As per reports, Taiwan is seeking to purchase billions of dollars worth of arms from the United States to secure support from the new Trump administration as China increases military pressure on the island.

Taiwan in talks for multi-billion-dollar US arms deal: Report

Another US military plane carrying 112 Indians landed at India's Amritsar. The journey of the deportees who came back to India, however, was an ordeal. Some of them are now too afraid to speak about it. This is the third such arrival in the last 10 days as part of the US President Donald Trump-led administration's crackdown on illegal immigrants. Watch in for more details!

Indian Deportees From US Recount Ordeals

US crackdown on Indian immigrants: Indians deported from US narrate ordeal

<p>Taiwan is considering buying arms worth billions of dollars from the US, hoping to gather support from Trump's administration, Reuters reported, citing sources briefed on the matter.&nbsp;</p>
<p>This comes as China continues to apply military pressure on the island.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Taiwan is in talks with Washington, three sources familiar with the situation told Reuters on condition of anonymity.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The package is meant to demonstrate to the US that Taiwan is committed to its defence, one of the sources said.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/serious-regression-china-slams-us-for-dropping-wording-on-not-supporting-taiwan-independence-8728986" rel="dofollow">'Serious regression': China slams US for dropping wording on not supporting 'Taiwan independence'</a></strong></p>
<p>According to the second source, the package would include coastal defence cruise missiles and HIMARS rockets.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"I would be very surprised if it was less than $8 billion. Somewhere between $7 billion and $10 billion," the source said.</p>
<p>However, the White House did not respond to a request for comment.&nbsp;</p>
<p>US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz said he wants to speed up the delivery of weapons to Taiwan.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-detects-19-chinese-aircraft-8-vessels-around-its-territory-8723210" rel="dofollow">Taiwan detects 19 Chinese aircraft, 8 vessels around its territory</a></strong></p>
<p>Moreover, Taiwan's defence ministry refused to comment on specific purchases but said it is focused on building its defences.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"Any weaponry and equipment that can achieve those goals for building the military are listed as targets for tender," it said.</p>
<p>This comes after the US State Department removed the statement stating that Washington does not support Taiwan's independence. The website further said that it "was part of a routine update".&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-secretly-trying-to-gain-control-in-japan-specifically-in-okinawa-close-to-taiwan-8655020" rel="dofollow">China secretly trying to gain control in Japan, specifically in Okinawa, close to Taiwan</a></strong></p>
<p>China on Monday (Feb 17) slammed the US move, urging America to "correct its mistakes".&nbsp;</p>
<p>The move sparked anger in China, as it said that the revision "sends a wrong...signal to separatist forces advocating for Taiwan independence".&nbsp;</p>
<p>"This is yet another example of the United States' stubborn adherence to the erroneous policy of 'using Taiwan to suppress China'. We urge the United States side to immediately rectify its mistakes," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

World: The package is meant to demonstrate to US that Taiwan is committed to its defence. The second source said it would include coastal defence cruise missiles, HIMARS rockets.

Taiwan is considering buying arms worth billions of dollars from the US, hoping to gather support from Trump's administration, Reuters reported, citing sources briefed on the matter. This comes as China continues to apply military pressure on the island. Taiwan is in talks with Washington, three sources familiar with the situation told Reuters on condition of anonymity. The package is meant to demonstrate to the US that Taiwan is committed to its defence, one of the sources said. Also read: 'Serious regression': China slams US for dropping wording on not supporting 'Taiwan independence' According to the second source, the package would include coastal defence cruise missiles and HIMARS rockets. "I would be very surprised if it was less than $8 billion. Somewhere between $7 billion and $10 billion," the source said. However, the White House did not respond to a request for comment. US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz said he wants to speed up the delivery of weapons to Taiwan. Also read: Taiwan detects 19 Chinese aircraft, 8 vessels around its territory Moreover, Taiwan's defence ministry refused to comment on specific purchases but said it is focused on building its defences. "Any weaponry and equipment that can achieve those goals for building the military are listed as targets for tender," it said. This comes after the US State Department removed the statement stating that Washington does not support Taiwan's independence. The website further said that it "was part of a routine update". Also read: China secretly trying to gain control in Japan, specifically in Okinawa, close to Taiwan China on Monday (Feb 17) slammed the US move, urging America to "correct its mistakes". The move sparked anger in China, as it said that the revision "sends a wrong...signal to separatist forces advocating for Taiwan independence". "This is yet another example of the United States' stubborn adherence to the erroneous policy of 'using Taiwan to suppress China'. We urge the United States side to immediately rectify its mistakes," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said. (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan mulling multi-billion dollar defence deal with US to win Trump admin's support: Report

US President Donald Trump gave a frosty response as UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer rushed to Washington. Trump claimed he wasn’t sure what Starmer planned to discuss, fueling speculation about the visit’s agenda.

