As multiple theories claim that the novel coronavirus originated from laboratory in China, the director of Wuhan Institute of Virology has rejected the claims, calling it "impossible".&nbsp;

In an interview published by state media on Saturday, Yuan Zhiming, director of the institute said that "there's no way this virus came from us". &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-1891-new-coronavirus-deaths-as-hundreds-protest-against-lockdown-293345">US: 1,891 new coronavirus deaths as hundreds protest against lockdown</a>

Zhiming also said to CTGN that nobody from his staff had been infected with COVID-19 and added the "whole institute is carrying out research in different areas related to the coronavirus".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-has-moral-obligation-to-share-coronavirus-data-white-house-293339">China has 'moral obligation' to share coronavirus data: White House</a>

Responding to whether the research suggesting that coronavirus originating from the institute, Zhiming said: "I know it's impossible."

"As people who carry out viral studies we clearly know what kind of research is going on at the institute and how the institute manages viruses and samples," Zhiming said.

Multiple conspiracy theories claimed that COVID-19 came out from the Wuhan Institute of Virology, specifically its P4 laboratory which is equipped to tackle dangerous viruses.

The Wuhan facility director also said that since the P4 laboratory is in Wuhan "people can't help but make associations", but certain media outlets are "deliberately trying to mislead people".

Earlier this week, US began its probe to know whether the virus came out of a virology institute with a high-security biosafety laboratory.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that US officials are doing a "full investigation" into how the COVID-19 "got out into the world".

(With AFP inputs)

As multiple theories claim that the novel coronavirus originated from laboratory in China, the director of Wuhan Institute of Virology has rejected the claims, calling it "impossible".

As multiple theories claim that the novel coronavirus originated from laboratory in China, the director of Wuhan Institute of Virology has rejected the claims, calling it "impossible". In an interview published by state media on Saturday, Yuan Zhiming, director of the institute said that "there's no way this virus came from us". Also read | US: 1,891 new coronavirus deaths as hundreds protest against lockdown Zhiming also said to CTGN that nobody from his staff had been infected with COVID-19 and added the "whole institute is carrying out research in different areas related to the coronavirus". Also read | China has 'moral obligation' to share coronavirus data: White House Responding to whether the research suggesting that coronavirus originating from the institute, Zhiming said: "I know it's impossible." "As people who carry out viral studies we clearly know what kind of research is going on at the institute and how the institute manages viruses and samples," Zhiming said. Multiple conspiracy theories claimed that COVID-19 came out from the Wuhan Institute of Virology, specifically its P4 laboratory which is equipped to tackle dangerous viruses. The Wuhan facility director also said that since the P4 laboratory is in Wuhan "people can't help but make associations", but certain media outlets are "deliberately trying to mislead people". Earlier this week, US began its probe to know whether the virus came out of a virology institute with a high-security biosafety laboratory. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that US officials are doing a "full investigation" into how the COVID-19 "got out into the world". (With AFP inputs)

'No way': Wuhan lab director rejects coronavirus origins from its facility

As much as 1,891 people died in the United States from novel coronavirus in the last 24 hours, brining the total death toll to 38,664 on Saturday, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University.&nbsp;

As per the latest figures, The COVID-19 infections in the US rose to 732,197.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-has-moral-obligation-to-share-coronavirus-data-white-house-293339">China has 'moral obligation' to share coronavirus data: White House</a>

Both in terms of number of deaths and infections, the US is the world affected by coronavirus, that has killed over 157,539 people worldwide.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-225-million-coronavirus-cases-registered-worldwide-death-toll-tops-154000-293313">Over 2.25 million coronavirus cases registered worldwide; death toll tops 154,000</a>

Meanwhie, hundreds in the country protested against the lockdown imposed to contain COVID-19 spread, saying that the restrictions are severely impacing the economy.&nbsp;

The protest comes after US President Donald Trump repeatedly insiting on removing restrictions which have had crushing impact on jobs and businesses.&nbsp;

Cold rain couldn't stop around 400 people who gathered in Concord, New Hampshire to protest that extended quarantines were not required in a state that has relatively less COVID-19 cases.&nbsp;

"I really think some of the governors have gotten carried away," Trump said at a White House news conference on Saturday.

Trump also supported protesters of Minnesota, Virginia and Michigan in a series of tweets who have been demonstrating against stay-at-home measures.&nbsp;

"LIBERATE MINNESOTA!" the US president tweeted. "LIBERATE MICHIGAN!"

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
LIBERATE MINNESOTA!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1251168994066944003?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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LIBERATE MICHIGAN!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1251169217531056130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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LIBERATE VIRGINIA, and save your great 2nd Amendment. It is under siege!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1251169987110330372?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"LIBERATE VIRGINIA, and save your great 2nd Amendment. It is under siege!," Trump said in another tweet.

All these three states are ruled by Democratic governors.&nbsp;

As much as 1,891 people died in the United States from novel coronavirus in the last 24 hours, brining the total death toll to 38,664 on Saturday, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University.

As much as 1,891 people died in the United States from novel coronavirus in the last 24 hours, brining the total death toll to 38,664 on Saturday, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University. As per the latest figures, The COVID-19 infections in the US rose to 732,197. Also read | China has 'moral obligation' to share coronavirus data: White House Both in terms of number of deaths and infections, the US is the world affected by coronavirus, that has killed over 157,539 people worldwide. Also read | Over 2.25 million coronavirus cases registered worldwide; death toll tops 154,000 Meanwhie, hundreds in the country protested against the lockdown imposed to contain COVID-19 spread, saying that the restrictions are severely impacing the economy. The protest comes after US President Donald Trump repeatedly insiting on removing restrictions which have had crushing impact on jobs and businesses. Cold rain couldn't stop around 400 people who gathered in Concord, New Hampshire to protest that extended quarantines were not required in a state that has relatively less COVID-19 cases. "I really think some of the governors have gotten carried away," Trump said at a White House news conference on Saturday. Trump also supported protesters of Minnesota, Virginia and Michigan in a series of tweets who have been demonstrating against stay-at-home measures. "LIBERATE MINNESOTA!" the US president tweeted. "LIBERATE MICHIGAN!" LIBERATE MINNESOTA! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 17, 2020 × LIBERATE MICHIGAN! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 17, 2020 × LIBERATE VIRGINIA, and save your great 2nd Amendment. It is under siege! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 17, 2020 × "LIBERATE VIRGINIA, and save your great 2nd Amendment. It is under siege!," Trump said in another tweet. All these three states are ruled by Democratic governors.

US: 1,891 new coronavirus deaths as hundreds protest against lockdown

The United States on Saturday continued building pressure on China over transparency in novel coronavirus figures with the White House saying Beijing had a "moral obligation" to provide information important to the rest of the world.&nbsp;

"When you are the first country to have an outbreak, you really have a moral obligation to the world to not only talk about it, but provide that information that's critical to the rest of the world to really respond to this credibly," Dr. Deborah Birx, the coordinator of the White House coronavirus task force said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-225-million-coronavirus-cases-registered-worldwide-death-toll-tops-154000-293313">Over 2.25 million coronavirus cases registered worldwide; death toll tops 154,000</a>

Birx made these comments when she was asked about China's transparency over its coronavirus data.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-spain-extends-lockdown-by-two-weeks-as-death-toll-tops-20000-293338">Coronavirus: Spain extends lockdown by two weeks as death toll tops 20,000</a>

US President Donald Trump also continued raising doubts over China's COVID-19 figures, warning that the country should face consequences if it was "knowingly responsible" for the coronavirus pandemic.

The US and other European countries are pressurising China over transparency, following which the country's COVID-19 epicentre Wuhan its raised death toll by 50 per cent.&nbsp;

However, Trump still didn't get convinced by China's new figures, saying: "it is far higher than that and far higher than the US, not even close".&nbsp;

(With Reuters inputs) 
&nbsp;

The United States on Saturday continued building pressure on China over transparency in novel coronavirus figures with the White House saying Beijing had a "moral obligation" to provide information important to the rest of the world.

The United States on Saturday continued building pressure on China over transparency in novel coronavirus figures with the White House saying Beijing had a "moral obligation" to provide information important to the rest of the world. "When you are the first country to have an outbreak, you really have a moral obligation to the world to not only talk about it, but provide that information that's critical to the rest of the world to really respond to this credibly," Dr. Deborah Birx, the coordinator of the White House coronavirus task force said. Also read | Over 2.25 million coronavirus cases registered worldwide; death toll tops 154,000 Birx made these comments when she was asked about China's transparency over its coronavirus data. Also read | Coronavirus: Spain extends lockdown by two weeks as death toll tops 20,000 US President Donald Trump also continued raising doubts over China's COVID-19 figures, warning that the country should face consequences if it was "knowingly responsible" for the coronavirus pandemic. The US and other European countries are pressurising China over transparency, following which the country's COVID-19 epicentre Wuhan its raised death toll by 50 per cent. However, Trump still didn't get convinced by China's new figures, saying: "it is far higher than that and far higher than the US, not even close". (With Reuters inputs)

China has 'moral obligation' to share coronavirus data: White House

Move over, Ruth Bader Ginsburg. There is a new feisty super senior in Washington who is captivating American hearts.

Anthony Fauci is everywhere these days -- not just as the straight-talking coronavirus point man at President Donald Trump's daily pandemic briefings but on T-shirts, coffee mugs and, yes, even donuts.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-1891-new-coronavirus-deaths-as-hundreds-protest-against-lockdown-293345">US: 1,891 new coronavirus deaths as hundreds protest against lockdown</a>

Indeed, for many, the diminutive 79-year-old epidemiologist with a heavy Brooklyn accent is the country's new hero -- a no-nonsense scientist speaking truth to a terrified nation led by a president who sometimes has a loose grasp of the facts.

Nick Semeraro, owner of Donuts Delite in Rochester, New York, is just one of the business owners paying tribute to the doctor -- and simultaneously cashing in on Fauci-mania.

Semeraro is churning out donuts that feature a picture of Fauci on edible paper where the hole should be -- his way of honoring the government's top infectious disease expert.&nbsp;

"I've never met a guy so admired by so many people. I have never heard one negative comment about him," Semeraro told AFP.

"In my opinion, he was like a cool calm voice in chaos," he said of Fauci's behavior at Trump's daily coronavirus briefings, which can morph from a recounting of scientific facts into something more like a campaign rally.

Semeraro said demand for his treats is so high that he has had to open up extra telephone lines, and is now shipping the Fauci donuts across the country. &nbsp;

'In Fauci We Trust'&nbsp;

Fauci's craggy, bespectacled face is showing up elsewhere, too: on T-shirts with the slogan "In Fauci We Trust" and on coffee mugs with the line "Keep calm and wash your hands."

Americans can even buy Fauci socks and candles.

Online marketplace Etsy now offers more than 3,000 items dedicated to the doctor, who has been in the public eye for decades.&nbsp;

On Facebook, the "Dr Anthony Fauci Fan Club" has more than 79,000 members.

A video game called "Fauci's Revenge" has lasers shooting out of his eyes to help defeat the virus.&nbsp;

And in the US capital, one restaurant is selling the "Fauci Pouchy" -- cocktails in a pouch with a straw, for pickup and delivery, of course, in these days of the Great Lockdown.&nbsp;

The original is made with vodka, lemonade, elderflower and grapefruit juice.

"They're selling out like crazy," said Rohit Malhotra, beverage director at Capo Italian Deli in Washington, which has a backroom speakeasy.&nbsp;

"Our highest was around 300 in a day."

'Sense and science'

Probably no one expected this soft-spoken man who first rose to prominence during the AIDS crisis in the 1980s to become a pop culture icon.

With his frequent White House appearances, Fauci has been "propelled into everyone's consciousness," said Robert Thompson, a expert on television and popular culture at Syracuse University in New York.

Fauci is all over social media, giving live interviews in his raspy voice on Snapchat, answering questions from basketball star Stephen Curry on Instagram and talking to late night funnyman Trevor Noah on YouTube.&nbsp;

Many Americans like Fauci because of his direct way of explaining a world that has been transformed by the pandemic.&nbsp;

He is often in the excruciating position of having to gently correct things Trump says as the president stands next to him, glowering.

"In a moment of crisis like this, Americans are desperate for heroes," said Julian Zelizer, a professor of history and public affairs at Princeton University.

"Even in a difficult political environment, Fauci has insisted on speaking the truth -- even with an angry president standing besides him," said Zelizer.

For Thompson, "he seems to be talking sense and science."

'God bless his soul'&nbsp;

Tony Mastrangelo, who drove three hours to buy Fauci donuts in Rochester, said the doctor "is very honest and doesn't spin anything a certain way. He doesn't have an agenda which I think is awesome."

"He reminds me of my grandpa. God bless his soul. He was a little Italian guy who was just honest. And that's how I think Fauci is," said Mastrangelo.

But Fauci has also earned himself enemies among US conservatives for correcting Trump.

He has been the target of insults on social media, which led the government to boost the security around him.

Trump himself retweeted a tweet with a #FireFauci hashtag, but said later he has confidence in him and called him a "fantastic guy."

Amid all the love and hate, Fauci remains stoic.

When asked about a petition drive to have him declared People magazine's Sexiest Man Alive for 2020, he replied: "When they show this to me at my age, I say, 'Where were you when I was 30?'"

So far, more than 18,000 people have signed the petition.

Move over, Ruth Bader Ginsburg. There is a new feisty super senior in Washington who is captivating American hearts. Anthony Fauci is everywhere these days -- not just as the straight-talking coronavirus point man at President Donald Trump's daily pandemic briefings but on T-shirts, coffee mugs and, yes, even donuts.

