US President Joe Biden said Tuesday he expects to speak with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping this week, but is waiting for confirmation.

US President Joe Biden expects talks with Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping this week

The US residents are battling a dual weather crisis wildfires along with heat waves. Firefighters are battling the largest wildfire in California, the oak fire broke out last week and thousands of people have been evacuated since meanwhile another wildfire is raging in Mariposa county.

WION Climate Tracker | Low rainfall, drought & heat wave worsening situation in US

The US on Tuesday (July 26) held China responsible for increased "provocations" in South China Sea againt rival claimants.

"There is a clear and upward trend of PRC provocations against South China Sea claimants and other states lawfully operating in the region,” Jung Pak, deputy assistant secretary for East Asia at the State Department, told a US think tank event, referring to the People's Republic of China.

China claims the entirety of South China Sea citing ancient claims. It is often at odds with smaller countries in the region over the issue.

Jung Pak said that China's aircrafts had increasingly carried out unsafe intercepts of Australian aircraft in international airspace above South China Sea. She also stated that China had also challenged marine research and exploration activities within Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of the Philippines.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden is anticipated to speak with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping this week. It is expected that the conversation will focus on ways &nbsp;prevent the growing US-China strategic rivalry.

Jung Pak's also came ahead of meetings of Southeast Asian foreign ministers and partners, including the United States, next week in Cambodia.

Pak said Washington had a "very complicated relationship with Beijing" was not trying to counter everything it was doing in Southeast Asia and the rest of the developing world.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The US on Tuesday (July 26) held China responsible for increased "provocations" in South China Sea againt rival claimants. "There is a clear and upward trend of PRC provocations against South China Sea claimants and other states lawfully operating in the region,” Jung Pak, deputy assistant secretary for East Asia at the State Department, told a US think tank event, referring to the People's Republic of China.

The US on Tuesday (July 26) held China responsible for increased "provocations" in South China Sea againt rival claimants. "There is a clear and upward trend of PRC provocations against South China Sea claimants and other states lawfully operating in the region,” Jung Pak, deputy assistant secretary for East Asia at the State Department, told a US think tank event, referring to the People's Republic of China. China claims the entirety of South China Sea citing ancient claims. It is often at odds with smaller countries in the region over the issue. Jung Pak said that China's aircrafts had increasingly carried out unsafe intercepts of Australian aircraft in international airspace above South China Sea. She also stated that China had also challenged marine research and exploration activities within Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of the Philippines. US President Joe Biden is anticipated to speak with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping this week. It is expected that the conversation will focus on ways prevent the growing US-China strategic rivalry. Jung Pak's also came ahead of meetings of Southeast Asian foreign ministers and partners, including the United States, next week in Cambodia. Pak said Washington had a "very complicated relationship with Beijing" was not trying to counter everything it was doing in Southeast Asia and the rest of the developing world. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US accuses China of increased 'provocations' in South China Sea

Armed robbers broke into a Brooklyn church on Sunday (July 24) and stole more than $1 million worth of jewellery from a New York preacher who was giving a live-streamed sermon. Bishop Lamor Miller-Whitehead of the Leaders of Tomorrow International Ministries, a Rolls-Royce-driving preacher renowned for his flamboyant personality and friendship with Mayor Eric Adam, was delivering a sermon when three robbers allegedly entered the building. The ceremony was also being live-streamed and just a few moments before the robbers walked in, Miller-Whitehead in the online video was heard asking, “How many of you have lost your faith because you saw somebody else die?” The Guardian reported.

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Bishop Lamor Miller-Whitehead &amp; Wife robbed at gunpoint by 3 masked men, during Livestream service. 
 
Stolen—$1M+ in jewelry. 
 
[he described how one of the suspects "put the gun to my back" and "had the gun in my 8-month-old’s face."] -Fox 
 
$50K reward offered<a href="https://twitter.com/KathyHochul?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KathyHochul</a> ??? <a href="https://t.co/0QP52npNoN">pic.twitter.com/0QP52npNoN</a>
— Bob (@Bob08902798) <a href="https://twitter.com/Bob08902798/status/1551788292512923648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

During the live stream after asking his question, Miller repeatedly said ‘all right, all right’ dropping his hands to his knees, just before a man with a rifle and donning a black sweatshirt enters the scene. The man with the black face mask then approached Miller who was hiding behind the gold-colored lectern. The man was spotted stuffing the bishop’s jewellery in his pockets. Similarly, another man was seen approaching the Miller-Whitehead wearing the same outfit hanging around him for a short period and then he vanished.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/millions-of-dollars-worth-of-jewellery-stolen-from-security-truck-at-california-rest-area-498763">Millions of dollars' worth of jewellery stolen from security truck at&nbsp;California rest area</a>

In the video uploaded on Instagram, Miller-Whitehead said that the assailants held a gun to the face of his young daughter while robbing his wife’s jewellery and ripping off his chain. As per the investigators, no one in the family got suffered any harm.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armed-robbers-steal-jewels-at-the-european-fine-art-fair-492710">Armed robbers steal jewels at 'The European Fine Art Fair'</a>

The preacher then expressed his gratitude that his family is safe and no one is hurt.Miller-Whitehead defended his lavish lifestyle saying that he is living the life that God has set up for him.&nbsp;He later announced a $50,000 reward on Monday (July 25) to anyone who shares leading information regarding the arrest of the thieves.

