Undoubtedly, a handshake with the US president is a big deal as many consider the man most powerful on Earth. However, due to coronavirus fears, US President Donald Trump is advised not to handshake.&nbsp;

The advice came after a delegation of Brazilian president recently met Trump in the US and some of the officials after the trip were tested positive with COVID-19.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-takes-coronavirus-test-as-us-extends-travel-ban-to-uk-ireland-286444">Donald Trump takes coronavirus test as US extends travel ban to UK, Ireland</a>

But, handshakes were all around the White House on Friday when Trump met business leaders at a press conference on tackling the novel virus's outbreak.

After Trump himself declared a national emergency and asked people to take "common-sense measures" to avoid infection, &nbsp;he shook hands with other speakers in the podium.&nbsp;

However, Bruce Greenstein, CEO of the home healthcare provider LHC, does manage to avoid the handshake.&nbsp;

Greenstein, instead gave the US president an elbow bump, to which Trump said, "I like that. That's good."

Trump, 73, was grilled on whether he would be tested after meeting a Brazilian official who is now infected with the novel coronavirus.

He initially said that on advice of White House doctors, "I don't have any of the symptoms."&nbsp;

But, he later said, "I didn't say I wasn't going to be tested" and that he "most likely" would be, "fairly soon."

Many critics have lashed out at Trump for his late response and downplaying the pandemic. &nbsp;

In the US, 51 Americans have died from COVID-19, according to a tally by John Hopkins University.&nbsp;

Undoubtedly, a handshake with the US president is a big deal as many consider the man most powerful on Earth. However, due to coronavirus fears, US President Donald Trump is advised not to handshake.

Undoubtedly, a handshake with the US president is a big deal as many consider the man most powerful on Earth. However, due to coronavirus fears, US President Donald Trump is advised not to handshake. The advice came after a delegation of Brazilian president recently met Trump in the US and some of the officials after the trip were tested positive with COVID-19. Also read: Donald Trump takes coronavirus test as US extends travel ban to UK, Ireland But, handshakes were all around the White House on Friday when Trump met business leaders at a press conference on tackling the novel virus's outbreak. After Trump himself declared a national emergency and asked people to take "common-sense measures" to avoid infection, he shook hands with other speakers in the podium. However, Bruce Greenstein, CEO of the home healthcare provider LHC, does manage to avoid the handshake. Greenstein, instead gave the US president an elbow bump, to which Trump said, "I like that. That's good." Trump, 73, was grilled on whether he would be tested after meeting a Brazilian official who is now infected with the novel coronavirus. He initially said that on advice of White House doctors, "I don't have any of the symptoms." But, he later said, "I didn't say I wasn't going to be tested" and that he "most likely" would be, "fairly soon." Many critics have lashed out at Trump for his late response and downplaying the pandemic. In the US, 51 Americans have died from COVID-19, according to a tally by John Hopkins University.

Donald Trump continues to handshake despite White House medical advice

The first of five Iranian tankers entered the South American country's exclusive economic zone, even though US had warned against it.

The tankers are carrying fuel for&nbsp;gasoline-starved Venezuela, and entered the country's waters on Saturday evening around 7:40pm local time.

The tanker&nbsp;passed north of the neighboring dual-island Caribbean nation of Trinidad and Tobago before entering the country's waters, according to vessel tracking data from Refinitiv Eikon.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-probes-mexican-european-firms-over-venezuela-oil-trading-299111">Also read:&nbsp;FBI probes Mexican, European firms over Venezuela oil trading</a>

According to government sources, the tanker, named Fortune, is carrying a total of 1.53 million barrels of gasoline and alkylate to Venezuela.

The shipment has caused a diplomatic stir between Venezuela, Iran and the US. Venezuela is facing an acute shortage of oil due to a nearly complete breakdown of&nbsp;OPEC nation's 1.3 million barrel-per-day refining network.

A Washington spokesperson said he was unaware of any operations related to the Iranian cargoes, and the US will be considering measures in response.

However, few days ago Iranian President Hassan Rouhani warned Washington about retaliation&nbsp;any problems were caused for tankers carrying Iranian fuel to Venezuela, a local news agency had reported.

The first of five Iranian tankers entered the South American country's exclusive economic zone, even though US had warned against it. The tankers are carrying fuel for gasoline-starved Venezuela, and entered the country's waters on Saturday evening around 7:40pm local time.

