Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe plans to visit the United States April 17-20 for talks with President Donald Trump, he said on Monday.

Abe said he would ask Trump to bring up the issue of past North Korean abductions of Japanese citizens, during the US president's expected summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe told his plan on Monday

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe plans to visit the United States April 17-20 for talks with President Donald Trump, he said on Monday. Abe said he would ask Trump to bring up the issue of past North Korean abductions of Japanese citizens, during the US president's expected summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Japan PM to visit US from April 17 to 20 for talks with Trump

The H1-B visa applications for the year 2018-19 began on April 2, which have now been called the toughest application process yet.&nbsp;

Zero tolerance

The Trump administration that launched the 'Buy American and Hire American' Executive Order will be scrutinising every application minutely before issuing the most sought-after work visa.

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), which is the federal agency responsible to process the visas, has indicated that there will be zero tolerance for even minor errors.&nbsp;

Earlier in March, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services had announced that it would temporarily suspend the premium processing for the H-1B visa. The Donald Trump administration recently announced a new measure, making the approval of H-1B visa tougher.&nbsp;

Any company will have to make one more clarification to prove that its H-1B employee at a third-party worksite has specific and non-qualifying speculative assignments in a speciality occupation.&nbsp;

An in-house immigration lawyer at an information technology company says: “Under the US federal law, a single company cannot file multiple H-1B visa applications for the same visa seeker. When a company files an H-1B visa application, another related or affiliated company cannot do so unless there exist two separate job opportunities. These jobs must be clearly distinguishable and supported by additional evidence such as letters from different end clients or for different projects.”

The H1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows the US companies to employ foreign workers in jobs that require theoretical or technical expertise. The technology companies depend on this visa to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries such as India and China. The H1-B visa has an annual limit of 65,000 each financial year as mandated by the US Congress, their house of parliament.

Spouse applications

Spouses of the H1-B visa holders get the H4 visa currently, which doesn’t allow them to work or run a business until they obtain an employment authorisation document (EAD).

However, not all dependent spouses of the H1-B visa holders are eligible to apply for an EAD. This route is available only to the H1-B visa recipients on track for a Green Card. Hence, many foreign professionals are exploring the option of becoming a permanent resident of the US.

<img alt="h1b-visa-cap-update2013.png" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="415" src="https://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/h1b-visa-cap-update2013.png" width="700" />

Application limit

The H-1B visa has an annual numerical limit cap of 65,000 visas each year. The first 20,000 petitions filed on behalf of beneficiaries with a US master's degree or higher are exempted from the cap.

USCIS said that it will reject H-1B petitions requesting an earlier employment start date or a start date of 'As Soon As Possible' or 'ASAP'.

Immigration experts say that the DHS (the United States Department of Homeland Security) handles 30,000-odd applications for employment authorisation each year, in addition to the requests for renewal. The Trump administration’s draft proposal in June will be the first step towards ending the mechanism of granting this authorisation.

Amandeep Kaur, a software professional from Chandigarh, who works in Accenture, says: “It sure is good news for those working in the US. Ever since the likelihood of sending families back came into limelight, professionals were in a dilemma about going to the United States. And they were not only IT professionals but also many others who use the H-1B visa.”

Successful applications

If the applicant is seeking an extension of stay or change of status, he or she should include evidence to establish that the beneficiary will maintain a valid non-immigrant status through the employment start date being requested, USCIS said in its filing tips.

When the successful applicant appears before the American diplomatic missions, embassies and consulates for a formal visa interview and stamping on their passport, they would have to be ready with details of the social media profile, emails and phone numbers of the last five years.

Ahead of the H-1B visa filing process, USCIS said this work visa should help US companies recruit highly-skilled foreign nationals when there is a shortage of qualified workers in the country.&nbsp;

H-1B is considered as the most sought-after work visa among highly-skilled Indian professionals

The H1-B visa applications for the year 2018-19 began on April 2, which have now been called the toughest application process yet. Zero tolerance The Trump administration that launched the 'Buy American and Hire American' Executive Order will be scrutinising every application minutely before issuing the most sought-after work visa. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), which is the federal agency responsible to process the visas, has indicated that there will be zero tolerance for even minor errors. Earlier in March, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services had announced that it would temporarily suspend the premium processing for the H-1B visa. The Donald Trump administration recently announced a new measure, making the approval of H-1B visa tougher. Any company will have to make one more clarification to prove that its H-1B employee at a third-party worksite has specific and non-qualifying speculative assignments in a speciality occupation. An in-house immigration lawyer at an information technology company says: “Under the US federal law, a single company cannot file multiple H-1B visa applications for the same visa seeker. When a company files an H-1B visa application, another related or affiliated company cannot do so unless there exist two separate job opportunities. These jobs must be clearly distinguishable and supported by additional evidence such as letters from different end clients or for different projects.” The H1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows the US companies to employ foreign workers in jobs that require theoretical or technical expertise. The technology companies depend on this visa to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries such as India and China. The H1-B visa has an annual limit of 65,000 each financial year as mandated by the US Congress, their house of parliament. Spouse applications Spouses of the H1-B visa holders get the H4 visa currently, which doesn’t allow them to work or run a business until they obtain an employment authorisation document (EAD). However, not all dependent spouses of the H1-B visa holders are eligible to apply for an EAD. This route is available only to the H1-B visa recipients on track for a Green Card. Hence, many foreign professionals are exploring the option of becoming a permanent resident of the US. Application limit The H-1B visa has an annual numerical limit cap of 65,000 visas each year. The first 20,000 petitions filed on behalf of beneficiaries with a US master's degree or higher are exempted from the cap. USCIS said that it will reject H-1B petitions requesting an earlier employment start date or a start date of 'As Soon As Possible' or 'ASAP'. Immigration experts say that the DHS (the United States Department of Homeland Security) handles 30,000-odd applications for employment authorisation each year, in addition to the requests for renewal. The Trump administration’s draft proposal in June will be the first step towards ending the mechanism of granting this authorisation. Amandeep Kaur, a software professional from Chandigarh, who works in Accenture, says: “It sure is good news for those working in the US. Ever since the likelihood of sending families back came into limelight, professionals were in a dilemma about going to the United States. And they were not only IT professionals but also many others who use the H-1B visa.” Successful applications If the applicant is seeking an extension of stay or change of status, he or she should include evidence to establish that the beneficiary will maintain a valid non-immigrant status through the employment start date being requested, USCIS said in its filing tips. When the successful applicant appears before the American diplomatic missions, embassies and consulates for a formal visa interview and stamping on their passport, they would have to be ready with details of the social media profile, emails and phone numbers of the last five years. Ahead of the H-1B visa filing process, USCIS said this work visa should help US companies recruit highly-skilled foreign nationals when there is a shortage of qualified workers in the country.

Everything you need to know about the H1-B visa

The process of filing petitions for H-1B, considered as the most sought-after work visa among highly skilled Indian professionals, begins tomorrow amidst unprecedented scrutiny by the Trump Administration.

A strong indication is coming from US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the federal agency which is responsible to process all H-1B visas, that there will be zero tolerance by it for even minor errors.

Chatter at various social media platforms and groups indicate that immigration attorneys this time expect a much high rate of rejection.

The H1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise.

The technology companies depend on it to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries like India and China.

The H1-B visa has an annual numerical limit cap of 65,000 visas each fiscal year as mandated by the Congress. The first 20,000 petitions filed on behalf of beneficiaries with a US master's degree or higher are exempt from the cap.

Days ahead of the start of the H-1B visa application process for the fiscal year 2019, beginning October 1 this year USCIS warned that all duplicate applications would be subject to rejection. In previous years filing of duplicate petitions, by companies, so that applicants could have a greater chance of getting through the lottery had become a normal practice.

USCIS has also said that it will reject H-1B petitions requesting an earlier employment start date or a start date of "As Soon As Possible" or "ASAP."

Expecting a huge rush of application beginning tomorrow and greater scrutiny of all petitions, which would require much more man hours, USCIS has also temporarily suspended premium processing.

"We will announce the start date for premium processing in the near future," USCIS said.

As of now, USCIS has not indicated if it plans to go for a computerised draw of lots as has been the case in previous years after receiving several times more than the Congressional mandated cap of H-1B visas.

"Complete all sections of the form accurately. The petitioner should include a copy of the beneficiary's valid passport," USCIS said.

If the applicant is seeking an extension of stay or change of status, he/she should include evidence to establish that the beneficiary will maintain a valid nonimmigrant status through the employment start date being requested, USCIS said in its filing tips.

Given the general campaign against highly skilled Indian professionals, the applications by Indian companies are likely to face a greater scrutiny of all these petitions.

As in the previous years, Indian companies would have to pay much more fee per application than those from other countries. On an average, they are required to pay USD 6,000 to the federal government per H-1B application.

And by then time the successful applicant appear before the American diplomatic missions -- embassies and consulates for a formal visa interview and stamping on their passport, they would have to be ready with details of the social media profile, emails and phone numbers in the last five years.

On Friday, the State Department issued a formal notification in this regard which would come into force after 90 days.

Ahead of the H-1B visa filing process, USCIS said this work visa should help US companies recruit highly-skilled foreign nationals when there is a shortage of qualified workers in the country.

"Yet, too many American workers who are as qualified, willing, and deserving to work in these fields have been ignored or unfairly disadvantaged. Employers who abuse the H-1B visa program may negatively affect US workers, decreasing wages and opportunities as they import more foreign workers," it said.

Protecting American workers by combating fraud in our employment-based immigration programs is a priority for USCIS, it said, adding that it is furthering its efforts by enhancing and increasing site visits, interviews, and investigations of petitioners who use the H-1B visa programme.

"These efforts will help assist in the prosecution of program violators and ensure that American workers are not overlooked or replaced in the process," USCIS said.

The H1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise

The process of filing petitions for H-1B, considered as the most sought-after work visa among highly skilled Indian professionals, begins tomorrow amidst unprecedented scrutiny by the Trump Administration. A strong indication is coming from US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the federal agency which is responsible to process all H-1B visas, that there will be zero tolerance by it for even minor errors. Chatter at various social media platforms and groups indicate that immigration attorneys this time expect a much high rate of rejection. The H1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. The technology companies depend on it to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries like India and China. The H1-B visa has an annual numerical limit cap of 65,000 visas each fiscal year as mandated by the Congress. The first 20,000 petitions filed on behalf of beneficiaries with a US master's degree or higher are exempt from the cap. Days ahead of the start of the H-1B visa application process for the fiscal year 2019, beginning October 1 this year USCIS warned that all duplicate applications would be subject to rejection. In previous years filing of duplicate petitions, by companies, so that applicants could have a greater chance of getting through the lottery had become a normal practice. USCIS has also said that it will reject H-1B petitions requesting an earlier employment start date or a start date of "As Soon As Possible" or "ASAP." Expecting a huge rush of application beginning tomorrow and greater scrutiny of all petitions, which would require much more man hours, USCIS has also temporarily suspended premium processing. "We will announce the start date for premium processing in the near future," USCIS said. As of now, USCIS has not indicated if it plans to go for a computerised draw of lots as has been the case in previous years after receiving several times more than the Congressional mandated cap of H-1B visas. "Complete all sections of the form accurately. The petitioner should include a copy of the beneficiary's valid passport," USCIS said. If the applicant is seeking an extension of stay or change of status, he/she should include evidence to establish that the beneficiary will maintain a valid nonimmigrant status through the employment start date being requested, USCIS said in its filing tips. Given the general campaign against highly skilled Indian professionals, the applications by Indian companies are likely to face a greater scrutiny of all these petitions. As in the previous years, Indian companies would have to pay much more fee per application than those from other countries. On an average, they are required to pay USD 6,000 to the federal government per H-1B application. And by then time the successful applicant appear before the American diplomatic missions -- embassies and consulates for a formal visa interview and stamping on their passport, they would have to be ready with details of the social media profile, emails and phone numbers in the last five years. On Friday, the State Department issued a formal notification in this regard which would come into force after 90 days. Ahead of the H-1B visa filing process, USCIS said this work visa should help US companies recruit highly-skilled foreign nationals when there is a shortage of qualified workers in the country. "Yet, too many American workers who are as qualified, willing, and deserving to work in these fields have been ignored or unfairly disadvantaged. Employers who abuse the H-1B visa program may negatively affect US workers, decreasing wages and opportunities as they import more foreign workers," it said. Protecting American workers by combating fraud in our employment-based immigration programs is a priority for USCIS, it said, adding that it is furthering its efforts by enhancing and increasing site visits, interviews, and investigations of petitioners who use the H-1B visa programme. "These efforts will help assist in the prosecution of program violators and ensure that American workers are not overlooked or replaced in the process," USCIS said.

H-1B application process begins tomorrow; likely to face unprecedented scrutiny

The United States and South Korea kicked off a low-key joint military drill Sunday as a diplomatic thaw over North Korea gathered pace.

Tension on the flashpoint peninsula has shown signs of easing in recent months after the isolated, nuclear-armed North proposed summits with the South and their "imperialist enemy" the US.

The annual Foal Eagle drill -- a series of field training exercises involving some 11,500 American and 290,000 South Korean troops -- began early Sunday, Seoul's defence ministry spokesman said.

The drill -- which was delayed to avoid clashing with February's Winter Olympics in the South -- will be held for a month in April, about half the time it usually lasts.

This year's drills feature fewer strategic weapons like a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, Seoul army said earlier. The deployment of such powerful weapons at past drills has frequently drawn an angry response from the North.

The two allies are also set to stage the annual Key Resolve drill -- a tabletop exercise using mainly computer-based simulations -- for the usual duration of two weeks beginning late April.

Pyongyang, which habitually slams the joint army drills between the South and the US as a rehearsal for invasion, has remained relatively quiet on the issue in recent weeks.

The Foal Eagle drill started the same day as a historic concert by South Korean pop stars in Pyongyang, which will be staged late Sunday as a peace gesture ahead of this month's inter-Korea summit.

Eleven South Korean acts -- including popular K-pop girlband Red Velvet -- are set perform in the North Korean capital -- the first such concert for more than a decade.

The flurry of reconciliatory moves comes after the Pyeongchang Winter Games, which the North used to mount a charm offensive, sending athletes, cheerleaders and even leader Kim Jong Un's powerful sister as a delegate.

Kim, who last week met with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing on his first overseas trip as leader, also met Olympics chief Thomas Bach in Pyongyang on Saturday, thanking him for helping to bring about a "dramatic thawing" of tensions on the peninsula.

Kim is set to hold a summit with South Korean President Moon Jae-in on April 27 at the border truce village of Panmunjom -- the third time ever that any leaders of the two rivals have met.&nbsp

The two allies are also set to stage the annual Key Resolve drill

The United States and South Korea kicked off a low-key joint military drill Sunday as a diplomatic thaw over North Korea gathered pace. Tension on the flashpoint peninsula has shown signs of easing in recent months after the isolated, nuclear-armed North proposed summits with the South and their "imperialist enemy" the US. The annual Foal Eagle drill -- a series of field training exercises involving some 11,500 American and 290,000 South Korean troops -- began early Sunday, Seoul's defence ministry spokesman said. The drill -- which was delayed to avoid clashing with February's Winter Olympics in the South -- will be held for a month in April, about half the time it usually lasts. This year's drills feature fewer strategic weapons like a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, Seoul army said earlier. The deployment of such powerful weapons at past drills has frequently drawn an angry response from the North. The two allies are also set to stage the annual Key Resolve drill -- a tabletop exercise using mainly computer-based simulations -- for the usual duration of two weeks beginning late April. Pyongyang, which habitually slams the joint army drills between the South and the US as a rehearsal for invasion, has remained relatively quiet on the issue in recent weeks. The Foal Eagle drill started the same day as a historic concert by South Korean pop stars in Pyongyang, which will be staged late Sunday as a peace gesture ahead of this month's inter-Korea summit. Eleven South Korean acts -- including popular K-pop girlband Red Velvet -- are set perform in the North Korean capital -- the first such concert for more than a decade. The flurry of reconciliatory moves comes after the Pyeongchang Winter Games, which the North used to mount a charm offensive, sending athletes, cheerleaders and even leader Kim Jong Un's powerful sister as a delegate. Kim, who last week met with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing on his first overseas trip as leader, also met Olympics chief Thomas Bach in Pyongyang on Saturday, thanking him for helping to bring about a "dramatic thawing" of tensions on the peninsula. Kim is set to hold a summit with South Korean President Moon Jae-in on April 27 at the border truce village of Panmunjom -- the third time ever that any leaders of the two rivals have met.

