Patrick Shanahan arrived in Afghanistan on Monday on his first trip as acting US defence secretary and said it was important the Afghan government is involved in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-calls-recent-afghanistan-peace-talks-with-us-successful-report-195440">talks</a>, from which it has so far been sidelined, to end the 17-year-old war.

"It is important that the Afghan government is involved in discussions regarding Afghanistan," Shanahan told a small group of reporters travelling with him on the unannounced trip.

He said the United States has important security interests in the region and wanted to hear from commanders on the ground.

Shanahan replaced Jim Mattis, who quit in December over policy differences with US President Donald Trump. He will meet US military officials and the Afghan leadership, including President Ashraf Ghani.

Patrick Shanahan arrived in Afghanistan on Monday on his first trip as acting US defence secretary and said it was important the Afghan government is involved in talks, from which it has so far been sidelined, to end the 17-year-old war.

Patrick Shanahan arrived in Afghanistan on Monday on his first trip as acting US defence secretary and said it was important the Afghan government is involved in talks, from which it has so far been sidelined, to end the 17-year-old war. "It is important that the Afghan government is involved in discussions regarding Afghanistan," Shanahan told a small group of reporters travelling with him on the unannounced trip. He said the United States has important security interests in the region and wanted to hear from commanders on the ground. Shanahan replaced Jim Mattis, who quit in December over policy differences with US President Donald Trump. He will meet US military officials and the Afghan leadership, including President Ashraf Ghani.

Acting Pentagon chief makes first Afghanistan trip as US seeks peace deal

The US has discussed a potential missile defence collaboration with India, a top Pentagon official has said, underlining that America wants to build a “much deeper and broader relationship” with the country.

Under secretary of defence for policy John Rood, however, said that it is early to determine how far India, which already has substantial domestic missile defence capabilities, will go regarding the defence collaboration.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-approves-sale-of-two-missile-defence-systems-for-air-india-one-195813">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-approves-sale-of-two-missile-defence-systems-for-air-india-one-195813"> approves </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-approves-sale-of-two-missile-defence-systems-for-air-india-one-195813">sale</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-approves-sale-of-two-missile-defence-systems-for-air-india-one-195813"> of two missile defence systems for Air India One</a>

“We have talked to the Indians about missile defence as potentially an area as well to collaborate on. It’s early days to determine how far that will go,” Rood said speaking at a think-tank here on Thursday.

“The Indians have substantial capabilities domestically of their own and they’ve done some development of missile defences. So the degree to which they’re interested in acquiring or working collaboratively with us in the US remains to be seen,” Rood said when asked about reports that India is interested in purchasing the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense system popular as THAAD from the US.

The previous Obama administration was not very forthcoming in sharing its advance missile defense system with India, following which New Delhi went ahead to procure it from Russia.

As part of its Indo-Pacific strategy, the Trump administration now seems to be more than inclined to let India procure its missile defense system with talks between the two countries having already started making an appearance before the prestigious Hudson Institute think-tank, Rood said the US is certainly open to this kind of collaboration with India.

“And if that isn’t one of the areas they choose to go in, there’s quite a bit of other meaty areas that we can pursue. Maybe I should have chosen a term rather than meaty, quite a few Indians are vegetarian as you know,” Rood said jokingly.

The US has had a very positive relationship with the Indian government, he said. “And we’re building a, what we hope is a much deeper and broader relationship with them, all the way from the presidential level with Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi on down,” he said.

“We have had excellent meetings and we’re expanding our agenda. There’s more meat to it, if you will. So I’m really feeling very good about the overall trajectory of that relationship,” said Rood who has been personally involved through successive administrations in building India-US relationship - in both the Bush administration, the Obama administration, and now in the present Trump administration.

The US has also agreed to sell two advanced missile defence systems to India for two Boeing-777 Head-of-State aircraft for an estimated cost of $190 million, a decision that will enhance the security of the planes flying the president and the prime minister.

The Pentagon on Wednesday said the sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the US by helping to strengthen the US-Indian strategic relationship.

The US is the second-largest arms supplier to India. It has already recognised India as a “major defence partner”, a status which commits the US to facilitate technology sharing with India.

In 2018, the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-inclusion-in-sta-1-category-by-us-sends-strong-political-message-to-china--156932">US granted India Strategic Trade Authorisation-1 (STA-1) status</a>. India is the only South Asian country to get STA1 status and third Asian country after Japan and South Korea. The status eases India’s defence procurement from the US.

Last year, India and the US signed the COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement) to facilitate interoperability between the two militaries and sale of high end technology.

The US has discussed a potential missile defence collaboration with India, a top Pentagon official has said, underlining that America wants to build a “much deeper and broader relationship” with the country.

The US has discussed a potential missile defence collaboration with India, a top Pentagon official has said, underlining that America wants to build a “much deeper and broader relationship” with the country. Under secretary of defence for policy John Rood, however, said that it is early to determine how far India, which already has substantial domestic missile defence capabilities, will go regarding the defence collaboration. Also read: US approves sale of two missile defence systems for Air India One “We have talked to the Indians about missile defence as potentially an area as well to collaborate on. It’s early days to determine how far that will go,” Rood said speaking at a think-tank here on Thursday. “The Indians have substantial capabilities domestically of their own and they’ve done some development of missile defences. So the degree to which they’re interested in acquiring or working collaboratively with us in the US remains to be seen,” Rood said when asked about reports that India is interested in purchasing the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense system popular as THAAD from the US. The previous Obama administration was not very forthcoming in sharing its advance missile defense system with India, following which New Delhi went ahead to procure it from Russia. As part of its Indo-Pacific strategy, the Trump administration now seems to be more than inclined to let India procure its missile defense system with talks between the two countries having already started making an appearance before the prestigious Hudson Institute think-tank, Rood said the US is certainly open to this kind of collaboration with India. “And if that isn’t one of the areas they choose to go in, there’s quite a bit of other meaty areas that we can pursue. Maybe I should have chosen a term rather than meaty, quite a few Indians are vegetarian as you know,” Rood said jokingly. The US has had a very positive relationship with the Indian government, he said. “And we’re building a, what we hope is a much deeper and broader relationship with them, all the way from the presidential level with Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi on down,” he said. “We have had excellent meetings and we’re expanding our agenda. There’s more meat to it, if you will. So I’m really feeling very good about the overall trajectory of that relationship,” said Rood who has been personally involved through successive administrations in building India-US relationship - in both the Bush administration, the Obama administration, and now in the present Trump administration. The US has also agreed to sell two advanced missile defence systems to India for two Boeing-777 Head-of-State aircraft for an estimated cost of $190 million, a decision that will enhance the security of the planes flying the president and the prime minister. The Pentagon on Wednesday said the sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the US by helping to strengthen the US-Indian strategic relationship. The US is the second-largest arms supplier to India. It has already recognised India as a “major defence partner”, a status which commits the US to facilitate technology sharing with India. In 2018, the US granted India Strategic Trade Authorisation-1 (STA-1) status. India is the only South Asian country to get STA1 status and third Asian country after Japan and South Korea. The status eases India’s defence procurement from the US. Last year, India and the US signed the COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement) to facilitate interoperability between the two militaries and sale of high end technology.

In bid to build 'deeper relationship', US and India in talks over missile defence collaboration: Pentagon

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-sends-3750-more-troops-to-mexico-border-pentagon-194907">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-sends-3750-more-troops-to-mexico-border-pentagon-194907"> to send 3,750 more troops to Mexico border: Pentagon</a>

The United States will send an additional 3,750 troops to its frontier with Mexico, the Pentagon said on Sunday, as President Donald Trump doubled down on his call for a wall to boost border security.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/footballer-emiliano-salas-missing-plane-found-claim-investigators-194908">Footballer Emiliano Sala's missing plane found, claim investigators</a>

The missing plane carrying Argentinian footballer Emiliano Sala and his pilot has been found, investigators told AFP on Sunday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/you-will-stain-the-presidency-with-blood-venezuelas-maduro-to-trump-194921">You will stain the presidency with blood: Venezuela's Maduro to Trump</a>

With hours to go until the deadline passes for Nicolas Maduro to call early elections in Venezuela, ousted President warned Donald Trump of a civil war if he continues to insist on overthrowing him.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-to-move-supreme-court-against-detention-of-agency-officials-by-mamata-government-194919">CBI to move Supreme Court against </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-to-move-supreme-court-against-detention-of-agency-officials-by-mamata-government-194919">detention</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-to-move-supreme-court-against-detention-of-agency-officials-by-mamata-government-194919"> of agency officials by Mamata government</a>

The CBI will approach the Supreme Court against the wrongful detention of their officers outside Kolkata Commissioner Rajeev Kumar's residence on Sunday, said the central agency interim chief M Nageswara Rao.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-return-padma-bhushan-if-government-doesnt-fulfil-promises-hazare-194913">Will return Padma Bhushan if </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-return-padma-bhushan-if-government-doesnt-fulfil-promises-hazare-194913">government</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-return-padma-bhushan-if-government-doesnt-fulfil-promises-hazare-194913"> doesn't fulfil promises: Hazare</a>

Social activist Anna Hazare, whose indefinite hunger strike entered the fifth day on Sunday, warned that if the Narendra Modi government did not fulfil its promises, he would return his Padma Bhushan.

 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

US to send 3,750 more troops to Mexico border: Pentagon The United States will send an additional 3,750 troops to its frontier with Mexico, the Pentagon said on Sunday, as President Donald Trump doubled down on his call for a wall to boost border security.

US to send 3,750 more troops to Mexico border: Pentagon The United States will send an additional 3,750 troops to its frontier with Mexico, the Pentagon said on Sunday, as President Donald Trump doubled down on his call for a wall to boost border security. Footballer Emiliano Sala's missing plane found, claim investigators The missing plane carrying Argentinian footballer Emiliano Sala and his pilot has been found, investigators told AFP on Sunday. You will stain the presidency with blood: Venezuela's Maduro to Trump With hours to go until the deadline passes for Nicolas Maduro to call early elections in Venezuela, ousted President warned Donald Trump of a civil war if he continues to insist on overthrowing him. CBI to move Supreme Court against detention of agency officials by Mamata government The CBI will approach the Supreme Court against the wrongful detention of their officers outside Kolkata Commissioner Rajeev Kumar's residence on Sunday, said the central agency interim chief M Nageswara Rao. Will return Padma Bhushan if government doesn't fulfil promises: Hazare Social activist Anna Hazare, whose indefinite hunger strike entered the fifth day on Sunday, warned that if the Narendra Modi government did not fulfil its promises, he would return his Padma Bhushan.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The United States will send an additional 3,750 troops to its frontier with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/mexico-is-bleeding-can-its-new-president-stop-the-violence-193818">Mexico</a>, the Pentagon said on Sunday, as President Donald Trump doubled down on his call for a wall to boost border security.

Soldiers were originally deployed to the border under an order President Donald Trump gave before midterm elections in November as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-delays-returning-asylum-seekers-to-mexico-192849">"caravans" of migrants </a>made their way to the border to seek asylum from violence and poverty in their own countries.

