The S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced on August 20, as gains in heavyweight tech stocks outweighed downbeat data that affirmed the Federal Reserve’s view of a difficult road to economic recovery.

US stocks outweighed downbeat data: Nasdaq composite added 1.06%

There is proposed legislation in the United States and it aims to drop the title of "President" for China's Xi Jinping in all official US documents. Watch report.

Redesignating Xi Jinping: US bill to designate Xi as a party chief

As the LNU Lightning Complex fire near Vacaville, California, expanded rapidly overnight. There were 10,489 lightning strikes in California in the last 72 hours. More than 100,000 evacuated in Vacaville.

LNU lightning complex fire spreads across California

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the president of the United Arab Emirates, has named his son Sheikh Khaled as the crown prince of Abu Dhabi, the nation's capital and an important player in the region and the Gulf Arab state that is a member of OPEC, state media reported on Wednesday (March 29).

Sheikh Mohammed, who is also the ruler of Abu Dhabi and is known by his initials MBZ, named Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan to serve as vice president of the UAE alongside Dubai's ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, reported Reuters.

He designated Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan as deputy rulers of Abu Dhabi.

In May, upon the death of his half-brother, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, who had ruled Abu Dhabi, MBZ assumed control of the emirate and assumed the presidency of the UAE, which unites the seven rulers of the UAE federation.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;Gravitas: Will Saudi Arabia pull out of the Yemen War? Is China behind the big decision?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-saudi-arabia-pull-out-of-the-yemen-war-is-china-behind-the-big-decision-577116/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Years of MBZ's power behind the scenes resulted in a new anti-Iran axis with Israel and a reconfiguration of the Middle East.&nbsp;

Abu Dhabi, which oversees a number of sovereign wealth funds and is one of the richest state investors in the world, announced a leadership change for its two largest state funds earlier this month.

As chairman of Mubadala, Abu Dhabi's second-largest sovereign wealth fund, MBZ was also replaced by Sheikh Mansour, owner of Manchester City football club.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the president of the United Arab Emirates, has named his son Sheikh Khaled as the crown prince of Abu Dhabi, the nation's capital and an important player in the region and the Gulf Arab state that is a member of OPEC, state media reported on Wednesday (March 29).

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the president of the United Arab Emirates, has named his son Sheikh Khaled as the crown prince of Abu Dhabi, the nation's capital and an important player in the region and the Gulf Arab state that is a member of OPEC, state media reported on Wednesday (March 29). Sheikh Mohammed, who is also the ruler of Abu Dhabi and is known by his initials MBZ, named Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan to serve as vice president of the UAE alongside Dubai's ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, reported Reuters. He designated Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan as deputy rulers of Abu Dhabi. In May, upon the death of his half-brother, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, who had ruled Abu Dhabi, MBZ assumed control of the emirate and assumed the presidency of the UAE, which unites the seven rulers of the UAE federation. ALSO WATCH: Gravitas: Will Saudi Arabia pull out of the Yemen War? Is China behind the big decision? Years of MBZ's power behind the scenes resulted in a new anti-Iran axis with Israel and a reconfiguration of the Middle East. Abu Dhabi, which oversees a number of sovereign wealth funds and is one of the richest state investors in the world, announced a leadership change for its two largest state funds earlier this month. As chairman of Mubadala, Abu Dhabi's second-largest sovereign wealth fund, MBZ was also replaced by Sheikh Mansour, owner of Manchester City football club. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Weekly US jobless claims rise more than expected to 1.1 mn

Former Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton gave a speech at the 2020 Democratic National Convention. Hillary said, "Joe and Kamala can win by 3 million votes and still lose, so we need numbers overwhelming so that Trump can't sneak or steal his way of victory."

Hillary Clinton at DNC 2020: "We need numbers overwhelming so that Trump can't steal victory"

As the US is now inching closer to its Presidential elections in November, the first-ever Digital National Convention of the Democratic party is currently underway in Milwaukee in Wisconsin.

DNC day 3: Spotlight on Kamala Harris, First virtual convention in US history

Former President Barack Obama in his speech at the Democratic National Convention 2020 pointed criticism of President Donald Trump. He argued that his successor has turned the presidency into “one more reality show that he can use to get the attention he craves.”

Barack Obama speech at DNC 2020: Trump hasn't grown into the job

California Senator Kamala Harris made history as the first black and South Asian woman to accept a spot on a major US party's presidential ticket. She paid tribute to her mother at DNC 2020.

Kamala Harris makes history at DNC 2020: Pays tribute to her mother

As the United States is now getting closer to its Presidential elections in November this year. The third day of the Democratic National Convention witnessed history as Kamala Harris became the first woman of color to become a Vice Presidential candidate.

DNC 2020 Day 3: Focus remains on women leaders

Bill Clinton, one of the four men still living who understands what it takes to be President, lambasted the current occupant of the White House in his convention speech on Tuesday, questioning Donald Trump's handling of the coronavirus pandemic and casting his White House as a chaotic “storm.”

2020 DNC: Joe Biden wins Presidential nomination | First virtual convention in U.S history

The United States and China will allow air carriers to double the number of flights to eight per week, according to the US Transportation Department’s statement on Tuesday.

The world’s two biggest economies had stopped flights and then slowly restarted operation due to the coronavirus pandemic, which began in China, but continues to batter the globe, with US being the hardest-hit country in the world.

Doubling allowed

According to the US, the country will allow four Chinese passenger airlines to double flights to eight round trips per week. This comes in after China allowed US carriers to double the number of flights to China.

After coronavirus pandemic spread globally, US carriers stopped flights to China. On January 31, President Donald Trump had barred all all non-US citizens from flying in from China to the US.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/china-evacuates-100000-as-floods-threaten-heritage-site-321644" hreflang="en">China evacuates 100,000 as floods threaten heritage site</a>

Starting September 4, United Airlines will increase flights to Chine to four per week from San Francisco to Shanghai. The US department added that Delta Air Lines is also eligible to double its fleet going to China.

Delta had earlier announced that it would operate flights from Seattle and Detroit to Shanghai starting July, via Seoul. On August 18, Delta announced that this would begin from August 24.

Bilateral agreement

As part of their bilateral aviation agreement, the US is hoping that China would restore full US flights. The US Transportation Department added that as China allows more flights to come into the country, so will it.

The agreement between the world’s two largest economies allows operation of more than 100 weekly flights.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/china-unveils-sky-thunder-missile-system-amid-tensions-in-south-china-sea-321543" hreflang="en">China unveils Sky Thunder missile system amid tensions in South China Sea</a>

After China did not agree restore US flights in June, the US had threatened to bar all Chinese passenger flights.

The Trump administration in May announced thatAir China, China Eastern Airlines Corp, China Southern Airlines Co, Hainan Airlines Holding Co, and their subsidiaries will be required to file schedules.

In June, Reuters had reported that Chinese authorities had agreed to making changes in the policies that allow the operation of flights.