US, South Korea begin low-key army drills amid diplomatic thaw

President Donald Trump has told advisers he wants an early exit of US troops from Syria, two senior administration officials said on Friday, a stance that may put him at odds with US military officials who see the fight against Islamic State as nowhere near complete.&nbsp;

A National Security Council meeting is set for early next week to discuss the US-led campaign against Islamic State in Syria, according to US officials familiar with the plan.&nbsp;

Two other administration officials confirmed a Wall Street Journal report on Friday that said Trump had ordered the State Department to freeze more than $200 million in funds for recovery efforts in Syria while his administration reassesses Washington`s role in the conflict there.&nbsp;

Trump called for the freeze after reading a news report that the US had recently committed an additional $200 million to stabilize areas recaptured from Islamic State, the paper said.&nbsp;

The funding was announced by departing Secretary of State Rex Tillerson in February at a meeting in Kuwait of the global coalition against Islamic State.&nbsp;

The decision to freeze the funds was in line with Trump`s declaration during a speech in Richfield, Ohio, on Thursday, where he said it was time for America to exit Syria.&nbsp;

A spokesperson for the White House`s National Security Council said that "in line with the President`s guidance, the Department of State continually re-evaluates appropriate assistance levels and how best they might be utilized, which they do on an ongoing basis."&nbsp;

Trump is spending Easter weekend at his Palm Beach, Florida, estate.&nbsp;

"We`ll be coming out of Syria, like, very soon," Trump said on Thursday, based on allied victories against Islamic State militants.&nbsp;

"Let the other people take care of it now. Very soon, very soon, we`re coming out," Trump said. "We're going to get back to our country, where we belong, where we want to be."

Trump`s comments came as France said on Friday it could increase its military presence in Syria to bolster the US-led campaign.&nbsp;

While the Pentagon has estimated that Islamic State has lost about 98 per cent of the territory it once held in Iraq and Syria, US- military officials have warned that the militants could regain the freed areas quickly unless they are stabilized. 
Trump still needs to be convinced of that, said the US officials with knowledge of the NSC meeting.&nbsp;

US Deliberations

The two administration officials who confirmed the Wall Street Journal report and spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity said Trump's comments on Thursday reflected internal deliberations with advisers in which he has wondered aloud why US forces should remain with the militants on their heels.&nbsp;

Trump has made clear that "once ISIS and its remnants are destroyed that the United States would be looking toward having countries in the region playing a larger role in ensuring security and leaving it at that," one official said.

Such a policy is nowhere near complete, however, the official added.&nbsp;

The second official said Trump`s national security advisers have told him US forces should stay in small numbers for at least a couple of years to make sure gains against the militants are held and ensure Syria does not essentially become a permanent Iranian base.&nbsp;

Top national security aides discussed Syria in a White House meeting recently but have yet to settle on a strategy for US forces in Syria to recommend to Trump going forward, the official said.

&nbsp;"So far he has not given an order to just get out," the official said. About 2,000 US troops are deployed in Syria.&nbsp;

Trump last year went through a similar wrenching debate over whether to withdraw US forces from Afghanistan, ultimately agreeing to keep them there but only after repeatedly raising questions of why they should stay.&nbsp;

Trump`s view on Syria may put him at odds with those of former US ambassador to the United Nations John Bolton, named by Trump a week ago to replace H.R. McMaster as White House national security adviser.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

A National Security Council meeting is set for early next week to discuss the US-led campaign against Islamic State in Syria, according to US officials familiar with the plan

President Donald Trump has told advisers he wants an early exit of US troops from Syria, two senior administration officials said on Friday, a stance that may put him at odds with US military officials who see the fight against Islamic State as nowhere near complete. A National Security Council meeting is set for early next week to discuss the US-led campaign against Islamic State in Syria, according to US officials familiar with the plan. Two other administration officials confirmed a Wall Street Journal report on Friday that said Trump had ordered the State Department to freeze more than $200 million in funds for recovery efforts in Syria while his administration reassesses Washington`s role in the conflict there. Trump called for the freeze after reading a news report that the US had recently committed an additional $200 million to stabilize areas recaptured from Islamic State, the paper said. The funding was announced by departing Secretary of State Rex Tillerson in February at a meeting in Kuwait of the global coalition against Islamic State. The decision to freeze the funds was in line with Trump`s declaration during a speech in Richfield, Ohio, on Thursday, where he said it was time for America to exit Syria. A spokesperson for the White House`s National Security Council said that "in line with the President`s guidance, the Department of State continually re-evaluates appropriate assistance levels and how best they might be utilized, which they do on an ongoing basis." Trump is spending Easter weekend at his Palm Beach, Florida, estate. "We`ll be coming out of Syria, like, very soon," Trump said on Thursday, based on allied victories against Islamic State militants. "Let the other people take care of it now. Very soon, very soon, we`re coming out," Trump said. "We're going to get back to our country, where we belong, where we want to be." Trump`s comments came as France said on Friday it could increase its military presence in Syria to bolster the US-led campaign. While the Pentagon has estimated that Islamic State has lost about 98 per cent of the territory it once held in Iraq and Syria, US- military officials have warned that the militants could regain the freed areas quickly unless they are stabilized. Trump still needs to be convinced of that, said the US officials with knowledge of the NSC meeting. US Deliberations The two administration officials who confirmed the Wall Street Journal report and spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity said Trump's comments on Thursday reflected internal deliberations with advisers in which he has wondered aloud why US forces should remain with the militants on their heels. Trump has made clear that "once ISIS and its remnants are destroyed that the United States would be looking toward having countries in the region playing a larger role in ensuring security and leaving it at that," one official said. Such a policy is nowhere near complete, however, the official added. The second official said Trump`s national security advisers have told him US forces should stay in small numbers for at least a couple of years to make sure gains against the militants are held and ensure Syria does not essentially become a permanent Iranian base. Top national security aides discussed Syria in a White House meeting recently but have yet to settle on a strategy for US forces in Syria to recommend to Trump going forward, the official said. "So far he has not given an order to just get out," the official said. About 2,000 US troops are deployed in Syria. Trump last year went through a similar wrenching debate over whether to withdraw US forces from Afghanistan, ultimately agreeing to keep them there but only after repeatedly raising questions of why they should stay. Trump`s view on Syria may put him at odds with those of former US ambassador to the United Nations John Bolton, named by Trump a week ago to replace H.R. McMaster as White House national security adviser.

Trump tells advisers he wants US out of Syria: Senior officials

<a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/world/trump-freezes-over-200-million-allocated-for-syrias-recovery-fund-127408">Trump freezes over $200 million allocated for Syria's 'recovery fund'</a>

The White House has instructed the State Department to freeze over $200 million in funds earmarked for "recovery efforts" in Syria, The Wall Street Journal reported Friday.

<a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/world/russia-to-expel-4-french-diplomats-over-spy-row-127407">Russia to expel 4 French diplomats over spy row</a>

Russia will expel four French diplomats in the aftermath of poisoning of former spy Sergei Skripal at his home in Britain's Salisbury.

<a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/sports/tearful-warner-sorry-for-ball-tampering-weighing-up-appeal-127414">Tearful Warner sorry for ball-tampering, weighing up </a><a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/sports/tearful-warner-sorry-for-ball-tampering-weighing-up-appeal-127414">appeal</a>

Former Australia vice-captain David Warner apologised in tears Saturday for his role in a ball-tampering scandal and said he would weigh up an appeal against his 12-month ban.

<a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/india-news/andhra-pradesh-4-killed-30-injured-due-to-rain-hailstorm-127411">Andhra Pradesh: 4 killed, 30 injured due to rain, hailstorm</a>

As many as four people were killed and nearly 30 injured after a sudden downpour and hailstorm hit Vontimitta village&nbsp;in Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh.

<a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/south-asia/pok-residents-protest-against-pak-brutalities-127418">PoK residents protest against Pak brutalities</a>

Residents of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) continue to protest against the Pakistan Army and the government, forcing the latter to stop cross-border firing.

Trump freezes over $200 million allocated for Syria's 'recovery fund' The White House has instructed the State Department to freeze over $200 million in funds earmarked for "recovery efforts" in Syria, The Wall Street Journal reported Friday. Russia to expel 4 French diplomats over spy row Russia will expel four French diplomats in the aftermath of poisoning of former spy Sergei Skripal at his home in Britain's Salisbury. Tearful Warner sorry for ball-tampering, weighing up appeal Former Australia vice-captain David Warner apologised in tears Saturday for his role in a ball-tampering scandal and said he would weigh up an appeal against his 12-month ban. Andhra Pradesh: 4 killed, 30 injured due to rain, hailstorm As many as four people were killed and nearly 30 injured after a sudden downpour and hailstorm hit Vontimitta village in Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh. PoK residents protest against Pak brutalities Residents of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) continue to protest against the Pakistan Army and the government, forcing the latter to stop cross-border firing.

News brief: Big stories of the day

US President Donald Trump warned Thursday that he may delay implementation of a renegotiated trade deal with South Korea until after planned nuclear talks with North Korea.&nbsp;

Trump offered no explanation for the apparent threat, which came just a day after he hailed the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS) as a victory for his get-tough stance on commerce.

"I may hold it up until after a deal is made with North Korea, does everybody understand that? You know why? Because it`s a very strong card," Trump said in a speech in Ohio.

"South Korea has been wonderful, but we`ll probably hold that deal up for a little while, see how it plays out."

On Wednesday, Trump had seemed to be firmly behind the renegotiated trade deal, which should now give US carmakers greater access to South Korean markets.

"@USTradeRep just announced an agreement in principle with South Korea on KORUS!" he said.&nbsp;

"A great deal for American and Korean workers. Let`s now focus on our important security relationship."

But the president`s remarks in his Ohio speech appeared to suggest he is seeking to hold the deal as leverage over Washington`s ally South Korea ahead of the nuclear talks.

North Korea and South Korea plan to hold a summit on April 27.

Trump is then due to meet North Korea`s Kim Jong Un before the end of May for talks on Pyongyang`s denuclearization.

Trump offered no explanation for the apparent threat, which came just a day after he hailed the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS) as a victory for his get-tough stance on commerce

US President Donald Trump warned Thursday that he may delay implementation of a renegotiated trade deal with South Korea until after planned nuclear talks with North Korea. Trump offered no explanation for the apparent threat, which came just a day after he hailed the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS) as a victory for his get-tough stance on commerce. "I may hold it up until after a deal is made with North Korea, does everybody understand that? You know why? Because it`s a very strong card," Trump said in a speech in Ohio. "South Korea has been wonderful, but we`ll probably hold that deal up for a little while, see how it plays out." On Wednesday, Trump had seemed to be firmly behind the renegotiated trade deal, which should now give US carmakers greater access to South Korean markets. "@USTradeRep just announced an agreement in principle with South Korea on KORUS!" he said. "A great deal for American and Korean workers. Let`s now focus on our important security relationship." But the president`s remarks in his Ohio speech appeared to suggest he is seeking to hold the deal as leverage over Washington`s ally South Korea ahead of the nuclear talks. North Korea and South Korea plan to hold a summit on April 27. Trump is then due to meet North Korea`s Kim Jong Un before the end of May for talks on Pyongyang`s denuclearization.

Trump may put hold to South Korea trade deal until North Korea talks

Defense Secretary Jim Mattis has spoken with US President Donald Trump about the potential use of military funds for a border wall with Mexico, the Pentagon said on Thursday.

Trump, who last week got a fraction of the funding he wanted from Congress to fulfil a campaign promise by building the wall, suggested over the weekend that he might turn to the military for the money.

Mattis and Trump "have talked about the proposal, potentially, but, remember, securing Americans and securing the nation is of paramount importance to the secretary," Pentagon spokeswoman Dana White told reporters.

White did not provide any further details, but said these were "initial" conversations.

The $1.3 trillion spending bill passed approved by Congress last week contained $1.6 billion for six months of work on the wall. Trump had sought $25 billion for the project.

The president had threatened to veto the legislation, partly over the wall funding, but relented and signed it last Friday, saying a big increase in military spending had convinced him it was worthwhile.

Trump suggested getting funding for the wall from the military in a weekend Twitter post.

"Because of the $700 & $716 Billion Dollars gotten to rebuild our Military, many jobs are created and our Military is again rich," he wrote. "Building a great Border Wall, with drugs (poison) and enemy combatants pouring into our Country, is all about National Defense. Build WALL through M!," apparently using "M" as shorthand for "military."

Earlier this month, Trump toured the US border with Mexico and examined eight styles of walls, prototypes for the barrier he promised to build to keep out illegal immigrants and drugs.

Building the wall was a main theme of Trump`s 2016 presidential campaign. He said Mexico would pay for the wall, but the United States` southern neighbour has repeatedly said it would not.

The $1.3 trillion spending bill passed approved by Congress last week contained $1.6 billion for six months of work on the wall. Trump had sought $25 billion for the project

Defense Secretary Jim Mattis has spoken with US President Donald Trump about the potential use of military funds for a border wall with Mexico, the Pentagon said on Thursday. Trump, who last week got a fraction of the funding he wanted from Congress to fulfil a campaign promise by building the wall, suggested over the weekend that he might turn to the military for the money. Mattis and Trump "have talked about the proposal, potentially, but, remember, securing Americans and securing the nation is of paramount importance to the secretary," Pentagon spokeswoman Dana White told reporters. White did not provide any further details, but said these were "initial" conversations. The $1.3 trillion spending bill passed approved by Congress last week contained $1.6 billion for six months of work on the wall. Trump had sought $25 billion for the project. The president had threatened to veto the legislation, partly over the wall funding, but relented and signed it last Friday, saying a big increase in military spending had convinced him it was worthwhile. Trump suggested getting funding for the wall from the military in a weekend Twitter post. "Because of the $700 & $716 Billion Dollars gotten to rebuild our Military, many jobs are created and our Military is again rich," he wrote. "Building a great Border Wall, with drugs (poison) and enemy combatants pouring into our Country, is all about National Defense. Build WALL through M!," apparently using "M" as shorthand for "military." Earlier this month, Trump toured the US border with Mexico and examined eight styles of walls, prototypes for the barrier he promised to build to keep out illegal immigrants and drugs. Building the wall was a main theme of Trump`s 2016 presidential campaign. He said Mexico would pay for the wall, but the United States` southern neighbour has repeatedly said it would not.

Trump has talked to Mattis about US-Mexico wall funding - Pentagon

US President Donald Trump insisted Thursday that US forces would pull out of Syria "very soon" and lamented what he said was Washington`s waste of $7 trillion in Middle East wars.

In a populist address to industrial workers in Ohio, Trump said US forces were close to securing all of the territory that the Islamic State jihadist group once claimed.

"We`ll be coming out of Syria, like, very soon. Let the other people take care of it now," he promised, to applause.&nbsp;

Trump did not say who the others were who might take care of Syria, but Russia and Iran have sizable forces in the country to support Bashar al-Assad`s regime.&nbsp;

"Very soon -- very soon we`re coming out. We`re going to have 100 percent of the caliphate, as they call it -- sometimes referred to as `land` -- taking it all back quickly, quickly," he said.&nbsp;

"But we`re going to be coming out of there real soon. Going to get back to our country, where we belong, where we want to be."

The United States has more than 2,000 military personnel in eastern Syria, working with local militia groups to defeat the extremist Islamic State group while trying to keep out of Syria`s broader civil war.

Trump`s eagerness to quit the conflict flies in the face of a new US Syria strategy announced in January by then secretary of state Rex Tillerson -- who has since been sacked.

Tillerson argued that US forces must remain engaged in Syria to prevent IS and Al-Qaeda from returning and to deny Iran a chance "to further strengthen its position in Syria."

In a speech at Stanford University, he also warned that "a total withdrawal of American personnel at this time would restore Assad and continue his brutal treatment against his own people."

But Tillerson has gone after being dismissed in a tweet and Trump, who increasingly makes foreign policy announcements without seeking the advice of US generals or diplomats, wants out.

