Russia's President Vladimir Putin has thanked US counterpart Donald Trump for intelligence that helped foil "acts of terrorism" on Russian soil #WION #Putin #DonaldTrump

Putin thanks Trump for foiling New Year attacks

The United States carried out airstrikes against five locations in Iraq and Syria on Sunday, targeting multiple weapons and munitions depots linked to Iran.

US launches attacks on Iranian-backed forces in Iraq and Syria

The United States would be very disappointed if <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-holds-top-party-meeting-ahead-of-us-deadline-270787">North Korea</a> tested a long-range or nuclear missile and would take appropriate action as a leading military and economic power, White House national security adviser Robert O'Brien said on Sunday.

Washington has many "tools in its tool kit" to respond to any such test, O'Brien said in an interview with ABC's "This Week."

"We'll reserve judgment but the United States will take action as we do in these situations," he said. "If Kim Jong Un takes that approach we'll be extraordinarily disappointed and we'll demonstrate that disappointment."

North Korea has asked Washington to offer a new initiative to iron out differences over Pyongyang's nuclear weapons program. It warned Washington this month that failure to meet its expectations could result in an unwanted "Christmas gift."

US&nbsp;military commanders have said the North Korean move could involve the testing of a long-range missile - something North Korea has suspended, along with nuclear bomb tests, since 2017.

O'Brien said the United States and North Korea had open channels of communication but did not elaborate. He said Washington hoped North Korean leader Kim Jong Un would live up to his commitments to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula.

The United States was still the leading military power in the world and had tremendous economic power, said O'Brien. "There's a lot of pressure that we can bring to bear," he said.

North Korea threatened a Christmas surprise, despite the fact that Trump and Kim have engaged in personal diplomacy over the years and have a good personal relationship, O'Brien said.

"So perhaps he's reconsidered that," O'Brien added. "But we will have to wait and see. We're going to monitor it closely. It's a situation that concerns us, of course."

Kim convened a meeting of top ruling party officials on Saturday to discuss important policy matters ahead of the year-end deadline set by Kim for the United States, the state news agency said on Sunday.

Senator Ben Cardin, a Democrat on the US&nbsp;Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said meetings between the two leaders have produced "very little" on denuclearization.

"So what I want to see, I want to see is the leader of North Korea, Kim Jong Un, make a full declaration of his nuclear weapons program and make a real commitment to start to dismantle that," he said. "We haven’t seen any of that during the Trump administration."

The United States would be very disappointed if North Korea tested a long-range or nuclear missile and would take appropriate action as a leading military and economic power, White House national security adviser Robert O'Brien said on Sunday.

The United States would be very disappointed if North Korea tested a long-range or nuclear missile and would take appropriate action as a leading military and economic power, White House national security adviser Robert O'Brien said on Sunday. Washington has many "tools in its tool kit" to respond to any such test, O'Brien said in an interview with ABC's "This Week." "We'll reserve judgment but the United States will take action as we do in these situations," he said. "If Kim Jong Un takes that approach we'll be extraordinarily disappointed and we'll demonstrate that disappointment." North Korea has asked Washington to offer a new initiative to iron out differences over Pyongyang's nuclear weapons program. It warned Washington this month that failure to meet its expectations could result in an unwanted "Christmas gift." US military commanders have said the North Korean move could involve the testing of a long-range missile - something North Korea has suspended, along with nuclear bomb tests, since 2017. O'Brien said the United States and North Korea had open channels of communication but did not elaborate. He said Washington hoped North Korean leader Kim Jong Un would live up to his commitments to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula. The United States was still the leading military power in the world and had tremendous economic power, said O'Brien. "There's a lot of pressure that we can bring to bear," he said. North Korea threatened a Christmas surprise, despite the fact that Trump and Kim have engaged in personal diplomacy over the years and have a good personal relationship, O'Brien said. "So perhaps he's reconsidered that," O'Brien added. "But we will have to wait and see. We're going to monitor it closely. It's a situation that concerns us, of course." Kim convened a meeting of top ruling party officials on Saturday to discuss important policy matters ahead of the year-end deadline set by Kim for the United States, the state news agency said on Sunday. Senator Ben Cardin, a Democrat on the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said meetings between the two leaders have produced "very little" on denuclearization. "So what I want to see, I want to see is the leader of North Korea, Kim Jong Un, make a full declaration of his nuclear weapons program and make a real commitment to start to dismantle that," he said. "We haven’t seen any of that during the Trump administration."

United States promises action on any North Korea missile test: White House

U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday warned Russia, Syria and Iran against killing civilians in Syria’s Idlib province. #WION #DonaldTrump #Trump

Trump warns Russia, Syria, Iran against killing civilians in Idlib

China’s official spokesperson of the commerce ministry said on Thursday that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deal-is-done-will-have-signing-ceremony-soon-trump-on-china-trade-deal-270074">United States and China </a>are going through necessary procedures before the signing the Phase 1 of the trade deal.

Gao Feng, the commerce ministry spokesman, made the comments to reporters at a regular briefing.

He also said that China is in close touch with the United States on signing a Phase 1 trade deal.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday he and Chinese President Xi Jinping will have a signing ceremony to sign the first phase of the US-China trade deal agreed to this month.

"We will be having a signing ceremony, yes," Trump told reporters. "We will ultimately, yes, when we get together. And we'll be having a quicker signing because we want to get it done. The deal is done, it's just being translated right now."

