The last <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/russia-seeks-to-vindicate-afghan-war-30-years-after-pullout-196807">Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev</a> issued a stinging criticism of Washington on Wednesday, accusing it of misleading the world over its exit from a key arms treaty and seeking to gain military superiority at the expense of international security.

This month US President Donald Trump ripped up a key arms control agreement, the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/will-take-measures-to-ensure-security-if-us-leaves-inf-missile-treaty-russia-195913">Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty,</a> that Gorbachev and Ronald Reagan brokered in 1987.&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin quickly followed suit, tasking his government with developing new ground-based missiles and banning his ministers from initiating any future talks to salvage the agreement.

Gorbachev said that according to the treaty the country exiting it should notify the global community of "exceptional circumstances" that prompted it to do so.

In a column published by Vedomosti liberal daily, Gorbachev asked if &nbsp;Washington, the world's biggest military spender, had been able to "explain itself to the international community" and the UN Security Council.

"No, this has not been done," Gorbachev said, adding that instead, the United States prefered to accuse Russia of violating the agreement.

The 87-year-old also claimed Washington misled the world when it said it needed to abandon the treaty also because China and other countries not bound by the INF pact were stockpiling missiles.

"This is not convincing either," he said, adding that Russia and the United States still controlled 90 per cent of all nuclear weapons.

"Behind the US decision to exit the treaty are not the reasons the US leaders are citing but something completely different," said Gorbachev.

It is, he said, "a desire by the United States to free itself of any constraints in the arms sphere (and) gain absolute military superiority."

"Presumably to impose its will on the world — and why else?"

The last Soviet leader also rubbished Trump's claim he wanted to "get everybody in a big and beautiful room and do a new treaty."

"What treaty? About an arms buildup?" Gorbachev asked.

He agreed with critics of the agreement that much had changed since the signing of the pact in 1987. But, he added, that was not a reason to dismantle the existing arms control regime.

He said the changes "call not for the abandonment of treaties that created the foundation of global security after the end of the Cold War but a further movement towards to the final goal —&nbsp; the elimination of armaments."

The last Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev issued a stinging criticism of Washington on Wednesday, accusing it of misleading the world over its exit from a key arms treaty and seeking to gain military superiority at the expense of international security.

The last Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev issued a stinging criticism of Washington on Wednesday, accusing it of misleading the world over its exit from a key arms treaty and seeking to gain military superiority at the expense of international security. This month US President Donald Trump ripped up a key arms control agreement, the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, that Gorbachev and Ronald Reagan brokered in 1987. Russian President Vladimir Putin quickly followed suit, tasking his government with developing new ground-based missiles and banning his ministers from initiating any future talks to salvage the agreement. Gorbachev said that according to the treaty the country exiting it should notify the global community of "exceptional circumstances" that prompted it to do so. In a column published by Vedomosti liberal daily, Gorbachev asked if Washington, the world's biggest military spender, had been able to "explain itself to the international community" and the UN Security Council. "No, this has not been done," Gorbachev said, adding that instead, the United States prefered to accuse Russia of violating the agreement. The 87-year-old also claimed Washington misled the world when it said it needed to abandon the treaty also because China and other countries not bound by the INF pact were stockpiling missiles. "This is not convincing either," he said, adding that Russia and the United States still controlled 90 per cent of all nuclear weapons. "Behind the US decision to exit the treaty are not the reasons the US leaders are citing but something completely different," said Gorbachev. It is, he said, "a desire by the United States to free itself of any constraints in the arms sphere (and) gain absolute military superiority." "Presumably to impose its will on the world — and why else?" The last Soviet leader also rubbished Trump's claim he wanted to "get everybody in a big and beautiful room and do a new treaty." "What treaty? About an arms buildup?" Gorbachev asked. He agreed with critics of the agreement that much had changed since the signing of the pact in 1987. But, he added, that was not a reason to dismantle the existing arms control regime. He said the changes "call not for the abandonment of treaties that created the foundation of global security after the end of the Cold War but a further movement towards to the final goal — the elimination of armaments."

Last Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev slams Washington over arms treaty exit

US lawmakers have reached an agreement in principle to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-that-its-up-to-the-democrats-if-government-shuts-down-again-196783">avoid a new government shutdown</a> at the end of the week, senators announced Monday, including $1.375 billion for a wall on the southern US border.

"We've reached an agreement in principle between us on the Homeland Security and the other six bills," Senator Richard Shelby, a key Republican negotiator, told reporters.

Senior congressional aides told AFP the agreement included $1.375 billion in funding for a wall on the US-Mexico border -- a key campaign promise of President Donald Trump, who had demanded $5.7 billion for his pet project.

The agreed figure would fund approximately 89 kilometres, all to be located in the Rio Grande Valley area of south Texas, the aides said.

The deal still faces White House approval.

The Democrats and Trump have been clashing for weeks over funding a barrier on the border.

The gridlock prompted the longest government shutdown in US history -- lasting over a month -- that ended January 25 when Trump signed into law a deal giving lawmakers three weeks to come up with an agreement or face further paralysis.

As Monday's tentative deal was announced, the president was holding a campaign-style rally in the frontier city of El Paso, Texas -- a place where he claims walls have eradicated an out-of-control influx of criminals from Mexico.

US lawmakers have reached an agreement in principle to avoid a new government shutdown at the end of the week, senators announced Monday, including $1.375 billion for a wall on the southern US border.

US lawmakers have reached an agreement in principle to avoid a new government shutdown at the end of the week, senators announced Monday, including $1.375 billion for a wall on the southern US border. "We've reached an agreement in principle between us on the Homeland Security and the other six bills," Senator Richard Shelby, a key Republican negotiator, told reporters. Senior congressional aides told AFP the agreement included $1.375 billion in funding for a wall on the US-Mexico border -- a key campaign promise of President Donald Trump, who had demanded $5.7 billion for his pet project. The agreed figure would fund approximately 89 kilometres, all to be located in the Rio Grande Valley area of south Texas, the aides said. The deal still faces White House approval. The Democrats and Trump have been clashing for weeks over funding a barrier on the border. The gridlock prompted the longest government shutdown in US history -- lasting over a month -- that ended January 25 when Trump signed into law a deal giving lawmakers three weeks to come up with an agreement or face further paralysis. As Monday's tentative deal was announced, the president was holding a campaign-style rally in the frontier city of El Paso, Texas -- a place where he claims walls have eradicated an out-of-control influx of criminals from Mexico.

Reached agreement 'in principle' to avoid new US government shutdown: Senator Shelby

The mayor of El Paso, Texas - Republican Dee Margo - said Monday that President Donald Trump made a mistake by linking building a frontier wall with a drop in crime in the border city.

"It's an incorrect reference," said Margo in an interview with EFE when asked about Trump's claim that before the building of a barrier along part of the US-Mexico border El Paso was one of the "most dangerous" cities in the country due to its "extremely high" rates of violence.

The Texas city, which has a population of about 700,000, has become the focus of national attention after Trump mentioned it in his prime time, nationally broadcast State of the Union address to Congress last week.

In contrast with its cross-border counterpart in Mexico, Ciudad Juarez, El Paso never has been among the most dangerous cities in this country and before the wall was built in this area in 2008 it was - in fact - among the safest compared to other US urban areas of the same size.

"El Paso is one of the safest cities above 500,000 residents in the entire country," emphasized Margo a few hours before Trump is scheduled to hold a campaign rally there.

The mayor hailed the fact that the president was visiting her city, "even though it's a campaign event," because "if (Trump) wants to understand the border, he must come to El Paso."

Margo said that border security must be achieved using "advanced technology, more personnel and a physical barrier," although she added that the wall "cannot be continuous" due to geographical considerations.

"We're a sovereign country and we need to control and protect our border," the Republican mayor said.

Trump has made his campaign promise to build a border wall one of his priorities during the first two years of his term, and he has demanded that Congress provide funding to construct it, although originally he promised that Mexico would fully pay for it.

Democratic lawmakers, who now control the House of Representatives, have categorically refused to allocate budgetary funding to build the border barrier, and the inability of lawmakers to reach a compromise on the matter in Congress that Trump would accept resulted in the partial shutdown of the federal government for five weeks - from December 22 through January 25 - the longest such stretch in history.

The mayor of El Paso, Texas - Republican Dee Margo - said Monday that President Donald Trump made a mistake by linking building a frontier wall with a drop in crime in the border city.

The mayor of El Paso, Texas - Republican Dee Margo - said Monday that President Donald Trump made a mistake by linking building a frontier wall with a drop in crime in the border city. "It's an incorrect reference," said Margo in an interview with EFE when asked about Trump's claim that before the building of a barrier along part of the US-Mexico border El Paso was one of the "most dangerous" cities in the country due to its "extremely high" rates of violence. The Texas city, which has a population of about 700,000, has become the focus of national attention after Trump mentioned it in his prime time, nationally broadcast State of the Union address to Congress last week. In contrast with its cross-border counterpart in Mexico, Ciudad Juarez, El Paso never has been among the most dangerous cities in this country and before the wall was built in this area in 2008 it was - in fact - among the safest compared to other US urban areas of the same size. "El Paso is one of the safest cities above 500,000 residents in the entire country," emphasized Margo a few hours before Trump is scheduled to hold a campaign rally there. The mayor hailed the fact that the president was visiting her city, "even though it's a campaign event," because "if (Trump) wants to understand the border, he must come to El Paso." Margo said that border security must be achieved using "advanced technology, more personnel and a physical barrier," although she added that the wall "cannot be continuous" due to geographical considerations. "We're a sovereign country and we need to control and protect our border," the Republican mayor said. Trump has made his campaign promise to build a border wall one of his priorities during the first two years of his term, and he has demanded that Congress provide funding to construct it, although originally he promised that Mexico would fully pay for it. Democratic lawmakers, who now control the House of Representatives, have categorically refused to allocate budgetary funding to build the border barrier, and the inability of lawmakers to reach a compromise on the matter in Congress that Trump would accept resulted in the partial shutdown of the federal government for five weeks - from December 22 through January 25 - the longest such stretch in history.

El Paso mayor criticises Trump for linking wall with drop in crime

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/if-huawei-is-co-located-with-american-systems-it-would-be-difficult-for-us-to-partner-pompeo-to-hungary-196791">If Huawei is co-located with American systems, it would be difficult for us to partner: Pompeo to Hungary</a>

US secretary of state Mike Pompeo during his visit to Hungary cautioned the government against Chinese and Russian influence.

Pompeo was particularly insistent on Hungry not allowing Chinese telecom giant Huawei access to 5G network.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-9-dead-as-fire-breaks-out-in-karol-baghs-hotel-196800">Delhi: 9 dead as fire breaks out in Karol Bagh hotel</a>

At least nine people died in a massive fire that broke out in Delhi's Karol Bagh Hotel Arpit Palace early Tuesday morning.

While many others were feared trapped inside the hotel, the authorities rescued around 25 people from the site.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-that-its-up-to-the-democrats-if-government-shuts-down-again-196783">It's up to Democrats if </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-that-its-up-to-the-democrats-if-government-shuts-down-again-196783">government</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-that-its-up-to-the-democrats-if-government-shuts-down-again-196783"> shuts again: Trump</a>

The President of the United States, said Monday that it depends on the Democrats whether there will be a partial government shutdown again this weekend due to lack of funds, as he began a visit to the border with Mexico to continue his campaign in favour of the construction of a wall there.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/british-cabinet-ministers-believe-pm-may-preparing-to-resign-report-196794">British cabinet ministers believe PM May preparing to resign: Report</a>

Cabinet ministers now believe Theresa May is preparing to resign as British Prime Minister this summer so she can influence who succeeds her, The Sun newspaper reported.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/footballer-sala-killed-by-head-trunk-injuries-inquest-196796">Footballer Emiliano Sala killed by </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/footballer-sala-killed-by-head-trunk-injuries-inquest-196796">head</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/footballer-sala-killed-by-head-trunk-injuries-inquest-196796">, trunk injuries: Inquest</a>

Argentine footballer Emiliano Sala died of "head and trunk injuries", an inquest in England heard Monday as it began to examine his death in a plane crash in the sea.

If Huawei is co-located with American systems, it would be difficult for us to partner: Pompeo to Hungary US secretary of state Mike Pompeo during his visit to Hungary cautioned the government against Chinese and Russian influence.

If Huawei is co-located with American systems, it would be difficult for us to partner: Pompeo to Hungary US secretary of state Mike Pompeo during his visit to Hungary cautioned the government against Chinese and Russian influence. Pompeo was particularly insistent on Hungry not allowing Chinese telecom giant Huawei access to 5G network. Delhi: 9 dead as fire breaks out in Karol Bagh hotel At least nine people died in a massive fire that broke out in Delhi's Karol Bagh Hotel Arpit Palace early Tuesday morning. While many others were feared trapped inside the hotel, the authorities rescued around 25 people from the site. It's up to Democrats if government shuts again: Trump The President of the United States, said Monday that it depends on the Democrats whether there will be a partial government shutdown again this weekend due to lack of funds, as he began a visit to the border with Mexico to continue his campaign in favour of the construction of a wall there. British cabinet ministers believe PM May preparing to resign: Report Cabinet ministers now believe Theresa May is preparing to resign as British Prime Minister this summer so she can influence who succeeds her, The Sun newspaper reported. Footballer Emiliano Sala killed by head, trunk injuries: Inquest Argentine footballer Emiliano Sala died of "head and trunk injuries", an inquest in England heard Monday as it began to examine his death in a plane crash in the sea.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The President of the United States, said Monday that it depends on the Democrats whether there will be a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-lawmakers-meet-on-border-security-scrambling-to-avert-shutdown-196776">partial government shutdown</a> again this weekend due to lack of funds, as he began a visit to the border with Mexico to continue his campaign in favour of the construction of a wall there.

"It's up to the Democrats," Donald Trump told reporters at the White House when asked if there will be another partial closure of the administration later this week.

On February 15 the legislation expires that temporarily provided funds to the government at the end of January, which put an end to a 35-day shutdown of numerous government activities due to disagreement over the financing of the wall that Trump wants to build on the border with Mexico.

A bipartisan committee with members of the lower house and the Senate has been negotiating for two weeks to reach an agreement on immigration that can adhere to a new budget, thus avoiding a repeat of the partial paralysis.

In such political climate, Trump travelled to the border city of El Paso, Texas, on Monday to hold his first rally this year, while former Democratic Congressman Beto O'Rourke prepares an alternative rally in the city at the same time.

"We're going to El Paso... We have a line that is very long already... And I understand our competition's got a line, too, but it's a tiny, little line," the president said.

Trump lambasted a Democrats' plan to limit the number of beds Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) can keep in their detention centres.

"Now it turns out not only don't they want to give us money for the wall, but they also don't want to give us the space to detain murderers, criminals, drug dealers, human smugglers," Trump said.

Trump's government last month asked Congress for $ 4.2 billion to support the maintenance of 52,000 beds in its immigrant detention centres, a notable increase from the current 40,000 beds.

Democrats believe that, with that increase, ICE is also trying to detain undocumented immigrants with no criminal record, and they want to use the current negotiations to set a limit of 35,520 beds for the rest of this fiscal year, including a maximum of 16,500 for US detainees.

ICE acting deputy director Matt Albence warned that cutting funds for the detention centres of his department would be "extremely damaging to public safety."

In a telephone press conference, Albence confirmed that the ICE detained some "20,000 or 22,000" undocumented people, who were captured inside the country, the majority with a criminal record, and claimed that a cut of funds would force his department to "release" some of them.

The President of the United States, said Monday that it depends on the Democrats whether there will be a partial government shutdown again this weekend due to lack of funds, as he began a visit to the border with Mexico to continue his campaign in favour of the construction of a wall there.

