Donald Trump on Tuesday unleashed an extraordinary <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/with-trump-sitting-nearby-macron-calls-nationalism-betrayal-176693">attack on Emmanuel Macron</a>, mocking the French president's approval rating and lashing him over European defence proposals, on the heels of a rocky trip to Paris to mark the World War I centenary.

In a caustic series of early-morning tweets the US president lambasted Macron's support for a European army, while renewing his frequent charge that America's European allies in NATO spend too little on defence.

"Emmanuel Macron suggests building its own army to protect Europe against the US, China and Russia. But it was Germany in World Wars One &amp; Two - How did that work out for France?" Trump tweeted.&nbsp;

"They were starting to learn German in Paris before the US&nbsp;came along," Trump said, in a low blow sure to gall French allies. "Pay for NATO or not!"

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Emmanuel Macron suggests building its own army to protect Europe against the U.S., China and Russia. But it was Germany in World Wars One &amp; Two - How did that work out for France? They were starting to learn German in Paris before the U.S. came along. Pay for NATO or not!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1062311785787744256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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On Trade, France makes excellent wine, but so does the U.S. The problem is that France makes it very hard for the U.S. to sell its wines into France, and charges big Tariffs, whereas the U.S. makes it easy for French wines, and charges very small Tariffs. Not fair, must change!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1062331024426913792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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The problem is that Emmanuel suffers from a very low Approval Rating in France, 26%, and an unemployment rate of almost 10%. He was just trying to get onto another subject. By the way, there is no country more Nationalist than France, very proud people-and rightfully so!........
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1062333534214520832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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......MAKE FRANCE GREAT AGAIN!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1062333882610171907?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The fierce broadside against a traditional US ally -- for whom Trump rolled out the red carpet in Washington earlier this year -- came just two days after Trump joined dozens of world leaders in Paris for events to mark the 100 years since the end of the Great War.&nbsp;

After slamming Macron on defence, Trump's went on to attack his standing as president: "The problem is that Emmanuel suffers from a very low Approval Rating in France, 26%, and an unemployment rate of almost 10%."

"He was just trying to get onto another subject," Trump said, appearing to reference Macron's push for a European military. "By the way, there is no country more Nationalist than France, very proud people-and rightfully so!"&nbsp;

"MAKE FRANCE GREAT AGAIN!" the mercurial Trump continued in a play on his own campaign slogan, before turning to what he said were protectionist tariffs on wine -- which he said were "not fair, must change!"

Macron's office declined to comment on Trump's broadside.

'Bromance' dead?&nbsp;

Trump and Macron had seemed to share a special camaraderie in the early days of their respective presidencies, a "bromance" of sorts that included touching, kissing and playful banter.

The US president even seemed to flick a piece of dandruff off of Macron's jacket on national television during the French president's state visit to the US capital, saying "we have to make him perfect. He is perfect."

But the relationship took a turn for the worse after Macron angered Trump by saying Europe needed its own army and listing the US along with Russia and China as a threat to European cybersecurity.

Trump set a combative tone for his visit to Paris, tweeted right after he landed that Macron's call for a "real European army" was "insulting."

In an interview recorded Saturday with CNN after talks with Trump, Macron said the two leaders had spoken about what his office has portrayed as a misunderstanding.

Both leaders agree there should be "better burden-sharing within NATO," meaning Europe should be less reliant on US spending for its defense, Macron said.

But Macron told CNN: "To be very direct with you, what I don't want to see is European countries increasing the budget in defence in order to buy American and other arms or materials coming from your industry."

The president's trip to France was further clouded by controversy over the cancellation of a visit to a World War I US military cemetery -- after his helicopter was grounded by the rain -- a decision that was widely criticized.

"I suggested driving. Secret Service said NO," Trump tweeted in his defence -- pointing out that he had delivered a speech the following day at another American cemetery in the Paris suburbs "in pouring rain!"&nbsp;

"Little reported-Fake News!" he charged.

Donald Trump on Tuesday unleashed an extraordinary attack on Emmanuel Macron, mocking the French president's approval rating and lashing him over European defence proposals, on the heels of a rocky trip to Paris to mark the World War I centenary.

Donald Trump on Tuesday unleashed an extraordinary attack on Emmanuel Macron, mocking the French president's approval rating and lashing him over European defence proposals, on the heels of a rocky trip to Paris to mark the World War I centenary. In a caustic series of early-morning tweets the US president lambasted Macron's support for a European army, while renewing his frequent charge that America's European allies in NATO spend too little on defence. "Emmanuel Macron suggests building its own army to protect Europe against the US, China and Russia. But it was Germany in World Wars One & Two - How did that work out for France?" Trump tweeted. "They were starting to learn German in Paris before the US came along," Trump said, in a low blow sure to gall French allies. "Pay for NATO or not!" Emmanuel Macron suggests building its own army to protect Europe against the U.S., China and Russia. But it was Germany in World Wars One & Two - How did that work out for France? They were starting to learn German in Paris before the U.S. came along. Pay for NATO or not! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 13, 2018 × On Trade, France makes excellent wine, but so does the U.S. The problem is that France makes it very hard for the U.S. to sell its wines into France, and charges big Tariffs, whereas the U.S. makes it easy for French wines, and charges very small Tariffs. Not fair, must change! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 13, 2018 × The problem is that Emmanuel suffers from a very low Approval Rating in France, 26%, and an unemployment rate of almost 10%. He was just trying to get onto another subject. By the way, there is no country more Nationalist than France, very proud people-and rightfully so!........ — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 13, 2018 × ......MAKE FRANCE GREAT AGAIN! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 13, 2018 × The fierce broadside against a traditional US ally -- for whom Trump rolled out the red carpet in Washington earlier this year -- came just two days after Trump joined dozens of world leaders in Paris for events to mark the 100 years since the end of the Great War. After slamming Macron on defence, Trump's went on to attack his standing as president: "The problem is that Emmanuel suffers from a very low Approval Rating in France, 26%, and an unemployment rate of almost 10%." "He was just trying to get onto another subject," Trump said, appearing to reference Macron's push for a European military. "By the way, there is no country more Nationalist than France, very proud people-and rightfully so!" "MAKE FRANCE GREAT AGAIN!" the mercurial Trump continued in a play on his own campaign slogan, before turning to what he said were protectionist tariffs on wine -- which he said were "not fair, must change!" Macron's office declined to comment on Trump's broadside. 'Bromance' dead? Trump and Macron had seemed to share a special camaraderie in the early days of their respective presidencies, a "bromance" of sorts that included touching, kissing and playful banter. The US president even seemed to flick a piece of dandruff off of Macron's jacket on national television during the French president's state visit to the US capital, saying "we have to make him perfect. He is perfect." But the relationship took a turn for the worse after Macron angered Trump by saying Europe needed its own army and listing the US along with Russia and China as a threat to European cybersecurity. Trump set a combative tone for his visit to Paris, tweeted right after he landed that Macron's call for a "real European army" was "insulting." In an interview recorded Saturday with CNN after talks with Trump, Macron said the two leaders had spoken about what his office has portrayed as a misunderstanding. Both leaders agree there should be "better burden-sharing within NATO," meaning Europe should be less reliant on US spending for its defense, Macron said. But Macron told CNN: "To be very direct with you, what I don't want to see is European countries increasing the budget in defence in order to buy American and other arms or materials coming from your industry." The president's trip to France was further clouded by controversy over the cancellation of a visit to a World War I US military cemetery -- after his helicopter was grounded by the rain -- a decision that was widely criticized. "I suggested driving. Secret Service said NO," Trump tweeted in his defence -- pointing out that he had delivered a speech the following day at another American cemetery in the Paris suburbs "in pouring rain!" "Little reported-Fake News!" he charged.

After Macron rubbishes nationalism, Trump goes on massive Twitter tirade against him

Finland's GPS signal was intentionally disrupted during <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/russia-turns-up-uninvited-to-major-nato-wargames-175349">NATO war games</a> in the Nordic countries over the past few weeks and the culprit could be <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/russias-putin-inspects-war-games-and-vows-to-beef-up-army-165406">Russia</a>, Prime Minster Juha Sipila said on Sunday.

Finland's air navigation services on Tuesday issued a warning for air traffic due to a large-scale GPS interruption in the north of the country. Norway posted a similar warning about loss of GPS signals for pilots in its own airspace at the end of the October when the NATO exercise began.

"It is possible that Russia has been the disrupting party in this. Russia is known to possess such capabilities," Sipila told public broadcaster Yle.

Finland is not a NATO member but it took part as an ally in 'Trident Juncture', NATO's largest exercise in decades which ended on Wednesday. Forces from 31 countries participated in the games close to Russia, in an area stretching from the Baltic Sea to Iceland.

Finland shares a 833-mile (1,340 km) border and a difficult history with Russia. It has lately developed closer ties with NATO but stopped short of full membership in line with a tradition of avoiding confrontation with its eastern neighbour.

 
&nbsp;

Finland's GPS signal was intentionally disrupted during NATO war games in the Nordic countries over the past few weeks and the culprit could be Russia, Prime Minster Juha Sipila said on Sunday.

Finland's GPS signal was intentionally disrupted during NATO war games in the Nordic countries over the past few weeks and the culprit could be Russia, Prime Minster Juha Sipila said on Sunday. Finland's air navigation services on Tuesday issued a warning for air traffic due to a large-scale GPS interruption in the north of the country. Norway posted a similar warning about loss of GPS signals for pilots in its own airspace at the end of the October when the NATO exercise began. "It is possible that Russia has been the disrupting party in this. Russia is known to possess such capabilities," Sipila told public broadcaster Yle. Finland is not a NATO member but it took part as an ally in 'Trident Juncture', NATO's largest exercise in decades which ended on Wednesday. Forces from 31 countries participated in the games close to Russia, in an area stretching from the Baltic Sea to Iceland. Finland shares a 833-mile (1,340 km) border and a difficult history with Russia. It has lately developed closer ties with NATO but stopped short of full membership in line with a tradition of avoiding confrontation with its eastern neighbour.

Finland's GPS disrupted during NATO war games, Russia could be responsible: PM Sipila

Soldiers in Norway's armoured <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-test-missiles-near-military-exercise-area-in-norway-nato-chief-174475">battalion have been carrying out a series</a> of rigorous training regimes in the mountains north of the Norwegian capital of Oslo as part of Exercise Trident Juncture 2018, NATO's largest military exercise since the end of the Cold War.

Many in Norway's second battalion have spent a lot of time far from home since the 9/11 terrorist attack in warm places like Afghanistan. But their real expertise is in Arctic warfare, with their skillset becoming particularly relevant now that NATO is shifting its focus.

In the mountains east of Tynset in recent days, the patrols have been fighting many mock battles against real British troops, often in the remotest locations.

"We loaded onto a helicopter, flew out to a landing zone, and then from there we went to an observation point. And we lay in the post for a few days," said Alistair Skajaa, a soldier from Norway's second battalion.

One unit still awaits orders in snow-covered forests where temperatures can dip below minus 40 degrees Celsius. The fire gives them warmth and water from melting snow. The risk of detection must be balanced against the need to survive. Experienced soldiers say conditions do not get much tougher than this.

"I think you get more aware actually in the Arctic than you will in the desert because it's easier to notice that you're dehydrated in the desert, because it's hot," said Sgt. Thomas Schlotvik.

When orders come through, the soldiers strip down as they prepare to move out to avoid overheating. They are masters of this freezing wilderness, but there's far more weight on their shoulders to carry through this brutally cold climate, with their backpacks weighing up to 50 kilos.

Back at the command station, resting troops say they are sharing their expertise in this environment with NATO allies.

"For many of soldiers from other countries, it might be challenging, especially how the weather has been the last week because it's changing below zero from freezing temperature to melting temperature. But I think that is why it's important to conduct this exercise so that other NATO forces are able to adapt," said Lt. George Detsis.

Suddenly, the troops are ordered into action as an enemy patrol has been spotted. By exploiting their numbers, they aim to deter the enemy rather than engage. The soldiers said this drill, which is as close to actual warfare as it gets, can teach them how to be prepared if any serious situation unfolds.

The Trident Juncture 2018 exercise is being held from October 25 to November 7 and involves around 50,000 participants from all 29 NATO member nations, with partners Sweden and Finland also taking part.

Soldiers in Norway's armoured battalion have been carrying out a series of rigorous training regimes in the mountains north of the Norwegian capital of Oslo as part of Exercise Trident Juncture 2018, NATO's largest military exercise since the end of the Cold War.

