The United States is discussing the situation in Belarus with the European Union after last weekend's disputed election and subsequent crackdown on protesters, US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Saturday.

Speaking in Warsaw, his last stop on a tour of central Europe, Pompeo said Washington was tracking the situation in Belarus and the aim of the contacts with the EU was to "to support the Belarusian people to achieve their own sovereignty, their own freedom".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarus-leader-lukashenko-talks-to-russian-president-putin-discusses-protests-320797" hreflang="en">Belarus leader Lukashenko talks to Russian President Putin, discusses protests</a>

The US&nbsp;and Poland appealed for Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko to engage with civil society, as the strongman leader faces the biggest challenge to his rule since taking power in 1994.

Security forces have clashed with protesters in Minsk and other cities in recent days after President Alexander Lukashenko claimed a landslide re-election victory in a vote on Sunday that his opponents say was rigged.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pompeo-signs-deal-for-us-troops-move-from-germany-to-poland-320795" hreflang="en">Pompeo signs deal for US troops move from Germany to Poland</a>

The EU on Friday took the first step towards imposing new sanctions on Belarus, instructing its foreign policy arm to prepare a blacklist of responsible individuals.

Pompeo also commented on the failure to extend a U.N. arms embargo on Iran, calling it&nbsp;a ''serious mistake''.

The United States failed on Friday in its bid to extend a U.N. arms embargo on Iran after the move was opposed by Russia and China, while France, Britain, Germany and eight other members abstained.

The U.N. arms embargo on Iran is due to expire under a 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers, which provided for many international sanctions against Iran being lifted in exchange for curbs on Iran's nuclear programme. Washington withdrew from the deal in 2018.

The United States could now follow through on a threat to trigger a return of all U.N. sanctions on Iran using a provision in the nuclear deal, known as snapback. Diplomats have said the United States could do this as early as next week, but that it would face a tough, messy battle.

&nbsp;

The United States is discussing the situation in Belarus with the European Union after last weekend's disputed election and subsequent crackdown on protesters, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Saturday.

The United States is discussing the situation in Belarus with the European Union after last weekend's disputed election and subsequent crackdown on protesters, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Saturday. Speaking in Warsaw, his last stop on a tour of central Europe, Pompeo said Washington was tracking the situation in Belarus and the aim of the contacts with the EU was to "to support the Belarusian people to achieve their own sovereignty, their own freedom". Also read: Belarus leader Lukashenko talks to Russian President Putin, discusses protests The US and Poland appealed for Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko to engage with civil society, as the strongman leader faces the biggest challenge to his rule since taking power in 1994. Security forces have clashed with protesters in Minsk and other cities in recent days after President Alexander Lukashenko claimed a landslide re-election victory in a vote on Sunday that his opponents say was rigged. Also read: Pompeo signs deal for US troops move from Germany to Poland The EU on Friday took the first step towards imposing new sanctions on Belarus, instructing its foreign policy arm to prepare a blacklist of responsible individuals. Pompeo also commented on the failure to extend a U.N. arms embargo on Iran, calling it a ''serious mistake''. The United States failed on Friday in its bid to extend a U.N. arms embargo on Iran after the move was opposed by Russia and China, while France, Britain, Germany and eight other members abstained. The U.N. arms embargo on Iran is due to expire under a 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers, which provided for many international sanctions against Iran being lifted in exchange for curbs on Iran's nuclear programme. Washington withdrew from the deal in 2018. The United States could now follow through on a threat to trigger a return of all U.N. sanctions on Iran using a provision in the nuclear deal, known as snapback. Diplomats have said the United States could do this as early as next week, but that it would face a tough, messy battle.

Pompeo says US monitoring Belarus closely, urges Lukashenko to engage civil society

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has sealed a defence cooperation deal with Polish officials that will pave the way for the redeployment of American troops from Germany to Poland.

Pompeo and Polish Defence Minister Mariusz Blaszczak signed an Enhanced Defence Cooperation Agreement in Warsaw that sets out the legal framework for the additional troop presence.

The pact supplements an existing NATO Status of Forces Agreement and allows for the enhancement and modernisation of existing capabilities and facilities by granting US forces to access additional Polish military installations. It also sets out a formula for sharing the logistical and infrastructure costs of an expanded US presence in the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-send-troops-from-germany-to-poland-to-send-signal-to-russia-308394">Trump to send troops from Germany to Poland to send signal to Russia</a>

Some 4,500 US troops are currently based in Poland, but about 1,000 more are to be added, under a bilateral decision announced last year.

Last month, in line with President Donald Trump's demand to reduce troop numbers in Germany, the Pentagon announced that some 12,000 troops would be withdrawn from Germany with about 5,600 moving to other countries in Europe, including Poland.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-orders-9500-us-troops-to-depart-from-germany-303873">Donald Trump orders 9,500 US troops to depart from Germany</a>

In addition, several US military commands will be moved out of Germany, including the US Army V Corps overseas headquarters that will relocate to Poland next year.

Trump has long and loudly complained that Germany does not spend enough on defense and has repeatedly accused Germany of failing to pay NATO bills, which is a misstatement of the issue. NATO nations have pledged to dedicate 2 per cent&nbsp;of their gross domestic product.

In addition, several US military commands will be moved out of Germany, including the US Army V Corps overseas headquarters that will relocate to Poland next year.

Saturday's signing came just a day after the Trump administration suffered an embarrassing diplomatic loss at the United Nations when its proposal to indefinitely extend an arms embargo on Iran was soundly defeated in a UN Security Council vote that saw only one country side with the US Pompeo will visit that country, the Dominican Republic, on Sunday for the inauguration of its new president.

Pompeo has used his Europe trip to warn the region's young democracies about threats posed by Russia and China and has received a warm welcome.

In Poland, the reception was particularly kind given the friendship between Trump and conservative Polish President Andrzej Duda, who was sworn in for a second five-year term earlier this month after a hotly contested election.

Many of Duda's Law and Justice party's policies have put Poland at odds with the European Union, which is concerned that government efforts to reshape the judiciary and other actions have eroded the rule of law and democracy in the EU member country.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has sealed a defence cooperation deal with Polish officials that will pave the way for the redeployment of American troops from Germany to Poland.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has sealed a defence cooperation deal with Polish officials that will pave the way for the redeployment of American troops from Germany to Poland. Pompeo and Polish Defence Minister Mariusz Blaszczak signed an Enhanced Defence Cooperation Agreement in Warsaw that sets out the legal framework for the additional troop presence. The pact supplements an existing NATO Status of Forces Agreement and allows for the enhancement and modernisation of existing capabilities and facilities by granting US forces to access additional Polish military installations. It also sets out a formula for sharing the logistical and infrastructure costs of an expanded US presence in the country. Also read: Trump to send troops from Germany to Poland to send signal to Russia Some 4,500 US troops are currently based in Poland, but about 1,000 more are to be added, under a bilateral decision announced last year. Last month, in line with President Donald Trump's demand to reduce troop numbers in Germany, the Pentagon announced that some 12,000 troops would be withdrawn from Germany with about 5,600 moving to other countries in Europe, including Poland. Also read: Donald Trump orders 9,500 US troops to depart from Germany In addition, several US military commands will be moved out of Germany, including the US Army V Corps overseas headquarters that will relocate to Poland next year. Trump has long and loudly complained that Germany does not spend enough on defense and has repeatedly accused Germany of failing to pay NATO bills, which is a misstatement of the issue. NATO nations have pledged to dedicate 2 per cent of their gross domestic product. In addition, several US military commands will be moved out of Germany, including the US Army V Corps overseas headquarters that will relocate to Poland next year. Saturday's signing came just a day after the Trump administration suffered an embarrassing diplomatic loss at the United Nations when its proposal to indefinitely extend an arms embargo on Iran was soundly defeated in a UN Security Council vote that saw only one country side with the US Pompeo will visit that country, the Dominican Republic, on Sunday for the inauguration of its new president. Pompeo has used his Europe trip to warn the region's young democracies about threats posed by Russia and China and has received a warm welcome. In Poland, the reception was particularly kind given the friendship between Trump and conservative Polish President Andrzej Duda, who was sworn in for a second five-year term earlier this month after a hotly contested election. Many of Duda's Law and Justice party's policies have put Poland at odds with the European Union, which is concerned that government efforts to reshape the judiciary and other actions have eroded the rule of law and democracy in the EU member country.

Pompeo signs deal for US troops move from Germany to Poland

The US crackdown on Confucius Institutes demonises and stigmatises the normal functioning of the programme, China's foreign ministry said on Friday.

The institutes have been observing local laws, and China deplores the move, ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian told a news briefing.

The United States said on Thursday it was requiring the centre that manages the Chinese government-funded institutes in the US to register as a foreign mission.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, in a statement, labelled the Confucius Institute US Centre in Washington “an entity advancing Beijing’s global propaganda and malign influence campaign on US campuses and K-12 classrooms.”

Zhao Lijian added the institutes were open and transparent, adding that China reserved the right to take further action.

Pompeo said the goal of the move was to ensure American schools “can make informed choices about whether these CCP (Chinese Communist Party)-backed programs should be allowed to continue, and if so, in what fashion.”

Pompeo said the Trump administration had made it a priority to seek fair and reciprocal treatment from China and Beijing had enjoyed free and open access to US society while denying that same access to Americans and other foreigners in China.

Last year, the US State and Education Departments promised stricter monitoring of the institutes, which have been criticized in Congress and elsewhere as de facto propaganda arms of China’s Communist government.

In June, the State Department announced it would start treating four major Chinese media outlets as foreign embassies, calling them mouthpieces for Beijing.

US-China relations are at their lowest ebb in decades, with President Donald Trump taking a tough line on Beijing ahead of his November 3 re-election bid.

The world’s top two economies are at loggerheads on issues ranging from the handling of the coronavirus pandemic to China’s crackdown on freedoms in Hong Kong and what US officials say is rampant espionage activity to steal US business and military secrets.

According to the US non-profit organisation, the National Association of Scholars, there were 75 Confucius Institutes in the United States as of June, including 66 at colleges and universities.

The association contends that the institutes compromise academic freedom, defy Western norms of transparency, and are inappropriate on campuses. China rejects that criticism, calling it politicised and baseless.&nbsp;

The US crackdown on Confucius Institutes demonises and stigmatises the normal functioning of the programme, China's foreign ministry said on Friday. The institutes have been observing local laws, and China deplores the move, ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian told a news briefing.

The US crackdown on Confucius Institutes demonises and stigmatises the normal functioning of the programme, China's foreign ministry said on Friday. The institutes have been observing local laws, and China deplores the move, ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian told a news briefing. The United States said on Thursday it was requiring the centre that manages the Chinese government-funded institutes in the US to register as a foreign mission. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, in a statement, labelled the Confucius Institute US Centre in Washington “an entity advancing Beijing’s global propaganda and malign influence campaign on US campuses and K-12 classrooms.” Zhao Lijian added the institutes were open and transparent, adding that China reserved the right to take further action. Pompeo said the goal of the move was to ensure American schools “can make informed choices about whether these CCP (Chinese Communist Party)-backed programs should be allowed to continue, and if so, in what fashion.” Pompeo said the Trump administration had made it a priority to seek fair and reciprocal treatment from China and Beijing had enjoyed free and open access to US society while denying that same access to Americans and other foreigners in China. Last year, the US State and Education Departments promised stricter monitoring of the institutes, which have been criticized in Congress and elsewhere as de facto propaganda arms of China’s Communist government. In June, the State Department announced it would start treating four major Chinese media outlets as foreign embassies, calling them mouthpieces for Beijing. US-China relations are at their lowest ebb in decades, with President Donald Trump taking a tough line on Beijing ahead of his November 3 re-election bid. The world’s top two economies are at loggerheads on issues ranging from the handling of the coronavirus pandemic to China’s crackdown on freedoms in Hong Kong and what US officials say is rampant espionage activity to steal US business and military secrets. According to the US non-profit organisation, the National Association of Scholars, there were 75 Confucius Institutes in the United States as of June, including 66 at colleges and universities. The association contends that the institutes compromise academic freedom, defy Western norms of transparency, and are inappropriate on campuses. China rejects that criticism, calling it politicised and baseless.

