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.

Two US soldiers killed in Afghanistan: NATO

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.

News brief: Big stories of the day

President Donald Trump heaped praise Tuesday on right-wing Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro —&nbsp;and received plenty back —&nbsp;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.

Trump, stressing Brazil's partnership in the US-led campaign to force hard-left Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro from power, said Bolsonaro was "doing a fantastic job" and had "brought the country together."

For years Bolsonaro was little more than a marginal congressman, but his Trump-like campaign in 2018, promising to combat corruption and crime, and to end politics as usual, propelled him to surprise victory.

His hard-right views, including frequent expressions of support for Brazil's past period of military rule, horrified the left and drove deep divisions in Latin America's biggest nation.

But at the press conference, his condemnation of what he called "fake news" -- opponents say he is referring merely to critical reports -- and references to deeply conservative social values pleased Trump.

"We have many views that are similar," Trump said.

Brazil in NATO? 
Trump spent much of the news conference discussing efforts to squeeze Venezuela's authorities, which he warned could face many more sanctions than those already imposed in an attempt to cripple the government's finances.

Brazil, which shares a long border with Venezuela, is important in the strategy. In Bolsonaro, an ex-soldier who idolizes the former leaders of Brazil's anti-communist military dictatorship, Trump has a ready ally against Maduro.

In return, Bolsonaro got one of the main items on his wish list: agreement for Brazil to be given NATO privileges. This "major non-NATO ally" status would ease Brazil's access to US weaponry and other military links.

But in the sunny spirit of the occasion, Trump then went much further, stretching the diplomatic and geographical possibilities to a degree that surprised many.

"I also intend to designate Brazil as a major non-NATO ally or even possibly, if you start thinking about it, maybe a NATO ally," Trump announced.

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization already has 29 countries. None are from Latin America and none, like Brazil, are located in the South Atlantic.

"I have to talk to a lot of people," Trump said of his idea.

Longterm relationship 
Washington has had strained relations with Brazil's long string of leftist governments but the rise of Bolsonaro, who talks enthusiastically of combating socialists and communists, has opened a new door for the Trump administration.

A Trump-Bolsonaro bonding matters for Venezuela and for Washington's push back against growing Chinese economic influence in South America.

It could also have large-scale implications for the future of efforts to slow or reverse global warming: Brazil is home to much of the threatened Amazon rainforest and Bolsonaro, like Trump, is a climate change skeptic.

Trump has withdrawn the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement, an international deal on cutting carbon emissions. Bolsonaro is toying with following suit.

On Monday, Bolsonaro signed an agreement with US companies on technical safeguards to allow commercial satellite launches from Brazil's Alcantara base. But there are still major sticking points between the two countries, especially on trade, with Trump wanting Brazil to open up to more US products.

Whether what a White House official called a new north-south "axis" prospers may depend mostly on the personal relationship between its leaders.

For sure, the White House reception left Bolsonaro -- until last year a virtual unknown on the international stage -- expecting a long friendship.

Asked if he would manage to have equally close ties if a Democrat prevented Republican Trump's reelection in 2020, Bolsonaro said: "I do believe Donald Trump will be reelected fully."

Trump interrupted him -- just to show yet again that they were on the same wavelength.

"Thank you. I agree," he said.

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.

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. Trump, stressing Brazil's partnership in the US-led campaign to force hard-left Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro from power, said Bolsonaro was "doing a fantastic job" and had "brought the country together." For years Bolsonaro was little more than a marginal congressman, but his Trump-like campaign in 2018, promising to combat corruption and crime, and to end politics as usual, propelled him to surprise victory. His hard-right views, including frequent expressions of support for Brazil's past period of military rule, horrified the left and drove deep divisions in Latin America's biggest nation. But at the press conference, his condemnation of what he called "fake news" -- opponents say he is referring merely to critical reports -- and references to deeply conservative social values pleased Trump. "We have many views that are similar," Trump said. Brazil in NATO? Trump spent much of the news conference discussing efforts to squeeze Venezuela's authorities, which he warned could face many more sanctions than those already imposed in an attempt to cripple the government's finances. Brazil, which shares a long border with Venezuela, is important in the strategy. In Bolsonaro, an ex-soldier who idolizes the former leaders of Brazil's anti-communist military dictatorship, Trump has a ready ally against Maduro. In return, Bolsonaro got one of the main items on his wish list: agreement for Brazil to be given NATO privileges. This "major non-NATO ally" status would ease Brazil's access to US weaponry and other military links. But in the sunny spirit of the occasion, Trump then went much further, stretching the diplomatic and geographical possibilities to a degree that surprised many. "I also intend to designate Brazil as a major non-NATO ally or even possibly, if you start thinking about it, maybe a NATO ally," Trump announced. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization already has 29 countries. None are from Latin America and none, like Brazil, are located in the South Atlantic. "I have to talk to a lot of people," Trump said of his idea. Longterm relationship Washington has had strained relations with Brazil's long string of leftist governments but the rise of Bolsonaro, who talks enthusiastically of combating socialists and communists, has opened a new door for the Trump administration. A Trump-Bolsonaro bonding matters for Venezuela and for Washington's push back against growing Chinese economic influence in South America. It could also have large-scale implications for the future of efforts to slow or reverse global warming: Brazil is home to much of the threatened Amazon rainforest and Bolsonaro, like Trump, is a climate change skeptic. Trump has withdrawn the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement, an international deal on cutting carbon emissions. Bolsonaro is toying with following suit. On Monday, Bolsonaro signed an agreement with US companies on technical safeguards to allow commercial satellite launches from Brazil's Alcantara base. But there are still major sticking points between the two countries, especially on trade, with Trump wanting Brazil to open up to more US products. Whether what a White House official called a new north-south "axis" prospers may depend mostly on the personal relationship between its leaders. For sure, the White House reception left Bolsonaro -- until last year a virtual unknown on the international stage -- expecting a long friendship. Asked if he would manage to have equally close ties if a Democrat prevented Republican Trump's reelection in 2020, Bolsonaro said: "I do believe Donald Trump will be reelected fully." Trump interrupted him -- just to show yet again that they were on the same wavelength. "Thank you. I agree," he said.