One such move was to conduct temperature checks before taking off instead of while the flight was in transit.

The United States and China will allow air carriers to double the number of flights to eight per week, according to the US Transportation Department’s statement on Tuesday.

The United States and China will allow air carriers to double the number of flights to eight per week, according to the US Transportation Department’s statement on Tuesday. The world’s two biggest economies had stopped flights and then slowly restarted operation due to the coronavirus pandemic, which began in China, but continues to batter the globe, with US being the hardest-hit country in the world. Doubling allowed According to the US, the country will allow four Chinese passenger airlines to double flights to eight round trips per week. This comes in after China allowed US carriers to double the number of flights to China. After coronavirus pandemic spread globally, US carriers stopped flights to China. On January 31, President Donald Trump had barred all all non-US citizens from flying in from China to the US. Also read: China evacuates 100,000 as floods threaten heritage site Starting September 4, United Airlines will increase flights to Chine to four per week from San Francisco to Shanghai. The US department added that Delta Air Lines is also eligible to double its fleet going to China. Delta had earlier announced that it would operate flights from Seattle and Detroit to Shanghai starting July, via Seoul. On August 18, Delta announced that this would begin from August 24. Bilateral agreement As part of their bilateral aviation agreement, the US is hoping that China would restore full US flights. The US Transportation Department added that as China allows more flights to come into the country, so will it. The agreement between the world’s two largest economies allows operation of more than 100 weekly flights. Also read: China unveils Sky Thunder missile system amid tensions in South China Sea After China did not agree restore US flights in June, the US had threatened to bar all Chinese passenger flights. The Trump administration in May announced thatAir China, China Eastern Airlines Corp, China Southern Airlines Co, Hainan Airlines Holding Co, and their subsidiaries will be required to file schedules. In June, Reuters had reported that Chinese authorities had agreed to making changes in the policies that allow the operation of flights. One such move was to conduct temperature checks before taking off instead of while the flight was in transit.

China, US to double number of flights: US Transportation Department

Democratic National Convention Day 2: Clinton questions Trump's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic

The 2020 Democratic National Convention has begun from August 17–20, 2020 at the Wisconsin Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. At the convention, delegates of the United States Democratic Party will formally choose the party's nominees for president and vice president in the 2020 United States presidential election. It is largely a virtual convention due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and it is officially centered at the Wisconsin Center.

US Elections 2020: 2020 National Convention begins in Milwaukee

Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, who challenged Biden for the nomination from the progressive left, addressed the convention and made a pitch for Joe Biden.

2020 Democratic Convention underway in Milwaukee: Sanders makes pitch for Joe Biden

Syria state media is accusing US coalition forces of launching an airstrike at an army checkpoint in the country's Northeast. Tensions escalated after a US-led petrol team was prevented from crossing a Syrian check post.

Syria accuses US of airstrikes: US denies, claims patrol fired in self-defense

“Data is the new gold”;&nbsp;these words are echoed commonly in contemporary times, and aptly so.

Turns out, the United States law enforcement agencies have been buying data which includes one’s phone location, effectively terminating&nbsp;the need to issue a warrant to obtain such sensitive user details.

"Locate X"

A document recently released by Secret Service shows that the Secret Service purchased “Locate X” from Babel Street, a social media surveillance company.&nbsp;The details were divulged after “Motherboard” filed a request under the US Freedom of Information Act.

Locate X is a sophisticated tool which can effectively track a user’s locations and its real-time movements. The data which is collected by various apps on one’s phones is used by Locate X to ascertain a user’s location.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/google-sued-over-tracking-in-apps-even-when-users-opted-out-313354" hreflang="en">Google sued over tracking in apps even when users opted out</a>

Locate X allows government agencies to trace the movement of users not only in real time, but in any specific team period. In essence, it is a repository of all user data corresponding to the places they have visited and their movement patterns.

In fact, using Locate X, the Secret Service could track a user’s movement months before or after a certain event which they want to investigate.&nbsp;Reportedly, an internal document has revealed how the Secret Service paid $36,000 for a year-long subscription to the Locate X service, from September 27, 2017 upto the same date in 2018.&nbsp;This was part of a bigger $2 million deal with Babel Street to conduct surveillance on social media.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/apple-and-google-decide-to-ban-location-tracking-in-their-contact-tracing-apps-296868" hreflang="en">Apple and Google decide to ban location tracking in their contact tracing apps</a>

Earlier in March, “Protocol” had reported that Locate X was being used by US Customs and Border Patrol.&nbsp;

“Mashable” reported that the existence of Locate X is “confidential information”, implying it became public knowledge only after the request under the Act.

Law of land?

In an ideal situation in conjunction with law of land, law enforcement agencies in the US would require a warrant or at least a court order to track somebody’s movements so brazenly. If the information divulged after a request made under the Act is true, it means that authorities simply discarded protocol by buying a surveillance product.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/facebook-agrees-to-pay-650m-to-settle-facial-recognition-lawsuit-317458" hreflang="en">Facebook agrees to pay $650M to settle facial recognition lawsuit</a>

Many applications that don’t need access to one’s location demand it and store it. Most of this data is sold to third party companies to use as they please. Big companies like Facebook, Twitter claim that such data is used to provide a personalised advertising experience on their apps.

All this comes in the middle of US government openly accusing Chinese app TikTok of sharing data with the Chinese government. The company had hit back at the US saying local American companies like Facebook store more data than any Chinese company, implying the dangers enmeshed in such vast data collection.

“Data is the new gold”; these words are echoed commonly in contemporary times, and aptly so. Turns out, the United States law enforcement agencies have been buying data which includes one’s phone location, effectively terminating the need to issue a warrant to obtain such sensitive user details.

“Data is the new gold”; these words are echoed commonly in contemporary times, and aptly so. Turns out, the United States law enforcement agencies have been buying data which includes one’s phone location, effectively terminating the need to issue a warrant to obtain such sensitive user details. "Locate X" A document recently released by Secret Service shows that the Secret Service purchased “Locate X” from Babel Street, a social media surveillance company. The details were divulged after “Motherboard” filed a request under the US Freedom of Information Act. Locate X is a sophisticated tool which can effectively track a user’s locations and its real-time movements. The data which is collected by various apps on one’s phones is used by Locate X to ascertain a user’s location. Also read: Google sued over tracking in apps even when users opted out Locate X allows government agencies to trace the movement of users not only in real time, but in any specific team period. In essence, it is a repository of all user data corresponding to the places they have visited and their movement patterns. In fact, using Locate X, the Secret Service could track a user’s movement months before or after a certain event which they want to investigate. Reportedly, an internal document has revealed how the Secret Service paid $36,000 for a year-long subscription to the Locate X service, from September 27, 2017 upto the same date in 2018. This was part of a bigger $2 million deal with Babel Street to conduct surveillance on social media. Also read: Apple and Google decide to ban location tracking in their contact tracing apps Earlier in March, “Protocol” had reported that Locate X was being used by US Customs and Border Patrol. “Mashable” reported that the existence of Locate X is “confidential information”, implying it became public knowledge only after the request under the Act. Law of land? In an ideal situation in conjunction with law of land, law enforcement agencies in the US would require a warrant or at least a court order to track somebody’s movements so brazenly. If the information divulged after a request made under the Act is true, it means that authorities simply discarded protocol by buying a surveillance product. Also read: Facebook agrees to pay $650M to settle facial recognition lawsuit Many applications that don’t need access to one’s location demand it and store it. Most of this data is sold to third party companies to use as they please. Big companies like Facebook, Twitter claim that such data is used to provide a personalised advertising experience on their apps. All this comes in the middle of US government openly accusing Chinese app TikTok of sharing data with the Chinese government. The company had hit back at the US saying local American companies like Facebook store more data than any Chinese company, implying the dangers enmeshed in such vast data collection.