"We spent $7 trillion in the Middle East. And you know what we have for it? Nothing," Trump declared, promising to focus future US spending on building jobs and infrastructure at home.

'We spent $7 trillion in the Middle East. And you know what we have for it? Nothing,' Trump declared, promising to focus future US spending on building jobs and infrastructure at home

US President Donald Trump insisted Thursday that US forces would pull out of Syria "very soon" and lamented what he said was Washington`s waste of $7 trillion in Middle East wars. In a populist address to industrial workers in Ohio, Trump said US forces were close to securing all of the territory that the Islamic State jihadist group once claimed. "We`ll be coming out of Syria, like, very soon. Let the other people take care of it now," he promised, to applause. Trump did not say who the others were who might take care of Syria, but Russia and Iran have sizable forces in the country to support Bashar al-Assad`s regime. "Very soon -- very soon we`re coming out. We`re going to have 100 percent of the caliphate, as they call it -- sometimes referred to as `land` -- taking it all back quickly, quickly," he said. "But we`re going to be coming out of there real soon. Going to get back to our country, where we belong, where we want to be." The United States has more than 2,000 military personnel in eastern Syria, working with local militia groups to defeat the extremist Islamic State group while trying to keep out of Syria`s broader civil war. Trump`s eagerness to quit the conflict flies in the face of a new US Syria strategy announced in January by then secretary of state Rex Tillerson -- who has since been sacked. Tillerson argued that US forces must remain engaged in Syria to prevent IS and Al-Qaeda from returning and to deny Iran a chance "to further strengthen its position in Syria." In a speech at Stanford University, he also warned that "a total withdrawal of American personnel at this time would restore Assad and continue his brutal treatment against his own people." But Tillerson has gone after being dismissed in a tweet and Trump, who increasingly makes foreign policy announcements without seeking the advice of US generals or diplomats, wants out. "We spent $7 trillion in the Middle East. And you know what we have for it? Nothing," Trump declared, promising to focus future US spending on building jobs and infrastructure at home.

US withdrawing from Syria 'very soon': Donald Trump

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Microsoft’s Indian-born CEO Satya Nadella, US President Donald Trump, newly re-elected Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping are among the contenders this year for TIME magazine’s list of 100 most influential people who have made an impact on the contemporary world.

For more than a decade, the TIME 100 annual list has featured some of the world’s most significant artists, leaders, scientists, activists and entrepreneurs. The list will be announced next month.

While the editors at TIME will make the final judgement call on who makes the list, the publication has asked readers to vote online on who they believe are the most influential people of the year.

This year’s list of contenders includes Modi, who has been featured regularly in the previous years among the probables for the most influential people by the reputable news magazine.

Modi had been named among the contenders last year as well as in 2016.

He was named by the TIME editors among the 100 most influential people in the world in 2015, with former US President Barack Obama writing a profile for him for the magazine.

Others on the list this year are North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, Pakistani-American actor Kumail Nanjiani, Trump’s daughter Ivanka Trump, son-in-law and senior adviser Jared Kushner, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Amazon chief Jeff Bezos, members of the British Royal family – Prince William and his wife Duchess of Cambridge Catherine, Prince Henry and his fiancee Meghan Markle and former President of the US Barack Obama.

Student activists — from “Dreamers” fighting for immigration reform to the students at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School advocating for school safety and gun control — are also in the running for this year’s TIME 100.

The list also includes Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Pope Francis, Attorney General Jeff Sessions, French President Emmanuel Macron, Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi, Founder of the #MeToo movement Tarana Burke, actor Dwayne Johnson, Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX Elon Musk, Special counsel Robert Mueller, Apple CEO Tim Cook, Former FBI Director James Comey, President of South Korea Moon Jae-in.

For more than a decade, the TIME 100 annual list has featured some of the world's most significant artists, leaders, scientists, activists and entrepreneurs.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Microsoft’s Indian-born CEO Satya Nadella, US President Donald Trump, newly re-elected Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping are among the contenders this year for TIME magazine’s list of 100 most influential people who have made an impact on the contemporary world. For more than a decade, the TIME 100 annual list has featured some of the world’s most significant artists, leaders, scientists, activists and entrepreneurs. The list will be announced next month. While the editors at TIME will make the final judgement call on who makes the list, the publication has asked readers to vote online on who they believe are the most influential people of the year. This year’s list of contenders includes Modi, who has been featured regularly in the previous years among the probables for the most influential people by the reputable news magazine. Modi had been named among the contenders last year as well as in 2016. He was named by the TIME editors among the 100 most influential people in the world in 2015, with former US President Barack Obama writing a profile for him for the magazine. Others on the list this year are North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, Pakistani-American actor Kumail Nanjiani, Trump’s daughter Ivanka Trump, son-in-law and senior adviser Jared Kushner, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Amazon chief Jeff Bezos, members of the British Royal family – Prince William and his wife Duchess of Cambridge Catherine, Prince Henry and his fiancee Meghan Markle and former President of the US Barack Obama. Student activists — from “Dreamers” fighting for immigration reform to the students at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School advocating for school safety and gun control — are also in the running for this year’s TIME 100. The list also includes Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Pope Francis, Attorney General Jeff Sessions, French President Emmanuel Macron, Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi, Founder of the #MeToo movement Tarana Burke, actor Dwayne Johnson, Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX Elon Musk, Special counsel Robert Mueller, Apple CEO Tim Cook, Former FBI Director James Comey, President of South Korea Moon Jae-in.

TIME's 100 most influential list: Modi, Putin, Trump among contenders

U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday ordered an end to special legal status for certain immigrants from Liberia, including some who have lived in the United States for decades, citing improved conditions in the West African country.

The special status would end on March 31, 2019.

"Liberia is no longer experiencing armed conflict and has made significant progress in restoring stability and democratic governance," according to a memorandum signed by Trump and released by the White House.

Trump has pursued a crackdown on legal and illegal immigration since becoming president.

Some Liberians have been eligible for either Temporary Protected Status or Deferred Enforced Departure since March 1991 due to civil wars, fragile political and economic conditions and an Ebola virus outbreak in 2014, the memorandum said.&nbsp;

"Liberia has also concluded reconstruction from prior conflicts, which has contributed significantly to an environment that is able to handle adequately the return of its nationals," Trump said.

"The 2014 outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease caused a tragic loss of life and economic damage to the country, but Liberia has made tremendous progress in its ability to diagnose and contain future outbreaks of the disease," he said.&nbsp;

A 12-month "wind-down" period starting March 31, 2018, would allow the Liberian government to prepare to re-integrate returning citizens and give time for affected Liberians to "make necessary arrangements," according to the memorandum, which was addressed to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

The Liberian Embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment. DHS officials did not immediately respond to a request seeking numbers of those who will be affected.

Trump previously included three other African countries -- Chad, Somalia and Libya -- among several whose citizens were blocked from entering the United States.

African politicians and diplomats blasted Trump in January after he was reported to have used vulgar language to describe African countries and Haiti, with some calling him a racist. Trump later denied making the remark.

In early January, the administration announced that around 200,000 Salvadorans would lose their Temporary Protected Status in September, 2019.

Some 59,000 Haitians and 5,300 Nicaraguans who are in the program would also lose their status next year, while TPS for some 57,000 Hondurans expires July 5, 2018.&nbsp;

The special status would end on March 31, 2019

U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday ordered an end to special legal status for certain immigrants from Liberia, including some who have lived in the United States for decades, citing improved conditions in the West African country. The special status would end on March 31, 2019. "Liberia is no longer experiencing armed conflict and has made significant progress in restoring stability and democratic governance," according to a memorandum signed by Trump and released by the White House. Trump has pursued a crackdown on legal and illegal immigration since becoming president. Some Liberians have been eligible for either Temporary Protected Status or Deferred Enforced Departure since March 1991 due to civil wars, fragile political and economic conditions and an Ebola virus outbreak in 2014, the memorandum said. "Liberia has also concluded reconstruction from prior conflicts, which has contributed significantly to an environment that is able to handle adequately the return of its nationals," Trump said. "The 2014 outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease caused a tragic loss of life and economic damage to the country, but Liberia has made tremendous progress in its ability to diagnose and contain future outbreaks of the disease," he said. A 12-month "wind-down" period starting March 31, 2018, would allow the Liberian government to prepare to re-integrate returning citizens and give time for affected Liberians to "make necessary arrangements," according to the memorandum, which was addressed to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The Liberian Embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment. DHS officials did not immediately respond to a request seeking numbers of those who will be affected. Trump previously included three other African countries -- Chad, Somalia and Libya -- among several whose citizens were blocked from entering the United States. African politicians and diplomats blasted Trump in January after he was reported to have used vulgar language to describe African countries and Haiti, with some calling him a racist. Trump later denied making the remark. In early January, the administration announced that around 200,000 Salvadorans would lose their Temporary Protected Status in September, 2019. Some 59,000 Haitians and 5,300 Nicaraguans who are in the program would also lose their status next year, while TPS for some 57,000 Hondurans expires July 5, 2018.

Trump to end special status for Liberian immigrants in US

Two senior US&nbspRepublican senators asked the Trump administration&nbspon Monday&nbspto allow the sale of Lockheed Martin Corp. F-35 fighter jets to Taiwan, saying it would help it "remain a democracy" in the face of threats from China.

 
China`s hostility towards Taiwan has grown since Tsai Ing-wen from the pro-independence Democratic Progressive Party won presidential elections on the island in 2016. China claims Taiwan as its own and the self-ruled island which is one of China`s most sensitive issues.

 
"These fighters will have a positive impact on Taiwan`s self-defense and would act as a necessary deterrent to China`s aggressive military posture across the Asia-Pacific region," Senators John Cornyn, the assistant majority leader, and James Inhofe, a senior member of the Armed Services Committee, said in a letter to President Donald Trump.

 
"After years of military modernization, China shows the ability to wage war against Taiwan for the first time since the 1950`s," they wrote. "However, with your leadership, it is possible to help Taiwan remain a democracy, free to establish a relationship with China that is not driven by military coercion."

 
The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

 
The sale of the jets could increase tensions with Beijing, where officials were infuriated when Trump signed legislation this month that encourages the United States to send senior officials to Taiwan to meet Taiwanese counterparts and vice versa. 
On Tuesday, the office of Taiwan`s president reiterated its support for the legislation and awarded US&nbspRepresentative Ed Royce, who is currently visiting the island, a medal of honour for his contributions toward Taiwan-US&nbsprelations.

 
"President Tsai believes that stable relations between Taiwan and the US&nbspserve as an important foundation for peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. Taiwan has the ability and is willing to work with the United States in the Indo-Pacific region to make more contributions," the presidential office said.

 
Separately, Liu Jieyi, head of China`s Taiwan Affairs Office, told state television late&nbspon Monday&nbspthat "certain Americans" were trying to play the Taiwan card, which harmed the interest of people both in China and Taiwan.

 
"This is duping Taiwan compatriots," Liu said, without naming any US&nbspofficials. "It is futile for any outside forces to try and play the Taiwan card and doing anything to harm the interest of the Chinese people."

 
The US&nbspmilitary has put countering China and Russia at the centre of a new national defence strategy unveiled by Defense Secretary Jim Mattis in January.

 
Other US&nbspallies in the Asia Pacific region, such as Singapore, also are exploring the purchase of the stealthy F-35.

 
Lockheed hit its 2017 target to deliver 66 F-35 fighter jets to the United States and its allies last year.

Two senior US Republican senators asked the Trump administration to allow the sale of Lockheed Martin Corp. F-35 fighter jets to Taiwan

Two senior US&nbspRepublican senators asked the Trump administration&nbspon Monday&nbspto allow the sale of Lockheed Martin Corp. F-35 fighter jets to Taiwan, saying it would help it "remain a democracy" in the face of threats from China. China`s hostility towards Taiwan has grown since Tsai Ing-wen from the pro-independence Democratic Progressive Party won presidential elections on the island in 2016. China claims Taiwan as its own and the self-ruled island which is one of China`s most sensitive issues. "These fighters will have a positive impact on Taiwan`s self-defense and would act as a necessary deterrent to China`s aggressive military posture across the Asia-Pacific region," Senators John Cornyn, the assistant majority leader, and James Inhofe, a senior member of the Armed Services Committee, said in a letter to President Donald Trump. "After years of military modernization, China shows the ability to wage war against Taiwan for the first time since the 1950`s," they wrote. "However, with your leadership, it is possible to help Taiwan remain a democracy, free to establish a relationship with China that is not driven by military coercion." The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The sale of the jets could increase tensions with Beijing, where officials were infuriated when Trump signed legislation this month that encourages the United States to send senior officials to Taiwan to meet Taiwanese counterparts and vice versa. On Tuesday, the office of Taiwan`s president reiterated its support for the legislation and awarded US&nbspRepresentative Ed Royce, who is currently visiting the island, a medal of honour for his contributions toward Taiwan-US&nbsprelations. "President Tsai believes that stable relations between Taiwan and the US&nbspserve as an important foundation for peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. Taiwan has the ability and is willing to work with the United States in the Indo-Pacific region to make more contributions," the presidential office said. Separately, Liu Jieyi, head of China`s Taiwan Affairs Office, told state television late&nbspon Monday&nbspthat "certain Americans" were trying to play the Taiwan card, which harmed the interest of people both in China and Taiwan. "This is duping Taiwan compatriots," Liu said, without naming any US&nbspofficials. "It is futile for any outside forces to try and play the Taiwan card and doing anything to harm the interest of the Chinese people." The US&nbspmilitary has put countering China and Russia at the centre of a new national defence strategy unveiled by Defense Secretary Jim Mattis in January. Other US&nbspallies in the Asia Pacific region, such as Singapore, also are exploring the purchase of the stealthy F-35. Lockheed hit its 2017 target to deliver 66 F-35 fighter jets to the United States and its allies last year.

US Republicans press for F-35 fighter jet sale to Taiwan

The United States and its European allies have expelled more than 100 Russian diplomats over the nerve agent attack on UK soil.

Many nations have shown solidarity after Theresa May last week accused Russia of being responsible and ordered 23 of its diplomats to leave the country.

EU leaders agreed last week it was highly likely Russia was behind the nerve-agent poisoning.

British Prime Minister Theresa May said the show of solidarity gave a strong message.

"We welcome today's actions by our allies, which clearly demonstrate that we all stand shoulder to shoulder in sending the strongest signal to Russia that it cannot continue to flout international law," a statement from Mrs May's office said.

Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson said the "extraordinary international response by our allies stands in history as the largest collective expulsion of Russian intelligence officers ever".

The US action is also the biggest move against Russia since the Cold War era and the hostilities with the then Soviet Union.

The Russian foreign ministry said the moves demonstrated a continuation of a "confrontational path".

"It goes without saying that this unfriendly act by this group of countries will not go without notice and we will react to it," its statement said.

Why are they doing it?

President of the European Council Donald Tusk said 14 EU states had decided to expel Russian diplomats as a direct result of a meeting, held last week, about the Salisbury poisoning.

"Additional measures, including further expulsions within this common EU framework, are not to be excluded in the coming days and weeks," he said.

The US state department said in a statement: "On March 4, Russia used a military-grade nerve agent to attempt to murder a British citizen and his daughter in Salisbury.

"This attack on our Ally the United Kingdom put countless innocent lives at risk and resulted in serious injury to three people, including a police officer."

It called the attack an "outrageous violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention and breach of international law".

The US is expelling 48 envoys at the Russian embassy in Washington and 12 more at the UN in New York. It will also order the closure of the Russian consulate in Seattle.

Here is a list of the countries and the number of Russians expelled.

- US, Canada -

The United States expelled 60 alleged "spies" posted around the country and at the Russian mission to the United Nations.

It also closed the Russian consulate in Seattle over alleged spying at the nearby Kitsap submarine base and Boeing.

The retaliation against Moscow was taken "in response to Russia's use of a military-grade chemical weapon on the soil of the United Kingdom," White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said.

Canada ousted four diplomats, calling the nerve agent attack "a despicable, heinous and reckless act".

- European Union -

Sixteen EU states have joined Britain in expelling Russian diplomats following a European Council decision last week to react to Moscow within a common framework.