But the mission, under which troops assist civilian border patrol agents by providing logistical support and installing concertina-wire fencing, has been described by opponents as a political stunt designed to create the illusion of a crisis.&nbsp;

"The Department of Defense will deploy approximately 3,750 additional US forces to provide the additional support to CBP (Customs and Border Protection) at the southwest border that Acting Secretary of Defense (Pat) Shanahan approved Jan. 11," a statement said.

This additional deployment is for three months, the statement added and will bring to 4,350 the total number of troops at the border.

Their tasks will include "a mobile surveillance capability through the end of September 2019, as well as the emplacement of approximately 150 miles of concertina wire between ports of entry."

The news comes ahead of a February 15 deadline that President Donald Trump set for Congress to agree on funding for building a border wall which he made a key pledge in his election campaign.

The president says that existing sections of walls should be extended along the border to stop what he describes as an uncontrolled invasion of criminals.

Trump underscored these claims Sunday. "With Caravans marching through Mexico and toward our Country, Republicans must be prepared to do whatever is necessary for STRONG Border Security," he tweeted.&nbsp;

"Dems do nothing. If there is no Wall, there is no Security. Human Trafficking, Drugs and Criminals of all dimensions - KEEP OUT!"

Democrats, who control the lower house, have repeatedly rejected Trump's funding demands, saying that he has made the wall project a political crusade to demonize immigrants and to satisfy his base.

He previously tried to pressure Congress into backing his idea by refusing to sign off on budgets for swathes of the federal government, leading to a five-week shutdown of some 800,000 government jobs.

The border troop deployment was one of several issues on which Trump and former defence secretary Jim Mattis disagreed before he quit in December after Trump's shock decision to pull troops from Syria.

The United States will send an additional 3,750 troops to its frontier with Mexico, the Pentagon said on Sunday, as President Donald Trump doubled down on his call for a wall to boost border security.

The United States will send an additional 3,750 troops to its frontier with Mexico, the Pentagon said on Sunday, as President Donald Trump doubled down on his call for a wall to boost border security. Soldiers were originally deployed to the border under an order President Donald Trump gave before midterm elections in November as "caravans" of migrants made their way to the border to seek asylum from violence and poverty in their own countries. But the mission, under which troops assist civilian border patrol agents by providing logistical support and installing concertina-wire fencing, has been described by opponents as a political stunt designed to create the illusion of a crisis. "The Department of Defense will deploy approximately 3,750 additional US forces to provide the additional support to CBP (Customs and Border Protection) at the southwest border that Acting Secretary of Defense (Pat) Shanahan approved Jan. 11," a statement said. This additional deployment is for three months, the statement added and will bring to 4,350 the total number of troops at the border. Their tasks will include "a mobile surveillance capability through the end of September 2019, as well as the emplacement of approximately 150 miles of concertina wire between ports of entry." The news comes ahead of a February 15 deadline that President Donald Trump set for Congress to agree on funding for building a border wall which he made a key pledge in his election campaign. The president says that existing sections of walls should be extended along the border to stop what he describes as an uncontrolled invasion of criminals. Trump underscored these claims Sunday. "With Caravans marching through Mexico and toward our Country, Republicans must be prepared to do whatever is necessary for STRONG Border Security," he tweeted. "Dems do nothing. If there is no Wall, there is no Security. Human Trafficking, Drugs and Criminals of all dimensions - KEEP OUT!" Democrats, who control the lower house, have repeatedly rejected Trump's funding demands, saying that he has made the wall project a political crusade to demonize immigrants and to satisfy his base. He previously tried to pressure Congress into backing his idea by refusing to sign off on budgets for swathes of the federal government, leading to a five-week shutdown of some 800,000 government jobs. The border troop deployment was one of several issues on which Trump and former defence secretary Jim Mattis disagreed before he quit in December after Trump's shock decision to pull troops from Syria.

US to send 3,750 more troops to Mexico border: Pentagon

Pentagon sending 3,750 extra US forces to border with Mexico

Early implementation of a secure communication line between Minister of External Affairs (MEA), India and the US Secretary of State and Minister of Defence, India and Secretary of Defence was the main focus of recent phone conversation between the Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and acting United States Secretary of Defence Patrick M. Shanahan.

Speaking to WION exclusively, Pentagon Spokesman US Army Lt. Col. Dave Eastburn said, "Both sides are reviewing the technical specifications for establishing the two secure communication lines and look forward to early implementation."

"At the inaugural US-India Ministerial 2+2 in New Delhi on September 6, the two sides agreed to establish secure communication between the Minister of External Affairs of India and the US Secretary of State and Minister of Defence of India and the US Secretary of Defense," he added.

During the 2+2 dialogue, India and US signed the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) which will help New Delhi get access to advanced US defence systems and enable it to utilise its existing US-origin platforms. Last year, Washington also granted New Delhi Strategic Trade Authorisation-1 (STA-1) status which will give India access to high-end US technology for defence purposes. India is the third Asian country after Japan and South Korea to get the STA-1 Status.

During PM Modi's US visit in June of 2016, the US recognised India as a "major defence partner" which commits Washington to facilitate technology sharing with India. Under the Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI), both New Delhi and Washington are also exploring the possibilities of co-development and co-production.

In December of 2018, Nirmala Sitharaman was on a 5-day US visit during which she met with the then US Secretary of Defence James N Mattis and visited the headquarters of the INDO-US Pacific Command (INDO-PACOM) in Honolulu, Hawaii. She also visited Joint Base Pearl Harbour Hickam and boarded a US Guided Missile Destroyer.

US Pacific Command (PACOM), which is the largest US command, was renamed as INDO-PACOM as part of Indo Pacific concept which is being supported by both the countries.&nbsp;

Early implementation of a secure communication line between Minister of External Affairs (MEA), India and the US Secretary of State and Minister of Defence, India and Secretary of Defence was the main focus of recent phone conversation between the Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and acting United States Secretary of Defence Patrick M.

Early implementation of a secure communication line between Minister of External Affairs (MEA), India and the US Secretary of State and Minister of Defence, India and Secretary of Defence was the main focus of recent phone conversation between the Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and acting United States Secretary of Defence Patrick M. Shanahan. Speaking to WION exclusively, Pentagon Spokesman US Army Lt. Col. Dave Eastburn said, "Both sides are reviewing the technical specifications for establishing the two secure communication lines and look forward to early implementation." "At the inaugural US-India Ministerial 2+2 in New Delhi on September 6, the two sides agreed to establish secure communication between the Minister of External Affairs of India and the US Secretary of State and Minister of Defence of India and the US Secretary of Defense," he added. During the 2+2 dialogue, India and US signed the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) which will help New Delhi get access to advanced US defence systems and enable it to utilise its existing US-origin platforms. Last year, Washington also granted New Delhi Strategic Trade Authorisation-1 (STA-1) status which will give India access to high-end US technology for defence purposes. India is the third Asian country after Japan and South Korea to get the STA-1 Status. During PM Modi's US visit in June of 2016, the US recognised India as a "major defence partner" which commits Washington to facilitate technology sharing with India. Under the Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI), both New Delhi and Washington are also exploring the possibilities of co-development and co-production. In December of 2018, Nirmala Sitharaman was on a 5-day US visit during which she met with the then US Secretary of Defence James N Mattis and visited the headquarters of the INDO-US Pacific Command (INDO-PACOM) in Honolulu, Hawaii. She also visited Joint Base Pearl Harbour Hickam and boarded a US Guided Missile Destroyer. US Pacific Command (PACOM), which is the largest US command, was renamed as INDO-PACOM as part of Indo Pacific concept which is being supported by both the countries.

Looking forward to secure communication line: US on Sitharaman-Shanahan talks

Pentagon's missile defence review (MDR) 2019 has said the United States has discussed "potential missile defence cooperation" with India. The MDR 2019 said the discussion is part of "natural outgrowth" of India’s status as a major defence partner and "a key element of our Indo-Pacific Strategy." The talks between Washington and New Delhi happen even as "number of states in South Asia are developing an advanced and diverse range of ballistic and cruise missile capabilities," the review added.

MDR describes the policies, strategies, and capabilities that will guide the Pentagon's missile defence programs for the coming year.

The development comes months after India and Russia signed the S400 deal during President Putin's India visit last year.

The 108-page document talks about Washington's alliance in the Indo Pacific region adding that the cornerstone of "our security and diplomacy in Indo-Pacific region is our strong bilateral alliances with Japan, South Korea, and Australia, "and emerging security relationships with others such as India."

In 2018, US granted India Strategic Trade Authorisation-1 (STA-1). Both New Delhi and Washington signed the COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement).&nbsp;

India is the only South Asian country to get STA1 and third Asian country after Japan and South Korea. The status eases defence procurement from the US.

The COMCASA, is an India specific foundational legal arrangement which helps New Delhi get real-time classified information, especially on maritime development. It was signed in New Delhi during the maiden 2+2 dialogue between American and Indian Defence and foreign diplomats.

The review focused on China and Russia. On China, the review said Beijing "seeks to displace the United States in the Indo-Pacific region and reorder the region to its advantage."

"Offensive missiles play an increasingly prominent role in China’s military modernisation, its coercive threats, and efforts to counter US military capabilities in the Indo-Pacific." The review says China has "deployed 75-100 intercontinental ballistic missiles" and possesses 4 advanced JIN class ballistic missile submarines (SSBN).&nbsp;

On Russia, it said that the country is developing "S-500 as an even more modern and technologically advanced air and missile defence system," in addition to this, Moscow "has transferred missile defence technology to China and Iran" both of which are "expanding and modernizing mobile missile defence capabilities."

Russia and China are also developing Potential Adversary Missile Defense and Antisatellite (ASAT) capabilities that could "threaten US space-based assets."

Japan and South Korea are already working with the US to build missile defence systems that are interoperable with US defences. Australia participates in a trilateral discussion on missile defence with the United States and Japan. The United States and Australia meet annually to discuss bilateral missile defence cooperation.&nbsp;

Pentagon's missile defence review (MDR) 2019 has said the United States has discussed "potential missile defence cooperation" with India. The MDR 2019 said the discussion is part of "natural outgrowth" of India’s status as a major defence partner and "a key element of our Indo-Pacific Strategy.

