Republicans aimed to retain Senate control in Tuesday's voting and renew their role as guardians of President Donald Trump's conservative agenda, banking on a lopsided electoral map that imperiled far more Democratic seats to offset Trump's deeply divisive effect on voters.

Democrats' longshot prospects for capturing a Senate majority were pinned on hopes of their supporters surging to the polls.

Party stalwarts and some independents have been roused by revulsion toward Trump's anti-immigration rhetoric and policies and his efforts to dismantle health care protections enacted under President Barack Obama, and by the #MeToo movement's fury over sexual harassment.

"I think he's trying to divide this country. I think he's preying upon people's fears," said Jay Hutchins, 49, a Democrat voting in Silver Spring, Maryland, said of Trump.

The Democrats also had history on their side: 2002 was the only midterm election in the past three decades when the party holding the White House gained Senate seats.

Yet while Republicans command the Senate only narrowly, 51-49, Democrats faced daunting political math: They and their two independent allies were defending 26 of the 35 seats in play.

Around a dozen races from New Jersey to Nevada were seen as coin flips or at least competitive, prompting each side to spend hundreds of millions of dollars.

It was widely expected that if the GOP padded its current two-seat majority, it would do so only modestly.

With Democrats considered a good bet to grab House control from Republicans, keeping the Senate was seen as crucial for the GOP's goals of tax and spending cuts, trade, immigration restrictions, curbs on Obama's health care law and judicial nominations.

With so much at stake, Trump campaigned in over a dozen states with Senate elections since Labor Day, visiting some multiple times.

Democrats needed to gain two Senate seats to win a majority, assuming all their incumbents were re-elected, an unlikely outcome.

But going into Election Day, their target list was limited: They had a plausible chance of winning GOP-held seats only in Arizona, Nevada, Tennessee and Texas.

The 26 seats Democrats were protecting included 10 in states that Trump won in the 2016 presidential race, five of those by an enormous 19 percentage points or more.

In those 10 Trump-won states, Democratic Sen. Heidi Heitkamp of North Dakota seemed at greatest peril of losing.

Other Democrats fighting for political survival included Missouri's Claire McCaskill, Indiana's Joe Donnelly and Bill Nelson of Florida. Nelson, 76, faced outgoing GOP Gov. Rick Scott, who poured over US $50 million of his own fortune into his campaign, the most in the US

In a sign that Trump dominance two years ago isn't necessarily fatal for Democrats, their incumbents were expected to win re-election in six other states that he carried.

Montana Sen. Jon Tester faced the toughest battle of that group, while moderate Joe Manchin, a former governor and brand name in West Virginia, was increasingly seen as safe in a state Trump took by 42 percentage points.

Trump's racially tinged anti-immigrant appeals could hurt Republican candidates in swing states like Arizona and Nevada where college-educated voters could be decisive, but his rhetoric could help in deeply conservative areas.

"The 'resistance,' they call it," Richard Milner, 66, a boat inspector from Norfolk, Virginia, said of Trump's opponents. Milner, who said he backed GOP congressional candidates.

Amid the recent rash of letter bombs and the Pittsburgh synagogue massacre, Trump issued alarming and often unfounded warnings about caravans of migrants crossing Mexico toward the US, blaming Democrats, without evidence, for the threat he claimed they pose.

Republicans said the caravans provided a visual image that helped motivate voters, as did the Senate's stormy confirmation fight over Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh.

In battlegrounds where Democrats were thought to have chances to gain seats, first-term Democratic Rep. Jacky Rosen was in a close contest with Nevada Sen. Dean Heller, the only Republican seeking re-election in a state Democrat Hillary Clinton won in the 2016 presidential race.

Democratic Rep. Beto O'Rourke, a darling of progressives from coast to coast, raised record contributions but faced long odds of ousting tea party Sen. Ted Cruz in Texas.

Democrats also had opportunities because of the retirements of GOP Sens. Jeff Flake of Arizona and Tennessee's Bob Corker, both leaving Congress after accusing Trump of dishonesty and questioning his competence.

Republicans had another pickup opportunity in New Jersey, where Democratic Sen. Bob Menendez, who saw federal prosecutors drop bribery charges against him in January after a mistrial, faced wealthy pharmaceutical executive Bob Hugin. 
Defeated GOP presidential candidate Mitt Romney was poised to win a Senate seat from Utah. Potential 2020 Democratic presidential hopefuls who seemed certain to win included Vermont independent Bernie Sanders and New York's Kirsten Gillibrand. 
However, there was a strong chance Mississippi's special election to complete the unexpired term of retired GOP Sen. Thad Cochran would go to a late November runoff. Republicans who dominate the state would probably prevail, but waiting for the outcome could extend the uncertainty about the Senate's party breakdown ? and perhaps which side has control.

Republicans aimed to retain Senate control in Tuesday's voting and renew their role as guardians of President Donald Trump's conservative agenda, banking on a lopsided electoral map that imperiled far more Democratic seats to offset Trump's deeply divisive effect on voters.

Republicans aimed to retain Senate control in Tuesday's voting and renew their role as guardians of President Donald Trump's conservative agenda, banking on a lopsided electoral map that imperiled far more Democratic seats to offset Trump's deeply divisive effect on voters. Democrats' longshot prospects for capturing a Senate majority were pinned on hopes of their supporters surging to the polls. Party stalwarts and some independents have been roused by revulsion toward Trump's anti-immigration rhetoric and policies and his efforts to dismantle health care protections enacted under President Barack Obama, and by the #MeToo movement's fury over sexual harassment. "I think he's trying to divide this country. I think he's preying upon people's fears," said Jay Hutchins, 49, a Democrat voting in Silver Spring, Maryland, said of Trump. The Democrats also had history on their side: 2002 was the only midterm election in the past three decades when the party holding the White House gained Senate seats. Yet while Republicans command the Senate only narrowly, 51-49, Democrats faced daunting political math: They and their two independent allies were defending 26 of the 35 seats in play. Around a dozen races from New Jersey to Nevada were seen as coin flips or at least competitive, prompting each side to spend hundreds of millions of dollars. It was widely expected that if the GOP padded its current two-seat majority, it would do so only modestly. With Democrats considered a good bet to grab House control from Republicans, keeping the Senate was seen as crucial for the GOP's goals of tax and spending cuts, trade, immigration restrictions, curbs on Obama's health care law and judicial nominations. With so much at stake, Trump campaigned in over a dozen states with Senate elections since Labor Day, visiting some multiple times. Democrats needed to gain two Senate seats to win a majority, assuming all their incumbents were re-elected, an unlikely outcome. But going into Election Day, their target list was limited: They had a plausible chance of winning GOP-held seats only in Arizona, Nevada, Tennessee and Texas. The 26 seats Democrats were protecting included 10 in states that Trump won in the 2016 presidential race, five of those by an enormous 19 percentage points or more. In those 10 Trump-won states, Democratic Sen. Heidi Heitkamp of North Dakota seemed at greatest peril of losing. Other Democrats fighting for political survival included Missouri's Claire McCaskill, Indiana's Joe Donnelly and Bill Nelson of Florida. Nelson, 76, faced outgoing GOP Gov. Rick Scott, who poured over US $50 million of his own fortune into his campaign, the most in the US In a sign that Trump dominance two years ago isn't necessarily fatal for Democrats, their incumbents were expected to win re-election in six other states that he carried. Montana Sen. Jon Tester faced the toughest battle of that group, while moderate Joe Manchin, a former governor and brand name in West Virginia, was increasingly seen as safe in a state Trump took by 42 percentage points. Trump's racially tinged anti-immigrant appeals could hurt Republican candidates in swing states like Arizona and Nevada where college-educated voters could be decisive, but his rhetoric could help in deeply conservative areas. "The 'resistance,' they call it," Richard Milner, 66, a boat inspector from Norfolk, Virginia, said of Trump's opponents. Milner, who said he backed GOP congressional candidates. Amid the recent rash of letter bombs and the Pittsburgh synagogue massacre, Trump issued alarming and often unfounded warnings about caravans of migrants crossing Mexico toward the US, blaming Democrats, without evidence, for the threat he claimed they pose. Republicans said the caravans provided a visual image that helped motivate voters, as did the Senate's stormy confirmation fight over Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh. In battlegrounds where Democrats were thought to have chances to gain seats, first-term Democratic Rep. Jacky Rosen was in a close contest with Nevada Sen. Dean Heller, the only Republican seeking re-election in a state Democrat Hillary Clinton won in the 2016 presidential race. Democratic Rep. Beto O'Rourke, a darling of progressives from coast to coast, raised record contributions but faced long odds of ousting tea party Sen. Ted Cruz in Texas. Democrats also had opportunities because of the retirements of GOP Sens. Jeff Flake of Arizona and Tennessee's Bob Corker, both leaving Congress after accusing Trump of dishonesty and questioning his competence. Republicans had another pickup opportunity in New Jersey, where Democratic Sen. Bob Menendez, who saw federal prosecutors drop bribery charges against him in January after a mistrial, faced wealthy pharmaceutical executive Bob Hugin. Defeated GOP presidential candidate Mitt Romney was poised to win a Senate seat from Utah. Potential 2020 Democratic presidential hopefuls who seemed certain to win included Vermont independent Bernie Sanders and New York's Kirsten Gillibrand. However, there was a strong chance Mississippi's special election to complete the unexpired term of retired GOP Sen. Thad Cochran would go to a late November runoff. Republicans who dominate the state would probably prevail, but waiting for the outcome could extend the uncertainty about the Senate's party breakdown ? and perhaps which side has control.

GOP aims to keep Senate control, aided by Trump-friendly map

US Midterm elections: Polling begins in Eastern US state

Gravitas: Last leg of Campaigning for U.S. Mid-terms

Ahead of the crucial midterm elections,<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-shocks-with-racist-new-ad-before-midterm-polls-174800"> former US president Barack Obama</a> speaking at campaign rally in Gary, Indiana reminded voters on the state of the US economy after the 2008 financial crisis in a bid to win over voters.

"When I came into the presidency, you remember Republicans had been in one of those periods of retrenchment, and they had been cutting taxes for the rich. And they've been cutting rules for big banks and polluters. And we had been hit by the worst financial crisis in our lifetime," Obama said at the rally.

"I had roll up my sleeves. I had to get a mop. I had to get a broom, and a mop. And we had to clean it up. And we got the economy growing again," he added.

Obama said he ensured that the wealthiest paid "fair share of taxes" during his presidency. "So by the time I left office, wages were rising, the uninsured rate was falling, the economy created more jobs in my last 21 months, than it has in the 21 months since I left office," he said.

"When folks when you hear these Republicans bragging about how good the economy is - where did you think that started?" Somebody had to clean that up," he asserted.

Taking a dig at President Trump, Obama said: "Unlike some people, I don't just make stuff up when I'm talking."

Democrats need 23 seats to capture the majority in the US House of Representatives with several forecasters favouring the Democratic Party.

Obama also attacked the administration over corruption pointing out that "nobody in my administration got indicted."

"They promised they were going to take on corruption in Washington. Instead, they've racked up enough indictments to field a football team," he said.

"I believe in fact-based campaigning. I believe in reality-based governance. So cutting Medicare and Social Security in order to pay for a billionaires tax cut does not sound like fighting for the little guy to me."

Ahead of the crucial midterm elections, former US president Barack Obama speaking at campaign rally in Gary, Indiana reminded voters on the state of the US economy after the 2008 financial crisis in a bid to win over voters.

Ahead of the crucial midterm elections, former US president Barack Obama speaking at campaign rally in Gary, Indiana reminded voters on the state of the US economy after the 2008 financial crisis in a bid to win over voters. "When I came into the presidency, you remember Republicans had been in one of those periods of retrenchment, and they had been cutting taxes for the rich. And they've been cutting rules for big banks and polluters. And we had been hit by the worst financial crisis in our lifetime," Obama said at the rally. "I had roll up my sleeves. I had to get a mop. I had to get a broom, and a mop. And we had to clean it up. And we got the economy growing again," he added. Obama said he ensured that the wealthiest paid "fair share of taxes" during his presidency. "So by the time I left office, wages were rising, the uninsured rate was falling, the economy created more jobs in my last 21 months, than it has in the 21 months since I left office," he said. "When folks when you hear these Republicans bragging about how good the economy is - where did you think that started?" Somebody had to clean that up," he asserted. Taking a dig at President Trump, Obama said: "Unlike some people, I don't just make stuff up when I'm talking." Democrats need 23 seats to capture the majority in the US House of Representatives with several forecasters favouring the Democratic Party. Obama also attacked the administration over corruption pointing out that "nobody in my administration got indicted." "They promised they were going to take on corruption in Washington. Instead, they've racked up enough indictments to field a football team," he said. "I believe in fact-based campaigning. I believe in reality-based governance. So cutting Medicare and Social Security in order to pay for a billionaires tax cut does not sound like fighting for the little guy to me."

I believe in fact-based campaigning and reality-based governance: Obama's dig at Trump

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/2-dead-including-shooter-at-florida-yoga-studio-police-175197">3 dead, including </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/2-dead-including-shooter-at-florida-yoga-studio-police-175197">shooter</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/2-dead-including-shooter-at-florida-yoga-studio-police-175197">, at Florida yoga studio: Police</a>

A gunman has killed two people and wounded five others at a yoga studio in Florida's capital before killing himself, officials said.Tallahassee Police Chief Michael DeLeo told reporters Friday night that the man shot six people and pistol-whipped another after walking into the studio, which is part of a small Tallahassee shopping center.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-details-new-sanctions-in-maximum-pressure-hit-on-iran-economy-175195">'Sanctions are Coming', tweets Trump as </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-details-new-sanctions-in-maximum-pressure-hit-on-iran-economy-175195">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-details-new-sanctions-in-maximum-pressure-hit-on-iran-economy-175195"> reimposes all sanctions on Iran</a>

The United States will add 700 individuals and entities to its Iran blacklist and pressure the global SWIFT banking network to cut off Tehran when expanded sanctions are put in place next week.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/khashoggi-killing-turkey-president-erdogan-accuses-highest-levels-of-saudi-government-175194">Turkey President Erdogan says </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/khashoggi-killing-turkey-president-erdogan-accuses-highest-levels-of-saudi-government-175194">murder</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/khashoggi-killing-turkey-president-erdogan-accuses-highest-levels-of-saudi-government-175194"> of Khashoggi came from 'highest levels' of Saudi govt</a>

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the order to&nbsp;murder Jamal Khashoggi&nbsp;came from "the highest levels" of the Saudi government Friday as he promised no let-up in the hunt for his killers.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-risks-trade-concessions-if-any-back-sliding-on-rights-eu-ambassador-175164">Sri Lanka risks trade concessions if any back-sliding on rights: EU ambassador</a>

The European Union will consider stripping Sri Lanka of its duty-free access if it backs off commitments on rights, the EU ambassador said, amid worries stoked by the president's replacing of the elected premier by a wartime nationalist.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/alec-baldwin-charged-in-new-york-after-punching-man-175198">Alec Baldwin charged in New York after 'punching' man</a>

Hollywood actor Alec Baldwin was arrested and charged with assault on Friday after allegedly punching a 49-year-old man in the face during a New York parking dispute, police said.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

3 dead, including shooter, at Florida yoga studio: Police A gunman has killed two people and wounded five others at a yoga studio in Florida's capital before killing himself, officials said.

