monthly, quarterly and semi-annual meetings, with the twice-yearly meetings to involving the most senior officials.

And should American businesses report violations of the agreement, Washington could begin a series of consultations with their Chinese counterparts, and then unilaterally impose new tariffs if no resolution is achieved, according to US media reports.

But China also would have recourse to the same tariff tool in case of a US violation.

"The enforcement mechanism is crucial to the agreement," Doug Barry, spokesman for the US-China Business Council, told AFP.

"Without a credible, time specific, verifiable means to hold parties accountable, we will miss an opportunity to put the trade relationship on a new and better footing."

Alden says the tool under discussion appears novel because bilateral free trade agreements typically resolve disputes through arbitration panels which oversee retaliatory tariffs, similar to the World Trade Organization dispute settlement process.

Businesses on both sides of the Pacific want the talks to wrap up as soon as possible to reduce uncertainty in international commerce at a time when the trade war has weighed on manufacturing sectors in both countries.

Among the top 15 US states exporting to China, many have been hit hard by China's retaliatory tariffs on soy, pork or in the aviation sector, including Alabama, Illinois and Washington State, according to the US-China Business Council.

Companies are calling for the tariffs imposed last year -- which cover more than $360 billion in two-way trade -- to be lifted.

But Washington hopes to retain the ability to resort to tariffs as a cudgel.

"We have to maintain the right to be able to -- whatever happens to the current tariffs -- to raise tariffs in situations where there are violations of the agreement," Lighthizer said in Senate testimony in March.

"That's the core. If we don't do that, then none of it makes any difference."

But, according to Alden, that could create "ongoing uncertainty" for businesses unaware of when either side could seek to impose unilateral tariffs.

US and Chinese officials say a historic deal ending their ongoing trade war could be imminent, but a key question is how can Washington be sure Beijing will live up to its end of the bargain?

US and Chinese officials say a historic deal ending their ongoing trade war could be imminent, but a key question is how can Washington be sure Beijing will live up to its end of the bargain? With up to 100 Chinese officials reportedly expected next week in Washington, with the possibility of unveiling a grand agreement after months of tensions, that question is hanging over the talks. Beijing may make eye-popping offers to buy American energy and agriculture exports as a means of cutting the soaring US-China trade deficit ($378.7 billion in 2018, including services trade), but all eyes will be on whether the agreement has any teeth. US Vice President Mike Pence said Friday the enforcement mechanism would be key to the decision on whether to remove the punishing US tariffs which now cover more than $250 billion in Chinese imports. "The reason enforcement has become central to this negotiation is the long history of China not living up to the spirit of the commitments it has made in the WTO and in bilateral negotiations with the US and other countries," Edward Alden, a trade expert at the Council on Foreign Relations, told AFP. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly accused China of stealing from the United States by buying less from America than it sells. But Trump also has demanded structural changes to the Chinese economy, including an end to the forced transfer of American technology, theft of intellectual property and the massive role the Chinese government plays in markets and industry. US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, who is leading the US delegation along with Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, has insisted Washington will not accept empty promises and will demand verification Beijing is keeping its word. Reaching trade agreements with China can be especially challenging, given that its regulations are not transparent, Alden said. "China can change its laws in ways that please the United States, but then use regulatory tools to thwart implementation." 'That's the core' To ensure strict compliance, US negotiators have proposed monthly, quarterly and semi-annual meetings, with the twice-yearly meetings to involving the most senior officials. And should American businesses report violations of the agreement, Washington could begin a series of consultations with their Chinese counterparts, and then unilaterally impose new tariffs if no resolution is achieved, according to US media reports. But China also would have recourse to the same tariff tool in case of a US violation. "The enforcement mechanism is crucial to the agreement," Doug Barry, spokesman for the US-China Business Council, told AFP. "Without a credible, time specific, verifiable means to hold parties accountable, we will miss an opportunity to put the trade relationship on a new and better footing." Alden says the tool under discussion appears novel because bilateral free trade agreements typically resolve disputes through arbitration panels which oversee retaliatory tariffs, similar to the World Trade Organization dispute settlement process. Businesses on both sides of the Pacific want the talks to wrap up as soon as possible to reduce uncertainty in international commerce at a time when the trade war has weighed on manufacturing sectors in both countries. Among the top 15 US states exporting to China, many have been hit hard by China's retaliatory tariffs on soy, pork or in the aviation sector, including Alabama, Illinois and Washington State, according to the US-China Business Council. Companies are calling for the tariffs imposed last year -- which cover more than $360 billion in two-way trade -- to be lifted. But Washington hopes to retain the ability to resort to tariffs as a cudgel. "We have to maintain the right to be able to -- whatever happens to the current tariffs -- to raise tariffs in situations where there are violations of the agreement," Lighthizer said in Senate testimony in March. "That's the core. If we don't do that, then none of it makes any difference." But, according to Alden, that could create "ongoing uncertainty" for businesses unaware of when either side could seek to impose unilateral tariffs.

US-China trade dilemma: How to hold Beijing's feet to the fire

North Macedonians return to the ballot box Sunday for a presidential run-off that risks creating a political headache for the ruling Social Democrats, whose candidate is pitted against a nationalist-backed rival.

The centre-left ruling party's Stevo Pendarovski and the right-wing pick Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova finished in a dead heat in the first round of voting last month.

The tie traced the near-even split between the pro-Western and nationalist camps who have clashed over the government's recent move to change the Balkan country's name to North Macedonia which ended a long-running row with Greece.

But a record-low turnout, at barely over 40 per cent, also reflected a failure to galvanise most of the 1.8 million voters.

If voter participation sinks below 40 per cent in Sunday's second-round runoff, the entire poll will be annulled, threatening a new period of political uncertainty in one of Europe's poorest states.

Prime Minister Zoran Zaev is confident "the elections will succeed". But if not, he said he would call a snap poll for parliament.

The presidential vote would also likely be re-run from the start, though Zaev has floated other options involving constitutional changes.

The presidency is a largely ceremonial role but the office can exercise veto powers that complicate governing.

The current president, opposition-backed Gjorge Ivanov, has been refusing to sign bills since the country changed its name to North Macedonia in protest against the deal.

Election fatigue

The small, landlocked state has weathered repeated bouts of political turmoil in recent years, with nearly 10 elections in the past decade doing little to boost the public's faith in politicians.

Turnout on Sunday will be a "challenge" in light of "election fatigue and low voter enthusiasm", said David Stephenson, a political consultant based in Skopje.

But he said the tight first round could spark more energy for the run-off.

"What's important is to elect a president in a free, fair, and democratic process," he added.

"Failure to do so risks another period of political instability, which would likely harm the country's European perspective and damage economic growth."

Zaev said he would also call an early general election in the event of a loss by 56-year-old Pendarovski, who is championing efforts to forge closer links with the West.

A victory by Siljanovska-Davkova, 63, would be a clear rebuke to a government that staked its reputation on passing the name accord with Greece earlier this year.

The addition of "North" to the country's name was a compromise to end a nearly 30-year identity row with Athens that had blocked Skopje's NATO and EU ambitions.

It remains a divisive topic and a key talking point for the presidential candidates, with Pendarovski for the deal and Siljanovska-Davkova against.

Albanian vote

Macedonia's ethnic Albanian minority, which makes up around a quarter of the population, could prove decisive on Sunday.

Their presidential candidate dropped out of the race after garnering 11 per cent in the first round.

The candidate, Blerim Reka, has not publicly backed either of the two frontrunners by name.

But he has urged Albanians to vote for the "pro-Western agenda", in what is seen as thinly-veiled support for Pendarovski.

The polls will open at 0500 GMT and close at 1700 GMT.

North Macedonians return to the ballot box Sunday for a presidential run-off that risks creating a political headache for the ruling Social Democrats, whose candidate is pitted against a nationalist-backed rival.

North Macedonians return to the ballot box Sunday for a presidential run-off that risks creating a political headache for the ruling Social Democrats, whose candidate is pitted against a nationalist-backed rival. The centre-left ruling party's Stevo Pendarovski and the right-wing pick Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova finished in a dead heat in the first round of voting last month. The tie traced the near-even split between the pro-Western and nationalist camps who have clashed over the government's recent move to change the Balkan country's name to North Macedonia which ended a long-running row with Greece. But a record-low turnout, at barely over 40 per cent, also reflected a failure to galvanise most of the 1.8 million voters. If voter participation sinks below 40 per cent in Sunday's second-round runoff, the entire poll will be annulled, threatening a new period of political uncertainty in one of Europe's poorest states. Prime Minister Zoran Zaev is confident "the elections will succeed". But if not, he said he would call a snap poll for parliament. The presidential vote would also likely be re-run from the start, though Zaev has floated other options involving constitutional changes. The presidency is a largely ceremonial role but the office can exercise veto powers that complicate governing. The current president, opposition-backed Gjorge Ivanov, has been refusing to sign bills since the country changed its name to North Macedonia in protest against the deal. Election fatigue The small, landlocked state has weathered repeated bouts of political turmoil in recent years, with nearly 10 elections in the past decade doing little to boost the public's faith in politicians. Turnout on Sunday will be a "challenge" in light of "election fatigue and low voter enthusiasm", said David Stephenson, a political consultant based in Skopje. But he said the tight first round could spark more energy for the run-off. "What's important is to elect a president in a free, fair, and democratic process," he added. "Failure to do so risks another period of political instability, which would likely harm the country's European perspective and damage economic growth." Zaev said he would also call an early general election in the event of a loss by 56-year-old Pendarovski, who is championing efforts to forge closer links with the West. A victory by Siljanovska-Davkova, 63, would be a clear rebuke to a government that staked its reputation on passing the name accord with Greece earlier this year. The addition of "North" to the country's name was a compromise to end a nearly 30-year identity row with Athens that had blocked Skopje's NATO and EU ambitions. It remains a divisive topic and a key talking point for the presidential candidates, with Pendarovski for the deal and Siljanovska-Davkova against. Albanian vote Macedonia's ethnic Albanian minority, which makes up around a quarter of the population, could prove decisive on Sunday. Their presidential candidate dropped out of the race after garnering 11 per cent in the first round. The candidate, Blerim Reka, has not publicly backed either of the two frontrunners by name. But he has urged Albanians to vote for the "pro-Western agenda", in what is seen as thinly-veiled support for Pendarovski. The polls will open at 0500 GMT and close at 1700 GMT.

Polarised North Macedonians vote for president

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-not-distancing-itself-from-nato-with-russian-missiles-deal-minister-215689">Turkey on Sunday dismissed US threats</a> of sanctions if it went ahead with a Russian missile purchase, saying it would not renege on a pledge to Moscow.

Washington has warned its NATO ally for months that Ankara's adoption of Russian S-400 missile technology alongside US F-35 fighters would pose a threat to the jets and endanger Western defence.

The US has said it will halt a joint F-35 programme with Turkey if it acquires the Russian missile defence system. A US law furthermore provides for sanctions on any country concluding arms deals with Russian companies.

"The US threats of sanctions shows that they don't know Turkey," Vice President Fuat Oktay told Kanal 7 television.

"The decision on the S-400 has been taken. Once a pact has been signed, one's word given, Turkey respects it," he said.

The S-400 purchase is one dispute fuelling tensions between two nations also at odds over US support for Syrian Kurdish militias which Ankara brands as terrorists and Turkish backing for US for Venezuela.

Ankara said the first deliveries of the S-400 are scheduled for June or July.

Last month, after repeated warnings, the United States said Turkey's decision to buy the S-400 system was incompatible with its remaining part of the emblematic F-35 jet programme.

Turkey had planned to buy 100 F-35A fighter jets, with pilots already training in the United States.

Washington has placed a freeze on the joint manufacturing operations with Turkey and suggested Ankara might be able to obtain a US missile defence system if it forgoes the one on offer from Moscow.

Turkey on Sunday dismissed US threats of sanctions if it went ahead with a Russian missile purchase, saying it would not renege on a pledge to Moscow. Washington has warned its NATO ally for months that Ankara's adoption of Russian S-400 missile technology alongside US F-35 fighters would pose a threat to the jets and endanger Western defence.

