The U.S. Secret Service abruptly escorted President Donald Trump out of the White House press room in the middle of a briefing on Monday because of a shooting outside the White House.

Trump escorted from briefing after shooting near White House

Taiwan on August 11 told visiting United States Health Secretary Alex Azar that China is pressurising the island to give in to conditions which would create a situation similar to Hong Kong.

On August 10, Chinese jets briefly entered the median line of the Taiwan Strait.

"True honour"

United States Secretary of Health and Human Services, Alex Azar’s diplomatic visit to Taiwan, which began on August 9 was a “true honour” for the Donald Trump administration.

The visit is largely being seen as a token of support to Taiwan, which has for long been sidelined diplomatically with countries favouring recognition of China instead, which in turn claims Taiwan as its own territory, a claim refuted by Taiwanese officials.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/us-begins-highest-level-taiwan-visit-in-decades-319231" hreflang="en">US begins highest level Taiwan visit in decades</a>

Azar met Tsai in the Taiwanese presidential office and claimed to have been in the island country to understand and learn from Taiwan’s success in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic, and the health model which compliments it.&nbsp;Azar had arrived in Taiwan on Sunday in what marked the highest-level US to visit to the country in four decades. The trip drew ire from China, which claimed that this visit was “endangering peace”.

Azar's trip to Taiwan has also coincided with a crackdown in Hong Kong, where&nbsp;police arrested media tycoon Jimmy Lai under a tough new national security law on Monday.

China has proposed a "one country, two systems" kind of arrangement with Taiwan, similar to how the country rules Hong Kong. It has been rejected by all Taiwanese parties.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-a-top-american-official-is-visiting-taiwan-319577/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Reversal of US policy

In 1979, the US had severed ties with Taiwan to favour China. In the backdrop of the ongoing trade spat escalated by the pandemic, Trump has prioritised support for the country, while also boosting arms sales.

China has promised to issue sanctions for this visit. China believes Taiwan to be its own province, and believes force may be used if needed to bring the territory under their control.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/us-arms-sales-to-taiwan-violates-one-china-principle-china-318830" hreflang="en">US arms sales to Taiwan violates 'One China' principle: China</a>

Azar had arrived in Taipei on a US government aircraft on Sunday afternoon, where he was greeted by Brent Christensen, the de facto US ambassador to Taiwan, with Taiwan Deputy Foreign Minister Tien Chung-kwang in attendance.

All of US delegates were tested for COVID-19 before arriving, and have to mandatorily wear face masks and ensure social distancing.

Taiwan has been praised for its containment of COVID-19. Only 480 infections, mostly from outside the country were recorded in the country, and only seven people succumbed to the virus.

Azar claims that he is in the country to improve economic and healthcare cooperation, and to highlight Taiwan’s role in fighting the pandemic.&nbsp;

Taiwan on August 11 told visiting United States Health Secretary Alex Azar that China is pressurising the island to give in to conditions which would create a situation similar to Hong Kong.

Taiwan on August 11 told visiting United States Health Secretary Alex Azar that China is pressurising the island to give in to conditions which would create a situation similar to Hong Kong. On August 10, Chinese jets briefly entered the median line of the Taiwan Strait. "True honour" United States Secretary of Health and Human Services, Alex Azar’s diplomatic visit to Taiwan, which began on August 9 was a “true honour” for the Donald Trump administration. The visit is largely being seen as a token of support to Taiwan, which has for long been sidelined diplomatically with countries favouring recognition of China instead, which in turn claims Taiwan as its own territory, a claim refuted by Taiwanese officials. Also read: US begins highest level Taiwan visit in decades Azar met Tsai in the Taiwanese presidential office and claimed to have been in the island country to understand and learn from Taiwan’s success in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic, and the health model which compliments it. Azar had arrived in Taiwan on Sunday in what marked the highest-level US to visit to the country in four decades. The trip drew ire from China, which claimed that this visit was “endangering peace”. Azar's trip to Taiwan has also coincided with a crackdown in Hong Kong, where police arrested media tycoon Jimmy Lai under a tough new national security law on Monday. China has proposed a "one country, two systems" kind of arrangement with Taiwan, similar to how the country rules Hong Kong. It has been rejected by all Taiwanese parties. Reversal of US policy In 1979, the US had severed ties with Taiwan to favour China. In the backdrop of the ongoing trade spat escalated by the pandemic, Trump has prioritised support for the country, while also boosting arms sales. China has promised to issue sanctions for this visit. China believes Taiwan to be its own province, and believes force may be used if needed to bring the territory under their control. Also read: US arms sales to Taiwan violates 'One China' principle: China Azar had arrived in Taipei on a US government aircraft on Sunday afternoon, where he was greeted by Brent Christensen, the de facto US ambassador to Taiwan, with Taiwan Deputy Foreign Minister Tien Chung-kwang in attendance. All of US delegates were tested for COVID-19 before arriving, and have to mandatorily wear face masks and ensure social distancing. Taiwan has been praised for its containment of COVID-19. Only 480 infections, mostly from outside the country were recorded in the country, and only seven people succumbed to the virus. Azar claims that he is in the country to improve economic and healthcare cooperation, and to highlight Taiwan’s role in fighting the pandemic.

China wants to turn us into next Hong Kong: Taiwan to US official on visit

A gas explosion ripped through a Baltimore neighborhood on Monday, killing at least one person, injuring six and trapping children as the blast destroyed at least three homes, firefighters said.

Fire officials described it as a natural gas explosion but said the exact cause was under investigation.

The blast destroyed three brick row houses and ripped open the wall of another, spreading debris throughout the neighborhood. Rescuers picked through the rubble, searching for victims with their hands and tools, Baltimore City Fire Department spokeswoman Blair Adams told reporters at the scene.

One woman was killed and six people were hospitalized in serious condition, fire officials said.

"The scene remains extremely active," the Baltimore Fire Department wrote on Twitter after a late-afternoon news briefing. "We are working to continue removing &amp; clearing debris to determine if there are more victims. The cause remains under investigation."

Some of victims who were trapped earlier in the day were children, the Baltimore Firefighters IAFF Local 734 said on Twitter.

Neighbors responding to the blast dug through rubble and called out for victims. One neighbor told the Baltimore Sun he could hear shouts from trapped children.

"Come get us! We're stuck!" came the cries, Kevin Matthews told the Sun.

Matthews found one person buried from the neck down and another sheltering in a closet, the Sun said.

"You knew it was something catastrophic," Dean Jones told WBFF television about hearing the blast. "I didn't think. I didn't grab shoes. I took off running. I followed the smoke. I started yelling to come help."

Jones and several other neighbors freed at least one woman from the scene.

"Once they said a kid was in there, I lost it. I said I had to get in there now," Jones told WBAL television. "I am not a hero, I'm a human."

A gas explosion ripped through a Baltimore neighborhood on Monday, killing at least one person, injuring six and trapping children as the blast destroyed at least three homes, firefighters said.

A gas explosion ripped through a Baltimore neighborhood on Monday, killing at least one person, injuring six and trapping children as the blast destroyed at least three homes, firefighters said. Fire officials described it as a natural gas explosion but said the exact cause was under investigation. The blast destroyed three brick row houses and ripped open the wall of another, spreading debris throughout the neighborhood. Rescuers picked through the rubble, searching for victims with their hands and tools, Baltimore City Fire Department spokeswoman Blair Adams told reporters at the scene. One woman was killed and six people were hospitalized in serious condition, fire officials said. "The scene remains extremely active," the Baltimore Fire Department wrote on Twitter after a late-afternoon news briefing. "We are working to continue removing & clearing debris to determine if there are more victims. The cause remains under investigation." Some of victims who were trapped earlier in the day were children, the Baltimore Firefighters IAFF Local 734 said on Twitter. Neighbors responding to the blast dug through rubble and called out for victims. One neighbor told the Baltimore Sun he could hear shouts from trapped children. "Come get us! We're stuck!" came the cries, Kevin Matthews told the Sun. Matthews found one person buried from the neck down and another sheltering in a closet, the Sun said. "You knew it was something catastrophic," Dean Jones told WBFF television about hearing the blast. "I didn't think. I didn't grab shoes. I took off running. I followed the smoke. I started yelling to come help." Jones and several other neighbors freed at least one woman from the scene. "Once they said a kid was in there, I lost it. I said I had to get in there now," Jones told WBAL television. "I am not a hero, I'm a human."

Gas explosion tears through Baltimore homes, at least one person killed

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that India is at second place when it comes to coronavirus COVID-19 testing while the US leading the world.

"We have tested close to 65 million people and no country is even close to that number. India would be second at 11 million (tests) and they have 1.5 billion people. We have the number one testing in the world by far and also the highest quality tests," Donald Trump told reporters.

"I feel strongly that we will have a vaccine by the end of the year and it will be put into service as soon as we get it," he added.

"Nationwide we continue to see encouraging signs in the last seven days as in the last seven days we continue to see a decline in cases by 14 per cent, hospitalisations decrease by 7 per cent and fatalities decrease by 9 per cent," he said further.

As per Johns Hopkins University, the US has a total of 5,089,416 COVID-19 cases and India has a total of 2,215,074 COVID-19 cases as of Tuesday.

India performed 719,364 coronavirus disease (Covid-19) tests on August 8, taking the total number of daily testing closer to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) target of one million per day by the end of August.

ICMR is in the process of ramping up Covid-19 testing in the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that India is at second place when it comes to coronavirus COVID-19 testing while the US leading the world. "We have tested close to 65 million people and no country is even close to that number.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that India is at second place when it comes to coronavirus COVID-19 testing while the US leading the world. "We have tested close to 65 million people and no country is even close to that number. India would be second at 11 million (tests) and they have 1.5 billion people. We have the number one testing in the world by far and also the highest quality tests," Donald Trump told reporters. "I feel strongly that we will have a vaccine by the end of the year and it will be put into service as soon as we get it," he added. "Nationwide we continue to see encouraging signs in the last seven days as in the last seven days we continue to see a decline in cases by 14 per cent, hospitalisations decrease by 7 per cent and fatalities decrease by 9 per cent," he said further. As per Johns Hopkins University, the US has a total of 5,089,416 COVID-19 cases and India has a total of 2,215,074 COVID-19 cases as of Tuesday. India performed 719,364 coronavirus disease (Covid-19) tests on August 8, taking the total number of daily testing closer to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) target of one million per day by the end of August. ICMR is in the process of ramping up Covid-19 testing in the country. (With inputs from agencies)

India has conducted most coronavirus tests after US: Donald Trump

Amid the ongoing spat between the United States and China, another development has taken place on August 11.

Starting September 25, all goods made in Hong Kong intended for export to the US will be labelled “Made in China”. This was revealed in a US government notice posted on Tuesday.

Stressful relations

This comes after stressful relations between the two countries over China’s imposition of the controversial National Security Law in Hong Kong, which is being seen as a defiance of the “One Country, Two Systems” principle on which HK was returned to China by the UK.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/china-wants-to-turn-us-into-next-hong-kong-taiwan-to-us-official-on-visit-319622" hreflang="en">China wants to turn us into next Hong Kong: Taiwan to US official on visit</a>

In the aftermath of the law’s imposition in the city, the US ended former British colony’s special status.

This happened in the wake of already escalating bilateral tensions between the countries, and the US’ criticism of China over their handling of the COVID-19 outbreak.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/gravitas-first-high-profile-arrest-under-the-hong-kong-security-law-319578/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

After this move is enforced, Hong Kong companies will be subject to the same trade war tariffs that are levied on companies from Mainland China “should they make products subject to these duties”, as per the US Customs and Border Protection notice.

45 days from now, all goods coming in from Hong Kong “must be marked to indicate that their origin is “China”.

"No longer autonomous"&nbsp;

Earlier, in light of the National Security Law in the city, the US determined that the city is “no longer sufficiently autonomous to justify differential treatment in relation to China".

Trump has unleashed attacks against China on multiple fronts in a bid to get re-elected as US president as elections in the country near.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/hong-kongs-jimmy-lai-arrested-under-the-new-security-law-319562" hreflang="en">Hong Kong's Jimmy Lai arrested under the new security law</a>

On Friday, the US had imposed sanctions on Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam along with 10 Chinese diplomats. The city’s current and former police chiefs have also been sanctioned for curtailing political freedoms in the city.