Move over, Ruth Bader Ginsburg. There is a new feisty super senior in Washington who is captivating American hearts. Anthony Fauci is everywhere these days -- not just as the straight-talking coronavirus point man at President Donald Trump's daily pandemic briefings but on T-shirts, coffee mugs and, yes, even donuts. Also read | US: 1,891 new coronavirus deaths as hundreds protest against lockdown Indeed, for many, the diminutive 79-year-old epidemiologist with a heavy Brooklyn accent is the country's new hero -- a no-nonsense scientist speaking truth to a terrified nation led by a president who sometimes has a loose grasp of the facts. Nick Semeraro, owner of Donuts Delite in Rochester, New York, is just one of the business owners paying tribute to the doctor -- and simultaneously cashing in on Fauci-mania. Semeraro is churning out donuts that feature a picture of Fauci on edible paper where the hole should be -- his way of honoring the government's top infectious disease expert. "I've never met a guy so admired by so many people. I have never heard one negative comment about him," Semeraro told AFP. "In my opinion, he was like a cool calm voice in chaos," he said of Fauci's behavior at Trump's daily coronavirus briefings, which can morph from a recounting of scientific facts into something more like a campaign rally. Semeraro said demand for his treats is so high that he has had to open up extra telephone lines, and is now shipping the Fauci donuts across the country. 'In Fauci We Trust' Fauci's craggy, bespectacled face is showing up elsewhere, too: on T-shirts with the slogan "In Fauci We Trust" and on coffee mugs with the line "Keep calm and wash your hands." Americans can even buy Fauci socks and candles. Online marketplace Etsy now offers more than 3,000 items dedicated to the doctor, who has been in the public eye for decades. On Facebook, the "Dr Anthony Fauci Fan Club" has more than 79,000 members. A video game called "Fauci's Revenge" has lasers shooting out of his eyes to help defeat the virus. And in the US capital, one restaurant is selling the "Fauci Pouchy" -- cocktails in a pouch with a straw, for pickup and delivery, of course, in these days of the Great Lockdown. The original is made with vodka, lemonade, elderflower and grapefruit juice. "They're selling out like crazy," said Rohit Malhotra, beverage director at Capo Italian Deli in Washington, which has a backroom speakeasy. "Our highest was around 300 in a day." 'Sense and science' Probably no one expected this soft-spoken man who first rose to prominence during the AIDS crisis in the 1980s to become a pop culture icon. With his frequent White House appearances, Fauci has been "propelled into everyone's consciousness," said Robert Thompson, a expert on television and popular culture at Syracuse University in New York. Fauci is all over social media, giving live interviews in his raspy voice on Snapchat, answering questions from basketball star Stephen Curry on Instagram and talking to late night funnyman Trevor Noah on YouTube. Many Americans like Fauci because of his direct way of explaining a world that has been transformed by the pandemic. He is often in the excruciating position of having to gently correct things Trump says as the president stands next to him, glowering. "In a moment of crisis like this, Americans are desperate for heroes," said Julian Zelizer, a professor of history and public affairs at Princeton University. "Even in a difficult political environment, Fauci has insisted on speaking the truth -- even with an angry president standing besides him," said Zelizer. For Thompson, "he seems to be talking sense and science." 'God bless his soul' Tony Mastrangelo, who drove three hours to buy Fauci donuts in Rochester, said the doctor "is very honest and doesn't spin anything a certain way. He doesn't have an agenda which I think is awesome." "He reminds me of my grandpa. God bless his soul. He was a little Italian guy who was just honest. And that's how I think Fauci is," said Mastrangelo. But Fauci has also earned himself enemies among US conservatives for correcting Trump. He has been the target of insults on social media, which led the government to boost the security around him. Trump himself retweeted a tweet with a #FireFauci hashtag, but said later he has confidence in him and called him a "fantastic guy." Amid all the love and hate, Fauci remains stoic. When asked about a petition drive to have him declared People magazine's Sexiest Man Alive for 2020, he replied: "When they show this to me at my age, I say, 'Where were you when I was 30?'" So far, more than 18,000 people have signed the petition.

Anthony Fauci, the medical expert who is winning Americans

President Donald Trump on Friday announced a $19 billion relief program to help US farmers cope with the impact of the coronavirus, including $16 billion in direct payments to producers and mass purchases of meat, dairy, vegetables and other products.

The US Agriculture Department is partnering with regional and local distributors to purchase $3 billion in such farm goods to be distributed to food banks, churches and aid groups as millions of Americans face unemployment with much of the economy shut down.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-infections-surpass-700000-in-us-over-36000-dead-293247">Coronavirus infections surpass 700,000 in US, over 36,000 dead</a>

"American agriculture has been hard-hit, like most of America, with the coronavirus, and President Trump is standing with our farmers and all Americans to make sure that we all get through this national emergency," Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue said at a White House news conference.

The agency said it will make monthly purchases totaling about $100 million each of fresh produce, dairy products and meat products. Perdue said USDA will work with companies like Sysco Corp to help procure, package and distribute food boxes.

Long lines have formed at US&nbsp;food banks in recent weeks.

Farmers and ranchers have struggled to get their goods to market because of disruption caused by the pandemic, forcing some to throw out food and call for government help.

"Having to dump milk or plow under vegetables ready to market is not only financially distressing but it's heartbreaking as well for those that produce them," Perdue said.

Direct payments will be sent "as quickly as possible" as farm commodity producers have experienced "unprecedented losses," Perdue said, who hoped checks could be sent by the end of May.

The $16 billion in direct payments to farmers and ranchers will include $9.6 billion for the livestock industry - with $5.1 billion for cattle, $2.9 billion for dairy and $1.6 billion for hogs, according to a statement released late Friday by US&nbsp;Senator John Hoeven of North Dakota, chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee.

In addition, $3.9 billion will be paid to row crop producers, $2.1 billion for specialty crop farmers and $500 million for other crops, according to the statement. The payments are capped at $250,000 per individual farmer or entity.

The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), which represents corn-based ethanol producers that have suffered due to lack of demand for motor fuels as Americans stay home, was quick to criticise the package.

"USDA missed a crucial opportunity to lend a helping hand to an industry that is suffering the worst economic crisis in its history," RFA President Geoff Cooper said in a statement.

Perdue acknowledged that constituents may consider the direct payments "insufficient” and said USDA is trying to cover "small farmers as well as larger farmers.”

Funding for the immediate aid program will be pulled together from a number of sources, including recent coronavirus-related aid laws passed by Congress and other funding authorities that USDA has access to, according to Perdue.

But going forward, he said, "I anticipate we will need additional money."

 
&nbsp;

President Donald Trump on Friday announced a $19 billion relief program to help US farmers cope with the impact of the coronavirus, including $16 billion in direct payments to producers and mass purchases of meat, dairy, vegetables and other products.

President Donald Trump on Friday announced a $19 billion relief program to help US farmers cope with the impact of the coronavirus, including $16 billion in direct payments to producers and mass purchases of meat, dairy, vegetables and other products. The US Agriculture Department is partnering with regional and local distributors to purchase $3 billion in such farm goods to be distributed to food banks, churches and aid groups as millions of Americans face unemployment with much of the economy shut down. Also read | Coronavirus infections surpass 700,000 in US, over 36,000 dead "American agriculture has been hard-hit, like most of America, with the coronavirus, and President Trump is standing with our farmers and all Americans to make sure that we all get through this national emergency," Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue said at a White House news conference. The agency said it will make monthly purchases totaling about $100 million each of fresh produce, dairy products and meat products. Perdue said USDA will work with companies like Sysco Corp to help procure, package and distribute food boxes. Long lines have formed at US food banks in recent weeks. Farmers and ranchers have struggled to get their goods to market because of disruption caused by the pandemic, forcing some to throw out food and call for government help. "Having to dump milk or plow under vegetables ready to market is not only financially distressing but it's heartbreaking as well for those that produce them," Perdue said. Direct payments will be sent "as quickly as possible" as farm commodity producers have experienced "unprecedented losses," Perdue said, who hoped checks could be sent by the end of May. The $16 billion in direct payments to farmers and ranchers will include $9.6 billion for the livestock industry - with $5.1 billion for cattle, $2.9 billion for dairy and $1.6 billion for hogs, according to a statement released late Friday by US Senator John Hoeven of North Dakota, chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee. In addition, $3.9 billion will be paid to row crop producers, $2.1 billion for specialty crop farmers and $500 million for other crops, according to the statement. The payments are capped at $250,000 per individual farmer or entity. The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), which represents corn-based ethanol producers that have suffered due to lack of demand for motor fuels as Americans stay home, was quick to criticise the package. "USDA missed a crucial opportunity to lend a helping hand to an industry that is suffering the worst economic crisis in its history," RFA President Geoff Cooper said in a statement. Perdue acknowledged that constituents may consider the direct payments "insufficient” and said USDA is trying to cover "small farmers as well as larger farmers.” Funding for the immediate aid program will be pulled together from a number of sources, including recent coronavirus-related aid laws passed by Congress and other funding authorities that USDA has access to, according to Perdue. But going forward, he said, "I anticipate we will need additional money."

US announces $19 billion coronavirus aid for farmers, food buys for poor

The country hardest-hit with coronavirus, United States has surpassed 700,000 infections on Friday, according to a tally maintained by Johns Hopkins University.

The US has witnessed 700,282 coronavirus cases and 36,773 deaths as of 8:30 pm (0030 GMT Friday), as per the tally.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-chinas-deaths-far-higher-than-the-us-says-trump-293236">COVID-19: China's deaths far higher than the US, says Trump</a>

In the last 24 hours, the country has witnessed 3,856 deaths due to coronavirus, but this figure likely comprises "probable" virus-linked deaths, which had not previously been taken.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-lockdown-extension-uks-coronavirus-death-toll-surges-past-14500-293200">Amid lockdown extension, UK's coronavirus death toll surges past 14,500</a>

Earlier on Friday, President Donald Trump announced a $19 billion financial aid package for the agriculture industry to tackle the economic losses caused&nbsp;by the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

The government "will be implementing a $19 billion relief program for our great farmers and ranchers as they cope with the fallout of the global pandemic," Trump said in a press conference.&nbsp;

The US president on Thursday said that the 50 state governors would have full authority to decide when the lockdown ends.&nbsp;

(With inputs from AFP)

The country hardest-hit with coronavirus, United States has surpassed 700,000 infections on Friday, according to a tally maintained by Johns Hopkins University. The US has witnessed 700,282 coronavirus cases and 36,773 deaths as of 8:30 pm (0030 GMT Friday), as per the tally.

The country hardest-hit with coronavirus, United States has surpassed 700,000 infections on Friday, according to a tally maintained by Johns Hopkins University. The US has witnessed 700,282 coronavirus cases and 36,773 deaths as of 8:30 pm (0030 GMT Friday), as per the tally. Also read | COVID-19: China's deaths far higher than the US, says Trump In the last 24 hours, the country has witnessed 3,856 deaths due to coronavirus, but this figure likely comprises "probable" virus-linked deaths, which had not previously been taken. Also read | Amid lockdown extension, UK's coronavirus death toll surges past 14,500 Earlier on Friday, President Donald Trump announced a $19 billion financial aid package for the agriculture industry to tackle the economic losses caused by the coronavirus pandemic. The government "will be implementing a $19 billion relief program for our great farmers and ranchers as they cope with the fallout of the global pandemic," Trump said in a press conference. The US president on Thursday said that the 50 state governors would have full authority to decide when the lockdown ends. (With inputs from AFP)

Coronavirus infections surpass 700,000 in US, over 36,000 dead

The White House has come out in defence of Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka Trump, who recently ignored lockdown recommendations and traveled New Jersey to celebrate Passover.

Ivanka, along with her husband Jared Kushner went to one of Trump's golf resorts in Bedminster to mark the Jewish festival, which began on April 8.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-announces-gradual-us-reopening-against-dire-economic-backdrop-293006">Trump announces gradual US reopening against dire economic backdrop</a>

The White House said that that the trip did not involve any more outside contact than if the couple had stayed put.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-us-likely-passed-the-peak-of-coronavirus-cases-292764">Trump says US likely 'passed the peak' of coronavirus cases</a>

"Ivanka -- with her immediate family -- celebrated Passover at a closed down facility consider

ed to be a family home. Her travel was no different than if had she been traveling to/from work and the location was less populated than the surrounding area near her home in D.C.," the statement said.

It further said that at Bedminster Ivanka was "practicing social distancing and working remotely".&nbsp;

Both Washington DC and New Jersey are under a "stay-at-home" measure, asking people to avoid non-essential travel.&nbsp;

Also, White House has also earlier advised of avoiding "discretionary travel," forcing Americans to organise Easter and Passover weekend get-togethers virtually.&nbsp;

Ivanka has also earlier advised people to stay at home to contain the COVID-19 spread in a homemade video.

"Those lucky enough to be in a position to stay at home, please, please do so," she had said in the video.&nbsp;

"Every one of us plays a role in slowing the spread, and social distancing saves lives," she said.&nbsp;

She also shared a tweet by New Jersey's Governor Phil Murphy a day before the beginning of Passover on April 7, which asked residents to celebrate health workers by "by staying home for them".

The US witnessed its highest daily toll on Thursday with 4,491 new deaths, taking the total number of fatalities to 32,917, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University.

The COVID-19 has most affected the United States both in terms of deaths and the number of positive cases which are more than 667,800.

The White House has come out in defence of Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka Trump, who recently ignored lockdown recommendations and traveled New Jersey to celebrate Passover.

The White House has come out in defence of Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka Trump, who recently ignored lockdown recommendations and traveled New Jersey to celebrate Passover. Ivanka, along with her husband Jared Kushner went to one of Trump's golf resorts in Bedminster to mark the Jewish festival, which began on April 8. Also read | Trump announces gradual US reopening against dire economic backdrop The White House said that that the trip did not involve any more outside contact than if the couple had stayed put. Also read | Trump says US likely 'passed the peak' of coronavirus cases "Ivanka -- with her immediate family -- celebrated Passover at a closed down facility consider ed to be a family home. Her travel was no different than if had she been traveling to/from work and the location was less populated than the surrounding area near her home in D.C.," the statement said. It further said that at Bedminster Ivanka was "practicing social distancing and working remotely". Both Washington DC and New Jersey are under a "stay-at-home" measure, asking people to avoid non-essential travel. Also, White House has also earlier advised of avoiding "discretionary travel," forcing Americans to organise Easter and Passover weekend get-togethers virtually. Ivanka has also earlier advised people to stay at home to contain the COVID-19 spread in a homemade video. "Those lucky enough to be in a position to stay at home, please, please do so," she had said in the video. "Every one of us plays a role in slowing the spread, and social distancing saves lives," she said. She also shared a tweet by New Jersey's Governor Phil Murphy a day before the beginning of Passover on April 7, which asked residents to celebrate health workers by "by staying home for them". The US witnessed its highest daily toll on Thursday with 4,491 new deaths, taking the total number of fatalities to 32,917, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University. The COVID-19 has most affected the United States both in terms of deaths and the number of positive cases which are more than 667,800.

White House defends Ivanka Trump after she flouts travel guidelines to celebrate Passover

The top US health and infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci suggested sports being played in empty stadium in a bid to repoen professional tournaments in America.

"There's a way of doing that," Fauci said, in a US Snapchat show "Good Luck America", adding, "Nobody comes to the stadiums. Put (athletes) in big hotels, wherever you want to play".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sets-another-grim-milestone-records-over-2500-coronavirus-deaths-in-24-hours-292767">US sets another grim milestone, records over 2,500 coronavirus deaths in 24 hours</a>

"Keep them very well-surveilled, but have them tested like every week and make sure they don't wind up infecting each other or their families, and just let them play the season out," Fauci added.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-us-likely-passed-the-peak-of-coronavirus-cases-292764">Trump says US likely 'passed the peak' of coronavirus cases</a>

He also said reliable antibody testing and fast results are key for the return of sports.&nbsp;

The US is the worst-affected country with the novel coronavirus that has killed over 28,000 and infected more than 600,000 others.&nbsp;

The NBA is also considering a model similar to one suggested by Fauci for getting their season restatrted either in the Bahamas or Las Vegas.&nbsp;

On March 11, the NBA&nbsp;was shut down after Utah center got infected with the virus, and National Hockey League, Major League Soccer and the PGA Tour quickly took cue from it and followed a similar action.&nbsp;

Reports suggest the PGA is mulling over a return on June 11 without the presence of any fans, starting with the Texas Open, which was original scheduled from May 21-24.&nbsp;

However, New York mayor Bill de Blasio on Wednesday spoke against the idea of restarting large-scale sporting events and concerts.&nbsp;

"Those big events should be one of the last things we should bring back online. The last thing we should do is gather 10,000, 20,000, 50,000 people in one place," the governor told CNN.&nbsp;

"That is the opposite of social distancing, so I think it could take quite a while."

Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti on Monday said California city might not hold high-profile events before 2021.&nbsp;

The top US health and infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci suggested sports being played in empty stadium in a bid to repoen professional tournaments in America.