US crackdown on Confucius Institutes demonises the programme, says China

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;on Wednesday said he warned his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov that there would be "an enormous price to pay" if Moscow is offering bounties to kill US&nbsp;soldiers or other Western troops in Afghanistan.

Pompeo’s warning is the first known rebuke from a senior American official to Russia over the bounties program, and it runs counter to President Trump’s insistence that the intelligence from US&nbsp;government agencies over the matter is a “hoax.”

The New York Times in June reported that a Russian military intelligence unit secretly offered bounties to Taliban-linked militants for killing coalition forces in Afghanistan, including American troops, citing US&nbsp;intelligence officials.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pompeo-warns-russia-against-bounties-on-us-soldiers-320174/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

President Donald Trump said he was not told about the information because many US&nbsp;intelligence officials doubted its veracity, although several US&nbsp;and European sources contradicted his comments.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Zakharova?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Zakharova</a> 💬In a 📞telephone conversation with <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecPompeo</a>, Russian FM Sergey Lavrov referred to allegations of “collusion between <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russian</a> special services and the Taliban” as malicious speculation, and asked <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Washington?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Washington</a> for evidence, but nothing was provided. <a href="https://t.co/cHTaEr7sDX">pic.twitter.com/cHTaEr7sDX</a>
— MFA Russia 🇷🇺 (@mfa_russia) <a href="https://twitter.com/mfa_russia/status/1293910144376430592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In an interview with Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty,&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;declined to say whether he believed the intelligence was credible or if he thought Trump should have been briefed, but said Washington would not put up with such behavior.

Also read-<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-not-briefed-because-russia-bounty-reports-uncorroborated-white-house-309949">Trump not briefed because Russia bounty reports uncorroborated: White House</a>

"If the Russians are offering money to kill Americans, or for that matter other Westerns as well, there will be an enormous price to pay. That's what I shared with foreign minister Lavrov,"&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;said in the interview, conducted during his official visit to the Czech Republic.

"I know our military has talked to their senior leaders as well. We won't brook that, we won't tolerate,"&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;said.

Last month, US and European sources familiar with intelligence reporting said that the United States had acquired fresh reporting backing up the allegations that Russia had encouraged Taliban-affiliated militants to kill US and allied soldiers in Afghanistan.

The intelligence reporting comes as the United States has been engaged in negotiating with the Taliban as well as the Afghan government to get a stalled peace agreement, struck in February for the withdrawal of U.S. troops, moving.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday said he warned his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov that there would be "an enormous price to pay" if Moscow is offering bounties to kill US soldiers or other Western troops in Afghanistan.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday said he warned his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov that there would be "an enormous price to pay" if Moscow is offering bounties to kill US soldiers or other Western troops in Afghanistan. Pompeo’s warning is the first known rebuke from a senior American official to Russia over the bounties program, and it runs counter to President Trump’s insistence that the intelligence from US government agencies over the matter is a “hoax.” The New York Times in June reported that a Russian military intelligence unit secretly offered bounties to Taliban-linked militants for killing coalition forces in Afghanistan, including American troops, citing US intelligence officials. President Donald Trump said he was not told about the information because many US intelligence officials doubted its veracity, although several US and European sources contradicted his comments. #Zakharova 💬In a 📞telephone conversation with @SecPompeo, Russian FM Sergey Lavrov referred to allegations of “collusion between #Russian special services and the Taliban” as malicious speculation, and asked #Washington for evidence, but nothing was provided. pic.twitter.com/cHTaEr7sDX — MFA Russia 🇷🇺 (@mfa_russia) August 13, 2020 × In an interview with Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Pompeo declined to say whether he believed the intelligence was credible or if he thought Trump should have been briefed, but said Washington would not put up with such behavior. Also read-Trump not briefed because Russia bounty reports uncorroborated: White House "If the Russians are offering money to kill Americans, or for that matter other Westerns as well, there will be an enormous price to pay. That's what I shared with foreign minister Lavrov," Pompeo said in the interview, conducted during his official visit to the Czech Republic. "I know our military has talked to their senior leaders as well. We won't brook that, we won't tolerate," Pompeo said. Last month, US and European sources familiar with intelligence reporting said that the United States had acquired fresh reporting backing up the allegations that Russia had encouraged Taliban-affiliated militants to kill US and allied soldiers in Afghanistan. The intelligence reporting comes as the United States has been engaged in negotiating with the Taliban as well as the Afghan government to get a stalled peace agreement, struck in February for the withdrawal of U.S. troops, moving.

If Russians offer money to kill Americans, there will be enormous price to pay: Pompeo

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is in the Czech Republic and he has lashed out at China's Communist Party as well as the TikTok's platforms misuse. Watch report.

Pompeo in Czech Republic: Raises concern over Chinese tech, Slams Communist Party

Belarusians should be given "the freedoms that they are demanding", US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday, urging authorities in the former Soviet republic not to harm protesters.

"We want the people of Belarus to have the freedoms that they are demanding... We urge that the non-violent protesters be protected, not harmed," Pompeo told reporters during a visit to Prague.

He was speaking alongside Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis, who called the events in Belarus "shocking" after a third night of protests following a disputed election in which President Alexander Lukashenko won a sixth term.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/water-cannons-tear-gas-stun-grenades-protesters-clash-with-belarus-police-after-election-results-319520">Water cannons, tear gas, stun grenades: Protesters clash with Belarus police after election results</a>

He was visiting Prague as part of a European tour that will also take him to Austria, Slovenia and Poland.

The agenda for the trip includes countering Chinese company Huawei's role in 5G network construction, as well as energy security and US troop deployments in the region.

Police in&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;detained around 3,000 people at protests that erupted on Sunday following the presidential election, the&nbsp;Belarusian Interior Ministry said on Monday.

President Alexander Lukashenko won a landslide re-election victory, the central election commission said earlier, after bloody clashes between riot police and thousands of protesters who said the poll was rigged.

Belarusian opposition politician Svetlana Tikhanouskaya fled&nbsp;to Lithuania from&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;amid the protests to protect herself and her family, Lithuania's Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius said.

Belarusians should be given "the freedoms that they are demanding", US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday, urging authorities in the former Soviet republic not to harm protesters.

Belarusians should be given "the freedoms that they are demanding", US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday, urging authorities in the former Soviet republic not to harm protesters. "We want the people of Belarus to have the freedoms that they are demanding... We urge that the non-violent protesters be protected, not harmed," Pompeo told reporters during a visit to Prague. He was speaking alongside Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis, who called the events in Belarus "shocking" after a third night of protests following a disputed election in which President Alexander Lukashenko won a sixth term. Also see: Water cannons, tear gas, stun grenades: Protesters clash with Belarus police after election results He was visiting Prague as part of a European tour that will also take him to Austria, Slovenia and Poland. The agenda for the trip includes countering Chinese company Huawei's role in 5G network construction, as well as energy security and US troop deployments in the region. Police in Belarus detained around 3,000 people at protests that erupted on Sunday following the presidential election, the Belarusian Interior Ministry said on Monday. President Alexander Lukashenko won a landslide re-election victory, the central election commission said earlier, after bloody clashes between riot police and thousands of protesters who said the poll was rigged. Belarusian opposition politician Svetlana Tikhanouskaya fled to Lithuania from Belarus amid the protests to protect herself and her family, Lithuania's Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius said.

Belarusians should have the 'freedoms that they are demanding': Pompeo

China targetted US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo over comments on Chinese tech giants and the Communist Party of China. Chinese state councilor Wang Yi rejected what he described as 'American interventionism' in China. Watch report.

China: US waging a diplomatic war, Chinese apps significant threat to US data

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Thursday gave his clearest indication yet that the United States would seek to force UN sanctions on Iran if an arms embargo lapses.

Russia and China, two of the Permanent Five nations that enjoy veto power on the Security Council, want the UN embargo on selling conventional weapons to Iran to end on October 18 as laid out under a 2015 resolution.

Pompeo told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that the United States would introduce a resolution to extend the embargo "in the near future" which "we hope will be met with approval from other members of the P5."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iran-missiles-land-near-uae-airbase-where-indian-rafale-jets-are-on-overnight-halt-reports-316627">Also read|&nbsp;Iran missiles land near UAE airbase where Indian Rafale jets are on overnight halt: Reports</a>

"In the event it's not, we're going to take the action necessary to ensure that this arms embargo does not expire," he said.

The United States has previously said it has the authority to "snap back" UN economic sanctions that were lifted as part of a nuclear deal with Iran.

"We have the capacity to execute snapback and we're going to use it in a way that protects and defends America," Pompeo told the committee.

The 2015 resolution had blessed a denuclearization deal with Iran negotiated by former president Barack Obama from which President Donald Trump pulled out in 2018.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-as-diplomacy-fails-friends-of-jailed-scholar-in-iran-begin-public-campaign-317020">Also read|&nbsp;Australia: As diplomacy 'fails', friends of jailed scholar in Iran begin public campaign&nbsp;</a>

Trump has since repeatedly denounced the accord, but Pompeo argues that the United States remains a "participant" in the accord -- with the right to snap back UN sanctions for violations -- as it was listed in the 2015 resolution.

Even US allies are skeptical about the legal argument and warn that such a move could damage the Security Council as an institution.

France and Britain, the other nations in the P5, support extending the arms embargo but say the greater priority is maintaining a diplomatic solution to stop Iran's nuclear program.

The embargo issue could come to a head days before the US presidential election. Trump's rival Joe Biden backs the Iran agreement.

After leaving the accord, Trump unilaterally imposed US sanctions aimed at strangling Iran's economy and reducing its regional influence.

The Trump administration has demanded that all nations stop buying Iran's oil, its biggest export.