Mayor, Eric Adam spoke with Miller-Whitehead following the heist on Sunday (July 24), as per a hall representative. The mayor in a statement said, “No one in this city should be the victim of armed robbery, let alone our faith leaders and congregants worshipping in a House of God,” the Guardian reported. &nbsp;He further continued those investigations are still in process.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Armed robbers broke into a Brooklyn church on Sunday (July 24) and stole more than $1 million worth of jewellery from a New York preacher who was giving a live-streamed sermon.

Armed robbers broke into a Brooklyn church on Sunday (July 24) and stole more than $1 million worth of jewellery from a New York preacher who was giving a live-streamed sermon. Bishop Lamor Miller-Whitehead of the Leaders of Tomorrow International Ministries, a Rolls-Royce-driving preacher renowned for his flamboyant personality and friendship with Mayor Eric Adam, was delivering a sermon when three robbers allegedly entered the building. The ceremony was also being live-streamed and just a few moments before the robbers walked in, Miller-Whitehead in the online video was heard asking, “How many of you have lost your faith because you saw somebody else die?” The Guardian reported. Bishop Lamor Miller-Whitehead & Wife robbed at gunpoint by 3 masked men, during Livestream service. Stolen—$1M+ in jewelry. [he described how one of the suspects "put the gun to my back" and "had the gun in my 8-month-old’s face."] -Fox $50K reward offered@KathyHochul ??? pic.twitter.com/0QP52npNoN — Bob (@Bob08902798) July 26, 2022 × During the live stream after asking his question, Miller repeatedly said ‘all right, all right’ dropping his hands to his knees, just before a man with a rifle and donning a black sweatshirt enters the scene. The man with the black face mask then approached Miller who was hiding behind the gold-colored lectern. The man was spotted stuffing the bishop’s jewellery in his pockets. Similarly, another man was seen approaching the Miller-Whitehead wearing the same outfit hanging around him for a short period and then he vanished. Also read | Millions of dollars' worth of jewellery stolen from security truck at California rest area In the video uploaded on Instagram, Miller-Whitehead said that the assailants held a gun to the face of his young daughter while robbing his wife’s jewellery and ripping off his chain. As per the investigators, no one in the family got suffered any harm. Also read | Armed robbers steal jewels at 'The European Fine Art Fair' The preacher then expressed his gratitude that his family is safe and no one is hurt.Miller-Whitehead defended his lavish lifestyle saying that he is living the life that God has set up for him. He later announced a $50,000 reward on Monday (July 25) to anyone who shares leading information regarding the arrest of the thieves. Mayor, Eric Adam spoke with Miller-Whitehead following the heist on Sunday (July 24), as per a hall representative. The mayor in a statement said, “No one in this city should be the victim of armed robbery, let alone our faith leaders and congregants worshipping in a House of God,” the Guardian reported. He further continued those investigations are still in process. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Armed robbers steal $1 million in jewellery from flashy New York preacher during his online sermon

Shortages have triggered an energy crisis in the developing world. Violent protests have broken out in several countries. While US multinational companies are losing billions due to a strong dollar. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: American companies lose billions due to the dollar

It is possible to end the rapid outbreak of Monkeypox, a World Health Organisation official said on Tuesday. However, a few days ago, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that the epidemic is at the highest degree of alert for a global health emergency and in fact, the world organisation later declared monkeypox as a global emergency. Rosmand Lewis, WHO technical lead on Monkeypox told the reporters, “We do at this moment still believe that this outbreak of monkeypox can be stopped with the right strategies in the right groups but time is going by and we all need to pull together to make that happen,” Reuters reported.

The virus was first discovered in monkeys and is spread primarily through close contact with an infected person.&nbsp; 
A public health emergency of international concern as defined by the WHO is intended to prompt a coordinated global response and may make money available for cooperation on the sharing of vaccinations and treatments.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/monkeypox-outbreak-all-that-you-need-to-know-about-the-virus-500171">Monkeypox outbreak: All that you need to know about the virus</a>

The official further said, “WHO is still working towards determining a global coordination mechanism. At the moment, it's something that's still in discussion,” Reuters reported.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/the-nitty-gritty-of-monkeypox-500608">The nitty-gritty of Monkeypox</a>

The viral illness has just recently started to spread outside of Africa, where it is endemic. But as of early May reports of a few cases in Britain indicated that the outbreak has reached Europe.&nbsp;

More than 75 nations have confirmed more than 16,000 confirmed cases of monkeypox this year. However, as per the technical lead, Lewis asserted that the actual figure was probably higher. There have been five fatalities and deaths, which all happened in Africa.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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It is possible to end the rapid outbreak of Monkeypox, a World Health Organisation official said on Tuesday. However, a few days ago, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that the epidemic is at the highest degree of alert for a global health emergency and in fact, the world organisation later declared monkeypox as a global emergency.