The President of the United States, said Monday that it depends on the Democrats whether there will be a partial government shutdown again this weekend due to lack of funds, as he began a visit to the border with Mexico to continue his campaign in favour of the construction of a wall there. "It's up to the Democrats," Donald Trump told reporters at the White House when asked if there will be another partial closure of the administration later this week. On February 15 the legislation expires that temporarily provided funds to the government at the end of January, which put an end to a 35-day shutdown of numerous government activities due to disagreement over the financing of the wall that Trump wants to build on the border with Mexico. A bipartisan committee with members of the lower house and the Senate has been negotiating for two weeks to reach an agreement on immigration that can adhere to a new budget, thus avoiding a repeat of the partial paralysis. In such political climate, Trump travelled to the border city of El Paso, Texas, on Monday to hold his first rally this year, while former Democratic Congressman Beto O'Rourke prepares an alternative rally in the city at the same time. "We're going to El Paso... We have a line that is very long already... And I understand our competition's got a line, too, but it's a tiny, little line," the president said. Trump lambasted a Democrats' plan to limit the number of beds Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) can keep in their detention centres. "Now it turns out not only don't they want to give us money for the wall, but they also don't want to give us the space to detain murderers, criminals, drug dealers, human smugglers," Trump said. Trump's government last month asked Congress for $ 4.2 billion to support the maintenance of 52,000 beds in its immigrant detention centres, a notable increase from the current 40,000 beds. Democrats believe that, with that increase, ICE is also trying to detain undocumented immigrants with no criminal record, and they want to use the current negotiations to set a limit of 35,520 beds for the rest of this fiscal year, including a maximum of 16,500 for US detainees. ICE acting deputy director Matt Albence warned that cutting funds for the detention centres of his department would be "extremely damaging to public safety." In a telephone press conference, Albence confirmed that the ICE detained some "20,000 or 22,000" undocumented people, who were captured inside the country, the majority with a criminal record, and claimed that a cut of funds would force his department to "release" some of them.

It's up to Democrats if government shuts again: Trump

The United States has denied accusations it is pressuring banks to stop dealing with the Palestinian government, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/us-stops-funds-to-uns-palestine-agency-162925">whose relations with Washington have been plummeting</a>.

Several Palestinian officials have accused the US of trying to force banks not to deal with transactions linked to the Palestinian Authority, which has limited self-rule in the occupied West Bank.

"The United States has not requested that foreign donors restrict assistance to the Palestinians, nor has it requested that financial institutions cease transfers to Palestinian Authority (PA) bank accounts," a US official told AFP late Monday.&nbsp;

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"We are aware of media reports suggesting this has occurred. Those reports are incorrect."

On Sunday, senior Palestinian official Hussein al-Sheikh charged that Washington was launching a "financial siege" on the PA.

"Major international financial institutions and parties have begun to accede to an American request to impose a tight financial siege on the Palestinian Authority," he told AFP.

"Washington has asked for financial aid given to the authority to be stopped, and it has also issued a circular to banks not to receive transfers for the authority’s accounts."

Palestinian foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki has said on local radio that the US was using "all means to press Arab countries to stop financial support for our people".

Relations between the US and the Palestinians have broken down since President Donald Trump recognised Jerusalem as Israel's capital in late 2017.

The Palestinians consider the eastern part of the city their capital and have boycotted the Trump administration since.&nbsp;

In response, the US has cut more than $500 million in annual aid to the Palestinians, mostly to the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees.

The cuts have worsened longterm financial shortfalls for the PA, which is heavily reliant on international aid.

The United States has denied accusations it is pressuring banks to stop dealing with the Palestinian government, whose relations with Washington have been plummeting.

The United States has denied accusations it is pressuring banks to stop dealing with the Palestinian government, whose relations with Washington have been plummeting. Several Palestinian officials have accused the US of trying to force banks not to deal with transactions linked to the Palestinian Authority, which has limited self-rule in the occupied West Bank. "The United States has not requested that foreign donors restrict assistance to the Palestinians, nor has it requested that financial institutions cease transfers to Palestinian Authority (PA) bank accounts," a US official told AFP late Monday. Palestinian foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki has said on local radio that the US was using 'all means to press Arab countries to stop financial support for our people' × "We are aware of media reports suggesting this has occurred. Those reports are incorrect." On Sunday, senior Palestinian official Hussein al-Sheikh charged that Washington was launching a "financial siege" on the PA. "Major international financial institutions and parties have begun to accede to an American request to impose a tight financial siege on the Palestinian Authority," he told AFP. "Washington has asked for financial aid given to the authority to be stopped, and it has also issued a circular to banks not to receive transfers for the authority’s accounts." Palestinian foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki has said on local radio that the US was using "all means to press Arab countries to stop financial support for our people". Relations between the US and the Palestinians have broken down since President Donald Trump recognised Jerusalem as Israel's capital in late 2017. The Palestinians consider the eastern part of the city their capital and have boycotted the Trump administration since. In response, the US has cut more than $500 million in annual aid to the Palestinians, mostly to the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees. The cuts have worsened longterm financial shortfalls for the PA, which is heavily reliant on international aid.

US says it did not tell banks to stop working with Palestinians

There was still some hard work to be done ahead of the upcoming <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-envoy-back-from-north-korea-after-talks-on-trump-kim-summit-196109">summit between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un</a>, a Washington envoy said on Saturday.

Stephen Biegun, the US Special Representative for North Korea, said three days of<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-summit-with-kim-to-take-place-in-hanoi-196131"> preparatory talks </a>in Pyongyang that ended Friday had been productive, but more dialogue was needed ahead of the summit scheduled for Vietnam from February 27-28.

Biegun on Saturday briefed South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-hwa on his Pyongyang visit, also confirming the summit would be held in the Vietnamese capital, Hanoi.

"We have some hard work to do with the DPRK," Biegun told Kang, adding: "I'm confident that if both sides stay committed we can make real progress here.

"We don't know where it's going to go, but we are in the midst of a conversation ... our discussions (with Pyongyang) were productive."

Kang told Biegun that the US had South Korea's "full support" for the summit.

The US State Department said Biegun will meet again with Pyongyang officials ahead of the Trump-Kim talks.

Trump earlier announced Hanoi as the venue in a tweet, saying: "I look forward to seeing Chairman Kim &amp; advancing the cause of peace."

At their landmark summit in Singapore last year, the mercurial US and North Korean leaders produced a vaguely worded document in which Kim pledged to work towards "the denuclearization of the Korean peninsula".

But progress has since stalled, with the two sides disagreeing over what that means.

Experts say tangible progress on Pyongyang's nuclear weapons will be needed for the second summit if it is to avoid being dismissed as "reality TV".

On Friday Trump tweeted that North Korea will become a "great Economic Powerhouse" under Kim.

"He may surprise some but he won't surprise me, because I have gotten to know him &amp; fully understand how capable he is," said Trump.

There was still some hard work to be done ahead of the upcoming summit between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, a Washington envoy said on Saturday.

There was still some hard work to be done ahead of the upcoming summit between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, a Washington envoy said on Saturday. Stephen Biegun, the US Special Representative for North Korea, said three days of preparatory talks in Pyongyang that ended Friday had been productive, but more dialogue was needed ahead of the summit scheduled for Vietnam from February 27-28. Biegun on Saturday briefed South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-hwa on his Pyongyang visit, also confirming the summit would be held in the Vietnamese capital, Hanoi. "We have some hard work to do with the DPRK," Biegun told Kang, adding: "I'm confident that if both sides stay committed we can make real progress here. "We don't know where it's going to go, but we are in the midst of a conversation ... our discussions (with Pyongyang) were productive." Kang told Biegun that the US had South Korea's "full support" for the summit. The US State Department said Biegun will meet again with Pyongyang officials ahead of the Trump-Kim talks. Trump earlier announced Hanoi as the venue in a tweet, saying: "I look forward to seeing Chairman Kim & advancing the cause of peace." At their landmark summit in Singapore last year, the mercurial US and North Korean leaders produced a vaguely worded document in which Kim pledged to work towards "the denuclearization of the Korean peninsula". But progress has since stalled, with the two sides disagreeing over what that means. Experts say tangible progress on Pyongyang's nuclear weapons will be needed for the second summit if it is to avoid being dismissed as "reality TV". On Friday Trump tweeted that North Korea will become a "great Economic Powerhouse" under Kim. "He may surprise some but he won't surprise me, because I have gotten to know him & fully understand how capable he is," said Trump.

Hard work still needed before Kim-Trump summit: US envoy

President Donald Trump, who delights in confounding health experts with his junk food cravings and disinclination to exercise, is "in very good health," his doctor declared Friday following an annual medical checkup.

"I am happy to announce the president of the United States is in very good health and I anticipate he will remain so for the duration of his presidency, and beyond," chief physician Sean Conley said in a memorandum released by the White House.

The Marine One helicopter returned the 72-year-old head of state to the White House from the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in the Washington suburb of Bethesda after a full four hours of prodding, poking and testing.

Dressed in a long dark overcoat, Trump gave a thumb's up but did not respond to reporters' questions about how he was feeling.

It remained unclear how many of the test results would eventually be made public.

Last year, everything from the president's cholesterol levels (high) to weight (too high at 239 pounds, or 108 kilograms) was released.

Trump's then chief physician, Ronny Jackson — who has since run into trouble over alleged ethical misconduct — also held an unusually detailed press conference in which he declared Trump to be in "excellent health."&nbsp;

On the plus side, Trump doesn't smoke and is a noted teetotaler. He says he's never even had a beer.

Less good: the former real estate tycoon and reality TV performer unashamedly embraces the couch potato life.

'Incredibly good genes'&nbsp;

Not for Trump the basketball sessions that Barack Obama sweated through in the White House, or the bike rides of George W Bush.

Trump loves the more sedate game of golf, but rides a cart between holes and has said that anything more strenuous is actually bad for your health.

"All my friends who work out all the time, they're going for knee replacements, hip replacements — they're a disaster," Trump told The New York Times in 2015.

Trump has described his chief exercise as walking around the White House compound and standing up at public events.

The 45th president's diet, reportedly involving legendary amounts of Coke and red meat, also seems to defy most doctors' orders.

In January, Trump hosted the strapping athletes of America's champion college football team, the Clemson Tigers, with a mountain of hamburgers and pizzas.

According to Jackson last year, Trump's secret is genes.

"Incredibly good genes," he said. "It's just the way God made him."

President Donald Trump, who delights in confounding health experts with his junk food cravings and disinclination to exercise, is "in very good health," his doctor declared Friday following an annual medical checkup.

President Donald Trump, who delights in confounding health experts with his junk food cravings and disinclination to exercise, is "in very good health," his doctor declared Friday following an annual medical checkup. "I am happy to announce the president of the United States is in very good health and I anticipate he will remain so for the duration of his presidency, and beyond," chief physician Sean Conley said in a memorandum released by the White House. The Marine One helicopter returned the 72-year-old head of state to the White House from the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in the Washington suburb of Bethesda after a full four hours of prodding, poking and testing. Dressed in a long dark overcoat, Trump gave a thumb's up but did not respond to reporters' questions about how he was feeling. It remained unclear how many of the test results would eventually be made public. Last year, everything from the president's cholesterol levels (high) to weight (too high at 239 pounds, or 108 kilograms) was released. Trump's then chief physician, Ronny Jackson — who has since run into trouble over alleged ethical misconduct — also held an unusually detailed press conference in which he declared Trump to be in "excellent health." On the plus side, Trump doesn't smoke and is a noted teetotaler. He says he's never even had a beer. Less good: the former real estate tycoon and reality TV performer unashamedly embraces the couch potato life. 'Incredibly good genes' Not for Trump the basketball sessions that Barack Obama sweated through in the White House, or the bike rides of George W Bush. Trump loves the more sedate game of golf, but rides a cart between holes and has said that anything more strenuous is actually bad for your health. "All my friends who work out all the time, they're going for knee replacements, hip replacements — they're a disaster," Trump told The New York Times in 2015. Trump has described his chief exercise as walking around the White House compound and standing up at public events. The 45th president's diet, reportedly involving legendary amounts of Coke and red meat, also seems to defy most doctors' orders. In January, Trump hosted the strapping athletes of America's champion college football team, the Clemson Tigers, with a mountain of hamburgers and pizzas. According to Jackson last year, Trump's secret is genes. "Incredibly good genes," he said. "It's just the way God made him."

Fast-food fan Trump in 'very good health': Chief physician

Trump to meet Kim Jong-un in Hanoi

President Donald Trump used his State of the Union address on Tuesday to call for a bipartisan commitment to eradicate AIDS in the United States within a decade.

"Scientific breakthroughs have brought a once-distant dream within reach," Trump said in his annual address to Congress.&nbsp;

"My budget will ask Democrats and Republicans to make the needed commitment to eliminate the HIV epidemic in the United States within 10 years," he said.

"Together, we will defeat AIDS in America and beyond."

Some 38,000 people were infected with HIV in the United States in 2017, according to government statistics.&nbsp;

This number has shrunk over the years, but in some communities, there has been no let-up, especially among gays, blacks and Hispanics.&nbsp;

The Trump administration proposed last year to cut the budget for AIDS prevention, but Congress refused.

"No force in history has done more to advance the human condition than American freedom," Trump said.&nbsp;

"In recent years we have made remarkable progress in the fight against HIV and AIDS." &nbsp;

Trump's mastery of the issue has been called into question, however, most notably by Microsoft founder Bill Gates, who said last year that at two meetings, Trump needed help distinguishing HIV from HPV, another sexually transmitted disease.

"Both times, he wanted to know if there was a difference between HIV and HPV so I was able to explain that those are rarely confused with each other," Gates said.

President Donald Trump used his State of the Union address on Tuesday to call for a bipartisan commitment to eradicate AIDS in the United States within a decade.

President Donald Trump used his State of the Union address on Tuesday to call for a bipartisan commitment to eradicate AIDS in the United States within a decade. "Scientific breakthroughs have brought a once-distant dream within reach," Trump said in his annual address to Congress. "My budget will ask Democrats and Republicans to make the needed commitment to eliminate the HIV epidemic in the United States within 10 years," he said. "Together, we will defeat AIDS in America and beyond." Some 38,000 people were infected with HIV in the United States in 2017, according to government statistics. This number has shrunk over the years, but in some communities, there has been no let-up, especially among gays, blacks and Hispanics. The Trump administration proposed last year to cut the budget for AIDS prevention, but Congress refused. "No force in history has done more to advance the human condition than American freedom," Trump said. "In recent years we have made remarkable progress in the fight against HIV and AIDS." Trump's mastery of the issue has been called into question, however, most notably by Microsoft founder Bill Gates, who said last year that at two meetings, Trump needed help distinguishing HIV from HPV, another sexually transmitted disease. "Both times, he wanted to know if there was a difference between HIV and HPV so I was able to explain that those are rarely confused with each other," Gates said.

We will defeat AIDS in America and beyond: Trump in State of the Union address

President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/i-will-meet-north-koreas-kim-jong-un-in-vietnam-on-february-27-28-trump-in-state-of-the-union-address-195467">Donald Trump </a>said on Tuesday<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/theft-of-american-jobs-stealing-our-intellectual-property-will-end-trump-on-trade-deal-with-china-in-state-of-the-union-address-195469"> his administration </a>was holding “constructive talks” with groups in Afghanistan, including the Taliban, and would be able to reduce the US troop presence and focus on counter-terrorism as it makes progress.

“I have also accelerated our negotiations to reach a political settlement in Afghanistan. Our troops have fought with unmatched valour—and thanks to their bravery, we are now able to pursue a political solution to this long and bloody conflict,” Trump said in his annual State of the Union address.&nbsp;

"In Afghanistan, my administration is holding constructive talks with a number of Afghan groups, including the Taliban. As we make progress in these negotiations, we will be able to reduce our troop presence and focus on counter-terrorism. We do not know whether we will achieve an agreement—but we do know that after two decades of war, the hour has come to at least try for peace," he added.

President Donald Trump said on Tuesday his administration was holding “constructive talks” with groups in Afghanistan, including the Taliban, and would be able to reduce the US troop presence and focus on counter-terrorism as it makes progress.

