A high school in Georgia came under scrutiny when a student shared a photo of a hallway crammed up with students last week have decided to move back to virtual learning temporarily after reporting nine cases of coronavirus, as per a letter the school district sent to the parents on Sunday.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;

Paulding County Schools Superintendent Brian Otott wrote a letter to the parents that said: "As a result of our being informed of nine cases of Covid-19 at North Paulding High School following the first week of in-person instruction, along with the possibility that number could increase if there are currently pending tests that prove positive, we have consulted with the Department of Public Health and are temporarily switching the instructional method to Digital Learning at NPHS."

According to the letter, the school is set to hold digital learning on Monday and Tuesday. By Tuesday evening the parents will be informed if the students will return to school or not.&nbsp;

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In a separate letter written by Principal Gabel Carmona, six students and three staff members who were in school for at least some time last week have tested positive for the virus.&nbsp;

The viral photograph of the crowded hallway was clicked by Hannah Watters. She was suspended for posting this on her social media account. But her suspension was cancelled after the incident.&nbsp;

Coronavirus toll in Georgia stands at 213,427 confirmed cases and 4,186 deaths.

A high school in Georgia came under scrutiny when a student shared a photo of a hallway crammed up with students last week have decided to move back to virtual learning temporarily after reporting nine cases of coronavirus, as per a letter the school district sent to the parents on Sunday.

A high school in Georgia came under scrutiny when a student shared a photo of a hallway crammed up with students last week have decided to move back to virtual learning temporarily after reporting nine cases of coronavirus, as per a letter the school district sent to the parents on Sunday. Also read: Paulding County Schools Superintendent Brian Otott wrote a letter to the parents that said: "As a result of our being informed of nine cases of Covid-19 at North Paulding High School following the first week of in-person instruction, along with the possibility that number could increase if there are currently pending tests that prove positive, we have consulted with the Department of Public Health and are temporarily switching the instructional method to Digital Learning at NPHS." According to the letter, the school is set to hold digital learning on Monday and Tuesday. By Tuesday evening the parents will be informed if the students will return to school or not. × In a separate letter written by Principal Gabel Carmona, six students and three staff members who were in school for at least some time last week have tested positive for the virus. The viral photograph of the crowded hallway was clicked by Hannah Watters. She was suspended for posting this on her social media account. But her suspension was cancelled after the incident. Coronavirus toll in Georgia stands at 213,427 confirmed cases and 4,186 deaths.

Georgia school seen in photo of a crowded hallway reports 9 cases of COVID-19

Chinese air force jets briefly crossed the mid-line of the Taiwan Strait on Monday and were tracked by Taiwanese missiles, Taiwan's government said, as US&nbsp;health chief Alex Azar visited the island to offer President Donald Trump's support.

Azar arrived in Taiwan on Sunday, the highest-level US&nbsp;official to visit in four decades.&nbsp;

China, which claims the island as its own, condemned the visit which comes after a period of sharply deteriorating relations between China and the United States.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ongoing-historic-visit-to-taiwan-a-true-honour-for-trump-administration-319305" hreflang="en">Ongoing historic visit to Taiwan a 'true honour' for Trump administration</a>

China, which had promised unspecified retaliation to the trip, flew J-11 and J-10 fighter aircraft briefly onto Taiwan's side of the sensitive and narrow strait that separates it from its giant neighbour, at around 9 am (0100 GMT), shortly before Azar met Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen, Taiwan's air force said.

The aircraft were tracked by land-based Taiwanese anti-aircraft missiles and were "driven out" by patrolling Taiwanese aircraft, the air force said in a statement released by the defence ministry.&nbsp;

China's defence ministry did not immediately comment.

A senior Taiwan official familiar with the government's security planning told Reuters that China was obviously "targeting" Azar's visit with a "very risky" move given the Chinese jets were in range of Taiwan's missiles.

The incursion was only the third time since 2016 that Taiwan has said Chinese jets had crossed the strait's median line.

The Trump administration has made strengthening its support for the democratic island a priority, amid deteriorating relations between Washington and Beijing, and has boosted arms sales.

"It's a true honour to be here to convey a message of strong support and friendship from President Trump to Taiwan," Azar told Tsai in the Presidential Office, standing in front of two Taiwanese flags.

Washington broke off official ties with Taipei in 1979 in favour of Beijing.&nbsp;

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'HUGE STEP'

Azar is visiting to strengthen economic and public-health cooperation with Taiwan and support its international role in fighting the novel coronavirus.

"Taiwan's response to COVID-19 has been among the most successful in the world, and that is a tribute to the open, transparent, democratic nature of Taiwan's society and culture," he told Tsai.

Taiwan's early and effective steps to fight the disease have kept its case numbers far lower than those of its neighbours, with 480 infections and seven deaths. Most cases have been imported.

The United States, which has had more coronavirus cases and deaths than any other country, has repeatedly clashed with China over the pandemic, accusing Beijing of lacking transparency.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-targeting-us-election-infrastructure-with-cyberattacks-says-trumps-aide-319279" hreflang="en">China targeting US election infrastructure with cyberattacks, says Trump's aide</a>

Tsai told Azar his visit represented "a huge step forward in anti-pandemic collaborations between our countries", mentioning areas of cooperation including vaccine and drug research and production.

Taiwan has been particularly grateful for U.S. support to permit its attendance at the World Health Organization's decision-making body the World Health Assembly (WHA), and to allow it greater access to the organisation.

Taiwan is not a member of the WHO due to China's objections. China considers Taiwan a Chinese province.

"I'd like to reiterate that political considerations should never take precedence over the rights to health. The decision to bar Taiwan from participating in the WHA is a violation of the universal rights to health," Tsai said.

Azar later told reporters that at Trump's direction, he and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had sought to restore Taiwan's status as an observer at the WHA.

"But the Chinese Communist Party and the World Health Organization have prevented that. This has been one of the major frustrations that the Trump administration has had with the World Health Organization and its inability to reform."

Chinese air force jets briefly crossed the mid-line of the Taiwan Strait on Monday and were tracked by Taiwanese missiles, Taiwan's government said, as US health chief Alex Azar visited the island to offer President Donald Trump's support.

Chinese air force jets briefly crossed the mid-line of the Taiwan Strait on Monday and were tracked by Taiwanese missiles, Taiwan's government said, as US health chief Alex Azar visited the island to offer President Donald Trump's support. Azar arrived in Taiwan on Sunday, the highest-level US official to visit in four decades. China, which claims the island as its own, condemned the visit which comes after a period of sharply deteriorating relations between China and the United States. Also read: Ongoing historic visit to Taiwan a 'true honour' for Trump administration China, which had promised unspecified retaliation to the trip, flew J-11 and J-10 fighter aircraft briefly onto Taiwan's side of the sensitive and narrow strait that separates it from its giant neighbour, at around 9 am (0100 GMT), shortly before Azar met Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen, Taiwan's air force said. The aircraft were tracked by land-based Taiwanese anti-aircraft missiles and were "driven out" by patrolling Taiwanese aircraft, the air force said in a statement released by the defence ministry. China's defence ministry did not immediately comment. A senior Taiwan official familiar with the government's security planning told Reuters that China was obviously "targeting" Azar's visit with a "very risky" move given the Chinese jets were in range of Taiwan's missiles. The incursion was only the third time since 2016 that Taiwan has said Chinese jets had crossed the strait's median line. The Trump administration has made strengthening its support for the democratic island a priority, amid deteriorating relations between Washington and Beijing, and has boosted arms sales. "It's a true honour to be here to convey a message of strong support and friendship from President Trump to Taiwan," Azar told Tsai in the Presidential Office, standing in front of two Taiwanese flags. Washington broke off official ties with Taipei in 1979 in favour of Beijing. 'HUGE STEP' Azar is visiting to strengthen economic and public-health cooperation with Taiwan and support its international role in fighting the novel coronavirus. "Taiwan's response to COVID-19 has been among the most successful in the world, and that is a tribute to the open, transparent, democratic nature of Taiwan's society and culture," he told Tsai. Taiwan's early and effective steps to fight the disease have kept its case numbers far lower than those of its neighbours, with 480 infections and seven deaths. Most cases have been imported. The United States, which has had more coronavirus cases and deaths than any other country, has repeatedly clashed with China over the pandemic, accusing Beijing of lacking transparency. Also read: China targeting US election infrastructure with cyberattacks, says Trump's aide Tsai told Azar his visit represented "a huge step forward in anti-pandemic collaborations between our countries", mentioning areas of cooperation including vaccine and drug research and production. Taiwan has been particularly grateful for U.S. support to permit its attendance at the World Health Organization's decision-making body the World Health Assembly (WHA), and to allow it greater access to the organisation. Taiwan is not a member of the WHO due to China's objections. China considers Taiwan a Chinese province. "I'd like to reiterate that political considerations should never take precedence over the rights to health. The decision to bar Taiwan from participating in the WHA is a violation of the universal rights to health," Tsai said. Azar later told reporters that at Trump's direction, he and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had sought to restore Taiwan's status as an observer at the WHA. "But the Chinese Communist Party and the World Health Organization have prevented that. This has been one of the major frustrations that the Trump administration has had with the World Health Organization and its inability to reform."

Chinese jets spotted in Taiwan Strait during US health chief visit

We know for sure children are less likely to fall seriously ill from the coronavirus, and emerging evidence suggests they're less likely to be infected too.

Understanding role of children in COVID transmission | Protecting children form COVID-19

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

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

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

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

The United States and the United Kingdom along with Canada, Australia and New Zealand urged Hong Kong to hold elections as soon as possible and have warned the authorities about the moves to "undermine the democratic process".

The United States and the United Kingdom along with Canada, Australia and New Zealand urged Hong Kong to hold elections as soon as possible and have warned the authorities about the moves to "undermine the democratic process". Also read: US begins highest level Taiwan visit in decades Their statement comes after Chinese lawmakers convened to decide on the next steps after the election in the semi-autonomous city were postponed by a year due to coronavirus pandemic. The foreign ministers of the five countries have shown their "grave concern" towards Hong Kong government’s unjust disqualification of candidates and disproportionate postponement of Legislative Council elections. "These moves have undermined the democratic process that has been fundamental to Hong Kong’s stability and prosperity." They urged "the Hong Kong government to hold the elections as soon as possible". According to Hong Kong's current chief executive Carrie Lam, it would be logical to extend the term of the legislature at present. But the question remains on the four opposition lawmakers who have been disqualified from seeking re-election for breaching the new security law bill. These lawmakers were disqualified after calling for international sanctions on Beijing and Hong Kong. The foreign ministers of the five nations, in a statement, urged for the disqualified legislators to be reinstated. The joint statement from the five countries that share intelligence under the "Five Eyes" partnership said the security law was "eroding the Hong Kong people’s fundamental rights and liberties. "We support the legitimate expectations of the people of Hong Kong to elect Legislative Council representatives via genuinely free, fair, and credible elections," they added. On Friday, the United States imposed sanctions on a group of Chinese and Hong Kong officials, including Carrie Lam, involved in enforcing the highly controversial security law. (Inputs from AFP)

US, UK along with allies urge Hong Kong to hold elections as soon as possible

A senior member of US President Donald Trump's administration landed in Taiwan Sunday for Washington's highest level visit since switching diplomatic recognition to China in 1979, a trip Beijing has condemned. &nbsp;

During the three-day visit Health Secretary Alex Azar will meet President Tsai Ing-wen, who advocates Taiwan being recognised as a sovereign nation and is loathed by China's leaders.&nbsp;

Azar is the most senior US cabinet member to visit Taiwan in decades and his visit comes as relations between the world's two biggest economic powers plunge to historic lows.