Turkey on Sunday dismissed US threats of sanctions if it went ahead with a Russian missile purchase, saying it would not renege on a pledge to Moscow. Washington has warned its NATO ally for months that Ankara's adoption of Russian S-400 missile technology alongside US F-35 fighters would pose a threat to the jets and endanger Western defence. The US has said it will halt a joint F-35 programme with Turkey if it acquires the Russian missile defence system. A US law furthermore provides for sanctions on any country concluding arms deals with Russian companies. "The US threats of sanctions shows that they don't know Turkey," Vice President Fuat Oktay told Kanal 7 television. "The decision on the S-400 has been taken. Once a pact has been signed, one's word given, Turkey respects it," he said. The S-400 purchase is one dispute fuelling tensions between two nations also at odds over US support for Syrian Kurdish militias which Ankara brands as terrorists and Turkish backing for US for Venezuela. Ankara said the first deliveries of the S-400 are scheduled for June or July. Last month, after repeated warnings, the United States said Turkey's decision to buy the S-400 system was incompatible with its remaining part of the emblematic F-35 jet programme. Turkey had planned to buy 100 F-35A fighter jets, with pilots already training in the United States. Washington has placed a freeze on the joint manufacturing operations with Turkey and suggested Ankara might be able to obtain a US missile defence system if it forgoes the one on offer from Moscow.

Turkey to buy Russian missiles despite US 'threats'

Turkey is not distancing itself from the NATO alliance by buying Russian S-400 missile defence systems, Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar said on Friday, adding that Ankara should not be excluded from the F-35 jet project over the purchases.

Turkey and the United States, NATO allies, have been at odds over Ankara`s move to buy the Russian S-400s, which Washington says are not compatible with NATO systems and may threaten the Lockheed Martin F-35 fighter jets, of which Turkey is a prospective buyer and partner in production.

In an interview with broadcaster NTV, Akar said that excluding Turkey from the F-35 project would put "very serious" burdens on the other partners in the project.

"There is no clause saying `you will be excluded if you buy S-400s` in this partnership. Excluding us just because anyone country wants so would not be in line with justice, laws or rights. This should not happen," Akar said.

He said <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/turkeys-erdogan-vows-to-confront-opponents-inside-party-after-vote-loss-213918&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwid4MGWuP_hAhULso8KHcz7C8IQFjAFegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1T4VLT-uU5SUnscjOYFyWx">Turkey </a>was trying to explain to the United States and other partners in the F-35 project that the S-400s would not pose a threat to the jets and added that Ankara had taken measures to prevent that.

In his strongest challenge yet to warnings that Turkey may be removed from the F-35 project, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/turkeys-erdogan-vows-to-confront-opponents-inside-party-after-vote-loss-213918&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwieu_2nuP_hAhUimuYKHfETC8kQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0MOGe6omXQ__c3VSuY3hDC">President Tayyip Erdogan </a>said on Tuesday that the project would collapse if Turkey did not participate.

While Washington has warned of potential US&nbsp;sanctions if Ankara pushed on with the S-400 agreement, Turkey has said it would not back down from the deal.

Instead, Turkey has proposed to form a working group with the United States to assess the impact of the S-400s but says it has not yet received a response from US officials.&nbsp;

Akar said on Friday Turkey was still evaluating the latest US offer to sell Raytheon Co. Patriot systems, which he said was more positive than Washington`s previous offers.&nbsp;

Turkey said two weeks ago it expected US&nbsp;President Donald Trump to use a waiver to protect it against penalties over the S-400s, after US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Ankara could face retribution for the deal under the US&nbsp;Countering America`s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).&nbsp;

Turkey is not distancing itself from the NATO alliance by buying Russian S-400 missile defence systems, Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar said on Friday, adding that Ankara should not be excluded from the F-35 jet project over the purchases.

Turkey is not distancing itself from the NATO alliance by buying Russian S-400 missile defence systems, Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar said on Friday, adding that Ankara should not be excluded from the F-35 jet project over the purchases. Turkey and the United States, NATO allies, have been at odds over Ankara`s move to buy the Russian S-400s, which Washington says are not compatible with NATO systems and may threaten the Lockheed Martin F-35 fighter jets, of which Turkey is a prospective buyer and partner in production. In an interview with broadcaster NTV, Akar said that excluding Turkey from the F-35 project would put "very serious" burdens on the other partners in the project. "There is no clause saying `you will be excluded if you buy S-400s` in this partnership. Excluding us just because anyone country wants so would not be in line with justice, laws or rights. This should not happen," Akar said. He said Turkey was trying to explain to the United States and other partners in the F-35 project that the S-400s would not pose a threat to the jets and added that Ankara had taken measures to prevent that. In his strongest challenge yet to warnings that Turkey may be removed from the F-35 project, President Tayyip Erdogan said on Tuesday that the project would collapse if Turkey did not participate. While Washington has warned of potential US sanctions if Ankara pushed on with the S-400 agreement, Turkey has said it would not back down from the deal. Instead, Turkey has proposed to form a working group with the United States to assess the impact of the S-400s but says it has not yet received a response from US officials. Akar said on Friday Turkey was still evaluating the latest US offer to sell Raytheon Co. Patriot systems, which he said was more positive than Washington`s previous offers. Turkey said two weeks ago it expected US President Donald Trump to use a waiver to protect it against penalties over the S-400s, after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Ankara could face retribution for the deal under the US Countering America`s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).

Turkey not distancing itself from NATO with Russian missiles deal: Minister

The US special peace envoy for Afghanistan should stop calling on the Taliban terrorists to lay down their arms and convince the United States to end the use of force instead, the Taliban said on Friday.

Zalmay Khalilzad, an Afghan-born US&nbsp;diplomat, entered the sixth round of talks with the hardline Islamist group in Qatar this week in a bid to end America's longest war.

"In our opening session, I underscored to the Talibs that the Afghan people, who are their brothers &amp; sisters, want this war to end," Khalilzad said in a tweet.

"It is time to put down arms, stop the violence, &amp; embrace peace."

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid issued a series of sharp tweets in response.

"@US4AfghanPeace (Khalilzad`s twitter handle) should forget about the idea of us putting down our arms," he said.

"Instead of such fantasies, he should drive the idea home (to the US) about ending the use of force and incurring further human and financial losses for the decaying Kabul administration."

He said the United States must stop repeating failed strategies while expecting different outcomes.&nbsp;

"It would be better if @US4AfghanPeace musters the courage to call a spade a spade, not a gardening tool &amp; accept the current realities."&nbsp;

Intense fighting continues across the country with the Taliban controlling or influencing more territory than at any point since their ouster at the hands of US-led troops following Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on the United States.

The United States has about 14,000 troops in Afghanistan as part of a NATO-led mission, known as Resolute Support, that is training and assisting the Afghan government’s security forces in their battle against Taliban fighters and extremist groups such as Islamic State and al Qaeda.

After five rounds of talks, Khalilzad reported some progress towards an accord on withdrawing US&nbsp;troops and on how the Taliban would prevent extremists from using Afghanistan to launch attacks.

The Taliban, who refuse to talk to the Afghan government, insist that talks cannot move ahead until foreign forces leave.&nbsp;

"Peace will require that we find common ground on four inter-connected issues: troop withdrawal, counter-terrorism assurances, intra-Afghan dialogue &amp; negotiations, and reduction in the violence leading to a comprehensive ceasefire," Khalilzad said in his tweet.

"Nothing will be final until we agree on all 4 issues."

The US special peace envoy for Afghanistan should stop calling on the Taliban terrorists to lay down their arms and convince the United States to end the use of force instead, the Taliban said on Friday.

The US special peace envoy for Afghanistan should stop calling on the Taliban terrorists to lay down their arms and convince the United States to end the use of force instead, the Taliban said on Friday. Zalmay Khalilzad, an Afghan-born US diplomat, entered the sixth round of talks with the hardline Islamist group in Qatar this week in a bid to end America's longest war. "In our opening session, I underscored to the Talibs that the Afghan people, who are their brothers & sisters, want this war to end," Khalilzad said in a tweet. "It is time to put down arms, stop the violence, & embrace peace." Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid issued a series of sharp tweets in response. "@US4AfghanPeace (Khalilzad`s twitter handle) should forget about the idea of us putting down our arms," he said. "Instead of such fantasies, he should drive the idea home (to the US) about ending the use of force and incurring further human and financial losses for the decaying Kabul administration." He said the United States must stop repeating failed strategies while expecting different outcomes. "It would be better if @US4AfghanPeace musters the courage to call a spade a spade, not a gardening tool & accept the current realities." Intense fighting continues across the country with the Taliban controlling or influencing more territory than at any point since their ouster at the hands of US-led troops following Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on the United States. The United States has about 14,000 troops in Afghanistan as part of a NATO-led mission, known as Resolute Support, that is training and assisting the Afghan government’s security forces in their battle against Taliban fighters and extremist groups such as Islamic State and al Qaeda. After five rounds of talks, Khalilzad reported some progress towards an accord on withdrawing US troops and on how the Taliban would prevent extremists from using Afghanistan to launch attacks. The Taliban, who refuse to talk to the Afghan government, insist that talks cannot move ahead until foreign forces leave. "Peace will require that we find common ground on four inter-connected issues: troop withdrawal, counter-terrorism assurances, intra-Afghan dialogue & negotiations, and reduction in the violence leading to a comprehensive ceasefire," Khalilzad said in his tweet. "Nothing will be final until we agree on all 4 issues."

Don't tell us to lay down arms, tell the Americans: Afghan Taliban

The US-led NATO mission in Afghanistan has stopped releasing key data on how much of the country falls under insurgent or government control, a US watchdog said Wednesday, the latest war metric to fall from public view.

NATO's Resolute Support mission previously gave a running tally on who controlled or was contesting Afghanistan's districts, and the percentage of the Afghan population this reflected.

US officials would frequently refer to the data to underscore battlefield success, but according to the US <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-military-stops-tracking-key-metric-on-afghan-war-as-situation-deteriorates-214936&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjc_q-QvPzhAhUKwI8KHXHaBZkQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3Z9CE4R3xyzy4gUtZt1dJH">Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR)</a>, Resolute Support (RS) now says these district-stability assessments are "of limited decision-making value to the (mission) commander".

The last data RS provided showed the percentage of Afghans living in areas controlled or influenced by the Kabul government slipping from 65.2 per cent to 63.5 per cent.

The downward slide undermined predictions that 80 per cent of the population would be under government control by the end of this year.

SIGAR head John Sopko said the decision to withhold the data nurtured suspicion.

"When you start hiding things like this, over-classifying... You tend to create cynicism in your populace and everybody else that you're losing, or it's bad news," Sopko told journalists ahead of the SIGAR report's release.

At the request of the Afghan government, RS has also agreed to stop publishing casualty figures for Afghan security forces.&nbsp;

The numbers showed massive losses for the local forces, reaching several thousand per year.

SIGAR's report also noted that violence in Afghanistan had increased 19 per cent between November 2018 and the end of January, compared to the previous quarter.&nbsp;

The uptick comes even as the United States tries to negotiate a peace settlement with the Taliban.

A new round of talks between the insurgents and US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad is expected to start in Qatar on Wednesday, according to the Taliban.

A possible deal to end the 17-year-old war would see foreign forces leave Afghanistan in return for the Taliban guaranteeing the country could not be used as a safe haven for terror groups.

But for enduring peace, any deal must include the Afghan government, and so far they have not been included in talks.

The US-led NATO mission in Afghanistan has stopped releasing key data on how much of the country falls under insurgent or government control, a US watchdog said Wednesday, the latest war metric to fall from public view.