Bolsonaro compliments Trump who replies Brazil could join NATO

US investigators sought warrants to read<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-ex-lawyer-cohen-says-testimony-could-have-been-clearer-lawyer-203200"> Michael Cohen's emails </a>in July 2017, nine months before the FBI raided the home and office of President Donald Trump's former personal lawyer, according to documents made public on Tuesday.

The requests were made six months into Trump's presidency. Emails were sought by Special Counsel Robert Mueller's office as well as by the FBI, dating back as far as June 2015, according to the documents.

Mueller is investigating Russia's role in the 2016 US election and possible coordination with Trump campaign members.

The nearly 900 pages of documents released by a federal judge in New York provide more detailed accounts of Cohen's financial relationships than previously known.

Cohen had been Trump's personal lawyer and self-described fixer for more than a decade, but began cooperating with federal investigators soon after the April 2018 raids on his home, office and hotel room.

He later pleaded guilty in separate prosecutions to lying to Congress, bank fraud and campaign finance violations. The latter included paying hush money to silence two women who said they had sexual encounters with Trump.

Cohen is scheduled to begin a three-year prison term on May 6.

Trump has denied having had sexual relationships with the two women: Stormy Daniels, the porn actress whose real name is Stephanie Clifford, and former Playboy model Karen McDougal.

Much of the discussion about campaign finance issues in the released documents was redacted.

They were released after US District Judge William Pauley on Monday ordered prosecutors to make redacted versions public, in response to requests by news media organizations.

Lanny Davis, a lawyer for Cohen, said in a statement on Monday night that the document release "only furthers his interest in continuing to cooperate and providing information and the truth about Donald Trump and the Trump organization to law enforcement and Congress."

Since pleading guilty, Cohen has publicly turned on Trump, telling the House Committee on Oversight and Reform on Feb. 27 that his former boss was a "racist," "con man" and "cheat."

In his congressional testimony, Cohen said he was "ashamed of my weakness and misplaced loyalty, of the things I did for Mr. Trump in an effort to protect and promote him."

Cohen began working for Trump in 2007. The Republican president in December called his former lawyer "a rat" and in January said Cohen was "lying to reduce his jail time."

Moscow has denied meddling in the 2016 election, though US intelligence agencies have concluded that it interfered to help Trump win.

Trump has denied that his campaign colluded with Russia, and described the Mueller probe as a political witch hunt.

The newly released documents showed how the FBI made extensive use of its access to Cohen's Apple iCloud account, which allowed him to coordinate his work across such devices as an iPhone, iPad Mini and laptop.

FBI agents said they located a hotel room in New York's Loews Regency Hotel where Cohen was staying by using a device known as a Triggerfish that mimics cell phone towers to find a specific device.

The bank fraud case stemmed from Cohen dealings unrelated to Trump, and suggest that his financial situation was dire.

According to the documents, Cohen was in default by December 2017 on more than $20 million in loans backed by New York taxicab medallions he owned.

The FBI believed Cohen misrepresented his finances to banks he owed money to.

According to the documents, Cohen concealed fees being paid to Essential Consultants, a firm he controlled, for political consulting, including from international clients with issues pending before the Trump administration.

Among the payments Cohen was believed to have received was $600,000 from AT&amp;T Inc for consulting about "political issues, including net neutrality, the merger between AT&amp;T and Time Warner and tax reform."

Another $583,333 came from an investment firm controlled by Russian businessman Viktor Vekselberg, the documents showed.

Republicans in Congress have criticized Cohen's consulting work, arguing he should have made his contracts public through disclosures. The warrant does not appear to detail any violations to lobbying disclosure laws.

Cohen also used Essential Consultants to pay hush money to Daniels.

US investigators sought warrants to read Michael Cohen's emails in July 2017, nine months before the FBI raided the home and office of President Donald Trump's former personal lawyer, according to documents made public on Tuesday.