In recent days, Trump has ordered sweeping restrictions on popular Chinese apps TikTok and WeChat and the US Treasury Department slapped sanctions on Hong Kong's leader over a tough law that curbs dissent.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-begin-highest-level-taiwan-visit-in-decades-319160">Also read:&nbsp;US to begin highest level Taiwan visit in decades</a>

Washington has billed the Taiwan trip as an opportunity to learn from the island's fight against the coronavirus and to celebrate its progressive values.&nbsp;

"This trip is a recognition of Taiwan's success in combating COVID-19 and a testament to the shared beliefs that open and democratic societies are best equipped to combating disease threats like COVID-19," a health and human services department official told reporters ahead of the visit.

But Beijing balks at any recognition of self-ruled Taiwan, which it claims as its own territory and vows to one day seize, by force if necessary.

It has described Azar's visit as a threat to "peace and stability", while China's defence minister warned against Washington making any "dangerous moves".

As well as meeting Tsai, Azar will hold talks with his counterpart Chen Shih-chung and Foreign Minister Joseph Wu.

He will also meet coronavirus experts and give a speech to public health students as well as alumni of a training programme with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Taiwan has become a poster child for defeating the coronavirus thanks to a well-honed track and tracing programme as well as firm border controls.&nbsp;

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Despite its proximity and economic links to China it has recorded fewer than 500 infections and seven deaths.

In contrast the US has recorded the most deaths in the world with more than 160,000 fatalities.

A cautious testing of China&nbsp; 
The rapidly deteriorating relationship between Beijing and Washington comes as Trump seeks re-election in November.&nbsp;

He is trailing in the polls to rival Joe Biden and has begun campaigning hard on an increasingly strident anti-Beijing message.

As public disapproval has grown for his handling of the epidemic, Trump has pivoted from his previous focus on striking a trade deal with China to blaming the country for the coronavirus crisis.

The two countries have clashed on a range of issues, from trade to espionage allegations and Beijing's human rights record such as the mass incarceration of Uighur Muslims and the political crackdown in Hong Kong.

Washington remains the leading arms supplier to Taiwan but has historically been cautious in holding official contacts with it.

Under Trump, relations with Taiwan have warmed dramatically and he has approved a number of major military sales, including F-16 fighter jets.

Douglas Paal, a former head of the American Institute in Taiwan, Washington's de facto embassy, said the Trump administration was still paying heed to China's red line -- that no US official handling national security visit Taiwan.&nbsp;

Throughout the 1990s the United States sent trade officials to Taiwan with regularity.&nbsp;

The difference this time, he said, is the context, with Azar travelling at a time when relations between Washington and Beijing have hit a new low.

"Sending him to Taiwan shows respect for the old framework while putting a finger in China's eye at the same time," Paal said.

"The fact that they didn't choose to send a national security advisor or someone else suggests they are trying to come as close as possible to China's red line but don't want to cross it."

The last cabinet minister to visit Taiwan was in 2014 when the then head of the Environmental Protection Agency led a delegation.

Taiwan has also built broad, bipartisan support in Washington.&nbsp;

Tsai has been hailed not only for her decisive coronavirus response but also, among US Democrats, for her progressive views including advocacy of gay rights, unusual for an Asian leader.

A senior member of US President Donald Trump's administration landed in Taiwan Sunday for Washington's highest level visit since switching diplomatic recognition to China in 1979, a trip Beijing has condemned.

A senior member of US President Donald Trump's administration landed in Taiwan Sunday for Washington's highest level visit since switching diplomatic recognition to China in 1979, a trip Beijing has condemned. During the three-day visit Health Secretary Alex Azar will meet President Tsai Ing-wen, who advocates Taiwan being recognised as a sovereign nation and is loathed by China's leaders. Azar is the most senior US cabinet member to visit Taiwan in decades and his visit comes as relations between the world's two biggest economic powers plunge to historic lows. In recent days, Trump has ordered sweeping restrictions on popular Chinese apps TikTok and WeChat and the US Treasury Department slapped sanctions on Hong Kong's leader over a tough law that curbs dissent. Also read: US to begin highest level Taiwan visit in decades Washington has billed the Taiwan trip as an opportunity to learn from the island's fight against the coronavirus and to celebrate its progressive values. "This trip is a recognition of Taiwan's success in combating COVID-19 and a testament to the shared beliefs that open and democratic societies are best equipped to combating disease threats like COVID-19," a health and human services department official told reporters ahead of the visit. But Beijing balks at any recognition of self-ruled Taiwan, which it claims as its own territory and vows to one day seize, by force if necessary. It has described Azar's visit as a threat to "peace and stability", while China's defence minister warned against Washington making any "dangerous moves". As well as meeting Tsai, Azar will hold talks with his counterpart Chen Shih-chung and Foreign Minister Joseph Wu. He will also meet coronavirus experts and give a speech to public health students as well as alumni of a training programme with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Taiwan has become a poster child for defeating the coronavirus thanks to a well-honed track and tracing programme as well as firm border controls. × Despite its proximity and economic links to China it has recorded fewer than 500 infections and seven deaths. In contrast the US has recorded the most deaths in the world with more than 160,000 fatalities. A cautious testing of China The rapidly deteriorating relationship between Beijing and Washington comes as Trump seeks re-election in November. He is trailing in the polls to rival Joe Biden and has begun campaigning hard on an increasingly strident anti-Beijing message. As public disapproval has grown for his handling of the epidemic, Trump has pivoted from his previous focus on striking a trade deal with China to blaming the country for the coronavirus crisis. The two countries have clashed on a range of issues, from trade to espionage allegations and Beijing's human rights record such as the mass incarceration of Uighur Muslims and the political crackdown in Hong Kong. Washington remains the leading arms supplier to Taiwan but has historically been cautious in holding official contacts with it. Under Trump, relations with Taiwan have warmed dramatically and he has approved a number of major military sales, including F-16 fighter jets. Douglas Paal, a former head of the American Institute in Taiwan, Washington's de facto embassy, said the Trump administration was still paying heed to China's red line -- that no US official handling national security visit Taiwan. Throughout the 1990s the United States sent trade officials to Taiwan with regularity. The difference this time, he said, is the context, with Azar travelling at a time when relations between Washington and Beijing have hit a new low. "Sending him to Taiwan shows respect for the old framework while putting a finger in China's eye at the same time," Paal said. "The fact that they didn't choose to send a national security advisor or someone else suggests they are trying to come as close as possible to China's red line but don't want to cross it." The last cabinet minister to visit Taiwan was in 2014 when the then head of the Environmental Protection Agency led a delegation. Taiwan has also built broad, bipartisan support in Washington. Tsai has been hailed not only for her decisive coronavirus response but also, among US Democrats, for her progressive views including advocacy of gay rights, unusual for an Asian leader.

US begins highest level Taiwan visit in decades

US authorities have discovered an unfinished 1,300-foot (400-meter) tunnel under the US-Mexico border, calling it an unusually sophisticated smuggling route complete with ventilation and a rail system.

The tunnel was found on Tuesday in the desert near San Luis, Arizona by federal agents led by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s investigative arm, the agency said in a press release Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-deaths-in-latin-america-hit-global-high-318953">Also read:&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths in Latin America hit global high</a>

Authorities have located hundreds of tunnels over the years under the Southwest border, saying they are used by drug cartels and criminal organizations to smuggle narcotics, people and weapons back and forth between the two countries.

The tunnel found this week measured 3 feet by 4 feet (91 cm by 1.22 meters) and included a “ventilation system, water lines, electrical wiring, rail system, [and] extensive reinforcement,” ICE said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-nabs-el-marro-fuel-theft-king-blamed-for-surge-in-drug-violence-317702">Also read:&nbsp;Mexico nabs 'El Marro', fuel theft king blamed for surge in drug violence</a>

Federal agents drilled and used underground cameras to investigate the tunnel after discovering a sinkhole near cross-border fencing in mid-July, ICE said.

Carl Landrum, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) official, said the tunnel “appears to be the most sophisticated tunnel in U.S. history, and certainly the most sophisticated I’ve seen in my career.” Landrum started with Border Patrol in 1996, according to the agency’s website.

In January this year, CBP announced federal agents had discovered the longest cross-border smuggling tunnel ever found along the Southwest border, originating in Baja California, Mexico. It measured 4,309 feet (1,300 meters).

President Donald Trump has pledged to build a wall on the border with Mexico to stop illegal crossings and drug trafficking, but critics point to tunnels as one way people can get around such a barrier.

US authorities have discovered an unfinished 1,300-foot (400-meter) tunnel under the US-Mexico border, calling it an unusually sophisticated smuggling route complete with ventilation and a rail system.

US authorities have discovered an unfinished 1,300-foot (400-meter) tunnel under the US-Mexico border, calling it an unusually sophisticated smuggling route complete with ventilation and a rail system. The tunnel was found on Tuesday in the desert near San Luis, Arizona by federal agents led by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s investigative arm, the agency said in a press release Friday. Also read: Coronavirus deaths in Latin America hit global high Authorities have located hundreds of tunnels over the years under the Southwest border, saying they are used by drug cartels and criminal organizations to smuggle narcotics, people and weapons back and forth between the two countries. The tunnel found this week measured 3 feet by 4 feet (91 cm by 1.22 meters) and included a “ventilation system, water lines, electrical wiring, rail system, [and] extensive reinforcement,” ICE said. Also read: Mexico nabs 'El Marro', fuel theft king blamed for surge in drug violence Federal agents drilled and used underground cameras to investigate the tunnel after discovering a sinkhole near cross-border fencing in mid-July, ICE said. Carl Landrum, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) official, said the tunnel “appears to be the most sophisticated tunnel in U.S. history, and certainly the most sophisticated I’ve seen in my career.” Landrum started with Border Patrol in 1996, according to the agency’s website. In January this year, CBP announced federal agents had discovered the longest cross-border smuggling tunnel ever found along the Southwest border, originating in Baja California, Mexico. It measured 4,309 feet (1,300 meters). President Donald Trump has pledged to build a wall on the border with Mexico to stop illegal crossings and drug trafficking, but critics point to tunnels as one way people can get around such a barrier.

