On Wednesday <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/kanye-west-hugs-trump-muses-on-presidential-run-170975">Donald Trump</a> said "India is going to find out" whether it will be sanctioned for its purchase of the S-400 Triumf missile defence sytem from Russia.&nbsp;

And a day later, US State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert quoted him as saying "we'll take care of that" on the question of India buying oil from Iran.&nbsp;

The US, which imposed sanctions on Iran after Trump walked out of the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, has been leaning on India to stop importing oil from Iran.&nbsp;

India has so far said that it will continue to buy oil from Iran. (India, which is the world's third largest importer of oil, gets about 10 per cent of its oil from Iran.)&nbsp;

"The President had addressed it. He was asked whether or not India would buy oil from Iran after sanctions are reimposed and president said 'we’ll take care of that'," US State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert said on Thursday.&nbsp;

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The President had addressed it, he was asked whether or not India would buy oil from Iran after sanctions are reimposed. And President said, 'we’ll take care of that.' He was asked also about CAATSA sanctions&amp;possible imposition of CAATSA sanctions: Heather Nauert, US State Dept <a href="https://t.co/hJeJ7BLY0q">pic.twitter.com/hJeJ7BLY0q</a>
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"He was asked also about CAATSA sanctions and possible imposition of CAATSA sanctions," Nauert added.&nbsp;

"And he (US President) said, India is going to find out. And India will find out. We’ll see. So I’m not going to get ahead of him, but certainly when we hear about things such as purchasing oil or purchasing of the S-400 systems, it’s not helpful," she said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi signed a deal during Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent visit to India to buy five units of the S-400. The deal will cost India over $5 billion.&nbsp;

India plans to use the defence sytem along its border with China.&nbsp;

The trouble is the purchase could attract US sanctions under the Countering America's Adversaries Throught Sanctions Act or CAATSA which says the US has to sanction any country which buys a significant portion of its military firepower from Russia. (The US was also keen that India buy its Thaad missile defence system rather than the S-400.)&nbsp;

India has asked that the sanctions be waived.&nbsp;

On Wednesday Donald Trump said "India is going to find out" whether it will be sanctioned for its purchase of the S-400 Triumf missile defence sytem from Russia.

On Wednesday Donald Trump said "India is going to find out" whether it will be sanctioned for its purchase of the S-400 Triumf missile defence sytem from Russia. And a day later, US State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert quoted him as saying "we'll take care of that" on the question of India buying oil from Iran. The US, which imposed sanctions on Iran after Trump walked out of the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, has been leaning on India to stop importing oil from Iran. India has so far said that it will continue to buy oil from Iran. (India, which is the world's third largest importer of oil, gets about 10 per cent of its oil from Iran.) "The President had addressed it. He was asked whether or not India would buy oil from Iran after sanctions are reimposed and president said 'we’ll take care of that'," US State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert said on Thursday. The President had addressed it, he was asked whether or not India would buy oil from Iran after sanctions are reimposed. And President said, 'we’ll take care of that.' He was asked also about CAATSA sanctions&possible imposition of CAATSA sanctions: Heather Nauert, US State Dept pic.twitter.com/hJeJ7BLY0q — ANI (@ANI) October 12, 2018 × "He was asked also about CAATSA sanctions and possible imposition of CAATSA sanctions," Nauert added. "And he (US President) said, India is going to find out. And India will find out. We’ll see. So I’m not going to get ahead of him, but certainly when we hear about things such as purchasing oil or purchasing of the S-400 systems, it’s not helpful," she said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi signed a deal during Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent visit to India to buy five units of the S-400. The deal will cost India over $5 billion. India plans to use the defence sytem along its border with China. The trouble is the purchase could attract US sanctions under the Countering America's Adversaries Throught Sanctions Act or CAATSA which says the US has to sanction any country which buys a significant portion of its military firepower from Russia. (The US was also keen that India buy its Thaad missile defence system rather than the S-400.) India has asked that the sanctions be waived.

We'll take care of that: Trump on India buying oil from Iran

President Donald Trump and rapper Kanye West were sitting down for lunch at the White House on Thursday to discuss prison reform as Trump seeks to use his celebrity roots to political advantage.

The two were to sit down for a roasted chicken lunch in the private dining room off the Oval Office, along with Hall of Fame NFL running back Jim Brown, as well as Trump's daughter Ivanka Trump and son-in-law Jared Kushner.&nbsp;

White House spokesman Hogan Gidley said Trump and his guests would discuss potential future clemencies for convicts along with "addressing the massive violent crime surge in Chicago" and efforts to create jobs for African-Americans.

Kanye's visit follows by several months a similar trip to the White House by his celebrity wife, Kim Kardashian West, who met with Trump on May 30 and persuaded him to grant clemency to Alice Johnson, who was serving a life sentence for a nonviolent drug charge in Tennessee.

Kanye has drawn fire from other celebrities for his support of Trump, the former reality TV star currently looking ahead to congressional elections on Nov. 6 and his own re-election campaign in 2020.

The Republican president has advocated prison reform and said he was open to changes in sentencing guidelines, an issue that divides the Republican Party between "law and order" hardliners and moderates.

"There are people in jail for really long terms," Trump said in an interview with Fox News. "We do need reform. And that doesn`t mean easy. We`re going to make certain categories tougher, when it comes to drug dealing and other things.

"It`s very unfair to African-Americans it`s very unfair to everybody. And it`s also very costly."

He said he would overrule his attorney general, Jeff Sessions, who has balked at efforts to reduce sentences served by convicts and is unlikely to support new ones.&nbsp;

"Well if he doesn`t then he gets overruled by me, because I make the decisions, he doesn`t," Trump said.&nbsp;

Trump claims Kanye West as a friend and a "different kind of a guy" whose big following in the African-American community helped boost his approval ratings. Asked if he would consider campaigning with the rapper, Trump said, "I could see it. I could see it."

President Donald Trump and rapper Kanye West were sitting down for lunch at the White House on Thursday to discuss prison reform as Trump seeks to use his celebrity roots to political advantage.

President Donald Trump and rapper Kanye West were sitting down for lunch at the White House on Thursday to discuss prison reform as Trump seeks to use his celebrity roots to political advantage. The two were to sit down for a roasted chicken lunch in the private dining room off the Oval Office, along with Hall of Fame NFL running back Jim Brown, as well as Trump's daughter Ivanka Trump and son-in-law Jared Kushner. White House spokesman Hogan Gidley said Trump and his guests would discuss potential future clemencies for convicts along with "addressing the massive violent crime surge in Chicago" and efforts to create jobs for African-Americans. Kanye's visit follows by several months a similar trip to the White House by his celebrity wife, Kim Kardashian West, who met with Trump on May 30 and persuaded him to grant clemency to Alice Johnson, who was serving a life sentence for a nonviolent drug charge in Tennessee. Kanye has drawn fire from other celebrities for his support of Trump, the former reality TV star currently looking ahead to congressional elections on Nov. 6 and his own re-election campaign in 2020. The Republican president has advocated prison reform and said he was open to changes in sentencing guidelines, an issue that divides the Republican Party between "law and order" hardliners and moderates. "There are people in jail for really long terms," Trump said in an interview with Fox News. "We do need reform. And that doesn`t mean easy. We`re going to make certain categories tougher, when it comes to drug dealing and other things. "It`s very unfair to African-Americans it`s very unfair to everybody. And it`s also very costly." He said he would overrule his attorney general, Jeff Sessions, who has balked at efforts to reduce sentences served by convicts and is unlikely to support new ones. "Well if he doesn`t then he gets overruled by me, because I make the decisions, he doesn`t," Trump said. Trump claims Kanye West as a friend and a "different kind of a guy" whose big following in the African-American community helped boost his approval ratings. Asked if he would consider campaigning with the rapper, Trump said, "I could see it. I could see it."

Trump lunches with Kanye West, will talk justice reform

The shock exit of Nikki Haley, who was serving as the American Ambassador to the United Nations,&nbsp;from the Trump administration has surprised everyone.

A high profile exit from team Trump,&nbsp;Haley was one of the few women in Trump's cabinet.

She was seen as one of the most effective and outspoken faces of the administration.&nbsp;

The daughter of&nbsp;immigrants from India, Haley was the first cabinet-level UN Ambassador for a Republican government since the end of cold war.&nbsp;

American media reports suggest that while some White House staffers were indeed caught by surprise, Haley had discussed her resignation with President Trump last week.&nbsp;

Nikki Haley's tenure as the UN ambassador has raised her political profile. In 2017, the Time magazine had put Haley on its cover -- as one of the women who is changing the world.&nbsp;

Haley is now being counted as one of the possible challengers to Trump in the 2020 general elections. She has however clarified that she has no intention of running for the post.

Many feel that she could be eyeing a role in the private sector for the short term.

Haley has spent eight years in government that includes a six-year tenure as the governor of the state of South Carolina. These are not well-paying jobs.

According to Haley's 2018 financial disclosures, she has a debt of more than one million dollars.&nbsp;

Experts also believe that Haley was being edged out by Mike Pompeo and John Bolton, who recently joined the Trump administration. Both Pompeo and Bolton are foreign policy hardliners, Haley wanted to toe a more moderate line.

As a result, she had frequent clashes with Trump in recent times, especially on policy decisions regarding Russia.&nbsp;

But there is little doubt that Haley is a strong candidate for the presidency of the United States. She has better approval ratings than Trump, and has found support among key Republican demographics.&nbsp;

If not 2020, we can certainly expect to hear more about haley in 2024.

Nikki Haley's decision to quit was indeed a surprise. And equally surprising was her appointment by Trump as the UN ambassador in 2016.

Haley was seen as a strong critic for Trump. For the 2016 elections, she threw her support behind Tump's rivals Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz.&nbsp;

She even confronted candidate Trump's call to temporarily ban Muslims from entering America.&nbsp;

Despite Trump's bold and disruptive moves, Haley managed to use her ambassadorship at the United Nations to raise her political profile. Unlike several other former members of the Trump administration, she is leaving the job unscathed and on a high.&nbsp;

Even after joining the Trump administration Haley did not shy away from voicing her opinion on controversial issues. Even if it was at divergence with trump's views.&nbsp;

Most recently, when judge Brett Kavanaugh faced charges of sexual harassment just before his confirmation Haley argued that accusers should be heard.

Even when Trump mocked Christine Blasey Ford who had accused Kavanaugh of sexual assault.&nbsp;

While Haley's departure may have been on amicable terms, her departure will pinch the Trump administration.&nbsp;

She stood out for her outspoken criticism of Russia at the UN. Haley even backed Trump's decision to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel as well as the US Withdrawal from the UN human rights council.&nbsp;

She will leave the position by the end of the year. Trump is yet to name her successor.

The shock exit of Nikki Haley, who was serving as the American Ambassador to the United Nations, from the Trump administration has surprised everyone. A high profile exit from team Trump, Haley was one of the few women in Trump's cabinet.

The shock exit of Nikki Haley, who was serving as the American Ambassador to the United Nations, from the Trump administration has surprised everyone. A high profile exit from team Trump, Haley was one of the few women in Trump's cabinet. She was seen as one of the most effective and outspoken faces of the administration. The daughter of immigrants from India, Haley was the first cabinet-level UN Ambassador for a Republican government since the end of cold war. American media reports suggest that while some White House staffers were indeed caught by surprise, Haley had discussed her resignation with President Trump last week. Nikki Haley's tenure as the UN ambassador has raised her political profile. In 2017, the Time magazine had put Haley on its cover -- as one of the women who is changing the world. Haley is now being counted as one of the possible challengers to Trump in the 2020 general elections. She has however clarified that she has no intention of running for the post. Many feel that she could be eyeing a role in the private sector for the short term. Haley has spent eight years in government that includes a six-year tenure as the governor of the state of South Carolina. These are not well-paying jobs. According to Haley's 2018 financial disclosures, she has a debt of more than one million dollars. Experts also believe that Haley was being edged out by Mike Pompeo and John Bolton, who recently joined the Trump administration. Both Pompeo and Bolton are foreign policy hardliners, Haley wanted to toe a more moderate line. As a result, she had frequent clashes with Trump in recent times, especially on policy decisions regarding Russia. But there is little doubt that Haley is a strong candidate for the presidency of the United States. She has better approval ratings than Trump, and has found support among key Republican demographics. If not 2020, we can certainly expect to hear more about haley in 2024. Nikki Haley's decision to quit was indeed a surprise. And equally surprising was her appointment by Trump as the UN ambassador in 2016. Haley was seen as a strong critic for Trump. For the 2016 elections, she threw her support behind Tump's rivals Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz. She even confronted candidate Trump's call to temporarily ban Muslims from entering America. Despite Trump's bold and disruptive moves, Haley managed to use her ambassadorship at the United Nations to raise her political profile. Unlike several other former members of the Trump administration, she is leaving the job unscathed and on a high. Even after joining the Trump administration Haley did not shy away from voicing her opinion on controversial issues. Even if it was at divergence with trump's views. Most recently, when judge Brett Kavanaugh faced charges of sexual harassment just before his confirmation Haley argued that accusers should be heard. Even when Trump mocked Christine Blasey Ford who had accused Kavanaugh of sexual assault. While Haley's departure may have been on amicable terms, her departure will pinch the Trump administration. She stood out for her outspoken criticism of Russia at the UN. Haley even backed Trump's decision to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel as well as the US Withdrawal from the UN human rights council. She will leave the position by the end of the year. Trump is yet to name her successor.

Nikki Haley: Resignation and future plans

Turkey on Thursday denied a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/americas/us-investigators-working-with-saudis-turkey-on-khashoggis-disappearance-trump-170925">claim by US President Donald Trump </a>that American investigators were collectively working with both Ankara and Riyadh to probe the disappearance of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

"The information that the United States has tasked investigators over the Khashoggi case is not correct," said a Turkish diplomatic source quoted by the state-run Anadolu news agency.&nbsp;

The US President had said earlier that US investigators were working with Saudis and Turkey to find the whereabouts of the missing journalist.

Trump had&nbsp;said "we have investigators over there and we're working with Turkey and frankly we're working with Saudi Arabia".

Senior journalist Khashoggi, 59, who is a strong critic of the Saudi establishment had taken&nbsp;US citizenship after leaving his country and had written several articles against&nbsp;Saudi Arabia's repressive policies&nbsp;for the Washington Post.

The&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-journalist-was-killed-by-15-man-hit-team-that-then-dismembered-his-body-with-bone-saw-nyt-170659">New York Times revealed on Wednesday that&nbsp;</a>a group of 15 men flew down to Turkey in a private jet in order to kill Khashoggi inside the Saudi consulate in Turkey. The Turkish government openly accused Saudi Arabia of colluding to kill the journalist.

Khashoggi had entered the Saudi consulate to submit documents seeking&nbsp;a divorce from his wife living in Saudi Arabia so that he could remarry again in Turkey.

Saudi Arabia has denied any hand in Khashoggi's disappearance asserting that he walked out of the consulate from the back door. However, his fiance, Hatice Cengiz, who accompanied him to the consulate on October 2nd said he never came out of the consulate as she waited outside.&nbsp;

Initially, the Turkey president Erdogan had said the journalist was being held inside the consulate as Saudi Arabia gave Turkish authorities permission to enter the premises and search for him, however, the authorities soon began to reveal through sources that he had, in fact, being killed, as reported by the New York Times article.

Khashoggi's own website on 3rd October had posted a message saying he was arrested at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul but state-run Saudi Press Agency said he had left the building and the consulate was carrying out follow-up procedures and coordinating with the Turkish authorities to "uncover the circumstances" of his disappearance.

Turkey on Thursday denied a claim by US President Donald Trump that American investigators were collectively working with both Ankara and Riyadh to probe the disappearance of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

Turkey on Thursday denied a claim by US President Donald Trump that American investigators were collectively working with both Ankara and Riyadh to probe the disappearance of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. "The information that the United States has tasked investigators over the Khashoggi case is not correct," said a Turkish diplomatic source quoted by the state-run Anadolu news agency. The US President had said earlier that US investigators were working with Saudis and Turkey to find the whereabouts of the missing journalist. Trump had said "we have investigators over there and we're working with Turkey and frankly we're working with Saudi Arabia". Senior journalist Khashoggi, 59, who is a strong critic of the Saudi establishment had taken US citizenship after leaving his country and had written several articles against Saudi Arabia's repressive policies for the Washington Post. The New York Times revealed on Wednesday that a group of 15 men flew down to Turkey in a private jet in order to kill Khashoggi inside the Saudi consulate in Turkey. The Turkish government openly accused Saudi Arabia of colluding to kill the journalist. Khashoggi had entered the Saudi consulate to submit documents seeking a divorce from his wife living in Saudi Arabia so that he could remarry again in Turkey. Saudi Arabia has denied any hand in Khashoggi's disappearance asserting that he walked out of the consulate from the back door. However, his fiance, Hatice Cengiz, who accompanied him to the consulate on October 2nd said he never came out of the consulate as she waited outside. Initially, the Turkey president Erdogan had said the journalist was being held inside the consulate as Saudi Arabia gave Turkish authorities permission to enter the premises and search for him, however, the authorities soon began to reveal through sources that he had, in fact, being killed, as reported by the New York Times article. Khashoggi's own website on 3rd October had posted a message saying he was arrested at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul but state-run Saudi Press Agency said he had left the building and the consulate was carrying out follow-up procedures and coordinating with the Turkish authorities to "uncover the circumstances" of his disappearance.

Turkey denies Trump's claim of US investigators working on Khashoggi's case

Chinese stock markets plunged to their lowest levels in four years on Thursday following a global rout.

The benchmark Shanghai Composite Index dropped 5.22 per cent, or 142.38 points, to 2,583.46, marking the lowest level since November 2014.&nbsp;

The Shenzhen Composite Index, which tracks stocks on China's second exchange, plummeted 6.45 per cent, or 89.15 points, to 1,293.90, the lowest point since September 2014.

European markets

Europe's main stock markets slid by around 1.5 per cent at the start of trading on Thursday following heavier falls across Asia and on Wall Street.

London's benchmark FTSE 100 index slumped 1.4 per cent to 7,049.31 points compared with Wednesday's closing level.