China retaliated on Monday by imposing sanctions on 11 US citizens that include lawmakers from the Republican Party.

On Monday, US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said that companies from China and other countries that fail to comply with US accounting standards will be delisted from the US stock exchanges starting end of 2021.

Amid the ongoing spat between the United States and China, another development has taken place on August 11. Starting September 25, all goods made in Hong Kong intended for export to the US will be labelled “Made in China”.

Amid the ongoing spat between the United States and China, another development has taken place on August 11. Starting September 25, all goods made in Hong Kong intended for export to the US will be labelled “Made in China”. This was revealed in a US government notice posted on Tuesday. Stressful relations This comes after stressful relations between the two countries over China’s imposition of the controversial National Security Law in Hong Kong, which is being seen as a defiance of the “One Country, Two Systems” principle on which HK was returned to China by the UK. Also read: China wants to turn us into next Hong Kong: Taiwan to US official on visit In the aftermath of the law’s imposition in the city, the US ended former British colony’s special status. This happened in the wake of already escalating bilateral tensions between the countries, and the US’ criticism of China over their handling of the COVID-19 outbreak. After this move is enforced, Hong Kong companies will be subject to the same trade war tariffs that are levied on companies from Mainland China “should they make products subject to these duties”, as per the US Customs and Border Protection notice. 45 days from now, all goods coming in from Hong Kong “must be marked to indicate that their origin is “China”. "No longer autonomous" Earlier, in light of the National Security Law in the city, the US determined that the city is “no longer sufficiently autonomous to justify differential treatment in relation to China". Trump has unleashed attacks against China on multiple fronts in a bid to get re-elected as US president as elections in the country near. Also read: Hong Kong's Jimmy Lai arrested under the new security law On Friday, the US had imposed sanctions on Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam along with 10 Chinese diplomats. The city’s current and former police chiefs have also been sanctioned for curtailing political freedoms in the city. China retaliated on Monday by imposing sanctions on 11 US citizens that include lawmakers from the Republican Party. On Monday, US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said that companies from China and other countries that fail to comply with US accounting standards will be delisted from the US stock exchanges starting end of 2021.

All goods made in Hong Kong to declare origin as 'China' starting September: US

A major explosion ripped through a Baltimore neighborhood in US on Monday, leveling several houses, trapping at least five people and critically injuring three, Reuters report said quoting the firefighters.

A major explosion ripped through a Baltimore neighborhood in US on Monday, leveling several houses, trapping at least five people and critically injuring three, Reuters report said quoting the firefighters. Images on WBFF television showed a section of row houses leveled with rubble strewn around, the report added. Three patients, all in critical condition, were rescued by firefighters, the Baltimore Firefighters IAFF Local 734 posted on Twitter. "Several houses exploded. At least 5 people trapped, some children. A Collapse Response and Second Alarm has been called," the union said on Twitter. The union tweeted photos of rescue workers climbing over a pile of debris. (With inputs from Reuters)

Major explosion rips through Baltimore neighbourhood: Report

On Saturday, US President Donald Trump ended a news conference abruptly and walked out after being confronted about a lie he has told over 150 times.

Referring to the lie about a veterans health care programme, which CNN reported had been unfurled by Trump on multiple occasions, at least 150 times.

The US president was speaking&nbsp;in New Jersey, and claimed that the Veterans Choice programme was passed in the country because of him.

"We got it done"

"They've been trying to get that passed for decades and decades and decades and no president's ever been able to do it, and we got it done”, Trump asserted.

However, the programme was signed by former US President Barack Obama, after which it became a law in 2014.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-americans-are-relinquishing-their-us-citizenship-than-ever-before-319312" hreflang="en">More Americans are relinquishing their US citizenship than ever before</a>

The 2014 law&nbsp;allows veterans to be provided for by the government, especially healthcare. A bipartisan initiative, the move was taken forward by two senators that have faced Trump’s criticism - Bernie Sanders and later John McCain.

Perhaps what Trump was referring to was the VA MISSION Act, which was signed by him in 2018, after which it became a law. This was a slight&nbsp; modification to the eligibility criteria for the preexisting Choice programme.

Never in "50 years"

Even though Trump is solely responsible for a modification in the Act, he has taken credit for the entire programme, and has claimed that no president had been able to do this in “50 years”.

A CBS News correspondent Paula Reid asked Trump why he continues to call it his victory. “Why do you keep saying that you passed Veterans Choice?”, Reid asked Trump at the news conference.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-white-house-pitch-trump-for-mount-rushmore-sounds-like-a-good-idea-says-the-president-319317" hreflang="en">Did White House pitch Trump for Mount Rushmore? Sounds like a good idea, says the president</a>

Instead of answering Reid, Trump moved on to a different reported. Reid, however, continued and said "You said that you passed Veterans Choice. It was passed in 2014...it was a false statement, sir."

After this, Trump paused for a while and then made his exit. “Ok, thank you very much, everybody”, he announced before walking away as “YMCA” played in the background.

This marks the first rebuttal of Trump’s lie about the Veterans Choice programme. This was the same conference in which new coronavirus relief measures were announced.

On Saturday, US President Donald Trump ended a news conference abruptly and walked out after being confronted about a lie he has told over 150 times. Referring to the lie about a veterans health care programme, which CNN reported had been unfurled by Trump on multiple occasions, at least 150 times.

On Saturday, US President Donald Trump ended a news conference abruptly and walked out after being confronted about a lie he has told over 150 times. Referring to the lie about a veterans health care programme, which CNN reported had been unfurled by Trump on multiple occasions, at least 150 times. The US president was speaking in New Jersey, and claimed that the Veterans Choice programme was passed in the country because of him. "We got it done" "They've been trying to get that passed for decades and decades and decades and no president's ever been able to do it, and we got it done”, Trump asserted. However, the programme was signed by former US President Barack Obama, after which it became a law in 2014. Also read: More Americans are relinquishing their US citizenship than ever before The 2014 law allows veterans to be provided for by the government, especially healthcare. A bipartisan initiative, the move was taken forward by two senators that have faced Trump’s criticism - Bernie Sanders and later John McCain. Perhaps what Trump was referring to was the VA MISSION Act, which was signed by him in 2018, after which it became a law. This was a slight modification to the eligibility criteria for the preexisting Choice programme. Never in "50 years" Even though Trump is solely responsible for a modification in the Act, he has taken credit for the entire programme, and has claimed that no president had been able to do this in “50 years”. A CBS News correspondent Paula Reid asked Trump why he continues to call it his victory. “Why do you keep saying that you passed Veterans Choice?”, Reid asked Trump at the news conference. Also read: Did White House pitch Trump for Mount Rushmore? Sounds like a good idea, says the president Instead of answering Reid, Trump moved on to a different reported. Reid, however, continued and said "You said that you passed Veterans Choice. It was passed in 2014...it was a false statement, sir." After this, Trump paused for a while and then made his exit. “Ok, thank you very much, everybody”, he announced before walking away as “YMCA” played in the background. This marks the first rebuttal of Trump’s lie about the Veterans Choice programme. This was the same conference in which new coronavirus relief measures were announced.

Trump ends press conference after being fact-checked by a reporter

Amid the growing number of concerns in the United States, a new trend has surfaced in the country.&nbsp;According to a new research published on August 9, a record number of people are now giving up US citizenship.

In the first half of 2020, over 5,800 gave up their citizenship of the US, as compared to the 2,072 Americans who gave it up in all of 2019, as per data from Bambridge Accountants.

Major turmoil in the country

The US has been the stage of a lot of turmoil in 2020, as protests against racism intensified and continue to swell cities sporadically. Additionally, the ambivalent response to COVID-19 has made US the hardest-hit country in the entire world. The US has recorded 5 million cases of the virus alone.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/china-says-it-opposes-barbarous-hong-kong-sanctions-by-united-states-319003" hreflang="en">China says it opposes 'barbarous' Hong Kong sanctions by United States</a>

As per the firm’s data, the number of citizens giving up their citizenship of the country has shot up tremendously. To reach this conclusion they studied government data on citizenship, which is published every three months.

Alistair Bambridge told CNN that those who gave up their citizenship were mostly people who were already out of the States and those who had decided “they’ve had enough of everything”.

The central factors influencing people’s decisions to give up their citizenship may be primarily based on Trump’s mishandling of the coronavirus pandemic, clubbed with political movements brewing in the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/joe-biden-calls-trump-first-racist-president-of-the-united-states-315267" hreflang="en">Joe Biden calls Trump 'first' racist president of the United States</a>

More than politics

Besides being dissatisfied with the contemporary socio-political landscape in the country, many have left the country due to taxes, as per Bambridge.

Citizens of the US who move to other countries have to file tax returns every year regardless of where they are.&nbsp; In addition, they also have to divulge details of their foreign bank accounts, investments, and pensions, among many other financial details.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/quantum-leap-united-states-unveils-blueprint-for-virtually-unhackable-internet-315799" hreflang="en">'Quantum' leap: United States unveils blueprint for virtually 'unhackable internet'</a>

Even though citizens are eligible to assert claim over $1.200 stimulus cheques, with $500 for each child, Bambridge believed the taxation system is simply “too much”.

In order to forego their citizenship of the US, Americans are required to pay $2,350 and physically appear at a US embassy in the country where they’re situated.

A high stake presidential election in November may further influence the rate of relinquishing citizenship among expat Americans. Bambridge believes the numbers will go up if Trump is re-elected.

Amid the growing number of concerns in the United States, a new trend has surfaced in the country. According to a new research published on August 9, a record number of people are now giving up US citizenship.

Amid the growing number of concerns in the United States, a new trend has surfaced in the country. According to a new research published on August 9, a record number of people are now giving up US citizenship. In the first half of 2020, over 5,800 gave up their citizenship of the US, as compared to the 2,072 Americans who gave it up in all of 2019, as per data from Bambridge Accountants. Major turmoil in the country The US has been the stage of a lot of turmoil in 2020, as protests against racism intensified and continue to swell cities sporadically. Additionally, the ambivalent response to COVID-19 has made US the hardest-hit country in the entire world. The US has recorded 5 million cases of the virus alone. Also read: China says it opposes 'barbarous' Hong Kong sanctions by United States As per the firm’s data, the number of citizens giving up their citizenship of the country has shot up tremendously. To reach this conclusion they studied government data on citizenship, which is published every three months. Alistair Bambridge told CNN that those who gave up their citizenship were mostly people who were already out of the States and those who had decided “they’ve had enough of everything”. The central factors influencing people’s decisions to give up their citizenship may be primarily based on Trump’s mishandling of the coronavirus pandemic, clubbed with political movements brewing in the country. Also read: Joe Biden calls Trump 'first' racist president of the United States More than politics Besides being dissatisfied with the contemporary socio-political landscape in the country, many have left the country due to taxes, as per Bambridge. Citizens of the US who move to other countries have to file tax returns every year regardless of where they are. In addition, they also have to divulge details of their foreign bank accounts, investments, and pensions, among many other financial details. Also read: 'Quantum' leap: United States unveils blueprint for virtually 'unhackable internet' Even though citizens are eligible to assert claim over $1.200 stimulus cheques, with $500 for each child, Bambridge believed the taxation system is simply “too much”. In order to forego their citizenship of the US, Americans are required to pay $2,350 and physically appear at a US embassy in the country where they’re situated. A high stake presidential election in November may further influence the rate of relinquishing citizenship among expat Americans. Bambridge believes the numbers will go up if Trump is re-elected.

More Americans are relinquishing their US citizenship than ever before

Thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts are descending on Sturgis, South Dakota, this weekend for an annual 10-day motorcycle rally.

Despite threat of coronavirus, motorcycle fans hold annual rally

Even amid rising coronavirus infections, at the behest of President Donald Trump, many schools across the country have started reopening.

As soon as Trump’s plans were revealed, mixed reactions followed. Many felt it was too risky to send children back to school, while others asked for more time. On the other hand lie a few who claimed that they can’t “stay in forever” and that the country needs to reopen as soon as possible.