(With inputs from Reuters)

China’s official spokesperson of the commerce ministry said on Thursday that the United States and China are going through necessary procedures before the signing the Phase 1 of the trade deal.

China’s official spokesperson of the commerce ministry said on Thursday that the United States and China are going through necessary procedures before the signing the Phase 1 of the trade deal. Gao Feng, the commerce ministry spokesman, made the comments to reporters at a regular briefing. He also said that China is in close touch with the United States on signing a Phase 1 trade deal. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday he and Chinese President Xi Jinping will have a signing ceremony to sign the first phase of the US-China trade deal agreed to this month. "We will be having a signing ceremony, yes," Trump told reporters. "We will ultimately, yes, when we get together. And we'll be having a quicker signing because we want to get it done. The deal is done, it's just being translated right now." (With inputs from Reuters)

US-China trade deal: Both countries near Phase 1 signing, says China commerce ministry

People of Indian origin held marches in several cities of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-issues-travel-advisory-for-its-citizens-in-india-amid-anti-citizenship-act-protests-269837">United States</a> on Tuesday (local time) in support of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, which was enacted on December 12.

Watch:&nbsp;PM Modi condemns violence, urges anti-CAA protesters to introspect

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The demonstration was carried out in various cities of the US including Austin, Raleigh, and Seattle. 
 
It is important to note that Democrat Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, who has criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government over the CAA, is contesting from Seattle. 
 
Demonstrators held placards along with Indian flags and were seen raising slogans in support of CAA including 'Stop the violence, Stop the hate. India is a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/why-india-is-conflicted-269552">secular state</a>'. A placard read: 'NRIs support CAA'. 
 
The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/citizenship-amendment-act-indias-domestic-policy-russia-269792">Citizenship (Amendment) Bill</a> was passed by the Indian Parliament earlier this week and became an Act with Presidential assent on November 12. 
 
The legislation provides Indian citizenship to non-Muslim refugees of Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, who arrived in India on or before December 31, 2014. 
 
Since the enactment of the CAA, protests have erupted in various parts of India including its national capital.

People of Indian origin held marches in several cities of the United States on Tuesday (local time) in support of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, which was enacted on December 12.

People of Indian origin held marches in several cities of the United States on Tuesday (local time) in support of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, which was enacted on December 12. Watch: PM Modi condemns violence, urges anti-CAA protesters to introspect × The demonstration was carried out in various cities of the US including Austin, Raleigh, and Seattle. It is important to note that Democrat Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, who has criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government over the CAA, is contesting from Seattle. Demonstrators held placards along with Indian flags and were seen raising slogans in support of CAA including 'Stop the violence, Stop the hate. India is a secular state'. A placard read: 'NRIs support CAA'. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill was passed by the Indian Parliament earlier this week and became an Act with Presidential assent on November 12. The legislation provides Indian citizenship to non-Muslim refugees of Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, who arrived in India on or before December 31, 2014. Since the enactment of the CAA, protests have erupted in various parts of India including its national capital.

'India is a secular state': Indian diaspora rally for Citizenship Act in US

The World is One News, WION examines global issues with in-depth analysis. We provide much more than the news of the day. Our aim is to empower people to explore their world. #WION #WIONSpeedNews #Boeing #BoeingCEO #Russia #Moscow #India #NPR #Donald Trump

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - December 25, 2019

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-eases-but-supported-by-trade-deal-hopes-269679">Oil&nbsp;prices</a>&nbsp;edged&nbsp;higher&nbsp;on Tuesday in thin pre-Christmas trading after Russia's energy minister said cooperation with OPEC to&nbsp;support&nbsp;the market would continue and as analysts&nbsp;forecast&nbsp;a second weekly decline in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-falls-as-us-inventories-rise-but-demand-hopes-stem-bigger-drop-268973">US&nbsp;crude inventories</a>.

Brent crude was up 5 cents at $66.44 a barrel by 0321 GMT. US&nbsp;West Texas Intermediate was 1 cent&nbsp;higher&nbsp;at $60.53 a barrel.

OPEC, Russia and other producers that have linked up to curtail production and&nbsp;support&nbsp;prices&nbsp;will continue their cooperation as long as it is "effective and brings results," Russian energy minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/opec-and-allies-prepare-to-deepen-oil-output-cuts-266447">Alexander Novak</a> said in an interview on Monday.

Cooperation with the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-slips-as-opec-gears-up-to-confirm-supply-cut-266600">OPEC</a>) would continue "until the market requires it," Novak added.

OPEC and other producers agreed in November to extend and deepen output curbs in place since 2017. The reduction of output could see as much as 2.1 million barrels per day (bpd) taken off the market, or about 2 per cent&nbsp;of global demand.

Still, OPEC needs to do more to balance out the market on a sustainable basis, Bjornar Tonhaugen, head of&nbsp;oil&nbsp;market research at Rystad Energy said in a note.

"The OPEC&nbsp;cuts&nbsp;didn't fully solve the problem&nbsp;instead they offer a light bandage to get through the first quarter of 2020," said Tonhaugen, adding "after that, we believe the market will begin to realize the looming oversupply."

US&nbsp;producers have been happy to fill any gaps in the market, pumping ever greater amounts of crude to reach a record high of around 13 million bpd in November.

