The Biden administration on Tuesday will unveil a plan to slash emissions of the greenhouse gas methane across the country, starting with oil and gas wells, pipelines and other infrastructure as part of its broader strategy to crack down on climate change.

The announcement of the US&nbsp;Methane Emissions Reduction Plan will coincide with the United Nations climate conference in Glasgow, Scotland, where the United States, the world's second-largest greenhouse gas emitter, is seeking to reclaim leadership on the world stage by demonstrating tangible steps to curb emissions at home.

President Joe Biden has set a target to slash greenhouse gas emissions by more than 50 per cent&nbsp;by 2030, but is struggling to pass major pieces of climate legislation through a deeply divided Congress, making policies by federal agencies more crucial.

Watch |&nbsp;US ready to lead world in climate fight, says Biden at COP26 summit

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At the center of the plan his administration will launch on Tuesday is a EPA proposal that will for the first time regulate methane that spews from existing oil and gas operations. Oil and gas account for a third of methane emissions.

"The timing of this is critical. As we speak, world leaders are gathering right now in Glasgow and they are looking to the United States for true leadership," US&nbsp;Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan told Reuters in an interview about the plan. "This proposal is absolutely bold, aggressive and comprehensive."

Methane is the second-biggest cause of climate change after carbon dioxide and has become a focal point at the Glasgow summit. Its high heat-trapping potential and relatively short lifespan in the atmosphere means cutting its emissions can have an outsized impact on the trajectory of the climate.

The EPA proposal will require oil and gas companies to routinely monitor 300,000 of their biggest well sites and other infrastructure for methane leaks and repair them quickly when found, according to a summary seen by Reuters.

Regan said the rule would not only have a swift impact on climate but also improve air quality for low-income "environmental justice" communities that live near oil and gas operations.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop26-india-uk-to-launch-solar-green-grids-initiative-425642">&nbsp;COP26: India, UK to launch solar Green Grids Initiative</a>

The EPA proposal would also require oil drillers that produce natural gas as a byproduct to sell it or flare it instead of venting it into the atmosphere, and require upgrades to equipment such as storage tanks, compressors, and pneumatic pumps to reduce leaks.

The agency also said it will release a supplemental proposal next year that would flesh out the regulatory text and possibly expand the rule to include additional methane sources, including abandoned oil and gas wells, gas flares, pipeline "pigging" operations for cleaning or maintenance, and tank truck loading.

The rules would most likely take effect in 2023 and would slash methane from oil and gas operations by 74 per cent&nbsp;from 2005 levels by 2035, an amount equivalent to the emissions created by all US&nbsp;passenger cars and planes in 2019, according to the summary.

The EPAs proposals require companies with well sites emitting an estimated 3 tons of methane per year or more to monitor for leaks quarterly, a threshold the agency said would capture sites responsible for 86 per cent&nbsp;of leaks.

Oil and gas industry groups had pressed EPA to exclude smaller wells from the regulations, citing the sheer number of such wells and the costs of the monitoring and repairs.

The administration's methane strategy includes a new proposal by pipeline regulator PHMSA requiring companies to monitor and repair methane leaks on about 400,000 miles of previously unregulated gathering lines. Other US agencies will launch voluntary programs to cut emissions from industries such as agriculture and waste management, according to a senior administration official.

The plan also proposes new voluntary measures from the Agriculture and Interior departments to tackle methane emissions from other major sources, including landfills, agriculture and abandoned wells and coal mines.

The Biden administration on Tuesday will unveil a plan to slash emissions of the greenhouse gas methane across the country, starting with oil and gas wells, pipelines and other infrastructure as part of its broader strategy to crack down on climate change.

The Biden administration on Tuesday will unveil a plan to slash emissions of the greenhouse gas methane across the country, starting with oil and gas wells, pipelines and other infrastructure as part of its broader strategy to crack down on climate change. The announcement of the US Methane Emissions Reduction Plan will coincide with the United Nations climate conference in Glasgow, Scotland, where the United States, the world's second-largest greenhouse gas emitter, is seeking to reclaim leadership on the world stage by demonstrating tangible steps to curb emissions at home. President Joe Biden has set a target to slash greenhouse gas emissions by more than 50 per cent by 2030, but is struggling to pass major pieces of climate legislation through a deeply divided Congress, making policies by federal agencies more crucial. Watch | US ready to lead world in climate fight, says Biden at COP26 summit At the center of the plan his administration will launch on Tuesday is a EPA proposal that will for the first time regulate methane that spews from existing oil and gas operations. Oil and gas account for a third of methane emissions. "The timing of this is critical. As we speak, world leaders are gathering right now in Glasgow and they are looking to the United States for true leadership," US Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan told Reuters in an interview about the plan. "This proposal is absolutely bold, aggressive and comprehensive." Methane is the second-biggest cause of climate change after carbon dioxide and has become a focal point at the Glasgow summit. Its high heat-trapping potential and relatively short lifespan in the atmosphere means cutting its emissions can have an outsized impact on the trajectory of the climate. The EPA proposal will require oil and gas companies to routinely monitor 300,000 of their biggest well sites and other infrastructure for methane leaks and repair them quickly when found, according to a summary seen by Reuters. Regan said the rule would not only have a swift impact on climate but also improve air quality for low-income "environmental justice" communities that live near oil and gas operations. Also Read | COP26: India, UK to launch solar Green Grids Initiative The EPA proposal would also require oil drillers that produce natural gas as a byproduct to sell it or flare it instead of venting it into the atmosphere, and require upgrades to equipment such as storage tanks, compressors, and pneumatic pumps to reduce leaks. The agency also said it will release a supplemental proposal next year that would flesh out the regulatory text and possibly expand the rule to include additional methane sources, including abandoned oil and gas wells, gas flares, pipeline "pigging" operations for cleaning or maintenance, and tank truck loading. The rules would most likely take effect in 2023 and would slash methane from oil and gas operations by 74 per cent from 2005 levels by 2035, an amount equivalent to the emissions created by all US passenger cars and planes in 2019, according to the summary. The EPAs proposals require companies with well sites emitting an estimated 3 tons of methane per year or more to monitor for leaks quarterly, a threshold the agency said would capture sites responsible for 86 per cent of leaks. Oil and gas industry groups had pressed EPA to exclude smaller wells from the regulations, citing the sheer number of such wells and the costs of the monitoring and repairs. The administration's methane strategy includes a new proposal by pipeline regulator PHMSA requiring companies to monitor and repair methane leaks on about 400,000 miles of previously unregulated gathering lines. Other US agencies will launch voluntary programs to cut emissions from industries such as agriculture and waste management, according to a senior administration official. The plan also proposes new voluntary measures from the Agriculture and Interior departments to tackle methane emissions from other major sources, including landfills, agriculture and abandoned wells and coal mines.