Soldiers in Norway's armoured battalion have been carrying out a series of rigorous training regimes in the mountains north of the Norwegian capital of Oslo as part of Exercise Trident Juncture 2018, NATO's largest military exercise since the end of the Cold War. Many in Norway's second battalion have spent a lot of time far from home since the 9/11 terrorist attack in warm places like Afghanistan. But their real expertise is in Arctic warfare, with their skillset becoming particularly relevant now that NATO is shifting its focus. In the mountains east of Tynset in recent days, the patrols have been fighting many mock battles against real British troops, often in the remotest locations. "We loaded onto a helicopter, flew out to a landing zone, and then from there we went to an observation point. And we lay in the post for a few days," said Alistair Skajaa, a soldier from Norway's second battalion. One unit still awaits orders in snow-covered forests where temperatures can dip below minus 40 degrees Celsius. The fire gives them warmth and water from melting snow. The risk of detection must be balanced against the need to survive. Experienced soldiers say conditions do not get much tougher than this. "I think you get more aware actually in the Arctic than you will in the desert because it's easier to notice that you're dehydrated in the desert, because it's hot," said Sgt. Thomas Schlotvik. When orders come through, the soldiers strip down as they prepare to move out to avoid overheating. They are masters of this freezing wilderness, but there's far more weight on their shoulders to carry through this brutally cold climate, with their backpacks weighing up to 50 kilos. Back at the command station, resting troops say they are sharing their expertise in this environment with NATO allies. "For many of soldiers from other countries, it might be challenging, especially how the weather has been the last week because it's changing below zero from freezing temperature to melting temperature. But I think that is why it's important to conduct this exercise so that other NATO forces are able to adapt," said Lt. George Detsis. Suddenly, the troops are ordered into action as an enemy patrol has been spotted. By exploiting their numbers, they aim to deter the enemy rather than engage. The soldiers said this drill, which is as close to actual warfare as it gets, can teach them how to be prepared if any serious situation unfolds. The Trident Juncture 2018 exercise is being held from October 25 to November 7 and involves around 50,000 participants from all 29 NATO member nations, with partners Sweden and Finland also taking part.

Watch: NATO undertakes drill in Arctic warfare

One US soldier was killed and another wounded in an "apparent insider attack" in Kabul on Saturday, NATO said, in the latest such assault on international forces in Afghanistan.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the third so-called "green-on-blue" attack in less than three weeks that have rattled foreign troops tasked with training and assisting the war-torn country's military.

The Taliban claimed two similar attacks in the western province of Herat on October 22 and the southern province of Kandahar on October 18. General Scott Miller, the top NATO and US commander in Afghanistan, narrowly escaped the latter attack that killed a powerful police chief.&nbsp;

"Initial reports indicate the attacker was a member of the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces," NATO's Resolute Support mission said in a statement.

The attacker was killed by "other Afghan forces", it added.

The latest "green-on-blue" attack -- in which Afghan forces turn their weapons on international soldiers with whom they are working -- takes the number of US soldiers to die in Afghanistan this year to eight.&nbsp;

The wounded American soldier was flown to Bagram Airfield north of the Afghan capital where he was receiving medical treatment. He was in a "stable condition".&nbsp;

An investigation into the incident was under way, the statement said.&nbsp;

Local media in the US named the slain soldier as Brent Taylor, the mayor of North Ogden in Utah state and a father of seven.

Taylor had served two tours in Iraq and was on his second tour to Afghanistan when he was killed, the Salt Lake Tribune reported.

Currently, there are about 14,000 US troops in Afghanistan, providing the main component of the Resolute Support mission to support and train local forces.&nbsp;

More than 2,000 American soldiers have been killed in Afghanistan since the start of the war in 2001.

While casualties have fallen dramatically since the withdrawal of NATO combat troops at the end of 2014, the deadly burden has shifted to Afghanistan's security forces, which are suffering record-level casualties.

But the insider attack on a high-level security meeting in Kandahar that was attended by Miller shocked the US military, whose generals seldom face attack and are rarely wounded.

The attacker killed three people, including General Abdul Raziq, who was seen as a bulwark against the Taliban insurgency in the south.

Another 13 people were wounded, including US Brigadier General Jeffrey Smiley.&nbsp;

That incident was followed four days later by an attack in Herat province that killed one NATO soldier and wounded two others. All the victims were Czech.&nbsp;

After the Herat attack the Resolute Support mission scaled back its operations in Afghanistan for several days, avoiding face-to-face contact with Afghan counterparts. &nbsp;&nbsp;

One US soldier was killed and another wounded in an "apparent insider attack" in Kabul on Saturday, NATO said, in the latest such assault on international forces in Afghanistan.

One US soldier was killed and another wounded in an "apparent insider attack" in Kabul on Saturday, NATO said, in the latest such assault on international forces in Afghanistan. There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the third so-called "green-on-blue" attack in less than three weeks that have rattled foreign troops tasked with training and assisting the war-torn country's military. The Taliban claimed two similar attacks in the western province of Herat on October 22 and the southern province of Kandahar on October 18. General Scott Miller, the top NATO and US commander in Afghanistan, narrowly escaped the latter attack that killed a powerful police chief. "Initial reports indicate the attacker was a member of the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces," NATO's Resolute Support mission said in a statement. The attacker was killed by "other Afghan forces", it added. The latest "green-on-blue" attack -- in which Afghan forces turn their weapons on international soldiers with whom they are working -- takes the number of US soldiers to die in Afghanistan this year to eight. The wounded American soldier was flown to Bagram Airfield north of the Afghan capital where he was receiving medical treatment. He was in a "stable condition". An investigation into the incident was under way, the statement said. Local media in the US named the slain soldier as Brent Taylor, the mayor of North Ogden in Utah state and a father of seven. Taylor had served two tours in Iraq and was on his second tour to Afghanistan when he was killed, the Salt Lake Tribune reported. Currently, there are about 14,000 US troops in Afghanistan, providing the main component of the Resolute Support mission to support and train local forces. More than 2,000 American soldiers have been killed in Afghanistan since the start of the war in 2001. While casualties have fallen dramatically since the withdrawal of NATO combat troops at the end of 2014, the deadly burden has shifted to Afghanistan's security forces, which are suffering record-level casualties. But the insider attack on a high-level security meeting in Kandahar that was attended by Miller shocked the US military, whose generals seldom face attack and are rarely wounded. The attacker killed three people, including General Abdul Raziq, who was seen as a bulwark against the Taliban insurgency in the south. Another 13 people were wounded, including US Brigadier General Jeffrey Smiley. That incident was followed four days later by an attack in Herat province that killed one NATO soldier and wounded two others. All the victims were Czech. After the Herat attack the Resolute Support mission scaled back its operations in Afghanistan for several days, avoiding face-to-face contact with Afghan counterparts.

US soldier killed in 'apparent insider attack' in Kabul: NATO

The whirring of a low-flying Soviet Union-era war plane signalled Russia's uninvited arrival to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-hold-biggest-war-games-in-nearly-four-decades-162131">NATO's biggest military exercise</a> since the end of the Cold War.

Marines on board USS Mount Whitney off the Norwegian coast, had gathered for a group photo on deck when the Tupolev TU-142 soared overhead.

"It's a long-range maritime patrol reconnaissance plane," said one fascinated marine after casting an expert eye over the visitor.

Although he had seen plenty of images of the aircraft, this was the first time he had seen it live, so to speak.

Russia has already made clear its displeasure at NATO's Trident Juncture exercises, the largest by the alliance since the end of the Cold War.

They warned that the two-week long exercise, which it sees as an anti-Russian show of force, would not go unanswered.

According to the Russian Ministry of Defence, two Tupolev TU-142 carried out a "planned flight" of more than 12 hours.

"All flights by the Russian fleet's maritime planes are carried out strictly in accordance with international airspace regulations," the ministry said on Saturday, according to state news agency RIA Novosti.

Several states, including Sweden, Turkey and Baltic nations, have complained about Russian airspace violations in recent years.

Last week, Moscow also announced plans to test missiles in the region.

According to Avinor, the public operator of most civil airports in Norway, Russia sent a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) about the missile tests November 1-3 in the Norwegian Sea.

Any missile testing "will not change the plan of our exercise," NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said on Wednesday.

"We have not seen anything resembling a missile test, or even ships or aircraft in the area that would be relevant to documenting or monitoring missile testing," said Robert Aguilar, captain of the USS Mount Whitney.

Cold War leftovers 
The Tupolev's passage appeared to be part of Russia's response.

But Colonel Garth Manger, a British Royal Marine in charge of operational duties aboard the US ship, took it in his stride.

"They're watching us and we're watching them," he said.

Like the Tupolev, the USS Mount Whitney is a holdover from the Cold War era.

The third oldest vessel in the US Navy and the flagship of the US 6th Fleet, it has seen nearly 50 years' service.

Upgraded with the latest telecommunications equipment, it served as the command vessel for Trident Juncture, which is perhaps what provoked the interest of the Tupolev.

But if the flyover sparked shouts from marines on board Mount Whitney, senior officers played down any provocation.&nbsp;

"We are at sea, everyone's got the right to be here. It's international waters, it's international airspace," said British Admiral Guy Robinson, second-in-command of the maritime task force.

"So clearly we monitor closely. But everything we see in this exercise is that they've been safe and professional."

Jason Bohm, commanding the US marines taking part in the exercise, was equally phlegmatic: "The largest issue we have had on this exercise has been the weather."

The whirring of a low-flying Soviet Union-era war plane signalled Russia's uninvited arrival to NATO's biggest military exercise since the end of the Cold War. Marines on board USS Mount Whitney off the Norwegian coast, had gathered for a group photo on deck when the Tupolev TU-142 soared overhead.

The whirring of a low-flying Soviet Union-era war plane signalled Russia's uninvited arrival to NATO's biggest military exercise since the end of the Cold War. Marines on board USS Mount Whitney off the Norwegian coast, had gathered for a group photo on deck when the Tupolev TU-142 soared overhead. "It's a long-range maritime patrol reconnaissance plane," said one fascinated marine after casting an expert eye over the visitor. Although he had seen plenty of images of the aircraft, this was the first time he had seen it live, so to speak. Russia has already made clear its displeasure at NATO's Trident Juncture exercises, the largest by the alliance since the end of the Cold War. They warned that the two-week long exercise, which it sees as an anti-Russian show of force, would not go unanswered. According to the Russian Ministry of Defence, two Tupolev TU-142 carried out a "planned flight" of more than 12 hours. "All flights by the Russian fleet's maritime planes are carried out strictly in accordance with international airspace regulations," the ministry said on Saturday, according to state news agency RIA Novosti. Several states, including Sweden, Turkey and Baltic nations, have complained about Russian airspace violations in recent years. Last week, Moscow also announced plans to test missiles in the region. According to Avinor, the public operator of most civil airports in Norway, Russia sent a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) about the missile tests November 1-3 in the Norwegian Sea. Any missile testing "will not change the plan of our exercise," NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said on Wednesday. "We have not seen anything resembling a missile test, or even ships or aircraft in the area that would be relevant to documenting or monitoring missile testing," said Robert Aguilar, captain of the USS Mount Whitney. Cold War leftovers The Tupolev's passage appeared to be part of Russia's response. But Colonel Garth Manger, a British Royal Marine in charge of operational duties aboard the US ship, took it in his stride. "They're watching us and we're watching them," he said. Like the Tupolev, the USS Mount Whitney is a holdover from the Cold War era. The third oldest vessel in the US Navy and the flagship of the US 6th Fleet, it has seen nearly 50 years' service. Upgraded with the latest telecommunications equipment, it served as the command vessel for Trident Juncture, which is perhaps what provoked the interest of the Tupolev. But if the flyover sparked shouts from marines on board Mount Whitney, senior officers played down any provocation. "We are at sea, everyone's got the right to be here. It's international waters, it's international airspace," said British Admiral Guy Robinson, second-in-command of the maritime task force. "So clearly we monitor closely. But everything we see in this exercise is that they've been safe and professional." Jason Bohm, commanding the US marines taking part in the exercise, was equally phlegmatic: "The largest issue we have had on this exercise has been the weather."

Russia turns up uninvited to major NATO war games

One US soldier was killed and another wounded in an "apparent insider attack" in Kabul on Saturday, NATO said, in the latest such assault on international forces in Afghanistan.

"Initial reports indicate the attacker was a member of the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces," NATO's Resolute Support mission said in a statement.

The attacker was killed by "other Afghan forces", it added.

The wounded soldier was flown to Bagram Airfield north of the Afghan capital where he was receiving medical treatment. He was in a "stable condition".&nbsp;

An investigation into the incident was underway, the statement said.&nbsp;

One US soldier was killed and another wounded in an "apparent insider attack" in Kabul on Saturday, NATO said, in the latest such assault on international forces in Afghanistan. "Initial reports indicate the attacker was a member of the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces," NATO's Resolute Support mission said in a statement. The attacker was killed by "other Afghan forces", it added. The wounded soldier was flown to Bagram Airfield north of the Afghan capital where he was receiving medical treatment. He was in a "stable condition". An investigation into the incident was underway, the statement said.

Turkey and the United States on Friday lifted sanctions against each others' ministers, Ankara's foreign ministry said, as tensions ease between the NATO allies.

In a parallel move to the US Treasury's decision to remove sanctions against the Turkish justice and interior ministers, ministry spokesman Hami Aksoy said it would do the same for US Attorney General Jeff Sessions and Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen M. Nielsen.