It is possible to end the rapid outbreak of Monkeypox, a World Health Organisation official said on Tuesday. However, a few days ago, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that the epidemic is at the highest degree of alert for a global health emergency and in fact, the world organisation later declared monkeypox as a global emergency. Rosmand Lewis, WHO technical lead on Monkeypox told the reporters, “We do at this moment still believe that this outbreak of monkeypox can be stopped with the right strategies in the right groups but time is going by and we all need to pull together to make that happen,” Reuters reported. The virus was first discovered in monkeys and is spread primarily through close contact with an infected person. A public health emergency of international concern as defined by the WHO is intended to prompt a coordinated global response and may make money available for cooperation on the sharing of vaccinations and treatments. Also read | Monkeypox outbreak: All that you need to know about the virus The official further said, “WHO is still working towards determining a global coordination mechanism. At the moment, it's something that's still in discussion,” Reuters reported. Also read | The nitty-gritty of Monkeypox The viral illness has just recently started to spread outside of Africa, where it is endemic. But as of early May reports of a few cases in Britain indicated that the outbreak has reached Europe. More than 75 nations have confirmed more than 16,000 confirmed cases of monkeypox this year. However, as per the technical lead, Lewis asserted that the actual figure was probably higher. There have been five fatalities and deaths, which all happened in Africa. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘We do at this moment still believe that this outbreak of monkeypox can be stopped’: WHO official

China has once again reiterated its warnings to the United States, this time in the backdrop of Nancy Pelosi's potential Taiwan visit.

Nancy Pelosi shows support for Taiwan, Beijing warns US of 'serious consequences'

Donald Trump has hinted at a rally that his decision to announce another run for the White House can wait until after this year's midterm polls, but a growing number of Republicans are openly cheering for a competitive primary field in 2024.

WION Fineprint: Donald Trump to announce 2024 White House bid soon?

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on Sunday downplayed fears of a possible recession Sunday but admitted an economic slowdown is occurring.

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen downplays recession fears

The United States is also witnessing sweltering heat that has now reached record levels. From southern plains to country's north east, the heatwave has now engulfed key regions.

WION Climate Tracker | Intense heat wave grips parts of US |Millions of Americans under heat warning

Contender for the post of&nbsp;United Kingdom's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, has vowed a tough stance against China whom he said was the "number one threat" to domestic and global security. Reportedly, this comes after his rival Liz Truss accused him of being weak on China and Russia. In the United States too, there were mentions of China and its aggressiveness.&nbsp;Chinese military activity in the Pacific is "noticeably more aggressive," said US General Mark Milley, who also reported a considerable rise in the frequency of Chinese interceptions of US aircraft and ships, including "unsafe interactions".

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-military-in-the-air-and-at-sea-has-become-significantly-more-aggressive-us-general-mark-milley-500356">Chinese military in the air and at sea has become significantly more aggressive: US General Mark Milley</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/04/26/257624-mark-milley.jpg" />US General Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, warned that the Chinese military in the air and at sea has become "noticeably more aggressive" in the Pacific.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/underdog-rishi-sunak-vows-to-get-tough-on-china-if-he-becomes-the-next-uk-pm-500361">'Underdog' Rishi Sunak vows to get tough on China if he becomes the next UK PM</a>&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/07/25/281751-new-wion-3.png" />

On Sunday, Rishi Sunak promised that if he is chosen to replace Boris Johnson he will get tough on China. He called the country the "number one threat" to domestic and global security.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Russian FM Sergei Lavrov is on Africa tour, offers reassurances over Russia's grain supplies

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-fm-sergei-lavrov-is-on-africa-tour-offers-reassurances-over-russias-grain-supplies-500357/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-junta-executes-prominent-democracy-campaigner-3-others-in-countrys-1st-execution-since-1988-500355">Myanmar Junta executes prominent democracy campaigner &amp; 3 others in country's 1st execution since 1988</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/07/25/281748-new-wion-2.png" />According to state media, Myanmar's Junta recently executed four prisoners, in the country's first use of capital punishment in decades. AFP reports that a former lawmaker for the unseated Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) party was among those executed.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Pope in Canada to apologise for abuse of indigenous children

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Contender for the post of United Kingdom's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, has vowed a tough stance against China whom he said was the "number one threat" to domestic and global security.