That has helped swell inventories, which have been stubbornly resistant to drawdowns. US&nbsp;stocks are up around 1 per cent&nbsp;this year.

Crude stocks are, however, expected to have fallen by about 1.8 million barrels last week, a second week of declines, according to a preliminary&nbsp;poll.

Still, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-gains-on-us-crude-stocks-fall-opec-comments-on-slower-us-shale-growth-262061">gasoline stocks</a> are expected to have risen for a seventh week in a row and distillate inventories are&nbsp;forecast&nbsp;to have gained for a fifth consecutive week.

Oil prices edged higher on Tuesday in thin pre-Christmas trading after Russia's energy minister said cooperation with OPEC to support the market would continue and as analysts forecast a second weekly decline in US crude inventories.

Oil prices edged higher on Tuesday in thin pre-Christmas trading after Russia's energy minister said cooperation with OPEC to support the market would continue and as analysts forecast a second weekly decline in US crude inventories. Brent crude was up 5 cents at $66.44 a barrel by 0321 GMT. US West Texas Intermediate was 1 cent higher at $60.53 a barrel. OPEC, Russia and other producers that have linked up to curtail production and support prices will continue their cooperation as long as it is "effective and brings results," Russian energy minister Alexander Novak said in an interview on Monday. Cooperation with the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) would continue "until the market requires it," Novak added. OPEC and other producers agreed in November to extend and deepen output curbs in place since 2017. The reduction of output could see as much as 2.1 million barrels per day (bpd) taken off the market, or about 2 per cent of global demand. Still, OPEC needs to do more to balance out the market on a sustainable basis, Bjornar Tonhaugen, head of oil market research at Rystad Energy said in a note. "The OPEC cuts didn't fully solve the problem instead they offer a light bandage to get through the first quarter of 2020," said Tonhaugen, adding "after that, we believe the market will begin to realize the looming oversupply." US producers have been happy to fill any gaps in the market, pumping ever greater amounts of crude to reach a record high of around 13 million bpd in November. That has helped swell inventories, which have been stubbornly resistant to drawdowns. US stocks are up around 1 per cent this year. Crude stocks are, however, expected to have fallen by about 1.8 million barrels last week, a second week of declines, according to a preliminary poll. Still, gasoline stocks are expected to have risen for a seventh week in a row and distillate inventories are forecast to have gained for a fifth consecutive week.

Oil prices inch higher in pre-Christmas trading

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/phase-one-trade-deal-with-china-would-be-signed-very-shortly-donald-trump-269576">United States</a> President Donald Trump responded to North Korea's warning of a ''Christmas gift''. He added that the US would "deal with it very successfully".

After the warning from North Korea, concerns in the United States that Pyongyang might be preparing a missile test rose immediately.

"We'll find out what the surprise is and we'll deal with it very successfully," Trump told reporters at his Mar-a-Lago resort. "We'll see what happens", he added.

Watch:&nbsp;Donald Trump -&nbsp;US&nbsp;is keeping a close watch on North Korea

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Earlier this month, North Korea had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-xi-jinping-give-positive-signals-on-trade-deal-after-phone-call-269443">warned the US</a> of sending a ''Christmas gift'' amid the inability of both the countries to reach a trade deal.

"Maybe it's a nice present," he quipped. "Maybe it's a present where he sends me a beautiful vase as opposed to a missile test."

Kim Jong Un gave the United States until the end of the year to propose new concessions in talks over his country’s nuclear arsenal and to further reduce tensions between the two long-time adversaries.

The ''Christmas gift'' statement was made by North Korea on December 3, after it accused the US counterparts of dragging out denuclearisation talks before the US presidential election.

It was "entirely up to the US what Christmas gift it will select to get", North Korea had said.

North Korea has suspended the testing of long-range missiles and nuclear bombs since 2017. According to many US military commanders, North Korea could test a long-range missile.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/so-unfair-donald-trump-slams-impeachment-delay-in-senate-269522">According to Trump</a>, North Korea's suspension of tests was a testimony to their meaningful relationship.

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Donald Trump responded to North Korea's warning of a ''Christmas gift''. He added that the US would "deal with it very successfully". After the warning from North Korea, concerns in the United States that Pyongyang might be preparing a missile test rose immediately.

United States President Donald Trump responded to North Korea's warning of a ''Christmas gift''. He added that the US would "deal with it very successfully". After the warning from North Korea, concerns in the United States that Pyongyang might be preparing a missile test rose immediately. "We'll find out what the surprise is and we'll deal with it very successfully," Trump told reporters at his Mar-a-Lago resort. "We'll see what happens", he added. Watch: Donald Trump - US is keeping a close watch on North Korea Earlier this month, North Korea had warned the US of sending a ''Christmas gift'' amid the inability of both the countries to reach a trade deal. "Maybe it's a nice present," he quipped. "Maybe it's a present where he sends me a beautiful vase as opposed to a missile test." Kim Jong Un gave the United States until the end of the year to propose new concessions in talks over his country’s nuclear arsenal and to further reduce tensions between the two long-time adversaries. The ''Christmas gift'' statement was made by North Korea on December 3, after it accused the US counterparts of dragging out denuclearisation talks before the US presidential election. It was "entirely up to the US what Christmas gift it will select to get", North Korea had said. North Korea has suspended the testing of long-range missiles and nuclear bombs since 2017. According to many US military commanders, North Korea could test a long-range missile. According to Trump, North Korea's suspension of tests was a testimony to their meaningful relationship. (With inputs from agencies)

'We'll deal with it successfully': Donald Trump on North Korea's 'Christmas gift' threat

The World is One News, WION examines global issues with in-depth analysis. We provide much more than the news of the day. Our aim is to empower people to explore their world. #WION #WIONSpeedNews #Boeing #BoeingCEO #Russia #Moscow

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - December 24, 2019

US military personnel began an operation to deliver Christmas presents to troops in Syria. Troops taking part in 'Holiday Express' transported stockings stuffed with gifts to five bases in the country's east on Monday.