Ankara-Washington relations have been strained since the July 2016 failed coup but were hurt further by Turkey's two-year detention of an American pastor.&nbsp;

The tit-for-tat sanctions were implemented in August during one of the worst diplomatic spats between the NATO allies after a court in the western province of Izmir refused to release Pastor Andrew Brunson and instead placed him under house arrest on July 25.

But ties have improved since Brunson's release on October 12 and his return to the US.

The US sanctions targeted Turkish Justice Minister Abdulhamit Gul and Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu under the 2016 Global Magnitsky Act named after Russian lawyer Sergei Magnitsky, who died in a Moscow jail.

The act allows the US to sanction foreign officials implicated in rights abuses.

The US Treasury department on Friday said on its website that Gul and Soylu had been removed from a list of sanctioned individuals.

But President Donald Trump had also doubled tariffs on Turkish aluminium and steel over Brunson's detention in August, which badly hurt the Turkish lira.

At one point during the row, the lira reached seven against the US dollar. Since mid-October, but it has rallied and by 1415 GMT Friday, the currency had gained over 1.4 per cent against the greenback to &nbsp;5.41.

Ties have been cooler between Ankara and Washington over the US failure to extradite a Pennsylvania-based Muslim preacher Turkey says ordered the coup bid and American support for a Kurdish militia in Syria against the Islamic State group.

Trump and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday spoke over the phone about Syria after the two countries began joint patrols in the northern Syrian city of Manbij under a deal agreed earlier this year.

Turkey and the United States on Friday lifted sanctions against each others' ministers, Ankara's foreign ministry said, as tensions ease between the NATO allies.

Turkey and the United States on Friday lifted sanctions against each others' ministers, Ankara's foreign ministry said, as tensions ease between the NATO allies. In a parallel move to the US Treasury's decision to remove sanctions against the Turkish justice and interior ministers, ministry spokesman Hami Aksoy said it would do the same for US Attorney General Jeff Sessions and Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen M. Nielsen. Ankara-Washington relations have been strained since the July 2016 failed coup but were hurt further by Turkey's two-year detention of an American pastor. The tit-for-tat sanctions were implemented in August during one of the worst diplomatic spats between the NATO allies after a court in the western province of Izmir refused to release Pastor Andrew Brunson and instead placed him under house arrest on July 25. But ties have improved since Brunson's release on October 12 and his return to the US. The US sanctions targeted Turkish Justice Minister Abdulhamit Gul and Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu under the 2016 Global Magnitsky Act named after Russian lawyer Sergei Magnitsky, who died in a Moscow jail. The act allows the US to sanction foreign officials implicated in rights abuses. The US Treasury department on Friday said on its website that Gul and Soylu had been removed from a list of sanctioned individuals. But President Donald Trump had also doubled tariffs on Turkish aluminium and steel over Brunson's detention in August, which badly hurt the Turkish lira. At one point during the row, the lira reached seven against the US dollar. Since mid-October, but it has rallied and by 1415 GMT Friday, the currency had gained over 1.4 per cent against the greenback to 5.41. Ties have been cooler between Ankara and Washington over the US failure to extradite a Pennsylvania-based Muslim preacher Turkey says ordered the coup bid and American support for a Kurdish militia in Syria against the Islamic State group. Trump and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday spoke over the phone about Syria after the two countries began joint patrols in the northern Syrian city of Manbij under a deal agreed earlier this year.

Post-pastor release, Turkey, US lift sanctions on ministers

Once peace is achieved in Afghanistan, any American military role in the war-torn country would be conditions-based and worked out with the government of the day, Defence Secretary James Mattis has said.

More than a year after President Donald Trump announced his South Asia strategy, Mattis said it is based on four Rs and one S being "sustain it".

"Any US military coalition role after the peace is reached would be conditions-based, worked out with the Afghan government and depend on the threat," Mattis said at the US Institute of Peace, a Congress-funded think-tank.

"First R was to regionalise the approach, you did not start with Afghanistan, come up with a strategy, say, 'well I guess now we'd better look at the countries around it and see what do we do as far as their inclusion?' We started outside and worked our way inside," he said.

The second R was reinforcing the troops and the third R realigning those troops to supporting the Afghan security forces, directly by training, advising and assisting, Mattis said.

"What we had done was creation of an army, and then we pulled the training wheels off too early, and in that I mean that the -- only the Afghan special forces had mentors from NATO nations with them. And every time they went against the enemy, the Taliban, they won against the enemy," he said.

But spread out around the country were Afghan security forces that the US had pulled all mentoring away from, he said.

"So we were going to look at this as a regional problem, reinforce the troops and realign them so that more Afghan forces had our mentors with them, with NATO air support," Mattis said.

"It is protection of the people is what we are trying to do there so in some cases, we surrendered ground where few if any people lived since it's not a matter of militaries holding ground," said the US Defence Secretary.

The Afghan security forces, he said, has prevented the Taliban from doing what they said they were going to do, which was to take and hold district and provincial centers, also disrupt an election that they were unable to disrupt.

But the most important R was the fourth R, reconciliation, he said, adding that former US ambassador to the UN Zalmay Khalilzad has been brought in for this purpose.

"And he is hard at work on this, on an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned peace and reconciliation effort. This is the approach we're trying to sustain right now. It is working from our perspective, but it is heartbreakingly difficult to accept is the progress and violence can be going on at the same time," Mattis added.&nbsp;

Once peace is achieved in Afghanistan, any American military role in the war-torn country would be conditions-based and worked out with the government of the day, Defence Secretary James Mattis has said.

Once peace is achieved in Afghanistan, any American military role in the war-torn country would be conditions-based and worked out with the government of the day, Defence Secretary James Mattis has said. More than a year after President Donald Trump announced his South Asia strategy, Mattis said it is based on four Rs and one S being "sustain it". "Any US military coalition role after the peace is reached would be conditions-based, worked out with the Afghan government and depend on the threat," Mattis said at the US Institute of Peace, a Congress-funded think-tank. "First R was to regionalise the approach, you did not start with Afghanistan, come up with a strategy, say, 'well I guess now we'd better look at the countries around it and see what do we do as far as their inclusion?' We started outside and worked our way inside," he said. The second R was reinforcing the troops and the third R realigning those troops to supporting the Afghan security forces, directly by training, advising and assisting, Mattis said. "What we had done was creation of an army, and then we pulled the training wheels off too early, and in that I mean that the -- only the Afghan special forces had mentors from NATO nations with them. And every time they went against the enemy, the Taliban, they won against the enemy," he said. But spread out around the country were Afghan security forces that the US had pulled all mentoring away from, he said. "So we were going to look at this as a regional problem, reinforce the troops and realign them so that more Afghan forces had our mentors with them, with NATO air support," Mattis said. "It is protection of the people is what we are trying to do there so in some cases, we surrendered ground where few if any people lived since it's not a matter of militaries holding ground," said the US Defence Secretary. The Afghan security forces, he said, has prevented the Taliban from doing what they said they were going to do, which was to take and hold district and provincial centers, also disrupt an election that they were unable to disrupt. But the most important R was the fourth R, reconciliation, he said, adding that former US ambassador to the UN Zalmay Khalilzad has been brought in for this purpose. "And he is hard at work on this, on an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned peace and reconciliation effort. This is the approach we're trying to sustain right now. It is working from our perspective, but it is heartbreakingly difficult to accept is the progress and violence can be going on at the same time," Mattis added.

Any US military role in Afghan after peace would be conditions-based: Mattis

As NATO kicked-off <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-military-exercise-in-norway-nato-chief-says-hope-russia-will-avoid-dangerous-behavior-173367">Trident Juncture 18 military exercise</a> in western Norway, NATO secretary general Jens Stoltenberg said Russia planned to test missiles near the area.

"We were notified last week about the planned Russian missile tests outside the coast here," NATO secretary general Jens Stoltenberg said, adding,"I expect Russia to behave in a professional way."

Russia will be testing the missiles from November 1st to 3rd in the Norwegian Sea, Norway was informed by Putin's government. The NATO exercise is taking place along Norway's far north border with Russia.

"We will, of course, monitor closely what Russia does but they operate in international waters and they have notified us in the normal way," Stoltenberg while declaring that the missile tests won't change the exercise plan.

Russia had earlier denounced the military exercise calling it "provocative, even if you try to justify it as being of a purely defensive nature." Stoltenberg had hit back saying "NATO does not seek confrontation but we stand ready to defend all allies against any threat."

The mega exercise involving over 50,000 NATO troops including those from Finland and Sweden come in the backdrop of US pulling out of the Nuclear Forces treaty(NFT) which was signed by former President Ronald Regan and former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev signalling the end of the cold war.

Stoltenburg had backed the US move adding that "Russia now is in violation of the INF" fueling Russian antagonism.

The exercise which started on October 25th will continue till November 7th in central and eastern Norway including in Iceland, Finland and Sweden. 
&nbsp;

As NATO kicked-off Trident Juncture 18 military exercise in western Norway, NATO secretary general Jens Stoltenberg said Russia planned to test missiles near the area.

As NATO kicked-off Trident Juncture 18 military exercise in western Norway, NATO secretary general Jens Stoltenberg said Russia planned to test missiles near the area. "We were notified last week about the planned Russian missile tests outside the coast here," NATO secretary general Jens Stoltenberg said, adding,"I expect Russia to behave in a professional way." Russia will be testing the missiles from November 1st to 3rd in the Norwegian Sea, Norway was informed by Putin's government. The NATO exercise is taking place along Norway's far north border with Russia. "We will, of course, monitor closely what Russia does but they operate in international waters and they have notified us in the normal way," Stoltenberg while declaring that the missile tests won't change the exercise plan. Russia had earlier denounced the military exercise calling it "provocative, even if you try to justify it as being of a purely defensive nature." Stoltenberg had hit back saying "NATO does not seek confrontation but we stand ready to defend all allies against any threat." The mega exercise involving over 50,000 NATO troops including those from Finland and Sweden come in the backdrop of US pulling out of the Nuclear Forces treaty(NFT) which was signed by former President Ronald Regan and former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev signalling the end of the cold war. Stoltenburg had backed the US move adding that "Russia now is in violation of the INF" fueling Russian antagonism. The exercise which started on October 25th will continue till November 7th in central and eastern Norway including in Iceland, Finland and Sweden.

Russia to test missiles near military exercise area in Norway: NATO chief

US&nbsp;Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said on Sunday that the United States was in consultation with its European allies on an arms control treaty, as NATO members urge Washington to try to bring Russia back into compliance with the pact rather than quit it.

President Donald Trump said on October 20 that Washington planned to quit the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) treaty which Mikhail Gorbachev, the last Soviet leader, and Ronald Reagan had signed in 1987.

Washington has cited Russia's alleged violation of the treaty as its reason for leaving it, a charge Moscow denies. Russia in turn accuses Washington of breaking the pact.

"We are in consultations with our European counterparts, I was speaking about it the day before with the German defense minister, and so as I said the consultations continue," Mattis told reporters travelling with him to Prague.

He will be meeting with his Czech counterpart and Prime Minister Andrej Babis during a short trip to Prague.

Mattis said ministers from NATO would be meeting in Brussels in December and at that point he would have some kind of "culminating point."

European members of NATO urged the United States on Thursday to try to bring Russia back into compliance with a nuclear arms control treaty rather than quit it, diplomats said, seeking to avoid a split in the alliance that Moscow could exploit.

Mattis said he had asked his NATO counterparts after the last summit if they had any ideas on how to bring Russia back into compliance of INF treaty, but so far none had come back to him.

European allies see the INF treaty as a pillar of arms control and, while accepting that Moscow is violating it by developing new weapons, are concerned its collapse could lead to a new arms race with possibly a new generation of US&nbsp;nuclear missiles stationed on the continent.

Heather Conley, a former US&nbsp;State Department official now with the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, said Mattis would receive a range of questions from European allies like when a formal notification would be made and whether it signals a new arms race.

"It just deepens the uncertainty. Our allies do not know where US&nbsp;leadership is going, what it's going to do from the day to day basis," Conley said.

When asked whether he could rule out placing intermediate-range missiles on the ground if Washington left the INF treaty, Mattis said: "I never rule things out like that, I also don't rule it in."

"There are a number of ways for us to respond, it does not have to be symmetric and it'll be in close consultation with allies," he added.

US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said on Sunday that the United States was in consultation with its European allies on an arms control treaty, as NATO members urge Washington to try to bring Russia back into compliance with the pact rather than quit it.