The top US health and infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci suggested sports being played in empty stadium in a bid to repoen professional tournaments in America. "There's a way of doing that," Fauci said, in a US Snapchat show "Good Luck America", adding, "Nobody comes to the stadiums. Put (athletes) in big hotels, wherever you want to play". Also read | US sets another grim milestone, records over 2,500 coronavirus deaths in 24 hours "Keep them very well-surveilled, but have them tested like every week and make sure they don't wind up infecting each other or their families, and just let them play the season out," Fauci added. Also read | Trump says US likely 'passed the peak' of coronavirus cases He also said reliable antibody testing and fast results are key for the return of sports. The US is the worst-affected country with the novel coronavirus that has killed over 28,000 and infected more than 600,000 others. The NBA is also considering a model similar to one suggested by Fauci for getting their season restatrted either in the Bahamas or Las Vegas. On March 11, the NBA was shut down after Utah center got infected with the virus, and National Hockey League, Major League Soccer and the PGA Tour quickly took cue from it and followed a similar action. Reports suggest the PGA is mulling over a return on June 11 without the presence of any fans, starting with the Texas Open, which was original scheduled from May 21-24. However, New York mayor Bill de Blasio on Wednesday spoke against the idea of restarting large-scale sporting events and concerts. "Those big events should be one of the last things we should bring back online. The last thing we should do is gather 10,000, 20,000, 50,000 people in one place," the governor told CNN. "That is the opposite of social distancing, so I think it could take quite a while." Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti on Monday said California city might not hold high-profile events before 2021.

Top US health expert Anthony Fauci says 'empty stadiums' a way to restart sporting activities

The United States, which is facing the world's worst coronavirus crisis, is arranging for flights to bring back its citizens from India. But a lot of them don't want to go back. On the contrary, Indians living and working in the US need visa extensions to stay in the country. Amongst these Indians, there are some doctors and nurses, who are helping America to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-americans-choose-to-stay-in-india-wuhan-coronavirus-292328/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

So far, 13,000 Americans have been evacuated from India. However, more than 24,000 US nationals are currently in the country and five flights are scheduled for this week to rescue them. But, most of the these people are unwilling to return to home.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worst-is-over-says-new-york-governor-as-covid-19-death-toll-crosses-10000-292316">Worst is over, says New York governor as COVID-19 death toll crosses 10,000</a>

Reportedly, the American Embassy called nearly 800 US citizens in India and only 10 wanted to fly back.&nbsp;

However, the uncertainity of Indians in American remains and the ones affected are those whose visas are expired and whose vias extensions have been delayed. These include healthcare professionals and researchers.

Over 300,000 Indians who are techies and working on H-1B visas are unsure whether their visas will get an extension.&nbsp;

The pandemic has caused an economic downturn and US employers cut a record 701,000 jobs in March. However, practically, it will not be possible for so many Indians to come back to India. And this is the reason why Indian government is urging the US to extend H-1B and other visas.&nbsp;

Two weeks back, the US received about 275,000 requests for H-1B visas, three times more than the mandated 85,000. More than 67% of the applications were from Indians.&nbsp;

At this juncture, India is not just providing the US with HCQ, but taking care of its citizens too. But, tens of thousands Indians future in America look edgy.&nbsp;

The United States, which is facing the world's worst coronavirus crisis, is arranging for flights to bring back its citizens from India. But a lot of them don't want to go back.

The United States, which is facing the world's worst coronavirus crisis, is arranging for flights to bring back its citizens from India. But a lot of them don't want to go back. On the contrary, Indians living and working in the US need visa extensions to stay in the country. Amongst these Indians, there are some doctors and nurses, who are helping America to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. Watch | So far, 13,000 Americans have been evacuated from India. However, more than 24,000 US nationals are currently in the country and five flights are scheduled for this week to rescue them. But, most of the these people are unwilling to return to home. Also read | Worst is over, says New York governor as COVID-19 death toll crosses 10,000 Reportedly, the American Embassy called nearly 800 US citizens in India and only 10 wanted to fly back. However, the uncertainity of Indians in American remains and the ones affected are those whose visas are expired and whose vias extensions have been delayed. These include healthcare professionals and researchers. Over 300,000 Indians who are techies and working on H-1B visas are unsure whether their visas will get an extension. The pandemic has caused an economic downturn and US employers cut a record 701,000 jobs in March. However, practically, it will not be possible for so many Indians to come back to India. And this is the reason why Indian government is urging the US to extend H-1B and other visas. Two weeks back, the US received about 275,000 requests for H-1B visas, three times more than the mandated 85,000. More than 67% of the applications were from Indians. At this juncture, India is not just providing the US with HCQ, but taking care of its citizens too. But, tens of thousands Indians future in America look edgy.

Coronavirus: Americans in India don't want to return, but are Indians safe in US?

The world is emphasising on social distancing to avoid novel coronavirus and this crisis has made a lot of people creative to get the job done.&nbsp;

One such story is of the 11-year-old dog Soda, who was a few weeks ago, just a cuddly dog, but now&nbsp;is serving wines too in the United States.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-father-designs-space-suit-for-two-year-old-to-shield-him-from-coronavirus-292283">Chinese father designs space suit for two-year-old to shield him from coronavirus</a>

Soda, a brindle boxer, is helping Stone House Urban Winery in Hagerstown, Maryland to deliver wines for their customers. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-panic-buying-patterns-shifts-from-toilet-paper-to-hair-colour-292231">US panic buying patterns shifts from toilet paper to hair colour</a>

The winery with the help of social media informed people about the brindle boxer's services to help customers pick their orders and maintain social distancing too.&nbsp;

"I saw Soda on Facebook, and I just had to, I love wines so, I love wines! I love dogs. You put the two together, so I had to make the drive out for it," said Samantha Hawkins, one of the a regular customers who stopped by to pick up her order.

Lori Yata, one of the co-owners of the all-woman winery, said that Soda's services have helped them a lot in these challenging times.&nbsp;

"We get a lot of women in here, a lot of women that just want to have a ladies night out, you know and we are the only female-run, totally run winery in Maryland. So, again, we're proud of that and we are holding our own. We're doing good, well then again I guess you can't count Soda, cause he's not a female. But, he's helping out as well," Yata said.

Coronavirus has most impacted the US with the death toll reaching 22,109 and infections affecting another 557,590 people, according to AFP tally.

Meanwhile, Soda. after doing his delivering job is rewarded with some affectionate pat and his favourite treats.&nbsp;

(With Reuters inputs)

The world is emphasising on social distancing to avoid novel coronavirus and this crisis has made a lot of people creative to get the job done. One such story is of the 11-year-old dog Soda, who was a few weeks ago, just a cuddly dog, but now is serving wines too in the United States.

The world is emphasising on social distancing to avoid novel coronavirus and this crisis has made a lot of people creative to get the job done. One such story is of the 11-year-old dog Soda, who was a few weeks ago, just a cuddly dog, but now is serving wines too in the United States. Also read | Chinese father designs space suit for two-year-old to shield him from coronavirus Soda, a brindle boxer, is helping Stone House Urban Winery in Hagerstown, Maryland to deliver wines for their customers. Also read | US panic buying patterns shifts from toilet paper to hair colour The winery with the help of social media informed people about the brindle boxer's services to help customers pick their orders and maintain social distancing too. "I saw Soda on Facebook, and I just had to, I love wines so, I love wines! I love dogs. You put the two together, so I had to make the drive out for it," said Samantha Hawkins, one of the a regular customers who stopped by to pick up her order. Lori Yata, one of the co-owners of the all-woman winery, said that Soda's services have helped them a lot in these challenging times. "We get a lot of women in here, a lot of women that just want to have a ladies night out, you know and we are the only female-run, totally run winery in Maryland. So, again, we're proud of that and we are holding our own. We're doing good, well then again I guess you can't count Soda, cause he's not a female. But, he's helping out as well," Yata said. Coronavirus has most impacted the US with the death toll reaching 22,109 and infections affecting another 557,590 people, according to AFP tally. Meanwhile, Soda. after doing his delivering job is rewarded with some affectionate pat and his favourite treats. (With Reuters inputs)

At times of social distancing, a dog delivers wine in US

After US's top infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci's comments on Sunday which said that many lives could have been saved if government acted earlier, President Donald Trump retweeted a post from a Republican that called for firing Fauci.

The tweet by DeAnna Lorraine said: "Fauci is now saying that had Trump listened to the medical experts earlier he could've saved more lives".

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Fauci is now saying that had Trump listened to the medical experts earlier he could've saved more lives. 
 
Fauci was telling people on February 29th that there was nothing to worry about and it posed no threat to the US public at large. 
 
Time to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FireFauci?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FireFauci</a>...
— DeAnna Lorraine 🇺🇸 (@DeAnna4Congress) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeAnna4Congress/status/1249457858686656512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spains-coronavirus-death-toll-falls-to-517-in-24-hours-292251">Spain's coronavirus death toll falls to 517 in 24 hours</a>

"Fauci was telling people on February 29th that there was nothing to worry about and it posed no threat to the US public at large," she further said, adding it's time to fire Fauci.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-new-coronavirus-cases-near-six-week-high-russian-border-new-battleground-292167">China's new coronavirus cases near six-week high, Russian border new battleground</a>

Fauci on Sunday, in CNN's State of the Union was asked why the US administration didn't follow the advice by him&nbsp;and other doctors on social distancing in Febrauary in the wake of coronavirus. "As I have said many times, we look at it from a pure health standpoint. We make a recommendation. Often, the recommendation is taken. Sometimes, it's not," Fauci said.&nbsp;

CNN host Jake Tapper asked Fauci if more people could have been saved in the country if social distancing measures were adopted in the country in the third-week of February, instead of mid-March.

“It’s very difficult to go back and say that,” Fauci said, adding this fact couldn't be denied.&nbsp;

“But what goes into those kinds of decisions is complicated. But you’re right. I mean, obviously, if we had, right from the very beginning, shut everything down, it may have been a little bit different. But there was a lot of pushback about shutting things down back then,” Fauci said.&nbsp;

The coronavirus outbreak that has killed more than 100,000 people worldwide has affected the US the most. So far, 21,489 people died in the country from COVID-19 and infections stand nearly at 555,000.&nbsp;

After US's top infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci's comments on Sunday which said that many lives could have been saved if government acted earlier, President Donald Trump retweeted a post from a Republican that called for firing Fauci.

After US's top infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci's comments on Sunday which said that many lives could have been saved if government acted earlier, President Donald Trump retweeted a post from a Republican that called for firing Fauci. The tweet by DeAnna Lorraine said: "Fauci is now saying that had Trump listened to the medical experts earlier he could've saved more lives". Fauci is now saying that had Trump listened to the medical experts earlier he could've saved more lives. Fauci was telling people on February 29th that there was nothing to worry about and it posed no threat to the US public at large. Time to #FireFauci... — DeAnna Lorraine 🇺🇸 (@DeAnna4Congress) April 12, 2020 × Also read | Spain's coronavirus death toll falls to 517 in 24 hours "Fauci was telling people on February 29th that there was nothing to worry about and it posed no threat to the US public at large," she further said, adding it's time to fire Fauci. Also read | China's new coronavirus cases near six-week high, Russian border new battleground Fauci on Sunday, in CNN's State of the Union was asked why the US administration didn't follow the advice by him and other doctors on social distancing in Febrauary in the wake of coronavirus. "As I have said many times, we look at it from a pure health standpoint. We make a recommendation. Often, the recommendation is taken. Sometimes, it's not," Fauci said. CNN host Jake Tapper asked Fauci if more people could have been saved in the country if social distancing measures were adopted in the country in the third-week of February, instead of mid-March. “It’s very difficult to go back and say that,” Fauci said, adding this fact couldn't be denied. “But what goes into those kinds of decisions is complicated. But you’re right. I mean, obviously, if we had, right from the very beginning, shut everything down, it may have been a little bit different. But there was a lot of pushback about shutting things down back then,” Fauci said. The coronavirus outbreak that has killed more than 100,000 people worldwide has affected the US the most. So far, 21,489 people died in the country from COVID-19 and infections stand nearly at 555,000.

Donald Trump retweets post to fire top medical expert Anthony Fauci

As New York witnessed nearly 600 deaths on Monday, Governor Andrew Cuomo extended the shutdown in the state until April 29.&nbsp;

Cuomo said the fatality rate in the state was "effectively flat" in the last two days but ordered the shutdown of schools and non-essential businesses until April 29.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-death-toll-due-to-coronavirus-crosses-over-5000-290970">UK death toll due to coronavirus crosses over 5,000</a>

"Now is not the time to be lax," he told reporters, adding fines for the violations of social distancing guidelines would be increased to $1000 from $500.&nbsp;

Earlier on Monday, the governor said that the state witnessed 599 new deaths from Sunday, taking the death toll to 4,758.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/american-leadership-wilts-amid-coronavirus-pandemic-290963">American leadership wilts amid coronavirus pandemic</a>

New York recorded its highest daily death toll so far on Saturday with 630 deaths.&nbsp;

Cuomo said the death rates had been dropping off since, suggesting that the state is seeing the peak of coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;

"It is hopeful but it is also inconclusive," the governor said. &nbsp;

However, he warned of a "mistake" if social distancing measures are relaxed too soon.&nbsp;

"If the curve is turning it's because the rate of infection is going down, if the rate of infection is going down it's because social distancing is working," Cuomo added.&nbsp;

"If we are plateauing then we are plateauing at a very high level and there's tremendous stress on the health care system."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in the US, there have been 10,335&nbsp;deaths from coronavirus and 347,003&nbsp;positive cases, according to the tally by John Hopkins University.&nbsp;

Almost 131,000 infections are confirmed in New York, Cuomo said.&nbsp;

(With AFP inputs)

As New York witnessed nearly 600 deaths on Monday, Governor Andrew Cuomo extended the shutdown in the state until April 29. Cuomo said the fatality rate in the state was "effectively flat" in the last two days but ordered the shutdown of schools and non-essential businesses until April 29.

As New York witnessed nearly 600 deaths on Monday, Governor Andrew Cuomo extended the shutdown in the state until April 29. Cuomo said the fatality rate in the state was "effectively flat" in the last two days but ordered the shutdown of schools and non-essential businesses until April 29. Also read | UK death toll due to coronavirus crosses over 5,000 "Now is not the time to be lax," he told reporters, adding fines for the violations of social distancing guidelines would be increased to $1000 from $500. Earlier on Monday, the governor said that the state witnessed 599 new deaths from Sunday, taking the death toll to 4,758. Also read | American leadership wilts amid coronavirus pandemic New York recorded its highest daily death toll so far on Saturday with 630 deaths. Cuomo said the death rates had been dropping off since, suggesting that the state is seeing the peak of coronavirus outbreak. "It is hopeful but it is also inconclusive," the governor said. However, he warned of a "mistake" if social distancing measures are relaxed too soon. "If the curve is turning it's because the rate of infection is going down, if the rate of infection is going down it's because social distancing is working," Cuomo added. "If we are plateauing then we are plateauing at a very high level and there's tremendous stress on the health care system." Meanwhile, in the US, there have been 10,335 deaths from coronavirus and 347,003 positive cases, according to the tally by John Hopkins University. Almost 131,000 infections are confirmed in New York, Cuomo said. (With AFP inputs)

Coronavirus: New York shutdown extended till April 29 as US death toll crosses 10,000

In the first-ever time in its history, the United States on Monday declared a white supremacist group of Russia as a foreign terrorist organisation.&nbsp;

The State Department said that the Russian Imperial Movement runs paramilitary training camps in St. Petersburg and has attracted neo-Nazis from across the globe.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-reports-136-new-deaths-as-authorities-say-gradual-downtrend-in-coronvirus-cases-290927">Iran reports 136 new deaths as authorities say 'gradual downtrend' in coronvirus cases</a>

This is the first time the US has declared a white supremacist group as a terror organisation, a tool that is traditionally used against Islamist radicals.