The US-led NATO mission in Afghanistan has stopped releasing key data on how much of the country falls under insurgent or government control, a US watchdog said Wednesday, the latest war metric to fall from public view. NATO's Resolute Support mission previously gave a running tally on who controlled or was contesting Afghanistan's districts, and the percentage of the Afghan population this reflected. US officials would frequently refer to the data to underscore battlefield success, but according to the US Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR), Resolute Support (RS) now says these district-stability assessments are "of limited decision-making value to the (mission) commander". The last data RS provided showed the percentage of Afghans living in areas controlled or influenced by the Kabul government slipping from 65.2 per cent to 63.5 per cent. The downward slide undermined predictions that 80 per cent of the population would be under government control by the end of this year. SIGAR head John Sopko said the decision to withhold the data nurtured suspicion. "When you start hiding things like this, over-classifying... You tend to create cynicism in your populace and everybody else that you're losing, or it's bad news," Sopko told journalists ahead of the SIGAR report's release. At the request of the Afghan government, RS has also agreed to stop publishing casualty figures for Afghan security forces. The numbers showed massive losses for the local forces, reaching several thousand per year. SIGAR's report also noted that violence in Afghanistan had increased 19 per cent between November 2018 and the end of January, compared to the previous quarter. The uptick comes even as the United States tries to negotiate a peace settlement with the Taliban. A new round of talks between the insurgents and US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad is expected to start in Qatar on Wednesday, according to the Taliban. A possible deal to end the 17-year-old war would see foreign forces leave Afghanistan in return for the Taliban guaranteeing the country could not be used as a safe haven for terror groups. But for enduring peace, any deal must include the Afghan government, and so far they have not been included in talks.

NATO drops another Afghanistan war metric: US watchdog

Fierce fighting for control of Libya's capital that has already displaced tens of thousands of people threatens to bring a further worsening of humanitarian conditions, a senior UN official has warned.

"As long as the situation continues, even if it just stagnates and continues like this, we can expect to see a continuing deterioration," UN humanitarian coordinator for Libya Maria do Valle Ribeiro told AFP.

Strongman Khalifa Haftar's self-styled Libyan National Army (LNA) launched an offensive against Tripoli, the seat of the internationally recognised Government of National Accord (GNA), on April 4.

"When we see the use of air power, the indiscriminate shelling of densely populated areas, it is very difficult to be optimistic," do Valle Ribeiro, who is also the deputy UN envoy to Libya, said late Sunday.

She was speaking after air raids by the LNA on Tripoli on Saturday killed four people and wounded 20 others, according to the GNA.

"We continue to call for a respect of civilians, we continue to call for humanitarian pauses and most of all we continue to hope that the situation can return to a more peaceful settlement of the crisis," she said.

The fighting has killed at least 278 people and wounded more than 1,300, according to a toll released Wednesday by the World Health Organization.

It has also forced 41,000 people to flee combat areas around Tripoli, do Valle Ribeiro said, while many remain trapped and in need of humanitarian assistance.

Migrants at risk

Among the most vulnerable are about 3,500 migrants and refugees held in detention centres near the combat zone who are at "risk", the UN official said.

She said that 800 considered most in danger had been evacuated after the UN and rights groups said gunmen attacked a detention centre south of Tripoli last week.

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) said several migrants and refugees were shot and wounded in the attack.

Libya has been mired in chaos since the NATO-backed uprising that deposed and killed dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011.

People smugglers have taken advantage of the lawlessness, ferrying mostly sub-Saharan Africans from Libyan shores to Europe.

According to the International Organisation for Migration, some 6,000 migrants are held in official detention centres in Libya. Hundreds more are held by armed groups elsewhere in the war-hit country.

On Sunday Pope Francis called for "humanitarian corridors" to be opened to evacuate them.

The UN official also voiced concern over a breakdown in basic services, including electricity and water supplies, and said more relief funds were needed for Libya.

"We appealed for an additional 10.2 million (dollars) which doesn't cover all that we foresee... but it covers at least the essential response for the first three, four weeks," she said.

During the first week of fighting, she said, "over a million schoolbooks" that were stored in a warehouse of the ministry of education were destroyed when the compound was hit.&nbsp;

"Symbolically, it says a lot about the impact of such strife and clashes on not just the immediate survival of people but on the future of Tripoli children."

Fierce fighting for control of Libya's capital that has already displaced tens of thousands of people threatens to bring a further worsening of humanitarian conditions, a senior UN official has warned.

Fierce fighting for control of Libya's capital that has already displaced tens of thousands of people threatens to bring a further worsening of humanitarian conditions, a senior UN official has warned. "As long as the situation continues, even if it just stagnates and continues like this, we can expect to see a continuing deterioration," UN humanitarian coordinator for Libya Maria do Valle Ribeiro told AFP. Strongman Khalifa Haftar's self-styled Libyan National Army (LNA) launched an offensive against Tripoli, the seat of the internationally recognised Government of National Accord (GNA), on April 4. "When we see the use of air power, the indiscriminate shelling of densely populated areas, it is very difficult to be optimistic," do Valle Ribeiro, who is also the deputy UN envoy to Libya, said late Sunday. She was speaking after air raids by the LNA on Tripoli on Saturday killed four people and wounded 20 others, according to the GNA. "We continue to call for a respect of civilians, we continue to call for humanitarian pauses and most of all we continue to hope that the situation can return to a more peaceful settlement of the crisis," she said. The fighting has killed at least 278 people and wounded more than 1,300, according to a toll released Wednesday by the World Health Organization. It has also forced 41,000 people to flee combat areas around Tripoli, do Valle Ribeiro said, while many remain trapped and in need of humanitarian assistance. Migrants at risk Among the most vulnerable are about 3,500 migrants and refugees held in detention centres near the combat zone who are at "risk", the UN official said. She said that 800 considered most in danger had been evacuated after the UN and rights groups said gunmen attacked a detention centre south of Tripoli last week. Doctors Without Borders (MSF) said several migrants and refugees were shot and wounded in the attack. Libya has been mired in chaos since the NATO-backed uprising that deposed and killed dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011. People smugglers have taken advantage of the lawlessness, ferrying mostly sub-Saharan Africans from Libyan shores to Europe. According to the International Organisation for Migration, some 6,000 migrants are held in official detention centres in Libya. Hundreds more are held by armed groups elsewhere in the war-hit country. On Sunday Pope Francis called for "humanitarian corridors" to be opened to evacuate them. The UN official also voiced concern over a breakdown in basic services, including electricity and water supplies, and said more relief funds were needed for Libya. "We appealed for an additional 10.2 million (dollars) which doesn't cover all that we foresee... but it covers at least the essential response for the first three, four weeks," she said. During the first week of fighting, she said, "over a million schoolbooks" that were stored in a warehouse of the ministry of education were destroyed when the compound was hit. "Symbolically, it says a lot about the impact of such strife and clashes on not just the immediate survival of people but on the future of Tripoli children."

United Nations warns of worsening humanitarian situation in Libya

Air raids by the self-styled Libyan National Army against the capital on Saturday night killed four people and wounded 20 others, Libya's internationally recognised unity government said.

But Amin al-Hachemi, a spokesman for the Government of National Accord's healthy ministry, on Sunday warned that "the death toll could increase in the coming hours".

A pro-GNA military source said the victims were civilians.

"Several sites were targeted by air strikes late Saturday night, causing victims among civilians," the source told AFP.&nbsp;

"Most of the strikes hit areas in the district of Abou Slim... (but) none hit military targets."

Strongman Khalifa Haftar's LNA launched an offensive against Tripoli, the seat of the GNA, on April 4.

But after initial gains, Haftar's forces have encountered stiff resistance on the southern outskirts and his troops have been pushed back in some areas.

At least 278 people have been killed and more than 1,300 wounded in the clashes, according to a toll released Wednesday by the World Health Organization.

The GNA accuses Haftar of using foreign planes to carry out air strikes, without naming a country of origin.&nbsp;

"This criminal conceals his failures and those of his soldiers at the gates of Tripoli by resorting to foreign aviation to hit unarmed civilians in the city," spokesman Mohanad Younes said on the GNA's official Facebook page.&nbsp;

Haftar's offensive has sharpened fault lines in policy towards Libya among world powers.

On April 18, Russia and the United States opposed a British bid backed by France and Germany at the UN Security Council to demand a ceasefire in the North African country.

The White House revealed the next day that Donald Trump had reached out personally to Haftar in a phone call, during which the US president "recognised Field Marshal Haftar's significant role in fighting terrorism and securing Libya's oil resources".

The country has been mired in chaos since the NATO-backed uprising that deposed and killed dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011.&nbsp;

Air raids by the self-styled Libyan National Army against the capital on Saturday night killed four people and wounded 20 others, Libya's internationally recognised unity government said.

Air raids by the self-styled Libyan National Army against the capital on Saturday night killed four people and wounded 20 others, Libya's internationally recognised unity government said. But Amin al-Hachemi, a spokesman for the Government of National Accord's healthy ministry, on Sunday warned that "the death toll could increase in the coming hours". A pro-GNA military source said the victims were civilians. "Several sites were targeted by air strikes late Saturday night, causing victims among civilians," the source told AFP. "Most of the strikes hit areas in the district of Abou Slim... (but) none hit military targets." Strongman Khalifa Haftar's LNA launched an offensive against Tripoli, the seat of the GNA, on April 4. But after initial gains, Haftar's forces have encountered stiff resistance on the southern outskirts and his troops have been pushed back in some areas. At least 278 people have been killed and more than 1,300 wounded in the clashes, according to a toll released Wednesday by the World Health Organization. The GNA accuses Haftar of using foreign planes to carry out air strikes, without naming a country of origin. "This criminal conceals his failures and those of his soldiers at the gates of Tripoli by resorting to foreign aviation to hit unarmed civilians in the city," spokesman Mohanad Younes said on the GNA's official Facebook page. Haftar's offensive has sharpened fault lines in policy towards Libya among world powers. On April 18, Russia and the United States opposed a British bid backed by France and Germany at the UN Security Council to demand a ceasefire in the North African country. The White House revealed the next day that Donald Trump had reached out personally to Haftar in a phone call, during which the US president "recognised Field Marshal Haftar's significant role in fighting terrorism and securing Libya's oil resources". The country has been mired in chaos since the NATO-backed uprising that deposed and killed dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011.

Four dead, 20 wounded in Tripoli air raids: Unity government

North Macedonians were voting for a new president Sunday in the country's first election since changing its name, but there were fears that low turnout would render the poll invalid.

By mid-afternoon, the turnout stood at 29 per cent. The vote needs more than 40 per cent turnout for a decisive result.

The vote for the largely ceremonial post comes less than three months after a deal with Athens on the name change came into force, ending a decades-long identity dispute between the neighbours.

Candidates are Stevo Pendarovski, backed by the ruling leftwing government, Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova of the rightwing opposition and Belrim Reka from the country's ethnic Albanian minority.

Gjorge Ivanov, the outgoing nationalist president, cannot run again, having served the maximum two terms.

"I came to vote out of a sense of duty, but I don't think there is any point," said Pavlina Gosheva, a 53-year old nurse from Skopje. "For us ordinary mortals it won't change anything."

Many voters are disillusioned with what they see as a corrupt political system and some observers say the vote could fail to attract sufficient numbers.

A referendum backed the country's name change to North Macedonia last September, but the result was undermined by turnout failing to reach 40 per cent.

Since it was only consultative, the government and parliament were free to go ahead with the historic name change anyway to settle a decades-old dispute with neighbouring Greece which will now no longer stand in the way of their EU or NATO membership applications.

But while the deal was welcomed in the European Union, many of the country's 1.8 million voters are more concerned with bread-and-butter issues such as jobs and earnings.

"I don't care about the candidates," said Jovan Dimitrovski, a 37-year-old IT engineer. "What counts for me is the economy but I don't see much coming our way."

The unemployment rate is running at more than 20 per cent, the average monthly wage is stuck at around $450&nbsp;and many people have emigrated, demoralised by what they see as a lack of opportunities for people without the right connections.

'Desperate'&nbsp;

Ljupco Nikovski, a 58-year-old police officer, said he was backing the opposition rightwing VMRO-DPMNE.

Nikovski said he had "never felt so desperate".

Emilija Stojanoska, 49, said her protests against the previous rightwing administration had not achieved anything.&nbsp;

The arrival of the Social Democrats in power with the backing of the country's ethnic Albanian parties had changed nothing, she said.