3 dead, including shooter, at Florida yoga studio: Police A gunman has killed two people and wounded five others at a yoga studio in Florida's capital before killing himself, officials said.Tallahassee Police Chief Michael DeLeo told reporters Friday night that the man shot six people and pistol-whipped another after walking into the studio, which is part of a small Tallahassee shopping center. 'Sanctions are Coming', tweets Trump as US reimposes all sanctions on Iran The United States will add 700 individuals and entities to its Iran blacklist and pressure the global SWIFT banking network to cut off Tehran when expanded sanctions are put in place next week. Turkey President Erdogan says murder of Khashoggi came from 'highest levels' of Saudi govt Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the order to murder Jamal Khashoggi came from "the highest levels" of the Saudi government Friday as he promised no let-up in the hunt for his killers. Sri Lanka risks trade concessions if any back-sliding on rights: EU ambassador The European Union will consider stripping Sri Lanka of its duty-free access if it backs off commitments on rights, the EU ambassador said, amid worries stoked by the president's replacing of the elected premier by a wartime nationalist. Alec Baldwin charged in New York after 'punching' man Hollywood actor Alec Baldwin was arrested and charged with assault on Friday after allegedly punching a 49-year-old man in the face during a New York parking dispute, police said.

News brief: Big stories of the day

US secretary of state Mike Pompeo<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-give-iran-oil-sanctions-waiver-to-eight-countries-including-india-south-korea-japan-report-175107"> said today that eight countries</a> would be exempt from Iran oil sanctions set to kick-in next week.

The US secretary of state said the import of oil will be allowed at a much lower level than currently being done.

Bloomberg had earlier said that South Korea, India and Japan were among the countries to be allowed the waiver, although Pompeo did not confirm it. The announcement will be made on Monday.

Pompeo said that the European Union as a whole, which has 28 members, would not receive a waiver.

Pompeo said the reimposition of sanctions "is aimed at depriving the regime of the revenues it uses to spread death and destruction around the world."

"Our ultimate aim is to compel Iran to permanently abandon its well-documented outlaw activities and behave as a normal country," Pompeo added.

South Korea had earlier asked Pompeo for "maximum flexibility" for the Iran oil waiver while Turkey and China have consistently resisted calls by the Trump administration to cut back on Iran oil.

Secretary of Treasury Steven Mnuchin also said US wants Brussels-based SWIFT to cut off Iranian financial institutions from&nbsp;Monday. Under US law, Washington can sanction the financial institutions of foreign countries that fail to significantly reduce their purchases of Iranian oil and petroleum products.

National security adviser John Bolton had said earlier that the US does not want to harm "friends and allies" that depend on Iran oil.

The US accused Iran of diverting money in conflict zones in Yemen, Syria, Lebanon and other parts of the Middle East and also of running a covert nuclear and missile program which is vehemently denied by the Rohani government

The US government sanctions are set to come into effect on November 5th.

Meanwhile, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has warned Iranians they face hard times when new US sanctions take effect.

&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

US secretary of state Mike Pompeo said today that eight countries would be exempt from Iran oil sanctions set to kick-in next week. The US secretary of state said the import of oil will be allowed at a much lower level than currently being done.

US secretary of state Mike Pompeo said today that eight countries would be exempt from Iran oil sanctions set to kick-in next week. The US secretary of state said the import of oil will be allowed at a much lower level than currently being done. Bloomberg had earlier said that South Korea, India and Japan were among the countries to be allowed the waiver, although Pompeo did not confirm it. The announcement will be made on Monday. Pompeo said that the European Union as a whole, which has 28 members, would not receive a waiver. Pompeo said the reimposition of sanctions "is aimed at depriving the regime of the revenues it uses to spread death and destruction around the world." "Our ultimate aim is to compel Iran to permanently abandon its well-documented outlaw activities and behave as a normal country," Pompeo added. South Korea had earlier asked Pompeo for "maximum flexibility" for the Iran oil waiver while Turkey and China have consistently resisted calls by the Trump administration to cut back on Iran oil. Secretary of Treasury Steven Mnuchin also said US wants Brussels-based SWIFT to cut off Iranian financial institutions from Monday. Under US law, Washington can sanction the financial institutions of foreign countries that fail to significantly reduce their purchases of Iranian oil and petroleum products. National security adviser John Bolton had said earlier that the US does not want to harm "friends and allies" that depend on Iran oil. The US accused Iran of diverting money in conflict zones in Yemen, Syria, Lebanon and other parts of the Middle East and also of running a covert nuclear and missile program which is vehemently denied by the Rohani government The US government sanctions are set to come into effect on November 5th. Meanwhile, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has warned Iranians they face hard times when new US sanctions take effect.

Eight countries exempt from Iran oil sanctions: US secretary of state Pompeo

Heather Nauert to replace Nikki Haley at UN?

President Donald Trump said on Thursday he was finalising a plan that would require <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hardens-stance-on-mexico-border-says-15000-troops-could-be-sent-174771">immigrants seeking asylum </a>in the United States to approach a legal port of entry, pushing a hard line on immigration ahead of next week's congressional elections.

It was not clear whether the plan would pass legal muster. The Immigration and Nationality Act provides that any immigrant in the United States may apply for asylum, regardless of whether he or she entered the country through a designated port of entry.

"Migrants seeking asylum will have to present themselves lawfully at a port of entry," Trump told reporters at the White House, adding that he would issue an executive order on immigration next week.

"Those who choose to break our laws and enter illegally will no longer be able to use meritless claims to gain automatic admission into our country," he added.

Trump has ramped up his tough stance on illegal immigration, an issue that appeals to his core supporters, before elections on Tuesday that will determine whether his fellow Republicans keep control of Congress.&nbsp;

In recent days, he has sought to present as a threat to the United States a large group of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-pressures-mexico-to-stop-migrant-caravans-174739">migrants from Central America</a> who have left poverty and violence at home and are heading slowly through Mexico toward the US border.

"These illegal caravans will not be allowed into the United States and they should turn back now," Trump said. "We are stopping people at the border. This is an invasion."&nbsp;

Republican Senator Chuck Grassley, an ally of the president and head of the powerful Senate Judiciary Committee, echoed some of the president's strong rhetoric about the caravan in a letter to the secretaries of the Department of Homeland Security and the State Department.

In the letter, Grassley said his office had received information that several members of the caravan had "significant criminal histories" and was seeking information about "potential national security threats that reportedly exist among the members."

Trump said on Wednesday the United States could send as many as 15,000 troops to the border to confront the migrant caravan, more than twice the number previously disclosed by defence officials.

Republican lawmakers and other Trump supporters have applauded the deployment. But critics argue Trump has manufactured a crisis to drive Republican voters to the polls.

On another immigration front, Trump said this week he would seek to scrap the constitutional right of citizenship for US-born children of noncitizens and illegal immigrants, saying he would issue an executive order on so-called birthright citizenship.&nbsp;

Trump and some other Republicans say the right - granted by the Constitution's post-Civil War 14th Amendment - creates an incentive for people to enter the country illegally to have children. Critics, including some other Republicans, say the president cannot change the Constitution by fiat. Such an action would virtually guarantee a legal challenge.

President Donald Trump said on Thursday he was finalising a plan that would require immigrants seeking asylum in the United States to approach a legal port of entry, pushing a hard line on immigration ahead of next week's congressional elections.

President Donald Trump said on Thursday he was finalising a plan that would require immigrants seeking asylum in the United States to approach a legal port of entry, pushing a hard line on immigration ahead of next week's congressional elections. It was not clear whether the plan would pass legal muster. The Immigration and Nationality Act provides that any immigrant in the United States may apply for asylum, regardless of whether he or she entered the country through a designated port of entry. "Migrants seeking asylum will have to present themselves lawfully at a port of entry," Trump told reporters at the White House, adding that he would issue an executive order on immigration next week. "Those who choose to break our laws and enter illegally will no longer be able to use meritless claims to gain automatic admission into our country," he added. Trump has ramped up his tough stance on illegal immigration, an issue that appeals to his core supporters, before elections on Tuesday that will determine whether his fellow Republicans keep control of Congress. In recent days, he has sought to present as a threat to the United States a large group of migrants from Central America who have left poverty and violence at home and are heading slowly through Mexico toward the US border. "These illegal caravans will not be allowed into the United States and they should turn back now," Trump said. "We are stopping people at the border. This is an invasion." Republican Senator Chuck Grassley, an ally of the president and head of the powerful Senate Judiciary Committee, echoed some of the president's strong rhetoric about the caravan in a letter to the secretaries of the Department of Homeland Security and the State Department. In the letter, Grassley said his office had received information that several members of the caravan had "significant criminal histories" and was seeking information about "potential national security threats that reportedly exist among the members." Trump said on Wednesday the United States could send as many as 15,000 troops to the border to confront the migrant caravan, more than twice the number previously disclosed by defence officials. Republican lawmakers and other Trump supporters have applauded the deployment. But critics argue Trump has manufactured a crisis to drive Republican voters to the polls. On another immigration front, Trump said this week he would seek to scrap the constitutional right of citizenship for US-born children of noncitizens and illegal immigrants, saying he would issue an executive order on so-called birthright citizenship. Trump and some other Republicans say the right - granted by the Constitution's post-Civil War 14th Amendment - creates an incentive for people to enter the country illegally to have children. Critics, including some other Republicans, say the president cannot change the Constitution by fiat. Such an action would virtually guarantee a legal challenge.

Trump moves to crack down on asylum seekers ahead of US elections

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-islamists-block-roads-to-protest-acquittal-of-asia-bibi-174979">Asia Bibi: Pakistan Islamists block roads to protest </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-islamists-block-roads-to-protest-acquittal-of-asia-bibi-174979">acquittal</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-islamists-block-roads-to-protest-acquittal-of-asia-bibi-174979"> of Christian woman over blasphemy allegations</a>

Pakistan's ultra-Islamist party&nbsp;blocked roads in major cities for a third day on Friday in&nbsp;protest against the acquittal of a Christian woman&nbsp;Asia Bibi on death row for blasphemy allegations.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-will-move-its-embassy-in-israel-to-jerusalem-president-elect-jair-bolsonaro-174991">Brazil will move its embassy in Israel to Jerusalem: President-elect Jair Bolsonaro</a>

Brazil will move its embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, far-right President-elect Jair Bolsonaro said Thursday, making the Latin American giant the largest country after the United States to make the controversial switch.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-state-dept-spokeswoman-heather-nauert-could-be-next-un-envoy-donald-trump-174983">US State Dept spokeswoman Heather Nauert could be next UN envoy: Trump</a>

US President Donald Trump on Thursday confirmed reports that State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert is under "serious consideration" to become the next US ambassador to the United Nations.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-moves-to-crack-down-on-asylum-seekers-ahead-of-us-elections-174989">Trump moves to crack down on asylum seekers ahead of US elections</a>

President Donald Trump said on Thursday he was finalising a plan that would require&nbsp;immigrants seeking asylum&nbsp;in the United States to approach a legal port of entry, pushing a hard line on immigration ahead of next week's congressional elections.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/apple-quarterly-profit-leaps-but-shares-slip-on-outlook-174974">Apple quarterly profit leaps but shares slip on weaker-than-expected iPhone sales</a>

Apple on Thursday reported that its profit leapt in the recently ended quarter, but shares slid on weaker-than-expected iPhone sales and the forecast going into the year-end holiday.

Asia Bibi: Pakistan Islamists block roads to protest acquittal of Christian woman over blasphemy allegations Pakistan's ultra-Islamist party blocked roads in major cities for a third day on Friday in protest against the acquittal of a Christian woman Asia Bibi on death row for blasphemy allegations.

Asia Bibi: Pakistan Islamists block roads to protest acquittal of Christian woman over blasphemy allegations Pakistan's ultra-Islamist party blocked roads in major cities for a third day on Friday in protest against the acquittal of a Christian woman Asia Bibi on death row for blasphemy allegations. Brazil will move its embassy in Israel to Jerusalem: President-elect Jair Bolsonaro Brazil will move its embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, far-right President-elect Jair Bolsonaro said Thursday, making the Latin American giant the largest country after the United States to make the controversial switch. US State Dept spokeswoman Heather Nauert could be next UN envoy: Trump US President Donald Trump on Thursday confirmed reports that State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert is under "serious consideration" to become the next US ambassador to the United Nations. Trump moves to crack down on asylum seekers ahead of US elections President Donald Trump said on Thursday he was finalising a plan that would require immigrants seeking asylum in the United States to approach a legal port of entry, pushing a hard line on immigration ahead of next week's congressional elections. Apple quarterly profit leaps but shares slip on weaker-than-expected iPhone sales Apple on Thursday reported that its profit leapt in the recently ended quarter, but shares slid on weaker-than-expected iPhone sales and the forecast going into the year-end holiday.

Two former TV stars and political opposites - media mogul Oprah Winfrey and President Donald Trump - took to the US campaign trail on Thursday, five days before elections that will determine whether Trump`s Republicans retain control of Congress.

Winfrey appeared in Georgia to back Democrat Stacey Abrams, who is vying to become the United States'&nbsp;first black female governor.&nbsp;

"I'm here today to support a change maker," the movie star and former TV talk show host told a crowd in Cobb County northwest of Atlanta. "She is dynamic. She is so inspired and inspiring."

Trump, who gained nationwide fame as star of the reality show "The Apprentice," was in the second day of an 11-rally tour of states with competitive Senate races. He was to campaign with fellow Republican Josh Hawley, who is trying to unseat Democratic US Senator Claire McCaskill.