“These designations are unprecedented,” Nathan Sales, US Counter-Terrorism, envoy, in a statement, said.

This decision came after the State Department in its last annual terrorism report last November said ethnically and racially driven terrorism had jumped alarmingly in 2018 both worldwide and in the US.&nbsp;

Russian Imperial Movement’s (RIM) recognize themselves as Russian Orthodox nationalists who support restoring the monarchy and privileging the interests of ethnic Russians, Ukrainians, and Belarussians.

With such designations, the US typically freezes assets of the blacklisted group in the country and bars any countrymen to financially transact with such a group.&nbsp;

Sales cited a series of attacks from late 2016 in the Swedish city of Gothenburg carried out by two people from RIM, adding that the individuals were trained in Russia.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In the first-ever time in its history, the United States on Monday declared a white supremacist group of Russia as a foreign terrorist organisation. The State Department said that the Russian Imperial Movement runs paramilitary training camps in St.

In the first-ever time in its history, the United States on Monday declared a white supremacist group of Russia as a foreign terrorist organisation. The State Department said that the Russian Imperial Movement runs paramilitary training camps in St. Petersburg and has attracted neo-Nazis from across the globe. Also read | Iran reports 136 new deaths as authorities say 'gradual downtrend' in coronvirus cases This is the first time the US has declared a white supremacist group as a terror organisation, a tool that is traditionally used against Islamist radicals. “These designations are unprecedented,” Nathan Sales, US Counter-Terrorism, envoy, in a statement, said. This decision came after the State Department in its last annual terrorism report last November said ethnically and racially driven terrorism had jumped alarmingly in 2018 both worldwide and in the US. Russian Imperial Movement’s (RIM) recognize themselves as Russian Orthodox nationalists who support restoring the monarchy and privileging the interests of ethnic Russians, Ukrainians, and Belarussians. With such designations, the US typically freezes assets of the blacklisted group in the country and bars any countrymen to financially transact with such a group. Sales cited a series of attacks from late 2016 in the Swedish city of Gothenburg carried out by two people from RIM, adding that the individuals were trained in Russia.

In a first, US declares white supremacist group as terrorist organisation

The rich and developed countries are expected to take care of poor people when an outbreak as deadly as coronavirus strikes. This time, however, the world's richest countries deserted the poor.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-wuhan-coronavirus-worlds-richest-nations-have-deserted-the-poor-290230/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Let's first look at Las Vegas in the United States. In the above video, you can see, homeless lying on open spaces with no mattresses, without any masks or hand gloves at a time when staying inside the home is the only way to contain the spread.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-coronavirus-cases-near-a-million-death-toll-rises-to-50230-290148">Global coronavirus cases near a million; death toll rises to 50,230</a>

Some people were thrown out of their shelter homes after one member from their community was found infected with COVID-19. Now these homeless people have no place to go and the world's biggest economy doesn't bother.&nbsp;

Another US city San Franciso has a similar story to tell. About 8,000 people are homeless in San Francisco. The city's 30,000 hotel rooms are empty, out of which 11,000 have been offered to city officials. But the doors remain shut for the homeless.&nbsp;

These poor remain vulnerable to the novel coronavirus as their immune systems are week and are highly likely to be suffering from undetected ailments. &nbsp;

Germany, however, has a good story to tell.&nbsp;

The country has given shelter to poor in hotels.&nbsp;

"(The idea) was received really well. They (the homeless) are really happy that they have somewhere to stay for now..They stay in their rooms a lot, relax, watch TV and enjoy the time in which they can have a good night's sleep, " Johannes Jung, a hotel manager said.&nbsp;

Similar humanitarian gestures were seen in the United Kingdom too.&nbsp;

However, Italy, which is worst-hit by the coronavirus, is struggling to even provide basic supplies to the homeless. The Netherlands is also following a similar path.&nbsp;

On any given night, at least 70,000 people in Europe spend the night on the streets.&nbsp;

If this is the story of some of the advances economies, one can imagine, the situation of struggling nations.&nbsp;

The rich and developed countries are expected to take care of poor people when an outbreak as deadly as coronavirus strikes. This time, however, the world's richest countries deserted the poor.

The rich and developed countries are expected to take care of poor people when an outbreak as deadly as coronavirus strikes. This time, however, the world's richest countries deserted the poor. Watch | Let's first look at Las Vegas in the United States. In the above video, you can see, homeless lying on open spaces with no mattresses, without any masks or hand gloves at a time when staying inside the home is the only way to contain the spread. Also read | Global coronavirus cases near a million; death toll rises to 50,230 Some people were thrown out of their shelter homes after one member from their community was found infected with COVID-19. Now these homeless people have no place to go and the world's biggest economy doesn't bother. Another US city San Franciso has a similar story to tell. About 8,000 people are homeless in San Francisco. The city's 30,000 hotel rooms are empty, out of which 11,000 have been offered to city officials. But the doors remain shut for the homeless. These poor remain vulnerable to the novel coronavirus as their immune systems are week and are highly likely to be suffering from undetected ailments. Germany, however, has a good story to tell. The country has given shelter to poor in hotels. "(The idea) was received really well. They (the homeless) are really happy that they have somewhere to stay for now..They stay in their rooms a lot, relax, watch TV and enjoy the time in which they can have a good night's sleep, " Johannes Jung, a hotel manager said. Similar humanitarian gestures were seen in the United Kingdom too. However, Italy, which is worst-hit by the coronavirus, is struggling to even provide basic supplies to the homeless. The Netherlands is also following a similar path. On any given night, at least 70,000 people in Europe spend the night on the streets. If this is the story of some of the advances economies, one can imagine, the situation of struggling nations.

Coronavirus: Have rich countries disappointed the poor?

The United States, the world's most powerful country, has unfortunately become leaders of coronavirus infections as well with over 200,000 cases and 5,137 deaths. At such a time, the city of New Orleans, in the&nbsp;US state of Louisiana, is witnessing death rate about seven times more than that of New York City.

Officials said on Tuesday that New Orleans's death rate of local COVID-19 confirmed cases could reach 5 per cent, which is far more than the national average of more than two percent.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-global-cases-cross-900000-death-toll-rises-to-47522-290148">Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 900000; death toll rises to 47,522</a>

So why is the city witnessing such a crisis? Let's find out.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-does-not-trust-china-says-its-coronavirus-figures-are-on-the-light-side-290000">Trump does not trust China, says its coronavirus figures are on 'the light side'</a>

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that diabetes and heart disease increase the risk of coronavirus infections and New Orleans ranks high in both these conditions, more than the national average.&nbsp;

Doctors, experts and other officials also say the New Orleans' high levels of obesity and related diseases may make patients more vulnerable to the coronavirus.&nbsp;

"Obesity helps cause diabetes, which helps cause kidney issues, and we know that coronavirus attacks kidneys. And obesity is also linked to heart disease, heart disease is also linked to poverty," said Rebekah Gee, who until January was the Health Secretary for Louisiana and now is the head of Louisiana State University's healthcare services division.

About 97% of those who died of COVID-19 in Louisiana had a preexisting condition, as per the state's health department. Diabetes makes up for 40 per of the deaths, obesity 25 per cent, chronic kidney disease in 23% and cardiac problems 21 per cent.&nbsp;

A CDC report released for the first time this week show that 78% of coronavirus-affected patients in ICUs in the United States had an underlying health condition, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and chronic lung disease.

However, the report included less than 6 per cent of the infections, still, Louisiana doctors said it was consistent with what they are observing and is in line with what Italy and China witnessed.&nbsp;

"I think it's a very good question whether or not just having that phenotype, those conditions, simply render you unable to control the viral replication and whether there's something in the immune response in those individuals that is either insufficient or even perhaps excessive, causing too much inflammation. We think that a lot of the organ dysfunction that we see in this COVID syndrome is the result of excessive systemic inflammation. We know that folks that are obese a lot of times have markers in their blood and a lot of times systemic inflammation," LSU Health New Orleans critical care doctor Kyle Happel said.

Official data shows that New Orleans ranks among worst in the US when it comes to diabetes, obesity and blood pressure with nearly 39 per cent with high blood pressure, 36% obesity and about 15% diabetes.

These rates are very high than the national median which is 32 per cent with high blood pressure, 31 per cent obesity and 11 per cent with diabetes.

(With Reuters inputs) 
&nbsp;

The United States, the world's most powerful country, has unfortunately become leaders of coronavirus infections as well with over 200,000 cases and 5,137 deaths.

The United States, the world's most powerful country, has unfortunately become leaders of coronavirus infections as well with over 200,000 cases and 5,137 deaths. At such a time, the city of New Orleans, in the US state of Louisiana, is witnessing death rate about seven times more than that of New York City. Officials said on Tuesday that New Orleans's death rate of local COVID-19 confirmed cases could reach 5 per cent, which is far more than the national average of more than two percent. Also read | Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 900000; death toll rises to 47,522 So why is the city witnessing such a crisis? Let's find out. Also read | Trump does not trust China, says its coronavirus figures are on 'the light side' The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that diabetes and heart disease increase the risk of coronavirus infections and New Orleans ranks high in both these conditions, more than the national average. Doctors, experts and other officials also say the New Orleans' high levels of obesity and related diseases may make patients more vulnerable to the coronavirus. "Obesity helps cause diabetes, which helps cause kidney issues, and we know that coronavirus attacks kidneys. And obesity is also linked to heart disease, heart disease is also linked to poverty," said Rebekah Gee, who until January was the Health Secretary for Louisiana and now is the head of Louisiana State University's healthcare services division. About 97% of those who died of COVID-19 in Louisiana had a preexisting condition, as per the state's health department. Diabetes makes up for 40 per of the deaths, obesity 25 per cent, chronic kidney disease in 23% and cardiac problems 21 per cent. A CDC report released for the first time this week show that 78% of coronavirus-affected patients in ICUs in the United States had an underlying health condition, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and chronic lung disease. However, the report included less than 6 per cent of the infections, still, Louisiana doctors said it was consistent with what they are observing and is in line with what Italy and China witnessed. "I think it's a very good question whether or not just having that phenotype, those conditions, simply render you unable to control the viral replication and whether there's something in the immune response in those individuals that is either insufficient or even perhaps excessive, causing too much inflammation. We think that a lot of the organ dysfunction that we see in this COVID syndrome is the result of excessive systemic inflammation. We know that folks that are obese a lot of times have markers in their blood and a lot of times systemic inflammation," LSU Health New Orleans critical care doctor Kyle Happel said. Official data shows that New Orleans ranks among worst in the US when it comes to diabetes, obesity and blood pressure with nearly 39 per cent with high blood pressure, 36% obesity and about 15% diabetes. These rates are very high than the national median which is 32 per cent with high blood pressure, 31 per cent obesity and 11 per cent with diabetes. (With Reuters inputs)

Why New Orleans coronavirus death rate is leaping? Diabetes, obesity a reason

Facebook Inc Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg said on Sunday that the social media company has donated its emergency reserve of 720,000 masks to provide health workers with more protective gear.\

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-how-whatsapp-has-become-problematic-for-facebook-287505">Coronavirus pandemic: How WhatsApp has become problematic for Facebook</a>

"To help, Facebook donated our emergency reserve of 720,000 masks that we had bought in case the wildfires continued," Zuckerberg said in a post, adding that the company is also working on "sourcing a lot more to donate."

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-offers-100-million-to-virus-hit-small-businesses-in-30-countries-287069">Facebook offers $100 million to virus-hit small businesses in 30 countries</a>

The United States has seen a surge in demand for respirator masks caused by the coronavirus outbreak as the US&nbsp;Department of Health and Human Services, over the next 18 months, aims to buy 500 million masks for the Strategic National Stockpile, the nation's supply of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies. 
&nbsp;

Facebook Inc Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg said on Sunday that the social media company has donated its emergency reserve of 720,000 masks to provide health workers with more protective gear.

Facebook Inc Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg said on Sunday that the social media company has donated its emergency reserve of 720,000 masks to provide health workers with more protective gear.\ Also read | Coronavirus pandemic: How WhatsApp has become problematic for Facebook "To help, Facebook donated our emergency reserve of 720,000 masks that we had bought in case the wildfires continued," Zuckerberg said in a post, adding that the company is also working on "sourcing a lot more to donate." Also read | Facebook offers $100 million to virus-hit small businesses in 30 countries The United States has seen a surge in demand for respirator masks caused by the coronavirus outbreak as the US Department of Health and Human Services, over the next 18 months, aims to buy 500 million masks for the Strategic National Stockpile, the nation's supply of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies.

Coronavirus: Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg donates 720,000 masks to health workers

The Afghan government and Taliban on Sunday held their first talks regarding the release of prisoners, the US special envoy for Afghanistan said.&nbsp;

"Today, the US and Qatar facilitated the first Afghan government to Taliban technical talks on prisoner releases, via Skype video conferencing," Zalmay Khalilzad said on Twitter.

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Today, the US and Qatar facilitated the first Afghan government to Taliban technical talks on prisoner releases, via Skype video conferencing.
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The development comes after the prevailing deadlock between Afghan administration and the militant group following the historic Doha deal, which made way for the exit of US troops from the region.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/release-of-taliban-prisoners-stalls-over-guarantees-286486">Release of Taliban prisoners stalls over guarantees</a>

As per the deal, Taliban committed to reducing violence and continue fighting against terrorist groups like Al Qaeda.

On &nbsp;Wednesday, Khalilzad said it is “urgent” to finalise plans on prisoners exchange as the coronavirus pandemic is creating diplomatic challenges.&nbsp;

The agreement signed on February 29 in Doha intended to end America’s longest war that began after the Sept 11 terror attacks in 2001. &nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-begins-troops-withdrawal-from-afghanistan-10-days-after-taliban-deal-285385">US begins troops withdrawal from Afghanistan 10 days after Taliban deal</a>

The deal mentions the release of up to 5,000 Taliban militants held by Kabul and up to 1,000 people of the Afghan government forces captured by the insurgent group.&nbsp;

This move was supposed to start before the inter-Afghan peace negotiations, originally scheduled for March 10.&nbsp;

However, Kabul, which was not part of the deal signed by US and Taliban, refused this offer initially, before finally agreeing upon gradual and conditional prisoner releases.&nbsp;

The Doha deal calls for the gradual pullout of American and other foreign troops deployed in Afghanistan over a 14-month period, the first phase of which has already started.&nbsp;

The Afghan government and Taliban on Sunday held their first talks regarding the release of prisoners, the US special envoy for Afghanistan said. "Today, the US and Qatar facilitated the first Afghan government to Taliban technical talks on prisoner releases, via Skype video conferencing," Zalmay Khalilzad said on Twitter.