US unveils crackdown on methane, starting with oil and gas rules

Former United States diplomat and hostage negotiator Bill Richardson has arrived in Myanmar on a "private humanitarian mission", his organisation said, as the country enters nine months under a junta that has detained a US journalist.

Myanmar has been in turmoil since the February coup ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Unable to quell dissent, security forces have launched a bloody crackdown that has killed more than 1,200 people, according to a local monitoring group.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-junta-refuses-to-negotiate-with-coup-dissidents-423381">Myanmar junta refuses to negotiate with coup dissidents</a>

Former UN ambassador Richardson will "discuss&nbsp;humanitarian delivery of COVID-19 vaccines, medical supplies, and other public health needs," his organisation, the Richardson Center, said in a statement announcing his departure on Sunday.

The statement did not mention whether Richardson would raise the case of American journalist Danny Fenster, who was detained in May and has since been charged with encouraging dissent against the military and unlawful association.

The managing editor of local news outlet Frontier Myanmar, Fenster was detained at Yangon International Airport as he attempted to leave the country.

He is currently on trial and faces six years in jail if convicted on both charges.

Local media Myanmar Now reported that Richardson was due to meet the junta leader and other senior officials.

AFP has contacted the military's spokesman for comment.

Richardson, a former governor of New Mexico, has negotiated "the release of hostages and American servicemen in North Korea, Cuba, Iraq and the Sudan," according to his centre's website.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-junta-leader-blames-opponents-for-prolonging-unrest-421896">Myanmar junta leader blames opponents for prolonging unrest</a>

His last visit to Myanmar was in 2018, as part of a panel created to advise on violence in Rakhine State -- the site of a 2017 army crackdown that triggered an exodus of more than 700,000 stateless Muslim Rohingya.

But he abruptly resigned after the trip, accusing Suu Kyi of lacking "moral leadership" over the crisis.&nbsp;

Richardson also said he stepped down due to fears the committee would "whitewash" the causes of the Rohingya crisis, over which Myanmar is now being investigated on genocide charges.&nbsp;

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, now the junta chief, was head of the armed forces during the 2017 crackdown.

Former United States diplomat and hostage negotiator Bill Richardson has arrived in Myanmar on a "private humanitarian mission", his organisation said, as the country enters nine months under a junta that has detained a US journalist.

Former United States diplomat and hostage negotiator Bill Richardson has arrived in Myanmar on a "private humanitarian mission", his organisation said, as the country enters nine months under a junta that has detained a US journalist. Myanmar has been in turmoil since the February coup ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Unable to quell dissent, security forces have launched a bloody crackdown that has killed more than 1,200 people, according to a local monitoring group. Also Read | Myanmar junta refuses to negotiate with coup dissidents Former UN ambassador Richardson will "discuss humanitarian delivery of COVID-19 vaccines, medical supplies, and other public health needs," his organisation, the Richardson Center, said in a statement announcing his departure on Sunday. The statement did not mention whether Richardson would raise the case of American journalist Danny Fenster, who was detained in May and has since been charged with encouraging dissent against the military and unlawful association. The managing editor of local news outlet Frontier Myanmar, Fenster was detained at Yangon International Airport as he attempted to leave the country. He is currently on trial and faces six years in jail if convicted on both charges. Local media Myanmar Now reported that Richardson was due to meet the junta leader and other senior officials. AFP has contacted the military's spokesman for comment. Richardson, a former governor of New Mexico, has negotiated "the release of hostages and American servicemen in North Korea, Cuba, Iraq and the Sudan," according to his centre's website. Also Read | Myanmar junta leader blames opponents for prolonging unrest His last visit to Myanmar was in 2018, as part of a panel created to advise on violence in Rakhine State -- the site of a 2017 army crackdown that triggered an exodus of more than 700,000 stateless Muslim Rohingya. But he abruptly resigned after the trip, accusing Suu Kyi of lacking "moral leadership" over the crisis. Richardson also said he stepped down due to fears the committee would "whitewash" the causes of the Rohingya crisis, over which Myanmar is now being investigated on genocide charges. Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, now the junta chief, was head of the armed forces during the 2017 crackdown.

Former US diplomat and hostage negotiator on visit to Myanmar

US President Joe Biden announced additional initiatives to relieve global backlogs, despite rising domestic complaints about supply chain problems after meeting with his G20 counterparts in Rome on Sunday.

Biden pledges funds to Mexico, Southeast Asian Nations to ease supply chain woes

Nearly 12,000 United States Air Force personnel have rejected to get fully vaccinated against the coronavirus despite a Pentagon mandate.

12,000 USAF personnel reject Penatgon's vaccine mandate

US President Joe Biden met his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan on the sidelines of the G20 summit. Biden told Erdogan his request for F-16 fighter jets had to go through a process in the United States and expressed a desire to handle disagreements between the two countries effectively.

Biden discuss F-16 fighter jets, raises human rights issue with Turkey's Erdogan

The United States and European Union have agreed to end a festering dispute over US steel and aluminum tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump in 2018.

US and EU end long standing dispute over steel and aluminum tariff

The United States has expressed concern about increased military operations in parts of Myanmar, including Chin state, where it said more than 100 homes and churches had been destroyed in the offensive.

Myanmar has been in turmoil since a Februrary&nbsp;1 coup and the United Nations and local media have recently reported a buildup of heavy weapons and troops, suggesting an imminent attack by the ruling military.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-world-has-found-a-way-to-do-this-the-us-lags-on-paid-leave-423985">The world ‘has found a way to do this’: The US lags on paid leave</a>

"We are also deeply concerned over the Burmese security forces’ intensification of military operations in various parts of the country," the US&nbsp;State Department said on Sunday.

It accused security forces of gross human rights violations which it said laid bare the regime's disregard for peoples'&nbsp;lives and welfare.

Witnesses, aid groups and local media have reported burning down of houses and an exodus of people from Thantlang town in Chin state.

Salai, a member of a local anti-junta militia, said the army fired artillery into the town on October&nbsp;29, starting off a fire in some houses.

Soldiers then set fire to houses, Salai said, adding he could see from a hill overlooking the town.