The contest between Abrams, a former state lawmaker, and Republican Brian Kemp has become a flashpoint in the battle over voter access. As Georgia`s secretary of state, Kemp oversees the Southern state`s elections.

Georgia has one of the country`s strictest voter ID laws, measures Republicans say are needed to ensure no one votes illegally. Democrats contend the statutes unfairly block poor people and minority group members from voting.

 
Voting rights groups sued Kemp, saying his office had inappropriately stopped processing more than 50,000 voter registration applications, many from black voters. Other groups have challenged voting restrictions in states including North Dakota, Arkansas and Ohio.

Healthcare focus

Abrams said improving the state's health care system was at the top of the list of issues she wanted to tackle if elected, a message that lined up with Democrats` national focus as they seek to gain control of at least one chamber of Congress, which would give them the ability to oppose Trump's agenda. 
"The Republican solution has been nothing," Abrams said on Thursday. "It has been absolutely nothing."

The embrace of healthcare is a sharp shift for Democrats, who were wary of defending Obamacare in previous elections when the law that created it was unpopular with many voters.

A Reuters poll of 2,673 Americans conducted October 1 through October 28 found health care was the top issue for Democratic and independent voters heading into the elections, and third in priority among Republicans, behind immigration and the economy.

Democrats are favoured to flip the 23 seats they need to secure a majority in the House of Representatives, although they are considered a long shot to pick up the two seats needed to capture the Senate.&nbsp;

Trump stumps 
 
Vulnerable Democratic senators in states Trump won in 2016 are also focusing on health care. Among them is Missouri's McCaskill, who has criticised her Republican challenger, state Attorney General Hawley, for joining a lawsuit filed by Republican attorneys general seeking to overturn Obamacare.

Trump, who vowed throughout his campaign to repeal Obamacare, formally known as the Affordable Care Act, and fumed when the effort failed, was due in Missouri on Thursday to support Hawley.

On Friday, he will travel to West Virginia, which he won by more than 40 percentage points in 2016. The state`s Democratic senator, Joe Manchin, has attacked his opponent, Republican state Attorney General Patrick Morrisey, for participating in the same lawsuit Hawley joined.

Republicans say they are also committed to maintaining those protections, drawing accusations of hypocrisy from Democrats and health care experts who say an Obamacare repeal would have sent premiums skyrocketing for certain people with pre-existing conditions.

Former Vice President Joe Biden may also address the issue in a Thursday campaign appearance in North Dakota with embattled Democratic Senator Heidi Heitkamp.

"Fearmongering"

Trump, who will not be on the ballot, came under fire from Democrats and even some fellow Republicans on Thursday for an online video ad backing Republican candidates that attempted to link Democrats and immigrants to violent crime.

The ad featured courtroom footage of Luis Bracamontes - an illegal immigrant from Mexico convicted in the 2014 killings of two police officers in Sacramento, California - saying in accented English he would kill more cops. A narrator asks, "Who else would Democrats let in?"

Robert Reich, who served as secretary of labour in the Clinton administration, called the ad "desperate and vile ... They`ve resorted to fearmongering."

Two former TV stars and political opposites - media mogul Oprah Winfrey and President Donald Trump - took to the US campaign trail on Thursday, five days before elections that will determine whether Trump`s Republicans retain control of Congress.

Two former TV stars and political opposites - media mogul Oprah Winfrey and President Donald Trump - took to the US campaign trail on Thursday, five days before elections that will determine whether Trump`s Republicans retain control of Congress. Winfrey appeared in Georgia to back Democrat Stacey Abrams, who is vying to become the United States' first black female governor. "I'm here today to support a change maker," the movie star and former TV talk show host told a crowd in Cobb County northwest of Atlanta. "She is dynamic. She is so inspired and inspiring." Trump, who gained nationwide fame as star of the reality show "The Apprentice," was in the second day of an 11-rally tour of states with competitive Senate races. He was to campaign with fellow Republican Josh Hawley, who is trying to unseat Democratic US Senator Claire McCaskill. The contest between Abrams, a former state lawmaker, and Republican Brian Kemp has become a flashpoint in the battle over voter access. As Georgia`s secretary of state, Kemp oversees the Southern state`s elections. Georgia has one of the country`s strictest voter ID laws, measures Republicans say are needed to ensure no one votes illegally. Democrats contend the statutes unfairly block poor people and minority group members from voting. Voting rights groups sued Kemp, saying his office had inappropriately stopped processing more than 50,000 voter registration applications, many from black voters. Other groups have challenged voting restrictions in states including North Dakota, Arkansas and Ohio. Healthcare focus Abrams said improving the state's health care system was at the top of the list of issues she wanted to tackle if elected, a message that lined up with Democrats` national focus as they seek to gain control of at least one chamber of Congress, which would give them the ability to oppose Trump's agenda. "The Republican solution has been nothing," Abrams said on Thursday. "It has been absolutely nothing." The embrace of healthcare is a sharp shift for Democrats, who were wary of defending Obamacare in previous elections when the law that created it was unpopular with many voters. A Reuters poll of 2,673 Americans conducted October 1 through October 28 found health care was the top issue for Democratic and independent voters heading into the elections, and third in priority among Republicans, behind immigration and the economy. Democrats are favoured to flip the 23 seats they need to secure a majority in the House of Representatives, although they are considered a long shot to pick up the two seats needed to capture the Senate. Trump stumps Vulnerable Democratic senators in states Trump won in 2016 are also focusing on health care. Among them is Missouri's McCaskill, who has criticised her Republican challenger, state Attorney General Hawley, for joining a lawsuit filed by Republican attorneys general seeking to overturn Obamacare. Trump, who vowed throughout his campaign to repeal Obamacare, formally known as the Affordable Care Act, and fumed when the effort failed, was due in Missouri on Thursday to support Hawley. On Friday, he will travel to West Virginia, which he won by more than 40 percentage points in 2016. The state`s Democratic senator, Joe Manchin, has attacked his opponent, Republican state Attorney General Patrick Morrisey, for participating in the same lawsuit Hawley joined. Republicans say they are also committed to maintaining those protections, drawing accusations of hypocrisy from Democrats and health care experts who say an Obamacare repeal would have sent premiums skyrocketing for certain people with pre-existing conditions. Former Vice President Joe Biden may also address the issue in a Thursday campaign appearance in North Dakota with embattled Democratic Senator Heidi Heitkamp. "Fearmongering" Trump, who will not be on the ballot, came under fire from Democrats and even some fellow Republicans on Thursday for an online video ad backing Republican candidates that attempted to link Democrats and immigrants to violent crime. The ad featured courtroom footage of Luis Bracamontes - an illegal immigrant from Mexico convicted in the 2014 killings of two police officers in Sacramento, California - saying in accented English he would kill more cops. A narrator asks, "Who else would Democrats let in?" Robert Reich, who served as secretary of labour in the Clinton administration, called the ad "desperate and vile ... They`ve resorted to fearmongering."

US midterm polls 2018: TV titans Trump, Oprah go head to head on US campaign trail

Ahead of the midterm elections on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-birthright-citizenship-guarantee-of-the-14th-amendment-174507">November 6th, President Trump</a> at a rally in Columbia, Missouri said birthright citizenship has created an "entire industry".

"This policy (birthright citizenship) has even created an entire industry. It's called birth tourism, where pregnant mothers from all over the world travel to America to make their children instant lifelong citizens with guaranteed everything," Trump said at the election rally.&nbsp;

"Hundreds of thousands of children born to illegal immigrants are made automatic citizens of the United States every year because of this crazy, lunatic policy that we can end," the US president asserted.

Trump in a tweet on Thursday had said he will end the birthright citizenship "one way or the other" insisting that the 14th amendment does not make any reference to it, and he had legal advisors to put his thoughts into practice.&nbsp;

"We need support, but we can do it. They're all made instantly eligible for every privilege and benefit of American citizenship. You get nothing more than they do. They're full citizens," he said.

"This is costing US many billions of dollars a year," he added. 
&nbsp; 
"You don't realise what a big industry - it's an industry. Many come from China. You'll be surprised. China now is number one. We're not talking just South America, Latin America. We're talking about China, parts of Asia. It's crazy," he said.

"Think of it. You're an enemy of our country. You're a general with war on your mind. You're a dictator who we hate and who's against us. And that dictator has his wife have a baby on American soil. Congratulations. Your son or daughter is now an American citizen. Does anybody think this makes sense?" he asked those present at the rally.

"It's crazy. But we're getting it all worked out," he said, adding,"you come into the country, you're like two months old, and you're going to take your brother and your sister and your mother and your father. You're going to bring them all, aunts and uncles and grandfathers, and lots of people," he said.

"It's a disgrace. We have got to change our laws. The Democrats refuse to do it. And it's not because they don't know right from wrong. They think it's good politically for them to make us all go through hell to get those laws changed. We're going to get them changed," Trump told the rally at Missouri.&nbsp;

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/O0pBS2saepY" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Ahead of the midterm elections on November 6th, President Trump at a rally in Columbia, Missouri said birthright citizenship has created an "entire industry". "This policy (birthright citizenship) has even created an entire industry.

Ahead of the midterm elections on November 6th, President Trump at a rally in Columbia, Missouri said birthright citizenship has created an "entire industry". "This policy (birthright citizenship) has even created an entire industry. It's called birth tourism, where pregnant mothers from all over the world travel to America to make their children instant lifelong citizens with guaranteed everything," Trump said at the election rally. "Hundreds of thousands of children born to illegal immigrants are made automatic citizens of the United States every year because of this crazy, lunatic policy that we can end," the US president asserted. Trump in a tweet on Thursday had said he will end the birthright citizenship "one way or the other" insisting that the 14th amendment does not make any reference to it, and he had legal advisors to put his thoughts into practice. "We need support, but we can do it. They're all made instantly eligible for every privilege and benefit of American citizenship. You get nothing more than they do. They're full citizens," he said. "This is costing US many billions of dollars a year," he added. "You don't realise what a big industry - it's an industry. Many come from China. You'll be surprised. China now is number one. We're not talking just South America, Latin America. We're talking about China, parts of Asia. It's crazy," he said. "Think of it. You're an enemy of our country. You're a general with war on your mind. You're a dictator who we hate and who's against us. And that dictator has his wife have a baby on American soil. Congratulations. Your son or daughter is now an American citizen. Does anybody think this makes sense?" he asked those present at the rally. "It's crazy. But we're getting it all worked out," he said, adding,"you come into the country, you're like two months old, and you're going to take your brother and your sister and your mother and your father. You're going to bring them all, aunts and uncles and grandfathers, and lots of people," he said. "It's a disgrace. We have got to change our laws. The Democrats refuse to do it. And it's not because they don't know right from wrong. They think it's good politically for them to make us all go through hell to get those laws changed. We're going to get them changed," Trump told the rally at Missouri.

Birthright citizenship has created an entire industry, called birth tourism, says Trump at election rally

When Donald Trump met with advisers about his plans for campaign appearances in the final weeks for the battle for control of the US Congress, the president surprised them by insisting they add more events to an already-crowded schedule.

His strategy for the final stretch has been simple: Drive Republican turnout by focusing on an issue that appeals to his core supporters - illegal immigration - using as a foil a large group of Central American migrants making their way slowly through Mexico towards the US border.

And he aimed to keep talking about how Democrats tried to block Brett Kavanaugh from ascending to the US Supreme Court, plus economic gains in the country under his watch.

"This will be the election of the Kavanaughs and the caravans and law and order and tax cuts," Trump told a rally in Charlotte, North Carolina, on October 26.

Trump's desire to focus on red-meat issues was rattled by two shocking cases of political violence as he ploughed into an eight-state blitz ahead of Tuesday's congressional elections.

Non-stop cable TV coverage of pipe bombs mailed to prominent political opponents of Trump and of a mass shooting at a Pittsburgh synagogue upended his goal of dominating the news. And the freewheeling format of his rallies can complicate the White House`s efforts at delivering a carefully crafted closing message to voters ahead of the elections.&nbsp;

Trump has had to divert from his usual stump speeches and make a rare appeal for political unity, even as he is accused of stoking divisions with his scathing attacks on key Democratic figures and figures in the US news media.

Given the media's focus on the twin calamities, Trump and his aides are struggling to keep up the momentum ahead of the November 6 vote, which will determine whether Trump`s fellow Republicans retain majorities in the Senate and House of Representatives.

Trump upped the ante on Tuesday, saying he would issue an executive order curtailing so-called "birthright citizenship" to try to prevent babies born to undocumented immigrants from being automatically American citizens.

Such an order would immediately be challenged in federal court as unconstitutional, and some of Trump's network of outside advisers worried the president was creating an unnecessary distraction.

"The president is making a mistake when he’s trying to roll out a new immigration policy that is undeniably going to be stopped in the federal courts," said one Trump confidant, who asked not to be identified.

The White House countered criticism of Trump`s proposal by saying there is a wider need for reforms. "We have massive loopholes in our immigration system that we have to close," spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said on Fox News.

'Huge crowd'

Opinion polls indicate that Democrats have a good chance of making the net gain of 23 seats they need to win control of the House, but are less likely to capture a majority in the Senate.

Trump's final blitz of campaigning includes 11 rallies in eight states, mostly focused on US Senate races. They include two stops in Florida, two in Missouri and visits to West Virginia, Indiana, Montana, Georgia, Tennessee and Ohio - all states Trump won in the 2016 presidential election.

"These are places where data and polling information tells us that the president is of best use. He doesn’t go to places that are sure-fire wins nor does he go to places that are sure fire-losses," said a Trump adviser.

Trump and his aides believe putting him in front of crowds will help convince voters who provided him with his upset victory in 2016 to turn out in a midterm election, when turnout is typically lower than in presidential years.

"These huge crowds - Donald Trump is still the only person who comes without a band, an instrument, a singing voice or a sermon to pack these houses," said senior Trump adviser Kellyanne Conway.

Republican Senator Jeff Flake, who is retiring and who has been a steady critic of the president, said Trump should be using his microphone to unite, not divide Americans after the mailed pipe bombs and the killing of 11 people at the synagogue.

“These events are horrific enough, so we ought to try to make something good come from the tragedy. Something good would be to unify the country and moving away from this kind of rhetoric. That’s what he hasn’t done," the Arizona senator told Reuters in a telephone interview.

The White House said Trump will continue to draw a contrast with his Democratic opponents.