US officials find 'sophisticated' smuggling tunnel on Mexican border

The US Air Force said on Friday it awarded United Launch Alliance (ULA) and Elon Musk`s SpaceX $653 million in combined military launch contracts under the Pentagon's next-generation, multibillion-dollar launch capability program.

The contracts are for launch service orders beginning in 2022 and allocate $337 million to ULA, a joint venture between Boeing Co and Lockheed Martin Corp, and $316 million to SpaceX for the first missions of roughly 34 total that the two rocket firms will support through 2027.

ULA will receive a contract for approximately 60 per cent of those launch service orders using its next-generation Vulcan rocket while Musk's SpaceX, using its Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets, will receive approximately 40 per cent, the Air Force`s acquisition chief Will Roper told reporters on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/spacex-starship-prototype-takes-first-big-step-towards-mars-completes-test-flight-318273">Also read:&nbsp;SpaceX Starship prototype takes first big step towards Mars; completes test flight</a>

The awards are part of the Pentagon's 2014 mandate from Congress to curb its dependency on rockets using Russia’s RD-180 engine and transition to US-made rockets for launching Washington's most sensitive national security payloads to space.

The program, called National Security Space Launch Phase 2, is aimed at "building a competitive industry base that we hope doesn't just help military and national security missions, but that helps our nation continue to compete and dominate in space," Roper added.

"Today’s awards mark a new epoch of space launch that will finally transition the Department off Russian RD-180 engines," Roper said in a statement.

The two companies lay claim to billions of dollars in lucrative military contracts for a span of five years that competitors Blue Origin, the space company of Amazon.com Inc owner Jeff Bezos, and Northrop Grumman also competed for.

Blue Origin Chief Executive Bob Smith said in a statement he was "disappointed" in the Pentagon's decision, adding that the company will continue to develop its heavy-lift New Glenn rocket "to fulfill our current commercial contracts, pursue a large and growing commercial market, and enter into new civil space launch contracts."

The US Air Force said on Friday it awarded United Launch Alliance (ULA) and Elon Musk`s SpaceX $653 million in combined military launch contracts under the Pentagon's next-generation, multibillion-dollar launch capability program.

The US Air Force said on Friday it awarded United Launch Alliance (ULA) and Elon Musk`s SpaceX $653 million in combined military launch contracts under the Pentagon's next-generation, multibillion-dollar launch capability program. The contracts are for launch service orders beginning in 2022 and allocate $337 million to ULA, a joint venture between Boeing Co and Lockheed Martin Corp, and $316 million to SpaceX for the first missions of roughly 34 total that the two rocket firms will support through 2027. ULA will receive a contract for approximately 60 per cent of those launch service orders using its next-generation Vulcan rocket while Musk's SpaceX, using its Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets, will receive approximately 40 per cent, the Air Force`s acquisition chief Will Roper told reporters on Friday. Also read: SpaceX Starship prototype takes first big step towards Mars; completes test flight The awards are part of the Pentagon's 2014 mandate from Congress to curb its dependency on rockets using Russia’s RD-180 engine and transition to US-made rockets for launching Washington's most sensitive national security payloads to space. The program, called National Security Space Launch Phase 2, is aimed at "building a competitive industry base that we hope doesn't just help military and national security missions, but that helps our nation continue to compete and dominate in space," Roper added. "Today’s awards mark a new epoch of space launch that will finally transition the Department off Russian RD-180 engines," Roper said in a statement. The two companies lay claim to billions of dollars in lucrative military contracts for a span of five years that competitors Blue Origin, the space company of Amazon.com Inc owner Jeff Bezos, and Northrop Grumman also competed for. Blue Origin Chief Executive Bob Smith said in a statement he was "disappointed" in the Pentagon's decision, adding that the company will continue to develop its heavy-lift New Glenn rocket "to fulfill our current commercial contracts, pursue a large and growing commercial market, and enter into new civil space launch contracts."

Pentagon awards United Launch Alliance, SpaceX launch contracts

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo spoke with Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi over phone and the two leaders discussed the Afghan peace process and regional stability, his spokesperson said on Friday.

"Secretary Pompeo and Minister Qureshi discussed a range of issues, including the importance of US-Pakistan cooperation on the Afghan peace process and the importance of efforts to support regional stability," said Cale Brown, State Department's Principal Deputy Spokesperson.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-forced-to-pay-back-saudi-usd-1-billion-319037">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan forced to pay back Saudi USD 1 billion</a>

Pompeo's telephonic talks with Qureshi came a day after the Secretary of State spoke to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and discussed a range of issues.

The two leaders spoke over phone on Thursday and reiterated the strength of the India-US relationship to advance peace, prosperity and security in the Indo-Pacific region and around the globe, Brown said on Thursday.

During the phone call, Jaishankar and Pompeo discussed the ongoing bilateral and multilateral cooperation on the issues of international concern, including efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, support the peace process in Afghanistan, and address the recent destabilising actions in the region, Brown said in a readout of the telephonic conversation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-failed-judicial-system-fails-14-year-old-christian-girl-318946">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan's failed judicial system fails 14-year-old Christian girl</a>

In Islamabad, the Pakistan Foreign Office said in a statement that Qureshi and Pompeo discussed bilateral relations, and developments in the region with a view to promoting peace, prosperity and stability. 
Qureshi said he discussed the Kashmir issue with Pompeo.

Reviewing the recent developments in Afghanistan, Qureshi reiterated Pakistan's steadfast commitment to supporting all efforts for an inclusive and comprehensive political settlement.

He stressed that the Afghan peace process should be pursued in all earnest. Noting the holding of Loya Jirga, he expressed the hope that a conducive environment would be created for the earliest convening of the intra-Afghan negotiations.

Stressing the importance of the Pakistan-US Relationship, the Foreign Minister stated that the leadership of both countries was committed to further strengthen it. He added that Pakistan would be a partner for peace with the US. 
Exchanging notes on the COVID-19 pandemic, Foreign Minister thanked Secretary Pompeo for the US support and assistance.

The talks between Pompeo and Qureshi also come after Special US Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad travelled to Qatar, Pakistan and Uzbekistan in June as part of his sustained effort to bring peace in the war-torn country.

The Taliban has kept up violence against Afghan government forces.

An agreement signed between the US and the Taliban in February in Doha drew up plans for withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan in exchange for security guarantees from the insurgent group.

As part of the Doha deal, the US has committed to withdraw its 12,000 troops within 14 months. Troops have since been reduced by over a quarter, according to a recent report on Afghanistan published by the Congressional Research Service.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo spoke with Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi over phone and the two leaders discussed the Afghan peace process and regional stability, his spokesperson said on Friday.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo spoke with Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi over phone and the two leaders discussed the Afghan peace process and regional stability, his spokesperson said on Friday. "Secretary Pompeo and Minister Qureshi discussed a range of issues, including the importance of US-Pakistan cooperation on the Afghan peace process and the importance of efforts to support regional stability," said Cale Brown, State Department's Principal Deputy Spokesperson. Also read: Pakistan forced to pay back Saudi USD 1 billion Pompeo's telephonic talks with Qureshi came a day after the Secretary of State spoke to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and discussed a range of issues. The two leaders spoke over phone on Thursday and reiterated the strength of the India-US relationship to advance peace, prosperity and security in the Indo-Pacific region and around the globe, Brown said on Thursday. During the phone call, Jaishankar and Pompeo discussed the ongoing bilateral and multilateral cooperation on the issues of international concern, including efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, support the peace process in Afghanistan, and address the recent destabilising actions in the region, Brown said in a readout of the telephonic conversation. Also read: Pakistan's failed judicial system fails 14-year-old Christian girl In Islamabad, the Pakistan Foreign Office said in a statement that Qureshi and Pompeo discussed bilateral relations, and developments in the region with a view to promoting peace, prosperity and stability. Qureshi said he discussed the Kashmir issue with Pompeo. Reviewing the recent developments in Afghanistan, Qureshi reiterated Pakistan's steadfast commitment to supporting all efforts for an inclusive and comprehensive political settlement. He stressed that the Afghan peace process should be pursued in all earnest. Noting the holding of Loya Jirga, he expressed the hope that a conducive environment would be created for the earliest convening of the intra-Afghan negotiations. Stressing the importance of the Pakistan-US Relationship, the Foreign Minister stated that the leadership of both countries was committed to further strengthen it. He added that Pakistan would be a partner for peace with the US. Exchanging notes on the COVID-19 pandemic, Foreign Minister thanked Secretary Pompeo for the US support and assistance. The talks between Pompeo and Qureshi also come after Special US Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad travelled to Qatar, Pakistan and Uzbekistan in June as part of his sustained effort to bring peace in the war-torn country. The Taliban has kept up violence against Afghan government forces. An agreement signed between the US and the Taliban in February in Doha drew up plans for withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan in exchange for security guarantees from the insurgent group. As part of the Doha deal, the US has committed to withdraw its 12,000 troops within 14 months. Troops have since been reduced by over a quarter, according to a recent report on Afghanistan published by the Congressional Research Service.

Pompeo speaks with Pak foreign minister on Afghanistan and regional stability

The United States is negotiating the sale of at least four sophisticated aerial drones to Taiwan for the first time, according to six U.S. sources familiar with the negotiations, aircraft that can keep watch over huge swathes of sea and land.

The SeaGuardian surveillance drones have a range of 6,000 nautical miles (11,100 km), far greater than the 160-mile range of Taiwan’s current fleet of drones, potentially giving the island greater capacity to peer into China, observing its air force, missiles and other facilities.

While the State Department tacitly authorized the sale of the unmanned aerial vehicles, two of the people said, it is not known whether the U.S. officials have approved exporting the drones with weapons attached, one of them said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-builds-on-taiwan-ties-us-highest-level-visit-to-taiwan-world-news-318374">Also watch|&nbsp;US builds on Taiwan ties: US highest-level visit to Taiwan | World News</a>

The deal must be approved by members of Congress, who may receive formal notification as soon as next month, two of the people said. Congress could block a final agreement.

Such a sale would most likely anger China, which claims Taiwan as its own territory.

Republican and Democratic U.S. senators introduced legislation on Thursday that would block the export, transfer or trade of many advanced drones to countries that are not close U.S. allies. Sales would be allowed to NATO members, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan and Israel.