In the eurozone, Frankfurt's DAX 30 dropped 1.3 per cent to 11,558.98 points and the Paris CAC 40 shed 1.5 per cent to 5,128.22 points.

Trump's 'Fed is crazy' remark

The steep drop in Asia followed Wednesday's plunge in New York, with the Dow Jones dropping nearly 830 points -- the biggest fall since February -- after Trump's latest criticism of the Federal Reserve.

"I think the Fed is making a mistake," Trump told reporters as he arrived for a campaign rally ahead of the US mid-term elections.

Chinese stock markets plunged to their lowest levels in four years on Thursday following a global rout. The benchmark Shanghai Composite Index dropped 5.22 per cent, or 142.

Chinese stock markets plunged to their lowest levels in four years on Thursday following a global rout. The benchmark Shanghai Composite Index dropped 5.22 per cent, or 142.38 points, to 2,583.46, marking the lowest level since November 2014. The Shenzhen Composite Index, which tracks stocks on China's second exchange, plummeted 6.45 per cent, or 89.15 points, to 1,293.90, the lowest point since September 2014. European markets Europe's main stock markets slid by around 1.5 per cent at the start of trading on Thursday following heavier falls across Asia and on Wall Street. London's benchmark FTSE 100 index slumped 1.4 per cent to 7,049.31 points compared with Wednesday's closing level. In the eurozone, Frankfurt's DAX 30 dropped 1.3 per cent to 11,558.98 points and the Paris CAC 40 shed 1.5 per cent to 5,128.22 points. Trump's 'Fed is crazy' remark The steep drop in Asia followed Wednesday's plunge in New York, with the Dow Jones dropping nearly 830 points -- the biggest fall since February -- after Trump's latest criticism of the Federal Reserve. "I think the Fed is making a mistake," Trump told reporters as he arrived for a campaign rally ahead of the US mid-term elections.

Chinese stocks sink to lowest levels since 2014

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/full-blown-us-china-trade-war-will-slow-global-growth-by-less-than-1-imf-170313">Full-blown US-China trade war will slow global growth by less than 1%: IMF</a>

An all-out trade war would slow the growth of the global economy, but not stop its expansion, with the United States and China also escaping a recession, according to forecasts published Tuesday by the International Monetary Fund.

In its latest World Economic Outlook report, the IMF conducted a series of calculations of the impact from the trade tariffs that the administration of US President Donald Trump has already implemented and has threatened to impose, as well as reprisals from China and other nations.

Yet, even in its worst-case scenario, the IMF found that the disruption won't kill off growth and drag the global economy into recession.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/alphabet-to-shut-google-social-site-after-user-data-exposed-170306">Google+ to shut down after data of at least 500,000 users exposed</a>

Alphabet Inc's Google will shut down the consumer version of its failed social network Google+ and tighten its data sharing policies after announcing on Monday that private profile data of at least 500,000 users may have been exposed to hundreds of external developers.

The issue was discovered and patched in March as part of a review of how Google shares data with other applications, Google said in a blog post. No developer exploited the vulnerability or misused data, the review found.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/kavanaugh-seeks-new-tone-after-supreme-court-fight-trump-apologises-for-process-170304">Trump apologises to Kavanaugh, says he is innocent of sexual assault charges</a>

US Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh sought to put a bruising confirmation battle behind him on Monday at a White House ceremony in which President Donald Trump declared him innocent of sexual misconduct and apologised for the heated process.

"On behalf of our nation, I want to apologise to Brett and the entire Kavanaugh family for the terrible pain and suffering you have been forced to endure," Trump said at the start of a ceremonial swearing-in in the East Room of the White House.

"Those who step forward to serve our country deserve a fair and dignified evaluation, not a campaign of political and personal destruction based on lies and deception," he said.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/jeremy-lalrinnunga-claims-indias-first-youth-olympics-gold-170318">Jeremy Lalrinnunga wins India's first Youth Olympics gold</a>

Weightlifter Jeremy Lalrinnunga notched up India's maiden gold medal at the Youth Olympics, claiming the top honours in the men's 62 kg category here.&nbsp;

The 15-year-old from Aizwal, who is also a world youth silver-medallist, lifted a total of 274 kg (124 kg +150 kg) to finish on top in the Argentine capital on Monday night.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-he-likes-taylor-swifts-music-about-25-less-after-she-endorses-democrats-170321">Trump says he likes Taylor Swift's music 'about 25% less' after she endorses Democrats</a>

US President Donald Trump has said he likes Taylor Swift's music "about 25 per cent less" after the pop superstar endorsed the Democrats running for office in Tennessee in the upcoming US midterm elections.&nbsp;Tennessee is Swift's home state.&nbsp;

Swift backed Phil Bredesen and Jim Cooper, who are running for the Senate and the House of Representatives. She also launched a fierce attack on Bredesen's opponent, the Republican Marsha Blackburn, who currently serves in the House.

Swift made her comments on Sunday on Instagram.&nbsp;

Full-blown US-China trade war will slow global growth by less than 1%: IMF An all-out trade war would slow the growth of the global economy, but not stop its expansion, with the United States and China also escaping a recession, according to forecasts published Tuesday by the International Monetary Fund.

Full-blown US-China trade war will slow global growth by less than 1%: IMF An all-out trade war would slow the growth of the global economy, but not stop its expansion, with the United States and China also escaping a recession, according to forecasts published Tuesday by the International Monetary Fund. In its latest World Economic Outlook report, the IMF conducted a series of calculations of the impact from the trade tariffs that the administration of US President Donald Trump has already implemented and has threatened to impose, as well as reprisals from China and other nations. Yet, even in its worst-case scenario, the IMF found that the disruption won't kill off growth and drag the global economy into recession. Google+ to shut down after data of at least 500,000 users exposed Alphabet Inc's Google will shut down the consumer version of its failed social network Google+ and tighten its data sharing policies after announcing on Monday that private profile data of at least 500,000 users may have been exposed to hundreds of external developers. The issue was discovered and patched in March as part of a review of how Google shares data with other applications, Google said in a blog post. No developer exploited the vulnerability or misused data, the review found. Trump apologises to Kavanaugh, says he is innocent of sexual assault charges US Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh sought to put a bruising confirmation battle behind him on Monday at a White House ceremony in which President Donald Trump declared him innocent of sexual misconduct and apologised for the heated process. "On behalf of our nation, I want to apologise to Brett and the entire Kavanaugh family for the terrible pain and suffering you have been forced to endure," Trump said at the start of a ceremonial swearing-in in the East Room of the White House. "Those who step forward to serve our country deserve a fair and dignified evaluation, not a campaign of political and personal destruction based on lies and deception," he said. Jeremy Lalrinnunga wins India's first Youth Olympics gold Weightlifter Jeremy Lalrinnunga notched up India's maiden gold medal at the Youth Olympics, claiming the top honours in the men's 62 kg category here. The 15-year-old from Aizwal, who is also a world youth silver-medallist, lifted a total of 274 kg (124 kg +150 kg) to finish on top in the Argentine capital on Monday night. Trump says he likes Taylor Swift's music 'about 25% less' after she endorses Democrats US President Donald Trump has said he likes Taylor Swift's music "about 25 per cent less" after the pop superstar endorsed the Democrats running for office in Tennessee in the upcoming US midterm elections. Tennessee is Swift's home state. Swift backed Phil Bredesen and Jim Cooper, who are running for the Senate and the House of Representatives. She also launched a fierce attack on Bredesen's opponent, the Republican Marsha Blackburn, who currently serves in the House. Swift made her comments on Sunday on Instagram.

News brief: Big stories of the day

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said he hoped to accelerate a second summit between Kim Jong Un and Donald Trump as he kicked off an Asian trip Saturday featuring a meeting with North Korea's leader.

Pompeo arrived in Tokyo on the first leg of a tour that will take him to Pyongyang for a fourth time as the contours of a possibly historic US-North Korea deal take shape.

Speaking on the plane on the way from the United States, Pompeo said his aim was to "develop sufficient trust" between the historic foes to inch towards peace.

"Then we are also going to set up the next summit," said Pompeo.

However, he played down expectations for a major breakthrough, saying: "I doubt we will get it nailed but begin to develop options for both location and timing for when Chairman Kim will meet with the president again."

"Maybe we will get further than that."

In June, Trump met Kim in Singapore in the first-ever summit between the countries. 
No sitting US president has visited North Korea, which according to human rights groups remains one of the most repressive countries on Earth.

Since the Singapore summit, which yielded what critics charge was a vague commitment by Kim towards denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula, the road towards better ties has been bumpy.

Trump scrapped a previously planned trip by his top diplomat to Pyongyang after what he said was insufficient progress towards implementing the terms of the Singapore declaration.

But the unorthodox US president has also declared himself "in love" with the strongman in Pyongyang.

Pompeo has repeatedly declined to be drawn out publicly on the shape of an eventual agreement. The United States has called for a comprehensive accord and strict enforcement of sanctions on North Korea in the meantime.

'Grand bargain'

Pompeo kicks off his trip in Tokyo, holding talks with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Foreign Minister Taro Kono.

Japan, which has seen North Korean missiles fly over its territory and been threatened with annihilation, has historically taken a hard line on Pyongyang and stressed the need to maintain pressure on the regime.

More recently, however, Abe has said the only way to improve strained ties is a face-to-face meeting with former international pariah Kim.

After Tokyo, Pompeo travels to Pyongyang and then on to South Korea, whose dovish president Moon Jae-in has served as a go-between for the two sides.

South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha has given a hint of what a grand bargain between the two countries could look like.

In an interview with the Washington Post, she said the North could agree to dismantle Yongbyon, its signature nuclear site. 
In exchange, the United States would declare a formal end to the 1950-53 Korean War -- which concluded with an armistice rather than a full-blown peace treaty -- but North Korea would stop short of delivering an exhaustive list of its nuclear facilities, she said.

Pompeo refused to be drawn on the outlines of a deal, saying only that his "mission is to make sure that we understand what each side is truly trying to achieve."

After Seoul, Pompeo closes his trip Monday in China, North Korea's political and economic lifeline.

The Beijing stop could be tense as it comes days after Vice President Mike Pence delivered a blistering speech accusing China of military aggression, commercial theft, rising human rights violations and electoral intervention against Trump.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said he hoped to accelerate a second summit between Kim Jong Un and Donald Trump as he kicked off an Asian trip Saturday featuring a meeting with North Korea's leader.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said he hoped to accelerate a second summit between Kim Jong Un and Donald Trump as he kicked off an Asian trip Saturday featuring a meeting with North Korea's leader. Pompeo arrived in Tokyo on the first leg of a tour that will take him to Pyongyang for a fourth time as the contours of a possibly historic US-North Korea deal take shape. Speaking on the plane on the way from the United States, Pompeo said his aim was to "develop sufficient trust" between the historic foes to inch towards peace. "Then we are also going to set up the next summit," said Pompeo. However, he played down expectations for a major breakthrough, saying: "I doubt we will get it nailed but begin to develop options for both location and timing for when Chairman Kim will meet with the president again." "Maybe we will get further than that." In June, Trump met Kim in Singapore in the first-ever summit between the countries. No sitting US president has visited North Korea, which according to human rights groups remains one of the most repressive countries on Earth. Since the Singapore summit, which yielded what critics charge was a vague commitment by Kim towards denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula, the road towards better ties has been bumpy. Trump scrapped a previously planned trip by his top diplomat to Pyongyang after what he said was insufficient progress towards implementing the terms of the Singapore declaration. But the unorthodox US president has also declared himself "in love" with the strongman in Pyongyang. Pompeo has repeatedly declined to be drawn out publicly on the shape of an eventual agreement. The United States has called for a comprehensive accord and strict enforcement of sanctions on North Korea in the meantime. 'Grand bargain' Pompeo kicks off his trip in Tokyo, holding talks with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Foreign Minister Taro Kono. Japan, which has seen North Korean missiles fly over its territory and been threatened with annihilation, has historically taken a hard line on Pyongyang and stressed the need to maintain pressure on the regime. More recently, however, Abe has said the only way to improve strained ties is a face-to-face meeting with former international pariah Kim. After Tokyo, Pompeo travels to Pyongyang and then on to South Korea, whose dovish president Moon Jae-in has served as a go-between for the two sides. South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha has given a hint of what a grand bargain between the two countries could look like. In an interview with the Washington Post, she said the North could agree to dismantle Yongbyon, its signature nuclear site. In exchange, the United States would declare a formal end to the 1950-53 Korean War -- which concluded with an armistice rather than a full-blown peace treaty -- but North Korea would stop short of delivering an exhaustive list of its nuclear facilities, she said. Pompeo refused to be drawn on the outlines of a deal, saying only that his "mission is to make sure that we understand what each side is truly trying to achieve." After Seoul, Pompeo closes his trip Monday in China, North Korea's political and economic lifeline. The Beijing stop could be tense as it comes days after Vice President Mike Pence delivered a blistering speech accusing China of military aggression, commercial theft, rising human rights violations and electoral intervention against Trump.

Pompeo eyes progress over Trump-Kim summit on Asia trip

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/backing-from-senators-puts-kavanaugh-on-track-for-us-supreme-court-169715">Backing from senators puts Trump nominee Brett Kavanaugh on track for US Supreme Court</a>

President Donald Trump's nominee, Brett Kavanaugh, looked headed for a lifetime job on the US Supreme Court on Friday after two crucial senators said that sexual misconduct accusations against the judge would not prevent them from voting to confirm him.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-keep-buying-iranian-oil-despite-us-sanctions-sources-169718">India to keep buying oil from Iran despite US sanctions: Sources</a>

India will buy 9 million barrels of Iranian oil in November, two industry sources said, indicating the world's third-biggest oil importer will continue purchasing crude from the Islamic republic despite US sanctions coming into force on November 4.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/in-divided-un-china-quietly-blazes-path-to-power-169721">In divided UN, China quietly blazes </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/in-divided-un-china-quietly-blazes-path-to-power-169721">path</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/in-divided-un-china-quietly-blazes-path-to-power-169721"> to power</a>

Criticised by the White House for&nbsp;alleged interference in US politics, China has quietly blazed a path at the United Nations where it is, little by little, becoming one of the most influential members.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-economy-booms-as-elections-near-but-who-gets-credit-169720">US economy booms as elections near, but who gets credit?</a>

Forecasts point to solid chances that Democrats could wrest control of the House of Representatives away from Republicans, drastically shifting the political landscape in Washington.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-joint-statement-russia-reaffirms-unwavering-support-to-india-for-unsc-seat-169714">In </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-joint-statement-russia-reaffirms-unwavering-support-to-india-for-unsc-seat-169714">joint</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-joint-statement-russia-reaffirms-unwavering-support-to-india-for-unsc-seat-169714"> statement, Russia reaffirms 'unwavering support' to India for UNSC seat</a>

Russia reaffirmed its "unwavering support" to India for a permanent seat in an expanded UN Security Council as both nations called for reform of the powerful UN organ to better reflect the current world order and make it more effective in dealing with emerging global challenges. 
&nbsp;

Backing from senators puts Trump nominee Brett Kavanaugh on track for US Supreme Court President Donald Trump's nominee, Brett Kavanaugh, looked headed for a lifetime job on the US Supreme Court on Friday after two crucial senators said that sexual misconduct accusations against the judge would not prevent them from voting to confirm him.

Backing from senators puts Trump nominee Brett Kavanaugh on track for US Supreme Court President Donald Trump's nominee, Brett Kavanaugh, looked headed for a lifetime job on the US Supreme Court on Friday after two crucial senators said that sexual misconduct accusations against the judge would not prevent them from voting to confirm him. India to keep buying oil from Iran despite US sanctions: Sources India will buy 9 million barrels of Iranian oil in November, two industry sources said, indicating the world's third-biggest oil importer will continue purchasing crude from the Islamic republic despite US sanctions coming into force on November 4. In divided UN, China quietly blazes path to power Criticised by the White House for alleged interference in US politics, China has quietly blazed a path at the United Nations where it is, little by little, becoming one of the most influential members. US economy booms as elections near, but who gets credit? Forecasts point to solid chances that Democrats could wrest control of the House of Representatives away from Republicans, drastically shifting the political landscape in Washington. In joint statement, Russia reaffirms 'unwavering support' to India for UNSC seat Russia reaffirmed its "unwavering support" to India for a permanent seat in an expanded UN Security Council as both nations called for reform of the powerful UN organ to better reflect the current world order and make it more effective in dealing with emerging global challenges.

Control of the US Congress hangs in the balance in hard-fought midterm elections next month. And, even with a booming economy, the party in power does not have the wind at its back.

The lowest unemployment level in nearly 50 years has also not substantially lifted President Donald Trump's standing in opinion polls, and he remains among the least popular US leaders of the last 70 years.&nbsp;

Forecasts point to solid chances that Democrats could wrest control of the House of Representatives away from Republicans, drastically shifting the political landscape in Washington.

Below are some facts on the recent run of the world's largest economy.

How good is the economy?

Quite. By most measures, it is unusually strong. US Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell said last week the outlook was "remarkably positive." &nbsp;&nbsp;

GDP grew at a 4.2 per cent clip in the second quarter, the strongest in nearly four years and the fastest among advanced economies -- though it was helped by a few one-off factors that are unlikely to be replicated later in the year.

The last time the unemployment rate was this low -- 3.7 per cent -- president Richard Nixon was enacting tax reform and The Beatles were breaking up.&nbsp; 
Inflation is rising only slowly, but enough to eat into wages, which also are growing sluggishly.

Job creation through September has averaged 218,000 net new positions a month so far this year, the fastest rate since 2015.

Consumer and business confidence, as well as measures of services and manufacturing activity, are all at historically high levels.&nbsp;

But the housing sector, which can be a leading indicator in the economic cycle, appears in decline, with building and sales steadily weakening.

Wall Street also has been very happy for much of the past 20 months, repeatedly smashing records.

But economist Jared Bernstein, adviser to former Vice President Joe Biden, notes that prosperity has not been evenly shared.

Corporate after-tax profits rose 14.9 percent in the first six quarters of the Trump era, but mid-level hourly wages gained only 0.5 percent in the same period.