The first of five Iranian tankers entered the South American country's exclusive economic zone, even though US had warned against it. The tankers are carrying fuel for gasoline-starved Venezuela, and entered the country's waters on Saturday evening around 7:40pm local time. The tanker passed north of the neighboring dual-island Caribbean nation of Trinidad and Tobago before entering the country's waters, according to vessel tracking data from Refinitiv Eikon. Also read: FBI probes Mexican, European firms over Venezuela oil trading According to government sources, the tanker, named Fortune, is carrying a total of 1.53 million barrels of gasoline and alkylate to Venezuela. The shipment has caused a diplomatic stir between Venezuela, Iran and the US. Venezuela is facing an acute shortage of oil due to a nearly complete breakdown of OPEC nation's 1.3 million barrel-per-day refining network. A Washington spokesperson said he was unaware of any operations related to the Iranian cargoes, and the US will be considering measures in response. However, few days ago Iranian President Hassan Rouhani warned Washington about retaliation any problems were caused for tankers carrying Iranian fuel to Venezuela, a local news agency had reported.

Iranian tankers carrying 1.53 million barrels fuel enter US waterways despite warnings

Online learning may be fun but not when students have paid a fortune for a campus experience. Students of at least 26 US universities have sued their schools. Also read: Will keep coronavirus task force indefinitely, says Trump amid rising US death toll They are demanding a partial refund of tuition and campus fee.

Online learning may be fun but not when students have paid a fortune for a campus experience. Students of at least 26 US universities have sued their schools. Also read: Will keep coronavirus task force indefinitely, says Trump amid rising US death toll They are demanding a partial refund of tuition and campus fee. They claim - online learning compromises on the quality of education. Also read: Pompeo has no evidence, says China on coronavirus origin in lab What these students paid for was campus learning. They paid for the infrastructure, the labs, the libraries, and the gyms. But now--- they are all sitting behind their computer screens. Sure the students are earning term credits. But a college experience is not limited to that. College is about inter-personal experiences. Interaction with faculty and classmates building contacts. Students are frustrated with online classes. Some point out that the lectures are not live. Professors often pre-record videos and there are no discussions. Lawsuits have hit some Ivy League schools like Brown, Colombia and Cornell. Public schools too have not been spared. Students have sued the University of Purdue, Colorado and the University of Chicago. Most of these schools argue that the classes may be online--- but the professors remain the same. Some schools 'have' returned portions of housing and dining fees. But the majority of them refuse to refund tuition or campus fees. Colleges say the coronavirus has posed financial strains in their systems. Some estimate losses up to $1 billion a year. Is the pandemic ushering in the end of big universities? If Harvard was granted $9 million for coronavirus aid alone imagine how much money the United States pumps into the campus every year? It may be impossible to continue this supply of funds. Not with an impending recession. Plus these institutions have been caught in controversies. A 2019 scandal exposed how admission to these campuses are not always based on merit. Fewer foreign students Top universities are likely to also see a downturn in student enrollment. The coronavirus has instilled a sense of fear in people. Would foreign students want a return to campus? The trend of foreign education was ushered in by globalisation. It was nurtured by a stable global economy, accessible students loans, job availability and friendly visa policies. The pandemic is hammering all of these. So, will top universities be the collateral damage in the post-pandemic world?

Students sue top US universities over switch to online courses

Coronavirus deaths in the United States jumped by 1,435 in the past 24 hours, bringing the total toll to more than 66,000, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University.&nbsp;

The coronavirus cases in the country are more than 1.1 million, which includes 66,224 deaths as of 8:30 pm on Saturday (0030 GMT Sunday), as per the tally.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-approves-remdesivir-as-several-states-ease-lockdown-296248">US approves Remdesivir as several states ease lockdown</a>

The US is the worst-hit country by the virus and the other severely-affected nations are far behind.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-cases-in-europe-top-15-million-report-296285">Coronavirus cases in Europe top 1.5 million: Report</a>

Earlier on Friday, Texas became the latest and largest state to ease lockdown measures despite recording its highest single-day deaths.&nbsp;

The pressure of reopening is mounting on several US states as anti-lockdown demonstrations were held in many parts, including California, where authorities had re-closed beaches from Friday after crowds flocked to the shoreline last weekend.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Coronavirus deaths in the United States jumped by 1,435 in the past 24 hours, bringing the total toll to more than 66,000, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University.

Coronavirus deaths in the United States jumped by 1,435 in the past 24 hours, bringing the total toll to more than 66,000, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University. The coronavirus cases in the country are more than 1.1 million, which includes 66,224 deaths as of 8:30 pm on Saturday (0030 GMT Sunday), as per the tally. Also read | US approves Remdesivir as several states ease lockdown The US is the worst-hit country by the virus and the other severely-affected nations are far behind. Also read | Coronavirus cases in Europe top 1.5 million: Report Earlier on Friday, Texas became the latest and largest state to ease lockdown measures despite recording its highest single-day deaths. The pressure of reopening is mounting on several US states as anti-lockdown demonstrations were held in many parts, including California, where authorities had re-closed beaches from Friday after crowds flocked to the shoreline last weekend.