Contender for the post of United Kingdom's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, has vowed a tough stance against China whom he said was the "number one threat" to domestic and global security. Reportedly, this comes after his rival Liz Truss accused him of being weak on China and Russia. In the United States too, there were mentions of China and its aggressiveness. Chinese military activity in the Pacific is "noticeably more aggressive," said US General Mark Milley, who also reported a considerable rise in the frequency of Chinese interceptions of US aircraft and ships, including "unsafe interactions". Click on the headlines to read more: Chinese military in the air and at sea has become significantly more aggressive: US General Mark Milley US General Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, warned that the Chinese military in the air and at sea has become "noticeably more aggressive" in the Pacific. 'Underdog' Rishi Sunak vows to get tough on China if he becomes the next UK PM On Sunday, Rishi Sunak promised that if he is chosen to replace Boris Johnson he will get tough on China. He called the country the "number one threat" to domestic and global security. Watch | Russian FM Sergei Lavrov is on Africa tour, offers reassurances over Russia's grain supplies Myanmar Junta executes prominent democracy campaigner & 3 others in country's 1st execution since 1988 According to state media, Myanmar's Junta recently executed four prisoners, in the country's first use of capital punishment in decades. AFP reports that a former lawmaker for the unseated Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) party was among those executed. Watch | Pope in Canada to apologise for abuse of indigenous children

Morning news brief: China's aggressiveness in the Pacific, Myanmar Junta executes democracy advocate, & more

The Biden administration is investigating Chinese telecoms equipment maker Huawei over concerns that US&nbsp;cell towers fitted with its gear could capture sensitive information from military bases and missile silos that the company could then transmit to China, two people familiar with the matter said.

Authorities are concerned Huawei could obtain sensitive data on military drills and the readiness status of bases and personnel via the equipment, one of the people said, requesting anonymity because the investigation is confidential and involves national security.

The previously unreported probe was opened by the Commerce Department shortly after Joe Biden took office early last year, the sources said, following the implementation of rules to flesh out a May 2019 executive order that gave the agency the investigative authority.

The agency subpoenaed Huawei in April 2021 to learn the company's policy on sharing data with foreign parties that its equipment could capture from cell phones, including messages and geolocational data, according to the 10-page document seen by Reuters.

The Commerce Department said it could not "confirm or deny ongoing investigations." It added that: "protecting US&nbsp;persons' safety and security against malign information collection is vital to protecting our economy and national security."

Huawei did not respond to a request for comment. The company has strongly denied US&nbsp;government allegations that it could spy on US&nbsp;customers and poses a national security threat.

The Chinese embassy in Washington did not respond to the specific allegations. In an emailed statement, it said: "The US&nbsp;government abuses the concept of national security and state power to go all out to suppress Huawei and other Chinese telecommunications companies without providing any solid proof that they constitute a security threat to the US&nbsp;and other countries."

Reuters could not determine what actions the agency might take against Huawei.

Eight current and former US&nbsp;government officials said the probe reflects lingering national security concerns about the company, which was already hit with a slew of US&nbsp;restrictions in recent years.

For a timeline on the US&nbsp;government’s trade restrictions on Huawei please click.

If the Commerce Department determines Huawei poses a national security threat, it could go beyond existing restrictions imposed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the U.S. telecoms regulator.

Using broad new powers created by the Trump administration, the agency could ban all US&nbsp;transactions with Huawei, demanding U.S. telecoms carriers that still rely on its gear quickly remove it, or face fines or other penalties, a number of lawyers, academics and former officials interviewed by Reuters said.

The FCC declined to comment.

US-CHINA TECH WAR

Huawei has long been dogged by US&nbsp;government allegations it could spy on US&nbsp;customers, though authorities in Washington have made little evidence public. The company denies the allegations.

"If Chinese companies like Huawei are given unfettered access to our telecommunications infrastructure, they could collect any of your information that traverses their devices or networks," FBI Director Christopher Wray warned in a speech in 2020. "Worse still: They'd have no choice but to hand it over to the Chinese government, if asked."

Reuters could not determine if Huawei's equipment is capable of collecting that sort of sensitive information and providing it to China.

"If you can stick a receiver on a (cellphone) tower, you can collect signals and that means you can get intelligence. No intelligence agency would pass an opportunity like that," said Jim Lewis, a technology and cybersecurity expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a Washington DC-based think tank.

One move to address the perceived threat was a 2019 law and related rules forbidding US&nbsp;companies from using federal subsidies to buy telecoms equipment from Huawei. It also tasked the FCC with compelling US&nbsp;carriers that receive federal subsidies to purge their networks of Huawei equipment, in return for reimbursement.

But the so-called "rip and replace" deadline to remove and destroy Huawei equipment completely will not kick in until mid-2023 at the earliest, with additional opportunities for companies to seek extensions. And reimbursements will only reach 40% of the total requested for now.