A deal with Taiwan would be the first drone sale after President Donald Trump’s administration moved ahead with its plan to sell more drones to more countries by reinterpreting an international arms control agreement called the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR).

Taiwan’s Defense Ministry declined to comment.

While Taiwan’s military is well-trained and well-equipped with mostly US-made hardware, China has a huge numerical advantage and is adding advanced equipment of its own, including stealthy fighters, anti-satellite missiles and aircraft carriers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-health-chief-to-visit-taiwan-likely-angering-china-318231">Also read|&nbsp;US health chief to visit Taiwan, likely angering China</a>

Taiwan submitted its request to buy armed drones early this year, one of the people familiar with the talks said. The United States last week sent Taiwan the pricing and availability data for the deal, a key step that denotes official approval to advance the sale. It is, however, non-binding and could be reversed.

A deal for the four drones, ground stations, spares, training and support could be worth around $600 million using previous sales as a guide. There could also be options for additional units in the future, one of the people said.

The island is bolstering its defenses in the face of what it sees as increasingly threatening moves by Beijing, such as regular Chinese air force and naval exercises near Taiwan

Taiwan unveiled its largest defense spending increase in more than a decade last year. President Tsai Ing-wen has made defense modernization a priority, including building new submarines and upgrading Taiwan’s F-16 fighter fleet.

Relations between Beijing and Washington - already at their lowest point in decades over accusations of spying, a trade war, the coronavirus and Hong Kong - could fray more if the deal gets the final go-ahead from U.S. officials. The Pentagon has said arms sales to Taiwan will continue, and the Trump administration has kept a steady pace of Navy warships passing through the Taiwan Strait.

China has never renounced the use of force to bring the democratic island under its control. Beijing has denounced the Trump administration’s increased support for Taiwan.

China’s sophisticated air defenses could likely shoot down a handful of drones, according to Bonnie Glaser, the director of the China Power Project at CSIS, a Washington think tank. But she still expects “China to scream about even the smallest arms sale that the U.S. makes to Taiwan because any sale challenges the ‘One China’ principle.”

&nbsp; &nbsp; “They get particularly agitated if they think it’s an offensive capability,” she said, adding that she expected the Trump administration to be less cautious than its predecessors.

“As a matter of policy we do not comment on or confirm proposed defense sales or transfers until they have been formally notified to Congress,” a State Department spokesman said.

Only for few US allies 
The U.S. has been eager to sell Taiwan tanks and fighter jets, but the deal to sell drones would be notable since only a few close allies - including Britain, Italy, Australia, Japan and South Korea - have been allowed to purchase the largest U.S.-made drones.

Currently, the Taiwanese government has a fleet of 26 Albatross drones made by Taiwan’s National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology, a quasi-defense ministry research agency, that can fly 160 nautical miles (300 km), or 80 before returning to base, according to records kept by the Bard Center for the Study of the Drone.

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc’s SeaGuardian has an airframe that can handle carrying weapons - but only if contractually allowed by the U.S. government.

The United States has sold France unarmed MQ-9 Reapers which are similar to SeaGuardians, and later here gave permission to arm them.

Last year, the United States approved a potential sale to Taiwan of 108 General Dynamics Corp M1A2 Abrams tanks worth around $2 billion as well as anti-tank and anti-aircraft munitions. A separate sale of 66 Lockheed Martin-made fighter jets also made it through the State Department’s process.

In recent weeks, China said it will sanction Lockheed Martin Co for involvement in the latest U.S. arms sale to Taiwan.

The United States is negotiating the sale of at least four sophisticated aerial drones to Taiwan for the first time, according to six U.S. sources familiar with the negotiations, aircraft that can keep watch over huge swathes of sea and land.

The United States is negotiating the sale of at least four sophisticated aerial drones to Taiwan for the first time, according to six U.S. sources familiar with the negotiations, aircraft that can keep watch over huge swathes of sea and land. The SeaGuardian surveillance drones have a range of 6,000 nautical miles (11,100 km), far greater than the 160-mile range of Taiwan’s current fleet of drones, potentially giving the island greater capacity to peer into China, observing its air force, missiles and other facilities. While the State Department tacitly authorized the sale of the unmanned aerial vehicles, two of the people said, it is not known whether the U.S. officials have approved exporting the drones with weapons attached, one of them said. Also watch| US builds on Taiwan ties: US highest-level visit to Taiwan | World News The deal must be approved by members of Congress, who may receive formal notification as soon as next month, two of the people said. Congress could block a final agreement. Such a sale would most likely anger China, which claims Taiwan as its own territory. Republican and Democratic U.S. senators introduced legislation on Thursday that would block the export, transfer or trade of many advanced drones to countries that are not close U.S. allies. Sales would be allowed to NATO members, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan and Israel. A deal with Taiwan would be the first drone sale after President Donald Trump’s administration moved ahead with its plan to sell more drones to more countries by reinterpreting an international arms control agreement called the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR). Taiwan’s Defense Ministry declined to comment. While Taiwan’s military is well-trained and well-equipped with mostly US-made hardware, China has a huge numerical advantage and is adding advanced equipment of its own, including stealthy fighters, anti-satellite missiles and aircraft carriers. Also read| US health chief to visit Taiwan, likely angering China Taiwan submitted its request to buy armed drones early this year, one of the people familiar with the talks said. The United States last week sent Taiwan the pricing and availability data for the deal, a key step that denotes official approval to advance the sale. It is, however, non-binding and could be reversed. A deal for the four drones, ground stations, spares, training and support could be worth around $600 million using previous sales as a guide. There could also be options for additional units in the future, one of the people said. The island is bolstering its defenses in the face of what it sees as increasingly threatening moves by Beijing, such as regular Chinese air force and naval exercises near Taiwan Taiwan unveiled its largest defense spending increase in more than a decade last year. President Tsai Ing-wen has made defense modernization a priority, including building new submarines and upgrading Taiwan’s F-16 fighter fleet. Relations between Beijing and Washington - already at their lowest point in decades over accusations of spying, a trade war, the coronavirus and Hong Kong - could fray more if the deal gets the final go-ahead from U.S. officials. The Pentagon has said arms sales to Taiwan will continue, and the Trump administration has kept a steady pace of Navy warships passing through the Taiwan Strait. China has never renounced the use of force to bring the democratic island under its control. Beijing has denounced the Trump administration’s increased support for Taiwan. China’s sophisticated air defenses could likely shoot down a handful of drones, according to Bonnie Glaser, the director of the China Power Project at CSIS, a Washington think tank. But she still expects “China to scream about even the smallest arms sale that the U.S. makes to Taiwan because any sale challenges the ‘One China’ principle.” “They get particularly agitated if they think it’s an offensive capability,” she said, adding that she expected the Trump administration to be less cautious than its predecessors. “As a matter of policy we do not comment on or confirm proposed defense sales or transfers until they have been formally notified to Congress,” a State Department spokesman said. Only for few US allies The U.S. has been eager to sell Taiwan tanks and fighter jets, but the deal to sell drones would be notable since only a few close allies - including Britain, Italy, Australia, Japan and South Korea - have been allowed to purchase the largest U.S.-made drones. Currently, the Taiwanese government has a fleet of 26 Albatross drones made by Taiwan’s National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology, a quasi-defense ministry research agency, that can fly 160 nautical miles (300 km), or 80 before returning to base, according to records kept by the Bard Center for the Study of the Drone. General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc’s SeaGuardian has an airframe that can handle carrying weapons - but only if contractually allowed by the U.S. government. The United States has sold France unarmed MQ-9 Reapers which are similar to SeaGuardians, and later here gave permission to arm them. Last year, the United States approved a potential sale to Taiwan of 108 General Dynamics Corp M1A2 Abrams tanks worth around $2 billion as well as anti-tank and anti-aircraft munitions. A separate sale of 66 Lockheed Martin-made fighter jets also made it through the State Department’s process. In recent weeks, China said it will sanction Lockheed Martin Co for involvement in the latest U.S. arms sale to Taiwan.

Taiwan in talks to make first purchase of sophisticated US drones: Sources

After Microsoft declared its intentions to buy the US operations of the famous short-video sharing app TikTok, reports are now claiming that the tech giant might be looking at buying more of TikTok.

Talking with few insiders, a financial publication claimed Microsoft is planning to buy the global operations of the Chinese app TikTok.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-signs-executive-order-banning-transactions-with-tiktok-owner-after-45-days-318735">Also read:&nbsp;Trump signs executive order banning transactions with TikTok owner after 45 days</a>

Microsoft, however, has not given a confirmation on these speculations yet. As of now, the tech giant is looking to buy TikTok operations of North America,&nbsp;Australia and New Zealand. It is being reported that Microsoft is now trying to add India and Europe to this existing deal.

It has not been revealed what would be the selling amount of the social media app, however ByteDance executives value all of TikTok at more than $50 billion.

The report also claimed that Microsoft was in talks with TikTok's Chinese parent-company ByteDance for acquiring its operations in India, but the deal fell through before reaching any solid grounding.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-to-label-state-owned-media-and-officials-accounts-318746">Also read:&nbsp;Twitter to label state-owned media and officials' accounts</a>

TikTok has not issued any&nbsp;comment on this report ye, while Microsoft has declined a comment to the local media houses.

The report is being circulated after Trump gave TikTok a 45-day notice to either sell its operations to a US-based company or face a ban, citing national security issues.

After Microsoft declared its intentions to buy the US operations of the famous short-video sharing app TikTok, reports are now claiming that the tech giant might be looking at buying more of TikTok.

After Microsoft declared its intentions to buy the US operations of the famous short-video sharing app TikTok, reports are now claiming that the tech giant might be looking at buying more of TikTok. Talking with few insiders, a financial publication claimed Microsoft is planning to buy the global operations of the Chinese app TikTok. Also read: Trump signs executive order banning transactions with TikTok owner after 45 days Microsoft, however, has not given a confirmation on these speculations yet. As of now, the tech giant is looking to buy TikTok operations of North America, Australia and New Zealand. It is being reported that Microsoft is now trying to add India and Europe to this existing deal. It has not been revealed what would be the selling amount of the social media app, however ByteDance executives value all of TikTok at more than $50 billion. The report also claimed that Microsoft was in talks with TikTok's Chinese parent-company ByteDance for acquiring its operations in India, but the deal fell through before reaching any solid grounding. Also read: Twitter to label state-owned media and officials' accounts TikTok has not issued any comment on this report ye, while Microsoft has declined a comment to the local media houses. The report is being circulated after Trump gave TikTok a 45-day notice to either sell its operations to a US-based company or face a ban, citing national security issues.

Microsoft planning to buy TikTok's global business: Reports

The social media giant, Twitter Inc has decided to label the accounts which are state-affiliated media outlets to help people know which accounts are directly or indirectly related to their government.