UK PM rushing to Washington, Trump: don't know what will Starmer discuss

#Gravitas U.S. president Donald Trump’s social media post, quoting Napolean Bonaparte has sparked a political storm. Watch in for more details!

Trump's post quoting Napoleon stirs debate

#Gravitas A critical phrase from the U.S. State Department’s official Taiwan fact sheet is now gone.  The phrase explicitly stated, ‘We do not support Taiwan independence.’ Watch in for more details!

Will Taiwan become an independent country with Trump’s help?

A power struggle is unfolding over Ukraine, with European leaders working to secure their roles in the country's future. French President Emmanuel Macron has convened a summit in Paris to find a path forward, while U.S. and Russian officials plan to meet without Europe to discuss the situation. But can the Paris meeting make Europe relevant again?

Defenceless Europe trapped in talk as America-Russia begin great game of Ukraine

A squadron of six US Air Force bombers has reportedly been flying over the Mediterranean Sea, consisting of B-52 Stratofortress. According to reports, the American aircraft took off from an American base in England on Monday, possibly heading towards West Asia. This comes a day after the U.S. and Israel displayed a united front on Gaza, with PM Benjamin Netanyahu warning to open the "gates of hell" in Gaza if all hostages are not returned. Watch in for more details!

US strategic bombers fly near Gaza as Israel threatens to open 'gates of hell'

<p>As the flight carrying the second batch of Indian deportees from the US arrived in Amritsar, one of the immigrants, Mandeep Singh recalled being forced to deal with crocodiles and snakes and staying without eating for days.&nbsp;</p>
<p>He claimed that he was forced to trim his beard despite being a Sikh.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Singh, 38, who entered the US via the illegal "donkey" route, came in the second batch of 116 immigrants.</p>
<p>He was arrested by the US Border Patrol on January 27 while trying to sneak into America via Tijuana in Mexico.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-sikh-body-condemns-us-authorities-for-not-allowing-sikh-deportees-to-wear-turban-8728259">Top Sikh body condemns US authorities for 'not allowing' Sikh deportees to wear turban</a></strong></p>
<p>&ldquo;When I spoke to my agent, he said within one month I would be taken to America in a legal way. The agent demanded ₹40 lakh, which I paid in two installments. The journey began with a flight from Amritsar to Delhi last August,&rdquo; PTI reported, citing him talking to reporters outside the Amritsar Airport.&nbsp;</p>
<p>He further claimed that separately "sub-agents" demanded Rs 20 lakh from him.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"From Delhi, I was taken to Mumbai, then Nairobi (Kenya), and onwards to Amsterdam (The Netherlands) through another nation. From there, we were taken to Suriname. When I reached there, the sub-agents demanded ₹20 lakh, which was paid back home by my family," he said.</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/plane-carrying-second-batch-of-119-indian-immigrants-from-us-arrives-at-amritsar-airport-8724970">Plane carrying second batch of 119 Indian immigrants from US arrives at Amritsar Airport</a></strong></p>
<p>While describing his journey, Singh said that from Suriname, he, along with others, boarded a vehicle that was "cramped with many people like me".&nbsp;</p>
<p>He added that the group was then taken to Guyana, followed by Bolivia, and then Ecuador.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-deportation-deportee-recounts-horror-upon-landing-in-amritsar-our-legs-were-chained-8726055">US deportation: Deportee recounts horror upon landing in Amritsar; &lsquo;Our legs were chained&rsquo;</a></strong></p>
<h2>Dealing with 'crocodiles and snakes'</h2>
<p>Mandeep said that while they were crossing the Panama jungles, they were "face-to-face" with crocodiles and snakes.&nbsp;</p>
<p>They were told by their fellow travellers that if they asked too many questions, they could be shot.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"For 13 days, we moved through the treacherous route that included 12 canals. Crocodiles, snakes &ndash; we had to bear all. Some were given sticks to deal with the dangerous reptiles," he added.</p>
<h2>'Ate half-bakes chapatis'</h2>
<p>Singh further stressed that their food was half-baked 'rotis' and sometimes noodles, adding that proper food was a distant thing for them.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/process-of-deportation-not-new-says-jaishankar-as-us-deports-104-indian-migrants-8695637">'Engaging with US to ensure deportees are not mistreated,' says Jaishankar as US deports 104 Indians</a></strong></p>
<h2>'Forced to trim beard'</h2>
<p>He then recalled that after crossing Panama, the group navigated through Costa Rica, Honduras, Nicaragua, Guatemala, and finally, Tijuana, by which time his beard had been trimmed forcibly.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Notably, as Donald Trump came back to power in the United States, becoming the President, he began a crackdown on illegal immigrants, sending them to their home countries.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The plane carrying the first batch of Indian immigrants landed on February 5, the second on February 15, and the third on February 6.&nbsp;</p>
<p>A total of 332 deportees have returned to India so far.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

India News: While describing his journey, Singh said that from Suriname, he, along with others, boarded a vehicle that was "cramped with many people like me".