'Massive hole'

Trump aides acknowledge that holding onto the House is a challenging prospect, and say Republicans` goal this year is to minimise losses.&nbsp;

"The party in power usually loses many seats and there are 43 Republican retirements and I think that this a massive hole to dig out of," said Conway.

If Democrats take over the House, Trump`s administration will suddenly be exposed to congressional investigations that would weigh heavily on him for the next two years.

Major legislation would also likely fall to the wayside, such as his signature bid to build a wall along the U.S. southern border with Mexico to thwart illegal immigration.

But for Trump personally, there could be benefits.

A Democratic House would give him a target ahead of his 2020 re-election campaign and would probably prompt what some consider house-cleaning in the Republican hierarchy in Washington - changes that could usher in more Trump allies.

Perhaps preemptively seeking a silver lining, the Trump confidant struck a contrarian tone and said Republicans winning both chambers of Congress would be a negative for Trump "because there&nbsp;

When Donald Trump met with advisers about his plans for campaign appearances in the final weeks for the battle for control of the US Congress, the president surprised them by insisting they add more events to an already-crowded schedule.

When Donald Trump met with advisers about his plans for campaign appearances in the final weeks for the battle for control of the US Congress, the president surprised them by insisting they add more events to an already-crowded schedule. His strategy for the final stretch has been simple: Drive Republican turnout by focusing on an issue that appeals to his core supporters - illegal immigration - using as a foil a large group of Central American migrants making their way slowly through Mexico towards the US border. And he aimed to keep talking about how Democrats tried to block Brett Kavanaugh from ascending to the US Supreme Court, plus economic gains in the country under his watch. "This will be the election of the Kavanaughs and the caravans and law and order and tax cuts," Trump told a rally in Charlotte, North Carolina, on October 26. Trump's desire to focus on red-meat issues was rattled by two shocking cases of political violence as he ploughed into an eight-state blitz ahead of Tuesday's congressional elections. Non-stop cable TV coverage of pipe bombs mailed to prominent political opponents of Trump and of a mass shooting at a Pittsburgh synagogue upended his goal of dominating the news. And the freewheeling format of his rallies can complicate the White House`s efforts at delivering a carefully crafted closing message to voters ahead of the elections. Trump has had to divert from his usual stump speeches and make a rare appeal for political unity, even as he is accused of stoking divisions with his scathing attacks on key Democratic figures and figures in the US news media. Given the media's focus on the twin calamities, Trump and his aides are struggling to keep up the momentum ahead of the November 6 vote, which will determine whether Trump`s fellow Republicans retain majorities in the Senate and House of Representatives. Trump upped the ante on Tuesday, saying he would issue an executive order curtailing so-called "birthright citizenship" to try to prevent babies born to undocumented immigrants from being automatically American citizens. Such an order would immediately be challenged in federal court as unconstitutional, and some of Trump's network of outside advisers worried the president was creating an unnecessary distraction. "The president is making a mistake when he’s trying to roll out a new immigration policy that is undeniably going to be stopped in the federal courts," said one Trump confidant, who asked not to be identified. The White House countered criticism of Trump`s proposal by saying there is a wider need for reforms. "We have massive loopholes in our immigration system that we have to close," spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said on Fox News. 'Huge crowd' Opinion polls indicate that Democrats have a good chance of making the net gain of 23 seats they need to win control of the House, but are less likely to capture a majority in the Senate. Trump's final blitz of campaigning includes 11 rallies in eight states, mostly focused on US Senate races. They include two stops in Florida, two in Missouri and visits to West Virginia, Indiana, Montana, Georgia, Tennessee and Ohio - all states Trump won in the 2016 presidential election. "These are places where data and polling information tells us that the president is of best use. He doesn’t go to places that are sure-fire wins nor does he go to places that are sure fire-losses," said a Trump adviser. Trump and his aides believe putting him in front of crowds will help convince voters who provided him with his upset victory in 2016 to turn out in a midterm election, when turnout is typically lower than in presidential years. "These huge crowds - Donald Trump is still the only person who comes without a band, an instrument, a singing voice or a sermon to pack these houses," said senior Trump adviser Kellyanne Conway. Republican Senator Jeff Flake, who is retiring and who has been a steady critic of the president, said Trump should be using his microphone to unite, not divide Americans after the mailed pipe bombs and the killing of 11 people at the synagogue. “These events are horrific enough, so we ought to try to make something good come from the tragedy. Something good would be to unify the country and moving away from this kind of rhetoric. That’s what he hasn’t done," the Arizona senator told Reuters in a telephone interview. The White House said Trump will continue to draw a contrast with his Democratic opponents. 'Massive hole' Trump aides acknowledge that holding onto the House is a challenging prospect, and say Republicans` goal this year is to minimise losses. "The party in power usually loses many seats and there are 43 Republican retirements and I think that this a massive hole to dig out of," said Conway. If Democrats take over the House, Trump`s administration will suddenly be exposed to congressional investigations that would weigh heavily on him for the next two years. Major legislation would also likely fall to the wayside, such as his signature bid to build a wall along the U.S. southern border with Mexico to thwart illegal immigration. But for Trump personally, there could be benefits. A Democratic House would give him a target ahead of his 2020 re-election campaign and would probably prompt what some consider house-cleaning in the Republican hierarchy in Washington - changes that could usher in more Trump allies. Perhaps preemptively seeking a silver lining, the Trump confidant struck a contrarian tone and said Republicans winning both chambers of Congress would be a negative for Trump "because there

US midterms: Trump's final campaign stretch rattled by twin calamities

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday the United States could send as many as 15,000 troops to the border with Mexico, as he hardens his stance against a caravan of migrants fleeing violence and poverty in Central America.

The numbers cited by Trump are significantly higher than defence officials have disclosed. The Pentagon said on Monday it was deploying more than 5,200 troops to the border but that the number would rise. On Wednesday, it said more than 7,000 troops would support the Department of Homeland Security along the border.

Several groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union, have accused Trump of politicizing the military ahead of next week's congressional elections with his plans to use active military personnel to buttress border patrol efforts.

"As far as the caravan is concerned, our military is out ... We'll go up to anywhere between 10 and 15,000 military personnel, on top of Border Patrol, ICE and everybody else at the border," Trump told reporters at the White House.

Trump did not say how many of those 15,000 would be National Guard. There are already 2,100 US National Guard forces at the border, sent after a previous Trump request in April, and they are authorized to go up to 4,000.

If 15,000 troops were drawn into the effort, it would mean there would be more US troops on the border with Mexico than there are in Afghanistan, which has become America's longest conflict.

Trump has sought to use immigration as an issue to motivate Republican voters ahead of the November 6 elections, where Republicans will seek to maintain control of both congressional chambers.

As a presidential candidate before the US election in 2016, Trump promised to harden immigration laws and build a wall along the southern border with Mexico, but implementation of his signature campaign promise has been slow.

A caravan of Central American migrants estimated to number at least 3,500 people left Honduras in mid-October and is now in southern Mexico on its way to the US border.

"We don't do stunts"

Before Trump's comments, US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis on Wednesday rejected criticism that deploying thousands of troops to the border with Mexico was a political stunt.

"The support that we provide to the secretary for homeland security is practical support based on the request from the commissioner of customs and border police, so we don't do stunts in this department," Mattis said after a meeting with his South Korean counterpart at the Pentagon.

Republican lawmakers and other Trump supporters have applauded the deployment. But critics argue Trump has manufactured a crisis to drive Republican voters to the polls.

"The move to send 5,200 active duty troops to the southern border is a craven political stunt that sets a bad precedent and is arguably an abuse of power," said Kelly Magsamen, a former senior Pentagon official who is currently with the Center for American Progress left-leaning think tank.

Trump's decision to call in the military appears to be a departure from past practice. In recent years, such operations have been carried out by National Guard forces, largely part-time military members often called upon to respond to domestic emergencies.

A U.S. official told Reuters that as of Wednesday the Pentagon had identified more than 7,000 active-duty troops, which included about 2,000 on standby, that could be deployed to the border with Mexico if needed.

Many basic questions remained unanswered days after the Pentagon announcement, including the scope of the mission as well as the Pentagon's assessment of any threat posed by arriving migrants.

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday the United States could send as many as 15,000 troops to the border with Mexico, as he hardens his stance against a caravan of migrants fleeing violence and poverty in Central America.

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday the United States could send as many as 15,000 troops to the border with Mexico, as he hardens his stance against a caravan of migrants fleeing violence and poverty in Central America. The numbers cited by Trump are significantly higher than defence officials have disclosed. The Pentagon said on Monday it was deploying more than 5,200 troops to the border but that the number would rise. On Wednesday, it said more than 7,000 troops would support the Department of Homeland Security along the border. Several groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union, have accused Trump of politicizing the military ahead of next week's congressional elections with his plans to use active military personnel to buttress border patrol efforts. "As far as the caravan is concerned, our military is out ... We'll go up to anywhere between 10 and 15,000 military personnel, on top of Border Patrol, ICE and everybody else at the border," Trump told reporters at the White House. Trump did not say how many of those 15,000 would be National Guard. There are already 2,100 US National Guard forces at the border, sent after a previous Trump request in April, and they are authorized to go up to 4,000. If 15,000 troops were drawn into the effort, it would mean there would be more US troops on the border with Mexico than there are in Afghanistan, which has become America's longest conflict. Trump has sought to use immigration as an issue to motivate Republican voters ahead of the November 6 elections, where Republicans will seek to maintain control of both congressional chambers. As a presidential candidate before the US election in 2016, Trump promised to harden immigration laws and build a wall along the southern border with Mexico, but implementation of his signature campaign promise has been slow. A caravan of Central American migrants estimated to number at least 3,500 people left Honduras in mid-October and is now in southern Mexico on its way to the US border. "We don't do stunts" Before Trump's comments, US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis on Wednesday rejected criticism that deploying thousands of troops to the border with Mexico was a political stunt. "The support that we provide to the secretary for homeland security is practical support based on the request from the commissioner of customs and border police, so we don't do stunts in this department," Mattis said after a meeting with his South Korean counterpart at the Pentagon. Republican lawmakers and other Trump supporters have applauded the deployment. But critics argue Trump has manufactured a crisis to drive Republican voters to the polls. "The move to send 5,200 active duty troops to the southern border is a craven political stunt that sets a bad precedent and is arguably an abuse of power," said Kelly Magsamen, a former senior Pentagon official who is currently with the Center for American Progress left-leaning think tank. Trump's decision to call in the military appears to be a departure from past practice. In recent years, such operations have been carried out by National Guard forces, largely part-time military members often called upon to respond to domestic emergencies. A U.S. official told Reuters that as of Wednesday the Pentagon had identified more than 7,000 active-duty troops, which included about 2,000 on standby, that could be deployed to the border with Mexico if needed. Many basic questions remained unanswered days after the Pentagon announcement, including the scope of the mission as well as the Pentagon's assessment of any threat posed by arriving migrants.

Trump hardens stance on Mexico border, says 15,000 troops could be sent

After two years on the sidelines, Democrats are hoping anger over gun control, healthcare and the confirmation of Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court will fuel a 'blue wave' in the midterm congressional elections on Tuesday (November 6).

"November is coming" has become a mantra for Democrats who will likely take control of the House of Representatives but are a longshot to take control of the Senate, according to Carroll Doherty, director of political research for the Pew Research Center.

While political analysts don't expect massive gains by Democrats, President Donald Trump and Republicans aren't taking any chances. In the week leading up to the election, Trump has scheduled rallies, sometimes as many as two a day, in states with tight congressional races.

To take control of the House, Democrats need to gain 23 seats held by Republicans. Historically, the party that holds the White House typically loses seats in the first congressional elections after a president's initial two years in office.

"You lose the midterm, we are going to go through nothing but fights. We are going to be fighting to keep what you have, they are going to want to take it away. You have to go out, we can't be complacent," Trump said.

In addition to stalling the Trump's legislative agenda, a Democrat-controlled House could examine everything from his long-elusive tax returns to possible business ties with Russia and conflicts of interest, congressional sources say.

While some Democrats have called for Trump's impeachment, the party's leadership have been more cautious --- and are reportedly waiting until the outcome of Special Counsel Robert Mueller's probe of Russian meddling in the 2016 US elections and possible Trump campaign collusion with Moscow

"The big question is do the Democrats have the discipline and unity to pull this off. Ordinarily, I'd be skeptical but I think there's enough anger on the part of Democrats against Donald Trump who they believe is destroying our democracy, that if they win the House, they will get their act together to launch disciplined investigations," Allan Lichtman, the author of 'The Case For Impeachment' and a history professor at American University, said.

Lichtman is quick to point out that only the House of Representatives has the power to introduce impeachment articles and that the guidelines are intentionally broad.

"It's a combined legal, moral and political judgment. It doesn't require an indictable crime. That's why the Constitution says high crimes and misdemeanors," Lichtman said.

Actions taken before entering office can also be taken into consideration, said Licthman.

In July, a group of Republicans introduced articles of impeachment to remove Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, who oversees the federal probe of Russia's role in the 2016 election.

It was ultimately rejected by US House Speaker Paul Ryan.

House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi noted that Rosenstein was a Republican appointee and said the Republican lawmakers were undermining the judicial system with a politically motivated action.

Trump, in recent weeks has veered from his standard remarks to address the possibility of an impeachment.

"If you fight back today, it's called obstruction. No no no. We fight back. Call it whatever the hell you want. We fight back," Trump said.

At rally in Rochester, Minnesota, Trump speculated about Pelosi becoming the next Speaker of the House, adding, "Don't do that to me."

Both Republicans and Democrats have reported high levels of enthusiasm for the upcoming midterm elections -- a fact Doherty believes is linked to the strong feelings on both sides about Trump. While midterm elections historically have low turnout, Doherty believes the unusually high levels of enthusiasm could result in a large turnout.

At rallies across the country, Trump has urged supporters not to be "complacent."

"Democrat sanctuary cities release violent criminals from jail and straight into your neighborhoods," Trump told supporters told a rally in Houston.

In West Virginia, he warned that a "Democrat-controlled Senate will try to take away your Second Amendment. They're going to take it away."

At another rally, Trump warned, "bad things will happen if you sit home."

"Trump knows that his opponents are motivated by anger and fear. He's trying to do the same with his base. And that's where the midterm elections will be decided," Lichtman said.

After two years on the sidelines, Democrats are hoping anger over gun control, healthcare and the confirmation of Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court will fuel a 'blue wave' in the midterm congressional elections on Tuesday (November 6).

