Twitter has claimed that it has suspended an account that was linked to Iran's leader who posted a video against former US President Donald. The video is calling for revenge for a top general's assassination. The video was showcased on Iran’s supreme leader Ayatolla Ali Khamenei's official website as it showed a robot ordering a drone strike on the former US president.

The video has been titled "Revenge is Definite."

A Twitter spokesperson while speaking to AFP said, "The account referenced has been permanently suspended for violating our ban evasion policy."

However, the leader's main accounts in various languages remain active.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-releases-mock-video-of-drone-strike-on-trump-444572">Also read |&nbsp;Iran releases mock video of drone strike on Trump</a>

The video was reportedly part of a contest to mark the killing of former Iranian Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force commander Qassem Soleimani who was killed during a US drone strike in Iraq in January 2020 which was ordered by ex-president Trump.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Website of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a>’s supreme leader showcased animated video that appears to show a robot calling in a drone strike to assassinate former US President Donald <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Trump?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Trump</a> More here: <a href="https://t.co/KBsvCz2TRA">https://t.co/KBsvCz2TRA</a> <a href="https://t.co/DQgHGARGko">pic.twitter.com/DQgHGARGko</a>
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Iran had called the drone strike on Soleimani a "callous terrorist act". President Ebrahim Raisi vowed to take revenge against Trump over Soleimani's killing.

A similar video had appeared last year showing Trump on a golf course. Last week Iran had imposed sanctions against 50 US officials mainly from the former Trump administration even as the White House declared that it will "protect and defend its citizens".

(With inputs from agencies)

Twitter has claimed that it has suspended an account that was linked to Iran's leader who posted a video against former US President Donald. The video is calling for revenge for a top general's assassination.

Twitter has claimed that it has suspended an account that was linked to Iran's leader who posted a video against former US President Donald. The video is calling for revenge for a top general's assassination. The video was showcased on Iran’s supreme leader Ayatolla Ali Khamenei's official website as it showed a robot ordering a drone strike on the former US president. The video has been titled "Revenge is Definite." A Twitter spokesperson while speaking to AFP said, "The account referenced has been permanently suspended for violating our ban evasion policy." However, the leader's main accounts in various languages remain active. Also read | Iran releases mock video of drone strike on Trump The video was reportedly part of a contest to mark the killing of former Iranian Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force commander Qassem Soleimani who was killed during a US drone strike in Iraq in January 2020 which was ordered by ex-president Trump. #WATCH: Website of #Iran’s supreme leader showcased animated video that appears to show a robot calling in a drone strike to assassinate former US President Donald #Trump More here: https://t.co/KBsvCz2TRA pic.twitter.com/DQgHGARGko — Arab News (@arabnews) January 13, 2022 × Iran had called the drone strike on Soleimani a "callous terrorist act". President Ebrahim Raisi vowed to take revenge against Trump over Soleimani's killing. A similar video had appeared last year showing Trump on a golf course. Last week Iran had imposed sanctions against 50 US officials mainly from the former Trump administration even as the White House declared that it will "protect and defend its citizens". (With inputs from agencies)

Twitter bans account linked to Iran's leader over video mocking Trump

Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi had vowed to take revenge against Trump over Soleimani's killing. Iran released an animated video of former US President Donald Trump being targeted by a drone on a golf course. The video was showcased on Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's offcial site.

Iran's mock video of drone strike on Donald Trump

Hundreds of Trump supporters breached the US Capitol on January 6th, 2021 after false claims of election fraud. One year after the riots, what has changed in America? Is American democracy in a better place? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Capitol riots: One year on, America more polarised than ever

In the year 2020, Joe Biden campaigned as a leader who could unite America a leader who could bring the polarized country together. But a year later, the United States still remains divided it has been a year since the US capitol witnessed its worst riots in history. An attack on the American democracy outside the capital last year. Biden's inaugural address was focused on healing and now Joe Biden left the rhetoric blaming former president Donald Trump for the chaos and carnage at the capitol last year.

Capitol Riots Anniversary: Trump is a defeated president, says US president Joe Biden

The former president of the United States of America has created and spread a web of lies about the 2020 election he's done so because he values power over principle, because he sees his own interest is more important than America's interest and because his bruised ego matters more to him than our democracy.

Capitol Riots: 'Trump has always valued his own interest over America's,' says Prez Joe Biden

January the 6th 2021, it's a significantly infamous day in the United States of America. Just one year ago today an angry mob broke into the capital as the world witnessed the insurrection live on television. One year on the Americans have woken up to commemorate the painful events in a few minutes from now a ceremony will take place at Capitol hill.

US: One year anniversary of Capitol Riots, a sombre ceremony at Capitol hill

On the first anniversary of the US Capitol riots, President Joe Biden made a powerful speech as he accused his predecessor Donald Trump of blocking the democratic transfer of power on January 6, 2021, as he deemed him as a "defeated former president."&nbsp;

"Even before the first ballot was cast, the former president was preemptively sowing doubt about the election results. He built his lie over months. It wasn’t based in any facts. He was just looking for an excuse, a pretext to cover for the truth," he said.&nbsp;

He further added, "He’s not just a former president. He’s a defeated former president."

"Defeated by a margin of over 7 million of your votes, and a full and free and fair election. There is simply zero proof the election results were inaccurate."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-year-of-us-capitol-riots-key-takeaways-and-prominent-faces-of-the-day-that-divided-america-442672">Also read |&nbsp;One year of US Capitol Riots: Key takeaways and prominent faces of the day that divided America</a>

Continuing his speech, Biden further said that the US and the entire world were locked in a battle between democracy and authoritarianism. "We're living at an inflection point in history, both at home and abroad. We're engaged anew in a struggle between democracy and autocracy. I will allow no one to place a dagger at the throat of democracy," he said.&nbsp;

On January 6, 2021, the US lawmakers were moving towards certifying Joe Biden’s victory in the election and pro-Trump protesters stormed the US Capitol to disrupt the legitimate transfer. The horrifying scene forced Congress to put a sudden pause on the ceremonial event confirming Biden's sweeping win in the elections. In the aftermath, the doors of the Senate were locked and a citywide curfew was announced.&nbsp;

After one complete year, several federal prosecutors have charged more than 700 people who were a part of this attack. New criminals are being tracked every week, even until now.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

On the first anniversary of the US Capitol riots, President Joe Biden made a powerful speech as he accused his predecessor Donald Trump of blocking the democratic transfer of power on January 6, 2021, as he deemed him as a "defeated former president.

On the first anniversary of the US Capitol riots, President Joe Biden made a powerful speech as he accused his predecessor Donald Trump of blocking the democratic transfer of power on January 6, 2021, as he deemed him as a "defeated former president." "Even before the first ballot was cast, the former president was preemptively sowing doubt about the election results. He built his lie over months. It wasn’t based in any facts. He was just looking for an excuse, a pretext to cover for the truth," he said. He further added, "He’s not just a former president. He’s a defeated former president." "Defeated by a margin of over 7 million of your votes, and a full and free and fair election. There is simply zero proof the election results were inaccurate." Also read | One year of US Capitol Riots: Key takeaways and prominent faces of the day that divided America Continuing his speech, Biden further said that the US and the entire world were locked in a battle between democracy and authoritarianism. "We're living at an inflection point in history, both at home and abroad. We're engaged anew in a struggle between democracy and autocracy. I will allow no one to place a dagger at the throat of democracy," he said. On January 6, 2021, the US lawmakers were moving towards certifying Joe Biden’s victory in the election and pro-Trump protesters stormed the US Capitol to disrupt the legitimate transfer. The horrifying scene forced Congress to put a sudden pause on the ceremonial event confirming Biden's sweeping win in the elections. In the aftermath, the doors of the Senate were locked and a citywide curfew was announced. After one complete year, several federal prosecutors have charged more than 700 people who were a part of this attack. New criminals are being tracked every week, even until now. (With inputs from agencies)

In his speech on the anniversary of Capitol riots, Biden deems Trump as a 'defeated former President'

United states former US president Donald Trump has abruptly decided to ditch his planned press conference in Florida which was billed as an address on the first anniversary of the January 6th Capitol hill riots. The former president was expected to defend the actions of his supporters one year ago but he's now cancelled his appearance.

Donald Trump cancels talk on Capitol Riots, Joe Biden to address alone

Iran is issuing new threats to the US. Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi wants Former US President Donald Trump punished. He said Trump should be "prosecuted and killed" for ordering the drone strike that killed Qasem Soleimani. Palki Sharma has more.

Gravitas: Iran demands Trump be "prosecuted and killed"

Last year today, the former American president Donald Trump supporters breached the American capital. They attacked the officers and also vandalized the seat of American power. A year later the former American president Donald Trump has abruptly decided to ditch his press briefing in Florida which was billed as a press conference on the first anniversary of the 6th of January capital rights leaving the 46th American president Joe Biden to address the divided nation all by himself.