President Donald Trump said on Tuesday his administration was holding “constructive talks” with groups in Afghanistan, including the Taliban, and would be able to reduce the US troop presence and focus on counter-terrorism as it makes progress. “I have also accelerated our negotiations to reach a political settlement in Afghanistan. Our troops have fought with unmatched valour—and thanks to their bravery, we are now able to pursue a political solution to this long and bloody conflict,” Trump said in his annual State of the Union address. "In Afghanistan, my administration is holding constructive talks with a number of Afghan groups, including the Taliban. As we make progress in these negotiations, we will be able to reduce our troop presence and focus on counter-terrorism. We do not know whether we will achieve an agreement—but we do know that after two decades of war, the hour has come to at least try for peace," he added.

Trump says may be able to cut troop numbers in Afghanistan if talks go well

How a little girl, Buzz Aldrin, US representatives in white and World War II veterans lit up Trump's State of the Union

Stacey Abrams, who nearly became both the first African-American and first woman to be governor of Georgia, will deliver the Democrats' response to the State of the Union address on Tuesday, test-driving the party's 2020 challenge to President Donald Trump.

After losing a Southern state that Trump won in 2016 by less than 60,000 votes in November, Abrams has emerged as a "bona fide leader" among Democrats, said Jaime Harrison, a senior counsellor and co-chair of the Democratic National Committee.

"The 2020 folks will be listening to her and looking to what they can adapt to their message from her own."

Abrams, 45, said she plans to deliver a speech talking about "prosperity and equality" in a country "where everyone in our nation has a voice."

In his State of the Union address, Trump is expected to make extensive remarks about his proposed U.S.-Mexico border wall, while also arguing that he should be reelected in 2020, touting his achievements so far and laying out the future.

As many as two dozen Democrats are eager to challenge him as their party's nominee - about 10 have already declared their candidacies.

Abrams, who recently launched an effort to combat voter suppression of minorities, will get the first high-profile stab at taking on Trump in U.S. television's coveted prime time.

"Stacey Abrams is the face that the Democratic Party would like to project ... That's where the energy in the party lies: youth and diversity," said Joel Payne, a Democratic strategist.

Since Democrats, especially those running for president, largely agree on policy, finding the right style and tone to fight Trump will be paramount, said Jason Nichols, an African-American studies lecturer at the University of Maryland.

"Abrams is a great example," Nichols said. "She is firm and uncompromising in her beliefs, yet she will never stoop to the level of Trump or fall for his traps."

Payne said 2020 candidates should heed how Abrams speaks to liberals in the party's base, but also to voters in conservative states like Georgia. "The biggest lesson that the 2020 hopefuls can take from Stacey Abrams is to contest and vie for every single vote," he said.

Candice Battiste, a Democratic strategist in Louisiana who works on initiatives to expand minority access to voting, said Abrams sets an example. "Stacey Abrams has that undeniable relatability that doesn't cross the line into 'pandering,'" she said.

The State of the Union response, handled skillfully, can be a catapult for a political career, like Senator Marco Rubio's memorable one for the Republicans in 2013 and Nikki Haley's in 2016. Haley went on to become US ambassador to the United Nations.

The event also comes with risk. A speech that falls flat can hurt, such as Bobby Jindal's in 2009, from which the former Louisiana governor never really recovered.

Stacey Abrams, who nearly became both the first African-American and first woman to be governor of Georgia, will deliver the Democrats' response to the State of the Union address on Tuesday, test-driving the party's 2020 challenge to President Donald Trump.

Stacey Abrams, who nearly became both the first African-American and first woman to be governor of Georgia, will deliver the Democrats' response to the State of the Union address on Tuesday, test-driving the party's 2020 challenge to President Donald Trump. After losing a Southern state that Trump won in 2016 by less than 60,000 votes in November, Abrams has emerged as a "bona fide leader" among Democrats, said Jaime Harrison, a senior counsellor and co-chair of the Democratic National Committee. "The 2020 folks will be listening to her and looking to what they can adapt to their message from her own." Abrams, 45, said she plans to deliver a speech talking about "prosperity and equality" in a country "where everyone in our nation has a voice." In his State of the Union address, Trump is expected to make extensive remarks about his proposed U.S.-Mexico border wall, while also arguing that he should be reelected in 2020, touting his achievements so far and laying out the future. As many as two dozen Democrats are eager to challenge him as their party's nominee - about 10 have already declared their candidacies. Abrams, who recently launched an effort to combat voter suppression of minorities, will get the first high-profile stab at taking on Trump in U.S. television's coveted prime time. "Stacey Abrams is the face that the Democratic Party would like to project ... That's where the energy in the party lies: youth and diversity," said Joel Payne, a Democratic strategist. Since Democrats, especially those running for president, largely agree on policy, finding the right style and tone to fight Trump will be paramount, said Jason Nichols, an African-American studies lecturer at the University of Maryland. "Abrams is a great example," Nichols said. "She is firm and uncompromising in her beliefs, yet she will never stoop to the level of Trump or fall for his traps." Payne said 2020 candidates should heed how Abrams speaks to liberals in the party's base, but also to voters in conservative states like Georgia. "The biggest lesson that the 2020 hopefuls can take from Stacey Abrams is to contest and vie for every single vote," he said. Candice Battiste, a Democratic strategist in Louisiana who works on initiatives to expand minority access to voting, said Abrams sets an example. "Stacey Abrams has that undeniable relatability that doesn't cross the line into 'pandering,'" she said. The State of the Union response, handled skillfully, can be a catapult for a political career, like Senator Marco Rubio's memorable one for the Republicans in 2013 and Nikki Haley's in 2016. Haley went on to become US ambassador to the United Nations. The event also comes with risk. A speech that falls flat can hurt, such as Bobby Jindal's in 2009, from which the former Louisiana governor never really recovered.

'Bona fide leader' of Democrats, Stacey Abrams to counter Trump speech

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/russia-slams-european-interference-in-venezuela-195064">Russia slams European 'interference' in Venezuela</a>

Russia on Monday slammed what it said were attempts to interfere in Venezuela's domestic affairs after several European countries recognised opposition chief Juan Guaido as interim leader.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-vs-bengal-ready-to-give-my-life-but-not-compromise-says-mamata-cbi-files-contempt-plea-in-sc-195124">Centre vs Bengal: Ready to give my life but not compromise, says Mamata; CBI files contempt plea in SC</a>

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has said she is "ready to give my life but not compromise" in the wake of the CBI-Kolkata Police face-off in her state.&nbsp;

"I am ready to give my life but not compromise. I did not take to the streets when you touched TMC leaders. But I am angry when they tried to insult the chair of the Kolkata Police Commissioner, he is leading the organisation," Mamata said.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-spain-recognises-venezuela-opposition-leader-guaido-as-acting-president-195050">UK, France, Germany recognise Venezuela opposition leader Guaido as acting president</a>

Britain, France, Spain and Germany on Monday recognised Venezuela's opposition chief Juan Guaido as interim leader after President Nicolas Maduro rejected a demand by several European powers for fresh elections.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-constitution-rejects-use-of-iraq-as-a-base-for-attacking-a-neighbouring-country-barham-saleh-195059">After Trump speaks, Iraqis demand </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-constitution-rejects-use-of-iraq-as-a-base-for-attacking-a-neighbouring-country-barham-saleh-195059">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-constitution-rejects-use-of-iraq-as-a-base-for-attacking-a-neighbouring-country-barham-saleh-195059"> leave </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-constitution-rejects-use-of-iraq-as-a-base-for-attacking-a-neighbouring-country-barham-saleh-195059">country</a>

Iraqi politicians on Monday hit back at Donald Trump after the US president said he plans to keep American forces in the country to spy on Iran.

In an interview with CBS television, Trump reaffirmed his determination to pull the United States out of "endless wars" in Syria and Afghanistan but said American troops would stay on in Iraq, partly "to be looking a little bit at Iran".

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/body-found-in-wreckage-of-footballer-salas-plane-investigators-195090">Body found in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/body-found-in-wreckage-of-footballer-salas-plane-investigators-195090">wreckage</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/body-found-in-wreckage-of-footballer-salas-plane-investigators-195090"> of footballer Emiliano Sala's plane: Investigators</a>

British investigators on Monday said they had spotted a body in underwater images of the wreckage of the plane carrying footballer Emiliano Sala and pilot David Ibbotson that disappeared in the Channel two weeks ago.

Russia slams European 'interference' in Venezuela Russia on Monday slammed what it said were attempts to interfere in Venezuela's domestic affairs after several European countries recognised opposition chief Juan Guaido as interim leader.

Russia slams European 'interference' in Venezuela Russia on Monday slammed what it said were attempts to interfere in Venezuela's domestic affairs after several European countries recognised opposition chief Juan Guaido as interim leader. Centre vs Bengal: Ready to give my life but not compromise, says Mamata; CBI files contempt plea in SC West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has said she is "ready to give my life but not compromise" in the wake of the CBI-Kolkata Police face-off in her state. "I am ready to give my life but not compromise. I did not take to the streets when you touched TMC leaders. But I am angry when they tried to insult the chair of the Kolkata Police Commissioner, he is leading the organisation," Mamata said. UK, France, Germany recognise Venezuela opposition leader Guaido as acting president Britain, France, Spain and Germany on Monday recognised Venezuela's opposition chief Juan Guaido as interim leader after President Nicolas Maduro rejected a demand by several European powers for fresh elections. After Trump speaks, Iraqis demand US leave country Iraqi politicians on Monday hit back at Donald Trump after the US president said he plans to keep American forces in the country to spy on Iran. In an interview with CBS television, Trump reaffirmed his determination to pull the United States out of "endless wars" in Syria and Afghanistan but said American troops would stay on in Iraq, partly "to be looking a little bit at Iran". Body found in wreckage of footballer Emiliano Sala's plane: Investigators British investigators on Monday said they had spotted a body in underwater images of the wreckage of the plane carrying footballer Emiliano Sala and pilot David Ibbotson that disappeared in the Channel two weeks ago.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Monday that he and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-spain-recognises-venezuela-opposition-leader-guaido-as-acting-president-195050">German Chancellor Angela Merkel</a> share a responsibility to work towards global peace and prosperity, with both hoping for a prompt, democratic solution to Venezuela's leadership crisis.

Merkel, on a two-day visit to Japan, said that Germany recognises opposition leader Juan Guaido as the nation's interim president, joining many European nations, and said he should organise new elections as soon as possible.

"Guaido is the person with whom we are talking and who we expect to initiate an election process as quickly as possible, and he is the legitimate interim president for this task from the German perspective and also from the perspective of many European partners," Merkel told a news conference with Abe.

"And we hope that this process is as short as possible and of course peaceful," she added.

Abe emphasized his cooperation with Merkel during a visit aimed a forging an "alliance of multilateralists" to resist <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-constitution-rejects-use-of-iraq-as-a-base-for-attacking-a-neighbouring-country-barham-saleh-195059">US&nbsp;President Donald Trump</a>'s "America First" approach to trade and China's pursuit of narrow national interests.

"Our responsibility towards working for global prosperity and security has merely increased," he said, adding that the two leaders would work for a global order "based on rules."

Merkel referred to an EU-Japan trade deal that entered into force on February 1, saying: "All in all, a trip at a time in which we have demonstrated that, even at times when multilateral agreements are in difficult straits, we are ready to conclude such things."

"..very good win-win situations can occur when all partners talk to each other. Of course, fairness and reciprocity are part of this, but that is what we advocate."

Abe did not comment on Guaido's status, but he said Japan wanted a stable, democratic and prompt solution to Venezuela's political crisis. Several European nations have joined the United States in recognising Guaido as interim president, intensifying a global showdown over Nicolas Maduro's socialist rule.

Merkel said Germany would do everything possible to avoid a no-deal Brexit, but she did not want to see Britain's divorce deal with the EU - the so-called Withdrawal Agreement - renegotiated.

British Prime Minister Theresa May said on Sunday she would seek a "pragmatic solution" to a parliamentary impasse over the terms on which Britain leaves the European Union when she tries to reopen talks with Brussels less than two months before Britain is due to leave the bloc on March 29.

"There are definitely options for preserving the integrity of the single market, even when Northern Ireland isn't part of it because it is part of Britain, while at the same time meeting the desire to have if possible no border controls," Merkel said.

"To solve this point you have to be creative and listen to each other, and such discussions can and must be conducted," she added. "We can still use the time to perhaps reach an agreement if everyone shows good will."

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Monday that he and German Chancellor Angela Merkel share a responsibility to work towards global peace and prosperity, with both hoping for a prompt, democratic solution to Venezuela's leadership crisis.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Monday that he and German Chancellor Angela Merkel share a responsibility to work towards global peace and prosperity, with both hoping for a prompt, democratic solution to Venezuela's leadership crisis. Merkel, on a two-day visit to Japan, said that Germany recognises opposition leader Juan Guaido as the nation's interim president, joining many European nations, and said he should organise new elections as soon as possible. "Guaido is the person with whom we are talking and who we expect to initiate an election process as quickly as possible, and he is the legitimate interim president for this task from the German perspective and also from the perspective of many European partners," Merkel told a news conference with Abe. "And we hope that this process is as short as possible and of course peaceful," she added. Abe emphasized his cooperation with Merkel during a visit aimed a forging an "alliance of multilateralists" to resist US President Donald Trump's "America First" approach to trade and China's pursuit of narrow national interests. "Our responsibility towards working for global prosperity and security has merely increased," he said, adding that the two leaders would work for a global order "based on rules." Merkel referred to an EU-Japan trade deal that entered into force on February 1, saying: "All in all, a trip at a time in which we have demonstrated that, even at times when multilateral agreements are in difficult straits, we are ready to conclude such things." "..very good win-win situations can occur when all partners talk to each other. Of course, fairness and reciprocity are part of this, but that is what we advocate." Abe did not comment on Guaido's status, but he said Japan wanted a stable, democratic and prompt solution to Venezuela's political crisis. Several European nations have joined the United States in recognising Guaido as interim president, intensifying a global showdown over Nicolas Maduro's socialist rule. Merkel said Germany would do everything possible to avoid a no-deal Brexit, but she did not want to see Britain's divorce deal with the EU - the so-called Withdrawal Agreement - renegotiated. British Prime Minister Theresa May said on Sunday she would seek a "pragmatic solution" to a parliamentary impasse over the terms on which Britain leaves the European Union when she tries to reopen talks with Brussels less than two months before Britain is due to leave the bloc on March 29. "There are definitely options for preserving the integrity of the single market, even when Northern Ireland isn't part of it because it is part of Britain, while at the same time meeting the desire to have if possible no border controls," Merkel said. "To solve this point you have to be creative and listen to each other, and such discussions can and must be conducted," she added. "We can still use the time to perhaps reach an agreement if everyone shows good will."

Japan, Germany share responsibility to work towards global peace: PM Abe

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-us-hit-by-hysteria-since-dropping-nuclear-deal-189680">Iran's President Hassan Rouhan</a>i slammed his critics on Wednesday, defending the political achievements of a<a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/anti-nuclear-deal-momentum-is-growing-in-iran-190888"> landmark 2015 nuclear dea</a>l and calling the US an "oath-breaker".

"One should not condemn the government or the great Islamic system instead of America — this is the greatest damage that can be done," he said on state TV.

Hardliners have repeatedly hammered the 2015 nuclear deal with six world powers since the early stages of negotiations, calling it a fool's errand and a deception.

They contend that Iran has gained nothing from the agreement despite complying with its restrictions on the Islamic republic's nuclear programme, intensifying their criticism after Washington withdrew from the treaty last year.

Speaking during an annual ceremony of allegiance to the late founder of the Islamic republic, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, Rouhani said: "America has not been an oath-breaker only to us, but also to Europe, China, NAFTA and the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP)."

President Donald Trump withdrew Washington from the deal — technically called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) — last May, reimposing punishing sanctions on the Islamic Republic.