As the flight carrying the second batch of Indian deportees from the US arrived in Amritsar, one of the immigrants, Mandeep Singh recalled being forced to deal with crocodiles and snakes and staying without eating for days. He claimed that he was forced to trim his beard despite being a Sikh. Singh, 38, who entered the US via the illegal "donkey" route, came in the second batch of 116 immigrants. He was arrested by the US Border Patrol on January 27 while trying to sneak into America via Tijuana in Mexico. Also read: Top Sikh body condemns US authorities for 'not allowing' Sikh deportees to wear turban “When I spoke to my agent, he said within one month I would be taken to America in a legal way. The agent demanded ₹40 lakh, which I paid in two installments. The journey began with a flight from Amritsar to Delhi last August,” PTI reported, citing him talking to reporters outside the Amritsar Airport. He further claimed that separately "sub-agents" demanded Rs 20 lakh from him. "From Delhi, I was taken to Mumbai, then Nairobi (Kenya), and onwards to Amsterdam (The Netherlands) through another nation. From there, we were taken to Suriname. When I reached there, the sub-agents demanded ₹20 lakh, which was paid back home by my family," he said. Also read: Plane carrying second batch of 119 Indian immigrants from US arrives at Amritsar Airport While describing his journey, Singh said that from Suriname, he, along with others, boarded a vehicle that was "cramped with many people like me". He added that the group was then taken to Guyana, followed by Bolivia, and then Ecuador. Also read: US deportation: Deportee recounts horror upon landing in Amritsar; ‘Our legs were chained’ Dealing with 'crocodiles and snakes' Mandeep said that while they were crossing the Panama jungles, they were "face-to-face" with crocodiles and snakes. They were told by their fellow travellers that if they asked too many questions, they could be shot. "For 13 days, we moved through the treacherous route that included 12 canals. Crocodiles, snakes – we had to bear all. Some were given sticks to deal with the dangerous reptiles," he added. 'Ate half-bakes chapatis' Singh further stressed that their food was half-baked 'rotis' and sometimes noodles, adding that proper food was a distant thing for them. Also read: 'Engaging with US to ensure deportees are not mistreated,' says Jaishankar as US deports 104 Indians 'Forced to trim beard' He then recalled that after crossing Panama, the group navigated through Costa Rica, Honduras, Nicaragua, Guatemala, and finally, Tijuana, by which time his beard had been trimmed forcibly. Notably, as Donald Trump came back to power in the United States, becoming the President, he began a crackdown on illegal immigrants, sending them to their home countries. The plane carrying the first batch of Indian immigrants landed on February 5, the second on February 15, and the third on February 6. A total of 332 deportees have returned to India so far. (With inputs from agencies)

'Forced to trim beard': Sikh deportee from US recalls mistreatment, says 'faced crocodiles, snakes'

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday (Feb 17) that he was "committed" to US President Donald Trump's plan for Gaza.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Trump's plan involved displacing more than two million inhabitants of the Palestinian territory.</p>
<p>The Israeli prime minister said that he is committed to "a different Gaza".&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-cant-do-a-thing-tehran-slams-netanyahu-for-vowing-to-finish-the-job-against-iran-with-trumps-help-8729162">'Israel can't do a thing': Tehran slams Netanyahu for vowing to 'finish the job' against Iran with Trump's help</a></strong></p>
<p>"I am committed to US President Trump's plan for the creation of a different Gaza," Netanyahu said in a statement.</p>
<p>Earlier this month, Trump, in an interview excerpt released on Monday (Feb 10), said that Palestinians would not have the right to return to Gaza under his proposal for the United States to assume control of the region.</p>
<p>"No, they wouldn&rsquo;t, because they&rsquo;re going to have much better housing. In other words, I&rsquo;m talking about building a permanent place for them," Trump told Bret Baier of Fox News when asked if Palestinians would be allowed to return.</p>
<p>He further suggested that reconstruction efforts could be led by other nations in the region.</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-pm-netanyahu-thanks-us-president-trump-for-full-support-on-gaza-8725325">Israeli PM Netanyahu thanks US President Trump for 'full support' on Gaza</a></strong></p>
<p>The detailed plan involves the US taking control of Gaza, relocating its Palestinian population elsewhere, and transforming the region into the "Riviera of the Middle East."&nbsp;</p>
<p>He introduced the plan alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who said that the idea was "worth listening carefully to."</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armed-hamas-militants-lead-3-israeli-hostages-on-stage-8723396">Gaza ceasefire: 3 Hamas hostages, dozens of Palestinian prisoners released in latest swap</a></strong></p>
<h2>'Neither Hamas nor Palestinian Authority will rule Gaza'</h2>
<p>Netanyahu stressed that, as promised the day after the war in Gaza, neither Hamas nor the Palestinian Authority will be there.&nbsp;</p>
<p>He added that he is "committed to [US] President [Donald] Trump&rsquo;s plan to create a different Gaza&rdquo; &mdash; referring to a plan to relocate the Strip&rsquo;s residents while the US takes ownership of the territory and rebuilds it into a &ldquo;Riviera of the Middle East.&rdquo;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wont-accept-american-and-israeli-threats-hamas-warns-trump-netanyahu-over-gaza-ceasefire-ultimatum-8715064">&lsquo;Won&rsquo;t accept American and Israeli threats&rsquo;: Hamas warns Trump, Netanyahu over Gaza ceasefire ultimatum</a></strong></p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