In a blog post released on Thursday, twitter said the accounts that are directly or indirectly related to the government, senor staff and key officials will now be labeled.

“We believe that people have the right to know when a media account is affiliated directly or indirectly with a state actor,” Twitter said in its blog.&nbsp;

These accounts will also not be amplified by twitter's recommendation system.

this process will be followed in the countries where the state has established its control over specific media organisations, such as&nbsp;Russia’s Sputnik, RT, and China’s Xinhua News, as reported by a&nbsp;Twitter spokesman. He also added that there are many more media houses in this list. However, it is being reported that there are no US-based media houses in this list.

Additionally, the media houses that are state-owned but exercise editorial independence will be given a free pass and will not be labeled under this process — such as National Public Radio in the US, or the BBC in the UK. The personal accounts of the state heads will also not be labeled as Twitter believes people are already aware about these accounts.

The news was not well received by every government. Russia's Deputy UN Ambassador&nbsp;Dmitry Polyanskiy, whose account now reads the label of "Russia government account" took to Twitter to criticise the move,&nbsp;“They think they can set the rules of the game! This is an illusion. Such clear double standards backfire and undermine credibility of Western media, with ‘state-affiliate’ labels or without. People can’t find truth and facts there anymore.”

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
They think they can set the rules of the game! This is an illusion. Such clear double standards backfire and undermine credibility of Western media, with “state-affiliated” lables or without. People can’t find truth and facts there anymore <a href="https://t.co/0ZMNX9OuC5">https://t.co/0ZMNX9OuC5</a>
— Dmitry Polyanskiy (@Dpol_un) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dpol_un/status/1291447834366160896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The labels will first be tested by applying only to the countries that are a part of the UN Security Council —&nbsp;China, France, Russia, Britain, and the United States.&nbsp;

For now, all accounts that act as a mouthpiece for different governments have been labeled, such as&nbsp;@WhiteHouse, @StateDept, @Elysee, @10DowningStreet and @KremlinRussia.

The social media giant, Twitter Inc has decided to label the accounts which are state-affiliated media outlets to help people know which accounts are directly or indirectly related to their government.

The social media giant, Twitter Inc has decided to label the accounts which are state-affiliated media outlets to help people know which accounts are directly or indirectly related to their government. In a blog post released on Thursday, twitter said the accounts that are directly or indirectly related to the government, senor staff and key officials will now be labeled. “We believe that people have the right to know when a media account is affiliated directly or indirectly with a state actor,” Twitter said in its blog. These accounts will also not be amplified by twitter's recommendation system. this process will be followed in the countries where the state has established its control over specific media organisations, such as Russia’s Sputnik, RT, and China’s Xinhua News, as reported by a Twitter spokesman. He also added that there are many more media houses in this list. However, it is being reported that there are no US-based media houses in this list. Additionally, the media houses that are state-owned but exercise editorial independence will be given a free pass and will not be labeled under this process — such as National Public Radio in the US, or the BBC in the UK. The personal accounts of the state heads will also not be labeled as Twitter believes people are already aware about these accounts. The news was not well received by every government. Russia's Deputy UN Ambassador Dmitry Polyanskiy, whose account now reads the label of "Russia government account" took to Twitter to criticise the move, “They think they can set the rules of the game! This is an illusion. Such clear double standards backfire and undermine credibility of Western media, with ‘state-affiliate’ labels or without. People can’t find truth and facts there anymore.” They think they can set the rules of the game! This is an illusion. Such clear double standards backfire and undermine credibility of Western media, with “state-affiliated” lables or without. People can’t find truth and facts there anymore https://t.co/0ZMNX9OuC5 — Dmitry Polyanskiy (@Dpol_un) August 6, 2020 × The labels will first be tested by applying only to the countries that are a part of the UN Security Council — China, France, Russia, Britain, and the United States. For now, all accounts that act as a mouthpiece for different governments have been labeled, such as @WhiteHouse, @StateDept, @Elysee, @10DowningStreet and @KremlinRussia.

Twitter to label state-owned media and officials' accounts

US President Donald Trump has issued executive orders banning any transactions with ByteDance, the Chinese company that owns video-sharing app TikTok, and Tencent, owner of the WeChat app, starting in 45 days.

Trump signs executive order banning any transactions with TikTok owner

President Donald Trump on Thursday moved to reimpose 10% tariffs on some Canadian aluminum products to protect U.S. industry from a "surge" in imports, angering Ottawa and some U.S. business groups.

Donald Trump reimposes tariffs on some Canadian aluminum

The next geopolitical battleground is the technology and it is not just China that is a target. Countries around the world are building borders for their internet.

Cutting off access for everything. From apps to even manpower.&nbsp;

Trump along with the prime ministers of Australia, Germany and the United Kingdom is citing a threat to national security to strike at Chinese tech titans.

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But, what’s happening right now is no game. Technology companies are feeling the aftershock of the pandemic. It began with TikTok.

India banned it first and now the United States might break it up. US President Donald Trump is willing to allow a deal.&nbsp;

The United States is trying to get reimbursed or be paid a substantial amount of money.&nbsp;

Donald Trump dealt another big blow to techies. This time he is targeting IT professionals of Indian-origin and shutting off another door for employment via the H1-B visa.

Trump has signed an order reserving government jobs for Americans. Now, American government agencies won’t be allowed to contract or subcontract foreign workers...

He said: "Today i am signing an executive order to ensure that the federal government lives by a very simple rule: hire American. We've been doing it at a level that hasn't been done, maybe ever."

In Europe, the union is taking on three countries with cyber sanctions.

For the first time, the European Union has imposed sanctions for cyber attacks.

A total of six people and three groups have been punished.

This includes four Russians. Allegedly part of the Russian GRU military agency.

Two Chinese nationals have been sanctioned for operation cloud hopper.

A hack that targeted different companies across six continents.

Northern Korean firm Chosun expo is the sixth name on the list.

World leaders are laying the foundations for post-pandemic world order. One that will be dictated by optic fibres and not weapons.

Big tech is now a geopolitical force and technology companies around the world can’t afford to stay above the political fray.

The next geopolitical battleground is the technology and it is not just China that is a target. Countries around the world are building borders for their internet.

The next geopolitical battleground is the technology and it is not just China that is a target. Countries around the world are building borders for their internet. Cutting off access for everything. From apps to even manpower. Trump along with the prime ministers of Australia, Germany and the United Kingdom is citing a threat to national security to strike at Chinese tech titans. But, what’s happening right now is no game. Technology companies are feeling the aftershock of the pandemic. It began with TikTok. India banned it first and now the United States might break it up. US President Donald Trump is willing to allow a deal. The United States is trying to get reimbursed or be paid a substantial amount of money. Donald Trump dealt another big blow to techies. This time he is targeting IT professionals of Indian-origin and shutting off another door for employment via the H1-B visa. Trump has signed an order reserving government jobs for Americans. Now, American government agencies won’t be allowed to contract or subcontract foreign workers... He said: "Today i am signing an executive order to ensure that the federal government lives by a very simple rule: hire American. We've been doing it at a level that hasn't been done, maybe ever." In Europe, the union is taking on three countries with cyber sanctions. For the first time, the European Union has imposed sanctions for cyber attacks. A total of six people and three groups have been punished. This includes four Russians. Allegedly part of the Russian GRU military agency. Two Chinese nationals have been sanctioned for operation cloud hopper. A hack that targeted different companies across six continents. Northern Korean firm Chosun expo is the sixth name on the list. World leaders are laying the foundations for post-pandemic world order. One that will be dictated by optic fibres and not weapons. Big tech is now a geopolitical force and technology companies around the world can’t afford to stay above the political fray.

Technology: World's next geopolitical battleground

Syria's President Bashar-al-assad has accused Kurdish forces of "stealing from Syrian people" after an American company made a contract with Kurdish authorities in North-Eastern Syria. Watch report.

Your Story: Bashar-al-assad seethes with anger, US "stealing oil from Syrian people"

US&nbsp;losses from coronavirus-related&nbsp;fraud&nbsp;and identity theft have reached nearly $100 million since the pandemic emerged in March, while complaints of COVID-19 scams have at least doubled in most states, a consumer protection group said on Tuesday.

A report from the group, based on government data, highlighted the vast scope of a fast-growing criminal cottage industry,&nbsp;from phony stimulus-check offers to shopping scams and fake cures,&nbsp;preying on Americans already distressed by the pandemic and its economic fallout.

Perhaps not surprisingly, the study found California, Florida, New York, Texas and Pennsylvania - the most populous&nbsp;of the 50 US&nbsp;states, to be the five most targeted by coronavirus&nbsp;scams in the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-health-chief-to-visit-taiwan-likely-angering-china-318231" hreflang="en">US health chief to visit Taiwan, likely angering China</a>

Together they accounted for about a third of more than 150,000 instances of COVID-related&nbsp;fraud&nbsp;reported nationally by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) from mid-March, when the World Health Organization declared a global pandemic, through July, the report&nbsp; showed.

Those cases have cost victims a total of $97.5 million to date, according to the FTC.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-says-unclear-whether-us-government-will-get-cut-of-tiktok-sale-318229" hreflang="en">White House says unclear whether US government will get cut of TikTok sale</a>

Even relatively small states saw huge spikes in COVID-related&nbsp;fraud&nbsp;in recent months, led by Maine, whose monthly complaints of coronavirus&nbsp;scams and identity theft quadrupled between March and July, the study said.

The report was published by the internet-based nonprofit group SocialCatfish.com, which helps consumers avoid being defrauded online by determining the true identity of individuals or organizations hiding behind a phony persona.

Scams taking advantage of Americans' desperation in the midst of a deadly pandemic and accompanying economic upheaval "are running rampant," said Richard Neil, a spokesman for the report's authors.

Several newly flourishing forms of&nbsp;fraud&nbsp;involve fake promises of government stimulus&nbsp;checks, often perpetuated through "robocalls," texts, or emails seeking personal and financial information the caller supposedly needs to deposit benefits into the victim's account, according to the report.

Price-gouging and other consumer product scams have also become widespread, the study warned.

US losses from coronavirus-related fraud and identity theft have reached nearly $100 million since the pandemic emerged in March, while complaints of COVID-19 scams have at least doubled in most states, a consumer protection group said on Tuesday.