US sees 1,435 new coronavirus deaths; total toll over 66,000

American authorities approved an experimental drug for emergency use on coronavirus patients, as more US states eased pandemic lockdowns despite another spike in deaths from the disease.

The approval is the latest step in a global push to find viable treatments and a vaccine for the coronavirus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown, hammered the world economy, and infected more than 3.3 million people.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-death-toll-nears-65000-in-us-as-malls-theatres-open-in-texas-296215">Coronavirus death toll nears 65,000 in US as malls, theatres open in Texas</a>

Remdesivir, an antiviral drug initially developed to treat Ebola, was given the green light on Friday after a major trial found that it boosted recovery in serious COVID-19 patients.

"It's really a very promising situation," President Donald Trump said on Friday at the White House, where he was joined by Daniel O'Day, CEO of Gilead Sciences, which developed Remdesivir.

Remdesivir incorporates itself into the virus's genome, short-circuiting its replication process.

The drug approval came as the US leaders struggled with growing pressure from citizens wearying of stay-at-home orders.

With about 1.1 million confirmed coronavirus cases, nearly 65,000 of them fatal, the United States has the highest tolls of any country, and Trump is keen for a turnaround as the world's largest economy reels with tens of millions left jobless.

"Hopefully, we're going to come in below that 100,000 lives lost, which is a horrible number nevertheless," said Trump, after suggesting earlier in the week the country could expect 60,000 or 70,000 fatalities.

Texas became the largest US state yet to ease curbs, while anti-lockdown demonstrations were held in several states -- including California, where officials had re-closed beaches beginning Friday to avoid a repeat of last weekend when crowds flocked to the shoreline.

There were protests in 11 cities in California -- where more than 50,000 coronavirus cases have been reported -- with people chanting against the lockdown.

In Huntington Beach, about 35 miles (55 kilometers) south of Los Angeles, several thousand people rallied to denounce Governor Gavin Newsom's beach shutdown order.

"It was the straw that broke the camel's back," protester Monica Beilhard fumed.

"It was uncalled for, unnecessary and people out here are making that known," she said. "And we're also very much saying enough is enough, we have the right to work... and it's time for the governor to allow the healthy to be able to get back to business."

'Slow, phased' reopening&nbsp;

Like the United States, governments around the world are struggling to balance the immense political and economic pressure to ease lockdowns with the need for public health measures against the spread of the virus, which has killed more than 236,000 people.

Several European countries, including Austria, have begun to ease restrictions with authorities in some of the hardest-hit parts like Spain reporting signs that the pandemic there was slowing.

Britain announced that it had hit its target of conducting 100,000 coronavirus tests a day, a step toward eventually lifting lockdown rules in the UK -- which this week overtook Spain to record the world's third-highest death toll.

Ireland, however, extended its lockdown by two weeks to May 18, with Prime Minister Leo Varadkar saying the nation will reopen "in a slow, phased, staged way" after that.

Meanwhile in South Asia, India announced that the lockdown on its 1.3 billion people -- the world's biggest -- would continue for two more weeks from May 4.

The virus restrictions also put a damper on May Day celebrations worldwide on Friday, with many labor unions delaying their rallies and some holding online events, while a determined few hit the streets in face masks in defiance of lockdown orders.

In Cuba's capital Havana, where around a million workers and their families take part in the annual May Day march, the image of Che Guevara gazed down on an eerily silent Revolution Square.

Sharp rhetoric &nbsp;

May Day carried extra significance this year because of the staggering number of people put out of work by the pandemic, with the global economy in a tailspin and facing its worst downturn since the Great Depression.

Stock markets tumbled again on Friday after President Trump's unproven allegation that the virus may have come from a lab in Wuhan -- the central Chinese city where the disease first emerged late last year.

Beijing has rejected the accusation, and scientists believe the virus jumped from animals to humans.

The White House has accused Chinese authorities of mishandling the outbreak, "slow-walking" coronavirus data, and putting the US lives at risk.

The disease overwhelmed healthcare infrastructure when it hit the United States, putting immense pressure on doctors, nurses, and emergency responders.

Some US medics relied on past experience in other countries to fight the virus.

David Callaway, a doctor, and academic who has worked in the past on diseases in conflict-hit nations such as South Sudan and Iraq, said he found overseas epidemics easier to handle in some ways.

"Family and loved ones, you can put them in a box and you use them as a source of motivation and inspiration when things get rough, but you know they are safe," he told AFP.