The Afghan government and Taliban on Sunday held their first talks regarding the release of prisoners, the US special envoy for Afghanistan said. "Today, the US and Qatar facilitated the first Afghan government to Taliban technical talks on prisoner releases, via Skype video conferencing," Zalmay Khalilzad said on Twitter. Today, the US and Qatar facilitated the first Afghan government to Taliban technical talks on prisoner releases, via Skype video conferencing. — U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) March 22, 2020 × The development comes after the prevailing deadlock between Afghan administration and the militant group following the historic Doha deal, which made way for the exit of US troops from the region. Also read | Release of Taliban prisoners stalls over guarantees As per the deal, Taliban committed to reducing violence and continue fighting against terrorist groups like Al Qaeda. On Wednesday, Khalilzad said it is “urgent” to finalise plans on prisoners exchange as the coronavirus pandemic is creating diplomatic challenges. The agreement signed on February 29 in Doha intended to end America’s longest war that began after the Sept 11 terror attacks in 2001. Also read | US begins troops withdrawal from Afghanistan 10 days after Taliban deal The deal mentions the release of up to 5,000 Taliban militants held by Kabul and up to 1,000 people of the Afghan government forces captured by the insurgent group. This move was supposed to start before the inter-Afghan peace negotiations, originally scheduled for March 10. However, Kabul, which was not part of the deal signed by US and Taliban, refused this offer initially, before finally agreeing upon gradual and conditional prisoner releases. The Doha deal calls for the gradual pullout of American and other foreign troops deployed in Afghanistan over a 14-month period, the first phase of which has already started.

Afghan, Taliban held first talks regarding prisoner release: US envoy

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo arrived in the Afghan capital Monday amid an ongoing political crisis, a raging Taliban insurgency and rising coronavirus cases -- all of which further threaten an already-floundering peace process.

Pompeo was set to meet with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani along with his archrival Abdullah Abdullah, who also claims the presidency, following a contested election last year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-taliban-held-first-talks-regarding-prisoner-release-us-envoy-287966">Afghan, Taliban held first talks regarding prisoner release: US envoy</a>

According to a pool report from a journalist accompanying Pompeo, the top US diplomat was welcomed by special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad -- the lead US negotiator in recent talks with the Taliban -- after arriving at Kabul airport.

The visit comes just a day after the Afghan government and the Taliban held their first discussion on arranging prisoner exchanges -- a key step in a broader push for peace following a withdrawal deal signed between Washington and the militants last month.

The agreement established a framework for bringing to an end America's longest war following the invasion of Afghanistan in 2001.

Khalilzad tweeted Sunday it was "urgent" to quickly conclude plans for the prisoner swap -- as called for in the US pact with the Taliban -- with the coronavirus pandemic complicating diplomatic contacts.

The deal called for the release of up to 5,000 Taliban fighters held by Kabul, and up to 1,000 members of the Afghan government forces in insurgent hands.

That was meant to take place before the start of peace talks originally set for March 10 between the government -- which was not a party to the negotiations that produced the Doha deal -- and the Taliban.

After initially refusing to release the Taliban prisoners, Ghani announced that the authorities would free 1,500 insurgents as a "gesture of goodwill" with plans to free another 3,500 prisoners after the talks are underway.&nbsp;

The Taliban rejected the offer.

The Doha accord also calls for the gradual withdrawal of American and other foreign troops over a 14-month period -- the main focus of the US diplomatic efforts.

The first phase of that withdrawal has already begun, though some troop movements have been slowed by the coronavirus pandemic.

In exchange, the Taliban committed to fight jihadist groups like Al-Qaeda and promised to negotiate for the first time with Kabul.&nbsp;

But since the Doha agreement was signed, the Taliban have carried out scores of attacks.

Political chaos in Kabul has further complicated matters, with Ghani's former chief executive Abdullah also claiming the presidency following last September's bitterly disputed election.

The impasse and continued fighting along with the world's preoccupation with coronavirus has sparked fears the window for a peace deal is closing fast.

Afghan health officials have reported just 40 cases of the novel coronavirus and one death to date.&nbsp;

However, health experts fear the contagion is spreading as tens of thousands of Afghans have returned home in recent weeks after fleeing virus-hit Iran.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo arrived in the Afghan capital Monday amid an ongoing political crisis, a raging Taliban insurgency and rising coronavirus cases -- all of which further threaten an already-floundering peace process.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo arrived in the Afghan capital Monday amid an ongoing political crisis, a raging Taliban insurgency and rising coronavirus cases -- all of which further threaten an already-floundering peace process. Pompeo was set to meet with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani along with his archrival Abdullah Abdullah, who also claims the presidency, following a contested election last year. Also read | Afghan, Taliban held first talks regarding prisoner release: US envoy According to a pool report from a journalist accompanying Pompeo, the top US diplomat was welcomed by special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad -- the lead US negotiator in recent talks with the Taliban -- after arriving at Kabul airport. The visit comes just a day after the Afghan government and the Taliban held their first discussion on arranging prisoner exchanges -- a key step in a broader push for peace following a withdrawal deal signed between Washington and the militants last month. The agreement established a framework for bringing to an end America's longest war following the invasion of Afghanistan in 2001. Khalilzad tweeted Sunday it was "urgent" to quickly conclude plans for the prisoner swap -- as called for in the US pact with the Taliban -- with the coronavirus pandemic complicating diplomatic contacts. The deal called for the release of up to 5,000 Taliban fighters held by Kabul, and up to 1,000 members of the Afghan government forces in insurgent hands. That was meant to take place before the start of peace talks originally set for March 10 between the government -- which was not a party to the negotiations that produced the Doha deal -- and the Taliban. After initially refusing to release the Taliban prisoners, Ghani announced that the authorities would free 1,500 insurgents as a "gesture of goodwill" with plans to free another 3,500 prisoners after the talks are underway. The Taliban rejected the offer. The Doha accord also calls for the gradual withdrawal of American and other foreign troops over a 14-month period -- the main focus of the US diplomatic efforts. The first phase of that withdrawal has already begun, though some troop movements have been slowed by the coronavirus pandemic. In exchange, the Taliban committed to fight jihadist groups like Al-Qaeda and promised to negotiate for the first time with Kabul. But since the Doha agreement was signed, the Taliban have carried out scores of attacks. Political chaos in Kabul has further complicated matters, with Ghani's former chief executive Abdullah also claiming the presidency following last September's bitterly disputed election. The impasse and continued fighting along with the world's preoccupation with coronavirus has sparked fears the window for a peace deal is closing fast. Afghan health officials have reported just 40 cases of the novel coronavirus and one death to date. However, health experts fear the contagion is spreading as tens of thousands of Afghans have returned home in recent weeks after fleeing virus-hit Iran.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo visits Kabul amid multiple crisis

Republican senators on Thursday presented a $1 trillion emergency relief package to fight the economic turmoil caused by the novel coronavirus as the death toll in the United States over 200 with more than 13,000 infections.&nbsp;

"This legislation takes bold action on four major priorities that are extremely urgent and very necessary," Mitch McConnell told the Senate as he unveiled the package.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wartime-president-trump-invokes-defense-production-act-to-fight-coronavirus-287280">'Wartime president' Trump invokes Defense Production Act to fight coronavirus</a>

"First, direct financial help for the American people. Second, rapid relief for small businesses and their employees," he said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-always-treated-chinese-virus-seriously-donald-trump-287201">I always treated 'Chinese Virus' seriously: Donald Trump</a>

"Third, significant steps to stabilize our economy and protect jobs. And, fourth, more support for the brave health care professionals and the patients who are fighting the coronavirus on the front lines."

If the text becomes law, it would be one of the largest federal economic interventions in US history.&nbsp;

In another big development in the US, California governor ordered all residents of the state to stay at home.&nbsp;

California Governor Gavin Newsom said 56 per cent of the state residents were expected to contract coronavirus over the next eight weeks.&nbsp;

The fast spread of the virus in the country has forced schools and businesses to shut down, implying millions to work from home, unemploying many and curbing travel.&nbsp;

This would be Congress' third emergency COVID-19 bill after a $105 billion-plus aid for free coronavirus testing, paid sick leave and expanded safety-net spending and an $8.3 billion measure to tackle the virus's spread and develop vaccines.&nbsp;

President Donald Trump has faced a lot of criticism for a downplayed and delayed response to the outbreak. &nbsp;

(With AFP, Reuters inputs) 
&nbsp;

Republican senators on Thursday presented a $1 trillion emergency relief package to fight the economic turmoil caused by the novel coronavirus as the death toll in the United States over 200 with more than 13,000 infections.

Republican senators on Thursday presented a $1 trillion emergency relief package to fight the economic turmoil caused by the novel coronavirus as the death toll in the United States over 200 with more than 13,000 infections. "This legislation takes bold action on four major priorities that are extremely urgent and very necessary," Mitch McConnell told the Senate as he unveiled the package. Also read: 'Wartime president' Trump invokes Defense Production Act to fight coronavirus "First, direct financial help for the American people. Second, rapid relief for small businesses and their employees," he said. Also read: I always treated 'Chinese Virus' seriously: Donald Trump "Third, significant steps to stabilize our economy and protect jobs. And, fourth, more support for the brave health care professionals and the patients who are fighting the coronavirus on the front lines." If the text becomes law, it would be one of the largest federal economic interventions in US history. In another big development in the US, California governor ordered all residents of the state to stay at home. California Governor Gavin Newsom said 56 per cent of the state residents were expected to contract coronavirus over the next eight weeks. The fast spread of the virus in the country has forced schools and businesses to shut down, implying millions to work from home, unemploying many and curbing travel. This would be Congress' third emergency COVID-19 bill after a $105 billion-plus aid for free coronavirus testing, paid sick leave and expanded safety-net spending and an $8.3 billion measure to tackle the virus's spread and develop vaccines. President Donald Trump has faced a lot of criticism for a downplayed and delayed response to the outbreak. (With AFP, Reuters inputs)

US: Senators present $1 trillion relief package; death toll over 200

US President Donald Trump has faced a lot of flak for downplaying the impact of the novel coronavirus in the country, with statements such as COVID-19 is Democrats "own hoax", "everything is under control" and shrugging off the concerns of a possible outbreak in the country.&nbsp;

Now when more than 13,000 cases are reported in the country with over 200 deaths, Trump is facing a lot of ire. Here's a timeline of Trump's repeated dismissals of the virus threat.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-always-treated-chinese-virus-seriously-donald-trump-287201">I always treated 'Chinese Virus' seriously: Donald Trump</a>

January 22

Trump was present at Davos in Switzerland for the World Economic Forum&nbsp;summit. He was asked of his reactions after the first case was confirmed in the US. Trump replied, "We do have a plan and we think it is going to be handled very well. We've already handled it very well. The CDC 
(Center for Disease Control) has been terrific. Very great professionals and we're in very good shape and I think China is in very good shape also."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wartime-president-trump-invokes-defense-production-act-to-fight-coronavirus-287280">'Wartime president' Trump invokes Defense Production Act to fight coronavirus</a>&nbsp;

February 10

When more than a dozen cases were confirmed in the US, Trump said that as heat will approach in April, "that (COVID-19) will go away". "Looks like by April, you know in theory when it gets a little warmer, it miraculously goes away. Hope that's true, Trump said. &nbsp;

WHO later said that there is no evidence "that this virus would behave differently in different temperatures".

February 26

The US president praised his administration for taking actions because of which Americans remain at a lower risk of getting infected. "Because of all we've done, the risk to the American people remains very low," Trump said at a time when number of cases jumped to 60. He also announced that Vice President Mike Pence would be working with doctors and specialists and reiterated that the administration is "doing very well".

February 27

"We have done an incredible job. We're going to continue. It's going to disappear one day. It's like a miracle, the US president said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

February 28

Trump said that the situation of the outbreak is "getting better" "Almost everybody that we see is getting better. And it could be everybody too," Trump said.&nbsp;The US president also said that thirty five thousand people on average die from the flu each year and the US has lost nobody because of 
coronavirus so far. &nbsp;"And you wonder the press is in hysteria mode," Trump added.&nbsp;

March 2

When the number of cases in the US crossed the figure of 100, Trump at a rally said that a vaccine for the disease would be there soon. “We had a great meeting today with a lot of the great companies, and they’re going to have vaccines, I think, relatively soon,” he said.&nbsp;

March 4

A day earlier WHO director-general said that 3.4 per cent of the reported cases is the fatality rate of COVID-19. Trump called this percentage "false", adding, ''I think the number, personally, I would say the number is way under 1 per cent''.

He also assured Americans that it's safe to fly in America and most of the other countries.&nbsp;

March 6

Trump credited himself of understanding a lot about the disease, adding "maybe I have a natural ability. Maybe I should have done that instead of running for president".&nbsp;

March 7

When all the states in US confirmed at least one case, Trump said, "No, I’m not concerned at all. No, I’m not. No, we’ve done a great job".

March 11

When WHO officially declared, the corona outbreak as a pandemic, Trump said, "We will be suspending all travel from Europe to the United States for the next 30 days." He also urged Americans to stay at home if they were sick. He also said that soon he would be declaring emergency fund 
to tackle the outbreak. However, Trump declared the financial crisis as "temporary".

March 17

Trump completely shifted from his earlier statements. "'I’ve always known this is a real this is a pandemic,"&nbsp;the US president said. “I felt it was a pandemic long before it was called a pandemic.”

US President Donald Trump has faced a lot of flak for downplaying the impact of the novel coronavirus in the country, with statements such as COVID-19 is Democrats "own hoax", "everything is under control" and shrugging off the concerns of a possible outbreak in the country.

US President Donald Trump has faced a lot of flak for downplaying the impact of the novel coronavirus in the country, with statements such as COVID-19 is Democrats "own hoax", "everything is under control" and shrugging off the concerns of a possible outbreak in the country. Now when more than 13,000 cases are reported in the country with over 200 deaths, Trump is facing a lot of ire. Here's a timeline of Trump's repeated dismissals of the virus threat. Also read | I always treated 'Chinese Virus' seriously: Donald Trump January 22 Trump was present at Davos in Switzerland for the World Economic Forum summit. He was asked of his reactions after the first case was confirmed in the US. Trump replied, "We do have a plan and we think it is going to be handled very well. We've already handled it very well. The CDC (Center for Disease Control) has been terrific. Very great professionals and we're in very good shape and I think China is in very good shape also." Also read | 'Wartime president' Trump invokes Defense Production Act to fight coronavirus February 10 When more than a dozen cases were confirmed in the US, Trump said that as heat will approach in April, "that (COVID-19) will go away". "Looks like by April, you know in theory when it gets a little warmer, it miraculously goes away. Hope that's true, Trump said. WHO later said that there is no evidence "that this virus would behave differently in different temperatures". February 26 The US president praised his administration for taking actions because of which Americans remain at a lower risk of getting infected. "Because of all we've done, the risk to the American people remains very low," Trump said at a time when number of cases jumped to 60. He also announced that Vice President Mike Pence would be working with doctors and specialists and reiterated that the administration is "doing very well". February 27 "We have done an incredible job. We're going to continue. It's going to disappear one day. It's like a miracle, the US president said. February 28 Trump said that the situation of the outbreak is "getting better" "Almost everybody that we see is getting better. And it could be everybody too," Trump said. The US president also said that thirty five thousand people on average die from the flu each year and the US has lost nobody because of coronavirus so far. "And you wonder the press is in hysteria mode," Trump added. March 2 When the number of cases in the US crossed the figure of 100, Trump at a rally said that a vaccine for the disease would be there soon. “We had a great meeting today with a lot of the great companies, and they’re going to have vaccines, I think, relatively soon,” he said. March 4 A day earlier WHO director-general said that 3.4 per cent of the reported cases is the fatality rate of COVID-19. Trump called this percentage "false", adding, ''I think the number, personally, I would say the number is way under 1 per cent''. He also assured Americans that it's safe to fly in America and most of the other countries. March 6 Trump credited himself of understanding a lot about the disease, adding "maybe I have a natural ability. Maybe I should have done that instead of running for president". March 7 When all the states in US confirmed at least one case, Trump said, "No, I’m not concerned at all. No, I’m not. No, we’ve done a great job". March 11 When WHO officially declared, the corona outbreak as a pandemic, Trump said, "We will be suspending all travel from Europe to the United States for the next 30 days." He also urged Americans to stay at home if they were sick. He also said that soon he would be declaring emergency fund to tackle the outbreak. However, Trump declared the financial crisis as "temporary". March 17 Trump completely shifted from his earlier statements. "'I’ve always known this is a real this is a pandemic," the US president said. “I felt it was a pandemic long before it was called a pandemic.”