US losses from coronavirus-related fraud and identity theft have reached nearly $100 million since the pandemic emerged in March, while complaints of COVID-19 scams have at least doubled in most states, a consumer protection group said on Tuesday. A report from the group, based on government data, highlighted the vast scope of a fast-growing criminal cottage industry, from phony stimulus-check offers to shopping scams and fake cures, preying on Americans already distressed by the pandemic and its economic fallout. Perhaps not surprisingly, the study found California, Florida, New York, Texas and Pennsylvania - the most populous of the 50 US states, to be the five most targeted by coronavirus scams in the country. Also read: US health chief to visit Taiwan, likely angering China Together they accounted for about a third of more than 150,000 instances of COVID-related fraud reported nationally by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) from mid-March, when the World Health Organization declared a global pandemic, through July, the report showed. Those cases have cost victims a total of $97.5 million to date, according to the FTC. Also read: White House says unclear whether US government will get cut of TikTok sale Even relatively small states saw huge spikes in COVID-related fraud in recent months, led by Maine, whose monthly complaints of coronavirus scams and identity theft quadrupled between March and July, the study said. The report was published by the internet-based nonprofit group SocialCatfish.com, which helps consumers avoid being defrauded online by determining the true identity of individuals or organizations hiding behind a phony persona. Scams taking advantage of Americans' desperation in the midst of a deadly pandemic and accompanying economic upheaval "are running rampant," said Richard Neil, a spokesman for the report's authors. Several newly flourishing forms of fraud involve fake promises of government stimulus checks, often perpetuated through "robocalls," texts, or emails seeking personal and financial information the caller supposedly needs to deposit benefits into the victim's account, according to the report. Price-gouging and other consumer product scams have also become widespread, the study warned.

US coronavirus fraud losses near $100 million as COVID scams double

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

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

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

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

China said Wednesday a visit by a top US cabinet member to Taiwan was endangering peace and stability in the region, with relations between the two powers at historic lows.

Washington's de facto embassy in Taipei said US health secretary Alex Azar would lead a delegation to the self-ruled island, which Beijing claims as part of China and has vowed to one day seize.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-health-chief-to-visit-taiwan-likely-angering-china-318231" hreflang="en">US health chief to visit Taiwan, likely angering China</a>

"China firmly opposes official exchanges between the US and Taiwan," Wang Wenbin, a spokesman of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said at a regular briefing.&nbsp;

"We urge the US to abide by the one-China principle... to avoid seriously endangering Sino-US relations, as well as peace and stability across the Taiwan&nbsp;Strait."

The United States switched diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China in 1979.

It remains the leading arms supplier to the island, but has historically been cautious in holding official contacts with it.

Taiwan's foreign ministry has confirmed the trip and said Azar would meet President Tsai Ing-wen.

Neither side said when the trip would happen in their statements.&nbsp;

China said Wednesday a visit by a top US cabinet member to Taiwan was endangering peace and stability in the region, with relations between the two powers at historic lows.

China said Wednesday a visit by a top US cabinet member to Taiwan was endangering peace and stability in the region, with relations between the two powers at historic lows. Washington's de facto embassy in Taipei said US health secretary Alex Azar would lead a delegation to the self-ruled island, which Beijing claims as part of China and has vowed to one day seize. Also read: US health chief to visit Taiwan, likely angering China "China firmly opposes official exchanges between the US and Taiwan," Wang Wenbin, a spokesman of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said at a regular briefing. "We urge the US to abide by the one-China principle... to avoid seriously endangering Sino-US relations, as well as peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait." The United States switched diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China in 1979. It remains the leading arms supplier to the island, but has historically been cautious in holding official contacts with it. Taiwan's foreign ministry has confirmed the trip and said Azar would meet President Tsai Ing-wen. Neither side said when the trip would happen in their statements.

China says US cabinet visit to Taiwan 'endangering peace'

Teachers are also demanding financial help for parents in need, including rent and mortgage assistance, a moratorium on evictions and foreclosures, and cash assistance.

Teachers protest across U.S over reopening schools amid pandemic

Isaias regained hurricane strength on Monday night just hours before it was due to make landfall in the Carolinas and churn its way up the U.S. East Coast toward Washington, Philadelphia and New York, the National Hurricane Center said.

Isaias strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane, at the bottom of the five-step Saffir-Simpson scale, with maximum sustained winds reaching 85 miles per hour (137 kilometers per hour), the NHC said in its latest bulletin.&nbsp;

Life-threatening winds and storm surges - high waters swept in from shore - were expected along the coast of the Carolinas, while heavy rains inland could unleash flash floods, the Miami-based forecaster said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/isaias-grazes-florida-as-tropical-storm-heads-up-east-coast-317734" hreflang="en">Isaias grazes Florida as tropical storm, heads up East Coast</a>

"Only gradual weakening is anticipated after Isaias makes landfall in the Carolinas and moves across the US&nbsp;mid-Atlantic" region" on Monday night and Tuesday, the NHC said.

Isaias, which had briefly weakened into a tropical storm, posed an immediate threat to a stretch of coastline that includes the South Carolina tourist resort of Myrtle Beach and the North Carolina port city of Wilmington.

In a warning to the Carolinas, the National Hurricane Center said: "Preparations to protect life and property should be rushed to completion."

New York City braced for a potential storm surge in lower Manhattan, mindful of devastation caused by Superstorm Sandy in 2012.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/isaias-weakens-heads-to-coronavirus-hit-florida-as-tropical-storm-317548" hreflang="en">Isaias weakens, heads to coronavirus-hit Florida as tropical storm</a>

While a few local officials on the East Coast ordered evacuations, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper warned of severe inland flooding, as occurred with 2018's Hurricane Florence, which killed 40 people and caused $17 billion in damage in the state.

A storm surge warning was posted for a 180-mile stretch of the coastline from Folly Beach, South Carolina, north to Cape Fear, North Carolina.

Swift-water rescue teams, high-water vehicles and helicopters were standing by in North Carolina, and storm shelters were preparing to accommodate evacuees with at least 115 square feet (10 square meters) per person to assure COVID-19 social distancing.&nbsp;

Coronavirus diagnostic testing sites were being left to decide on a case-by-case basis whether to close, stay open or alter their testing hours, according to the state's health department.

"North Carolinians have had to dig deep in recent months to tap into our strength and resilience during the pandemic ... but we have to dig a little deeper. Let's keep each other safe from the wind and water, as well as from the virus," Cooper said.

Hatteras Island, a barrier island popular with tourists, was nearly deserted on Monday after officials ordered visitors and residents to leave, but some ignored the warnings.

Kevin Rowe, 63, of Indiana, was not about to let the storm cancel his family's first visit to North Carolina's Outer Banks.

"We're a little bit of risk-takers," said Rowe, who has been traveling the world for 11 years with his wife.

Isaias is the ninth named storm of the 2010 Atlantic hurricane season.

Isaias regained hurricane strength on Monday night just hours before it was due to make landfall in the Carolinas and churn its way up the U.S. East Coast toward Washington, Philadelphia and New York, the National Hurricane Center said.

Isaias regained hurricane strength on Monday night just hours before it was due to make landfall in the Carolinas and churn its way up the U.S. East Coast toward Washington, Philadelphia and New York, the National Hurricane Center said. Isaias strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane, at the bottom of the five-step Saffir-Simpson scale, with maximum sustained winds reaching 85 miles per hour (137 kilometers per hour), the NHC said in its latest bulletin. Life-threatening winds and storm surges - high waters swept in from shore - were expected along the coast of the Carolinas, while heavy rains inland could unleash flash floods, the Miami-based forecaster said. Also read: Isaias grazes Florida as tropical storm, heads up East Coast "Only gradual weakening is anticipated after Isaias makes landfall in the Carolinas and moves across the US mid-Atlantic" region" on Monday night and Tuesday, the NHC said. Isaias, which had briefly weakened into a tropical storm, posed an immediate threat to a stretch of coastline that includes the South Carolina tourist resort of Myrtle Beach and the North Carolina port city of Wilmington. In a warning to the Carolinas, the National Hurricane Center said: "Preparations to protect life and property should be rushed to completion." New York City braced for a potential storm surge in lower Manhattan, mindful of devastation caused by Superstorm Sandy in 2012. Also read: Isaias weakens, heads to coronavirus-hit Florida as tropical storm While a few local officials on the East Coast ordered evacuations, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper warned of severe inland flooding, as occurred with 2018's Hurricane Florence, which killed 40 people and caused $17 billion in damage in the state. A storm surge warning was posted for a 180-mile stretch of the coastline from Folly Beach, South Carolina, north to Cape Fear, North Carolina. Swift-water rescue teams, high-water vehicles and helicopters were standing by in North Carolina, and storm shelters were preparing to accommodate evacuees with at least 115 square feet (10 square meters) per person to assure COVID-19 social distancing. Coronavirus diagnostic testing sites were being left to decide on a case-by-case basis whether to close, stay open or alter their testing hours, according to the state's health department. "North Carolinians have had to dig deep in recent months to tap into our strength and resilience during the pandemic ... but we have to dig a little deeper. Let's keep each other safe from the wind and water, as well as from the virus," Cooper said. Hatteras Island, a barrier island popular with tourists, was nearly deserted on Monday after officials ordered visitors and residents to leave, but some ignored the warnings. Kevin Rowe, 63, of Indiana, was not about to let the storm cancel his family's first visit to North Carolina's Outer Banks. "We're a little bit of risk-takers," said Rowe, who has been traveling the world for 11 years with his wife. Isaias is the ninth named storm of the 2010 Atlantic hurricane season.

Isaias strengthens into hurricane ahead of expected landfall in Carolinas

The United States recently witnessed its worst protests in the recent history. Clubbed with the coronavirus pandemic, it put a lot of pressure on people to rethink their safety.

Owing to this, more Americans are buying firearms than ever before. The US’ Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) undertook 3.6 million background checks in just the month of July 2020. This marks the third highest month on record for arms sales since the agency began logging stats in 1998.

Over 2 million checks

In July 2019, the FBI had conducted 2 million background checks.&nbsp;June had broken all records in terms of background checks, with 3.9 million background checks. In March, the number stood at 3.7 million.

The states with the highest number of firearms sales include Illinois, Kentucky, Texas, Florida, and California, where most checks were performed related to selling, transferring, or licensing guns.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-to-sue-nevada-for-mail-in-ballots-317967" hreflang="en">Trump threatens to sue Nevada for mail-in ballots</a>

US law mandates background checks on every buyer, regardless if whether the gun was purchased at a store, or during a gun show.

Upon purchasing a gun, the buyer must present their identification to the seller, and fills out a form made by the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. This form includes the buyer’s address, age, race, criminal history.

Following this, the FBI conducts a database check on whether the buyer had any history of crime.

Factors contributing to this surge

The US has been volatile lately, be it due to the COVID-19 pandemic which has killed more people in the US than elsewhere. People were ordered to stay in during the pandemic. Additionally, the anti-racism protests fuelled by the murder of George Floyd in the hands of the police led to a lot of rioting across the country.