Credit to Trump or Obama ?

Economists caution against attributing economic performance, good or bad, solely to presidents.

Trump has forcefully claimed ownership for the current economy but it was former President Barack Obama who presided over most of the recovery.

"There's no question that there's a mixture of credit involved. President Obama took office during the worst downturn since the Great Depression," Douglas Holtz-Eakin, a Republican former director of the Congressional Budget Office, told AFP.

But Trump has slashed taxes and regulations to energize businesses, Holtz-Eakin said.

Following December's tax cuts and a big spending package enacted in February, the US economy does appear to be growing faster than it did in the prior two years -- for now -- and business investment picked up.

The International Monetary Fund in July forecast US growth of 2.9 per cent for 2018, which would match the expansion in 2015 under Obama.

But as unemployment has fallen and available workers have become scarce, job growth has actually slowed under Trump.

Since January 2017, the economy had added 3.9 million jobs. But in the final 21 months of Obama's presidency, there were 4.5 million net new positions created.

And, since peaking at 10 per cent in October 2009, the US unemployment rate has fallen 6.3 percentage points: 5.3 points of that was under Obama and just one under Trump.

What are the risks?

Predicting recessions is a notoriously difficult task. But economists say dangers to the US economy, and the odds of a downturn, are growing.

The trade war with China, America's largest trading partner, already is causing "chaos" for US electronics manufacturers, according to the Institute for Supply Management, with the hit to US supply chains likely to show up in economic data in the near future.

And there are no negotiations between Washington and Beijing currently scheduled.

As the Fed raises lending rates, there is a growing risk of popping an asset bubble created by years of easy money from the Fed -- and thus wiping out household wealth and tipping the economy into recession.

Economic contagion could also spread from emerging markets as they suffer capital flight, falling currency values and rising debt costs.

Record high global debt is a key risk flagged by the IMF, as it reached an all-time high of $182 trillion -- almost 60 per cent higher than in 2007.

Control of the US Congress hangs in the balance in hard-fought midterm elections next month. And, even with a booming economy, the party in power does not have the wind at its back.

Control of the US Congress hangs in the balance in hard-fought midterm elections next month. And, even with a booming economy, the party in power does not have the wind at its back. The lowest unemployment level in nearly 50 years has also not substantially lifted President Donald Trump's standing in opinion polls, and he remains among the least popular US leaders of the last 70 years. Forecasts point to solid chances that Democrats could wrest control of the House of Representatives away from Republicans, drastically shifting the political landscape in Washington. Below are some facts on the recent run of the world's largest economy. How good is the economy? Quite. By most measures, it is unusually strong. US Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell said last week the outlook was "remarkably positive." GDP grew at a 4.2 per cent clip in the second quarter, the strongest in nearly four years and the fastest among advanced economies -- though it was helped by a few one-off factors that are unlikely to be replicated later in the year. The last time the unemployment rate was this low -- 3.7 per cent -- president Richard Nixon was enacting tax reform and The Beatles were breaking up. Inflation is rising only slowly, but enough to eat into wages, which also are growing sluggishly. Job creation through September has averaged 218,000 net new positions a month so far this year, the fastest rate since 2015. Consumer and business confidence, as well as measures of services and manufacturing activity, are all at historically high levels. But the housing sector, which can be a leading indicator in the economic cycle, appears in decline, with building and sales steadily weakening. Wall Street also has been very happy for much of the past 20 months, repeatedly smashing records. But economist Jared Bernstein, adviser to former Vice President Joe Biden, notes that prosperity has not been evenly shared. Corporate after-tax profits rose 14.9 percent in the first six quarters of the Trump era, but mid-level hourly wages gained only 0.5 percent in the same period. Credit to Trump or Obama ? Economists caution against attributing economic performance, good or bad, solely to presidents. Trump has forcefully claimed ownership for the current economy but it was former President Barack Obama who presided over most of the recovery. "There's no question that there's a mixture of credit involved. President Obama took office during the worst downturn since the Great Depression," Douglas Holtz-Eakin, a Republican former director of the Congressional Budget Office, told AFP. But Trump has slashed taxes and regulations to energize businesses, Holtz-Eakin said. Following December's tax cuts and a big spending package enacted in February, the US economy does appear to be growing faster than it did in the prior two years -- for now -- and business investment picked up. The International Monetary Fund in July forecast US growth of 2.9 per cent for 2018, which would match the expansion in 2015 under Obama. But as unemployment has fallen and available workers have become scarce, job growth has actually slowed under Trump. Since January 2017, the economy had added 3.9 million jobs. But in the final 21 months of Obama's presidency, there were 4.5 million net new positions created. And, since peaking at 10 per cent in October 2009, the US unemployment rate has fallen 6.3 percentage points: 5.3 points of that was under Obama and just one under Trump. What are the risks? Predicting recessions is a notoriously difficult task. But economists say dangers to the US economy, and the odds of a downturn, are growing. The trade war with China, America's largest trading partner, already is causing "chaos" for US electronics manufacturers, according to the Institute for Supply Management, with the hit to US supply chains likely to show up in economic data in the near future. And there are no negotiations between Washington and Beijing currently scheduled. As the Fed raises lending rates, there is a growing risk of popping an asset bubble created by years of easy money from the Fed -- and thus wiping out household wealth and tipping the economy into recession. Economic contagion could also spread from emerging markets as they suffer capital flight, falling currency values and rising debt costs. Record high global debt is a key risk flagged by the IMF, as it reached an all-time high of $182 trillion -- almost 60 per cent higher than in 2007.

US economy booms as elections near, but who gets credit?

The new <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-announces-new-national-strategy-for-counterterrorism-169506">country terrorism strategy unveiled by the Trump administration</a> on Thursday has listed Babbar Khalsa International terrorist group as a "risk to the US personnel and interests overseas".

The National Strategy for Counterterrorism said that Babbar Khalsa International "is responsible for significant terrorist attacks in India and elsewhere that have claimed the lives of innocent civilians".

The group has been associated with the bombing of Air India Flight 182 in 1981 that killed 329 people on the Emperor Kanishka, a Boeing 747 airliner.

Based in Vancouver, the Babbar Khalsa International group was founded by a Canadian citizen.

Pictures of late Talwinder Singh Parmar, the founder of Babbar Khalsa International are displayed at public events in Canada.

Parmar was killed in 1992 during a confrontation with police when he returned to India from Canada.

Canada had earlier refused to extradite Parmar, who was wanted in India in connection with the killing of two Punjab police officers.

Jagmeet Singh, the leader of Canada's New Democratic Party, the third largest in Canada's House of Commons, has admitted Parmar's role in the terrorist attack.

A day before the National Strategy for Counter-terrorism also listed Pakistan-based terrorist outfits the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/trumps-counter-terrorism-strategy-identifies-let-ttp-as-potential-threat-to-us-169575">Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan </a>(TTP) among radical Islamist groups.

In addition to the ISIS and al-Qaeda, dozens of other radical Islamist terrorist groups are working to advance more locally focused insurgent or terrorist campaigns, while still posing a threat to United States persons and interests overseas, said the strategy.

About groups like the Babbar Khalsa International, it said they "may avoid or deprioritise targeting US interests for now to avoid detracting from their core goals but frequently conduct assassinations and bombings against major economic, political, and social targets, heightening the risk to United States personnel and interests overseas".

(With inputs from agencies)

The new country terrorism strategy unveiled by the Trump administration on Thursday has listed Babbar Khalsa International terrorist group as a "risk to the US personnel and interests overseas".

The new country terrorism strategy unveiled by the Trump administration on Thursday has listed Babbar Khalsa International terrorist group as a "risk to the US personnel and interests overseas". The National Strategy for Counterterrorism said that Babbar Khalsa International "is responsible for significant terrorist attacks in India and elsewhere that have claimed the lives of innocent civilians". The group has been associated with the bombing of Air India Flight 182 in 1981 that killed 329 people on the Emperor Kanishka, a Boeing 747 airliner. Based in Vancouver, the Babbar Khalsa International group was founded by a Canadian citizen. Pictures of late Talwinder Singh Parmar, the founder of Babbar Khalsa International are displayed at public events in Canada. Parmar was killed in 1992 during a confrontation with police when he returned to India from Canada. Canada had earlier refused to extradite Parmar, who was wanted in India in connection with the killing of two Punjab police officers. Jagmeet Singh, the leader of Canada's New Democratic Party, the third largest in Canada's House of Commons, has admitted Parmar's role in the terrorist attack. A day before the National Strategy for Counter-terrorism also listed Pakistan-based terrorist outfits the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) among radical Islamist groups. In addition to the ISIS and al-Qaeda, dozens of other radical Islamist terrorist groups are working to advance more locally focused insurgent or terrorist campaigns, while still posing a threat to United States persons and interests overseas, said the strategy. About groups like the Babbar Khalsa International, it said they "may avoid or deprioritise targeting US interests for now to avoid detracting from their core goals but frequently conduct assassinations and bombings against major economic, political, and social targets, heightening the risk to United States personnel and interests overseas". (With inputs from agencies)

Trump's terror strategy declares Babbar Khalsa International 'risk to US personnel and interests overseas'

Pakistan-based terrorist outfits -- the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) -- are among radical Islamist groups identified as a potential threat to the US in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-announces-new-national-strategy-for-counterterrorism-169506">Trump administration's new counterterrorism strategy</a>.&nbsp;

In addition to the ISIS and al-Qaeda, dozens of other radical Islamist terrorist groups are working to advance more locally focused insurgent or terrorist campaigns, while still posing a threat to United States persons and interests overseas, said the National Strategy for Counter-terrorism released by the White House on Thursday.&nbsp;

"These groups, including Boko Haram, Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan and the Lashkar-e Taiba, employ a range of political and terrorist tactics to undermine local governments and conduct attacks," it said.

The LeT is responsible for carrying out the 2008 Mumbai attack that killed 166 people. It has been declared as a foreign terrorist organisation by the US in June 2014.&nbsp;

According to the strategy, these organisations will probably prioritise regional goals over attacks against the homeland or United States interests because of resource constraints or political considerations.&nbsp;

"However, many of these groups are hostile to the United States, maintain networks of sympathisers around the world, and retain ties to the ISIS or al-Qaeda, underscoring their potential threat to United States interests," said the strategy, according to which radical Islamist terrorists remain the primary transnational terrorist threat to the US and its vital national interests.&nbsp;

Prominent terrorist organisations, particularly the ISIS and al-Qaeda, have repeatedly demonstrated the intent and capability to attack the homeland and United States interests and continue to plot new attacks and inspire susceptible people to commit acts of violence inside the United States, it said.

"These groups stoke and exploit weak governance, conflict, instability, and longstanding political and religious grievances to pursue their goal of eliminating Western influence in majority Muslim countries and remaking Islamic society," the strategy said.

Radical Islamist terrorist groups have developed and used methods that have challenged the US counterterrorism efforts, including establishing state-like governing institutions within their safe havens, deploying sophisticated explosive devices to defeat aviation security measures, and using high-quality media products to recruit extremists in the West, it said.&nbsp;

Future radical Islamist terrorists and other terrorists will continually adapt these and other tactics to their circumstances and the technological advances of the age.&nbsp;

"It is, therefore, critical that the United States counterterrorism posture be agile enough to adapt as well," said the strategy.&nbsp;

Radical Islamist terrorists have a violent extremist ideology that serves to create a common identity and sense of purpose for those susceptible to its core message, it alleged.&nbsp;

"This vile ideology is used to indoctrinate new recruits to accept terrorist groups' goals and directives without question, and also allows these groups to maintain cohesion, ensure conformity, and justify the use of violence to meet the ideology's goals.&nbsp;

"It avails terrorists of a worldview that helps unify their efforts by fomenting conflict and attempts to legitimize terrorism by elevating the social status of group members and absolving individuals from culpability for their participation in violence," it said.

The ISIS, the strategy, said remains the foremost radical Islamist terrorist group and the primary transnational terrorist threat to the US, despite ongoing us and coalition civilian and military efforts that have diminished the group's footprint in Iraq and Syria, killed thousands of its members, and curtailed its global expansion.

"The ISIS retains the financial and material resources and expertise to launch external attacks&nbsp;including against United States interests and its senior leaders continue to call for attacks against the United States," it said.

Meanwhile, al-Qaeda's global network remains resilient and poses an enduring threat to the homeland and United States interests around the world, the strategy said.&nbsp;

Consistent&nbsp;United States-led counterterrorism pressure has removed many of its senior leaders and reduced the group's ability to operate in South Asia, but its affiliates continue to plan and carry out terrorist attacks against the United States and our allies, as well as raise funds from individual supporters through the international financial system, it said.&nbsp;

"Affiliate resources are primarily focused on local and regional conflicts, but key operatives and elements within the network continue to seek out new opportunities to strike the homeland and United States interests and to inspire attacks inside the United States.&nbsp;

"Veteran al-Qaeda leaders are working to consolidate and expand the group's presence in several regions, including in Syria, from which it aspires to launch new attacks against the United States and our allies," said the strategy.&nbsp;

Pakistan-based terrorist outfits -- the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) -- are among radical Islamist groups identified as a potential threat to the US in the Trump administration's new counterterrorism strategy.

Pakistan-based terrorist outfits -- the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) -- are among radical Islamist groups identified as a potential threat to the US in the Trump administration's new counterterrorism strategy. In addition to the ISIS and al-Qaeda, dozens of other radical Islamist terrorist groups are working to advance more locally focused insurgent or terrorist campaigns, while still posing a threat to United States persons and interests overseas, said the National Strategy for Counter-terrorism released by the White House on Thursday. "These groups, including Boko Haram, Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan and the Lashkar-e Taiba, employ a range of political and terrorist tactics to undermine local governments and conduct attacks," it said. The LeT is responsible for carrying out the 2008 Mumbai attack that killed 166 people. It has been declared as a foreign terrorist organisation by the US in June 2014. According to the strategy, these organisations will probably prioritise regional goals over attacks against the homeland or United States interests because of resource constraints or political considerations. "However, many of these groups are hostile to the United States, maintain networks of sympathisers around the world, and retain ties to the ISIS or al-Qaeda, underscoring their potential threat to United States interests," said the strategy, according to which radical Islamist terrorists remain the primary transnational terrorist threat to the US and its vital national interests. Prominent terrorist organisations, particularly the ISIS and al-Qaeda, have repeatedly demonstrated the intent and capability to attack the homeland and United States interests and continue to plot new attacks and inspire susceptible people to commit acts of violence inside the United States, it said. "These groups stoke and exploit weak governance, conflict, instability, and longstanding political and religious grievances to pursue their goal of eliminating Western influence in majority Muslim countries and remaking Islamic society," the strategy said. Radical Islamist terrorist groups have developed and used methods that have challenged the US counterterrorism efforts, including establishing state-like governing institutions within their safe havens, deploying sophisticated explosive devices to defeat aviation security measures, and using high-quality media products to recruit extremists in the West, it said. Future radical Islamist terrorists and other terrorists will continually adapt these and other tactics to their circumstances and the technological advances of the age. "It is, therefore, critical that the United States counterterrorism posture be agile enough to adapt as well," said the strategy. Radical Islamist terrorists have a violent extremist ideology that serves to create a common identity and sense of purpose for those susceptible to its core message, it alleged. "This vile ideology is used to indoctrinate new recruits to accept terrorist groups' goals and directives without question, and also allows these groups to maintain cohesion, ensure conformity, and justify the use of violence to meet the ideology's goals. "It avails terrorists of a worldview that helps unify their efforts by fomenting conflict and attempts to legitimize terrorism by elevating the social status of group members and absolving individuals from culpability for their participation in violence," it said. The ISIS, the strategy, said remains the foremost radical Islamist terrorist group and the primary transnational terrorist threat to the US, despite ongoing us and coalition civilian and military efforts that have diminished the group's footprint in Iraq and Syria, killed thousands of its members, and curtailed its global expansion. "The ISIS retains the financial and material resources and expertise to launch external attacks including against United States interests and its senior leaders continue to call for attacks against the United States," it said. Meanwhile, al-Qaeda's global network remains resilient and poses an enduring threat to the homeland and United States interests around the world, the strategy said. Consistent United States-led counterterrorism pressure has removed many of its senior leaders and reduced the group's ability to operate in South Asia, but its affiliates continue to plan and carry out terrorist attacks against the United States and our allies, as well as raise funds from individual supporters through the international financial system, it said. "Affiliate resources are primarily focused on local and regional conflicts, but key operatives and elements within the network continue to seek out new opportunities to strike the homeland and United States interests and to inspire attacks inside the United States. "Veteran al-Qaeda leaders are working to consolidate and expand the group's presence in several regions, including in Syria, from which it aspires to launch new attacks against the United States and our allies," said the strategy.

Trump's counter terrorism strategy identifies LeT, TTP as potential threat to United States

President Donald Trump's fellow Republicans gained confidence on Thursday that his US Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh would win Senate confirmation after two wavering lawmakers <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-probe-does-not-support-kavanaugh-assault-claims-senate-judiciary-chairman-169489">responded positively to an FBI report</a> on accusations of sexual misconduct against the judge.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/kavanaugh-would-win-senate-confirmation-once-fbi-finishes-probe-trump-169066">Kavanaugh would win Senate confirmation once FBI finishes probe: Trump</a>

The report, sent by the White House to the Senate Judiciary Committee in the middle of the night, was denounced by Democrats as a whitewash that was too narrow in scope and ignored critical witnesses.

Thousands of anti-Kavanaugh protesters rallied outside the Supreme Court and entered a Senate office building, holding signs such as "Believe Survivors" and "Kava-Nope." Hundreds of demonstrators were arrested including actress Amy Schumer.&nbsp;

But Republicans moved forward with plans for a key procedural vote on Friday and a final vote on Saturday on confirming the conservative federal appeals judge for a lifetime job on the top US court.

Comments by two crucial Republican senators - Jeff Flake and Susan Collins - indicated the FBI report, which was the latest twist in the pitched political battle over Kavanaugh, may have allayed their concerns about him. Flake, a frequent Trump critic, was instrumental in getting the president to order the FBI investigation last Friday.