A whopping 97,000 kids

However, a new report does not paint a rosy picture of what’s going on across American schools. At least 97,000 kids tested positive for coronavirus in the last two weeks of July, as per data revealed by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/kids-parents-in-us-perform-diy-tests-for-coronavirus-study-319016" hreflang="en">Kids, parents in US perform DIY tests for coronavirus study</a>

The infections were recorded in the time period between July 16-30.

According to CBS News’ numbers, out of the 5 million cases in the US, over 338,000 were children.

To ensure kids are tested, a doctor from the Vanderbilt University has kicked off a testing campaign go its kind. As part of this, Dr Tine Hartert is heading a government study which sent out do-it-yourself testing kits to more than 2,000 American families as parents prepare their kids to return to school.

School districts wary

New York City, which is the country’s largest school district is planning to resume physical schools by autumn, with Mayor Bill de Blasio having said that the officials are working “incessantly” to ensure risks are minimised.

As part of this, the NY schooling districts took into account examples from across the world. “They've looked at examples from all over the world of what will keep the school community safe, and they've made a series of choices of how to do things from the health and safety lens first, while also making sure we can educate our kids," Blasio said on Friday during a press conference.

Also read: R<a href="/world/race-plays-a-role-in-severe-covid-19-illness-among-kids-study-finds-319012" hreflang="en">ace plays a role in severe COVID-19 illness among kids, study finds</a>

Parents in New York City can choose whether they want their kids to attend school in person, through remote learning, or a combination of both.

In July, over 25 kids had died in the US of coronavirus. As Trump promises and pushes to “reopen more schools”, 13,000 school districts across the country are trying to come up with a safe game plan to make this happen.

Even amid rising coronavirus infections, at the behest of President Donald Trump, many schools across the country have started reopening. As soon as Trump’s plans were revealed, mixed reactions followed.

Even amid rising coronavirus infections, at the behest of President Donald Trump, many schools across the country have started reopening. As soon as Trump’s plans were revealed, mixed reactions followed. Many felt it was too risky to send children back to school, while others asked for more time. On the other hand lie a few who claimed that they can’t “stay in forever” and that the country needs to reopen as soon as possible. A whopping 97,000 kids However, a new report does not paint a rosy picture of what’s going on across American schools. At least 97,000 kids tested positive for coronavirus in the last two weeks of July, as per data revealed by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Also read: Kids, parents in US perform DIY tests for coronavirus study The infections were recorded in the time period between July 16-30. According to CBS News’ numbers, out of the 5 million cases in the US, over 338,000 were children. To ensure kids are tested, a doctor from the Vanderbilt University has kicked off a testing campaign go its kind. As part of this, Dr Tine Hartert is heading a government study which sent out do-it-yourself testing kits to more than 2,000 American families as parents prepare their kids to return to school. School districts wary New York City, which is the country’s largest school district is planning to resume physical schools by autumn, with Mayor Bill de Blasio having said that the officials are working “incessantly” to ensure risks are minimised. As part of this, the NY schooling districts took into account examples from across the world. “They've looked at examples from all over the world of what will keep the school community safe, and they've made a series of choices of how to do things from the health and safety lens first, while also making sure we can educate our kids," Blasio said on Friday during a press conference. Also read: Race plays a role in severe COVID-19 illness among kids, study finds Parents in New York City can choose whether they want their kids to attend school in person, through remote learning, or a combination of both. In July, over 25 kids had died in the US of coronavirus. As Trump promises and pushes to “reopen more schools”, 13,000 school districts across the country are trying to come up with a safe game plan to make this happen.

At least 97,000 kids contracted coronavirus in the last two weeks of July in US

The United States&nbsp;on Sunday reached the extraordinary milestone of five million coronavirus cases as President Donald Trump was accused of flouting the constitution by unilaterally extending a virus relief package.

The US has been hammered by the COVID-19 pandemic, recording over 162,000 deaths -- by far the highest of any country, ahead only of Brazil which on Saturday became the second country to pass 100,000 deaths.

The global death toll is at least 727,288 since the novel coronavirus emerged in China last December, according to a running tally from official sources compiled by AFP.

Nearly 20 million cases have been registered worldwide -- probably reflecting only a fraction of the actual number of infections.

As around much of the globe, the small African country of Malawi on Sunday imposed tight social restrictions to try to contain the disease, shutting all bars and churches, while hot weekend weather drew crowds in Europe to the beach.

In Washington, the new virus relief package -- announced by Trump on Saturday after talks between Republican and Democrat lawmakers hit a wall -- was "absurdly unconstitutional," senior Democrat Nancy Pelosi told CNN.

Fellow Democrat, Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer, appearing on ABC, dismissed Trump's unilateral measures as "unworkable, weak and far too narrow."

But with the nation's economy still struggling to dig itself out of an enormous hole, Democrats appeared skittish about any legal challenge to a relief package they see as seriously inadequate.

The four executive orders Trump signed Saturday at his golf club in Bedminster, New Jersey will, among other things, defer payroll taxes and provide some temporary unemployment benefits.

The president was seen as keen to show himself taking decisive action ahead of a November 3 election that could see him ousted from office, with polls showing a large majority of voters unhappy with his handling of the crisis.

Democrats say the president's orders infringe on Congress's constitutional authority over the federal budget.

But Pelosi demurred when asked about possible legal action, saying, "whether (it was) legal or not takes time to figure out."

White House economic advisor Larry Kudlow defended the new measures.

"Maybe we're going to go to court on them. We're going to go ahead with our actions anyway," he said.

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin issued a statement Sunday saying Trump "was fully committed to making sure that hardworking Americans and businesses continue to have the resources they need as our country safely reopens."

Trump's Democratic opponent in the presidential election, Joe Biden, tweeted that five million coronavirus cases was "a number that boggles the mind and breaks the heart.

"It shouldn't have gotten this bad," he said.

Elsewhere, growing infections in and around Paris prompted French officials to make face masks compulsory outdoors in crowded areas and tourist hotspots in the city and surrounding areas from Monday.

The mask will be obligatory for all those aged 11 and over in "very crowded zones," said a police statement, including the banks of the Seine River and more than 100 streets in the French capital.

As temperatures soared across western Europe, holidaymakers crowded beaches at the weekend despite warnings about the risk of infection.

Local authorities in Germany warned that some beaches and lakes would be closed if there were too many people.

Belgian police meanwhile arrested several people Saturday at the resort of Blankenberge after a brawl broke out on a beach between officers and youths they had told to leave for refusing to respect virus safety measures.&nbsp;

And around 5,000 people demonstrated in Vienna for increased financial support for nightlife and relaxing coronavirus regulations.

The United States on Sunday reached the extraordinary milestone of five million coronavirus cases as President Donald Trump was accused of flouting the constitution by unilaterally extending a virus relief package.

The United States on Sunday reached the extraordinary milestone of five million coronavirus cases as President Donald Trump was accused of flouting the constitution by unilaterally extending a virus relief package. The US has been hammered by the COVID-19 pandemic, recording over 162,000 deaths -- by far the highest of any country, ahead only of Brazil which on Saturday became the second country to pass 100,000 deaths. The global death toll is at least 727,288 since the novel coronavirus emerged in China last December, according to a running tally from official sources compiled by AFP. Nearly 20 million cases have been registered worldwide -- probably reflecting only a fraction of the actual number of infections. As around much of the globe, the small African country of Malawi on Sunday imposed tight social restrictions to try to contain the disease, shutting all bars and churches, while hot weekend weather drew crowds in Europe to the beach. In Washington, the new virus relief package -- announced by Trump on Saturday after talks between Republican and Democrat lawmakers hit a wall -- was "absurdly unconstitutional," senior Democrat Nancy Pelosi told CNN. Fellow Democrat, Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer, appearing on ABC, dismissed Trump's unilateral measures as "unworkable, weak and far too narrow." But with the nation's economy still struggling to dig itself out of an enormous hole, Democrats appeared skittish about any legal challenge to a relief package they see as seriously inadequate. The four executive orders Trump signed Saturday at his golf club in Bedminster, New Jersey will, among other things, defer payroll taxes and provide some temporary unemployment benefits. The president was seen as keen to show himself taking decisive action ahead of a November 3 election that could see him ousted from office, with polls showing a large majority of voters unhappy with his handling of the crisis. Democrats say the president's orders infringe on Congress's constitutional authority over the federal budget. But Pelosi demurred when asked about possible legal action, saying, "whether (it was) legal or not takes time to figure out." White House economic advisor Larry Kudlow defended the new measures. "Maybe we're going to go to court on them. We're going to go ahead with our actions anyway," he said. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin issued a statement Sunday saying Trump "was fully committed to making sure that hardworking Americans and businesses continue to have the resources they need as our country safely reopens." Trump's Democratic opponent in the presidential election, Joe Biden, tweeted that five million coronavirus cases was "a number that boggles the mind and breaks the heart. "It shouldn't have gotten this bad," he said. Elsewhere, growing infections in and around Paris prompted French officials to make face masks compulsory outdoors in crowded areas and tourist hotspots in the city and surrounding areas from Monday. The mask will be obligatory for all those aged 11 and over in "very crowded zones," said a police statement, including the banks of the Seine River and more than 100 streets in the French capital. As temperatures soared across western Europe, holidaymakers crowded beaches at the weekend despite warnings about the risk of infection. Local authorities in Germany warned that some beaches and lakes would be closed if there were too many people. Belgian police meanwhile arrested several people Saturday at the resort of Blankenberge after a brawl broke out on a beach between officers and youths they had told to leave for refusing to respect virus safety measures. And around 5,000 people demonstrated in Vienna for increased financial support for nightlife and relaxing coronavirus regulations.

US hits 5 million virus cases as Trump criticised over relief package

The tussle continues over the second COVID-19 stimulus bill in the United States. Even after more than a week's meetings no decision has been taken. Watch report.

US virus stimulus talks deadlocked | Negotiations on relief package fall apart

The United States has now announced its highest-level visit in four decades to Taiwan. This move by Washington can now anger China as tensions between the two nations continue to escalate. Watch report.

US builds on Taiwan ties: US highest-level visit to Taiwan | World News

United States and China are set to have a dialogue on the phase 1 of their trade deal on August 15 via video conferencing, Reuters reported.

Chinese and US counterparts will air their grievances on matters of mutual interest. Mostly likely, US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Chinese Vice Premier Liu He will represent their respective countries.

Review of the pact

This meting will include a review of the pact which was signed on February 15. First reported by the Wall Street Journal, no confirmation has come in from either sides yet.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/opinions-blogs/us-china-trade-deal-what-were-the-key-issues-and-are-they-resolved-275073" hreflang="en">US China trade deal: What were the key issues and are they resolved?</a>

As part of the phase 1 trade deal which was signed in January, China had pledged to increase the purchaser of US goods by $200 billion above levels in 2017. This also included agricultural and manufactured products.

However, owing to the global economic fallout due to COVID-19, China has been unable to meet its commitment and first-year goal of increasing the investment by $77 billion. Additionally, imports of farm goods have decreased recently, and remain way behind the 50 per cent increase needed to meet the 2020 target of $36.5 billion.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/us-trade-war-with-china-impacts-demand-us-economy-us-manufacturing-activity-318021/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

China faltering on trade deal

China, so far, has bought only 5 per cent of the energy products required to meet the set goal of $25.3 billion.

Reuters reported that China is expected to raise more than just trade issues at the meeting.

"It's both the normal semi-annual review and also comes at a time when the relationship continues to deteriorate. Naturally there is much to discuss," the person told Reuters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/no-evidence-of-tiktok-misusing-data-says-australian-pm-scott-morrison-318242" hreflang="en">No evidence of TikTok misusing data, says Australian PM Scott Morrison</a>

Chinese ambassador to the US, Cui Tiankai on Tuesday said that there were plans for high level consultations, as was envisioned in the trade deal.

"If they do have such a meeting I guess it will be very positive," Cui said at a recent event.

US President Donald Trump had earlier threatened to terminate the trade pact in China in view of the coronavirus pandemic. The US has also threatened sanctions against China for national security laws in Hong Kong.

Both the sides have been involved in a diplomatic spat over trade for a couple of years, which has intensified with the onset of COVID-19 pandemic. This comes in as the world assumes a largely anti-China rhetoric. For instance, India banned multiple Chinese apps and put a cap on imports. Similarly, UK announced plans to flush out Huawei from its network. Along the same lines, US is seeking a ban on TikTok if it not sold to an American company, with Microsoft in the loop.