After two years on the sidelines, Democrats are hoping anger over gun control, healthcare and the confirmation of Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court will fuel a 'blue wave' in the midterm congressional elections on Tuesday (November 6). "November is coming" has become a mantra for Democrats who will likely take control of the House of Representatives but are a longshot to take control of the Senate, according to Carroll Doherty, director of political research for the Pew Research Center. While political analysts don't expect massive gains by Democrats, President Donald Trump and Republicans aren't taking any chances. In the week leading up to the election, Trump has scheduled rallies, sometimes as many as two a day, in states with tight congressional races. To take control of the House, Democrats need to gain 23 seats held by Republicans. Historically, the party that holds the White House typically loses seats in the first congressional elections after a president's initial two years in office. "You lose the midterm, we are going to go through nothing but fights. We are going to be fighting to keep what you have, they are going to want to take it away. You have to go out, we can't be complacent," Trump said. In addition to stalling the Trump's legislative agenda, a Democrat-controlled House could examine everything from his long-elusive tax returns to possible business ties with Russia and conflicts of interest, congressional sources say. While some Democrats have called for Trump's impeachment, the party's leadership have been more cautious --- and are reportedly waiting until the outcome of Special Counsel Robert Mueller's probe of Russian meddling in the 2016 US elections and possible Trump campaign collusion with Moscow "The big question is do the Democrats have the discipline and unity to pull this off. Ordinarily, I'd be skeptical but I think there's enough anger on the part of Democrats against Donald Trump who they believe is destroying our democracy, that if they win the House, they will get their act together to launch disciplined investigations," Allan Lichtman, the author of 'The Case For Impeachment' and a history professor at American University, said. Lichtman is quick to point out that only the House of Representatives has the power to introduce impeachment articles and that the guidelines are intentionally broad. "It's a combined legal, moral and political judgment. It doesn't require an indictable crime. That's why the Constitution says high crimes and misdemeanors," Lichtman said. Actions taken before entering office can also be taken into consideration, said Licthman. In July, a group of Republicans introduced articles of impeachment to remove Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, who oversees the federal probe of Russia's role in the 2016 election. It was ultimately rejected by US House Speaker Paul Ryan. House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi noted that Rosenstein was a Republican appointee and said the Republican lawmakers were undermining the judicial system with a politically motivated action. Trump, in recent weeks has veered from his standard remarks to address the possibility of an impeachment. "If you fight back today, it's called obstruction. No no no. We fight back. Call it whatever the hell you want. We fight back," Trump said. At rally in Rochester, Minnesota, Trump speculated about Pelosi becoming the next Speaker of the House, adding, "Don't do that to me." Both Republicans and Democrats have reported high levels of enthusiasm for the upcoming midterm elections -- a fact Doherty believes is linked to the strong feelings on both sides about Trump. While midterm elections historically have low turnout, Doherty believes the unusually high levels of enthusiasm could result in a large turnout. At rallies across the country, Trump has urged supporters not to be "complacent." "Democrat sanctuary cities release violent criminals from jail and straight into your neighborhoods," Trump told supporters told a rally in Houston. In West Virginia, he warned that a "Democrat-controlled Senate will try to take away your Second Amendment. They're going to take it away." At another rally, Trump warned, "bad things will happen if you sit home." "Trump knows that his opponents are motivated by anger and fear. He's trying to do the same with his base. And that's where the midterm elections will be decided," Lichtman said.

US midterms: Trump steps up rallies, warns supporters that 'bad things will happen' if they don't vote'

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-invokes-never-used-before-powers-to-issue-directions-to-rbi-report-174517">Government invokes never-used-before powers to issue directions to RBI governor: Report</a>

The Indian government has invoked never-used-before powers under the RBI Act allowing it to issue directions to the central bank governor on matters of public interest, the Economic Times reported on Wednesday.

Separate letters have been sent to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) governor in recent weeks, exercising powers under the section on issues ranging from liquidity for non-banking financial companies, capital requirement for weak banks and lending to small and medium enterprises, the report said.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rbi-governor-urjit-patel-may-consider-resigning-after-rift-with-government-report-174513">RBI Governor Urjit Patel may consider resigning after </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rbi-governor-urjit-patel-may-consider-resigning-after-rift-with-government-report-174513">rift</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rbi-governor-urjit-patel-may-consider-resigning-after-rift-with-government-report-174513"> with government: Report</a>

The rift between India's central bank and the government has widened and could lead to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) governor considering resignation, CNBC TV18 reported on Wednesday, citing sources.

There has been an irreversible breakdown between the RBI Governor Urjit Patel and the government, the media said, adding that all options were on the table.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-updates-modi-to-unveil-statue-of-unity-today-on-sardar-patels-143rd-birth-anniversary-174516">Live updates: Modi to </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-updates-modi-to-unveil-statue-of-unity-today-on-sardar-patels-143rd-birth-anniversary-174516">unveil</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-updates-modi-to-unveil-statue-of-unity-today-on-sardar-patels-143rd-birth-anniversary-174516"> Statue of Unity today on Sardar Patel's 143rd birth anniversary</a>

The Statue of Unity, a 182-metre giant structure built in honour of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, will be dedicated to the nation on Wednesday by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The imposing monument, touted as the world's tallest statue, is twice the height of Statue of Liberty and is built on an islet, Sadhu Bet, near the Sardar Sarovar Dam in Narmada district.&nbsp;

After Modi unveils the statue, three IAF planes would fly past and create the tricolour in the sky by emitting saffron, white and green colours, said an official release Tuesday.&nbsp;

Get all your updates on the story, live, from us.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-visits-pittsburgh-protesters-say-hes-responsible-for-synagogue-shooting-174508">Trump visits Pittsburgh, protesters say he's responsible for synagogue shooting that killed 11</a>

Around 1,500 people took to the streets of Pittsburgh Tuesday to demonstrate peacefully in song against a visit by US President Donald Trump and to mourn 11 Jewish worshipers killed in a synagogue.

The crowd of all ages and faiths, including many young families, children and the elderly, marched for six blocks holding signs that read "President Hate, Leave Our State!" and "Trump's Lies Kill."

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kanye-west-distances-himself-from-politics-says-hes-been-used-174510">Kanye West says he's been 'used', distances himself from politics</a>

Three weeks after a bizarre White House meeting with US President Donald Trump, rapper Kanye West said on Tuesday he was distancing himself from politics.

West, Trump's biggest celebrity supporter, also sought to distance himself from a new campaign that encourages black Americans to quit the Democratic Party.

"My eyes are now wide open and now realize I’ve been used to spread messages I don’t believe in. I am distancing myself from politics and completely focusing on being creative!!!" West tweeted, without mentioning Trump, who is a Republican, or any other names.

Government invokes never-used-before powers to issue directions to RBI governor: Report The Indian government has invoked never-used-before powers under the RBI Act allowing it to issue directions to the central bank governor on matters of public interest, the Economic Times reported on Wednesday.

Government invokes never-used-before powers to issue directions to RBI governor: Report The Indian government has invoked never-used-before powers under the RBI Act allowing it to issue directions to the central bank governor on matters of public interest, the Economic Times reported on Wednesday. Separate letters have been sent to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) governor in recent weeks, exercising powers under the section on issues ranging from liquidity for non-banking financial companies, capital requirement for weak banks and lending to small and medium enterprises, the report said. RBI Governor Urjit Patel may consider resigning after rift with government: Report The rift between India's central bank and the government has widened and could lead to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) governor considering resignation, CNBC TV18 reported on Wednesday, citing sources. There has been an irreversible breakdown between the RBI Governor Urjit Patel and the government, the media said, adding that all options were on the table. Live updates: Modi to unveil Statue of Unity today on Sardar Patel's 143rd birth anniversary The Statue of Unity, a 182-metre giant structure built in honour of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, will be dedicated to the nation on Wednesday by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The imposing monument, touted as the world's tallest statue, is twice the height of Statue of Liberty and is built on an islet, Sadhu Bet, near the Sardar Sarovar Dam in Narmada district. After Modi unveils the statue, three IAF planes would fly past and create the tricolour in the sky by emitting saffron, white and green colours, said an official release Tuesday. Get all your updates on the story, live, from us. Trump visits Pittsburgh, protesters say he's responsible for synagogue shooting that killed 11 Around 1,500 people took to the streets of Pittsburgh Tuesday to demonstrate peacefully in song against a visit by US President Donald Trump and to mourn 11 Jewish worshipers killed in a synagogue. The crowd of all ages and faiths, including many young families, children and the elderly, marched for six blocks holding signs that read "President Hate, Leave Our State!" and "Trump's Lies Kill." Kanye West says he's been 'used', distances himself from politics Three weeks after a bizarre White House meeting with US President Donald Trump, rapper Kanye West said on Tuesday he was distancing himself from politics. West, Trump's biggest celebrity supporter, also sought to distance himself from a new campaign that encourages black Americans to quit the Democratic Party. "My eyes are now wide open and now realize I’ve been used to spread messages I don’t believe in. I am distancing myself from politics and completely focusing on being creative!!!" West tweeted, without mentioning Trump, who is a Republican, or any other names.

The man charged in the Pittsburgh synagogue massacre appeared in court shackled to a wheelchair on Monday as some Jewish leaders and the mayor <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-not-welcome-in-pittsburgh-174314">objected to US&nbsp;President Donald Trump's planned visit to the city</a> on the first day of funerals for the victims.

Robert Bowers, the man accused of shooting 11 worshipers to death at the Tree of Life synagogue on Saturday, sat stony-faced and mostly silent before a US&nbsp;magistrate judge, who ordered him held without bond in the deadliest attack ever on America's Jewish community.

The onetime truck driver, who frequently posted anti-Semitic material online and was described by neighbors as a loner, was charged with 29 federal felony counts and could face the death penalty if convicted.

Prosecutors have said they are treating the mass shooting as a hate crime. The bloodshed heightened a national debate over Trump's inflammatory political rhetoric, which his critics say has contributed to fomenting a surge in right-wing extremism in the United States.

"Yes, words matter," Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto, a Democrat, said during a CNN interview on Monday.

Over the weekend, Trump branded Saturday's shooting an act of pure evil but also angered some by telling reporters the slaying might have been prevented had an armed guard been present at the synagogue.

The White House nevertheless said the president would visit Pittsburgh on Tuesday with first lady Melania Trump to "express the support of the American people and grieve with the Pittsburgh community."

FIRST BURIALS

The trip would come just a week before the hotly contested Nov. 6 congressional elections that will determine whether Trump's Republican Party will retain a majority in Congress.

It also will coincide with at least the first two funerals scheduled for the slain worshipers - David Rosenthal, 54, and his brother Cecil Rosenthal, 59.

The Trump administration has rejected the notion he has encouraged white nationalists and neo-Nazis who have embraced him. But a group of local Jewish leaders told Trump in an open letter on Monday he was "not welcome in Pittsburgh until you fully denounce white nationalism."

More than 27,000 people have signed the letter, organized and posted online by the Pittsburgh chapter of Bend the Arc, a Jewish organization devoted to opposing "the immoral agenda of the Trump administration and the Republican Party."

Trump drew bipartisan condemnation last year for saying "many sides" were to blame for violence that erupted during a "Unite the Right" rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, and during a torch-lit march the night before by hundreds of right-wing demonstrators chanting, "White lives matter" and "Jews will not replace us."

Peduto said he believed Trump should wait until all the funerals were held before coming to Pittsburgh. He suggested Trump's visit and the additional security measures entailed would distract from the "priority" of burying the dead.

Tree of Life Rabbi Jeffrey Myers, said, however, on ABC on Monday that the president of the United States was always welcome to visit.

Bowers, 46, is accused of storming into the synagogue in Pittsburgh's heavily Jewish Squirrel Hill section yelling, "All Jews must die" as he opened fire on members of three congregations holding Sabbath prayer services there on Saturday morning.

In addition to the 11 mostly elderly worshipers who were killed, six people, including four police officers, were wounded before the suspect was shot by police and surrendered.

Two of the surviving victims remained hospitalized in critical condition.

"Robert Bowers murdered 11 people who were exercising their religious beliefs," U.S. Attorney Scott Brady said after the Monday's arraignment, adding a grand jury would hear details of the crime within 30 days.

The judge ordered Bowers to remain in federal custody and ruled he was entitled to court-appointed counsel. His next hearing was set for Thursday.

Bowers' arraignment was marked by a heavy security presence that included police officers with dogs and a team of sharpshooters at the federal courthouse in Pittsburgh.

Wearing a blue sweatshirt, gray sweatpants, sandals and white socks, with a crewcut and bald spot, Bowers remained expressionless throughout the brief proceeding.

Bowers said nothing except to give his name, acknowledge he understood the charges against him and that he lacked funds to pay for an attorney. He spoke in a calm voice and signed the papers handed to him with a steady hand.

Only at the end of the hearing when he was wheeled out of the courtroom did Bowers appear unsettled, turning his head in apparent confusion.

According to an affidavit filed in the case by the FBI, three handguns and an AR-15 rifle were recovered at the scene.

The complaint quoted Bowers as saying to one law enforcement officer, in substance: "They're committing genocide to my people. I just want to kill Jews."

He is charged with 11 counts of obstruction of the exercise of religious beliefs resulting in death and 11 counts of using a firearm to commit murder — one count for each worshipper killed. Seven other counts of civil rights and firearms offences stem from the injury of police officers during the assault.

The man charged in the Pittsburgh synagogue massacre appeared in court shackled to a wheelchair on Monday as some Jewish leaders and the mayor objected to US President Donald Trump's planned visit to the city on the first day of funerals for the victims.