Former US president Donald Trump cancels Capitol Riot anniversary press conference

US president Joe Biden has set down his government's response to the Omicron variant, as he did so he also gave credit to the Trump administration for the development of the covid-19 vaccine and also praised Donald Trump for getting a booster shot.

'Maybe one of the few things he and I agree on,' Biden appreciates Trump on getting booster shot

A congressional report has recently revealed that the Trump administration made several attempts to sabotage the US' response to the deadly coronavirus pandemic. This was done for political purposes.

The report has been divided into three parts. The first part elaborates on how the Trump administration was responsible for a series of critical failures that undermined the US' ability to respond effectively to the pandemic.&nbsp;

The second part highlights the companies that profited during the pandemic while endangering public health. Lastly, the third part focuses on the administration's questionable management of the pandemic.

As per the report, the White House completely overruled public health and testing guidance coming from the nation’s top infectious disease experts.&nbsp;

In order to promote then-President Donald Trump's political agenda, several officials were silenced.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-police-officer-testifies-at-manslaughter-trial-for-killing-daunte-wright-437812">Also read |&nbsp;US police officer testifies at manslaughter trial for killing Daunte Wright</a>

"Trump White House officials in the Office of Management and Budget sought to sidestep CDC when finalising coronavirus guidance for faith communities, after CDC declined to accept edits to the guidance proposed by officials outside of the agency," read the report.&nbsp;

Not only this but the report further states that Trump political appointees tried to pressure the Food and Drug Administration to authorise ineffective Covid treatments that the president was in favoured.&nbsp;This included hydroxychloroquine and convalescent plasma.

Also, the administration was involved in weakening the CDC's coronavirus testing guidance in August 2020. This was done to conceal the spreading pace of the cases.

A CDC official, in a transcribed interview, confirmed that she was instructed to destroy evidence of political interference by a Trump Administration political appointee. "The CDC official told the Select Subcommittee that she understood this instruction—which “seemed unusual” and made her “uncomfortable”—came from then-CDC Director Redfield," read the report.

Former senior Trump Administration officials have spoken in detail about a &nbsp;series of missteps that led to the "ineffectual early response to the coronavirus outbreak" in the US.&nbsp;

For instance, Dr Deborah Birx, the White House Covid response coordinator, revealed in a transcribed interview that nobody from the federal government had contacted the largest diagnostic companies operating in the US until she arrived in early March 2020.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A congressional report has recently revealed that the Trump administration made several attempts to sabotage the US' response to the deadly coronavirus pandemic.

A congressional report has recently revealed that the Trump administration made several attempts to sabotage the US' response to the deadly coronavirus pandemic. This was done for political purposes. The report has been divided into three parts. The first part elaborates on how the Trump administration was responsible for a series of critical failures that undermined the US' ability to respond effectively to the pandemic. The second part highlights the companies that profited during the pandemic while endangering public health. Lastly, the third part focuses on the administration's questionable management of the pandemic. As per the report, the White House completely overruled public health and testing guidance coming from the nation’s top infectious disease experts. In order to promote then-President Donald Trump's political agenda, several officials were silenced. Also read | US police officer testifies at manslaughter trial for killing Daunte Wright "Trump White House officials in the Office of Management and Budget sought to sidestep CDC when finalising coronavirus guidance for faith communities, after CDC declined to accept edits to the guidance proposed by officials outside of the agency," read the report. Not only this but the report further states that Trump political appointees tried to pressure the Food and Drug Administration to authorise ineffective Covid treatments that the president was in favoured. This included hydroxychloroquine and convalescent plasma. Also, the administration was involved in weakening the CDC's coronavirus testing guidance in August 2020. This was done to conceal the spreading pace of the cases. A CDC official, in a transcribed interview, confirmed that she was instructed to destroy evidence of political interference by a Trump Administration political appointee. "The CDC official told the Select Subcommittee that she understood this instruction—which “seemed unusual” and made her “uncomfortable”—came from then-CDC Director Redfield," read the report. Former senior Trump Administration officials have spoken in detail about a series of missteps that led to the "ineffectual early response to the coronavirus outbreak" in the US. For instance, Dr Deborah Birx, the White House Covid response coordinator, revealed in a transcribed interview that nobody from the federal government had contacted the largest diagnostic companies operating in the US until she arrived in early March 2020. (With inputs from agencies)

Report states Trump administration voluntarily sabotaged Covid response

The request for information seemed mundane enough — the kind of thing bank regulators put out occasionally in the course of their duties.

Its intent, though, was anything but.

On Thursday, two board members of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation announced a notice seeking public comment on the subject of bank mergers. The notice wasn’t actually on the FDIC’s own website. Soon afterward, the FDIC issued a statement that it had not approved any such request.

The standoff was a small sign of a bigger rift brewing at the FDIC, which has a hand in overseeing all U.S. banks but focuses closely on the smallest ones. The chair of the FDIC, Jelena McWilliams, is a Republican and a Trump appointee — one of the few remaining in an alphabet soup of federal bank regulators that includes the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency.

The others on the FDIC board — including Martin J. Gruenberg, a longtime member of the FDIC board, and Rohit Chopra, the newly confirmed director of the consumer bureau — are Democrats. And by posting a notice Thursday without McWilliams' approval, they took a step to assert their power over the organization she leads.

Their ultimate goal, experts say, is to paint McWilliams' resistance to posting the notice as justification for gaining control of the board and potentially even removing her.

“This is the first shot across the bow, seeing what the chairman’s response might be,” said Todd Phillips, a director at the progressive think tank the Center for American Progress, who has argued that Democrats should take control of the FDIC’s board away from McWilliams. “If they do end up being victorious on this issue, I think we’ll see the progressive directors throwing their weight around to move the FDIC in a direction that it hasn’t been in the past few years.”

On Thursday and Friday, progressives took pains to emphasize that the FDIC’s move was not simply a power grab and that they really did care about bank mergers.

“The FDIC has a responsibility to make sure that banking markets are healthy and competitive,” said Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, chair of the Senate Banking Committee. He endorsed the board’s move.

The FDIC is governed by a five-member board whose members serve six-year terms. Its political makeup is supposed to generally allow input from both parties. At any time, a fully seated board will consist of two Republicans, two Democrats and a chair appointed by the president for a five-year term. One of the five seats is currently empty; the others are held by McWilliams, Gruenberg, Chopra and another bank regulator, the acting comptroller of the currency, Michael Hsu, also a Democrat.

Under McWilliams, the FDIC has adhered to Republican ideological lines on topics such as climate change and a general tendency to let banks take on more risk while holding less capital in reserve. If she left, the FDIC would very likely embrace President Joe Biden’s agenda, which involves shifting the federal government’s stance on big issues like climate change and income inequality.

In December 2020, after Biden was declared the winner of the presidential election, McWilliams rushed through a change to an FDIC rule governing certain bank deposits. She circulated the final version of the proposal at midnight on the day before the board had to vote on it. Once Biden was able to make appointments to the FDIC board, the rule would not have had the votes to succeed.

And in late October, she abstained from a vote on adopting a report on the risks climate change poses to the U.S. financial system by the Financial Stability Oversight Council, a body composed of the heads of various financial regulators that was created in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis. McWilliams said she did not think the oversight council’s staff had been given enough time to research and write the report. But her decision was widely viewed as an indication that she would continue to remain loyal to Republicans.

The FDIC board members’ internal disagreement spilled into public view Thursday afternoon after Gruenberg, Chopra and Hsu voted over email to produce a request for public comment on the subject of bank mergers — and then posted their notice on the website of the consumer bureau, which Chopra runs.

“Although there has been a significant amount of consolidation in the banking sector over the last thirty years, fueled in large part by mergers and acquisitions, there has not been a significant review of the implementation of the Bank Merger Act by the agencies in that time,” the board members wrote at the beginning of their request.

The trio argued that the FDIC had contributed to the overall instability of the banking system when, in 2008 and 2009, it encouraged regional banks to buy up smaller institutions that had failed as a result of the global financial crisis.

Then came the fireworks. The FDIC’s public affairs office, which McWilliams controls, released a statement:

“Earlier today, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) posted on its website a document, purportedly approved by the FDIC, requesting comment on bank mergers,” the statement, which was not attributed to any person, said. “No such document has been approved by the FDIC.”

For several weeks, McWilliams and her staff had been privately trying to counteract Chopra and Gruenberg, according to two people briefed on the matter who were not authorized to speak publicly. After learning of the effort to create a bank mergers public information request, McWilliams proposed an alternative text for the document, the people said, which the other board members quickly rejected.

When the voting process for the proposal began in late November, McWilliams did not vote, claiming that the process had violated procedure and no vote would be valid, the people said.

On Thursday, senior FDIC officials said they would not complete the process needed to make the information request official. They said the move by the two Democrats did not follow proper procedure and was therefore invalid.

Gruenberg disagreed.