US investigators sought warrants to read Michael Cohen's emails in July 2017, nine months before the FBI raided the home and office of President Donald Trump's former personal lawyer, according to documents made public on Tuesday. The requests were made six months into Trump's presidency. Emails were sought by Special Counsel Robert Mueller's office as well as by the FBI, dating back as far as June 2015, according to the documents. Mueller is investigating Russia's role in the 2016 US election and possible coordination with Trump campaign members. The nearly 900 pages of documents released by a federal judge in New York provide more detailed accounts of Cohen's financial relationships than previously known. Cohen had been Trump's personal lawyer and self-described fixer for more than a decade, but began cooperating with federal investigators soon after the April 2018 raids on his home, office and hotel room. He later pleaded guilty in separate prosecutions to lying to Congress, bank fraud and campaign finance violations. The latter included paying hush money to silence two women who said they had sexual encounters with Trump. Cohen is scheduled to begin a three-year prison term on May 6. Trump has denied having had sexual relationships with the two women: Stormy Daniels, the porn actress whose real name is Stephanie Clifford, and former Playboy model Karen McDougal. Much of the discussion about campaign finance issues in the released documents was redacted. They were released after US District Judge William Pauley on Monday ordered prosecutors to make redacted versions public, in response to requests by news media organizations. Lanny Davis, a lawyer for Cohen, said in a statement on Monday night that the document release "only furthers his interest in continuing to cooperate and providing information and the truth about Donald Trump and the Trump organization to law enforcement and Congress." Since pleading guilty, Cohen has publicly turned on Trump, telling the House Committee on Oversight and Reform on Feb. 27 that his former boss was a "racist," "con man" and "cheat." In his congressional testimony, Cohen said he was "ashamed of my weakness and misplaced loyalty, of the things I did for Mr. Trump in an effort to protect and promote him." Cohen began working for Trump in 2007. The Republican president in December called his former lawyer "a rat" and in January said Cohen was "lying to reduce his jail time." Moscow has denied meddling in the 2016 election, though US intelligence agencies have concluded that it interfered to help Trump win. Trump has denied that his campaign colluded with Russia, and described the Mueller probe as a political witch hunt. The newly released documents showed how the FBI made extensive use of its access to Cohen's Apple iCloud account, which allowed him to coordinate his work across such devices as an iPhone, iPad Mini and laptop. FBI agents said they located a hotel room in New York's Loews Regency Hotel where Cohen was staying by using a device known as a Triggerfish that mimics cell phone towers to find a specific device. The bank fraud case stemmed from Cohen dealings unrelated to Trump, and suggest that his financial situation was dire. According to the documents, Cohen was in default by December 2017 on more than $20 million in loans backed by New York taxicab medallions he owned. The FBI believed Cohen misrepresented his finances to banks he owed money to. According to the documents, Cohen concealed fees being paid to Essential Consultants, a firm he controlled, for political consulting, including from international clients with issues pending before the Trump administration. Among the payments Cohen was believed to have received was $600,000 from AT&T Inc for consulting about "political issues, including net neutrality, the merger between AT&T and Time Warner and tax reform." Another $583,333 came from an investment firm controlled by Russian businessman Viktor Vekselberg, the documents showed. Republicans in Congress have criticized Cohen's consulting work, arguing he should have made his contracts public through disclosures. The warrant does not appear to detail any violations to lobbying disclosure laws. Cohen also used Essential Consultants to pay hush money to Daniels.

US investigators sought ex-Trump lawyer Michael Cohen's emails months before raids

At a dinner party in Kabul's high-security 'green zone'&nbsp;in March, a senior European diplomat poured himself a glass of red wine and pulled up a photograph on his iPhone.

Released by Qatar's foreign ministry on February 25, it showed seven Qatari officials alongside US&nbsp;and Taliban negotiators as talks on ending the 17-year-old war in Afghanistan had restarted in the Gulf state the previous day.

'If Qatari officials can be at the negotiating table, then how did the US&nbsp;forget to invite its key allies who have fought the Afghan war since 2001 ?'&nbsp;said the diplomat, whose nation has contributed hundreds of troops to NATO's mission in the country.

'We continue to pour millions of dollars as an act of solidarity, but when it comes to peace talks, the US decided to go solo.'

Reuters spoke with 10 diplomats from countries spanning three continents that are among the 39 that provide military personnel to the NATO training operation, known as Resolute Support, in Afghanistan, and those that provide development aid.

Many of those countries are significant, consistent donors. Most of the diplomats spoke on condition of anonymity, citing the sensitivity of the situation.

The diplomats interviewed said their governments were broadly rethinking their commitments to rebuilding the country. That process had been hastened by feeling excluded from peace talks, and also by a weariness for supporting the Afghan campaign among voters and lawmakers in their respective countries, they said.

Asked about those comments, a US&nbsp;State Department spokesperson said regular reviews of foreign assistance was 'good practice'&nbsp;and Afghanistan's development remained in the interest of the international community.

'We see no signs that interest and investment are wavering,'&nbsp;said the spokesperson, adding that US&nbsp;Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad has briefed NATO allies and other partners three times since December, and effective coordination remained a priority.

Nick Kay, NATO's newly appointed senior civilian representative in Afghanistan, said NATO allies 'fully support'&nbsp;Khalilzad's efforts to negotiate a settlement.

But even the Afghan government has complained of being left out. President Ashraf Ghani's national security adviser on Thursday accused Khalilzad of "delegitimizing" the Kabul government by excluding it from deliberations.

Qatari officials did not respond to a request for comment.

In 2017, US development aid for Afghanistan totalled about $1.2 billion, well ahead of the next biggest donors Germany, European Union institutions, Britain and Japan, according to Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) data. But the United States' junior aid partners collectively contributed nearly two-thirds of all development assistance, highlighting their critical if less visible importance to the country's future.

CHANGING PRIORITIES

US and Taliban negotiators wrapped up their longest round of peace talks on Tuesday with the progress made but no agreement on when foreign troops might withdraw.&nbsp;

Whether funding countries keep investing in Afghanistan could prove pivotal to sustaining any peace. Diplomats say that, after troops leave, it may be the only leverage they have to retain influence over future Afghan governments.

Since the 2001 US-led invasion, Afghanistan has been among the top recipients of foreign government aid to promote economic and social development. In 2016, international donors pledged $15.2 billion in aid for Afghanistan until 2020.

With those pledges due to expire, many countries are re-evaluating their military and funding commitments.

"Priorities have changed for every EU nation," a European diplomat said, adding that countries besides Afghanistan needed support.

"The donor fatigue is intense and no one is in the mood to overlook it after 2020," another diplomat said.

A third diplomat said their country was re-evaluating its future aid with different scenarios in mind, including whether to continue development if the Taliban joins Afghanistan's government and what to do if peace talks fail.

Any drop-off in international aid would be disastrous for Afghanistan since much of it funds basic health and education services, said Adele Khodr, country representative for Unicef.