Washington also withdrew from the TPP trade agreement in 2016, the Paris Agreement on climate change control the next year and forced Canada and Mexico to renegotiate and sign a new deal in 2018 replacing the North American Free Trade Agreement.

The other parties to the Iran nuclear deal — Britain, China, France, Germany, and Russia along with the European Union — have insisted it remains in force and is working.

Rouhani took another jab at opponents who have criticised Iranian diplomats' lack of foresight over not predicting the US withdrawal.

"No agreement is based on whether the other party remains, but the main basis is the country's interests," he said.

He ended his speech by calling for "unity", saying Khomeini's main concern was not foreign forces but domestic "discord". 
&nbsp;

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani slammed his critics on Wednesday, defending the political achievements of a landmark 2015 nuclear deal and calling the US an "oath-breaker".

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani slammed his critics on Wednesday, defending the political achievements of a landmark 2015 nuclear deal and calling the US an "oath-breaker". "One should not condemn the government or the great Islamic system instead of America — this is the greatest damage that can be done," he said on state TV. Hardliners have repeatedly hammered the 2015 nuclear deal with six world powers since the early stages of negotiations, calling it a fool's errand and a deception. They contend that Iran has gained nothing from the agreement despite complying with its restrictions on the Islamic republic's nuclear programme, intensifying their criticism after Washington withdrew from the treaty last year. Speaking during an annual ceremony of allegiance to the late founder of the Islamic republic, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, Rouhani said: "America has not been an oath-breaker only to us, but also to Europe, China, NAFTA and the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP)." President Donald Trump withdrew Washington from the deal — technically called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) — last May, reimposing punishing sanctions on the Islamic Republic. Washington also withdrew from the TPP trade agreement in 2016, the Paris Agreement on climate change control the next year and forced Canada and Mexico to renegotiate and sign a new deal in 2018 replacing the North American Free Trade Agreement. The other parties to the Iran nuclear deal — Britain, China, France, Germany, and Russia along with the European Union — have insisted it remains in force and is working. Rouhani took another jab at opponents who have criticised Iranian diplomats' lack of foresight over not predicting the US withdrawal. "No agreement is based on whether the other party remains, but the main basis is the country's interests," he said. He ended his speech by calling for "unity", saying Khomeini's main concern was not foreign forces but domestic "discord".

US oath-breaker not only to us, but also to Europe, China, NAFTA and TPP: Rouhani

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-should-stop-unreasonable-suppression-of-huawei-china-193706">US should stop unreasonable suppression of Huawei: China</a>

China on Tuesday accused the United States of "political motivations" behind sweeping charges against Chinese telecom giant Huawei in a case that has ratcheted up tensions between the two superpowers.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ayodhya-dispute-centre-moves-to-supreme-court-seeks-excess-land-be-returned-to-ramjanambhoomi-nyas-193587">Ayodhya dispute: Centre moves Supreme Court, seeks permission to return acquired land to Ram Janmabhoomi Nyas</a>

The central government has submitted an interim application to the Supreme Court asking for permission to restore 67.39 acres of the land acquired around the disputed Babri Masjid-Ram Janmabhoomi site to its rightful owners.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-supreme-court-rejects-petition-against-asia-bibis-acquittal-193662">Pakistan Supreme Court rejects petition against Asia Bibi's acquittal</a>

Pakistan's Supreme Court rejected a review petition challenging the acquittal of Asia Bibi in the blasphemy case.

"Based on merit, this review petition is dismissed," Chief Justice Asif Saeed Khosa said while presiding over the three-judge panel.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/sanctions-against-venezuela-illegal-violates-all-possible-international-norms-russia-193682">Sanctions against Venezuela illegal, violates all possible international norms: Russia</a>

A day after the Trump administration announced sanctions against Venezuela's state-owned oil firm PDVSA, Kremlin said the sanctions were "illegal".

"The legitimate authorities of Venezuela have already labelled these sanctions illegal. We can wholly support this point of view," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/if-us-responds-to-denuclearisation-with-trustworthy-measures-relations-will-develop-fast-north-korea-193678">If US responds to denuclearisation with trustworthy measures, relations will develop fast: North Korea</a>

North Korea said on Tuesday that relations with the United States will develop "wonderfully at a fast pace" if Washington responds to its efforts on denuclearisation with trustworthy measures and practical actions.

US should stop unreasonable suppression of Huawei: China China on Tuesday accused the United States of "political motivations" behind sweeping charges against Chinese telecom giant Huawei in a case that has ratcheted up tensions between the two superpowers.

US should stop unreasonable suppression of Huawei: China China on Tuesday accused the United States of "political motivations" behind sweeping charges against Chinese telecom giant Huawei in a case that has ratcheted up tensions between the two superpowers. Ayodhya dispute: Centre moves Supreme Court, seeks permission to return acquired land to Ram Janmabhoomi Nyas The central government has submitted an interim application to the Supreme Court asking for permission to restore 67.39 acres of the land acquired around the disputed Babri Masjid-Ram Janmabhoomi site to its rightful owners. Pakistan Supreme Court rejects petition against Asia Bibi's acquittal Pakistan's Supreme Court rejected a review petition challenging the acquittal of Asia Bibi in the blasphemy case. "Based on merit, this review petition is dismissed," Chief Justice Asif Saeed Khosa said while presiding over the three-judge panel. Sanctions against Venezuela illegal, violates all possible international norms: Russia A day after the Trump administration announced sanctions against Venezuela's state-owned oil firm PDVSA, Kremlin said the sanctions were "illegal". "The legitimate authorities of Venezuela have already labelled these sanctions illegal. We can wholly support this point of view," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. If US responds to denuclearisation with trustworthy measures, relations will develop fast: North Korea North Korea said on Tuesday that relations with the United States will develop "wonderfully at a fast pace" if Washington responds to its efforts on denuclearisation with trustworthy measures and practical actions.

China's top trade negotiator arrived in Washington as the world's top two economies prepare for high-stakes trade talks, Chinese state media said Tuesday.

The large delegation led by Vice Premier Liu He and including the head of the central bank arrived Monday as a US Justice Department indictment against top Chinese tech firm Huawei was unsealed, possibly complicating the discussions.

Beijing and Washington have a month remaining on a truce — declared in December by Donald Trump and Xi Jinping — that delayed a hike in tariffs on hundreds of billions in Chinese exports economists say could further damage an already-faltering global economy.

Trump will meet with Liu during the two-day talks, which are slated to open Wednesday, US officials said, as pressure mounts on both sides to reach a deal, with China, in particular, struggling with stuttering growth.

While there have been contradictory reports on the chances of success for the negotiations, global equities have been risen in recent weeks on hopes the two will reach some sort of deal.

China's negotiating team includes central bank chief Yi Gang, Vice Finance Minister Liao Min, and Vice Foreign Minister Zheng Zeguang, among other high-level officials, official state news agency Xinhua reported.

But the gathering comes days after the US Justice Department unveiled sweeping charges against Chinese telecoms giant Huawei and its chief financial officer Meng Wanzhou — also the daughter of the company's founder.

Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross said on Monday the indictments were "wholly separate from our trade negotiations with China".

However, he added: "Commerce will continue to work with our interagency partners to protect US national security interests."

China's top trade negotiator arrived in Washington as the world's top two economies prepare for high-stakes trade talks, Chinese state media said Tuesday. The large delegation led by Vice Premier Liu He and including the head of the central bank arrived Monday as a US Justice Department indictment against top Chinese tech firm Huawei was unsealed, possibly complicating the discussions.

China's top trade negotiator arrived in Washington as the world's top two economies prepare for high-stakes trade talks, Chinese state media said Tuesday. The large delegation led by Vice Premier Liu He and including the head of the central bank arrived Monday as a US Justice Department indictment against top Chinese tech firm Huawei was unsealed, possibly complicating the discussions. Beijing and Washington have a month remaining on a truce — declared in December by Donald Trump and Xi Jinping — that delayed a hike in tariffs on hundreds of billions in Chinese exports economists say could further damage an already-faltering global economy. Trump will meet with Liu during the two-day talks, which are slated to open Wednesday, US officials said, as pressure mounts on both sides to reach a deal, with China, in particular, struggling with stuttering growth. While there have been contradictory reports on the chances of success for the negotiations, global equities have been risen in recent weeks on hopes the two will reach some sort of deal. China's negotiating team includes central bank chief Yi Gang, Vice Finance Minister Liao Min, and Vice Foreign Minister Zheng Zeguang, among other high-level officials, official state news agency Xinhua reported. But the gathering comes days after the US Justice Department unveiled sweeping charges against Chinese telecoms giant Huawei and its chief financial officer Meng Wanzhou — also the daughter of the company's founder. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross said on Monday the indictments were "wholly separate from our trade negotiations with China". However, he added: "Commerce will continue to work with our interagency partners to protect US national security interests."

China's top trade negotiator arrives in US for talks

The United States last year slid down the rankings of a global corruption index as America's system of checks and balances faced growing threats on Donald Trump's watch, Transparency International said Tuesday.

The US lost four points to score 71 out of 100 on the watchdog's 2018 Corruption Perceptions Index, sending the country tumbling out of the top 20 for the first time since 2011.

"The low score comes at a time when the US is experiencing threats to its system of checks and balances as well as an erosion of ethical norms at the highest levels of power," TI said in its annual report.

The second year of Trump's presidency was a turbulent one, ranging from damaging revelations in an investigation probing links between Trump's 2016 campaign team and Russia, to his controversial backing for a Supreme Court nominee accused of sexual assault.

The US leader, who frequently rails against the media for writing "fake news", was also dogged by accusations of nepotism and conflicts of interest.

Last month, Trump agreed to close his personal charity after the New York attorney general said it had acted "as little more than a checkbook to serve Mr&nbsp;Trump's business and political interests".

Transparency International's closely-watched index ranks 180 nations according to their perceived level of public sector corruption, where a score of zero means very corrupt and 100 signifies very clean.

"The Trump presidency has illuminated the cracks in the US system for ensuring a government that is accountable to the public interest," TI's Zoe Reiter, acting representative to the US, told AFP.

"But President Trump is a symptom rather than a cause; the issues were there before he took office. For example, the Office of Government Ethics simply doesn't have the teeth to control for conflicts of interest at the highest levels," she said.

Rise of autocrats

As in previous years, New Zealand and Nordic countries were among the best in class with Denmark narrowly beating New Zealand to the top spot at 88 and 87 points respectively.

Strife-torn Somalia was once again the worst performer, below Yemen, South Sudan and Syria which all scored in the low teens.

The Berlin-based watchdog also singled out Turkey and Hungary for falling down the rankings, blaming "the deterioration of rule of law and democratic institutions, as well as a rapidly shrinking space for civil society and independent media".

"With many democratic institutions under threat across the globe — often by leaders with authoritarian or populist tendencies — we need to do more to strengthen checks and balances and protect citizens' rights," TI's managing director Patricia Moreira said.

As part of its recommendations, the group urged governments to stand up for a free press and support civil society organisations that encourage public oversight over government spending.

The index is compiled based on data from 12 international organisations including the World Bank, African Development Bank and the World Economic Forum.

The United States last year slid down the rankings of a global corruption index as America's system of checks and balances faced growing threats on Donald Trump's watch, Transparency International said Tuesday.

The United States last year slid down the rankings of a global corruption index as America's system of checks and balances faced growing threats on Donald Trump's watch, Transparency International said Tuesday. The US lost four points to score 71 out of 100 on the watchdog's 2018 Corruption Perceptions Index, sending the country tumbling out of the top 20 for the first time since 2011. "The low score comes at a time when the US is experiencing threats to its system of checks and balances as well as an erosion of ethical norms at the highest levels of power," TI said in its annual report. The second year of Trump's presidency was a turbulent one, ranging from damaging revelations in an investigation probing links between Trump's 2016 campaign team and Russia, to his controversial backing for a Supreme Court nominee accused of sexual assault. The US leader, who frequently rails against the media for writing "fake news", was also dogged by accusations of nepotism and conflicts of interest. Last month, Trump agreed to close his personal charity after the New York attorney general said it had acted "as little more than a checkbook to serve Mr Trump's business and political interests". Transparency International's closely-watched index ranks 180 nations according to their perceived level of public sector corruption, where a score of zero means very corrupt and 100 signifies very clean. "The Trump presidency has illuminated the cracks in the US system for ensuring a government that is accountable to the public interest," TI's Zoe Reiter, acting representative to the US, told AFP. "But President Trump is a symptom rather than a cause; the issues were there before he took office. For example, the Office of Government Ethics simply doesn't have the teeth to control for conflicts of interest at the highest levels," she said. Rise of autocrats As in previous years, New Zealand and Nordic countries were among the best in class with Denmark narrowly beating New Zealand to the top spot at 88 and 87 points respectively. Strife-torn Somalia was once again the worst performer, below Yemen, South Sudan and Syria which all scored in the low teens. The Berlin-based watchdog also singled out Turkey and Hungary for falling down the rankings, blaming "the deterioration of rule of law and democratic institutions, as well as a rapidly shrinking space for civil society and independent media". "With many democratic institutions under threat across the globe — often by leaders with authoritarian or populist tendencies — we need to do more to strengthen checks and balances and protect citizens' rights," TI's managing director Patricia Moreira said. As part of its recommendations, the group urged governments to stand up for a free press and support civil society organisations that encourage public oversight over government spending. The index is compiled based on data from 12 international organisations including the World Bank, African Development Bank and the World Economic Forum.

Corruption seen rising in Trump's US: Watchdog

Democrats are already furiously jockeying for position to take on President Donald Trump in 2020.

But will Trump actually be on the ballot two years from now?

With approval ratings hovering around 40 per cent — even lower, according to some polls — speculation is mounting that Trump could face a primary challenge for the Republican presidential nomination.

Trump has shouldered much of the blame for a crippling government shutdown that failed to achieve his signature campaign promise — building a border wall with Mexico.

And Special Counsel Robert Mueller has not yet delivered the final report from his investigation into whether members of Trump's 2016 campaign colluded with Russia to get him elected. &nbsp;&nbsp;

It is rare for an incumbent president seeking reelection to be challenged for the nomination by a member of his own party — but not unprecedented.

In 1976, Ronald Reagan, a former California governor, sought to wrest the Republican nomination from president Gerald Ford.

Four years later, president Jimmy Carter faced a tough but ultimately unsuccessful primary challenge from Massachusetts Senator Ted Kennedy.

And in 1992, then president George H.W. Bush fended off an insurgent bid for the Republican nod by right-wing commentator Pat Buchanan.

All three incumbent presidents who faced a primary challenge — Ford, Carter and Bush — went on to lose the general election.

Kasich, Hogan among names floated 
&nbsp; 
You have to go all the way back to 1884 to find the last incumbent who failed to win his party's approval — an ailing Chester Alan Arthur, who lost the Republican nomination to James Blaine.

Although no Republican has come out so far and said that he — or she — would mount a challenge to Trump, several names have been floated.

Former Ohio governor John Kasich — who sought the Republican nomination in 2016, only to lose to Trump — is seen as one potential candidate.

The 66-year-old Kasich, a moderate Republican, has not ruled out a White House bid, telling students at the University of Florida last week that "all options are on the table."

"I'm only interested in running if I can win," The Gainesville Sun quoted Kasich as saying. "I'm not interested in running to damage someone else."

Another politician being talked about is Maryland Governor Larry Hogan, who easily won re-election in November as a centrist Republican in a heavily Democratic state.

The Washington Post reported on Monday that Hogan, 62, is "consulting with aides and national GOP critics of Trump about whether to pursue a White House bid."

The newspaper said that Hogan, who has been an outspoken critic of the president, could appeal to "Republican dissenters who are seeking a less-polarizing alternative to President Trump."

Hogan has apparently not made his mind up yet and the Post quoted people close to him as saying he is unlikely to run "unless Trump is severely weakened or decides not to seek a second term."