Pompeo on Thursday announced a further expansion of sanctions enforcement, saying the United States would punish anyone who transfers 22 specific metals including forms of aluminium and steel that could be used in Iran's weapons programs.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Thursday gave his clearest indication yet that the United States would seek to force UN sanctions on Iran if an arms embargo lapses.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Thursday gave his clearest indication yet that the United States would seek to force UN sanctions on Iran if an arms embargo lapses. Russia and China, two of the Permanent Five nations that enjoy veto power on the Security Council, want the UN embargo on selling conventional weapons to Iran to end on October 18 as laid out under a 2015 resolution. Pompeo told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that the United States would introduce a resolution to extend the embargo "in the near future" which "we hope will be met with approval from other members of the P5." Also read| Iran missiles land near UAE airbase where Indian Rafale jets are on overnight halt: Reports "In the event it's not, we're going to take the action necessary to ensure that this arms embargo does not expire," he said. The United States has previously said it has the authority to "snap back" UN economic sanctions that were lifted as part of a nuclear deal with Iran. "We have the capacity to execute snapback and we're going to use it in a way that protects and defends America," Pompeo told the committee. The 2015 resolution had blessed a denuclearization deal with Iran negotiated by former president Barack Obama from which President Donald Trump pulled out in 2018. Also read| Australia: As diplomacy 'fails', friends of jailed scholar in Iran begin public campaign Trump has since repeatedly denounced the accord, but Pompeo argues that the United States remains a "participant" in the accord -- with the right to snap back UN sanctions for violations -- as it was listed in the 2015 resolution. Even US allies are skeptical about the legal argument and warn that such a move could damage the Security Council as an institution. France and Britain, the other nations in the P5, support extending the arms embargo but say the greater priority is maintaining a diplomatic solution to stop Iran's nuclear program. The embargo issue could come to a head days before the US presidential election. Trump's rival Joe Biden backs the Iran agreement. After leaving the accord, Trump unilaterally imposed US sanctions aimed at strangling Iran's economy and reducing its regional influence. The Trump administration has demanded that all nations stop buying Iran's oil, its biggest export. Pompeo on Thursday announced a further expansion of sanctions enforcement, saying the United States would punish anyone who transfers 22 specific metals including forms of aluminium and steel that could be used in Iran's weapons programs.

Pompeo warns of UN sanctions if Iran arms ban ends

China's recent aggression in India's eastern Ladakh and claims for the real estate in Bhutan are indicative of its intentions, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has said, asserting that Beijing under President Xi Jinping is testing the world to see if anyone is going to stand up to its threats and bullying.

Indian and Chinese troops have been locked in a bitter standoff in several areas along the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh since May 5. The situation deteriorated last month following the Galwan Valley clashes in which 20 Indian Army personnel were killed.

China recently staked claim over the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary in Bhutan at the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Council and opposed funding to the project.

Pompeo, during a Congressional hearing on Thursday, told the members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee that "the actions are entirely consistent with what they have been signalling to the world for decades you might even argue since 1989, but certainly since General Secretary Xi came to power".

The Secretary of State said China has the desire to expand its power and reach.

"They talk about bringing socialism with Chinese characteristics to the world. Claims that they have now made for real estate in Bhutan, the incursion that took place in India, these are indicative of Chinese intentions, and they are testing, they are probing the world to see if we are going to stand up to their threats and their bullying," Pompeo said.

"I am more confident than I was even a year ago that the world is prepared to do that. There's a lot more work to do, and we need to be serious about it," said the top American diplomat.

In his testimony, Pompeo told lawmakers that India has banned 106 Chinese applications that threatened its citizens' privacy and security.

"Our diplomatic efforts are working and momentum is building to mitigate the threats that the Chinese Communist Party presents. All 10 ASEAN nations have insisted that the South China Sea disputes be settled on the basis of international law, including UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea). Japan led the G-7's condemnation of China's national security law targeting Hong Kong," he said.

The European Union condemned the law too and also declared China a systemic rival to us, he said.

At the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation, Secretary General Stoltenberg has called to make China a greater part of that alliance's focus.

"We led a multilateral effort to ensure that the United Nations World Intellectual Property Organisation elected a director from a country that cared about intellectual property.

"Our QUAD (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) -- the US, Australia, India, and Japan -- has been reinvigorated. We've worked hard at this. Our diplomats have done wonderful work. I'm very proud of the progress we are making. In addition to these multilateral efforts, Department of Justice is cracking down on Chinese intellectual property threats," he said.

The US has sanctioned Chinese leaders for their treatment of Uyghur minorities in Xinjiang province, imposed export controls on companies that supported, and warned US businesses against using slave labour in their supply chains, he said.

The US has terminated special treatment agreements with Hong Kong in response to the Communist Party of China's actions to deny freedom to the people of Hong Kong, he said.

"We closed our consulate in Houston because it was a den of spies," Pompeo added.

China's recent aggression in India's eastern Ladakh and claims for the real estate in Bhutan are indicative of its intentions, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has said, asserting that Beijing under President Xi Jinping is testing the world to see if anyone is going to stand up to its threats and bullying.

China's recent aggression in India's eastern Ladakh and claims for the real estate in Bhutan are indicative of its intentions, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has said, asserting that Beijing under President Xi Jinping is testing the world to see if anyone is going to stand up to its threats and bullying. Indian and Chinese troops have been locked in a bitter standoff in several areas along the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh since May 5. The situation deteriorated last month following the Galwan Valley clashes in which 20 Indian Army personnel were killed. China recently staked claim over the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary in Bhutan at the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Council and opposed funding to the project. Pompeo, during a Congressional hearing on Thursday, told the members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee that "the actions are entirely consistent with what they have been signalling to the world for decades you might even argue since 1989, but certainly since General Secretary Xi came to power". The Secretary of State said China has the desire to expand its power and reach. "They talk about bringing socialism with Chinese characteristics to the world. Claims that they have now made for real estate in Bhutan, the incursion that took place in India, these are indicative of Chinese intentions, and they are testing, they are probing the world to see if we are going to stand up to their threats and their bullying," Pompeo said. "I am more confident than I was even a year ago that the world is prepared to do that. There's a lot more work to do, and we need to be serious about it," said the top American diplomat. In his testimony, Pompeo told lawmakers that India has banned 106 Chinese applications that threatened its citizens' privacy and security. "Our diplomatic efforts are working and momentum is building to mitigate the threats that the Chinese Communist Party presents. All 10 ASEAN nations have insisted that the South China Sea disputes be settled on the basis of international law, including UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea). Japan led the G-7's condemnation of China's national security law targeting Hong Kong," he said. The European Union condemned the law too and also declared China a systemic rival to us, he said. At the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation, Secretary General Stoltenberg has called to make China a greater part of that alliance's focus. "We led a multilateral effort to ensure that the United Nations World Intellectual Property Organisation elected a director from a country that cared about intellectual property. "Our QUAD (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) -- the US, Australia, India, and Japan -- has been reinvigorated. We've worked hard at this. Our diplomats have done wonderful work. I'm very proud of the progress we are making. In addition to these multilateral efforts, Department of Justice is cracking down on Chinese intellectual property threats," he said. The US has sanctioned Chinese leaders for their treatment of Uyghur minorities in Xinjiang province, imposed export controls on companies that supported, and warned US businesses against using slave labour in their supply chains, he said. The US has terminated special treatment agreements with Hong Kong in response to the Communist Party of China's actions to deny freedom to the people of Hong Kong, he said. "We closed our consulate in Houston because it was a den of spies," Pompeo added.

China's aggression in Ladakh, claims for real estate in Bhutan indicative of its intentions: Pompeo

The World Health Organization(WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Thursday rejected as false an allegation from US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that he owed his position to a deal with China.

"The comments are untrue and unacceptable and without any foundation," Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a virtual press conference, warning against the "politicisation of the pandemic."

Tedros appealed to all countries to work together in the fight against the virus, which has claimed more than 627,000 lives worldwide since it first emerged in China late last year.

"COVID-19 does not respect borders, ideologies or political parties," he said, warning that "politics and partisanship have made things worse. Coronavirus&nbsp;politics should be quarantined."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dead-britons-pompeo-slams-world-health-organization-says-chief-tedros-bought-by-china-315441">'Dead Britons': Pompeo slams WHO; says chief Tedros 'bought' by China</a>

Pompeo told a private meeting of MPs on Tuesday that the WHO had become a "political" body, alleging that its decisions were influenced by a deal struck between Tedros and China that helped him become its head.He also said that WHO's actions during the coronavirus pandemic led to "dead Britons".

Pompeo was in Britain for meetings with Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab focused on China, and met some Conservative party MPs during a private morning event.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-vs-china-america-makes-3-big-moves-against-the-dragon-315248/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The US announced earlier this month that it would be withdrawing from the WHO, accusing it of being controlled by China.

US President Donald Trump had warned Tuesday that the coronavirus crisis in the US is likely to "get worse before it gets better".

"Some areas of our country are doing very well," Trump said at his first formal White House virus briefing since the end of April.

Trump urged Americans to wear facemasks to help prevent the spread of the highly contagious virus which has left more than 141,000 people dead in the US.

The World Health Organization(WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Thursday rejected as false an allegation from US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that he owed his position to a deal with China.

The World Health Organization(WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Thursday rejected as false an allegation from US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that he owed his position to a deal with China. "The comments are untrue and unacceptable and without any foundation," Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a virtual press conference, warning against the "politicisation of the pandemic." Tedros appealed to all countries to work together in the fight against the virus, which has claimed more than 627,000 lives worldwide since it first emerged in China late last year. "COVID-19 does not respect borders, ideologies or political parties," he said, warning that "politics and partisanship have made things worse. Coronavirus politics should be quarantined." Also read: 'Dead Britons': Pompeo slams WHO; says chief Tedros 'bought' by China Pompeo told a private meeting of MPs on Tuesday that the WHO had become a "political" body, alleging that its decisions were influenced by a deal struck between Tedros and China that helped him become its head.He also said that WHO's actions during the coronavirus pandemic led to "dead Britons". Pompeo was in Britain for meetings with Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab focused on China, and met some Conservative party MPs during a private morning event. The US announced earlier this month that it would be withdrawing from the WHO, accusing it of being controlled by China. US President Donald Trump had warned Tuesday that the coronavirus crisis in the US is likely to "get worse before it gets better". "Some areas of our country are doing very well," Trump said at his first formal White House virus briefing since the end of April. Trump urged Americans to wear facemasks to help prevent the spread of the highly contagious virus which has left more than 141,000 people dead in the US.

Coronavirus politics should be quarantined, says WHO chief Tedros over Pompeo's remark

US Secretary of State Mike&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;told lawmakers during a trip to London that&nbsp;World Health Organization's(WHO) director&nbsp;Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has been "bought" by China.

Pompeo&nbsp;told a private meeting of MPs that the WHO had become a "political" body, alleging that its decisions were influenced by a deal struck between chief Tedros and China that helped him become its head. He reportedly added that body's actions during the coronavirus pandemic led to "dead Britons".

When push came to shove, when it really mattered most", people died "because of the deal that was made", he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-harbouring-military-linked-fugitive-scientist-at-san-francisco-consulate-says-fbi-315374" hreflang="en">China harbouring fugitive scientist at San Francisco consulate, says FBI</a>

Pompeo&nbsp;was in Britain for meetings with Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab focused on China, and met some Conservative party MPs during a private morning event.

The WHO said it rejected "ad hominem attacks and unfounded allegations". "WHO urges countries to remain focused on tackling the pandemic that is causing tragic loss of life and suffering," a spokesperson for the organisation said.

The US announced earlier this month that it would be withdrawing from the WHO, accusing it of being controlled by China.

US President Donald Trump warned Tuesday that the coronavirus crisis in the US is likely to "get worse before it gets better".

"Some areas of our country are doing very well," Trump said at his first formal White House virus briefing since the end of April.