Trump, himself accused by numerous women during the 2016 presidential race of sexual misconduct, wrote on Twitter that the FBI report showed that the allegations against Kavanaugh were "totally uncorroborated."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-hearing-kavanaugh-accuser-100-cent-certain-he-assaulted-her-168053">'100 per cent' certain he assaulted me, says Brett Kavanaugh accuser in US Senate hearing</a>

Collins said the FBI investigation appeared to be thorough. Flake said he saw no additional corroborating information against Kavanaugh, although he was "still reading" it. Another undecided Republican, Senator Lisa Murkowski, did not offer her view on the FBI report.

Republicans control the Senate by a 51-49 margin. If all the Democrats oppose Kavanaugh, Trump cannot afford to lose the support of more than one Republican for his nominee, with Vice President Mike Pence casting a tiebreaking vote. No Republicans have said they will vote against Kavanaugh. 
While the comments by Flake and Collins were positive, neither explicitly announced support for Kavanaugh.&nbsp;

A previously undecided Democratic Senator, Heidi Heitkamp, said she would vote against Kavanaugh, citing "concerns about his past conduct" and questions about his "temperament, honesty and impartiality" after his angry, defiant testimony a week ago to the Senate Judiciary Committee.

Senator Joe Manchin, the only remaining undecided Democrat, said he would finish reading the report on Friday morning.

Democratic Senator Dianne Feinstein noted that the FBI did not interview Kavanaugh himself or Christine Blasey Ford, a university professor from California who has accused Kavanaugh of sexual assault in 1982.

"It smacks of a whitewash," Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal told reporters, saying the report should not give political cover for Republicans to vote for Kavanaugh because "it is blatantly incomplete."

Most Democrats opposed Trump's nomination of Kavanaugh from the outset. If confirmed, he would deepen conservative control of the court. The sharply partisan battle became an intense political drama when Ford and two other women emerged to accuse Kavanaugh of sexual misconduct in the 1980s when he was in high school and college. Kavanaugh has denied the accusations.

The Kavanaugh fight has riveted Americans weeks before November 6 elections in which Democrats are trying to take control of Congress from the Republicans.&nbsp;

Kavanaugh's nomination has become a flashpoint in the #MeToo movement against sexual harassment and assault. The nomination battle boiled down to a "he said, she said" conflict requiring senators to decide between diametrically opposed accounts offered by Kavanaugh and Ford.

Trump on Tuesday mocked Ford during a political rally in Mississippi.

On Thursday afternoon, retired Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens told a small gathering in Boca Raton, Florida that Kavanaugh should not be confirmed, according to the Palm Beach Post.

Stevens, an appointee of Republican President Gerald Ford who often sided with liberal justices on key rulings, told a group of retirees that he initially thought Kavanaugh was qualified, but that "his performance at the hearings ultimately changed my mind."&nbsp;

Behind closed doors

The FBI report was not released to the public. Senators were allowed to read it behind closed doors in a secure location in the Capitol, without taking notes or making copies.

A senior Senate Republican aide said there was growing confidence that Collins, Flake and Manchin - all swing votes - would support Kavanaugh. If so, that could be enough for a Trump victory.&nbsp;

White House spokesman Raj Shah said the Trump administration was "fully confident" Kavanaugh had the necessary support.

"I feel pretty good about where we are," added Senator John Thune, a member of Senate Republican leadership.

Some protesters, many dressed in black, crowded into the Hart Senate Office Building after rallying in front of the Supreme Court on a sunny, warm autumn day.

"I'm sick and tired of seeing women's experiences not be given weight," demonstrator Christine Zagrobelny, 29, a software engineer from New York City, said outside the Supreme Court.

Republican leaders sounded unmoved.

"When the noise fades, when the uncorroborated mud washes away, what`s left is the distinguished nominee who stands before us," Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said on the Senate floor.

Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley said after receiving a staff briefing on the report, "There`s nothing in it that we didn`t already know."

"These uncorroborated accusations have been unequivocally and repeatedly rejected by Judge Kavanaugh, and neither the Judiciary Committee nor the FBI could locate any third parties who can attest to any of the allegations," Grassley added.

White House spokesman Shah told CNN the FBI reached out to 10 people and "comprehensively interviewed" nine of them.

"The White House didn`t micromanage the FBI," he said.

In a letter to FBI Director Christopher Wray, Ford`s lawyers noted that the agency declined to interview Ford or any of more than a dozen people they identified to provide relevant information, calling the five-day investigation "a stain on the process, on the FBI and on our American ideal of justice."

Ford testified last week at a dramatic Judiciary Committee hearing that when she was 15, a drunken 17-year-old Kavanaugh pinned her down, tried to remove her clothing and covered her mouth after she screamed. Kavanaugh denied the allegation and painted himself as the victim of a "political hit."

Attorneys for Deborah Ramirez, who has said Kavanaugh exposed himself to her when they were students at Yale University, wrote a separate letter to Wray expressing disappointment that FBI agents had not followed up on their interview with her by talking to more than 20 witnesses she identified as being able to corroborate her account.

President Donald Trump's fellow Republicans gained confidence on Thursday that his US Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh would win Senate confirmation after two wavering lawmakers responded positively to an FBI report on accusations of sexual misconduct against the judge.

President Donald Trump's fellow Republicans gained confidence on Thursday that his US Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh would win Senate confirmation after two wavering lawmakers responded positively to an FBI report on accusations of sexual misconduct against the judge. Also read: Kavanaugh would win Senate confirmation once FBI finishes probe: Trump The report, sent by the White House to the Senate Judiciary Committee in the middle of the night, was denounced by Democrats as a whitewash that was too narrow in scope and ignored critical witnesses. Thousands of anti-Kavanaugh protesters rallied outside the Supreme Court and entered a Senate office building, holding signs such as "Believe Survivors" and "Kava-Nope." Hundreds of demonstrators were arrested including actress Amy Schumer. But Republicans moved forward with plans for a key procedural vote on Friday and a final vote on Saturday on confirming the conservative federal appeals judge for a lifetime job on the top US court. Comments by two crucial Republican senators - Jeff Flake and Susan Collins - indicated the FBI report, which was the latest twist in the pitched political battle over Kavanaugh, may have allayed their concerns about him. Flake, a frequent Trump critic, was instrumental in getting the president to order the FBI investigation last Friday. Trump, himself accused by numerous women during the 2016 presidential race of sexual misconduct, wrote on Twitter that the FBI report showed that the allegations against Kavanaugh were "totally uncorroborated." Also read: '100 per cent' certain he assaulted me, says Brett Kavanaugh accuser in US Senate hearing Collins said the FBI investigation appeared to be thorough. Flake said he saw no additional corroborating information against Kavanaugh, although he was "still reading" it. Another undecided Republican, Senator Lisa Murkowski, did not offer her view on the FBI report. Republicans control the Senate by a 51-49 margin. If all the Democrats oppose Kavanaugh, Trump cannot afford to lose the support of more than one Republican for his nominee, with Vice President Mike Pence casting a tiebreaking vote. No Republicans have said they will vote against Kavanaugh. While the comments by Flake and Collins were positive, neither explicitly announced support for Kavanaugh. A previously undecided Democratic Senator, Heidi Heitkamp, said she would vote against Kavanaugh, citing "concerns about his past conduct" and questions about his "temperament, honesty and impartiality" after his angry, defiant testimony a week ago to the Senate Judiciary Committee. Senator Joe Manchin, the only remaining undecided Democrat, said he would finish reading the report on Friday morning. Democratic Senator Dianne Feinstein noted that the FBI did not interview Kavanaugh himself or Christine Blasey Ford, a university professor from California who has accused Kavanaugh of sexual assault in 1982. "It smacks of a whitewash," Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal told reporters, saying the report should not give political cover for Republicans to vote for Kavanaugh because "it is blatantly incomplete." Most Democrats opposed Trump's nomination of Kavanaugh from the outset. If confirmed, he would deepen conservative control of the court. The sharply partisan battle became an intense political drama when Ford and two other women emerged to accuse Kavanaugh of sexual misconduct in the 1980s when he was in high school and college. Kavanaugh has denied the accusations. The Kavanaugh fight has riveted Americans weeks before November 6 elections in which Democrats are trying to take control of Congress from the Republicans. Kavanaugh's nomination has become a flashpoint in the #MeToo movement against sexual harassment and assault. The nomination battle boiled down to a "he said, she said" conflict requiring senators to decide between diametrically opposed accounts offered by Kavanaugh and Ford. Trump on Tuesday mocked Ford during a political rally in Mississippi. On Thursday afternoon, retired Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens told a small gathering in Boca Raton, Florida that Kavanaugh should not be confirmed, according to the Palm Beach Post. Stevens, an appointee of Republican President Gerald Ford who often sided with liberal justices on key rulings, told a group of retirees that he initially thought Kavanaugh was qualified, but that "his performance at the hearings ultimately changed my mind." Behind closed doors The FBI report was not released to the public. Senators were allowed to read it behind closed doors in a secure location in the Capitol, without taking notes or making copies. A senior Senate Republican aide said there was growing confidence that Collins, Flake and Manchin - all swing votes - would support Kavanaugh. If so, that could be enough for a Trump victory. White House spokesman Raj Shah said the Trump administration was "fully confident" Kavanaugh had the necessary support. "I feel pretty good about where we are," added Senator John Thune, a member of Senate Republican leadership. Some protesters, many dressed in black, crowded into the Hart Senate Office Building after rallying in front of the Supreme Court on a sunny, warm autumn day. "I'm sick and tired of seeing women's experiences not be given weight," demonstrator Christine Zagrobelny, 29, a software engineer from New York City, said outside the Supreme Court. Republican leaders sounded unmoved. "When the noise fades, when the uncorroborated mud washes away, what`s left is the distinguished nominee who stands before us," Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said on the Senate floor. Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley said after receiving a staff briefing on the report, "There`s nothing in it that we didn`t already know." "These uncorroborated accusations have been unequivocally and repeatedly rejected by Judge Kavanaugh, and neither the Judiciary Committee nor the FBI could locate any third parties who can attest to any of the allegations," Grassley added. White House spokesman Shah told CNN the FBI reached out to 10 people and "comprehensively interviewed" nine of them. "The White House didn`t micromanage the FBI," he said. In a letter to FBI Director Christopher Wray, Ford`s lawyers noted that the agency declined to interview Ford or any of more than a dozen people they identified to provide relevant information, calling the five-day investigation "a stain on the process, on the FBI and on our American ideal of justice." Ford testified last week at a dramatic Judiciary Committee hearing that when she was 15, a drunken 17-year-old Kavanaugh pinned her down, tried to remove her clothing and covered her mouth after she screamed. Kavanaugh denied the allegation and painted himself as the victim of a "political hit." Attorneys for Deborah Ramirez, who has said Kavanaugh exposed himself to her when they were students at Yale University, wrote a separate letter to Wray expressing disappointment that FBI agents had not followed up on their interview with her by talking to more than 20 witnesses she identified as being able to corroborate her account.

Republicans aim to confirm Brett Kavanaugh this weekend; protesters arrested

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/republicans-aim-to-confirm-kavanaugh-this-weekend-protesters-arrested-169504">Republicans aim to confirm Trump's Supreme Court nominee Kavanaugh this weekend; protesters arrested</a>

President Donald Trump's fellow Republicans gained confidence on Thursday that his US Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh would win Senate confirmation after two wavering lawmakers&nbsp;responded positively to an FBI report&nbsp;on accusations of sexual misconduct against the judge.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/going-extra-length-to-find-substitute-for-iranian-oil-for-countries-like-india-white-house-169509">Going extra length to find </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/going-extra-length-to-find-substitute-for-iranian-oil-for-countries-like-india-white-house-169509">substitute</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/going-extra-length-to-find-substitute-for-iranian-oil-for-countries-like-india-white-house-169509"> for Iranian oil for countries like India: US</a>

The White House on Thursday said that it's&nbsp;going extra length for countries like India and Iraq to find substitute for Iranian oil.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-pushes-pakistan-for-an-effective-campaign-against-terrorist-169513">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-pushes-pakistan-for-an-effective-campaign-against-terrorist-169513"> pushes Pakistan for an effective campaign against terrorists</a>

The Trump Administration in its meetings with Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi this week talked about the suspension of security assistance since early this year and the importance that they place on them renewing an effective campaign against terrorists, the White House said.&nbsp;​

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-announces-new-national-strategy-for-counterterrorism-169506">Trump announces new National Strategy for Counterterrorism​​​​​​</a>

US President Donald Trump unveiled a new counter-terrorism strategy which issues a tough warning to terrorist groups and their supporters that the United States will defeat its enemies with the full force of American might.​

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/nike-concerned-about-ronaldo-rape-claims-169517">Nike 'concerned' about Ronaldo rape claims</a>

Sportswear maker Nike Inc and video game maker Electronic Arts Inc (EA) said on Thursday they were concerned about rape allegations against Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the world's best football players.

&nbsp;

Republicans aim to confirm Trump's Supreme Court nominee Kavanaugh this weekend; protesters arrested President Donald Trump's fellow Republicans gained confidence on Thursday that his US Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh would win Senate confirmation after two wavering lawmakers responded positively to an FBI report on accusations of sexual misconduct against the judge.

Republicans aim to confirm Trump's Supreme Court nominee Kavanaugh this weekend; protesters arrested President Donald Trump's fellow Republicans gained confidence on Thursday that his US Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh would win Senate confirmation after two wavering lawmakers responded positively to an FBI report on accusations of sexual misconduct against the judge. Going extra length to find substitute for Iranian oil for countries like India: US The White House on Thursday said that it's going extra length for countries like India and Iraq to find substitute for Iranian oil. US pushes Pakistan for an effective campaign against terrorists The Trump Administration in its meetings with Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi this week talked about the suspension of security assistance since early this year and the importance that they place on them renewing an effective campaign against terrorists, the White House said. Trump announces new National Strategy for Counterterrorism US President Donald Trump unveiled a new counter-terrorism strategy which issues a tough warning to terrorist groups and their supporters that the United States will defeat its enemies with the full force of American might. Nike 'concerned' about Ronaldo rape claims Sportswear maker Nike Inc and video game maker Electronic Arts Inc (EA) said on Thursday they were concerned about rape allegations against Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the world's best football players.

US voters will soon render their verdict on Donald Trump and his ruling Republican Party after two tumultuous years that have deeply shaken the world's oldest existing democracy.

Have Americans had enough? The answer comes at polling stations one month from Saturday, with Republicans battling to keep control of the US Congress and Democrats hoping a "blue wave" will wash them out.&nbsp;

Trump -- among the most polarizing US leaders ever -- is not on the ballot, but his presence looms large over the midterms, which he has declared "the most important congressional elections of our lifetime."

He has hit the campaign trail for political allies and to rally his base, attacking "obstructionist" Democrats and touting his success in improving the US economy.

"I'm not on the ticket," he told supporters at a Mississippi rally Tuesday. "But I am on the ticket, because this is also a referendum about me."

Some Republicans, especially those who prevailed in 2016 in districts won by Hillary Clinton, are running at arm's length from Trump, whose poll ratings remain under water.

But many candidates have wholeheartedly embraced the president and acknowledged their election fortunes will rise or fall with him.

'Defining moment'

Democrats are energized, with well-funded campaigns aiming to snatch seats in Tennessee and other red states like Georgia, Kansas and Texas as they aim to reclaim the 435-member House of Representatives and the 100-member Senate.

"Folks are sensing a sea change coming here," Tariq Thowfeek of the Texas Democratic Party told AFP in Austin.

He pointed to the compelling grassroots candidacy of Beto O'Rourke, whose bid to oust Republican Senator Ted Cruz would send shockwaves through the nation if it succeeds on November 6.

O'Rourke often speaks of this being "a defining moment for our country," and embraces the opportunity to engage with Texans of all stripes.

He drills down on kitchen table issues including health care -- a top priority for Democratic voters -- jobs and education, while demanding criminal justice reform, more rational immigration policies and gun safety legislation.

But the man in the White House is still expected to have the predominant impact on the midterms.

"For Democrats the top issue by a mile is Donald Trump," said Larry Sabato, director of the University of Virginia's Center for Politics.

"He is the reason they're turning out to vote, and almost unanimously they're voting against him."

In the first midterms of the anti-harassment #MeToo era, the power of the female vote is certain to be tested -- even more so with the dramatic debate currently roiling the US Senate.&nbsp;

The election season is occurring in the shadow of a bitter Supreme Court battle, in which Democrats are aiming to spoil the nomination of Brett Kavanaugh, a federal judge who stands accused of sexual assault.

'Rallying cry'

It remains unclear just how that partisan fight might impact the midterms. But Trump is confident his nominee, whose confirmation would shift the nine-justice high court rightward, will energize his base -- a necessity if the party wants to hold ground in November.

Kavanaugh "is like a rallying cry for the Republicans," Trump told reporters Tuesday.

If Kavanaugh gets confirmed, it would mean Republicans control the White House, both chambers of Congress, and a conservative-leaning Supreme Court, potentially diminishing the sense of urgency among Republican voters.

Depressed turnout could spell disaster for Republicans, who face a hostile election climate.&nbsp;

Democrats must gain 23 seats to retake the House. Dave Wasserman of the non-partisan Cook Political Report predicts Democrats will flip 25 to 40 seats, while the Center for Politics says that number could near 50.

In a sign of 2018's Democratic tilt, a hefty 29 Republican-held House seats are rated a "toss up" by Cook, compared to just two Democratic seats.&nbsp;

"It's getting ugly" for Republicans, tweeted Wasserman, as he pointed to the GOP closing the funding spigot for some embattled candidates in districts won by Trump in 2016.

Trump has employed fear-mongering to counter the Democrats' enthusiasm edge.

"If Democrats get control, they will raise your taxes, flood your streets with criminal aliens, weaken our military, outlaw private health insurance and replace freedom with socialism," Trump said in Mississippi.

Meanwhile, Democrats are promoting a diverse collection of candidates. Native Americans, Muslims, and Latinas are seeking to make history in many races, while Florida, Georgia and Maryland could elect their first black governors.&nbsp;

A new Quinnipiac Poll gives conservatives some hope, as it showed Republicans cutting the general Democratic lead in House races from 14 points to seven.