US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said on Sunday that the United States was in consultation with its European allies on an arms control treaty, as NATO members urge Washington to try to bring Russia back into compliance with the pact rather than quit it. President Donald Trump said on October 20 that Washington planned to quit the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) treaty which Mikhail Gorbachev, the last Soviet leader, and Ronald Reagan had signed in 1987. Washington has cited Russia's alleged violation of the treaty as its reason for leaving it, a charge Moscow denies. Russia in turn accuses Washington of breaking the pact. "We are in consultations with our European counterparts, I was speaking about it the day before with the German defense minister, and so as I said the consultations continue," Mattis told reporters travelling with him to Prague. He will be meeting with his Czech counterpart and Prime Minister Andrej Babis during a short trip to Prague. Mattis said ministers from NATO would be meeting in Brussels in December and at that point he would have some kind of "culminating point." European members of NATO urged the United States on Thursday to try to bring Russia back into compliance with a nuclear arms control treaty rather than quit it, diplomats said, seeking to avoid a split in the alliance that Moscow could exploit. Mattis said he had asked his NATO counterparts after the last summit if they had any ideas on how to bring Russia back into compliance of INF treaty, but so far none had come back to him. European allies see the INF treaty as a pillar of arms control and, while accepting that Moscow is violating it by developing new weapons, are concerned its collapse could lead to a new arms race with possibly a new generation of US nuclear missiles stationed on the continent. Heather Conley, a former US State Department official now with the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, said Mattis would receive a range of questions from European allies like when a formal notification would be made and whether it signals a new arms race. "It just deepens the uncertainty. Our allies do not know where US leadership is going, what it's going to do from the day to day basis," Conley said. When asked whether he could rule out placing intermediate-range missiles on the ground if Washington left the INF treaty, Mattis said: "I never rule things out like that, I also don't rule it in." "There are a number of ways for us to respond, it does not have to be symmetric and it'll be in close consultation with allies," he added.

Jim Mattis looks to calm European allies nervous about INF treaty

NATO countries began its <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-military-exercise-in-norway-nato-chief-says-hope-russia-will-avoid-dangerous-behavior-173367">military exercise, Trident Juncture 18</a>, in Norway close to the Russian border amid tensions between the US and Russia over President Trump's decision to pull out of the NFT.

As many as 31 countries including Finland and Sweden are taking part in the largest military exercise since the end of the Cold War involving over 50,000 troops. The US has committed the highest number of troops numbering 9,000 and has deployed the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman.

Russia termed the latest exercise an activity which "comes across as provocative, even if you try to justify it as being of a purely defensive nature." &nbsp;

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg had said earlier that Europe's security environment had significantly deteriorated in recent years, while asserting that, "Trident Juncture sends a clear message to our nations and to any potential adversary."&nbsp;

"NATO does not seek confrontation but we stand ready to defend all allies against any threat," the NATO chief added.

The mega military drill is reportedly taking place 198 kilometres away from Norway's border to Russia in the far north.

Meanwhile, head of NATO's Allied Joint Force Command said "any fears on the part of the Russian Federation are unfounded," adding,"we defend, we deter, we don't take somebody else's territory. That's not our intent and they are not the focal point of this exercise."

Last month, Russia had conducted a military exercise, Vostok-2018, along with Chinese and Mongolian troops along China's border which involved over 300,000 troops.

Russian foreign ministry had said last month that NATO countries were increasing their military presence in the region, "near Russia's borders". "Such irresponsible actions are bound to lead to a destabilisation of the political situation in the North, to heighten tensions," the foreign ministry spokesman had said.

The military drill in Norway will continue from October 25th to November 7th.

NATO countries began its military exercise, Trident Juncture 18, in Norway close to the Russian border amid tensions between the US and Russia over President Trump's decision to pull out of the NFT.

NATO countries began its military exercise, Trident Juncture 18, in Norway close to the Russian border amid tensions between the US and Russia over President Trump's decision to pull out of the NFT. As many as 31 countries including Finland and Sweden are taking part in the largest military exercise since the end of the Cold War involving over 50,000 troops. The US has committed the highest number of troops numbering 9,000 and has deployed the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman. Russia termed the latest exercise an activity which "comes across as provocative, even if you try to justify it as being of a purely defensive nature." NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg had said earlier that Europe's security environment had significantly deteriorated in recent years, while asserting that, "Trident Juncture sends a clear message to our nations and to any potential adversary." "NATO does not seek confrontation but we stand ready to defend all allies against any threat," the NATO chief added. The mega military drill is reportedly taking place 198 kilometres away from Norway's border to Russia in the far north. Meanwhile, head of NATO's Allied Joint Force Command said "any fears on the part of the Russian Federation are unfounded," adding,"we defend, we deter, we don't take somebody else's territory. That's not our intent and they are not the focal point of this exercise." Last month, Russia had conducted a military exercise, Vostok-2018, along with Chinese and Mongolian troops along China's border which involved over 300,000 troops. Russian foreign ministry had said last month that NATO countries were increasing their military presence in the region, "near Russia's borders". "Such irresponsible actions are bound to lead to a destabilisation of the political situation in the North, to heighten tensions," the foreign ministry spokesman had said. The military drill in Norway will continue from October 25th to November 7th.

NATO begins military excercise in Norway amid US-Russia row over Nuclear Forces Treaty

As Norway prepares to host the biggest military exercise in the post-cold war era on Thursday, Russia has warned that it is an "anti-Russian" exercise.

The Russian embassy in Oslo said: "Such activity comes across as provocative, even if you try to justify it as being of a purely defensive nature."&nbsp;

However, as Trump pulled out of the 1987 Nuclear Forces treaty(NFT) with US&nbsp;accusing the Putin regime of violating the treaty by deploying new cruise missiles, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg hinted at "standing with allies" to counter any Russian threat.

The military exercise will involve 65 ships, 250 aircraft, 10,000 vehicles and 50,000 military personnel across 31 NATO countries including partner countries. “This is a strong display of our capabilities and of our resolve to work together,” secretary general Stoltenberg said while unveiling the plan.

Forces from US and Canada will also be involved in the exercise with&nbsp;aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman set to take part.

"Trident Juncture sends a clear message to our nations and to any potential adversary. NATO does not seek confrontation but we stand ready to defend all Allies against any threat," Stoltenberg declared.

Stoltenburg had earlier said: "I don't foresee that allies will deploy more nuclear weapons in Europe as a response to the new Russian (ground-launched SSC-8 cruise) missile, but I see - and that's what now is going on in NATO &nbsp;- is a need to assess the implications of the new Russian missile for our security."

"Russia now is in violation of the INF," he added.

The exercise is due to take place from October 25th to November 7th in central and eastern Norway including Iceland and in Finland and Sweden airspace.

Two Russian and two Belarus military observers have been invited to watch the manoeuvres. Stoltenberg said he hoped Russia would "avoid dangerous behaviour".

As Norway prepares to host the biggest military exercise in the post-cold war era on Thursday, Russia has warned that it is an "anti-Russian" exercise. The Russian embassy in Oslo said: "Such activity comes across as provocative, even if you try to justify it as being of a purely defensive nature.

As Norway prepares to host the biggest military exercise in the post-cold war era on Thursday, Russia has warned that it is an "anti-Russian" exercise. The Russian embassy in Oslo said: "Such activity comes across as provocative, even if you try to justify it as being of a purely defensive nature." However, as Trump pulled out of the 1987 Nuclear Forces treaty(NFT) with US accusing the Putin regime of violating the treaty by deploying new cruise missiles, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg hinted at "standing with allies" to counter any Russian threat. The military exercise will involve 65 ships, 250 aircraft, 10,000 vehicles and 50,000 military personnel across 31 NATO countries including partner countries. “This is a strong display of our capabilities and of our resolve to work together,” secretary general Stoltenberg said while unveiling the plan. Forces from US and Canada will also be involved in the exercise with aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman set to take part. "Trident Juncture sends a clear message to our nations and to any potential adversary. NATO does not seek confrontation but we stand ready to defend all Allies against any threat," Stoltenberg declared. Stoltenburg had earlier said: "I don't foresee that allies will deploy more nuclear weapons in Europe as a response to the new Russian (ground-launched SSC-8 cruise) missile, but I see - and that's what now is going on in NATO - is a need to assess the implications of the new Russian missile for our security." "Russia now is in violation of the INF," he added. The exercise is due to take place from October 25th to November 7th in central and eastern Norway including Iceland and in Finland and Sweden airspace. Two Russian and two Belarus military observers have been invited to watch the manoeuvres. Stoltenberg said he hoped Russia would "avoid dangerous behaviour".

NATO chief says 'hope Russia will avoid dangerous behaviour'

A top Republican lawmaker has urged the Trump administration to immediately designate Pakistan as a state sponsor of terrorism and terminate its non-NATO ally status, asserting that Islamabad consistently defends Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed and condemns US' counterterrorism efforts.

Congressman Ted Poe said in the House of Representatives that Pakistan will not receive any financial support from the US if terrorists continue to live safely in the country.

"Now is the day of reckoning. All assistance to Pakistan must end, its Major non-NATO ally status must be terminated, and the State Department should immediately designate it as a state sponsor of terrorism," Poe said last week, according to Congressional records.

In his remarks, the Republican Congressman from Texas slammed Pakistan's Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi for what he described as lecturing the US on aid.

"While I do not oppose open engagement with Pakistan, our position must be clear: Pakistan will not receive a dime of US support if terrorists continue to live safely on their soil," he said.

"For too long the opposite has been the case. Fortunately, President Donald Trump has disrupted the status quo and suspended most of the funding we give to Pakistan, specifically calling them out for their support to terrorism. But more should be done," he said.

Poe said if Qureshi was truly interested in restoring the relationship between the two countries, he would accept responsibility and acknowledge that countless terrorists still live inside Pakistan.

"His country has been the epicenter for extremism for decades, where extremists are still able to hold massive public rallies to incite young men to violence. This isn't conjecture, the evidence is well documented," he asserted.

Poe said Mumbai terror attack mastermind and the founder of the US and UN-designated terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba Hafiz Saeed operated freely in Pakistan.

Despite his role in the 2008 Mumbai attack, Saeed leads public rallies and can raise money for extremists causes, he said.

"Yet, Pakistan, including its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, consistently defends Saeed and condemns US counterterrorism efforts," Poe said.

He said Qureshi even claimed terrorist groups that target Pakistan had safe haven in Afghanistan under the US' watch.

"Yet it is Pakistani officials who somehow claim there is a 'good' Taliban, while the US makes no distinction," he said.

"If the Foreign Minister wanted to earn our trust, his government could demonstrate good faith by taking action. This includes handing over Saeed, the leaders of the

Taliban and Haqqani Network, and banning all extremist groups on its soil. But this is a fantasy," Poe said.

The relations between Pakistan and the US nosedived this January after President Trump accused Islamabad of giving nothing to Washington but "lies and deceit" and providing "safe haven" to terrorists.

The US Congress also passed a bill to slash Pakistan's defence aid to $ 150 million, significantly below the historic level of more than $ one billion per year.

The Trump administration had announced early this year that it was suspending security assistance to Pakistan over differences on Afghanistan.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A top Republican lawmaker has urged the Trump administration to immediately designate Pakistan as a state sponsor of terrorism and terminate its non-NATO ally status, asserting that Islamabad consistently defends Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed and condemns US' counterterrorism efforts.

A top Republican lawmaker has urged the Trump administration to immediately designate Pakistan as a state sponsor of terrorism and terminate its non-NATO ally status, asserting that Islamabad consistently defends Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed and condemns US' counterterrorism efforts. Congressman Ted Poe said in the House of Representatives that Pakistan will not receive any financial support from the US if terrorists continue to live safely in the country. "Now is the day of reckoning. All assistance to Pakistan must end, its Major non-NATO ally status must be terminated, and the State Department should immediately designate it as a state sponsor of terrorism," Poe said last week, according to Congressional records. In his remarks, the Republican Congressman from Texas slammed Pakistan's Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi for what he described as lecturing the US on aid. "While I do not oppose open engagement with Pakistan, our position must be clear: Pakistan will not receive a dime of US support if terrorists continue to live safely on their soil," he said. "For too long the opposite has been the case. Fortunately, President Donald Trump has disrupted the status quo and suspended most of the funding we give to Pakistan, specifically calling them out for their support to terrorism. But more should be done," he said. Poe said if Qureshi was truly interested in restoring the relationship between the two countries, he would accept responsibility and acknowledge that countless terrorists still live inside Pakistan. "His country has been the epicenter for extremism for decades, where extremists are still able to hold massive public rallies to incite young men to violence. This isn't conjecture, the evidence is well documented," he asserted. Poe said Mumbai terror attack mastermind and the founder of the US and UN-designated terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba Hafiz Saeed operated freely in Pakistan. Despite his role in the 2008 Mumbai attack, Saeed leads public rallies and can raise money for extremists causes, he said. "Yet, Pakistan, including its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, consistently defends Saeed and condemns US counterterrorism efforts," Poe said. He said Qureshi even claimed terrorist groups that target Pakistan had safe haven in Afghanistan under the US' watch. "Yet it is Pakistani officials who somehow claim there is a 'good' Taliban, while the US makes no distinction," he said. "If the Foreign Minister wanted to earn our trust, his government could demonstrate good faith by taking action. This includes handing over Saeed, the leaders of the Taliban and Haqqani Network, and banning all extremist groups on its soil. But this is a fantasy," Poe said. The relations between Pakistan and the US nosedived this January after President Trump accused Islamabad of giving nothing to Washington but "lies and deceit" and providing "safe haven" to terrorists. The US Congress also passed a bill to slash Pakistan's defence aid to $ 150 million, significantly below the historic level of more than $ one billion per year. The Trump administration had announced early this year that it was suspending security assistance to Pakistan over differences on Afghanistan.