Trump urged Americans to wear facemasks to help prevent the spread of the highly contagious virus which has left more than 141,000 people dead in the US.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told lawmakers during a trip to London that World Health Organization's(WHO) director Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has been "bought" by China.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told lawmakers during a trip to London that World Health Organization's(WHO) director Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has been "bought" by China. Pompeo told a private meeting of MPs that the WHO had become a "political" body, alleging that its decisions were influenced by a deal struck between chief Tedros and China that helped him become its head. He reportedly added that body's actions during the coronavirus pandemic led to "dead Britons". When push came to shove, when it really mattered most", people died "because of the deal that was made", he said. Also read: China harbouring fugitive scientist at San Francisco consulate, says FBI Pompeo was in Britain for meetings with Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab focused on China, and met some Conservative party MPs during a private morning event. The WHO said it rejected "ad hominem attacks and unfounded allegations". "WHO urges countries to remain focused on tackling the pandemic that is causing tragic loss of life and suffering," a spokesperson for the organisation said. The US announced earlier this month that it would be withdrawing from the WHO, accusing it of being controlled by China. US President Donald Trump warned Tuesday that the coronavirus crisis in the US is likely to "get worse before it gets better". "Some areas of our country are doing very well," Trump said at his first formal White House virus briefing since the end of April. Trump urged Americans to wear facemasks to help prevent the spread of the highly contagious virus which has left more than 141,000 people dead in the US.

'Dead Britons': Pompeo slams World Health Organization; says chief Tedros 'bought' by China

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will be embarking on a diplomatic and mission to Europe on July 20. He will be visiting the two countries with a Pan European Coalition against China. Watch report.

Mike Pompeo to embark on key Europe mission: Heads to Europe and Denmark

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has downplayed the possibility of another summit between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un before the US presidential election. He said Trump would only want to engage if there were real prospects of progress.

Pompeo's comments come in the aftermath of repeated statements by North Korean leadership insisting it would no longer have high-profile meetings with Trump.

"The North Koreans have given mixed signals, but the truth is President Donald Trump only wants to engage in a summit if we believe there's a sufficient likelihood that we can make real progress in achieving the outcomes that were set forth in Singapore," Mike Pompeo said during the event hosted by The Hill, referring to the first Trump-Kim summit in June 2018.

"You need to have a willing partner, and the North Koreans have chosen at this point in time not to engage in a way that can lead to a potential solution. We hope they'll change their mind," he said.

Kim and US President Donald Trump first met in Singapore two years ago but talks over Pyongyang's nuclear arsenal have been stalled since their Hanoi summit collapsed in early 2019.

In February 2019, the Americans rejected North Korean demands for major sanctions relief in exchange for a partial surrender of its nuclear capability.

Trump said earlier this month he would "certainly" meet with Kim again if he thought it was going to be helpful.

Analysts believe North Korea will avoid serious talks with the Americans for now before attempting an eventual return to negotiations after the US election in November.&nbsp;

The powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has said there was "no need" for another summit with the United States unless Washington offered a "decisive change" in approach.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-uns-sister-says-no-need-for-another-us-n-korea-summit-312159">Also read | Kim Jong-un's sister says 'no need' for another US-N Korea summit</a>

Kim Yo Jong -- who has emerged as one of her brother's closest advisors -- said, "There is no need for us to sit across with the US right now."

Kim Jong-un declared in December an end to moratoriums on nuclear and ballistic missile tests, and Pyongyang has repeatedly said it has no intention to continue talks unless Washington drops what it describes as "hostile" policies towards the North.

Washington stations 28,500 troops in the South to defend it against its neighbour, and has a range of military assets in Japan and the wider Pacific region. 
&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has downplayed the possibility of another summit between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un before the US presidential election.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has downplayed the possibility of another summit between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un before the US presidential election. He said Trump would only want to engage if there were real prospects of progress. Pompeo's comments come in the aftermath of repeated statements by North Korean leadership insisting it would no longer have high-profile meetings with Trump. "The North Koreans have given mixed signals, but the truth is President Donald Trump only wants to engage in a summit if we believe there's a sufficient likelihood that we can make real progress in achieving the outcomes that were set forth in Singapore," Mike Pompeo said during the event hosted by The Hill, referring to the first Trump-Kim summit in June 2018. "You need to have a willing partner, and the North Koreans have chosen at this point in time not to engage in a way that can lead to a potential solution. We hope they'll change their mind," he said. Kim and US President Donald Trump first met in Singapore two years ago but talks over Pyongyang's nuclear arsenal have been stalled since their Hanoi summit collapsed in early 2019. In February 2019, the Americans rejected North Korean demands for major sanctions relief in exchange for a partial surrender of its nuclear capability. Trump said earlier this month he would "certainly" meet with Kim again if he thought it was going to be helpful. Analysts believe North Korea will avoid serious talks with the Americans for now before attempting an eventual return to negotiations after the US election in November. The powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has said there was "no need" for another summit with the United States unless Washington offered a "decisive change" in approach. Also read | Kim Jong-un's sister says 'no need' for another US-N Korea summit Kim Yo Jong -- who has emerged as one of her brother's closest advisors -- said, "There is no need for us to sit across with the US right now." Kim Jong-un declared in December an end to moratoriums on nuclear and ballistic missile tests, and Pyongyang has repeatedly said it has no intention to continue talks unless Washington drops what it describes as "hostile" policies towards the North. Washington stations 28,500 troops in the South to defend it against its neighbour, and has a range of military assets in Japan and the wider Pacific region.

US Secy of State Pompeo downplays possibility of summit with North Korea

The United States said Tuesday it was restricting visas to Chinese officials over Tibet, renewing a call for "meaningful autonomy" in the predominantly Buddhist region.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-aims-to-become-worlds-only-superpower-says-fbi-director-311476">Also read: China aims to become world's 'only superpower', says FBI director</a> 
 
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said he was taking action against an unspecified number of officials under a new US law that presses China to let Americans visit Tibet.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heres-how-chinas-spy-racket-is-bigger-than-the-cold-war-308878">Also read: Here's how China's spy racket is bigger than the cold war!</a>

"Unfortunately, Beijing has continued systematically to obstruct travel to the Tibetan Autonomous Region and other Tibetan areas by US diplomats and other officials, journalists and tourists, while PRC officials and other citizens enjoy far greater access to the United States," Pompeo said in a statement.

He said he was restricting visas to Chinese officials determined to be "substantially involved" in the exclusion of foreigners from Tibetan areas.

He did not name the officials and the State Department did not immediately comment on how many people would be affected.

The United States has increasingly been issuing such visa sanctions, including over China's recent clampdown on rights in Hong Kong and its ongoing incarceration of some one million Uighurs and other Turkic Muslims.

The Tibet action comes after a 2018 law passed by Congress that aims to pressure China over its tight restrictions in the region.

Beijing has largely barred foreign journalists from visiting Tibet since 2008, when the region saw a wave of self-immolations as protests to conditions and has not responded to US requests to set up a consulate in Lhasa.

By contrast, the law notes that Chinese nationals face no restrictions on visiting any part of the United States.&nbsp;

The United States said Tuesday it was restricting visas to Chinese officials over Tibet, renewing a call for "meaningful autonomy" in the predominantly Buddhist region.

The United States said Tuesday it was restricting visas to Chinese officials over Tibet, renewing a call for "meaningful autonomy" in the predominantly Buddhist region. Also read: China aims to become world's 'only superpower', says FBI director Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said he was taking action against an unspecified number of officials under a new US law that presses China to let Americans visit Tibet. Also read: Here's how China's spy racket is bigger than the cold war! "Unfortunately, Beijing has continued systematically to obstruct travel to the Tibetan Autonomous Region and other Tibetan areas by US diplomats and other officials, journalists and tourists, while PRC officials and other citizens enjoy far greater access to the United States," Pompeo said in a statement. He said he was restricting visas to Chinese officials determined to be "substantially involved" in the exclusion of foreigners from Tibetan areas. He did not name the officials and the State Department did not immediately comment on how many people would be affected. The United States has increasingly been issuing such visa sanctions, including over China's recent clampdown on rights in Hong Kong and its ongoing incarceration of some one million Uighurs and other Turkic Muslims. The Tibet action comes after a 2018 law passed by Congress that aims to pressure China over its tight restrictions in the region. Beijing has largely barred foreign journalists from visiting Tibet since 2008, when the region saw a wave of self-immolations as protests to conditions and has not responded to US requests to set up a consulate in Lhasa. By contrast, the law notes that Chinese nationals face no restrictions on visiting any part of the United States.

US will restrict visas for Chinese officials over Tibet, Pompeo says

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said late on Monday that the United States is "certainly looking at" banning Chinese social media apps, including TikTok.

"I don't want to get out in front of the President (Donald Trump), but it's something we're looking at," Pompeo said in an interview with Fox News.&nbsp;

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said late on Monday that the United States is "certainly looking at" banning Chinese social media apps, including TikTok. "I don't want to get out in front of the President (Donald Trump), but it's something we're looking at," Pompeo said in an interview with Fox News.

US looking at banning Chinese social media apps, including TikTok: Pompeo

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on June 1 praised India's complete ban on Chinese apps. He said "We welcome India's ban on certain mobile apps" from China." Watch report.

Fineprint: Mike Pompeo lauds India's Chinese apps ban, India bans 59 Chinese apps

After China's aggression along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with India, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo on Thursday said America will ensure that its forces are positioned appropriately to counter Chinese Army, citing the threat from PLA to India and other South Asian countries.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/new-satellite-images-show-chinese-military-build-up-and-activity-along-galwan-valley-308225" hreflang="en">New satellite images show Chinese military build-up and activity along Galwan valley</a>

He said that "I spoke this month with EU Foreign Ministers, I got a lot of feedback on China's Communist Party, laid out a series of facts that talked about People's Liberation Army's provocative military actions, including its continued aggression in the South China Sea, deadly border confrontations with India and threats against peaceful neighbours."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-talks-with-india-china-once-again-claims-sovereignty-over-galwan-valley-308192" hreflang="en">Amid talks with India, China again claims 'sovereignty over Galwan Valley'</a>

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo gave this statement during the talks with European Union foreign ministers over Chinese aggression along LAC and South China Sea.

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There'll be fewer US resources at certain places, they'll be at other places as there's threat from Chinese Communist Party to India, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, South China Sea. We'll make sure we are postured appropriately to counter People's Liberation Army: US Secy of State <a href="https://t.co/2R0fdpu6Su">pic.twitter.com/2R0fdpu6Su</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1276212772976553984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The actions of the Chinese Communist Party meant there were “threats to India” and countries such as Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines and the South China Sea. The US military is “postured appropriately” to meet these “challenges of our time”, he said.

Meanwhile, India on Thursday alleged that China had flouted a 1993 agreement by amassing a large number of soldiers along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between the two nations since early May.

Several areas along the LAC in Ladakh and North Sikkim have witnessed major military build-up by both the Indian and Chinese armies recently, in a clear signal of escalating tension and hardening of respective positions by the two sides even two weeks after they were engaged in two separate face-offs.

(With inputs from agencies)

After China's aggression along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with India, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo on Thursday said America will ensure that its forces are positioned appropriately to counter Chinese Army, citing the threat from PLA to India and other South Asian countries.