US law enforcement bought 'Locate X' to track user's phone location data without permit

As the presidential election in the United States nears, President Donald Trump continues to sharpen his attacks on the mail-in voting, saying it would take "months" or "years" or "possibly" never to know the exact count from this system.

"Usually at the end of evening, they say 'Donald Trump is has won the election, Donald Trump is your new president'," Trump said at his golf resort in Bedminster, New Jersey in the US.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-joe-biden-set-for-democratic-convention-donald-trump-aims-to-steal-thunder-321041">As Biden set for Democratic convention, Trump aims to steal thunder</a>

"You know what? You're not going to know this, possibly, if you really did it right, for months and for years because these ballots are going to be lost, they're going to be gone."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/theyre-going-to-engage-in-lies-kamala-harris-on-trumps-birther-remarks-321035">'They're going to engage in lies': Kamala Harris on Trump's birther remarks</a>

Trump's comments came after he refused to increase the funding of US Postal Service (USPS) for an expected surge in votes this year and his continual attempts to doubt the mail-in voting.&nbsp;

Trump on Sunday also said that the mail-in voting would be "catastrophic".&nbsp;

"It's going to make our country a laughing stock all over the world," Trump said.&nbsp;

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, in a statement on Saturday, accused Trump of "openly" attempting to "destroy the post office and sabotage its ability to deliver absentee ballots in time to be counted".

"All patriots, Democrats, Independents or Republicans should reject the president's assault on the postal system in this election season," Pelosi said.&nbsp;

As the presidential election in the United States nears, President Donald Trump continues to sharpen his attacks on the mail-in voting, saying it would take "months" or "years" or "possibly" never to know the exact count from this system.

As the presidential election in the United States nears, President Donald Trump continues to sharpen his attacks on the mail-in voting, saying it would take "months" or "years" or "possibly" never to know the exact count from this system. "Usually at the end of evening, they say 'Donald Trump is has won the election, Donald Trump is your new president'," Trump said at his golf resort in Bedminster, New Jersey in the US. Also read | As Biden set for Democratic convention, Trump aims to steal thunder "You know what? You're not going to know this, possibly, if you really did it right, for months and for years because these ballots are going to be lost, they're going to be gone." Also read | 'They're going to engage in lies': Kamala Harris on Trump's birther remarks Trump's comments came after he refused to increase the funding of US Postal Service (USPS) for an expected surge in votes this year and his continual attempts to doubt the mail-in voting. Trump on Sunday also said that the mail-in voting would be "catastrophic". "It's going to make our country a laughing stock all over the world," Trump said. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, in a statement on Saturday, accused Trump of "openly" attempting to "destroy the post office and sabotage its ability to deliver absentee ballots in time to be counted". "All patriots, Democrats, Independents or Republicans should reject the president's assault on the postal system in this election season," Pelosi said.

Not going to know this for 'months', 'years': Trump continues to cast doubt on mail-in voting

The stage is all set for Democrats as the much-talked-about convention will begin on Monday, where Joe Biden will formally become the candidate to challenge Donald Trump for November 3 election.&nbsp;

However, the US president has ensured that Biden and his vice-presidential select Kamala Harris will not the only ones to get attention this week.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/theyre-going-to-engage-in-lies-kamala-harris-on-trumps-birther-remarks-321035">'They're going to engage in lies': Kamala Harris on Trump's birther remarks</a>

So, before the end of the Democratic convention, Trump will kick off his campaign with speeches in Wisconsin, Minnesota and Arizona.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-tiktok-controversy-trump-gets-verified-account-on-triller-320922">Amid TikTok controversy, Trump gets verified account on Triller</a>

And on Thursday, when Biden will be officially named as the Democratic presidential candidate, Trump will deliver a speech in Scranton, Pennsylvania, the blue-collar town where Biden grew up and which he still describes as his spiritual home.&nbsp;

The theme of Trump's campaign tour this week is "highlighting Joe Biden's record of failure".

Trump's campaign has also put millions of dollars for a digital aid campaign that will begin on the same day when the Democratic convention kicks off.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Democrats have brought in musical giants, that include John Legend, Common, Billie Eilish and the Chicks who will perform in this high-profile four-day event.&nbsp;

Also, former president Barack Obama and his wife Michelle, and 2016 Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton and her husband, former president Bill Clinton will also be a part of this convention.&nbsp;

The stage is all set for Democrats as the much-talked-about convention will begin on Monday, where Joe Biden will formally become the candidate to challenge Donald Trump for November 3 election.

The stage is all set for Democrats as the much-talked-about convention will begin on Monday, where Joe Biden will formally become the candidate to challenge Donald Trump for November 3 election. However, the US president has ensured that Biden and his vice-presidential select Kamala Harris will not the only ones to get attention this week. Also read | 'They're going to engage in lies': Kamala Harris on Trump's birther remarks So, before the end of the Democratic convention, Trump will kick off his campaign with speeches in Wisconsin, Minnesota and Arizona. Also read | Amid TikTok controversy, Trump gets verified account on Triller And on Thursday, when Biden will be officially named as the Democratic presidential candidate, Trump will deliver a speech in Scranton, Pennsylvania, the blue-collar town where Biden grew up and which he still describes as his spiritual home. The theme of Trump's campaign tour this week is "highlighting Joe Biden's record of failure". Trump's campaign has also put millions of dollars for a digital aid campaign that will begin on the same day when the Democratic convention kicks off. Meanwhile, Democrats have brought in musical giants, that include John Legend, Common, Billie Eilish and the Chicks who will perform in this high-profile four-day event. Also, former president Barack Obama and his wife Michelle, and 2016 Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton and her husband, former president Bill Clinton will also be a part of this convention.

As Biden set for Democratic convention, Trump aims to steal thunder

The United States has lost a bid to extend a UN arms embargo on Iran. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday proposed a summit of world leaders to avoid "confrontation" over a US threat to trigger a return of all UN sanctions on Tehran, which catalysed the UN to take the said decision.