US Congressman seeks immediate designation of Pakistan as state sponsor of terrorism

The top US&nbsp;commander in Afghanistan, General Scott Miller escaped unhurt after a burst of gunfire in the governor's compound in Kandahar province on Thursday but the powerful police chief General Abdul Razeq was killed, officials said.

A senior security official said the governor's bodyguard opened fire and hit Razeq in the back as soon as officials came out of the meeting. The governor and the local head of the NDS intelligence service were wounded.

Several Afghan and international security officials said Razeq, one of Afghanistan's most powerful commanders with a fearsome reputation as an enemy of the Taliban, had been killed.

Miller, who had been attending a meeting with security officials ahead of parliamentary elections on Saturday, was not injured but two Americans were wounded in the crossfire and had been evacuated, NATO spokesman Colonel Knut Peters said.

"Provincial officials including the governor, the police chief and other officials were accompanying the foreign guests to the plane when the gunshots happened," said Said Jan Khakrezwal, the head of the provincial council.

The top US commander in Afghanistan, General Scott Miller escaped unhurt after a burst of gunfire in the governor's compound in Kandahar province on Thursday but the powerful police chief General Abdul Razeq was killed, officials said.

The top US commander in Afghanistan, General Scott Miller escaped unhurt after a burst of gunfire in the governor's compound in Kandahar province on Thursday but the powerful police chief General Abdul Razeq was killed, officials said. A senior security official said the governor's bodyguard opened fire and hit Razeq in the back as soon as officials came out of the meeting. The governor and the local head of the NDS intelligence service were wounded. Several Afghan and international security officials said Razeq, one of Afghanistan's most powerful commanders with a fearsome reputation as an enemy of the Taliban, had been killed. Miller, who had been attending a meeting with security officials ahead of parliamentary elections on Saturday, was not injured but two Americans were wounded in the crossfire and had been evacuated, NATO spokesman Colonel Knut Peters said. "Provincial officials including the governor, the police chief and other officials were accompanying the foreign guests to the plane when the gunshots happened," said Said Jan Khakrezwal, the head of the provincial council.

Afghanistan: Kandahar police chief killed in shooting, top US general escapes unhurt

When the Berlin Wall came down and the Soviet Union dissolved and the Warsaw Pact disappeared, a few of us argued that the appropriate response would be to close down NATO and develop a new all-European peace system and policy for conflict-handling to replace the predominantly military security thinking that had dominated during the First Cold War.

I had a particular reason for arguing that at the time. As part of the research I did for my PhD (1981) on Denmark’s defence and security policy in a global perspective, I had interviewed a small number of middle-level civilian and military personnel at NATO’s HQ in Brussels. They all basically told me three things — remember this was the late 1970s, or about 10 years before the Cold War ended:

— My parents belong to a generation that knows what war is, we are here at NATO to prevent a repetition.

— NATO is for the maintenance of peace, not for war, and the most important thing is Art 5 in our treaty: If one member is attacked, all shall come to its rescue — “all for one and one for all” (the defensive principle, the musketeer pledge).

— The only reason NATO exists today is the presence and nature of the Soviet Union and the Warsaw Pact.

Western leaders — that is, until one of the worst, Bill Clinton, took over in 1994 — showed statesmanship and told Gorbachev that they would not expand NATO an inch and that divided Germany would be neutral if unified. There was no talk of closing NATO in those circles, however. Nobody took Gorbachev’s intellectually sound and visionary idea about a new European House seriously.

The Soviet Union had lost and became militarily a dwarf in comparison to what it had been. And that wasn’t that strong either: The Warsaw Pact’s military expenditures varied between 60 and 80 per cent of those of NATO and it was vastly inferior in terms of technical quality, innovation capacity and discipline, but stronger in quantities, eg. the number of tanks.

We’re in Cold War 2; of course not a repetition because of all the differences between that world and today’s. Ten of the former Warsaw Pact countries are now full NATO members, neutral states back then, like Sweden and Austria, have abolished that wise policy.

Eight per cent of NATOs military expenditures is in spite of all the propaganda about Russia and Putin representing an existential threat to Europe and the US if not the whole world. Who said disinformation was used only by Russia?

The Clinton Administration decided to not give a damn about the promises made, and started the expansion of NATO in 1994, the new (humanitarian!!) interventionism in Yugoslavia — devoid of knowledge about its complexities, of common sense and without a UN Security Council mandate and one gross violation of international law after the other, including the bombing of Serbia to carve out a forever-failed state, Kosovo state — the second Albanian state in Europe. Oh Crimea, what a crime in comparison!

And then came, one-by-one, incrementally — the new NATO members right up under the skirts of Russia in total defiance of its history psychology and legitimate near-abroad security perceptions.

The wisdom of softer borders and neutrals, of dialogue and confidence-building — like Finland that started the OSCE, like Sweden under Palme that started common security and Germany under Brandt that started rapproachment and Ostpolitik etc — are all gone today.

Imagine a Russia-led alliance with 12 times more military than the US, making Mexico and Canada new members. Sure, Washington would love it.

Facts, analyses, intellectual understanding went out of the window long ago — in Western mainstream media and politics, from Right to Left too, the latter believing in humanitarian intervention and human rights advocates flying F-16.

We’re living in dangerous times because facts, knowledge, science and common sense play virtually no role anymore. And because the peace discourse has disappeared decades ago.

Today’s Western security policy managers are anti-intellectuals, seemingly unaware of their moral responsibilities and under much less control than when Dwight D. Eisenhower in his farewell speech in 1961 warned the world and the US itself about the MIC – the Military-Industrial Complex. (Bless him for doing so and curse those who never listened but made it cancer on Western civilisation).

Nearly 99 per cent of these security managers would not be able to offer an intellectually decent definition of concepts such as deterrence, defensive/offensive, conflict-resolution, or peace. They don’t write books.

But — at least some of them have a button close to them, with which they can kill millions. 
 
(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-irrelevance-of-nato-trans-atlantic-conflict-peace-discourse-2676487">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

When the Berlin Wall came down and the Soviet Union dissolved and the Warsaw Pact disappeared, a few of us argued that the appropriate response would be to close down NATO and develop a new all-European peace system and policy for conflict-handling to replace the predominantly military security thinking that had dominated during the First Cold War.

When the Berlin Wall came down and the Soviet Union dissolved and the Warsaw Pact disappeared, a few of us argued that the appropriate response would be to close down NATO and develop a new all-European peace system and policy for conflict-handling to replace the predominantly military security thinking that had dominated during the First Cold War. I had a particular reason for arguing that at the time. As part of the research I did for my PhD (1981) on Denmark’s defence and security policy in a global perspective, I had interviewed a small number of middle-level civilian and military personnel at NATO’s HQ in Brussels. They all basically told me three things — remember this was the late 1970s, or about 10 years before the Cold War ended: — My parents belong to a generation that knows what war is, we are here at NATO to prevent a repetition. — NATO is for the maintenance of peace, not for war, and the most important thing is Art 5 in our treaty: If one member is attacked, all shall come to its rescue — “all for one and one for all” (the defensive principle, the musketeer pledge). — The only reason NATO exists today is the presence and nature of the Soviet Union and the Warsaw Pact. Western leaders — that is, until one of the worst, Bill Clinton, took over in 1994 — showed statesmanship and told Gorbachev that they would not expand NATO an inch and that divided Germany would be neutral if unified. There was no talk of closing NATO in those circles, however. Nobody took Gorbachev’s intellectually sound and visionary idea about a new European House seriously. The Soviet Union had lost and became militarily a dwarf in comparison to what it had been. And that wasn’t that strong either: The Warsaw Pact’s military expenditures varied between 60 and 80 per cent of those of NATO and it was vastly inferior in terms of technical quality, innovation capacity and discipline, but stronger in quantities, eg. the number of tanks. We’re in Cold War 2; of course not a repetition because of all the differences between that world and today’s. Ten of the former Warsaw Pact countries are now full NATO members, neutral states back then, like Sweden and Austria, have abolished that wise policy. Eight per cent of NATOs military expenditures is in spite of all the propaganda about Russia and Putin representing an existential threat to Europe and the US if not the whole world. Who said disinformation was used only by Russia? The Clinton Administration decided to not give a damn about the promises made, and started the expansion of NATO in 1994, the new (humanitarian!!) interventionism in Yugoslavia — devoid of knowledge about its complexities, of common sense and without a UN Security Council mandate and one gross violation of international law after the other, including the bombing of Serbia to carve out a forever-failed state, Kosovo state — the second Albanian state in Europe. Oh Crimea, what a crime in comparison! And then came, one-by-one, incrementally — the new NATO members right up under the skirts of Russia in total defiance of its history psychology and legitimate near-abroad security perceptions. The wisdom of softer borders and neutrals, of dialogue and confidence-building — like Finland that started the OSCE, like Sweden under Palme that started common security and Germany under Brandt that started rapproachment and Ostpolitik etc — are all gone today. Imagine a Russia-led alliance with 12 times more military than the US, making Mexico and Canada new members. Sure, Washington would love it. Facts, analyses, intellectual understanding went out of the window long ago — in Western mainstream media and politics, from Right to Left too, the latter believing in humanitarian intervention and human rights advocates flying F-16. We’re living in dangerous times because facts, knowledge, science and common sense play virtually no role anymore. And because the peace discourse has disappeared decades ago. Today’s Western security policy managers are anti-intellectuals, seemingly unaware of their moral responsibilities and under much less control than when Dwight D. Eisenhower in his farewell speech in 1961 warned the world and the US itself about the MIC – the Military-Industrial Complex. (Bless him for doing so and curse those who never listened but made it cancer on Western civilisation). Nearly 99 per cent of these security managers would not be able to offer an intellectually decent definition of concepts such as deterrence, defensive/offensive, conflict-resolution, or peace. They don’t write books. But — at least some of them have a button close to them, with which they can kill millions. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Blog: Irrelevance of NATO, trans-Atlantic conflict and peace discourse

Afghan officials have reacted angrily to speculation that foreign military contractors could take over training and advising the Afghan armed forces, following a renewed push by the founder of private military contractor Blackwater.

Erik Prince, whose company came to prominence during the war in Iraq, has been lobbying officials about his proposal to privatise parts of US military operations in Afghanistan for more than a year.

On a recent visit to Kabul, he lobbied several Afghan political figures and gave interviews to media outlets including Tolo News, Afghanistan`s largest television station, as well as the New York Times, to discuss the plan.

President Ashraf Ghani, approaching presidential elections in April, has repeatedly rejected the proposal and on Thursday his national security adviser issued a statement condemning what he called a "destructive and divisive debate".

"Under no circumstances will the Afghan government and people allow the counterterrorism fight to become a private, for-profit business," the statement said.

In August, US Defense Secretary James Mattis also rebuffed the idea, saying: "When Americans put their nation`s credibility on the line, privatizing it is probably not a wise idea."

Afghan officials say that any move to replace US military advisers with private contractors would further undermine government legitimacy and fuel Taliban accusations that the war was being conducted for the benefit of foreign interests.

Speaking half seriously, one senior security official said recently: "If they did that, even I would join the Taliban".&nbsp;

Prince, a former US Navy SEAL whose sister Betsy De Vos serves as Education Secretary in President Donald Trump`s administration, would have retired Special Forces troops from the United States and allied nations embed with Afghan forces, replacing US and NATO military advisers.

The plan was originally broached last year as Trump was considering a new strategy for Afghanistan but it was not adopted and instead, Washington ordered thousands more US troops to be sent to boost existing forces.

The United States currently has some 14,000 troops in Afghanistan, serving in the NATO-led Resolute Support training and advisory mission as well as in separate counter-terrorism operations against militant groups like Islamic State.

Under the strategy announced just over a year ago, the extra troops and greatly increased air strikes against the Taliban are intended to force the insurgents to the negotiating table.

A brief ceasefire in June raised hopes of a possible breakthrough with the Taliban but progress towards any kind of peace deal has since been slow and fighting has continued with increasing Afghan military casualties, raising questions about the success of the strategy.

Trump has since been reported to be unhappy about the lack of progress, prompting fears among some diplomats that he could reverse course and order US troops out of Afghanistan, a move that would risk a collapse of the Western-backed government.

Afghan officials have reacted angrily to speculation that foreign military contractors could take over training and advising the Afghan armed forces, following a renewed push by the founder of private military contractor Blackwater.