After China's aggression along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with India, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo on Thursday said America will ensure that its forces are positioned appropriately to counter Chinese Army, citing the threat from PLA to India and other South Asian countries. Also read: New satellite images show Chinese military build-up and activity along Galwan valley He said that "I spoke this month with EU Foreign Ministers, I got a lot of feedback on China's Communist Party, laid out a series of facts that talked about People's Liberation Army's provocative military actions, including its continued aggression in the South China Sea, deadly border confrontations with India and threats against peaceful neighbours." Also read: Amid talks with India, China again claims 'sovereignty over Galwan Valley' US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo gave this statement during the talks with European Union foreign ministers over Chinese aggression along LAC and South China Sea. There'll be fewer US resources at certain places, they'll be at other places as there's threat from Chinese Communist Party to India, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, South China Sea. We'll make sure we are postured appropriately to counter People's Liberation Army: US Secy of State pic.twitter.com/2R0fdpu6Su — ANI (@ANI) June 25, 2020 × The actions of the Chinese Communist Party meant there were “threats to India” and countries such as Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines and the South China Sea. The US military is “postured appropriately” to meet these “challenges of our time”, he said. Meanwhile, India on Thursday alleged that China had flouted a 1993 agreement by amassing a large number of soldiers along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between the two nations since early May. Several areas along the LAC in Ladakh and North Sikkim have witnessed major military build-up by both the Indian and Chinese armies recently, in a clear signal of escalating tension and hardening of respective positions by the two sides even two weeks after they were engaged in two separate face-offs. (With inputs from agencies)

US plans to shift army to face Chinese threat to India and Southeast Asia: Mike Pompeo

As&nbsp;United Nations Human Rights Council condemned the killing of George Floyd in the US and raised concerns regarding the police brutality and ill treatment against the African American community in the country,&nbsp;US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has on Saturday&nbsp;accused the organisation&nbsp;of hypocrisy.

"The United Nations Human Rights Council, now comprised of Venezuela and recently, Cuba and China, has long been and remains a haven for dictators and democracies that indulge them," Pompeo said in a statement. "It is a grave disappointment to those genuinely seeking to advance human dignity."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/black-lives-matter-protests-statues-toppled-across-united-states-307317">Also watch|&nbsp;Black Lives Matter protests: Statues toppled across United States</a>

Pompeo feels that the&nbsp;47-member-state forum's unanimous resolution on Friday goes on to show that the organisation does not recognize the democracy of the US.&nbsp;

He also accused the council of not holding the same ideas of transparency and accountability in their own actions and decisions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-treatment-of-hong-kong-depends-on-how-beijing-treats-it-says-pompeo-307214">Also read|&nbsp;US treatment of Hong Kong depends on how Beijing treats it, says Pompeo</a>

"If the Council were serious about protecting human rights, there are plenty of legitimate needs for its attention, such as the systemic racial disparities in places like Cuba, China, and Iran," he said.

"If the Council were honest, it would recognize the strengths of American democracy and urge authoritarian regimes around the world to model American democracy and to hold their nations to the same high standards of accountability and transparency that we Americans apply to ourselves."

The resolution by the council was brought in after George Floyd's brother, Philonise Floyd, urged the Council to investigate the US police brutality and racial discrimination.

As United Nations Human Rights Council condemned the killing of George Floyd in the US and raised concerns regarding the police brutality and ill treatment against the African American community in the country, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has on Saturday accused the organisation of hypocrisy.

As United Nations Human Rights Council condemned the killing of George Floyd in the US and raised concerns regarding the police brutality and ill treatment against the African American community in the country, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has on Saturday accused the organisation of hypocrisy. "The United Nations Human Rights Council, now comprised of Venezuela and recently, Cuba and China, has long been and remains a haven for dictators and democracies that indulge them," Pompeo said in a statement. "It is a grave disappointment to those genuinely seeking to advance human dignity." Also watch| Black Lives Matter protests: Statues toppled across United States Pompeo feels that the 47-member-state forum's unanimous resolution on Friday goes on to show that the organisation does not recognize the democracy of the US. He also accused the council of not holding the same ideas of transparency and accountability in their own actions and decisions. Also read| US treatment of Hong Kong depends on how Beijing treats it, says Pompeo "If the Council were serious about protecting human rights, there are plenty of legitimate needs for its attention, such as the systemic racial disparities in places like Cuba, China, and Iran," he said. "If the Council were honest, it would recognize the strengths of American democracy and urge authoritarian regimes around the world to model American democracy and to hold their nations to the same high standards of accountability and transparency that we Americans apply to ourselves." The resolution by the council was brought in after George Floyd's brother, Philonise Floyd, urged the Council to investigate the US police brutality and racial discrimination.

US secretary of state Mike Pompeo calls UNHRC 'haven for dictators'

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo urged China to reveal all it knows about the coronavirus outbreak in a meeting with a top Chinese official in Hawaii on Wednesday as new revelations about President Donald Trump and China rocked Washington.

US-China tensions: Pompeo meets Chinese officials, US sanctions over Uighur atrocities

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo met China's top diplomat, Yang Jiechi, in Hawaii on Wednesday, in high-level face-to-face talks amid tensions between the two strategic rivals.

The world's two largest economies have been at loggerheads over the handling of the coronavirus pandemic and China's move to impose security legislation on Hong Kong, among multiple points of friction that have worsened this year.

Pompeo has been forceful in his criticism of Beijing. This meeting was his first known contact with Yang since they discussed the coronavirus by phone on April 15, and their first face-to-face meeting since last year.

Neither side outlined an agenda for the Hawaii talks, but diplomats and other sources have said the meeting was requested by China.

Yang told Pompeo that Washington needs to respect Beijing's positions on key issues, halt its interference on matters such as Hong Kong, Taiwan and Xinjiang, and work to repair relations, China's foreign ministry said in a statement.

Pompeo stressed "the need for fully-reciprocal dealings between the two nations," US State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said in a statement.

He also stressed the need for full transparency and information sharing to combat the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and prevent future outbreaks.

Hours after the meeting ended, China announced that its top parliamentary body will review draft Hong Kong national security legislation during a session that began on Thursday.

Earlier, foreign ministers of the G7 countries, including Pompeo, issued a statement calling on China not to follow through with the Hong Kong legislation, which critics call an assault on the territory's democratic freedoms.

US-China relations have reached their lowest point in years. In mid-May Trump, who has pursued a deal to end a damaging trade war he launched with China, went so far as to suggest he could cut ties with Beijing.

Among his criticisms of China, Pompeo has said it could have prevented hundreds of thousands of deaths from the global coronavirus pandemic by being more transparent. 
Trump has initiated a process of eliminating special US treatment for Hong Kong to punish China for curbing freedoms there, but has stopped short of immediately ending privileges.

(with inputs from Reuters)

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo met China's top diplomat, Yang Jiechi, in Hawaii on Wednesday, in high-level face-to-face talks amid tensions between the two strategic rivals.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo met China's top diplomat, Yang Jiechi, in Hawaii on Wednesday, in high-level face-to-face talks amid tensions between the two strategic rivals. The world's two largest economies have been at loggerheads over the handling of the coronavirus pandemic and China's move to impose security legislation on Hong Kong, among multiple points of friction that have worsened this year. Pompeo has been forceful in his criticism of Beijing. This meeting was his first known contact with Yang since they discussed the coronavirus by phone on April 15, and their first face-to-face meeting since last year. Neither side outlined an agenda for the Hawaii talks, but diplomats and other sources have said the meeting was requested by China. Yang told Pompeo that Washington needs to respect Beijing's positions on key issues, halt its interference on matters such as Hong Kong, Taiwan and Xinjiang, and work to repair relations, China's foreign ministry said in a statement. Pompeo stressed "the need for fully-reciprocal dealings between the two nations," US State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said in a statement. He also stressed the need for full transparency and information sharing to combat the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and prevent future outbreaks. Hours after the meeting ended, China announced that its top parliamentary body will review draft Hong Kong national security legislation during a session that began on Thursday. Earlier, foreign ministers of the G7 countries, including Pompeo, issued a statement calling on China not to follow through with the Hong Kong legislation, which critics call an assault on the territory's democratic freedoms. US-China relations have reached their lowest point in years. In mid-May Trump, who has pursued a deal to end a damaging trade war he launched with China, went so far as to suggest he could cut ties with Beijing. Among his criticisms of China, Pompeo has said it could have prevented hundreds of thousands of deaths from the global coronavirus pandemic by being more transparent. Trump has initiated a process of eliminating special US treatment for Hong Kong to punish China for curbing freedoms there, but has stopped short of immediately ending privileges. (with inputs from Reuters)

Top US, China diplomats meet in Hawaii as tensions flare

The US Congress on Wednesday authorized sanctions against Chinese officials over the mass incarceration of Muslim Uighurs, ramping up pressure on another front in the troubled relationship between the Pacific powers. 
 
The House of Representatives voted with just one dissent in favor of the Uighur Human Rights Act, hours of Secretary of State Mike Pompeo took a major step to press China on another major issue -- the autonomy of Hong Kong.

Rights groups say at least one million Uighurs and other Turkic Muslims in China's northwestern Xinjiang region have been incarcerated in camps in a massive brainwashing campaign with few modern parallels.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-bid-of-global-dominion-trump-offers-to-negotiate-between-india-china-standoff-301402">Also read:&nbsp;In bid of global dominion, Trump offers to negotiate between India-China standoff</a>

"If America does not speak out against human rights (violations) in China because of some commercial interest, then we lose all moral authority to speak out on human rights violations any place in the world," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said.

The message was bipartisan with Michael McCaul, the top Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, accusing China of "state-sponsored cultural genocide."

Beijing is out to "completely eradicate an entire culture simply because it doesn't fit within what the Chinese Communist Party deems 'Chinese,'" McCaul said.

"We can't sit idly by and allow this to continue," he said. "Our silence will be complicit, and our inaction will be our appeasement."

The legislation requires the US administration to determine which Chinese officials are responsible for the "arbitrary detention, torture and harassment" of Uighurs and other minorities.

The United States would then freeze any assets the officials hold in the world's largest economy and ban their entry into the country.

The law specifically mentions Chen Quanguo, the Communist Party chief in Xinjiang. Previously posted in Tibet, Chen has built a reputation for clamping down on restive minorities.

China denounces 'smears'

China initially denied the mass incarceration but has since described the camps as vocational training centers aimed at discouraging Islamic radicalism.

After an earlier version of the law passed in December, the Chinese foreign ministry accused the United States of hypocrisy in its own "counter-terrorism" efforts.

"This bill deliberately smears the human rights condition in Xinjiang, slanders China's efforts in de-radicalization and counter-terrorism and viciously attacks the Chinese government's Xinjiang policy," said foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying, urging the United States to stop the law.

Trump can veto the legislation. But Congress could easily override his veto.

Trump last year hesitated at signing another law that angered China that sought to safeguard Hong Kong's autonomy but went ahead in the face of overwhelming support in Congress.

The House of Representatives passed a tougher version of the law that would restrict exports of technology involved in the mass surveillance of Uighurs, as critics fear a new dystopian model with Beijing tracking minorities' every move.

The Republican-led Senate stripped out the export provision to ensure unanimous passage, letting Trump handle technology issues as part of his long-running trade war with the Asian power.

The Commerce Department last week imposed sanctions on eight Chinese companies and an institute seen as complicit in the persecution of Uighurs and other minorities, including through surveillance.

The final version of the bill also requires a classified report by US intelligence on Xinjiang as well as a study led by the FBI on alleged efforts by China to target US citizens and residents of Uighur heritage.

Rubio and a Democrat, Representative James McGovern, have introduced separate legislation that would ban all exports from Xinjiang, a major supplier of cotton.

The lawmakers say forced labor is so prevalent in Xinjiang that it is impossible to ensure that products from the region are free of slavery.

The US Congress on Wednesday authorized sanctions against Chinese officials over the mass incarceration of Muslim Uighurs, ramping up pressure on another front in the troubled relationship between the Pacific powers.