Special Christmas delivery for US troops in Syria

US&nbsp;trade, economic and scientific restrictions on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-slams-pompeo-criticism-of-syria-aid-veto-269763">China and "smears"</a> against its sovereignty are impacting global stability and development, the Chinese government's top diplomat said in comments published on Monday.

Even as the world's two largest economies have taken steps to cool a bitter trade war, they remain far apart on a string of issues including anti-government protests in Hong Kong, Syria, human rights and the status of Chinese-claimed Taiwan.

China has been particularly upset by criticism from senior US&nbsp;officials, including Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, of China's ruling Communist Party and of the country's treatment of its Muslim Uighur minority.

The United States says it is determined to speak out about human rights abuses in China, re-balance what it sees as a mismatched trade relationship and stop potential national security threats with restrictions on Chinese companies such as tech giant Huawei.

In a year-end interview with state media, State Councillor Wang Yi said this year marking 40 years of ties between the People's Republic of China and the United States should have been an important anniversary for both to mark.

"Regrettably, the United States has successively imposed restrictions and put pressure on China in various fields such as economy, trade, science and technology, and on a series of issues concerning China's territorial sovereignty has interfered and smeared (us)," Wang said.

"What the United States has done has undermined <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-north-korea-talks-more-important-than-anything-south-korea-tells-china-269749">Sino-US&nbsp;mutual trust</a> accumulated over the past 40 years and has also impacted the stability and development of the entire world," he added, in excerpts of the interview carried on the Chinese Foreign Ministry's website.

Wang said China would safeguard its core interests and right to legitimate development, and no person or force can stop the 1.4 billion Chinese people from the path of modernisation.

China wants to resolve problems that arise with the United States through dialogue and on the basis of mutual respect, he added.

"We hope that the United States will rebuild its objective and correct understanding of China," Wang said.

US trade, economic and scientific restrictions on China and "smears" against its sovereignty are impacting global stability and development, the Chinese government's top diplomat said in comments published on Monday.

US trade, economic and scientific restrictions on China and "smears" against its sovereignty are impacting global stability and development, the Chinese government's top diplomat said in comments published on Monday. Even as the world's two largest economies have taken steps to cool a bitter trade war, they remain far apart on a string of issues including anti-government protests in Hong Kong, Syria, human rights and the status of Chinese-claimed Taiwan. China has been particularly upset by criticism from senior US officials, including Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, of China's ruling Communist Party and of the country's treatment of its Muslim Uighur minority. The United States says it is determined to speak out about human rights abuses in China, re-balance what it sees as a mismatched trade relationship and stop potential national security threats with restrictions on Chinese companies such as tech giant Huawei. In a year-end interview with state media, State Councillor Wang Yi said this year marking 40 years of ties between the People's Republic of China and the United States should have been an important anniversary for both to mark. "Regrettably, the United States has successively imposed restrictions and put pressure on China in various fields such as economy, trade, science and technology, and on a series of issues concerning China's territorial sovereignty has interfered and smeared (us)," Wang said. "What the United States has done has undermined Sino-US mutual trust accumulated over the past 40 years and has also impacted the stability and development of the entire world," he added, in excerpts of the interview carried on the Chinese Foreign Ministry's website. Wang said China would safeguard its core interests and right to legitimate development, and no person or force can stop the 1.4 billion Chinese people from the path of modernisation. China wants to resolve problems that arise with the United States through dialogue and on the basis of mutual respect, he added. "We hope that the United States will rebuild its objective and correct understanding of China," Wang said.

US 'smears' impacting global stability: China

United States President Donald Trump has signed the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act, authorising the establishment of Space Force which would become the sixth branch of the armed forces. #US #USPresident #DonaldTrump #USSpaceforce

President Donald Trump officially launches US Space Force

Officials and security sources&nbsp;reported that "US forces conducted an operation and captured a leader of paramilitary Sunni tribal fighters over participating in a rocket attack on an airbase housing US&nbsp;troops stationed in Iraq's western province of Anbar.

"The US&nbsp;troops conducted an airdrop operation before dawn on a house in Jubba area and arrested Naseer al-Obeidi, a leader of local tribal fighters affiliated with the Hashd Shaabi forces"&nbsp;a local official said, on condition of anonymity.

Multiple rockets hit an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/rockets-hit-military-base-near-baghdad-airport-6-wounded-military-statement-267191">airbase</a> that houses US troops in western Iraq`s Anbar province on December 3 but no casualties were reported, the Iraqi military had said.

The incident came just over a week after US Vice President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/american-vice-president-avoids-baghdad-leaders-on-surprise-iraq-visit-264128">Mike Pence</a> and his wife Karen had met the American soldiers stationed at the base ahead of Thanksgiving Day.