World: Trump's detailed plan involves the US taking control of Gaza, relocating its Palestinian people elsewhere, and transforming region into the "Riviera of the Middle East."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday (Feb 17) that he was "committed" to US President Donald Trump's plan for Gaza. Trump's plan involved displacing more than two million inhabitants of the Palestinian territory. The Israeli prime minister said that he is committed to "a different Gaza". Also read: 'Israel can't do a thing': Tehran slams Netanyahu for vowing to 'finish the job' against Iran with Trump's help "I am committed to US President Trump's plan for the creation of a different Gaza," Netanyahu said in a statement. Earlier this month, Trump, in an interview excerpt released on Monday (Feb 10), said that Palestinians would not have the right to return to Gaza under his proposal for the United States to assume control of the region. "No, they wouldn’t, because they’re going to have much better housing. In other words, I’m talking about building a permanent place for them," Trump told Bret Baier of Fox News when asked if Palestinians would be allowed to return. He further suggested that reconstruction efforts could be led by other nations in the region. Also read: Israeli PM Netanyahu thanks US President Trump for 'full support' on Gaza The detailed plan involves the US taking control of Gaza, relocating its Palestinian population elsewhere, and transforming the region into the "Riviera of the Middle East." He introduced the plan alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who said that the idea was "worth listening carefully to." Also read: Gaza ceasefire: 3 Hamas hostages, dozens of Palestinian prisoners released in latest swap 'Neither Hamas nor Palestinian Authority will rule Gaza' Netanyahu stressed that, as promised the day after the war in Gaza, neither Hamas nor the Palestinian Authority will be there. He added that he is "committed to [US] President [Donald] Trump’s plan to create a different Gaza” — referring to a plan to relocate the Strip’s residents while the US takes ownership of the territory and rebuilds it into a “Riviera of the Middle East.” Also read: ‘Won’t accept American and Israeli threats’: Hamas warns Trump, Netanyahu over Gaza ceasefire ultimatum (With inputs from agencies)

'Committed' to Trump's plan for 'a different Gaza', says Israeli PM Netanyahu

As the US continued to crack down on illegal immigrants, a plane carrying a third batch of deportees landed at the Amritsar International Airport. Among the deportees, most migrants belong to  Haryana, Punjab and Gujarat.

US sends third deportation flight to India, lands in Amritsar

President Donald Trump attended the Daytona 500 NASCAR race in Florida. The president saluted the iconic race as a celebration of American culture. Watch in for more details!