The US Congress on Wednesday authorized sanctions against Chinese officials over the mass incarceration of Muslim Uighurs, ramping up pressure on another front in the troubled relationship between the Pacific powers. The House of Representatives voted with just one dissent in favor of the Uighur Human Rights Act, hours of Secretary of State Mike Pompeo took a major step to press China on another major issue -- the autonomy of Hong Kong. Rights groups say at least one million Uighurs and other Turkic Muslims in China's northwestern Xinjiang region have been incarcerated in camps in a massive brainwashing campaign with few modern parallels. Also read: In bid of global dominion, Trump offers to negotiate between India-China standoff "If America does not speak out against human rights (violations) in China because of some commercial interest, then we lose all moral authority to speak out on human rights violations any place in the world," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said. The message was bipartisan with Michael McCaul, the top Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, accusing China of "state-sponsored cultural genocide." Beijing is out to "completely eradicate an entire culture simply because it doesn't fit within what the Chinese Communist Party deems 'Chinese,'" McCaul said. "We can't sit idly by and allow this to continue," he said. "Our silence will be complicit, and our inaction will be our appeasement." The legislation requires the US administration to determine which Chinese officials are responsible for the "arbitrary detention, torture and harassment" of Uighurs and other minorities. The United States would then freeze any assets the officials hold in the world's largest economy and ban their entry into the country. The law specifically mentions Chen Quanguo, the Communist Party chief in Xinjiang. Previously posted in Tibet, Chen has built a reputation for clamping down on restive minorities. China denounces 'smears' China initially denied the mass incarceration but has since described the camps as vocational training centers aimed at discouraging Islamic radicalism. After an earlier version of the law passed in December, the Chinese foreign ministry accused the United States of hypocrisy in its own "counter-terrorism" efforts. "This bill deliberately smears the human rights condition in Xinjiang, slanders China's efforts in de-radicalization and counter-terrorism and viciously attacks the Chinese government's Xinjiang policy," said foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying, urging the United States to stop the law. Trump can veto the legislation. But Congress could easily override his veto. Trump last year hesitated at signing another law that angered China that sought to safeguard Hong Kong's autonomy but went ahead in the face of overwhelming support in Congress. The House of Representatives passed a tougher version of the law that would restrict exports of technology involved in the mass surveillance of Uighurs, as critics fear a new dystopian model with Beijing tracking minorities' every move. The Republican-led Senate stripped out the export provision to ensure unanimous passage, letting Trump handle technology issues as part of his long-running trade war with the Asian power. The Commerce Department last week imposed sanctions on eight Chinese companies and an institute seen as complicit in the persecution of Uighurs and other minorities, including through surveillance. The final version of the bill also requires a classified report by US intelligence on Xinjiang as well as a study led by the FBI on alleged efforts by China to target US citizens and residents of Uighur heritage. Rubio and a Democrat, Representative James McGovern, have introduced separate legislation that would ban all exports from Xinjiang, a major supplier of cotton. The lawmakers say forced labor is so prevalent in Xinjiang that it is impossible to ensure that products from the region are free of slavery.

US Congress passes Uighur human rights bill, prodding Trump to punish China

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Friday called China's proposed national security legislation on Hong Kong disastrous and said it could have an impact on the favorable economic treatment the territory receives from the United States.

Mike Pompeo: U.S. condemns China's 'disastrous proposal' on Hong Kong

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo condemns Taiwan's exclusion from World Health Assembly and lauds its efforts in containing COVID-19.

US condemns Taiwan's exclusion from World Health Assembly

Backing US President Donald Trump's assertion, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has said that the Coronavirus was made in a lab. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more about how the fight between the US and China is escalating.

Gravitas: Pompeo says Coronavirus was made in a lab

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has praised India for lifting the export bans on critical medical supplies including pharmaceuticals used to treat COVID-19. Watch report.

Mike Pompeo praises India's efforts for lifting export restrictions

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has said that the United States of America will still be keeping eye on North Korea and will endeavour denuclearisation of the country no matter who heads the nation after Kim Jong-un.&nbsp;

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-jong-un-may-be-in-grave-danger-after-surgery-report-293728">&nbsp;North Korea's Kim Jong Un may be in 'grave danger' after surgery — Report</a>

According to the DailyNK's report, Kim Jong-un underwent heart surgery at the Hyang San Hospital instead of a hospital in Pyongyang which is an exclusive hospital for the North Korean leader and his family. The North Korean leader's current health condition is unknown to all, and Pompeo said he had met Kim’s powerful sister, Kim Yo Jong, whose recent rise in the hierarchy raised pundits’ view that she could succeed him.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-kim-jong-uns-secret-illness-does-north-korea-have-a-successor-293872">&nbsp;With Kim Jong un's 'secret illness', does North Korea have a successor?</a>

To which Pompeo said,&nbsp;"I did have a chance to meet her a couple of times, but the challenge remains the same -- the goal remains unchanged -- whoever is leading North Korea."

Pompeo also assured a "brighter future" if the country gives up its nuclear weapons.&nbsp;

“They’ve got to denuclearise. We’ve got to do so in a way that we can verify. That’s true no matter who is leading North Korea,” he said.

Pompeo had arranged a historic meet in 2018 between Trump and Kim Jong after nearly 50 years of enmity.

North Korea's Supreme Leader &nbsp;Kim Jong-un is being treated at hospital which is designated as exclusive for the Kim family, South Korean media reported on Thursday citing local sources.

The doctor who did Kim's heart surgery is an expert of cardiovascular-related diseases and is trained in Germany. After his Germany medical program, he was designated as a cardiovascular specialist for Kim Jong-un, the report also claimed.

The report claims that the doctor is so prized by the leadership that he travels with his bodyguards and lives in a carefully guarded section of Pyongyang.

The medical equipment&nbsp;used in the hospital are also imported from Germany and Japan.

Earlier this month, Daily NK, an online media outlet run mostly by North Korean defectors, said Kim underwent a cardiovascular procedure and was recovering at a villa in North Phyongan province.

"Excessive smoking, obesity and fatigue were the direct causes of Kim's urgent cardiovascular treatment," it cited an unidentified source inside the country as saying.&nbsp;

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has said that the United States of America will still be keeping eye on North Korea and will endeavour denuclearisation of the country no matter who heads the nation after Kim Jong-un.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has said that the United States of America will still be keeping eye on North Korea and will endeavour denuclearisation of the country no matter who heads the nation after Kim Jong-un. Also read: North Korea's Kim Jong Un may be in 'grave danger' after surgery — Report According to the DailyNK's report, Kim Jong-un underwent heart surgery at the Hyang San Hospital instead of a hospital in Pyongyang which is an exclusive hospital for the North Korean leader and his family. The North Korean leader's current health condition is unknown to all, and Pompeo said he had met Kim’s powerful sister, Kim Yo Jong, whose recent rise in the hierarchy raised pundits’ view that she could succeed him. Also read: With Kim Jong un's 'secret illness', does North Korea have a successor? To which Pompeo said, "I did have a chance to meet her a couple of times, but the challenge remains the same -- the goal remains unchanged -- whoever is leading North Korea." Pompeo also assured a "brighter future" if the country gives up its nuclear weapons. “They’ve got to denuclearise. We’ve got to do so in a way that we can verify. That’s true no matter who is leading North Korea,” he said. Pompeo had arranged a historic meet in 2018 between Trump and Kim Jong after nearly 50 years of enmity. North Korea's Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un is being treated at hospital which is designated as exclusive for the Kim family, South Korean media reported on Thursday citing local sources. The doctor who did Kim's heart surgery is an expert of cardiovascular-related diseases and is trained in Germany. After his Germany medical program, he was designated as a cardiovascular specialist for Kim Jong-un, the report also claimed. The report claims that the doctor is so prized by the leadership that he travels with his bodyguards and lives in a carefully guarded section of Pyongyang. The medical equipment used in the hospital are also imported from Germany and Japan. Earlier this month, Daily NK, an online media outlet run mostly by North Korean defectors, said Kim underwent a cardiovascular procedure and was recovering at a villa in North Phyongan province. "Excessive smoking, obesity and fatigue were the direct causes of Kim's urgent cardiovascular treatment," it cited an unidentified source inside the country as saying.

'Challenge remains the same!', says Mike Pompeo in case of leadership change in North Korea

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo <gwmw class="ginger-module-highlighter-mistake-type-1" id="gwmw-15804758481624880179160">emphasised</gwmw> Washington's support for Ukraine on a visit to Kyiv on Friday, as both countries sought to smooth over relations buffeted by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-i-am-legally-required-to-testify-will-be-happy-to-do-it-pompeo-on-trumps-impeachment-275980">impeachment trial of President Donald Trump</a>.

Ukraine was thrust into a domestic political battle in Washington last year as Trump faced allegations he pressured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to investigate the son of his Democratic rival, Joe Biden.

Pompeo has also walked back from comments <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/radio-reporter-says-pompeo-cursed-at-her-after-testy-interview-276466">he was accused</a> of making to a National Public Radio reporter before his trip that appeared to play down Ukraine's importance to Americans.

Pompeo is the highest-ranking US official to travel to Ukraine since the impeachment began. His visit comes as Trump's impeachment trial was set for a climactic vote on Friday or Saturday that is likely to acquit the president.

After meeting Zelenskiy, both men played down the fallout from impeachment. "Today I'm here with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-leaders-free-to-come-up-with-a-counter-offer-pompeo-277390">a clear message</a>: The United States sees that the Ukrainian struggle for freedom, democracy and prosperity is a valiant one. Our commitment to support it will not waver," Pompeo said.

Ukraine counts on Washington for diplomatic support, sanctions on Moscow and military aid to buy Javelin anti-tank missiles and other hardware as it battles Russian-backed fighters in a war that has killed more than 13,000 people.

Trump had frozen nearly $400 million in US security assistance shortly before speaking to Zelenskiy in a July phone call, prompting accusations from Democrats he had misused US foreign policy for personal gain.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-probe-possible-surveillance-of-ukraine-envoy-pompeo-274945">Will probe possible surveillance of Ukraine envoy: Pompeo</a>

Trump's camp has called on Ukraine to investigate Biden and his son Hunter, who was on the board of a Ukrainian energy company called Burisma.

Impeachment overshadowed the first months of Zelenskiy's presidency, and he has voiced frustration about being constantly asked about it. He has repeatedly denied being pressured by Trump to launch investigations.

"I was wondering when this question would come up. When we speak with the USA, there is always a question about the impeachment of President Trump," Zelenskiy said on Friday when asked whether impeachment had spoiled bilateral ties.

"It seems to me honestly that, on the contrary, there are very good relations between our countries, not just in words. The US supports and defends Ukraine."

Pompeo also denied suggestions that Zelenskiy would only be granted a visit to the White House to meet Trump if Ukraine agreed to announce investigations into Hunter Biden and Burisma.

"No, there's no condition of the nature you described for President Zelenskiy to come to Washington and have that visit," Pompeo said in response to a question. "We'll find the right time. We'll find the appropriate opportunity."

Asked before the trip whether he would raise Burisma or the Bidens with Ukrainian officials, Pompeo had said, "I don't want to talk about particular individuals."

Democrats had hoped to hear from former National Security Adviser John Bolton as a witness in Trump's impeachment trial, but they do not appear to have enough support from Republicans to bring witnesses to the proceedings.