'Hoax', 'everything under control' and 'pandemic': A timeline of how Donald Trump denied coronavirus outbreak

The United States administration has ordered shutdown of New York city and Los Angeles, after the death toll due to coronavirus outbreak in the country crossed 65. In New York City only, more than 350 people were confirmed to have been infected with the virus.

The city of New York is set to close all restaurants, cafes and bars from March 17 to prevent the spread of Covid-19. The decision was announced by New York Mayor Bill de Blasio.

Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti announced the city would be closing bars, nightclubs, entertainment venues and gyms until at least March 31. Restaurants will remain open only for takeout and delivery.

There were at least 3,244 confirmed cases of novel coronavirus in the United States as of Sunday.

There are more than 1,69,000 confirmed coronavirus cases and more than 6,500 deaths across the world.

The deadly virus has travelled far and wide to Europe too. The region has witnessed heavy fatalities, with death toll in Italy crossing 1,000.

In Italy alone, 24,000 persons remain infected.

The death toll in Spain and France have crossed 300 and 120 respectively.

Germany has been the third-worst-affected country by the coronavirus pandemic in Europe, after Italy and Spain.

Germany announced on Monday that all shopping malls, bars, and sport venues across the country would be closed.

 
&nbsp;

The United States administration has ordered shutdown of New York city and Los Angeles, after the death toll due to coronavirus outbreak in the country crossed 65.

The United States administration has ordered shutdown of New York city and Los Angeles, after the death toll due to coronavirus outbreak in the country crossed 65. In New York City only, more than 350 people were confirmed to have been infected with the virus. The city of New York is set to close all restaurants, cafes and bars from March 17 to prevent the spread of Covid-19. The decision was announced by New York Mayor Bill de Blasio. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti announced the city would be closing bars, nightclubs, entertainment venues and gyms until at least March 31. Restaurants will remain open only for takeout and delivery. There were at least 3,244 confirmed cases of novel coronavirus in the United States as of Sunday. There are more than 1,69,000 confirmed coronavirus cases and more than 6,500 deaths across the world. The deadly virus has travelled far and wide to Europe too. The region has witnessed heavy fatalities, with death toll in Italy crossing 1,000. In Italy alone, 24,000 persons remain infected. The death toll in Spain and France have crossed 300 and 120 respectively. Germany has been the third-worst-affected country by the coronavirus pandemic in Europe, after Italy and Spain. Germany announced on Monday that all shopping malls, bars, and sport venues across the country would be closed.

Coronavirus shuts down US, Europe

US President Donald Trump on Saturday said that he has undergone a coronavirus test and is yet to receive the results.&nbsp;

Speaking at a White House news conference where he issued guidelines and tried to calm Americans concerns, Trump said that his temperature was "totally normal". &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-he-is-ready-to-get-tested-for-covid-19-286332">Donald Trump says he is ready to get tested for COVID-19</a>

The US also extended the travel ban imposed on European nations over the pandemic to the United Kingdom and Ireland.

The US president said that he had taken a test late on Friday and expecting a result in "a day or two days."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-chaos-spreads-globally-trump-declares-us-emergency-286308">Coronavirus chaos spreads globally, Trump declares US emergency</a>

Trump, contrary to the medical advice, was seen shaking hands on Friday in a meeting with his coronavirus response team at the White House.&nbsp;

He said on Friday he'd "most likely" get tested for the COVID-19 after he was grilled on his recent meeting with several officials of a visiting Brazilian presidential delegation who have since confirmed with the novel coronavirus.&nbsp;

The White House, as a precautionary measure, also started checking the temperature of the ones coming close to the US president or Vice President Mike Pence.

The White House earlier today said "out of an abundance of caution, temperature checks are now being performed on any individuals who are in close contact with the president and vice president."

Ahead of Saturday's briefing, a member of the White House medical team checked the temperature of all journalists who are wanting to attend the event.&nbsp;

One of the journalists was not allowed to attend the briefing after a high reading.&nbsp;

US has recorded 2,226 positive cases of the novel coronavirus, but has not yet reached the peak yet, said top US infectious diseases expert, Anthony Fauci, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Director.&nbsp;

"This will get worse before it gets better," Surgeon General Jerome Adams said at the WH briefing.

On Friday, Trump declared a national emergency in a bid to bring "the full power of the federal government" to bear on the escalating health crisis by releasing some $50 billion in aid.&nbsp;

(With AFP, Reuters inputs)

US President Donald Trump on Saturday said that he has undergone a coronavirus test and is yet to receive the results. Speaking at a White House news conference where he issued guidelines and tried to calm Americans concerns, Trump said that his temperature was "totally normal".

US President Donald Trump on Saturday said that he has undergone a coronavirus test and is yet to receive the results. Speaking at a White House news conference where he issued guidelines and tried to calm Americans concerns, Trump said that his temperature was "totally normal". Also read: Donald Trump says he is ready to get tested for COVID-19 The US also extended the travel ban imposed on European nations over the pandemic to the United Kingdom and Ireland. The US president said that he had taken a test late on Friday and expecting a result in "a day or two days." Also read: Coronavirus chaos spreads globally, Trump declares US emergency Trump, contrary to the medical advice, was seen shaking hands on Friday in a meeting with his coronavirus response team at the White House. He said on Friday he'd "most likely" get tested for the COVID-19 after he was grilled on his recent meeting with several officials of a visiting Brazilian presidential delegation who have since confirmed with the novel coronavirus. The White House, as a precautionary measure, also started checking the temperature of the ones coming close to the US president or Vice President Mike Pence. The White House earlier today said "out of an abundance of caution, temperature checks are now being performed on any individuals who are in close contact with the president and vice president." Ahead of Saturday's briefing, a member of the White House medical team checked the temperature of all journalists who are wanting to attend the event. One of the journalists was not allowed to attend the briefing after a high reading. US has recorded 2,226 positive cases of the novel coronavirus, but has not yet reached the peak yet, said top US infectious diseases expert, Anthony Fauci, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Director. "This will get worse before it gets better," Surgeon General Jerome Adams said at the WH briefing. On Friday, Trump declared a national emergency in a bid to bring "the full power of the federal government" to bear on the escalating health crisis by releasing some $50 billion in aid. (With AFP, Reuters inputs)

Donald Trump takes coronavirus test as US extends travel ban to UK, Ireland

A number of rockets were fired targetting foreign troops deployed in an Iraqi base north of Baghdad, Iraqi and US security sources said.&nbsp;

"The initial toll is two wounded Iraqi Air Defence personnel who are in very critical condition," said Tahsin al-Khafaji, spokesman for Iraq's Joint Operations Command on the attack at the Taji airbase.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-donald-trump-after-us-carried-air-strikes-in-iraq-286169">Iran warns Donald Trump after US carried air strikes in Iraq</a>

At least 33 rockets struck Iraqi air defence units at the airbase, the country's military said, in one of the largest such volleys ever.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-says-us-strikes-in-iraq-proportionate-response-286170">UK says US strikes in Iraq 'proportionate' response</a>

Another 24 missiles at a nearby launching site have been found and the owner of the plot of land and security forces from an adjacent checkpoint are detained for questioning, Iraq's military said.&nbsp;

This was the 23rd attack since late October that aim installations across Iraq where American forces and diplomats are present. None of the groups has claimed responsibility for these attacks but the US has blamed hardline elements of the Hashed al-Shaabi, a network of armed groups.

The US-led coalition said three of its people and two Iraqi soldiers were injured in the latest attack.&nbsp;

The US-led coalition's surveillance capabilities have been affected by cloudy weather in recent days, which a US official said could have motivated the attackers to launch the rockets during the day instead of night.

This attack came three days after a similar attack which killed two American military personnel and a British soldier, the deadliest attack of such nature at an Iraqi base in years.

The US responded on Friday with airstrikes on arms depots, which it said were used by Kataeb Hezbollah, an Iran-favoured group within the Hashed.&nbsp;

The strikes killed at least five personnel of Iraq's security forces and one civilian, as per the country's military.&nbsp;

Iraq has faced trouble because of the enmity between two of its allies: Iran and the US. And the country started facing a lot of trouble because of this when the tussle between Iran and US spiked in late 2019 when a US contractor was killed in a rocket attack in northern Iraq.&nbsp;

The US, in a retaliatory move, killed Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani and Hashed deputy chief Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis which greatly increased the global concerns.&nbsp;

After the death of Soleimani, Iran launched ballistic missiles at US military in Iraq, while Iraqi parliament voted in favour of expelling all foreign armies from its soil, a move that is still not implemented. &nbsp;

Some 5,200 American troops are deployed in Iraq as part of US-led coalition to help local forces weed out the remnants of the Islamic State group.

A number of rockets were fired targetting foreign troops deployed in an Iraqi base north of Baghdad, Iraqi and US security sources said. "The initial toll is two wounded Iraqi Air Defence personnel who are in very critical condition," said Tahsin al-Khafaji, spokesman for Iraq's Joint Operations Command on the attack at the Taji airbase.

A number of rockets were fired targetting foreign troops deployed in an Iraqi base north of Baghdad, Iraqi and US security sources said. "The initial toll is two wounded Iraqi Air Defence personnel who are in very critical condition," said Tahsin al-Khafaji, spokesman for Iraq's Joint Operations Command on the attack at the Taji airbase. Also read: Iran warns Donald Trump after US carried air strikes in Iraq At least 33 rockets struck Iraqi air defence units at the airbase, the country's military said, in one of the largest such volleys ever. Also read: UK says US strikes in Iraq 'proportionate' response Another 24 missiles at a nearby launching site have been found and the owner of the plot of land and security forces from an adjacent checkpoint are detained for questioning, Iraq's military said. This was the 23rd attack since late October that aim installations across Iraq where American forces and diplomats are present. None of the groups has claimed responsibility for these attacks but the US has blamed hardline elements of the Hashed al-Shaabi, a network of armed groups. The US-led coalition said three of its people and two Iraqi soldiers were injured in the latest attack. The US-led coalition's surveillance capabilities have been affected by cloudy weather in recent days, which a US official said could have motivated the attackers to launch the rockets during the day instead of night. This attack came three days after a similar attack which killed two American military personnel and a British soldier, the deadliest attack of such nature at an Iraqi base in years. The US responded on Friday with airstrikes on arms depots, which it said were used by Kataeb Hezbollah, an Iran-favoured group within the Hashed. The strikes killed at least five personnel of Iraq's security forces and one civilian, as per the country's military. Iraq has faced trouble because of the enmity between two of its allies: Iran and the US. And the country started facing a lot of trouble because of this when the tussle between Iran and US spiked in late 2019 when a US contractor was killed in a rocket attack in northern Iraq. The US, in a retaliatory move, killed Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani and Hashed deputy chief Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis which greatly increased the global concerns. After the death of Soleimani, Iran launched ballistic missiles at US military in Iraq, while Iraqi parliament voted in favour of expelling all foreign armies from its soil, a move that is still not implemented. Some 5,200 American troops are deployed in Iraq as part of US-led coalition to help local forces weed out the remnants of the Islamic State group.

At least 33 rockets target US, UK troops in Iraq

In a massive development, the US state of Ohio said that 100,000 people in the region are likely to have coronavirus, the state health department director said.

The health department director Amy Acton said that Ohio had community spread of COVID-19 in a press conference with state governor Mike DeWine.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-suspends-travel-from-europe-to-us-in-coronavirus-crisis-285714">Trump suspends travel from Europe to US in coronavirus crisis</a>

"We know now just the fact of community spread says that at least one per cent, at the very least, one per cent of our population is carrying this virus in Ohio today," Acton said.&nbsp;

"We have 11.7 million people. So the math is over 100,000. So that just gives you a sense of how this virus spreads and is spreading quickly". &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-us-president-donald-trump-likens-deadly-virus-to-seasonal-flu-285444">COVID-19: US President Donald Trump likens deadly virus to seasonal flu</a>

She said that this is "one-in-50 years pandemic that we've been planning for".&nbsp;

Ohio has five positive cases and 52 people are placed under investigation. However, the state has carried out limited number of tests, much like the US.&nbsp;

In the US, the coronavirus cases surpassed 1,300 on Thursday with around 40 deaths, data from Johns Hopkins University said.&nbsp;

"These numbers are going to continue to grow," governor DeWine said during the press conference, adding that that confirmed numbers "are just a small fraction of the individuals who are infected already in the state of Ohio". &nbsp;

"We're told by medical experts that whatever the number is today, it will double in six days and that just continues on and on," DeWine said.

Public health experts have lashed out at US authorities for downplaying the pandemic and lagging far behind the other badly-affected countries in dealing with the virus.&nbsp;

In order to control the spread, Ohio banned mass gathering of over 100 people. Schools in the state were also shut down for three weeks.&nbsp;

"Taking decisive action now will greatly slow down this disease and stop this trajectory," Acton said.&nbsp;

President Donald Trump has been slammed for a slow response to the outbreak and playing down the threat, initially claiming that only a few Americans are at risk.&nbsp;

Earlier Axios and NBC News projected 70 to 150 million Americans being affected by the COVID-19.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, the US president banned travel from mainland Europe as part of his effort to control the pandemic.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

In a massive development, the US state of Ohio said that 100,000 people in the region are likely to have coronavirus, the state health department director said. The health department director Amy Acton said that Ohio had community spread of COVID-19 in a press conference with state governor Mike DeWine.

In a massive development, the US state of Ohio said that 100,000 people in the region are likely to have coronavirus, the state health department director said. The health department director Amy Acton said that Ohio had community spread of COVID-19 in a press conference with state governor Mike DeWine. Also read: Trump suspends travel from Europe to US in coronavirus crisis "We know now just the fact of community spread says that at least one per cent, at the very least, one per cent of our population is carrying this virus in Ohio today," Acton said. "We have 11.7 million people. So the math is over 100,000. So that just gives you a sense of how this virus spreads and is spreading quickly". Also read: COVID-19: US President Donald Trump likens deadly virus to seasonal flu She said that this is "one-in-50 years pandemic that we've been planning for". Ohio has five positive cases and 52 people are placed under investigation. However, the state has carried out limited number of tests, much like the US. In the US, the coronavirus cases surpassed 1,300 on Thursday with around 40 deaths, data from Johns Hopkins University said. "These numbers are going to continue to grow," governor DeWine said during the press conference, adding that that confirmed numbers "are just a small fraction of the individuals who are infected already in the state of Ohio". "We're told by medical experts that whatever the number is today, it will double in six days and that just continues on and on," DeWine said. Public health experts have lashed out at US authorities for downplaying the pandemic and lagging far behind the other badly-affected countries in dealing with the virus. In order to control the spread, Ohio banned mass gathering of over 100 people. Schools in the state were also shut down for three weeks. "Taking decisive action now will greatly slow down this disease and stop this trajectory," Acton said. President Donald Trump has been slammed for a slow response to the outbreak and playing down the threat, initially claiming that only a few Americans are at risk. Earlier Axios and NBC News projected 70 to 150 million Americans being affected by the COVID-19. On Wednesday, the US president banned travel from mainland Europe as part of his effort to control the pandemic.