US President Trump visits Daytona track as NASCAR season kicks off

<p>China on Monday (Feb 17) slammed the US move to remove the statement stating that Washington does not support Taiwan's independence. Beijing urged America to "correct its mistakes."&nbsp;</p>
<p>On Sunday, the US State Department removed a statement from its website, which read that the US does not support Taiwan's independence.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The website further said that it "was part of a routine update".&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-detects-19-chinese-aircraft-8-vessels-around-its-territory-8723210">Taiwan detects 19 Chinese aircraft, 8 vessels around its territory</a></strong></p>
<p>The fact sheet was updated last week, and it retains Washington's opposition to unilateral change from either Taiwan or China, claiming the democratically governed island as its own.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"We oppose any unilateral changes to the status quo from either side," the State Department website reads in the update posted on Thursday. "We expect cross-Strait differences to be resolved by peaceful means, free from coercion, in a manner acceptable to the people on both sides of the (Taiwan) Strait."</p>
<p>The move sparked anger in China, as it said that the revision "sends a wrong...signal to separatist forces advocating for Taiwan independence".&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sam-pitrodas-latest-remarks-stir-controversy-stop-assuming-that-china-is-the-enemy-8728596">'Stop assuming that China is the enemy': Sam Pitroda's latest remarks stir controversy</a></strong></p>
<p>"This is yet another example of the United States' stubborn adherence to the erroneous policy of 'using Taiwan to suppress China'. We urge the United States side to immediately rectify its mistakes," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Moreover, the foreign ministry called the US revision a "serious regression" in the US stance on Taiwan.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"We urge the US to immediately correct its mistakes [and] earnestly adhere to the One China principle."</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-secretly-trying-to-gain-control-in-japan-specifically-in-okinawa-close-to-taiwan-8655020" rel="dofollow">China secretly trying to gain control in Japan, specifically in Okinawa, close to Taiwan</a></strong></p>
<p>A US spokesperson said that it remains committed to the "One China" policy, adding that the US has formal ties with China rather than Taiwan.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The update comes around three weeks after Donald Trump was sworn in as US President.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Taiwan foreign minister thanks US&nbsp;</h2>
<p>Taiwan's Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung thanked the US for what he called "positive, Taiwan-friendly wordings".&nbsp;</p>
<p>Lin thanked US President Donald Trump's administration for continuing to uphold the Taiwan Relations Act and "six assurances" to help Taiwan strengthen its self-defense capabilities, economic and societal resilience, and enhance cross-strait peace and stability, the statement read.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/marco-rubio-clashes-with-china-over-taiwan-in-first-call-as-us-secretary-of-state-8652040" rel="dofollow">Marco Rubio clashes with China over Taiwan in first call as US Secretary of State</a></strong></p>
<p>The US government, since ending official relations with Taiwan and shifting diplomatic recognition to China in 1979, has continually reiterated its position of not supporting Taiwanese independence.&nbsp;</p>
<p>China sees self-governed Taiwan as a breakaway province that will eventually be part of the country.&nbsp;</p>
<p>However, Taiwan considers itself to be an independent nation, although many Taiwanese are in favour of maintaining the status quo where Taiwan neither declares independence from China nor unites with it.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

World: Fact sheet was updated last week, and it retains US's opposition to unilateral change from either Taiwan or China, claiming the democratically governed island as its own.

China on Monday (Feb 17) slammed the US move to remove the statement stating that Washington does not support Taiwan's independence. Beijing urged America to "correct its mistakes." On Sunday, the US State Department removed a statement from its website, which read that the US does not support Taiwan's independence. The website further said that it "was part of a routine update". Also read: Taiwan detects 19 Chinese aircraft, 8 vessels around its territory The fact sheet was updated last week, and it retains Washington's opposition to unilateral change from either Taiwan or China, claiming the democratically governed island as its own. "We oppose any unilateral changes to the status quo from either side," the State Department website reads in the update posted on Thursday. "We expect cross-Strait differences to be resolved by peaceful means, free from coercion, in a manner acceptable to the people on both sides of the (Taiwan) Strait." The move sparked anger in China, as it said that the revision "sends a wrong...signal to separatist forces advocating for Taiwan independence". Also read: 'Stop assuming that China is the enemy': Sam Pitroda's latest remarks stir controversy "This is yet another example of the United States' stubborn adherence to the erroneous policy of 'using Taiwan to suppress China'. We urge the United States side to immediately rectify its mistakes," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said. Moreover, the foreign ministry called the US revision a "serious regression" in the US stance on Taiwan. "We urge the US to immediately correct its mistakes [and] earnestly adhere to the One China principle." Also read: China secretly trying to gain control in Japan, specifically in Okinawa, close to Taiwan A US spokesperson said that it remains committed to the "One China" policy, adding that the US has formal ties with China rather than Taiwan. The update comes around three weeks after Donald Trump was sworn in as US President. Taiwan foreign minister thanks US Taiwan's Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung thanked the US for what he called "positive, Taiwan-friendly wordings". Lin thanked US President Donald Trump's administration for continuing to uphold the Taiwan Relations Act and "six assurances" to help Taiwan strengthen its self-defense capabilities, economic and societal resilience, and enhance cross-strait peace and stability, the statement read. Also read: Marco Rubio clashes with China over Taiwan in first call as US Secretary of State The US government, since ending official relations with Taiwan and shifting diplomatic recognition to China in 1979, has continually reiterated its position of not supporting Taiwanese independence. China sees self-governed Taiwan as a breakaway province that will eventually be part of the country. However, Taiwan considers itself to be an independent nation, although many Taiwanese are in favour of maintaining the status quo where Taiwan neither declares independence from China nor unites with it. (With inputs from agencies)

'Serious regression': China slams US for dropping wording on not supporting 'Taiwan independence'

President Trump attended the Daytona 500 Nascar race, celebrating American culture and racing. He took a lap around the track in 'The Beast,' joined by his granddaughter, and met with race drivers as Nascar season kicked off.