Afghan officials have reacted angrily to speculation that foreign military contractors could take over training and advising the Afghan armed forces, following a renewed push by the founder of private military contractor Blackwater. Erik Prince, whose company came to prominence during the war in Iraq, has been lobbying officials about his proposal to privatise parts of US military operations in Afghanistan for more than a year. On a recent visit to Kabul, he lobbied several Afghan political figures and gave interviews to media outlets including Tolo News, Afghanistan`s largest television station, as well as the New York Times, to discuss the plan. President Ashraf Ghani, approaching presidential elections in April, has repeatedly rejected the proposal and on Thursday his national security adviser issued a statement condemning what he called a "destructive and divisive debate". "Under no circumstances will the Afghan government and people allow the counterterrorism fight to become a private, for-profit business," the statement said. In August, US Defense Secretary James Mattis also rebuffed the idea, saying: "When Americans put their nation`s credibility on the line, privatizing it is probably not a wise idea." Afghan officials say that any move to replace US military advisers with private contractors would further undermine government legitimacy and fuel Taliban accusations that the war was being conducted for the benefit of foreign interests. Speaking half seriously, one senior security official said recently: "If they did that, even I would join the Taliban". Prince, a former US Navy SEAL whose sister Betsy De Vos serves as Education Secretary in President Donald Trump`s administration, would have retired Special Forces troops from the United States and allied nations embed with Afghan forces, replacing US and NATO military advisers. The plan was originally broached last year as Trump was considering a new strategy for Afghanistan but it was not adopted and instead, Washington ordered thousands more US troops to be sent to boost existing forces. The United States currently has some 14,000 troops in Afghanistan, serving in the NATO-led Resolute Support training and advisory mission as well as in separate counter-terrorism operations against militant groups like Islamic State. Under the strategy announced just over a year ago, the extra troops and greatly increased air strikes against the Taliban are intended to force the insurgents to the negotiating table. A brief ceasefire in June raised hopes of a possible breakthrough with the Taliban but progress towards any kind of peace deal has since been slow and fighting has continued with increasing Afghan military casualties, raising questions about the success of the strategy. Trump has since been reported to be unhappy about the lack of progress, prompting fears among some diplomats that he could reverse course and order US troops out of Afghanistan, a move that would risk a collapse of the Western-backed government.

Afghan government rejects proposals to privatise war

The United States will make its cyber warfare capabilities available to NATO, Defence Secretary James Mattis said Thursday, as allies denounced an alleged Russian bid to hack the international chemical weapons watchdog.

Mattis said the attempted attack on the Organisation for Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) showed how cyber attacks were becoming "more frequent, more complex and... More destructive".

"This is why the United States, like the United Kingdom, Denmark, the Netherlands, Estonia will provide national cyber contributions to help NATO fight in this important domain," Mattis told reporters at a meeting of NATO defence ministers.

The Netherlands revealed extraordinary details of the plot by Russia's GRU military intelligence agency against the OPCW in The Hague, including photos of the alleged agents and their equipment.

Mattis refused to be drawn on what kind of response the OPCW plot should be met with, saying "tit for tat on cyber" was not necessarily appropriate, but he insisted the Kremlin must face consequences.

"Basically the Russians got caught with their equipment, with their people who were doing it and they have got to pay the piper. They are going to have to be held to account," Mattis said.

"We have a wide variety among our nations of responses available to us."&nbsp; 
At the time of the attack, the OPCW was investigating the nerve agent poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia in Salisbury, England.&nbsp;

Dutch officials said it was not clear if the cyber operation was linked to that.

Mattis said the US would offer cyber support to NATO allies immediately, but refused to go into detail about the kind of capabilities it would make&nbsp; 
available. &nbsp; &nbsp;

NATO says its forces have successfully used offensive cyber techniques to disrupt Islamic State and Al-Qaeda operations in Iraq.

The alliance has recognised cyber as a full conflict domain alongside air, land, sea and space and said that a cyber attack could trigger its Article 5 mutual defence pact.

NATO's Baltic members -- Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia -- say they come under near-daily cyber assault, with government departments, banking systems and the power grid coming in for attack, and point the finger at former Soviet ruler Russia.&nbsp;

The United States will make its cyber warfare capabilities available to NATO, Defence Secretary James Mattis said Thursday, as allies denounced an alleged Russian bid to hack the international chemical weapons watchdog.

The United States will make its cyber warfare capabilities available to NATO, Defence Secretary James Mattis said Thursday, as allies denounced an alleged Russian bid to hack the international chemical weapons watchdog. Mattis said the attempted attack on the Organisation for Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) showed how cyber attacks were becoming "more frequent, more complex and... More destructive". "This is why the United States, like the United Kingdom, Denmark, the Netherlands, Estonia will provide national cyber contributions to help NATO fight in this important domain," Mattis told reporters at a meeting of NATO defence ministers. The Netherlands revealed extraordinary details of the plot by Russia's GRU military intelligence agency against the OPCW in The Hague, including photos of the alleged agents and their equipment. Mattis refused to be drawn on what kind of response the OPCW plot should be met with, saying "tit for tat on cyber" was not necessarily appropriate, but he insisted the Kremlin must face consequences. "Basically the Russians got caught with their equipment, with their people who were doing it and they have got to pay the piper. They are going to have to be held to account," Mattis said. "We have a wide variety among our nations of responses available to us." At the time of the attack, the OPCW was investigating the nerve agent poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia in Salisbury, England. Dutch officials said it was not clear if the cyber operation was linked to that. Mattis said the US would offer cyber support to NATO allies immediately, but refused to go into detail about the kind of capabilities it would make available. NATO says its forces have successfully used offensive cyber techniques to disrupt Islamic State and Al-Qaeda operations in Iraq. The alliance has recognised cyber as a full conflict domain alongside air, land, sea and space and said that a cyber attack could trigger its Article 5 mutual defence pact. NATO's Baltic members -- Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia -- say they come under near-daily cyber assault, with government departments, banking systems and the power grid coming in for attack, and point the finger at former Soviet ruler Russia.

US to make cyber capabilities available to NATO: Defence Secretary Mattis

US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis on Tuesday sought to reassure European allies rattled by President Donald Trump's rhetoric, insisting that America's commitment to NATO is "iron-clad".

At a press conference in Paris, Mattis said "actions speak loudest", adding: "The US has acted, showing that our commitment to the transatlantic alliance remains iron-clad."

He stressed that US lawmakers have not cut military spending in Europe "by a single cent, instead maintaining once again the highest levels of commitment since the 1989 fall of the Berlin Wall".

Some NATO members are concerned about Trump's commitment to the alliance and have bristled at his repeated criticism of European allies for not spending enough on their militaries, particularly Germany.

Parly, speaking alongside Mattis at the French defence ministry, told reporters that "Europe is not part of the problem, Europe is part of the solution".

"The United States is making sharing the burden a priority. It is also a French priority," she said.&nbsp;

"It's a question of making the whole Atlantic alliance function better." &nbsp;

Mattis' words of reassurance come a day ahead of a gathering of NATO defence ministers in Brussels.

US officials have stressed that Washington is fully committed to NATO and mutual defence, despite comments from Trump that have worried some of its members.

Before taking office he called NATO "obsolete" and soon after a tumultuous summit last July he questioned whether the US would honour the alliance's founding principle of mutual defence for newest member Montenegro.

US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis on Tuesday sought to reassure European allies rattled by President Donald Trump's rhetoric, insisting that America's commitment to NATO is "iron-clad".

US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis on Tuesday sought to reassure European allies rattled by President Donald Trump's rhetoric, insisting that America's commitment to NATO is "iron-clad". At a press conference in Paris, Mattis said "actions speak loudest", adding: "The US has acted, showing that our commitment to the transatlantic alliance remains iron-clad." He stressed that US lawmakers have not cut military spending in Europe "by a single cent, instead maintaining once again the highest levels of commitment since the 1989 fall of the Berlin Wall". Some NATO members are concerned about Trump's commitment to the alliance and have bristled at his repeated criticism of European allies for not spending enough on their militaries, particularly Germany. Parly, speaking alongside Mattis at the French defence ministry, told reporters that "Europe is not part of the problem, Europe is part of the solution". "The United States is making sharing the burden a priority. It is also a French priority," she said. "It's a question of making the whole Atlantic alliance function better." Mattis' words of reassurance come a day ahead of a gathering of NATO defence ministers in Brussels. US officials have stressed that Washington is fully committed to NATO and mutual defence, despite comments from Trump that have worried some of its members. Before taking office he called NATO "obsolete" and soon after a tumultuous summit last July he questioned whether the US would honour the alliance's founding principle of mutual defence for newest member Montenegro.

US commitment to NATO 'iron-clad': Jim Mattis

Macedonian voters on Sunday supported a plan to rename the country aimed at ending a decades-long spat with Greece and unlocking a path to NATO and EU membership, although the referendum was marred by low turnout.

With ballots from 93 per cent of polling stations counted, 91.3 per cent of votes favoured the name changing to North Macedonia, compared to 5.7 per cent opposed, according to the electoral commission's official count.

However, only a third of the 1.8 million-strong electorate voted.

Greece reacted to the result with the foreign ministry saying it "remains committed" to its June agreement with Skopje under which Athens would drop its objections to Macedonia joining the EU and NATO in return for a change of name.

Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras expressed his support for his Macedonian counterpart in a telephone call in which he hailed the "determination and courage" of Zoran Zaev to "complete the implementation of this agreement", a government source told AFP.

The non-binding referendum on renaming Macedonia needs to be ratified in parliament by a two-thirds majority and also given the stamp of approval by the Greek parliament.

Zaev and his coalition partners from the ethnic Albanian minority will need at least a dozen MPs from the opposition to back the move.

Lack of enthusiasm&nbsp;

"MPs now have an obligation to make Macedonia a better place for all of us," Zaev told reporters late on Sunday.

But the rightwing opposition VMRO-DPMNE party said the low turnout made the referendum "deeply unsuccessful" with party leader Hristijan Mickoski telling reporters the "government lost its legitimacy".

However, the party that ruled Macedonia for a decade until 2017 was split during the referendum campaign. Mickoski did not vote, but several MPs took part in the polls, including party's vice-president Mitko Janchev.

Parliamentary speaker Talat Xhaferi, an ethnic Albanian who supports the agreement, said he was unable to vote.

"I was not able to exercise my democratic right because my name was not on the electoral list, I hope it was an isolated case," Xhaferi said, according to Macedonian media reports.

The European Union urged all sides to respect the result of the referendum.

"I now expect all political leaders to respect this decision and take it forward with utmost responsibility and unity across party lines," EU enlargement commissioner Johannes Hahn said in a statement.

NATO head Jens Stoltenberg said on Twitter the result was a "historic opportunity", adding: "NATO's door is open."

Zaev said that if he failed to obtain the required majority in parliament to back the name deal, he would call early elections, two years after the last ones.

The vote is an emotional moment for a country that has struggled for recognition of its name since 1991, when the former Yugoslav republic declared independence.

At the time, Athens kicked up a major fuss, accusing Skopje of stealing the name of its own northern province, which is also called Macedonia.

The dispute dives deep into history with both countries vying to lay claim to Alexander the Great's ancient empire of Macedon, which spanned their territories.

Zaev had billed the referendum as a painful but "historic" opportunity to break a 27-year-old stalemate.

The June deal, however, was openly opposed by Macedonia's President Gjorge Ivanov, who is allied with the nationalist opposition and had supported calls for a boycott of the referendum.&nbsp;

Few Macedonians are enthused about the new name, saying they have been unfairly bullied by Greece.

"I am not happy and I do not know anyone who likes this deal," said 55-year old Danica Taneska, who voted "no".

But a desire to anchor their future to the West -- and the economic prosperity that it could bring -- has been a driving force behind the "yes" vote in one of Europe's poorest nations.

Greece watching closely

The referendum is not binding, but a "yes" majority gives parliament a political mandate to change the constitution.

Europe and the US have campaigned hard for the deal, with many leaders passing through Skopje this month to urge Macedonians to seize the "historic" opportunity.

NATO has already issued an invite -- on hold until the deal passes -- while EU accession talks are scheduled to begin next year.

The West is keen to have another foothold in the Western Balkans, a region where Russia, which is opposed to NATO expansion, has historically had influence.

At home, those in favour of the deal say a desire for an EU future is helping bind ethnic Macedonians with the Albanian minority, who are broadly pro-West.

While Macedonia avoided the full-scale inter-ethnic wars that rippled across the region during the collapse of Yugoslavia, it was roiled by an Albanian insurgency in 2001 that left more than 100 dead.

A peace deal was reached later that year granting Albanians more political rights, but tensions have remained.

Macedonian voters on Sunday supported a plan to rename the country aimed at ending a decades-long spat with Greece and unlocking a path to NATO and EU membership, although the referendum was marred by low turnout.