Most of the protests remained peaceful, but owing to sporadic rioting, the National Guard was sent in to many places to contain the violence. In the city of Portland, Oregon, people clashed with federal forces on multiple occasions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-sets-september-15-deadline-for-tiktok-sale-317963" hreflang="en">Donald Trump sets September 15 deadline for TikTok sale</a>

The US has a history of witnessing a spike in the number of firearms sales in the aftermath of a tragedy, IN 2012, a 39 per cent spike in sales was noted by the FBI. This came in the aftermath of a deadly shooting at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut.

An additional 48 per cent checks were also performed by the FBI in 2015 after the terrorist attack in San Bernardino, California.

A concern of safety may be driving such high sales of guns. National Rifle Association’s official told CNN that this happens when people worry about their safety, causing a spike in firearm sales.

The United States recently witnessed its worst protests in the recent history. Clubbed with the coronavirus pandemic, it put a lot of pressure on people to rethink their safety.

The United States recently witnessed its worst protests in the recent history. Clubbed with the coronavirus pandemic, it put a lot of pressure on people to rethink their safety. Owing to this, more Americans are buying firearms than ever before. The US’ Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) undertook 3.6 million background checks in just the month of July 2020. This marks the third highest month on record for arms sales since the agency began logging stats in 1998. Over 2 million checks In July 2019, the FBI had conducted 2 million background checks. June had broken all records in terms of background checks, with 3.9 million background checks. In March, the number stood at 3.7 million. The states with the highest number of firearms sales include Illinois, Kentucky, Texas, Florida, and California, where most checks were performed related to selling, transferring, or licensing guns. Also read: Trump threatens to sue Nevada for mail-in ballots US law mandates background checks on every buyer, regardless if whether the gun was purchased at a store, or during a gun show. Upon purchasing a gun, the buyer must present their identification to the seller, and fills out a form made by the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. This form includes the buyer’s address, age, race, criminal history. Following this, the FBI conducts a database check on whether the buyer had any history of crime. Factors contributing to this surge The US has been volatile lately, be it due to the COVID-19 pandemic which has killed more people in the US than elsewhere. People were ordered to stay in during the pandemic. Additionally, the anti-racism protests fuelled by the murder of George Floyd in the hands of the police led to a lot of rioting across the country. Most of the protests remained peaceful, but owing to sporadic rioting, the National Guard was sent in to many places to contain the violence. In the city of Portland, Oregon, people clashed with federal forces on multiple occasions. Also read: Donald Trump sets September 15 deadline for TikTok sale The US has a history of witnessing a spike in the number of firearms sales in the aftermath of a tragedy, IN 2012, a 39 per cent spike in sales was noted by the FBI. This came in the aftermath of a deadly shooting at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut. An additional 48 per cent checks were also performed by the FBI in 2015 after the terrorist attack in San Bernardino, California. A concern of safety may be driving such high sales of guns. National Rifle Association’s official told CNN that this happens when people worry about their safety, causing a spike in firearm sales.

Protests and pandemic cause Americans to buy more firearms, FBI records reveal

The drop in gross domestic product was the fastest the quarterly rate has fallen in modern record-keeping

U.S trade war with China impacts demand | US Economy | US Manufacturing activity

President Donald Trump has said that as compared to big countries, America is doing "very well" in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, while India is having a "tremendous problem" battling the disease and China is witnessing a "massive flare up" in infections.

India's COVID-19 tally increased to 18,55,745 on Tuesday with 52,050 people testing positive for coronavirus infection in a day.

China on Tuesday reported 36 new cases across the country, down from 43 the previous day. The country's COVID-19 cases crossed the 100-mark on July 29, for the first time in over three months, sparking the fear of a rebound.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-covid-19-deaths-rise-for-fourth-week-new-cases-drop-5-318003">Also read|&nbsp;US COVID-19 deaths rise for fourth week, new cases drop 5%</a>

"I think we're doing very well. I think that we have done as well as any nation. If you really look, if you take a look at what's going on, especially now with all these flare ups and nations that they were talking about," Trump told reporters at a news conference here on Monday.

As such, compared to larger countries, the US is doing much better in the fight against the coronavirus, he said.

"Don't forget, we're much bigger than--other than India and China. China is having a massive flare up right now. India has a tremendous problem. Other countries have problems," he said in response to a question.

"And I noticed that in the news, in the evening news, I never read about that. In any news, I don't read about the other countries. You're starting to see that other countries are having very big flare ups, countries that thought they were over it, like we thought we might be over in Florida, and then all of a sudden it comes back. They do come back," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-records-52050-cases-in-a-single-day-death-toll-nears-40000-318001">Also read|&nbsp;COVID 19: India records 52,050 cases in a single day; death toll nears 40,000</a>

The US is the worst-hit country from the pandemic with over 4.7 million cases and more than 155,000 deaths. 
The US, Trump said, has tested over 60 million people for coronavirus.

"No other country is even close to that. We've tested 60 million people -in many cases about 50 percent, now rapid fire, meaning five to 15 to 20-minute tests where you get the results almost immediately. Nobody has anything like that. Nobody. And I think we're just doing very well," he said.

Trump said that the US is beginning to see evidence of significant progress. Nationwide, the number of positive cases has declined by nearly six percent from the week before, and the positive test rate has also dropped from 8.7 per cent to 8 per cent over that same period of time.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-signs-executive-order-against-hiring-h1b-visa-holders-for-federal-contracts-318023">Also read|&nbsp;Trump signs executive order against hiring H1B visa holders for federal contracts</a>

"Hotspots across the South and West; we have seen slow improvements from their recent weekly peaks," he said, adding that Arizona's weekly case counts have dropped 37 per cent that is a tremendous drop and the governor and the state have done a fantastic job down 37 per cent, Texas down 18.7 per cent, and Florida 21.2 per cent drop.

"As we begin to contain the virus in these states, we must focus on new flare ups in the states where the case numbers have risen, including Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Missouri, and I think you will find that they are soon going to be very much under control," he said.

Meanwhile, 18 states continue to have very low case numbers and low test positivity rates under five per cent, including New Jersey, New York, Alaska, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland and Massachusetts. 
Even in these states, however, where the virus is under control and at a very low number, Americans should continue to be vigilant, be careful in order to prevent the new hotspots from opening up, he said.

"To that end, I urge all Americans to continue to socially distance, wash your hands, wear a mask when you cannot avoid crowded places and to protect the elderly very, very important, protect the elderly. It is much different....," Trump said.

It is important for all Americans to recognise that a permanent lockdown is not a viable path towards producing the results that one wants or certainly not a viable path forward and would ultimately inflict more harm than it would prevent, he said.

"As we are seeing in foreign countries around the world where cases are once again surging, you have many places where we thought they were under control doing a great job, and they are doing a great job, but this is a very tough invisible enemy. Lockdowns do not prevent infection in the future. They just don't. It comes back many times...," he said.

The purpose of a lockdown is to buy time to build capacity in hospitals, learn more about the disease and develop effective treatments, he asserted.

"We are doing very well with the vaccines and the therapeutic. Countries, where there have been very significant flare ups over the last short period of time, are Spain, Germany, France, Australia, Japan, and also, as you probably heard in Hong Kong, they have had some very serious flare ups. Japan has gone a lot of--six-fold, six-fold flareup, that's a lot, but they will get it under control," he said.

"In our current phase, we must focus on protecting those at highest risk while allowing younger and healthier Americans to resume work and school with careful precautions. Ideally, we want to open those schools. We want to open them.

"At the same time, we are placing an emphasis on continuing to drive down the mortality rate with improved care, treatment, and medical interventions building a bridge to the introduction of a vaccine. The vaccines are coming along incredibly well," Trump said.

President Donald Trump has said that as compared to big countries, America is doing "very well" in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, while India is having a "tremendous problem" battling the disease and China is witnessing a "massive flare up" in infections.

President Donald Trump has said that as compared to big countries, America is doing "very well" in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, while India is having a "tremendous problem" battling the disease and China is witnessing a "massive flare up" in infections. India's COVID-19 tally increased to 18,55,745 on Tuesday with 52,050 people testing positive for coronavirus infection in a day. China on Tuesday reported 36 new cases across the country, down from 43 the previous day. The country's COVID-19 cases crossed the 100-mark on July 29, for the first time in over three months, sparking the fear of a rebound. Also read| US COVID-19 deaths rise for fourth week, new cases drop 5% "I think we're doing very well. I think that we have done as well as any nation. If you really look, if you take a look at what's going on, especially now with all these flare ups and nations that they were talking about," Trump told reporters at a news conference here on Monday. As such, compared to larger countries, the US is doing much better in the fight against the coronavirus, he said. "Don't forget, we're much bigger than--other than India and China. China is having a massive flare up right now. India has a tremendous problem. Other countries have problems," he said in response to a question. "And I noticed that in the news, in the evening news, I never read about that. In any news, I don't read about the other countries. You're starting to see that other countries are having very big flare ups, countries that thought they were over it, like we thought we might be over in Florida, and then all of a sudden it comes back. They do come back," he said. Also read| COVID 19: India records 52,050 cases in a single day; death toll nears 40,000 The US is the worst-hit country from the pandemic with over 4.7 million cases and more than 155,000 deaths. The US, Trump said, has tested over 60 million people for coronavirus. "No other country is even close to that. We've tested 60 million people -in many cases about 50 percent, now rapid fire, meaning five to 15 to 20-minute tests where you get the results almost immediately. Nobody has anything like that. Nobody. And I think we're just doing very well," he said. Trump said that the US is beginning to see evidence of significant progress. Nationwide, the number of positive cases has declined by nearly six percent from the week before, and the positive test rate has also dropped from 8.7 per cent to 8 per cent over that same period of time. Also read| Trump signs executive order against hiring H1B visa holders for federal contracts "Hotspots across the South and West; we have seen slow improvements from their recent weekly peaks," he said, adding that Arizona's weekly case counts have dropped 37 per cent that is a tremendous drop and the governor and the state have done a fantastic job down 37 per cent, Texas down 18.7 per cent, and Florida 21.2 per cent drop. "As we begin to contain the virus in these states, we must focus on new flare ups in the states where the case numbers have risen, including Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Missouri, and I think you will find that they are soon going to be very much under control," he said. Meanwhile, 18 states continue to have very low case numbers and low test positivity rates under five per cent, including New Jersey, New York, Alaska, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland and Massachusetts. Even in these states, however, where the virus is under control and at a very low number, Americans should continue to be vigilant, be careful in order to prevent the new hotspots from opening up, he said. "To that end, I urge all Americans to continue to socially distance, wash your hands, wear a mask when you cannot avoid crowded places and to protect the elderly very, very important, protect the elderly. It is much different....," Trump said. It is important for all Americans to recognise that a permanent lockdown is not a viable path towards producing the results that one wants or certainly not a viable path forward and would ultimately inflict more harm than it would prevent, he said. "As we are seeing in foreign countries around the world where cases are once again surging, you have many places where we thought they were under control doing a great job, and they are doing a great job, but this is a very tough invisible enemy. Lockdowns do not prevent infection in the future. They just don't. It comes back many times...," he said. The purpose of a lockdown is to buy time to build capacity in hospitals, learn more about the disease and develop effective treatments, he asserted. "We are doing very well with the vaccines and the therapeutic. Countries, where there have been very significant flare ups over the last short period of time, are Spain, Germany, France, Australia, Japan, and also, as you probably heard in Hong Kong, they have had some very serious flare ups. Japan has gone a lot of--six-fold, six-fold flareup, that's a lot, but they will get it under control," he said. "In our current phase, we must focus on protecting those at highest risk while allowing younger and healthier Americans to resume work and school with careful precautions. Ideally, we want to open those schools. We want to open them. "At the same time, we are placing an emphasis on continuing to drive down the mortality rate with improved care, treatment, and medical interventions building a bridge to the introduction of a vaccine. The vaccines are coming along incredibly well," Trump said.