"Additional measures including further expulsions are not to be excluded in the coming days and weeks," EU President Donald Tusk said.

Britain itself has already kicked out 23 Russian diplomats, with Moscow retaliating with a tit-for-tat move.

Croatia: One diplomat

Czech Republic: Three diplomats

Denmark: Two diplomats

Estonia: One diplomat

France: Four diplomats

Finland: One diplomat

Germany: Four diplomats

Hungary: One diplomat

Italy: Two diplomats

Latvia: One diplomat

Lithuania: Three diplomats

Netherlands: Two diplomats

Norway: One diplomat

Poland: Four diplomats

Romania: One diplomat

Spain: Two diplomats

Sweden: One diplomat

- Outside EU -

Albania: Two diplomats

Norway: One diplomat

Ukraine: 13 diplomats

President Petro Poroshenko called for even more action to be taken.

"The next step is to increase the price that Moscow has to pay for its international crimes, including the strengthening of personal, financial and economic sanctions," he said.

The alleged poisoning triggered a diplomatic row between London and Moscow with tit-for-tat expulsions of diplomats on both sides.

The United States and its European allies have expelled more than 100 Russian diplomats over the nerve agent attack on UK soil. Many nations have shown solidarity after Theresa May last week accused Russia of being responsible and ordered 23 of its diplomats to leave the country. EU leaders agreed last week it was highly likely Russia was behind the nerve-agent poisoning. British Prime Minister Theresa May said the show of solidarity gave a strong message. "We welcome today's actions by our allies, which clearly demonstrate that we all stand shoulder to shoulder in sending the strongest signal to Russia that it cannot continue to flout international law," a statement from Mrs May's office said. Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson said the "extraordinary international response by our allies stands in history as the largest collective expulsion of Russian intelligence officers ever". The US action is also the biggest move against Russia since the Cold War era and the hostilities with the then Soviet Union. The Russian foreign ministry said the moves demonstrated a continuation of a "confrontational path". "It goes without saying that this unfriendly act by this group of countries will not go without notice and we will react to it," its statement said. Why are they doing it? President of the European Council Donald Tusk said 14 EU states had decided to expel Russian diplomats as a direct result of a meeting, held last week, about the Salisbury poisoning. "Additional measures, including further expulsions within this common EU framework, are not to be excluded in the coming days and weeks," he said. The US state department said in a statement: "On March 4, Russia used a military-grade nerve agent to attempt to murder a British citizen and his daughter in Salisbury. "This attack on our Ally the United Kingdom put countless innocent lives at risk and resulted in serious injury to three people, including a police officer." It called the attack an "outrageous violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention and breach of international law". The US is expelling 48 envoys at the Russian embassy in Washington and 12 more at the UN in New York. It will also order the closure of the Russian consulate in Seattle. Here is a list of the countries and the number of Russians expelled. - US, Canada - The United States expelled 60 alleged "spies" posted around the country and at the Russian mission to the United Nations. It also closed the Russian consulate in Seattle over alleged spying at the nearby Kitsap submarine base and Boeing. The retaliation against Moscow was taken "in response to Russia's use of a military-grade chemical weapon on the soil of the United Kingdom," White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said. Canada ousted four diplomats, calling the nerve agent attack "a despicable, heinous and reckless act". - European Union - Sixteen EU states have joined Britain in expelling Russian diplomats following a European Council decision last week to react to Moscow within a common framework. "Additional measures including further expulsions are not to be excluded in the coming days and weeks," EU President Donald Tusk said. Britain itself has already kicked out 23 Russian diplomats, with Moscow retaliating with a tit-for-tat move. Croatia: One diplomat Czech Republic: Three diplomats Denmark: Two diplomats Estonia: One diplomat France: Four diplomats Finland: One diplomat Germany: Four diplomats Hungary: One diplomat Italy: Two diplomats Latvia: One diplomat Lithuania: Three diplomats Netherlands: Two diplomats Norway: One diplomat Poland: Four diplomats Romania: One diplomat Spain: Two diplomats Sweden: One diplomat - Outside EU - Albania: Two diplomats Norway: One diplomat Ukraine: 13 diplomats President Petro Poroshenko called for even more action to be taken. "The next step is to increase the price that Moscow has to pay for its international crimes, including the strengthening of personal, financial and economic sanctions," he said.

Attack on ex-spy in UK: US, Europe expel over 100 diplomats, Putin expected to react soon

United States President Donald Trump has written a letter to the family of Meadow Pollack, one of the victims of the school shooting in Parkland, Florida that claimed 17 lives.

"Our entire Nation mourns the tragic loss of Meadow. Our hearts are heavy for you and your entire family," read the letter.

The victim's father and brother had earlier participated in a listening session with the President, where the enraged father had drawn attention to the recurrent mass shootings in schools and had urged the administration officials to prioritize school safety.

"I am deeply grateful for your presence at the White House for discussions regarding school safety. I was touched by the memories of Meadow you shared. It was clear that she had a bright future, full of tremendous potential -- I know that you were so proud of her. We will not forget her life, and we are resolved to confront the evil that so senselessly took her from us. Melania and I hold you close in our hearts, and we pray for your comfort and strength," Trump further wrote in the letter.

The letter has been shared by Pollack's brother, Hunter Pollack on Twitter, who wrote, "Thank you @realDonaldTrump for opening the Whitehouse to my family with open arms. Was great talking about my sisters beauty , and school security with you. Thank you Mr. President."

On February 14, at least 17 people- children and adults- were killed in a shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida.

On March 24, the public, primarily students across the US also held a "March for Our Lives" rally pressing for stricter gun control measures after the attack.

On February 14, at least 17 people- children and adults- were killed in a shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida

United States President Donald Trump has written a letter to the family of Meadow Pollack, one of the victims of the school shooting in Parkland, Florida that claimed 17 lives. "Our entire Nation mourns the tragic loss of Meadow. Our hearts are heavy for you and your entire family," read the letter. The victim's father and brother had earlier participated in a listening session with the President, where the enraged father had drawn attention to the recurrent mass shootings in schools and had urged the administration officials to prioritize school safety. "I am deeply grateful for your presence at the White House for discussions regarding school safety. I was touched by the memories of Meadow you shared. It was clear that she had a bright future, full of tremendous potential -- I know that you were so proud of her. We will not forget her life, and we are resolved to confront the evil that so senselessly took her from us. Melania and I hold you close in our hearts, and we pray for your comfort and strength," Trump further wrote in the letter. The letter has been shared by Pollack's brother, Hunter Pollack on Twitter, who wrote, "Thank you @realDonaldTrump for opening the Whitehouse to my family with open arms. Was great talking about my sisters beauty , and school security with you. Thank you Mr. President." On February 14, at least 17 people- children and adults- were killed in a shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. On March 24, the public, primarily students across the US also held a "March for Our Lives" rally pressing for stricter gun control measures after the attack.

Trump writes heartfelt letter to family of Parkland victim

Stormy Daniels sued Donald Trump`s lawyer Michael Cohen on Monday for defamation, according to court documents, escalating a legal battle between the American president and the porn star that the White House was struggling to contain.

Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford, made the claim a day after her widely watched TV interview on "60 Minutes" on CBS. Daniels said she was threatened with violence to keep quiet about her alleged 2006 tryst with Trump.

At the White House, a spokesman in a briefing with reporters cast aspersions on her account. The White House has denied allegations that Trump had a sexual relationship with Daniels.

CBS Corp said the show drew its biggest audience in more than eight years, with 21.3 million Americans tuning in, more than double the previous week`s edition of "60 Minutes."&nbsp;

Presidential spokesman Raj Shah told the briefing, "The president doesn`t believe any of the claims Ms. Daniels made in the interview last night were accurate."

Asked if Trump believed Daniels was threatened, Shah said, "No, he does not. ... There`s nothing to corroborate her claim."

Daniels` "60 Minutes" appearance also drew a denial from the president`s personal lawyer, Michael Cohen, that he was involved in the alleged threat of violence against her.

Daniels originally sued Trump on March 6, saying he never signed an agreement for her to stay silent about what she called their "intimate" relationship. Monday`s filing in US District Court in Los Angeles amended the original lawsuit to say Daniels was defamed.

Her attorney, Michael Avenatti, said Cohen "meant to convey that Ms. Clifford is a liar, someone who should not be trusted, and that her claims about her relationship with Mr. Trump" were not true.

Daniels` defamation allegation was based on a February 13 statement by Cohen that she said hurt her reputation.

The latest filing also said $130,000 Cohen paid Daniels in October 2016 just before the presidential election to secure her silence amounted to an illegal campaign contribution, and that the agreement should be declared void.&nbsp;

Cohen has said he paid Daniels out of his own pocket, but has not explained why or if Trump was aware of the payment.

In filings with the Justice Department and Federal Election Commission, watchdog groups have said the $130,000 may have exceeded campaign contribution limits, violating US law. Cohen has denied this.

California attorney Michael Overing, who specializes in defamation law, said it would be difficult for Daniels to prevail on her defamation claim because she is a public figure.

To prove libel, she would have to show that a false statement was made with either reckless or purposeful disregard for the truth, Overing said.

Trump attorney Cohen`s denial of involvement in the alleged threat against Daniels came in a "cease-and-desist" letter sent to Avenatti shortly after "60 Minutes" aired that demanded a retraction and an apology. A copy of the letter was seen by Reuters on Monday.

The letter said, "Mr. Cohen had absolutely nothing whatsoever to do with any such person or incident, and does not even believe that any such person exists, or that such incident ever occurred."

Daniels said the threat of harm was made by a stranger in a Las Vegas parking lot in 2011.&nbsp;

Avenatti said on NBC on Monday that the man who threatened her while she was with her infant daughter was not Cohen, but "had to be someone that is related to Mr. Trump or Mr. Cohen."&nbsp;

Last week CNN interviewed former Playboy model Karen McDougal, who described a 10-month affair with Trump starting in 2006.

Trump was married to his wife, Melania, during both alleged relationships. In addition to denying Trump had sex with Daniels, the White House has said he denies having an affair with McDougal.&nbsp;

Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford, made the claim a day after her widely watched TV interview on '60 Minutes' on CBS. Daniels said she was threatened with violence to keep quiet about her alleged 2006 tryst with Trump

Stormy Daniels sued Donald Trump`s lawyer Michael Cohen on Monday for defamation, according to court documents, escalating a legal battle between the American president and the porn star that the White House was struggling to contain. Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford, made the claim a day after her widely watched TV interview on "60 Minutes" on CBS. Daniels said she was threatened with violence to keep quiet about her alleged 2006 tryst with Trump. At the White House, a spokesman in a briefing with reporters cast aspersions on her account. The White House has denied allegations that Trump had a sexual relationship with Daniels. CBS Corp said the show drew its biggest audience in more than eight years, with 21.3 million Americans tuning in, more than double the previous week`s edition of "60 Minutes." Presidential spokesman Raj Shah told the briefing, "The president doesn`t believe any of the claims Ms. Daniels made in the interview last night were accurate." Asked if Trump believed Daniels was threatened, Shah said, "No, he does not. ... There`s nothing to corroborate her claim." Daniels` "60 Minutes" appearance also drew a denial from the president`s personal lawyer, Michael Cohen, that he was involved in the alleged threat of violence against her. Daniels originally sued Trump on March 6, saying he never signed an agreement for her to stay silent about what she called their "intimate" relationship. Monday`s filing in US District Court in Los Angeles amended the original lawsuit to say Daniels was defamed. Her attorney, Michael Avenatti, said Cohen "meant to convey that Ms. Clifford is a liar, someone who should not be trusted, and that her claims about her relationship with Mr. Trump" were not true. Daniels` defamation allegation was based on a February 13 statement by Cohen that she said hurt her reputation. The latest filing also said $130,000 Cohen paid Daniels in October 2016 just before the presidential election to secure her silence amounted to an illegal campaign contribution, and that the agreement should be declared void. Cohen has said he paid Daniels out of his own pocket, but has not explained why or if Trump was aware of the payment. In filings with the Justice Department and Federal Election Commission, watchdog groups have said the $130,000 may have exceeded campaign contribution limits, violating US law. Cohen has denied this. California attorney Michael Overing, who specializes in defamation law, said it would be difficult for Daniels to prevail on her defamation claim because she is a public figure. To prove libel, she would have to show that a false statement was made with either reckless or purposeful disregard for the truth, Overing said. Trump attorney Cohen`s denial of involvement in the alleged threat against Daniels came in a "cease-and-desist" letter sent to Avenatti shortly after "60 Minutes" aired that demanded a retraction and an apology. A copy of the letter was seen by Reuters on Monday. The letter said, "Mr. Cohen had absolutely nothing whatsoever to do with any such person or incident, and does not even believe that any such person exists, or that such incident ever occurred." Daniels said the threat of harm was made by a stranger in a Las Vegas parking lot in 2011. Avenatti said on NBC on Monday that the man who threatened her while she was with her infant daughter was not Cohen, but "had to be someone that is related to Mr. Trump or Mr. Cohen." Last week CNN interviewed former Playboy model Karen McDougal, who described a 10-month affair with Trump starting in 2006. Trump was married to his wife, Melania, during both alleged relationships. In addition to denying Trump had sex with Daniels, the White House has said he denies having an affair with McDougal.

Porn star sues Trump's personal lawyer for defamation

Fire kills 37 at Siberian shopping mall, scores still missing At least 37 people were killed when a fire ripped through a busy shopping centre in an industrial city in western Siberia, with scores more reported missing, including children. Porn actress talks of Trump affair in interview, says was threatened to keep quiet about it Porn actress Stormy Daniels said she was threatened in a bid to keep her silent about her alleged fling with Donald Trump, which she detailed in a highly-anticipated primetime TV interview today. Shatrughan Sinha meets Lalu Yadav, family calls court verdict against him 'heartbreaking and non-expected' Senior BJP MP from Patna Sahib, Bihar, Shatrughan Sinha who frequently draws controversies over his repeated attacks on his own political party has yet again invited attention after his meet with BJP arch-rival RJD chief Lalu Yadav and his family. PM's flight records cannot be disclosed under RTI due to security reasons: Air India Records pertaining to the Prime Minister's chartered flights for visits abroad cannot be disclosed under the RTI Act due to security concerns as per instructions from the PMO, the national carrier has said in response to an application filed by an activist under the transparency law. Clashes in Catalonia after Puigdemont arrested in Germany Thousands of Catalan separatists faced off with police in Catalonia on Sunday following the arrest in Germany of the region`s former president Carles Puigdemont five months after he fled Spain.

Fire kills 37 at Siberian shopping mall, scores still missing At least 37 people were killed when a fire ripped through a busy shopping centre in an industrial city in western Siberia, with scores more reported missing, including children. Porn actress talks of Trump affair in interview, says was threatened to keep quiet about it Porn actress Stormy Daniels said she was threatened in a bid to keep her silent about her alleged fling with Donald Trump, which she detailed in a highly-anticipated primetime TV interview today. Shatrughan Sinha meets Lalu Yadav, family calls court verdict against him 'heartbreaking and non-expected' Senior BJP MP from Patna Sahib, Bihar, Shatrughan Sinha who frequently draws controversies over his repeated attacks on his own political party has yet again invited attention after his meet with BJP arch-rival RJD chief Lalu Yadav and his family. PM's flight records cannot be disclosed under RTI due to security reasons: Air India Records pertaining to the Prime Minister's chartered flights for visits abroad cannot be disclosed under the RTI Act due to security concerns as per instructions from the PMO, the national carrier has said in response to an application filed by an activist under the transparency law. Clashes in Catalonia after Puigdemont arrested in Germany Thousands of Catalan separatists faced off with police in Catalonia on Sunday following the arrest in Germany of the region`s former president Carles Puigdemont five months after he fled Spain.

WION Morning News Brief, March 26, 2018

More than a million Americans flooded the streets of cities nationwide for emotional protests demanding tighter gun control on Saturday, protests spearheaded by teenagers from a Florida high school where 17 people were shot dead last month.

&quot;Politicians, either represent the people or get out,&quot; Cameron Kasky, a 17-year-old from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, told the crowd at a huge rally in Washington.