'It is definitely something we are concerned about. Imagine what would happen - (Afghanistan) would be Yemen,'&nbsp;Khodr said. '(By) pulling out, the international community will pay a much higher price in insecurity across the world.'

Ninety per cent of the money spent on the health sector in Afghanistan comes from the international community, said Toby Lanzer, deputy special representative in Afghanistan for the UN.

An official in Ghani's office in Kabul declined to comment on potential risks to future aid.

He said the government was making every effort to hold peace talks with the Taliban. The militant group said on Tuesday that such talks would have to wait until after a troop withdrawal plan is set.

'CRUCIAL TO STICK TOGETHER'

Some diplomats caution against a quick retreat.

'If we leave the country hastily, all these (advances) will go down the drain, 'Ambassador Markus Potzel, Germany's special representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan and one of the 10 diplomats interviewed, told Reuters in Kabul.

Potzel was referring to gains such as Afghan girls' attendance in school and new employment opportunities.

Maintaining aid was also critical to holding influence in Afghanistan, he said.

"That's our leverage. We can attach strings," Potzel said. "It is crucial to stick together."

A spokesperson at the British Embassy in Kabul said any changes to Britain's troop contribution would be made in consultation with coalition partners.

As of March 2019, 39 countries contributed 17,034 foreign forces in Afghanistan for Resolute Support, of which the US&nbsp;provided 50 percent, according to NATO. US&nbsp;troops are also deployed in a separate mission directed against groups such as al Qaeda and Islamic State.

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump's questioning of NATO's value to Washington, along with the absence of allies at the negotiating table, has deepened the unease within the military alliance created in 1949 by the United States, Canada, and Western European nations.

'The concern is that we need to be appraised of the progress of the discussions and to be involved. We have invested a lot,'said a European diplomat. 'This commitment should be reflected in influence or at least information on the peace talks.'

The diplomat said it was understandable that access to the negotiating table was narrow right now, but "what I would find abnormal is that we would be served a deal in which we had nothing to say and then be asked to foot the bill".

SHRINKING FOOTPRINT?

The senior diplomats interviewed by Reuters, who is based in Kabul and Islamabad, said their governments were finding it harder to justify the continuing presence of their troops and the steady drain of aid funding to Afghanistan.

'It is increasingly difficult to tell our people why we are still here especially when they read reports about more than half of country being under the Taliban control,'&nbsp;said a Western diplomat. 'Almost all NATO countries are now struggling to justify their presence in Afghanistan to voters back home.'

The war's long duration has also weakened commitment.

'If we had known that the war could go on as it has been for 18 years, we would have had a rethink in 2001,'&nbsp;the Western diplomat said.

The withdrawal of foreign troops from Afghanistan has always been the Taliban's main demand, and Trump's interest in drawing down US&nbsp;troops has stimulated efforts to end the war.

'The prime concern is that we may wake up one day to a tweet by Trump about a unilateral withdrawal of US&nbsp;troops before a peace agreement has been negotiated,'&nbsp;said a diplomat whose country supports Afghan healthcare projects.

Neighbouring Pakistan sees a similar danger, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said.

'An immediate vacuum can also be detrimental for peace and security and an indefinite presence is also not acceptable, so this is the detail that has to be worked out,' he said.

NATO members and partners said they also expect regional powers to share costs and step up their roles in Afghanistan to prevent civil war after foreign forces depart.

"China has been sitting on the bleachers for a long time now," a diplomat said.

The Chinese embassy in Kabul did not respond to requests for comment.

Michael Kugelman, a South Asia expert at the Washington-based Woodrow Wilson Center, said the US&nbsp;continues to count on friends to share the burden in Afghanistan.

'But so long as the war continues with no peace deal, that supply of states willing to assist will shrink,'&nbsp;said Kugelman.

At a dinner party in Kabul's high-security 'green zone' in March, a senior European diplomat poured himself a glass of red wine and pulled up a photograph on his iPhone.