'We have a great record to run on'&nbsp;

Other Republicans who have been mentioned as potential primary challengers to Trump include retired Arizona senator Jeff Flake, 56, a vocal opponent of the president, and Utah Senator Mitt Romney, 71, who lost the 2012 presidential election to Barack Obama.

For the moment, Trump's approval ratings among Republicans remain relatively high — around 80 per cent.

Political analysts said those numbers will probably have to decline for any challenger to have a realistic chance of booting Trump from the 2020 ballot.

"At that point, even a loyal Republican — candidate or voter — might come to believe that the only thing that would save the party is to have someone else lead the ticket," wrote Paul Waldman of the Washington Post.

Amid the growing speculation, Mercedes Schlapp, the White House Director of Strategic Communications, was asked on Monday about the possibility of Trump facing a primary challenge.

"The president is ready for any candidate," Schlapp said. "We have a great record to run on. We have a great story to tell." 
&nbsp;

Democrats are already furiously jockeying for position to take on President Donald Trump in 2020. But will Trump actually be on the ballot two years from now? With approval ratings hovering around 40 per cent — even lower, according to some polls — speculation is mounting that Trump could face a primary challenge for the Republican presidential nomination.

Democrats are already furiously jockeying for position to take on President Donald Trump in 2020. But will Trump actually be on the ballot two years from now? With approval ratings hovering around 40 per cent — even lower, according to some polls — speculation is mounting that Trump could face a primary challenge for the Republican presidential nomination. Trump has shouldered much of the blame for a crippling government shutdown that failed to achieve his signature campaign promise — building a border wall with Mexico. And Special Counsel Robert Mueller has not yet delivered the final report from his investigation into whether members of Trump's 2016 campaign colluded with Russia to get him elected. It is rare for an incumbent president seeking reelection to be challenged for the nomination by a member of his own party — but not unprecedented. In 1976, Ronald Reagan, a former California governor, sought to wrest the Republican nomination from president Gerald Ford. Four years later, president Jimmy Carter faced a tough but ultimately unsuccessful primary challenge from Massachusetts Senator Ted Kennedy. And in 1992, then president George H.W. Bush fended off an insurgent bid for the Republican nod by right-wing commentator Pat Buchanan. All three incumbent presidents who faced a primary challenge — Ford, Carter and Bush — went on to lose the general election. Kasich, Hogan among names floated You have to go all the way back to 1884 to find the last incumbent who failed to win his party's approval — an ailing Chester Alan Arthur, who lost the Republican nomination to James Blaine. Although no Republican has come out so far and said that he — or she — would mount a challenge to Trump, several names have been floated. Former Ohio governor John Kasich — who sought the Republican nomination in 2016, only to lose to Trump — is seen as one potential candidate. The 66-year-old Kasich, a moderate Republican, has not ruled out a White House bid, telling students at the University of Florida last week that "all options are on the table." "I'm only interested in running if I can win," The Gainesville Sun quoted Kasich as saying. "I'm not interested in running to damage someone else." Another politician being talked about is Maryland Governor Larry Hogan, who easily won re-election in November as a centrist Republican in a heavily Democratic state. The Washington Post reported on Monday that Hogan, 62, is "consulting with aides and national GOP critics of Trump about whether to pursue a White House bid." The newspaper said that Hogan, who has been an outspoken critic of the president, could appeal to "Republican dissenters who are seeking a less-polarizing alternative to President Trump." Hogan has apparently not made his mind up yet and the Post quoted people close to him as saying he is unlikely to run "unless Trump is severely weakened or decides not to seek a second term." 'We have a great record to run on' Other Republicans who have been mentioned as potential primary challengers to Trump include retired Arizona senator Jeff Flake, 56, a vocal opponent of the president, and Utah Senator Mitt Romney, 71, who lost the 2012 presidential election to Barack Obama. For the moment, Trump's approval ratings among Republicans remain relatively high — around 80 per cent. Political analysts said those numbers will probably have to decline for any challenger to have a realistic chance of booting Trump from the 2020 ballot. "At that point, even a loyal Republican — candidate or voter — might come to believe that the only thing that would save the party is to have someone else lead the ticket," wrote Paul Waldman of the Washington Post. Amid the growing speculation, Mercedes Schlapp, the White House Director of Strategic Communications, was asked on Monday about the possibility of Trump facing a primary challenge. "The president is ready for any candidate," Schlapp said. "We have a great record to run on. We have a great story to tell."

Will Donald Trump even fight the US presidential elections in 2020?

President Donald Trump expressed skepticism on Sunday that US lawmakers seeking to avoid another <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/how-us-shutdown-over-border-wall-fight-might-play-out-192604">government shutdown </a>could reach a deal on<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-shutdown-sends-economy-into-uncharted-waters-189942"> border security</a> that he would accept, as he renewed his vow to build a wall on the southern border with Mexico.

In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Trump said chances were low that Congress could craft an agreement and avoid another closure of part of the US government in three weeks' time when funding will expire.

"I personally think it's less than 50-50, but you have a lot of very good people on that board," the president said, referring to the committee of lawmakers appointed to work out a compromise on border security funding.

Another shutdown, Trump told the Wall Street Journal, was "certainly an option."

The president has also said he might declare a national emergency in order to build his border wall. Democrats would likely challenge that in court.

"Does anybody really think I won’t build the WALL? Done more in the first two years than any President!" Trump wrote on Twitter on Sunday evening.

Democratic resistance to Republican Trump's demand for $5.7 billion for a border wall resulted in a 35-day shutdown of about a fourth of the US government, a closure that just ended on Friday.

The five-week standoff damaged the US economy, left many federal workers scrambling to make ends meet and tested Americans' patience with delays to air travel, closures of national parks and other disruptions.

After opinion polls showed Americans increasingly blamed Trump for the situation, the president signed a measure on Friday to fund the government for three weeks as congressional negotiators try to work out a bill to fully fund the agencies through September 30.

But Trump also threatened to resume the shutdown on February 15 if he does not get what he wants.

In his interview with the Wall Street Journal, Trump also sounded doubtful about a possible deal involving both wall money and a broader overhaul of US immigration laws.

"I doubt it," he said when asked if he would agree to citizenship for a group of immigrants known as "Dreamers," who were brought to the United States illegally as children - in exchange for border wall funding.

"That’s a separate subject to be taken up at a separate time," Trump said.

'SHUTDOWNS NOT GOOD LEVERAGE'

Earlier on Sunday, some lawmakers criticized using the closure of federal agencies as a tool in policy disputes. Senior legislators from both parties said the latest shutdown, the 19th since the mid-1970s, was as ineffective as previous ones but much more disruptive as it was the longest in US history.

"Shutdowns are not good leverage in any negotiation," Republican Senator Marco Rubio said on NBC's "Meet the Press," urging congressional negotiators to tackle border security in the three-week talks launched by last week's shutdown-ending deal.

Hakeem Jeffries, chairman of the Democratic caucus in the House of Representatives, said on the same television show that shutdowns were "not legitimate negotiating tactics" in public policy disagreements between two branches of government.

About 800,000 federal workers were furloughed or worked without pay during the shutdown, missing at least two paychecks that officials are now working to make up for.

"We hope that by the end of this week, all the back pay will be made up," acting White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney said on CBS' "Face the Nation."

Federal workers are owed about $6 billion in back pay, according to a study released last week.

As a candidate, Trump pledged to build the wall, with Mexico paying for it.

Mexico refused and now Trump wants US taxpayers to pay for the barrier, which he sees as key to curbing illegal immigration and illegal drug flows into the country.

Democrats say a wall would be too costly and ineffective.

It remained unclear when Trump would deliver his State of the Union address, which was postponed during the shutdown. One administration official, who asked not to be named, said on Saturday the speech would likely not occur until February.

President Donald Trump expressed skepticism on Sunday that US lawmakers seeking to avoid another government shutdown could reach a deal on border security that he would accept, as he renewed his vow to build a wall on the southern border with Mexico.

President Donald Trump expressed skepticism on Sunday that US lawmakers seeking to avoid another government shutdown could reach a deal on border security that he would accept, as he renewed his vow to build a wall on the southern border with Mexico. In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Trump said chances were low that Congress could craft an agreement and avoid another closure of part of the US government in three weeks' time when funding will expire. "I personally think it's less than 50-50, but you have a lot of very good people on that board," the president said, referring to the committee of lawmakers appointed to work out a compromise on border security funding. Another shutdown, Trump told the Wall Street Journal, was "certainly an option." The president has also said he might declare a national emergency in order to build his border wall. Democrats would likely challenge that in court. "Does anybody really think I won’t build the WALL? Done more in the first two years than any President!" Trump wrote on Twitter on Sunday evening. Democratic resistance to Republican Trump's demand for $5.7 billion for a border wall resulted in a 35-day shutdown of about a fourth of the US government, a closure that just ended on Friday. The five-week standoff damaged the US economy, left many federal workers scrambling to make ends meet and tested Americans' patience with delays to air travel, closures of national parks and other disruptions. After opinion polls showed Americans increasingly blamed Trump for the situation, the president signed a measure on Friday to fund the government for three weeks as congressional negotiators try to work out a bill to fully fund the agencies through September 30. But Trump also threatened to resume the shutdown on February 15 if he does not get what he wants. In his interview with the Wall Street Journal, Trump also sounded doubtful about a possible deal involving both wall money and a broader overhaul of US immigration laws. "I doubt it," he said when asked if he would agree to citizenship for a group of immigrants known as "Dreamers," who were brought to the United States illegally as children - in exchange for border wall funding. "That’s a separate subject to be taken up at a separate time," Trump said. 'SHUTDOWNS NOT GOOD LEVERAGE' Earlier on Sunday, some lawmakers criticized using the closure of federal agencies as a tool in policy disputes. Senior legislators from both parties said the latest shutdown, the 19th since the mid-1970s, was as ineffective as previous ones but much more disruptive as it was the longest in US history. "Shutdowns are not good leverage in any negotiation," Republican Senator Marco Rubio said on NBC's "Meet the Press," urging congressional negotiators to tackle border security in the three-week talks launched by last week's shutdown-ending deal. Hakeem Jeffries, chairman of the Democratic caucus in the House of Representatives, said on the same television show that shutdowns were "not legitimate negotiating tactics" in public policy disagreements between two branches of government. About 800,000 federal workers were furloughed or worked without pay during the shutdown, missing at least two paychecks that officials are now working to make up for. "We hope that by the end of this week, all the back pay will be made up," acting White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney said on CBS' "Face the Nation." Federal workers are owed about $6 billion in back pay, according to a study released last week. As a candidate, Trump pledged to build the wall, with Mexico paying for it. Mexico refused and now Trump wants US taxpayers to pay for the barrier, which he sees as key to curbing illegal immigration and illegal drug flows into the country. Democrats say a wall would be too costly and ineffective. It remained unclear when Trump would deliver his State of the Union address, which was postponed during the shutdown. One administration official, who asked not to be named, said on Saturday the speech would likely not occur until February.

Trump doubts lawmakers can reach acceptable border security deal

Veteran Republican consultant <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/roger-stone-indictment-has-nothing-to-do-with-trump-white-house-192791">Roger Stone</a> was arrested in a predawn Florida raid Friday, becoming the sixth campaign associate of President Donald Trump indicted in the investigation into possible collusion with Russia in the 2016 election.

Stone, a renowned political dirty trickster who has consulted with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-campaign-may-also-have-colluded-with-wikileaks-mueller-probe-180140">Trump for four decades</a>, was charged with lying to Congress and obstruction in relation to his contacts with WikiLeaks, whose publication of embarrassing Russian-hacked communications from Democrat Hillary Clinton's campaign in 2016 gave a boost to Trump.

Stone was also charged with witness tampering after he allegedly tried to persuade an associate to also lie to Congress to protect him.

The White House stiffly defended Trump, saying the Stone indictment brought by Special Counsel Robert Mueller, who leads the investigation into possible election collusion with Russia in 2016, has no connection to Trump.

"This has nothing to do with the president and certainly nothing to do with the White House," spokeswoman Sarah Sanders told CNN.

Trump's lawyer Jay Sekulow added in a statement that the indictment did not allege Russian collusion by Stone or anyone else.

'Politically motivated'

The dapper 66-year-old was freed on $250,000 bail by a Ft. Lauderdale court where, true to form, his appearance took the form of the political theater he has long been proud of.

Hundreds of reporters thronged him while scores of protesters chanted "lock him up" as he declared his innocence and loyalty to Trump.

"I am falsely accused," he said. "I will plead not guilty to these charges. I will defeat them in court. I believe this is a politically-motivated investigation."&nbsp;

He castigated the heavily-armed 29-man SWAT team that arrested him in the dark at his home, charging that "they terrorized my wife, my dogs."&nbsp;

"The FBI agents were extraordinarily courteous," he added, quipping: "The only thing worse than being talked about is not being talked about."

Contacts with WikiLeaks

Stone, who launched his career as a campaign aide to Richard Nixon and has a tattoo on his back of the first US president to resign from office, has spent decades advising various US political campaigns.

His association with Trump dates back to 1979, and he was one of the first to enlist when the billionaire real estate magnate launched his run for the presidency in 2015.

Stone left the campaign months later but the indictment filed Friday shows he remained in active communication, providing support and information.

The charges arose from Stone's alleged lies in testimony to the House Intelligence Committee in 2017 involving his communications during the campaign with Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, which published material stolen by Russian hackers from the Clinton campaign.

The indictment said that Stone discussed his communications with Assange with "senior officials " of the campaign who wanted him to obtain information about what WikiLeaks had on Clinton and when it would release it.

Tantalizingly, it says that after WikiLeaks' July 22, 2016 release of stolen Democratic emails, "a senior Trump Campaign official was directed to contact Stone about any additional releases and what other damaging information" WikiLeaks might have on Clinton.

Adam Schiff, who chairs the House Intelligence Committee, said that was a key revelation.

"Our committee will be eager to learn just who directed a senior campaign official to contact Stone about additional damaging information held by WikiLeaks, one of the publishing arms of Russian government hackers," Schiff said.

Six Trump associates charged

Stone's arrest brought to 34 the number of individuals indicted in Mueller's sprawling probe into Russian meddling and possible collusion in the 206 election.

Besides Stone, five others were close to Trump and the campaign: &nbsp;chair Paul Manafort, deputy chair Rick Gates, national security advisor Michael Flynn, Trump's personal lawyer Michael Cohen, and foreign policy advisor George Papadopoulos.

But none has been charged with anything close to conspiracy to collude with Russia, and while the White House remains under pressure from Mueller's team, it is not known what might have on the president himself.

Stone's indictment was long expected, but he has repeatedly echoed Trump's argument that the investigation is a politicized "witch hunt."&nbsp;

"The charges relate in no way to Russian collusion or WikiLeaks collaboration," he said Friday.&nbsp;

He defended Trump as well, calling him a great leader.

"I am one of his oldest friends. I am a fervid supporter of the president," he declared.

"I will not testify against the president, because I would have to bear false witness against him," he added. 
&nbsp;

Veteran Republican consultant Roger Stone was arrested in a predawn Florida raid Friday, becoming the sixth campaign associate of President Donald Trump indicted in the investigation into possible collusion with Russia in the 2016 election.