Pentagon's missile defence review (MDR) 2019 has said the United States has discussed "potential missile defence cooperation" with India. The MDR 2019 said the discussion is part of "natural outgrowth" of India’s status as a major defence partner and "a key element of our Indo-Pacific Strategy." The talks between Washington and New Delhi happen even as "number of states in South Asia are developing an advanced and diverse range of ballistic and cruise missile capabilities," the review added. MDR describes the policies, strategies, and capabilities that will guide the Pentagon's missile defence programs for the coming year. The development comes months after India and Russia signed the S400 deal during President Putin's India visit last year. The 108-page document talks about Washington's alliance in the Indo Pacific region adding that the cornerstone of "our security and diplomacy in Indo-Pacific region is our strong bilateral alliances with Japan, South Korea, and Australia, "and emerging security relationships with others such as India." In 2018, US granted India Strategic Trade Authorisation-1 (STA-1). Both New Delhi and Washington signed the COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement). India is the only South Asian country to get STA1 and third Asian country after Japan and South Korea. The status eases defence procurement from the US. The COMCASA, is an India specific foundational legal arrangement which helps New Delhi get real-time classified information, especially on maritime development. It was signed in New Delhi during the maiden 2+2 dialogue between American and Indian Defence and foreign diplomats. The review focused on China and Russia. On China, the review said Beijing "seeks to displace the United States in the Indo-Pacific region and reorder the region to its advantage." "Offensive missiles play an increasingly prominent role in China’s military modernisation, its coercive threats, and efforts to counter US military capabilities in the Indo-Pacific." The review says China has "deployed 75-100 intercontinental ballistic missiles" and possesses 4 advanced JIN class ballistic missile submarines (SSBN). On Russia, it said that the country is developing "S-500 as an even more modern and technologically advanced air and missile defence system," in addition to this, Moscow "has transferred missile defence technology to China and Iran" both of which are "expanding and modernizing mobile missile defence capabilities." Russia and China are also developing Potential Adversary Missile Defense and Antisatellite (ASAT) capabilities that could "threaten US space-based assets." Japan and South Korea are already working with the US to build missile defence systems that are interoperable with US defences. Australia participates in a trilateral discussion on missile defence with the United States and Japan. The United States and Australia meet annually to discuss bilateral missile defence cooperation.

US discussed missile defence cooperation with India: Pentagon

China is on the cusp of fielding some of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/resolutely-oppose-one-country-two-systems-taiwan-president-tsai-on-xis-china-reunification-plan-187906">world's most advanced weapons systems</a> -- and in some cases already has surpassed its rivals, a Pentagon assessment released Tuesday found.

An unclassified report by the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-calls-us-warship-in-south-china-sea-a-provocation-188818">Defense Intelligence Agency says Beijing</a> has made enormous military strides in recent years, thanks partly to domestic laws forcing foreign partners to divulge technical secrets in exchange for access to China's vast market.

As a result of "acquiring technology by any means available," China now is at the leading edge on a range of technologies, including with its naval designs, with medium- and intermediate-range missiles, and with hypersonic weapons -- where missiles can fly at many times the speed of sound and dodge missile-defense systems.

"The result of this multifaceted approach to technology acquisition is a PLA (People's Liberation Army) on the verge of fielding some of the most modern weapon systems in the world," states the report, entitled "China Military Power."

"In some areas, it already leads the world."

China's increasing military might means it has advanced capabilities in the air, at sea, in space and in cyberspace that will "enable China to impose its will in the region," the report notes.

A particular focus for Beijing has been the prospect of an eventual conflict with Taiwan, which China sees as part of its territory.

Beijing has said it will not hesitate to use force if Taipei formally declares independence, or in the case of external intervention -- including by the United States, the island's most powerful unofficial ally.

Speaking to Pentagon reporters, a senior defense intelligence official said he was worried China's military is now advanced enough that PLA generals could feel confident they could invade Taiwan.&nbsp;

"The biggest concern is that as a lot of these technologies mature... (China) will reach a point where internally within their decision-making they will decide that using military force for a regional conflict is something that is more imminent," the official said on condition of anonymity.

Taiwan is a self-ruled island and has its own currency, flag and government, but is not recognized as an independent state by the United Nations.

Still, the official noted, China has not fought in a war for 40 years and its massive military and joint command structure lacks experience in real-world conflict.

"It will take a while for (the PLA) to be able to work these (military) services together, to be able to work these joint theaters and to be able to deal with a large, complex operation," the official said.&nbsp;

The intelligence report said China is developing new medium- and long-range stealth bombers capable of striking regional and global targets.&nbsp;

Such planes will likely reach initial operational capability by about 2025, the report notes.&nbsp;

The official added that China keeps a lot of its military development secret by conducting research in underground complexes, away from the prying eyes of satellites.&nbsp;

China is on the cusp of fielding some of the world's most advanced weapons systems -- and in some cases already has surpassed its rivals, a Pentagon assessment released Tuesday found.

China is on the cusp of fielding some of the world's most advanced weapons systems -- and in some cases already has surpassed its rivals, a Pentagon assessment released Tuesday found. An unclassified report by the Defense Intelligence Agency says Beijing has made enormous military strides in recent years, thanks partly to domestic laws forcing foreign partners to divulge technical secrets in exchange for access to China's vast market. As a result of "acquiring technology by any means available," China now is at the leading edge on a range of technologies, including with its naval designs, with medium- and intermediate-range missiles, and with hypersonic weapons -- where missiles can fly at many times the speed of sound and dodge missile-defense systems. "The result of this multifaceted approach to technology acquisition is a PLA (People's Liberation Army) on the verge of fielding some of the most modern weapon systems in the world," states the report, entitled "China Military Power." "In some areas, it already leads the world." China's increasing military might means it has advanced capabilities in the air, at sea, in space and in cyberspace that will "enable China to impose its will in the region," the report notes. A particular focus for Beijing has been the prospect of an eventual conflict with Taiwan, which China sees as part of its territory. Beijing has said it will not hesitate to use force if Taipei formally declares independence, or in the case of external intervention -- including by the United States, the island's most powerful unofficial ally. Speaking to Pentagon reporters, a senior defense intelligence official said he was worried China's military is now advanced enough that PLA generals could feel confident they could invade Taiwan. "The biggest concern is that as a lot of these technologies mature... (China) will reach a point where internally within their decision-making they will decide that using military force for a regional conflict is something that is more imminent," the official said on condition of anonymity. Taiwan is a self-ruled island and has its own currency, flag and government, but is not recognized as an independent state by the United Nations. Still, the official noted, China has not fought in a war for 40 years and its massive military and joint command structure lacks experience in real-world conflict. "It will take a while for (the PLA) to be able to work these (military) services together, to be able to work these joint theaters and to be able to deal with a large, complex operation," the official said. The intelligence report said China is developing new medium- and long-range stealth bombers capable of striking regional and global targets. Such planes will likely reach initial operational capability by about 2025, the report notes. The official added that China keeps a lot of its military development secret by conducting research in underground complexes, away from the prying eyes of satellites.

China already leads the world in some military technology: Pentagon report

Defense Secretary Jim Mattis bade farewell to the Pentagon on Monday, telling the US military to "hold fast" after he quit over a series of fundamental differences with President Donald Trump.

Mattis resigned December 20, after Trump stunned the US establishment by ordering a full troop withdrawal from Syria.

"Our Department is proven to be at its best when the times are most difficult," Mattis said in a brief memo to the Pentagon, an apparent reference to the turmoil in Washington.

"So keep the faith in our country and hold fast, alongside our allies, aligned against our foes."

Mattis, a scholar who frequently backs his views with historical anecdotes, also quoted a telegram President Abraham Lincoln sent to General Ulysses Grant in February 1865, near the end of the American Civil War.

"Let nothing which is transpiring, change, hinder, or delay your military movements, or plans," Mattis quoted Lincoln as saying.

He added that he was confident military members are "undistracted from our sworn mission to support and defend the Constitution while protecting our way of life."

Mattis had initially been due to leave the Pentagon at the end of February, but Trump brought the date forward by two months.

Trump was reportedly angry over news coverage of Mattis's stinging resignation letter that laid bare his fundamental disagreements with the president.

In that letter, the 68-year-old Pentagon chief said his political outlook, which cherishes traditional alliances, could no longer be reconciled with that of the president, who has poured scorn on longstanding partnerships and repeatedly sought closer ties with Russia.

As of January 1, Patrick Shanahan will become acting defense secretary, moving up from his current position of deputy.

On Syria, Trump on Monday appeared to soften his stance, saying troops would only be sent home "slowly" while still fighting the Islamic State group.

Mattis resigned December 20, after Trump stunned the US establishment by ordering a full troop withdrawal from Syria.

Defense Secretary Jim Mattis bade farewell to the Pentagon on Monday, telling the US military to "hold fast" after he quit over a series of fundamental differences with President Donald Trump. Mattis resigned December 20, after Trump stunned the US establishment by ordering a full troop withdrawal from Syria. "Our Department is proven to be at its best when the times are most difficult," Mattis said in a brief memo to the Pentagon, an apparent reference to the turmoil in Washington. "So keep the faith in our country and hold fast, alongside our allies, aligned against our foes." Mattis, a scholar who frequently backs his views with historical anecdotes, also quoted a telegram President Abraham Lincoln sent to General Ulysses Grant in February 1865, near the end of the American Civil War. "Let nothing which is transpiring, change, hinder, or delay your military movements, or plans," Mattis quoted Lincoln as saying. He added that he was confident military members are "undistracted from our sworn mission to support and defend the Constitution while protecting our way of life." Mattis had initially been due to leave the Pentagon at the end of February, but Trump brought the date forward by two months. Trump was reportedly angry over news coverage of Mattis's stinging resignation letter that laid bare his fundamental disagreements with the president. In that letter, the 68-year-old Pentagon chief said his political outlook, which cherishes traditional alliances, could no longer be reconciled with that of the president, who has poured scorn on longstanding partnerships and repeatedly sought closer ties with Russia. As of January 1, Patrick Shanahan will become acting defense secretary, moving up from his current position of deputy. On Syria, Trump on Monday appeared to soften his stance, saying troops would only be sent home "slowly" while still fighting the Islamic State group.

Keep the faith in our country and hold fast: Jim Mattis bids farewell to Pentagon

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/syrian-army-enters-manbij-in-new-alliance-with-kurds-187070">US commanders</a> planning for the withdrawal of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/syrian-army-claims-entering-key-city-manbij-in-new-alliance-with-kurds-187101">US troops from Syria </a>are recommending that Kurdish fighters battling Islamic State be allowed to keep US-supplied weapons, four US officials said, a move that would likely anger NATO ally Turkey.

Three of the officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said the recommendations were part of discussions on a draft plan by<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/syrian-army-not-in-manbij-city-us-military-187071"> the US military</a>. It is unclear what the Pentagon will ultimately recommend to the White House.

Discussions are still at an early stage inside the Pentagon and no decision has yet been made, the officials said. The plan will then be presented to the White House in the coming days with US President Donald Trump making the final decision.

The Pentagon said it would be "inappropriate" and premature to comment on what will happen with the weapons.&nbsp;

"Planning is ongoing, and focused on executing a deliberate and controlled withdrawal of forces while taking all measures possible to ensure our troops'&nbsp;safety," said Commander Sean Robertson, a Pentagon spokesman.

The White House did not comment.&nbsp;

Trump last week abruptly ordered a complete withdrawal of US troops from Syria, drawing widespread criticism and prompting Defense Secretary Jim Mattis'&nbsp;resignation.

The US officials said Trump's announcement has upset US commanders, who view his decision as a betrayal of the Kurdish YPG militia, which has led the fight to eradicate Islamic State from northeastern Syria.