In a UN Security Council vote, Russia and China opposed extending the weapons ban, which is due to expire in October under a 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers.&nbsp;

Eleven members abstained, including France, Germany and Britain, while Washington and the Dominican Republic were the only yes votes.

"The Security Council's failure to act decisively in defense of international peace and security is inexcusable," US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement.

The United States could now follow through on a threat to trigger a return of all UN sanctions on Iran using a provision in the nuclear deal, known as snapback, even though President Donald Trump abandoned the accord in 2018. Diplomats have said the United States could do this as early as next week, but would face a tough, messy battle.

Diplomats have said such a move would put the fragile nuclear deal further at risk because Iran would lose a major incentive for limiting its nuclear activities. Iran already has breached parts of the nuclear deal in response to the US withdrawal from the pact and unilateral sanctions.

Iran's UN Ambassador Majid Takht Ravanchi warned the United States against trying to trigger a return of sanctions.

Putin proposed a video summit with the United States and the remaining parties to the nuclear deal - Britain, France, China, Germany and Iran - to try to avoid further "confrontation and escalation" at the United Nations over Iran. 
"The issue is urgent," Putin said in a statement, adding that the alternative was "only further escalation of tensions, increasing risk of conflict - such a scenario must be avoided."

Asked if he would take part, Trump told reporters, "I hear there's something, but I haven't been told of it yet." French President Emmanuel Macron is open to taking part in a video summit, the Elysee palace said.

The United States has argued that it can trigger a sanctions snapback because a UN Security Council resolution enshrining the nuclear deal named Washington as a participant. But the remaining parties to the deal are opposed to the move.

Putin said Russia, an ally of Iran in the Syrian civil war, remained fully committed to the nuclear deal and that the aim of a summit would be to outline steps aimed at avoiding "confrontation and escalation of the situation in the Security Council."

Trump has said he wants to negotiate a new deal with Iran that would prevent it from developing nuclear weapons and also curb its activities in the region and elsewhere. Trump, who has walked away from a series of international agreements, has dubbed the 2015 nuclear deal - reached under his predecessor Barack Obama - "the worst deal ever."

The United States has lost a bid to extend a UN arms embargo on Iran. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday proposed a summit of world leaders to avoid "confrontation" over a US threat to trigger a return of all UN sanctions on Tehran, which catalysed the UN to take the said decision.

The United States has lost a bid to extend a UN arms embargo on Iran. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday proposed a summit of world leaders to avoid "confrontation" over a US threat to trigger a return of all UN sanctions on Tehran, which catalysed the UN to take the said decision. In a UN Security Council vote, Russia and China opposed extending the weapons ban, which is due to expire in October under a 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers. Eleven members abstained, including France, Germany and Britain, while Washington and the Dominican Republic were the only yes votes. "The Security Council's failure to act decisively in defense of international peace and security is inexcusable," US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement. The United States could now follow through on a threat to trigger a return of all UN sanctions on Iran using a provision in the nuclear deal, known as snapback, even though President Donald Trump abandoned the accord in 2018. Diplomats have said the United States could do this as early as next week, but would face a tough, messy battle. Diplomats have said such a move would put the fragile nuclear deal further at risk because Iran would lose a major incentive for limiting its nuclear activities. Iran already has breached parts of the nuclear deal in response to the US withdrawal from the pact and unilateral sanctions. Iran's UN Ambassador Majid Takht Ravanchi warned the United States against trying to trigger a return of sanctions. Putin proposed a video summit with the United States and the remaining parties to the nuclear deal - Britain, France, China, Germany and Iran - to try to avoid further "confrontation and escalation" at the United Nations over Iran. "The issue is urgent," Putin said in a statement, adding that the alternative was "only further escalation of tensions, increasing risk of conflict - such a scenario must be avoided." Asked if he would take part, Trump told reporters, "I hear there's something, but I haven't been told of it yet." French President Emmanuel Macron is open to taking part in a video summit, the Elysee palace said. The United States has argued that it can trigger a sanctions snapback because a UN Security Council resolution enshrining the nuclear deal named Washington as a participant. But the remaining parties to the deal are opposed to the move. Putin said Russia, an ally of Iran in the Syrian civil war, remained fully committed to the nuclear deal and that the aim of a summit would be to outline steps aimed at avoiding "confrontation and escalation of the situation in the Security Council." Trump has said he wants to negotiate a new deal with Iran that would prevent it from developing nuclear weapons and also curb its activities in the region and elsewhere. Trump, who has walked away from a series of international agreements, has dubbed the 2015 nuclear deal - reached under his predecessor Barack Obama - "the worst deal ever."

UN defeats US demand to extend arms embargo on Iran

The campaign of Democratic presidential contender Joe Biden has raised $48 million in the 48 hours since Senator Kamala Harris was announced as the vice-presidential candidate, a spokesperson for the campaign said.

Biden on Tuesday picked Harris for the post of vice president, making her the first Black woman in the US to get a major-party presidential ticket.

Also read |&nbsp;Biden says all US governors should mandate masks to slow pandemic

The death of African-American George Floyd has caused huge social unrest, not just in the US, but across the world and there was a growing pressure on Biden to choose a Black woman as his vice president for the November elections.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/harris-could-help-biden-with-women-young-voters-maybe-some-republicans-too-reuters-survey-320107">Harris could help Biden with women, young voters, maybe some Republicans too: Reuters survey</a>

The 55-year-old senator's parents are immigrants, her father is from Jamaica, while her mother was born in India.&nbsp;

Harris was the only second Black female senator when she was elected in 2016 and her recent vice-presidential selection will help the party lure African-American voters.&nbsp;

In the last presidential elections, there was a 20 per cent drop in the Black votes, which has contributed to Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton's stunning loss to President Donald Trump.&nbsp;

Harris was earlier part of the Democratic race for the presidency, where he slammed Biden a lot over busing issue.&nbsp;

(With Reuters inputs) 
&nbsp;

The campaign of Democratic presidential contender Joe Biden has raised $48 million in the 48 hours since Senator Kamala Harris was announced as the vice-presidential candidate, a spokesperson for the campaign said.