Veteran Republican consultant Roger Stone was arrested in a predawn Florida raid Friday, becoming the sixth campaign associate of President Donald Trump indicted in the investigation into possible collusion with Russia in the 2016 election. Stone, a renowned political dirty trickster who has consulted with Trump for four decades, was charged with lying to Congress and obstruction in relation to his contacts with WikiLeaks, whose publication of embarrassing Russian-hacked communications from Democrat Hillary Clinton's campaign in 2016 gave a boost to Trump. Stone was also charged with witness tampering after he allegedly tried to persuade an associate to also lie to Congress to protect him. The White House stiffly defended Trump, saying the Stone indictment brought by Special Counsel Robert Mueller, who leads the investigation into possible election collusion with Russia in 2016, has no connection to Trump. "This has nothing to do with the president and certainly nothing to do with the White House," spokeswoman Sarah Sanders told CNN. Trump's lawyer Jay Sekulow added in a statement that the indictment did not allege Russian collusion by Stone or anyone else. 'Politically motivated' The dapper 66-year-old was freed on $250,000 bail by a Ft. Lauderdale court where, true to form, his appearance took the form of the political theater he has long been proud of. Hundreds of reporters thronged him while scores of protesters chanted "lock him up" as he declared his innocence and loyalty to Trump. "I am falsely accused," he said. "I will plead not guilty to these charges. I will defeat them in court. I believe this is a politically-motivated investigation." He castigated the heavily-armed 29-man SWAT team that arrested him in the dark at his home, charging that "they terrorized my wife, my dogs." "The FBI agents were extraordinarily courteous," he added, quipping: "The only thing worse than being talked about is not being talked about." Contacts with WikiLeaks Stone, who launched his career as a campaign aide to Richard Nixon and has a tattoo on his back of the first US president to resign from office, has spent decades advising various US political campaigns. His association with Trump dates back to 1979, and he was one of the first to enlist when the billionaire real estate magnate launched his run for the presidency in 2015. Stone left the campaign months later but the indictment filed Friday shows he remained in active communication, providing support and information. The charges arose from Stone's alleged lies in testimony to the House Intelligence Committee in 2017 involving his communications during the campaign with Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, which published material stolen by Russian hackers from the Clinton campaign. The indictment said that Stone discussed his communications with Assange with "senior officials " of the campaign who wanted him to obtain information about what WikiLeaks had on Clinton and when it would release it. Tantalizingly, it says that after WikiLeaks' July 22, 2016 release of stolen Democratic emails, "a senior Trump Campaign official was directed to contact Stone about any additional releases and what other damaging information" WikiLeaks might have on Clinton. Adam Schiff, who chairs the House Intelligence Committee, said that was a key revelation. "Our committee will be eager to learn just who directed a senior campaign official to contact Stone about additional damaging information held by WikiLeaks, one of the publishing arms of Russian government hackers," Schiff said. Six Trump associates charged Stone's arrest brought to 34 the number of individuals indicted in Mueller's sprawling probe into Russian meddling and possible collusion in the 206 election. Besides Stone, five others were close to Trump and the campaign: chair Paul Manafort, deputy chair Rick Gates, national security advisor Michael Flynn, Trump's personal lawyer Michael Cohen, and foreign policy advisor George Papadopoulos. But none has been charged with anything close to conspiracy to collude with Russia, and while the White House remains under pressure from Mueller's team, it is not known what might have on the president himself. Stone's indictment was long expected, but he has repeatedly echoed Trump's argument that the investigation is a politicized "witch hunt." "The charges relate in no way to Russian collusion or WikiLeaks collaboration," he said Friday. He defended Trump as well, calling him a great leader. "I am one of his oldest friends. I am a fervid supporter of the president," he declared. "I will not testify against the president, because I would have to bear false witness against him," he added.

Trump's former advisor Roger Stone freed on $250,000 bail by court

The Trump administration ratcheted up pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Wednesday, signalling potential new sanctions against the country's vital oil sector as it recognized Venezuela's opposition leader as interim president.

With street protests against Maduro under way across Venezuela, President Donald Trump said the United States recognized Juan Guaido, head of the opposition-controlled National Assembly congress, as the country's leader and called socialist Maduro's government "illegitimate."

In response, Maduro said he was breaking diplomatic relations with the United States and giving US embassy personnel 72 hours to leave Venezuela.

The United States, however, rejected Maduro's move to cut ties, saying it did not think he had the authority to sever ties and it would conduct relations with a government led by Guaido.

A senior US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, warned Maduro and his loyalists that Washington was ready to ramp up oil, gold and other sanctions and take unspecified actions "if they choose to harm any of the National Assembly members or any of the other duly legitimate officials of the government of Venezuela."

Asked whether he was considering US military intervention, Trump told reporters: "We're not considering anything, but all options are on the table."

Venezuelan opposition sympathizers had been urging Guaido to assume the presidency since Maduro was inaugurated for a second term on January 10, following a widely boycotted election last year that many foreign governments characterized as fraudulent.

Formal US recognition of Guaido could be complicated, however, by questions of how to deal with Venezuela's US-based diplomats and who would now control its bank accounts and other US assets, which include Citgo, the US&nbsp;refining arm of Venezuelan state-run oil company PDVSA.

The senior administration official told reporters that Washington now regards Guaido and the National Assembly as the "legitimate decision-makers" in transactions between the United States and Venezuela and that there would be a "whole bunch of consequences," but declined to elaborate.

US recognition of Guaido could backfire if Maduro, who accused the opposition of attempting a coup, used it as a pretext to detain Guaido or other opposition figures.

After Trump's announcement, most major Latin American countries made similar moves recognizing Guaido, and a Canadian official said Ottawa would also follow suit. But leftist-governed Mexico said it continued to recognize Maduro as president.

"@NicolasMaduro has undertaken a fight with the US &amp; international community he has no chance of winning," US Senator Marco Rubio said in a message on Twitter.

Rubio, who led a delegation of Florida lawmakers to discuss Venezuela with fellow Republican Trump on Tuesday, is considered to have played a major role since Trump took office in convincing him to take a tougher stand against Maduro.

NEW OIL SANCTIONS

Multiple sources said the Trump administration could impose new US sanctions on Venezuela's oil industry as soon as this week.

US officials are considering a range of potential measures, including restricting US imports of Venezuelan oil or even a full ban, but no final decisions have been made, two people familiar with the matter told Reuters.

Two other sources briefed on the matter said the Trump administration informed U.S. energy companies of its deliberations.

The decision on whether to go ahead could depend on how harshly Maduro cracks down on protesters and how he responds to Guaido's swearing-in, several of the sources said.

Even then, the administration would likely hold further discussions that could delay any final move, one source said.

The Trump administration has been increasingly frustrated with existing sanctions on Venezuela, which have spared oil exports so far. Targeting oil shipments to the United States could choke off significant revenue to the OPEC member nation.

The United States has held off on broad, oil-related measures, mindful of the potential not only for deepening the hardships of the Venezuelan people but also the risk of causing problems for US companies and consumers.

US refiners such as Valero Energy Corp, Chevron Corp and PBF Energy Inc have had discussions about the possibility of such sanctions with the Trump administration in recent weeks.

Venezuelan crude exports to the United States last year fell 15 per cent to the lowest annual average in nearly three decades, according to Refinitiv Eikon data.

Still, some US refineries have equipment specifically designed for heavy grades of crude like those from Venezuela. They imported about 500,000 barrels per day last year, according to the US Energy Information Administration.

The Trump administration ratcheted up pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Wednesday, signalling potential new sanctions against the country's vital oil sector as it recognized Venezuela's opposition leader as interim president.

The Trump administration ratcheted up pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Wednesday, signalling potential new sanctions against the country's vital oil sector as it recognized Venezuela's opposition leader as interim president. With street protests against Maduro under way across Venezuela, President Donald Trump said the United States recognized Juan Guaido, head of the opposition-controlled National Assembly congress, as the country's leader and called socialist Maduro's government "illegitimate." In response, Maduro said he was breaking diplomatic relations with the United States and giving US embassy personnel 72 hours to leave Venezuela. The United States, however, rejected Maduro's move to cut ties, saying it did not think he had the authority to sever ties and it would conduct relations with a government led by Guaido. A senior US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, warned Maduro and his loyalists that Washington was ready to ramp up oil, gold and other sanctions and take unspecified actions "if they choose to harm any of the National Assembly members or any of the other duly legitimate officials of the government of Venezuela." Asked whether he was considering US military intervention, Trump told reporters: "We're not considering anything, but all options are on the table." Venezuelan opposition sympathizers had been urging Guaido to assume the presidency since Maduro was inaugurated for a second term on January 10, following a widely boycotted election last year that many foreign governments characterized as fraudulent. Formal US recognition of Guaido could be complicated, however, by questions of how to deal with Venezuela's US-based diplomats and who would now control its bank accounts and other US assets, which include Citgo, the US refining arm of Venezuelan state-run oil company PDVSA. The senior administration official told reporters that Washington now regards Guaido and the National Assembly as the "legitimate decision-makers" in transactions between the United States and Venezuela and that there would be a "whole bunch of consequences," but declined to elaborate. US recognition of Guaido could backfire if Maduro, who accused the opposition of attempting a coup, used it as a pretext to detain Guaido or other opposition figures. After Trump's announcement, most major Latin American countries made similar moves recognizing Guaido, and a Canadian official said Ottawa would also follow suit. But leftist-governed Mexico said it continued to recognize Maduro as president. "@NicolasMaduro has undertaken a fight with the US & international community he has no chance of winning," US Senator Marco Rubio said in a message on Twitter. Rubio, who led a delegation of Florida lawmakers to discuss Venezuela with fellow Republican Trump on Tuesday, is considered to have played a major role since Trump took office in convincing him to take a tougher stand against Maduro. NEW OIL SANCTIONS Multiple sources said the Trump administration could impose new US sanctions on Venezuela's oil industry as soon as this week. US officials are considering a range of potential measures, including restricting US imports of Venezuelan oil or even a full ban, but no final decisions have been made, two people familiar with the matter told Reuters. Two other sources briefed on the matter said the Trump administration informed U.S. energy companies of its deliberations. The decision on whether to go ahead could depend on how harshly Maduro cracks down on protesters and how he responds to Guaido's swearing-in, several of the sources said. Even then, the administration would likely hold further discussions that could delay any final move, one source said. The Trump administration has been increasingly frustrated with existing sanctions on Venezuela, which have spared oil exports so far. Targeting oil shipments to the United States could choke off significant revenue to the OPEC member nation. The United States has held off on broad, oil-related measures, mindful of the potential not only for deepening the hardships of the Venezuelan people but also the risk of causing problems for US companies and consumers. US refiners such as Valero Energy Corp, Chevron Corp and PBF Energy Inc have had discussions about the possibility of such sanctions with the Trump administration in recent weeks. Venezuelan crude exports to the United States last year fell 15 per cent to the lowest annual average in nearly three decades, according to Refinitiv Eikon data. Still, some US refineries have equipment specifically designed for heavy grades of crude like those from Venezuela. They imported about 500,000 barrels per day last year, according to the US Energy Information Administration.

US weighs oil sanctions on Venezuela as it steps up pressure

Kamala Harris: First Indian-origin black woman to contest US presidential election

After remarkable growth and change for decades, most economists believe <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-introduce-policies-to-strengthen-domestic-consumption-report-189109">China's economy</a> is entering a period of slower, steadier growth.

The world's second-largest economy grew 6.6 per cent last year, government figures showed on Monday, the slowest rate since 1990.

Here is a brief look at China's economic roller-coaster since 1949:

The Mao Years

When Mao Zedong's communists seized control in 1949 after decades of strife, China was a basket case, agricultural output had cratered, the industry was hopelessly backward and hyper-inflation raged.

Adopting Soviet-style central planning, Mao's regime brought stability by nationalising industries, regulating the monetary system, and redistributing land to boost agriculture.

But leaders courted crisis with ideologically-driven campaigns like the "Great Leap Forward"— an ill-advised bid to super-charge industry and agriculture that caused widespread famine.

Stability was eventually restored but Mao brought China to its knees again through his radical leftist "Cultural Revolution" from 1966-76, which severely weakened the economy.

Deng takes charge

After Mao's death in 1976, Deng Xiaoping — purged twice by Mao over his reform tendencies—rose again, taking power in 1978.

He turned away from ideology and isolationism toward a more pragmatic, results-oriented approach, and slowly re-connected China with the world.

Reforms began to modernise the economy and introduce market-based mechanisms, best exemplified by a handful of new coastal "special economic zones" like Shenzhen, where foreign investment in export-oriented industries was welcomed.&nbsp;

Such zones posted rapid growth, encouraging more reforms that would eventually give China the reputation as the "factory of the world".

The Boom

By the early 1980s, Deng's reforms had re-energised China, which became the fastest-growing major economy for most of the next four decades.

This was briefly threatened in 1989, however, when Deng and other party elders sent tanks to crush Tiananmen Square demonstrations demanding commensurate political reform.

Growth sputtered in the aftermath and hard-liners pushed back against further reform.

But the wily Deng visited coastal export zones in 1992 in his famous "southern tour" that cemented "reform and opening" once and for all as China's guiding philosophy.

Incomes and living standards soared, Shanghai's stock exchange re-opened in 1990 after a four-decade hiatus, and China symbolically rejoined the global economy with WTO membership in 2001.

But growth brought other ills like inflation, corruption, and environmental degradation, and reform of inefficient state enterprises in the 1990s deprived millions of the "iron rice bowl" of cradle-to-grave employment.

Slowing Down

By 2010, China had become the world's second-biggest economy after the United States, a commercial, technological and military juggernaut which used that growing clout to extend its global influence.

But the era of double-digit expansion also ended around that time, due to an ageing workforce, a gradual shift of foreign investment to lower-cost developing countries, and other factors.

China also began deliberately downshifting to curb environmental damage, wealth inequities, and other growth side-effects, while launching a re-balancing of the economy to rely more on domestic consumption, and less on volatile foreign export demand.

New challenges

Slower, but more stable, expansion is forecast in the years ahead, but economists say that may limit China's ability to grow its way out of two major new challenges: huge domestic debt and US trade hawkishness.

A $586-billion stimulus package helped China weather the 2008-09 world financial crisis better than other major economies, but it contributed to a mountain of debt that the IMF has called "dangerous".

Beijing launched a debt crackdown a year ago, but it faced a new challenge as US President Donald Trump launched a trade war with China that has prompted both sides to slap tariffs on more than $350 billion in two-way commerce. 
&nbsp;

After remarkable growth and change for decades, most economists believe China's economy is entering a period of slower, steadier growth. The world's second-largest economy grew 6.

After remarkable growth and change for decades, most economists believe China's economy is entering a period of slower, steadier growth. The world's second-largest economy grew 6.6 per cent last year, government figures showed on Monday, the slowest rate since 1990. Here is a brief look at China's economic roller-coaster since 1949: The Mao Years When Mao Zedong's communists seized control in 1949 after decades of strife, China was a basket case, agricultural output had cratered, the industry was hopelessly backward and hyper-inflation raged. Adopting Soviet-style central planning, Mao's regime brought stability by nationalising industries, regulating the monetary system, and redistributing land to boost agriculture. But leaders courted crisis with ideologically-driven campaigns like the "Great Leap Forward"— an ill-advised bid to super-charge industry and agriculture that caused widespread famine. Stability was eventually restored but Mao brought China to its knees again through his radical leftist "Cultural Revolution" from 1966-76, which severely weakened the economy. Deng takes charge After Mao's death in 1976, Deng Xiaoping — purged twice by Mao over his reform tendencies—rose again, taking power in 1978. He turned away from ideology and isolationism toward a more pragmatic, results-oriented approach, and slowly re-connected China with the world. Reforms began to modernise the economy and introduce market-based mechanisms, best exemplified by a handful of new coastal "special economic zones" like Shenzhen, where foreign investment in export-oriented industries was welcomed. Such zones posted rapid growth, encouraging more reforms that would eventually give China the reputation as the "factory of the world". The Boom By the early 1980s, Deng's reforms had re-energised China, which became the fastest-growing major economy for most of the next four decades. This was briefly threatened in 1989, however, when Deng and other party elders sent tanks to crush Tiananmen Square demonstrations demanding commensurate political reform. Growth sputtered in the aftermath and hard-liners pushed back against further reform. But the wily Deng visited coastal export zones in 1992 in his famous "southern tour" that cemented "reform and opening" once and for all as China's guiding philosophy. Incomes and living standards soared, Shanghai's stock exchange re-opened in 1990 after a four-decade hiatus, and China symbolically rejoined the global economy with WTO membership in 2001. But growth brought other ills like inflation, corruption, and environmental degradation, and reform of inefficient state enterprises in the 1990s deprived millions of the "iron rice bowl" of cradle-to-grave employment. Slowing Down By 2010, China had become the world's second-biggest economy after the United States, a commercial, technological and military juggernaut which used that growing clout to extend its global influence. But the era of double-digit expansion also ended around that time, due to an ageing workforce, a gradual shift of foreign investment to lower-cost developing countries, and other factors. China also began deliberately downshifting to curb environmental damage, wealth inequities, and other growth side-effects, while launching a re-balancing of the economy to rely more on domestic consumption, and less on volatile foreign export demand. New challenges Slower, but more stable, expansion is forecast in the years ahead, but economists say that may limit China's ability to grow its way out of two major new challenges: huge domestic debt and US trade hawkishness. A $586-billion stimulus package helped China weather the 2008-09 world financial crisis better than other major economies, but it contributed to a mountain of debt that the IMF has called "dangerous". Beijing launched a debt crackdown a year ago, but it faced a new challenge as US President Donald Trump launched a trade war with China that has prompted both sides to slap tariffs on more than $350 billion in two-way commerce.