If a low turnout forces a re-run of the vote, it may trigger a fresh political crisis that would put pressure on Prime Minister Zoran Zaev's administration.

"Voting is an honour, a right and a civic duty," Zaev said.

He earlier talked down the risks of a low turnout, but also set out possible solutions to such a scenario.

They include a re-run of the election, doing away with the 40-per cent minimum threshold, or even giving parliament the power to appoint a president.

Nazim Rashidi, senior editor of the Albanian-language channel TV Alsat, said none of those proposals addressed the real problem.

"The apathy ... in particular that of young people, Macedonian and Albanians, is immense."

Politicians had failed to tackle unemployment, widespread corruption and nepotism or to launch much-needed judicial reforms, he added.

"A growing number think that their vote will not bring about significant change," law professor Dragan Gocevski said.

Voting started at 7:00 am, and runs until 7:00 pm.

North Macedonians were voting for a new president Sunday in the country's first election since changing its name, but there were fears that low turnout would render the poll invalid.

North Macedonians were voting for a new president Sunday in the country's first election since changing its name, but there were fears that low turnout would render the poll invalid. By mid-afternoon, the turnout stood at 29 per cent. The vote needs more than 40 per cent turnout for a decisive result. The vote for the largely ceremonial post comes less than three months after a deal with Athens on the name change came into force, ending a decades-long identity dispute between the neighbours. Candidates are Stevo Pendarovski, backed by the ruling leftwing government, Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova of the rightwing opposition and Belrim Reka from the country's ethnic Albanian minority. Gjorge Ivanov, the outgoing nationalist president, cannot run again, having served the maximum two terms. "I came to vote out of a sense of duty, but I don't think there is any point," said Pavlina Gosheva, a 53-year old nurse from Skopje. "For us ordinary mortals it won't change anything." Many voters are disillusioned with what they see as a corrupt political system and some observers say the vote could fail to attract sufficient numbers. A referendum backed the country's name change to North Macedonia last September, but the result was undermined by turnout failing to reach 40 per cent. Since it was only consultative, the government and parliament were free to go ahead with the historic name change anyway to settle a decades-old dispute with neighbouring Greece which will now no longer stand in the way of their EU or NATO membership applications. But while the deal was welcomed in the European Union, many of the country's 1.8 million voters are more concerned with bread-and-butter issues such as jobs and earnings. "I don't care about the candidates," said Jovan Dimitrovski, a 37-year-old IT engineer. "What counts for me is the economy but I don't see much coming our way." The unemployment rate is running at more than 20 per cent, the average monthly wage is stuck at around $450 and many people have emigrated, demoralised by what they see as a lack of opportunities for people without the right connections. 'Desperate' Ljupco Nikovski, a 58-year-old police officer, said he was backing the opposition rightwing VMRO-DPMNE. Nikovski said he had "never felt so desperate". Emilija Stojanoska, 49, said her protests against the previous rightwing administration had not achieved anything. The arrival of the Social Democrats in power with the backing of the country's ethnic Albanian parties had changed nothing, she said. If a low turnout forces a re-run of the vote, it may trigger a fresh political crisis that would put pressure on Prime Minister Zoran Zaev's administration. "Voting is an honour, a right and a civic duty," Zaev said. He earlier talked down the risks of a low turnout, but also set out possible solutions to such a scenario. They include a re-run of the election, doing away with the 40-per cent minimum threshold, or even giving parliament the power to appoint a president. Nazim Rashidi, senior editor of the Albanian-language channel TV Alsat, said none of those proposals addressed the real problem. "The apathy ... in particular that of young people, Macedonian and Albanians, is immense." Politicians had failed to tackle unemployment, widespread corruption and nepotism or to launch much-needed judicial reforms, he added. "A growing number think that their vote will not bring about significant change," law professor Dragan Gocevski said. Voting started at 7:00 am, and runs until 7:00 pm.

Fears of low turnout mar North Macedonia vote

Tripoli air traffic was suspended overnight for "security reasons", the Libyan capital's only operating airport said Sunday after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-30000-displaced-in-libya-after-haftar-offensive-212187">clashes intensified for control of the city</a>.

At least two flights were re-routed from Mitiga airport to Misrata, more than 200 kilometres to the east, the airport's authorities said on their Facebook page.

They said flights had resumed early in the morning to Mitiga, east of the capital.

The former military airbase was hit by an air strike on April 8 and has since only operated between 5:00 pm and 8:00 am.

The raid was claimed by commander Khalifa Haftar's Libyan National Army, which days previously had launched an offensive to take the capital.

Clashes intensified on Saturday when forces loyal to the Tripoli-based Government of National Accord announced a counter-attack against Haftar's fighters.

Explosions were heard from the city centre overnight, and some witnesses said there were air strikes.

At least 227 people have been killed since Haftar's forces launched their offensive, the World Health Organization said Sunday, adding that a further 1,128 have been wounded.

As well as air raids, fighters have been engaged in clashes on the ground. The warring sides have traded accusations of targeting civilians.&nbsp;

Haftar's offensive is the latest round of fighting in a years-long struggle for control of Libya following the NATO-backed rebellion that toppled and killed longtime dictator Moamer Kadhafi.

The latest escalation comes years after Tripoli's only international airport was severely damaged during fighting.

Since then Mitiga airport has been used for civilian air traffic, with Libyan airlines operating internal flights and international ones to countries including Turkey.

Tripoli air traffic was suspended overnight for "security reasons", the Libyan capital's only operating airport said Sunday after clashes intensified for control of the city.

Tripoli air traffic was suspended overnight for "security reasons", the Libyan capital's only operating airport said Sunday after clashes intensified for control of the city. At least two flights were re-routed from Mitiga airport to Misrata, more than 200 kilometres to the east, the airport's authorities said on their Facebook page. They said flights had resumed early in the morning to Mitiga, east of the capital. The former military airbase was hit by an air strike on April 8 and has since only operated between 5:00 pm and 8:00 am. The raid was claimed by commander Khalifa Haftar's Libyan National Army, which days previously had launched an offensive to take the capital. Clashes intensified on Saturday when forces loyal to the Tripoli-based Government of National Accord announced a counter-attack against Haftar's fighters. Explosions were heard from the city centre overnight, and some witnesses said there were air strikes. At least 227 people have been killed since Haftar's forces launched their offensive, the World Health Organization said Sunday, adding that a further 1,128 have been wounded. As well as air raids, fighters have been engaged in clashes on the ground. The warring sides have traded accusations of targeting civilians. Haftar's offensive is the latest round of fighting in a years-long struggle for control of Libya following the NATO-backed rebellion that toppled and killed longtime dictator Moamer Kadhafi. The latest escalation comes years after Tripoli's only international airport was severely damaged during fighting. Since then Mitiga airport has been used for civilian air traffic, with Libyan airlines operating internal flights and international ones to countries including Turkey.

Air traffic suspended for hours over Libyan capital

India is hopeful it will avoid US sanctions over its purchase of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-should-be-careful-while-acquiring-russias-s-400-triumf-air-defence-missile-cautions-us-congressman--140572">Russia's S-400 missile system</a>, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman told.

New Delhi has been "heard and understood" by the US administration over its accord to buy the S-400 missile defence system for $5.2 billion, the minister said in an interview this week.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi made the deal with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-to-purchase-russias-s-400-air-defence-units-in-multi-billion-dollar-deal-7456">Russian President Vladimir Putin</a> in October, defying US warnings of sanctions on countries buying Russian military equipment. The sanctions were part of measures to punish Moscow for its actions in Ukraine in 2014.

President Donald Trump's administration imposed sanctions on China's military last year over Beijing's purchase of the S-400 and other military hardware.&nbsp;

It has also warned NATO member Turkey of sanctions for buying the S-400, and has suspended Turkey's participation in a US jet programme.

Sitharaman told AFP that Washington has taken on board that India, bordering both Pakistan and China, needed arms from Russia, and others, to remain a "strong partner".&nbsp;

Negotiations with Moscow, a longstanding supplier to India's military, on the S-400 began before the US sanctions were introduced, she said.

"In the case of S-400 we have explained ourselves well... That has been heard and understood," Sitharaman said. "They have appreciated the point of view put forward."

Asked if she was confident that India would avoid sanctions, Sitharaman said,&nbsp;"Yes I hope so."

Cold water

Before the deal was inked, Washington poured cold water on India's efforts to obtain a waiver from the US Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).

Upgrades in arms systems "including the S-400 air and missile defence system" would be a particular focus for CAATSA, a US State Department spokesperson was quoted as saying by India's PTI news agency.&nbsp;

But Randall Schriver, Assistant Secretary of Defence for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs, told a hearing in March that Washington wanted to "work through" the problem, calling India "an important emerging strategic partner."

He added however that India's contract with Russia has not been completed and that the US was "very keen to see (India) make an alternative choice (to the S-400) and we are working with them to provide potential alternatives."

China

Washington is in a tricky position with India. It wants to bolster ties with the Asian giant to counter China's assertiveness, a trend which has also rattled New Delhi.

In 2017 India and China had a military standoff over a Doklam claimed by both Beijing and Bhutan, a close ally of India.

Since then China and India have sought to patch up relations, including at a meeting between Modi and President Xi Jinping at Wuhan, China in April 2018.

"Sometimes there are differences and you have a face-off," Sitharaman said. "But our attempt, particularly after the prime minister's Wuhan meet with the Chinese president, our attempt has been that these differences... cannot be allowed to become disputes."

But China has also made inroads in Sri Lanka and the Maldives -- countries that India considers to be in its sphere of influence -- through its One Belt, One Road Initiative (OBOR), also known as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

India has particular concerns about a series of projects passing through Pakistan occupied Kashmir, a disputed territory which was the fuse for a new military flare-up between Pakistan and India in February.

China has also blocked efforts to put on UN sanctions blacklist the leader of a Pakistan-based militant group that claimed a suicide bombing in Kashmir's Pulwama district&nbsp;on February 14 that killed 40 Indian paramilitary troops.

New Delhi has reportedly declined a Chinese invitation to take part in an OBOR forum in China later this month.

"Areas which are ours legally, which are under illegal occupation of Pakistan, are the ones which are becoming part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor," Sitharaman said.

"So having made that position very clear, we have not participated in anything to do with OBOR, and we stick to that position," she said.

India is hopeful it will avoid US sanctions over its purchase of Russia's S-400 missile system, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman told. New Delhi has been "heard and understood" by the US administration over its accord to buy the S-400 missile defence system for $5.

India is hopeful it will avoid US sanctions over its purchase of Russia's S-400 missile system, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman told. New Delhi has been "heard and understood" by the US administration over its accord to buy the S-400 missile defence system for $5.2 billion, the minister said in an interview this week. Prime Minister Narendra Modi made the deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin in October, defying US warnings of sanctions on countries buying Russian military equipment. The sanctions were part of measures to punish Moscow for its actions in Ukraine in 2014. President Donald Trump's administration imposed sanctions on China's military last year over Beijing's purchase of the S-400 and other military hardware. It has also warned NATO member Turkey of sanctions for buying the S-400, and has suspended Turkey's participation in a US jet programme. Sitharaman told AFP that Washington has taken on board that India, bordering both Pakistan and China, needed arms from Russia, and others, to remain a "strong partner". Negotiations with Moscow, a longstanding supplier to India's military, on the S-400 began before the US sanctions were introduced, she said. "In the case of S-400 we have explained ourselves well... That has been heard and understood," Sitharaman said. "They have appreciated the point of view put forward." Asked if she was confident that India would avoid sanctions, Sitharaman said, "Yes I hope so." Cold water Before the deal was inked, Washington poured cold water on India's efforts to obtain a waiver from the US Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA). Upgrades in arms systems "including the S-400 air and missile defence system" would be a particular focus for CAATSA, a US State Department spokesperson was quoted as saying by India's PTI news agency. But Randall Schriver, Assistant Secretary of Defence for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs, told a hearing in March that Washington wanted to "work through" the problem, calling India "an important emerging strategic partner." He added however that India's contract with Russia has not been completed and that the US was "very keen to see (India) make an alternative choice (to the S-400) and we are working with them to provide potential alternatives." China Washington is in a tricky position with India. It wants to bolster ties with the Asian giant to counter China's assertiveness, a trend which has also rattled New Delhi. In 2017 India and China had a military standoff over a Doklam claimed by both Beijing and Bhutan, a close ally of India. Since then China and India have sought to patch up relations, including at a meeting between Modi and President Xi Jinping at Wuhan, China in April 2018. "Sometimes there are differences and you have a face-off," Sitharaman said. "But our attempt, particularly after the prime minister's Wuhan meet with the Chinese president, our attempt has been that these differences... cannot be allowed to become disputes." But China has also made inroads in Sri Lanka and the Maldives -- countries that India considers to be in its sphere of influence -- through its One Belt, One Road Initiative (OBOR), also known as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). India has particular concerns about a series of projects passing through Pakistan occupied Kashmir, a disputed territory which was the fuse for a new military flare-up between Pakistan and India in February. China has also blocked efforts to put on UN sanctions blacklist the leader of a Pakistan-based militant group that claimed a suicide bombing in Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14 that killed 40 Indian paramilitary troops. New Delhi has reportedly declined a Chinese invitation to take part in an OBOR forum in China later this month. "Areas which are ours legally, which are under illegal occupation of Pakistan, are the ones which are becoming part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor," Sitharaman said. "So having made that position very clear, we have not participated in anything to do with OBOR, and we stick to that position," she said.