The campaign of Democratic presidential contender Joe Biden has raised $48 million in the 48 hours since Senator Kamala Harris was announced as the vice-presidential candidate, a spokesperson for the campaign said. Biden on Tuesday picked Harris for the post of vice president, making her the first Black woman in the US to get a major-party presidential ticket. Also read | Biden says all US governors should mandate masks to slow pandemic The death of African-American George Floyd has caused huge social unrest, not just in the US, but across the world and there was a growing pressure on Biden to choose a Black woman as his vice president for the November elections. Also read | Harris could help Biden with women, young voters, maybe some Republicans too: Reuters survey The 55-year-old senator's parents are immigrants, her father is from Jamaica, while her mother was born in India. Harris was the only second Black female senator when she was elected in 2016 and her recent vice-presidential selection will help the party lure African-American voters. In the last presidential elections, there was a 20 per cent drop in the Black votes, which has contributed to Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton's stunning loss to President Donald Trump. Harris was earlier part of the Democratic race for the presidency, where he slammed Biden a lot over busing issue. (With Reuters inputs)

Joe Biden's campaign raises $48 million since Kamala Harris's announcement as VP candidate

All of the countries involved with Israel-UAE deal are India's strategic partners.&nbsp;New Delhi has grown closer to Israel, UAE and the United States in the last few years. A peace deal between the three countries is good news for India. 
&nbsp; 
India may have had an indirect role to play.&nbsp;In 2014, while most of the world expressed their support for Palestine in the open and had under-the-table deals with Israel, India chose to walk a different path. It adopted a de-hyphenation policy between Israel and Palestine.

The government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi chose to balance its ties with Israel and Palestine and keep it independent of one another.

In 2017, PM Modi became the first Indian prime minister to visit Israel. Just months before that he hosted Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.

India's message to the world was: you need not choose between Israel and Palestine,&nbsp;diplomatic ties can be maintained with Israel while supporting the Palestinian cause.

It was India pitching itself as a responsible global leader interested in peace. New Delhi never shied from making its point loud and clear. In 2017, India voted against recognising Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

At the same time&nbsp;it pulled up Palestine when its ambassador to Pakistan was photographed sharing the&nbsp;stage with Hafiz Saeed.

India has also balanced ties between Israel and the other Gulf nations.&nbsp;New Delhi has steered clear of taking sides in sectarian politics. India's policy of de-hyphenation, and its diplomacy in West Asia as a whole has been balanced and independent. It has allowed global validation of India's diplomacy and the peace deal benefits Indian diaspora in the region.

At least 7 million Indians work in West Asia,&nbsp;they will benefit from regional stability. Flight services between Israel and UAE is a boon. As the two countries work out bilateral trade, it may also open new avenues for India&nbsp;as both UAE and Israel are India's strategic partners.

Also, better diplomatic environment in the Arab world is always good news for New Delhi&nbsp;given that India is home to the world's second-largest Muslim population.

All of the countries involved with Israel-UAE deal are India's strategic partners. New Delhi has grown closer to Israel, UAE and the United States in the last few years.

All of the countries involved with Israel-UAE deal are India's strategic partners. New Delhi has grown closer to Israel, UAE and the United States in the last few years. A peace deal between the three countries is good news for India. India may have had an indirect role to play. In 2014, while most of the world expressed their support for Palestine in the open and had under-the-table deals with Israel, India chose to walk a different path. It adopted a de-hyphenation policy between Israel and Palestine. The government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi chose to balance its ties with Israel and Palestine and keep it independent of one another. In 2017, PM Modi became the first Indian prime minister to visit Israel. Just months before that he hosted Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. India's message to the world was: you need not choose between Israel and Palestine, diplomatic ties can be maintained with Israel while supporting the Palestinian cause. It was India pitching itself as a responsible global leader interested in peace. New Delhi never shied from making its point loud and clear. In 2017, India voted against recognising Jerusalem as Israel's capital. At the same time it pulled up Palestine when its ambassador to Pakistan was photographed sharing the stage with Hafiz Saeed. India has also balanced ties between Israel and the other Gulf nations. New Delhi has steered clear of taking sides in sectarian politics. India's policy of de-hyphenation, and its diplomacy in West Asia as a whole has been balanced and independent. It has allowed global validation of India's diplomacy and the peace deal benefits Indian diaspora in the region. At least 7 million Indians work in West Asia, they will benefit from regional stability. Flight services between Israel and UAE is a boon. As the two countries work out bilateral trade, it may also open new avenues for India as both UAE and Israel are India's strategic partners. Also, better diplomatic environment in the Arab world is always good news for New Delhi given that India is home to the world's second-largest Muslim population.

How India benefits from Israel-UAE peace deal

A US journalist has finally asked President Donald Trump a question he wanted an answer of for five years.

In a White House briefing held on Thursday, &nbsp;SV Dáte asked Trump: "after three and a half years (of Trump’s presidency), do you regret at all, all the lying you've done to the American people?"

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/book-trouble-trumps-ex-lawyer-michael-cohen-accuses-trump-of-colluding-with-russia-to-win-elections-320361">Book trouble: Trump's ex-lawyer, Michael Cohen, accuses Trump of colluding with Russia to win elections</a>

Apparently, the question startled the US president and he responded, "all the what?".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wechat-signal-users-in-us-increase-after-trump-threatens-ban-320356#:~:text=More%20users%20in%20the%20United,shared%20with%20Reuters%20on%20Thursday.&amp;text=Signal%20did%20not%20immediately%20respond%20to%20request%20for%20comment.">WeChat, Signal users in US increase after Trump threatens ban</a>

However, Dáte, a White House correspondent, once again, daringly repeated his point: "All the lying, all the dishonesties".&nbsp;

"That who has done," Trump said.

"You have done," the reported replied, after which Trump cut him off and pointed his finger towards the next journalist to ask him any question during the briefing.&nbsp;

Later, Dáte took to Twitter, where he expressed delight for able to ask the question to Trump.

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For five years I've been wanting to ask him that.
— S.V. Dáte (@svdate) <a href="https://twitter.com/svdate/status/1294037622390697984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"For five years I've been wanting to ask him that," he wrote on Twitter.

Dáte later said that he tried to ask him the same question in March, but was sidelined, in an interview to The Guardian.

"Maybe he didn’t recognise me this time," he said.&nbsp;

"You know, he has this group of folks that he normally asks questions of."

He further said Trump's false claims are "singular piece of his presidency that will be remembered in 10 years".

Dáte was not surprised with Trump's reaction, however, when asked whether he would again intend to ask the same question, he said, "Yes, absolutely". 
&nbsp;

A US journalist has finally asked President Donald Trump a question he wanted an answer of for five years. In a White House briefing held on Thursday, SV Dáte asked Trump: "after three and a half years (of Trump’s presidency), do you regret at all, all the lying you've done to the American people?

A US journalist has finally asked President Donald Trump a question he wanted an answer of for five years. In a White House briefing held on Thursday, SV Dáte asked Trump: "after three and a half years (of Trump’s presidency), do you regret at all, all the lying you've done to the American people?" Also read | Book trouble: Trump's ex-lawyer, Michael Cohen, accuses Trump of colluding with Russia to win elections Apparently, the question startled the US president and he responded, "all the what?". Also read | WeChat, Signal users in US increase after Trump threatens ban However, Dáte, a White House correspondent, once again, daringly repeated his point: "All the lying, all the dishonesties". "That who has done," Trump said. "You have done," the reported replied, after which Trump cut him off and pointed his finger towards the next journalist to ask him any question during the briefing. Later, Dáte took to Twitter, where he expressed delight for able to ask the question to Trump. For five years I've been wanting to ask him that. — S.V. Dáte (@svdate) August 13, 2020 × "For five years I've been wanting to ask him that," he wrote on Twitter. Dáte later said that he tried to ask him the same question in March, but was sidelined, in an interview to The Guardian. "Maybe he didn’t recognise me this time," he said. "You know, he has this group of folks that he normally asks questions of." He further said Trump's false claims are "singular piece of his presidency that will be remembered in 10 years". Dáte was not surprised with Trump's reaction, however, when asked whether he would again intend to ask the same question, he said, "Yes, absolutely".