Ankara views the YPG as an extension of a Kurdish insurgency inside Turkey. Turkey has threatened to launch an offensive against the YPG, raising fears of a surge in violence that could harm hundreds of thousands of civilians.&nbsp;

The United States told the YPG that they would be armed by Washington until the fight against Islamic State was completed, one of the US officials said.

"The fight isn't over. We can't simply start asking for the weapons back," said the official.

The proposal to leave US-supplied weapons with the YPG, which could include anti-tank missiles, armoured vehicles and mortars, would reassure Kurdish allies that they were not being abandoned.

But Turkey wants the United States to take the weapons back, so the commanders'&nbsp;recommendation, if confirmed, could complicate Trump's plan to allow Turkey to finish off the fight against Islamic State inside Syria.

The Pentagon keeps records of the weapons it has supplied to the YPG and their chain of custody. But, the US officials said, it would be nearly impossible to locate all of the equipment.

"How are we going to get them back and who is going to take them back?" one of the officials asked.

The debate over whether to leave weapons with the YPG coincides with Trump's national security adviser John Bolton's visit to Turkey and Israel next week for talks on Syria.

In May 2017, the United States started distributing arms and equipment to the YPG for an offensive against Raqqa, the de facto capital of the self-declared caliphate that Islamic State overran in Iraq and Syria in 2014.

The United States told Turkey that it would take back the weapons after the defeat of Islamic State, which has lost all but a few slivers of territory in northeastern Syria.

"The idea that we'd be able to recover them is asinine. So we leave them where they are," said a US&nbsp;official.

A person familiar with the discussions of the US withdrawal plan said the White House and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan would oppose the proposal to allow the YPG to keep its US-supplied weapons.

The recommendation "is a rejection of Trump's policy to withdraw from Syria," said the person, who asked not to be further identified.

Turkey has said weapons supplied to the YPG have in the past ended up in&nbsp;the hands of its Kurdish separatists, and described any weapon given to the insurgents as a threat to Turkey's security.

A phone call between Trump and Erdogan led to the decision to withdraw all US forces from Syria.&nbsp;

In the call two weeks ago, Trump had been expected to deliver a standard warning to the Turkish president over his plan to launch a cross-border attack targeting US-backed Kurdish forces in northeast Syria, US officials said.

Instead, in the course of the conversation, Trump reshaped US policy in the Middle East, abandoning a quarter of Syrian territory and handing Turkey the job of finishing off Islamic State in Syria.

US commanders planning for the withdrawal of US troops from Syria are recommending that Kurdish fighters battling Islamic State be allowed to keep US-supplied weapons, four US officials said, a move that would likely anger NATO ally Turkey.

US commanders planning for the withdrawal of US troops from Syria are recommending that Kurdish fighters battling Islamic State be allowed to keep US-supplied weapons, four US officials said, a move that would likely anger NATO ally Turkey. Three of the officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said the recommendations were part of discussions on a draft plan by the US military. It is unclear what the Pentagon will ultimately recommend to the White House. Discussions are still at an early stage inside the Pentagon and no decision has yet been made, the officials said. The plan will then be presented to the White House in the coming days with US President Donald Trump making the final decision. The Pentagon said it would be "inappropriate" and premature to comment on what will happen with the weapons. "Planning is ongoing, and focused on executing a deliberate and controlled withdrawal of forces while taking all measures possible to ensure our troops' safety," said Commander Sean Robertson, a Pentagon spokesman. The White House did not comment. Trump last week abruptly ordered a complete withdrawal of US troops from Syria, drawing widespread criticism and prompting Defense Secretary Jim Mattis' resignation. The US officials said Trump's announcement has upset US commanders, who view his decision as a betrayal of the Kurdish YPG militia, which has led the fight to eradicate Islamic State from northeastern Syria. Ankara views the YPG as an extension of a Kurdish insurgency inside Turkey. Turkey has threatened to launch an offensive against the YPG, raising fears of a surge in violence that could harm hundreds of thousands of civilians. The United States told the YPG that they would be armed by Washington until the fight against Islamic State was completed, one of the US officials said. "The fight isn't over. We can't simply start asking for the weapons back," said the official. The proposal to leave US-supplied weapons with the YPG, which could include anti-tank missiles, armoured vehicles and mortars, would reassure Kurdish allies that they were not being abandoned. But Turkey wants the United States to take the weapons back, so the commanders' recommendation, if confirmed, could complicate Trump's plan to allow Turkey to finish off the fight against Islamic State inside Syria. The Pentagon keeps records of the weapons it has supplied to the YPG and their chain of custody. But, the US officials said, it would be nearly impossible to locate all of the equipment. "How are we going to get them back and who is going to take them back?" one of the officials asked. The debate over whether to leave weapons with the YPG coincides with Trump's national security adviser John Bolton's visit to Turkey and Israel next week for talks on Syria. In May 2017, the United States started distributing arms and equipment to the YPG for an offensive against Raqqa, the de facto capital of the self-declared caliphate that Islamic State overran in Iraq and Syria in 2014. The United States told Turkey that it would take back the weapons after the defeat of Islamic State, which has lost all but a few slivers of territory in northeastern Syria. "The idea that we'd be able to recover them is asinine. So we leave them where they are," said a US official. A person familiar with the discussions of the US withdrawal plan said the White House and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan would oppose the proposal to allow the YPG to keep its US-supplied weapons. The recommendation "is a rejection of Trump's policy to withdraw from Syria," said the person, who asked not to be further identified. Turkey has said weapons supplied to the YPG have in the past ended up in the hands of its Kurdish separatists, and described any weapon given to the insurgents as a threat to Turkey's security. A phone call between Trump and Erdogan led to the decision to withdraw all US forces from Syria. In the call two weeks ago, Trump had been expected to deliver a standard warning to the Turkish president over his plan to launch a cross-border attack targeting US-backed Kurdish forces in northeast Syria, US officials said. Instead, in the course of the conversation, Trump reshaped US policy in the Middle East, abandoning a quarter of Syrian territory and handing Turkey the job of finishing off Islamic State in Syria.

US commanders recommend Kurdish fighters in Syria to go on keeping weapons

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/its-the-only-way-to-stop-drugs-gangs-criminals-from-entering-us-trump-defends-demand-for-border-wall-186037">Donald Trump</a> on Sunday announced he would replace <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-defence-secretary-jim-mattis-exit-sparks-concern-among-us-allies-185709">Defense Secretary Jim Mattis</a> with his deputy Patrick Shanahan, days after the outgoing Pentagon chief quit while citing key policy differences with the US president.

"I am pleased to announce that our very talented Deputy Secretary of Defense, Patrick Shanahan, will assume the title of Acting Secretary of Defense starting January 1, 2019," the US President tweeted, accelerating Mattis's planned departure by two months.&nbsp;

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I am pleased to announce that our very talented Deputy Secretary of Defense, Patrick Shanahan, will assume the title of Acting Secretary of Defense starting January 1, 2019. Patrick has a long list of accomplishments while serving as Deputy, &amp; previously Boeing. He will be great!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1076881816462737408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"Patrick has a long list of accomplishments while serving as Deputy, &amp; previously Boeing. He will be great!"

Defense Secretary Jim Mattis resigned on December 20, a day after President Donald Trump stunned the US establishment by ordering a troop withdrawal from Syria.

In a letter to Trump, the 68-year-old Pentagon chief said his political outlook, which cherishes traditional alliances, could no longer be reconciled with that of the president, who has poured scorn on longstanding partnerships and repeatedly sought closer ties with Russia.

(With inputs from AFP)

Donald Trump on Sunday announced he would replace Defense Secretary Jim Mattis with his deputy Patrick Shanahan, days after the outgoing Pentagon chief quit while citing key policy differences with the US president.

Donald Trump on Sunday announced he would replace Defense Secretary Jim Mattis with his deputy Patrick Shanahan, days after the outgoing Pentagon chief quit while citing key policy differences with the US president. "I am pleased to announce that our very talented Deputy Secretary of Defense, Patrick Shanahan, will assume the title of Acting Secretary of Defense starting January 1, 2019," the US President tweeted, accelerating Mattis's planned departure by two months. I am pleased to announce that our very talented Deputy Secretary of Defense, Patrick Shanahan, will assume the title of Acting Secretary of Defense starting January 1, 2019. Patrick has a long list of accomplishments while serving as Deputy, & previously Boeing. He will be great! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 23, 2018 × "Patrick has a long list of accomplishments while serving as Deputy, & previously Boeing. He will be great!" Defense Secretary Jim Mattis resigned on December 20, a day after President Donald Trump stunned the US establishment by ordering a troop withdrawal from Syria. In a letter to Trump, the 68-year-old Pentagon chief said his political outlook, which cherishes traditional alliances, could no longer be reconciled with that of the president, who has poured scorn on longstanding partnerships and repeatedly sought closer ties with Russia. (With inputs from AFP)

Trump to replace defence head Mattis with deputy Patrick Shanahan

Defense Secretary <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-mattis-could-be-leaving-as-us-defense-chief-171451">Jim Mattis</a> resigned on Thursday, a day after President<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/fears-for-russia-probe-as-trump-fires-jeff-sessions-176156"> Donald Trump</a> stunned the US establishment by ordering a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-islamic-state-defeated-us-will-pull-all-forces-out-of-syira-185369">troop withdrawal from Syria</a>.

In a letter to Trump, the 68-year-old Pentagon chief said his political outlook, which cherishes traditional alliances, could no longer be reconciled with that of the president, who has poured scorn on longstanding partnerships and repeatedly sought closer ties with Russia.

"My views on treating allies with respect and also being clear-eyed about both malign actors and strategic competitors are strongly held and informed by over four decades' immersion in these issues," Mattis wrote.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/shake-up-in-trump-administration-big-white-house-dismissals-and-resignations-of-2018-176266">Shake-up in Trump administration, Big White House dismissals and resignations of 2018</a>

"Because you have the right to have a Secretary of Defense whose views are better aligned with yours on these and other subjects, I believe it is right for me to step down from my position."

Moments before the Pentagon released Mattis's letter, Trump tweeted that his defense secretary would be "retiring with distinction, at the end of February."

"General Mattis was a great help to me in getting allies and other countries to pay their share of military obligations. A new Secretary of Defense will be named shortly. I greatly thank Jim for his service!" Trump tweeted.

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General Jim Mattis will be retiring, with distinction, at the end of February, after having served my Administration as Secretary of Defense for the past two years. During Jim’s tenure, tremendous progress has been made, especially with respect to the purchase of new fighting....
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1075878792168685568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Trump's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/factbox-trump-administration-departures-resignations-and-firings-182640">administration has been marked by a steady haemorrhage of cabinet members and top advisors</a>, and Mattis, whom Trump once affectionately referred to as one of "my generals", was long rumoured to have <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/in-series-of-high-profile-departures-us-interior-secretary-zinke-to-leave-trump-administration-184375">lost influence with the president</a>.&nbsp;

But news of his departure, which he broke to stunned Pentagon staff earlier in the afternoon after meeting with Trump at the White House, still came as a shock to Washington.

"This is scary," Democratic Senator Mark Warner said.&nbsp;

"Secretary Mattis has been an island of stability amidst the chaos of the Trump administration."