United States and China are set to have a dialogue on the phase 1 of their trade deal on August 15 via video conferencing, Reuters reported. Chinese and US counterparts will air their grievances on matters of mutual interest.

United States and China are set to have a dialogue on the phase 1 of their trade deal on August 15 via video conferencing, Reuters reported. Chinese and US counterparts will air their grievances on matters of mutual interest. Mostly likely, US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Chinese Vice Premier Liu He will represent their respective countries. Review of the pact This meting will include a review of the pact which was signed on February 15. First reported by the Wall Street Journal, no confirmation has come in from either sides yet. Also read: US China trade deal: What were the key issues and are they resolved? As part of the phase 1 trade deal which was signed in January, China had pledged to increase the purchaser of US goods by $200 billion above levels in 2017. This also included agricultural and manufactured products. However, owing to the global economic fallout due to COVID-19, China has been unable to meet its commitment and first-year goal of increasing the investment by $77 billion. Additionally, imports of farm goods have decreased recently, and remain way behind the 50 per cent increase needed to meet the 2020 target of $36.5 billion. China faltering on trade deal China, so far, has bought only 5 per cent of the energy products required to meet the set goal of $25.3 billion. Reuters reported that China is expected to raise more than just trade issues at the meeting. "It's both the normal semi-annual review and also comes at a time when the relationship continues to deteriorate. Naturally there is much to discuss," the person told Reuters. Also read: No evidence of TikTok misusing data, says Australian PM Scott Morrison Chinese ambassador to the US, Cui Tiankai on Tuesday said that there were plans for high level consultations, as was envisioned in the trade deal. "If they do have such a meeting I guess it will be very positive," Cui said at a recent event. US President Donald Trump had earlier threatened to terminate the trade pact in China in view of the coronavirus pandemic. The US has also threatened sanctions against China for national security laws in Hong Kong. Both the sides have been involved in a diplomatic spat over trade for a couple of years, which has intensified with the onset of COVID-19 pandemic. This comes in as the world assumes a largely anti-China rhetoric. For instance, India banned multiple Chinese apps and put a cap on imports. Similarly, UK announced plans to flush out Huawei from its network. Along the same lines, US is seeking a ban on TikTok if it not sold to an American company, with Microsoft in the loop.

United States, China to discuss trade deal and other grievances on August 15 amid spat

U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar will visit Taiwan in coming days, making the highest level visit by a U.S. official in four decades, his office said on Tuesday, in a move likely to anger China which claims the island as its own.

During his visit Azar will meet with President Tsai Ing-wen, Taiwan's Foreign Ministry said in a separate statement.

China describes Taiwan as the most sensitive issue in Sino-U.S. ties, and Azar's visit will probably further inflame already poor Beijing-Washington relations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/quantum-leap-united-states-unveils-blueprint-for-virtually-unhackable-internet-315799" hreflang="en">'Quantum' leap: United States unveils blueprint for virtually 'unhackable internet'</a>

"Taiwan has been a model of transparency and cooperation in global health during the COVID-19 pandemic and long before it," Azar said in a statement.

"I look forward to conveying President Trump's support for Taiwan's global health leadership and underscoring our shared belief that free and democratic societies are the best model for protecting and promoting health."

His department, describing the trip as "historic", said Azar would be accompanied by Mitchell Wolfe, Chief Medical Officer of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and other members of the administration.

The United States, like most countries, has no formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, having ditched Taipei in favour of Beijing in 1979, but is its main arms supplier and strongest backer on the international stage.

Gina McCarthy, then-head of the Environmental Protection Agency, was the last U.S. Cabinet-level official to visit the island, in 2014.

Taiwan has won praise for its response to the coronavirus pandemic, having kept its case numbers low due to effective and early prevention steps.

In April, Azar held a teleconference with Taiwan Health Minister Chen Shih-chung.

U.S. President Donald Trump signed a new law in March requiring increased support for Taiwan's international role. China threatened unspecified retaliation in response.

U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar will visit Taiwan in coming days, making the highest level visit by a U.S. official in four decades, his office said on Tuesday, in a move likely to anger China which claims the island as its own.

U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar will visit Taiwan in coming days, making the highest level visit by a U.S. official in four decades, his office said on Tuesday, in a move likely to anger China which claims the island as its own. During his visit Azar will meet with President Tsai Ing-wen, Taiwan's Foreign Ministry said in a separate statement. China describes Taiwan as the most sensitive issue in Sino-U.S. ties, and Azar's visit will probably further inflame already poor Beijing-Washington relations. Also read: 'Quantum' leap: United States unveils blueprint for virtually 'unhackable internet' "Taiwan has been a model of transparency and cooperation in global health during the COVID-19 pandemic and long before it," Azar said in a statement. "I look forward to conveying President Trump's support for Taiwan's global health leadership and underscoring our shared belief that free and democratic societies are the best model for protecting and promoting health." His department, describing the trip as "historic", said Azar would be accompanied by Mitchell Wolfe, Chief Medical Officer of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and other members of the administration. The United States, like most countries, has no formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, having ditched Taipei in favour of Beijing in 1979, but is its main arms supplier and strongest backer on the international stage. Gina McCarthy, then-head of the Environmental Protection Agency, was the last U.S. Cabinet-level official to visit the island, in 2014. Taiwan has won praise for its response to the coronavirus pandemic, having kept its case numbers low due to effective and early prevention steps. In April, Azar held a teleconference with Taiwan Health Minister Chen Shih-chung. U.S. President Donald Trump signed a new law in March requiring increased support for Taiwan's international role. China threatened unspecified retaliation in response.

US health chief to visit Taiwan, likely angering China

White House officials on Tuesday could not say how the US&nbsp;government would receive a portion of the proceeds from any sale of TikTok's US&nbsp;operations, one day after President Donald Trump called for a cut of the money.

"There's no specific blueprint here," White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said on Fox Business Network on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"It may be that the president was thinking, because the Treasury has had to do so much work on this, there are a lot of options here. I'm not sure it's a specific concept that will be followed through ... Regarding fees or anything like that, all that remains to be seen," Kudlow said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/bytedance-founder-defends-tiktoks-us-strategy-in-staff-letter-318168" hreflang="en">ByteDance founder defends TikTok's US strategy in staff letter</a>

White House spokeswoman Kayleigh McEnany, speaking to reporters at a separate briefing, also gave no other details and said she did not want to get ahead of Trump on the issue. She reiterated that the United States planned to take some action on Chinese-owned apps, including TikTok, in coming days but gave no details. She twice declined to say how legally the United States could take a cut of the sale proceeds.

On Monday, Trump said he would ban the popular Chinese-owned short-video app on Sept. 15 without a sale to another company outside of China. Microsoft Corp has said it is in talks to acquire TikTok's U.S. operations.

Experts have said the U.S. government generally does not have the authority to take a cut of private business sales. But Trump, a real estate developer and former reality television star who has touted his "art of the deal," on Monday said "a very substantial portion" of any TikTok sale must go to the U.S. Treasury "because we’re making it possible for this deal to happen."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/it-goes-against-wto-principles-china-accuses-us-of-outright-bullying-over-tiktok-318088" hreflang="en">'It goes against WTO principles': China accuses US of 'outright bullying' over TikTok</a>

The president reiterated the call on Tuesday, saying at a news conference that he had told Microsoft that "whatever the price is, a very big proportion of that price would have to go to the Treasury of the United States."

Kudlow told Fox Business Network that such a provision may not be "a key stipulation."

White House officials on Tuesday could not say how the US government would receive a portion of the proceeds from any sale of TikTok's US operations, one day after President Donald Trump called for a cut of the money.

White House officials on Tuesday could not say how the US government would receive a portion of the proceeds from any sale of TikTok's US operations, one day after President Donald Trump called for a cut of the money. "There's no specific blueprint here," White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said on Fox Business Network on Tuesday. "It may be that the president was thinking, because the Treasury has had to do so much work on this, there are a lot of options here. I'm not sure it's a specific concept that will be followed through ... Regarding fees or anything like that, all that remains to be seen," Kudlow said. Also read: ByteDance founder defends TikTok's US strategy in staff letter White House spokeswoman Kayleigh McEnany, speaking to reporters at a separate briefing, also gave no other details and said she did not want to get ahead of Trump on the issue. She reiterated that the United States planned to take some action on Chinese-owned apps, including TikTok, in coming days but gave no details. She twice declined to say how legally the United States could take a cut of the sale proceeds. On Monday, Trump said he would ban the popular Chinese-owned short-video app on Sept. 15 without a sale to another company outside of China. Microsoft Corp has said it is in talks to acquire TikTok's U.S. operations. Experts have said the U.S. government generally does not have the authority to take a cut of private business sales. But Trump, a real estate developer and former reality television star who has touted his "art of the deal," on Monday said "a very substantial portion" of any TikTok sale must go to the U.S. Treasury "because we’re making it possible for this deal to happen." Also read: 'It goes against WTO principles': China accuses US of 'outright bullying' over TikTok The president reiterated the call on Tuesday, saying at a news conference that he had told Microsoft that "whatever the price is, a very big proportion of that price would have to go to the Treasury of the United States." Kudlow told Fox Business Network that such a provision may not be "a key stipulation."

White House says unclear whether US government will get cut of TikTok sale

Tropical storm Isaias has killed at least four people so far, as it made its way through the US Atlantic Coast.

Two deaths were recorded at a trailer park in North Carolina, which fell in the pathway of a tornado emerging out of a hurricane speed winds.

Owing to the ferocious storm, over 2.8 million homes have been left without electricity, in places across New York to North Carolina.

Isaias made landfall on Monday

Isaias was briefly a Category 1 hurricane, following which it made landfall in North Carolina on Monday.

The trailer park where two deaths occurred was reduced to rubble in a matter of time.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/isaias-strengthens-into-hurricane-ahead-of-expected-landfall-in-carolinas-317997" hreflang="en">Isaias strengthens into hurricane ahead of expected landfall in Carolinas</a>

"It doesn't look real. It looks like something on TV. There's nothing there," Bertie County Sheriff John Holley could be heard telling local reporters.

"Vehicles are turned over. Vehicles are piled on top of each other. It's just very sad”, Holley said.

A mother and her two children were allegedly missing for hours in NA, but were later found by authorities.

A large tree fell on a car in Mechanicsville in North Caroline, which led to the death of the driver, as per information revealed by the St Mary’s County Sheriff’s office. The motorist was not immediately identified.

According to North Carolina’s governor Ray Cooper, as of 2.30 PM ET on Tuesday, over 172,000 homes had no electricity, even though Isaias is now moving northward, and skies are starting to clear.

US President has pledged aid to the state, the state governor added.

Multiple deaths due to trees falling

Another man was killed due to a tree falling on his car in New York City’s Queens borough. He was crushed inside his car.

Tornadoes have been spotted in Cape May, Marmora, Long Beach Island, New Jersey’s southern shore, with damage spotted in Dover, Delaware.

"The damage is crazy. No power, almost all my trees are split or uprooted, water is coming in all windows," Tammy Trelford Campos said in a Facebook post.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/isaias-grazes-florida-as-tropical-storm-heads-up-east-coast-317734" hreflang="en">Isaias grazes Florida as tropical storm, heads up East Coast</a>

New York City, along with neighbouring New Jersey, with Massachusetts and other parts of New England has remained under a tornado watch. NY state officials were forced to shut down COVID-19 testing centres owing to the damage, and as a precautionary measure.

"The center of Isaias will continue to move farther inland over eastern New York and Vermont this afternoon and evening, and over southern Canada tonight," the US National Hurricane Center said.

As of now, the storm is headed out of Albany, New York, with winds of over 100 kilometres per hour, the US NHC added.

Tropical storm Isaias has killed at least four people so far, as it made its way through the US Atlantic Coast. Two deaths were recorded at a trailer park in North Carolina, which fell in the pathway of a tornado emerging out of a hurricane speed winds.