'Do you regret lying?' Journalist's question unsettles Donald Trump

Amid the heightened tensions, the United States and China on Sunday will discuss the "phase one" of the trade deal signed earlier this year.&nbsp;

In January, Beijing and Washington halted a months-long trade war with a partial truce, but the arrival of coronavirus crisis and a number of issues that followed the pandemic, including China's new security law worsened the relations between both the countries.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-says-trumps-china-trade-deal-is-failing-badly-318457">Biden says Trump's China trade deal is 'failing' badly</a>

The purchases by China according to the deal have been lagging and US President Donald Trump has sharpened his attack towards China at a time when the US is less than 100 days away from the presidential elections.&nbsp;

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-china-to-discuss-trade-deal-and-other-grievances-on-august-15-amid-spat-318255">United States, China to discuss trade deal and other grievances on August 15 amid spat</a>

"The outcome of the trade talk will signal if both sides are willing to continue to keep the deal, which will signal whether the relationship will deteriorate further," said Iris Pang, chief economist for greater China at ING, reported news agency AFP.&nbsp;

The world's two largest economies have so far not confirmed the talks, but the deal calls for a meeting after every six months, which would begin from Saturday.&nbsp;

In June, US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said China would continue its commitments made in the deal and the US would be looking for a second deal, but in the same month, a Chinese State Council counsellor said the pandemic has had an "impact" on the agreement and that ties between the countries are "very unsatisfactory." 
&nbsp;

Amid the heightened tensions, the United States and China on Sunday will discuss the "phase one" of the trade deal signed earlier this year. In January, Beijing and Washington halted a months-long trade war with a partial truce, but the arrival of coronavirus crisis and a number of issues that followed the pandemic, including China's new security law worsened the relations between both the countries.

Amid the heightened tensions, the United States and China on Sunday will discuss the "phase one" of the trade deal signed earlier this year. In January, Beijing and Washington halted a months-long trade war with a partial truce, but the arrival of coronavirus crisis and a number of issues that followed the pandemic, including China's new security law worsened the relations between both the countries. Also read | Biden says Trump's China trade deal is 'failing' badly The purchases by China according to the deal have been lagging and US President Donald Trump has sharpened his attack towards China at a time when the US is less than 100 days away from the presidential elections. Also read | United States, China to discuss trade deal and other grievances on August 15 amid spat "The outcome of the trade talk will signal if both sides are willing to continue to keep the deal, which will signal whether the relationship will deteriorate further," said Iris Pang, chief economist for greater China at ING, reported news agency AFP. The world's two largest economies have so far not confirmed the talks, but the deal calls for a meeting after every six months, which would begin from Saturday. In June, US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said China would continue its commitments made in the deal and the US would be looking for a second deal, but in the same month, a Chinese State Council counsellor said the pandemic has had an "impact" on the agreement and that ties between the countries are "very unsatisfactory."

Amid troubled ties, US, China to resume talks on trade deal

As the world struggles to contain the coronavirus pandemic, Latin music superstar Gloria Estefan hopes her new album will help fans escape the daily onslaught of bad news.

Latin superstar Gloria Estefan hopes new album brings joy amid pandemic

The United States health officials said on Thursday that the country would ensure distributing free coronavirus vaccine once the drug is proven effective.&nbsp;

"We are not at all reducing the regulatory rigour with which we will evaluate and hopefully approve vaccines," said Paul Mango, a senior health department official to reporters, as quoted by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-first-covid-19-vaccine-not-in-advanced-test-stages-who-320318">Russia's first Covid-19 vaccine not in advanced test stages: WHO</a>

The US has invested over $10 billion in six vaccine projects and signed agreements intended to deliver hundreds of millions of doses if they get approved following clinical trials.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/phase-3-trials-of-russian-covid-19-vaccine-to-start-in-philippines-in-october-320155">Phase 3 trials of Russian COVID-19 vaccine to start in Philippines in October</a>

The government will bear the expenses of the vaccine doses, but medical professionals who will give these to patients will be paid by insurers.&nbsp;

"Most" private insurers have agreed to waive any out-of-pocket costs to their customers, said Mango.&nbsp;

"We are on track to deliver hundreds of millions of doses by January 2021," he added.

Francis Collins, director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), said he was "cautiously optimistic" that at least one of the six candidates backed by the US would able to come up with the vaccine by the end of this year.&nbsp;

The US officials, though, continued their scepticism towards what Russia earlier this week declared as world's first COVID-19 vaccine.&nbsp;

"I hope that the Russians have actually definitively proven that the vaccine is safe and effective, but I seriously doubt that they've done that," said Anthony Fauci, the infectious disease.&nbsp;

Collins compared the vaccine, dubbed as "Sputnik V" to a game of "Russian roulette". 
&nbsp;

The United States health officials said on Thursday that the country would ensure distributing free coronavirus vaccine once the drug is proven effective. "We are not at all reducing the regulatory rigour with which we will evaluate and hopefully approve vaccines," said Paul Mango, a senior health department official to reporters, as quoted by news agency AFP.

The United States health officials said on Thursday that the country would ensure distributing free coronavirus vaccine once the drug is proven effective. "We are not at all reducing the regulatory rigour with which we will evaluate and hopefully approve vaccines," said Paul Mango, a senior health department official to reporters, as quoted by news agency AFP. Also read | Russia's first Covid-19 vaccine not in advanced test stages: WHO The US has invested over $10 billion in six vaccine projects and signed agreements intended to deliver hundreds of millions of doses if they get approved following clinical trials. Also read | Phase 3 trials of Russian COVID-19 vaccine to start in Philippines in October The government will bear the expenses of the vaccine doses, but medical professionals who will give these to patients will be paid by insurers. "Most" private insurers have agreed to waive any out-of-pocket costs to their customers, said Mango. "We are on track to deliver hundreds of millions of doses by January 2021," he added. Francis Collins, director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), said he was "cautiously optimistic" that at least one of the six candidates backed by the US would able to come up with the vaccine by the end of this year. The US officials, though, continued their scepticism towards what Russia earlier this week declared as world's first COVID-19 vaccine. "I hope that the Russians have actually definitively proven that the vaccine is safe and effective, but I seriously doubt that they've done that," said Anthony Fauci, the infectious disease. Collins compared the vaccine, dubbed as "Sputnik V" to a game of "Russian roulette".