&quot;Stand for us or beware -- the voters are coming,&quot; said Kasky, one of the leaders of a dynamic and passionate student movement which has emerged following the February 14 shooting at his school. 
Large crowds also turned out for demonstrations in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, Miami, Minneapolis, Seattle and other cities -- more than 800 in all according to the organizers of the &quot;March For Our Lives.&quot;

Mayor Bill de Blasio said 175,000 people took part at the New York rally, tweeting: &quot;These students WILL change America.&quot;

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Amazing! Final NYC tally: 175,000 joined <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MarchForOurLives?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MarchForOurLives</a>. And this is a movement that has JUST BEGUN. These students WILL change America!
&mdash; Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) <a href="https://twitter.com/NYCMayor/status/977641564171272192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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This movement is going to make a huge change in our country. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MarchForOurLives?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MarchForOurLives</a> <a href="https://t.co/hknTXcVfTK">pic.twitter.com/hknTXcVfTK</a>
&mdash; Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) <a href="https://twitter.com/NYCMayor/status/977605992350285824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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You have to know when a revolution is starting... Today in NYC already 150,000 have taken to the streets for PEACE <a href="https://t.co/j5y0y0L3IT">pic.twitter.com/j5y0y0L3IT</a>
&mdash; Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) <a href="https://twitter.com/NYCMayor/status/977598947412926465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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But the largest protest was in Washington, where organizers told NBC News the crowd was estimated at more than 800,000 people, the largest gun control rally in the United States since the Million Mom March in 2000.

The main stage for the event in Washington was set up near the US Capitol and lawmakers were the target audience as speakers delivered blistering warnings that the time has come for stricter gun laws.

&quot;The people demand a law banning the sale of assault weapons,&quot; Kasky said. &quot;The people demand we prohibit the sale of high-capacity magazines. The people demand universal background checks.&quot;

March organizers included a link for people to register to vote on their MarchForOurLives.com website as they seek to transform their nascent movement into a potent political force.Signs carried by protestors lambasted lawmakers who oppose tougher laws and the National Rifle Association (NRA), the powerful US gun lobby.

&quot;These kids are right,&quot; said Jeff Turchin, a 68-year-old retired garment manufacturer who came to Washington from New York to attend the rally.

&quot;They`re basically saying the NRA is paying off these Republicans,&quot; Turchin said of the party of President Donald Trump, which also controls Congress.

The Washington rally kicked off with Andra Day singing &quot;Rise Up&quot; and also featured performances by Jennifer Hudson, whose mother, brother and seven-year-old nephew were shot dead in 2008. 
But the most riveting appearances were by the Stoneman Douglas students.

Emma Gonzalez, 17, took the stage wearing a green military-style jacket and ripped jeans and delivered a eulogy for the 14 students and three adults slain by 19-year-old gunman Nikolas Cruz. 
Tears rolling down her face, she then stood in silence at the podium for a full four and half minutes as the crowd fidgeted and some cried out &quot;We`re with you Emma.&quot;

&quot;Since the time that I came out here, it has been six minutes and 20 seconds,&quot; Gonzalez finally said -- the exact amount of time Cruz spent spraying bullets inside her school before fleeing.

&quot;Fight for your lives before it`s someone else`s job,&quot; Gonzalez said. &quot;Get out there and vote.&quot;

Yolanda Renee King, the nine-year-old granddaughter of civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr. brought many to tears with a surprise appearance.

&quot;My grandfather had a dream that his four little children will not be judged by the colour of their skin but by the content of their character,&quot; she told a rapt crowd.

&quot;I have a dream that enough is enough,&quot; she said, referencing her grandfather`s famous 1963 &quot;I Have a Dream&quot; speech on ending racism.

&quot;And that this should be a gun-free world -- period.&quot;In New York, former Beatle Paul McCartney showed up at a march and spoke of the December 1980 murder of his bandmate John Lennon. 
&quot;Every week you hear about a new shooting and nothing is done about it,&quot; McCartney told AFP. &quot;But I think maybe after this something will be done about it.&quot;

On the other side of the country in Los Angeles, comedian Amy Schumer delivered a passionate plea in front of hundreds of thousands.

&quot;You are killing children,&quot; she said, of the gun lobby. &quot;And they call people like me `Hollywood liberals` like there`s something in it for us.

&quot;Well, what`s in it for us is knowing we`re doing our part to keep our children alive.&quot;

Demonstrations of solidarity also took place around the world, including across cities in Canada, which unveiled stricter gun laws earlier this week including enhanced background checks.

In Scotland, some relatives of those killed in a school shooting in the town of Dunblane in 1996 attended a protest in Edinburgh.

Thousands meanwhile gathered in Parkland to pay tribute to those slain in the city on Valentine`s Day.

&quot;I March Because I Was Almost Silenced,&quot; read a sign carried by Samantha Mayor, 17, who was shot in the knee and wears a heavy brace.

Samantha`s mother, Ellyn, held a sign reading &quot;I`m Marching So No Other Parent Has to Hear `Mom, I`ve Been Shot.`&quot;

Trump was in Florida as marchers gathered in Washington but the White House issued a statement.

&quot;We applaud the many courageous young Americans exercising their First Amendment rights today,&quot; it said. &quot;Keeping our children safe is a top priority of the President`s.&quot;

The protests were spearheaded by teenagers from the Florida high school where 17 people were shot dead last month

More than a million Americans flooded the streets of cities nationwide for emotional protests demanding tighter gun control on Saturday, protests spearheaded by teenagers from a Florida high school where 17 people were shot dead last month. "Politicians, either represent the people or get out," Cameron Kasky, a 17-year-old from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, told the crowd at a huge rally in Washington. "Stand for us or beware -- the voters are coming," said Kasky, one of the leaders of a dynamic and passionate student movement which has emerged following the February 14 shooting at his school. Large crowds also turned out for demonstrations in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, Miami, Minneapolis, Seattle and other cities -- more than 800 in all according to the organizers of the "March For Our Lives." Mayor Bill de Blasio said 175,000 people took part at the New York rally, tweeting: "These students WILL change America." Amazing! Final NYC tally: 175,000 joined #MarchForOurLives. And this is a movement that has JUST BEGUN. These students WILL change America! — Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) March 24, 2018 × This movement is going to make a huge change in our country. #MarchForOurLives pic.twitter.com/hknTXcVfTK — Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) March 24, 2018 × You have to know when a revolution is starting... Today in NYC already 150,000 have taken to the streets for PEACE pic.twitter.com/j5y0y0L3IT — Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) March 24, 2018 × But the largest protest was in Washington, where organizers told NBC News the crowd was estimated at more than 800,000 people, the largest gun control rally in the United States since the Million Mom March in 2000. The main stage for the event in Washington was set up near the US Capitol and lawmakers were the target audience as speakers delivered blistering warnings that the time has come for stricter gun laws. "The people demand a law banning the sale of assault weapons," Kasky said. "The people demand we prohibit the sale of high-capacity magazines. The people demand universal background checks." March organizers included a link for people to register to vote on their MarchForOurLives.com website as they seek to transform their nascent movement into a potent political force.Signs carried by protestors lambasted lawmakers who oppose tougher laws and the National Rifle Association (NRA), the powerful US gun lobby. "These kids are right," said Jeff Turchin, a 68-year-old retired garment manufacturer who came to Washington from New York to attend the rally. "They`re basically saying the NRA is paying off these Republicans," Turchin said of the party of President Donald Trump, which also controls Congress. The Washington rally kicked off with Andra Day singing "Rise Up" and also featured performances by Jennifer Hudson, whose mother, brother and seven-year-old nephew were shot dead in 2008. But the most riveting appearances were by the Stoneman Douglas students. Emma Gonzalez, 17, took the stage wearing a green military-style jacket and ripped jeans and delivered a eulogy for the 14 students and three adults slain by 19-year-old gunman Nikolas Cruz. Tears rolling down her face, she then stood in silence at the podium for a full four and half minutes as the crowd fidgeted and some cried out "We`re with you Emma." "Since the time that I came out here, it has been six minutes and 20 seconds," Gonzalez finally said -- the exact amount of time Cruz spent spraying bullets inside her school before fleeing. "Fight for your lives before it`s someone else`s job," Gonzalez said. "Get out there and vote." Yolanda Renee King, the nine-year-old granddaughter of civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr. brought many to tears with a surprise appearance. "My grandfather had a dream that his four little children will not be judged by the colour of their skin but by the content of their character," she told a rapt crowd. "I have a dream that enough is enough," she said, referencing her grandfather`s famous 1963 "I Have a Dream" speech on ending racism. "And that this should be a gun-free world -- period."In New York, former Beatle Paul McCartney showed up at a march and spoke of the December 1980 murder of his bandmate John Lennon. "Every week you hear about a new shooting and nothing is done about it," McCartney told AFP. "But I think maybe after this something will be done about it." On the other side of the country in Los Angeles, comedian Amy Schumer delivered a passionate plea in front of hundreds of thousands. "You are killing children," she said, of the gun lobby. "And they call people like me `Hollywood liberals` like there`s something in it for us. "Well, what`s in it for us is knowing we`re doing our part to keep our children alive." Demonstrations of solidarity also took place around the world, including across cities in Canada, which unveiled stricter gun laws earlier this week including enhanced background checks. In Scotland, some relatives of those killed in a school shooting in the town of Dunblane in 1996 attended a protest in Edinburgh. Thousands meanwhile gathered in Parkland to pay tribute to those slain in the city on Valentine`s Day. "I March Because I Was Almost Silenced," read a sign carried by Samantha Mayor, 17, who was shot in the knee and wears a heavy brace. Samantha`s mother, Ellyn, held a sign reading "I`m Marching So No Other Parent Has to Hear `Mom, I`ve Been Shot.`" Trump was in Florida as marchers gathered in Washington but the White House issued a statement. "We applaud the many courageous young Americans exercising their First Amendment rights today," it said. "Keeping our children safe is a top priority of the President`s."

Over 1 million Americans pour onto streets, demand tighter gun control

Hundreds of thousands of Americans are expected to rally nationwide on Saturday for tighter gun laws in &quot;March For Our Lives&quot; protests led by survivors of the Florida school massacre, which reiginited public anger over mass shootings.

Students from the Parkland, Florida, high school where 17 students and staff were killed on Feb. 14 will be among the 500,000 people organizers say could rally on Pennsylvania Avenue near the Capitol in Washington.

The protests orchestrated by survivors of the rampage at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School are aimed at breaking through a legislative gridlock that has long stymied efforts to tighten firearms controls. Mass shootings at American schools and colleges have become a regular occurrence.

&quot;This issue is going to turn into the No. 1 issue in this country. I know that&#39;s not only what I want, but I know it&#39;s what you guys want,&quot; Alfonso Calderon, a junior at the Florida school, told Washington students at a pre-march event on Thursday.

The Washington rally is among more than 800 events scheduled worldwide, with U.S. demonstrations set from San Clemente, California, to New York and Parkland, according to gun-control group Everytown For Gun Safety.

The teenage organizers have won kudos and cash from dozens of celebrities, with singer Ariana Grande and &quot;Hamilton&quot; creator Lin-Manuel Miranda among those performing in Washington.

&quot;Trainwreck&quot; star Amy Schumer is set to appear at the Los Angeles rally. Actor George Clooney and his human rights attorney wife have donated $500,000 and said they would be at the Washington rally.

Organizers want Congress, many of whose members are up for re-election this year, to ban the sale of assault weapons like the one used in the Florida rampage and to tighten background checks for gun buyers. On the other side of the debate, gun rights advocates cite constitutional guarantees of the right to bear arms.

On Friday, Republican President Donald Trump signed a $1.3 trillion spending bill that includes modest improvements to background checks for gun sales and grants to help schools prevent gun violence.

David Hogg, a senior at Stoneman Douglas, said the protests were a way for young Americans to show their opposition to the National Rifle Association, the powerful gun lobby.

&quot;We&#39;re asking people (to) put the USA over the NRA,&quot; he said at the Thursday event in Washington.

An NRA spokeswoman said it had not taken a position on the protests.

Democrats and nonpartisan groups hope to register at least 25,000 first-time voters at the rallies, potentially a boost for Democrats, who generally favor stricter gun controls.

Students from the Parkland, Florida, high school where 17 students and staff were killed on Feb. 14 will be among the 500,000 people organizers say could rally on Pennsylvania Avenue near the Capitol in Washington

Hundreds of thousands of Americans are expected to rally nationwide on Saturday for tighter gun laws in "March For Our Lives" protests led by survivors of the Florida school massacre, which reiginited public anger over mass shootings. Students from the Parkland, Florida, high school where 17 students and staff were killed on Feb. 14 will be among the 500,000 people organizers say could rally on Pennsylvania Avenue near the Capitol in Washington. The protests orchestrated by survivors of the rampage at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School are aimed at breaking through a legislative gridlock that has long stymied efforts to tighten firearms controls. Mass shootings at American schools and colleges have become a regular occurrence. "This issue is going to turn into the No. 1 issue in this country. I know that's not only what I want, but I know it's what you guys want," Alfonso Calderon, a junior at the Florida school, told Washington students at a pre-march event on Thursday. The Washington rally is among more than 800 events scheduled worldwide, with U.S. demonstrations set from San Clemente, California, to New York and Parkland, according to gun-control group Everytown For Gun Safety. The teenage organizers have won kudos and cash from dozens of celebrities, with singer Ariana Grande and "Hamilton" creator Lin-Manuel Miranda among those performing in Washington. "Trainwreck" star Amy Schumer is set to appear at the Los Angeles rally. Actor George Clooney and his human rights attorney wife have donated $500,000 and said they would be at the Washington rally. Organizers want Congress, many of whose members are up for re-election this year, to ban the sale of assault weapons like the one used in the Florida rampage and to tighten background checks for gun buyers. On the other side of the debate, gun rights advocates cite constitutional guarantees of the right to bear arms. On Friday, Republican President Donald Trump signed a $1.3 trillion spending bill that includes modest improvements to background checks for gun sales and grants to help schools prevent gun violence. David Hogg, a senior at Stoneman Douglas, said the protests were a way for young Americans to show their opposition to the National Rifle Association, the powerful gun lobby. "We're asking people (to) put the USA over the NRA," he said at the Thursday event in Washington. An NRA spokeswoman said it had not taken a position on the protests. Democrats and nonpartisan groups hope to register at least 25,000 first-time voters at the rallies, potentially a boost for Democrats, who generally favor stricter gun controls.

Hundreds of thousands set to march for tighter US gun controls

A former Playboy model has now come on record and allegedly claimed that she had a 10-month affair with US President Donald Trump, reports said on Friday.&nbsp;

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By going public, Karen McDougal disregarded legal risks relating to a $150,000 deal she had signed before the November 2016 election that in effect bought her silence.

The former Playboy model, Karen McDougal also claimed that Trump offered her money after they first got intimate.&nbsp;

In an interview to CNN, US-based model McDougal said &quot;After we had been intimate, he tried to pay me, and I actually didn&#39;t know how to take that&quot; post her first alleged sexual encounter with Trump.

The model spoke about her decade-old alleged affair with Trump - which began just three months after the birth of his and Melania&rsquo;s son Barron - and the impact of the same on her personal life.

The ex-Playmate said their first sexual encounter was at the billionaire&rsquo;s bungalow at the Beverly Hills Hotel in 2006.&nbsp;She thought they were meeting for dinner in the tony hotel restaurant but instead, Trump&#39;s bodyguard ushered her into the reality star&#39;s usual bungalow.

She continued going on several dates after their first encounter and also met Melania at the Playboy Mansion at a party the airing of Celebrity Apprentice, reports said.&nbsp;

Further, McDougal expressed her remorse and apologised to Trump&#39;s wife Melania Trump.

&quot;What can you say except I&#39;m sorry!. I&#39;m sorry. I wouldn&#39;t want it done to me.&quot; McDougal said.

She further claimed to decline the money offered by Trump saying &quot;That&#39;s not me. I&#39;m not that kind of girl&quot;.

However, the White House said that Trump has denied the alleged affair.

McDougal responded to that by saying &quot;I guess I understand because he&#39;s trying to protect his family, his image, things like that. But it was definitely a little like, &#39;Wow, you&#39;re going to lie about that?&quot;

McDougal delved into the lawsuit filed in a California court earlier this week, asking to be released from a contract she signed with American Media Inc. for her life rights.