Macedonian voters on Sunday supported a plan to rename the country aimed at ending a decades-long spat with Greece and unlocking a path to NATO and EU membership, although the referendum was marred by low turnout. With ballots from 93 per cent of polling stations counted, 91.3 per cent of votes favoured the name changing to North Macedonia, compared to 5.7 per cent opposed, according to the electoral commission's official count. However, only a third of the 1.8 million-strong electorate voted. Greece reacted to the result with the foreign ministry saying it "remains committed" to its June agreement with Skopje under which Athens would drop its objections to Macedonia joining the EU and NATO in return for a change of name. Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras expressed his support for his Macedonian counterpart in a telephone call in which he hailed the "determination and courage" of Zoran Zaev to "complete the implementation of this agreement", a government source told AFP. The non-binding referendum on renaming Macedonia needs to be ratified in parliament by a two-thirds majority and also given the stamp of approval by the Greek parliament. Zaev and his coalition partners from the ethnic Albanian minority will need at least a dozen MPs from the opposition to back the move. Lack of enthusiasm "MPs now have an obligation to make Macedonia a better place for all of us," Zaev told reporters late on Sunday. But the rightwing opposition VMRO-DPMNE party said the low turnout made the referendum "deeply unsuccessful" with party leader Hristijan Mickoski telling reporters the "government lost its legitimacy". However, the party that ruled Macedonia for a decade until 2017 was split during the referendum campaign. Mickoski did not vote, but several MPs took part in the polls, including party's vice-president Mitko Janchev. Parliamentary speaker Talat Xhaferi, an ethnic Albanian who supports the agreement, said he was unable to vote. "I was not able to exercise my democratic right because my name was not on the electoral list, I hope it was an isolated case," Xhaferi said, according to Macedonian media reports. The European Union urged all sides to respect the result of the referendum. "I now expect all political leaders to respect this decision and take it forward with utmost responsibility and unity across party lines," EU enlargement commissioner Johannes Hahn said in a statement. NATO head Jens Stoltenberg said on Twitter the result was a "historic opportunity", adding: "NATO's door is open." Zaev said that if he failed to obtain the required majority in parliament to back the name deal, he would call early elections, two years after the last ones. The vote is an emotional moment for a country that has struggled for recognition of its name since 1991, when the former Yugoslav republic declared independence. At the time, Athens kicked up a major fuss, accusing Skopje of stealing the name of its own northern province, which is also called Macedonia. The dispute dives deep into history with both countries vying to lay claim to Alexander the Great's ancient empire of Macedon, which spanned their territories. Zaev had billed the referendum as a painful but "historic" opportunity to break a 27-year-old stalemate. The June deal, however, was openly opposed by Macedonia's President Gjorge Ivanov, who is allied with the nationalist opposition and had supported calls for a boycott of the referendum. Few Macedonians are enthused about the new name, saying they have been unfairly bullied by Greece. "I am not happy and I do not know anyone who likes this deal," said 55-year old Danica Taneska, who voted "no". But a desire to anchor their future to the West -- and the economic prosperity that it could bring -- has been a driving force behind the "yes" vote in one of Europe's poorest nations. Greece watching closely The referendum is not binding, but a "yes" majority gives parliament a political mandate to change the constitution. Europe and the US have campaigned hard for the deal, with many leaders passing through Skopje this month to urge Macedonians to seize the "historic" opportunity. NATO has already issued an invite -- on hold until the deal passes -- while EU accession talks are scheduled to begin next year. The West is keen to have another foothold in the Western Balkans, a region where Russia, which is opposed to NATO expansion, has historically had influence. At home, those in favour of the deal say a desire for an EU future is helping bind ethnic Macedonians with the Albanian minority, who are broadly pro-West. While Macedonia avoided the full-scale inter-ethnic wars that rippled across the region during the collapse of Yugoslavia, it was roiled by an Albanian insurgency in 2001 that left more than 100 dead. A peace deal was reached later that year granting Albanians more political rights, but tensions have remained.

Macedonian referendum backs new name to end Greek row

Voters across the Balkan state of Macedonia will decide Sunday whether to re-name their country North Macedonia, an emotional vote that could end a bitter row with Greece and unlock a path to NATO and the EU.

It is a loaded question for many in the nation of around 2.1 million, which has tussled with Greece for 27 years over its name and history.

Athens objects to its northern neighbour's name because it has its own province called Macedonia.

It accuses Skopje of encroaching on its territory and cultural heritage.

In protest Greece has used its veto to thwart Macedonia's progress in NATO and EU accession talks.

But in June the two neighbours reached a compromise: the Republic of North Macedonia.

Now Macedonians are being called on to approve the name, despite a widespread feeling that they have been pushed around by Greece.

'Only chance'

Prime Minister Zoran Zaev is selling the name-change as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the poor country to move past the row and integrate with the West.

He has the backing of a host of European and US leaders who have trotted through Skopje this month to shore up support.

"You know well that a better deal cannot be made," Zaev told a crowd this week in one of his final campaign events.

Some Macedonians say they are willing to vote "yes" in the hope that NATO and EU membership will inject life into a flat economy ravaged by emigration.

"We won't ever have a chance for a better future for Macedonia," said Bogdana Zabrcanec, a resident of the central city of Prilep who came to listen to Zaev speak this week.

But even if voters approve the name change, the deal will still need to be ratified in parliament, where a right-wing opposition threatens to block it.

Zaev is hoping a strong majority for "yes" will make it difficult for the nationalist VMRO-DPMNE party to resist the public's will.

But turnout figures could prove contentious.&nbsp;

If less than half of the 1.8 million registered voters cast ballots, detractors may attack the referendum's credibility.

That turnout figure could be hard to reach in a country where a quarter of the population is estimated to have emigrated abroad.

So far, the boycott movement has been mostly limited to online activities. A planned rally on Thursday night was cancelled, with only several dozen people showing up.

The opposition's leader, Hristijan Mickoski, said this week that Macedonians should "listen to their heart" when they wake up on Sunday morning.

Meanwhile, president Gjorge Ivanov, who is allied with the nationalist opposition, told the UN assembly this week that he personally would not vote, describing the deal as "historical suicide".

'Long process'

A failure to pass the referendum could crush a rare diplomatic breakthrough in the Western Balkans, a region riven by complex disagreements between neighbours.

The name deal "was a really positive story... It's been held as a sign that look, longstanding disputes can be solved," James Ker-Lindsay, a Balkans specialist at the London School of Economics.

But "this is just the next phase in what is proving to be quite a long protracted process," he added, explaining that the parliament vote will be the next hurdle.

While NATO's invite is waiting on the table, the road to EU membership is less sure.

By EU standards, Macedonia still has a lot of work to do to tackle graft and the rule of law.

And the appetite for EU enlargement is shrinking among some members of the bloc, who voted to postpone Macedonia's accession talks to next year despite the deal.

Polling stations will be open from 0500 to 1700 GMT with 500 foreign observers monitoring, according to Telma TV channel.

Voters across the Balkan state of Macedonia will decide Sunday whether to re-name their country North Macedonia, an emotional vote that could end a bitter row with Greece and unlock a path to NATO and the EU.

Voters across the Balkan state of Macedonia will decide Sunday whether to re-name their country North Macedonia, an emotional vote that could end a bitter row with Greece and unlock a path to NATO and the EU. It is a loaded question for many in the nation of around 2.1 million, which has tussled with Greece for 27 years over its name and history. Athens objects to its northern neighbour's name because it has its own province called Macedonia. It accuses Skopje of encroaching on its territory and cultural heritage. In protest Greece has used its veto to thwart Macedonia's progress in NATO and EU accession talks. But in June the two neighbours reached a compromise: the Republic of North Macedonia. Now Macedonians are being called on to approve the name, despite a widespread feeling that they have been pushed around by Greece. 'Only chance' Prime Minister Zoran Zaev is selling the name-change as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the poor country to move past the row and integrate with the West. He has the backing of a host of European and US leaders who have trotted through Skopje this month to shore up support. "You know well that a better deal cannot be made," Zaev told a crowd this week in one of his final campaign events. Some Macedonians say they are willing to vote "yes" in the hope that NATO and EU membership will inject life into a flat economy ravaged by emigration. "We won't ever have a chance for a better future for Macedonia," said Bogdana Zabrcanec, a resident of the central city of Prilep who came to listen to Zaev speak this week. But even if voters approve the name change, the deal will still need to be ratified in parliament, where a right-wing opposition threatens to block it. Zaev is hoping a strong majority for "yes" will make it difficult for the nationalist VMRO-DPMNE party to resist the public's will. But turnout figures could prove contentious. If less than half of the 1.8 million registered voters cast ballots, detractors may attack the referendum's credibility. That turnout figure could be hard to reach in a country where a quarter of the population is estimated to have emigrated abroad. So far, the boycott movement has been mostly limited to online activities. A planned rally on Thursday night was cancelled, with only several dozen people showing up. The opposition's leader, Hristijan Mickoski, said this week that Macedonians should "listen to their heart" when they wake up on Sunday morning. Meanwhile, president Gjorge Ivanov, who is allied with the nationalist opposition, told the UN assembly this week that he personally would not vote, describing the deal as "historical suicide". 'Long process' A failure to pass the referendum could crush a rare diplomatic breakthrough in the Western Balkans, a region riven by complex disagreements between neighbours. The name deal "was a really positive story... It's been held as a sign that look, longstanding disputes can be solved," James Ker-Lindsay, a Balkans specialist at the London School of Economics. But "this is just the next phase in what is proving to be quite a long protracted process," he added, explaining that the parliament vote will be the next hurdle. While NATO's invite is waiting on the table, the road to EU membership is less sure. By EU standards, Macedonia still has a lot of work to do to tackle graft and the rule of law. And the appetite for EU enlargement is shrinking among some members of the bloc, who voted to postpone Macedonia's accession talks to next year despite the deal. Polling stations will be open from 0500 to 1700 GMT with 500 foreign observers monitoring, according to Telma TV channel.

Macedonia to vote on new name to end Greek row

The Afghan Taliban denounced "American occupying forces" for attacking their Voice of Shariah radio station in the central province of Ghazni, but the United States denied the charge and said Afghan air force planes had targeted a broadcasting tower.

The "Mujahideen of Islamic Emirate" will "not show restraint regarding such evil enemy actions any more", the Taliban said of Sunday's attack which they said involved five US aircraft.

"The claimants of democracy and freedom of speech exposed their true nature and showed that they have absolutely no respect for the views, voice and media of their opposition," the Taliban, who have hit media targets themselves in the past, said in a statement.

"They only use the slogans of 'freedom of speech' to force their own views, culture and colonial agendas on foreign nations."

In 2016, seven Tolo TV employees were killed by a Taliban suicide attacker who rammed a car bomb into a bus driving them home from the station. The Taliban had warned earlier that they considered journalists legitimate targets.

A spokesman for the NATO-led Resolute Support mission said the Taliban statement "speaks volumes with regards to the capabilities" of the Afghan air force.

"It was two Afghan Air Force A-29s (not five US aircraft) that conducted the strike on a Taliban radio broadcasting tower (not radio station) on June 10," Lieutenant-Colonel Martin O'Donnell said.

The Taliban, seeking to reimpose strict Islamic law after their 2001 ouster at the hands of US-led troops, announced a surprise ceasefire over the Eid al-Fitr holiday beginning at the end of this week, but said attacks against foreign forces would continue.

Earlier, the government announced a truce for the end-of-Ramadan holiday.

US President Donald Trump in August unveiled a more hawkish military approach to Afghanistan under the Resolute Support mission, including a surge in air strikes, aimed at forcing the Taliban to the negotiating table.

The Taliban, seeking to reimpose strict Islamic law after their 2001 ouster at the hands of US-led troops, announced a surprise ceasefire over the Eid al-Fitr holiday beginning at the end of this week.

The Afghan Taliban denounced "American occupying forces" for attacking their Voice of Shariah radio station in the central province of Ghazni, but the United States denied the charge and said Afghan air force planes had targeted a broadcasting tower. The "Mujahideen of Islamic Emirate" will "not show restraint regarding such evil enemy actions any more", the Taliban said of Sunday's attack which they said involved five US aircraft. "The claimants of democracy and freedom of speech exposed their true nature and showed that they have absolutely no respect for the views, voice and media of their opposition," the Taliban, who have hit media targets themselves in the past, said in a statement. "They only use the slogans of 'freedom of speech' to force their own views, culture and colonial agendas on foreign nations." In 2016, seven Tolo TV employees were killed by a Taliban suicide attacker who rammed a car bomb into a bus driving them home from the station. The Taliban had warned earlier that they considered journalists legitimate targets. A spokesman for the NATO-led Resolute Support mission said the Taliban statement "speaks volumes with regards to the capabilities" of the Afghan air force. "It was two Afghan Air Force A-29s (not five US aircraft) that conducted the strike on a Taliban radio broadcasting tower (not radio station) on June 10," Lieutenant-Colonel Martin O'Donnell said. The Taliban, seeking to reimpose strict Islamic law after their 2001 ouster at the hands of US-led troops, announced a surprise ceasefire over the Eid al-Fitr holiday beginning at the end of this week, but said attacks against foreign forces would continue. Earlier, the government announced a truce for the end-of-Ramadan holiday. US President Donald Trump in August unveiled a more hawkish military approach to Afghanistan under the Resolute Support mission, including a surge in air strikes, aimed at forcing the Taliban to the negotiating table.

'American occupying forces' attacked Voice of Shariah radio station: Taliban

Pakistan Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General&nbsp;Qamar Javed Bajwa&nbsp;left for Kabul to meet President&nbsp;Ashraf Ghani, on Tuesday.

As per Geo News, the invitation to Bajwa was extended by the Afghan president, DG ISPR Major General Asif Ghafoor tweeted.