US officials say coronavirus vaccine will be free for all citizens

A new musical about Britain's Princess Diana will be filmed without an audience and air on Netflix Inc in early 2021 before it debuts on Broadway, producers announced on Wednesday (August 12).

Princess Diana musical to debut on Netflix before hitting Broadway 

The Trump administration has relaxed certain provisions for H-1B visas, allowing people to come back for the same job in a similar position.&nbsp;

The US Department of State, in its advisory, permitted "travel by applicants seeking to resume ongoing employment in the United States in the same position with the same employer and visa classification".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/america-makes-exception-to-visa-ban-h-1b-holders-can-enter-us-on-this-condition-320068">America makes exception to visa ban; H-1B holders can enter US on this condition</a>

In the latest advisory, the state department has also allowed children and spouse of primary visa holders to travel with them.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/how-will-h1-b-visa-suspension-impact-indian-companies-307963">How will H1-B visa suspension impact Indian companies?</a>

This is the first relaxations given by the US administration following June 22 proclamation signed by President Donald Trump, which suspended the entry into the country under H-1B and L-1 visa categories. &nbsp;

The decision was taken as the coronavirus pandemic saw unemployment levels triggered by the coronavirus pandemic rising at record levels in the US.&nbsp;

With the new changes, people employed in in critical infrastructure sectors including healthcare and information technology, whose roles are important for their respective organisations to flourish are also allowed to get the visas.

The state department has issued five guidelines and the applicant must meet at least two of them to get a visa.&nbsp;

Healthcare personnel, people involved in COVID-19 research work, travelling to fulfil contractual obligations or because of a request by any US government agency will also be allowed entry into the US.

 
&nbsp;

The Trump administration has relaxed certain provisions for H-1B visas, allowing people to come back for the same job in a similar position. The US Department of State, in its advisory, permitted "travel by applicants seeking to resume ongoing employment in the United States in the same position with the same employer and visa classification".

The Trump administration has relaxed certain provisions for H-1B visas, allowing people to come back for the same job in a similar position. The US Department of State, in its advisory, permitted "travel by applicants seeking to resume ongoing employment in the United States in the same position with the same employer and visa classification". Also read | America makes exception to visa ban; H-1B holders can enter US on this condition In the latest advisory, the state department has also allowed children and spouse of primary visa holders to travel with them. Also read | How will H1-B visa suspension impact Indian companies? This is the first relaxations given by the US administration following June 22 proclamation signed by President Donald Trump, which suspended the entry into the country under H-1B and L-1 visa categories. The decision was taken as the coronavirus pandemic saw unemployment levels triggered by the coronavirus pandemic rising at record levels in the US. With the new changes, people employed in in critical infrastructure sectors including healthcare and information technology, whose roles are important for their respective organisations to flourish are also allowed to get the visas. The state department has issued five guidelines and the applicant must meet at least two of them to get a visa. Healthcare personnel, people involved in COVID-19 research work, travelling to fulfil contractual obligations or because of a request by any US government agency will also be allowed entry into the US.

Trump administration relaxes rules to get H-1B visas

On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump continued to attack his rival in the upcoming presidential elections, Joe Biden, by suggesting he was too soft on China.

While addressing himself in the third person, Trump said, “China will own the United States if this election is lost by Donald Trump," in conversation with radio host Hugh Hewitt.

"If I don't win the election, China will own the United States. You're going to have to learn to speak Chinese, you want to know the truth”, the president claimed.

China a contentious issue

China has become a focal point for the upcoming elections, with both candidates trying to sound tough against Chinese influence.

Trump has repeatedly blamed China for failing to contain the spread of COVID-19, and claims that his relationship with Chinese President Jinping has now soured. The US continues to bother China, be it in the form of sanctions against its top politicians like Carrie Lam, or the historic visit to Taiwan, which was the first in decades.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-calls-kamala-harris-phony-mean-and-most-disrespectful-senator-319848" hreflang="en">Donald Trump calls Kamala Harris 'phony’, 'mean' and, most disrespectful senator</a>

However, Trump is yet to still refer to the persecution of Uighur muslims in China, and his ex aide John Bolton claimed in a book that he had given his approval for the camps to Jinping.

"Who would ever say a thing like that? He made it up. He made up everything," Trump said, while referring to Bolton. "John Bolton is a sick person. And John, and he's not a smart person”, he added.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had referred to the Chinese action against the Uighurs “the stain of the century”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-presidential-candidate-joe-biden-picks-indian-origin-senator-kamala-harris-for-us-vice-presidential-candidate-319835" hreflang="en">Biden picks Indian-origin Kamala Harris for US vice presidential candidate</a>

Trump attacks Harris

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that he was "surprised" when Joe Biden picked Kamala Harris as his vice-presidential candidate. He called Kamala Harris, the "most horrible" member of the US Senate.

Trump told reporters at the White House that Harris did not impress him when she was striving for the Democratic nomination in primaries ultimately won by Biden.

In Pics |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-top-politicians-and-celebrities-are-reacting-to-kamala-harris-vp-pick-319853" hreflang="en">How top politicians and celebrities are reacting to Kamala Harris' VP pick</a>

"I was more surprised than anything else because she did so poorly," he said.

Donald Trump added that during his 2018 Senate confirmation hearings of Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh, Harris was "the meanest, the most horrible, the most disrespectful of anybody in the US Senate."

Trump tweeted out a video calling Harris a "phony"&nbsp;and 'attacking Joe Biden for "racist policies".

On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump continued to attack his rival in the upcoming presidential elections, Joe Biden, by suggesting he was too soft on China. While addressing himself in the third person, Trump said, “China will own the United States if this election is lost by Donald Trump," in conversation with radio host Hugh Hewitt.

On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump continued to attack his rival in the upcoming presidential elections, Joe Biden, by suggesting he was too soft on China. While addressing himself in the third person, Trump said, “China will own the United States if this election is lost by Donald Trump," in conversation with radio host Hugh Hewitt. "If I don't win the election, China will own the United States. You're going to have to learn to speak Chinese, you want to know the truth”, the president claimed. China a contentious issue China has become a focal point for the upcoming elections, with both candidates trying to sound tough against Chinese influence. Trump has repeatedly blamed China for failing to contain the spread of COVID-19, and claims that his relationship with Chinese President Jinping has now soured. The US continues to bother China, be it in the form of sanctions against its top politicians like Carrie Lam, or the historic visit to Taiwan, which was the first in decades. Also read: Donald Trump calls Kamala Harris 'phony’, 'mean' and, most disrespectful senator However, Trump is yet to still refer to the persecution of Uighur muslims in China, and his ex aide John Bolton claimed in a book that he had given his approval for the camps to Jinping. "Who would ever say a thing like that? He made it up. He made up everything," Trump said, while referring to Bolton. "John Bolton is a sick person. And John, and he's not a smart person”, he added. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had referred to the Chinese action against the Uighurs “the stain of the century”. Also read: Biden picks Indian-origin Kamala Harris for US vice presidential candidate Trump attacks Harris US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that he was "surprised" when Joe Biden picked Kamala Harris as his vice-presidential candidate. He called Kamala Harris, the "most horrible" member of the US Senate. Trump told reporters at the White House that Harris did not impress him when she was striving for the Democratic nomination in primaries ultimately won by Biden. In Pics | How top politicians and celebrities are reacting to Kamala Harris' VP pick "I was more surprised than anything else because she did so poorly," he said. Donald Trump added that during his 2018 Senate confirmation hearings of Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh, Harris was "the meanest, the most horrible, the most disrespectful of anybody in the US Senate." Trump tweeted out a video calling Harris a "phony" and 'attacking Joe Biden for "racist policies".