In the Senate, Democrats have a steeper climb, even though Republicans have a slim 51-49 majority.&nbsp;

Of the 35 Senate seats in contention in November, Democrats are defending 26 of them -- including 10 in states Trump won. Republicans are defending just nine seats.&nbsp;

US voters will soon render their verdict on Donald Trump and his ruling Republican Party after two tumultuous years that have deeply shaken the world's oldest existing democracy.

US voters will soon render their verdict on Donald Trump and his ruling Republican Party after two tumultuous years that have deeply shaken the world's oldest existing democracy. Have Americans had enough? The answer comes at polling stations one month from Saturday, with Republicans battling to keep control of the US Congress and Democrats hoping a "blue wave" will wash them out. Trump -- among the most polarizing US leaders ever -- is not on the ballot, but his presence looms large over the midterms, which he has declared "the most important congressional elections of our lifetime." He has hit the campaign trail for political allies and to rally his base, attacking "obstructionist" Democrats and touting his success in improving the US economy. "I'm not on the ticket," he told supporters at a Mississippi rally Tuesday. "But I am on the ticket, because this is also a referendum about me." Some Republicans, especially those who prevailed in 2016 in districts won by Hillary Clinton, are running at arm's length from Trump, whose poll ratings remain under water. But many candidates have wholeheartedly embraced the president and acknowledged their election fortunes will rise or fall with him. 'Defining moment' Democrats are energized, with well-funded campaigns aiming to snatch seats in Tennessee and other red states like Georgia, Kansas and Texas as they aim to reclaim the 435-member House of Representatives and the 100-member Senate. "Folks are sensing a sea change coming here," Tariq Thowfeek of the Texas Democratic Party told AFP in Austin. He pointed to the compelling grassroots candidacy of Beto O'Rourke, whose bid to oust Republican Senator Ted Cruz would send shockwaves through the nation if it succeeds on November 6. O'Rourke often speaks of this being "a defining moment for our country," and embraces the opportunity to engage with Texans of all stripes. He drills down on kitchen table issues including health care -- a top priority for Democratic voters -- jobs and education, while demanding criminal justice reform, more rational immigration policies and gun safety legislation. But the man in the White House is still expected to have the predominant impact on the midterms. "For Democrats the top issue by a mile is Donald Trump," said Larry Sabato, director of the University of Virginia's Center for Politics. "He is the reason they're turning out to vote, and almost unanimously they're voting against him." In the first midterms of the anti-harassment #MeToo era, the power of the female vote is certain to be tested -- even more so with the dramatic debate currently roiling the US Senate. The election season is occurring in the shadow of a bitter Supreme Court battle, in which Democrats are aiming to spoil the nomination of Brett Kavanaugh, a federal judge who stands accused of sexual assault. 'Rallying cry' It remains unclear just how that partisan fight might impact the midterms. But Trump is confident his nominee, whose confirmation would shift the nine-justice high court rightward, will energize his base -- a necessity if the party wants to hold ground in November. Kavanaugh "is like a rallying cry for the Republicans," Trump told reporters Tuesday. If Kavanaugh gets confirmed, it would mean Republicans control the White House, both chambers of Congress, and a conservative-leaning Supreme Court, potentially diminishing the sense of urgency among Republican voters. Depressed turnout could spell disaster for Republicans, who face a hostile election climate. Democrats must gain 23 seats to retake the House. Dave Wasserman of the non-partisan Cook Political Report predicts Democrats will flip 25 to 40 seats, while the Center for Politics says that number could near 50. In a sign of 2018's Democratic tilt, a hefty 29 Republican-held House seats are rated a "toss up" by Cook, compared to just two Democratic seats. "It's getting ugly" for Republicans, tweeted Wasserman, as he pointed to the GOP closing the funding spigot for some embattled candidates in districts won by Trump in 2016. Trump has employed fear-mongering to counter the Democrats' enthusiasm edge. "If Democrats get control, they will raise your taxes, flood your streets with criminal aliens, weaken our military, outlaw private health insurance and replace freedom with socialism," Trump said in Mississippi. Meanwhile, Democrats are promoting a diverse collection of candidates. Native Americans, Muslims, and Latinas are seeking to make history in many races, while Florida, Georgia and Maryland could elect their first black governors. A new Quinnipiac Poll gives conservatives some hope, as it showed Republicans cutting the general Democratic lead in House races from 14 points to seven. In the Senate, Democrats have a steeper climb, even though Republicans have a slim 51-49 majority. Of the 35 Senate seats in contention in November, Democrats are defending 26 of them -- including 10 in states Trump won. Republicans are defending just nine seats.

With US midterms a month away, verdict on Trump looms

US President Donald Trump unveiled a new counter-terrorism strategy which issues a tough warning to terrorist groups and their supporters that the United States will defeat its enemies with the full force of American might.

The strategy for counterterrorism focuses efforts on pursuing terrorists to their source and isolating terrorists from their support, the US administration said.

"Guided by the National Strategy for Counterterrorism, we will use all instruments of American power to protect our great nation, and we will defeat our enemies with the full force of American might," Trump said after basic contours of National Strategy for Counterterrorism were made public.

The strategy, Trump said, outlines the approach of the US to counter the increasingly complex and evolving terrorist threats and represents the nation's first fully articulated counterterrorism strategy since 2011.

"It provides the strategic guidance needed to protect the United States against all terrorist threats, while simultaneously fostering the agility to anticipate, prevent, and respond to new threats," he said.

Describing the strategy as a significant departure from the previous Obama Administration, his National Security Advisor John Bolton told reporters that the strategy focuses efforts on pursuing terrorists to their source and isolating terrorists from their support.

It also involves modernising and integrating US's counterterrorism tools, protecting infrastructure and enhancing preparedness, countering terrorist radicalisation and recruitment and strengthening the counterterrorism abilities of its international partners, he said.&nbsp;

"The strategy articulates a counterterrorism approach that is sustainable, more efficient, prioritized and less reliant on only United States' capabilities," Bolton said.&nbsp;

"Because the global threat posed by terrorist groups is more complex and diffuse than ever, this strategy provides the framework to protect the United States against all terrorists who threaten our country," he said.

As part of the strategy, the top Trump advisor said the US will not focus on a single organisation, but will counter all terrorists with the ability and intent to harm the United States, citizens, and its interests.&nbsp;

"We will place greater emphasis on targeting terrorist networks that threaten the US and our allies, and focus our efforts on disrupting and denying the ways and means terrorists use to radicalize, recruit, mobilize, finance, travel, communicate, and inspire new followers," he said.

"We will deny terrorists the freedom to travel and communicate across international borders, and take action to limit their ability to recruit and radicalize online. We will counter the violent, extreme, and twisted ideologies that purport to justify and excuse the murder of innocents," Bolton said.

Bolton asserted this strategy stresses better integration of national power, both, military and non-military, to combat terrorism and terrorist ideologies, with an increased emphasis on non-kinetic means.&nbsp;

The strategy also places greater emphasis on protecting the homeland, preventing attacks, and mitigating the impact of an attack, should one occur, he said.

This includes building strong borders, securing ports of entry, protecting critical U.S. Infrastructure, and promoting a culture of preparedness.&nbsp; 
Welcoming the new strategy, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the strategy recognises the need for all nations to equitably share the burden of confronting terrorism.

"As such, the State Department, in close coordination with other federal agencies, will continue to work with our allies and partners to implement the policies and tools necessary to eliminate our terrorist enemies and their networks of support,&nbsp;he said.

The Pentagon said, "By standing with traditional and non-traditional partners, the DoD (Department of Defense) advances shared counterterrorism efforts by employing military and non-military capabilities to disrupt and deny terrorist mobility, financing, communication and recruitment."

According to Director of National Intelligence, Daniel Coats, the strategy addresses the complex and evolving terrorism landscape in its emphasis on denying terrorists the resources and recruits to fuel their nefarious aims, and outlines the need to leverage the strong partnerships that the US has to built at home and abroad to solve this global problem.

"The strategy places America first, emphasizing strong borders, strengthening security at points of entry, protecting critical infrastructure, and facilitating preparedness. However, America First does not mean America alone.&nbsp;The new strategy commits us to expand our partnerships at home and abroad to encourage partners' assistance in counterterrorism activities,&nbsp;the White House said, adding that this includes working with North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Allies and partners.&nbsp;

Trump said under his leadership, the United States has accelerated efforts to defeat terrorists. Working with coalition partners, we have decimated ISIS in Syria and Iraq, he said.

"Likewise, I ended United States participation in the horrible Iran deal, which had provided a windfall for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and its proxies, funding Iran's malign activities throughout the world.&nbsp;Importantly, I have also secured historic increases in defense funding to rebuild our Nation's military," said the US President.

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&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump unveiled a new counter-terrorism strategy which issues a tough warning to terrorist groups and their supporters that the United States will defeat its enemies with the full force of American might.

US President Donald Trump unveiled a new counter-terrorism strategy which issues a tough warning to terrorist groups and their supporters that the United States will defeat its enemies with the full force of American might. The strategy for counterterrorism focuses efforts on pursuing terrorists to their source and isolating terrorists from their support, the US administration said. "Guided by the National Strategy for Counterterrorism, we will use all instruments of American power to protect our great nation, and we will defeat our enemies with the full force of American might," Trump said after basic contours of National Strategy for Counterterrorism were made public. The strategy, Trump said, outlines the approach of the US to counter the increasingly complex and evolving terrorist threats and represents the nation's first fully articulated counterterrorism strategy since 2011. "It provides the strategic guidance needed to protect the United States against all terrorist threats, while simultaneously fostering the agility to anticipate, prevent, and respond to new threats," he said. Describing the strategy as a significant departure from the previous Obama Administration, his National Security Advisor John Bolton told reporters that the strategy focuses efforts on pursuing terrorists to their source and isolating terrorists from their support. It also involves modernising and integrating US's counterterrorism tools, protecting infrastructure and enhancing preparedness, countering terrorist radicalisation and recruitment and strengthening the counterterrorism abilities of its international partners, he said. "The strategy articulates a counterterrorism approach that is sustainable, more efficient, prioritized and less reliant on only United States' capabilities," Bolton said. "Because the global threat posed by terrorist groups is more complex and diffuse than ever, this strategy provides the framework to protect the United States against all terrorists who threaten our country," he said. As part of the strategy, the top Trump advisor said the US will not focus on a single organisation, but will counter all terrorists with the ability and intent to harm the United States, citizens, and its interests. "We will place greater emphasis on targeting terrorist networks that threaten the US and our allies, and focus our efforts on disrupting and denying the ways and means terrorists use to radicalize, recruit, mobilize, finance, travel, communicate, and inspire new followers," he said. "We will deny terrorists the freedom to travel and communicate across international borders, and take action to limit their ability to recruit and radicalize online. We will counter the violent, extreme, and twisted ideologies that purport to justify and excuse the murder of innocents," Bolton said. Bolton asserted this strategy stresses better integration of national power, both, military and non-military, to combat terrorism and terrorist ideologies, with an increased emphasis on non-kinetic means. The strategy also places greater emphasis on protecting the homeland, preventing attacks, and mitigating the impact of an attack, should one occur, he said. This includes building strong borders, securing ports of entry, protecting critical U.S. Infrastructure, and promoting a culture of preparedness. Welcoming the new strategy, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the strategy recognises the need for all nations to equitably share the burden of confronting terrorism. "As such, the State Department, in close coordination with other federal agencies, will continue to work with our allies and partners to implement the policies and tools necessary to eliminate our terrorist enemies and their networks of support, he said. The Pentagon said, "By standing with traditional and non-traditional partners, the DoD (Department of Defense) advances shared counterterrorism efforts by employing military and non-military capabilities to disrupt and deny terrorist mobility, financing, communication and recruitment." According to Director of National Intelligence, Daniel Coats, the strategy addresses the complex and evolving terrorism landscape in its emphasis on denying terrorists the resources and recruits to fuel their nefarious aims, and outlines the need to leverage the strong partnerships that the US has to built at home and abroad to solve this global problem. "The strategy places America first, emphasizing strong borders, strengthening security at points of entry, protecting critical infrastructure, and facilitating preparedness. However, America First does not mean America alone. The new strategy commits us to expand our partnerships at home and abroad to encourage partners' assistance in counterterrorism activities, the White House said, adding that this includes working with North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Allies and partners. Trump said under his leadership, the United States has accelerated efforts to defeat terrorists. Working with coalition partners, we have decimated ISIS in Syria and Iraq, he said. "Likewise, I ended United States participation in the horrible Iran deal, which had provided a windfall for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and its proxies, funding Iran's malign activities throughout the world. Importantly, I have also secured historic increases in defense funding to rebuild our Nation's military," said the US President. ×

Trump announces new National Strategy for Counterterrorism 

A video showing US President Donald Trump walking with a paper stuck onto his left shoe went viral on social media today.

The incident which shows President Trump walking up the stairs of the plane with a white paper stuck onto his left foot&nbsp;happened on Thursday at the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport.

The incident happened when President Trump was departing for the Mayo Civic Center in Rochester, Minnesota.

The paper got detached from his foot when he reached the top and turned to wave back at his people.

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Social media exploded over the incident with several users speculating that the paper which got stuck to Trump's foot was a toilet tissue.

&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

A video showing US President Donald Trump walking with a paper stuck onto his left shoe went viral on social media today. The incident which shows President Trump walking up the stairs of the plane with a white paper stuck onto his left foot happened on Thursday at the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport.

A video showing US President Donald Trump walking with a paper stuck onto his left shoe went viral on social media today. The incident which shows President Trump walking up the stairs of the plane with a white paper stuck onto his left foot happened on Thursday at the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport. The incident happened when President Trump was departing for the Mayo Civic Center in Rochester, Minnesota. The paper got detached from his foot when he reached the top and turned to wave back at his people. × Social media exploded over the incident with several users speculating that the paper which got stuck to Trump's foot was a toilet tissue.

Watch: 'Toilet paper' stuck to Trump's foot as he boards plane

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/putin-set-ink-s-400-defence-deal-during-india-visit-us-warns-against-missile-pact-169213">Putin set to ink S-400 defence deal during India visit, US warns against missile pact</a>

Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit New Delhi on Thursday and meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ink the deal on S-400 air defence systems. President Putin will also participate in the 19th India-Russia annual bilateral summit, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/american-frances-arnold-george-smith-british-researcher-gregory-winter-win-nobel-prize">American Frances Arnold, George Smith &amp; British researcher Gregory Winter win Nobel Prize in Chemistry</a>

Two American scientists - Frances Arnold and George Smith, including a British researcher Gregory Winter have won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry this year.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/actress-fan-bingbing-fined-authorities-china-tax-evasion-169085">Chinese superstar Fan Bingbing emerges; ordered to pay $129 million for tax evasion</a>

China's taxation authorities fined A-list Chinese movie star Fan Bingbing $129 million for tax evasion, state news agency Xinhua said on Wednesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-deports-seven-rohingyas-myanmar-169170">Plea in Supreme Court against </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-deports-seven-rohingyas-myanmar-169170">deportation</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-deports-seven-rohingyas-myanmar-169170"> of seven Rohingyas to Myanmar</a>

A plea has been filed in Supreme Court for urgent hearing seeking a restraint on the Government of India from deporting seven Rohingya Muslims lodged in the Silchar Detention centre in Assam to Myanmar, news agency ANI reported. According to reports, the plea will be heard in the top court on Thursday.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/halt-sanctions-humanitarian-goods-iran-un-court-iran-169167">Halt sanctions on humanitarian goods to Iran: International Court of Justice to </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/halt-sanctions-humanitarian-goods-iran-un-court-iran-169167">US</a>

The International Court of Justice(ICJ) today ordered the Trump administration to halt sanctions on "humanitarian" goods to Iran.

President Trump had imposed sanctions on Iran last month after pulling out of the nuclear deal involving European allies, a second round of sanctions is due next month.

Putin set to ink S-400 defence deal during India visit, US warns against missile pact Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit New Delhi on Thursday and meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ink the deal on S-400 air defence systems.

Putin set to ink S-400 defence deal during India visit, US warns against missile pact Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit New Delhi on Thursday and meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ink the deal on S-400 air defence systems. President Putin will also participate in the 19th India-Russia annual bilateral summit, news agency ANI reported. American Frances Arnold, George Smith & British researcher Gregory Winter win Nobel Prize in Chemistry Two American scientists - Frances Arnold and George Smith, including a British researcher Gregory Winter have won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry this year. Chinese superstar Fan Bingbing emerges; ordered to pay $129 million for tax evasion China's taxation authorities fined A-list Chinese movie star Fan Bingbing $129 million for tax evasion, state news agency Xinhua said on Wednesday. Plea in Supreme Court against deportation of seven Rohingyas to Myanmar A plea has been filed in Supreme Court for urgent hearing seeking a restraint on the Government of India from deporting seven Rohingya Muslims lodged in the Silchar Detention centre in Assam to Myanmar, news agency ANI reported. According to reports, the plea will be heard in the top court on Thursday. Halt sanctions on humanitarian goods to Iran: International Court of Justice to US The International Court of Justice(ICJ) today ordered the Trump administration to halt sanctions on "humanitarian" goods to Iran. President Trump had imposed sanctions on Iran last month after pulling out of the nuclear deal involving European allies, a second round of sanctions is due next month.

Angry Democrats objected as the Republican-led Senate Judiciary Committee set a vote for later on Friday on the nomination of President Trump's US Supreme Court pick Brett Kavanaugh after a key senator, Jeff Flake, threw his support behind the judge.

Republicans appeared to have the votes to approve Kavanaugh in the panel after Flake's announcement.&nbsp;

The committee's meeting came the morning after a jarring and emotional hearing into sexual misconduct allegations against Kavanaugh that gripped the country and reflected the larger US political divide, with a university professor accusing the judge of sexual misconduct and the nominee angrily denying it.

The committee, with 11 Republicans and 10 Democrats, set the vote for 1:30 pm (1730 GMT) over strenuous objections from Democrats, some of whom left the room in protest. "What a railroad job," Democratic Senator Mazie Hirono said.