TOWERS NEAR MISSILE SILOS

Cell towers equipped with Huawei gear that are close to sensitive military and intelligence sites have become a particular concern for US&nbsp;authorities, according to the two sources and an FCC commissioner.

Brendan Carr, one of the FCC's five commissioners, said that cellphone towers around Montana's Malmstrom Air Force Base - one of three that oversee missile fields in the United States - ran on Huawei technology.

In an interview this week, he told Reuters there was a risk that data from smartphones obtained by Huawei could reveal troop movements near the sites: "There’s a very real concern that some of that technology could be used as an early warning system if there happened to be, God forbid, an ICBM missile strike."

Reuters was unable to determine the exact location or scope of Huawei equipment operating near military facilities. Individuals interviewed by Reuters pointed to at least two other likely cases in Nebraska and Wyoming.

Crystal Rhoades, a commissioner at Nebraska's telecoms regulator, has flagged to media the risk posed by the proximity of cell towers owned by Viaero to intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) silos in the western part of the state.

ICBMs carry nuclear warheads to targets thousands of miles away and are stored in underground silos near military bases. The Nebraska cell towers are near a missile field overseen by FE&nbsp;Warren Air Force Base in neighboring Wyoming.

Viaero provides mobile telephone and wireless broadband services to about 110,000 customers in the region. It said in a 2018 filing to the FCC opposing the commission's efforts at curbing Huawei's expansion that approximately 80% of its equipment was manufactured by the Chinese firm.

That gear could potentially enable Huawei to glean sensitive information about the sites, Rhoades told Reuters in June.

"An enemy state could potentially see when things are online, when things are offline, the level of security, how many people are on duty in any given building where there are really dangerous and sophisticated weapons," Rhoades said.

Rhoades said in July that she had not been updated on rip and replace efforts by Viaero in more than two years, despite requesting updated information from the company in recent weeks.

At the time of last contact, the company said it would not begin removal efforts until the FCC money became available.

The FCC advised companies on Monday how much of their funding requests it can reimburse. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Viaero did not respond to multiple requests for comment. Huawei also declined to comment.

In Wyoming, then CEO of rural carrier Union Wireless, John Woody, said in a 2018 interview with Reuters that the company's coverage area included ICBM silos near the F.E. Warren Air Force Base and that its equipment included Huawei switches, routers and cell sites.

Last month, Eric Woody, John's son and acting CEO, said "virtually all the Huawei gear Union purchased remains in our network." He declined to say whether the towers close to the sensitive military sites contain Huawei equipment.

F.E. Warren Air Force Base referred comment on the Huawei equipment to the Pentagon. The United States Strategic Command, which is responsible for nuclear operations, said in a statement to Reuters: "We maintain constant awareness of activities near our installations and sites." It noted that "any concerns are on a whole of government level" but declined to provide further details on what those concerns are.

NEW POWERS AGAINST FOREIGN ADVERSARIES

Rick Sofield, a former DOJ official in the national security division who reviewed telecoms transactions, said the Commerce Department probe could give additional bite to the FCC’s crackdown but there was nothing new in targeting Huawei.

"The US&nbsp;government’s concerns regarding Huawei are widely known so any information or communications technology company that continues to use Huawei products is assuming the risk that the U.S. government will come knocking," said Sofield, who represents US&nbsp;and foreign companies facing US&nbsp;national security reviews. He said he has not worked for Huawei.

The Commerce Department is using authority granted in 2019 that allows it to ban or restrict transactions between US&nbsp;firms and internet, telecom and tech companies from "foreign adversary" nations including Russia and China, according to the executive order and related rules.

The two sources familiar with the Huawei investigation and a former government official said Huawei was one of the Biden administration's first cases using the new powers, referred to Commerce in early 2021 by the Justice Department.

The Justice Department referred requests for comment by Reuters to Commerce.

The subpoena is dated April 13, 2021, the same day that Commerce announced a document request was sent to an unnamed Chinese company under the new powers.

It gives Huawei 30 days to provide seven years' worth of "records identifying Huawei's business transactions and relationships with foreign entities located outside of the United States, including foreign government agencies or parties, that have access to, or that share in any capacity, U.S. user data collected by Huawei."

Noting that the "focus of this investigation is the provisioning of mobile network and telecommunications equipment...by Huawei in the United States," it also asks Huawei for a complete catalog of "all types of equipment sold" to "any communications provider in the United States," including names and locations of the parties to the sale.

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&nbsp;

The Biden administration is investigating Chinese telecoms equipment maker Huawei over concerns that US cell towers fitted with its gear could capture sensitive information from military bases and missile silos that the company could then transmit to China, two people familiar with the matter said.