“It is clear under the statute that the majority of the FDIC board of directors has authority to place items on the agenda for Board meetings and, alternatively, to circulate and act on notational votes, to implement actions of the board,” he said in a statement emailed to journalists Thursday. “No individual member of the Board may override the authority of the majority.”

An OCC spokesperson declined to speak directly about the vote, saying only that Hsu wanted to “work collaboratively with other regulators” on bank merger issues.

The two people familiar with the matter said that Chopra and Gruenberg would most likely have to sue McWilliams if they want to advance the matter further.

Hours after the two statements came out, Pat Toomey of Pennsylvania, the highest-ranking Republican member of the Senate Banking Committee, called the move a “failed, publicity-seeking attempted coup.”

Another Republican on the committee, Mike Crapo of Idaho, said in a post on Twitter on Friday that the progressive board members’ actions were “illegitimate.”

Norbert Michel, a director at the libertarian think tank the Cato Institute, said it was not clear that McWilliams' refusal to go along with the bank merger information request would even count as justification for firing her.

“The statute, in terms of getting her out, and getting her staff out, says you have to have no confidence that she will implement what she’s required to implement,” Michel said. The current situation did not count because it was not a directive from Biden, he said. Not even the Financial Stability Oversight Council climate report, Michel said, contained enough concrete policy prescriptions to make it count as something McWilliams was refusing to carry out.

The request for information seemed mundane enough — the kind of thing bank regulators put out occasionally in the course of their duties. Its intent, though, was anything but.

The request for information seemed mundane enough — the kind of thing bank regulators put out occasionally in the course of their duties. Its intent, though, was anything but. On Thursday, two board members of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation announced a notice seeking public comment on the subject of bank mergers. The notice wasn’t actually on the FDIC’s own website. Soon afterward, the FDIC issued a statement that it had not approved any such request. The standoff was a small sign of a bigger rift brewing at the FDIC, which has a hand in overseeing all U.S. banks but focuses closely on the smallest ones. The chair of the FDIC, Jelena McWilliams, is a Republican and a Trump appointee — one of the few remaining in an alphabet soup of federal bank regulators that includes the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. The others on the FDIC board — including Martin J. Gruenberg, a longtime member of the FDIC board, and Rohit Chopra, the newly confirmed director of the consumer bureau — are Democrats. And by posting a notice Thursday without McWilliams' approval, they took a step to assert their power over the organization she leads. Their ultimate goal, experts say, is to paint McWilliams' resistance to posting the notice as justification for gaining control of the board and potentially even removing her. “This is the first shot across the bow, seeing what the chairman’s response might be,” said Todd Phillips, a director at the progressive think tank the Center for American Progress, who has argued that Democrats should take control of the FDIC’s board away from McWilliams. “If they do end up being victorious on this issue, I think we’ll see the progressive directors throwing their weight around to move the FDIC in a direction that it hasn’t been in the past few years.” On Thursday and Friday, progressives took pains to emphasize that the FDIC’s move was not simply a power grab and that they really did care about bank mergers. “The FDIC has a responsibility to make sure that banking markets are healthy and competitive,” said Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, chair of the Senate Banking Committee. He endorsed the board’s move. The FDIC is governed by a five-member board whose members serve six-year terms. Its political makeup is supposed to generally allow input from both parties. At any time, a fully seated board will consist of two Republicans, two Democrats and a chair appointed by the president for a five-year term. One of the five seats is currently empty; the others are held by McWilliams, Gruenberg, Chopra and another bank regulator, the acting comptroller of the currency, Michael Hsu, also a Democrat. Under McWilliams, the FDIC has adhered to Republican ideological lines on topics such as climate change and a general tendency to let banks take on more risk while holding less capital in reserve. If she left, the FDIC would very likely embrace President Joe Biden’s agenda, which involves shifting the federal government’s stance on big issues like climate change and income inequality. In December 2020, after Biden was declared the winner of the presidential election, McWilliams rushed through a change to an FDIC rule governing certain bank deposits. She circulated the final version of the proposal at midnight on the day before the board had to vote on it. Once Biden was able to make appointments to the FDIC board, the rule would not have had the votes to succeed. And in late October, she abstained from a vote on adopting a report on the risks climate change poses to the U.S. financial system by the Financial Stability Oversight Council, a body composed of the heads of various financial regulators that was created in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis. McWilliams said she did not think the oversight council’s staff had been given enough time to research and write the report. But her decision was widely viewed as an indication that she would continue to remain loyal to Republicans. The FDIC board members’ internal disagreement spilled into public view Thursday afternoon after Gruenberg, Chopra and Hsu voted over email to produce a request for public comment on the subject of bank mergers — and then posted their notice on the website of the consumer bureau, which Chopra runs. “Although there has been a significant amount of consolidation in the banking sector over the last thirty years, fueled in large part by mergers and acquisitions, there has not been a significant review of the implementation of the Bank Merger Act by the agencies in that time,” the board members wrote at the beginning of their request. The trio argued that the FDIC had contributed to the overall instability of the banking system when, in 2008 and 2009, it encouraged regional banks to buy up smaller institutions that had failed as a result of the global financial crisis. Then came the fireworks. The FDIC’s public affairs office, which McWilliams controls, released a statement: “Earlier today, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) posted on its website a document, purportedly approved by the FDIC, requesting comment on bank mergers,” the statement, which was not attributed to any person, said. “No such document has been approved by the FDIC.” For several weeks, McWilliams and her staff had been privately trying to counteract Chopra and Gruenberg, according to two people briefed on the matter who were not authorized to speak publicly. After learning of the effort to create a bank mergers public information request, McWilliams proposed an alternative text for the document, the people said, which the other board members quickly rejected. When the voting process for the proposal began in late November, McWilliams did not vote, claiming that the process had violated procedure and no vote would be valid, the people said. On Thursday, senior FDIC officials said they would not complete the process needed to make the information request official. They said the move by the two Democrats did not follow proper procedure and was therefore invalid. Gruenberg disagreed. “It is clear under the statute that the majority of the FDIC board of directors has authority to place items on the agenda for Board meetings and, alternatively, to circulate and act on notational votes, to implement actions of the board,” he said in a statement emailed to journalists Thursday. “No individual member of the Board may override the authority of the majority.” An OCC spokesperson declined to speak directly about the vote, saying only that Hsu wanted to “work collaboratively with other regulators” on bank merger issues. The two people familiar with the matter said that Chopra and Gruenberg would most likely have to sue McWilliams if they want to advance the matter further. Hours after the two statements came out, Pat Toomey of Pennsylvania, the highest-ranking Republican member of the Senate Banking Committee, called the move a “failed, publicity-seeking attempted coup.” Another Republican on the committee, Mike Crapo of Idaho, said in a post on Twitter on Friday that the progressive board members’ actions were “illegitimate.” Norbert Michel, a director at the libertarian think tank the Cato Institute, said it was not clear that McWilliams' refusal to go along with the bank merger information request would even count as justification for firing her. “The statute, in terms of getting her out, and getting her staff out, says you have to have no confidence that she will implement what she’s required to implement,” Michel said. The current situation did not count because it was not a directive from Biden, he said. Not even the Financial Stability Oversight Council climate report, Michel said, contained enough concrete policy prescriptions to make it count as something McWilliams was refusing to carry out.

How bank regulators are trying to oust a Trump holdover

Donald Trump’s plan to launch “Truth Social”, a special purpose acquisitions backed social media company, early next year may have hit a roadblock after US regulators issued a request for information on the deal on Monday.

New trouble for Trump's 'Truth Social', Federal & Wall street regulators launch probe

Social media seems to be buzzing as a miniature Mount Rushmore emerges, which features former US president Donald Trump. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The miniature sculpture was found in the former president’s office when some latest pictures were shared by him with Kyle Rittenhouse and the head of a martial arts organisation. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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Trump’s 9th degree black belt is as real as his Mount Rushmore gizmo.👇Trump’s friggin insane! <a href="https://t.co/M2if3Eci3m">pic.twitter.com/M2if3Eci3m</a>
— CopterDoctor🚁🩺 Son Of WWII ANTIFA🚫Lists (@copter_chief) <a href="https://twitter.com/copter_chief/status/1463816389899210754?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In the miniature Mount Rushmore, he is shown beside George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-a-precautionary-measure-us-to-restrict-travel-over-fears-of-new-covid-19-variant-432251" hreflang="en">As a 'precautionary measure', US to restrict travel over fears of new variant</a>

The former president was given the “Mount Trumpmore” piece by South Dakota governor Kristi Noem last year. &nbsp;

The miniature has been made by Lee Leuning and Sherri Treeby. Its provenance was confirmed to the Daily Beast. Leuning, a South Dakota artist, said, “Cool. That’s our piece. Definitely. That’s pretty cool.” &nbsp;

Leuning was glad to see the maquette on display at Mar-a-Lago as often “stuff ends up in a closet”. &nbsp;

In July 2020, Trump visited South Dakota for a speech in front of Mount Rushmore. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-coronavirus-variant-not-in-us-right-now-says-anthony-fauci-432210" hreflang="en">New coronavirus variant not in US right now, says Anthony Fauci</a>

Several comments, memes, etc have come up on social media over the development. &nbsp;

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"If Trump returns to power, expect Mount Rushmore to become Mount Trumpmore," <a href="https://twitter.com/Jacopo_della_Q?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Jacopo_della_Q</a>. 
 