Trump attends Daytona 500, salutes American racing tradition

US plane carrying third batch of 112 Indian deportees lands in Amritsar

Israel has received a shipment of heavy MK-84 bombs from the United States. The MK-84 is an unguided 2,000-pound bomb, which can rip through thick concrete and metal, creating a wide blast radius. Watch this report for more details!

Donald Trump defends sending 2000-pound bombs to Israel

At least nine people have died in the eastern United States,...

Including eight in Kentucky,...

As powerful storms brought flooding and exceptionally powerful winds,...

Downing trees and cutting power.

US flooding: Storms kill 9, including 8 in Kentucky

US President Donald Trump said that he believes he could meet "very soon" with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss ending the war in Ukraine. Watch this report for more details!

Donald Trump says talks with Putin "Very soon"

US President Donald Trump has declared BRICS "Dead". This comes just months after repeatedly threatening 100% tariffs on its members over "de-dollarization" efforts. But why is Trump so concerned about BRICS? Why does the US see any move away from the dollar as a direct threat? And where does India stand in this evolving economic battle?

The Geopolitics of Currency: Why the dollar still rules

Third US plane with 112 Indian deportees lands at Amritsar airport

The US Department of State has removed a statement on its website that it does not support Taiwan's independence. Watch this report for more details!

US drops website wording on not supporting Taiwan independence

Donald Trump says he could meet Putin 'very soon'

US flight with third batch of Indian deportees lands in Amritsar

The U.S. President's 'The Big One' on tariffs is underway. He signed an executive order instructing his administration to look into reciprocal tariffs. Trump's explanation for the reciprocal tariff plan is simple: "We charge you what you charge us." We look at the impact of these U.S. import taxes and break it down in this next report... Take a look...

Reciprocal tariffs already a winning bet?

We track the state of the U.S. economy by breaking down the numbers in retail sales data from January. The decline in retail sales suggests a cooling consumer sector, a critical component of economic growth. While December's retail data was revised higher, the sharp pullback in January indicates caution among consumers. Watch in for more details!

US consumer spending takes a hit

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio made his official visit to West Asia, which comes just hours after Hamas released three Israeli hostages. Additionally, more than 300 Palestinian prisoners were released by Israel as part of the ceasefire deal. Watch in for more details!

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrives in Israel on first middle east tour

The H5N1 avian influenza outbreak is spreading globally, affecting humans, livestock, and wildlife. In the United States, the virus has infected nearly 70 people since April 2024, primarily farm workers who were in direct contact with infected poultry or dairy cattle. Watch in for more details!

Bird flu hits Wyoming: Third hospitalisation confirmed in US

As the US continues to crackdown on illegal immigrants, a plane carrying second batch of deportees landed at the Amritsar International Airport late Saturday evening (Feb 15), Indian news agency PTI reported, citing official sources.

US aircraft of Indian deportees lands in Amritsar

<p>As the US continues to crackdown on illegal immigrants, a plane carrying second batch of deportees landed at the Amritsar International Airport late Saturday evening (Feb 15), Indian news agency PTI reported, citing official sources.</p>
<p>There are 119 Indians onboard the plane, including 67 from Punjab, 33 from Haryana, eight from Gujarat, three from Uttar Pradesh, two each from Goa, Maharashtra and Rajasthan, and one each from Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir.</p>
<p>The second batch includes four women and two minors, including a six-year-old girl, the sources said.</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/second-batch-of-119-deported-illegal-indian-immigrants-from-us-to-arrive-in-amritsar-on-feb-15-8723110" rel="dofollow">Second batch of 119 deported illegal Indian immigrants from US to arrive in Amritsar on Feb 15</a></strong></p>
<p>Notably, the third plane, carrying 157 deportees is expected to land on Sunday (Feb 16).&nbsp;</p>
<p>Earlier on February 5, a US military aircraft carrying 104 illegal Indian migrants landed at the Amritsar airport. Of them, 33 each were from Haryana and Gujarat, and 30 from Punjab.</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uncertainty-grips-indian-immigrant-community-as-trump-targets-birthright-citizenship-8713938">Uncertainty grips Indian immigrant community as Trump targets birthright citizenship</a></strong></p>
<p>A family member of one of the illegal Indian immigrants deported by the US on Feb 5, said, "He reached the US on 27th January. They sold their land. They are staying at their relative's house. We have spent Rs 50-55 lakhs."</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Amritsar, Punjab: A family member of one of the illegal Indian immigrants deported by the US, says, "...He reached the US on 27th January...They sold their land...They are staying at their relative's house...We have spent Rs 50-55 lakhs..." <a href="https://t.co/uFn4y38dI6">pic.twitter.com/uFn4y38dI6</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1890796187600474596?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2><strong>'Do not have any legal right to be there'</strong></h2>
<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the US and met US President Donald Trump on Feb 13. PM Modi said those staying in other countries illegally "do not have any legal right to be there," as he addressed the media at a joint press conference alongside Trump in Washington DC.</p>
<p>He further said his country was ready to take back its citizens living in America illegally.</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-addresses-us-deportations-of-illegal-immigrants-says-they-have-no-legal-right-to-stay-8719299">PM Modi addresses deportation of illegal immigrants from US, says 'they have no legal right to stay'</a></strong></p>
<p>While condemning illegal immigration, Modi said it is a symptom of a bigger disease.</p>
<p>The Indian prime minister stressed that "those who stay in other countries illegally do not have any legal right to be there."</p>
<p>He added, "As far as India and the US are concerned, we have always said that those who are verified and are truly the citizens of India &mdash; if they live in the US illegally, India is ready to take them back."</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-military-aircraft-carrying-over-200-illegal-indian-immigrants-lands-at-amritsar-airport-8692502">US military aircraft carrying over 100 illegal Indian immigrants lands at Amritsar airport</a></strong></p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