The Biden administration is investigating Chinese telecoms equipment maker Huawei over concerns that US cell towers fitted with its gear could capture sensitive information from military bases and missile silos that the company could then transmit to China, two people familiar with the matter said. Authorities are concerned Huawei could obtain sensitive data on military drills and the readiness status of bases and personnel via the equipment, one of the people said, requesting anonymity because the investigation is confidential and involves national security. The previously unreported probe was opened by the Commerce Department shortly after Joe Biden took office early last year, the sources said, following the implementation of rules to flesh out a May 2019 executive order that gave the agency the investigative authority. The agency subpoenaed Huawei in April 2021 to learn the company's policy on sharing data with foreign parties that its equipment could capture from cell phones, including messages and geolocational data, according to the 10-page document seen by Reuters. The Commerce Department said it could not "confirm or deny ongoing investigations." It added that: "protecting US persons' safety and security against malign information collection is vital to protecting our economy and national security." Huawei did not respond to a request for comment. The company has strongly denied US government allegations that it could spy on US customers and poses a national security threat. The Chinese embassy in Washington did not respond to the specific allegations. In an emailed statement, it said: "The US government abuses the concept of national security and state power to go all out to suppress Huawei and other Chinese telecommunications companies without providing any solid proof that they constitute a security threat to the US and other countries." Reuters could not determine what actions the agency might take against Huawei. Eight current and former US government officials said the probe reflects lingering national security concerns about the company, which was already hit with a slew of US restrictions in recent years. For a timeline on the US government’s trade restrictions on Huawei please click. If the Commerce Department determines Huawei poses a national security threat, it could go beyond existing restrictions imposed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the U.S. telecoms regulator. Using broad new powers created by the Trump administration, the agency could ban all US transactions with Huawei, demanding U.S. telecoms carriers that still rely on its gear quickly remove it, or face fines or other penalties, a number of lawyers, academics and former officials interviewed by Reuters said. The FCC declined to comment. US-CHINA TECH WAR Huawei has long been dogged by US government allegations it could spy on US customers, though authorities in Washington have made little evidence public. The company denies the allegations. "If Chinese companies like Huawei are given unfettered access to our telecommunications infrastructure, they could collect any of your information that traverses their devices or networks," FBI Director Christopher Wray warned in a speech in 2020. "Worse still: They'd have no choice but to hand it over to the Chinese government, if asked." Reuters could not determine if Huawei's equipment is capable of collecting that sort of sensitive information and providing it to China. "If you can stick a receiver on a (cellphone) tower, you can collect signals and that means you can get intelligence. No intelligence agency would pass an opportunity like that," said Jim Lewis, a technology and cybersecurity expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a Washington DC-based think tank. One move to address the perceived threat was a 2019 law and related rules forbidding US companies from using federal subsidies to buy telecoms equipment from Huawei. It also tasked the FCC with compelling US carriers that receive federal subsidies to purge their networks of Huawei equipment, in return for reimbursement. But the so-called "rip and replace" deadline to remove and destroy Huawei equipment completely will not kick in until mid-2023 at the earliest, with additional opportunities for companies to seek extensions. And reimbursements will only reach 40% of the total requested for now. TOWERS NEAR MISSILE SILOS Cell towers equipped with Huawei gear that are close to sensitive military and intelligence sites have become a particular concern for US authorities, according to the two sources and an FCC commissioner. Brendan Carr, one of the FCC's five commissioners, said that cellphone towers around Montana's Malmstrom Air Force Base - one of three that oversee missile fields in the United States - ran on Huawei technology. In an interview this week, he told Reuters there was a risk that data from smartphones obtained by Huawei could reveal troop movements near the sites: "There’s a very real concern that some of that technology could be used as an early warning system if there happened to be, God forbid, an ICBM missile strike." Reuters was unable to determine the exact location or scope of Huawei equipment operating near military facilities. Individuals interviewed by Reuters pointed to at least two other likely cases in Nebraska and Wyoming. Crystal Rhoades, a commissioner at Nebraska's telecoms regulator, has flagged to media the risk posed by the proximity of cell towers owned by Viaero to intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) silos in the western part of the state. ICBMs carry nuclear warheads to targets thousands of miles away and are stored in underground silos near military bases. The Nebraska cell towers are near a missile field overseen by FE Warren Air Force Base in neighboring Wyoming. Viaero provides mobile telephone and wireless broadband services to about 110,000 customers in the region. It said in a 2018 filing to the FCC opposing the commission's efforts at curbing Huawei's expansion that approximately 80% of its equipment was manufactured by the Chinese firm. That gear could potentially enable Huawei to glean sensitive information about the sites, Rhoades told Reuters in June. "An enemy state could potentially see when things are online, when things are offline, the level of security, how many people are on duty in any given building where there are really dangerous and sophisticated weapons," Rhoades said. Rhoades said in July that she had not been updated on rip and replace efforts by Viaero in more than two years, despite requesting updated information from the company in recent weeks. At the time of last contact, the company said it would not begin removal efforts until the FCC money became available. The FCC advised companies on Monday how much of their funding requests it can reimburse. Viaero did not respond to multiple requests for comment. Huawei also declined to comment. In Wyoming, then CEO of rural carrier Union Wireless, John Woody, said in a 2018 interview with Reuters that the company's coverage area included ICBM silos near the F.E. Warren Air Force Base and that its equipment included Huawei switches, routers and cell sites. Last month, Eric Woody, John's son and acting CEO, said "virtually all the Huawei gear Union purchased remains in our network." He declined to say whether the towers close to the sensitive military sites contain Huawei equipment. F.E. Warren Air Force Base referred comment on the Huawei equipment to the Pentagon. The United States Strategic Command, which is responsible for nuclear operations, said in a statement to Reuters: "We maintain constant awareness of activities near our installations and sites." It noted that "any concerns are on a whole of government level" but declined to provide further details on what those concerns are. NEW POWERS AGAINST FOREIGN ADVERSARIES Rick Sofield, a former DOJ official in the national security division who reviewed telecoms transactions, said the Commerce Department probe could give additional bite to the FCC’s crackdown but there was nothing new in targeting Huawei. "The US government’s concerns regarding Huawei are widely known so any information or communications technology company that continues to use Huawei products is assuming the risk that the U.S. government will come knocking," said Sofield, who represents US and foreign companies facing US national security reviews. He said he has not worked for Huawei. The Commerce Department is using authority granted in 2019 that allows it to ban or restrict transactions between US firms and internet, telecom and tech companies from "foreign adversary" nations including Russia and China, according to the executive order and related rules. The two sources familiar with the Huawei investigation and a former government official said Huawei was one of the Biden administration's first cases using the new powers, referred to Commerce in early 2021 by the Justice Department. The Justice Department referred requests for comment by Reuters to Commerce. The subpoena is dated April 13, 2021, the same day that Commerce announced a document request was sent to an unnamed Chinese company under the new powers. It gives Huawei 30 days to provide seven years' worth of "records identifying Huawei's business transactions and relationships with foreign entities located outside of the United States, including foreign government agencies or parties, that have access to, or that share in any capacity, U.S. user data collected by Huawei." Noting that the "focus of this investigation is the provisioning of mobile network and telecommunications equipment...by Huawei in the United States," it also asks Huawei for a complete catalog of "all types of equipment sold" to "any communications provider in the United States," including names and locations of the parties to the sale. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US probes China's Huawei over equipment near missile silos