Well, we already have a Mount Trumpmore here in Austin, sort of⬇️. <a href="https://t.co/DMiGTXQnNP">pic.twitter.com/DMiGTXQnNP</a>
— Clam-flavored condiments &amp; drinks? No, no, no... (@lindajaniebrou1) <a href="https://twitter.com/lindajaniebrou1/status/1464281022510604290?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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A user said, “If Trump returns to power, expect Mount Rushmore to become Mount Trumpmore.” &nbsp;

In a tweet, another user, said, “Trump’s 9th degree black belt is as real as his Mount Rushmore gizmo. Trump’s friggin insane!” &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Social media seems to be buzzing as a miniature Mount Rushmore emerges, which features former US president Donald Trump. The miniature sculpture was found in the former president’s office when some latest pictures were shared by him with Kyle Rittenhouse and the head of a martial arts organisation.

Social media seems to be buzzing as a miniature Mount Rushmore emerges, which features former US president Donald Trump. The miniature sculpture was found in the former president’s office when some latest pictures were shared by him with Kyle Rittenhouse and the head of a martial arts organisation. Trump’s 9th degree black belt is as real as his Mount Rushmore gizmo.👇Trump’s friggin insane! pic.twitter.com/M2if3Eci3m — CopterDoctor🚁🩺 Son Of WWII ANTIFA🚫Lists (@copter_chief) November 25, 2021 × In the miniature Mount Rushmore, he is shown beside George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt. Also Read: As a 'precautionary measure', US to restrict travel over fears of new variant The former president was given the “Mount Trumpmore” piece by South Dakota governor Kristi Noem last year. The miniature has been made by Lee Leuning and Sherri Treeby. Its provenance was confirmed to the Daily Beast. Leuning, a South Dakota artist, said, “Cool. That’s our piece. Definitely. That’s pretty cool.” Leuning was glad to see the maquette on display at Mar-a-Lago as often “stuff ends up in a closet”. In July 2020, Trump visited South Dakota for a speech in front of Mount Rushmore. Also Read: New coronavirus variant not in US right now, says Anthony Fauci Several comments, memes, etc have come up on social media over the development. "If Trump returns to power, expect Mount Rushmore to become Mount Trumpmore," @Jacopo_della_Q. Well, we already have a Mount Trumpmore here in Austin, sort of⬇️. pic.twitter.com/DMiGTXQnNP — Clam-flavored condiments & drinks? No, no, no... (@lindajaniebrou1) November 26, 2021 × A user said, “If Trump returns to power, expect Mount Rushmore to become Mount Trumpmore.” In a tweet, another user, said, “Trump’s 9th degree black belt is as real as his Mount Rushmore gizmo. Trump’s friggin insane!” (With inputs from agencies)

Social media erupts as Trump gets featured on miniature Mount Rushmore

Former President Donald Trump's family has reached a deal to sell the rights to its Washington DC hotel for 375 million dollars.

United States: Donald Trump reaches $375M deal to sell Washington DC hotel

The United States and European Union have agreed to end a festering dispute over US&nbsp;steel and aluminum tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump in 2018, removing an irritant in transatlantic relations and averting a spike in EU retaliatory tariffs, US&nbsp;officials said on Saturday.

Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo told reporters that the deal will maintain US&nbsp;"Section 232" tariffs of 25 per cent&nbsp;on steel and 10 per cent&nbsp;aluminum, while allowing "limited volumes" of EU-produced metals into the United States duty free.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/aukus-deal-joe-biden-tells-emmanuel-macron-that-us-was-clumsy-425127">AUKUS deal: Joe Biden tells Emmanuel Macron that US was 'clumsy'</a>

It eliminates a source of friction between the allies and lets them focus on negotiating a new global trade agreement to address worldwide excess steel and aluminum capacity mainly centered in China and reduce carbon emissions from the industries.

EU trade chief Valdis Dombrovskis confirmed the deal, writing on Twitter&nbsp; that "we have agreed with US&nbsp;to pause" the trade dispute and launch cooperation on a future global arrangement on sustainable steel and aluminum. Dombrovskis said the deal will be formally announced by Biden and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday.

US&nbsp;officials did not specify the volume of duty-free steel to be allowed into the United States under a tariff-rate quota system agreed upon with the EU. Sources familiar with the deal, speaking on condition of anonymity, have said annual volumes above 3.3 million tons would be subject to tariffs.

The deal grants an additional two years of duty-free access above the quota for EU steel products that won Commerce Department exclusions in the past year, US&nbsp;officials said.

The agreement requires EU steel and aluminum to be entirely produced in the bloc - a standard known as "melted and poured" - to qualify for duty-free status. The provision is aimed at preventing metals from

China and non-EU countries from being minimally processed in Europe before export to the United States. 
Europe exported&nbsp;around 5 million tons of steel annually to the United States prior to Trump's imposition of the tariffs on national security grounds.

"The agreement ultimately to negotiate a carbon-based arrangement on steel and aluminum trade addresses both Chinese overproduction and carbon intensity in the steel and aluminum sector," White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters, adding that the climate and workers can be protected at the same time.

US&nbsp;steel production, which relies heavily on electric-arc furnaces, is regarded as having far lower carbon emissions than the coal-fueled blast furnaces prevalent in China.

Biden has sought to mend fences with European allies following Trump's presidency to more broadly confront China's state-driven economic practices that led to Beijing building massive excess steelmaking capacity that has flooded global markets.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pressure-of-blackmail-eu-court-imposes-massive-fine-of-over-1-million-per-day-on-poland-424592">'Pressure of blackmail': EU court imposes massive fine of over $1 million per day on Poland</a>

The deal will eliminate Europe's retaliatory tariffs against US&nbsp;products including bourbon whiskey, Harley-Davidson motorcycles and motor boats that were set to double on December&nbsp;1, US&nbsp;officials said.

"The end of this long tariff nightmare is in sight for US&nbsp;distillers, who have struggled with the weight of the tariffs and the pandemic," Distilled Spirits Council President Chris Swonger said, also urging Britain to lift its tariff on American whiskeys.

Record Steel Prices

Raimondo said the deal will reduce costs for steel-consuming US&nbsp;manufacturers. Steel prices have more than tripled in the past year to records topping $1,900 a ton as the industry has struggled to keep up with a demand surge after COVID-19 pandemic-related shutdowns, contributing to inflation.

US&nbsp;primary aluminum producers, which had dwindled to two companies by the time Trump imposed the tariffs, will be able to maintain their investments in reviving domestic capacity because the quotas are set at very low levels, well below pre-tariff volumes, said Mark Duffy, CEO of the American Primary Aluminum Association industry group.

American Iron and Steel Institute President Kevin Dempsey said the quota arrangement will help "prevent another steel import surge that would undermine our industry and destroy good-paying American jobs."

"We urge the US&nbsp;and EU to take active steps to hold China and other countries that employ trade-distorting policies to account," Dempsey added. "We also believe US-EU cooperation should focus on new trade approaches to address climate change, including through development of effective carbon border adjustment measures."

Due to its exit from the EU, Britain's steel exports remain subject to the tariffs, as are those of other US&nbsp;allies including Japan. The US&nbsp;Chamber of Commerce, which opposed the metals tariffs from the start, said the duties and quotas should be dropped from "close allies."

The United States and European Union have agreed to end a festering dispute over US steel and aluminum tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump in 2018, removing an irritant in transatlantic relations and averting a spike in EU retaliatory tariffs, US officials said on Saturday.