At a dinner party in Kabul's high-security 'green zone' in March, a senior European diplomat poured himself a glass of red wine and pulled up a photograph on his iPhone. Released by Qatar's foreign ministry on February 25, it showed seven Qatari officials alongside US and Taliban negotiators as talks on ending the 17-year-old war in Afghanistan had restarted in the Gulf state the previous day. 'If Qatari officials can be at the negotiating table, then how did the US forget to invite its key allies who have fought the Afghan war since 2001 ?' said the diplomat, whose nation has contributed hundreds of troops to NATO's mission in the country. 'We continue to pour millions of dollars as an act of solidarity, but when it comes to peace talks, the US decided to go solo.' Reuters spoke with 10 diplomats from countries spanning three continents that are among the 39 that provide military personnel to the NATO training operation, known as Resolute Support, in Afghanistan, and those that provide development aid. Many of those countries are significant, consistent donors. Most of the diplomats spoke on condition of anonymity, citing the sensitivity of the situation. The diplomats interviewed said their governments were broadly rethinking their commitments to rebuilding the country. That process had been hastened by feeling excluded from peace talks, and also by a weariness for supporting the Afghan campaign among voters and lawmakers in their respective countries, they said. Asked about those comments, a US State Department spokesperson said regular reviews of foreign assistance was 'good practice' and Afghanistan's development remained in the interest of the international community. 'We see no signs that interest and investment are wavering,' said the spokesperson, adding that US Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad has briefed NATO allies and other partners three times since December, and effective coordination remained a priority. Nick Kay, NATO's newly appointed senior civilian representative in Afghanistan, said NATO allies 'fully support' Khalilzad's efforts to negotiate a settlement. But even the Afghan government has complained of being left out. President Ashraf Ghani's national security adviser on Thursday accused Khalilzad of "delegitimizing" the Kabul government by excluding it from deliberations. Qatari officials did not respond to a request for comment. In 2017, US development aid for Afghanistan totalled about $1.2 billion, well ahead of the next biggest donors Germany, European Union institutions, Britain and Japan, according to Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) data. But the United States' junior aid partners collectively contributed nearly two-thirds of all development assistance, highlighting their critical if less visible importance to the country's future. CHANGING PRIORITIES US and Taliban negotiators wrapped up their longest round of peace talks on Tuesday with the progress made but no agreement on when foreign troops might withdraw. Whether funding countries keep investing in Afghanistan could prove pivotal to sustaining any peace. Diplomats say that, after troops leave, it may be the only leverage they have to retain influence over future Afghan governments. Since the 2001 US-led invasion, Afghanistan has been among the top recipients of foreign government aid to promote economic and social development. In 2016, international donors pledged $15.2 billion in aid for Afghanistan until 2020. With those pledges due to expire, many countries are re-evaluating their military and funding commitments. "Priorities have changed for every EU nation," a European diplomat said, adding that countries besides Afghanistan needed support. "The donor fatigue is intense and no one is in the mood to overlook it after 2020," another diplomat said. A third diplomat said their country was re-evaluating its future aid with different scenarios in mind, including whether to continue development if the Taliban joins Afghanistan's government and what to do if peace talks fail. Any drop-off in international aid would be disastrous for Afghanistan since much of it funds basic health and education services, said Adele Khodr, country representative for Unicef. 'It is definitely something we are concerned about. Imagine what would happen - (Afghanistan) would be Yemen,' Khodr said. '(By) pulling out, the international community will pay a much higher price in insecurity across the world.' Ninety per cent of the money spent on the health sector in Afghanistan comes from the international community, said Toby Lanzer, deputy special representative in Afghanistan for the UN. An official in Ghani's office in Kabul declined to comment on potential risks to future aid. He said the government was making every effort to hold peace talks with the Taliban. The militant group said on Tuesday that such talks would have to wait until after a troop withdrawal plan is set. 'CRUCIAL TO STICK TOGETHER' Some diplomats caution against a quick retreat. 'If we leave the country hastily, all these (advances) will go down the drain, 'Ambassador Markus Potzel, Germany's special representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan and one of the 10 diplomats interviewed, told Reuters in Kabul. Potzel was referring to gains such as Afghan girls' attendance in school and new employment opportunities. Maintaining aid was also critical to holding influence in Afghanistan, he said. "That's our leverage. We can attach strings," Potzel said. "It is crucial to stick together." A spokesperson at the British Embassy in Kabul said any changes to Britain's troop contribution would be made in consultation with coalition partners. As of March 2019, 39 countries contributed 17,034 foreign forces in Afghanistan for Resolute Support, of which the US provided 50 percent, according to NATO. US troops are also deployed in a separate mission directed against groups such as al Qaeda and Islamic State. US President Donald Trump's questioning of NATO's value to Washington, along with the absence of allies at the negotiating table, has deepened the unease within the military alliance created in 1949 by the United States, Canada, and Western European nations. 'The concern is that we need to be appraised of the progress of the discussions and to be involved. We have invested a lot,'said a European diplomat. 'This commitment should be reflected in influence or at least information on the peace talks.' The diplomat said it was understandable that access to the negotiating table was narrow right now, but "what I would find abnormal is that we would be served a deal in which we had nothing to say and then be asked to foot the bill". SHRINKING FOOTPRINT? The senior diplomats interviewed by Reuters, who is based in Kabul and Islamabad, said their governments were finding it harder to justify the continuing presence of their troops and the steady drain of aid funding to Afghanistan. 'It is increasingly difficult to tell our people why we are still here especially when they read reports about more than half of country being under the Taliban control,' said a Western diplomat. 'Almost all NATO countries are now struggling to justify their presence in Afghanistan to voters back home.' The war's long duration has also weakened commitment. 'If we had known that the war could go on as it has been for 18 years, we would have had a rethink in 2001,' the Western diplomat said. The withdrawal of foreign troops from Afghanistan has always been the Taliban's main demand, and Trump's interest in drawing down US troops has stimulated efforts to end the war. 'The prime concern is that we may wake up one day to a tweet by Trump about a unilateral withdrawal of US troops before a peace agreement has been negotiated,' said a diplomat whose country supports Afghan healthcare projects. Neighbouring Pakistan sees a similar danger, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said. 'An immediate vacuum can also be detrimental for peace and security and an indefinite presence is also not acceptable, so this is the detail that has to be worked out,' he said. NATO members and partners said they also expect regional powers to share costs and step up their roles in Afghanistan to prevent civil war after foreign forces depart. "China has been sitting on the bleachers for a long time now," a diplomat said. The Chinese embassy in Kabul did not respond to requests for comment. Michael Kugelman, a South Asia expert at the Washington-based Woodrow Wilson Center, said the US continues to count on friends to share the burden in Afghanistan. 'But so long as the war continues with no peace deal, that supply of states willing to assist will shrink,' said Kugelman.

Left out of peace talks, US allies reassess Afghan support

An apparent case of "friendly fire" between Afghan and US troops led to an airstrike which killed five Afghan soldiers, officials said Wednesday, with the defense ministry citing a "lack of proper coordination".