She said AMI and its owner, David Pecker, in particular, framed the deal as a means to &quot;jump-start&quot; her career and protect her image as &quot;wholesome and pure.&quot;

But things didn&#39;t pan out the way she had anticipated. The company and Pecker, who is a longtime friend of Trump&#39;s, failed to hold up their end of the bargain, according to McDougal. And now she wants out of the contract.

Earlier in January, another US-based adult star <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pornstar-stormy-daniels-lawyer-confirms-her-affair-with-donald-trump-35037">Stormy Daniels</a> had filed a civil lawsuit against Trump to invalidate a non-disclosure agreement which contains details about her alleged nine-month affair with the latter.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pornstar-offers-to-repay-130000-in-dispute-over-alleged-trump-affair-35585">Pornstar offers to repay $130,000 in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pornstar-offers-to-repay-130000-in-dispute-over-alleged-trump-affair-35585">dispute</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pornstar-offers-to-repay-130000-in-dispute-over-alleged-trump-affair-35585"> over alleged Trump affair</a>

Three women &ndash; Daniels, McDougal, and Summer Zervos, an Apprentice contestant who says she was sexually harassed by Trump &ndash; are all suing the president.

The ex-Playmate said their first sexual encounter was at the billionaire’s bungalow at the Beverly Hills Hotel in 2006

A former Playboy model has now come on record and allegedly claimed that she had a 10-month affair with US President Donald Trump, reports said on Friday. × By going public, Karen McDougal disregarded legal risks relating to a $150,000 deal she had signed before the November 2016 election that in effect bought her silence. The former Playboy model, Karen McDougal also claimed that Trump offered her money after they first got intimate. In an interview to CNN, US-based model McDougal said "After we had been intimate, he tried to pay me, and I actually didn't know how to take that" post her first alleged sexual encounter with Trump. The model spoke about her decade-old alleged affair with Trump - which began just three months after the birth of his and Melania’s son Barron - and the impact of the same on her personal life. The ex-Playmate said their first sexual encounter was at the billionaire’s bungalow at the Beverly Hills Hotel in 2006. She thought they were meeting for dinner in the tony hotel restaurant but instead, Trump's bodyguard ushered her into the reality star's usual bungalow. She continued going on several dates after their first encounter and also met Melania at the Playboy Mansion at a party the airing of Celebrity Apprentice, reports said. Further, McDougal expressed her remorse and apologised to Trump's wife Melania Trump. "What can you say except I'm sorry!. I'm sorry. I wouldn't want it done to me." McDougal said. She further claimed to decline the money offered by Trump saying "That's not me. I'm not that kind of girl". However, the White House said that Trump has denied the alleged affair. McDougal responded to that by saying "I guess I understand because he's trying to protect his family, his image, things like that. But it was definitely a little like, 'Wow, you're going to lie about that?" McDougal delved into the lawsuit filed in a California court earlier this week, asking to be released from a contract she signed with American Media Inc. for her life rights. She said AMI and its owner, David Pecker, in particular, framed the deal as a means to "jump-start" her career and protect her image as "wholesome and pure." But things didn't pan out the way she had anticipated. The company and Pecker, who is a longtime friend of Trump's, failed to hold up their end of the bargain, according to McDougal. And now she wants out of the contract. Earlier in January, another US-based adult star Stormy Daniels had filed a civil lawsuit against Trump to invalidate a non-disclosure agreement which contains details about her alleged nine-month affair with the latter. Also read: Pornstar offers to repay $130,000 in dispute over alleged Trump affair Three women – Daniels, McDougal, and Summer Zervos, an Apprentice contestant who says she was sexually harassed by Trump – are all suing the president.

Former Playboy model claims she had a '10-month long affair with Trump'

President Donald Trump signed a memorandum on Friday that limits transgender individuals from serving in the US military, but gives the armed forces some latitude in implementing policies.

The memorandum said that transgender individuals with a history of &quot;gender dysphoria&quot; are disqualified from military service &quot;except under certain limited circumstances.&quot;

It added that the secretaries of defence and homeland security &quot;may exercise their authority to implement any appropriate policies concerning military service by transgender individuals.&quot;

President Donald Trump signed a memorandum on Friday that limits transgender individuals from serving in the US military, but gives the armed forces some latitude in implementing policies

President Donald Trump signed a memorandum on Friday that limits transgender individuals from serving in the US military, but gives the armed forces some latitude in implementing policies. The memorandum said that transgender individuals with a history of "gender dysphoria" are disqualified from military service "except under certain limited circumstances." It added that the secretaries of defence and homeland security "may exercise their authority to implement any appropriate policies concerning military service by transgender individuals."

Trump moves to limit transgender individuals from military service

Turkey continues to hold talks with the Franco-Italian Eurosam consortium and the United States to buy missile defense systems, Ankara&#39;s foreign ministry spokesman said on Friday.

The US has decided to offer the country an alternative to the Russian S-440s, reports say. The decision comes following threats by the US lawmakers to introduce sanctions against Russia if it sells its S-400 Triumf mobile surface-to-air missile systems to other countries.&nbsp;

As per reports, US State Department acting assistant secretary of state for political-military affairs Tina Kaidanow is expected to travel to Turkey next week to offer Ankara the US Patriot surface-to-air missile system.

In January, Turkey awarded Eurosam an 18-month contract for a study into the development and production of a long-range air and missile defence system, in a move towards closer defence cooperation with France and Italy.

In December last year, Turkey and Russia signed an accord for Moscow to supply Ankara with S-400 surface-to-air missile batteries, finalising a deal set to deepen military ties between NATO member Turkey and the Kremlin.&nbsp;

Russia and Turkey reached an agreement of US $2.5 billion on the sale of S-400 in 2017 and is expected to ship the first batch by 2019.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Russia and US reached an agreement of US $2.5 billion on the sale of S-400 in 2017 and is expected to ship the first batch by 2019

Turkey continues to hold talks with the Franco-Italian Eurosam consortium and the United States to buy missile defense systems, Ankara's foreign ministry spokesman said on Friday. The US has decided to offer the country an alternative to the Russian S-440s, reports say. The decision comes following threats by the US lawmakers to introduce sanctions against Russia if it sells its S-400 Triumf mobile surface-to-air missile systems to other countries. As per reports, US State Department acting assistant secretary of state for political-military affairs Tina Kaidanow is expected to travel to Turkey next week to offer Ankara the US Patriot surface-to-air missile system. In January, Turkey awarded Eurosam an 18-month contract for a study into the development and production of a long-range air and missile defence system, in a move towards closer defence cooperation with France and Italy. In December last year, Turkey and Russia signed an accord for Moscow to supply Ankara with S-400 surface-to-air missile batteries, finalising a deal set to deepen military ties between NATO member Turkey and the Kremlin. Russia and Turkey reached an agreement of US $2.5 billion on the sale of S-400 in 2017 and is expected to ship the first batch by 2019.

Turkey in talks to buy missile defense systems from US

A combative Donald Trump threatened Friday to veto a spending deal clinched in a dead-of-night compromise in Congress, in a dramatic U-turn by the president that raises the fresh specter of a government shutdown.

The president brandished the threat in a tweet after the Senate passed the $1.3 trillion spending bill, 65-32, under the pressure of a midnight Friday deadline to fund the government, or shut it down.

It caps yet another week of high drama at the White House where the mercurial former reality TV star replaced his national security advisor, launched a new trade fight with China, and needled investigators probing Russia election meddling.

Trump&#39;s White House had given its blessing to the compromise spending deal with Democrats, but by Friday morning, with the clock still ticking, the president had second thoughts.

Lashing out on Twitter, he complained that the bill failed to fully fund his border wall with Mexico, or settle the fate of hundreds of thousands of immigrants brought to the country illegally as children.

&quot;I am considering a VETO of the Omnibus Spending Bill based on the fact that the 800,000 plus DACA recipients have been totally abandoned by the Democrats (not even mentioned in Bill) and the BORDER WALL, which is desperately needed for our National Defense, is not fully funded,&quot; he said. 
&nbsp;

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I am considering a VETO of the Omnibus Spending Bill based on the fact that the 800,000 plus DACA recipients have been totally abandoned by the Democrats (not even mentioned in Bill) and the BORDER WALL, which is desperately needed for our National Defense, is not fully funded.
&mdash; Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/977166887493799936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The bill provided $1.6 billion for border security and construction or repair of nearly 100 miles (160 kilometers) of border fencing, but that was far less than Trump had been seeking.

It also set aside the issue of the so-called &quot;Dreamers,&quot; who are in legal limbo following the Trump administration&#39;s repeal of Deferred Action on Childhood Arrivals (DACA), a policy instituted by former president Barack Obama that protected them from deportation.

DACA expired on March 5, but the issue is being fought in the courts. Attempts at a legislative fix collapsed in a previous round of negotiations to avert a government shutdown.

In a Congress riven by partisan feuding, passage early Friday of the massive bill to fund the US government through September was considered a rare achievement.

The centerpiece was a big increase in US defense spending to $700 billion dollars, up $61 billion, and a 10 percent hike in domestic spending, which would rise to $591 billion.

But it came with last minute fights in a tumultuous late night session, after one of Trump&#39;s fellow Republicans, Senator Rand Paul, refused to allow a quick vote, only to relent.

Five times since October, lawmakers have had to pass stopgap funding legislation to keep the government&#39;s lights on. Twice this year the government was allowed to slip into shutdown.&nbsp;

A third lapse would be deeply embarrassing for a Republican-controlled Congress facing midterm elections in November.

Trump complained on Twitter that the bill failed to fully fund his border wall with Mexico, or settle the fate of hundreds of thousands of immigrants brought to the country illegally as children

A combative Donald Trump threatened Friday to veto a spending deal clinched in a dead-of-night compromise in Congress, in a dramatic U-turn by the president that raises the fresh specter of a government shutdown. The president brandished the threat in a tweet after the Senate passed the $1.3 trillion spending bill, 65-32, under the pressure of a midnight Friday deadline to fund the government, or shut it down. It caps yet another week of high drama at the White House where the mercurial former reality TV star replaced his national security advisor, launched a new trade fight with China, and needled investigators probing Russia election meddling. Trump's White House had given its blessing to the compromise spending deal with Democrats, but by Friday morning, with the clock still ticking, the president had second thoughts. Lashing out on Twitter, he complained that the bill failed to fully fund his border wall with Mexico, or settle the fate of hundreds of thousands of immigrants brought to the country illegally as children. "I am considering a VETO of the Omnibus Spending Bill based on the fact that the 800,000 plus DACA recipients have been totally abandoned by the Democrats (not even mentioned in Bill) and the BORDER WALL, which is desperately needed for our National Defense, is not fully funded," he said. I am considering a VETO of the Omnibus Spending Bill based on the fact that the 800,000 plus DACA recipients have been totally abandoned by the Democrats (not even mentioned in Bill) and the BORDER WALL, which is desperately needed for our National Defense, is not fully funded. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 23, 2018 × The bill provided $1.6 billion for border security and construction or repair of nearly 100 miles (160 kilometers) of border fencing, but that was far less than Trump had been seeking. It also set aside the issue of the so-called "Dreamers," who are in legal limbo following the Trump administration's repeal of Deferred Action on Childhood Arrivals (DACA), a policy instituted by former president Barack Obama that protected them from deportation. DACA expired on March 5, but the issue is being fought in the courts. Attempts at a legislative fix collapsed in a previous round of negotiations to avert a government shutdown. In a Congress riven by partisan feuding, passage early Friday of the massive bill to fund the US government through September was considered a rare achievement. The centerpiece was a big increase in US defense spending to $700 billion dollars, up $61 billion, and a 10 percent hike in domestic spending, which would rise to $591 billion. But it came with last minute fights in a tumultuous late night session, after one of Trump's fellow Republicans, Senator Rand Paul, refused to allow a quick vote, only to relent. Five times since October, lawmakers have had to pass stopgap funding legislation to keep the government's lights on. Twice this year the government was allowed to slip into shutdown. A third lapse would be deeply embarrassing for a Republican-controlled Congress facing midterm elections in November.

Trump threatens spending bill veto, raising shutdown risk

US lawmakers are working <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/senate-clears-bill-in-a-bid-to-end-us-shutdown-32302">overtime against a Friday midnight</a> deadline to avoid a government shutdown.

The shutdown,<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-government-shutdown-to-begin-at-midnight-as-senate-adjourns-32283"> if it happens again, could</a> be the third time this year.

Republicans and Democrats are working to set a $1.2 trillion spending deal together. House Speaker Paul Ryan said that &quot;some unresolved issues&quot; remained, but he was hoping it would be finalized and released.

&quot;A few sticking points remain, but we are very close&quot; to a deal, top Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer said.

&quot;We&#39;re at the end of negotiations, I don&#39;t want to jeopardize anything,&quot; he added.

The measures include outlines of a 2018-2019 budget deal reached last month that boosts both military and domestic spending by more than 10 per cent.

The plan provides $307 million more than Trump requested for the FBI to counter Russian cyber attacks and $380 million for US states to improve voting technology before November&#39;s congressional election, according to a Reuters source.

There are several sticking points as Republicans and Democrats haggle over issues which include the Mexican Wall, Obamacare and fixing the tax law.

According to Reuters, President Trump wants $25 billion for the Mexican wall, but negotiations fell through to provide more money in exchange for protections for &quot;Dreamers,&quot; young adults brought illegally into the United States as children.

As the clock ticks, both Republicans and Democrats are working behind the scenes, spending time making phone calls in an attempt to keep the US government running.

The shutdown, if it happens again, could be the third time this year.

US lawmakers are working overtime against a Friday midnight deadline to avoid a government shutdown. The shutdown, if it happens again, could be the third time this year. Republicans and Democrats are working to set a $1.2 trillion spending deal together. House Speaker Paul Ryan said that "some unresolved issues" remained, but he was hoping it would be finalized and released. "A few sticking points remain, but we are very close" to a deal, top Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer said. "We're at the end of negotiations, I don't want to jeopardize anything," he added. The measures include outlines of a 2018-2019 budget deal reached last month that boosts both military and domestic spending by more than 10 per cent. The plan provides $307 million more than Trump requested for the FBI to counter Russian cyber attacks and $380 million for US states to improve voting technology before November's congressional election, according to a Reuters source. There are several sticking points as Republicans and Democrats haggle over issues which include the Mexican Wall, Obamacare and fixing the tax law. According to Reuters, President Trump wants $25 billion for the Mexican wall, but negotiations fell through to provide more money in exchange for protections for "Dreamers," young adults brought illegally into the United States as children. As the clock ticks, both Republicans and Democrats are working behind the scenes, spending time making phone calls in an attempt to keep the US government running.

As another US government shutdown looms, Republicans, Democrats haggle over spending

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/cambridge-analytica-ceo-claims-influence-on-us-election-facebook-questioned-36557" target="_blank">Suspended Cambridge Analytica CEO claims influence on US election, Facebook questioned</a>

The suspended chief executive of Cambridge Analytica said in a secretly recorded video broadcast on Tuesday that his UK-based political consultancy&rsquo;s online campaign played a decisive role in US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s 2016 election victory.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/team-rahul-gandhi-set-to-take-charge-of-congress-top-leaders-resign-36565" target="_blank">Top leaders resign as Team Rahul gets set to take charge of Congress</a>

Resignations in the Congress have begun ahead of party President Rahul Gandhi&#39;s announcement of his new team.&nbsp;

Actor-politician Raj Babbar has quit as chief of the party&#39;s UP unit.&nbsp;

News reports added that Gujarat Congress chief Bharatsinh Solanki is also believed to have tendered his resignation to the party&#39;s central leadership. The reports added that a number of further resignations are expected.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/former-playboy-model-karen-mcdougal-sues-to-break-silence-on-alleged-trump-affair-36563" target="_blank">Now, ex-Playboy model wants to talk about </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/former-playboy-model-karen-mcdougal-sues-to-break-silence-on-alleged-trump-affair-36563" target="_blank">affair</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/former-playboy-model-karen-mcdougal-sues-to-break-silence-on-alleged-trump-affair-36563" target="_blank"> with Trump</a>

A former Playboy model who said she had an affair with President Donald Trump filed suit in California on Tuesday to release her from a legal agreement requiring her to stay silent, becoming the second woman this month to contest an arrangement to keep quiet about an alleged extramarital relationship with Trump.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-renews-pervez-musharrafs-passport-fearing-he-may-not-return-36558" target="_blank">Pakistan renews Pervez Musharraf&#39;s passport fearing he may not return</a>

Pakistan&#39;s former dictator General (retd) Pervez Musharraf&#39;s diplomatic passport was renewed two months before its expiry as the government feared that he might not return to face the high treason case, the country&#39;s Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal has said.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/nobody-is-better-than-me-on-pitch-cristiano-ronaldo-36564" target="_blank">Nobody better than me on the pitch: Cristiano Ronaldo</a>

Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed the secret of his success ahead of the FIFA World Cup.