The United States and European Union have agreed to end a festering dispute over US steel and aluminum tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump in 2018, removing an irritant in transatlantic relations and averting a spike in EU retaliatory tariffs, US officials said on Saturday. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo told reporters that the deal will maintain US "Section 232" tariffs of 25 per cent on steel and 10 per cent aluminum, while allowing "limited volumes" of EU-produced metals into the United States duty free. Also Read | AUKUS deal: Joe Biden tells Emmanuel Macron that US was 'clumsy' It eliminates a source of friction between the allies and lets them focus on negotiating a new global trade agreement to address worldwide excess steel and aluminum capacity mainly centered in China and reduce carbon emissions from the industries. EU trade chief Valdis Dombrovskis confirmed the deal, writing on Twitter that "we have agreed with US to pause" the trade dispute and launch cooperation on a future global arrangement on sustainable steel and aluminum. Dombrovskis said the deal will be formally announced by Biden and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday. US officials did not specify the volume of duty-free steel to be allowed into the United States under a tariff-rate quota system agreed upon with the EU. Sources familiar with the deal, speaking on condition of anonymity, have said annual volumes above 3.3 million tons would be subject to tariffs. The deal grants an additional two years of duty-free access above the quota for EU steel products that won Commerce Department exclusions in the past year, US officials said. The agreement requires EU steel and aluminum to be entirely produced in the bloc - a standard known as "melted and poured" - to qualify for duty-free status. The provision is aimed at preventing metals from China and non-EU countries from being minimally processed in Europe before export to the United States. Europe exported around 5 million tons of steel annually to the United States prior to Trump's imposition of the tariffs on national security grounds. "The agreement ultimately to negotiate a carbon-based arrangement on steel and aluminum trade addresses both Chinese overproduction and carbon intensity in the steel and aluminum sector," White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters, adding that the climate and workers can be protected at the same time. US steel production, which relies heavily on electric-arc furnaces, is regarded as having far lower carbon emissions than the coal-fueled blast furnaces prevalent in China. Biden has sought to mend fences with European allies following Trump's presidency to more broadly confront China's state-driven economic practices that led to Beijing building massive excess steelmaking capacity that has flooded global markets. Also Read | 'Pressure of blackmail': EU court imposes massive fine of over $1 million per day on Poland The deal will eliminate Europe's retaliatory tariffs against US products including bourbon whiskey, Harley-Davidson motorcycles and motor boats that were set to double on December 1, US officials said. "The end of this long tariff nightmare is in sight for US distillers, who have struggled with the weight of the tariffs and the pandemic," Distilled Spirits Council President Chris Swonger said, also urging Britain to lift its tariff on American whiskeys. Record Steel Prices Raimondo said the deal will reduce costs for steel-consuming US manufacturers. Steel prices have more than tripled in the past year to records topping $1,900 a ton as the industry has struggled to keep up with a demand surge after COVID-19 pandemic-related shutdowns, contributing to inflation. US primary aluminum producers, which had dwindled to two companies by the time Trump imposed the tariffs, will be able to maintain their investments in reviving domestic capacity because the quotas are set at very low levels, well below pre-tariff volumes, said Mark Duffy, CEO of the American Primary Aluminum Association industry group. American Iron and Steel Institute President Kevin Dempsey said the quota arrangement will help "prevent another steel import surge that would undermine our industry and destroy good-paying American jobs." "We urge the US and EU to take active steps to hold China and other countries that employ trade-distorting policies to account," Dempsey added. "We also believe US-EU cooperation should focus on new trade approaches to address climate change, including through development of effective carbon border adjustment measures." Due to its exit from the EU, Britain's steel exports remain subject to the tariffs, as are those of other US allies including Japan. The US Chamber of Commerce, which opposed the metals tariffs from the start, said the duties and quotas should be dropped from "close allies."

US, EU end Trump-era tariff war over steel and aluminum

Finally, the National Archives showed documents former US president Donald Trump have been trying to keep away from the House committee, which is investigating the January 6 Capitol riots on Friday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-virtual-heist-on-jewellery-firm-hackers-steal-several-bigwigs-details-425498">In 'virtual heist' on jewellery firm, hackers steal several bigwigs’ details</a>

In a federal court filing, Trump seeks to block around 750 documents, which are among 1,600 identified as relevant to the inquiry. These include files from former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows and other advisers, call records, speech drafts, visitor logs and notes on efforts to challenge the results of the 2020 election. &nbsp;

The former US president has claimed executive privilege over the documents. US President Joe Biden has rejected these requests, and Trump has sued to block their release. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ahead-of-cop26-summit-us-president-bidens-85-vehicle-motorcade-raises-emissions-concerns-425520">Watch: Ahead of COP26 summit, Biden's motorcade raises emissions' concerns</a>

US District Judge Tanya Chutkan will hold a hearing on Thursday. On November 12, archivist David Ferriero may start giving the documents to Congress unless there is a court order to stop it. &nbsp;

As per a Politico report, House Counsel Doug Letter in a brief sent to the judge on Friday, wrote, “The urgency of the work cannot be overstated. The threat that brought the attack on January 6 is ongoing. Those, who falsely claimed the election was stolen (including Trump), continue to do so.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Finally, the National Archives showed documents former US president Donald Trump have been trying to keep away from the House committee, which is investigating the January 6 Capitol riots on Friday.

Finally, the National Archives showed documents former US president Donald Trump have been trying to keep away from the House committee, which is investigating the January 6 Capitol riots on Friday. Also Read: In 'virtual heist' on jewellery firm, hackers steal several bigwigs’ details In a federal court filing, Trump seeks to block around 750 documents, which are among 1,600 identified as relevant to the inquiry. These include files from former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows and other advisers, call records, speech drafts, visitor logs and notes on efforts to challenge the results of the 2020 election. The former US president has claimed executive privilege over the documents. US President Joe Biden has rejected these requests, and Trump has sued to block their release. Also Read: Watch: Ahead of COP26 summit, Biden's motorcade raises emissions' concerns US District Judge Tanya Chutkan will hold a hearing on Thursday. On November 12, archivist David Ferriero may start giving the documents to Congress unless there is a court order to stop it. As per a Politico report, House Counsel Doug Letter in a brief sent to the judge on Friday, wrote, “The urgency of the work cannot be overstated. The threat that brought the attack on January 6 is ongoing. Those, who falsely claimed the election was stolen (including Trump), continue to do so.” (With inputs from agencies)

Documents Trump wants to shield from Capitol riots investigators revealed

Ahead of the 2022 elections, Former US President Donald Trump announced support for Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The endorsement seems to have been made on Wednesday just around the time when the Brazilian Senate recommended criminal charges against Bolsonaro for his handling of the pandemic. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-asean-virtual-summit-with-eye-on-china-joe-biden-reiterates-need-for-free-indo-pacific-424227" hreflang="en">US-ASEAN virtual summit: With eye on China, Joe Biden reiterates need for free Indo-Pacific</a>

In the statement of endorsement, Trump bragged about his relationship with the Brazilian president and said, "President Jair Bolsonaro and I have become great friends over the past few years." &nbsp;

With this development, Trump seems to be making attempt to throw his streak of endorsements into the international spotlight. &nbsp;

Touting Bolsonaro's work ethic and personality, Trump said, he "fights hard for, and loves, the people of Brazil" and equated it to being similar to Trump's love for "the people of the United States." &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-worries-over-possible-russian-mercenaries-in-mali-424285" hreflang="en">US worries over possible 'Russian mercenaries' in Mali</a>

"Brazil is lucky to have a man such as Jair Bolsonaro working for them. He is a great President and will never let the people of his great country down," Trump added. &nbsp;

In a 7-4 vote, the Brazilian Senate recommended that Bolsonaro face criminal indictments for crimes against humanity. The recommendation has come after a six-month investigation into his handling of the pandemic, as per AP news agency. The Brazilian president has denied any kind of wrongdoing. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Ahead of the 2022 elections, Former US President Donald Trump announced support for Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. The endorsement seems to have been made on Wednesday just around the time when the Brazilian Senate recommended criminal charges against Bolsonaro for his handling of the pandemic.

Ahead of the 2022 elections, Former US President Donald Trump announced support for Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. The endorsement seems to have been made on Wednesday just around the time when the Brazilian Senate recommended criminal charges against Bolsonaro for his handling of the pandemic. Also Read: US-ASEAN virtual summit: With eye on China, Joe Biden reiterates need for free Indo-Pacific In the statement of endorsement, Trump bragged about his relationship with the Brazilian president and said, "President Jair Bolsonaro and I have become great friends over the past few years." With this development, Trump seems to be making attempt to throw his streak of endorsements into the international spotlight. Touting Bolsonaro's work ethic and personality, Trump said, he "fights hard for, and loves, the people of Brazil" and equated it to being similar to Trump's love for "the people of the United States." Also Read: US worries over possible 'Russian mercenaries' in Mali "Brazil is lucky to have a man such as Jair Bolsonaro working for them. He is a great President and will never let the people of his great country down," Trump added. In a 7-4 vote, the Brazilian Senate recommended that Bolsonaro face criminal indictments for crimes against humanity. The recommendation has come after a six-month investigation into his handling of the pandemic, as per AP news agency. The Brazilian president has denied any kind of wrongdoing. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump announces support for Bolsonaro as Brazil Senate backs criminal charges

Former US President Donald Trump has yet again escalated efforts to stonewall investigators looking into the deadly January 6th Capitol Hill riots. This time Donald Trump has sued the Congress and National Archives.

United States: Donald Trump sued Congress and National Archives

Donald Trump's daughter and son-in-law launched an initiative in Jerusalem to advance the Abraham Accords that saw Arab states normalise ties with Israel.

Former Trump advisers Kushner, Ivanka Trump inaugurate Abraham Accords caucus

The Saudi royal family showered Donald Trump and his entourage on his first trip abroad as president with dozens of presents, including three robes made with white tiger and cheetah fur, and a dagger with a handle that appeared to be ivory.