From Mao to Trump: China's economic roller-coaster since 1949

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-offers-temporary-protection-to-immigrants-in-return-for-his-wall-democrats-say-no-191509">Trump offers temporary protection to immigrants in return for </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-offers-temporary-protection-to-immigrants-in-return-for-his-wall-democrats-say-no-191509">border</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-offers-temporary-protection-to-immigrants-in-return-for-his-wall-democrats-say-no-191509"> wall, Democrats say no</a>

US President Donald Trump on Saturday offered to temporarily shield a million immigrants from deportation if Congress authorizes funding for his Mexican border wall -- an idea Democrats rejected, making the US government shutdown likely to grind on.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pms-office-says-reports-of-parliament-seizing-control-from-govt-over-brexit-extremely-concerning-191516">UK PM's office says reports of parliament seizing control from govt over Brexit 'extremely concerning'</a>

British Prime Minister Theresa May's Downing Street office said Sunday that reported plots about parliament seizing control from the government over Brexit were "extremely concerning".

Downing Street blasted reported moves by lawmakers seeking to rewrite the rules of the House of Commons in an attempt to take control of the business of the lower chamber in order to frustrate May's Brexit plans.

Groups of MPs are planning to table such amendments this week, newspapers reported Sunday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/those-stopped-from-looting-public-money-are-forming-mahagathbandhan-pm-modi-191517">Those stopped from looting public money are forming '</a><a class="gr-progress" href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/those-stopped-from-looting-public-money-are-forming-mahagathbandhan-pm-modi-191517">mahagathbandhan</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/those-stopped-from-looting-public-money-are-forming-mahagathbandhan-pm-modi-191517">': PM Modi</a>

On a day when many opposition parties came together on a common platform in Kolkata, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday hit out at their proposed 'mahagathbandhan' or grand alliance, saying it is a combination of those who are angry at his stringent action against corruption as they have been stopped from looting public money.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-fuel-pipeline-blast-death-toll-rises-to-73-191521">Mexico fuel pipeline blast: Death toll rises to 73</a>

At least 73 people were killed after a pipeline ruptured by suspected fuel thieves exploded in central Mexico, authorities said on Saturday, as President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador defended the army despite its failure to clear the site before the blast.

Forensic experts filled body bags with charred human remains in the field where the explosion occurred on Friday evening by the town of Tlahuelilpan in the state of Hidalgo, in one of the deadliest incidents to hit Mexico's troubled oil infrastructure in years.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/britains-prince-philip-back-driving-after-car-crash-without-seatbelt-191512">Britain's Prince Philip back to driving after car crash — without </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/britains-prince-philip-back-driving-after-car-crash-without-seatbelt-191512">seatbelt</a>

Britain's Prince Philip has been spoken to by the police for driving without a seatbelt — just two days after the 97-year-old survived a car crash.

Images published in newspapers on Sunday appeared to show Queen Elizabeth II's husband behind the wheel of his replacement sport utility vehicle.

The Duke of Edinburgh was pictured driving the new Land Rover Freelander on his wife's private Sandringham estate on Saturday.

Trump offers temporary protection to immigrants in return for border wall, Democrats say no US President Donald Trump on Saturday offered to temporarily shield a million immigrants from deportation if Congress authorizes funding for his Mexican border wall -- an idea Democrats rejected, making the US government shutdown likely to grind on.

Trump offers temporary protection to immigrants in return for border wall, Democrats say no US President Donald Trump on Saturday offered to temporarily shield a million immigrants from deportation if Congress authorizes funding for his Mexican border wall -- an idea Democrats rejected, making the US government shutdown likely to grind on. UK PM's office says reports of parliament seizing control from govt over Brexit 'extremely concerning' British Prime Minister Theresa May's Downing Street office said Sunday that reported plots about parliament seizing control from the government over Brexit were "extremely concerning". Downing Street blasted reported moves by lawmakers seeking to rewrite the rules of the House of Commons in an attempt to take control of the business of the lower chamber in order to frustrate May's Brexit plans. Groups of MPs are planning to table such amendments this week, newspapers reported Sunday. Those stopped from looting public money are forming 'mahagathbandhan': PM Modi On a day when many opposition parties came together on a common platform in Kolkata, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday hit out at their proposed 'mahagathbandhan' or grand alliance, saying it is a combination of those who are angry at his stringent action against corruption as they have been stopped from looting public money. Mexico fuel pipeline blast: Death toll rises to 73 At least 73 people were killed after a pipeline ruptured by suspected fuel thieves exploded in central Mexico, authorities said on Saturday, as President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador defended the army despite its failure to clear the site before the blast. Forensic experts filled body bags with charred human remains in the field where the explosion occurred on Friday evening by the town of Tlahuelilpan in the state of Hidalgo, in one of the deadliest incidents to hit Mexico's troubled oil infrastructure in years. Britain's Prince Philip back to driving after car crash — without seatbelt Britain's Prince Philip has been spoken to by the police for driving without a seatbelt — just two days after the 97-year-old survived a car crash. Images published in newspapers on Sunday appeared to show Queen Elizabeth II's husband behind the wheel of his replacement sport utility vehicle. The Duke of Edinburgh was pictured driving the new Land Rover Freelander on his wife's private Sandringham estate on Saturday.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday offered to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-offer-shutdown-ending-immigration-deal-still-wants-wall-money-source-191508">temporarily shield a million immigrants from deportation</a> if Congress authorizes funding for his Mexican border wall -- an idea Democrats rejected, making the US government shutdown likely to grind on.

Trump attempted to seize the initiative in ending the 29-day partial shutdown, a funding freeze that has left many important government departments relying on unpaid or highly reduced staff.

His bargain, announced in a televised White House address, held out the carrot of protection from deportation for two categories of immigrants.

These include 700,000 so-called "Dreamers," children of people who settled illegally in the United States, and who have become a favorite cause of the Democrats, as well as 300,000 other immigrants whose protected status is expiring, Trump said.

The president said these concessions would "build the trust and goodwill necessary to begin real immigration reform."

In return, Trump demanded the $5.7 billion he says is needed to extend fences on the border with Mexico, something the opposition Democrats have repeatedly refused to authorize. That has prompted the president to retaliate with the government shutdown, which he triggered by not signing off on funding to swaths of departments.

The president also called for $800 million in "urgent humanitarian assistance" and $805 million for drug detection technology to help secure US ports of entry.

"I'm here today to break the logjam and provide Congress with a path forward to end the government shutdown and solve the crisis on the southern border," Trump said in his address.

Trump describes the US-Mexico border -- for decades a magnet for migrants and asylum seekers, as well as a major drug smuggling route -- as overwhelmed, posing a threat to US national security.

Democrats, who accuse Trump of using his illegal immigration crackdown to score political points with his right-wing base, spurned the latest negotiating offer as soon as it was leaked in the media prior to the speech.

"His proposal is a compilation of several previously rejected initiatives, each of which is unacceptable and in total, do not represent a good faith effort to restore certainty to people’s lives," said Nancy Pelosi, speaker of the House of Representatives and the face of Democratic opposition to Trump. "They are a non-starter."

And Chuck Schumer, the top Democrat in the US Senate, noted that Trump himself had scrapped previously existing protection for the immigrants whom he is now offering to shield.

"Offering some protections back in exchange for the wall is not a compromise but more hostage taking," Schumer tweeted.

Getting personal 
Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell meanwhile hailed Trump's proposal as a "bold solution to reopen the government, secure the border, and take bipartisan steps toward addressing current immigration issues," saying he planned to bring it to a vote.

Trump's speech was the latest sign that both sides may slowly be grasping for a way out of an impasse that has turned into a test of brute political strength.

The New York Times reported that Democrats have added more than $1 billion to their previous offer of $1.3 billion for new border security, even if that is still far short of Trump's $5.7 billion figure.

The Times said roughly half the additional $1 billion being offered by Democrats would go to improve infrastructure at ports of entry, and the other half would fund 75 new immigration judges -- but with no new money for a wall.&nbsp;

While each side waits for the other to blink, some 800,000 federal employees have been caught up in the shutdown, waiting for paychecks. They include members of the Coast Guard, FBI and airport security staff.

All are expected to receive back wages once the shutdown ends, but in the meantime, many have had difficulty paying bills or even feeding their families.

The partial government shutdown -- a disruptive political weapon almost unique to the American system -- began on December 22 and is now the longest ever.

While polls show more Americans blame Trump and the Republicans than the Democrats, both sides are feeling pressure, as disgust rises across the country with the paralyzed political leadership in Washington.

Adding to the sense of chaos, the dispute has turned deeply personal, with Trump and Pelosi exchanging what to many seem like almost playground-level jibes.

After Pelosi suggested shelving Trump's upcoming State of the Union address before Congress -- one of the key set-piece political appearances of the year -- the president abruptly revoked her right to use an air force plane for a trip to Afghanistan. Both cited difficulties caused by the shutdown as justification.

On Saturday, Trump said Pelosi "is under total control of the radical left."

US President Donald Trump on Saturday offered to temporarily shield a million immigrants from deportation if Congress authorizes funding for his Mexican border wall -- an idea Democrats rejected, making the US government shutdown likely to grind on.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday offered to temporarily shield a million immigrants from deportation if Congress authorizes funding for his Mexican border wall -- an idea Democrats rejected, making the US government shutdown likely to grind on. Trump attempted to seize the initiative in ending the 29-day partial shutdown, a funding freeze that has left many important government departments relying on unpaid or highly reduced staff. His bargain, announced in a televised White House address, held out the carrot of protection from deportation for two categories of immigrants. These include 700,000 so-called "Dreamers," children of people who settled illegally in the United States, and who have become a favorite cause of the Democrats, as well as 300,000 other immigrants whose protected status is expiring, Trump said. The president said these concessions would "build the trust and goodwill necessary to begin real immigration reform." In return, Trump demanded the $5.7 billion he says is needed to extend fences on the border with Mexico, something the opposition Democrats have repeatedly refused to authorize. That has prompted the president to retaliate with the government shutdown, which he triggered by not signing off on funding to swaths of departments. The president also called for $800 million in "urgent humanitarian assistance" and $805 million for drug detection technology to help secure US ports of entry. "I'm here today to break the logjam and provide Congress with a path forward to end the government shutdown and solve the crisis on the southern border," Trump said in his address. Trump describes the US-Mexico border -- for decades a magnet for migrants and asylum seekers, as well as a major drug smuggling route -- as overwhelmed, posing a threat to US national security. Democrats, who accuse Trump of using his illegal immigration crackdown to score political points with his right-wing base, spurned the latest negotiating offer as soon as it was leaked in the media prior to the speech. "His proposal is a compilation of several previously rejected initiatives, each of which is unacceptable and in total, do not represent a good faith effort to restore certainty to people’s lives," said Nancy Pelosi, speaker of the House of Representatives and the face of Democratic opposition to Trump. "They are a non-starter." And Chuck Schumer, the top Democrat in the US Senate, noted that Trump himself had scrapped previously existing protection for the immigrants whom he is now offering to shield. "Offering some protections back in exchange for the wall is not a compromise but more hostage taking," Schumer tweeted. Getting personal Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell meanwhile hailed Trump's proposal as a "bold solution to reopen the government, secure the border, and take bipartisan steps toward addressing current immigration issues," saying he planned to bring it to a vote. Trump's speech was the latest sign that both sides may slowly be grasping for a way out of an impasse that has turned into a test of brute political strength. The New York Times reported that Democrats have added more than $1 billion to their previous offer of $1.3 billion for new border security, even if that is still far short of Trump's $5.7 billion figure. The Times said roughly half the additional $1 billion being offered by Democrats would go to improve infrastructure at ports of entry, and the other half would fund 75 new immigration judges -- but with no new money for a wall. While each side waits for the other to blink, some 800,000 federal employees have been caught up in the shutdown, waiting for paychecks. They include members of the Coast Guard, FBI and airport security staff. All are expected to receive back wages once the shutdown ends, but in the meantime, many have had difficulty paying bills or even feeding their families. The partial government shutdown -- a disruptive political weapon almost unique to the American system -- began on December 22 and is now the longest ever. While polls show more Americans blame Trump and the Republicans than the Democrats, both sides are feeling pressure, as disgust rises across the country with the paralyzed political leadership in Washington. Adding to the sense of chaos, the dispute has turned deeply personal, with Trump and Pelosi exchanging what to many seem like almost playground-level jibes. After Pelosi suggested shelving Trump's upcoming State of the Union address before Congress -- one of the key set-piece political appearances of the year -- the president abruptly revoked her right to use an air force plane for a trip to Afghanistan. Both cited difficulties caused by the shutdown as justification. On Saturday, Trump said Pelosi "is under total control of the radical left."

Trump offers temporary protection to immigrants in return for border wall, Democrats say no

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/model-claiming-trump-secrets-to-be-deported-after-thai-trial-190535">A model from Belarus </a>who was arrested during a "sex training seminar" in Thailand and then claimed to have evidence of Russian interference in US president Donald Trump's election was deported on Thursday.

Thai authorities said Anastasia Vashukevich, 27, two other Belarussians and five Russians were being sent to their home countries two days after they pleaded guilty to charges including conspiracy and soliciting.

Vashukevich drew world attention last February when she said she had hours of audio recordings that could shed light on links between Russian officials and Trump's election in 2016.

She offered to release the recordings in exchange for asylum in the United States but never produced evidence to substantiate her claim and later said she had no plans to release anything.

Thai immigration chief Surachate Hakparn told media all eight deportees were willing to return to their countries. The deportations were being coordinated with Belarus and Russia, he said.

Vashukevich made no comment at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport. Last year, she had said she feared that she would be sent to Russia.

Self-proclaimed "sex guru" Alexander Kirillov, 38, a fellow Belarussian among the deportees, told media the group had been seeking deportation since last March.

"If you have been to a Thai prison, you are not afraid of anything," he said.

They were arrested at the beach resort of Pattaya during a seminar on seduction techniques.

Vashukevich, who is also known as Nastya Rybka, said she had recordings of conversations on interference in the US election through an association with Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska. But Deripaska's representatives have accused her of fabrication and said she was never his mistress.

Deripaska is close to Russian President Vladimir Putin and is a onetime associate of Trump's former campaign manager, Paul Manafort.

The US intelligence agencies have concluded that Moscow sought to interfere in the 2016 US presidential election to boost Trump's chances of winning. Russia has denied meddling and Trump has said no collusion took place.

A model from Belarus who was arrested during a "sex training seminar" in Thailand and then claimed to have evidence of Russian interference in US president Donald Trump's election was deported on Thursday.