In a recent media interaction, he said, &quot;We should always believe we are the best.&quot;

&quot;You need to think big. I always believe that nobody is better than me, out on the pitch at least,&quot; he said.

Suspended Cambridge Analytica CEO claims influence on US election, Facebook questioned The suspended chief executive of Cambridge Analytica said in a secretly recorded video broadcast on Tuesday that his UK-based political consultancy’s online campaign played a decisive role in US President Donald Trump’s 2016 election victory. Top leaders resign as Team Rahul gets set to take charge of Congress Resignations in the Congress have begun ahead of party President Rahul Gandhi's announcement of his new team. Actor-politician Raj Babbar has quit as chief of the party's UP unit. News reports added that Gujarat Congress chief Bharatsinh Solanki is also believed to have tendered his resignation to the party's central leadership. The reports added that a number of further resignations are expected. Now, ex-Playboy model wants to talk about affair with Trump A former Playboy model who said she had an affair with President Donald Trump filed suit in California on Tuesday to release her from a legal agreement requiring her to stay silent, becoming the second woman this month to contest an arrangement to keep quiet about an alleged extramarital relationship with Trump. Pakistan renews Pervez Musharraf's passport fearing he may not return Pakistan's former dictator General (retd) Pervez Musharraf's diplomatic passport was renewed two months before its expiry as the government feared that he might not return to face the high treason case, the country's Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal has said. Nobody better than me on the pitch: Cristiano Ronaldo Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed the secret of his success ahead of the FIFA World Cup. In a recent media interaction, he said, "We should always believe we are the best." "You need to think big. I always believe that nobody is better than me, out on the pitch at least," he said.

WION Morning News Brief, March 21, 2018

United States President Donald Trump on Monday reiterated that the building of US-Mexico border would help to stem the flow of illegal drugs, such as heroin and narcotics into the country.

While speaking in Manchester, New Hampshire, which has been the primary city exposed to opioid deaths Trump came up with the decision to build the wall to &quot;keep the damn drugs out&quot; and has come up with numerous ways to fight the epidemic.&nbsp;

&quot;Eventually the Democrats will agree with us and we&#39;ll build the wall to keep the damn drugs out,&quot; he said.

The drug overdose rose to 23 per cent in the city in the first two months of 2018, reports said.&nbsp;

At the same time, the outlet reported that overdose deaths were down 27 percent. Trump said 90 percent of illicit drugs come into the United States via the Mexican border.

In a speech on opioid epidemic at New Hampshire, President Trump vowed to be &quot;extremely tough&quot; on rampant drug crime in the country, adding that he would give &#39;death penalty&#39; to the country&#39;s drug dealers.

&quot;If we don&#39;t get tough on drug dealers, we are wasting our time, and that toughness includes the death penalty. We have got to get tough. This isn&#39;t about nice anymore,&quot; he asserted.

He spoke in front of a banner that read, &quot;Opioids: The Crisis Next Door&quot; and was flanked by law enforcement members.

He vowed that his administration would be spending a lot of money on a public awareness campaign to prevent American youth from taking drugs.

&quot;That&#39;s the least expensive thing we can do, where you scare them from ending up like the people in the commercials. And we&#39;ll make them very bad commercials; we&#39;ll make them very unsavoury situations,&quot; added President Trump.

The US President also called for greater access to treatment and praised American pharmaceutical companies that are making &quot;lifesaving overdose-reversing drugs&quot;.

The Trump administration is also calling for a national prescription-drug-monitoring database, where prescriptions can be tracked across the country. Each state has its own system and some share data. The administration also wants to cut opioid prescriptions by one-third nationwide.

&quot;The plan contains some important steps that will increase access to effective, evidence-based treatment, particularly Medication-Assisted Treatment for opioid addiction,&quot; Chuck Ingoglia, senior vice president for public policy and practice improvement at the National Council for Behavioral Health, said in a statement.

The opioid epidemic or opioid crisis is the rapid increase in the use of prescription and non-prescription opioid drugs in the United States and Canada beginning in the late 1990s and continuing throughout the first two decades of the 2000s.&nbsp;

Opioids are a diverse class of moderately strong painkillers, including oxycodone (commonly sold under the trade names OxyContin and Percocet), hydrocodone (Vicodin), and a very strong painkiller, fentanyl, which is synthesized to resemble other opiates such as opium-derived morphine and heroin.

(With inputs from ANI)

In a speech on opioid epidemic at New Hampshire, President Trump vowed to be 'extremely tough' on rampant drug crime in the country, adding that he would give 'death penalty' to the country's drug dealers

United States President Donald Trump on Monday reiterated that the building of US-Mexico border would help to stem the flow of illegal drugs, such as heroin and narcotics into the country. While speaking in Manchester, New Hampshire, which has been the primary city exposed to opioid deaths Trump came up with the decision to build the wall to "keep the damn drugs out" and has come up with numerous ways to fight the epidemic. "Eventually the Democrats will agree with us and we'll build the wall to keep the damn drugs out," he said. The drug overdose rose to 23 per cent in the city in the first two months of 2018, reports said. At the same time, the outlet reported that overdose deaths were down 27 percent. Trump said 90 percent of illicit drugs come into the United States via the Mexican border. In a speech on opioid epidemic at New Hampshire, President Trump vowed to be "extremely tough" on rampant drug crime in the country, adding that he would give 'death penalty' to the country's drug dealers. "If we don't get tough on drug dealers, we are wasting our time, and that toughness includes the death penalty. We have got to get tough. This isn't about nice anymore," he asserted. He spoke in front of a banner that read, "Opioids: The Crisis Next Door" and was flanked by law enforcement members. He vowed that his administration would be spending a lot of money on a public awareness campaign to prevent American youth from taking drugs. "That's the least expensive thing we can do, where you scare them from ending up like the people in the commercials. And we'll make them very bad commercials; we'll make them very unsavoury situations," added President Trump. The US President also called for greater access to treatment and praised American pharmaceutical companies that are making "lifesaving overdose-reversing drugs". The Trump administration is also calling for a national prescription-drug-monitoring database, where prescriptions can be tracked across the country. Each state has its own system and some share data. The administration also wants to cut opioid prescriptions by one-third nationwide. "The plan contains some important steps that will increase access to effective, evidence-based treatment, particularly Medication-Assisted Treatment for opioid addiction," Chuck Ingoglia, senior vice president for public policy and practice improvement at the National Council for Behavioral Health, said in a statement. The opioid epidemic or opioid crisis is the rapid increase in the use of prescription and non-prescription opioid drugs in the United States and Canada beginning in the late 1990s and continuing throughout the first two decades of the 2000s. Opioids are a diverse class of moderately strong painkillers, including oxycodone (commonly sold under the trade names OxyContin and Percocet), hydrocodone (Vicodin), and a very strong painkiller, fentanyl, which is synthesized to resemble other opiates such as opium-derived morphine and heroin. (With inputs from ANI)

Building US-Mexico border to 'keep the damn drugs out': Trump

U.S. President Donald Trump spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday, an administration official told Reuters without elaborating.

The White House planned to release a statement on their conversation on Tuesday, the official said.

Putin was re-elected on Sunday as Russia's president, extending his tenure for another six years.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said on Tuesday he hoped Putin's win would lead to a thaw in U.S.-Russia relations, the RIA news agency reported.

Ryabkov was cited as saying he hoped the victory would persuade some American politicians to stop isolating Russia and said Moscow was open to dialogue with Washington.

The European Union's chief executive, Jean-Claude Juncker, published a letter of congratulations to Putin on Tuesday, saying Russia and Europe should "re-establish a cooperative pan-European security order."

With East-West ties at post-Cold War lows, Juncker's congratulatory letter followed the latest expression of concern about Russia from EU foreign ministers on Monday over the nerve

agent attack on a former Russian double agent on British soil. Russia denies involvement.

The White House planned to release a statement on their conversation on Tuesday, the official said

U.S. President Donald Trump spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday, an administration official told Reuters without elaborating. The White House planned to release a statement on their conversation on Tuesday, the official said. Putin was re-elected on Sunday as Russia's president, extending his tenure for another six years. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said on Tuesday he hoped Putin's win would lead to a thaw in U.S.-Russia relations, the RIA news agency reported. Ryabkov was cited as saying he hoped the victory would persuade some American politicians to stop isolating Russia and said Moscow was open to dialogue with Washington. The European Union's chief executive, Jean-Claude Juncker, published a letter of congratulations to Putin on Tuesday, saying Russia and Europe should "re-establish a cooperative pan-European security order." With East-West ties at post-Cold War lows, Juncker's congratulatory letter followed the latest expression of concern about Russia from EU foreign ministers on Monday over the nerve agent attack on a former Russian double agent on British soil. Russia denies involvement.

Trump speaks with Putin after re-election victory in Russia

Melania Trump is hosting executives from major online and social media companies to discuss cyberbullying and internet safety, more than a year after saying that would be her issue as first lady.

The meeting today marks her first public event on the topic, a choice some observers have questioned given that her husband often berates people on Twitter.

Amazon, Snap, Facebook, Google and Twitter are among the companies that are expected to attend the meeting. The Internet Association said it will also be represented.

All the major technology companies have strict policies prohibiting harassment and other bullying behaviours on their services but primarily rely on users to report abuses and weed them out.

They try to clearly spell out the kinds of remarks and other posts that won&#39;t be tolerated in special sections such as one Facebook, the largest online social network, has set up. Instagram, a popular service among kids and young adults for sharing photos and videos, provides links to the US government&#39;s anti-bullying site and tips from a cyberbullying research centre on one of its help pages.

But the efforts so far have fallen short, leading to rampant abuses that even some of the companies acknowledge have driven away or tormented portions of their audience.

It got so bad on Twitter, which has 68 million US users, that the San Francisco company vowed last fall to crack down on hateful tweets. Among other things, Twitter adopted new policies aimed at protecting women who unknowingly or unwillingly had nude pictures of themselves distributed online a common bullying tactic.

Yik Yak, another messaging app once popular among high school and college students, shut down last year partly because schools banned it following complaints about bullying and harassment.

Online bullying takes many shapes, but some of the most common tactics include posting embarrassing or salacious photos, making demeaning or cruel remarks under a photo or in a general post about someone, and sharing screenshots of what at least one person thought was a private text.

Harassment is widespread and extends beyond teenagers. A Pew Research Center poll last year found 41 percent of US adults believed they had been harassed online.

The popularity of and volume of content on major social media sites present a huge challenge in policing what is being shared. Facebook, for instance, has 2.1 billion worldwide users who collectively share billions of posts on their pages daily. More than 300 hours of video is uploaded to Google&#39;s YouTube site every minute.

The companies are also constantly struggling to balance the desire to prevent harassment and other abuses and maintain a commitment to freedom of expression.

In some cases, they see harassment and still look the other way. For instance, some of President Trump&#39;s more vitriolic tweets have openly mocked and denigrated people, prompting calls for Twitter to shut down his account and ban him from its service. But Twitter has declined, maintaining the news value of the president&#39;s tweets eclipse complaints about him being a bully.

There is no federal law that applies to bullying. State laws vary, ranging from requiring public schools to have a bullying policy to requiring anonymous reporting systems, said Sameer Hinduja, co-director of the Cyberbullying Research Center and professor of criminology at Florida Atlantic University.

The federal government can best help by giving schools more tools and money to provide programs, Hinduja said.

Trump announced in a speech near the end of the 2016 presidential campaign that her priority as the first lady would be to fight cyberbullying. A native of Slovenia, she at the time lamented a US culture that she said had grown &quot;too mean and too rough.&quot; It was a curious speech for a woman whose husband uses Twitter to dismiss people as losers and taunt them with unflattering nicknames.

The mother of a 12-year-old son,&nbsp;first lady has made child well-being her focus in the White House, including an unexpected interest in how the opioid crisis is affecting youngsters.

She has visited hospitals and care centres to see the effects first hand and has embraced parents whose children died from drug overdoses. She accompanied the president to New Hampshire on Monday as he discussed a three-pronged effort to combat drug addiction, including applying the death penalty against those caught trafficking highly addictive substances.

Mrs Trump recently asked the spouses of US governors to help promote values such as encouragement, kindness, compassion and respect in children. She has also spoken about limiting the amount of time children spend online, and helping them understand the content they are exposed to.

Amazon, Snap, Facebook, Google and Twitter are among the companies that are expected to attend the meeting

Melania Trump is hosting executives from major online and social media companies to discuss cyberbullying and internet safety, more than a year after saying that would be her issue as first lady. The meeting today marks her first public event on the topic, a choice some observers have questioned given that her husband often berates people on Twitter. Amazon, Snap, Facebook, Google and Twitter are among the companies that are expected to attend the meeting. The Internet Association said it will also be represented. All the major technology companies have strict policies prohibiting harassment and other bullying behaviours on their services but primarily rely on users to report abuses and weed them out. They try to clearly spell out the kinds of remarks and other posts that won't be tolerated in special sections such as one Facebook, the largest online social network, has set up. Instagram, a popular service among kids and young adults for sharing photos and videos, provides links to the US government's anti-bullying site and tips from a cyberbullying research centre on one of its help pages. But the efforts so far have fallen short, leading to rampant abuses that even some of the companies acknowledge have driven away or tormented portions of their audience. It got so bad on Twitter, which has 68 million US users, that the San Francisco company vowed last fall to crack down on hateful tweets. Among other things, Twitter adopted new policies aimed at protecting women who unknowingly or unwillingly had nude pictures of themselves distributed online a common bullying tactic. Yik Yak, another messaging app once popular among high school and college students, shut down last year partly because schools banned it following complaints about bullying and harassment. Online bullying takes many shapes, but some of the most common tactics include posting embarrassing or salacious photos, making demeaning or cruel remarks under a photo or in a general post about someone, and sharing screenshots of what at least one person thought was a private text. Harassment is widespread and extends beyond teenagers. A Pew Research Center poll last year found 41 percent of US adults believed they had been harassed online. The popularity of and volume of content on major social media sites present a huge challenge in policing what is being shared. Facebook, for instance, has 2.1 billion worldwide users who collectively share billions of posts on their pages daily. More than 300 hours of video is uploaded to Google's YouTube site every minute. The companies are also constantly struggling to balance the desire to prevent harassment and other abuses and maintain a commitment to freedom of expression. In some cases, they see harassment and still look the other way. For instance, some of President Trump's more vitriolic tweets have openly mocked and denigrated people, prompting calls for Twitter to shut down his account and ban him from its service. But Twitter has declined, maintaining the news value of the president's tweets eclipse complaints about him being a bully. There is no federal law that applies to bullying. State laws vary, ranging from requiring public schools to have a bullying policy to requiring anonymous reporting systems, said Sameer Hinduja, co-director of the Cyberbullying Research Center and professor of criminology at Florida Atlantic University. The federal government can best help by giving schools more tools and money to provide programs, Hinduja said. Trump announced in a speech near the end of the 2016 presidential campaign that her priority as the first lady would be to fight cyberbullying. A native of Slovenia, she at the time lamented a US culture that she said had grown "too mean and too rough." It was a curious speech for a woman whose husband uses Twitter to dismiss people as losers and taunt them with unflattering nicknames. The mother of a 12-year-old son, first lady has made child well-being her focus in the White House, including an unexpected interest in how the opioid crisis is affecting youngsters. She has visited hospitals and care centres to see the effects first hand and has embraced parents whose children died from drug overdoses. She accompanied the president to New Hampshire on Monday as he discussed a three-pronged effort to combat drug addiction, including applying the death penalty against those caught trafficking highly addictive substances. Mrs Trump recently asked the spouses of US governors to help promote values such as encouragement, kindness, compassion and respect in children. She has also spoken about limiting the amount of time children spend online, and helping them understand the content they are exposed to.