"We saw the smoke and we knew that some of our homes were on fire. There was nothing that we could do about it, just to watch the burning," he told Reuters.

Drone footage the next day showed 164 houses and two churches were destroyed, he said. Reuters has not viewed the footage.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/aukus-deal-joe-biden-tells-emmanuel-macron-that-us-was-clumsy-425127">AUKUS deal: Joe Biden tells Emmanuel Macron that US was 'clumsy'</a>

A spokesperson for the junta did not respond to a phone call for comment. The army has called the militias "terrorists" intent on destroying the country.

Since the coup, thousands of people have fled Chin state into neighbouring India.

A local elder in Thantlang, who manages camps of displaced people, said only one family was left in the town.

"The home is where our heart is. People here worry that the rest of the homes will be burned down by them. This is our biggest worry."

News portal DVB quoted Thantlang politician Salai Dokhar as saying blazes were ongoing and 270 homes had been torched.

The United States has expressed concern about increased military operations in parts of Myanmar, including Chin state, where it said more than 100 homes and churches had been destroyed in the offensive.

The United States has expressed concern about increased military operations in parts of Myanmar, including Chin state, where it said more than 100 homes and churches had been destroyed in the offensive. Myanmar has been in turmoil since a Februrary 1 coup and the United Nations and local media have recently reported a buildup of heavy weapons and troops, suggesting an imminent attack by the ruling military. Also Read | The world ‘has found a way to do this’: The US lags on paid leave "We are also deeply concerned over the Burmese security forces’ intensification of military operations in various parts of the country," the US State Department said on Sunday. It accused security forces of gross human rights violations which it said laid bare the regime's disregard for peoples' lives and welfare. Witnesses, aid groups and local media have reported burning down of houses and an exodus of people from Thantlang town in Chin state. Salai, a member of a local anti-junta militia, said the army fired artillery into the town on October 29, starting off a fire in some houses. Soldiers then set fire to houses, Salai said, adding he could see from a hill overlooking the town. "We saw the smoke and we knew that some of our homes were on fire. There was nothing that we could do about it, just to watch the burning," he told Reuters. Drone footage the next day showed 164 houses and two churches were destroyed, he said. Reuters has not viewed the footage. Also Read | AUKUS deal: Joe Biden tells Emmanuel Macron that US was 'clumsy' A spokesperson for the junta did not respond to a phone call for comment. The army has called the militias "terrorists" intent on destroying the country. Since the coup, thousands of people have fled Chin state into neighbouring India. A local elder in Thantlang, who manages camps of displaced people, said only one family was left in the town. "The home is where our heart is. People here worry that the rest of the homes will be burned down by them. This is our biggest worry." News portal DVB quoted Thantlang politician Salai Dokhar as saying blazes were ongoing and 270 homes had been torched.

US concerned over Myanmar army operations in Chin state, town ablaze

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian has cast doubts on US President Joe Biden's alleged determination to revive the 2015 Iranian nuclear deal.

"Mr. Biden postures as anti-Trump, but when he wants to talk about Iran, he is still carrying the same sanctions record with him, and so far he has not taken any practical steps to lift the sanctions," Xinhua news agency quoted Amir Abdollahian as saying in an interview.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nuclear-powered-submarines-for-australia-maybe-not-so-fast-424997">&nbsp;Nuclear-powered submarines for Australia? Maybe not so fast.</a>

On Saturday evening, Biden, along with the leaders of Germany, France and the UK, issued a joint statement after a meeting at the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Rome, pointing to the American President's "clearly demonstrated commitment to return the US. to full compliance" with the nuclear agreement, formally known as Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

The statement also affirmed Biden's commitment "to stay in full compliance, so long as Iran does the same", and called upon Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi to "seize this opportunity and return to a good faith effort to conclude our negotiations as a matter of urgency".

"The problem is that we hear this will and intention from the Americans in their messages, but we do not see it in their behaviour," said Amir Abdollahian.

Biden, the Iranian Minister said, could immediately issue an executive order to take the US back to the point where his predecessor Donald Trump withdrew from the JCPOA in May 2018.

Amir Abdollahian also criticised Europeans for exerting pressure on Iran and demanding its return to the negotiating table while staying "inactive" and not pressuring the US to comply with its commitments under the deal.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-summit-biden-macron-merkel-johnson-discuss-iran-deal-on-sidelines-425373">G20 Summit: Biden, Macron, Merkel, Johnson discuss Iran deal on sidelines</a>

In the interview, the Iranian top diplomatic chief reiterated ties with Iran's neighbours and Asian countries including China and Russia, as the priorities of the current Iranian government's foreign policy.

"We have explicitly stated that we will not tie the destiny of the people and the country to JCPOA or to any country in an absolute manner," the Minister noted.

Since the US abandoned the JCPOA, Iran`s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has consistently urged government officials not to tie the solution of Iran`s economic difficulties to Washington`s will to lift the sanctions as stipulated by the deal.

Since May 2019, Iran has gradually stopped performing restrictions on its nuclear program, arguing that its reactions are allowed in the JCPOA in case of the counterparts'&nbsp;non-compliance and it would return to full compliance when sanctions are lifted.

After Biden took office in late January, Iran and the JCPOA Joint Commission held six rounds of talks in Austria's capital Vienna to revive the agreement between April and June, but the process was interrupted by the Iranian presidential election in June and subsequent transition of government.

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian has cast doubts on US President Joe Biden's alleged determination to revive the 2015 Iranian nuclear deal. "Mr.