'Heard and understood' by US: Nirmala Sitharaman on S-400 missile deal with Russia

A contractor that officials initially reported having been killed in a Taliban attack on a convoy at a US air base, in fact, survived the incident, NATO said Tuesday.

Three US troops were killed in the suicide bomb attack outside Bagram Air Base north of Kabul on Monday.&nbsp;

"The contractor who was reported as killed is alive," NATO's Resolute Support mission said in a statement.&nbsp;

The contractor, an Afghan citizen, was in stable condition and was treated at Bagram, officials said.

Monday's blast was the deadliest for US forces in Afghanistan this year and brings to seven the number of American troops killed in 2019, compared to 12 for all of last year.

The US now has some 14,000 troops in Afghanistan -- down from a peak of around 100,000 -- most of them deployed to train and advise Afghan counterparts.

A contractor that officials initially reported having been killed in a Taliban attack on a convoy at a US air base, in fact, survived the incident, NATO said Tuesday.

A contractor that officials initially reported having been killed in a Taliban attack on a convoy at a US air base, in fact, survived the incident, NATO said Tuesday. Three US troops were killed in the suicide bomb attack outside Bagram Air Base north of Kabul on Monday. "The contractor who was reported as killed is alive," NATO's Resolute Support mission said in a statement. The contractor, an Afghan citizen, was in stable condition and was treated at Bagram, officials said. Monday's blast was the deadliest for US forces in Afghanistan this year and brings to seven the number of American troops killed in 2019, compared to 12 for all of last year. The US now has some 14,000 troops in Afghanistan -- down from a peak of around 100,000 -- most of them deployed to train and advise Afghan counterparts.

Afghan contractor survived Taliban attack on US convoy

Three US troops and a military contractor were killed in a roadside explosion Monday in the deadliest attack on American forces this year, casting a shadow over ongoing peace talks with the Taliban, which claimed responsibility for the attack.

The blast near Bagram Air Base is the latest to hit American forces amid an ongoing, US-led drive to forge a peace deal in Afghanistan, more than 17 years after the Taliban were ousted.

According to the NATO-led Resolute Support mission in the country, the troops' convoy hit a roadside bomb that also wounded three US troops.

Earlier, the Taliban claimed to have conducted the attack when a suicide bomber detonated his vehicle filled with explosives, saying "multiple invaders" had been killed. They added that one armoured personnel carrier had been "completely destroyed".

Bagram, America's largest air base in Afghanistan, is located about 50 kilometres (30 miles) north of Kabul.

The explosion took place around 5:40 pm (1310 GMT), according to Salim Noori, spokesman for police in the province of Parwan, which is home to Bagram.&nbsp;

The car bomb targeted a convoy of coalition soldiers, he told AFP.

Bagram district governor Abdul Shakoor Quddusi said a car bomber attacked an armoured vehicle carrying foreign forces close to a gate to the base.

Officials did not immediately release the names of those killed, in line with standard policy pending notification of next of kin, or the nationality of the contractor.

"The wounded service members were evacuated and are receiving medical care," Resolute Support said in a statement.

Democratic presidential hopeful Beto O'Rourke tweeted his condolences, saying: "Our thoughts are with the families of the three service members killed today in Afghanistan."

The blast brings to seven the number of US troops killed in Afghanistan so far this year, compared to 12 killed in all of 2018.&nbsp;

Still, American casualties have fallen dramatically since the end of 2014, when Afghan forces took over from US-led NATO combat troops to secure the country.

The US now has some 14,000 troops in Afghanistan -- down from a peak of around 100,000 -- most of them deployed to train and advise Afghan counterparts.

Nearly 2,300 American soldiers have died and more than 20,400 have been wounded in the country since a US-led coalition ousted the Taliban in 2001.

While parts of Afghanistan including Kabul have experienced something of a lull in attacks in recent weeks, US and Afghan forces have stepped up attacks on the Taliban across the country.

Spring offensive expected

Afghans, meanwhile, are on high alert for a new round of violence when the militants kick off their expected spring offensive.

They typically declare a new fighting season as winter snows melt, and have in the past sought to gain control of district centres and to target government facilities.

Taliban leaders are set to meet with Afghan officials in Qatar next week for a fresh round of talks as the US tries to broker a peace deal.

Last week, US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad called for a "comprehensive and inclusive" intra-Afghan dialogue between the government, women, youth and civil society.

The Taliban has until now refused to meet with the Kabul government, accusing it of being a puppet regime.

The diplomatic spat between Washington and Kabul came to a head last month when Afghanistan's national security advisor Hamdullah Mohib accused Khalilzad of a lack of "transparency", even suggesting the Afghan-born envoy wanted to be "viceroy" of his native country.

Washington reacted furiously, with US officials reportedly refusing to attend meetings in which Mohib was present. The outspoken advisor visited eastern provinces when Khalilzad was in Kabul.

Three US troops and a military contractor were killed in a roadside explosion Monday in the deadliest attack on American forces this year, casting a shadow over ongoing peace talks with the Taliban, which claimed responsibility for the attack.

Three US troops and a military contractor were killed in a roadside explosion Monday in the deadliest attack on American forces this year, casting a shadow over ongoing peace talks with the Taliban, which claimed responsibility for the attack. The blast near Bagram Air Base is the latest to hit American forces amid an ongoing, US-led drive to forge a peace deal in Afghanistan, more than 17 years after the Taliban were ousted. According to the NATO-led Resolute Support mission in the country, the troops' convoy hit a roadside bomb that also wounded three US troops. Earlier, the Taliban claimed to have conducted the attack when a suicide bomber detonated his vehicle filled with explosives, saying "multiple invaders" had been killed. They added that one armoured personnel carrier had been "completely destroyed". Bagram, America's largest air base in Afghanistan, is located about 50 kilometres (30 miles) north of Kabul. The explosion took place around 5:40 pm (1310 GMT), according to Salim Noori, spokesman for police in the province of Parwan, which is home to Bagram. The car bomb targeted a convoy of coalition soldiers, he told AFP. Bagram district governor Abdul Shakoor Quddusi said a car bomber attacked an armoured vehicle carrying foreign forces close to a gate to the base. Officials did not immediately release the names of those killed, in line with standard policy pending notification of next of kin, or the nationality of the contractor. "The wounded service members were evacuated and are receiving medical care," Resolute Support said in a statement. Democratic presidential hopeful Beto O'Rourke tweeted his condolences, saying: "Our thoughts are with the families of the three service members killed today in Afghanistan." The blast brings to seven the number of US troops killed in Afghanistan so far this year, compared to 12 killed in all of 2018. Still, American casualties have fallen dramatically since the end of 2014, when Afghan forces took over from US-led NATO combat troops to secure the country. The US now has some 14,000 troops in Afghanistan -- down from a peak of around 100,000 -- most of them deployed to train and advise Afghan counterparts. Nearly 2,300 American soldiers have died and more than 20,400 have been wounded in the country since a US-led coalition ousted the Taliban in 2001. While parts of Afghanistan including Kabul have experienced something of a lull in attacks in recent weeks, US and Afghan forces have stepped up attacks on the Taliban across the country. Spring offensive expected Afghans, meanwhile, are on high alert for a new round of violence when the militants kick off their expected spring offensive. They typically declare a new fighting season as winter snows melt, and have in the past sought to gain control of district centres and to target government facilities. Taliban leaders are set to meet with Afghan officials in Qatar next week for a fresh round of talks as the US tries to broker a peace deal. Last week, US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad called for a "comprehensive and inclusive" intra-Afghan dialogue between the government, women, youth and civil society. The Taliban has until now refused to meet with the Kabul government, accusing it of being a puppet regime. The diplomatic spat between Washington and Kabul came to a head last month when Afghanistan's national security advisor Hamdullah Mohib accused Khalilzad of a lack of "transparency", even suggesting the Afghan-born envoy wanted to be "viceroy" of his native country. Washington reacted furiously, with US officials reportedly refusing to attend meetings in which Mohib was present. The outspoken advisor visited eastern provinces when Khalilzad was in Kabul.

Four killed in attack on US convoy in Afghanistan

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday vowed to go ahead with a deal to purchase Russian missiles despite Washington's suspension of Turkey's participation in a US jet programme because of security concerns over Russian deal.

Turkey's agreement to buy the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-says-s-400-missile-purchase-from-russia-a-done-deal-cannot-be-cancelled-foreign-minister-208029">Russian S-400 system</a> has further tested its relations with Washington, stoking US concern about Erdogan's burgeoning relationship with Russian leader Vladimir Putin.

United States officials have repeatedly warned of the risks the Russian system would pose to Western defences and the lack of interoperability with NATO hardware.

Relations between NATO allies US and Turkey were already on shaky ground over issues including US support to a Syrian Kurdish militia viewed by Ankara as terrorists.

The US said on Monday it was halting all deliveries and joint work with Turkey on the F-35 fighter jet programme if Ankara insisted on the deal.

"The S-400 process is complete," Erdogan said on Friday, adding that the first delivery of the system would be in July.

Erdogan criticised "really wrong" statements coming from the US over the S-400 purchase and suggested NATO allies should not sanction each other.

Turkey could be sanctioned by Washington under the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), which rules that any entity doing business with Russia's state and private defence and intelligence sectors risks sanctions.

The S-400 is an anti-missile and anti-aircraft weapon system, similar to the US Patriot.

Washington has suggested Turkey could opt for Patriot missiles instead.

But Erdogan said although Ankara was keen to buy the US-produced missiles, "America was unfortunately not giving Patriots to us on the same terms" as Russia.

He has previously said Turkey wanted joint production, credit and early delivery in any Patriot deal, but said Washington did not look favourably on the first two terms.

Despite the US suspension, Erdogan said three F-35 jets had been delivered, though they remain in the US. "The fourth will be delivered in a few weeks."

He said that Turkish pilots were still training in the US.