Little that followed went right.

A White House lawyer determined that possession of the furs and dagger most likely violated the Endangered Species Act, but the Trump administration held onto them and failed to disclose them as gifts received from a foreign government.

On the last full day of Trump’s presidency, the White House handed them over to the General Services Administration — the wrong agency — rather than the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which seized the gifts this summer.

At that point, there was a surprise.

The furs, from an oil-rich family worth billions of dollars, were fake.

“Wildlife inspectors and special agents determined the linings of the robes were dyed to mimic tiger and cheetah patterns and were not comprised of protected species,” said Tyler Cherry, a spokesperson for the Interior Department, which oversees the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Officials at the Saudi Embassy in Washington declined to comment.

The tale of the furs is but one example of how gift exchanges between the United States and foreign leaders — a highly regulated process intended to shield administrations from questions of impropriety — devolved into sometimes risible shambles during the Trump administration.

The State Department’s inspector general is investigating allegations that Trump’s political appointees walked off with gift bags worth thousands of dollars that were meant for foreign leaders at the Group of 7 summit planned for Camp David in Maryland in 2020, which was canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic. The bags contained dozens of items purchased with government funds, including leather portfolios, pewter trays and marble trinket boxes emblazoned with the presidential seal or the signatures of Trump and his wife, Melania.

The inspector general continues to pursue the whereabouts of a $5,800 bottle of Japanese whiskey given to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo — Pompeo said he never received it — and a 22-karat gold coin given to another State Department official.

There is also a question about whether former second lady Karen Pence wrongly took two gold-toned place-card holders from the prime minister of Singapore without paying for them.

In addition, the Trump administration never disclosed that Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law and a top White House adviser, received two swords and a dagger from the Saudis, although he paid $47,920 for them along with three other gifts in February, after he left office.

To be sure, Trump’s handling of foreign gifts is not at the top of his critics’ list of administration offenses. And there is no evidence that he or Melania took any gifts to which they were not entitled.

But ethics experts said the problems reflected larger issues with the Trump presidency.

“Whether this was indifference, sloppiness or the Great Train Robbery, it shows such a cavalier attitude to the law and the regular process of government,” said Stanley Brand, a criminal defense lawyer, ethics expert and former top lawyer for the House of Representatives.

The State Department declined to address the specifics of how the Trump administration handled gifts but said in a statement that it “takes seriously its role in reporting the disposition of certain gifts received by U.S. government employees” and that it was “investigating the whereabouts of gifts that are unaccounted for and the circumstances that led to their disappearance.”

This article is based on public documents and others produced by the federal government under the Freedom of Information Act, interviews with current and former government officials, and on-the-record responses to questions from several government departments and agencies. The documents include an index of gifts that Trump and his family received in Saudi Arabia in 2017 that the National Archives provided to two Democratic senators, Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island and Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut.

The details about the missing gifts and the other widespread problems with them have not been previously reported. Politico reported in August that the State Department’s inspector general was investigating about 20 types of missing gifts.

82 Gifts From the Saudis

The nation’s founders were so concerned that European nobility could co-opt U.S. officials with lavish gifts that they included in the Constitution a clause making it illegal for an official to take anything of worth from a foreigner.

In 1966, Congress passed a law detailing how a U.S. official could keep a gift of only relatively minimal value, now capped at $415. Subsequent amendments defined gifts as government property and created a standardized process for how officials were to deal with them.

To add transparency, provisions require administrations to annually disclose the gifts given to U.S. officials by foreigners and their appraised value. The laws have no criminal penalties, although legal experts said that anyone caught taking government property could be prosecuted for theft.

The Trump administration’s gift problems date from the president’s trip in May 2017 to Saudi Arabia, whose leaders were jubilant that Trump had chosen the kingdom for his first visit abroad and was embracing them after years of tensions with the Obama administration. The Saudis have a history of giving lavish gifts to American presidents, and Trump and his aides appeared to receive a generous bounty.

The State Department disclosed a list of 82 gifts from the Saudis to Trump administration officials on the May 2017 trip in response to a Freedom of Information Act request filed shortly after Trump returned home. The gifts ranged from ordinary ones such as sandals and scarves to expensive ones such as furs and daggers.

Nine of the most expensive presents — the three furs, three swords and three daggers — were sent to the White House gifts unit to be assessed and appraised but never appeared on any of the Trump State Department’s legally required annual filings for foreign gifts, according to a review of government documents.

It was not until last Jan. 19 that the White House sent the nine gifts to the General Services Administration, according to a statement from the agency.

After The New York Times this past summer inquired about why the agency was in possession of items in violation of the Endangered Species Act, the General Services Administration alerted the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which in July sent an agent to collect the furs at a government warehouse in Springfield, Virginia. The agent also took the dagger, which a visiting Qatari official had given to the Trump White House in Saudi Arabia.

Inspectors examined the items, discovering more problems as they determined that the furs had been dyed and were fake. The dagger’s handle “appears to possibly contain tooth or bone of some variety” — the materials of elephant tusk — “although additional laboratory analysis would be required to identify the species,” the Interior Department said.

It is unclear if the Saudis knew about the fake furs or were deceived by a supplier, but Bruce Riedel, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and an expert on Saudi-U. S. relations, called the gifts highly embarrassing.

“The two most important things for them is to look like they’re aboveboard world actors, and are rich and show their wealth,” he said.

A spokesperson for Trump did not return several messages seeking comment.

Disappearing Gift Bags

As Trump political appointees in the State Department’s protocol office packed up their belongings in January, career officers saw their departing colleagues leave with the gift bags meant for foreign leaders at the G-7 summit the previous year, the inspector general has learned. The bags had been in storage in a large room at the State Department known as the vault.

Once the Biden administration took over, career officials began to examine the accounting of foreign gifts without Trump officials looking over their shoulders.

At that point, career officials discovered that many of the gift bags were missing, as were more than a dozen additional presents given to Trump officials. The number was unusual: Government documents from the Obama and George W. Bush administrations show no unaccounted gifts given to White House officials, Cabinet members or members of the first families.

In the months that followed, the Times located many of the gifts, including a bottle of perfume and a Persian silk carpet that the Qataris had given to Steven Mnuchin, the former Treasury secretary. (His gifts were supposed to have been sent to the General Services Administration for disposal, but they were sitting in storage at the Treasury Department.)

The bottle of whiskey for Pompeo remains unaccounted for, as does the 22-karat gold coin and a porcelain bowl from Vietnam for John Bolton, Trump’s third national security adviser, who sent the Times an email exchange with the Trump White House showing that he never took it and did not want it.

One mystery has been solved: When the Times reached out to Karen Pence, a lawyer for the family said that she had taken the gold-toned place-card holders after a White House ethics lawyer told her she could keep them because they had been appraised at less than the minimal threshold, which was $390 at the time.

But according to the information provided to the State Department by the Trump White House, she should have paid for the place-card holders. Under federal guidelines, if a U.S. official is given multiple gifts in a meeting with a foreign official, the American must pay for them if the total exceeds the minimal threshold. The State Department said the Trump White House reported that Karen Pence had received the card holders along with a framed print and a clutch purse, which totaled $1,200.

Richard Cullen, the lawyer for the Pence family, said the State Department was wrong — that the gifts had been given at different meetings, and Karen Pence had declined to keep the print and clutch. In response to Cullen’s explanation, a State Department spokesperson said it stood by its characterization of Karen Pence’s gifts.

The Saudi royal family showered Donald Trump and his entourage on his first trip abroad as president with dozens of presents, including three robes made with white tiger and cheetah fur, and a dagger with a handle that appeared to be ivory.