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian has cast doubts on US President Joe Biden's alleged determination to revive the 2015 Iranian nuclear deal. "Mr. Biden postures as anti-Trump, but when he wants to talk about Iran, he is still carrying the same sanctions record with him, and so far he has not taken any practical steps to lift the sanctions," Xinhua news agency quoted Amir Abdollahian as saying in an interview. Also Read | Nuclear-powered submarines for Australia? Maybe not so fast. On Saturday evening, Biden, along with the leaders of Germany, France and the UK, issued a joint statement after a meeting at the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Rome, pointing to the American President's "clearly demonstrated commitment to return the US. to full compliance" with the nuclear agreement, formally known as Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). The statement also affirmed Biden's commitment "to stay in full compliance, so long as Iran does the same", and called upon Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi to "seize this opportunity and return to a good faith effort to conclude our negotiations as a matter of urgency". "The problem is that we hear this will and intention from the Americans in their messages, but we do not see it in their behaviour," said Amir Abdollahian. Biden, the Iranian Minister said, could immediately issue an executive order to take the US back to the point where his predecessor Donald Trump withdrew from the JCPOA in May 2018. Amir Abdollahian also criticised Europeans for exerting pressure on Iran and demanding its return to the negotiating table while staying "inactive" and not pressuring the US to comply with its commitments under the deal. Also Read | G20 Summit: Biden, Macron, Merkel, Johnson discuss Iran deal on sidelines In the interview, the Iranian top diplomatic chief reiterated ties with Iran's neighbours and Asian countries including China and Russia, as the priorities of the current Iranian government's foreign policy. "We have explicitly stated that we will not tie the destiny of the people and the country to JCPOA or to any country in an absolute manner," the Minister noted. Since the US abandoned the JCPOA, Iran`s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has consistently urged government officials not to tie the solution of Iran`s economic difficulties to Washington`s will to lift the sanctions as stipulated by the deal. Since May 2019, Iran has gradually stopped performing restrictions on its nuclear program, arguing that its reactions are allowed in the JCPOA in case of the counterparts' non-compliance and it would return to full compliance when sanctions are lifted. After Biden took office in late January, Iran and the JCPOA Joint Commission held six rounds of talks in Austria's capital Vienna to revive the agreement between April and June, but the process was interrupted by the Iranian presidential election in June and subsequent transition of government.

Iran doubts alleged US determination to revive nuke deal: FM

During a press conference following the G20 summit in Rome, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that NATO does not want any interaction with Russia. He also added that NATO is reluctant to establish a dialogue with Russia.

NATO does not want any cooperation with US says Russian FM Sergei Lavrov

In a recent essay on great-power competition and climate change, Rob Litwak, an arms control expert at the Wilson Center, recalled a question that President Ronald Reagan posed to Mikhail Gorbachev, the Soviet leader, after they took a walk during their 1985 Lake Geneva summit.

As Gorbachev put it later: “President Reagan suddenly said to me, ‘What would you do if the United States were suddenly attacked by someone from outer space? Would you help us?’ ”

“I said, ‘No doubt about it.’ ”

“He said, ‘We too.’ ”

“So that’s interesting,” Gorbachev concluded.

It sure is, because it’s not at all clear, given the recent upsurge in raw great-power competition, that Russia, China or America would help one another in the face of an invasion of space aliens threatening us all. Litwak’s point in retelling that story, of course, is that today we are facing a similar, world-stressing threat — not from space aliens but from a much more familiar and once seemingly benign force: our climate.

Global warming is challenging every nation with more extreme weather, wildfires and sea level rise and once-in-a-century storms coming much more frequently. Unlike with a space alien, though, there’s zero possibility of negotiating with Mother Nature. She does only whatever chemistry, biology and physics dictate, and she has no clue or interest in where the borders of Russia, America or China stop and start. She’s got the whole wide world&nbsp;in her hands — as she demonstrated with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Yet neither China’s president, Xi Jinping, nor Russia’s president, Vladimir Putin, is attending the Glasgow climate summit in person with President Joe Biden and many other world leaders that opened Sunday. And even more important, The Washington Post reported last week that some in the Chinese leadership want to resist any substantial cooperation with America on climate issues until the United States dials down its pressure on China “over human rights, Hong Kong, Taiwan, trade and a range of other issues.”

We’ve never seen this tactic before from Beijing: We’ll clean our air, but only if you let us buzz Taiwan’s airspace and choke off the air of freedom in Hong Kong.

A senior U.S. official told me that there is actually a lot of division in Beijing right now on the wisdom of this sort of wolf-warrior diplomatic strategy on climate, which is being pushed by Foreign Minister Wang Yi. There are definitely other Chinese leaders who want to collaborate with Washington and understand that on climate, we sink or swim together. Still, even a hint of this sort of planet-Earth-hostage-taking strategy by some senior Chinese officials is very troubling and needs to be called out.

“The window for humanity to avoid unmanageable climate change is narrowing,” Litwak noted in his Wilson Center essay. “China, the United States and Russia are, respectively, the first, second and fourth largest carbon emitters. Yet at the precise historical juncture when unprecedented global cooperation is necessary to forestall catastrophe, the world is on the brink of unconstrained geostrategic competition. Indeed, U.S. relations with Russia and China are the worst they have been since the end of the Cold War.”

There is never a good time for a great-power conflict. And we’ve already seen how deadly the lack of global cooperation in the face of Mother Nature’s COVID-19 stressor has been. But this is even more dangerous. A shootout between the United States and China over Taiwan or between NATO and Russia over Ukraine — just as human-made climate change is putting a gun to all of our heads — would be insane. But it’s a real possibility.

What we need instead of an arms race or a space race is an Earth race — a great-power competition over which country is rising fastest and farthest to enable a world of net-zero carbon emissions so men and women can thrive here on Earth. I’d love to see Biden do a real throw down to Xi and Putin in his speech in Glasgow for that race.

Biden could say: “I know that climate change is a global problem and that if we clean our air and you don’t clean yours, there is no way to solve it. But we’re not going to use that as an excuse, or let our oil and coal industries use that as an excuse, to do nothing until you do. Because there are 7.9 billion people on the planet today and by 2030, there will be 600 million more — 600 million more!&nbsp;That means that, climate change or no climate change, just having that many more people to feed, house and transport will guarantee that clean power, clean water and energy-efficient buildings and cars will be the next great global industry. Otherwise, we’ll all choke on pollution. So if you all want to keep burning coal and give our clean industries a five-year head start in the next great global industry, make my day. Myself, I am going to declare America’s intention to win the Earth race, to make America the first country to invent and deploy the most clean-power technologies and drive them down the cost curve so that everyone on the planet can afford them.’’

Challenging China and Russia over who can produce the most tools for global resilience, not just resistance, is a way for America to reclaim some moral leadership on the world stage and focus our economy, and our competitors, on the most important industries of the future. Unless we humans want to be a bad biological experiment, a zero-carbon grid, zero-emissions transportation, zero-carbon/zero-net-energy buildings and zero-waste manufacturing indeed will — and must — be the next great global industry.

And by the way, while Russia is currently not a player in that competition, I would not bet against China.

Hal Harvey, who runs the climate analytics firm Energy Innovation and helps to advise governments on clean energy transitions, notes that the United States has set out a very clear goal of when it wants to get to a net-zero carbon-emitting economy — 2050 — and Biden is now trying to fill in the details with specific plans. Alas, without a single vote of support from Republicans.