The incident occurred Wednesday when a US and Afghan patrol came under fire near an Afghan army post on the outskirts of Tarin Kot, the capital of Uruzgan province, a NATO spokesman in Kabul told AFP.&nbsp;

They called in airstrikes which hit the army post, killing five and seriously wounding a further 10 Afghan soldiers, said Karim Karimi, deputy head of the Uruzgan provincial council.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"As the American patrol approached the base, the ANA (Afghan National Army) soldiers probably thought it was the Taliban approaching them," he told AFP.

Large parts of Uruzgan province remain under the Taliban control. In recent years the militants have also made repeated incursions into the provincial capital.&nbsp;

Seventeen soldiers had been at the post in total, with only two managing to flee unhurt, Karimi said.

The Afghan defense ministry confirmed the toll, saying that Afghan and US forces had been conducting a "joint operation" in the area at the time.

"Because of a lack of proper coordination of the army, an ANA post was hit," a ministry statement said, adding that an investigation is ongoing.

The NATO spokesman said the US had carried out "precision self-defense air strikes on people firing on Afghan and American forces conducting a ground movement near an ANA checkpoint in Tarin Kot".

"The strikes were conducted after Afghan and US forces came under effective small arms and rocket-propelled grenade fire and requested air support in self-defense," a spokesman told AFP by email.

"Afghan and US forces attempted to de-escalate the situation but they continued to be fired upon. We are operating in a complex environment where enemy fighters do not wear uniforms and use stolen military vehicles to attack government forces."

"I counted that the planes were shooting at the base for some 30 minutes," Haji Lal Agha, a local resident, told AFP over the phone.

Incidents known as "friendly fire" are not unheard of in Afghanistan and have bred deep mistrust between local and foreign forces.

In one of the deadliest, 16 Afghan policemen were killed in July 2017, when they were mistakenly targeted by US airstrikes in neighboring Helmand province.

An apparent case of "friendly fire" between Afghan and US troops led to an airstrike which killed five Afghan soldiers, officials said Wednesday, with the defense ministry citing a "lack of proper coordination".

An apparent case of "friendly fire" between Afghan and US troops led to an airstrike which killed five Afghan soldiers, officials said Wednesday, with the defense ministry citing a "lack of proper coordination". The incident occurred Wednesday when a US and Afghan patrol came under fire near an Afghan army post on the outskirts of Tarin Kot, the capital of Uruzgan province, a NATO spokesman in Kabul told AFP. They called in airstrikes which hit the army post, killing five and seriously wounding a further 10 Afghan soldiers, said Karim Karimi, deputy head of the Uruzgan provincial council. "As the American patrol approached the base, the ANA (Afghan National Army) soldiers probably thought it was the Taliban approaching them," he told AFP. Large parts of Uruzgan province remain under the Taliban control. In recent years the militants have also made repeated incursions into the provincial capital. Seventeen soldiers had been at the post in total, with only two managing to flee unhurt, Karimi said. The Afghan defense ministry confirmed the toll, saying that Afghan and US forces had been conducting a "joint operation" in the area at the time. "Because of a lack of proper coordination of the army, an ANA post was hit," a ministry statement said, adding that an investigation is ongoing. The NATO spokesman said the US had carried out "precision self-defense air strikes on people firing on Afghan and American forces conducting a ground movement near an ANA checkpoint in Tarin Kot". "The strikes were conducted after Afghan and US forces came under effective small arms and rocket-propelled grenade fire and requested air support in self-defense," a spokesman told AFP by email. "Afghan and US forces attempted to de-escalate the situation but they continued to be fired upon. We are operating in a complex environment where enemy fighters do not wear uniforms and use stolen military vehicles to attack government forces." "I counted that the planes were shooting at the base for some 30 minutes," Haji Lal Agha, a local resident, told AFP over the phone. Incidents known as "friendly fire" are not unheard of in Afghanistan and have bred deep mistrust between local and foreign forces. In one of the deadliest, 16 Afghan policemen were killed in July 2017, when they were mistakenly targeted by US airstrikes in neighboring Helmand province.

Afghan soldiers killed in 'friendly fire' gunfight, United States airstrike

Taliban fighters have stepped up pressure on Afghan forces in the western province of Badghis, killing 20 soldiers and capturing 20, an official said on Tuesday, as the militants make advances even as they hold peace talks with US officials.

A large number of Taliban insurgents launched attacks on several army posts in the province's Bala Murghab district, beginning on Saturday night, said Qais Mangal, spokesman for the defence ministry in Kabul.

"The fighting is still on," Mangal said, adding that the Taliban had overrun four posts and government reinforcement backed by air support had been sent to prevent the whole area from falling to the insurgents.

A member of the Badghis provincial council, Abdul Aziz Beg, said 20 soldiers had been killed, 10 wounded and 20 captured by the hardline Islamist group.

The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attacks in Badghis, which is on the border with Turkmenistan.

Taliban spokesman Qari Yousuf Ahmadi said 20 soldiers had been killed, 28 captured and a large supply of weapons and ammunition seized.

The Taliban, ousted in 2001, say they are fighting to expel foreign troops, topple the Western-backed Afghan government and restore their version of Islamic law.

Talks with US officials to end the war continued on Tuesday in Qatar, with the focus on the withdrawal of foreign troops, a guarantee Afghanistan will not be used as a springboard for militant attacks and a ceasefire.

The Taliban have refused to talk to Afghan government officials, labelling them a puppet of the United States.

Southeast of the Afghan capital, Kabul, in Ghazni city, an air strike on a vehicle killed seven Taliban on Tuesday, including a commander, said Mohammad Arif Noori, spokesman for Ghazni's provincial governor. He said the strike happened close to a mosque and may have left civilian casualties.

Dr. Zaher Shah Nekmal, health director for Ghazni province, said he had received a report of 16 dead but had not yet received the bodies.