Officials and security sources reported that "US forces conducted an operation and captured a leader of paramilitary Sunni tribal fighters over participating in a rocket attack on an airbase housing US troops stationed in Iraq's western province of Anbar.

Officials and security sources reported that "US forces conducted an operation and captured a leader of paramilitary Sunni tribal fighters over participating in a rocket attack on an airbase housing US troops stationed in Iraq's western province of Anbar. "The US troops conducted an airdrop operation before dawn on a house in Jubba area and arrested Naseer al-Obeidi, a leader of local tribal fighters affiliated with the Hashd Shaabi forces" a local official said, on condition of anonymity. Multiple rockets hit an airbase that houses US troops in western Iraq`s Anbar province on December 3 but no casualties were reported, the Iraqi military had said. The incident came just over a week after US Vice President Mike Pence and his wife Karen had met the American soldiers stationed at the base ahead of Thanksgiving Day.

Iraq: US Forces capture leader of paramilitary Sunni tribal fighters

Putin speaks about Donald Trump's impeachment, Ukraine, presidential term limits & arms race with the U.S.

Gravitas: Putin's annual press conference: Key takeaways

U.S. President Donald Trump impeached in the House of Representatives. #Trump #USPresident #DonaldTrump

Gravitas: President Trump impeached in the house

India and the US have agreed to deepen their bilateral cooperation in areas of defence, counter-terrorism and trade, and to work with like-minded countries for a free and open Indo-Pacific region. #India #US #2+2dialouge #IndiaUS #RajnathSingh

India-US concludes 2+2 dialogue; Agrees to expand bilateral ties

A first-ever joint Chinese-Russian-Iranian naval exercise signals that closer Chinese military ties with a host of Middle Eastern nations does not translate into Chinese aspirations for a greater role in regional security any time soon.

If anything, the exercise, coupled with notional Chinese support for proposals for a multilateral security approach in the Gulf, suggests that China envisions a continued US lead in Gulf security despite the mounting rivalry between the world’s two largest economies.

That is the message China is sending by playing down the significance of the exercise and hinting that it would only contribute non-combat forces.

China’s participation is expected to involve its anti-piracy fleet that is already in Somali waters to protect commercial vessels as well as peacekeeping and humanitarian relief personnel rather than specially dispatched units of the People’s Liberation Army.

China’s preference for a continued US lead in maintaining Gulf security, even if it favours a more multilateral approach, was evident earlier this year in its willingness to consider participating in the US-led maritime alliance that escorts commercial vessels in the Gulf and seeks to secure shipping lanes and was created in response to several attacks on tankers in the Gulf of Oman.

So far, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Britain and Australia have joined the alliance that started operations last month.

Despite favouring a continued US lead, China sees a broadening of security arrangements that would embed rather than replace the US defence umbrella in the Gulf as a way to reduce regional tensions.

China also believes that a multilateral arrangement would allow it to continue steering clear of being sucked into conflicts and disputes in the Middle East, particularly the Saudi-Iranian rivalry.

A multilateral arrangement in which the US would remain the key military player would fit the pattern of China’s gradual projection beyond the borders of its growing military power.

With the exception of a military facility in Djibouti, China’s projection becomes less hardcore the further away one gets from the People’s Republic borders.

Proposals for a multilateral security architecture could also cater to US President Donald J Trump’s transactionalism as well as his insistence on burden-sharing.

Getting from A to B is, however, easier said than done.

If the US security umbrella was geared towards defence again Iran, a multi-lateral approach would have to involve Iran.

Such involvement could be based on some kind of agreement on non-aggression, a proposal put forward by Iran and implicit in Russia’s call for a regional security conference along the lines of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe, the OSCE.

To get there, however, the United States and Saudi Arabia would have to reduce tensions with Iran, credibly signal that they have no intention of toppling or destabilising the Iranian regime, and resolve the crisis stemming from the US withdrawal from the 2015 international agreement that curbed Iran’s nuclear program.

That would seem a tall order even if Saudi Arabia and Iran have not closed the door on stalled contacts aimed at dialling down tensions.

Chinese support has, moreover, so far lacked enthusiasm for a Russian proposal that calls the United States, Russia, China and India to be involved in a multilateral approach.

While backing Russia’s proposal in general terms, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang stopped short of specifically endorsing it. Geng welcomed, “All proposals and diplomatic efforts conducive to de-escalating the situation in the Gulf region.”

China’s refraining to more wholeheartedly endorse the Russian proposal is rooted in differing approaches towards multilateralism in general and alliances in particular. China shies away from alliances emphasising geo-economics rather than geopolitics while Russia still operates in terms of alliances.

Looming in the background is the fact that in the ultimate analysis China is likely to view security in South and Central Asia as interlinked with security in the Gulf, which in turn raises questions about the sustainability of the Chinese security approach.

The geographic layering of China’s approach is evident not only in China’s robust posture in the South China Sea, but also in countries like Tajikistan and Afghanistan.

China has recently made progress on the construction of a road through Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor. The road serves multiple geo-political goals.

It will facilitate the movement of troops, together with a military base in Tajikistan and Chinese cross border operations in the corridor.

The question is whether the Chinese moves will jeopardise the presumed division of labour between Russia and China under which Russia shoulders responsibility for security in Central Asia while China concentrates on economic development and if it does what impact that would have on Chinese reliance on a potential Russian role in the Gulf.