Erdogan will be in Russia on Monday for talks with Russian counterpart Putin, his third visit to the country this year.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday vowed to go ahead with a deal to purchase Russian missiles despite Washington's suspension of Turkey's participation in a US jet programme because of security concerns over Russian deal.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday vowed to go ahead with a deal to purchase Russian missiles despite Washington's suspension of Turkey's participation in a US jet programme because of security concerns over Russian deal. Turkey's agreement to buy the Russian S-400 system has further tested its relations with Washington, stoking US concern about Erdogan's burgeoning relationship with Russian leader Vladimir Putin. United States officials have repeatedly warned of the risks the Russian system would pose to Western defences and the lack of interoperability with NATO hardware. Relations between NATO allies US and Turkey were already on shaky ground over issues including US support to a Syrian Kurdish militia viewed by Ankara as terrorists. The US said on Monday it was halting all deliveries and joint work with Turkey on the F-35 fighter jet programme if Ankara insisted on the deal. "The S-400 process is complete," Erdogan said on Friday, adding that the first delivery of the system would be in July. Erdogan criticised "really wrong" statements coming from the US over the S-400 purchase and suggested NATO allies should not sanction each other. Turkey could be sanctioned by Washington under the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), which rules that any entity doing business with Russia's state and private defence and intelligence sectors risks sanctions. The S-400 is an anti-missile and anti-aircraft weapon system, similar to the US Patriot. Washington has suggested Turkey could opt for Patriot missiles instead. But Erdogan said although Ankara was keen to buy the US-produced missiles, "America was unfortunately not giving Patriots to us on the same terms" as Russia. He has previously said Turkey wanted joint production, credit and early delivery in any Patriot deal, but said Washington did not look favourably on the first two terms. Despite the US suspension, Erdogan said three F-35 jets had been delivered, though they remain in the US. "The fourth will be delivered in a few weeks." He said that Turkish pilots were still training in the US. Erdogan will be in Russia on Monday for talks with Russian counterpart Putin, his third visit to the country this year.

Erdogan says Russia missile deal to go ahead after US suspension

Turkey's purchase of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-s-400-missile-defence-system-a-done-deal-turkey-199862">Russian S-400 missile defence systems</a>, which has raised tensions with Washington, is a "done deal" and cannot be cancelled, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Thursday.

The United States and Turkey have been at loggerheads over Ankara's decision to purchase the S-400s, which are not compatible with NATO systems. Washington has warned that going forward with the deal could result in US sanctions.

Washington has urged Turkey to purchase Raytheon Co Patriot defence systems instead of the S-400s, but Ankara has said that, even though it would like to make such a deal, it would only be possible if the right terms were agreed upon.

Speaking at a news conference on the sidelines of a visit to the United States, Cavusoglu said Turkey would like to purchase the Patriot systems, but it would not back out of its deal with Russia.

"We have told them I don't know how many months ago or years ago that it's a done deal, so we cannot cancel it," Cavusoglu said.

He said Turkey had received a new offer for the Patriot systems from the United States, which included prices and delivery dates, but added that they would negotiate.

However, Cavusoglu said the United States could not guarantee it would be able to sell the Patriot systems to Ankara due to an impasse in the US Congress.

"The real problem is this, even today, the United States cannot give guarantees about selling the Patriots to Turkey. Can they give them tomorrow? They can’t guarantee it. Then who will meet my needs?" he said.

On Wednesday, Cavusoglu said Turkey had proposed forming a working group with the US administration to ensure that the S-400 poses no threat to US or NATO military equipment. He added that both the administration and Turkey should explain to the Congress why Turkey bought the S-400s.

Cavusoglu also said Turkey's relations with Russia were not an alternative to its alliances with NATO or its partnerships and ambitions with the European Union.

"We made our choice a long time ago, and now we need to have good relations with everybody and we have to balance that," he said. "We don't have to choose between this and that, but we have already made out decision and became a NATO ally."

Turkey's purchase of Russian S-400 missile defence systems, which has raised tensions with Washington, is a "done deal" and cannot be cancelled, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Thursday.

Turkey's purchase of Russian S-400 missile defence systems, which has raised tensions with Washington, is a "done deal" and cannot be cancelled, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Thursday. The United States and Turkey have been at loggerheads over Ankara's decision to purchase the S-400s, which are not compatible with NATO systems. Washington has warned that going forward with the deal could result in US sanctions. Washington has urged Turkey to purchase Raytheon Co Patriot defence systems instead of the S-400s, but Ankara has said that, even though it would like to make such a deal, it would only be possible if the right terms were agreed upon. Speaking at a news conference on the sidelines of a visit to the United States, Cavusoglu said Turkey would like to purchase the Patriot systems, but it would not back out of its deal with Russia. "We have told them I don't know how many months ago or years ago that it's a done deal, so we cannot cancel it," Cavusoglu said. He said Turkey had received a new offer for the Patriot systems from the United States, which included prices and delivery dates, but added that they would negotiate. However, Cavusoglu said the United States could not guarantee it would be able to sell the Patriot systems to Ankara due to an impasse in the US Congress. "The real problem is this, even today, the United States cannot give guarantees about selling the Patriots to Turkey. Can they give them tomorrow? They can’t guarantee it. Then who will meet my needs?" he said. On Wednesday, Cavusoglu said Turkey had proposed forming a working group with the US administration to ensure that the S-400 poses no threat to US or NATO military equipment. He added that both the administration and Turkey should explain to the Congress why Turkey bought the S-400s. Cavusoglu also said Turkey's relations with Russia were not an alternative to its alliances with NATO or its partnerships and ambitions with the European Union. "We made our choice a long time ago, and now we need to have good relations with everybody and we have to balance that," he said. "We don't have to choose between this and that, but we have already made out decision and became a NATO ally."

S-400 missile purchase from Russia a 'done deal,' cannot be cancelled: Turkey

NATO can look at the possibility of other Latin American states joining Colombia in becoming alliance partners, secretary general Jens Stoltenberg said on Wednesday, while appearing to rule out <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-treated-us-unfairly-says-trump-during-state-of-the-union-address-195468">US&nbsp;President Donald Trump's</a> suggestion that Brazil could one day become a full member of the North Atlantic security body.

"Until 2017, NATO didn’t have any partners in Latin America and then in 2017 we got our first partner, which was Colombia, and to be a close partner of NATO is something that is good for NATO and the partner country," the NATO leader said&nbsp;ahead of a NATO ministerial meeting in Washington.

"So of course, it is a possibility to look into the possibility of having also other countries in Latin America become partners which then provides a platform, a framework for close political and practical cooperation," he said.

At a joint White House news conference last month, Trump said he had told visiting <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bolsonaro-compliments-trump-who-replies-brazil-could-join-nato-204420">Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro</a> he would designate Brazil a "major non-NATO ally" and possibly go further by supporting a campaign to make Brazil “maybe a NATO ally,” something that would imply full membership of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.

NATO membership is currently limited to countries of western Europe, Turkey, Canada and the United States, although NATO partner countries include Australia and New Zealand, as well as European non-members Sweden and Finland.

Ask if a country such as Brazil could become a member, Stoltenberg said:

"No. Partners are not members. But partners are very close partners. We work very closely with them, practically and politically, and that’s a very good way to strengthen cooperation with NATO and countries that are not members of the alliance."

Asked about Brazil becoming a partner, he said:

"Well someone has to propose it and it also has to be a request from Brazil, but ... we just agreed with Colombia to make Colombia a close partner with NATO and of course it’s absolutely possible to have more partners in Latin America, but it has to be an expressed wish from Latin America and of course (it’s) something we have to discuss then among the 29 allies."

Earlier Stoltenberg addressed the US&nbsp;Congress and delivered an impassioned defence of the partnership he called "the most successful alliance in history," which has often been derided by Trump since he took office in 2017.

Colombia reached an agreement in 2017 to become the only Latin American nation to join NATO as a “global partner,” a relationship short of "ally" status, which means it would not necessarily have to take part in collective military action.

Other NATO global partners apart from those mentioned by Stoltenberg include Afghanistan, Iraq, Japan, South Korea, Mongolia and Pakistan.

Becoming a “major non-NATO ally” in itself implies a status upgrade that would give a country preferential access to purchases of US&nbsp;military equipment and technology.

Supporting Brazil for alliance membership would be a considerable step further, one that Trump recognised would mean he would “have to talk to a lot of people.”

NATO membership is governed by Article 10 of its 1949 founding treaty, which limits invitations to European states, subject to the approval of existing members and meeting alliance criteria.

NATO can look at the possibility of other Latin American states joining Colombia in becoming alliance partners, secretary general Jens Stoltenberg said on Wednesday, while appearing to rule out US President Donald Trump's suggestion that Brazil could one day become a full member of the North Atlantic security body.

NATO can look at the possibility of other Latin American states joining Colombia in becoming alliance partners, secretary general Jens Stoltenberg said on Wednesday, while appearing to rule out US President Donald Trump's suggestion that Brazil could one day become a full member of the North Atlantic security body. "Until 2017, NATO didn’t have any partners in Latin America and then in 2017 we got our first partner, which was Colombia, and to be a close partner of NATO is something that is good for NATO and the partner country," the NATO leader said ahead of a NATO ministerial meeting in Washington. "So of course, it is a possibility to look into the possibility of having also other countries in Latin America become partners which then provides a platform, a framework for close political and practical cooperation," he said. At a joint White House news conference last month, Trump said he had told visiting Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro he would designate Brazil a "major non-NATO ally" and possibly go further by supporting a campaign to make Brazil “maybe a NATO ally,” something that would imply full membership of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. NATO membership is currently limited to countries of western Europe, Turkey, Canada and the United States, although NATO partner countries include Australia and New Zealand, as well as European non-members Sweden and Finland. Ask if a country such as Brazil could become a member, Stoltenberg said: "No. Partners are not members. But partners are very close partners. We work very closely with them, practically and politically, and that’s a very good way to strengthen cooperation with NATO and countries that are not members of the alliance." Asked about Brazil becoming a partner, he said: "Well someone has to propose it and it also has to be a request from Brazil, but ... we just agreed with Colombia to make Colombia a close partner with NATO and of course it’s absolutely possible to have more partners in Latin America, but it has to be an expressed wish from Latin America and of course (it’s) something we have to discuss then among the 29 allies." Earlier Stoltenberg addressed the US Congress and delivered an impassioned defence of the partnership he called "the most successful alliance in history," which has often been derided by Trump since he took office in 2017. Colombia reached an agreement in 2017 to become the only Latin American nation to join NATO as a “global partner,” a relationship short of "ally" status, which means it would not necessarily have to take part in collective military action. Other NATO global partners apart from those mentioned by Stoltenberg include Afghanistan, Iraq, Japan, South Korea, Mongolia and Pakistan. Becoming a “major non-NATO ally” in itself implies a status upgrade that would give a country preferential access to purchases of US military equipment and technology. Supporting Brazil for alliance membership would be a considerable step further, one that Trump recognised would mean he would “have to talk to a lot of people.” NATO membership is governed by Article 10 of its 1949 founding treaty, which limits invitations to European states, subject to the approval of existing members and meeting alliance criteria.

Possibility of having Latin American countries as partners: NATO chief

At least 13 civilians were killed, mostly children, in an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/air-strikes-kill-dozen-afghans-battle-intensifies-in-taliban-strongholds-205323">air strike by "international forces" in the northern Afghan city of Kunduz</a> late last week, the United Nations said Monday.

The strike happened between late Friday and early Saturday in support of ground operations conducted by pro-government forces fighting Taliban militants in the area.

"Initial fact-finding indicates that 10 of those killed were children, part of the same extended family who were displaced by fighting elsewhere in the country," the UN mission in Afghanistan said in a statement.

The US is the only member of the international coalition in Afghanistan that provides air support in the conflict.

A NATO spokesperson told AFP the coalition was investigating the claims.

"Those who were killed were internally displaced families who had fled the war in Dasht-e-Archi district and had recently moved to the city," added Khosh Mohammad Nasratyar, member of Kunduz provincial council, saying three children were also wounded in the attack.

The deaths come as ordinary Afghans continue to bear the brunt of the conflict, with more civilians killed in the Afghan war in 2018 than during any other year on record, according to a UN report.

The uptick in violence in 2018 coincides with a significant increase in the number of deaths caused by the "deliberate targeting of civilians", according to the report, mostly stemming from suicide attacks by insurgents allied with the Taliban or Islamic State (IS).

An increase in air strikes by US and Afghan forces also led to more civilian deaths in 2018, with more than 500 killed by "aerial operations for the first time on record".

Fighting continues to flare across Afghanistan even as the US and Taliban press forward in peace talks aimed at ending nearly 18 years of fighting.

The ongoing peace talks with the Taliban follow years of escalating violence in Afghanistan.