The U.S. Army on Monday released video footage of its Apache attack helicopters conducting live-fire drills in South Korea for the first time since 2019, as the allies step up military exercises amid tensions with North Korea.

US Army releases footage of Apache attack helicopters conducting live-fire drills in South Korea

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said on Sunday that US economic growth is slowing and acknowledged the risk of a recession, but also stated that a downturn was not inevitable.

US recession not inevitable: Janet Yellen

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, the rapidly spreading monkeypox outbreak represents a global health emergency. WHO declared highest level of alert over monkeypox.

WHO declares highest alert over monkeypox

Nearly 10 percent of Tonga's fighting force is in Hawaii this month, training side by side with militaries from across the Indo-Pacific region. The tiny kingdom is the only South Pacific island nation participating in the Rim of the Pacific naval exercises just as the region finds itself at the center of competing U.S. and Chinese diplomatic and military efforts. VOA’s Jessica Stone reports from Honolulu, Hawaii.

WION-VOA Co-Production| Tonga takes part in Pacific naval drills

WION-VOA Co-Production: Tonga takes part in Pacific naval drills

Blue Nile state in Sudan erupts with tribal clashes Over 200 killed in deadly gang wars of Haiti & the United States continues with its Freedom of Navigation operations in Taiwan Strait. Mohammed Saleh gets you an indepth report on the world's biggest warzones of the week in World At War

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American forecasters have warned about the dangers of dehydration and exposure due to the dangerously high temperatures. In Washington DC, the temperature is expected to go as high as 38 degrees Celsius.

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Pelosi's proposed Taiwan visit is under scanner after opposition from the US NSA. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden is expected to hold talks with China's Xi soon.

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India's national capital has reported first case of monkeypox. The 31-year-old patient from Delhi has no history of international travel. Meanwhile, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, the rapidly spreading monkeypox outbreak represents a global health emergency.

Delhi reports first case of Monkeypox; WHO declares global emergency

Over 16,000 monkeypox cases have been reported in 75 countries. Meanwhile, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, the rapidly spreading monkeypox outbreak represents a global health emergency.