There is little doubt that the Gulf is gradually moving from a unilateral security arrangement to a multilateral one driven by Gulf concerns following the September attacks on Saudi oil facilities and a US response that has reinforced nagging doubts about the reliability of US security guarantees.

The doubts are further fed by the direction of US policy starting with the Obama administration and now with the Trump administration that suggests a re-evaluation of US national security interests in the Middle East.

China’s belief that economics rather than geopolitics is the key to solving disputes has so far allowed it to remain above the breach but has yet to prove its sustainability.

China’s approach is unlikely to shield it from the Middle East’s penchant of ensuring that it is at the heart of concerns of major external parties.

Said Jiang Xudong, a Middle East scholar at the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences: “Economic investment will not solve all other problems when there are religious and ethnic conflicts.” 
 
 
(Views expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

A first-ever joint Chinese-Russian-Iranian naval exercise signals that closer Chinese military ties with a host of Middle Eastern nations does not translate into Chinese aspirations for a greater role in regional security any time soon.

A first-ever joint Chinese-Russian-Iranian naval exercise signals that closer Chinese military ties with a host of Middle Eastern nations does not translate into Chinese aspirations for a greater role in regional security any time soon. If anything, the exercise, coupled with notional Chinese support for proposals for a multilateral security approach in the Gulf, suggests that China envisions a continued US lead in Gulf security despite the mounting rivalry between the world’s two largest economies. That is the message China is sending by playing down the significance of the exercise and hinting that it would only contribute non-combat forces. China’s participation is expected to involve its anti-piracy fleet that is already in Somali waters to protect commercial vessels as well as peacekeeping and humanitarian relief personnel rather than specially dispatched units of the People’s Liberation Army. China’s preference for a continued US lead in maintaining Gulf security, even if it favours a more multilateral approach, was evident earlier this year in its willingness to consider participating in the US-led maritime alliance that escorts commercial vessels in the Gulf and seeks to secure shipping lanes and was created in response to several attacks on tankers in the Gulf of Oman. So far, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Britain and Australia have joined the alliance that started operations last month. Despite favouring a continued US lead, China sees a broadening of security arrangements that would embed rather than replace the US defence umbrella in the Gulf as a way to reduce regional tensions. China also believes that a multilateral arrangement would allow it to continue steering clear of being sucked into conflicts and disputes in the Middle East, particularly the Saudi-Iranian rivalry. A multilateral arrangement in which the US would remain the key military player would fit the pattern of China’s gradual projection beyond the borders of its growing military power. With the exception of a military facility in Djibouti, China’s projection becomes less hardcore the further away one gets from the People’s Republic borders. Proposals for a multilateral security architecture could also cater to US President Donald J Trump’s transactionalism as well as his insistence on burden-sharing. Getting from A to B is, however, easier said than done. If the US security umbrella was geared towards defence again Iran, a multi-lateral approach would have to involve Iran. Such involvement could be based on some kind of agreement on non-aggression, a proposal put forward by Iran and implicit in Russia’s call for a regional security conference along the lines of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe, the OSCE. To get there, however, the United States and Saudi Arabia would have to reduce tensions with Iran, credibly signal that they have no intention of toppling or destabilising the Iranian regime, and resolve the crisis stemming from the US withdrawal from the 2015 international agreement that curbed Iran’s nuclear program. That would seem a tall order even if Saudi Arabia and Iran have not closed the door on stalled contacts aimed at dialling down tensions. Chinese support has, moreover, so far lacked enthusiasm for a Russian proposal that calls the United States, Russia, China and India to be involved in a multilateral approach. While backing Russia’s proposal in general terms, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang stopped short of specifically endorsing it. Geng welcomed, “All proposals and diplomatic efforts conducive to de-escalating the situation in the Gulf region.” China’s refraining to more wholeheartedly endorse the Russian proposal is rooted in differing approaches towards multilateralism in general and alliances in particular. China shies away from alliances emphasising geo-economics rather than geopolitics while Russia still operates in terms of alliances. Looming in the background is the fact that in the ultimate analysis China is likely to view security in South and Central Asia as interlinked with security in the Gulf, which in turn raises questions about the sustainability of the Chinese security approach. The geographic layering of China’s approach is evident not only in China’s robust posture in the South China Sea, but also in countries like Tajikistan and Afghanistan. China has recently made progress on the construction of a road through Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor. The road serves multiple geo-political goals. It will facilitate the movement of troops, together with a military base in Tajikistan and Chinese cross border operations in the corridor. The question is whether the Chinese moves will jeopardise the presumed division of labour between Russia and China under which Russia shoulders responsibility for security in Central Asia while China concentrates on economic development and if it does what impact that would have on Chinese reliance on a potential Russian role in the Gulf. There is little doubt that the Gulf is gradually moving from a unilateral security arrangement to a multilateral one driven by Gulf concerns following the September attacks on Saudi oil facilities and a US response that has reinforced nagging doubts about the reliability of US security guarantees. The doubts are further fed by the direction of US policy starting with the Obama administration and now with the Trump administration that suggests a re-evaluation of US national security interests in the Middle East. China’s belief that economics rather than geopolitics is the key to solving disputes has so far allowed it to remain above the breach but has yet to prove its sustainability. China’s approach is unlikely to shield it from the Middle East’s penchant of ensuring that it is at the heart of concerns of major external parties. Said Jiang Xudong, a Middle East scholar at the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences: “Economic investment will not solve all other problems when there are religious and ethnic conflicts.” (Views expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Gulf security: Here's why China wants the US to remain the key military player

President Donald Trump was impeached by the House of Representatives. Democrats and Republicans voted on two articles to impeach the 45th president on abuse of power and obstruction of Congress.