Republican Senator Chuck Grassley, the chairman of the committee, praised Kavanaugh as he pressed forward with the vote.

A committee vote to approve Kavanaugh which pave the way for a final debate and vote on the Senate floor in the coming days.

Democrats have urged a delay to allow for an FBI investigation, a move backed late Thursday by the American Bar Association, which had earlier endorsed his nomination.

"Why are they shutting it down? I believe it's because they are trying to hide something," Senator Amy Klobuchar, a Democrat on the committee, told NBC's "Today" program on Friday.

Kavanaugh could be the deciding vote on several contentious cases if he is confirmed, with disputes involving abortion, immigration, gay rights, voting rights and transgender troops possibly heading to the court soon.

Confirmation of Kavanaugh, a federal appeals court judge, would cement conservative control of the nation's highest court.

After a procedural vote that could come over the weekend, the full 100-member Senate could take action next week.

Angry Democrats objected as the Republican-led Senate Judiciary Committee set a vote for later on Friday on the nomination of President Trump's US Supreme Court pick Brett Kavanaugh after a key senator, Jeff Flake, threw his support behind the judge.

Angry Democrats objected as the Republican-led Senate Judiciary Committee set a vote for later on Friday on the nomination of President Trump's US Supreme Court pick Brett Kavanaugh after a key senator, Jeff Flake, threw his support behind the judge. Republicans appeared to have the votes to approve Kavanaugh in the panel after Flake's announcement. The committee's meeting came the morning after a jarring and emotional hearing into sexual misconduct allegations against Kavanaugh that gripped the country and reflected the larger US political divide, with a university professor accusing the judge of sexual misconduct and the nominee angrily denying it. The committee, with 11 Republicans and 10 Democrats, set the vote for 1:30 pm (1730 GMT) over strenuous objections from Democrats, some of whom left the room in protest. "What a railroad job," Democratic Senator Mazie Hirono said. Republican Senator Chuck Grassley, the chairman of the committee, praised Kavanaugh as he pressed forward with the vote. A committee vote to approve Kavanaugh which pave the way for a final debate and vote on the Senate floor in the coming days. Democrats have urged a delay to allow for an FBI investigation, a move backed late Thursday by the American Bar Association, which had earlier endorsed his nomination. "Why are they shutting it down? I believe it's because they are trying to hide something," Senator Amy Klobuchar, a Democrat on the committee, told NBC's "Today" program on Friday. Kavanaugh could be the deciding vote on several contentious cases if he is confirmed, with disputes involving abortion, immigration, gay rights, voting rights and transgender troops possibly heading to the court soon. Confirmation of Kavanaugh, a federal appeals court judge, would cement conservative control of the nation's highest court. After a procedural vote that could come over the weekend, the full 100-member Senate could take action next week.

Over Democratic objections, Senate panel sets vote on Trump's court pick Kavanaugh

US President Donald Trump ordered a new FBI investigation into sexual assault allegations against his Supreme Court pick Friday, as the Senate delayed a vote on Brett Kavanaugh's nomination to make way for the probe.

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Just started, tonight, our 7th FBI investigation of Judge Brett Kavanaugh. He will someday be recognized as a truly great Justice of The United States Supreme Court!
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<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/lawmakers-rage-us-court-nominee-kavanaugh-faces-first-vote-168318">Lawmakers rage as US supreme court nominee Brett Kavanaugh faces first</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/lawmakers-rage-us-court-nominee-kavanaugh-faces-first-vote-168318"> vote</a>

After a dramatic day-long hearing at which a university professor accused Kavanaugh of pinning her down and assaulting her at a party in the 1980s, the Senate Judiciary Committee earlier Friday approved his nomination in a preliminary vote along party lines.

But committee chair Chuck Grassley then bowed to intense pressure from inside and outside Congress and announced he was asking Trump to order the new background review that "must be completed no later than one week from today." Trump, who repeatedly blasted Democratic opposition to Kavanaugh as a political "con-job," agreed.

"I've ordered the FBI to conduct a supplemental investigation to update Judge Kavanaugh's file. As the Senate has requested, this update must be limited in scope and completed in less than one week," the president said in a statement.

Trump's order and the decision to put off a final vote came after a key Republican senator, Jeff Flake, threatened to break ranks with his party because of the clouds hanging over Kavanaugh's head.

At least three women have now accused the 53-year-old conservative judge of sexual misconduct while drunk, as a high school and later a university student.

Democrats have repeatedly demanded those charges be assessed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation to determine if he is suitable for the lifetime high court appointment.

Flake's stunning 11th-hour move played out on national television amid heated partisan debate and raucous protests in the halls of the Capital, where one woman cornered the Arizona senator in an elevator demanding he oppose Kavanaugh, citing her own experience with sexual assault.

"This country's being ripped apart," said Flake. "And we have to ensure that we do due diligence here." His move earned the endorsement of another Republican seen as wavering on the nomination, Lisa Murkowski.

With the Republicans holding a narrow 51-49 majority in the Senate, that placed pressure on Trump to order the FBI probe.

Republicans see Kavanaugh as pivotal to their gaining control of the nine-member Supreme Court bench. Trump nominated him to replace Anthony Kennedy, who for years was a swing vote between four conservative and four liberal justices.

US President Donald Trump ordered a new FBI investigation into sexual assault allegations against his Supreme Court pick Friday, as the Senate delayed a vote on Brett Kavanaugh's nomination to make way for the probe.

US President Donald Trump ordered a new FBI investigation into sexual assault allegations against his Supreme Court pick Friday, as the Senate delayed a vote on Brett Kavanaugh's nomination to make way for the probe. Just started, tonight, our 7th FBI investigation of Judge Brett Kavanaugh. He will someday be recognized as a truly great Justice of The United States Supreme Court! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 29, 2018 × Lawmakers rage as US supreme court nominee Brett Kavanaugh faces first vote After a dramatic day-long hearing at which a university professor accused Kavanaugh of pinning her down and assaulting her at a party in the 1980s, the Senate Judiciary Committee earlier Friday approved his nomination in a preliminary vote along party lines. But committee chair Chuck Grassley then bowed to intense pressure from inside and outside Congress and announced he was asking Trump to order the new background review that "must be completed no later than one week from today." Trump, who repeatedly blasted Democratic opposition to Kavanaugh as a political "con-job," agreed. "I've ordered the FBI to conduct a supplemental investigation to update Judge Kavanaugh's file. As the Senate has requested, this update must be limited in scope and completed in less than one week," the president said in a statement. Trump's order and the decision to put off a final vote came after a key Republican senator, Jeff Flake, threatened to break ranks with his party because of the clouds hanging over Kavanaugh's head. At least three women have now accused the 53-year-old conservative judge of sexual misconduct while drunk, as a high school and later a university student. Democrats have repeatedly demanded those charges be assessed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation to determine if he is suitable for the lifetime high court appointment. Flake's stunning 11th-hour move played out on national television amid heated partisan debate and raucous protests in the halls of the Capital, where one woman cornered the Arizona senator in an elevator demanding he oppose Kavanaugh, citing her own experience with sexual assault. "This country's being ripped apart," said Flake. "And we have to ensure that we do due diligence here." His move earned the endorsement of another Republican seen as wavering on the nomination, Lisa Murkowski. With the Republicans holding a narrow 51-49 majority in the Senate, that placed pressure on Trump to order the FBI probe. Republicans see Kavanaugh as pivotal to their gaining control of the nine-member Supreme Court bench. Trump nominated him to replace Anthony Kennedy, who for years was a swing vote between four conservative and four liberal justices.

Trump orders FBI probe of Kavanaugh as Senate delays final vote

US President Donald Trump accused China of seeking to meddle in the November 6 US&nbsp; congressional elections on Wednesday, saying Beijing did not want his Republican Party to do well because of his pugnacious stance on trade.

"China has been attempting to interfere in our upcoming 2018 election, coming up in November. Against my administration," Trump told a UN Security Council meeting whose ostensible subject was nonproliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

Trump did not provide any evidence for his allegation, which he made while chairing the Council meeting.

China rejected the charge.

"We did not and will not interfere in any country's domestic affairs. We refuse to accept any unwarranted accusations against China," the Chinese government's top diplomat Wang Yi told the Security Council.

Trump also used the session to defend the US withdrawal in May from a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran, hint at progress in US efforts to curb North Korea's nuclear program, and to criticize Iran and Russia for supporting Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in the country's war, now in its eighth year.

"The Syrian regime's butchery is enabled by Russia and Iran," Trump said.

Trump's focus on China and his allegation of election meddling came as a surprise during a formal meeting around the Security Council's iconic horseshoe that was expected to concentrate on the spread of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons.

"They do not want me or us to win because I am the first president ever to challenge China on trade and we are winning on trade, we are winning at every level. We don't want them to meddle or interfere in our upcoming election," said Trump, who is attending the UN's annual gathering of world leaders.

Trump himself is not up for re-election until 2020 but November's voting will decide whether his Republican Party can keep control of the US House of Representatives and the Senate. Some opinion polls show that the Democratic Party could make a strong showing, notably in the House.

The United States and China are embroiled in a trade war, sparked by Trump's accusations that China has long sought to steal US intellectual property, limit access to its own market and unfairly subsidize state-owned companies.

In the latest salvo, US tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods and retaliatory taxes by Beijing on $60 billion worth of US products kicked in on Monday, unnerving global financial markets.

During his roughly 10-minute speech, Trump made no reference to US allegations that Russia meddled in the 2016 US election that brought him to power. The allegations have dogged his presidency and have given rise to an investigation by US Special Counsel Robert Mueller into potential collusion between Moscow and the Trump campaign.

In July at a summit in Helsinki, Trump accepted Russian President Vladimir Putin's denials. Trump frequently describes investigations into the interference as a political witch hunt.

On the war in Syria, Trump noted Washington had twice launched airstrikes against the Assad government for twice using chemical weapons against civilians.

He also used the session to defend his May 8 decision to abandon the Iran nuclear deal under which Tehran limited its nuclear program in return for the easing of US, European and international economic sanctions.

The core US sanctions that seek to choke off Iran's oil exports, the life blood of its economy, will resume in early November and Trump promised that "after that the United States will pursue additional sanctions, tougher than ever before, to counter the entire range of Iran's malign behavior."

The United States accuses Iran of supporting destabilizing proxies in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen and Iraq.

Trump asked the Security Council to work with the United States to "ensure the Iranian regime changes its behavior and never acquires a nuclear bomb."

Sanctions violations?

While Iran has made clear that it has little interest in opening talks with the United States following Washington's abrogation of the nuclear deal, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un met with Trump in June about his nuclear program.

Kim reiterated his commitment to denuclearisation to him in a letter and to South Korean President Moon Jae-in, Trump said.

"I think we will make a deal, but unfortunately to ensure this progress continues we must enforce existing UN Security Council resolutions until denuclerarization occurs," Trump said.

"However, we have detected that some nations are already violating these UN sanctions. This includes illegal ship-to-ship transfers which must end immediately," he said.

Trump did not name the countries. US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley accused Russia earlier this month of "cheating" on US sanctions on North Korea and said Washington has "evidence of consistent and wide-ranging Russian violations."

US President Donald Trump accused China of seeking to meddle in the November 6 US congressional elections on Wednesday, saying Beijing did not want his Republican Party to do well because of his pugnacious stance on trade.

US President Donald Trump accused China of seeking to meddle in the November 6 US congressional elections on Wednesday, saying Beijing did not want his Republican Party to do well because of his pugnacious stance on trade. "China has been attempting to interfere in our upcoming 2018 election, coming up in November. Against my administration," Trump told a UN Security Council meeting whose ostensible subject was nonproliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Trump did not provide any evidence for his allegation, which he made while chairing the Council meeting. China rejected the charge. "We did not and will not interfere in any country's domestic affairs. We refuse to accept any unwarranted accusations against China," the Chinese government's top diplomat Wang Yi told the Security Council. Trump also used the session to defend the US withdrawal in May from a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran, hint at progress in US efforts to curb North Korea's nuclear program, and to criticize Iran and Russia for supporting Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in the country's war, now in its eighth year. "The Syrian regime's butchery is enabled by Russia and Iran," Trump said. Trump's focus on China and his allegation of election meddling came as a surprise during a formal meeting around the Security Council's iconic horseshoe that was expected to concentrate on the spread of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons. "They do not want me or us to win because I am the first president ever to challenge China on trade and we are winning on trade, we are winning at every level. We don't want them to meddle or interfere in our upcoming election," said Trump, who is attending the UN's annual gathering of world leaders. Trump himself is not up for re-election until 2020 but November's voting will decide whether his Republican Party can keep control of the US House of Representatives and the Senate. Some opinion polls show that the Democratic Party could make a strong showing, notably in the House. The United States and China are embroiled in a trade war, sparked by Trump's accusations that China has long sought to steal US intellectual property, limit access to its own market and unfairly subsidize state-owned companies. In the latest salvo, US tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods and retaliatory taxes by Beijing on $60 billion worth of US products kicked in on Monday, unnerving global financial markets. During his roughly 10-minute speech, Trump made no reference to US allegations that Russia meddled in the 2016 US election that brought him to power. The allegations have dogged his presidency and have given rise to an investigation by US Special Counsel Robert Mueller into potential collusion between Moscow and the Trump campaign. In July at a summit in Helsinki, Trump accepted Russian President Vladimir Putin's denials. Trump frequently describes investigations into the interference as a political witch hunt. On the war in Syria, Trump noted Washington had twice launched airstrikes against the Assad government for twice using chemical weapons against civilians. He also used the session to defend his May 8 decision to abandon the Iran nuclear deal under which Tehran limited its nuclear program in return for the easing of US, European and international economic sanctions. The core US sanctions that seek to choke off Iran's oil exports, the life blood of its economy, will resume in early November and Trump promised that "after that the United States will pursue additional sanctions, tougher than ever before, to counter the entire range of Iran's malign behavior." The United States accuses Iran of supporting destabilizing proxies in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen and Iraq. Trump asked the Security Council to work with the United States to "ensure the Iranian regime changes its behavior and never acquires a nuclear bomb." Sanctions violations? While Iran has made clear that it has little interest in opening talks with the United States following Washington's abrogation of the nuclear deal, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un met with Trump in June about his nuclear program. Kim reiterated his commitment to denuclearisation to him in a letter and to South Korean President Moon Jae-in, Trump said. "I think we will make a deal, but unfortunately to ensure this progress continues we must enforce existing UN Security Council resolutions until denuclerarization occurs," Trump said. "However, we have detected that some nations are already violating these UN sanctions. This includes illegal ship-to-ship transfers which must end immediately," he said. Trump did not name the countries. US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley accused Russia earlier this month of "cheating" on US sanctions on North Korea and said Washington has "evidence of consistent and wide-ranging Russian violations."

Donald Trump says China meddling in US congressional elections; Beijing rejects charge

A senior Palestinian official rejected US President Donald Trump's comments in support of a two-state solution on Wednesday, saying his White House's policies were destroying hopes of peace.

"Their words go against their actions and their action is absolutely clear (and) is destroying the possibility of the two-state solution," Husam Zomlot, head of the recently closed Palestinian mission in Washington, told AFP.

He added that Trump's comments alone were not enough to bring the Palestinians back to the negotiating table.

Speaking in New York on Wednesday alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump for the first time said explicitly that he backed a two-state solution that would create an independent Palestinian state.

"That's what I think works best, that's my feeling," he said.

Zomlot pointed to the closure of the Palestinian mission in Washington, the cut in hundreds of millions of dollars in aid and the recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital as evidence the Trump administration was not serious about achieving peace.

"Every action President Trump has made is in the opposite direction of the two-state solution," he said.

The Palestinians have boycotted Trump's administration since December when he recognised the disputed city of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

A senior Palestinian official rejected US President Donald Trump's comments in support of a two-state solution on Wednesday, saying his White House's policies were destroying hopes of peace.

A senior Palestinian official rejected US President Donald Trump's comments in support of a two-state solution on Wednesday, saying his White House's policies were destroying hopes of peace. "Their words go against their actions and their action is absolutely clear (and) is destroying the possibility of the two-state solution," Husam Zomlot, head of the recently closed Palestinian mission in Washington, told AFP. He added that Trump's comments alone were not enough to bring the Palestinians back to the negotiating table. Speaking in New York on Wednesday alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump for the first time said explicitly that he backed a two-state solution that would create an independent Palestinian state. "That's what I think works best, that's my feeling," he said. Zomlot pointed to the closure of the Palestinian mission in Washington, the cut in hundreds of millions of dollars in aid and the recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital as evidence the Trump administration was not serious about achieving peace. "Every action President Trump has made is in the opposite direction of the two-state solution," he said. The Palestinians have boycotted Trump's administration since December when he recognised the disputed city of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

Trump two-state solution comments fall short: Palestinian official

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday assured help to Venezuela and said&nbsp;he was willing to meet the Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.

He said, "I just want to see Venezuela straightened out. I want the people to be safe. We're going to take care of Venezuela".

On his meeting&nbsp;with Maduro, Trump said, "If he's here, if he wants to meet ... it was not on my mind, it was not on my plate but if I can help people that's what I'm here for."

Venezuela is suffering an economic collapse and mass emigration under Nicolas Maduro.

Last week, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that the United States was preparing a "series of actions" to raise pressure on Maduro, whom Washington and its allies accuse of stifling democracy by jailing opposition leaders.

Speaking before entering talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly Meeting, Trump said he would present a two-state peace plan for the Middle East in the coming months.

He also expressed confidence that the Palestinians would return to talks despite his unwavering support for Israel.

Trump said that it was a "dream" of his to bring about a peaceful solution to a conflict that has eluded several of his predecessors.&nbsp;

"I would say over the next two to three to four months," Trump said, referring to his prospective timetable for presenting a plan as he met Netanyahu.

Trump for the first time said explicitly that he backed a two-state solution that would create an independent Palestine, saying: "That's what I think works best, that's my feeling."

"I really believe something will happen. It is a dream of mine to be able to get that done prior to the end of my first term," added Trump.