100,000 likely coronavirus cases in Ohio: US health official

The coronavirus that has reached nearly 115 countries, infecting more than 15,000 and killing over 4,500, comes up with sad and depressing stories now and then. However, the story of Elizabeth Schneider from United States, presents more than a ray of hope in times when the situation&nbsp;looks gloomy.&nbsp;

On February 25, Schneider woke up feeling tired and groggy, three days after she went for a house party.&nbsp;

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/video-american-woman-recovers-from-coronavirus-covid-19-survivor-285962/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Schneider felt unwell and returned from office early and started working from home the same day. After taking a short nap in the evening, Schneider realised she had a very high fever.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/trading-in-wall-street-halted-for-second-time-this-week-over-coronavirus-scare-285952">Trading in Wall Street halted for second time this week over coronavirus scare</a> 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
She underwent certain tests that confirmed she is suffering from COVID-19.&nbsp;

"So initially when I got the test results, I was definitely a little shocked, I really did not expect that I would have COVID-19. I think at the time there were only about a hundred cases in Washington, maybe 500 or more cases across the United States, so I thought wow, I’m really lucky or rather in this case rather unlucky," Schneider said.&nbsp;

Many of Schneider's friends were also feeling sick after the party, but fortunately, they tested negative for the novel coronavirus.&nbsp;

Schneider decided to self-quarantine herself despite feeling depressed and restless at one point.&nbsp;

"Towards the beginning of my self-isolation it was fine, I realised that I was sick, that I just needed to hunker down and take care of myself and rest. Towards about the middle or the latter half of it, I started getting very restless and honestly I started getting quite depressed. I live by myself, and I was starting to get really really lonely, Schneider added.&nbsp;

However, Schneider overcame her agony and successfully won the battle against the deadly virus, thereby becoming an inspiration for others.&nbsp;

The coronavirus that has reached nearly 115 countries, infecting more than 15,000 and killing over 4,500, comes up with sad and depressing stories now and then. However, the story of Elizabeth Schneider from United States, presents more than a ray of hope in times when the situation looks gloomy.

The coronavirus that has reached nearly 115 countries, infecting more than 15,000 and killing over 4,500, comes up with sad and depressing stories now and then. However, the story of Elizabeth Schneider from United States, presents more than a ray of hope in times when the situation looks gloomy. On February 25, Schneider woke up feeling tired and groggy, three days after she went for a house party. Watch: Schneider felt unwell and returned from office early and started working from home the same day. After taking a short nap in the evening, Schneider realised she had a very high fever. Also read: Trading in Wall Street halted for second time this week over coronavirus scare She underwent certain tests that confirmed she is suffering from COVID-19. "So initially when I got the test results, I was definitely a little shocked, I really did not expect that I would have COVID-19. I think at the time there were only about a hundred cases in Washington, maybe 500 or more cases across the United States, so I thought wow, I’m really lucky or rather in this case rather unlucky," Schneider said. Many of Schneider's friends were also feeling sick after the party, but fortunately, they tested negative for the novel coronavirus. Schneider decided to self-quarantine herself despite feeling depressed and restless at one point. "Towards the beginning of my self-isolation it was fine, I realised that I was sick, that I just needed to hunker down and take care of myself and rest. Towards about the middle or the latter half of it, I started getting very restless and honestly I started getting quite depressed. I live by myself, and I was starting to get really really lonely, Schneider added. However, Schneider overcame her agony and successfully won the battle against the deadly virus, thereby becoming an inspiration for others.

Meet Elizabeth Schneider, whose coronavirus story is a beacon of hope

Amid the growing concerns over the coronavirus, US President Donald Trump had a lighter moment when he shared that he has not touched his face in weeks. And Trump misses it!

The incident happened when the US president held a meeting with airlines CEOs to discuss measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. White House coronavirus response coordinator Deborah Birx was elaborating on the need of frequent hand-washing and avoiding touching one's own face.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/john-oliver-trolls-donald-trump-for-lying-about-the-spread-of-a-deadly-disease-283768">John Oliver trolls Donald Trump for 'lying about the spread of a deadly disease'</a>

"I haven't touched my face in weeks. It’s been weeks! I miss it," Trump responded to&nbsp;Birx's statements.

Trump's witty comments were, however, immediately fact-checked by the netizens who shared posts where Trump touched his face.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Today Donald Trump claimed that he hasn’t touched his face in weeks. 
 
FACT CHECK: photographs show him touching his face three days ago 
 
What else is he lying to us about? 
 
cc <a href="https://twitter.com/CNN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CNN</a> <a href="https://t.co/KTdvfxZjM8">pic.twitter.com/KTdvfxZjM8</a>
— Matt Walsh (@MattWalshBlog) <a href="https://twitter.com/MattWalshBlog/status/1235262735522418689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Here’s President Trump on Monday during a coronavirus meeting <a href="https://t.co/yA7mJ2qjBL">https://t.co/yA7mJ2qjBL</a> <a href="https://t.co/kM4e4aDqdU">pic.twitter.com/kM4e4aDqdU</a>
— Tyler Bartlam (@tylerbartlam5) <a href="https://twitter.com/tylerbartlam5/status/1235246167719587841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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On Wednesday, the death toll from coronavirus infections jumped to 11 in the United States. In the US, the state of Washington has been the worst affected as 10 people have died from the COVID-19.&nbsp;

Amid the growing concerns over the coronavirus, US President Donald Trump had a lighter moment when he shared that he has not touched his face in weeks. And Trump misses it!

Amid the growing concerns over the coronavirus, US President Donald Trump had a lighter moment when he shared that he has not touched his face in weeks. And Trump misses it! The incident happened when the US president held a meeting with airlines CEOs to discuss measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. White House coronavirus response coordinator Deborah Birx was elaborating on the need of frequent hand-washing and avoiding touching one's own face. Also read: John Oliver trolls Donald Trump for 'lying about the spread of a deadly disease' "I haven't touched my face in weeks. It’s been weeks! I miss it," Trump responded to Birx's statements. Trump's witty comments were, however, immediately fact-checked by the netizens who shared posts where Trump touched his face. Today Donald Trump claimed that he hasn’t touched his face in weeks. FACT CHECK: photographs show him touching his face three days ago What else is he lying to us about? cc @CNN pic.twitter.com/KTdvfxZjM8 — Matt Walsh (@MattWalshBlog) March 4, 2020 × Here’s President Trump on Monday during a coronavirus meeting https://t.co/yA7mJ2qjBL pic.twitter.com/kM4e4aDqdU — Tyler Bartlam (@tylerbartlam5) March 4, 2020 × On Wednesday, the death toll from coronavirus infections jumped to 11 in the United States. In the US, the state of Washington has been the worst affected as 10 people have died from the COVID-19.

Donald Trump claims he hasn't touched his face in weeks

A gunman opened fire at the Molson Coors Beverage Co brewing complex in Milwaukee on Wednesday, killing five employees before he was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot, the city`s police chief said.

No other people were injured in the violence, which erupted about 2 pm at the sprawling campus of more than 20 buildings, where over 1,000 workers are employed by the beer company in Wisconsin`s largest city, the chief said.

"There is no threat at this time, and we will continue to investigate throughout the night," the police chief, Alfonso Morales, told reporters at a news conference hours after the shooting.

Morales said the bloodshed was confined to the Molson Coors &nbsp;complex west of downtown - a facility known to locals as the old Miller brewery - and that "no members of the general public were involved." Miller beer is one of the company`s leading brands.

Hours later, law enforcement officers were still combing through each building in the complex to secure the facility, Morales said, adding the deceased gunman was believed to have acted alone.

The suspect was described only as a 51-year-old Milwaukee man. Details about the circumstances of the shooting, including what may have precipitated the carnage, were not provided by authorities.

President Donald Trump, acknowledging the shooting as he opened a White House news conference about the coronavirus outbreak, referred to the gunman as a "wicked murderer" and called the gun violence "a terrible thing."

Appearing with the police chief in Milwaukee, Mayor Tom Barrett branded the shooting "an unspeakable tragedy."

"There were five individuals who went to work today just like everybody goes to work. They thought they were going to work and return to their families. They didn`t, and tragically they never will."

Governor Tony Evers asked for a brief moment of silence out of respect for the victims "needlessly murdered at Molson Coors this afternoon."

The entire Molson Coors campus was placed under a security lockdown, and the company advised employees in an email that the gunman had been located in or near a second-floor stairwell near a packaging facility, The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported.

Video footage from the scene showed streets cordoned off with numerous police and fire department vehicles ringing the area as brewery workers were escorted from buildings.

Local television station WISN, an ABC affiliate, said police appeared to be searching a vehicle on or near the scene. The station later showed part of a residential Milwaukee neighbourhood roped off with police crime-scene tape.

According to the Journal Sentinel, Molson Coors Beverage Co, which operates MillerCoors, announced plans last fall to close a Denver office and relocate some corporate support jobs to Milwaukee. The newspaper said the restructuring was designed to cut costs and resulted in 400 to 500 jobs being eliminated throughout Molson Coors.

It said the company now had 610 jobs at its Milwaukee corporate office, in addition to 750 jobs at two breweries in the city.

A gunman opened fire at the Molson Coors Beverage Co brewing complex in Milwaukee on Wednesday, killing five employees before he was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot, the city`s police chief said.

A gunman opened fire at the Molson Coors Beverage Co brewing complex in Milwaukee on Wednesday, killing five employees before he was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot, the city`s police chief said. No other people were injured in the violence, which erupted about 2 pm at the sprawling campus of more than 20 buildings, where over 1,000 workers are employed by the beer company in Wisconsin`s largest city, the chief said. "There is no threat at this time, and we will continue to investigate throughout the night," the police chief, Alfonso Morales, told reporters at a news conference hours after the shooting. Morales said the bloodshed was confined to the Molson Coors complex west of downtown - a facility known to locals as the old Miller brewery - and that "no members of the general public were involved." Miller beer is one of the company`s leading brands. Hours later, law enforcement officers were still combing through each building in the complex to secure the facility, Morales said, adding the deceased gunman was believed to have acted alone. The suspect was described only as a 51-year-old Milwaukee man. Details about the circumstances of the shooting, including what may have precipitated the carnage, were not provided by authorities. President Donald Trump, acknowledging the shooting as he opened a White House news conference about the coronavirus outbreak, referred to the gunman as a "wicked murderer" and called the gun violence "a terrible thing." Appearing with the police chief in Milwaukee, Mayor Tom Barrett branded the shooting "an unspeakable tragedy." "There were five individuals who went to work today just like everybody goes to work. They thought they were going to work and return to their families. They didn`t, and tragically they never will." Governor Tony Evers asked for a brief moment of silence out of respect for the victims "needlessly murdered at Molson Coors this afternoon." The entire Molson Coors campus was placed under a security lockdown, and the company advised employees in an email that the gunman had been located in or near a second-floor stairwell near a packaging facility, The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported. Video footage from the scene showed streets cordoned off with numerous police and fire department vehicles ringing the area as brewery workers were escorted from buildings. Local television station WISN, an ABC affiliate, said police appeared to be searching a vehicle on or near the scene. The station later showed part of a residential Milwaukee neighbourhood roped off with police crime-scene tape. According to the Journal Sentinel, Molson Coors Beverage Co, which operates MillerCoors, announced plans last fall to close a Denver office and relocate some corporate support jobs to Milwaukee. The newspaper said the restructuring was designed to cut costs and resulted in 400 to 500 jobs being eliminated throughout Molson Coors. It said the company now had 610 jobs at its Milwaukee corporate office, in addition to 750 jobs at two breweries in the city.

Six people dead, including gunman, in Molson Coors brewery shooting in Milwaukee

US President Donald Trump's re-election campaign said on Wednesday that it had filed a libel suit against New York Times, accusing it of intentionally publishing false and defamatory opinion piece which claimed Trump's "overarching deal" with Russia in the 2016 elections.

Responding to the questions on the suit during White House press conference, Trump said that the news organisation "got a lot wrong over the last number of years".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-asks-new-york-times-to-disclose-sources-that-us-is-ramping-up-cyber-attacks-on-russia-228519">Donald Trump asks New York Times to disclose sources that US is ramping up cyber attacks on Russia</a>

"If you read it, you'll see it's beyond an opinion. That's not an opinion. That's something much more than an opinion. They did a bad thing. And there'll be more coming."

The lawsuit is on the opinion published in the New York Times on March 27, 2017 by Max Frankel, with a headline: "The Real Trump-Russia Quid Pro Quo”. A subhead from the opinion piece said: "The campaign and the Kremlin had an overarching deal: help beat Hillary Clinton for a new pro-Russian foreign policy."&nbsp;

The opinion added: “Collusion – or a lack of it – turns out to have been the rhetorical trap that ensnared President Trump’s pursuers.”

“There was no need for detailed electoral collusion between the Trump campaign and Vladimir Putin’s oligarchy because they had an overarching deal: the quid of help in the campaign against Hillary Clinton for the quo of a new pro-Russian foreign policy, starting with relief from the Obama administration’s burdensome economic sanctions. The Trumpites knew about the quid and held out the prospect of the quo.”

The New York Times knowingly "published false and defamatory statements" against Trump, the draft copy of the suit said. &nbsp;

"The Times' own previous reporting had confirmed the falsity of these statements. But The Times published these statements anyway, knowing them to be false, and knowing it would misinform and mislead its own readers," it said, blaming the media organisation's "extreme bias against and animosity toward the campaign", and "exuberance to improperly influence the presidential election in November 2020".&nbsp;

Replying to the suit, a New York Times spokesperson said: "The Trump campaign has turned to the courts to try to punish an opinion writer for having an opinion they find unacceptable. Fortunately, the law protects the right of Americans to express their judgements and conclusions, especially about events of public importance. We look forward to vindicating that right in this case."

US President Donald Trump's re-election campaign said on Wednesday that it had filed a libel suit against New York Times, accusing it of intentionally publishing false and defamatory opinion piece which claimed Trump's "overarching deal" with Russia in the 2016 elections.

US President Donald Trump's re-election campaign said on Wednesday that it had filed a libel suit against New York Times, accusing it of intentionally publishing false and defamatory opinion piece which claimed Trump's "overarching deal" with Russia in the 2016 elections. Responding to the questions on the suit during White House press conference, Trump said that the news organisation "got a lot wrong over the last number of years". Also read: Donald Trump asks New York Times to disclose sources that US is ramping up cyber attacks on Russia "If you read it, you'll see it's beyond an opinion. That's not an opinion. That's something much more than an opinion. They did a bad thing. And there'll be more coming." The lawsuit is on the opinion published in the New York Times on March 27, 2017 by Max Frankel, with a headline: "The Real Trump-Russia Quid Pro Quo”. A subhead from the opinion piece said: "The campaign and the Kremlin had an overarching deal: help beat Hillary Clinton for a new pro-Russian foreign policy." The opinion added: “Collusion – or a lack of it – turns out to have been the rhetorical trap that ensnared President Trump’s pursuers.” “There was no need for detailed electoral collusion between the Trump campaign and Vladimir Putin’s oligarchy because they had an overarching deal: the quid of help in the campaign against Hillary Clinton for the quo of a new pro-Russian foreign policy, starting with relief from the Obama administration’s burdensome economic sanctions. The Trumpites knew about the quid and held out the prospect of the quo.” The New York Times knowingly "published false and defamatory statements" against Trump, the draft copy of the suit said. "The Times' own previous reporting had confirmed the falsity of these statements. But The Times published these statements anyway, knowing them to be false, and knowing it would misinform and mislead its own readers," it said, blaming the media organisation's "extreme bias against and animosity toward the campaign", and "exuberance to improperly influence the presidential election in November 2020". Replying to the suit, a New York Times spokesperson said: "The Trump campaign has turned to the courts to try to punish an opinion writer for having an opinion they find unacceptable. Fortunately, the law protects the right of Americans to express their judgements and conclusions, especially about events of public importance. We look forward to vindicating that right in this case."