A report, which Bolton has not denied, said Bolton had written in an upcoming book that Trump told him he wanted to freeze military aid to Ukraine until it investigated both Bidens. 
&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo emphasised Washington's support for Ukraine on a visit to Kyiv on Friday, as both countries sought to smooth over relations buffeted by the impeachment trial of President Donald Trump.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo emphasised Washington's support for Ukraine on a visit to Kyiv on Friday, as both countries sought to smooth over relations buffeted by the impeachment trial of President Donald Trump. Ukraine was thrust into a domestic political battle in Washington last year as Trump faced allegations he pressured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to investigate the son of his Democratic rival, Joe Biden. Pompeo has also walked back from comments he was accused of making to a National Public Radio reporter before his trip that appeared to play down Ukraine's importance to Americans. Pompeo is the highest-ranking US official to travel to Ukraine since the impeachment began. His visit comes as Trump's impeachment trial was set for a climactic vote on Friday or Saturday that is likely to acquit the president. After meeting Zelenskiy, both men played down the fallout from impeachment. "Today I'm here with a clear message: The United States sees that the Ukrainian struggle for freedom, democracy and prosperity is a valiant one. Our commitment to support it will not waver," Pompeo said. Ukraine counts on Washington for diplomatic support, sanctions on Moscow and military aid to buy Javelin anti-tank missiles and other hardware as it battles Russian-backed fighters in a war that has killed more than 13,000 people. Trump had frozen nearly $400 million in US security assistance shortly before speaking to Zelenskiy in a July phone call, prompting accusations from Democrats he had misused US foreign policy for personal gain. Also Read: Will probe possible surveillance of Ukraine envoy: Pompeo Trump's camp has called on Ukraine to investigate Biden and his son Hunter, who was on the board of a Ukrainian energy company called Burisma. Impeachment overshadowed the first months of Zelenskiy's presidency, and he has voiced frustration about being constantly asked about it. He has repeatedly denied being pressured by Trump to launch investigations. "I was wondering when this question would come up. When we speak with the USA, there is always a question about the impeachment of President Trump," Zelenskiy said on Friday when asked whether impeachment had spoiled bilateral ties. "It seems to me honestly that, on the contrary, there are very good relations between our countries, not just in words. The US supports and defends Ukraine." Pompeo also denied suggestions that Zelenskiy would only be granted a visit to the White House to meet Trump if Ukraine agreed to announce investigations into Hunter Biden and Burisma. "No, there's no condition of the nature you described for President Zelenskiy to come to Washington and have that visit," Pompeo said in response to a question. "We'll find the right time. We'll find the appropriate opportunity." Asked before the trip whether he would raise Burisma or the Bidens with Ukrainian officials, Pompeo had said, "I don't want to talk about particular individuals." Democrats had hoped to hear from former National Security Adviser John Bolton as a witness in Trump's impeachment trial, but they do not appear to have enough support from Republicans to bring witnesses to the proceedings. A report, which Bolton has not denied, said Bolton had written in an upcoming book that Trump told him he wanted to freeze military aid to Ukraine until it investigated both Bidens.

US state secretary Pompeo pledges support for Ukraine amid Trump impeachment trial

The United States on Wednesday urged Britain to rethink its decision to allow China's Huawei a role in 5G networks, cautioning that American information would only be allowed to pass across trusted networks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-johnsons-uk-government-approves-limited-5g-role-for-huawei-277116">PM Johnson's UK government approves limited 5G role for China's Huawei</a>

Prime Minister Boris Johnson granted Huawei a limited role in Britain's 5G mobile network on Tuesday, frustrating a global attempt by the United States to exclude the Chinese telecoms giant from the West's next-generation communications systems.

"There is also a chance for the United Kingdom to relook at this as implementation moves forward," US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told reporters as he flew to London.

"We will make sure that when American information passes across a network we are confident that that network is a trusted one," he said. "Our view of Huawei is: putting it in your system creates real risk."

Pompeo is due to arrive in London later on Wednesday. He is scheduled to meet his British counterpart Dominic Raab as well as Johnson. He said telecoms and security would be "part of the conversation".

In what some have compared to the Cold War antagonism with the Soviet Union, the United States is worried that 5G dominance is a milestone towards Chinese technological supremacy that could define the geopolitics of the 21st century.

Washington says Huawei, founded in 1987 by a former People's Liberation Army engineer, is an extension of the Chinese state and that it helps Chinese intelligence to steal secrets - an allegation denied by the company.

"This is an extension of the Chinese Communist Party with a legal requirement to hand over information to the Chinese Communist Party," Pompeo said of Huawei. "We'll evaluate what the United Kingdom did."

Huawei, the world's biggest producer of telecoms equipment, has said the United States wants to frustrate its growth because no U.S. company could offer the same range of technology at a competitive price.

Britain argued that excluding Huawei would have delayed 5G and cost consumers more, echoing warnings from the telecoms industry.

"It's important for everyone to know there is also real work being done by lots of private companies inside the United States and in Europe to make sure that there are true competitors to Huawei," Pompeo said when asked if the United States would cut security cooperation with Britain.

Johnson said on Wednesday he wanted to ensure people have access to the best technology but that his Huawei decision would not harm cooperation with the United States.

"I want to assure ... the country that I think it's absolutely vital that people in this country do have access to the best technology available," he told parliament.

"But that we also do absolutely nothing to imperil our relationship with the United States, to do anything to compromise our critical national security infrastructure."

The United States on Wednesday urged Britain to rethink its decision to allow China's Huawei a role in 5G networks, cautioning that American information would only be allowed to pass across trusted networks.

The United States on Wednesday urged Britain to rethink its decision to allow China's Huawei a role in 5G networks, cautioning that American information would only be allowed to pass across trusted networks. PM Johnson's UK government approves limited 5G role for China's Huawei Prime Minister Boris Johnson granted Huawei a limited role in Britain's 5G mobile network on Tuesday, frustrating a global attempt by the United States to exclude the Chinese telecoms giant from the West's next-generation communications systems. "There is also a chance for the United Kingdom to relook at this as implementation moves forward," US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told reporters as he flew to London. "We will make sure that when American information passes across a network we are confident that that network is a trusted one," he said. "Our view of Huawei is: putting it in your system creates real risk." Pompeo is due to arrive in London later on Wednesday. He is scheduled to meet his British counterpart Dominic Raab as well as Johnson. He said telecoms and security would be "part of the conversation". In what some have compared to the Cold War antagonism with the Soviet Union, the United States is worried that 5G dominance is a milestone towards Chinese technological supremacy that could define the geopolitics of the 21st century. Washington says Huawei, founded in 1987 by a former People's Liberation Army engineer, is an extension of the Chinese state and that it helps Chinese intelligence to steal secrets - an allegation denied by the company. "This is an extension of the Chinese Communist Party with a legal requirement to hand over information to the Chinese Communist Party," Pompeo said of Huawei. "We'll evaluate what the United Kingdom did." Huawei, the world's biggest producer of telecoms equipment, has said the United States wants to frustrate its growth because no U.S. company could offer the same range of technology at a competitive price. Britain argued that excluding Huawei would have delayed 5G and cost consumers more, echoing warnings from the telecoms industry. "It's important for everyone to know there is also real work being done by lots of private companies inside the United States and in Europe to make sure that there are true competitors to Huawei," Pompeo said when asked if the United States would cut security cooperation with Britain. Johnson said on Wednesday he wanted to ensure people have access to the best technology but that his Huawei decision would not harm cooperation with the United States. "I want to assure ... the country that I think it's absolutely vital that people in this country do have access to the best technology available," he told parliament. "But that we also do absolutely nothing to imperil our relationship with the United States, to do anything to compromise our critical national security infrastructure."

UK should relook implementation of  Huawei in 5G networks, urges Pompeo

Chinese internet company NetEase has said it has deleted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-can-censor-ozil-but-cannot-hide-human-rights-violations-against-uighurs-pompeo-268791">Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil </a>from its mobile game service Pro Evolution Soccer (PES) after his remarks on Uighurs in Xinjiang province last week.

"The German player Ozil posted an extreme statement about China on social media," NetEase said in a statement on China's social media platform Weibo.

"The speech hurt the feelings of Chinese fans and violated the sports spirit of love and peace. We do not understand, accept or forgive this," it added.

In a social post last week, the ex-World Cup winning star&nbsp;&nbsp;had said that in "east Turkistan, the bleeding wound of the Ummah, resisting against the persecutors trying to separate them from their religion. They burn their Qurans. They shut down their mosques. They ban their schools. They kill their holy men. The men are forced into camps and their families are forced to live with Chinese men. The women are forced to marry Chinese men."&nbsp;

"But Muslims are silent. They won’t make a noise. They have abandoned them. Don’t they know that giving consent for persecution is persecution itself?" the Arsenal star added.

US secretary of state Mike Pompeo had waded into the controversy on Monday asserting that China cannot hide its "gross human rights violations perpetrated against Uighurs." &nbsp;Pompeo said China’s Communist Party propaganda outlets can censor <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/arsenal-star-mesut-ozil-condemns-muslim-silence-over-uighurs-268231">Mesut Ozil and Arsenal games</a> all season long, "but the truth will prevail".

&nbsp;"The CCP can’t hide its gross human rights violations perpetrated against Uighurs and other religious faiths from the world," the US secretary of state added. However, China's foreign ministry declared that Ozil's "judgment was influenced by untruthful remarks". Chinese foreign ministry spokesman invited Ozil to Xinjiang stating that he was "deceived by fake news".

Chinese internet company NetEase has said it has deleted Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil from its mobile game service Pro Evolution Soccer (PES) after his remarks on Uighurs in Xinjiang province last week.

Chinese internet company NetEase has said it has deleted Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil from its mobile game service Pro Evolution Soccer (PES) after his remarks on Uighurs in Xinjiang province last week. "The German player Ozil posted an extreme statement about China on social media," NetEase said in a statement on China's social media platform Weibo. "The speech hurt the feelings of Chinese fans and violated the sports spirit of love and peace. We do not understand, accept or forgive this," it added. In a social post last week, the ex-World Cup winning star had said that in "east Turkistan, the bleeding wound of the Ummah, resisting against the persecutors trying to separate them from their religion. They burn their Qurans. They shut down their mosques. They ban their schools. They kill their holy men. The men are forced into camps and their families are forced to live with Chinese men. The women are forced to marry Chinese men." "But Muslims are silent. They won’t make a noise. They have abandoned them. Don’t they know that giving consent for persecution is persecution itself?" the Arsenal star added. US secretary of state Mike Pompeo had waded into the controversy on Monday asserting that China cannot hide its "gross human rights violations perpetrated against Uighurs." Pompeo said China’s Communist Party propaganda outlets can censor Mesut Ozil and Arsenal games all season long, "but the truth will prevail". "The CCP can’t hide its gross human rights violations perpetrated against Uighurs and other religious faiths from the world," the US secretary of state added. However, China's foreign ministry declared that Ozil's "judgment was influenced by untruthful remarks". Chinese foreign ministry spokesman invited Ozil to Xinjiang stating that he was "deceived by fake news".

Chinese company PES deletes Mesut Ozil from gaming service over Uighur remarks

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;met US Secretary of State Mike&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-to-meet-pompeo-in-portugal-amid-attempts-to-improve-ties-with-arab-world-266105">in Portugal</a>&nbsp;on&nbsp;Wednesday and called for increased&nbsp;pressure&nbsp;on&nbsp;the "tottering" Iranian government.