India news: On Feb 5, a US military aircraft carrying 104 illegal Indian migrants landed at Amritsar airport. Of them, 33 each were from Haryana and Gujarat, and 30 from Punjab.

As the US continues to crackdown on illegal immigrants, a plane carrying second batch of deportees landed at the Amritsar International Airport late Saturday evening (Feb 15), Indian news agency PTI reported, citing official sources. There are 119 Indians onboard the plane, including 67 from Punjab, 33 from Haryana, eight from Gujarat, three from Uttar Pradesh, two each from Goa, Maharashtra and Rajasthan, and one each from Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir. The second batch includes four women and two minors, including a six-year-old girl, the sources said. Also read: Second batch of 119 deported illegal Indian immigrants from US to arrive in Amritsar on Feb 15 Notably, the third plane, carrying 157 deportees is expected to land on Sunday (Feb 16). Earlier on February 5, a US military aircraft carrying 104 illegal Indian migrants landed at the Amritsar airport. Of them, 33 each were from Haryana and Gujarat, and 30 from Punjab. Also read: Uncertainty grips Indian immigrant community as Trump targets birthright citizenship A family member of one of the illegal Indian immigrants deported by the US on Feb 5, said, "He reached the US on 27th January. They sold their land. They are staying at their relative's house. We have spent Rs 50-55 lakhs." #WATCH | Amritsar, Punjab: A family member of one of the illegal Indian immigrants deported by the US, says, "...He reached the US on 27th January...They sold their land...They are staying at their relative's house...We have spent Rs 50-55 lakhs..." pic.twitter.com/uFn4y38dI6 — ANI (@ANI) February 15, 2025 'Do not have any legal right to be there' Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the US and met US President Donald Trump on Feb 13. PM Modi said those staying in other countries illegally "do not have any legal right to be there," as he addressed the media at a joint press conference alongside Trump in Washington DC. He further said his country was ready to take back its citizens living in America illegally. Also read: PM Modi addresses deportation of illegal immigrants from US, says 'they have no legal right to stay' While condemning illegal immigration, Modi said it is a symptom of a bigger disease. The Indian prime minister stressed that "those who stay in other countries illegally do not have any legal right to be there." He added, "As far as India and the US are concerned, we have always said that those who are verified and are truly the citizens of India — if they live in the US illegally, India is ready to take them back." Also read: US military aircraft carrying over 100 illegal Indian immigrants lands at Amritsar airport (With inputs from agencies)

Plane carrying second batch of 119 Indian immigrants from US arrives at Amritsar Airport