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/newly-emboldened-democrats-want-healthcare-protected-and-trump-impeached-poll-176262">Newly emboldened Democrats want healthcare protected and Trump impeached</a>

Republican Senator Marco Rubio said Mattis's resignation letter "makes it abundantly clear that we are headed towards a series of grave policy errors which will endanger our nation, damage our alliances (and) empower our adversaries."

And Senator Susan Collins, another Republican, said Mattis's resignation "is a real loss for our nation, our troops, and this administration."

Trump's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-defends-pullout-from-syria-says-time-for-others-to-finally-fight-185539">decision to pull the 2,000 or so US troops out of Syria</a> was a stunning rebuke to Mattis, who had warned that an early withdrawal from Syria would be a "strategic blunder."

Experts say IS has not been defeated. The group still holds pockets of land in east Syria and thousands of jihadists are thought to remain.

Earlier Thursday, the Wall Street Journal reported that Trump was considering a drawdown of US forces in Afghanistan -- the exact opposite of what Mattis had pushed for.

Trump and Mattis have previously clashed on any number of other issues -- including the Iran nuclear deal, which Trump pulled out of in May while Mattis defended parts of it.

The Pentagon chief was also against the creation of a separate new branch of the US military called Space Force, but Trump ordered it anyway.

Meanwhile, the biggest deployment Mattis has ordered so far was one to the US border with Mexico, a mission with only vague military utility and one that critics have assailed as a political stunt by Trump.

Mattis's fate has been the subject of intense speculation for months but reached fever pitch in September, when veteran journalist Bob Woodward published a book giving an inside glimpse into a chaotic White House.

He said Mattis had questioned Trump's judgment, likening his understanding to that of a 10- or 11-year-old child.

Mattis, a buttoned-up former Marine Corps general, was loath to discuss politics or his relationship with Trump, and the president was widely reported to bristle at unfavourable comparisons to Mattis, who had broad bipartisan support.

The Pentagon chief would regularly stop by reporters' desks or speak outside the building, but he never gave any inkling of if or when he might step down.

It was not immediately clear who might replace Mattis.&nbsp;

Senator Tom Cotton, a staunch Trump ally and former Army officer, is often mentioned as a possible candidate.&nbsp;

Defense Secretary Jim Mattis resigned on Thursday, a day after President Donald Trump stunned the US establishment by ordering a troop withdrawal from Syria. In a letter to Trump, the 68-year-old Pentagon chief said his political outlook, which cherishes traditional alliances, could no longer be reconciled with that of the president, who has poured scorn on longstanding partnerships and repeatedly sought closer ties with Russia.

Defense Secretary Jim Mattis resigned on Thursday, a day after President Donald Trump stunned the US establishment by ordering a troop withdrawal from Syria. In a letter to Trump, the 68-year-old Pentagon chief said his political outlook, which cherishes traditional alliances, could no longer be reconciled with that of the president, who has poured scorn on longstanding partnerships and repeatedly sought closer ties with Russia. "My views on treating allies with respect and also being clear-eyed about both malign actors and strategic competitors are strongly held and informed by over four decades' immersion in these issues," Mattis wrote. Also read: Shake-up in Trump administration, Big White House dismissals and resignations of 2018 "Because you have the right to have a Secretary of Defense whose views are better aligned with yours on these and other subjects, I believe it is right for me to step down from my position." Moments before the Pentagon released Mattis's letter, Trump tweeted that his defense secretary would be "retiring with distinction, at the end of February." "General Mattis was a great help to me in getting allies and other countries to pay their share of military obligations. A new Secretary of Defense will be named shortly. I greatly thank Jim for his service!" Trump tweeted. General Jim Mattis will be retiring, with distinction, at the end of February, after having served my Administration as Secretary of Defense for the past two years. During Jim’s tenure, tremendous progress has been made, especially with respect to the purchase of new fighting.... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 20, 2018 × Trump's administration has been marked by a steady haemorrhage of cabinet members and top advisors, and Mattis, whom Trump once affectionately referred to as one of "my generals", was long rumoured to have lost influence with the president. But news of his departure, which he broke to stunned Pentagon staff earlier in the afternoon after meeting with Trump at the White House, still came as a shock to Washington. "This is scary," Democratic Senator Mark Warner said. "Secretary Mattis has been an island of stability amidst the chaos of the Trump administration." Also read: Newly emboldened Democrats want healthcare protected and Trump impeached Republican Senator Marco Rubio said Mattis's resignation letter "makes it abundantly clear that we are headed towards a series of grave policy errors which will endanger our nation, damage our alliances (and) empower our adversaries." And Senator Susan Collins, another Republican, said Mattis's resignation "is a real loss for our nation, our troops, and this administration." Trump's decision to pull the 2,000 or so US troops out of Syria was a stunning rebuke to Mattis, who had warned that an early withdrawal from Syria would be a "strategic blunder." Experts say IS has not been defeated. The group still holds pockets of land in east Syria and thousands of jihadists are thought to remain. Earlier Thursday, the Wall Street Journal reported that Trump was considering a drawdown of US forces in Afghanistan -- the exact opposite of what Mattis had pushed for. Trump and Mattis have previously clashed on any number of other issues -- including the Iran nuclear deal, which Trump pulled out of in May while Mattis defended parts of it. The Pentagon chief was also against the creation of a separate new branch of the US military called Space Force, but Trump ordered it anyway. Meanwhile, the biggest deployment Mattis has ordered so far was one to the US border with Mexico, a mission with only vague military utility and one that critics have assailed as a political stunt by Trump. Mattis's fate has been the subject of intense speculation for months but reached fever pitch in September, when veteran journalist Bob Woodward published a book giving an inside glimpse into a chaotic White House. He said Mattis had questioned Trump's judgment, likening his understanding to that of a 10- or 11-year-old child. Mattis, a buttoned-up former Marine Corps general, was loath to discuss politics or his relationship with Trump, and the president was widely reported to bristle at unfavourable comparisons to Mattis, who had broad bipartisan support. The Pentagon chief would regularly stop by reporters' desks or speak outside the building, but he never gave any inkling of if or when he might step down. It was not immediately clear who might replace Mattis. Senator Tom Cotton, a staunch Trump ally and former Army officer, is often mentioned as a possible candidate.

US defense secretary Jim Mattis quits; cites differences with Trump

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday ordered the creation of "Space Command," a new organizational structure within the Pentagon that will have overall control of military space operations.

The command will be separate from Trump's goal to build an entirely new branch of the military called "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-wants-space-force-by-2020-dumb-say-his-critics-158177">Space Force</a>," which has not received approval from Congress.

"I direct the establishment, consistent with United States law, of United States Space Command as a functional Unified Combatant Command," Trump said in a memo to Defense Secretary Defense Jim Mattis.

Speaking at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida's Cape Canaveral, Vice President Mike Pence said Space Command would integrate space capabilities across all branches of the military.

"It will develop the space doctrine, tactics, techniques and procedures that will enable our war fighters to defend our nation in this new era," Pence said.&nbsp;

SpaceCom, as it will inevitably come to be known, will be the Pentagon's 11th combatant command.

America's vast military divides the globe into various commands, such as Central Command in the Middle East or Indo-Pacific Command in Asia. The new Space Command would be on equal footing with these.

It will require a new headquarters, as well as a commander and deputy commander who will need Senate approval.

Trump in June said he wanted to create a "Space Force," which would be a sixth and entirely new branch of the military alongside the Navy, Marine Corps, Army, Air Force and Coast Guard.&nbsp;

He insists such a move is necessary to tackle vulnerabilities in space and assert US dominance in orbit.

But its creation is not a done deal, as it needs to be approved by Congress, and the concept has met with some skepticism from lawmakers and defense officials wary of the cost and added bureaucracy.

The creation of a new Space Force would also set off a turf war within the Pentagon, particularly with the Air Force, which currently is responsible for most space operations.&nbsp;

New satellites 
Pence spoke to an audience in Florida, where he had been expecting to watch the launch of a SpaceX rocket carrying a new generation of satellite, ordered by the US Air Force, that are much harder for adversaries to jam.

Additional "GPS III," or third generation, satellites will be launched in the coming years, creating a new constellation of the orbiting craft.

The Air Force asked for $1.5 billion for fiscal year 2019 for the program.

Space plays a vital role in just about every aspect of modern warfare, with many military technologies reliant on a network of orbiting sensors and satellites, and the Pentagon has warned that countries like Russia and China are working to build anti-satellite capabilities.

Tuesday's launch was scrubbed at the last minute due to an issue with some sensor readings, SpaceX said. It has been rescheduled for Wednesday morning.&nbsp;

In a series of tweets, Deputy Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan said the creation of Space Command is a "critical step" in America's ability to manage space as a warfighting domain.&nbsp;

"US Space Command will allow us to accelerate our space capabilities to defend our National interests and deter our adversaries," he said.

Shanahan added that the Pentagon is working on a legislative proposal that would meet Trump's vision for a separate Space Force.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday ordered the creation of "Space Command," a new organizational structure within the Pentagon that will have overall control of military space operations.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday ordered the creation of "Space Command," a new organizational structure within the Pentagon that will have overall control of military space operations. The command will be separate from Trump's goal to build an entirely new branch of the military called "Space Force," which has not received approval from Congress. "I direct the establishment, consistent with United States law, of United States Space Command as a functional Unified Combatant Command," Trump said in a memo to Defense Secretary Defense Jim Mattis. Speaking at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida's Cape Canaveral, Vice President Mike Pence said Space Command would integrate space capabilities across all branches of the military. "It will develop the space doctrine, tactics, techniques and procedures that will enable our war fighters to defend our nation in this new era," Pence said. SpaceCom, as it will inevitably come to be known, will be the Pentagon's 11th combatant command. America's vast military divides the globe into various commands, such as Central Command in the Middle East or Indo-Pacific Command in Asia. The new Space Command would be on equal footing with these. It will require a new headquarters, as well as a commander and deputy commander who will need Senate approval. Trump in June said he wanted to create a "Space Force," which would be a sixth and entirely new branch of the military alongside the Navy, Marine Corps, Army, Air Force and Coast Guard. He insists such a move is necessary to tackle vulnerabilities in space and assert US dominance in orbit. But its creation is not a done deal, as it needs to be approved by Congress, and the concept has met with some skepticism from lawmakers and defense officials wary of the cost and added bureaucracy. The creation of a new Space Force would also set off a turf war within the Pentagon, particularly with the Air Force, which currently is responsible for most space operations. New satellites Pence spoke to an audience in Florida, where he had been expecting to watch the launch of a SpaceX rocket carrying a new generation of satellite, ordered by the US Air Force, that are much harder for adversaries to jam. Additional "GPS III," or third generation, satellites will be launched in the coming years, creating a new constellation of the orbiting craft. The Air Force asked for $1.5 billion for fiscal year 2019 for the program. Space plays a vital role in just about every aspect of modern warfare, with many military technologies reliant on a network of orbiting sensors and satellites, and the Pentagon has warned that countries like Russia and China are working to build anti-satellite capabilities. Tuesday's launch was scrubbed at the last minute due to an issue with some sensor readings, SpaceX said. It has been rescheduled for Wednesday morning. In a series of tweets, Deputy Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan said the creation of Space Command is a "critical step" in America's ability to manage space as a warfighting domain. "US Space Command will allow us to accelerate our space capabilities to defend our National interests and deter our adversaries," he said. Shanahan added that the Pentagon is working on a legislative proposal that would meet Trump's vision for a separate Space Force.