US doing 'very well' against COVID-19, India has a 'tremendous problem': Trump

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

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

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

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

President Donald Trump has agreed to give China’s ByteDance 45 days to negotiate a sale of popular short-video app TikTok to Microsoft Corp

Donald Trump to give TikTok owner 45 days to agree sale

A series of packages containing seeds propped up across the United States recently. The packages came from China, and stirred fears of some new kind of warfare being set into motion.

Owing to the coronavirus pandemic, the paranoia around touching foreign objects has been amplified. Earlier, scientists had warned people against planting these seeds, as they may trigger the growth of foreign plant species, which would attack and decimate many local varieties.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has identified many of the mysterious seeds as Solanum Lycopersicum, or in layman terms - tomato seeds!

<h6><img alt="Unsolicited seeds that arrived in the mail, reported by a U.S. citizen to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service are seen in an undated photo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b6dc696c-dbd9-447c-9cfc-bb9ab13e018b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-6_8.jpg" /> 
Unsolicited&nbsp;seeds&nbsp;that arrived in the mail, reported by a US&nbsp;citizen to the US&nbsp;Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service are seen in an undated photo | Reuters 
&nbsp;</h6>

However, to ensure the safety imbued in the seeds, they are being sent to the National Identification Services lab in Beltsville for more testing.

Many other packages also contained “Rhus”, the USDA has found. Rhus is a common species of shrub found across North America.

This is just precursory information. More testing will determine whether the seeds are laden with any pests or diseases of potential concern to US agriculture.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/gravitas-is-china-sending-mystery-seeds-to-countries-316834/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Warfare or nah?&nbsp;

Conspiracy theories on social media claim that the seeds are a new form warfare from China, which wants to attain global dominance in the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic.

However, the way these seeds made their way into the US is very suspicious. Most packages were marked as jewellery or beads, and started appearing in mailboxes around the country - all very randomly.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/us-canada-citizens-receive-mysterious-packages-of-seeds-from-china-316823" hreflang="en">US, Canada citizens receive mysterious packages of seeds from China</a>

Now, botanists will take their study a step further and analyse the samples for potential harmful substances.

In a statement, the USDA said, “Accurate and timely identifications provide the foundation for quarantine action decisions and are essential in the effort to safeguard the nation's agricultural and natural resources.”

Have you received a suspicious package with seeds? Do not plant it and seal it, officials in the US say. They have also requested people to reach out to local agriculture authorities with the seeds.

A series of packages containing seeds propped up across the United States recently. The packages came from China, and stirred fears of some new kind of warfare being set into motion.

A series of packages containing seeds propped up across the United States recently. The packages came from China, and stirred fears of some new kind of warfare being set into motion. Owing to the coronavirus pandemic, the paranoia around touching foreign objects has been amplified. Earlier, scientists had warned people against planting these seeds, as they may trigger the growth of foreign plant species, which would attack and decimate many local varieties. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has identified many of the mysterious seeds as Solanum Lycopersicum, or in layman terms - tomato seeds! Unsolicited seeds that arrived in the mail, reported by a US citizen to the US Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service are seen in an undated photo | Reuters However, to ensure the safety imbued in the seeds, they are being sent to the National Identification Services lab in Beltsville for more testing. Many other packages also contained “Rhus”, the USDA has found. Rhus is a common species of shrub found across North America. This is just precursory information. More testing will determine whether the seeds are laden with any pests or diseases of potential concern to US agriculture. Warfare or nah? Conspiracy theories on social media claim that the seeds are a new form warfare from China, which wants to attain global dominance in the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic. However, the way these seeds made their way into the US is very suspicious. Most packages were marked as jewellery or beads, and started appearing in mailboxes around the country - all very randomly. Also read: US, Canada citizens receive mysterious packages of seeds from China Now, botanists will take their study a step further and analyse the samples for potential harmful substances. In a statement, the USDA said, “Accurate and timely identifications provide the foundation for quarantine action decisions and are essential in the effort to safeguard the nation's agricultural and natural resources.” Have you received a suspicious package with seeds? Do not plant it and seal it, officials in the US say. They have also requested people to reach out to local agriculture authorities with the seeds.

US identifies 'mystery seeds' from China as tomato pips

As if a health crisis was not enough, China is now exporting a biosecurity crisis. Mysterious seed packets have landed in mailboxes across the globe.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Last week the seeds had landed in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. Today China has attacked at least three more countries with these seeds of doubt including New Zealand and Japan.

In New Zealand, a woman received a parcel claiming to contain a toy. The shipment was from Zambia. In Japan, a man received a bag of seed-like objects. Each measuring about 2 millimetres.

Meanwhile, India is on alert. The mysterious seeds have not yet landed in the country. But experts and the ministry of agriculture have been alerted about the possibility of seeds coming into India through e-commerce.

Authorities have already warned people against China's seed terrorism.

Keshavulu kunosoth, vice president of international seed testing association says that the seeds are a threat to global food security.

So far, experts have been able to identify 14 varieties including seeds of flowering plants like hibiscus, and lavender. The seeds are also being probed in the UK.

What role does Taiwan play in china's seed terrorism?

Last week, the Ontario police had tweeted this photo of a seed packet. The tweet read: 'if you receive an unsolicited shipment of foreign seeds in the mail from china or taiwan do not plant or dispose of them. Call the canadian food inspection agency.'

Several reports claimed that the seeds sent to Canada were from Taiwan. Taiwan's postal service has now issued a clarification. It said that the shipment was via Taiwan and not from Taiwan. The seeds were sent on behalf of a private logistics company.

Taiwan's post-service has slapped a fine of around $ 3500 against the particular company for sending prohibited items through the mail.

The logistics company, however, has reportedly refused to identify the sender.

Why is china sending these seeds?

These are seeds of an invasive species and it is an attempt by China to introduce pathogens or disease. US authorities claim that these packets are a part of China's brushing scam.

People are being sent these seeds by china's online sellers so that they can generate a transaction and justify fake reviews.

As if a health crisis was not enough, China is now exporting a biosecurity crisis. Mysterious seed packets have landed in mailboxes across the globe. Last week the seeds had landed in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada.

As if a health crisis was not enough, China is now exporting a biosecurity crisis. Mysterious seed packets have landed in mailboxes across the globe. Last week the seeds had landed in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. Today China has attacked at least three more countries with these seeds of doubt including New Zealand and Japan. In New Zealand, a woman received a parcel claiming to contain a toy. The shipment was from Zambia. In Japan, a man received a bag of seed-like objects. Each measuring about 2 millimetres. Meanwhile, India is on alert. The mysterious seeds have not yet landed in the country. But experts and the ministry of agriculture have been alerted about the possibility of seeds coming into India through e-commerce. Authorities have already warned people against China's seed terrorism. Keshavulu kunosoth, vice president of international seed testing association says that the seeds are a threat to global food security. So far, experts have been able to identify 14 varieties including seeds of flowering plants like hibiscus, and lavender. The seeds are also being probed in the UK. What role does Taiwan play in china's seed terrorism? Last week, the Ontario police had tweeted this photo of a seed packet. The tweet read: 'if you receive an unsolicited shipment of foreign seeds in the mail from china or taiwan do not plant or dispose of them. Call the canadian food inspection agency.' Several reports claimed that the seeds sent to Canada were from Taiwan. Taiwan's postal service has now issued a clarification. It said that the shipment was via Taiwan and not from Taiwan. The seeds were sent on behalf of a private logistics company. Taiwan's post-service has slapped a fine of around $ 3500 against the particular company for sending prohibited items through the mail. The logistics company, however, has reportedly refused to identify the sender. Why is china sending these seeds? These are seeds of an invasive species and it is an attempt by China to introduce pathogens or disease. US authorities claim that these packets are a part of China's brushing scam. People are being sent these seeds by china's online sellers so that they can generate a transaction and justify fake reviews.

After virus, China exports biosecurity crisis

A wildfire in Southern California quickly spread across 12,000 acres Saturday, destroying at least one home and two structures and forcing 7,800 people to evacuate.

As wildfire ravages South California, temp to hit 41 degree celsius in palm springs

The overall number of global coronavirus cases has surpassed the 18 million mark, while the deaths were nearing 688,000, according to the Johns Hopkins University.

Global COVID-19 cases surpass 18 million mark; Pandemic widespread in U.S

A top Federal Reserve said on Sunday that US Congress is in position to spend a huge amount on coronavirus relief efforts because the nation's budget gap can be financed without relying on foreign borrowing, given how much Americans are saving.

A top Federal Reserve said on Sunday that US Congress is in position to spend a huge amount on coronavirus relief efforts because the nation's budget gap can be financed without relying on foreign borrowing, given how much Americans are saving. Also read: President Trump to act on Chinese software companies 'in coming days': Pompeo "Those of us who are fortunate enough to still have our jobs, we're saving a lot more money because we're not going to restaurants or movie theatres or vacations," Neel Kashkari, president of the Minneapolis Federal Reserve Bank, told CBS' "Face the Nation." "That actually means that we have a lot more resources as a country to support those who have been laid off," he said. US House of Representatives, led by the Democrats, has approved a $3 trillion relief bill in May, however, many in Senate Republicans have expressed concerns about mounting debt, countered by proposing a $1 trillion aid package last week. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, in an interview with ABC's "This Week", said that President Trump would spend what was needed, but the deficit was a factor. "There's obviously a need to support workers and support the economy," he said. "On the other hand, we have to be careful about not piling on enormous amount of debts for future generations." (Inputs from Agency)

US Congress in position to spend big on coronavirus relief: Federal Reserve official

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