Melania Trump to hold first public event on cyberbullying

The US&nbsp;Supreme Court on Monday required Arizona to continue to issue driver&#39;s licenses to the so-called Dreamers immigrants and refused to hear the state&#39;s challenge to an Obama-era program that protects hundreds of thousands of young adults brought into the country illegally as children.

The case centered on the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program created in 2012 under Democratic former President Barack Obama that Republican President Donald Trump already has sought to rescind. Those who signed up for DACA are shielded from deportation and given work permits.

The high court refused to hear Republican-governed Arizona&#39;s appeal of a lower court ruling that barred the state from denying driver&#39;s licenses to people protected under DACA.

&quot;Arizona&#39;s inexplicable attempt to deny driver&#39;s licenses to Dreamers, pursued by two governors for years, has now failed at every level of the federal judiciary,&quot; said Jennifer Chang Newell, an attorney at the American Civil Liberties Union, which represented the immigrants in the case.

The justices on Feb. 26 required the Trump administration to keep DACA in place at least for now, turning away its appeal of a judge&#39;s nationwide injunction that halted the president&#39;s September order to begin winding down the program in March. A second federal judge has since issued a similar injunction.

After DACA was put in place under Obama, Arizona&#39;s governor at the time, Republican Jan Brewer, directed state officials to prevent the program&#39;s recipients from obtaining a driver&#39;s license in the state.

Non-citizens must prove they are authorized to be in the United States to obtain an Arizona driver&#39;s license, such as with a valid federal work permit. The state decided not to accept permits obtained by DACA recipients.

The ACLU sued on behalf of a group of DACA recipients who were denied driver&#39;s licenses. Arizona was the only state to deny licenses to DACA recipients, according to court papers.

The San Francisco-based 9th US&nbsp;Circuit Court of Appeals last year struck down the Arizona policy, ruling that the state cannot develop its own definition of immigrants who are authorized to be in the United States and that only the federal government had that power.

Arizona appealed to the Supreme Court, saying the 9th Circuit&#39;s decision ran roughshod over state sovereignty. Arizona said DACA was enacted through a Department of Homeland Security memo, not legislation in the U.S. Congress or a formal agency rule-making process, and could not supersede state law regulating driver&#39;s licenses.

The Trump administration urged the justices not to take the case, saying the president&#39;s move to rescind the policy means the state&#39;s concerns have already been addressed.

The high court refused to hear Republican-governed Arizona's appeal of a lower court ruling that barred the state from denying driver's licenses to people protected under DACA.=

The US Supreme Court on Monday required Arizona to continue to issue driver's licenses to the so-called Dreamers immigrants and refused to hear the state's challenge to an Obama-era program that protects hundreds of thousands of young adults brought into the country illegally as children. The case centered on the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program created in 2012 under Democratic former President Barack Obama that Republican President Donald Trump already has sought to rescind. Those who signed up for DACA are shielded from deportation and given work permits. The high court refused to hear Republican-governed Arizona's appeal of a lower court ruling that barred the state from denying driver's licenses to people protected under DACA. "Arizona's inexplicable attempt to deny driver's licenses to Dreamers, pursued by two governors for years, has now failed at every level of the federal judiciary," said Jennifer Chang Newell, an attorney at the American Civil Liberties Union, which represented the immigrants in the case. The justices on Feb. 26 required the Trump administration to keep DACA in place at least for now, turning away its appeal of a judge's nationwide injunction that halted the president's September order to begin winding down the program in March. A second federal judge has since issued a similar injunction. After DACA was put in place under Obama, Arizona's governor at the time, Republican Jan Brewer, directed state officials to prevent the program's recipients from obtaining a driver's license in the state. Non-citizens must prove they are authorized to be in the United States to obtain an Arizona driver's license, such as with a valid federal work permit. The state decided not to accept permits obtained by DACA recipients. The ACLU sued on behalf of a group of DACA recipients who were denied driver's licenses. Arizona was the only state to deny licenses to DACA recipients, according to court papers. The San Francisco-based 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals last year struck down the Arizona policy, ruling that the state cannot develop its own definition of immigrants who are authorized to be in the United States and that only the federal government had that power. Arizona appealed to the Supreme Court, saying the 9th Circuit's decision ran roughshod over state sovereignty. Arizona said DACA was enacted through a Department of Homeland Security memo, not legislation in the U.S. Congress or a formal agency rule-making process, and could not supersede state law regulating driver's licenses. The Trump administration urged the justices not to take the case, saying the president's move to rescind the policy means the state's concerns have already been addressed.

US top court rejects Arizona challenge to 'Dreamers' program

The North Korean and Swedish foreign ministers ended three days of talks on Saturday on the security situation on the Korean peninsula which may help prepare the way for a planned meeting between US President Donald Trump and Kim Jong Un.

North Korea&rsquo;s Ri Yong Ho arrived in Stockholm on Thursday for talks with his Swedish counterpart Margot Wallstrom amid a flurry of diplomatic activity concerning the reclusive country and its nuclear ambitions.

Trump reaffirmed on Friday that he was willing to meet Kim after South Korean officials passed on an invitation earlier this month. North Korea has so far not publicly acknowledged the invitation.

&ldquo;The foreign ministers discussed opportunities and challenges for continued diplomatic efforts to reach a peaceful solution to the conflict as well as bilateral relations,&rdquo; the Swedish foreign ministry said in a statement after Ri and Wallstrom wound up their talks.

&ldquo;Sweden underlined the need for North Korea to dismantle its nuclear arms and missiles program in line with several Security Council resolutions.&rdquo;

No US government officials participated in the talks this week in Sweden, a State Department official said.

The Central Intelligence Agency has taken the lead on organizing potential discussions between the US and North Korea, The New York Times reported on Saturday. The head of the CIA, Mike Pompeo, has been named as a successor to run the State Department in the wake of the ouster of Secretary of State Rex Tillerson.

The talks in Stockholm had initially been scheduled to conclude on Friday but were extended into the weekend.

&ldquo;The dialogue has been constructive,&rdquo; a source with knowledge of the discussions said. &ldquo;It should be seen as a positive sign that the meeting was extended (until Saturday).&rdquo;

The source said that Sweden had been in close touch with the United States and South Korea before the Stockholm meetings and hoped the talks would lead to further progress towards defusing tensions.

&ldquo;Sweden will continue to do what it can, but it is the protagonists themselves who have to drive the process forward,&rdquo; the source said.

In the wake of the Stockholm talks, Wallstrom will meet her South Korean counterpart Kang Kyung-wha, who was in Washington this week for talks on North Korea and trade, in Brussels on Monday, Wallstrom&rsquo;s spokesman said.

Sweden is one of a handful of countries considered a possible venue for a meeting between Trump and Kim, who have engaged in bellicose mudslinging over North Korea and its nuclear arms program.

Trump reaffirmed on Friday that he was willing to meet Kim after South Korean officials passed on an invitation earlier this month. North Korea has so far not publicly acknowledged the invitation

The North Korean and Swedish foreign ministers ended three days of talks on Saturday on the security situation on the Korean peninsula which may help prepare the way for a planned meeting between US President Donald Trump and Kim Jong Un. North Korea’s Ri Yong Ho arrived in Stockholm on Thursday for talks with his Swedish counterpart Margot Wallstrom amid a flurry of diplomatic activity concerning the reclusive country and its nuclear ambitions. Trump reaffirmed on Friday that he was willing to meet Kim after South Korean officials passed on an invitation earlier this month. North Korea has so far not publicly acknowledged the invitation. “The foreign ministers discussed opportunities and challenges for continued diplomatic efforts to reach a peaceful solution to the conflict as well as bilateral relations,” the Swedish foreign ministry said in a statement after Ri and Wallstrom wound up their talks. “Sweden underlined the need for North Korea to dismantle its nuclear arms and missiles program in line with several Security Council resolutions.” No US government officials participated in the talks this week in Sweden, a State Department official said. The Central Intelligence Agency has taken the lead on organizing potential discussions between the US and North Korea, The New York Times reported on Saturday. The head of the CIA, Mike Pompeo, has been named as a successor to run the State Department in the wake of the ouster of Secretary of State Rex Tillerson. The talks in Stockholm had initially been scheduled to conclude on Friday but were extended into the weekend. “The dialogue has been constructive,” a source with knowledge of the discussions said. “It should be seen as a positive sign that the meeting was extended (until Saturday).” The source said that Sweden had been in close touch with the United States and South Korea before the Stockholm meetings and hoped the talks would lead to further progress towards defusing tensions. “Sweden will continue to do what it can, but it is the protagonists themselves who have to drive the process forward,” the source said. In the wake of the Stockholm talks, Wallstrom will meet her South Korean counterpart Kang Kyung-wha, who was in Washington this week for talks on North Korea and trade, in Brussels on Monday, Wallstrom’s spokesman said. Sweden is one of a handful of countries considered a possible venue for a meeting between Trump and Kim, who have engaged in bellicose mudslinging over North Korea and its nuclear arms program.

Sweden, North Korea talks end, may help pave way for Trump-Kim encounter

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesman Lu Kang said on Friday (March 16) said that Sino-US trade is not one-sided in China&#39;s favour and no side would come out unscathed in a trade war.

Lu&#39;s comments came at a regular briefing in Beijing after White House trade adviser Peter Navarro said that Trump would in coming weeks get options to address China&#39;s &quot;theft and forced transfer&quot; of American intellectual property as part of the investigation under Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974.

It was reported on Tuesday (March 13) that Trump was considering tariffs on up to $60 billion (43 billion pounds) worth of Chinese information technology, telecommunications and consumer products, along with US investment restrictions for Chinese companies.

Lu said US Chamber of Commerce President Thomas Donohue was right to say that unilateral tariffs on Chinese goods could lead to a destructive trade war that will hurt American consumers and US economic growth.

Sino-US trade is not one-sided in China's favour and no side would come out unscathed in a trade war, said Lu Kang

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesman Lu Kang said on Friday (March 16) said that Sino-US trade is not one-sided in China's favour and no side would come out unscathed in a trade war. Lu's comments came at a regular briefing in Beijing after White House trade adviser Peter Navarro said that Trump would in coming weeks get options to address China's "theft and forced transfer" of American intellectual property as part of the investigation under Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974. It was reported on Tuesday (March 13) that Trump was considering tariffs on up to $60 billion (43 billion pounds) worth of Chinese information technology, telecommunications and consumer products, along with US investment restrictions for Chinese companies. Lu said US Chamber of Commerce President Thomas Donohue was right to say that unilateral tariffs on Chinese goods could lead to a destructive trade war that will hurt American consumers and US economic growth.

China reiterates that 'there are no winners in a trade war'

North Korea&rsquo;s foreign minister landed in Sweden on Thursday for talks, prompting speculation that the two-day trip could lay the groundwork for a possible meeting between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

A Swedish Foreign Ministry spokesman said Ri Yong Ho was in Stockholm to discuss with Swedish counterpart Margot Wallstrom the security situation on the Korean peninsula and Sweden&rsquo;s diplomatic representation of the United States in North Korea.

Sweden, which is not a member of the US-led NATO military alliance, has been mentioned as a potential location for a possible face-to-face meeting between Trump and Kim.

&ldquo;If it is the case that the main players want Sweden to play a role, to facilitate, to be a forum or a link or whatever else, we are prepared to do that,&rdquo; Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Lofven told Swedish news agency TT.

&ldquo;But it must be the main players who decide, in that case, what role Sweden will have.&rdquo;

North Korean state media confirmed Ri&rsquo;s trip on Friday, saying he had flown to Sweden to speak with his counterpart on &ldquo;bilateral relations and issues of mutual concern&rdquo;. It did not mention engagement with the United States.

US State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert told a regular news briefing in Washington she was aware of the Stockholm meeting but the United States would not take part.

&ldquo;We don&rsquo;t have any information that that meeting is about what we anticipate to be a meeting between the United States, other parties, and North Korea,&rdquo; she said, referring this question to the Swedish government.

&ldquo;We are not sending any representation,&rdquo; she added.

Nauert said the United States was preparing for a possible summit with North Korea in good faith but had yet to hear directly from North Korea on the matter.

With a diplomatic presence in Pyongyang that goes back to the 1970s, Sweden may be able to help smooth the path for such a meeting, even if it does not end up hosting the talks.

&ldquo;This meeting will hopefully lead to clarity about what North Korea wants from a high-level meeting and what the time-frame is and what the conditions will be - for example, should there be any preliminary meetings,&rdquo; a source with knowledge of the situation said.

&ldquo;It is not even certain that North Korea wants to have a meeting.&rdquo;

The source said it was important to build confidence between Washington and Pyongyang, adding: &ldquo;The United States wants to have help with consular matters and North Korea wants to be sure that no one is going to invade.&rdquo;

Since Trump&rsquo;s surprise announcement last week that he was willing to meet Kim, speculation has mounted over what location might be chosen to host what would be the first meeting between serving leaders of the two countries.

Sweden acts as a diplomatic representative in North Korea for the United States, which has no embassy there and has helped with the release of US citizens held by the reclusive state.

In its statement, Sweden&rsquo;s foreign ministry noted that the UN Security Council had unanimously condemned North Korea&rsquo;s nuclear weapons and missile programmes and demanded their &ldquo;complete, verifiable and irrevocable elimination&rdquo;.

&ldquo;Sweden fully supports the Security Council resolutions. The aim of the visit is to contribute to the effective implementation of the resolutions,&rdquo; the ministry said.

Ri landed in Sweden on Thursday for talks, prompting speculation that the two-day trip could lay the groundwork for a possible meeting between Trump and Kim Jong Un

North Korea’s foreign minister landed in Sweden on Thursday for talks, prompting speculation that the two-day trip could lay the groundwork for a possible meeting between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. A Swedish Foreign Ministry spokesman said Ri Yong Ho was in Stockholm to discuss with Swedish counterpart Margot Wallstrom the security situation on the Korean peninsula and Sweden’s diplomatic representation of the United States in North Korea. Sweden, which is not a member of the US-led NATO military alliance, has been mentioned as a potential location for a possible face-to-face meeting between Trump and Kim. “If it is the case that the main players want Sweden to play a role, to facilitate, to be a forum or a link or whatever else, we are prepared to do that,” Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Lofven told Swedish news agency TT. “But it must be the main players who decide, in that case, what role Sweden will have.” North Korean state media confirmed Ri’s trip on Friday, saying he had flown to Sweden to speak with his counterpart on “bilateral relations and issues of mutual concern”. It did not mention engagement with the United States. US State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert told a regular news briefing in Washington she was aware of the Stockholm meeting but the United States would not take part. “We don’t have any information that that meeting is about what we anticipate to be a meeting between the United States, other parties, and North Korea,” she said, referring this question to the Swedish government. “We are not sending any representation,” she added. Nauert said the United States was preparing for a possible summit with North Korea in good faith but had yet to hear directly from North Korea on the matter. With a diplomatic presence in Pyongyang that goes back to the 1970s, Sweden may be able to help smooth the path for such a meeting, even if it does not end up hosting the talks. “This meeting will hopefully lead to clarity about what North Korea wants from a high-level meeting and what the time-frame is and what the conditions will be - for example, should there be any preliminary meetings,” a source with knowledge of the situation said. “It is not even certain that North Korea wants to have a meeting.” The source said it was important to build confidence between Washington and Pyongyang, adding: “The United States wants to have help with consular matters and North Korea wants to be sure that no one is going to invade.” Since Trump’s surprise announcement last week that he was willing to meet Kim, speculation has mounted over what location might be chosen to host what would be the first meeting between serving leaders of the two countries. Sweden acts as a diplomatic representative in North Korea for the United States, which has no embassy there and has helped with the release of US citizens held by the reclusive state. In its statement, Sweden’s foreign ministry noted that the UN Security Council had unanimously condemned North Korea’s nuclear weapons and missile programmes and demanded their “complete, verifiable and irrevocable elimination”. “Sweden fully supports the Security Council resolutions. The aim of the visit is to contribute to the effective implementation of the resolutions,” the ministry said.

North Korean foreign minister arrives in Sweden

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