Tropical storm Isaias has killed at least four people so far, as it made its way through the US Atlantic Coast. Two deaths were recorded at a trailer park in North Carolina, which fell in the pathway of a tornado emerging out of a hurricane speed winds. Owing to the ferocious storm, over 2.8 million homes have been left without electricity, in places across New York to North Carolina. Isaias made landfall on Monday Isaias was briefly a Category 1 hurricane, following which it made landfall in North Carolina on Monday. The trailer park where two deaths occurred was reduced to rubble in a matter of time. Also read: Isaias strengthens into hurricane ahead of expected landfall in Carolinas "It doesn't look real. It looks like something on TV. There's nothing there," Bertie County Sheriff John Holley could be heard telling local reporters. "Vehicles are turned over. Vehicles are piled on top of each other. It's just very sad”, Holley said. A mother and her two children were allegedly missing for hours in NA, but were later found by authorities. A large tree fell on a car in Mechanicsville in North Caroline, which led to the death of the driver, as per information revealed by the St Mary’s County Sheriff’s office. The motorist was not immediately identified. According to North Carolina’s governor Ray Cooper, as of 2.30 PM ET on Tuesday, over 172,000 homes had no electricity, even though Isaias is now moving northward, and skies are starting to clear. US President has pledged aid to the state, the state governor added. Multiple deaths due to trees falling Another man was killed due to a tree falling on his car in New York City’s Queens borough. He was crushed inside his car. Tornadoes have been spotted in Cape May, Marmora, Long Beach Island, New Jersey’s southern shore, with damage spotted in Dover, Delaware. "The damage is crazy. No power, almost all my trees are split or uprooted, water is coming in all windows," Tammy Trelford Campos said in a Facebook post. Also read: Isaias grazes Florida as tropical storm, heads up East Coast New York City, along with neighbouring New Jersey, with Massachusetts and other parts of New England has remained under a tornado watch. NY state officials were forced to shut down COVID-19 testing centres owing to the damage, and as a precautionary measure. "The center of Isaias will continue to move farther inland over eastern New York and Vermont this afternoon and evening, and over southern Canada tonight," the US National Hurricane Center said. As of now, the storm is headed out of Albany, New York, with winds of over 100 kilometres per hour, the US NHC added.

Storm Isaias kills four in US, leaves over 2.8 million homes without electricity

Teachers at dozens of school districts protested from their cars on Monday over plans by some U.S. governors to resume in-class instruction during the coronavirus pandemic, while Arizona, Florida, California and Texas saw declines in new cases.&nbsp;

The teachers, who painted messages on their cars and formed caravans with other school employees, want instruction conducted online until testing shows that classrooms are safe and districts hire more nurses and counselors.

The Milwaukee Teachers' Education Association, the union representing public school teachers statewide, posted pictures on Twitter of protesters making cardboard gravestones with messages such as "Here lies a third grade student from Green Bay who caught COVID at school" and "RIP Grandma caught COVID helping grand kids with homework."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-covid-19-deaths-rise-for-fourth-week-new-cases-drop-5-318003" hreflang="en">US COVID-19 deaths rise for fourth week, new cases drop 5%</a>

Teachers in Chicago, Milwaukee and Philadelphia honked their horns in car protests. Demonstrators rallied outside the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce building, and in Connecticut about 400 formed a car march that passed Governor Ned Lamont's home.

"I do not want to put my students or myself in harm's way. I do not want to be an experiment," Chicago elementary school teacher Andrea Parker told reporters.

More than 155,000 people have died nationwide from COVID-19 since the virus was first identified in the United States in January. Cases nationally fell for a second week in a row but rose week-over-week in 20 states, including Missouri, Montana and Oklahoma.

Deaths in the United States rose for a fourth week in a row to more than 8,500 people in the seven days ended Aug. 2, a Reuters analysis found.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

CASES TREND DOWN IN SUNBELT STATES

Arizona, California, Florida and Texas, U.S. states with some of the largest populations, saw fewer cases and hospitalizations.

Californian Governor Gavin Newsom said intensive care unit admissions were also down in his state but it was too early to celebrate.

"This virus is not going away," Newsom said at a briefing. "It's not going to take Labor Day weekend off or Halloween off or the holidays off. Until we have a vaccine, we are going to be living with this virus."&nbsp;

The governor said the decline was not enough to merit a change in his order that Californian schools begin the August term with online learning.

The Los Angeles teachers union and education officials on Monday agreed to a plan for resuming online-only classes later this month in the nation's second-largest school district. [L1N2F52C4]

Schools are at the center of negotiations between Democrats in Congress and the administration of President Donald Trump over a coronavirus economic relief bill. Democratic leaders and White House negotiators both said on Monday they had made progress in those talks, though the administration said Trump could act alone if no deal is reached.&nbsp;

With Democrat Joe Biden leading in polls ahead of the November presidential election, Trump, a Republican, has made school reopenings part of his re-election campaign.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, the U.S. government's top infectious disease expert, said in an interview with the Journal of the American Medical Association on Monday that states with spiraling case numbers should consider re-imposing lockdown restrictions on residents and businesses.

But Fauci told a news conference with Connecticut's Lamont that he favored getting students back in class, citing negative psychological impacts of keeping them home as well as the role schools play in feeding children.

"The default position should be to try as best as you possibly can to open up the schools for in-person learning," Fauci said.

Previously hard-hit parts of New York and New Jersey with dense populations have seen an increase in new cases in recent days, prompting New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy to reduce indoor limits to 25 people per room from 100.

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said he would announce later this week whether to reopen schools in his state, which has recorded by far the greatest number of COVID-19 deaths, more than 32,000.&nbsp;

Teachers at dozens of school districts protested from their cars on Monday over plans by some U.S. governors to resume in-class instruction during the coronavirus pandemic, while Arizona, Florida, California and Texas saw declines in new cases.

Teachers at dozens of school districts protested from their cars on Monday over plans by some U.S. governors to resume in-class instruction during the coronavirus pandemic, while Arizona, Florida, California and Texas saw declines in new cases. The teachers, who painted messages on their cars and formed caravans with other school employees, want instruction conducted online until testing shows that classrooms are safe and districts hire more nurses and counselors. The Milwaukee Teachers' Education Association, the union representing public school teachers statewide, posted pictures on Twitter of protesters making cardboard gravestones with messages such as "Here lies a third grade student from Green Bay who caught COVID at school" and "RIP Grandma caught COVID helping grand kids with homework." Also read: US COVID-19 deaths rise for fourth week, new cases drop 5% Teachers in Chicago, Milwaukee and Philadelphia honked their horns in car protests. Demonstrators rallied outside the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce building, and in Connecticut about 400 formed a car march that passed Governor Ned Lamont's home. "I do not want to put my students or myself in harm's way. I do not want to be an experiment," Chicago elementary school teacher Andrea Parker told reporters. More than 155,000 people have died nationwide from COVID-19 since the virus was first identified in the United States in January. Cases nationally fell for a second week in a row but rose week-over-week in 20 states, including Missouri, Montana and Oklahoma. Deaths in the United States rose for a fourth week in a row to more than 8,500 people in the seven days ended Aug. 2, a Reuters analysis found. CASES TREND DOWN IN SUNBELT STATES Arizona, California, Florida and Texas, U.S. states with some of the largest populations, saw fewer cases and hospitalizations. Californian Governor Gavin Newsom said intensive care unit admissions were also down in his state but it was too early to celebrate. "This virus is not going away," Newsom said at a briefing. "It's not going to take Labor Day weekend off or Halloween off or the holidays off. Until we have a vaccine, we are going to be living with this virus." The governor said the decline was not enough to merit a change in his order that Californian schools begin the August term with online learning. The Los Angeles teachers union and education officials on Monday agreed to a plan for resuming online-only classes later this month in the nation's second-largest school district. [L1N2F52C4] Schools are at the center of negotiations between Democrats in Congress and the administration of President Donald Trump over a coronavirus economic relief bill. Democratic leaders and White House negotiators both said on Monday they had made progress in those talks, though the administration said Trump could act alone if no deal is reached. With Democrat Joe Biden leading in polls ahead of the November presidential election, Trump, a Republican, has made school reopenings part of his re-election campaign. Dr. Anthony Fauci, the U.S. government's top infectious disease expert, said in an interview with the Journal of the American Medical Association on Monday that states with spiraling case numbers should consider re-imposing lockdown restrictions on residents and businesses. But Fauci told a news conference with Connecticut's Lamont that he favored getting students back in class, citing negative psychological impacts of keeping them home as well as the role schools play in feeding children. "The default position should be to try as best as you possibly can to open up the schools for in-person learning," Fauci said. Previously hard-hit parts of New York and New Jersey with dense populations have seen an increase in new cases in recent days, prompting New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy to reduce indoor limits to 25 people per room from 100. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said he would announce later this week whether to reopen schools in his state, which has recorded by far the greatest number of COVID-19 deaths, more than 32,000.

US teachers protest school reopenings, coronavirus cases down in South, West

US&nbsp;deaths from COVID-19 rose for a fourth week in a row to more than 8,500 people in the seven days ended Aug. 2, while the number of new cases fell for a second straight week, a Reuters analysis found.

Last week's death toll was 36% higher than the previous week, though deaths are a lagging indicator and can continue to rise weeks after new infections drop.&nbsp;

The number of new COVID-19 cases reported last week fell 5% from the previous week to about 435,000, according to the Reuters tally of state and county reports. California, Florida and Texas collectively accounted for nearly 180,000 of the new cases, though new infections were lower in all three states compared to the previous week.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/trump-says-us-should-get-a-substantial-portion-of-tiktok-sales-317980" hreflang="en">Trump says US should get a 'substantial portion' of TikTok sales</a>

Cases rose week-over-week in 20 states, including in Oklahoma where cases have risen for nine weeks in a row, in Montana where cases are up for eight straight weeks, and in Missouri where infections have risen for seven weeks.

Testing for COVID-19 fell by 6% in the United States last week, the first decline since late May, according to data from The COVID Tracking Project, a volunteer-run effort to track the outbreak.&nbsp;

Nationally, 8.2% of tests came back positive for the novel coronavirus, still higher than the 5% level that the World Health Organization considers concerning because it suggests there are more cases in the community that have not yet been uncovered.

Thirty-one states had positivity test rates above 5%, according to the analysis, including Alabama at 22%, Mississippi at 21%, and Florida and Kansas at 19%.

US deaths from COVID-19 rose for a fourth week in a row to more than 8,500 people in the seven days ended Aug. 2, while the number of new cases fell for a second straight week, a Reuters analysis found.

US deaths from COVID-19 rose for a fourth week in a row to more than 8,500 people in the seven days ended Aug. 2, while the number of new cases fell for a second straight week, a Reuters analysis found. Last week's death toll was 36% higher than the previous week, though deaths are a lagging indicator and can continue to rise weeks after new infections drop. The number of new COVID-19 cases reported last week fell 5% from the previous week to about 435,000, according to the Reuters tally of state and county reports. California, Florida and Texas collectively accounted for nearly 180,000 of the new cases, though new infections were lower in all three states compared to the previous week. Also read: Trump says US should get a 'substantial portion' of TikTok sales Cases rose week-over-week in 20 states, including in Oklahoma where cases have risen for nine weeks in a row, in Montana where cases are up for eight straight weeks, and in Missouri where infections have risen for seven weeks. Testing for COVID-19 fell by 6% in the United States last week, the first decline since late May, according to data from The COVID Tracking Project, a volunteer-run effort to track the outbreak. Nationally, 8.2% of tests came back positive for the novel coronavirus, still higher than the 5% level that the World Health Organization considers concerning because it suggests there are more cases in the community that have not yet been uncovered. Thirty-one states had positivity test rates above 5%, according to the analysis, including Alabama at 22%, Mississippi at 21%, and Florida and Kansas at 19%.

US COVID-19 deaths rise for fourth week, new cases drop 5%

Ever since the coronavirus pandemic took over the world, scientists and professionals across all fields have been focused on limiting contact among people. However, one activity which requires one’s presence for sure, at least until now, is getting testing for the virus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/us-coronavirus-extraordinarily-widespread-say-white-house-experts-317714" hreflang="en">US coronavirus 'extraordinarily widespread', say White House experts</a>

To get tested, one has to visit the local facility and get swabbed. A US university may have come up with a contact-free mode of testing, which is just as efficient as the conventional mode of testing.