After 'Space Force', Trump tells Pentagon to create 'Space Command'

&nbsp;The Pentagon said on Wednesday that unilateral military action into northeast Syria by any party would be "unacceptable," after Turkey said it would launch a new military operation in the region within days to target Kurdish militia fighters.

Ankara and Washington have long been at odds over Syria, where the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pompeo-at-un-urges-tougher-action-on-iran-missiles-183573">United States</a> has backed the YPG Kurdish militia in the fight against Islamic State insurgents.

Turkey says the YPG is a terrorist organisation and an extension of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which has waged an insurgency against the state in southeastern Turkey for 34 years.

Within hours of Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan's announcement of the planned operation, the United States warned that any unilateral military action would undermine the shared interest of securing the border between Syria and Turkey in a sustainable way.

"Unilateral military action into northeast Syria by any party, particularly as US personnel may be present or in the vicinity, is of grave concern," Commander Sean Robertson, a Pentagon spokesman, said in a statement.

"We would find any such actions unacceptable," he added.

Turkey has already intervened to sweep YPG fighters from territory west of the Euphrates in military campaigns over the past two years, but has not gone east of the river - partly to avoid direct confrontation with US forces.

But Erdogan's patience with Washington over Syria - specifically a deal to clear the YPG from the town of Manbij, just west of the Euphrates - seems to have worn thin.

"We will start the operation to clear the east of the Euphrates from separatist terrorists in a few days. Our target is never US soldiers," Erdogan said at a speech at a defence industry summit in Ankara.

"This step will allow for the path to a political solution to be opened and for healthier cooperation."

Turkey has repeatedly voiced frustration about what it says are delays in the implementation of the Manbij deal, saying last month that the agreement should be fully carried out by the end of this year.

The Pentagon said coordination and consultation between the United States and Turkey was the only way to address security concerns and that Washington was focused on working closely with Ankara.

"We believe this dialogue is the only way to secure the border area in a sustainable manner, and believe that uncoordinated military operations will undermine that shared interest," Robertson said.

He added that while the United States was fully committed to Turkey's border security, it also remained committed to working with the Syrian Democratic Forces, which includes Kurdish YPG fighters, to defeat Islamic State militants.

Turkish and US troops began joint patrols near Manbij last month, but that cooperation has also been complicated as Turkey has shelled Kurdish fighters to the east of the Euphrates.

Earlier this year, the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) temporarily suspended an offensive against Islamic State after Turkish shelling of northern Syria.

OBSERVATION POSTS

The Pentagon says it has about 2,000 troops in Syria.

Last month, the United States said would establish observation posts on the border between Kurdish-held northern Syria and Turkey after Turkish cross-border shelling killed four Kurdish fighters.

Three observation posts have now been set up, a US official told Reuters on Wednesday. The official said the positions were clearly marked and any force attacking them "would definitely know they are attacking the United States".

Turkish officials held talks in Ankara this week with the US special representative for Syria, Jim Jeffrey. An SDF military source said Jeffrey met the SDF leadership in northern Syria on Wednesday.

Erdogan said Turkey was the victim of a "stalling tactic" over Manbij and that Islamic State no longer posed a threat in Syria.

"Now, it's time to realise our decision to disperse the circles of terror east of the Euphrates. The fact that we have deep differences in perception with the United States is no secret," he said.

The Pentagon said on Wednesday that unilateral military action into northeast Syria by any party would be "unacceptable," after Turkey said it would launch a new military operation in the region within days to target Kurdish militia fighters.

The Pentagon said on Wednesday that unilateral military action into northeast Syria by any party would be "unacceptable," after Turkey said it would launch a new military operation in the region within days to target Kurdish militia fighters. Ankara and Washington have long been at odds over Syria, where the United States has backed the YPG Kurdish militia in the fight against Islamic State insurgents. Turkey says the YPG is a terrorist organisation and an extension of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which has waged an insurgency against the state in southeastern Turkey for 34 years. Within hours of Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan's announcement of the planned operation, the United States warned that any unilateral military action would undermine the shared interest of securing the border between Syria and Turkey in a sustainable way. "Unilateral military action into northeast Syria by any party, particularly as US personnel may be present or in the vicinity, is of grave concern," Commander Sean Robertson, a Pentagon spokesman, said in a statement. "We would find any such actions unacceptable," he added. Turkey has already intervened to sweep YPG fighters from territory west of the Euphrates in military campaigns over the past two years, but has not gone east of the river - partly to avoid direct confrontation with US forces. But Erdogan's patience with Washington over Syria - specifically a deal to clear the YPG from the town of Manbij, just west of the Euphrates - seems to have worn thin. "We will start the operation to clear the east of the Euphrates from separatist terrorists in a few days. Our target is never US soldiers," Erdogan said at a speech at a defence industry summit in Ankara. "This step will allow for the path to a political solution to be opened and for healthier cooperation." Turkey has repeatedly voiced frustration about what it says are delays in the implementation of the Manbij deal, saying last month that the agreement should be fully carried out by the end of this year. The Pentagon said coordination and consultation between the United States and Turkey was the only way to address security concerns and that Washington was focused on working closely with Ankara. "We believe this dialogue is the only way to secure the border area in a sustainable manner, and believe that uncoordinated military operations will undermine that shared interest," Robertson said. He added that while the United States was fully committed to Turkey's border security, it also remained committed to working with the Syrian Democratic Forces, which includes Kurdish YPG fighters, to defeat Islamic State militants. Turkish and US troops began joint patrols near Manbij last month, but that cooperation has also been complicated as Turkey has shelled Kurdish fighters to the east of the Euphrates. Earlier this year, the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) temporarily suspended an offensive against Islamic State after Turkish shelling of northern Syria. OBSERVATION POSTS The Pentagon says it has about 2,000 troops in Syria. Last month, the United States said would establish observation posts on the border between Kurdish-held northern Syria and Turkey after Turkish cross-border shelling killed four Kurdish fighters. Three observation posts have now been set up, a US official told Reuters on Wednesday. The official said the positions were clearly marked and any force attacking them "would definitely know they are attacking the United States". Turkish officials held talks in Ankara this week with the US special representative for Syria, Jim Jeffrey. An SDF military source said Jeffrey met the SDF leadership in northern Syria on Wednesday. Erdogan said Turkey was the victim of a "stalling tactic" over Manbij and that Islamic State no longer posed a threat in Syria. "Now, it's time to realise our decision to disperse the circles of terror east of the Euphrates. The fact that we have deep differences in perception with the United States is no secret," he said.

Pentagon warns against unilateral military action in northeast Syria after Turkish announcement

The Pentagon received a request on Friday from the Trump administration to extend its deployment of troops to the US border with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-deports-scores-of-central-american-migrants-that-stormed-us-border-179645">Mexico</a> beyond December 15 authorisation date to the end of January, officials said.&nbsp;

President Donald Trump ordered the deployment shortly before November congressional elections as a part of an effort to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-should-move-the-flag-waving-migrants-we-will-permanently-close-the-border-warns-trump-179588">crack down on illegal immigration</a>, as waves of thousands of migrants escaping violence in Central America trekked towards the United States.&nbsp;

Border security is a major issue among voters in Trump`s Republican Party.

Critics, including opposition Democrats in Congress but also some US military veterans, have derided the troop deployment as a political stunt. Democrats have threatened to investigate the deployment once they take control in the House of Representatives next year.

The Department of Homeland Security, in a statement, cited the "the very real threat we face at the border from potential mass migration actions" when it confirmed the extension of the mission, which had been reported earlier on Friday by Reuters.

"The president has made it clear that border security is a top administration priority," DHS spokeswoman Katie Waldman said in a statement.

This request refines support to ensure it remains aligned with the current situation, the nature of the mission, and Customs and Border Patrol operational requirements.

About 5,600 troops have been deployed to the border, but many of them have been involved in efforts to improve security around border crossings, including stringing up concertina wire. Many of those troops could be sent home. Remaining troops could focus on other missions, including helping fly US border personnel to new positions along the border.

Still, officials caution that its unclear how far troop levels will decline. One US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said troop levels were not expected to decline dramatically.

Neither the Pentagon nor the DHS speculated about troop levels on Friday.

The Trump administration has justified the high-profile border mission on a perceived threat to the border, as thousands of migrants, mostly migrants from Honduras, flooded into the city of Tijuana across the border from San Diego, California, over the past several weeks.

US customs and border control officers fired tear gas canisters into Mexico at dozens of migrants who tried to rush border fencing on Sunday.

Under the harsh immigration policies introduced by the Trump administration, US border officials say the migrants may have to stay put in Mexico for months before they can petition authorities for asylum.

The Pentagon received a request on Friday from the Trump administration to extend its deployment of troops to the US border with Mexico beyond December 15 authorisation date to the end of January, officials said.

The Pentagon received a request on Friday from the Trump administration to extend its deployment of troops to the US border with Mexico beyond December 15 authorisation date to the end of January, officials said. President Donald Trump ordered the deployment shortly before November congressional elections as a part of an effort to crack down on illegal immigration, as waves of thousands of migrants escaping violence in Central America trekked towards the United States. Border security is a major issue among voters in Trump`s Republican Party. Critics, including opposition Democrats in Congress but also some US military veterans, have derided the troop deployment as a political stunt. Democrats have threatened to investigate the deployment once they take control in the House of Representatives next year. The Department of Homeland Security, in a statement, cited the "the very real threat we face at the border from potential mass migration actions" when it confirmed the extension of the mission, which had been reported earlier on Friday by Reuters. "The president has made it clear that border security is a top administration priority," DHS spokeswoman Katie Waldman said in a statement. This request refines support to ensure it remains aligned with the current situation, the nature of the mission, and Customs and Border Patrol operational requirements. About 5,600 troops have been deployed to the border, but many of them have been involved in efforts to improve security around border crossings, including stringing up concertina wire. Many of those troops could be sent home. Remaining troops could focus on other missions, including helping fly US border personnel to new positions along the border. Still, officials caution that its unclear how far troop levels will decline. One US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said troop levels were not expected to decline dramatically. Neither the Pentagon nor the DHS speculated about troop levels on Friday. The Trump administration has justified the high-profile border mission on a perceived threat to the border, as thousands of migrants, mostly migrants from Honduras, flooded into the city of Tijuana across the border from San Diego, California, over the past several weeks. US customs and border control officers fired tear gas canisters into Mexico at dozens of migrants who tried to rush border fencing on Sunday. Under the harsh immigration policies introduced by the Trump administration, US border officials say the migrants may have to stay put in Mexico for months before they can petition authorities for asylum.