"A pandemic at home, you know that your family and your loved ones are still at risk, their lives hang on the line."

American authorities approved an experimental drug for emergency use on coronavirus patients, as more US states eased pandemic lockdowns despite another spike in deaths from the disease.

American authorities approved an experimental drug for emergency use on coronavirus patients, as more US states eased pandemic lockdowns despite another spike in deaths from the disease. The approval is the latest step in a global push to find viable treatments and a vaccine for the coronavirus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown, hammered the world economy, and infected more than 3.3 million people. Also read | Coronavirus death toll nears 65,000 in US as malls, theatres open in Texas Remdesivir, an antiviral drug initially developed to treat Ebola, was given the green light on Friday after a major trial found that it boosted recovery in serious COVID-19 patients. "It's really a very promising situation," President Donald Trump said on Friday at the White House, where he was joined by Daniel O'Day, CEO of Gilead Sciences, which developed Remdesivir. Remdesivir incorporates itself into the virus's genome, short-circuiting its replication process. The drug approval came as the US leaders struggled with growing pressure from citizens wearying of stay-at-home orders. With about 1.1 million confirmed coronavirus cases, nearly 65,000 of them fatal, the United States has the highest tolls of any country, and Trump is keen for a turnaround as the world's largest economy reels with tens of millions left jobless. "Hopefully, we're going to come in below that 100,000 lives lost, which is a horrible number nevertheless," said Trump, after suggesting earlier in the week the country could expect 60,000 or 70,000 fatalities. Texas became the largest US state yet to ease curbs, while anti-lockdown demonstrations were held in several states -- including California, where officials had re-closed beaches beginning Friday to avoid a repeat of last weekend when crowds flocked to the shoreline. There were protests in 11 cities in California -- where more than 50,000 coronavirus cases have been reported -- with people chanting against the lockdown. In Huntington Beach, about 35 miles (55 kilometers) south of Los Angeles, several thousand people rallied to denounce Governor Gavin Newsom's beach shutdown order. "It was the straw that broke the camel's back," protester Monica Beilhard fumed. "It was uncalled for, unnecessary and people out here are making that known," she said. "And we're also very much saying enough is enough, we have the right to work... and it's time for the governor to allow the healthy to be able to get back to business." 'Slow, phased' reopening Like the United States, governments around the world are struggling to balance the immense political and economic pressure to ease lockdowns with the need for public health measures against the spread of the virus, which has killed more than 236,000 people. Several European countries, including Austria, have begun to ease restrictions with authorities in some of the hardest-hit parts like Spain reporting signs that the pandemic there was slowing. Britain announced that it had hit its target of conducting 100,000 coronavirus tests a day, a step toward eventually lifting lockdown rules in the UK -- which this week overtook Spain to record the world's third-highest death toll. Ireland, however, extended its lockdown by two weeks to May 18, with Prime Minister Leo Varadkar saying the nation will reopen "in a slow, phased, staged way" after that. Meanwhile in South Asia, India announced that the lockdown on its 1.3 billion people -- the world's biggest -- would continue for two more weeks from May 4. The virus restrictions also put a damper on May Day celebrations worldwide on Friday, with many labor unions delaying their rallies and some holding online events, while a determined few hit the streets in face masks in defiance of lockdown orders. In Cuba's capital Havana, where around a million workers and their families take part in the annual May Day march, the image of Che Guevara gazed down on an eerily silent Revolution Square. Sharp rhetoric May Day carried extra significance this year because of the staggering number of people put out of work by the pandemic, with the global economy in a tailspin and facing its worst downturn since the Great Depression. Stock markets tumbled again on Friday after President Trump's unproven allegation that the virus may have come from a lab in Wuhan -- the central Chinese city where the disease first emerged late last year. Beijing has rejected the accusation, and scientists believe the virus jumped from animals to humans. The White House has accused Chinese authorities of mishandling the outbreak, "slow-walking" coronavirus data, and putting the US lives at risk. The disease overwhelmed healthcare infrastructure when it hit the United States, putting immense pressure on doctors, nurses, and emergency responders. Some US medics relied on past experience in other countries to fight the virus. David Callaway, a doctor, and academic who has worked in the past on diseases in conflict-hit nations such as South Sudan and Iraq, said he found overseas epidemics easier to handle in some ways. "Family and loved ones, you can put them in a box and you use them as a source of motivation and inspiration when things get rough, but you know they are safe," he told AFP. "A pandemic at home, you know that your family and your loved ones are still at risk, their lives hang on the line."

US approves Remdesivir as several states ease lockdown

As many as 1,883 new coronavirus deaths were recorded in the United States in the last 24 hours, bringing the total number of fatalities to about 65,000.