China, by contrast, Harvey added, is building incredibly detailed plans on how to decarbonize, which Beijing could scale up very quickly — but it has been less detailed in setting hard dates for fulfillment.

Since Xi right now is focused on keeping the Chinese economy growing while he tries to lock in his third term as president, he is not going to do anything to curb growth in China in ways that could sap his popularity. So China will keep burning a lot of coal for a while. But don’t be fooled: Beijing is also building huge amounts of solar, wind, hydro and nuclear power. It’s game on.

As long as both countries keep focused on the Earth race, it almost doesn’t matter which one wins, because together they will drive down the costs of clean power for everyone. If they slow down or get diverted, though, we may wish for some space aliens to take us to their planet.

In a recent essay on great-power competition and climate change, Rob Litwak, an arms control expert at the Wilson Center, recalled a question that President Ronald Reagan posed to Mikhail Gorbachev, the Soviet leader, after they took a walk during their 1985 Lake Geneva summit.

In a recent essay on great-power competition and climate change, Rob Litwak, an arms control expert at the Wilson Center, recalled a question that President Ronald Reagan posed to Mikhail Gorbachev, the Soviet leader, after they took a walk during their 1985 Lake Geneva summit. As Gorbachev put it later: “President Reagan suddenly said to me, ‘What would you do if the United States were suddenly attacked by someone from outer space? Would you help us?’ ” “I said, ‘No doubt about it.’ ” “He said, ‘We too.’ ” “So that’s interesting,” Gorbachev concluded. It sure is, because it’s not at all clear, given the recent upsurge in raw great-power competition, that Russia, China or America would help one another in the face of an invasion of space aliens threatening us all. Litwak’s point in retelling that story, of course, is that today we are facing a similar, world-stressing threat — not from space aliens but from a much more familiar and once seemingly benign force: our climate. Global warming is challenging every nation with more extreme weather, wildfires and sea level rise and once-in-a-century storms coming much more frequently. Unlike with a space alien, though, there’s zero possibility of negotiating with Mother Nature. She does only whatever chemistry, biology and physics dictate, and she has no clue or interest in where the borders of Russia, America or China stop and start. She’s got the whole wide world in her hands — as she demonstrated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet neither China’s president, Xi Jinping, nor Russia’s president, Vladimir Putin, is attending the Glasgow climate summit in person with President Joe Biden and many other world leaders that opened Sunday. And even more important, The Washington Post reported last week that some in the Chinese leadership want to resist any substantial cooperation with America on climate issues until the United States dials down its pressure on China “over human rights, Hong Kong, Taiwan, trade and a range of other issues.” We’ve never seen this tactic before from Beijing: We’ll clean our air, but only if you let us buzz Taiwan’s airspace and choke off the air of freedom in Hong Kong. A senior U.S. official told me that there is actually a lot of division in Beijing right now on the wisdom of this sort of wolf-warrior diplomatic strategy on climate, which is being pushed by Foreign Minister Wang Yi. There are definitely other Chinese leaders who want to collaborate with Washington and understand that on climate, we sink or swim together. Still, even a hint of this sort of planet-Earth-hostage-taking strategy by some senior Chinese officials is very troubling and needs to be called out. “The window for humanity to avoid unmanageable climate change is narrowing,” Litwak noted in his Wilson Center essay. “China, the United States and Russia are, respectively, the first, second and fourth largest carbon emitters. Yet at the precise historical juncture when unprecedented global cooperation is necessary to forestall catastrophe, the world is on the brink of unconstrained geostrategic competition. Indeed, U.S. relations with Russia and China are the worst they have been since the end of the Cold War.” There is never a good time for a great-power conflict. And we’ve already seen how deadly the lack of global cooperation in the face of Mother Nature’s COVID-19 stressor has been. But this is even more dangerous. A shootout between the United States and China over Taiwan or between NATO and Russia over Ukraine — just as human-made climate change is putting a gun to all of our heads — would be insane. But it’s a real possibility. What we need instead of an arms race or a space race is an Earth race — a great-power competition over which country is rising fastest and farthest to enable a world of net-zero carbon emissions so men and women can thrive here on Earth. I’d love to see Biden do a real throw down to Xi and Putin in his speech in Glasgow for that race. Biden could say: “I know that climate change is a global problem and that if we clean our air and you don’t clean yours, there is no way to solve it. But we’re not going to use that as an excuse, or let our oil and coal industries use that as an excuse, to do nothing until you do. Because there are 7.9 billion people on the planet today and by 2030, there will be 600 million more — 600 million more! That means that, climate change or no climate change, just having that many more people to feed, house and transport will guarantee that clean power, clean water and energy-efficient buildings and cars will be the next great global industry. Otherwise, we’ll all choke on pollution. So if you all want to keep burning coal and give our clean industries a five-year head start in the next great global industry, make my day. Myself, I am going to declare America’s intention to win the Earth race, to make America the first country to invent and deploy the most clean-power technologies and drive them down the cost curve so that everyone on the planet can afford them.’’ Challenging China and Russia over who can produce the most tools for global resilience, not just resistance, is a way for America to reclaim some moral leadership on the world stage and focus our economy, and our competitors, on the most important industries of the future. Unless we humans want to be a bad biological experiment, a zero-carbon grid, zero-emissions transportation, zero-carbon/zero-net-energy buildings and zero-waste manufacturing indeed will — and must — be the next great global industry. And by the way, while Russia is currently not a player in that competition, I would not bet against China. Hal Harvey, who runs the climate analytics firm Energy Innovation and helps to advise governments on clean energy transitions, notes that the United States has set out a very clear goal of when it wants to get to a net-zero carbon-emitting economy — 2050 — and Biden is now trying to fill in the details with specific plans. Alas, without a single vote of support from Republicans. China, by contrast, Harvey added, is building incredibly detailed plans on how to decarbonize, which Beijing could scale up very quickly — but it has been less detailed in setting hard dates for fulfillment. Since Xi right now is focused on keeping the Chinese economy growing while he tries to lock in his third term as president, he is not going to do anything to curb growth in China in ways that could sap his popularity. So China will keep burning a lot of coal for a while. But don’t be fooled: Beijing is also building huge amounts of solar, wind, hydro and nuclear power. It’s game on. As long as both countries keep focused on the Earth race, it almost doesn’t matter which one wins, because together they will drive down the costs of clean power for everyone. If they slow down or get diverted, though, we may wish for some space aliens to take us to their planet.

Opinion: Would Russia or China help us if we were invaded by space aliens?