The man charged in the Pittsburgh synagogue massacre appeared in court shackled to a wheelchair on Monday as some Jewish leaders and the mayor objected to US President Donald Trump's planned visit to the city on the first day of funerals for the victims. Robert Bowers, the man accused of shooting 11 worshipers to death at the Tree of Life synagogue on Saturday, sat stony-faced and mostly silent before a US magistrate judge, who ordered him held without bond in the deadliest attack ever on America's Jewish community. The onetime truck driver, who frequently posted anti-Semitic material online and was described by neighbors as a loner, was charged with 29 federal felony counts and could face the death penalty if convicted. Prosecutors have said they are treating the mass shooting as a hate crime. The bloodshed heightened a national debate over Trump's inflammatory political rhetoric, which his critics say has contributed to fomenting a surge in right-wing extremism in the United States. "Yes, words matter," Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto, a Democrat, said during a CNN interview on Monday. Over the weekend, Trump branded Saturday's shooting an act of pure evil but also angered some by telling reporters the slaying might have been prevented had an armed guard been present at the synagogue. The White House nevertheless said the president would visit Pittsburgh on Tuesday with first lady Melania Trump to "express the support of the American people and grieve with the Pittsburgh community." FIRST BURIALS The trip would come just a week before the hotly contested Nov. 6 congressional elections that will determine whether Trump's Republican Party will retain a majority in Congress. It also will coincide with at least the first two funerals scheduled for the slain worshipers - David Rosenthal, 54, and his brother Cecil Rosenthal, 59. The Trump administration has rejected the notion he has encouraged white nationalists and neo-Nazis who have embraced him. But a group of local Jewish leaders told Trump in an open letter on Monday he was "not welcome in Pittsburgh until you fully denounce white nationalism." More than 27,000 people have signed the letter, organized and posted online by the Pittsburgh chapter of Bend the Arc, a Jewish organization devoted to opposing "the immoral agenda of the Trump administration and the Republican Party." Trump drew bipartisan condemnation last year for saying "many sides" were to blame for violence that erupted during a "Unite the Right" rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, and during a torch-lit march the night before by hundreds of right-wing demonstrators chanting, "White lives matter" and "Jews will not replace us." Peduto said he believed Trump should wait until all the funerals were held before coming to Pittsburgh. He suggested Trump's visit and the additional security measures entailed would distract from the "priority" of burying the dead. Tree of Life Rabbi Jeffrey Myers, said, however, on ABC on Monday that the president of the United States was always welcome to visit. Bowers, 46, is accused of storming into the synagogue in Pittsburgh's heavily Jewish Squirrel Hill section yelling, "All Jews must die" as he opened fire on members of three congregations holding Sabbath prayer services there on Saturday morning. In addition to the 11 mostly elderly worshipers who were killed, six people, including four police officers, were wounded before the suspect was shot by police and surrendered. Two of the surviving victims remained hospitalized in critical condition. "Robert Bowers murdered 11 people who were exercising their religious beliefs," U.S. Attorney Scott Brady said after the Monday's arraignment, adding a grand jury would hear details of the crime within 30 days. The judge ordered Bowers to remain in federal custody and ruled he was entitled to court-appointed counsel. His next hearing was set for Thursday. Bowers' arraignment was marked by a heavy security presence that included police officers with dogs and a team of sharpshooters at the federal courthouse in Pittsburgh. Wearing a blue sweatshirt, gray sweatpants, sandals and white socks, with a crewcut and bald spot, Bowers remained expressionless throughout the brief proceeding. Bowers said nothing except to give his name, acknowledge he understood the charges against him and that he lacked funds to pay for an attorney. He spoke in a calm voice and signed the papers handed to him with a steady hand. Only at the end of the hearing when he was wheeled out of the courtroom did Bowers appear unsettled, turning his head in apparent confusion. According to an affidavit filed in the case by the FBI, three handguns and an AR-15 rifle were recovered at the scene. The complaint quoted Bowers as saying to one law enforcement officer, in substance: "They're committing genocide to my people. I just want to kill Jews." He is charged with 11 counts of obstruction of the exercise of religious beliefs resulting in death and 11 counts of using a firearm to commit murder — one count for each worshipper killed. Seven other counts of civil rights and firearms offences stem from the injury of police officers during the assault.

Synagogue massacre suspect appears in court; Trump to visit grieving Pittsburgh

The government is exploring options for the chief guest at the Republic Day parade after US President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-unable-to-attend-indias-republic-day-parade-due-to-scheduling-constraints-white-house-174292">Donald Trump turned down</a> its invite for the ceremony.

Sources said the government has in mind leaders from three countries including a head of state from a leading African nation.

"We have very little time left for deciding on the chief guest and the process will be completed soon," a source familiar with the development said.

Trump declined India's invitation&nbsp;to be the chief guest at the parade, citing pressing engagements, including his State of The Union (SOTU) address, around the time India will celebrate its Republic Day.

It came at a time when Indo-US ties have witnessed some strain after India went ahead and sealed a deal with Russia to procure a batch of S-400 air defence missile systems, notwithstanding the US threat of punitive action under CAATSA (Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act).

The sources said India has already shortlisted names of two to three heads of state for extending invitation to be the chief guest at the Republic Day parade.

Sources indicated that India was not exclusively looking at Trump's presence at the Republic Day celebrations and that various other options were also being explored.

In July, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders had said that Trump has received an invitation to visit India, but no decision has been taken yet.<iframe data-google-container-id="6" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had invited President Trump for a bilateral visit to India during their talks in Washington in June 2017.

Every year, India invites world leaders to attend its Republic Day celebrations.

In 2015, the then US president Barack Obama had attended it as the chief guest which was his second visit to India as American president.

This year, leaders from 10 ASEAN countries had attended the Republic Day celebrations.

In 2016, the then French president Francois Hollande was the chief guest of the parade while Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was the chief guest at the celebrations in 2014.

The heads of state and government who have attended the Republic Day celebrations include Nicolas Sarkozy, Vladimir Putin, Nelson Mandela, John Major, Mohammed Khatami and Jacques Chirac.

The government is exploring options for the chief guest at the Republic Day parade after US President Donald Trump turned down its invite for the ceremony. Sources said the government has in mind leaders from three countries including a head of state from a leading African nation.

The government is exploring options for the chief guest at the Republic Day parade after US President Donald Trump turned down its invite for the ceremony. Sources said the government has in mind leaders from three countries including a head of state from a leading African nation. "We have very little time left for deciding on the chief guest and the process will be completed soon," a source familiar with the development said. Trump declined India's invitation to be the chief guest at the parade, citing pressing engagements, including his State of The Union (SOTU) address, around the time India will celebrate its Republic Day. It came at a time when Indo-US ties have witnessed some strain after India went ahead and sealed a deal with Russia to procure a batch of S-400 air defence missile systems, notwithstanding the US threat of punitive action under CAATSA (Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act). The sources said India has already shortlisted names of two to three heads of state for extending invitation to be the chief guest at the Republic Day parade. Sources indicated that India was not exclusively looking at Trump's presence at the Republic Day celebrations and that various other options were also being explored. In July, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders had said that Trump has received an invitation to visit India, but no decision has been taken yet. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had invited President Trump for a bilateral visit to India during their talks in Washington in June 2017. Every year, India invites world leaders to attend its Republic Day celebrations. In 2015, the then US president Barack Obama had attended it as the chief guest which was his second visit to India as American president. This year, leaders from 10 ASEAN countries had attended the Republic Day celebrations. In 2016, the then French president Francois Hollande was the chief guest of the parade while Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was the chief guest at the celebrations in 2014. The heads of state and government who have attended the Republic Day celebrations include Nicolas Sarkozy, Vladimir Putin, Nelson Mandela, John Major, Mohammed Khatami and Jacques Chirac.

India looks at alternatives as Trump rejects Republic Day invite: Report

The fiancée of Jamal Khashoggi on Monday <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/khashoggi-fiancee-declined-trump-invite-fearing-public-opinion-ploy-173722">criticized President Donald Trump’s</a> response to his killing, urging him to set aside US&nbsp;trade interests in the push for truth, and demanded Riyadh disclose more details to bring those who ordered it to justice.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-rejects-turkey-call-to-extradite-khashoggi-killers-173820">death of Khashoggi </a>- a Washington Post columnist and a critic of Saudi Arabia’s de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman - sparked global outrage and pitched the world’s top oil exporter into crisis.

Trump has hedged his criticism of Saudi leaders over Khashoggi, insisting he does not want to imperil a “tremendous order” of US $110 billion of weapons he says will support 500,000 US&nbsp;jobs - figures that experts say are highly exaggerated.

His fiancée, Hatice Cengiz, told an audience on a visit to London she was disappointed with Trump’s approach.

“I am disappointed by the actions of the leadership in many countries, particularly in the US,” she said.

“President Trump should help reveal the truth and ensure justice be served. He should not pave the way for a cover-up of my fiance’s murder. Let’s not let money taint our conscience and compromise our values.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/khashoggis-fiancee-says-he-treated-well-during-first-consulate-visit-173677">Khashoggi's fiancee says he was treated well during first consulate visit</a>

When asked who was ultimately responsible for the killing, Cengiz told Reuters in an interview in Turkish: “This took place inside a Saudi diplomatic mission ... In such circumstances, the Saudi Arabian authorities are responsible for this.”

Trump has said Prince Mohammed, who has consolidated control over Saudi security and intelligence agencies over the past three years, bore ultimate responsibility for the operation that led to Khashoggi’s killing.

She said the West is considered a stronghold of human rights and democracy so it should stand up to the killers of her husband-to-be.

Khashoggi, 59, entered the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October&nbsp;2 to obtain paperwork necessary for his upcoming marriage to Cengiz, a Turkish national. He did not walk out of the consulate. Cengiz first raised the alarm.

Saudi Arabia initially denied any involvement in Khashoggi’s disappearance but a Saudi official eventually attributed his death to a botched attempt to return him to the kingdom.

Later, Riyadh said the killing was premeditated and Prince Mohammed has vowed that the killers would be brought to justice.

Saudi Arabia has detained 18 people and dismissed five senior government officials as part of the investigation into Khashoggi’s murder. Some were members of a 15-man hit team, many of them Saudi intelligence operatives, who flew into Istanbul hours before Khashoggi’s death, Turkish security sources say.

“This incident, this assassination, took place in the Saudi consulate,” Cengiz said, speaking through a translator. “So the Saudi authorities probably know how such a murder took place.”

“They need to explain what happened,” said Cengiz, who was somber, guarded and appeared at times on the verge of tears.

When asked what she would say to Prince Mohammed if she ever got the chance to speak to him, she said: “I don’t think that will ever happen.”

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, who Cengiz praised, has urged Riyadh to disclose who ordered the murder and prosecutors have prepared an extradition request for 18 suspects from Saudi Arabia.

“The explanations given so far by Saudi Arabia are not sufficient,” Cengiz said. “I want to know the details of who is responsible.”

Asked if she held Crown Prince Mohammed or the Saudi royal family responsible, she said:

“I and my government would like all those responsible, from the person who gave this order to those who carried it out, to be brought to justice and punished under international law,” she said.

Cengiz said she had not been contacted by Prince Mohammed or the Saudi royal family, nor offered any condolences by them.

Cengiz met Khashoggi in May at a conference in Istanbul and their relationship blossomed. But the decision to marry in Istanbul, whose mosques reminded Khashoggi of his hometown Medina, set off a paper chase that ultimately ended in death.

Turkish law required that Khashoggi, who was divorced, provide proof that he did not have a wife and thus his trip to the consulate. Cengiz said she had been shown no recordings of what happened inside the consulate and that she got most of her information from the media.

“Like everyone else, I am still waiting for answers,” she said. “The world should know who instigated, were involved in and committed this crime.”

The fiancée of Jamal Khashoggi on Monday criticized President Donald Trump’s response to his killing, urging him to set aside US trade interests in the push for truth, and demanded Riyadh disclose more details to bring those who ordered it to justice.

The fiancée of Jamal Khashoggi on Monday criticized President Donald Trump’s response to his killing, urging him to set aside US trade interests in the push for truth, and demanded Riyadh disclose more details to bring those who ordered it to justice. The death of Khashoggi - a Washington Post columnist and a critic of Saudi Arabia’s de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman - sparked global outrage and pitched the world’s top oil exporter into crisis. Trump has hedged his criticism of Saudi leaders over Khashoggi, insisting he does not want to imperil a “tremendous order” of US $110 billion of weapons he says will support 500,000 US jobs - figures that experts say are highly exaggerated. His fiancée, Hatice Cengiz, told an audience on a visit to London she was disappointed with Trump’s approach. “I am disappointed by the actions of the leadership in many countries, particularly in the US,” she said. “President Trump should help reveal the truth and ensure justice be served. He should not pave the way for a cover-up of my fiance’s murder. Let’s not let money taint our conscience and compromise our values.” Also read: Khashoggi's fiancee says he was treated well during first consulate visit When asked who was ultimately responsible for the killing, Cengiz told Reuters in an interview in Turkish: “This took place inside a Saudi diplomatic mission ... In such circumstances, the Saudi Arabian authorities are responsible for this.” Trump has said Prince Mohammed, who has consolidated control over Saudi security and intelligence agencies over the past three years, bore ultimate responsibility for the operation that led to Khashoggi’s killing. She said the West is considered a stronghold of human rights and democracy so it should stand up to the killers of her husband-to-be. Khashoggi, 59, entered the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2 to obtain paperwork necessary for his upcoming marriage to Cengiz, a Turkish national. He did not walk out of the consulate. Cengiz first raised the alarm. Saudi Arabia initially denied any involvement in Khashoggi’s disappearance but a Saudi official eventually attributed his death to a botched attempt to return him to the kingdom. Later, Riyadh said the killing was premeditated and Prince Mohammed has vowed that the killers would be brought to justice. Saudi Arabia has detained 18 people and dismissed five senior government officials as part of the investigation into Khashoggi’s murder. Some were members of a 15-man hit team, many of them Saudi intelligence operatives, who flew into Istanbul hours before Khashoggi’s death, Turkish security sources say. “This incident, this assassination, took place in the Saudi consulate,” Cengiz said, speaking through a translator. “So the Saudi authorities probably know how such a murder took place.” “They need to explain what happened,” said Cengiz, who was somber, guarded and appeared at times on the verge of tears. When asked what she would say to Prince Mohammed if she ever got the chance to speak to him, she said: “I don’t think that will ever happen.” Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, who Cengiz praised, has urged Riyadh to disclose who ordered the murder and prosecutors have prepared an extradition request for 18 suspects from Saudi Arabia. “The explanations given so far by Saudi Arabia are not sufficient,” Cengiz said. “I want to know the details of who is responsible.” Asked if she held Crown Prince Mohammed or the Saudi royal family responsible, she said: “I and my government would like all those responsible, from the person who gave this order to those who carried it out, to be brought to justice and punished under international law,” she said. Cengiz said she had not been contacted by Prince Mohammed or the Saudi royal family, nor offered any condolences by them. Cengiz met Khashoggi in May at a conference in Istanbul and their relationship blossomed. But the decision to marry in Istanbul, whose mosques reminded Khashoggi of his hometown Medina, set off a paper chase that ultimately ended in death. Turkish law required that Khashoggi, who was divorced, provide proof that he did not have a wife and thus his trip to the consulate. Cengiz said she had been shown no recordings of what happened inside the consulate and that she got most of her information from the media. “Like everyone else, I am still waiting for answers,” she said. “The world should know who instigated, were involved in and committed this crime.”