According to the coronavirus tally of Johns Hopkins University, more than 1.1 million people have so far tested positive with coronavirus as of 8:30 pm Friday (0030 GMT Saturday).&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/target-beijing-biden-trump-strategy-to-stay-in-white-house-296175">Target Beijing &amp; Biden - Trump strategy to stay in White House</a>

The US has witnessed 64,789 deaths from coronavirus, a jump of three per cent from a day earlier.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-claims-hes-seen-evidence-coronavirus-originated-in-chinese-lab-295950">Trump claims he's seen evidence coronavirus originated in Chinese lab</a>

The country has seen the most number of COVId-19 deaths and infections and the nations preceeding are far behind, reflecting the severity of crisis in the US.&nbsp;

The latest figures came after Texas became the latest state in the US to ease lockdown measures despite witnessing highest single-day deaths.&nbsp;

Stores, restaurants, movie theaters, malls, museums and libraries were allowed to function with 25 per cent of occupancy in the largest US state.&nbsp;

Texas Governor Greg Abbott, said in a tweet that "Texans should continue to practice social distancing" and follow health guidelines.

On Thursday, Texas reported 50 coronavirus deaths, the most since the outbreak began and 1,000 cases, the highest single-day figures since April 10.&nbsp;

Over 29,200 COVID-19 cases are confirmed in Texas, including 816 deaths, as per state health officials.&nbsp;

According to federal guidelines, the number of cases need to fall for 14 consecutive days for lockdown to be relaxed, however, a number of states in the country have bypassed it.&nbsp;

As many as 1,883 new coronavirus deaths were recorded in the United States in the last 24 hours, bringing the total number of fatalities to about 65,000. According to the coronavirus tally of Johns Hopkins University, more than 1.

As many as 1,883 new coronavirus deaths were recorded in the United States in the last 24 hours, bringing the total number of fatalities to about 65,000. According to the coronavirus tally of Johns Hopkins University, more than 1.1 million people have so far tested positive with coronavirus as of 8:30 pm Friday (0030 GMT Saturday). Also read | Target Beijing & Biden - Trump strategy to stay in White House The US has witnessed 64,789 deaths from coronavirus, a jump of three per cent from a day earlier. Also read | Trump claims he's seen evidence coronavirus originated in Chinese lab The country has seen the most number of COVId-19 deaths and infections and the nations preceeding are far behind, reflecting the severity of crisis in the US. The latest figures came after Texas became the latest state in the US to ease lockdown measures despite witnessing highest single-day deaths. Stores, restaurants, movie theaters, malls, museums and libraries were allowed to function with 25 per cent of occupancy in the largest US state. Texas Governor Greg Abbott, said in a tweet that "Texans should continue to practice social distancing" and follow health guidelines. On Thursday, Texas reported 50 coronavirus deaths, the most since the outbreak began and 1,000 cases, the highest single-day figures since April 10. Over 29,200 COVID-19 cases are confirmed in Texas, including 816 deaths, as per state health officials. According to federal guidelines, the number of cases need to fall for 14 consecutive days for lockdown to be relaxed, however, a number of states in the country have bypassed it.

Coronavirus death toll nears 65,000 in US as malls, theatres open in Texas

A US government watchdog said on Friday that NATO's mission in Afghanistan is withholding crucial information related to Taliban attacks.&nbsp;

The office of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR), in its quarterly report, said the Resolute Support (RS) had stopped providing figures.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-president-ghani-and-bitter-rival-abdullah-reach-tentative-agreement-296157">Afghan President Ghani and bitter rival Abdullah reach 'tentative' agreement</a>

It said that RS issued a short statement, saying the Taliban had stepped up attacks in March, after the signing of the US-Taliban deal which intended to end American troops' presence in Afghanistan and work towards establishing peace and stability in the region.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/suicide-bombing-in-kabul-province-kills-three-wounds-15-295535">Suicide bombing in Kabul province kills three, wounds 15</a>

"Between March 1 and 31, the Taliban refrained from attacks against coalition forces; however they increased attacks against (Afghan forces) to levels above seasonal norms," RS said, as per the report.&nbsp;

The RS mission previously shared data on "enemy-initiated attacks", which helped in evaluating the strength of the Taliban and other insurgent groups.

RS told SIGAR that it decided to restrict information because enemy attacks were now a "critical part" of discussions "regarding ongoing political negotiations between the US and the Taliban"

However, SIGAR told Pentagon that the data might be released in the future.&nbsp;

Pentagon supported the decision to withhold data, citing ongoing talks.