According to reports, the FBI and other key law enforcement agencies failed to act on a host of tips and other information ahead of January 6 that signaled a potentially violent event might unfold that day at the US Capitol.

Reports: FBI did not pay heed to mounting warnings of Jan 6 Capitol Riots

US&nbsp;President Joe Biden will warn Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan during a meeting on Sunday that any precipitous actions would not benefit US-Turkish relations and that crises should be avoided, a US&nbsp;official said on Saturday.

Erdogan earlier this month ordered 10 envoys, including the US&nbsp;ambassador, to be declared "persona non grata" for seeking the release of jailed philanthropist Osman Kavala, though he later withdrew the threat to expel them.

"Certainly the president will indicate that we need to find a way to avoid crises like that one going forward and precipitous action is not going to benefit the US-Turkey partnership and alliance," the US&nbsp;official told reporters.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fatf-puts-turkey-on-grey-list-pakistan-to-remain-on-grey-list-422766">FATF puts Turkey on 'grey list'; Pakistan to remain on 'grey list'</a>

The official said a meeting between the two leaders may not have happened if Erdogan had expelled the US&nbsp;ambassador. But the issue had been resolved, for the moment at least, he said.

Biden, who is in Rome for the G20 summit, will also discuss Turkey's request to purchase F-16 fighter jets, its defence relationship with the United States and a range of regional issues such as Syria and Libya.

US&nbsp;lawmakers have urged the Biden administration not to sell F-16s to Turkey and threatened to block any such exports on the grounds that Turkey had purchased Russian missile defence systems and "behaved like an adversary".

Reuters reported earlier this month that Turkey had made a request to the United States to buy 40 Lockheed Martin-made F-16s and nearly 80 modernization kits for its existing warplanes.

The alliance between the United States and Turkey, both members of NATO, has come under strain in recent years over policy differences on Syria, Turkey's Russian S-400 missile defence purchase, and human rights.

US President Joe Biden will warn Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan during a meeting on Sunday that any precipitous actions would not benefit US-Turkish relations and that crises should be avoided, a US official said on Saturday.

US President Joe Biden will warn Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan during a meeting on Sunday that any precipitous actions would not benefit US-Turkish relations and that crises should be avoided, a US official said on Saturday. Erdogan earlier this month ordered 10 envoys, including the US ambassador, to be declared "persona non grata" for seeking the release of jailed philanthropist Osman Kavala, though he later withdrew the threat to expel them. "Certainly the president will indicate that we need to find a way to avoid crises like that one going forward and precipitous action is not going to benefit the US-Turkey partnership and alliance," the US official told reporters. Also Read | FATF puts Turkey on 'grey list'; Pakistan to remain on 'grey list' The official said a meeting between the two leaders may not have happened if Erdogan had expelled the US ambassador. But the issue had been resolved, for the moment at least, he said. Biden, who is in Rome for the G20 summit, will also discuss Turkey's request to purchase F-16 fighter jets, its defence relationship with the United States and a range of regional issues such as Syria and Libya. US lawmakers have urged the Biden administration not to sell F-16s to Turkey and threatened to block any such exports on the grounds that Turkey had purchased Russian missile defence systems and "behaved like an adversary". Reuters reported earlier this month that Turkey had made a request to the United States to buy 40 Lockheed Martin-made F-16s and nearly 80 modernization kits for its existing warplanes. The alliance between the United States and Turkey, both members of NATO, has come under strain in recent years over policy differences on Syria, Turkey's Russian S-400 missile defence purchase, and human rights.

Biden to talk to Turkey's Erdogan over threat to expel western nations' envoys

Lightning doesn’t strike twice! Is a famous proverb that is often attributed to a person’s luck.

However, this could not be more wrong for a Maryland resident, who won $2 million from a lottery, after winning the first one several years ago.

The 65-year-old unidentified man&nbsp;from Salisbury, US, bought two ‘$2,000,000 Richer’ scratch-off tickets from a local gas station while running errands, according to the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency.

On the first ticket, he won $100. But the second ticket hit big, revealing the $2 million jackpot.

The retired utility worker won the prize during the COVID-19 pandemic, but hid his ticket in a safe at home and waited until days before the last date to claim his prize,&nbsp;Maryland Lottery&nbsp;officials said in a statement Wednesday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/american-man-collects-250000-lottery-jackpot-his-sixth-big-win-360653">American man collects $250,000 lottery jackpot, his sixth big win&nbsp;</a>

“I was just a bit nervous,” he told Maryland Lottery officials.

“I worried that I could have a fire (at home) that would burn it up, that the ticket's expiration date might come up and even had just a bit of doubt that it was really real,” he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/luck-goes-down-the-drain-literally-winning-lottery-ticket-worth-130000-washed-in-laundry-385031">Luck goes down the drain, literally: Winning lottery ticket worth $130,000 'washed in laundry'</a>

But, the 65-year-old man acknowledges how lucky he was, and asked others to only “play for enjoyment.”

“Be realistic and make sure that when you play that you aren't just playing for the big jackpot. Play for enjoyment and as long as you enjoy what you are doing, win or lose, you've already won," he said.

The game ‘$2,000,000 Richer’ was launched February 25, 2019 and ends November 1, 2021. It offers players a chance to win prizes from $30 to $50,000 and six top prizes of $2 million.

(With inputs from agencies)

Lightning doesn’t strike twice! Is a famous proverb that is often attributed to a person’s luck. However, this could not be more wrong for a Maryland resident, who won $2 million from a lottery, after winning the first one several years ago.

Lightning doesn’t strike twice! Is a famous proverb that is often attributed to a person’s luck. However, this could not be more wrong for a Maryland resident, who won $2 million from a lottery, after winning the first one several years ago. The 65-year-old unidentified man from Salisbury, US, bought two ‘$2,000,000 Richer’ scratch-off tickets from a local gas station while running errands, according to the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency. On the first ticket, he won $100. But the second ticket hit big, revealing the $2 million jackpot. The retired utility worker won the prize during the COVID-19 pandemic, but hid his ticket in a safe at home and waited until days before the last date to claim his prize, Maryland Lottery officials said in a statement Wednesday. Also read | American man collects $250,000 lottery jackpot, his sixth big win “I was just a bit nervous,” he told Maryland Lottery officials. “I worried that I could have a fire (at home) that would burn it up, that the ticket's expiration date might come up and even had just a bit of doubt that it was really real,” he said. Also read | Luck goes down the drain, literally: Winning lottery ticket worth $130,000 'washed in laundry' But, the 65-year-old man acknowledges how lucky he was, and asked others to only “play for enjoyment.” “Be realistic and make sure that when you play that you aren't just playing for the big jackpot. Play for enjoyment and as long as you enjoy what you are doing, win or lose, you've already won," he said. The game ‘$2,000,000 Richer’ was launched February 25, 2019 and ends November 1, 2021. It offers players a chance to win prizes from $30 to $50,000 and six top prizes of $2 million. (With inputs from agencies)

Lucky strike: US man wins $2 million from a lottery ticket—for second time

The Taliban has warned the United States that a failure to recognise their government in Afghanistan and continued freezing of Afghan funds abroad would create problems not only in the restive region, but also for the world.