Khashoggi fiancee slams Trump response to killing, tells him to put trade interests aside

WION Gravitas: Why did Donald Trump turn down Indian Republic Day invitation?

Trump congratulates Bolsonaro on Presidential election win

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/after-visiting-turkey-cia-chief-gina-haspel-submits-report-on-khashoggi-to-trump-173506">After visiting Turkey, CIA chief Gina Haspel submits </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/after-visiting-turkey-cia-chief-gina-haspel-submits-report-on-khashoggi-to-trump-173506">report</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/after-visiting-turkey-cia-chief-gina-haspel-submits-report-on-khashoggi-to-trump-173506"> on Khashoggi to Trump</a>

The head of the CIA on Thursday&nbsp;briefed US President Donald Trump on the latest&nbsp;developments in the investigation of the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi after a fact-finding mission to Turkey, officials said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/fuel-prices-continue-to-decline-petrol-at-rs-8085-per-litre-diesel-at-rs-7473-per-litre-in-delhi-173498">Fuel prices continue to decline; Petrol at Rs 80.85 per litre, Diesel at Rs 74.73 per litre in Delhi</a>

The petrol price in Delhi was revised to Rs 80.85 per litre, while that in Mumbai was Rs 86.33 per litre after a reduction of 25 paise.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/googles-sundar-pichai-says-48-employees-were-fired-for-sexual-harassment-173488">Google's Sundar Pichai says 48 employees were fired for sexual harassment</a>

Google Inc Chief Executive Sundar Pichai said on Thursday the company had fired 48 employees for sexual harassment over the past two years.&nbsp;Pichai sent an email to Google employees in response to a New York Times story that was published earlier in the day.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/package-bombs-sent-to-trump-critics-lead-investigators-to-florida-report-173486">Package bombs sent to Trump critics lead investigators to Florida: Report</a>

The investigation into 10 pipe bombs sent to high-profile Democrats and critics of US&nbsp;President Donald Trump is focusing on leads in Florida, a federal law enforcement source said on Thursday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/design-of-bombs-targeting-trump-critics-came-from-internet-173495">Design of bombs targeting Trump critics came from </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/design-of-bombs-targeting-trump-critics-came-from-internet-173495">Internet</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/design-of-bombs-targeting-trump-critics-came-from-internet-173495">: Source</a>

Investigators believe that the design and instructions for&nbsp;building the bombs&nbsp;sent to several critics of US&nbsp;President Donald Trump this week were taken from the internet, a federal law enforcement official told Reuters on Thursday.

After visiting Turkey, CIA chief Gina Haspel submits report on Khashoggi to Trump The head of the CIA on Thursday briefed US President Donald Trump on the latest developments in the investigation of the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi after a fact-finding mission to Turkey, officials said.

After visiting Turkey, CIA chief Gina Haspel submits report on Khashoggi to Trump The head of the CIA on Thursday briefed US President Donald Trump on the latest developments in the investigation of the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi after a fact-finding mission to Turkey, officials said. Fuel prices continue to decline; Petrol at Rs 80.85 per litre, Diesel at Rs 74.73 per litre in Delhi The petrol price in Delhi was revised to Rs 80.85 per litre, while that in Mumbai was Rs 86.33 per litre after a reduction of 25 paise. Google's Sundar Pichai says 48 employees were fired for sexual harassment Google Inc Chief Executive Sundar Pichai said on Thursday the company had fired 48 employees for sexual harassment over the past two years. Pichai sent an email to Google employees in response to a New York Times story that was published earlier in the day. Package bombs sent to Trump critics lead investigators to Florida: Report The investigation into 10 pipe bombs sent to high-profile Democrats and critics of US President Donald Trump is focusing on leads in Florida, a federal law enforcement source said on Thursday. Design of bombs targeting Trump critics came from Internet: Source Investigators believe that the design and instructions for building the bombs sent to several critics of US President Donald Trump this week were taken from the internet, a federal law enforcement official told Reuters on Thursday.

WION Dispatch: Putin, Trump plan to meet in Paris next month

Baby Trump protest balloon flies over Los Angeles

WION Dispatch: Major changes proposed in H-1B visas

Missing Journalist Case: Trump gives Saudi Arabia benefit of doubt

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-considers-admitting-khashoggi-died-in-botched-interrogation-reports-171638">Saudi considers admitting Khashoggi died in botched interrogation: Reports</a>

Saudi Arabia is considering an admission that journalist Jamal Khashoggi died during an interrogation that went wrong, US media reported on Monday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/imf-should-objectively-and-professionally-evaluate-its-investments-in-pakistan-china-171653">IMF should objectively and professionally evaluate investments in Pakistan: China</a>

As cash-strapped Pakistan approached the IMF for a bailout agreeing to share the details of huge Chinese loans obtained for the CPEC, a wary China on Monday said the global lender should "objectively and professionally" evaluate its investments and ensure that any financial package does not affect close ties between Beijing and Islamabad.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/microsoft-co-founder-paul-allen-dies-of-cancer-at-65-171637">Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen dies of cancer at 65</a>

Microsoft Corp co-founder Paul Allen, the man who persuaded school-friend Bill Gates to drop out of Harvard to start what became the world's biggest software company, died on Monday at the age of 65, his family said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/southgates-three-lions-roar-to-stun-spain-in-seville-171644">UEFA Nations League: Southgate's 'Three Lions' led by Raheem, Rashford stun Spain</a>

England stunned Spain to claim their first UEFA Nations League victory in Seville, last night. A superb first-half showing from England produced two goals from Raheem Sterling to deliver one of their finest victory in the modern era.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-municipal-polls-final-phase-of-voting-begins-171652">J&amp;K municipal polls: Final phase of voting begins</a>

The fourth and final phase of the urban local body polls in 36 wards in central Kashmir's Srinagar and Ganderbal districts has begun. Polling began at 6 am and is slated to end at 4 pm.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Saudi considers admitting Khashoggi died in botched interrogation: Reports Saudi Arabia is considering an admission that journalist Jamal Khashoggi died during an interrogation that went wrong, US media reported on Monday.

Saudi considers admitting Khashoggi died in botched interrogation: Reports Saudi Arabia is considering an admission that journalist Jamal Khashoggi died during an interrogation that went wrong, US media reported on Monday. IMF should objectively and professionally evaluate investments in Pakistan: China As cash-strapped Pakistan approached the IMF for a bailout agreeing to share the details of huge Chinese loans obtained for the CPEC, a wary China on Monday said the global lender should "objectively and professionally" evaluate its investments and ensure that any financial package does not affect close ties between Beijing and Islamabad. Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen dies of cancer at 65 Microsoft Corp co-founder Paul Allen, the man who persuaded school-friend Bill Gates to drop out of Harvard to start what became the world's biggest software company, died on Monday at the age of 65, his family said. UEFA Nations League: Southgate's 'Three Lions' led by Raheem, Rashford stun Spain England stunned Spain to claim their first UEFA Nations League victory in Seville, last night. A superb first-half showing from England produced two goals from Raheem Sterling to deliver one of their finest victory in the modern era. J&K municipal polls: Final phase of voting begins The fourth and final phase of the urban local body polls in 36 wards in central Kashmir's Srinagar and Ganderbal districts has begun. Polling began at 6 am and is slated to end at 4 pm.

What do we have to truly fear about President Donald Trump? Early October he pulled off the successful re-negotiation of the North America Free Trade area. Pundits thought, with Canada refusing to bend, it could not happen. Maybe the deal now leans more in America’s direction, but Trump has also given something away: The right of Mexico and Canada to sell their trucks and cars more easily in the US. He said he’s a great “deal-maker”, and so this time he is.

His trade tussle with China, which looks to be a stand-off at the moment, has not yet led to a breakdown in relations. Trump has been more than careful to keep direct channels open to President Xi Jinping, even if in early October he became more openly critical and personal. He has treated Xi much better than he treated Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada.

Nevertheless, the fact is the Chinese have taken advantage of the US, ignoring its copyrights, blatantly reverse engineering expensive US products and subsidising exports. Trump goes too far with his demands, but he is on firm enough ground to force the Chinese to re-think some of their policies. He’s making progress.

Likewise, while being tough on Russia, ratcheting up sanctions, sending modern arms to Ukraine, increasing defence spending and standing back from the cuts in nuclear weapons that President Vladimir Putin has suggested, he keeps his personal channels open to Putin, unlike President Barack Obama. Later he may reap the harvest of this. Russian politics is very personal under Putin.

With North Korea, he appears to have flattered President Kim Jong-un to the point where Kim shows his constructive side to Trump. Progress is being made on nuclear disarmament even if it’s not at the rate the foreign policy establishment wants.

Nevertheless, for all this, the fact is that Trump is a man with an ugly personality, as ugly in its way as Kim. Sometimes one can imagine, if he wasn’t constrained by law, he would execute some of his enemies as Kim has done.

His staff find he’s impossible to deal with although he gets important things done.

After reading Bob Woodward’s new book Fear: Trump in the White House, one realises that Woodward gives little space to Trump’s achievements, and his interviews and re-creations of real-life scenes are nearly all orientated in a critical direction.

Woodward has painted a picture of a sordid man, full of quite disgusting profanities and untruths that he aims at his staff and many of those who do business with him with hourly regularity. (If the women in his “base” could hear these, many would be shocked).

It’s a fine book, researched in the most intimate and thorough way. One doesn’t doubt its veracity. Quite a bit of it we have read in the newspapers already over the last two years, but even then Woodward gets deeper inside the man, the policy-making, and how it’s implemented. He’s the best fly on the wall anyone could ask for.

There are, too, whole chapters where Woodward writes about startling things we’ve not known about. Again and again, in order to keep the US on a sensible course in its policies for trade, foreign relations and financial affairs, his staff have to secretly remove from his desk papers waiting to be signed. This choleric man is so seized up by the next crisis or what appears as an affront that he forgets he asked for them.

Time and time again, his staff are courageous, offering the president clever analysis, despite his constant put downs. He tells them it’s bullshit and that he’s held his views on this or that for over 30 years and he’s not going to change. Amazingly, they argue back, and he lets them — up to a point. In his way, he accepts a lot of talk-back and even verbal insubordination, but then gives the staffer hell.

There is insubordination behind his back, too. On one occasion, when discussing President Bashar al-Assad of Syria, Trump said to General James Mattis, the Defence Secretary, “Let’s go in, let’s fucking kill him.” “Yes”, Mattis said, “I will get right on it.” He hung up the phone. “We’re not going to do any of that,” he told a senior aide.

When the North Korea crisis first blew up, Mattis made it clear he didn’t want war. His view was that North Korea could be contained.

Ironically, as with North Korea latterly, Trump in some areas of policy can have non-warlike instincts. He argued hard with the military until they persuaded him otherwise, that the US should totally withdraw from Afghanistan.

Where this story ends nobody knows. Woodward for one doesn’t advocate impeachment but by the end of the book it hangs in the air. Who really wants such a volatile, unhinged and amoral man to have his finger on the nuclear button?

(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-notoriously-difficult-to-deal-with-trump-gets-work-done-2675381">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

What do we have to truly fear about President Donald Trump? Early October he pulled off the successful re-negotiation of the North America Free Trade area. Pundits thought, with Canada refusing to bend, it could not happen.

What do we have to truly fear about President Donald Trump? Early October he pulled off the successful re-negotiation of the North America Free Trade area. Pundits thought, with Canada refusing to bend, it could not happen. Maybe the deal now leans more in America’s direction, but Trump has also given something away: The right of Mexico and Canada to sell their trucks and cars more easily in the US. He said he’s a great “deal-maker”, and so this time he is. His trade tussle with China, which looks to be a stand-off at the moment, has not yet led to a breakdown in relations. Trump has been more than careful to keep direct channels open to President Xi Jinping, even if in early October he became more openly critical and personal. He has treated Xi much better than he treated Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada. Nevertheless, the fact is the Chinese have taken advantage of the US, ignoring its copyrights, blatantly reverse engineering expensive US products and subsidising exports. Trump goes too far with his demands, but he is on firm enough ground to force the Chinese to re-think some of their policies. He’s making progress. Likewise, while being tough on Russia, ratcheting up sanctions, sending modern arms to Ukraine, increasing defence spending and standing back from the cuts in nuclear weapons that President Vladimir Putin has suggested, he keeps his personal channels open to Putin, unlike President Barack Obama. Later he may reap the harvest of this. Russian politics is very personal under Putin. With North Korea, he appears to have flattered President Kim Jong-un to the point where Kim shows his constructive side to Trump. Progress is being made on nuclear disarmament even if it’s not at the rate the foreign policy establishment wants. Nevertheless, for all this, the fact is that Trump is a man with an ugly personality, as ugly in its way as Kim. Sometimes one can imagine, if he wasn’t constrained by law, he would execute some of his enemies as Kim has done. His staff find he’s impossible to deal with although he gets important things done. After reading Bob Woodward’s new book Fear: Trump in the White House, one realises that Woodward gives little space to Trump’s achievements, and his interviews and re-creations of real-life scenes are nearly all orientated in a critical direction. Woodward has painted a picture of a sordid man, full of quite disgusting profanities and untruths that he aims at his staff and many of those who do business with him with hourly regularity. (If the women in his “base” could hear these, many would be shocked). It’s a fine book, researched in the most intimate and thorough way. One doesn’t doubt its veracity. Quite a bit of it we have read in the newspapers already over the last two years, but even then Woodward gets deeper inside the man, the policy-making, and how it’s implemented. He’s the best fly on the wall anyone could ask for. There are, too, whole chapters where Woodward writes about startling things we’ve not known about. Again and again, in order to keep the US on a sensible course in its policies for trade, foreign relations and financial affairs, his staff have to secretly remove from his desk papers waiting to be signed. This choleric man is so seized up by the next crisis or what appears as an affront that he forgets he asked for them. Time and time again, his staff are courageous, offering the president clever analysis, despite his constant put downs. He tells them it’s bullshit and that he’s held his views on this or that for over 30 years and he’s not going to change. Amazingly, they argue back, and he lets them — up to a point. In his way, he accepts a lot of talk-back and even verbal insubordination, but then gives the staffer hell. There is insubordination behind his back, too. On one occasion, when discussing President Bashar al-Assad of Syria, Trump said to General James Mattis, the Defence Secretary, “Let’s go in, let’s fucking kill him.” “Yes”, Mattis said, “I will get right on it.” He hung up the phone. “We’re not going to do any of that,” he told a senior aide. When the North Korea crisis first blew up, Mattis made it clear he didn’t want war. His view was that North Korea could be contained. Ironically, as with North Korea latterly, Trump in some areas of policy can have non-warlike instincts. He argued hard with the military until they persuaded him otherwise, that the US should totally withdraw from Afghanistan. Where this story ends nobody knows. Woodward for one doesn’t advocate impeachment but by the end of the book it hangs in the air. Who really wants such a volatile, unhinged and amoral man to have his finger on the nuclear button? (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Notoriously difficult to deal with, Trump gets work done

Last month, chairing a UN Security Council meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, Trump had alleged that China was trying to interfere in the 2018 mid-term polls and that it did not want him to be the president. China has denied these allegations.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-bemoans-confusing-us-signals-but-holds-hope-for-trump-xi-meet-171472">Also Read:&nbsp;China bemoans 'confusing' US signals but holds hope for </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-bemoans-confusing-us-signals-but-holds-hope-for-trump-xi-meet-171472">Trump-Xi</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-bemoans-confusing-us-signals-but-holds-hope-for-trump-xi-meet-171472"> meet</a>

However, for the first time Trump came out in open to say that China also meddled in the 2016 presidential elections.