"So the decision was that we're working toward a better solution and a better place for Afghanistan and that the sharing of that information would not... move the ball forward," the spokesman, Jonathan Hoffman, said.&nbsp;

"The level of violence by the Taliban is unacceptably high," he said, hinting that a diplomatic solution will possibly not end the crisis.&nbsp;

In the week ahead of February 29, when deal was signed in Doha, violence dropped in Afghanistan, however, after the signing, the Taliban immediately resumed assaults on Afghan forces.&nbsp;

During the deal negotiations, the Taliban committed to stop targetting foreign troops, but no such provision was made for Afghan forces.&nbsp;

(With inputs from AFP)

 
&nbsp;

A US government watchdog said on Friday that NATO's mission in Afghanistan is withholding crucial information related to Taliban attacks. The office of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR), in its quarterly report, said the Resolute Support (RS) had stopped providing figures.

A US government watchdog said on Friday that NATO's mission in Afghanistan is withholding crucial information related to Taliban attacks. The office of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR), in its quarterly report, said the Resolute Support (RS) had stopped providing figures. Also read | Afghan President Ghani and bitter rival Abdullah reach 'tentative' agreement It said that RS issued a short statement, saying the Taliban had stepped up attacks in March, after the signing of the US-Taliban deal which intended to end American troops' presence in Afghanistan and work towards establishing peace and stability in the region. Also read | Suicide bombing in Kabul province kills three, wounds 15 "Between March 1 and 31, the Taliban refrained from attacks against coalition forces; however they increased attacks against (Afghan forces) to levels above seasonal norms," RS said, as per the report. The RS mission previously shared data on "enemy-initiated attacks", which helped in evaluating the strength of the Taliban and other insurgent groups. RS told SIGAR that it decided to restrict information because enemy attacks were now a "critical part" of discussions "regarding ongoing political negotiations between the US and the Taliban" However, SIGAR told Pentagon that the data might be released in the future. Pentagon supported the decision to withhold data, citing ongoing talks. "So the decision was that we're working toward a better solution and a better place for Afghanistan and that the sharing of that information would not... move the ball forward," the spokesman, Jonathan Hoffman, said. "The level of violence by the Taliban is unacceptably high," he said, hinting that a diplomatic solution will possibly not end the crisis. In the week ahead of February 29, when deal was signed in Doha, violence dropped in Afghanistan, however, after the signing, the Taliban immediately resumed assaults on Afghan forces. During the deal negotiations, the Taliban committed to stop targetting foreign troops, but no such provision was made for Afghan forces. (With inputs from AFP)

NATO withholds key information on Taliban attacks, says US watchdog

A day after witnessing three weeks' lowest coronavirus daily death toll, the United States recorded 2,494 new deaths in the past 24 hours, according to a tally maintained by Johns Hopkins University.&nbsp;

With the latest figures, the overall death count has spiked to 53,511 with 936,293 confirmed cases.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/political-row-hits-uk-govt-as-virus-death-toll-nears-20000-294768">Political row hits UK govt as virus death toll nears 20,000</a>

Both in terms of the number of coronavirus positive cases and deaths, the US remains the worst-hit country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-evidence-that-people-recovered-from-coronavirus-wont-get-reinfected-who-294745">No evidence that people recovered from coronavirus won't get reinfected: WHO</a>

Earlier on Friday, there was some respite as the daily death toll dropped to 1,258, lowest in three weeks.&nbsp;

In the US, Georgia ignored warnings from top medical experts and opened businesses on Friday that include hairdressers, nail salons, and bowling alleys.&nbsp;

President Donald Trump gave mixed signals after developments in Georgia, saying that the opening of "spas, beauty salons, tattoo parlors, &amp; barber shops should take a little slower path."&nbsp;

He, however, later told Governor Brian Kemp, a Republican to do "what is right" for the people of Georgia.&nbsp;

Several Georgians were seen at the beaches after the decision.&nbsp;

In southern California too, thousands went to beaches, flouting stay at home policies to contain the spread of coronavirus.&nbsp;

A day after witnessing three weeks' lowest coronavirus daily death toll, the United States recorded 2,494 new deaths in the past 24 hours, according to a tally maintained by Johns Hopkins University.

A day after witnessing three weeks' lowest coronavirus daily death toll, the United States recorded 2,494 new deaths in the past 24 hours, according to a tally maintained by Johns Hopkins University. With the latest figures, the overall death count has spiked to 53,511 with 936,293 confirmed cases. Also read | Political row hits UK govt as virus death toll nears 20,000 Both in terms of the number of coronavirus positive cases and deaths, the US remains the worst-hit country. Also read | No evidence that people recovered from coronavirus won't get reinfected: WHO Earlier on Friday, there was some respite as the daily death toll dropped to 1,258, lowest in three weeks. In the US, Georgia ignored warnings from top medical experts and opened businesses on Friday that include hairdressers, nail salons, and bowling alleys. President Donald Trump gave mixed signals after developments in Georgia, saying that the opening of "spas, beauty salons, tattoo parlors, & barber shops should take a little slower path." He, however, later told Governor Brian Kemp, a Republican to do "what is right" for the people of Georgia. Several Georgians were seen at the beaches after the decision. In southern California too, thousands went to beaches, flouting stay at home policies to contain the spread of coronavirus.