According to the UN, at least 32,000 civilians have been killed and another 60,000 wounded in the last decade.

Kunduz has been the scene of repeated air strikes gone awry over the course of the conflict, including an Afghan strike last April on an outdoor religious gathering in Dashte Archi that killed or wounded 107 people, mostly children, according to the UN.

And in 2015, a US airstrike struck a Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders) hospital amid heavy fighting in the area, killing 42 people, including 24 patients and 14 members of the NGO. &nbsp;

At least 13 civilians were killed, mostly children, in an air strike by "international forces" in the northern Afghan city of Kunduz late last week, the United Nations said Monday.

At least 13 civilians were killed, mostly children, in an air strike by "international forces" in the northern Afghan city of Kunduz late last week, the United Nations said Monday. The strike happened between late Friday and early Saturday in support of ground operations conducted by pro-government forces fighting Taliban militants in the area. "Initial fact-finding indicates that 10 of those killed were children, part of the same extended family who were displaced by fighting elsewhere in the country," the UN mission in Afghanistan said in a statement. The US is the only member of the international coalition in Afghanistan that provides air support in the conflict. A NATO spokesperson told AFP the coalition was investigating the claims. "Those who were killed were internally displaced families who had fled the war in Dasht-e-Archi district and had recently moved to the city," added Khosh Mohammad Nasratyar, member of Kunduz provincial council, saying three children were also wounded in the attack. The deaths come as ordinary Afghans continue to bear the brunt of the conflict, with more civilians killed in the Afghan war in 2018 than during any other year on record, according to a UN report. The uptick in violence in 2018 coincides with a significant increase in the number of deaths caused by the "deliberate targeting of civilians", according to the report, mostly stemming from suicide attacks by insurgents allied with the Taliban or Islamic State (IS). An increase in air strikes by US and Afghan forces also led to more civilian deaths in 2018, with more than 500 killed by "aerial operations for the first time on record". Fighting continues to flare across Afghanistan even as the US and Taliban press forward in peace talks aimed at ending nearly 18 years of fighting. The ongoing peace talks with the Taliban follow years of escalating violence in Afghanistan. According to the UN, at least 32,000 civilians have been killed and another 60,000 wounded in the last decade. Kunduz has been the scene of repeated air strikes gone awry over the course of the conflict, including an Afghan strike last April on an outdoor religious gathering in Dashte Archi that killed or wounded 107 people, mostly children, according to the UN. And in 2015, a US airstrike struck a Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders) hospital amid heavy fighting in the area, killing 42 people, including 24 patients and 14 members of the NGO.

Air strike kills 13 civilians, mostly children, in Afghanistan

Two US service members were killed in Afghanistan Friday, NATO said, in the latest casualties to hit the international coalition amid ongoing peace talks between Washington and the Taliban.

NATO's Resolute Support mission would not immediately release any details about the soldiers but said they had been killed during an unspecified "operation" in the country.

"In accordance with U.S. Department of Defense policy, the name of the service members killed in action are being withheld until 24 hours after notification of next of kin is complete," said NATO.

The deaths come a day after at least six people were killed by blasts in an Islamic State-claimed attack during Persian New Year celebrations in a Shiite area of Kabul.

The number of American casualties has fallen dramatically since the end of 2014 when Afghan forces took over from US-led NATO combat troops to secure the country.

Fighting continues to flare across Afghanistan more than a week after the latest round of talks between the US and the Taliban ended in Doha, as Washington continues to seek an end to the nearly 18-year war.

The Afghan government has complained it is being left out of the negotiations, as many Afghans fear a premature US withdrawal could see the Taliban return to some semblance of power.

The country remains on edge as winter comes to end, with warmer weather sparking the potential onset of a new fighting season as analysts warn the Taliban may increase attacks to gain leverage at the negotiating table.

US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad is spearheading efforts to strike a peace deal with the Taliban before Afghanistan's presidential election, which was pushed back to late September earlier this week. &nbsp;

Two US service members were killed in Afghanistan Friday, NATO said, in the latest casualties to hit the international coalition amid ongoing peace talks between Washington and the Taliban.

Two US service members were killed in Afghanistan Friday, NATO said, in the latest casualties to hit the international coalition amid ongoing peace talks between Washington and the Taliban. NATO's Resolute Support mission would not immediately release any details about the soldiers but said they had been killed during an unspecified "operation" in the country. "In accordance with U.S. Department of Defense policy, the name of the service members killed in action are being withheld until 24 hours after notification of next of kin is complete," said NATO. The deaths come a day after at least six people were killed by blasts in an Islamic State-claimed attack during Persian New Year celebrations in a Shiite area of Kabul. The number of American casualties has fallen dramatically since the end of 2014 when Afghan forces took over from US-led NATO combat troops to secure the country. Fighting continues to flare across Afghanistan more than a week after the latest round of talks between the US and the Taliban ended in Doha, as Washington continues to seek an end to the nearly 18-year war. The Afghan government has complained it is being left out of the negotiations, as many Afghans fear a premature US withdrawal could see the Taliban return to some semblance of power. The country remains on edge as winter comes to end, with warmer weather sparking the potential onset of a new fighting season as analysts warn the Taliban may increase attacks to gain leverage at the negotiating table. US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad is spearheading efforts to strike a peace deal with the Taliban before Afghanistan's presidential election, which was pushed back to late September earlier this week.

Air strikes in the northern Afghan province of Kunduz killed about a dozen civilians on Saturday, local officials said, as battle intensified there and in southern Helmand province.

The air strikes killed 13 civilians, said Safiullah Amiri, a member of Kunduz provincial council. The casualties included children, said fellow council member Amruddin, who pegged the civilian death toll at 12.

The bodies were brought into Kunduz city in the back of a truck as part of protests by dozens of civilians.

The civilian deaths occurred as Afghan and Taliban forces claimed to inflict heavy losses on each other in that province and in Helmand, two Taliban strongholds.

A spokeswoman for the NATO-led Resolute Support mission in Afghanistan did not respond immediately to questions on Sunday. Resolute Support, comprising troops from 39 countries, trains, advises and assists Afghan security forces.

The New York Times reported earlier that the air strikes that killed civilians followed a firefight between US and Afghan soldiers that had been provoked by a Taliban working inside Afghan forces. Reuters has not confirmed the paper's report.

Four Afghan soldiers died in the fight, a senior Afghan military source said.

A record number of Afghan civilians were killed last year as aerial attacks and suicide bombings increased, the United Nations said in a February report.

Kunduz is also where two US soldiers were killed in combat on Friday. The US Department of Defense identified the soldiers as Specialist Joseph Collette, 29, and Sgt. Will Lindsay, 33.

Fighting has accelerated during a period of recurring peace talks. The latest negotiating round concluded this month with US and Taliban officials citing progress toward ending the 17-year war.

Afghan forces, with NATO air support, killed 58 Taliban, including several commanders, in Kunduz, the defence ministry said on Saturday via Twitter. The Taliban said that it had killed 19 members of Afghan forces and five from foreign forces.

Fighting was also fierce in Helmand, including more civilian deaths.

The Taliban on Saturday claimed an attack at a stadium celebration of Farmers Day in Helmand, which killed four people and wounded 31, including minor injuries to the province's governor.

A day earlier, the Taliban attacked two Afghan outposts in Sangin, killing 48 Afghan security personnel, said Hashim Alokozay, a Helmand member of parliament. Taliban spokesman Qari Yousuf Ahmadi said the two outposts were over-run, killing 52 Afghan troops and wounding 11 more.

Omar Zwak, spokesman for Helmand's governor, said the Taliban also suffered heavy casualties.

Air strikes in the northern Afghan province of Kunduz killed about a dozen civilians on Saturday, local officials said, as battle intensified there and in southern Helmand province.

Air strikes in the northern Afghan province of Kunduz killed about a dozen civilians on Saturday, local officials said, as battle intensified there and in southern Helmand province. The air strikes killed 13 civilians, said Safiullah Amiri, a member of Kunduz provincial council. The casualties included children, said fellow council member Amruddin, who pegged the civilian death toll at 12. The bodies were brought into Kunduz city in the back of a truck as part of protests by dozens of civilians. The civilian deaths occurred as Afghan and Taliban forces claimed to inflict heavy losses on each other in that province and in Helmand, two Taliban strongholds. A spokeswoman for the NATO-led Resolute Support mission in Afghanistan did not respond immediately to questions on Sunday. Resolute Support, comprising troops from 39 countries, trains, advises and assists Afghan security forces. The New York Times reported earlier that the air strikes that killed civilians followed a firefight between US and Afghan soldiers that had been provoked by a Taliban working inside Afghan forces. Reuters has not confirmed the paper's report. Four Afghan soldiers died in the fight, a senior Afghan military source said. A record number of Afghan civilians were killed last year as aerial attacks and suicide bombings increased, the United Nations said in a February report. Kunduz is also where two US soldiers were killed in combat on Friday. The US Department of Defense identified the soldiers as Specialist Joseph Collette, 29, and Sgt. Will Lindsay, 33. Fighting has accelerated during a period of recurring peace talks. The latest negotiating round concluded this month with US and Taliban officials citing progress toward ending the 17-year war. Afghan forces, with NATO air support, killed 58 Taliban, including several commanders, in Kunduz, the defence ministry said on Saturday via Twitter. The Taliban said that it had killed 19 members of Afghan forces and five from foreign forces. Fighting was also fierce in Helmand, including more civilian deaths. The Taliban on Saturday claimed an attack at a stadium celebration of Farmers Day in Helmand, which killed four people and wounded 31, including minor injuries to the province's governor. A day earlier, the Taliban attacked two Afghan outposts in Sangin, killing 48 Afghan security personnel, said Hashim Alokozay, a Helmand member of parliament. Taliban spokesman Qari Yousuf Ahmadi said the two outposts were over-run, killing 52 Afghan troops and wounding 11 more. Omar Zwak, spokesman for Helmand's governor, said the Taliban also suffered heavy casualties.

Air strikes kill dozen Afghans, battle intensifies in Taliban strongholds

Two US service members were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/at-least-six-killed-in-blasts-as-kabul-marks-persian-new-year-204661">killed in Afghanistan</a> Friday, NATO said, in the latest casualties to hit the international coalition amid ongoing peace talks between Washington and the Taliban.

NATO's Resolute Support mission would not immediately release any details about the soldiers but said they had been killed during an unspecified "operation" in the country.

"In accordance with U.S. Department of Defense policy, the name of the service members killed in action are being withheld until 24 hours after notification of next of kin is complete," said NATO.

The deaths come a day after at least six people were killed by blasts in an Islamic State-claimed attack during Persian New Year celebrations in a Shiite area of Kabul.

The number of American casualties has fallen dramatically since the end of 2014 when Afghan forces took over from US-led NATO combat troops to secure the country.

Fighting continues to flare across Afghanistan more than a week after the latest round of talks between the US and the Taliban ended in Doha, as Washington continues to seek an end to the nearly 18-year war.

The Afghan government has complained it is being left out of the negotiations, as many Afghans fear a premature US withdrawal could see the Taliban return to some semblance of power.

The country remains on edge as winter comes to end, with warmer weather sparking the potential onset of a new fighting season as analysts warn the Taliban may increase attacks to gain leverage at the negotiating table.

US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad is spearheading efforts to strike a peace deal with the Taliban before Afghanistan's presidential election, which was pushed back to late September earlier this week. &nbsp;

The United States could soon freeze preparations for delivering F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, officials told Reuters, in what would be the strongest signal yet by Washington that Ankara cannot have both the advanced aircraft and Russia's S-400 air defence system.

The United States is nearing an inflection point in a years-long standoff with Turkey, a NATO ally, after so far failing to sway President Tayyip Erdogan that buying a Russian air defence system would compromise the security of F-35 aircraft.

"The S-400 is a computer. The F-35 is a computer. You don't hook your computer to your adversary's computer and that's basically what we would be doing," Katie Wheelbarger, acting assistant secretary of defence for international security affairs, told Reuters.