Pentagon appears poised to extend Mexico border deployment

The US&nbsp;Army is investing millions of dollars in experimental exoskeleton technology to make soldiers stronger and more resilient, in what experts say is part of a broader push into advanced gear to equip a new generation of "super-soldiers."

The technology is being developed by Lockheed Martin Corp with a license from Canada-based B-TEMIA, which first developed the exoskeletons to help people with mobility difficulties stemming from medical ailments like multiple sclerosis and severe osteoarthritis.

Worn over a pair of pants, the battery-operated exoskeleton uses a suite of sensors, artificial intelligence and other technology to aid natural movements.

For the US&nbsp;military, the appeal of such technology is clear: Soldiers now deploy into war zones bogged down by heavy but critical gear like body armor, night-vision goggles and advanced radios. Altogether, that can weigh anywhere from 90 to 140 pounds (40-64 kg), when the recommended limit is just 50 pounds (23 kg).

"That means when people do show up to the fight, they're fatigued," said Paul Scharre at the Center for a New American Security (CNAS), who helped lead a series of studies on exoskeletons and other advanced gear.

"The fundamental challenge we're facing with infantry troops is they're carrying too much weight."

Lockheed Martin said on Thursday it won a $6.9 million award from the US&nbsp;Army Natick Soldier Research, Development and Engineering Center to research and develop the exoskeleton, called ONYX, under a two-year, sole-source agreement.

Keith Maxwell, the exoskeleton technologies manager at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, said people in his company's trials who wore the exoskeletons showed far more endurance.

"You get to the fight fresh. You're not worn out," Maxwell said.

Maxwell, who demonstrated a prototype, said each exoskelelton was expected to cost in the tens of thousands of dollars.

B-TEMIA's medically focused system, called Keeogo, is sold in Canada for about C$39,000 ($30,000), company spokeswoman Pamela Borges said.

The United States is not the only country looking at exoskeleton technology.

Samuel Bendett at the Center for Naval Analyses, a federally funded US&nbsp;research and development center, said Russia and China were also investing in exoskeleton technologies, "in parallel" to the US&nbsp;advances.

Russia, in particular, was working on several versions of exoskeletons, including one that it tested recently in Syria, Bendett said.&nbsp;

The CNAS analysis of the exoskeleton was part of a larger look by the Washington-based think tank at next-generation technologies that can aid soldiers, from better helmets to shield them from blast injuries to the introduction of robotic "teammates" to help resupply them in war zones.

The US Army is investing millions of dollars in experimental exoskeleton technology to make soldiers stronger and more resilient, in what experts say is part of a broader push into advanced gear to equip a new generation of "super-soldiers.

The US Army is investing millions of dollars in experimental exoskeleton technology to make soldiers stronger and more resilient, in what experts say is part of a broader push into advanced gear to equip a new generation of "super-soldiers." The technology is being developed by Lockheed Martin Corp with a license from Canada-based B-TEMIA, which first developed the exoskeletons to help people with mobility difficulties stemming from medical ailments like multiple sclerosis and severe osteoarthritis. Worn over a pair of pants, the battery-operated exoskeleton uses a suite of sensors, artificial intelligence and other technology to aid natural movements. For the US military, the appeal of such technology is clear: Soldiers now deploy into war zones bogged down by heavy but critical gear like body armor, night-vision goggles and advanced radios. Altogether, that can weigh anywhere from 90 to 140 pounds (40-64 kg), when the recommended limit is just 50 pounds (23 kg). "That means when people do show up to the fight, they're fatigued," said Paul Scharre at the Center for a New American Security (CNAS), who helped lead a series of studies on exoskeletons and other advanced gear. "The fundamental challenge we're facing with infantry troops is they're carrying too much weight." Lockheed Martin said on Thursday it won a $6.9 million award from the US Army Natick Soldier Research, Development and Engineering Center to research and develop the exoskeleton, called ONYX, under a two-year, sole-source agreement. Keith Maxwell, the exoskeleton technologies manager at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, said people in his company's trials who wore the exoskeletons showed far more endurance. "You get to the fight fresh. You're not worn out," Maxwell said. Maxwell, who demonstrated a prototype, said each exoskelelton was expected to cost in the tens of thousands of dollars. B-TEMIA's medically focused system, called Keeogo, is sold in Canada for about C$39,000 ($30,000), company spokeswoman Pamela Borges said. The United States is not the only country looking at exoskeleton technology. Samuel Bendett at the Center for Naval Analyses, a federally funded US research and development center, said Russia and China were also investing in exoskeleton technologies, "in parallel" to the US advances. Russia, in particular, was working on several versions of exoskeletons, including one that it tested recently in Syria, Bendett said. The CNAS analysis of the exoskeleton was part of a larger look by the Washington-based think tank at next-generation technologies that can aid soldiers, from better helmets to shield them from blast injuries to the introduction of robotic "teammates" to help resupply them in war zones.

Pentagon looks to exoskeletons to build 'super-soldiers'

US army is spending heavily to create super-soldiers

On the eve of the 10th anniversary of 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks the United States has again asked Pakistan to act on Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), the terror group behind the attacks .&nbsp;

In a response to WION's questions, Pentagon spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Koné Faulkner said, "We continue to press Pakistan to indiscriminately target all terrorist groups, including the Haqqani Network and LeT."

When asked on Pakistan's role in Afghanistan, Faulkner said, "No country has more to gain than Pakistan from a peaceful Afghanistan. &nbsp;We continue to call on Pakistan to arrest, expel or bring the Taliban leadership to the negotiating table.".

This&nbsp;development comes days after US President Donald Trump slammed Pakistan in an interview to FOX News for not doing enough on terror and providing safe haven to 9/11 mastermind Osama Bin Laden.&nbsp;

US President has also lashed out at Pakistan on Twitter saying &nbsp;we paid "Pakistan Billions of Dollars &amp; they never told us he was living there."

In daring raid from across the border in Afghanistan,&nbsp;US special forces killed Osama Bin Laden inside his compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan on&nbsp;April 2, 2011.

Pentagon also confirmed that it has suspended aid to Pakistan saying that last January "the Coalition Support Funds (CSF) security assistance the US provides to Pakistan was suspended" and this "suspension remains in place totalling approximately $1.66 billion in security assistance to Pakistan that has been frozen to date."

During his interview to Fox earlier this week, Trump said that aid was cut since Pakistan doesn't "do a damn thing" for united states.

The relationship between US and Pakistan are on the downward spiral due to Islamabad's inability to rein in on terror groups on its territory. Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has been saying that Washington has been trying to make Islamabad a scapegoat due to its failure in Afghanistan.

On the eve of the 10th anniversary of 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks the United States has again asked Pakistan to act on Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), the terror group behind the attacks .

On the eve of the 10th anniversary of 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks the United States has again asked Pakistan to act on Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), the terror group behind the attacks . In a response to WION's questions, Pentagon spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Koné Faulkner said, "We continue to press Pakistan to indiscriminately target all terrorist groups, including the Haqqani Network and LeT." When asked on Pakistan's role in Afghanistan, Faulkner said, "No country has more to gain than Pakistan from a peaceful Afghanistan. We continue to call on Pakistan to arrest, expel or bring the Taliban leadership to the negotiating table.". This development comes days after US President Donald Trump slammed Pakistan in an interview to FOX News for not doing enough on terror and providing safe haven to 9/11 mastermind Osama Bin Laden. US President has also lashed out at Pakistan on Twitter saying we paid "Pakistan Billions of Dollars & they never told us he was living there." In daring raid from across the border in Afghanistan, US special forces killed Osama Bin Laden inside his compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan on April 2, 2011. Pentagon also confirmed that it has suspended aid to Pakistan saying that last January "the Coalition Support Funds (CSF) security assistance the US provides to Pakistan was suspended" and this "suspension remains in place totalling approximately $1.66 billion in security assistance to Pakistan that has been frozen to date." During his interview to Fox earlier this week, Trump said that aid was cut since Pakistan doesn't "do a damn thing" for united states. The relationship between US and Pakistan are on the downward spiral due to Islamabad's inability to rein in on terror groups on its territory. Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has been saying that Washington has been trying to make Islamabad a scapegoat due to its failure in Afghanistan.

US asks Pakistan to act against Lashkar-e-Taiba ahead of 10th anniversary of 26/11

Breaking News: Pentagon Justifies freezing funds to Pakistan

Pakistan remains a critical partner to America's South Asia strategy, the Pentagon said on Monday, a day after President Donald Trump said that Islamabad was not doing "a damn thing" for the US.

In an interview to a television news channel on Sunday, Trump had defended his administration's decision to stop hundreds of millions of dollars in military aid to Pakistan for not doing enough to curb terrorism and criticised Islamabad for offering a hideout to Al Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden in the garrison city of Abbottabad.

"The US and Pakistan have a strong mutual interest in the region. As you know, they are critical (and) vital to the South Asia strategy and including the facilitation of a peace process that would lead to a stable and peaceful Afghanistan," Col Rob Manning, Director of Defense Press Operations, told reporters during an off-camera news conference.

"They remain a critical partner in our South Asia strategy and there's been no change to our military-to-military relationship with Pakistan,? Manning said, responding to question about the series of tweets by President Trump and his interview to Fox News that Pakistan has done nothing for the United States.

"I do not have any announcement on any change to the military to military relationship we have with Pakistan," Manning said, when asked that his answers reflects that the Pentagon differs with the views of President Trump on Pakistan.&nbsp;

Pakistan remains a critical partner to America's South Asia strategy, the Pentagon said on Monday, a day after President Donald Trump said that Islamabad was not doing "a damn thing" for the US.

Pakistan remains a critical partner to America's South Asia strategy, the Pentagon said on Monday, a day after President Donald Trump said that Islamabad was not doing "a damn thing" for the US. In an interview to a television news channel on Sunday, Trump had defended his administration's decision to stop hundreds of millions of dollars in military aid to Pakistan for not doing enough to curb terrorism and criticised Islamabad for offering a hideout to Al Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden in the garrison city of Abbottabad. "The US and Pakistan have a strong mutual interest in the region. As you know, they are critical (and) vital to the South Asia strategy and including the facilitation of a peace process that would lead to a stable and peaceful Afghanistan," Col Rob Manning, Director of Defense Press Operations, told reporters during an off-camera news conference. "They remain a critical partner in our South Asia strategy and there's been no change to our military-to-military relationship with Pakistan,? Manning said, responding to question about the series of tweets by President Trump and his interview to Fox News that Pakistan has done nothing for the United States. "I do not have any announcement on any change to the military to military relationship we have with Pakistan," Manning said, when asked that his answers reflects that the Pentagon differs with the views of President Trump on Pakistan.

Pakistan remains a critical partner to US' South Asia strategy: Pentagon

The Pentagon could send thousands more troops to the US-Mexico border, a US official said Monday, as President Donald Trump warned a caravan of Central American migrants that the military was waiting.