Zero contact

On Friday, Iowa State University announced its engineers have been working on a no-contact, and no-touch quick test for COVID-19. This will a mail-in test, implying nobody will need to make contact with each other.

If it works, it could tremendously decrease the risk for both healthcare workers and patients alike.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/britain-to-roll-out-millions-of-90-minute-coronavirus-tests-317752" hreflang="en">Britain to roll out millions of 90-minute coronavirus tests</a>

According to the university, the kit would cost as less as $1 and would allow people to conduct nasal and cough sampling in the comfort of their homes.

The kit comes with a card on which one must spread the sample from their noses and mouths. After this, the sample would be put it an envelope which has&nbsp;an anti-virus coating.

Easy kit

Then, the kit is required to stay put for one day, and then may be shipped to a centre or delivered directly.

Once they receive the material, the unopened envelope would undergo scanning for coronavirus diagnosis. After this, everything in the envelope - including samples would be rid of in the incinerator.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/us-congress-in-position-to-spend-big-on-coronavirus-relief-federal-reserve-official-317701" hreflang="en">US Congress in position to spend big on coronavirus relief: Federal Reserve official</a>

“The unopened envelope would be scanned by an electronic reader to determine a positive or negative result. Then, that never-opened envelope, samples and all, would be dropped in the incinerator," the university’s statement said.

Once the result is ascertained, the concerned person would receive it as a text message or an email.

According to the university, the basic goal of the test is ensure there is zero contact, and no touching.

The researchers who came up with the concept received $200,000 Rapid Response Research grant from the National Science Foundation for at least a year, meaning it could be taken seriously to conduct large-scale testing in the US, if not in the world.

Ever since the coronavirus pandemic took over the world, scientists and professionals across all fields have been focused on limiting contact among people. However, one activity which requires one’s presence for sure, at least until now, is getting testing for the virus.

Ever since the coronavirus pandemic took over the world, scientists and professionals across all fields have been focused on limiting contact among people. However, one activity which requires one’s presence for sure, at least until now, is getting testing for the virus. Also read: US coronavirus 'extraordinarily widespread', say White House experts To get tested, one has to visit the local facility and get swabbed. A US university may have come up with a contact-free mode of testing, which is just as efficient as the conventional mode of testing. Zero contact On Friday, Iowa State University announced its engineers have been working on a no-contact, and no-touch quick test for COVID-19. This will a mail-in test, implying nobody will need to make contact with each other. If it works, it could tremendously decrease the risk for both healthcare workers and patients alike. Also read: Britain to roll out millions of 90-minute coronavirus tests According to the university, the kit would cost as less as $1 and would allow people to conduct nasal and cough sampling in the comfort of their homes. The kit comes with a card on which one must spread the sample from their noses and mouths. After this, the sample would be put it an envelope which has an anti-virus coating. Easy kit Then, the kit is required to stay put for one day, and then may be shipped to a centre or delivered directly. Once they receive the material, the unopened envelope would undergo scanning for coronavirus diagnosis. After this, everything in the envelope - including samples would be rid of in the incinerator. Also read: US Congress in position to spend big on coronavirus relief: Federal Reserve official “The unopened envelope would be scanned by an electronic reader to determine a positive or negative result. Then, that never-opened envelope, samples and all, would be dropped in the incinerator," the university’s statement said. Once the result is ascertained, the concerned person would receive it as a text message or an email. According to the university, the basic goal of the test is ensure there is zero contact, and no touching. The researchers who came up with the concept received $200,000 Rapid Response Research grant from the National Science Foundation for at least a year, meaning it could be taken seriously to conduct large-scale testing in the US, if not in the world.

Iowa State University in US develops a zero contact, mail-in coronavirus testing kit

California is currently witnessing a wildfire, with extremely dangerous heat conditions to persist for the next few days. In Palm Springs alone, the temperature is expected to touch 41 degree Celsius.

Owing to the dangerous conditions, thousands have been evacuated across the state, especially in the southern region. Over 300 personnel are fighting to contain the wildfire in the US state of California.

"Apple Fire"

The fire is being called the “Apple Fire” by frontline firemen, who commonly names wildfires. The current spot of the fire lies east of Los Angeles and continues to blaze.

As per the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, the Apple Fire ripped through 60 square kilometres of dry bush and timber, and has put the counties of Riverside and San Bernardino at risk of heavy damage.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/us-records-1000-deaths-in-one-day-from-covid-19-california-passes-400000-cases-315061" hreflang="en">US records 1,000 deaths in one day from COVID-19, California passes 400,000 cases</a>

The fire began on Friday when two small fires were reported in Cherry Valley, which falls close to the city of Beaumont, at least 137 kilometres east of Los Angeles. The containment efforts were delayed as the blaze could not be brought under control over the weekend.

The authorities have employed all resources at hand to control the blaze. Besides the ground, air support has been deployed. Even though no direct injuries or fatalities have been reported so far, one home and two buildings have been destroyed.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/south-california-wildfire-burns-12000-acres-of-land-hot-condition-to-continue-for-next-3-days-317625/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Over 8,000 evacuated

Considering the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the smoke from the flames could put the vulnerable in the hospital.

In the county of Riverside alone, 8,000 people have been asked to vacate their homes. Additional orders to evacuate were commissioned for canyon, foothill, and mountain regions around the country.

California, famous for its hiker trails and beaches has shut down all camping areas and hiking activity in the view of the current inferno.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/california-rolls-back-reopening-reimposes-restrictions-as-us-coronavirus-crisis-expands-313110" hreflang="en">California rolls back reopening; reimposes restrictions as US coronavirus crisis expands</a>

On Saturday, the temperature touched 41 degree Celsius (105F), causing poor air quality in the region, with smoke visible across the region. The National Weather Service in the US has called the fire would trigger “dangerously hot conditions” across southern parts of the state.

So far, people living across 2,586 homes have been asked to evacuate. Over the weekend, the fire engulfed 4,125 acres, up from 700 acres earlier on Friday.

California is currently witnessing a wildfire, with extremely dangerous heat conditions to persist for the next few days. In Palm Springs alone, the temperature is expected to touch 41 degree Celsius.

California is currently witnessing a wildfire, with extremely dangerous heat conditions to persist for the next few days. In Palm Springs alone, the temperature is expected to touch 41 degree Celsius. Owing to the dangerous conditions, thousands have been evacuated across the state, especially in the southern region. Over 300 personnel are fighting to contain the wildfire in the US state of California. "Apple Fire" The fire is being called the “Apple Fire” by frontline firemen, who commonly names wildfires. The current spot of the fire lies east of Los Angeles and continues to blaze. As per the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, the Apple Fire ripped through 60 square kilometres of dry bush and timber, and has put the counties of Riverside and San Bernardino at risk of heavy damage. Also read: US records 1,000 deaths in one day from COVID-19, California passes 400,000 cases The fire began on Friday when two small fires were reported in Cherry Valley, which falls close to the city of Beaumont, at least 137 kilometres east of Los Angeles. The containment efforts were delayed as the blaze could not be brought under control over the weekend. The authorities have employed all resources at hand to control the blaze. Besides the ground, air support has been deployed. Even though no direct injuries or fatalities have been reported so far, one home and two buildings have been destroyed. Over 8,000 evacuated Considering the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the smoke from the flames could put the vulnerable in the hospital. In the county of Riverside alone, 8,000 people have been asked to vacate their homes. Additional orders to evacuate were commissioned for canyon, foothill, and mountain regions around the country. California, famous for its hiker trails and beaches has shut down all camping areas and hiking activity in the view of the current inferno. Also read: California rolls back reopening; reimposes restrictions as US coronavirus crisis expands On Saturday, the temperature touched 41 degree Celsius (105F), causing poor air quality in the region, with smoke visible across the region. The National Weather Service in the US has called the fire would trigger “dangerously hot conditions” across southern parts of the state. So far, people living across 2,586 homes have been asked to evacuate. Over the weekend, the fire engulfed 4,125 acres, up from 700 acres earlier on Friday.

'Apple Fire' raises the heat in California as temperature touches 41° C

Former US president Barack Obama on Thursday launched a scathing attack on his successor, Donald Trump, criticising police brutality against blacks and use of federal agents against protesters.&nbsp;

"Today we witness with our own eyes, police officers kneeling on the necks of black Americans," Obama said at a funeral service held in Atlanta of civil rights icon John Lewis.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/michelle-barack-obama-reveal-how-they-fell-in-love-on-podcast-316888">Michelle, Barack Obama reveal how they fell in love on podcast</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/michelle-barack-obama-reveal-how-they-fell-in-love-on-podcast-316888">&nbsp;&nbsp;</a> &nbsp;

"We can witness our federal government sending agents to use tear gas and batons against peaceful demonstrators."&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/delay-election-until-people-can-properly-securely-and-safely-vote-says-trump-amid-coronavirus-pandemic-317044">Delay election until people can properly, securely and safely vote, says Trump amid coronavirus pandemic</a>

Obama did not directly name the US president, but it was clear that the reference was to Trump, who ordered troops to clear protestors from Lafayette Square outside the White House and sent federal agents to quell demonstrations in Portland, Oregon.

"Even as we sit here, there are those in power who are doing their darnedest to discourage people from voting by closing polling locations and targeting minorities and students with restrictive ID laws and attacking our voting rights with surgical precision, even undermining the postal service in the run-up to an election that's going to be dependent on mail-in ballots so people don't get sick," Obama said.

Earlier Trump again criticised mail-in voting on Thursday, saying that the system will make the upcoming presidential election "most inaccurate and fraudulent" in "history". &nbsp;

"With Universal Mail-In Voting (not Absentee Voting, which is good), 2020 will be the most INACCURATE &amp; FRAUDULENT Election in history," the US president said.&nbsp;

"It will be a great embarrassment to the USA. Delay the Election until people can properly, securely and safely vote???"

Obama also said at the eulogy that it was because of Lewis's struggles for African-American civil rights, he could become a president of the US.

Lewis did "everything he could to preserve this democracy and as long as we have breath in our bodies, we have to continue his cause," the former president said.

"As long as young people are protesting in the streets hoping real change takes hold, I'm hopeful...But we can't casually abandon them at the ballot box. Not when few elections have been as urgent on so many levels as this one."

 
&nbsp;

Former US president Barack Obama on Thursday launched a scathing attack on his successor, Donald Trump, criticising police brutality against blacks and use of federal agents against protesters.

Former US president Barack Obama on Thursday launched a scathing attack on his successor, Donald Trump, criticising police brutality against blacks and use of federal agents against protesters. "Today we witness with our own eyes, police officers kneeling on the necks of black Americans," Obama said at a funeral service held in Atlanta of civil rights icon John Lewis. Also read | Michelle, Barack Obama reveal how they fell in love on podcast "We can witness our federal government sending agents to use tear gas and batons against peaceful demonstrators." Also read | Delay election until people can properly, securely and safely vote, says Trump amid coronavirus pandemic Obama did not directly name the US president, but it was clear that the reference was to Trump, who ordered troops to clear protestors from Lafayette Square outside the White House and sent federal agents to quell demonstrations in Portland, Oregon. "Even as we sit here, there are those in power who are doing their darnedest to discourage people from voting by closing polling locations and targeting minorities and students with restrictive ID laws and attacking our voting rights with surgical precision, even undermining the postal service in the run-up to an election that's going to be dependent on mail-in ballots so people don't get sick," Obama said. Earlier Trump again criticised mail-in voting on Thursday, saying that the system will make the upcoming presidential election "most inaccurate and fraudulent" in "history". "With Universal Mail-In Voting (not Absentee Voting, which is good), 2020 will be the most INACCURATE & FRAUDULENT Election in history," the US president said. "It will be a great embarrassment to the USA. Delay the Election until people can properly, securely and safely vote???" Obama also said at the eulogy that it was because of Lewis's struggles for African-American civil rights, he could become a president of the US. Lewis did "everything he could to preserve this democracy and as long as we have breath in our bodies, we have to continue his cause," the former president said. "As long as young people are protesting in the streets hoping real change takes hold, I'm hopeful...But we can't casually abandon them at the ballot box. Not when few elections have been as urgent on so many levels as this one."