"I think we have been fortunate that President Trump has led a consistent policy of&nbsp;pressure&nbsp;against&nbsp;Iran. Iran’s aggression is growing, but its empire is&nbsp;tottering,"&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;said in Lisbon.

"And I say, let’s make it totter even further," he added.&nbsp;

Netanyahu&nbsp;stressed that&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;was the main subject of his meeting with&nbsp;Pompeo, adding "the second subject is&nbsp;Iran, and so is the third".

Pompeo, in a tweet, said it had been a "productive meeting".

"We discussed efforts to counter&nbsp;Iran’s destabilizing influence in the region, the importance of economic cooperation with regional partners and other issues related to Israel’s security," he added.

The question of how to create Middle East stability when "there are anti-Iran&nbsp;protests taking place in Baghdad, anti-Iranian protests taking place in Beirut," was a key issue in talks held&nbsp;on&nbsp;the margins of a NATO summit which ended in London earlier Wednesday,&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;told reporters before leaving Lisbon.

Israel, which is widely believed to have the Middle East's sole but undeclared nuclear arsenal, has for years accused&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;of seeking to obtain nuclear weapons and strongly opposed a 2015 agreement designed to address the concerns of major powers.

'Should be ashamed'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-discusses-iran-with-israeli-pm-netanyahu-265644">Trump, a strong&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;ally</a>, unilaterally pulled the United States out of the deal in May last year and reimposed crippling sanctions.

Netanyahu, who is fighting for his political life after an indictment&nbsp;on&nbsp;graft charges, has hailed the Trump sanctions.

Israel believes they have squeezed the Iranian economy, prompting the government to raise fuel prices -- sparking nationwide protests.

Lebanon and Iraq, both countries where&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;has significant influence, have also seen major demonstrations.

Netanyahu&nbsp;criticised European governments that have signed up to a barter system that would allow&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;to trade without fear of US sanctions.

Six new European countries agreed to support the Instex system and&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;said that "instead of supporting American sanctions, they are weakening them. That's not right.

"They should be ashamed of themselves. While people are risking their lives and dying&nbsp;on&nbsp;the streets of Tehran, they are giving sustenance and support to this tyrannical regime," he said before meeting with&nbsp;Pompeo.

Watch: Israeli PM Netanyahu agrees to party elections

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israeli-pm-netanyahu-agrees-for-party-election-264411/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Graft charges

Netanyahu, who was last month <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-can-stay-on-as-prime-minister-despite-indictment-israels-attorney-general-264513">indicted&nbsp;on&nbsp;a variety of graft charges</a> and faces a third election within a year after deadlocked polls in April and September, has been bolstered by a number of landmark steps taken by Trump.

He is Israel's longest-serving prime minister but he is serving in a caretaker capacity after the inconclusive elections.

Wednesday's meeting was the first between the two men since&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;announced last month that the United States no longer considered Jewish settlements in the West Bank to be illegal.

The announcement broke with decades of international consensus that the settlements are illegal and a major barrier to peace with the Palestinians.

The US position offered a boost to&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;as he threatens to annex much of the West Bank, a step that would severely impede the long-held Palestinian hope for a separate state.

More&nbsp;than 600,000 Israelis live in settlements in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, alongside around three million Palestinians.

Among previous steps, Trump earlier recognised bitterly contested Jerusalem as Israel's capital and cut off US funding for the UN body that supports Palestinian refugees.

Pompeo&nbsp;is due to meet his Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa and Foreign Minister Augusto Santos Silva before flying&nbsp;on&nbsp;to Morocco&nbsp;on&nbsp;Thursday.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Portugal on Wednesday and called for increased pressure on the "tottering" Iranian government.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Portugal on Wednesday and called for increased pressure on the "tottering" Iranian government. "I think we have been fortunate that President Trump has led a consistent policy of pressure against Iran. Iran’s aggression is growing, but its empire is tottering," Netanyahu said in Lisbon. "And I say, let’s make it totter even further," he added. Netanyahu stressed that Iran was the main subject of his meeting with Pompeo, adding "the second subject is Iran, and so is the third". Pompeo, in a tweet, said it had been a "productive meeting". "We discussed efforts to counter Iran’s destabilizing influence in the region, the importance of economic cooperation with regional partners and other issues related to Israel’s security," he added. The question of how to create Middle East stability when "there are anti-Iran protests taking place in Baghdad, anti-Iranian protests taking place in Beirut," was a key issue in talks held on the margins of a NATO summit which ended in London earlier Wednesday, Pompeo told reporters before leaving Lisbon. Israel, which is widely believed to have the Middle East's sole but undeclared nuclear arsenal, has for years accused Iran of seeking to obtain nuclear weapons and strongly opposed a 2015 agreement designed to address the concerns of major powers. 'Should be ashamed' Trump, a strong Netanyahu ally, unilaterally pulled the United States out of the deal in May last year and reimposed crippling sanctions. Netanyahu, who is fighting for his political life after an indictment on graft charges, has hailed the Trump sanctions. Israel believes they have squeezed the Iranian economy, prompting the government to raise fuel prices -- sparking nationwide protests. Lebanon and Iraq, both countries where Iran has significant influence, have also seen major demonstrations. Netanyahu criticised European governments that have signed up to a barter system that would allow Iran to trade without fear of US sanctions. Six new European countries agreed to support the Instex system and Netanyahu said that "instead of supporting American sanctions, they are weakening them. That's not right. "They should be ashamed of themselves. While people are risking their lives and dying on the streets of Tehran, they are giving sustenance and support to this tyrannical regime," he said before meeting with Pompeo. Watch: Israeli PM Netanyahu agrees to party elections Graft charges Netanyahu, who was last month indicted on a variety of graft charges and faces a third election within a year after deadlocked polls in April and September, has been bolstered by a number of landmark steps taken by Trump. He is Israel's longest-serving prime minister but he is serving in a caretaker capacity after the inconclusive elections. Wednesday's meeting was the first between the two men since Pompeo announced last month that the United States no longer considered Jewish settlements in the West Bank to be illegal. The announcement broke with decades of international consensus that the settlements are illegal and a major barrier to peace with the Palestinians. The US position offered a boost to Netanyahu as he threatens to annex much of the West Bank, a step that would severely impede the long-held Palestinian hope for a separate state. More than 600,000 Israelis live in settlements in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, alongside around three million Palestinians. Among previous steps, Trump earlier recognised bitterly contested Jerusalem as Israel's capital and cut off US funding for the UN body that supports Palestinian refugees. Pompeo is due to meet his Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa and Foreign Minister Augusto Santos Silva before flying on to Morocco on Thursday.

Netanyahu pushes Pompeo for more pressure on Iran in Portugal

Israel's embattled Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-discusses-iran-with-israeli-pm-netanyahu-265644">Benjamin&nbsp;Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;will&nbsp;meet&nbsp;this week with US Secretary of State Mike&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;in&nbsp;Portugal&nbsp;as the Jewish state looks to normalise ties in the Arab world, officials said Tuesday.

Pompeo&nbsp;will head to Lisbon on Wednesday and hold talks with&nbsp;Netanyahu, a day before flying to Morocco which has a growing, if quiet, relationship with Israel.

State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus late Tuesday confirmed the meeting in a statement without further details.

A political source in Jerusalem earlier told AFP that&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;would fly to Lisbon to see&nbsp;Pompeo, while Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa's office also said that he would&nbsp;meet&nbsp;separately with the two men on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/political-deadlock-in-israel-benjamin-netanyahu-running-out-of-options-264457">Netanyahu</a>, who is fighting for his political life after an indictment on graft charges, is a close ally of President Donald Trump, who has taken a number of landmark steps to side with Israel.

The State Department earlier said that&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;would&nbsp;meet&nbsp;in Rabat with King Mohammed VI, who has cooperated closely with the United States.&nbsp;

"Morocco plays a great role across the region as an important partner in promoting tolerance (and) has these quiet ties and relationship with Israel as well," a State Department official said last week.

Egypt and Jordan are the only Arab nations to have signed peace treaties with Israel but Morocco, along with some Gulf states such as Bahrain, has been relaxing the Arab world's decades-old boycott of the Jewish state.

Morocco has unofficially welcomed Israeli investors and tourists. Some 3,000 Jews live in Morocco, a fraction of the number from before the 1948 creation of Israel but still the largest community in the Arab world.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-can-stay-on-as-prime-minister-despite-indictment-israels-attorney-general-264513">Netanyahu&nbsp;and&nbsp;Pompeo</a>&nbsp;are also likely to discuss their shared hard line on Iran, which has tried the patience even of European supporters of a 2015 nuclear accord through steps taken to protest US economic sanctions.

Netanyahu&nbsp;is Israel's longest-serving prime minister but he has been in acting capacity for much of 2019 after two inconclusive elections.

In a new pro-Israel shift,&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;said last month that the United States no longer considered Jewish settlements in the West Bank to be illegal, a position taken by nearly all major nations as well as the United Nations.

The US position offers a boost to&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;as he threatens to annex much of the West Bank, a step that would severely impede the long-held Palestinian hope for a separate state.

Among previous steps, Trump earlier recognised bitterly contested Jerusalem as Israel's capital and cut off US funding for the UN body that supports Palestinian refugees.

Israel's embattled Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet this week with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Portugal as the Jewish state looks to normalise ties in the Arab world, officials said Tuesday.

Israel's embattled Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet this week with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Portugal as the Jewish state looks to normalise ties in the Arab world, officials said Tuesday. Pompeo will head to Lisbon on Wednesday and hold talks with Netanyahu, a day before flying to Morocco which has a growing, if quiet, relationship with Israel. State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus late Tuesday confirmed the meeting in a statement without further details. A political source in Jerusalem earlier told AFP that Netanyahu would fly to Lisbon to see Pompeo, while Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa's office also said that he would meet separately with the two men on Thursday. Netanyahu, who is fighting for his political life after an indictment on graft charges, is a close ally of President Donald Trump, who has taken a number of landmark steps to side with Israel. The State Department earlier said that Pompeo would meet in Rabat with King Mohammed VI, who has cooperated closely with the United States. "Morocco plays a great role across the region as an important partner in promoting tolerance (and) has these quiet ties and relationship with Israel as well," a State Department official said last week. Egypt and Jordan are the only Arab nations to have signed peace treaties with Israel but Morocco, along with some Gulf states such as Bahrain, has been relaxing the Arab world's decades-old boycott of the Jewish state. Morocco has unofficially welcomed Israeli investors and tourists. Some 3,000 Jews live in Morocco, a fraction of the number from before the 1948 creation of Israel but still the largest community in the Arab world. Netanyahu and Pompeo are also likely to discuss their shared hard line on Iran, which has tried the patience even of European supporters of a 2015 nuclear accord through steps taken to protest US economic sanctions. Netanyahu is Israel's longest-serving prime minister but he has been in acting capacity for much of 2019 after two inconclusive elections. In a new pro-Israel shift, Pompeo said last month that the United States no longer considered Jewish settlements in the West Bank to be illegal, a position taken by nearly all major nations as well as the United Nations. The US position offers a boost to Netanyahu as he threatens to annex much of the West Bank, a step that would severely impede the long-held Palestinian hope for a separate state. Among previous steps, Trump earlier recognised bitterly contested Jerusalem as Israel's capital and cut off US funding for the UN body that supports Palestinian refugees.

Netanyahu to meet Pompeo in Portugal amid attempts to improve ties with Arab world

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