US officials last week said about 800 active-duty troops would be sent to provide assistance -- mainly in the form of logistical support -- to border guards working along the frontier.&nbsp;

But the Wall Street Journal reported Monday that 5,000 troops would deploy to the southern border.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, a US official said the 5,000 figure was right -- but cautioned that planning is still under way and said no final decisions have been made on numbers.

The Department of Homeland Security, the vast US agency in charge of border security, was scheduled to hold a news conference at 4:00 pm (2000 GMT).

Trump in recent weeks has repeatedly said more troops are needed to tighten security at the border and he has made political capital of the caravan in the weeks before important mid-term congressional elections that could see the Democrats regain a degree of power.&nbsp;

Trump took to Twitter on Monday to again blast the migrant caravan, which is comprised mainly of Hondurans and is making its way slowly northward, mostly on foot, through Mexico.

"Many Gang Members and some very bad people are mixed into the Caravan heading to our Southern Border," Trump wrote.

"Please go back, you will not be admitted into the United States unless you go through the legal process. This is an invasion of our Country and our Military is waiting for you!"

In April, Trump ordered up to 4,000 National Guardsmen to head to the border as a different migrant caravan wound its way north. About 2,100 have deployed.&nbsp;

The Pentagon could send thousands more troops to the US-Mexico border, a US official said Monday, as President Donald Trump warned a caravan of Central American migrants that the military was waiting.

The Pentagon could send thousands more troops to the US-Mexico border, a US official said Monday, as President Donald Trump warned a caravan of Central American migrants that the military was waiting. US officials last week said about 800 active-duty troops would be sent to provide assistance -- mainly in the form of logistical support -- to border guards working along the frontier. But the Wall Street Journal reported Monday that 5,000 troops would deploy to the southern border. Speaking on condition of anonymity, a US official said the 5,000 figure was right -- but cautioned that planning is still under way and said no final decisions have been made on numbers. The Department of Homeland Security, the vast US agency in charge of border security, was scheduled to hold a news conference at 4:00 pm (2000 GMT). Trump in recent weeks has repeatedly said more troops are needed to tighten security at the border and he has made political capital of the caravan in the weeks before important mid-term congressional elections that could see the Democrats regain a degree of power. Trump took to Twitter on Monday to again blast the migrant caravan, which is comprised mainly of Hondurans and is making its way slowly northward, mostly on foot, through Mexico. "Many Gang Members and some very bad people are mixed into the Caravan heading to our Southern Border," Trump wrote. "Please go back, you will not be admitted into the United States unless you go through the legal process. This is an invasion of our Country and our Military is waiting for you!" In April, Trump ordered up to 4,000 National Guardsmen to head to the border as a different migrant caravan wound its way north. About 2,100 have deployed.

Pentagon could send thousands more troops to US-Mexico border: Official

The Pentagon is expected to deploy "several hundred" troops to the US-Mexico border, a US official told AFP Thursday, after President Donald Trump said the military would be used to tackle a "national emergency" on the border.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, the official said the troops would be used mainly to provide logistical support including tents, vehicles and equipment.&nbsp;

Trump earlier tweeted that "Democrat inspired" laws make it difficult to stop people at the border. "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-bringing-out-the-military-to-protect-us-border-173423">I am bringing out the military for this National Emergency</a>," he said.

The Pentagon is expected to deploy "several hundred" troops to the US-Mexico border, a US official told AFP Thursday, after President Donald Trump said the military would be used to tackle a "national emergency" on the border.

The Pentagon is expected to deploy "several hundred" troops to the US-Mexico border, a US official told AFP Thursday, after President Donald Trump said the military would be used to tackle a "national emergency" on the border. Speaking on condition of anonymity, the official said the troops would be used mainly to provide logistical support including tents, vehicles and equipment. Trump earlier tweeted that "Democrat inspired" laws make it difficult to stop people at the border. "I am bringing out the military for this National Emergency," he said.

Pentagon to send 'several hundred' troops to US-Mexico border: US official

US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and his South Korean counterpart Jeong Kyeong-doo have cancelled the "Vigilant Ace" military exercise that was slated for December, a Pentagon spokeswoman said Friday.

The two officials agreed to suspend the drill to "give the diplomatic process" with Pyongyang "every opportunity to continue," spokeswoman Dana White said in a statement.

"Both ministers are committed to modifying training exercises to ensure the readiness of our forces," the statement read, saying the need for future exercises would continue to be evaluated.

The decision came as Mattis met with Jeong and South Japanese Minister of Defense Takeshi Iwaya on Friday at a security summit in Singapore.

White's statement said Iwaya was "consulted" on the matter. Mattis did not mention the decision when he spoke to reporters after his meetings with Jeong and Iwaya.

Following US President Trump's June meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, the United States said it would suspend "select" exercises with South Korea, including the large-scale Ulchi Freedom Guardian exercises scheduled for August.

Vigilant Ace is an air exercise aimed at improving coordination between the two armies that takes place every year in early December in South Korea.

Last year, 230 aircraft and some 12,000 US and South Korean troops participated.

In August Mattis had said the Pentagon would "see how the negotiations go, and then we will calculate the future, how we go forward."

US and South Korean forces have been training together for years, and routinely rehearse everything from beach landings to an invasion from the North, or even "decapitation" strikes targeting the North Korean regime.

Last month, the then-nominee to head US and UN forces in South Korea said the pause in drills had been a "prudent risk" to help facilitate a detente on the peninsula.

But there "was certainly a degradation in the readiness of the force, for the combined forces," General Robert Abrams told the Senate Armed Services Committee at his confirmation hearing. Abrams went on to say that the continued suspension of the drills risked a further erosion in "readiness and capability and interoperability of the combined forces," though he noted officials were working to minimize issues by running smaller scale staff exercises.

US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and his South Korean counterpart Jeong Kyeong-doo have cancelled the "Vigilant Ace" military exercise that was slated for December, a Pentagon spokeswoman said Friday.

US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and his South Korean counterpart Jeong Kyeong-doo have cancelled the "Vigilant Ace" military exercise that was slated for December, a Pentagon spokeswoman said Friday. The two officials agreed to suspend the drill to "give the diplomatic process" with Pyongyang "every opportunity to continue," spokeswoman Dana White said in a statement. "Both ministers are committed to modifying training exercises to ensure the readiness of our forces," the statement read, saying the need for future exercises would continue to be evaluated. The decision came as Mattis met with Jeong and South Japanese Minister of Defense Takeshi Iwaya on Friday at a security summit in Singapore. White's statement said Iwaya was "consulted" on the matter. Mattis did not mention the decision when he spoke to reporters after his meetings with Jeong and Iwaya. Following US President Trump's June meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, the United States said it would suspend "select" exercises with South Korea, including the large-scale Ulchi Freedom Guardian exercises scheduled for August. Vigilant Ace is an air exercise aimed at improving coordination between the two armies that takes place every year in early December in South Korea. Last year, 230 aircraft and some 12,000 US and South Korean troops participated. In August Mattis had said the Pentagon would "see how the negotiations go, and then we will calculate the future, how we go forward." US and South Korean forces have been training together for years, and routinely rehearse everything from beach landings to an invasion from the North, or even "decapitation" strikes targeting the North Korean regime. Last month, the then-nominee to head US and UN forces in South Korea said the pause in drills had been a "prudent risk" to help facilitate a detente on the peninsula. But there "was certainly a degradation in the readiness of the force, for the combined forces," General Robert Abrams told the Senate Armed Services Committee at his confirmation hearing. Abrams went on to say that the continued suspension of the drills risked a further erosion in "readiness and capability and interoperability of the combined forces," though he noted officials were working to minimize issues by running smaller scale staff exercises.

US, South Korea suspend additional military exercise: Pentagon

Google's India-born chief executive Sundar Pichai quietly paid a visit to the Pentagon to ease tensions that erupted after employee outrage prompted the tech giant to sever a controversial defence contract to analyse drone video, according to a media report.&nbsp;

Pichai met with a group of civilian and military leaders mostly from the office of the Under Secretary of Defence for Intelligence, the Defense Department directorate that oversees the artificial-intelligence drone system known as Project Maven, according to the people, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to speak freely about the meeting, The Washington Post reported.

Google had worked with the Defense Department to develop Project Maven, which uses AI to automatically tag cars, buildings and other objects in videos recorded by drones flying over conflict zones. But in June, the tech giant said it would not renew its contract following an uprising from employees, who criticized the work as helping the military track and kill with greater efficiency, the report said.

A Defense Department spokesperson said, "We do not comment on the details of private meetings. Department leaders routinely meet with industry partners to discuss innovative technologies. These meetings support continuing dialogue aimed at solving future technology challenges.

A spokeswoman for Google did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The secrecy surrounding Pichai's visit highlights one of the tech giant's most challenging binds: How to retain Silicon Valley workers angered by the moral implications of developing warfare technology while also staying in the running for Washington's lucrative military contracts, the paper said.

Google's change-of-heart over Project Maven, its first big AI partnership with the Pentagon, has become a key source of tension between the tech giant and military officials, who felt that Google should have done a better job communicating that the technology could help keep servicemembers out of harm's way, according to a source familiar with the work.

Google's decision to terminate its relationship with Project Maven also has drawn sharp rebukes from congressional lawmakers, particularly Republicans, who were the focus of Pichai's rare, two-day swing through Washington last week.

Google's India-born chief executive Sundar Pichai quietly paid a visit to the Pentagon to ease tensions that erupted after employee outrage prompted the tech giant to sever a controversial defence contract to analyse drone video, according to a media report.

Google's India-born chief executive Sundar Pichai quietly paid a visit to the Pentagon to ease tensions that erupted after employee outrage prompted the tech giant to sever a controversial defence contract to analyse drone video, according to a media report. Pichai met with a group of civilian and military leaders mostly from the office of the Under Secretary of Defence for Intelligence, the Defense Department directorate that oversees the artificial-intelligence drone system known as Project Maven, according to the people, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to speak freely about the meeting, The Washington Post reported. Google had worked with the Defense Department to develop Project Maven, which uses AI to automatically tag cars, buildings and other objects in videos recorded by drones flying over conflict zones. But in June, the tech giant said it would not renew its contract following an uprising from employees, who criticized the work as helping the military track and kill with greater efficiency, the report said. A Defense Department spokesperson said, "We do not comment on the details of private meetings. Department leaders routinely meet with industry partners to discuss innovative technologies. These meetings support continuing dialogue aimed at solving future technology challenges. A spokeswoman for Google did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The secrecy surrounding Pichai's visit highlights one of the tech giant's most challenging binds: How to retain Silicon Valley workers angered by the moral implications of developing warfare technology while also staying in the running for Washington's lucrative military contracts, the paper said. Google's change-of-heart over Project Maven, its first big AI partnership with the Pentagon, has become a key source of tension between the tech giant and military officials, who felt that Google should have done a better job communicating that the technology could help keep servicemembers out of harm's way, according to a source familiar with the work. Google's decision to terminate its relationship with Project Maven also has drawn sharp rebukes from congressional lawmakers, particularly Republicans, who were the focus of Pichai's rare, two-day swing through Washington last week.

Google CEO secretly met Pentagon leaders over AI project: Report

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