Ever since the Taliban militants took over Afghanistan in August, no country has formally recognised the Taliban government. China and Pakistan are the only two countries who have been engaging with the militants, while Islamabad has called on the world governments to establish formal relations with the insurgents.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/just-give-us-our-money-taliban-push-to-unlock-afghan-billions-abroad-425118">&nbsp;'Just give us our money': Taliban push to unlock Afghan billions abroad</a>

Also, as billions of dollars in Afghan assets and funds abroad have also been frozen, the country has been facing severe economic and humanitarian crises.

“Our message to America is, if unrecognition continues, Afghan problems continue, it is the problem of the region and could turn into a problem for the world,” Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid told journalists at a news conference on Saturday.&nbsp;

He said the reason the Taliban and the United States went to war last time was also because the two did not have formal diplomatic ties.&nbsp;

Responding to WION's&nbsp;question on recent reports about US planning to use Pakistan's airspace to carry out strikes against Islamic State militants in Afghanistan,&nbsp; Zabihullah said, "It is not true that the United States is bombing Afghanistan through Pakistan. We will not allow US to use Afghan airspace to carry out any strikes."&nbsp;

He also said that the Taliban government has conveyed to the United States to reopen its embassy in Afghanistan, adding, "We want diplomatic relations with all countries to be revived, including in the United States, so that we can maintain legitimate and good relations."

The United States invaded Afghanistan in 2001 following the September 11, 2001, attack after the then-Taliban government refused to hand over chief of terrorist group al-Qaeda Osama bin Laden.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/talibans-leader-sheikh-haibatullah-akhundzada-makes-first-ever-public-appearance-in-kandahar-425362">Taliban's leader Sheikh Haibatullah Akhundzada makes first-ever public appearance in Kandahar</a>

“Those issues which caused the war, they could have been solved through negotiation, they could have been solved through political compromise too,” Mujahid said.&nbsp;

He added that recognition was the right of the Afghan people.&nbsp;

While no country has recognised the Taliban government, senior officials from a number of countries have met with the movement's leadership both in Kabul and abroad.&nbsp;

The latest visit was by Turkmen Foreign Minister Rasit Meredow, who was in Kabul on Saturday.

China's foreign minister, Wang Yi, met Taliban officials in Qatar earlier this week, while Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi landed in Kabul to meet Taliban leaders on October 20.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Taliban has warned the United States that a failure to recognise their government in Afghanistan and continued freezing of Afghan funds abroad would create problems not only in the restive region, but also for the world.

The Taliban has warned the United States that a failure to recognise their government in Afghanistan and continued freezing of Afghan funds abroad would create problems not only in the restive region, but also for the world. Ever since the Taliban militants took over Afghanistan in August, no country has formally recognised the Taliban government. China and Pakistan are the only two countries who have been engaging with the militants, while Islamabad has called on the world governments to establish formal relations with the insurgents. Also Read | 'Just give us our money': Taliban push to unlock Afghan billions abroad Also, as billions of dollars in Afghan assets and funds abroad have also been frozen, the country has been facing severe economic and humanitarian crises. “Our message to America is, if unrecognition continues, Afghan problems continue, it is the problem of the region and could turn into a problem for the world,” Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid told journalists at a news conference on Saturday. He said the reason the Taliban and the United States went to war last time was also because the two did not have formal diplomatic ties. Responding to WION's question on recent reports about US planning to use Pakistan's airspace to carry out strikes against Islamic State militants in Afghanistan, Zabihullah said, "It is not true that the United States is bombing Afghanistan through Pakistan. We will not allow US to use Afghan airspace to carry out any strikes." He also said that the Taliban government has conveyed to the United States to reopen its embassy in Afghanistan, adding, "We want diplomatic relations with all countries to be revived, including in the United States, so that we can maintain legitimate and good relations." The United States invaded Afghanistan in 2001 following the September 11, 2001, attack after the then-Taliban government refused to hand over chief of terrorist group al-Qaeda Osama bin Laden. Also Read | Taliban's leader Sheikh Haibatullah Akhundzada makes first-ever public appearance in Kandahar “Those issues which caused the war, they could have been solved through negotiation, they could have been solved through political compromise too,” Mujahid said. He added that recognition was the right of the Afghan people. While no country has recognised the Taliban government, senior officials from a number of countries have met with the movement's leadership both in Kabul and abroad. The latest visit was by Turkmen Foreign Minister Rasit Meredow, who was in Kabul on Saturday. China's foreign minister, Wang Yi, met Taliban officials in Qatar earlier this week, while Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi landed in Kabul to meet Taliban leaders on October 20. (With inputs from agencies)

Failure to recognise government can create problems for the world, Taliban warn US

The United States and European Union have agreed to end a festering dispute over US&nbsp;steel and aluminum tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump in 2018, removing an irritant in transatlantic relations and averting a spike in EU retaliatory tariffs, US&nbsp;officials said on Saturday.

Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo told reporters that the deal will maintain US&nbsp;"Section 232" tariffs of 25 per cent&nbsp;on steel and 10 per cent&nbsp;aluminum, while allowing "limited volumes" of EU-produced metals into the United States duty free.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/aukus-deal-joe-biden-tells-emmanuel-macron-that-us-was-clumsy-425127">AUKUS deal: Joe Biden tells Emmanuel Macron that US was 'clumsy'</a>

It eliminates a source of friction between the allies and lets them focus on negotiating a new global trade agreement to address worldwide excess steel and aluminum capacity mainly centered in China and reduce carbon emissions from the industries.

EU trade chief Valdis Dombrovskis confirmed the deal, writing on Twitter&nbsp; that "we have agreed with US&nbsp;to pause" the trade dispute and launch cooperation on a future global arrangement on sustainable steel and aluminum. Dombrovskis said the deal will be formally announced by Biden and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday.