Barack Obama launches sharp attack against Donald Trump

Unemployed Americans will not have any money in their pockets by the end of this week. That's if Republicans and Democrats fail to agree upon what to do next. The stimulus payments plan will expire this Friday.

Unemployed Americans will not have any money in their pockets by the end of this week. That's if Republicans and Democrats fail to agree upon what to do next. The stimulus payments plan will expire this Friday. Republicans have proposed a one trillion dollars plan with a big cut in government handouts. Democrats are pointing at rising cases, hiring freeze and stuttering economy to say now is not the time. While they try to find consensus, let's look at how Americans are spending the stimulus money. × Most Americans are receiving 1,200 dollars every week. For the well to do, it is free cash, to be used on fulfilling desires -- like buying sex toys, canopied beds, costumes and stripper poles. The 2 trillion dollars stimulus package announced in May to help businesses too. A Florida man made full use of it to buy himself a brand new blue Lamborghini. He showed fake papers, claiming to have four businesses. The government gave him four million dollars to pay his 70 employees. He spent 300,000 dollars to buy himself a new car. He has been arrested for fraud. In another case, a reality TV star Maurice Fayne got two million dollars loan in the name of a trucking company. He spent the money on a Rolls-Royce and jewellery. There are 32 million unemployed people in the US. They say, not everybody is fooling the government. But the Republican party wants to stop the direct payments. The Democrats don't agree. A survey says 78 per cent of the beneficiaries paid loans and bills, 58 per cent bought household supplies, 20 per cent spent it on clothing and 8 per cent bought TVs, electronics or fitness equipment. Rising cases have made economic recovery difficult and businesses are hiring fewer people. Last week, the number of jobless Americans went up for the first time in nearly four months and they will need the stimulus payments to survive.

Jobless Americans need stimulus payments to survive

The great white shark is one of the most feared predators underwater. Now drones from high above are helping experts analyze their behavior when they encounter humans. In a nutshell: we're not on their menu, according to Shark Lab Director Chris Lowe.

How drones are helping experts better understand shark behavior in California

Russia has been spreading misinformation about the coronavirus pandemic in the United States as election season nears, reports claim.

First reported by the New York Times, the report refers to declassified intelligence which claims that the Russian military intelligence, or the GRU, may have tied up with this resource centres like InfoRos to peddle misinformation regarding the pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/joe-biden-warns-of-russian-election-meddling-after-receiving-intelligence-briefings-314175" hreflang="en">Joe Biden warns of Russian election meddling after receiving intelligence briefings</a>

Virus made in the USA?

The narrative pushed out by such agencies includes speculations of the virus being created by the US military, and claiming that Russia’s medical prowess could help the US.

Similar efforts were allegedly made by Russia in 2016, employing social media accounts and “bots” of the Internet Research Agency to pitch false information.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/putin-says-russian-navy-to-get-hypersonic-nuclear-strike-weapons-316099" hreflang="en">Putin says Russian Navy to get hypersonic nuclear strike weapons</a>

Just last week, US intelligence rang alarm bells by claiming that Russia, China, and Iran intend to interfere with the upcoming elections. To this, Democrats said there were no specifics, but that more information would be shared soon.

The pandemic is not the only swaying factor for misinformation.&nbsp; Allegedly, Russia is conducting an influence campaign in Eastern Europe to discredit the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Mandiant Threat Intelligence found that such campaigns were “aligned with Russian security interests”.

Recently, social media giant Facebook began labelling stories that emerge from state news outlets like RT and Sputnik.

Scattered across the web

InfoRos is where most of these reports were published. The site is currently controlled by the Russian government. Another web portal - OneWorld.Press was found to be pushing propaganda, and had ties to the GRU, the Russian equivalent of the CIA.

Besides false information on the pandemic, a think tank has been amplifying Russian narratives in the US, and is also currently under investigation by the FBI.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/uk-says-there-is-no-evidence-of-russian-meddling-in-brexit-vote-315165" hreflang="en">UK says there is no evidence of Russian meddling in Brexit vote</a>

Called The Strategic Culture Foundation, it depends largely on the SVR, another Russian intelligence agency.

OneWorld.Press responded to NYT and claimed that this information was “categorically false” in a statement. It further claimed how people from the “deep state” were trying to make Trump lose in the upcoming elections.

Many officials told the publication that GRU’s psychological warfare anti - Unit 54777, may be behind the propaganda.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/russian-envoy-denies-moscow-helped-hackers-target-virus-vaccine-314353" hreflang="en">Russian envoy denies Moscow helped hackers target virus vaccine</a>

NYT found that between May to early June, 150 such articles with misleading information were published on websites like InfoRos, OneWorld, and Tass.

One of these claimed that the COVID-19 pandemic is an experiment to taint the world, while another claimed how the US was using the pandemic to impose its worldview. After Beijing claimed that COVID-19 was a biological weapon from the US, a publication ran this piece as well.

The EU DisinfoLab, a nonprofit organisation had earlier claimed that OneWorld and InfoRos have links to Russia.

Russia has been spreading misinformation about the coronavirus pandemic in the United States as election season nears, reports claim. First reported by the New York Times, the report refers to declassified intelligence which claims that the Russian military intelligence, or the GRU, may have tied up with this resource centres like InfoRos to peddle misinformation regarding the pandemic.

Russia has been spreading misinformation about the coronavirus pandemic in the United States as election season nears, reports claim. First reported by the New York Times, the report refers to declassified intelligence which claims that the Russian military intelligence, or the GRU, may have tied up with this resource centres like InfoRos to peddle misinformation regarding the pandemic. Also read: Joe Biden warns of Russian election meddling after receiving intelligence briefings Virus made in the USA? The narrative pushed out by such agencies includes speculations of the virus being created by the US military, and claiming that Russia’s medical prowess could help the US. Similar efforts were allegedly made by Russia in 2016, employing social media accounts and “bots” of the Internet Research Agency to pitch false information. Also read: Putin says Russian Navy to get hypersonic nuclear strike weapons Just last week, US intelligence rang alarm bells by claiming that Russia, China, and Iran intend to interfere with the upcoming elections. To this, Democrats said there were no specifics, but that more information would be shared soon. The pandemic is not the only swaying factor for misinformation. Allegedly, Russia is conducting an influence campaign in Eastern Europe to discredit the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Mandiant Threat Intelligence found that such campaigns were “aligned with Russian security interests”. Recently, social media giant Facebook began labelling stories that emerge from state news outlets like RT and Sputnik. Scattered across the web InfoRos is where most of these reports were published. The site is currently controlled by the Russian government. Another web portal - OneWorld.Press was found to be pushing propaganda, and had ties to the GRU, the Russian equivalent of the CIA. Besides false information on the pandemic, a think tank has been amplifying Russian narratives in the US, and is also currently under investigation by the FBI. Also read: UK says there is no evidence of Russian meddling in Brexit vote Called The Strategic Culture Foundation, it depends largely on the SVR, another Russian intelligence agency. OneWorld.Press responded to NYT and claimed that this information was “categorically false” in a statement. It further claimed how people from the “deep state” were trying to make Trump lose in the upcoming elections. Many officials told the publication that GRU’s psychological warfare anti - Unit 54777, may be behind the propaganda. Also read: Russian envoy denies Moscow helped hackers target virus vaccine NYT found that between May to early June, 150 such articles with misleading information were published on websites like InfoRos, OneWorld, and Tass. One of these claimed that the COVID-19 pandemic is an experiment to taint the world, while another claimed how the US was using the pandemic to impose its worldview. After Beijing claimed that COVID-19 was a biological weapon from the US, a publication ran this piece as well. The EU DisinfoLab, a nonprofit organisation had earlier claimed that OneWorld and InfoRos have links to Russia.

Are Russian intelligence agencies running a disinformation campaign to influence US voters?

Australia has said that it has no intention of enjoying bilateral relations between China despite repeated efforts by the United States. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: Aus-US meet halfway on South China Sea, Both sides condemn China's action

The US will not accept any new applications for protection for "Dreamers," young migrants who arrived illegally in the US as minors, and will shorten the deportation protections of those whose eligibility is soon to expire. However, those who already have a permit under the programme may renew it for a year.

In 2017, President Donald Trump tried to cancel the programme called Deferred Action for Childhood&nbsp;Arrivals (DACA), which protected the Dreamers from deportation and allowed them to work and study in America.

The Supreme Court, however, blocked the Trump administration's attempt to kill DACA.

The review is likely to take at least 100 days, putting off any final decision on the programme until after the November 3 election in which Trump is fighting for a second term against Democrat Joe Biden.

Asked at a news conference on Tuesday whether he was still considering a path to citizenship for DACA recipients, Trump said: “We are going to make... the DACA people and representatives happy, and we’re also going to end up with a fantastic merit-based immigration system.” He did not elaborate.

The administration plans to continue its existing policy of not accepting new DACA applicants, a policy in place since 2017. It will extend the eligibility by a year for those DACA immigrants whose protection from deportation was due to expire, as long as they do not have a criminal record.

The previous policy had been to extend the eligibility for two years.

In addition, a memorandum issued by the Department of Homeland Security said permits allowing DACA recipients to travel outside the country would only be issued in “exceptional circumstances.”

Trump has made his hardline stance on both legal and illegal immigration a central platform of his presidency and his 2020 re-election campaign, but DACA is a complicated issue for him because of increasing public support of the programme.

Some 700,000 people in America have benefited from the DACA programme, most of them of Latin American origin.

The US will not accept any new applications for protection for "Dreamers," young migrants who arrived illegally in the US as minors, and will shorten the deportation protections of those whose eligibility is soon to expire.

The US will not accept any new applications for protection for "Dreamers," young migrants who arrived illegally in the US as minors, and will shorten the deportation protections of those whose eligibility is soon to expire. However, those who already have a permit under the programme may renew it for a year. In 2017, President Donald Trump tried to cancel the programme called Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), which protected the Dreamers from deportation and allowed them to work and study in America. The Supreme Court, however, blocked the Trump administration's attempt to kill DACA. The review is likely to take at least 100 days, putting off any final decision on the programme until after the November 3 election in which Trump is fighting for a second term against Democrat Joe Biden. Asked at a news conference on Tuesday whether he was still considering a path to citizenship for DACA recipients, Trump said: “We are going to make... the DACA people and representatives happy, and we’re also going to end up with a fantastic merit-based immigration system.” He did not elaborate. The administration plans to continue its existing policy of not accepting new DACA applicants, a policy in place since 2017. It will extend the eligibility by a year for those DACA immigrants whose protection from deportation was due to expire, as long as they do not have a criminal record. The previous policy had been to extend the eligibility for two years. In addition, a memorandum issued by the Department of Homeland Security said permits allowing DACA recipients to travel outside the country would only be issued in “exceptional circumstances.” Trump has made his hardline stance on both legal and illegal immigration a central platform of his presidency and his 2020 re-election campaign, but DACA is a complicated issue for him because of increasing public support of the programme. Some 700,000 people in America have benefited from the DACA programme, most of them of Latin American origin.

US to reject new 'Dreamer' requests for immigration protection

Republican senator Tom Cotton, who is seen as a potential presidential candidate for 2024 US elections, described slavery as a "necessary evil" to slam an initiative by a leading US daily.

"As the Founding Fathers said, it was the necessary evil upon which the union was built, but the union was built in a way, as Lincoln said, to put slavery on the course to its ultimate extinction," Cotton, in an interview with the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette published on Sunday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/black-lives-matter-protests-turn-ugly-in-us-as-texas-reports-one-death-316068">Black Lives Matter protests turn ugly in US as Texas reports one death</a>

Cotton made the remarks against the New York Times 1619 Project, an initiative to reframe US history from around August 1619, when the slave ships were first arrived on the American soil.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-war-against-american-voters-could-cost-him-reelection-316359">Trump's war against American voters could cost him reelection</a>

On Thursday, Cotton introduced a legislation that aims to cut off federal money to teach 1619 Project in primary and secondary schools.&nbsp;

In the interview, Cotton also said the history of slavery, its impact and role should be studied on the basis of the "development of our country", adding otherwise we can't "understand our country".

He also said the 1619 Project calls US "at root, a systematically racist country to the core and irredeemable. I reject that root and branch."