Trump campaign sues New York Times over Russia opinion piece

Donald Trump sided with India on tackling terrorism, mentioning that Delhi and Washington are committed to fighting terrorists.

"India and the US are committed to fight terrorists and their ideology; that is why my government is working with Pakistan to crack down on terror groups," Trump said as he addressed a huge gathering at 'Namaste Trump' event at the Motera stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/latest-india-news/ddlj-spinning-charkha-and-garba-dance-five-developments-from-donald-trumps-india-visit-so-far-narendra-modi-282417">DDLJ, spinning charkha and Garba dance: Five developments from Donald Trump's India visit so far</a>

Trump also said that the US will always be a faithful and loyal friend of India. "Thank you for the spectacular welcome," he added.

Watch:&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NamasteTrump?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NamasteTrump</a> | Here's more of <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>'s speech from the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MoteraStadium?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MoteraStadium</a> in case you missed it!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaWelcomesTrump?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaWelcomesTrump</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TrumpInIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TrumpInIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TrumpIndiaVisit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TrumpIndiaVisit</a> <a href="https://t.co/TipynBKHjj">pic.twitter.com/TipynBKHjj</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1231885227569614848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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De-escalating tensions on trade friction, Trump also said that both US and India are working on a "fantastic trade" deal, and described Modi as a "tough negotiator".&nbsp;

The US president also spoke highly on PM Narendra Modi's humble background as a tea-seller, adding that PM Modi is a "living proof" of what an Indian could achieve from hard work. &nbsp;

"There is a difference between a nation that rises by coercion and one that rises by setting its people free -- that is India. India and the US have natural and enduring friendship," Trump said.

Trump also announced that a defence deal with India worth USD 3 billion would be signed tomorrow and said that the US looks forward to sell India with some of the best and most feared military equipment. &nbsp;

Heaping praise on films such as Sholay and DDLJ, Trump called Bollywood a "hub of genius and creativity". &nbsp;

"All over the planet people take great joy in scenes of bhangra, music and dance, romance and drama, and classic Indian films like 'DDLJ' and 'Sholay'," the US president said.

(with PTI inputs) 
&nbsp;

Donald Trump sided with India on tackling terrorism, mentioning that Delhi and Washington are committed to fighting terrorists. "India and the US are committed to fight terrorists and their ideology; that is why my government is working with Pakistan to crack down on terror groups," Trump said as he addressed a huge gathering at 'Namaste Trump' event at the Motera stadium in Ahmedabad.

Donald Trump sided with India on tackling terrorism, mentioning that Delhi and Washington are committed to fighting terrorists. "India and the US are committed to fight terrorists and their ideology; that is why my government is working with Pakistan to crack down on terror groups," Trump said as he addressed a huge gathering at 'Namaste Trump' event at the Motera stadium in Ahmedabad. Also read: DDLJ, spinning charkha and Garba dance: Five developments from Donald Trump's India visit so far Trump also said that the US will always be a faithful and loyal friend of India. "Thank you for the spectacular welcome," he added. Watch: #NamasteTrump | Here's more of @realDonaldTrump's speech from the #MoteraStadium in case you missed it!#IndiaWelcomesTrump #TrumpInIndia #TrumpIndiaVisit pic.twitter.com/TipynBKHjj — WION (@WIONews) February 24, 2020 × De-escalating tensions on trade friction, Trump also said that both US and India are working on a "fantastic trade" deal, and described Modi as a "tough negotiator". The US president also spoke highly on PM Narendra Modi's humble background as a tea-seller, adding that PM Modi is a "living proof" of what an Indian could achieve from hard work. "There is a difference between a nation that rises by coercion and one that rises by setting its people free -- that is India. India and the US have natural and enduring friendship," Trump said. Trump also announced that a defence deal with India worth USD 3 billion would be signed tomorrow and said that the US looks forward to sell India with some of the best and most feared military equipment. Heaping praise on films such as Sholay and DDLJ, Trump called Bollywood a "hub of genius and creativity". "All over the planet people take great joy in scenes of bhangra, music and dance, romance and drama, and classic Indian films like 'DDLJ' and 'Sholay'," the US president said. (with PTI inputs)

India, US committed to fighting terrorism, says President Trump

Pakistan&nbsp;Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday said that his country has no more militant safe havens left and his government fully backs the Afghan peace process.

"I can tell you that there are no safe havens here," Khan spoke in a conference in Pakistan's capital Islamabad.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/no-let-up-in-taliban-attacks-fresh-orders-awaited-over-deal-with-us-281157">No let up in Taliban attacks, fresh orders awaited over deal with United States </a>

"Whatever the situation might have been in the past, right now, I can tell you... there is one thing we want: peace in Afghanistan."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-not-taking-any-concrete-step-against-terrorism-says-afghan-president-ghani-280998">Pakistan not taking any concrete step against terrorism, says Afghan President Ghani</a>

Khan's comments came at a time when the United States and Taliban appear on the verge of signing a deal that would ensure the US begin pulling out troops from Afghanistan.

Taliban, in return, would enter talks with the Afghan government, reduce violence and work towards a complete ceasefire, among others.

However, the Taliban on Sunday carried out an attack in a security checkpoint in the northern province of Kunduz. Taliban claimed that 19 security personnel were killed in the attack. Afghan officials said that five people died in the attack.

Despite the attack, one of the Taliban's senior leaders said that the US and the militant group would sign a deal by the end of February in Doha.

Addressing a conference which marked 40 years of Pakistan giving shelter to Afghan refugees, the Pakistani PM also said that his country cannot "completely guarantee" that no Taliban are hiding among the Afghans living in Pakistan. However, he said, that his administration has done everything to prevent attacks in Afghanistan. &nbsp;

Earlier Sarwar Danish, Afghanistan's second vice president claimed that Pakistan is allowing Taliban to recruit new militants from Afghan refugee camps in Pakistan.

US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad, who has played a key role in the dialogue between the Taliban and the US also attended the conference.

The US has "commitments from the Talibs on security issues," Khalilzad said.

Last week, officials said that a seven-day "reduction in violence" by the Taliban, US and Afghanistan forces would kick-off as part of the confidence-building measures.

(with inputs from AFP and Reuters)

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday said that his country has no more militant safe havens left and his government fully backs the Afghan peace process.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday said that his country has no more militant safe havens left and his government fully backs the Afghan peace process. "I can tell you that there are no safe havens here," Khan spoke in a conference in Pakistan's capital Islamabad. Also read: No let up in Taliban attacks, fresh orders awaited over deal with United States "Whatever the situation might have been in the past, right now, I can tell you... there is one thing we want: peace in Afghanistan." Also read: Pakistan not taking any concrete step against terrorism, says Afghan President Ghani Khan's comments came at a time when the United States and Taliban appear on the verge of signing a deal that would ensure the US begin pulling out troops from Afghanistan. Taliban, in return, would enter talks with the Afghan government, reduce violence and work towards a complete ceasefire, among others. However, the Taliban on Sunday carried out an attack in a security checkpoint in the northern province of Kunduz. Taliban claimed that 19 security personnel were killed in the attack. Afghan officials said that five people died in the attack. Despite the attack, one of the Taliban's senior leaders said that the US and the militant group would sign a deal by the end of February in Doha. Addressing a conference which marked 40 years of Pakistan giving shelter to Afghan refugees, the Pakistani PM also said that his country cannot "completely guarantee" that no Taliban are hiding among the Afghans living in Pakistan. However, he said, that his administration has done everything to prevent attacks in Afghanistan. Earlier Sarwar Danish, Afghanistan's second vice president claimed that Pakistan is allowing Taliban to recruit new militants from Afghan refugee camps in Pakistan. US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad, who has played a key role in the dialogue between the Taliban and the US also attended the conference. The US has "commitments from the Talibs on security issues," Khalilzad said. Last week, officials said that a seven-day "reduction in violence" by the Taliban, US and Afghanistan forces would kick-off as part of the confidence-building measures. (with inputs from AFP and Reuters)

Imran Khan claims no safe haven for militants left in Pakistan

The Democratic race for nominations has intensified and even a small mistake by the contenders can ruin their 2020 chances. And Democratic presidential candidates Amy Klobuchar and Tom Steyer, who are already behind the frontrunners, have erred on a general knowledge question&nbsp;which is grabbing eyeballs.&nbsp;

Mexico's President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador&nbsp;will definitely not happy to know that Klobuchar and Steyer don't know his name.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bernie-sanders-wins-new-hampshire-democratic-primary-report-280179">Bernie Sanders narrowly beats Buttigieg in New Hampshire Democratic primary: Report</a>

Steyer and Klobuchar, in a televised interview in Nevada, could not name the president of US's neighbour Mexico.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-twitter-trolls-roast-buttigiegs-robotic-raise-the-roof-280647">Twitter trolls Buttigieg's robotic 'Raise the Roof' dance move</a>

When asked about Mexico president's name, billionaire Steyer said: "I forgot".

"No," admitted Klobuchar on the same question.&nbsp;

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Steyer and Klobuchar did not know the name of the president of Mexico, in interviews w/ <a href="https://twitter.com/TelemundoNews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TelemundoNews</a> 
“I forget,” says Steyer. 
"Can you tell me his name?" 
Klobuchar: “No." 
Pete knew. <a href="https://t.co/gUBqyxLfUW">pic.twitter.com/gUBqyxLfUW</a>
— Alex Thompson (@AlxThomp) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlxThomp/status/1228412333963333639?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Pete Buttigieg, who is currently the frontrunner in the Democratic nomination race was able to answer, avoiding a major embarrassment.&nbsp;

"Lopez Obrador... I hope," he responded, hesitatingly.

The netizens, however, gave mixed reactions to the gaffe, with some taking a dig, while others showing sympathy.

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Uh say what? Even I know who the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/President?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#President</a> of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mexico?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mexico</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AMLOPresidente?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AMLOPresidente</a> JFC and these people expect to run this nation. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Klobuchar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Klobuchar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Steyer?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Steyer</a> are awful <a href="https://t.co/azBftSedxH">https://t.co/azBftSedxH</a>
— Grace in Your Face 🙏🏼❤️🇺🇸 (@MediumGrace) <a href="https://twitter.com/MediumGrace/status/1228585302412808193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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I don’t blame <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Steyer?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Steyer</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Amy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Amy</a> for not knowing <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AMLO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AMLO</a>’s name. I’m Mexican and I wish I could forget he is the president 😂😂🤣
— Paco Torres (@pakotorz93) <a href="https://twitter.com/pakotorz93/status/1228483877439713280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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It's all good, Mexican fam. No one in America knows who Amy Klobuchar is and if it wasnt for his spending spree buying up television ads, I'm pretty sure no one would know who Tom Steyer is either. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Klobuchar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Klobuchar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Steyer?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Steyer</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Democrats?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Democrats</a> <a href="https://t.co/YvDqVPZ0O8">https://t.co/YvDqVPZ0O8</a>
— Barkley (@MuttleyTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/MuttleyTweets/status/1228548637656940545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The interviews were conducted in an election forum which was hosted by the League of United Latin American Citizens, the nation’s largest Latino civil rights group. Buttigieg, Klobuchar, and Steyer were the only contenders who attended the event.&nbsp;

The forum focussed on the issues concerning the 32 million Latino voters in the state, many of whom have Mexican roots.&nbsp;

After Iowa and New Hampshire, Democrat candidates will now try their luck in Nevada caucus on February 22.&nbsp;

Sanders and Buttigieg are in a neck-and-neck race, with the latter narrowly winning the most delegates so far. On the other hand, Elizabeth Warren and Joe Biden, who were the frontrunners before the primaries and caucuses began, are lagging behind.&nbsp;

The Democratic race for nominations has intensified and even a small mistake by the contenders can ruin their 2020 chances. And Democratic presidential candidates Amy Klobuchar and Tom Steyer, who are already behind the frontrunners, have erred on a general knowledge question which is grabbing eyeballs.

The Democratic race for nominations has intensified and even a small mistake by the contenders can ruin their 2020 chances. And Democratic presidential candidates Amy Klobuchar and Tom Steyer, who are already behind the frontrunners, have erred on a general knowledge question which is grabbing eyeballs. Mexico's President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador will definitely not happy to know that Klobuchar and Steyer don't know his name. Also read: Bernie Sanders narrowly beats Buttigieg in New Hampshire Democratic primary: Report Steyer and Klobuchar, in a televised interview in Nevada, could not name the president of US's neighbour Mexico. Also read: Twitter trolls Buttigieg's robotic 'Raise the Roof' dance move When asked about Mexico president's name, billionaire Steyer said: "I forgot". "No," admitted Klobuchar on the same question. Steyer and Klobuchar did not know the name of the president of Mexico, in interviews w/ @TelemundoNews “I forget,” says Steyer. "Can you tell me his name?" Klobuchar: “No." Pete knew. pic.twitter.com/gUBqyxLfUW — Alex Thompson (@AlxThomp) February 14, 2020 × Pete Buttigieg, who is currently the frontrunner in the Democratic nomination race was able to answer, avoiding a major embarrassment. "Lopez Obrador... I hope," he responded, hesitatingly. The netizens, however, gave mixed reactions to the gaffe, with some taking a dig, while others showing sympathy. Uh say what? Even I know who the #President of #Mexico #AMLOPresidente JFC and these people expect to run this nation. #Klobuchar #Steyer are awful https://t.co/azBftSedxH — Grace in Your Face 🙏🏼❤️🇺🇸 (@MediumGrace) February 15, 2020 × I don’t blame #Steyer and #Amy for not knowing #AMLO’s name. I’m Mexican and I wish I could forget he is the president 😂😂🤣 — Paco Torres (@pakotorz93) February 15, 2020 × It's all good, Mexican fam. No one in America knows who Amy Klobuchar is and if it wasnt for his spending spree buying up television ads, I'm pretty sure no one would know who Tom Steyer is either. #Klobuchar #Steyer #Democrats https://t.co/YvDqVPZ0O8 — Barkley (@MuttleyTweets) February 15, 2020 × The interviews were conducted in an election forum which was hosted by the League of United Latin American Citizens, the nation’s largest Latino civil rights group. Buttigieg, Klobuchar, and Steyer were the only contenders who attended the event. The forum focussed on the issues concerning the 32 million Latino voters in the state, many of whom have Mexican roots. After Iowa and New Hampshire, Democrat candidates will now try their luck in Nevada caucus on February 22. Sanders and Buttigieg are in a neck-and-neck race, with the latter narrowly winning the most delegates so far. On the other hand, Elizabeth Warren and Joe Biden, who were the frontrunners before the primaries and caucuses began, are lagging behind.

Who is Mexico's President? Don't ask Democratic candidates Klobuchar, Steyer