The Saudi royal family showered Donald Trump and his entourage on his first trip abroad as president with dozens of presents, including three robes made with white tiger and cheetah fur, and a dagger with a handle that appeared to be ivory. Little that followed went right. A White House lawyer determined that possession of the furs and dagger most likely violated the Endangered Species Act, but the Trump administration held onto them and failed to disclose them as gifts received from a foreign government. On the last full day of Trump’s presidency, the White House handed them over to the General Services Administration — the wrong agency — rather than the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which seized the gifts this summer. At that point, there was a surprise. The furs, from an oil-rich family worth billions of dollars, were fake. “Wildlife inspectors and special agents determined the linings of the robes were dyed to mimic tiger and cheetah patterns and were not comprised of protected species,” said Tyler Cherry, a spokesperson for the Interior Department, which oversees the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Officials at the Saudi Embassy in Washington declined to comment. The tale of the furs is but one example of how gift exchanges between the United States and foreign leaders — a highly regulated process intended to shield administrations from questions of impropriety — devolved into sometimes risible shambles during the Trump administration. The State Department’s inspector general is investigating allegations that Trump’s political appointees walked off with gift bags worth thousands of dollars that were meant for foreign leaders at the Group of 7 summit planned for Camp David in Maryland in 2020, which was canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic. The bags contained dozens of items purchased with government funds, including leather portfolios, pewter trays and marble trinket boxes emblazoned with the presidential seal or the signatures of Trump and his wife, Melania. The inspector general continues to pursue the whereabouts of a $5,800 bottle of Japanese whiskey given to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo — Pompeo said he never received it — and a 22-karat gold coin given to another State Department official. There is also a question about whether former second lady Karen Pence wrongly took two gold-toned place-card holders from the prime minister of Singapore without paying for them. In addition, the Trump administration never disclosed that Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law and a top White House adviser, received two swords and a dagger from the Saudis, although he paid $47,920 for them along with three other gifts in February, after he left office. To be sure, Trump’s handling of foreign gifts is not at the top of his critics’ list of administration offenses. And there is no evidence that he or Melania took any gifts to which they were not entitled. But ethics experts said the problems reflected larger issues with the Trump presidency. “Whether this was indifference, sloppiness or the Great Train Robbery, it shows such a cavalier attitude to the law and the regular process of government,” said Stanley Brand, a criminal defense lawyer, ethics expert and former top lawyer for the House of Representatives. The State Department declined to address the specifics of how the Trump administration handled gifts but said in a statement that it “takes seriously its role in reporting the disposition of certain gifts received by U.S. government employees” and that it was “investigating the whereabouts of gifts that are unaccounted for and the circumstances that led to their disappearance.” This article is based on public documents and others produced by the federal government under the Freedom of Information Act, interviews with current and former government officials, and on-the-record responses to questions from several government departments and agencies. The documents include an index of gifts that Trump and his family received in Saudi Arabia in 2017 that the National Archives provided to two Democratic senators, Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island and Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut. The details about the missing gifts and the other widespread problems with them have not been previously reported. Politico reported in August that the State Department’s inspector general was investigating about 20 types of missing gifts. 82 Gifts From the Saudis The nation’s founders were so concerned that European nobility could co-opt U.S. officials with lavish gifts that they included in the Constitution a clause making it illegal for an official to take anything of worth from a foreigner. In 1966, Congress passed a law detailing how a U.S. official could keep a gift of only relatively minimal value, now capped at $415. Subsequent amendments defined gifts as government property and created a standardized process for how officials were to deal with them. To add transparency, provisions require administrations to annually disclose the gifts given to U.S. officials by foreigners and their appraised value. The laws have no criminal penalties, although legal experts said that anyone caught taking government property could be prosecuted for theft. The Trump administration’s gift problems date from the president’s trip in May 2017 to Saudi Arabia, whose leaders were jubilant that Trump had chosen the kingdom for his first visit abroad and was embracing them after years of tensions with the Obama administration. The Saudis have a history of giving lavish gifts to American presidents, and Trump and his aides appeared to receive a generous bounty. The State Department disclosed a list of 82 gifts from the Saudis to Trump administration officials on the May 2017 trip in response to a Freedom of Information Act request filed shortly after Trump returned home. The gifts ranged from ordinary ones such as sandals and scarves to expensive ones such as furs and daggers. Nine of the most expensive presents — the three furs, three swords and three daggers — were sent to the White House gifts unit to be assessed and appraised but never appeared on any of the Trump State Department’s legally required annual filings for foreign gifts, according to a review of government documents. It was not until last Jan. 19 that the White House sent the nine gifts to the General Services Administration, according to a statement from the agency. After The New York Times this past summer inquired about why the agency was in possession of items in violation of the Endangered Species Act, the General Services Administration alerted the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which in July sent an agent to collect the furs at a government warehouse in Springfield, Virginia. The agent also took the dagger, which a visiting Qatari official had given to the Trump White House in Saudi Arabia. Inspectors examined the items, discovering more problems as they determined that the furs had been dyed and were fake. The dagger’s handle “appears to possibly contain tooth or bone of some variety” — the materials of elephant tusk — “although additional laboratory analysis would be required to identify the species,” the Interior Department said. It is unclear if the Saudis knew about the fake furs or were deceived by a supplier, but Bruce Riedel, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and an expert on Saudi-U. S. relations, called the gifts highly embarrassing. “The two most important things for them is to look like they’re aboveboard world actors, and are rich and show their wealth,” he said. A spokesperson for Trump did not return several messages seeking comment. Disappearing Gift Bags As Trump political appointees in the State Department’s protocol office packed up their belongings in January, career officers saw their departing colleagues leave with the gift bags meant for foreign leaders at the G-7 summit the previous year, the inspector general has learned. The bags had been in storage in a large room at the State Department known as the vault. Once the Biden administration took over, career officials began to examine the accounting of foreign gifts without Trump officials looking over their shoulders. At that point, career officials discovered that many of the gift bags were missing, as were more than a dozen additional presents given to Trump officials. The number was unusual: Government documents from the Obama and George W. Bush administrations show no unaccounted gifts given to White House officials, Cabinet members or members of the first families. In the months that followed, the Times located many of the gifts, including a bottle of perfume and a Persian silk carpet that the Qataris had given to Steven Mnuchin, the former Treasury secretary. (His gifts were supposed to have been sent to the General Services Administration for disposal, but they were sitting in storage at the Treasury Department.) The bottle of whiskey for Pompeo remains unaccounted for, as does the 22-karat gold coin and a porcelain bowl from Vietnam for John Bolton, Trump’s third national security adviser, who sent the Times an email exchange with the Trump White House showing that he never took it and did not want it. One mystery has been solved: When the Times reached out to Karen Pence, a lawyer for the family said that she had taken the gold-toned place-card holders after a White House ethics lawyer told her she could keep them because they had been appraised at less than the minimal threshold, which was $390 at the time. But according to the information provided to the State Department by the Trump White House, she should have paid for the place-card holders. Under federal guidelines, if a U.S. official is given multiple gifts in a meeting with a foreign official, the American must pay for them if the total exceeds the minimal threshold. The State Department said the Trump White House reported that Karen Pence had received the card holders along with a framed print and a clutch purse, which totaled $1,200. Richard Cullen, the lawyer for the Pence family, said the State Department was wrong — that the gifts had been given at different meetings, and Karen Pence had declined to keep the print and clutch. In response to Cullen’s explanation, a State Department spokesperson said it stood by its characterization of Karen Pence’s gifts.

White tiger and cheetah furs: A mess of Trump gift exchanges

Continuing with long-standing criticism of the 2020 polls and attacks on political foes, former US President Donald Trump slammed President Joe Biden's $3.5 trillion "socialist" spending "monstrosity" on all fronts, from economy to immigration. &nbsp;

Viewed as a likely 2024 presidential contender, Trump has criticised his successor's efforts to cobble together a coalition for the massive spending haul, saying the bill was "so bad". &nbsp;

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During a 'Save America' rally in Des Moines, Iowa, Trump said on Saturday night, "It's a socialist transformation bill, it's an open borders bill, (and) it's an American energy destruction bill." &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Joe Biden and the radical Left Democrats in Congress are trying to ram through a $3.5 trillion, wild, spending binge that costs more than the entire sum the United States has spent on any war in the history of our country," the leader said. &nbsp;

"Not only is this the largest spending bill of all time, it's the largest tax hike of all time. This monstrosity is so dangerous for our country and so bad for children and grandchildren to come. This monstrosity is a bill to end America as we know it. It's so bad," the former president said.

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Suggesting Trump may take on several political opponents in 2024, the former president dropped hints about a campaign slogan, "Make America great again, again," as "America is not great right now." &nbsp;

If the former president enters the race, he would be a formidable candidate, suggests recent polling. A poll in Des Moines Register shows that Trump's approval rating has climbed to 53% in Iowa since leaving office. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Continuing with long-standing criticism of the 2020 polls and attacks on political foes, former US President Donald Trump slammed President Joe Biden's $3.5 trillion "socialist" spending "monstrosity" on all fronts, from economy to immigration.

Continuing with long-standing criticism of the 2020 polls and attacks on political foes, former US President Donald Trump slammed President Joe Biden's $3.5 trillion "socialist" spending "monstrosity" on all fronts, from economy to immigration. Viewed as a likely 2024 presidential contender, Trump has criticised his successor's efforts to cobble together a coalition for the massive spending haul, saying the bill was "so bad". Also Read: California becomes first state to ban secret removal of condom during sex During a 'Save America' rally in Des Moines, Iowa, Trump said on Saturday night, "It's a socialist transformation bill, it's an open borders bill, (and) it's an American energy destruction bill." "Joe Biden and the radical Left Democrats in Congress are trying to ram through a $3.5 trillion, wild, spending binge that costs more than the entire sum the United States has spent on any war in the history of our country," the leader said. "Not only is this the largest spending bill of all time, it's the largest tax hike of all time. This monstrosity is so dangerous for our country and so bad for children and grandchildren to come. This monstrosity is a bill to end America as we know it. It's so bad," the former president said. Also Read | Travellers vaccinated with WHO approved Covid vaccines can enter US: CDC Suggesting Trump may take on several political opponents in 2024, the former president dropped hints about a campaign slogan, "Make America great again, again," as "America is not great right now." If the former president enters the race, he would be a formidable candidate, suggests recent polling. A poll in Des Moines Register shows that Trump's approval rating has climbed to 53% in Iowa since leaving office. (With inputs from agencies)

At Iowa rally, Trump slams Biden's 'socialist' spending package

Former President Donald Trump returned to Iowa Saturday for his first visit to the state after losing the presidential election in November, during the rally he repeats claims of foul play during the 2020 election.