In a statement, the Taliban said one air strike hit a minibus and a second followed quickly, killing a total of 12 people and wounding six.

A NATO spokesperson could not be immediately reached for comment.

As many as 200 people were accompanying tractors that pulled a number of bodies on trailers to the provincial governor's compound, said Waris Naimi, a spokesman for the Ghazni police, adding that police were trying to block the protest.

As the snow begins to melt, Taliban and Afghan security forces have stepped up attacks on each other but the extent of government losses is a major concern.

In January, President Ashraf Ghani, speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, said 45,000 members of the security forces had been killed since he took office in September 2014.

Some 14,000 US troops are based in Afghanistan as part of a US-led NATO mission to train, assist and advise Afghan forces. Some US forces also carry out counter-terrorism operations.

Taliban fighters have stepped up pressure on Afghan forces in the western province of Badghis, killing 20 soldiers and capturing 20, an official said on Tuesday, as the militants make advances even as they hold peace talks with US officials.

Taliban fighters have stepped up pressure on Afghan forces in the western province of Badghis, killing 20 soldiers and capturing 20, an official said on Tuesday, as the militants make advances even as they hold peace talks with US officials. A large number of Taliban insurgents launched attacks on several army posts in the province's Bala Murghab district, beginning on Saturday night, said Qais Mangal, spokesman for the defence ministry in Kabul. "The fighting is still on," Mangal said, adding that the Taliban had overrun four posts and government reinforcement backed by air support had been sent to prevent the whole area from falling to the insurgents. A member of the Badghis provincial council, Abdul Aziz Beg, said 20 soldiers had been killed, 10 wounded and 20 captured by the hardline Islamist group. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attacks in Badghis, which is on the border with Turkmenistan. Taliban spokesman Qari Yousuf Ahmadi said 20 soldiers had been killed, 28 captured and a large supply of weapons and ammunition seized. The Taliban, ousted in 2001, say they are fighting to expel foreign troops, topple the Western-backed Afghan government and restore their version of Islamic law. Talks with US officials to end the war continued on Tuesday in Qatar, with the focus on the withdrawal of foreign troops, a guarantee Afghanistan will not be used as a springboard for militant attacks and a ceasefire. The Taliban have refused to talk to Afghan government officials, labelling them a puppet of the United States. Southeast of the Afghan capital, Kabul, in Ghazni city, an air strike on a vehicle killed seven Taliban on Tuesday, including a commander, said Mohammad Arif Noori, spokesman for Ghazni's provincial governor. He said the strike happened close to a mosque and may have left civilian casualties. Dr. Zaher Shah Nekmal, health director for Ghazni province, said he had received a report of 16 dead but had not yet received the bodies. In a statement, the Taliban said one air strike hit a minibus and a second followed quickly, killing a total of 12 people and wounding six. A NATO spokesperson could not be immediately reached for comment. As many as 200 people were accompanying tractors that pulled a number of bodies on trailers to the provincial governor's compound, said Waris Naimi, a spokesman for the Ghazni police, adding that police were trying to block the protest. As the snow begins to melt, Taliban and Afghan security forces have stepped up attacks on each other but the extent of government losses is a major concern. In January, President Ashraf Ghani, speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, said 45,000 members of the security forces had been killed since he took office in September 2014. Some 14,000 US troops are based in Afghanistan as part of a US-led NATO mission to train, assist and advise Afghan forces. Some US forces also carry out counter-terrorism operations.

Taliban pile pressure on government forces in western Afghanistan

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said on Friday the military alliance needs to be ready for a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/nato-condemns-unacceptable-putin-missile-threats-198630">world with more Russian missiles</a>, after a UN warning that the global arms control system is collapsing.

"NATO does not want a new Cold war, we don't want a new arms race. And therefore we call on Russia to come back into compliance with the INF (Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces) treaty," Stoltenberg told reporters during a visit to the Bulgarian capital Sofia.

"At the same time we need to be prepared for a world without the INF treaty and with more Russian missiles," he added.

The US began the process of exiting the key missile treaty last month in response to Moscow's deployment of a new missile -- the 9M729 -- that NATO says breaches the pact.

In response, Russia announced its own withdrawal from the cornerstone treaty signed in 1987, which banned ground-launched missiles with a range of 500 to 5,500 kilometres.

The crisis has sparked fears of a new arms race in Europe.

Earlier this week, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres warned that "key components of the international arms control architecture are collapsing".

"These new Russian missiles are nuclear capable, they can reach European cities, they are hard to detect and they have little warning time so they reduce the threshold for any potential use of nuclear weapons in an armed conflict," Stoltenberg said on Friday.

Bulgaria's Prime Minister Boyko Borisov, who will host his Russian counterpart Dmitry Medvedev on Monday, added that he had agreed "to use to the maximum the strength of diplomacy, our bilateral ties (...) to prevent an arms race with these monstrous missiles."

Bulgaria -- an EU and NATO member -- has also preserved close economic and energy cooperation with Russia, reflecting deep historical and cultural ties between the two countries.

But Borisov reiterated on Friday his country's loyalty to NATO.

"Bulgaria is not Russia's Trojan horse in NATO - on the contrary, Bulgaria is among NATO's most disciplined and most loyal members," Borisov said.

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said on Friday the military alliance needs to be ready for a world with more Russian missiles, after a UN warning that the global arms control system is collapsing.