Americans will need to learn Chinese if Biden wins, says Trump

The United States has entered an agreement with drugmaker Moderna Inc to acquire 100 million doses of its potential COVID-19 vaccine for around $1.5 billion (£1.15 billion), the company and White House said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The United States in recent weeks has made deals to acquire hundreds of millions of doses of potential COVID-19 vaccines from several companies as part of its Operation Warp Speed program, which aims to deliver a vaccine in the country by the end of the year.

Moderna's price per dose comes to around $30.50 per person for a two dose regimen.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/facebook-removed-seven-million-posts-in-second-quarter-for-false-coronavirus-information-319836" hreflang="en">Facebook removed seven million posts in second quarter for false coronavirus information</a>

With the exception of its deal with AstraZeneca, which offered a lower price per drug in exchange for upfront research and development costs, all the deals price COVID-19 vaccines between $20 to $42 for a two dose course of treatment.

Moderna's vaccine candidate, mRNA-1273, is one of the few that have already advanced to the final stage of testing and is on track to be completed in September, the company said this month.

Moderna's deal with the U.S. only pays out in full if the drugmaker hits certain unspecific timing benchmarks for vaccine delivery.&nbsp;

The United States has advanced purchase agreements with Johnson &amp; Johnson, AstraZeneca Plc, Pfizer Inc and BioNTech SE, and Sanofi SA and GlaxoSmithKline Plc for their respective vaccine candidates.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/russias-sputnik-v-coronavirus-vaccine-or-publicity-stunt-319816" hreflang="en">Russia's Sputnik V: Coronavirus vaccine or publicity stunt?</a>

The agreements would lock in more than 500 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine for the U.S., assuming that the companies involved receive regulatory approval. Some deals also give the United States an option to purchase additional doses.&nbsp;

The U.S. government previously gave Moderna around $1 billion to fund its research efforts, bringing total U.S. funding to around $2.5 billion.

Other countries, including Japan, the United Kingdom and Canada, have forged similar deals with drugmakers.

The United States has entered an agreement with drugmaker Moderna Inc to acquire 100 million doses of its potential COVID-19 vaccine for around $1.5 billion (£1.

The United States has entered an agreement with drugmaker Moderna Inc to acquire 100 million doses of its potential COVID-19 vaccine for around $1.5 billion (£1.15 billion), the company and White House said on Tuesday. The United States in recent weeks has made deals to acquire hundreds of millions of doses of potential COVID-19 vaccines from several companies as part of its Operation Warp Speed program, which aims to deliver a vaccine in the country by the end of the year. Moderna's price per dose comes to around $30.50 per person for a two dose regimen. Also read: Facebook removed seven million posts in second quarter for false coronavirus information With the exception of its deal with AstraZeneca, which offered a lower price per drug in exchange for upfront research and development costs, all the deals price COVID-19 vaccines between $20 to $42 for a two dose course of treatment. Moderna's vaccine candidate, mRNA-1273, is one of the few that have already advanced to the final stage of testing and is on track to be completed in September, the company said this month. Moderna's deal with the U.S. only pays out in full if the drugmaker hits certain unspecific timing benchmarks for vaccine delivery. The United States has advanced purchase agreements with Johnson & Johnson, AstraZeneca Plc, Pfizer Inc and BioNTech SE, and Sanofi SA and GlaxoSmithKline Plc for their respective vaccine candidates. Also read: Russia's Sputnik V: Coronavirus vaccine or publicity stunt? The agreements would lock in more than 500 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine for the U.S., assuming that the companies involved receive regulatory approval. Some deals also give the United States an option to purchase additional doses. The U.S. government previously gave Moderna around $1 billion to fund its research efforts, bringing total U.S. funding to around $2.5 billion. Other countries, including Japan, the United Kingdom and Canada, have forged similar deals with drugmakers.

US inks $1.5 billion deal with Moderna for 100 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine

Wrestler-turned-movie star Dwayne Johnson clung to the top slot on the list of the world's highest-paid male actors for a second straight year, according to an annual tally released by Forbes magazine on Tuesday (August 11).

Dwayne Johnson retains top spot on Forbes highest-paid male actors list

Trade negotiators from the United States and China will discuss the implementation of the phase one trade deal in the coming days, with China likely to bring up issues surrounding TikTok and WeChat, Bloomberg News reported on Wednesday, citing sources.

Agricultural purchases and the dollar-yuan exchange rate will also be among the topics to be discussed in the virtual meeting that may take place as early as this week, though a date has not been finalized, according to the report.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/tiktok-tracked-android-devices-in-direct-violation-of-googles-policy-319880" hreflang="en">TikTok tracked Android devices in direct violation of Google's policy</a>

Last week, US&nbsp;President Donald Trump unveiled bans on US&nbsp;transactions with the China-based owners of messaging app WeChat and video-sharing app TikTok.

The report comes a day after White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said that the U.S.-China trade deal was in "fine" shape, despite recent tensions between the two countries over Hong Kong, the handling of the coronavirus outbreak, data security and trade tariffs.

Trade negotiators from the United States and China will discuss the implementation of the phase one trade deal in the coming days, with China likely to bring up issues surrounding TikTok and WeChat, Bloomberg News reported on Wednesday, citing sources.

Trade negotiators from the United States and China will discuss the implementation of the phase one trade deal in the coming days, with China likely to bring up issues surrounding TikTok and WeChat, Bloomberg News reported on Wednesday, citing sources. Agricultural purchases and the dollar-yuan exchange rate will also be among the topics to be discussed in the virtual meeting that may take place as early as this week, though a date has not been finalized, according to the report. Also read: TikTok tracked Android devices in direct violation of Google's policy Last week, US President Donald Trump unveiled bans on US transactions with the China-based owners of messaging app WeChat and video-sharing app TikTok. The report comes a day after White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said that the U.S.-China trade deal was in "fine" shape, despite recent tensions between the two countries over Hong Kong, the handling of the coronavirus outbreak, data security and trade tariffs.

China to raise issues surrounding WeChat, TikTok in trade talks with US

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