"Pakistan wishes to see the National Unity Government and US/&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;succeeding to bring peace in Afghanistan," Pak military spokesperson wrote on twitter.

Pakistan's President&nbsp;Mamnoon Hussain&nbsp;on Sunday said that Pakistan and Afghanistan will work together to draft a detailed strategy for establishing peace in Afghanistan.

Hussain said this at a session of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Qingdao.

"Pakistan and Afghanistan are working on a comprehensive strategy on a bilateral basis to establish peace in Afghanistan," Hussain said.

Pakistan's president appreciated Afghanistan for announcing a ceasefire with the&nbsp;Taliban, calling it a positive move.

Afghanistan President&nbsp;Ashraf Ghani&nbsp;had earlier announced a ceasefire with the&nbsp;Taliban starting from the 27th of Ramzan (June 12) to the fifth day of&nbsp;Eid-ul-Fitr (June 19).

In response to Ghani's announcement, the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;on Saturday declared a three-day ceasefire over the&nbsp;Eid&nbsp;holiday, two days after the Afghan government announced the ceasefire.

This is the first time the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;has agreed to a ceasefire since the US invasion in 2001.

Hussain concluded his speech by urging the leaders to take measures for capacity building and skill development of the youth in member states.

 
&nbsp;

Pakistan wishes to see the National Unity Government and US/ NATO succeeding to bring peace in Afghanistan

Pakistan Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa left for Kabul to meet President Ashraf Ghani, on Tuesday. As per Geo News, the invitation to Bajwa was extended by the Afghan president, DG ISPR Major General Asif Ghafoor tweeted. "Pakistan wishes to see the National Unity Government and US/ NATO succeeding to bring peace in Afghanistan," Pak military spokesperson wrote on twitter. Pakistan's President Mamnoon Hussain on Sunday said that Pakistan and Afghanistan will work together to draft a detailed strategy for establishing peace in Afghanistan. Hussain said this at a session of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Qingdao. "Pakistan and Afghanistan are working on a comprehensive strategy on a bilateral basis to establish peace in Afghanistan," Hussain said. Pakistan's president appreciated Afghanistan for announcing a ceasefire with the Taliban, calling it a positive move. Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani had earlier announced a ceasefire with the Taliban starting from the 27th of Ramzan (June 12) to the fifth day of Eid-ul-Fitr (June 19). In response to Ghani's announcement, the Taliban on Saturday declared a three-day ceasefire over the Eid holiday, two days after the Afghan government announced the ceasefire. This is the first time the Taliban has agreed to a ceasefire since the US invasion in 2001. Hussain concluded his speech by urging the leaders to take measures for capacity building and skill development of the youth in member states.

Pak Chief of Army Staff  leaves for Kabul to meet Ghani

Italy has appealed to NATO for greater help in tackling illegal immigration from North Africa, especially Libya, with its new government saying the country was "under attack" from the south.

EU rules mean migrants must apply for asylum in the European country where they first arrive, putting pressure on Italy and Greece, the entry points for hundreds of thousands of people fleeing war and poverty in the Middle East, Africa and Asia since 2015.

"We cannot have closer cooperation between NATO and the European Union in the Mediterranean and elsewhere," Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said after meeting NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg.

Italy's new government formed by the anti-establishment M5S and anti-immigration League parties considers the Mediterranean the EU's "southern flank" and has sounded the alarm on immigration saying terrorists could sneak into Europe and wreak havoc.

On Sunday, Italian Foreign Minister Enzo Moavero Milanesi had underscored "the importance for Italy for the NATO Brussels summit to reaffirm the approach of a 360-degree security policy without neglecting the southern flank from where serious challenges emerge for the alliance, starting with terrorism."

"NATO's engagement in the south constitutes an important component of its strategy shift," he said, after meeting with Stoltenberg.

The first to lead the charge was Interior Minister and League chief Matteo Salvini who has continued with his anti-migrant rhetoric since taking charge.

"We are under attack and we are asking NATO for a defensive alliance to protect us," he had said. "Italy is under attack from the south and not from the east."

The summer of 2016 saw a surge in mass drownings in the Mediterranean as Europe's worst migration crisis since World War II peaked with hundreds of thousands of people fleeing war and poverty in the Middle East and elsewhere.

The first to lead the charge was Interior Minister and League chief Matteo Salvini who has continued with his anti-migrant rhetoric since taking charge

Italy has appealed to NATO for greater help in tackling illegal immigration from North Africa, especially Libya, with its new government saying the country was "under attack" from the south. EU rules mean migrants must apply for asylum in the European country where they first arrive, putting pressure on Italy and Greece, the entry points for hundreds of thousands of people fleeing war and poverty in the Middle East, Africa and Asia since 2015. "We cannot have closer cooperation between NATO and the European Union in the Mediterranean and elsewhere," Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said after meeting NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg. Italy's new government formed by the anti-establishment M5S and anti-immigration League parties considers the Mediterranean the EU's "southern flank" and has sounded the alarm on immigration saying terrorists could sneak into Europe and wreak havoc. On Sunday, Italian Foreign Minister Enzo Moavero Milanesi had underscored "the importance for Italy for the NATO Brussels summit to reaffirm the approach of a 360-degree security policy without neglecting the southern flank from where serious challenges emerge for the alliance, starting with terrorism." "NATO's engagement in the south constitutes an important component of its strategy shift," he said, after meeting with Stoltenberg. The first to lead the charge was Interior Minister and League chief Matteo Salvini who has continued with his anti-migrant rhetoric since taking charge. "We are under attack and we are asking NATO for a defensive alliance to protect us," he had said. "Italy is under attack from the south and not from the east." The summer of 2016 saw a surge in mass drownings in the Mediterranean as Europe's worst migration crisis since World War II peaked with hundreds of thousands of people fleeing war and poverty in the Middle East and elsewhere.

Italy seeks NATO help in tackling migrant crisis

An unprecedented ceasefire between the Afghan government and the Taliban has sparked hopes the move may open the door for a new push for peace talks in the bloody, nearly 17-year conflict.

The Taliban have long insisted on the complete withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan as a precondition for peace talks -- a major sticking point to kick-starting any potential negotiations. &nbsp

Here's a rundown of the fits and starts with past peace initiatives during the country's long insurgency:

The fall&nbsp

The US military invade Afghanistan on October 7, 2001, in the wake of the September 11 attacks by Al-Qaeda, and force the Taliban from power within weeks. But by 2003 US attention is diverted to Iraq. &nbsp

The Taliban and other Islamist groups retreat to their strongholds in the south and east of Afghanistan, from where they can easily travel to and from Pakistan's semi-autonomous tribal belt. Slowly they begin to regroup.

The resurgence 

In February 2007 the Taliban's growing reach is brought home when insurgents attack a US base in Afghanistan as vice president Dick Cheney visits, killing 24 people.

US President Barack Obama orders a "surge" of 30,000 troops into Afghanistan in December 2009, but says withdrawals will begin in July 2011. The number of NATO-led forces rises to a peak of 150,000 in the summer of 2010.

In May of 2011 Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden is finally killed by US special forces in Pakistan. The killing prompts calls for the war to end. Shortly after, Obama announces that 33,000 US troops will be withdrawn by the middle of 2012.&nbsp

But hopes for talks are dampened when Burhanuddin Rabbani -- a former president and then-president Hamid Karzai's peace envoy -- becomes the most senior politician to be killed in the conflict, in a September 2011 assassination blamed by Afghan officials on the Taliban.

The talks

The Taliban open an office in Qatar in June 2013 following secret back-channel negotiations with US officials in a first move towards a possible peace deal.&nbsp

However, the initiative collapses a month later after they enrage Karzai by styling themselves as the unofficial embassy for a government-in-exile.

In December 2014, NATO formally ends its combat mission in Afghanistan, handing over security to beleaguered Afghan forces struggling with soaring casualties and desertion.

But hopes are raised when direct peace talks between Kabul and the Afghan Taliban -- the first of the conflict -- begin in Pakistan in July 2015.

The shock revelation that Mullah Omar, the Taliban's founder, had died two years earlier, with the group covering up his death, quickly derails the talks.

The ceasefire

In the following years security deteriorates in Afghanistan, particularly Kabul, with the nascent Islamic State group adding to the challenges faced by struggling security forces.&nbsp

The capital becomes the deadliest place in the country for civilians as casualties surge.

In February this year Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani unveils a plan to open peace talks with the Taliban, including eventually recognising them as a political party. He floats a ceasefire as part of the plan.&nbsp

It is the most comprehensive offer by Kabul, but it is snubbed by the Taliban, who view Ghani's government as illegitimate, and instead step up attacks.

On May 31 the Pentagon says that senior Afghan officials are negotiating with the Taliban over a ceasefire.&nbsp

Days later, on June 7, Ghani announces what appears to be a unilateral ceasefire with the Taliban for Eid, the holiday that caps off Ramadan, though he says operations against other groups including IS will continue.&nbsp

The Taliban do not immediately respond, and analysts are sceptical, as social media is flooded with Afghans calling on the insurgents to agree. NATO and US officials say they hope the move can lead to a breakthrough.

By Saturday the Taliban announce their own unprecedented ceasefire for the first three days of Eid. The statement does not respond directly to Ghani, but the dates overlap.

The moves are greeted with caution by many, but also relief by war-weary civilians and Afghan officials. A Western analyst in Kabul tells AFP they are a "confidence-building measure".

Whether they lead to something bigger remains to be seen.

An unprecedented ceasefire between the Afghan government and the Taliban has sparked hopes the move may open the door for a new push for peace talks in the bloody, nearly 17-year conflict

An unprecedented ceasefire between the Afghan government and the Taliban has sparked hopes the move may open the door for a new push for peace talks in the bloody, nearly 17-year conflict. The Taliban have long insisted on the complete withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan as a precondition for peace talks -- a major sticking point to kick-starting any potential negotiations. Here's a rundown of the fits and starts with past peace initiatives during the country's long insurgency: The fall The US military invade Afghanistan on October 7, 2001, in the wake of the September 11 attacks by Al-Qaeda, and force the Taliban from power within weeks. But by 2003 US attention is diverted to Iraq. The Taliban and other Islamist groups retreat to their strongholds in the south and east of Afghanistan, from where they can easily travel to and from Pakistan's semi-autonomous tribal belt. Slowly they begin to regroup. The resurgence In February 2007 the Taliban's growing reach is brought home when insurgents attack a US base in Afghanistan as vice president Dick Cheney visits, killing 24 people. US President Barack Obama orders a "surge" of 30,000 troops into Afghanistan in December 2009, but says withdrawals will begin in July 2011. The number of NATO-led forces rises to a peak of 150,000 in the summer of 2010. In May of 2011 Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden is finally killed by US special forces in Pakistan. The killing prompts calls for the war to end. Shortly after, Obama announces that 33,000 US troops will be withdrawn by the middle of 2012. But hopes for talks are dampened when Burhanuddin Rabbani -- a former president and then-president Hamid Karzai's peace envoy -- becomes the most senior politician to be killed in the conflict, in a September 2011 assassination blamed by Afghan officials on the Taliban. The talks The Taliban open an office in Qatar in June 2013 following secret back-channel negotiations with US officials in a first move towards a possible peace deal. However, the initiative collapses a month later after they enrage Karzai by styling themselves as the unofficial embassy for a government-in-exile. In December 2014, NATO formally ends its combat mission in Afghanistan, handing over security to beleaguered Afghan forces struggling with soaring casualties and desertion. But hopes are raised when direct peace talks between Kabul and the Afghan Taliban -- the first of the conflict -- begin in Pakistan in July 2015. The shock revelation that Mullah Omar, the Taliban's founder, had died two years earlier, with the group covering up his death, quickly derails the talks. The ceasefire In the following years security deteriorates in Afghanistan, particularly Kabul, with the nascent Islamic State group adding to the challenges faced by struggling security forces. The capital becomes the deadliest place in the country for civilians as casualties surge. In February this year Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani unveils a plan to open peace talks with the Taliban, including eventually recognising them as a political party. He floats a ceasefire as part of the plan. It is the most comprehensive offer by Kabul, but it is snubbed by the Taliban, who view Ghani's government as illegitimate, and instead step up attacks. On May 31 the Pentagon says that senior Afghan officials are negotiating with the Taliban over a ceasefire. Days later, on June 7, Ghani announces what appears to be a unilateral ceasefire with the Taliban for Eid, the holiday that caps off Ramadan, though he says operations against other groups including IS will continue. The Taliban do not immediately respond, and analysts are sceptical, as social media is flooded with Afghans calling on the insurgents to agree. NATO and US officials say they hope the move can lead to a breakthrough. By Saturday the Taliban announce their own unprecedented ceasefire for the first three days of Eid. The statement does not respond directly to Ghani, but the dates overlap. The moves are greeted with caution by many, but also relief by war-weary civilians and Afghan officials. A Western analyst in Kabul tells AFP they are a "confidence-building measure". Whether they lead to something bigger remains to be seen.

Afghanistan's chequered history with Taliban peace talks

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