"They (Russians) meddled. But I think China meddled too," Trump told CBS News's popular '60 Minutes' in an interview. Recorded on Thursday, the interview was broadcast on Sunday night.

"I think China meddled also. And I think, frankly, China...is a bigger problem," Trump said and denied that by saying so he is not trying to divert the entire Russia thing.

"I'm saying Russia, but I'm also saying China," he said.&nbsp;

But it's the investigation of Russia's intervention in the 2016 election that hangs over his presidency and caused a rift with his Attorney General Jeff Sessions, because he recused himself from the inquiry.

Trump expressed disappointment that his Attorney General Jeff Sessions rescued himself from the Russia investigation.

"I was disappointed that he recused himself and many people think I was right on that. I was very disappointed. Why should he have recused himself? So I was very disappointed," he said.&nbsp;

Former FBI director Robert Mueller is conducting investigations into the allegations of Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election.

Responding to a question, he said he has no intention of shutting down the Russian investigation. "Well, I don't pledge anything. But (I) will tell you, I have no intention of doing that. I think it's a very unfair investigation because there was no collusion of any kind," he said.

To date, 32 people have been charged or pleaded guilty in Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation. President Trump's campaign chairman, top campaign aide, former national security advisor and longtime personal attorney are all cooperating in the inquiry, which the president calls a witch-hunt.

Trump questioned the very proposition that he called Russia to help him in the elections. "Do you really think I'd call Russia to help me with an election? Give me a break. They wouldn't be able to help me at all. Call Russia. It's so ridiculous," he said.

Last month, chairing a UN Security Council meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, Trump had alleged that China was trying to interfere in the 2018 mid-term polls and that it did not want him to be the president.

Last month, chairing a UN Security Council meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, Trump had alleged that China was trying to interfere in the 2018 mid-term polls and that it did not want him to be the president. China has denied these allegations. Also Read: China bemoans 'confusing' US signals but holds hope for Trump-Xi meet However, for the first time Trump came out in open to say that China also meddled in the 2016 presidential elections. "They (Russians) meddled. But I think China meddled too," Trump told CBS News's popular '60 Minutes' in an interview. Recorded on Thursday, the interview was broadcast on Sunday night. "I think China meddled also. And I think, frankly, China...is a bigger problem," Trump said and denied that by saying so he is not trying to divert the entire Russia thing. "I'm saying Russia, but I'm also saying China," he said. But it's the investigation of Russia's intervention in the 2016 election that hangs over his presidency and caused a rift with his Attorney General Jeff Sessions, because he recused himself from the inquiry. Trump expressed disappointment that his Attorney General Jeff Sessions rescued himself from the Russia investigation. "I was disappointed that he recused himself and many people think I was right on that. I was very disappointed. Why should he have recused himself? So I was very disappointed," he said. Former FBI director Robert Mueller is conducting investigations into the allegations of Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. Responding to a question, he said he has no intention of shutting down the Russian investigation. "Well, I don't pledge anything. But (I) will tell you, I have no intention of doing that. I think it's a very unfair investigation because there was no collusion of any kind," he said. To date, 32 people have been charged or pleaded guilty in Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation. President Trump's campaign chairman, top campaign aide, former national security advisor and longtime personal attorney are all cooperating in the inquiry, which the president calls a witch-hunt. Trump questioned the very proposition that he called Russia to help him in the elections. "Do you really think I'd call Russia to help me with an election? Give me a break. They wouldn't be able to help me at all. Call Russia. It's so ridiculous," he said.

Russia and China meddled in 2016 presidential elections: Trump

US President Donald Trump said Saturday he hoped the release of American pastor Andrew Brunson in Turkey would lead to improved ties with Ankara, after months of diplomatic rancor that eventually triggered a crash in the lira.

He also denied an NBC report that the two countries had reached a secret deal for Brunson to be released in exchange for the US easing "economic pressure" on Ankara.

"I don't make deals for hostages," Trump said on Twitter.

"There was, however, great appreciation on behalf of the United States, which will lead to good, perhaps great, relations between the United States &amp; Turkey!" 
&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump said Saturday he hoped the release of American pastor Andrew Brunson in Turkey would lead to improved ties with Ankara, after months of diplomatic rancor that eventually triggered a crash in the lira.

US President Donald Trump said Saturday he hoped the release of American pastor Andrew Brunson in Turkey would lead to improved ties with Ankara, after months of diplomatic rancor that eventually triggered a crash in the lira. He also denied an NBC report that the two countries had reached a secret deal for Brunson to be released in exchange for the US easing "economic pressure" on Ankara. "I don't make deals for hostages," Trump said on Twitter. "There was, however, great appreciation on behalf of the United States, which will lead to good, perhaps great, relations between the United States & Turkey!"

Trump sees 'good, even great' ties with Turkey after Brunson release

President Trump said today that he had spoken to Saudi authorities "at the highest level" over the case of missing journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-journalist-was-killed-by-15-man-hit-team-that-then-dismembered-his-body-with-bone-saw-nyt-170659">Also Read:&nbsp;Khashoggi was killed by Saudi 'hit team', says&nbsp;NYT report</a>

Jamal Khashoggi had reportedly entered the &nbsp;Saudi Arabian consulate in Istanbul last week but never came out even as his fiancee Hatice Cengiz waited outside. The Saudi journalist had entered the embassy for paperwork for his impending marriage, reports indicated.

Khashoggi, 59, has been living in the US for the past year. He has been a vocal critic of the Saudi regime and has written several articles for various newspapers in the US criticising Crown Prince Salman.

"We're demanding everything. We want to see what's going on there," Trump told reporters.

On Tuesday, the New York Times reported a Turkish official saying Khashoggi was killed inside the consulate by a 15-man Saudi "hit team" that had flown in on two charter flights, especially for the job.

Saudi officials, however, denied the journalist had been harmed in any way, insisting that he had left the consulate through a back door.&nbsp;

The US had earlier sought "thorough and transparent investigation" on &nbsp;Khashoggi's disappearance even as Turkey was given permission to enter the Saudi embassy to search for him. Turkish authorities have still not searched the embassy premises.

Meanwhile, Turkish investigators are examining CCTV footage showing the moment Khashoggi entered the Saudi embassy, it later released the footage to the public.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had said then were conflicting reports on the safety and whereabouts of Khashoggi.

"We call on the government of Saudi Arabia to support a thorough investigation of Mr Khashoggi's disappearance and to be transparent about the results of that investigation," Pompeo said in a statement.

"Turkish officials have said they believe he was killed inside in a planned murder. A team of 15 Saudis arrived on two planes to carry out the killing, officials have said," 'The Washington Post' reported.

US Vice President Mike Pence also commented on the mystery over the missing journalist, saying "the free world deserves answers".

CCTV released on Wednesday by Turkish TV showed a man believed to be Khashoggi enter the consulate and a vehicle entered and left the building after Khashoggi went inside.

President Trump said today that he had spoken to Saudi authorities "at the highest level" over the case of missing journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Also Read: Khashoggi was killed by Saudi 'hit team', says NYT report Jamal Khashoggi had reportedly entered the Saudi Arabian consulate in Istanbul last week but never came out even as his fiancee Hatice Cengiz waited outside.

President Trump said today that he had spoken to Saudi authorities "at the highest level" over the case of missing journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Also Read: Khashoggi was killed by Saudi 'hit team', says NYT report Jamal Khashoggi had reportedly entered the Saudi Arabian consulate in Istanbul last week but never came out even as his fiancee Hatice Cengiz waited outside. The Saudi journalist had entered the embassy for paperwork for his impending marriage, reports indicated. Khashoggi, 59, has been living in the US for the past year. He has been a vocal critic of the Saudi regime and has written several articles for various newspapers in the US criticising Crown Prince Salman. "We're demanding everything. We want to see what's going on there," Trump told reporters. On Tuesday, the New York Times reported a Turkish official saying Khashoggi was killed inside the consulate by a 15-man Saudi "hit team" that had flown in on two charter flights, especially for the job. Saudi officials, however, denied the journalist had been harmed in any way, insisting that he had left the consulate through a back door. The US had earlier sought "thorough and transparent investigation" on Khashoggi's disappearance even as Turkey was given permission to enter the Saudi embassy to search for him. Turkish authorities have still not searched the embassy premises. Meanwhile, Turkish investigators are examining CCTV footage showing the moment Khashoggi entered the Saudi embassy, it later released the footage to the public. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had said then were conflicting reports on the safety and whereabouts of Khashoggi. "We call on the government of Saudi Arabia to support a thorough investigation of Mr Khashoggi's disappearance and to be transparent about the results of that investigation," Pompeo said in a statement. "Turkish officials have said they believe he was killed inside in a planned murder. A team of 15 Saudis arrived on two planes to carry out the killing, officials have said," 'The Washington Post' reported. US Vice President Mike Pence also commented on the mystery over the missing journalist, saying "the free world deserves answers". CCTV released on Wednesday by Turkish TV showed a man believed to be Khashoggi enter the consulate and a vehicle entered and left the building after Khashoggi went inside.

Spoke to top Saudi authorities: Trump over Khashoggi's disapperence

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/up-5-dead-several-injured-after-new-farakka-express-derails-in-harchandpur-170540">UP: 5 dead, several injured after New Farakka Express train derails in Harchandpur</a>

Five people are dead and several have been injured after the New Farakka Express train derailed near Harchandpur in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

ANI reported that six coaches of the train ran off the tracks 50 metres from Harchandpur railway station.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/nikki-haley-resigns-from-trump-cabinet-speculation-is-she-may-run-against-him-in-2020-170533">Nikki Haley resigns from Trump cabinet, speculation is she might run against him in&nbsp;2020</a>

U.S Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley exits President Donald Trump's cabinet as the most high-profile female member, potentially putting her back into play as a candidate for a Republican Party struggling with women voters.

In her out-of-the-blue announcement on Tuesday, Haley, 46, pointedly tried to shut down talk that she would run for any office in 2020, including challenging Trump in his re-election bid.

But that hardly stopped Washington from playing a new round in its favourite parlour game: Who's running for what? President, vice president and U.S. senator were all on the table.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-he-has-not-read-un-global-warming-report-but-is-sceptical-170535">Trump says he has not read UN global warming report but is sceptical</a>

US President Donald Trump said he has yet to read a UN report warning of global warming-caused chaos unless drastic action is taken and added that he is sceptical.

The landmark report released Monday said that time is running out to avert climate-induced disaster. The Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change (IPCC) declared it had "high confidence" in its predictions.

At the White House, Trump said he has not read it yet.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-next-summit-with-north-koreas-kim-to-come-after-november-us-elections-170532">Trump says next summit with North Korea's Kim after US midterm elections</a>

US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday his second summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un would be held after US congressional elections on Nov. 6.

Speaking to reporters as he flew to Iowa for a political rally, Trump said: "It’ll be after the midterms. I just can't leave now."

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ivanka-would-be-dynamite-un-envoy-trump-170548">Ivanka would be 'dynamite' UN envoy: Trump</a>

US Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley abruptly announced her resignation on Tuesday. Haley will step down at the end of the year.&nbsp;

There has been speculation that Haley might run against Donald Trump in the 2020 elections.&nbsp;

There has also been speculation as to who might replace Haley, with Trump saying might be his daughter Ivanka.&nbsp;

UP: 5 dead, several injured after New Farakka Express train derails in Harchandpur Five people are dead and several have been injured after the New Farakka Express train derailed near Harchandpur in Uttar Pradesh.

UP: 5 dead, several injured after New Farakka Express train derails in Harchandpur Five people are dead and several have been injured after the New Farakka Express train derailed near Harchandpur in Uttar Pradesh. ANI reported that six coaches of the train ran off the tracks 50 metres from Harchandpur railway station. Nikki Haley resigns from Trump cabinet, speculation is she might run against him in 2020 U.S Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley exits President Donald Trump's cabinet as the most high-profile female member, potentially putting her back into play as a candidate for a Republican Party struggling with women voters. In her out-of-the-blue announcement on Tuesday, Haley, 46, pointedly tried to shut down talk that she would run for any office in 2020, including challenging Trump in his re-election bid. But that hardly stopped Washington from playing a new round in its favourite parlour game: Who's running for what? President, vice president and U.S. senator were all on the table. Trump says he has not read UN global warming report but is sceptical US President Donald Trump said he has yet to read a UN report warning of global warming-caused chaos unless drastic action is taken and added that he is sceptical. The landmark report released Monday said that time is running out to avert climate-induced disaster. The Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change (IPCC) declared it had "high confidence" in its predictions. At the White House, Trump said he has not read it yet. Trump says next summit with North Korea's Kim after US midterm elections US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday his second summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un would be held after US congressional elections on Nov. 6. Speaking to reporters as he flew to Iowa for a political rally, Trump said: "It’ll be after the midterms. I just can't leave now." Ivanka would be 'dynamite' UN envoy: Trump US Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley abruptly announced her resignation on Tuesday. Haley will step down at the end of the year. There has been speculation that Haley might run against Donald Trump in the 2020 elections. There has also been speculation as to who might replace Haley, with Trump saying might be his daughter Ivanka.

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