Coronavirus: US witnesses nearly 2,500 deaths in last 24 hours; toll over 53,000

World leaders on Friday pledged to speed up work on tests, drugs, and vaccines to treat novel coronavirus and share them with the rest of the countries, but the United States did not participate in the initiative launched by the World Health Organization (WHO).&nbsp;

The virtual conference aimed to accelerate the development of safe and effective drugs, tests, and vaccines to prevent, diagnose, and treat the virus and ensure equal access to treatments for rich and poor.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-over-50000-fatalities-us-witnesses-lowest-coronavirus-death-toll-in-three-weeks-294668">With over 50,000 fatalities, US witnesses lowest coronavirus death toll in three weeks</a>

"We are facing a common threat which we can only defeat with a common approach," WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said as he opened the conference.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-france-due-to-coroanvirus-crosses-22200-hospitalizations-fall-294650">Death toll in France due to coroanvirus crosses 22,200; hospitalizations fall</a>

"Experience has told us that even when tools are available they have not been equally available to all. We cannot allow that to happen."

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said for "global public good", the vaccine should be produced and distributed in all parts of the world.&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron urged all G7 and G20 nations to back the initiative, adding "the fight against COVID-19 is a common human good and there should be no division in order to win this battle."

Earlier, US Mission in Geneva confirmed to Reuters that the country would not participate in the meet.&nbsp;

"Although the United States was not in attendance at the meeting in question, there should be no doubt about our continuing determination to lead on global health matters, including the current COVID crisis," a spokesperson of the mission said.&nbsp;

The US has been critical of WHO for its slow response to the pandemic and "China-centric" approach. US President Donald Trump, a few days ago, also froze the funding to the global health organization.&nbsp;

The virtual meet was attended by several nations from Asia, the Middle East, and Americas, but big countries like India, China, and Russia gave it a miss.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

World leaders on Friday pledged to speed up work on tests, drugs, and vaccines to treat novel coronavirus and share them with the rest of the countries, but the United States did not participate in the initiative launched by the World Health Organization (WHO).

World leaders on Friday pledged to speed up work on tests, drugs, and vaccines to treat novel coronavirus and share them with the rest of the countries, but the United States did not participate in the initiative launched by the World Health Organization (WHO). The virtual conference aimed to accelerate the development of safe and effective drugs, tests, and vaccines to prevent, diagnose, and treat the virus and ensure equal access to treatments for rich and poor. Also read | With over 50,000 fatalities, US witnesses lowest coronavirus death toll in three weeks "We are facing a common threat which we can only defeat with a common approach," WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said as he opened the conference. Also read | Death toll in France due to coroanvirus crosses 22,200; hospitalizations fall "Experience has told us that even when tools are available they have not been equally available to all. We cannot allow that to happen." German Chancellor Angela Merkel said for "global public good", the vaccine should be produced and distributed in all parts of the world. French President Emmanuel Macron urged all G7 and G20 nations to back the initiative, adding "the fight against COVID-19 is a common human good and there should be no division in order to win this battle." Earlier, US Mission in Geneva confirmed to Reuters that the country would not participate in the meet. "Although the United States was not in attendance at the meeting in question, there should be no doubt about our continuing determination to lead on global health matters, including the current COVID crisis," a spokesperson of the mission said. The US has been critical of WHO for its slow response to the pandemic and "China-centric" approach. US President Donald Trump, a few days ago, also froze the funding to the global health organization. The virtual meet was attended by several nations from Asia, the Middle East, and Americas, but big countries like India, China, and Russia gave it a miss.

World leaders unite to accelerate COVID-19 tests, vaccine; US stays away from WHO initiative

The United States on Friday witnessed its lowest novel coronavirus daily death toll in three weeks with 1,258 new deaths, according to a tally maintained by Johns Hopkins University.