The Middle East peace process has effectively been stalled since the Palestinians broke off contacts with the Trump administration last year in protest at the US president's decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of the Jewish state.

The Palestinians also want Jerusalem to be their capital and have long argued that the status of the holy city should only be settled as part of a larger peace agreement.

Relations between the Palestinian Authority and the United States have fallen even lower in recent weeks after Washington cut off funding, including to a UN agency that helps millions of Palestinian refugees.

(With inputs from AFP)

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday assured help to Venezuela and said he was willing to meet the Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. He said, "I just want to see Venezuela straightened out.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday assured help to Venezuela and said he was willing to meet the Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. He said, "I just want to see Venezuela straightened out. I want the people to be safe. We're going to take care of Venezuela". On his meeting with Maduro, Trump said, "If he's here, if he wants to meet ... it was not on my mind, it was not on my plate but if I can help people that's what I'm here for." Venezuela is suffering an economic collapse and mass emigration under Nicolas Maduro. Last week, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that the United States was preparing a "series of actions" to raise pressure on Maduro, whom Washington and its allies accuse of stifling democracy by jailing opposition leaders. Speaking before entering talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly Meeting, Trump said he would present a two-state peace plan for the Middle East in the coming months. He also expressed confidence that the Palestinians would return to talks despite his unwavering support for Israel. Trump said that it was a "dream" of his to bring about a peaceful solution to a conflict that has eluded several of his predecessors. "I would say over the next two to three to four months," Trump said, referring to his prospective timetable for presenting a plan as he met Netanyahu. Trump for the first time said explicitly that he backed a two-state solution that would create an independent Palestine, saying: "That's what I think works best, that's my feeling." "I really believe something will happen. It is a dream of mine to be able to get that done prior to the end of my first term," added Trump. The Middle East peace process has effectively been stalled since the Palestinians broke off contacts with the Trump administration last year in protest at the US president's decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of the Jewish state. The Palestinians also want Jerusalem to be their capital and have long argued that the status of the holy city should only be settled as part of a larger peace agreement. Relations between the Palestinian Authority and the United States have fallen even lower in recent weeks after Washington cut off funding, including to a UN agency that helps millions of Palestinian refugees. (With inputs from AFP)

Trump assures help to Venezuela; pledges new Middle East peace plan within months

Ahead of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/world-leaders-un-look-progress-north-korea-brace-trump-167312">UN General Assembly meetin</a>g, both US President Donald Trump and top adviser to Iran claimed that they had rejected a 'meeting'' with each other.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Describing&nbsp;Iran President&nbsp;Hassan Rouhani as&nbsp;an&nbsp;absolutely ''lovely man'', Trump said&nbsp;"Despite requests, I have no plans to meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani.''

Trump tweeted, "Despite requests, I have no plans to meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani. Maybe someday in the future. I am sure he is an absolutely lovely man!"

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Despite requests, I have no plans to meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani. Maybe someday in the future. I am sure he is an absolutely lovely man!
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Meanwhile, a&nbsp;top adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader rejected a US offer for top-level meetings, according to news agency Reuters.

Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards also kept up the anti-US rhetoric in the build-up&nbsp;to the UN session, calling President Donald Trump "evil and adventurous" and accusing him of waging economic war on Tehran.

Relations between the two countries worsened after Trump pulled out of an international nuclear deal with Iran in May.

He has since started reinstating economic penalties and pressing other countries to stop buying Iranian oil.

Trump said in July he was ready to meet Iran's President Hassan Rouhani without preconditions to negotiate a new deal.

President Rouhani, seen as a moderate, has stopped short of ruling out meetings between the two countries. But he has come under increasing pressure from hardliners, including the Guards, since Trump withdrew from the 2015 nuclear accord.

Trump is set to address the UNGA meeting on Tuesday where he is likely to face foes and increasingly uneasy allies.

He will chair a Security Council meeting on non-proliferation and weapons of mass destruction on Wednesday.

(With inputs from Reuters) 
&nbsp;

Ahead of the UN General Assembly meeting, both US President Donald Trump and top adviser to Iran claimed that they had rejected a 'meeting'' with each other. Describing Iran President Hassan Rouhani as an absolutely ''lovely man'', Trump said "Despite requests, I have no plans to meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani.

Ahead of the UN General Assembly meeting, both US President Donald Trump and top adviser to Iran claimed that they had rejected a 'meeting'' with each other. Describing Iran President Hassan Rouhani as an absolutely ''lovely man'', Trump said "Despite requests, I have no plans to meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani.'' Trump tweeted, "Despite requests, I have no plans to meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani. Maybe someday in the future. I am sure he is an absolutely lovely man!" Despite requests, I have no plans to meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani. Maybe someday in the future. I am sure he is an absolutely lovely man! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 25, 2018 × Meanwhile, a top adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader rejected a US offer for top-level meetings, according to news agency Reuters. Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards also kept up the anti-US rhetoric in the build-up to the UN session, calling President Donald Trump "evil and adventurous" and accusing him of waging economic war on Tehran. Relations between the two countries worsened after Trump pulled out of an international nuclear deal with Iran in May. He has since started reinstating economic penalties and pressing other countries to stop buying Iranian oil. Trump said in July he was ready to meet Iran's President Hassan Rouhani without preconditions to negotiate a new deal. President Rouhani, seen as a moderate, has stopped short of ruling out meetings between the two countries. But he has come under increasing pressure from hardliners, including the Guards, since Trump withdrew from the 2015 nuclear accord. Trump is set to address the UNGA meeting on Tuesday where he is likely to face foes and increasingly uneasy allies. He will chair a Security Council meeting on non-proliferation and weapons of mass destruction on Wednesday. (With inputs from Reuters)

Iran rejects US offer for meeting even as Trump tweets 'no plans to meet Iranian President' 

Two days after the historic <a href="http://wionews.com/world/japan-eying-abe-kim-summit-with-possible-pyongyang-visit-report-144274">Trump-Kim summit in Singapore</a>, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo, South Korean foreign minister Kang Kyung-wha and Japanese foreign minister Taro Kono met in Seoul today to work together to ensure North Korea keeps its promise of denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula.

During the meeting, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo said: "Kim Jong Un's public commitment to completely denuclearise is an important step towards to bring lasting peace and stability to Northeast Asia and indeed to the entire world," adding, "as the president said that this will be a process, and not an easy one, staying closely aligned with our allies."

Pompeo reiterated that Korea and Japan will be critical to the success of North Korea completely dismantling its nuclear infrastructure.

"The world should rest assured that the United States, South Korea and Japan remain committed to achieving the complete, verifiable and irreversible denuclearisation of North Korea," the US secretary of state said.

The Japanese foreign minister Taro Kono said his country was keen to resolve the nuclear and abductee issue and wanted to "normalise relations with North Korea" and could also offer "economic assistance" to North Korea.&nbsp;

Japanese foreign minister Taro Kono said,&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; "I hope a bilateral summit between Japan and North Korea will be held as a step that can lead to resolving issues, including the abduction. I think various arrangements will be made for realising the summit."

According to a new report, Japanese PM Shinzo Abe's office is arranging a meeting with &nbsp;North Korean leader Kim Jong-un possibly in August to discuss all outstanding issues with Abe possibly visiting Pyongyang to mee the North Korean leader.

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The Japanese foreign minister Taro Kono said his country was keen to resolve the nuclear and abductee issue with North Korea

Two days after the historic Trump-Kim summit in Singapore, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo, South Korean foreign minister Kang Kyung-wha and Japanese foreign minister Taro Kono met in Seoul today to work together to ensure North Korea keeps its promise of denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula. During the meeting, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo said: "Kim Jong Un's public commitment to completely denuclearise is an important step towards to bring lasting peace and stability to Northeast Asia and indeed to the entire world," adding, "as the president said that this will be a process, and not an easy one, staying closely aligned with our allies." Pompeo reiterated that Korea and Japan will be critical to the success of North Korea completely dismantling its nuclear infrastructure. "The world should rest assured that the United States, South Korea and Japan remain committed to achieving the complete, verifiable and irreversible denuclearisation of North Korea," the US secretary of state said. The Japanese foreign minister Taro Kono said his country was keen to resolve the nuclear and abductee issue and wanted to "normalise relations with North Korea" and could also offer "economic assistance" to North Korea. Japanese foreign minister Taro Kono said, "I hope a bilateral summit between Japan and North Korea will be held as a step that can lead to resolving issues, including the abduction. I think various arrangements will be made for realising the summit." According to a new report, Japanese PM Shinzo Abe's office is arranging a meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un possibly in August to discuss all outstanding issues with Abe possibly visiting Pyongyang to mee the North Korean leader.

After Kim-Trump summit, Pompeo in Seoul to meet foreign ministers from Japan and South Korea

Kim Jong Un invited Donald Trump to visit North Korea during their historic summit and the US President accepted, Pyongyang state media reported today, calling it the start of a "radical switchover" in the nuclear-armed Cold War foes' fraught relations.

The unprecedented encounter in Singapore yesterday saw the leader of the world's most powerful democracy shake hands with the third generation scion of a dynastic dictatorship, standing as equals in front of their nations' flags.

Kim agreed to the "complete denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula", a stock phrase favoured by Pyongyang that stopped short of long-standing US demands for North Korea to give up its atomic arsenal in a "verifiable" and "irreversible" way.

In its first report on the landmark summit, the official KCNA news agency ran a glowing dispatch on the talks, describing them as an "epoch-making meeting" that would help foster "a radical switchover in the most hostile (North Korea)-US relations".

The report said the two men each asked the other to visit their country.

"The two top leaders gladly accepted each other's invitation," KCNA said.

Pyongyang has reason to feel confident after the meeting which was a major coup for an isolated and heavily sanctioned regime that has long craved international legitimacy.

In a blockbusting press conference after the summit, Trump said the US would halt military exercises with Seoul -- something long sought by Pyongyang, which claims the drills are a rehearsal for invasion.

The US stations around 30,000 troops in security ally South Korea to protect it from its neighbour, which invaded in 1950 in an attempt to reunify the peninsula by force.

"We will be stopping the war games which will save us a tremendous amount of money," Trump told reporters, adding that "at some point" he wanted to withdraw US troops from the South.

Both Seoul and US military commanders in the South indicated they had no idea the announcement was coming, and analysts expressed immediate concern.

Ending the drills "is in excess of all expert consensus, South Korean requests, and even a close reading of North Korean demands", said Adam Mount of the Federation of American Scientists.

The KCNA report said Trump committed to ending the drills during his meeting with Kim.

It added that denuclearisation on the Korean peninsula would be dependent on the two sides "refraining from antagonising... Each other out of mutual understanding".

The Singapore summit was a potentially legacy-defining meeting for both men -- comparable to president Richard Nixon's 1972 visit to China, or Ronald Reagan's 1986 summit with Mikhail Gorbachev in Reykjavik.

World powers from China to Japan, the European Union and Russia welcomed its outcome -- while cautioning it was only the first step towards resolving the nuclear stand-off with Pyongyang.

Many agreements have been made in the past with North Korea that have later fallen apart, and ahead of the meeting, critics expressed concerns that it risked being more about headlines than substantive progress.

It also legitimised Kim, critics charged, feting a regime which stands accused of widespread human rights abuses. In the event, the two leaders showered each other with compliments in the sumptuous setting of a luxury Singapore hotel, a marked contrast from their previous rounds of mutual insults, such as "mentally deranged" and "little rocket man". Trump said he had formed a "special bond" with Kim, whom he described as "very talented".

KCNA said the two leaders ate and walked together, "deepening friendly feelings" towards each other.&nbsp

The unprecedented encounter in Singapore yesterday saw the leader of the world's most powerful democracy shake hands with the third generation scion of a dynastic dictatorship, standing as equals in front of their nations' flags

Kim Jong Un invited Donald Trump to visit North Korea during their historic summit and the US President accepted, Pyongyang state media reported today, calling it the start of a "radical switchover" in the nuclear-armed Cold War foes' fraught relations. The unprecedented encounter in Singapore yesterday saw the leader of the world's most powerful democracy shake hands with the third generation scion of a dynastic dictatorship, standing as equals in front of their nations' flags. Kim agreed to the "complete denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula", a stock phrase favoured by Pyongyang that stopped short of long-standing US demands for North Korea to give up its atomic arsenal in a "verifiable" and "irreversible" way. In its first report on the landmark summit, the official KCNA news agency ran a glowing dispatch on the talks, describing them as an "epoch-making meeting" that would help foster "a radical switchover in the most hostile (North Korea)-US relations". The report said the two men each asked the other to visit their country. "The two top leaders gladly accepted each other's invitation," KCNA said. Pyongyang has reason to feel confident after the meeting which was a major coup for an isolated and heavily sanctioned regime that has long craved international legitimacy. In a blockbusting press conference after the summit, Trump said the US would halt military exercises with Seoul -- something long sought by Pyongyang, which claims the drills are a rehearsal for invasion. The US stations around 30,000 troops in security ally South Korea to protect it from its neighbour, which invaded in 1950 in an attempt to reunify the peninsula by force. "We will be stopping the war games which will save us a tremendous amount of money," Trump told reporters, adding that "at some point" he wanted to withdraw US troops from the South. Both Seoul and US military commanders in the South indicated they had no idea the announcement was coming, and analysts expressed immediate concern. Ending the drills "is in excess of all expert consensus, South Korean requests, and even a close reading of North Korean demands", said Adam Mount of the Federation of American Scientists. The KCNA report said Trump committed to ending the drills during his meeting with Kim. It added that denuclearisation on the Korean peninsula would be dependent on the two sides "refraining from antagonising... Each other out of mutual understanding". The Singapore summit was a potentially legacy-defining meeting for both men -- comparable to president Richard Nixon's 1972 visit to China, or Ronald Reagan's 1986 summit with Mikhail Gorbachev in Reykjavik. World powers from China to Japan, the European Union and Russia welcomed its outcome -- while cautioning it was only the first step towards resolving the nuclear stand-off with Pyongyang. Many agreements have been made in the past with North Korea that have later fallen apart, and ahead of the meeting, critics expressed concerns that it risked being more about headlines than substantive progress. It also legitimised Kim, critics charged, feting a regime which stands accused of widespread human rights abuses. In the event, the two leaders showered each other with compliments in the sumptuous setting of a luxury Singapore hotel, a marked contrast from their previous rounds of mutual insults, such as "mentally deranged" and "little rocket man". Trump said he had formed a "special bond" with Kim, whom he described as "very talented". KCNA said the two leaders ate and walked together, "deepening friendly feelings" towards each other.

Kim invites Trump to visit Pyongyang as North hails 'radical switchover'

Washington, Jun 13 (PTI) India and the US have agreed to hold official-level comprehensive talks to address trade and economic issues, days after President Donald Trump accused New Delhi of charging 100 per cent tariff on some of the US' goods.

The decision in this regard was taken during a series of meetings visiting Commerce and Industry Minister Suresh Prabhu had with US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross and US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer.

"We will now work together to expand (bilateral) trade," Prabhu told a group of Indian reporters here yesterday at the conclusion of his two-day trip to the US.&nbsp

India will send an official team to work out the details and initiate a comprehensive negotiation on all issues concerning trade and economic relationship between the two countries. "The team will come within the next few days," Prabhu said.&nbsp

Acknowledging that both sides have trade and tariff issues with each other, the minister said officials would hold talks on all of them.&nbsp

President Trump, in a press conference in Canada's Quebec City where he attended the G7 summit, took a swipe at India along with the world's other top economies and accused New Delhi of charging 100 per cent tariff on some of the US' goods, as he threatened to cut trade ties with countries who are robbing America.

Indian Ambassador to the US Navtej Singh Sarna said New Delhi has written to the US on steel and aluminum tariff.&nbsp

A full-fledged case has been made by India for waiver of steel and aluminum tariffs, he added. "It has been a very positive engagement."

In addition to Ross and Lighthizer, Prabhu held talks with Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue. He also met two powerful Senators John Cornyn and Mark Warner - the two co-chairs of the Senate India caucus.

"The meetings were held in a friendly and cordial atmosphere, with appreciation for each other's points of view. Discussions centered around bilateral trade and commercial relations between the two countries and focused on finding the way forward to address concerns of both sides," the Indian Embassy said in a readout of the meetings.

"In this context, it was agreed that Indian and US officials would meet at a senior level at an early date to discuss various issues of interest to both sides and carry forward the discussions in a positive, constructive and result oriented manner," it said.

During his two-day visit to Washington DC, Prabhu addressed business and industry leaders in meetings organised by US-India Business Council (USIBC) and US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) and held meetings with other stakeholders.

"It's a great time to join hands with each other. And that's the realisation within the (Trump) administration as well. Therefore, we have really decided to move on. As you know, we always hear the trade disputes between US and India, but when I had meeting with the USTR, with the Commerce Secretary, with Agriculture Secretary, with Senators, it is very clear that we must move on, keep the issues behind," Prabhu told industry leaders at a reception hosted by USIBC in association with the FICCI and Manhattan Chamber of Commerce.

In his interaction with industry leaders at an event organised by the USISPF, Prabhu spoke about the improvements that have been made in the trade relationship, including trade deficit reduction.&nbsp

"Every great partnership has areas of agreement and disagreement. I'm hopeful that the US investment corridor is only going to grow, and I'm confident that we will be able to bridge our gaps," Prabhu noted.

The industry interaction included senior officials from leading US companies such as: Boston Scientific, FedEx, Walmart, Abbott, UTC, Honeywell, PhRMA, MoneyGram International, Lockheed Martin, Koch Industries, Amway, Uber, 21st Century Fox, and Medtronic.

Noting that India and the US have an important strategic relationship and shared goals, USIBC president Nisha Desai Biswal said the council is a constructive partner in achieving the full potential of the US-India commercial opportunity.

The USIBC roundtable organised in association with the CII comprised of US and Indian industry giants from the energy, aerospace, ICT, life sciences and defence sectors who reiterated India's position as a critical market while also raising issues facing their companies such as data localization and price controls, as well as public procurement and operational hurdles.