A model from Belarus who was arrested during a "sex training seminar" in Thailand and then claimed to have evidence of Russian interference in US president Donald Trump's election was deported on Thursday. Thai authorities said Anastasia Vashukevich, 27, two other Belarussians and five Russians were being sent to their home countries two days after they pleaded guilty to charges including conspiracy and soliciting. Vashukevich drew world attention last February when she said she had hours of audio recordings that could shed light on links between Russian officials and Trump's election in 2016. She offered to release the recordings in exchange for asylum in the United States but never produced evidence to substantiate her claim and later said she had no plans to release anything. Thai immigration chief Surachate Hakparn told media all eight deportees were willing to return to their countries. The deportations were being coordinated with Belarus and Russia, he said. Vashukevich made no comment at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport. Last year, she had said she feared that she would be sent to Russia. Self-proclaimed "sex guru" Alexander Kirillov, 38, a fellow Belarussian among the deportees, told media the group had been seeking deportation since last March. "If you have been to a Thai prison, you are not afraid of anything," he said. They were arrested at the beach resort of Pattaya during a seminar on seduction techniques. Vashukevich, who is also known as Nastya Rybka, said she had recordings of conversations on interference in the US election through an association with Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska. But Deripaska's representatives have accused her of fabrication and said she was never his mistress. Deripaska is close to Russian President Vladimir Putin and is a onetime associate of Trump's former campaign manager, Paul Manafort. The US intelligence agencies have concluded that Moscow sought to interfere in the 2016 US presidential election to boost Trump's chances of winning. Russia has denied meddling and Trump has said no collusion took place.

Sex seminar model who claimed Trump secrets deported from Thailand

The<a href="http://www.wionews.com/east-asia/denuclearisation-includes-eliminating-us-nuclear-threat-in-korean-peninsula-north-korean-state-media-185456"> US awaits "concrete steps" by North Korea </a>to dismantle its nuclear weapons that threaten America and other countries in the region, Vice President Mike Pence has said.

Pence's statement came during his address to the global chief of mission conference on Wednesday and gains significance as the White House is preparing for another summit between President Donald Trump and the North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.

The two leaders have recently exchanged letters.

Kim and Trump held a historic meeting in Singapore on June 12 last year where they issued a vague goal for the "complete denuclearisation" of the Korean Peninsula without describing when and how it would occur.

Pence said that the US awaits North Korea to dismantle its nuclear weapons.

"While the president has started a promising dialogue with Chairman Kim, we still await concrete steps by North Korea to dismantle the nuclear weapons that threaten our people and our allies in the region," Pence said.

In his address, Pence also said that Russia seeks to overturn the international order that the US has upheld for more than half a century.&nbsp;

"Unlike the Soviet Union and its many client states, no shared ideology or objective unites our competitors and adversaries except this one. They seek to overturn the international order that the US has upheld for more than half a century," he said.

"Truthfully, it is a pact surrounding what they perceive to be a common enemy, but the truth is the US will rise to that challenge, we will stand with our allies and we will advance our values and our principles in the world," Pence added. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
Targeting Iran, Pence said that president Trump is standing up to the Iranian regime which is making the west Asian nation change its ways.&nbsp;

"And as we stand today, Iran is now under unprecedented pressure to change its ways," he said.

"The message that the disastrous nuclear deal benefited the very mullahs who oppressed their people. And even as we've striven mightily to protect our most important interests, we've also fought hard. We have also fought hard not only to stand up to those who would challenge us but to advance American values on the world stage," Pence said.

The US awaits "concrete steps" by North Korea to dismantle its nuclear weapons that threaten America and other countries in the region, Vice President Mike Pence has said.

The US awaits "concrete steps" by North Korea to dismantle its nuclear weapons that threaten America and other countries in the region, Vice President Mike Pence has said. Pence's statement came during his address to the global chief of mission conference on Wednesday and gains significance as the White House is preparing for another summit between President Donald Trump and the North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. The two leaders have recently exchanged letters. Kim and Trump held a historic meeting in Singapore on June 12 last year where they issued a vague goal for the "complete denuclearisation" of the Korean Peninsula without describing when and how it would occur. Pence said that the US awaits North Korea to dismantle its nuclear weapons. "While the president has started a promising dialogue with Chairman Kim, we still await concrete steps by North Korea to dismantle the nuclear weapons that threaten our people and our allies in the region," Pence said. In his address, Pence also said that Russia seeks to overturn the international order that the US has upheld for more than half a century. "Unlike the Soviet Union and its many client states, no shared ideology or objective unites our competitors and adversaries except this one. They seek to overturn the international order that the US has upheld for more than half a century," he said. "Truthfully, it is a pact surrounding what they perceive to be a common enemy, but the truth is the US will rise to that challenge, we will stand with our allies and we will advance our values and our principles in the world," Pence added. Targeting Iran, Pence said that president Trump is standing up to the Iranian regime which is making the west Asian nation change its ways. "And as we stand today, Iran is now under unprecedented pressure to change its ways," he said. "The message that the disastrous nuclear deal benefited the very mullahs who oppressed their people. And even as we've striven mightily to protect our most important interests, we've also fought hard. We have also fought hard not only to stand up to those who would challenge us but to advance American values on the world stage," Pence said.

North Korea yet to take concrete steps to dismantle nukes: Mike Pence

A Belarusian model who claimed she had proof of Russian efforts to help Donald Trump win office was set to be deported after being convicted Tuesday nearly a year after her arrest in Thailand for participating in a "sex training course".

Anastasia Vashukevich, known by her pen name Nastya Rybka, has been held with several others since a police raid in the sleazy seaside resort of Pattaya last February.

She had travelled to Thailand after becoming embroiled in a political scandal with Russian aluminium tycoon Oleg Deripaska, a one-time associate of US President Trump's disgraced former campaign director Paul Manafort.

She set off a scramble for details after promising to reveal "missing puzzle pieces" regarding claims the Kremlin aided Trump's 2016 election victory.

But the material never surfaced and critics dismissed it as a publicity stunt.

The Pattaya Provincial Court convicted her and seven co-defendants after they suddenly pleaded guilty to multiple charges including solicitation and illegal assembly.

"The court found them all guilty of soliciting sex," said a judge on the panel, handing them three-year sentences and $6,000 fines but reducing the sentences to time served.

"The court releases them today," the judge added.

Thai immigration chief Surachate Hakparn said they would be transferred to an immigration detention centre in Bangkok and deported.

"The next step, I will coordinate with the Russian government for their deportation, which will likely take one week for all the processes to complete," Surachate told AFP.

"They are blacklisted from Thailand permanently for conducting bad deeds."

Seduction guru 

The risque seminar was led by self-styled Russian seduction guru Alex Kirillov and some participants wore shirts that said "sex animator" even though one participant at the time described it as more of a romance and relationship course.

Kirillov, who has served as a spokesman for the mostly Russian group, told reporters as they arrived at court Tuesday that he believed they were set up.

"I think somebody ordered (our arrest)... for money," he said.

Vashukevich and Kirillov had once expressed fear of being deported back to Russia and at one stage called on Washington for help.

But Vashukevich later blamed the US for their imprisonment.

Both Washington and Moscow publicly had shrugged off Vashukevich's story, which the US State Department described as "bizarre".

A friend of theirs who has been involved in the case and was at the court told AFP they were "very happy" with the verdict.

Vashukevich, who has penned a book about seducing oligarchs, also faces legal problems in Russia.

Deripaska won an invasion of privacy lawsuit against her and Kirillov in July after a video apparently filmed by the model showed the tycoon vacationing with an influential Russian deputy prime minister.

Kremlin-connected Deripaska and Manafort, Trump's ex-campaign manager, did business together in the mid-2000s.

Manafort has since been convicted in the US of financial crimes related to political work he did in Ukraine before the 2016 election as well as witness tampering.

A Belarusian model who claimed she had proof of Russian efforts to help Donald Trump win office was set to be deported after being convicted Tuesday nearly a year after her arrest in Thailand for participating in a "sex training course".

A Belarusian model who claimed she had proof of Russian efforts to help Donald Trump win office was set to be deported after being convicted Tuesday nearly a year after her arrest in Thailand for participating in a "sex training course". Anastasia Vashukevich, known by her pen name Nastya Rybka, has been held with several others since a police raid in the sleazy seaside resort of Pattaya last February. She had travelled to Thailand after becoming embroiled in a political scandal with Russian aluminium tycoon Oleg Deripaska, a one-time associate of US President Trump's disgraced former campaign director Paul Manafort. She set off a scramble for details after promising to reveal "missing puzzle pieces" regarding claims the Kremlin aided Trump's 2016 election victory. But the material never surfaced and critics dismissed it as a publicity stunt. The Pattaya Provincial Court convicted her and seven co-defendants after they suddenly pleaded guilty to multiple charges including solicitation and illegal assembly. "The court found them all guilty of soliciting sex," said a judge on the panel, handing them three-year sentences and $6,000 fines but reducing the sentences to time served. "The court releases them today," the judge added. Thai immigration chief Surachate Hakparn said they would be transferred to an immigration detention centre in Bangkok and deported. "The next step, I will coordinate with the Russian government for their deportation, which will likely take one week for all the processes to complete," Surachate told AFP. "They are blacklisted from Thailand permanently for conducting bad deeds." Seduction guru The risque seminar was led by self-styled Russian seduction guru Alex Kirillov and some participants wore shirts that said "sex animator" even though one participant at the time described it as more of a romance and relationship course. Kirillov, who has served as a spokesman for the mostly Russian group, told reporters as they arrived at court Tuesday that he believed they were set up. "I think somebody ordered (our arrest)... for money," he said. Vashukevich and Kirillov had once expressed fear of being deported back to Russia and at one stage called on Washington for help. But Vashukevich later blamed the US for their imprisonment. Both Washington and Moscow publicly had shrugged off Vashukevich's story, which the US State Department described as "bizarre". A friend of theirs who has been involved in the case and was at the court told AFP they were "very happy" with the verdict. Vashukevich, who has penned a book about seducing oligarchs, also faces legal problems in Russia. Deripaska won an invasion of privacy lawsuit against her and Kirillov in July after a video apparently filmed by the model showed the tycoon vacationing with an influential Russian deputy prime minister. Kremlin-connected Deripaska and Manafort, Trump's ex-campaign manager, did business together in the mid-2000s. Manafort has since been convicted in the US of financial crimes related to political work he did in Ukraine before the 2016 election as well as witness tampering.

Model claiming Trump secrets to be deported after Thai trial

US President Donald Trump said Monday that he has "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/was-trump-working-for-russia-us-president-blasts-fbi-for-opening-probe-189894">never worked for Russia</a>", and slammed recent news reports that have raised questions about his ties to Vladimir Putin as a "big fat hoax."

Trump&nbsp;made his comments to reporters at the White House.&nbsp;

The US president's comments came after a Washington Post report alleging that Trump had refused to divulge the contents of his meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

The Post said he had kept details of the meetings even from his top aides.&nbsp;

The Post however added that there was no proof of wrongdoing by Trump, only that he had kept details of his meetings with Putin from his aides.&nbsp;

A report in The New York Times meanwhile revealed the FBI had opened an investigation into whether Trump was working for Russia after he sacked the bureau's director James Comey in 2017.&nbsp;

Trump was given an opportunity to respond to the report of the FBI investigation on Saturday when he gave an interview to his favourite Fox News channel.

But instead of a clear cut denial, he fueled a mounting outcry in Washington by merely saying that the question was "the most insulting thing I've ever been asked."

His response Monday took the entire alleged Russia collusion affair head on.

"It's a lot of fake news," Trump said. He called the then-leaders of the FBI who decided to investigate him "known scoundrels, I guess you could say dirty cops."

But the latest twists mean that the president -- currently embroiled in a damaging political battle with Congress over funding a Mexico border wall -- can't escape the Russia shadow, regardless of what he says.

The details of the latest reports are especially shocking because they are so concrete, in contrast to the often complex and carefully withheld workings of the almost leak-proof Mueller probe.

The Post story says that Trump personally acted to prevent notes taken by his interpreter during one-on-one meetings with Putin from being shared with aides. He allegedly took the notes away and ordered the interpreter not to divulge the contents.

The Times report on the FBI investigation said the bureau decided to act after Trump fired the then director, James Comey in 2017.

Transcripts of closed-door FBI testimony to Congress obtained by CNN show that the then head lawyer for the FBI, James Baker, said the bureau wanted to know whether Trump was "acting at the behest of (the Kremlin) and somehow following directions, somehow executing their will."

"That was one extreme. The other extreme is that the President is completely innocent, and we discussed that too," Baker said in the transcript, according to CNN.

The White House says that Trump has been pursued by a politicized FBI. The president repeatedly has called the probes into his dealings with Russia a "witch hunt."

But Democrats and even some in Trump's Republican Party have repeatedly suggested that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-is-right-to-pull-us-troops-out-of-syria-says-putin-185511">the administration is oddly favourable to Russian policies</a>.

They point to Trump's diplomatic assaults on European Union unity and the NATO alliance, as well as his recent comment defending the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan in the 1980s.

Top advisor Kellyanne Conway reiterated Monday the administration's assertion that Trump had in fact been tough on Russia, one of Washington's key rivals and sometimes outright adversaries.

"He has taken a lot of action," she told reporters, listing sanctions imposed on the Kremlin and US policy in Syria, among other factors.&nbsp;

(With inputs from AFP)

US President Donald Trump said Monday that he has "never worked for Russia", and slammed recent news reports that have raised questions about his ties to Vladimir Putin as a "big fat hoax.

US President Donald Trump said Monday that he has "never worked for Russia", and slammed recent news reports that have raised questions about his ties to Vladimir Putin as a "big fat hoax." Trump made his comments to reporters at the White House. The US president's comments came after a Washington Post report alleging that Trump had refused to divulge the contents of his meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Post said he had kept details of the meetings even from his top aides. The Post however added that there was no proof of wrongdoing by Trump, only that he had kept details of his meetings with Putin from his aides. A report in The New York Times meanwhile revealed the FBI had opened an investigation into whether Trump was working for Russia after he sacked the bureau's director James Comey in 2017. Trump was given an opportunity to respond to the report of the FBI investigation on Saturday when he gave an interview to his favourite Fox News channel. But instead of a clear cut denial, he fueled a mounting outcry in Washington by merely saying that the question was "the most insulting thing I've ever been asked." His response Monday took the entire alleged Russia collusion affair head on. "It's a lot of fake news," Trump said. He called the then-leaders of the FBI who decided to investigate him "known scoundrels, I guess you could say dirty cops." But the latest twists mean that the president -- currently embroiled in a damaging political battle with Congress over funding a Mexico border wall -- can't escape the Russia shadow, regardless of what he says. The details of the latest reports are especially shocking because they are so concrete, in contrast to the often complex and carefully withheld workings of the almost leak-proof Mueller probe. The Post story says that Trump personally acted to prevent notes taken by his interpreter during one-on-one meetings with Putin from being shared with aides. He allegedly took the notes away and ordered the interpreter not to divulge the contents. The Times report on the FBI investigation said the bureau decided to act after Trump fired the then director, James Comey in 2017. Transcripts of closed-door FBI testimony to Congress obtained by CNN show that the then head lawyer for the FBI, James Baker, said the bureau wanted to know whether Trump was "acting at the behest of (the Kremlin) and somehow following directions, somehow executing their will." "That was one extreme. The other extreme is that the President is completely innocent, and we discussed that too," Baker said in the transcript, according to CNN. The White House says that Trump has been pursued by a politicized FBI. The president repeatedly has called the probes into his dealings with Russia a "witch hunt." But Democrats and even some in Trump's Republican Party have repeatedly suggested that the administration is oddly favourable to Russian policies. They point to Trump's diplomatic assaults on European Union unity and the NATO alliance, as well as his recent comment defending the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan in the 1980s. Top advisor Kellyanne Conway reiterated Monday the administration's assertion that Trump had in fact been tough on Russia, one of Washington's key rivals and sometimes outright adversaries. "He has taken a lot of action," she told reporters, listing sanctions imposed on the Kremlin and US policy in Syria, among other factors. (With inputs from AFP)

Trump says he has 'never worked for Russia', allegations saying so are a 'big fat hoax'

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