<p>Elon Musk's father, Errol Musk did not hesitate to slam his son in a recent podcast interview, as he called his son a "bad, neglectful father".&nbsp;</p>
<p>The billionaire's father said that Musk has not been present for his many children.&nbsp;</p>
<p>While speaking with Joshua Rubin, Musk's father accused the Tesla CEO of prioritising his work over his children and leaving them with the nannies.</p>
<p>In a short video shared on social media, Rubin was seen asking, "Do you think Elon is a good dad?" to which Errol Musk replied, "No, he hasn't been a good dad."</p>
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DF-0_wVtoRU/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding: 16px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DF-0_wVtoRU/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style="background: #FFFFFF; line-height: 0; padding: 0 0; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div>
<div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div>
<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div>
</div>
<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div>
<div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div>
<div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div>
</div>
</a>
<p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DF-0_wVtoRU/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Joshua Rubin (@joshwideawake)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-is-the-father-influencer-claims-shes-secretly-given-birth-to-tesla-ceos-child-8723226">&lsquo;Elon Musk is the father&rsquo;: Influencer claims she&rsquo;d secretly given birth to Tesla CEO&rsquo;s child</a></strong></p>
<p>Speaking about Musk's first child, Nevada Alexander, who died when he was just 10 months old, Errol said, "The first child was too much with nannies and died in the care of a nanny."</p>
<h2>'He's gonna shoot me if Elon hears this...'</h2>
<p>Errol further said that if his son hears this, he's gonna shoot him.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"If Elon hears this, he's gonna shoot me or something. But anyway, that's what I think, that's not good," the billionaire's father said.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Commenting on Musk's parenting style, Errol said that they were too rich and hence too many nannies.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meet-shivon-zilis-elon-musks-girlfriend-with-indian-roots-8721289">Meet Shivon Zilis, Elon Musk's girlfriend with Indian roots</a></strong></p>
<p>"Then he had five children with the same woman. Five sons, each one had its own nanny. You following me?," he said.&nbsp;</p>
<p>When Rubin said that Musk never really spent time with his children, Errol reacted with a firm, "No."</p>
<h2>Netizens react&nbsp;</h2>
<p>In the video shared on Instagram, users shared mixed reactions to what Errol claimed. While, some said that he was brutally honest, others thought he was just stirring the pot.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"Sounds like he just wants kids but doesn't want to be a father," a user commented.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-expresses-honour-after-meeting-pm-narendra-modi-8720604">Elon Musk says 'an honour to meet' Indian PM Narendra Modi</a></strong></p>
<p>Another slammed Errol, saying, "Because Errol Musk is the beacon of shining morals."</p>
<p>One user commented, "Let me tell you who is a bad father, someone who would go and publicly criticise his own son for the attention."</p>
<p>Notably, recently, Musk was seen taking his young son X to public events. He took his son to a press conference in the Oval Office, where he was briefing along with US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;</p>
<p>He also brought three of his children when he went to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-jd-vance-defends-elon-musk-munich-security-conference-election-interference-claims-8721870">'You can survive few months of Elon Musk': US VP JD Vance defends X boss amid election interference claims</a></strong></p>
<p>However, Elon's ex-partner Grimes expressed her disapproval of their son's X increasing public presence.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"He should not be in public like this,&rdquo; she wrote on X.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

World: While speaking with Joshua Rubin, Musk's father accused the Tesla CEO of prioritising his work over his children and leaving them with the nannies.

Elon Musk's father, Errol Musk did not hesitate to slam his son in a recent podcast interview, as he called his son a "bad, neglectful father". The billionaire's father said that Musk has not been present for his many children. While speaking with Joshua Rubin, Musk's father accused the Tesla CEO of prioritising his work over his children and leaving them with the nannies. In a short video shared on social media, Rubin was seen asking, "Do you think Elon is a good dad?" to which Errol Musk replied, "No, he hasn't been a good dad." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Joshua Rubin (@joshwideawake) Also read: ‘Elon Musk is the father’: Influencer claims she’d secretly given birth to Tesla CEO’s child Speaking about Musk's first child, Nevada Alexander, who died when he was just 10 months old, Errol said, "The first child was too much with nannies and died in the care of a nanny." 'He's gonna shoot me if Elon hears this...' Errol further said that if his son hears this, he's gonna shoot him. "If Elon hears this, he's gonna shoot me or something. But anyway, that's what I think, that's not good," the billionaire's father said. Commenting on Musk's parenting style, Errol said that they were too rich and hence too many nannies. Also read: Meet Shivon Zilis, Elon Musk's girlfriend with Indian roots "Then he had five children with the same woman. Five sons, each one had its own nanny. You following me?," he said. When Rubin said that Musk never really spent time with his children, Errol reacted with a firm, "No." Netizens react In the video shared on Instagram, users shared mixed reactions to what Errol claimed. While, some said that he was brutally honest, others thought he was just stirring the pot. "Sounds like he just wants kids but doesn't want to be a father," a user commented. Also read: Elon Musk says 'an honour to meet' Indian PM Narendra Modi Another slammed Errol, saying, "Because Errol Musk is the beacon of shining morals." One user commented, "Let me tell you who is a bad father, someone who would go and publicly criticise his own son for the attention." Notably, recently, Musk was seen taking his young son X to public events. He took his son to a press conference in the Oval Office, where he was briefing along with US President Donald Trump. He also brought three of his children when he went to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Also read: 'You can survive few months of Elon Musk': US VP JD Vance defends X boss amid election interference claims However, Elon's ex-partner Grimes expressed her disapproval of their son's X increasing public presence. "He should not be in public like this,” she wrote on X. (With inputs from agencies)

'He's gonna shoot me if he hears this': Errol Musk slams son Elon's parenting, says he's 'not a good dad'

us-1

Us, News on Us, stories on Us, articles on Us, Us stories at Wion, Us news, Us latest news

us 1