Former US President Donald Trump repeats claims of foul play during 2020 election

Even despite disagreements over January 6 developments, former US vice president Mike Pence insists he is still close to ex-president Donald Trump. &nbsp;

On Monday, the former vice president told Fox News, “You can't spend almost five years in a political foxhole with somebody without developing a strong relationship."

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“January 6 was a tragic day in the history of our Capitol building, but thanks to the efforts of Capitol Hill police [and] federal officials, the Capitol was secured,” Pence added. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“We finished our work, and the president and I sat down a few days later and talked through all of it. I can tell you that we parted amicably at the end of the administration, and we've talked a number of times since we both left office,” the leader said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

After he certified the Electoral College votes that gave Joe Biden the presidency, the Trump supporters turned on Pence. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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The leader had reportedly disapproved of Trump’s actions on the day, which led to the infamous Capitol riots. The former president has since publicly criticised Pence for certifying the vote. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the interview, Pence slammed withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan as an “example of what weak leadership means on the world stage." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Even despite disagreements over January 6 developments, former US vice president Mike Pence insists he is still close to ex-president Donald Trump. On Monday, the former vice president told Fox News, “You can't spend almost five years in a political foxhole with somebody without developing a strong relationship.

Even despite disagreements over January 6 developments, former US vice president Mike Pence insists he is still close to ex-president Donald Trump. On Monday, the former vice president told Fox News, “You can't spend almost five years in a political foxhole with somebody without developing a strong relationship." Also Read: Biden congratulates Japan's new PM on phone call, both confirm strong alliance “January 6 was a tragic day in the history of our Capitol building, but thanks to the efforts of Capitol Hill police [and] federal officials, the Capitol was secured,” Pence added. “We finished our work, and the president and I sat down a few days later and talked through all of it. I can tell you that we parted amicably at the end of the administration, and we've talked a number of times since we both left office,” the leader said. After he certified the Electoral College votes that gave Joe Biden the presidency, the Trump supporters turned on Pence. Also Read: Biden officials end ban on abortion referrals at federally funded clinics The leader had reportedly disapproved of Trump’s actions on the day, which led to the infamous Capitol riots. The former president has since publicly criticised Pence for certifying the vote. In the interview, Pence slammed withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan as an “example of what weak leadership means on the world stage." (With inputs from agencies)

Despite disagreements over January 6, Pence still 'close to' Trump

Former United States President Donald Trump asked a federal judge in Florida to force Twitter to reinstate his account. Watch this report for more details.

Former US Prez Donald Trump asks Florida Judge to force Twitter to restart his account

A senior US general on Wednesday said that the Doha agreement, signed by former US President Donald Trump with the Taliban had an influence on USA's disastrous pullout from Afghanistan. He was speaking in front of House Congress committee in a congressional hearing.

General Kenneth Mckenzie said that once the decision to reduce US troop presence below 2500 was taken, it proved to be the start of unravelling of American pullout.

“The signing of the Doha agreement had a really pernicious effect on the government of Afghanistan and on its military, psychological more than anything else, but we set a date – certain for when we were going to leave and when they could expect all assistance to end,” McKenzie said.

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The Doha agreement was signed between USA and Taliban. As per the agreement, US agreed to fully withdraw its troops by May 2021 in exchange for some assurances from Taliban.

During his hearing before US Congress committee, McKenzie said that he was of the opinion that if the number of American troops in Afghanistan fell below 2500, it would result in collapse of the civillian government in Kabul.

He added that US President Joe Biden's order to reduce troops in April was “the other nail in the coffin”.

Taliban took over power in Afghanistan on August 15 in a lightning offensive that followed drawdown and total withdrawal of US troops from the country.

A senior US general on Wednesday said that the Doha agreement, signed by former US President Donald Trump with the Taliban had an influence on USA's disastrous pullout from Afghanistan.

A senior US general on Wednesday said that the Doha agreement, signed by former US President Donald Trump with the Taliban had an influence on USA's disastrous pullout from Afghanistan. He was speaking in front of House Congress committee in a congressional hearing. General Kenneth Mckenzie said that once the decision to reduce US troop presence below 2500 was taken, it proved to be the start of unravelling of American pullout. “The signing of the Doha agreement had a really pernicious effect on the government of Afghanistan and on its military, psychological more than anything else, but we set a date – certain for when we were going to leave and when they could expect all assistance to end,” McKenzie said. Also Read | Kabul drone strike: US Military knew about civilian casualties but didn't admit initially The Doha agreement was signed between USA and Taliban. As per the agreement, US agreed to fully withdraw its troops by May 2021 in exchange for some assurances from Taliban. During his hearing before US Congress committee, McKenzie said that he was of the opinion that if the number of American troops in Afghanistan fell below 2500, it would result in collapse of the civillian government in Kabul. He added that US President Joe Biden's order to reduce troops in April was “the other nail in the coffin”. Taliban took over power in Afghanistan on August 15 in a lightning offensive that followed drawdown and total withdrawal of US troops from the country.

Senior US general blames Trump's Doha agreement for Afghan debacle

Four members of Donald Trump's inner circle on Thursday received subpoenas to appear before a congressional committee to shed light on what exactly the former president said and did on the day rioters entered the US Capitol earlier this year. Watch this report for more details.

United States: Trump's inner circle to be investigated

Two prominent Republican operatives, who allegedly helped a Russian national illegally donate $25,000 to the Trump campaign in 2016, have been charged by the Justice Department of the country on Monday. &nbsp;

In a six-count indictment, 43-year-old Jesse Benton and 75-year-old Doug Wead were charged. They made their first appearance in DC District Court. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;

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These operatives have been accused of making an illegal foreign contribution, conspiring to violate campaign finance laws and helping submit false records to the Federal Election Commission. The information about their defence attorneys was not available. &nbsp;

Benton and Wead funnelled $25,000 from an unnamed Russian donor to the Trump Victory Committee, a joint fundraising venture between then-candidate Donald Trump's campaign and the Republican National Committee, said the prosecutors. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democrats-begin-effort-to-curb-post-trump-presidential-powers-414646" hreflang="en">Democrats begin effort to curb post-Trump presidential powers</a>&nbsp;

The Russian national had then attended a fundraiser in Philadelphia in September 2016, where he met Trump and took photos with him. &nbsp;

In the court filings, there is no indication that the case is connected to the special counsel investigation, which examined the many ties between Trump's 2016 campaign and Russia. It says Trump's campaign was not aware that the money came from a foreign national. &nbsp;

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As per the indictment, the Russian wired $100,000 to a company that Benton owned. He kept $75,000 and donated $25,000 to the Trump Victory Committee. The indictment does not name Trump or the committee. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Two prominent Republican operatives, who allegedly helped a Russian national illegally donate $25,000 to the Trump campaign in 2016, have been charged by the Justice Department of the country on Monday.

Two prominent Republican operatives, who allegedly helped a Russian national illegally donate $25,000 to the Trump campaign in 2016, have been charged by the Justice Department of the country on Monday. In a six-count indictment, 43-year-old Jesse Benton and 75-year-old Doug Wead were charged. They made their first appearance in DC District Court. Watch: × These operatives have been accused of making an illegal foreign contribution, conspiring to violate campaign finance laws and helping submit false records to the Federal Election Commission. The information about their defence attorneys was not available. Benton and Wead funnelled $25,000 from an unnamed Russian donor to the Trump Victory Committee, a joint fundraising venture between then-candidate Donald Trump's campaign and the Republican National Committee, said the prosecutors. Also Read: Democrats begin effort to curb post-Trump presidential powers The Russian national had then attended a fundraiser in Philadelphia in September 2016, where he met Trump and took photos with him. In the court filings, there is no indication that the case is connected to the special counsel investigation, which examined the many ties between Trump's 2016 campaign and Russia. It says Trump's campaign was not aware that the money came from a foreign national. Also Read: Pandemic claims more American lives than 1918 flu, data shows As per the indictment, the Russian wired $100,000 to a company that Benton owned. He kept $75,000 and donated $25,000 to the Trump Victory Committee. The indictment does not name Trump or the committee. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump 2016 campaign: Two charged by US Justice Deptt for funnelling $25,000 from Russian national

In the final days of the Trump Administration - America's top military commander General Mark Milley was worried that Donald Trump will start a nuclear war. So, he took secret steps to limit his power to launch nukes. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: America's top general "hid nukes" from Donald Trump

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