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said on Friday the military alliance needs to be ready for a world with more Russian missiles, after a UN warning that the global arms control system is collapsing. "NATO does not want a new Cold war, we don't want a new arms race. And therefore we call on Russia to come back into compliance with the INF (Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces) treaty," Stoltenberg told reporters during a visit to the Bulgarian capital Sofia. "At the same time we need to be prepared for a world without the INF treaty and with more Russian missiles," he added. The US began the process of exiting the key missile treaty last month in response to Moscow's deployment of a new missile -- the 9M729 -- that NATO says breaches the pact. In response, Russia announced its own withdrawal from the cornerstone treaty signed in 1987, which banned ground-launched missiles with a range of 500 to 5,500 kilometres. The crisis has sparked fears of a new arms race in Europe. Earlier this week, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres warned that "key components of the international arms control architecture are collapsing". "These new Russian missiles are nuclear capable, they can reach European cities, they are hard to detect and they have little warning time so they reduce the threshold for any potential use of nuclear weapons in an armed conflict," Stoltenberg said on Friday. Bulgaria's Prime Minister Boyko Borisov, who will host his Russian counterpart Dmitry Medvedev on Monday, added that he had agreed "to use to the maximum the strength of diplomacy, our bilateral ties (...) to prevent an arms race with these monstrous missiles." Bulgaria -- an EU and NATO member -- has also preserved close economic and energy cooperation with Russia, reflecting deep historical and cultural ties between the two countries. But Borisov reiterated on Friday his country's loyalty to NATO. "Bulgaria is not Russia's Trojan horse in NATO - on the contrary, Bulgaria is among NATO's most disciplined and most loyal members," Borisov said.

Should be ready for a world with more Russian missiles: NATO chief

The US and the Taliban have paused negotiations in Doha, with the diplomatic push aimed at ending the war in Afghanistan set to restart over the weekend following "solid" talks between the adversaries.

The latest meetings follow marathon talks last month that saw the US and the Taliban walk away with a "draft framework" focused on a potential US troop withdrawal and a pact to prevent Afghanistan from harbouring terrorists.&nbsp;

"Emerging from three solid days of talks with the Taliban in #Doha. Meetings were productive," tweeted US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad, who is leading the American side during the negotiations.

"We continue to take slow, steady steps toward understanding and eventually #peace," he said.

"Both sides will take the next two days for internal deliberations, with plans to regroup on Saturday," Khalilzad added.

Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid confirmed the pause, adding the insurgents were "committed to the current peace process along with peace".

The US has continued to push for a ceasefire in the war-torn country and the opening of negotiations between the Taliban and the Kabul government.&nbsp;

The Taliban, however, has repeatedly refused to meet with officials of the Afghan government, whom they dismiss as "puppets".

Khalilzad hinted that headway was being made on the issue, tweeting "there is also progress on forming a national team in #Kabul ready to engage in intra-Afghan dialogue and talks with the Taliban".&nbsp;

Earlier in the week, the special envoy met with the Taliban's top political leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar in Doha, in what has been touted as the highest-level engagement between the two sides in the months-long diplomatic thrust. &nbsp;

Khalilzad welcomed the presence of Baradar -- a co-founder of the Islamist movement -- at the table, calling the militants' negotiating side a "more authoritative Taliban delegation".

Baradar is believed to be widely respected by the Taliban’s various factions and analysts said his participation would help garner support for any deal from insurgents on the frontlines.&nbsp;

General Scott Miller, the top US and NATO commander in Afghanistan, is also attending the talks.

President Donald Trump has repeatedly voiced his eagerness to end America's involvement in Afghanistan, where 14,000 US troops are still deployed.

Afghanistan has been enmeshed in nearly constant conflict since the Soviet invasion of 1979, which was followed by civil war, the Taliban regime, and the US invasion in late 2001.

The US and the Taliban have paused negotiations in Doha, with the diplomatic push aimed at ending the war in Afghanistan set to restart over the weekend following "solid" talks between the adversaries.

The US and the Taliban have paused negotiations in Doha, with the diplomatic push aimed at ending the war in Afghanistan set to restart over the weekend following "solid" talks between the adversaries. The latest meetings follow marathon talks last month that saw the US and the Taliban walk away with a "draft framework" focused on a potential US troop withdrawal and a pact to prevent Afghanistan from harbouring terrorists. "Emerging from three solid days of talks with the Taliban in #Doha. Meetings were productive," tweeted US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad, who is leading the American side during the negotiations. "We continue to take slow, steady steps toward understanding and eventually #peace," he said. "Both sides will take the next two days for internal deliberations, with plans to regroup on Saturday," Khalilzad added. Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid confirmed the pause, adding the insurgents were "committed to the current peace process along with peace". The US has continued to push for a ceasefire in the war-torn country and the opening of negotiations between the Taliban and the Kabul government. The Taliban, however, has repeatedly refused to meet with officials of the Afghan government, whom they dismiss as "puppets". Khalilzad hinted that headway was being made on the issue, tweeting "there is also progress on forming a national team in #Kabul ready to engage in intra-Afghan dialogue and talks with the Taliban". Earlier in the week, the special envoy met with the Taliban's top political leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar in Doha, in what has been touted as the highest-level engagement between the two sides in the months-long diplomatic thrust. Khalilzad welcomed the presence of Baradar -- a co-founder of the Islamist movement -- at the table, calling the militants' negotiating side a "more authoritative Taliban delegation". Baradar is believed to be widely respected by the Taliban’s various factions and analysts said his participation would help garner support for any deal from insurgents on the frontlines. General Scott Miller, the top US and NATO commander in Afghanistan, is also attending the talks. President Donald Trump has repeatedly voiced his eagerness to end America's involvement in Afghanistan, where 14,000 US troops are still deployed. Afghanistan has been enmeshed in nearly constant conflict since the Soviet invasion of 1979, which was followed by civil war, the Taliban regime, and the US invasion in late 2001.

US, Taliban pause negotiations in Doha following 'solid' talks

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