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US Secretary Antony Blinken said that the Russian missile attack on the Ukrainian Black Sea port of Odessa casts severe doubt on the reliability of Russia’s commitment to the grain deal and weakens the work of the UN, Turkey, and Ukraine to transport crucial supplies to the world markets. In other news, as per recent reports, to prevent the companies from being delisted by American regulators, Chinese officials are planning to put together a system of complex compliance with procedures. Finally, the Taliban’s foreign ministry spokesman Qahar Balkhi said that the ban on girls’ schools after the sixth grade is a temporary ban and not a permanent ban as the government is trying to find a mutual solution.&nbsp;

Click on headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/attack-casts-serious-doubt-on-russias-commitment-to-grain-deal-us-500130">Attack casts serious doubt on Russia's commitment to grain deal: US</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/07/24/281528-odessa1.jpg" />

US secretary of state Antony Blinken said the Russian missile strike on the Ukrainian Black Sea port of Odessa "casts serious doubt on the credibility of Russia's commitment to the&nbsp;deal and undermines the work of the UN, Turkey and Ukraine to get critical food to world markets."

Ukraine said it had shot down two Russian cruise missiles but two more hit the Odessa port putting the grain deal with Russia at risk. Ukraine's foreign ministry shot back at Russia's strike calling it a "spit in the face" even as President Zelenksy blamed Russia for not keeping its promises.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-planning-new-strategy-to-avoid-us-delistings-report-500142">China planning new strategy to avoid US delistings: Report</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2019/08/15/106390-untitled-design-3.jpg" />

According to reports, Chinese authorities are preparing a system of intricate compliance methods to ensure&nbsp;their companies are&nbsp;not delisted by American regulators.

The Financial Times reported the move will allow US regulators to audit Chinese companies after the US insisted on transparency from Chinese and Hong Kong firms listed in the United States.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/closure-of-girls-school-in-afghanistan-temporary-not-permanent-says-talibans-spokesman-500136">Closure of girl’s school in Afghanistan temporary not permanent, says Taliban’s spokesman</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/07/24/281532-untitled-design-2022-07-24t083809642.png" />

But on Saturday (June 23), a foreign ministry spokesman, Qahar Balkhi during an interview with CGTN said, “this suspension is a temporary suspension, and it is not a permanent ban, it has never been called a ban.” As per Tolo News, in defense of the Taliban, the speaker claimed that the closure of schools for girls was due to the conservative attitudes of the majority of Afghans towards women and education.

Watch |&nbsp;Ryanair employees strike in Brussels, around 80 flights cancelled

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US Secretary Antony Blinken said that the Russian missile attack on the Ukrainian Black Sea port of Odessa casts severe doubt on the reliability of Russia’s commitment to the grain deal and weakens the work of the UN, Turkey, and Ukraine to transport crucial supplies to the world markets.

US Secretary Antony Blinken said that the Russian missile attack on the Ukrainian Black Sea port of Odessa casts severe doubt on the reliability of Russia’s commitment to the grain deal and weakens the work of the UN, Turkey, and Ukraine to transport crucial supplies to the world markets. In other news, as per recent reports, to prevent the companies from being delisted by American regulators, Chinese officials are planning to put together a system of complex compliance with procedures. Finally, the Taliban’s foreign ministry spokesman Qahar Balkhi said that the ban on girls’ schools after the sixth grade is a temporary ban and not a permanent ban as the government is trying to find a mutual solution. Click on headlines to read more: Attack casts serious doubt on Russia's commitment to grain deal: US US secretary of state Antony Blinken said the Russian missile strike on the Ukrainian Black Sea port of Odessa "casts serious doubt on the credibility of Russia's commitment to the deal and undermines the work of the UN, Turkey and Ukraine to get critical food to world markets." Ukraine said it had shot down two Russian cruise missiles but two more hit the Odessa port putting the grain deal with Russia at risk. Ukraine's foreign ministry shot back at Russia's strike calling it a "spit in the face" even as President Zelenksy blamed Russia for not keeping its promises. China planning new strategy to avoid US delistings: Report According to reports, Chinese authorities are preparing a system of intricate compliance methods to ensure their companies are not delisted by American regulators. The Financial Times reported the move will allow US regulators to audit Chinese companies after the US insisted on transparency from Chinese and Hong Kong firms listed in the United States. Closure of girl’s school in Afghanistan temporary not permanent, says Taliban’s spokesman But on Saturday (June 23), a foreign ministry spokesman, Qahar Balkhi during an interview with CGTN said, “this suspension is a temporary suspension, and it is not a permanent ban, it has never been called a ban.” As per Tolo News, in defense of the Taliban, the speaker claimed that the closure of schools for girls was due to the conservative attitudes of the majority of Afghans towards women and education. Watch | Ryanair employees strike in Brussels, around 80 flights cancelled Watch | The Good Life: Indian fashion on a global stage

Morning news brief: US doubts Russia’s commitment, China planning to avoid US regulators and more

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