Donald Trump impeached. What happens next?

The U.S. House of Representatives impeached President Donald Trump on charges of abuse of power and obstructing Congress. #US #DonaldTrump #Trumpimpeachment

'Doesn't feel like being impeached' says US Prez Donald Trump

South Korea and the United States failed on Wednesday to agree on Seoul’s contribution towards hosting some 28,500 US troops, but the US side hinted after the two days of talks that it will no longer stick to its US$5 billion demand. #Seoul #US #Washington #SouthKorea

Seoul, Washington fail to agree on cost of United States troops

As the house voted to impeached President Donald Trump, making him the third President in the U.S History, the Prsident addressed a rally saying,"It doesn't really feel like we're being impeached. The country is doing better than ever before, we did nothing wrong, and we have tremendous support in the Republican Party like we've never had before," Trump said

Trump: Doesn't feel like we're being Impeached

India and US signed Industrial Security annex at the second edition of 2+2 dialogue in Washington. US secretary of state Mike Pompeo along with defence secretary Mark Esper hosted Indian external affairs minister S. Jaishankar and defense minister Rajnath Singh for highest level dialogue between the two nations.

India, US seal Industrial Security annex

At the 2+2 Dialogues India and U.S Discussed the issue of terrorism and how it threatens the peace in both the countries. Role of Pakistan was also discussed in Afghanistan and how peace can be achieved in the region.

U.S shows concern over terrorism and role of pakistan at 2+2 dialogue

The American public is about evenly split over whether President Donald Trump should be impeached and removed from office. House of Representatives poised to vote on articles of impeachment this week. The impeachment vote in the House of Representatives will take place on December 18. #DonaldTrumpImpeachment #DonaldTrump #America

Americans remain divided on Donald Trump Impeachment

US President Donald Trump Impeachment saga: Will Donald Trump go down as 3rd Prez in history to be impeached? #US #USPresident #DonaldTrump #Trumpimpeachment

Will Donald Trump go down as 3rd Prez in history to be impeached?

Iranian President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ready-for-talks-if-united-states-lifts-sanctions-iran-266151">Hassan Rouhani</a> will visit Japan on December&nbsp;20-21 and meet Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/japan-prime-minister-shinzo-abe-might-cancel-india-trip-report-268002">Shinzo Abe</a>, as the Asian country, a US&nbsp;ally, looks to resolve Tehran's nuclear impasse with Washington.

Japan maintains friendly ties with both the United States and Iran and has previously tried to ease tensions between the two countries, which severed diplomatic relations after Iran's 1979 Islamic revolution that toppled the US-backed Shah.

Tensions have heightened between Tehran and Washington since last year when President<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-impeachment-democrats-seek-testimony-from-bolton-and-other-trump-aides-268609"> Donald Trump</a> pulled out the United States from Tehran's 2015 nuclear deal with six powers and re-imposed sanctions that have crippled Iran's economy.

"Our country will persistently continue to support diplomatic efforts in cooperation with the United States, Iran and various other related countries aimed at easing tensions in the Middle East," Japan's chief cabinet secretary, Yoshihide Suga, told a news conference on Tuesday.

He said the two leaders will meet on December 20.

Rouhani plans to tell Abe that the Iranian government would not oppose the deployment of Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Forces to the Middle East, Kyodo news agency reported, citing a source.

Iran has rejected the presence of foreign forces in the region, saying it would create insecurity for oil and shipping.

Kyodo said the Japanese deployment will be sent to the Gulf of Oman, the northern part of the Arabian Sea, and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait connecting the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, citing a draft plan.

Tokyo has decided not to be part of a US-led&nbsp;coalition to ensure maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital gateway for the world's oil industry, the news agency added.

The Nikkei business daily has previously said that Japan's government would propose deploying one escort ship and a patrol aircraft from the Maritime Self-Defense Force on a one-year mission that could be renewed annually.

It plans to finalise the plan by year-end, the Nikkei has reported.

Iran's state news agency IRNA on Monday quoted Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-plans-to-send-270-sailors-to-middle-east-to-guard-ships-266288"> Abbas Araghchi </a>as saying that Rouhani will travel to Japan on Friday for a visit that will be in line with the national interest of both countries.