While no decision has been made yet, US officials confirmed that Washington was considering halting steps now underway to ready Turkey to receive the F-35, which is built by Lockheed Martin Corp.

"There (are) decisions that come up constantly about things being delivered in anticipation of them eventually taking custody of the planes," said Wheelbarger.

"So there's a lot of things in train that can be paused to send signals to them (that we're serious)," she added, without detailing those steps.

However, another US official said one of the measures the United States was looking at was alternatives to an engine depot in Turkey, without giving more details. The official said any potential alternatives would likely be somewhere in Western Europe. Turkey is home to an F-35 engine overhaul depot in the western city of Eskisehir.

Asked about the Reuters report, the top US military officer said on Thursday he was hopeful that Washington would find a way to resolve the dispute with Turkey over the S-400 but cautioned: "It is a tough issue."

"Both the executive branch of our government and legislative branch of our government are going to have a hard time reconciling the presence of the S-400 and the most advanced fighter aircraft that we have, the F-35," General Joseph Dunford, the chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, said during an event.

If Turkey was removed from the F-35 program, it would be the most serious crisis in the relationship between the two allies in decades, according to Bulent Aliriza, director of the Turkey project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

The strains on ties between Washington and Ankara already extend beyond the F-35 to include strategy in Syria, Iran sanctions and the detention of US consular staff.

"This (the F-35 standoff) is really a symptom, not a cause of the problem between the two countries," Aliriza said.

Many US officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, worry that Turkey is drifting away from NATO and watch improving relations between Ankara and Moscow with concern. The prospect of Russian contractors or officials on Turkish bases that also are home to the F-35 is unfathomable to many US officials.

The tensions could further escalate. If Ankara goes ahead with the Russian deal, Turkey also could face US sanctions.

A Turkish foreign ministry official said on Thursday that Ankara's position had not changed. "Our position on this matter is evident," the official said.

Erdogan impasse

Despite US hopes that Turkey may still forgo the S-400, experts say Erdogan may have already backed himself into a rhetorical corner. He has repeatedly said he would not reverse course on the S-400, saying earlier in March: "Nobody should ask us to lick up what we spat."

A decision to drop Turkey from the F-35 program would have broader repercussions, since Ankara helps manufacture parts for the aircraft, including components of the landing gear, cockpit displays and aircraft engines.

Wheelbarger acknowledged that the Pentagon, in light of the standoff, was looking "across the board" at potential alternate suppliers for F-35 parts, including in other NATO countries.

"It's prudent program planning...to ensure that you have stability in your supply chain," she said, without speculating that Turkey might be dropped from the program.

Washington has sought to persuade Turkey to purchase the American-made Raytheon Co Patriot defence system, instead of S-400s. Erdogan has said that Turkey was still open to buying Patriot systems from the United States but only if the conditions are suitable.

Pentagon spokesman Eric Pahon said that in addition to the Patriot air defence system, the American offer "includes significant government-to-government cooperation on advanced system development."

Although Turkey has held out the prospect of buying both the S-400 and the Patriot system, the United States has warned Turkey it will take its offer of Patriots off the table unless it changes course.

A Turkish S-400 purchase could also trigger a fight with the US Congress, which has already blocked all major arms sales to Ankara while the S-400 deal is pending.

Lawmakers could renew attempts to introduce legislation that would legally prohibit the Trump administration from allowing Turkey to have the F-35 if it secures the S-400s.

Fears over renewed tensions with Washington reversed some of the Turkish lira's overnight gains. The currency had firmed to 5.4160 against the dollar late on Wednesday after a US&nbsp;Federal Reserve policy decision, but it eased back to 5.4553 on Thursday due in part to the Reuters report, analysts said.

The United States could soon freeze preparations for delivering F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, officials told Reuters, in what would be the strongest signal yet by Washington that Ankara cannot have both the advanced aircraft and Russia's S-400 air defence system.

The United States could soon freeze preparations for delivering F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, officials told Reuters, in what would be the strongest signal yet by Washington that Ankara cannot have both the advanced aircraft and Russia's S-400 air defence system. The United States is nearing an inflection point in a years-long standoff with Turkey, a NATO ally, after so far failing to sway President Tayyip Erdogan that buying a Russian air defence system would compromise the security of F-35 aircraft. "The S-400 is a computer. The F-35 is a computer. You don't hook your computer to your adversary's computer and that's basically what we would be doing," Katie Wheelbarger, acting assistant secretary of defence for international security affairs, told Reuters. While no decision has been made yet, US officials confirmed that Washington was considering halting steps now underway to ready Turkey to receive the F-35, which is built by Lockheed Martin Corp. "There (are) decisions that come up constantly about things being delivered in anticipation of them eventually taking custody of the planes," said Wheelbarger. "So there's a lot of things in train that can be paused to send signals to them (that we're serious)," she added, without detailing those steps. However, another US official said one of the measures the United States was looking at was alternatives to an engine depot in Turkey, without giving more details. The official said any potential alternatives would likely be somewhere in Western Europe. Turkey is home to an F-35 engine overhaul depot in the western city of Eskisehir. Asked about the Reuters report, the top US military officer said on Thursday he was hopeful that Washington would find a way to resolve the dispute with Turkey over the S-400 but cautioned: "It is a tough issue." "Both the executive branch of our government and legislative branch of our government are going to have a hard time reconciling the presence of the S-400 and the most advanced fighter aircraft that we have, the F-35," General Joseph Dunford, the chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, said during an event. If Turkey was removed from the F-35 program, it would be the most serious crisis in the relationship between the two allies in decades, according to Bulent Aliriza, director of the Turkey project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. The strains on ties between Washington and Ankara already extend beyond the F-35 to include strategy in Syria, Iran sanctions and the detention of US consular staff. "This (the F-35 standoff) is really a symptom, not a cause of the problem between the two countries," Aliriza said. Many US officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, worry that Turkey is drifting away from NATO and watch improving relations between Ankara and Moscow with concern. The prospect of Russian contractors or officials on Turkish bases that also are home to the F-35 is unfathomable to many US officials. The tensions could further escalate. If Ankara goes ahead with the Russian deal, Turkey also could face US sanctions. A Turkish foreign ministry official said on Thursday that Ankara's position had not changed. "Our position on this matter is evident," the official said. Erdogan impasse Despite US hopes that Turkey may still forgo the S-400, experts say Erdogan may have already backed himself into a rhetorical corner. He has repeatedly said he would not reverse course on the S-400, saying earlier in March: "Nobody should ask us to lick up what we spat." A decision to drop Turkey from the F-35 program would have broader repercussions, since Ankara helps manufacture parts for the aircraft, including components of the landing gear, cockpit displays and aircraft engines. Wheelbarger acknowledged that the Pentagon, in light of the standoff, was looking "across the board" at potential alternate suppliers for F-35 parts, including in other NATO countries. "It's prudent program planning...to ensure that you have stability in your supply chain," she said, without speculating that Turkey might be dropped from the program. Washington has sought to persuade Turkey to purchase the American-made Raytheon Co Patriot defence system, instead of S-400s. Erdogan has said that Turkey was still open to buying Patriot systems from the United States but only if the conditions are suitable. Pentagon spokesman Eric Pahon said that in addition to the Patriot air defence system, the American offer "includes significant government-to-government cooperation on advanced system development." Although Turkey has held out the prospect of buying both the S-400 and the Patriot system, the United States has warned Turkey it will take its offer of Patriots off the table unless it changes course. A Turkish S-400 purchase could also trigger a fight with the US Congress, which has already blocked all major arms sales to Ankara while the S-400 deal is pending. Lawmakers could renew attempts to introduce legislation that would legally prohibit the Trump administration from allowing Turkey to have the F-35 if it secures the S-400s. Fears over renewed tensions with Washington reversed some of the Turkish lira's overnight gains. The currency had firmed to 5.4160 against the dollar late on Wednesday after a US Federal Reserve policy decision, but it eased back to 5.4553 on Thursday due in part to the Reuters report, analysts said.

May soon pause preparations for delivering F-35 jets to Turkey: US official

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-begins-to-bury-its-dead-after-mosque-massacre-204416">New Zealand begins to bury its dead after mosque massacre</a>

Hundreds of mourners gathered in a Christchurch cemetery on Wednesday for the first funerals of those killed in the twin mosque massacre as New Zealanders braced for days of emotional farewells following the mass slayings.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2-dead-several-injured-after-under-construction-building-collapses-in-karnataka-204418">3 dead, many injured after under-construction building collapses in Karnataka's Dharwad</a>

At least three people were killed and several injured after an under-construction building collapsed in Karnataka's Dharwad's.&nbsp;

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bolsonaro-compliments-trump-who-replies-brazil-could-join-nato-204420">Bolsonaro compliments Trump who replies Brazil could join NATO</a>

President Donald Trump heaped praise Tuesday on right-wing Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro — and received plenty back — in announcing a special relationship that he said could even see the Latin American country join NATO.

At a joint news conference on the sun-soaked Rose Garden lawn, Trump and the man dubbed "Trump of the Tropics" let the mutual compliments flow.

"I have always admired the United States of America. And this sense of admiration has just increased after you took office and the presidency," Bolsonaro said.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/goas-new-cm-pramod-sawant-to-face-floor-test-today-204426">New Goa CM Pramod Sawant to face floor test today</a>

A day after Bhartiya Janata Party's Pramod Sawant took charge as the new chief minister of Goa following the demise of Manohar Parrikar, the new CM is all set to prove the majority of his government in the floor test scheduled for Wednesday afternoon.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/anurag-kashyap-rajkummar-rao-tweet-in-support-of-savi-siddhu-the-actor-who-has-turned-watchman-204422">Anurag Kashyap, Rajkummar Rao tweet in support of Savi Siddhu, the actor who now works as a security guard</a>

The Internet was abuzz Tuesday with the news of actor Savi Siddhu who is now working as a security guard at a residential complex in Mumbai.&nbsp;

Siddhu has featured in several prominent films like Akshay Kumar starrer 'Patiala House', Anurag Kashyap's 'Black Friday', 'Gulal' and 'Paanch' among others in the past.&nbsp;

But owing to bad health, an acute financial crisis and a lack of roles, Siddhu now works as a security guard in Mumbai.&nbsp;

New Zealand begins to bury its dead after mosque massacre Hundreds of mourners gathered in a Christchurch cemetery on Wednesday for the first funerals of those killed in the twin mosque massacre as New Zealanders braced for days of emotional farewells following the mass slayings.

New Zealand begins to bury its dead after mosque massacre Hundreds of mourners gathered in a Christchurch cemetery on Wednesday for the first funerals of those killed in the twin mosque massacre as New Zealanders braced for days of emotional farewells following the mass slayings. 3 dead, many injured after under-construction building collapses in Karnataka's Dharwad At least three people were killed and several injured after an under-construction building collapsed in Karnataka's Dharwad's. Bolsonaro compliments Trump who replies Brazil could join NATO President Donald Trump heaped praise Tuesday on right-wing Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro — and received plenty back — in announcing a special relationship that he said could even see the Latin American country join NATO. At a joint news conference on the sun-soaked Rose Garden lawn, Trump and the man dubbed "Trump of the Tropics" let the mutual compliments flow. "I have always admired the United States of America. And this sense of admiration has just increased after you took office and the presidency," Bolsonaro said. New Goa CM Pramod Sawant to face floor test today A day after Bhartiya Janata Party's Pramod Sawant took charge as the new chief minister of Goa following the demise of Manohar Parrikar, the new CM is all set to prove the majority of his government in the floor test scheduled for Wednesday afternoon. Anurag Kashyap, Rajkummar Rao tweet in support of Savi Siddhu, the actor who now works as a security guard The Internet was abuzz Tuesday with the news of actor Savi Siddhu who is now working as a security guard at a residential complex in Mumbai. Siddhu has featured in several prominent films like Akshay Kumar starrer 'Patiala House', Anurag Kashyap's 'Black Friday', 'Gulal' and 'Paanch' among others in the past. But owing to bad health, an acute financial crisis and a lack of roles, Siddhu now works as a security guard in Mumbai.

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