When the news broke out, Cotton called it "fake" and argued that his comments were referring to the founders of the US.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This is the definition of fake news. 
 
I said that *the Founders viewed slavery as a necessary evil* and described how they put the evil institution on the path to extinction, a point frequently made by Lincoln. <a href="https://t.co/SaWTTlMO7w">https://t.co/SaWTTlMO7w</a>
— Tom Cotton (@TomCottonAR) <a href="https://twitter.com/TomCottonAR/status/1287489209469734915?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"I said that *the Founders viewed slavery as a necessary evil*," Cotton wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;

Republican senator Tom Cotton, who is seen as a potential presidential candidate for 2024 US elections, described slavery as a "necessary evil" to slam an initiative by a leading US daily.

Republican senator Tom Cotton, who is seen as a potential presidential candidate for 2024 US elections, described slavery as a "necessary evil" to slam an initiative by a leading US daily. "As the Founding Fathers said, it was the necessary evil upon which the union was built, but the union was built in a way, as Lincoln said, to put slavery on the course to its ultimate extinction," Cotton, in an interview with the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette published on Sunday. Also read | Black Lives Matter protests turn ugly in US as Texas reports one death Cotton made the remarks against the New York Times 1619 Project, an initiative to reframe US history from around August 1619, when the slave ships were first arrived on the American soil. Also read | Trump's war against American voters could cost him reelection On Thursday, Cotton introduced a legislation that aims to cut off federal money to teach 1619 Project in primary and secondary schools. In the interview, Cotton also said the history of slavery, its impact and role should be studied on the basis of the "development of our country", adding otherwise we can't "understand our country". He also said the 1619 Project calls US "at root, a systematically racist country to the core and irredeemable. I reject that root and branch." When the news broke out, Cotton called it "fake" and argued that his comments were referring to the founders of the US. This is the definition of fake news. I said that *the Founders viewed slavery as a necessary evil* and described how they put the evil institution on the path to extinction, a point frequently made by Lincoln. https://t.co/SaWTTlMO7w — Tom Cotton (@TomCottonAR) July 26, 2020 × "I said that *the Founders viewed slavery as a necessary evil*," Cotton wrote on Twitter.

Republican senator Tom Cotton describes slavery as 'necessary evil'

The recent decision of US President Donald Trump to restrict the entry of immigrants to US has resulted in considerable protest in different countries. It is reported that one million foreign students are studying in the USA and a number of them stay in US and do online courses.

The recent decision of US President Donald Trump to restrict the entry of immigrants to US has resulted in considerable protest in different countries. It is reported that one million foreign students are studying in the USA and a number of them stay in US and do online courses. The argument of Trump that such students studying online courses need not stay in the US is logically correct though that does not appeal to the immigrants. As a rich country in the world offering growth opportunities in multiple ways and business and trade prospects, people from across the world, particularly from developing countries like India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh and others, aspire to go to the US and if possible become the citizens. As a matter of fact, in the case of many immigrants to the US, becoming the US citizens appear to be lifelong ambition. Some succeed and some do not. Many people outside the US seem to think that the immigrants getting US citizenship are a privileged lot. The immigrants in the US and those aspiring to become immigrants argue that the US is essentially a country of migrants and the immigrants from across the world have contributed to the prosperity and growth of the country. Therefore, they argue that the US government restricting the flow of immigrants is ethically incorrect. The fact is that, by and large, the government and citizens of the US have a liberal attitude and have been welcoming the immigrants and treating them on par. The recent incident of the murder of black man George Floyd by a white policeman has revived the debate as to whom the US belong, in a scenario, where every citizen in the US is a migrant and some of them could have migrated a few years back, some a few decades back and some a few centuries back. There are African Americans, Indian Americans, Chinese Americans and so on and a number of US citizens of all these races hold pivotal positions in the US, both in the government and business enterprises. In view of such a diversified background, all religions have places of worship in the US. The recent “Black Lives Matter “ movement appears to be based on the controversial question as to whether the US belongs to blacks or whites and whether the whites are denying the legitimate rights to the blacks, all of whom are citizens of US. This is a historical issue and appears to be an unending debate. The ground reality in the USA today is that the country does not belong to any single race but multiple races that have descended on the USA as immigrants over a few centuries. The controversy being created as to whether the US belongs to blacks or whites and white black conflict exists in US is mischievous. The fact that could effectively disprove this mischievous campaign is that a black could become a US President and remain in the post for two terms and is popular with most sections of the country's men and women. It is particularly interesting to note that the “Black Lives Matter” movement has participation by both the blacks and whites and at the same time, large number of blacks and whites in the US who think that this protest movement is unreal and a wasteful exercise kept themselves away from the protest. If the white policeman has murdered a black man ,the fact is that there have been a number of occasions when the blacks have also murdered the whites. Then, why no movement was started under the title “White Lives Matter". While the black President Barack Obama having been the US President for eight long years has not solved the so called discrimination of blacks, why no one is accusing Obama for this “wasted opportunity”? President Trump is being accused and protests are organised to defend the rights of blacks, which appears to be virtually aimed at unseating President Trump in the forthcoming election. The US is not a troubled country as it is made to look before the Presidential election by some people with anti-Trump feelings. Cross section of people in the US are living together for several decades with understanding and amity. They will continue to do so. In every country in the world , one section or other amongst the people complain about discrimination based on the caste, colour or race. Such grievances also exist in the US which is not an abnormal condition and Trump cannot be held responsible in any way for such prevailing conditions. It appears that the “Black Lives Matter” movement will end for the present after the conclusion of the forthcoming Presidential poll in the US and whether President Trump would get reelected or not, it would be a non-issue after the Presidential election, as it is an unreal or exaggerated issue. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Why 'Black Lives Matter' would be non-issue after US  presidential election

In a tit-for-tat diplomacy, China has asked the United States to close its consulate in Chengdu after Washington shut down Beijing's consulate in Houston.&nbsp;

The US has accused China of snooping through the Houston consulate and now China is retaliating on similar grounds.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/people-in-us-consulate-in-chengdu-interfered-in-our-internal-affairs-china-315732">People in US consulate in Chengdu interfered in our internal affairs: China</a>

Chengdu, which lies in Sichuan province, is a hub for China's commercial expansion into Central Asia.&nbsp;

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-houston-consulate-was-hub-of-spying-us-secretary-of-state-mike-pompeo-315582">'China's Houston consulate was hub of spying': US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-houston-consulate-was-hub-of-spying-us-secretary-of-state-mike-pompeo-315582">&nbsp;</a>

The region has been a valuable outpost for the US too as reports suggest it is from this consulate that Washington used to gather information about Xinjiang and Tibet.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-china-consulate-war-why-china-shut-down-the-chengdu-consulate-315816/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Xinjiang and Tibet have been in international focus after China began crackdowns in these regions.&nbsp;

Chinese celebrated the decision to shut down Chengdu consulate and it was the&nbsp;top trending topic on Weibo, Chinese version of a social-media website similar to Twitter.&nbsp;

Chinese state media CCTV posted an image with the text: "retaliation".

Hot pots are a popular food in Chengdu and now some users on social media are suggesting that the American consulate could be turned into a hotspot restaurant.&nbsp;

Several people were seen outside the consulate, who apparently wanted to see if the US will burn any documents.&nbsp;

Earlier, Chinese diplomats had burnt some documents in Houston following the announcment by the US.&nbsp;

The Americans didn't burn any documents, but some crackers were set off.&nbsp;

The US has been given 72 hours to shut down the consulate and the country is not looking to buckle, in fact, it seems, US is willing to take on China. &nbsp;

In recent weeks, the US has sanctioned Chinese officials, cut off access to the American technology and challenged Beijing on the South China Sea.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State, who has constantly ramped up pressure on China, today described the Asian giant a "frankenstein" and declared that Washington will lead the fight against the Communist Party.&nbsp;

Washington and Beijing are battling on several fronts, be it defence, trade, technology and human rights and the closure of the American consulate suggests that the tussle is all set to intensify.&nbsp;

In a tit-for-tat diplomacy, China has asked the United States to close its consulate in Chengdu after Washington shut down Beijing's consulate in Houston. The US has accused China of snooping through the Houston consulate and now China is retaliating on similar grounds.

In a tit-for-tat diplomacy, China has asked the United States to close its consulate in Chengdu after Washington shut down Beijing's consulate in Houston. The US has accused China of snooping through the Houston consulate and now China is retaliating on similar grounds. Also read | People in US consulate in Chengdu interfered in our internal affairs: China Chengdu, which lies in Sichuan province, is a hub for China's commercial expansion into Central Asia. Also read | 'China's Houston consulate was hub of spying': US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo The region has been a valuable outpost for the US too as reports suggest it is from this consulate that Washington used to gather information about Xinjiang and Tibet. Watch | Xinjiang and Tibet have been in international focus after China began crackdowns in these regions. Chinese celebrated the decision to shut down Chengdu consulate and it was the top trending topic on Weibo, Chinese version of a social-media website similar to Twitter. Chinese state media CCTV posted an image with the text: "retaliation". Hot pots are a popular food in Chengdu and now some users on social media are suggesting that the American consulate could be turned into a hotspot restaurant. Several people were seen outside the consulate, who apparently wanted to see if the US will burn any documents. Earlier, Chinese diplomats had burnt some documents in Houston following the announcment by the US. The Americans didn't burn any documents, but some crackers were set off. The US has been given 72 hours to shut down the consulate and the country is not looking to buckle, in fact, it seems, US is willing to take on China. In recent weeks, the US has sanctioned Chinese officials, cut off access to the American technology and challenged Beijing on the South China Sea. US Secretary of State, who has constantly ramped up pressure on China, today described the Asian giant a "frankenstein" and declared that Washington will lead the fight against the Communist Party. Washington and Beijing are battling on several fronts, be it defence, trade, technology and human rights and the closure of the American consulate suggests that the tussle is all set to intensify.

With announcement on Chengdu consulate closure, US, China battle set to intensify

The United States has announced it will not take in any new foreign students seeking online-only study, after revoking a controversial order that expelled those already studying in the country and preparing for that in the wake of the pandemic.

The policy change was announced in a statement by Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Friday.

President Donald Trump has suspended several kinds of visas for foreigners during the coronavirus crisis.&nbsp;

The original policy change of revoking the visas of foreign students whose classes will move online in the autumn was taken to court by top universities including Harvard and MIT, teachers unions and at least 18 states.&nbsp;To this end, the administration on July 14 the administration reversed course and rescinded the decision.

That measure had been seen as a move by Trump to put pressure on educational institutions that are adopting a cautious approach to reopening amid the global COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

Trump is also eager for schools at all levels to reopen with in-person classes as a sign of a return to normality as he fights an uphill battle for re-election in November. He has been pushing for this even though the virus is out of control in some states, with the US death toll a world-high of more than 144,000.

Most US colleges and universities have not yet announced their plans for the fall semester but Harvard has said all its classes for the 2020-21 academic year will be conducted online, "with rare exceptions."

(with inputs from agencies)

The United States has announced it will not take in any new foreign students seeking online-only study, after revoking a controversial order that expelled those already studying in the country and preparing for that in the wake of the pandemic.

The United States has announced it will not take in any new foreign students seeking online-only study, after revoking a controversial order that expelled those already studying in the country and preparing for that in the wake of the pandemic. The policy change was announced in a statement by Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Friday. President Donald Trump has suspended several kinds of visas for foreigners during the coronavirus crisis. The original policy change of revoking the visas of foreign students whose classes will move online in the autumn was taken to court by top universities including Harvard and MIT, teachers unions and at least 18 states. To this end, the administration on July 14 the administration reversed course and rescinded the decision. That measure had been seen as a move by Trump to put pressure on educational institutions that are adopting a cautious approach to reopening amid the global COVID-19 pandemic. Trump is also eager for schools at all levels to reopen with in-person classes as a sign of a return to normality as he fights an uphill battle for re-election in November. He has been pushing for this even though the virus is out of control in some states, with the US death toll a world-high of more than 144,000. Most US colleges and universities have not yet announced their plans for the fall semester but Harvard has said all its classes for the 2020-21 academic year will be conducted online, "with rare exceptions." (with inputs from agencies)

US announces it won't take new foreign students for all-online classes

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