"Japan's foreign policy is based on courage and farsightedness and this has been proved for many times in historical ties between the two countries," Araghchi said.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani will visit Japan on December 20-21 and meet Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, as the Asian country, a US ally, looks to resolve Tehran's nuclear impasse with Washington.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani will visit Japan on December 20-21 and meet Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, as the Asian country, a US ally, looks to resolve Tehran's nuclear impasse with Washington. Japan maintains friendly ties with both the United States and Iran and has previously tried to ease tensions between the two countries, which severed diplomatic relations after Iran's 1979 Islamic revolution that toppled the US-backed Shah. Tensions have heightened between Tehran and Washington since last year when President Donald Trump pulled out the United States from Tehran's 2015 nuclear deal with six powers and re-imposed sanctions that have crippled Iran's economy. "Our country will persistently continue to support diplomatic efforts in cooperation with the United States, Iran and various other related countries aimed at easing tensions in the Middle East," Japan's chief cabinet secretary, Yoshihide Suga, told a news conference on Tuesday. He said the two leaders will meet on December 20. Rouhani plans to tell Abe that the Iranian government would not oppose the deployment of Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Forces to the Middle East, Kyodo news agency reported, citing a source. Iran has rejected the presence of foreign forces in the region, saying it would create insecurity for oil and shipping. Kyodo said the Japanese deployment will be sent to the Gulf of Oman, the northern part of the Arabian Sea, and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait connecting the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, citing a draft plan. Tokyo has decided not to be part of a US-led coalition to ensure maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital gateway for the world's oil industry, the news agency added. The Nikkei business daily has previously said that Japan's government would propose deploying one escort ship and a patrol aircraft from the Maritime Self-Defense Force on a one-year mission that could be renewed annually. It plans to finalise the plan by year-end, the Nikkei has reported. Iran's state news agency IRNA on Monday quoted Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi as saying that Rouhani will travel to Japan on Friday for a visit that will be in line with the national interest of both countries. "Japan's foreign policy is based on courage and farsightedness and this has been proved for many times in historical ties between the two countries," Araghchi said.

Iran's Rouhani to visit Japan amid heightened tensions with United States

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has threatened to shut down two military bases used by the United States which host American nuclear warheads as well as other NATO weapons.

The move comes as Washington warned Ankara of sanctions for buying Russian weapons.

The bases had played a key role in US military operations in West Asia especially in its fight against the Islamic State.

The threat comes amid US warning of sanctions against its NATO ally Turkey, for purchasing the Russian S-400 missile defence system.

Earlier, Washington removed Ankara from its F-35 fighter jet programme. 
&nbsp; 
Remember, the US can impose sanctions against nations which buy Russian weapons under its 'CAATSA' or 'Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act'.

Tensions have been escalating between the two nations, especially after Turkey invaded Syria following the withdrawal of US troops.

Recently, the US Senate passed a resolution recognising the early 20th-century mass killing of Armenians in Turkey as a genocide.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has threatened to shut down two military bases used by the United States which host American nuclear warheads as well as other NATO weapons.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has threatened to shut down two military bases used by the United States which host American nuclear warheads as well as other NATO weapons. The move comes as Washington warned Ankara of sanctions for buying Russian weapons. The bases had played a key role in US military operations in West Asia especially in its fight against the Islamic State. The threat comes amid US warning of sanctions against its NATO ally Turkey, for purchasing the Russian S-400 missile defence system. Earlier, Washington removed Ankara from its F-35 fighter jet programme. Remember, the US can impose sanctions against nations which buy Russian weapons under its 'CAATSA' or 'Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act'. Tensions have been escalating between the two nations, especially after Turkey invaded Syria following the withdrawal of US troops. Recently, the US Senate passed a resolution recognising the early 20th-century mass killing of Armenians in Turkey as a genocide.

Erdogan warns closing of two American military bases amid rising tensions with US

"Phase one" trade deal with the United States has been reached, China announced on Friday as reported by news agency AFP.

Beijing added that Washington will be removing tariffs 'phase by phase,' AFP reported.&nbsp;

China's vice commerce minister Wang Shouwen said that part of the "phase one" trade deal with the US includes a progressive rollback of tariffs that have threatened to roil the global economy.

"The two countries have agreed on the text of a phase one trade and economic deal," Shouwen said at a news conference, adding that the two sides now have to sign the agreement.

On Wednesday, the Bloomberg had reported the US and China are moving closer to "agreeing on the amount of tariffs to be rolled back in a phase-one trade deal," news agency Reuters reported.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

"Phase one" trade deal with the United States has been reached, China announced on Friday as reported by news agency AFP. Beijing added that Washington will be removing tariffs 'phase by phase,' AFP reported.

"Phase one" trade deal with the United States has been reached, China announced on Friday as reported by news agency AFP. Beijing added that Washington will be removing tariffs 'phase by phase,' AFP reported. China's vice commerce minister Wang Shouwen said that part of the "phase one" trade deal with the US includes a progressive rollback of tariffs that have threatened to roil the global economy. "The two countries have agreed on the text of a phase one trade and economic deal," Shouwen said at a news conference, adding that the two sides now have to sign the agreement. On Wednesday, the Bloomberg had reported the US and China are moving closer to "agreeing on the amount of tariffs to be rolled back in a phase-one trade deal," news agency Reuters reported. (With inputs from agencies)

'Phase one' trade deal reached with US: China 

President Donald Trump has signed off on an initial trade agreement with China that would avoid imminent US tariffs and reduce the rates of existing duties in exchange for a Chinese promise to purchase American farm goods.

WION Dispatch: US-China reach 'phase one' trade deal

During Balakot strike in February, Indian Air Force destroyed a terrorist training camp on the Pakistani side of the Line of Control. The incident led to the shooting down of a Pakistani F-16 jet but Islamabad had rejected the charge, and the United States had been more-or-less tight lipped in public about the whole controversy. However, details have emerged that Washington was indeed worried about Pakistan misusing the F-16 jets, and had even dispatched a letter back in August to the Pakistan Air Force chief warning against it. #WION #Fineprint

Fineprint: US hints at violation of F-16 deal

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