With the new fatalities, the overall COVID-19 death toll in the US stands at 51,017, as per the tracker.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/was-speaking-sarcastically-says-trump-on-his-injecting-disinfectants-comment-294649">Was speaking 'sarcastically', says Trump on his injecting disinfectants comment</a>

The US is by the far the worst-affected country from the pandemic, both in terms of infections and deaths. The country has witnessed 890,000 coronavirus cases.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-leaders-to-launch-who-covid-19-plan-but-us-wont-take-part-294566">World leaders to launch WHO COVID-19 plan, but US won't take part</a>

Health experts said that the sharp drop from 3,176 deaths on Thursday should be continued for a longer period for the country to enter into the declining phase.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, netizens on Thursday took a dig at President Donald Trump's suggestion of using industrial cleaners to treat COVID-19 patients.&nbsp;

"Is there a way we can do something like that, by injection inside or almost a cleaning?" Trump said in a televised briefing.&nbsp;

"It sounds interesting to me."

Also, the US state of Georgia on Friday opened some businesses, that include gyms, hair salons and tattoo parlors.&nbsp;

Georgia, which is governed by Republican Brian Kemp, has over 22,000 COVID-19 cases, including 892 deaths.&nbsp;

The United States on Friday witnessed its lowest novel coronavirus daily death toll in three weeks with 1,258 new deaths, according to a tally maintained by Johns Hopkins University.

The United States on Friday witnessed its lowest novel coronavirus daily death toll in three weeks with 1,258 new deaths, according to a tally maintained by Johns Hopkins University. With the new fatalities, the overall COVID-19 death toll in the US stands at 51,017, as per the tracker. Also read | Was speaking 'sarcastically', says Trump on his injecting disinfectants comment The US is by the far the worst-affected country from the pandemic, both in terms of infections and deaths. The country has witnessed 890,000 coronavirus cases. Also read | World leaders to launch WHO COVID-19 plan, but US won't take part Health experts said that the sharp drop from 3,176 deaths on Thursday should be continued for a longer period for the country to enter into the declining phase. Meanwhile, netizens on Thursday took a dig at President Donald Trump's suggestion of using industrial cleaners to treat COVID-19 patients. "Is there a way we can do something like that, by injection inside or almost a cleaning?" Trump said in a televised briefing. "It sounds interesting to me." Also, the US state of Georgia on Friday opened some businesses, that include gyms, hair salons and tattoo parlors. Georgia, which is governed by Republican Brian Kemp, has over 22,000 COVID-19 cases, including 892 deaths.

With over 50,000 fatalities, US witnesses lowest coronavirus death toll in three weeks

NASA engineers have designed new technologies, including a ventilator for the treatment of novel coronavirus patients.&nbsp;

New high-pressure devices called VITAL (Ventilator Intervention Technology Accessible Locally) have been designed to treat COVID-19 patients with mild symptoms. These devices are designed by engineers at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California, US and are now waiting for approval from the Food and Drug Administrations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hopes-grow-for-antibody-tests-but-experts-urge-caution-294686">Hopes grow for antibody tests, but experts urge caution</a>

"COVID-19 patients --- their lungs are not compliant, so you need high pressure and this is a high pressure ventilator," JPL's Dave Gallagher told US President Donald Trump at a White House meeting.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-fda-warns-against-use-of-donald-trump-backed-hydroxychloroquine-to-treat-coronavirus-294682">US FDA warns against use of Donald Trump-backed hydroxychloroquine to treat coronavirus</a>

He also said that these ventilators used special parts and therefore would not hamper&nbsp;the production chain of traditional ventilators.&nbsp;

Other devices designed by NASA, include AMBUstat that will utilize technology that had been used in sterilizing spacecrafts to disinfect bigger areas inside of schools, prisons, and businesses.

(With Reuters inputs)

NASA engineers have designed new technologies, including a ventilator for the treatment of novel coronavirus patients. New high-pressure devices called VITAL (Ventilator Intervention Technology Accessible Locally) have been designed to treat COVID-19 patients with mild symptoms.

NASA engineers have designed new technologies, including a ventilator for the treatment of novel coronavirus patients. New high-pressure devices called VITAL (Ventilator Intervention Technology Accessible Locally) have been designed to treat COVID-19 patients with mild symptoms. These devices are designed by engineers at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California, US and are now waiting for approval from the Food and Drug Administrations. Also read | Hopes grow for antibody tests, but experts urge caution "COVID-19 patients --- their lungs are not compliant, so you need high pressure and this is a high pressure ventilator," JPL's Dave Gallagher told US President Donald Trump at a White House meeting. Also read | US FDA warns against use of Donald Trump-backed hydroxychloroquine to treat coronavirus He also said that these ventilators used special parts and therefore would not hamper the production chain of traditional ventilators. Other devices designed by NASA, include AMBUstat that will utilize technology that had been used in sterilizing spacecrafts to disinfect bigger areas inside of schools, prisons, and businesses. (With Reuters inputs)

NASA designs special ventilator for coronavirus patients

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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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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<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
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