In engaging with critical stakeholders, Prabhu highlighted the ongoing policy reforms being pursued by India to improve its business climate and remove bureaucratic hurdles.&nbsp

Prabhu noted that India will soon release its new Industrial Policy, aimed at transforming India into a modern, flourishing, economic powerhouse.&nbsp

During the interaction, he emphasized the importance of a dispute redressal mechanism, and resolving such issues together in a way that does not derail but rather strengthens bilateral ties.&nbsp

Under Trump, trade dispute between India and the US has increased, with his administration asking New Delhi to lower its trade barriers and open up its market.&nbsp

Trump has repeatedly raked up the issue of India imposing high import duty on the iconic Harley-Davidson motorcycles and threatened to increase the import tariff on "thousands and thousands" of Indian motorcycles to the US.&nbsp

Trump had at the recent G7 summit taken a swipe at the world's top economies and India, accusing New Delhi of charging a 100 per cent tariff on some of the US' goods

Washington, Jun 13 (PTI) India and the US have agreed to hold official-level comprehensive talks to address trade and economic issues, days after President Donald Trump accused New Delhi of charging 100 per cent tariff on some of the US' goods. The decision in this regard was taken during a series of meetings visiting Commerce and Industry Minister Suresh Prabhu had with US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross and US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer. "We will now work together to expand (bilateral) trade," Prabhu told a group of Indian reporters here yesterday at the conclusion of his two-day trip to the US. India will send an official team to work out the details and initiate a comprehensive negotiation on all issues concerning trade and economic relationship between the two countries. "The team will come within the next few days," Prabhu said. Acknowledging that both sides have trade and tariff issues with each other, the minister said officials would hold talks on all of them. President Trump, in a press conference in Canada's Quebec City where he attended the G7 summit, took a swipe at India along with the world's other top economies and accused New Delhi of charging 100 per cent tariff on some of the US' goods, as he threatened to cut trade ties with countries who are robbing America. Indian Ambassador to the US Navtej Singh Sarna said New Delhi has written to the US on steel and aluminum tariff. A full-fledged case has been made by India for waiver of steel and aluminum tariffs, he added. "It has been a very positive engagement." In addition to Ross and Lighthizer, Prabhu held talks with Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue. He also met two powerful Senators John Cornyn and Mark Warner - the two co-chairs of the Senate India caucus. "The meetings were held in a friendly and cordial atmosphere, with appreciation for each other's points of view. Discussions centered around bilateral trade and commercial relations between the two countries and focused on finding the way forward to address concerns of both sides," the Indian Embassy said in a readout of the meetings. "In this context, it was agreed that Indian and US officials would meet at a senior level at an early date to discuss various issues of interest to both sides and carry forward the discussions in a positive, constructive and result oriented manner," it said. During his two-day visit to Washington DC, Prabhu addressed business and industry leaders in meetings organised by US-India Business Council (USIBC) and US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) and held meetings with other stakeholders. "It's a great time to join hands with each other. And that's the realisation within the (Trump) administration as well. Therefore, we have really decided to move on. As you know, we always hear the trade disputes between US and India, but when I had meeting with the USTR, with the Commerce Secretary, with Agriculture Secretary, with Senators, it is very clear that we must move on, keep the issues behind," Prabhu told industry leaders at a reception hosted by USIBC in association with the FICCI and Manhattan Chamber of Commerce. In his interaction with industry leaders at an event organised by the USISPF, Prabhu spoke about the improvements that have been made in the trade relationship, including trade deficit reduction. "Every great partnership has areas of agreement and disagreement. I'm hopeful that the US investment corridor is only going to grow, and I'm confident that we will be able to bridge our gaps," Prabhu noted. The industry interaction included senior officials from leading US companies such as: Boston Scientific, FedEx, Walmart, Abbott, UTC, Honeywell, PhRMA, MoneyGram International, Lockheed Martin, Koch Industries, Amway, Uber, 21st Century Fox, and Medtronic. Noting that India and the US have an important strategic relationship and shared goals, USIBC president Nisha Desai Biswal said the council is a constructive partner in achieving the full potential of the US-India commercial opportunity. The USIBC roundtable organised in association with the CII comprised of US and Indian industry giants from the energy, aerospace, ICT, life sciences and defence sectors who reiterated India's position as a critical market while also raising issues facing their companies such as data localization and price controls, as well as public procurement and operational hurdles. In engaging with critical stakeholders, Prabhu highlighted the ongoing policy reforms being pursued by India to improve its business climate and remove bureaucratic hurdles. Prabhu noted that India will soon release its new Industrial Policy, aimed at transforming India into a modern, flourishing, economic powerhouse. During the interaction, he emphasized the importance of a dispute redressal mechanism, and resolving such issues together in a way that does not derail but rather strengthens bilateral ties. Under Trump, trade dispute between India and the US has increased, with his administration asking New Delhi to lower its trade barriers and open up its market. Trump has repeatedly raked up the issue of India imposing high import duty on the iconic Harley-Davidson motorcycles and threatened to increase the import tariff on "thousands and thousands" of Indian motorcycles to the US.

After Trump accuses Delhi of high tariffs, US & India agree to hold trade talks

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/kim-summit-helped-world-avoid-nuclear-catastrophe-says-trump-143977">Summit with Kim helped avoid 'nuclear catastrophe', says Trump</a>

Donald Trump's summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has helped bring the world back from "nuclear catastrophe," the US president said Tuesday. "The World has taken a big step back from potential Nuclear catastrophe!" Trump tweeted.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-4-bsf-personnel-killed-in-ceasefire-violation-by-pakistan-143986">Jammu and Kashmir: 4 BSF personnel killed in ceasefire violation by Pakistan</a>

Four Border Security Force (BSF) personnel lost their lives and three others sustained injuries in a ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Chambliyal sector of Samba in the wee hours of Wednesday morning.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/lowest-form-of-politics-says-bjp-after-rahul-alleges-modi-humiliated-vajpayee-advani-143987">'Lowest form of politics,' says BJP after Rahul alleges Modi humiliated Vajpayee, Advani</a>

The BJP accused Congress President Rahul Gandhi of practising the "lowest form of politics" after he accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of humiliating former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee and senior BJP leader LK Advani. News reports quoted Gandhi as having said at a rally in Mumbai that the Congress had accorded more respect to Advani than Modi.&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ex-chief-justice-of-pakistan-challenges-imran-khans-eligibility-to-hold-office-over-love-child-row-143976">Love child row: Ex-chief justice of Pakistan alleges Imran Khan ineligible for office</a>

Former chief justice of Pakistan Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry on Sunday said he will file a case against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan in the Supreme Court for fathering a love child out of wedlock, and hence claim his ineligibility to hold public office.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-students-death-not-in-vain-helped-lead-to-north-korean-summit-trump-143978">US student's death not in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-students-death-not-in-vain-helped-lead-to-north-korean-summit-trump-143978">vain,</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-students-death-not-in-vain-helped-lead-to-north-korean-summit-trump-143978"> helped lead to North Korean summit: Trump</a>

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that the college student Otto Warmbier's death has lad to the historic summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un.&nbspTrump said that Otto did not die in vein days after he was released from jail in North Korean custody in 2017. His parents thanked President Donald Trump for the kind words about their son he gave after his historic summit with North Korea’s leader.

Summit with Kim helped avoid 'nuclear catastrophe', says Trump Donald Trump's summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has helped bring the world back from "nuclear catastrophe," the US president said Tuesday. "The World has taken a big step back from potential Nuclear catastrophe!" Trump tweeted. Jammu and Kashmir: 4 BSF personnel killed in ceasefire violation by Pakistan Four Border Security Force (BSF) personnel lost their lives and three others sustained injuries in a ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Chambliyal sector of Samba in the wee hours of Wednesday morning. 'Lowest form of politics,' says BJP after Rahul alleges Modi humiliated Vajpayee, Advani The BJP accused Congress President Rahul Gandhi of practising the "lowest form of politics" after he accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of humiliating former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee and senior BJP leader LK Advani. News reports quoted Gandhi as having said at a rally in Mumbai that the Congress had accorded more respect to Advani than Modi. Love child row: Ex-chief justice of Pakistan alleges Imran Khan ineligible for office Former chief justice of Pakistan Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry on Sunday said he will file a case against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan in the Supreme Court for fathering a love child out of wedlock, and hence claim his ineligibility to hold public office. US student's death not in vain, helped lead to North Korean summit: Trump US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that the college student Otto Warmbier's death has lad to the historic summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un.&nbspTrump said that Otto did not die in vein days after he was released from jail in North Korean custody in 2017. His parents thanked President Donald Trump for the kind words about their son he gave after his historic summit with North Korea’s leader.

Donald Trump on Tuesday hit back at Robert De Niro, calling him a "very low IQ individual," after the Oscar-winning actor's expletive-laden attack on the American president on live television.

Two days after De Niro's outburst on the stage of the Tony Awards ceremony in New York, Trump said he had watched the clip "and (I) truly believe he may be punch drunk."

Representatives for De Niro did not immediately return a request for comment.

De Niro, one of the most respected American actors, twice used the so-called F-Bomb against Trump on Sunday, prompting loud applause from the audience of theatre actors, directors and producers at Radio City Music Hall.

The "Raging Bull" actor's remarks were bleeped for more than 6 million Americans watching the awards show on CBS at home.

De Niro took the stage to introduce rocker and Tony Awards performer Bruce Springsteen. Without any preamble, he said, "I'm gonna say one thing. Fuck Trump."

With the audience of theatre actors, directors and producers shrieking and rising to their feet in applause, De Niro said: "It's no longer down with Trump. It's fuck Trump." He did not elaborate on his comment.

Trump was on his way to Singapore to meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un as the Broadway awards show was taking place. He delivered his response on his Twitter account while on his way back to the United States.

"Robert De Niro, a very Low IQ individual, has received to many shots to the head by real boxers in movies. I watched him last night and truly believe he may be 'punch-drunk',” Trump tweeted.

"I guess he doesn’t realize the economy is the best it’s ever been with employment being at an all time high, and many companies pouring back into our country. Wake up Punchy!"

De Niro won an Oscar for playing American boxer Jake LaMotta in the 1980 film "Raging Bull." He returned to the ring in "Grudge Match" in 2013 and played a boxing trainer in 2016 movie "Hands of Stone."

De Niro, a noted liberal, has been increasingly critical of Trump, a Republican, at smaller show business events in the past year, but none of them had the profile enjoyed by the Tony Awards.

Two days after De Niro's outburst on the stage of the Tony Awards ceremony in New York, Trump said he had watched the clip 'and (I) truly believe he may be punch drunk'

Donald Trump on Tuesday hit back at Robert De Niro, calling him a "very low IQ individual," after the Oscar-winning actor's expletive-laden attack on the American president on live television. Two days after De Niro's outburst on the stage of the Tony Awards ceremony in New York, Trump said he had watched the clip "and (I) truly believe he may be punch drunk." Representatives for De Niro did not immediately return a request for comment. De Niro, one of the most respected American actors, twice used the so-called F-Bomb against Trump on Sunday, prompting loud applause from the audience of theatre actors, directors and producers at Radio City Music Hall. The "Raging Bull" actor's remarks were bleeped for more than 6 million Americans watching the awards show on CBS at home. De Niro took the stage to introduce rocker and Tony Awards performer Bruce Springsteen. Without any preamble, he said, "I'm gonna say one thing. Fuck Trump." With the audience of theatre actors, directors and producers shrieking and rising to their feet in applause, De Niro said: "It's no longer down with Trump. It's fuck Trump." He did not elaborate on his comment. Trump was on his way to Singapore to meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un as the Broadway awards show was taking place. He delivered his response on his Twitter account while on his way back to the United States. "Robert De Niro, a very Low IQ individual, has received to many shots to the head by real boxers in movies. I watched him last night and truly believe he may be 'punch-drunk',” Trump tweeted. "I guess he doesn’t realize the economy is the best it’s ever been with employment being at an all time high, and many companies pouring back into our country. Wake up Punchy!" De Niro won an Oscar for playing American boxer Jake LaMotta in the 1980 film "Raging Bull." He returned to the ring in "Grudge Match" in 2013 and played a boxing trainer in 2016 movie "Hands of Stone." De Niro, a noted liberal, has been increasingly critical of Trump, a Republican, at smaller show business events in the past year, but none of them had the profile enjoyed by the Tony Awards.

'Robert De Niro, a very Low IQ individual,' says Trump

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that the college student Otto Warmbier's death has lad to the historic summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un.&nbsp;

Trump said that Otto did not die in vein days after he was released from jail in North Korean custody in 2017. His parents thanked President Donald Trump for the kind words about their son he gave after his historic summit with North Korea’s leader.

"Without Otto this would not have happened," Trump told a post-summit news conference in Singapore.

"Something happened from that day. It was a terrible thing, it was brutal, but a lot of people started to focus on what was going on, including North Korea."

"I really think that Otto is someone who did not die in vain."

In September last year, Trump accused North Korea of brutally abusing &nbsp;Warmbier and the President publicly accused the country of torture in the case.

Warmbier was a student at University of Virginia who was arrested by North Korean authorities in January 2016 for stealing a propaganda poster and sentenced to 15 years in prison with hard labor. After suffering still unexplained brain injuries, he was released on June 13, 2017 and died six days later.

An Ohio coroner said the cause of his death was lack of oxygen and blood to the brain.

North Korea blamed botulism and ingestion of a sleeping pill and dismissed torture claims.

<img alt="3fbd94f9ffef022296cdf76a619cf3eb_0.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="1000" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/3fbd94f9ffef022296cdf76a619cf3eb_0.jpg" width="650" />

His parents thanked President Donald Trump for the kind words about their son he gave after his historic summit with North Korea’s leader

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that the college student Otto Warmbier's death has lad to the historic summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un. Trump said that Otto did not die in vein days after he was released from jail in North Korean custody in 2017. His parents thanked President Donald Trump for the kind words about their son he gave after his historic summit with North Korea’s leader. "Without Otto this would not have happened," Trump told a post-summit news conference in Singapore. "Something happened from that day. It was a terrible thing, it was brutal, but a lot of people started to focus on what was going on, including North Korea." "I really think that Otto is someone who did not die in vain." In September last year, Trump accused North Korea of brutally abusing Warmbier and the President publicly accused the country of torture in the case. Warmbier was a student at University of Virginia who was arrested by North Korean authorities in January 2016 for stealing a propaganda poster and sentenced to 15 years in prison with hard labor. After suffering still unexplained brain injuries, he was released on June 13, 2017 and died six days later. An Ohio coroner said the cause of his death was lack of oxygen and blood to the brain. North Korea blamed botulism and ingestion of a sleeping pill and dismissed torture claims.

US student's death not in vain, helped lead to North Korean summit: Trump

US President Donald Trump congratulated North American (US, Mexico and Canada) countries over winning the joint bid to host the football World Cup 2026.

The US will be hosting the FIFA World Cup after 1994, and Mexico after 1986. For Canda, this is the first opportunity to host the football carnival.

On the eve of the 2018 World Cup, delegates from 207 nations gathered and delivered a clear result.

The North American bid received 134 of the 203 votes, while Morocco polled 65 in the ballot at a FIFA Congress held in Moscow.

US President Trump expressed joy via Twitter from his official handle, he said, "The U.S., together with Mexico and Canada, just got the World Cup. Congratulations - a great deal of hard work!"

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The U.S., together with Mexico and Canada, just got the World Cup. Congratulations - a great deal of hard work!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1006866089110892545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The North American bid received 134 of the 203 votes, while Morocco polled 65 in the ballot

US President Donald Trump congratulated North American (US, Mexico and Canada) countries over winning the joint bid to host the football World Cup 2026. The US will be hosting the FIFA World Cup after 1994, and Mexico after 1986. For Canda, this is the first opportunity to host the football carnival. On the eve of the 2018 World Cup, delegates from 207 nations gathered and delivered a clear result. The North American bid received 134 of the 203 votes, while Morocco polled 65 in the ballot at a FIFA Congress held in Moscow. US President Trump expressed joy via Twitter from his official handle, he said, "The U.S., together with Mexico and Canada, just got the World Cup. Congratulations - a great deal of hard work!" The U.S., together with Mexico and Canada, just got the World Cup. Congratulations - a great deal of hard work! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 13, 2018 ×

President Trump congratulates US, Mexico, Canada on World Cup 2026 bid victory

White House economic advisor Larry Kudlow will stay in a Washington-area hospital for a while but was expected to "make a full and speedy" recovery after suffering a heart attack on Tuesday.&nbsp

White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said in a statement that Kudlow is expected to remain at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center as “a standard precaution” after suffering the heart attack on Monday.

“His doctors expect Larry will make a full and speedy recovery,” said Sanders. “We look forward to seeing him back at work soon.”'

President Donald Trump tweeted the news earlier, literally minutes before his historic meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un: "Our Great Larry Kudlow, who has been working so hard on trade and the economy, has just suffered a heart attack. He is now in Walter Reed Medical Center."

Kudlow, the director of the National Economic Council, had joined President Donald Trump last week in Canada for the meeting of the Group of Seven world leaders. Kudlow, a former CNBC contributor and Wall Street economist, has played a leading role in crafting policy toward America's major trade partners, including China.

White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said in a statement that Kudlow is expected to remain at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center

White House economic advisor Larry Kudlow will stay in a Washington-area hospital for a while but was expected to "make a full and speedy" recovery after suffering a heart attack on Tuesday. White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said in a statement that Kudlow is expected to remain at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center as “a standard precaution” after suffering the heart attack on Monday. “His doctors expect Larry will make a full and speedy recovery,” said Sanders. “We look forward to seeing him back at work soon.”' President Donald Trump tweeted the news earlier, literally minutes before his historic meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un: "Our Great Larry Kudlow, who has been working so hard on trade and the economy, has just suffered a heart attack. He is now in Walter Reed Medical Center." Kudlow, the director of the National Economic Council, had joined President Donald Trump last week in Canada for the meeting of the Group of Seven world leaders. Kudlow, a former CNBC contributor and Wall Street economist, has played a leading role in crafting policy toward America's major trade partners, including China.

Trump economic adviser Kudlow to stay in hospital after heart attack

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