US&nbsp;officials did not specify the volume of duty-free steel to be allowed into the United States under a tariff-rate quota system agreed upon with the EU. Sources familiar with the deal, speaking on condition of anonymity, have said annual volumes above 3.3 million tons would be subject to tariffs.

The deal grants an additional two years of duty-free access above the quota for EU steel products that won Commerce Department exclusions in the past year, US&nbsp;officials said.

The agreement requires EU steel and aluminum to be entirely produced in the bloc - a standard known as "melted and poured" - to qualify for duty-free status. The provision is aimed at preventing metals from

China and non-EU countries from being minimally processed in Europe before export to the United States. 
Europe exported&nbsp;around 5 million tons of steel annually to the United States prior to Trump's imposition of the tariffs on national security grounds.

"The agreement ultimately to negotiate a carbon-based arrangement on steel and aluminum trade addresses both Chinese overproduction and carbon intensity in the steel and aluminum sector," White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters, adding that the climate and workers can be protected at the same time.

US&nbsp;steel production, which relies heavily on electric-arc furnaces, is regarded as having far lower carbon emissions than the coal-fueled blast furnaces prevalent in China.

Biden has sought to mend fences with European allies following Trump's presidency to more broadly confront China's state-driven economic practices that led to Beijing building massive excess steelmaking capacity that has flooded global markets.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pressure-of-blackmail-eu-court-imposes-massive-fine-of-over-1-million-per-day-on-poland-424592">'Pressure of blackmail': EU court imposes massive fine of over $1 million per day on Poland</a>

The deal will eliminate Europe's retaliatory tariffs against US&nbsp;products including bourbon whiskey, Harley-Davidson motorcycles and motor boats that were set to double on December&nbsp;1, US&nbsp;officials said.

"The end of this long tariff nightmare is in sight for US&nbsp;distillers, who have struggled with the weight of the tariffs and the pandemic," Distilled Spirits Council President Chris Swonger said, also urging Britain to lift its tariff on American whiskeys.

Record Steel Prices

Raimondo said the deal will reduce costs for steel-consuming US&nbsp;manufacturers. Steel prices have more than tripled in the past year to records topping $1,900 a ton as the industry has struggled to keep up with a demand surge after COVID-19 pandemic-related shutdowns, contributing to inflation.

US&nbsp;primary aluminum producers, which had dwindled to two companies by the time Trump imposed the tariffs, will be able to maintain their investments in reviving domestic capacity because the quotas are set at very low levels, well below pre-tariff volumes, said Mark Duffy, CEO of the American Primary Aluminum Association industry group.

American Iron and Steel Institute President Kevin Dempsey said the quota arrangement will help "prevent another steel import surge that would undermine our industry and destroy good-paying American jobs."

"We urge the US&nbsp;and EU to take active steps to hold China and other countries that employ trade-distorting policies to account," Dempsey added. "We also believe US-EU cooperation should focus on new trade approaches to address climate change, including through development of effective carbon border adjustment measures."

Due to its exit from the EU, Britain's steel exports remain subject to the tariffs, as are those of other US&nbsp;allies including Japan. The US&nbsp;Chamber of Commerce, which opposed the metals tariffs from the start, said the duties and quotas should be dropped from "close allies."

The United States and European Union have agreed to end a festering dispute over US steel and aluminum tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump in 2018, removing an irritant in transatlantic relations and averting a spike in EU retaliatory tariffs, US officials said on Saturday.

The United States and European Union have agreed to end a festering dispute over US steel and aluminum tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump in 2018, removing an irritant in transatlantic relations and averting a spike in EU retaliatory tariffs, US officials said on Saturday. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo told reporters that the deal will maintain US "Section 232" tariffs of 25 per cent on steel and 10 per cent aluminum, while allowing "limited volumes" of EU-produced metals into the United States duty free. Also Read | AUKUS deal: Joe Biden tells Emmanuel Macron that US was 'clumsy' It eliminates a source of friction between the allies and lets them focus on negotiating a new global trade agreement to address worldwide excess steel and aluminum capacity mainly centered in China and reduce carbon emissions from the industries. EU trade chief Valdis Dombrovskis confirmed the deal, writing on Twitter that "we have agreed with US to pause" the trade dispute and launch cooperation on a future global arrangement on sustainable steel and aluminum. Dombrovskis said the deal will be formally announced by Biden and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday. US officials did not specify the volume of duty-free steel to be allowed into the United States under a tariff-rate quota system agreed upon with the EU. Sources familiar with the deal, speaking on condition of anonymity, have said annual volumes above 3.3 million tons would be subject to tariffs. The deal grants an additional two years of duty-free access above the quota for EU steel products that won Commerce Department exclusions in the past year, US officials said. The agreement requires EU steel and aluminum to be entirely produced in the bloc - a standard known as "melted and poured" - to qualify for duty-free status. The provision is aimed at preventing metals from China and non-EU countries from being minimally processed in Europe before export to the United States. Europe exported around 5 million tons of steel annually to the United States prior to Trump's imposition of the tariffs on national security grounds. "The agreement ultimately to negotiate a carbon-based arrangement on steel and aluminum trade addresses both Chinese overproduction and carbon intensity in the steel and aluminum sector," White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters, adding that the climate and workers can be protected at the same time. US steel production, which relies heavily on electric-arc furnaces, is regarded as having far lower carbon emissions than the coal-fueled blast furnaces prevalent in China. Biden has sought to mend fences with European allies following Trump's presidency to more broadly confront China's state-driven economic practices that led to Beijing building massive excess steelmaking capacity that has flooded global markets. Also Read | 'Pressure of blackmail': EU court imposes massive fine of over $1 million per day on Poland The deal will eliminate Europe's retaliatory tariffs against US products including bourbon whiskey, Harley-Davidson motorcycles and motor boats that were set to double on December 1, US officials said. "The end of this long tariff nightmare is in sight for US distillers, who have struggled with the weight of the tariffs and the pandemic," Distilled Spirits Council President Chris Swonger said, also urging Britain to lift its tariff on American whiskeys. Record Steel Prices Raimondo said the deal will reduce costs for steel-consuming US manufacturers. Steel prices have more than tripled in the past year to records topping $1,900 a ton as the industry has struggled to keep up with a demand surge after COVID-19 pandemic-related shutdowns, contributing to inflation. US primary aluminum producers, which had dwindled to two companies by the time Trump imposed the tariffs, will be able to maintain their investments in reviving domestic capacity because the quotas are set at very low levels, well below pre-tariff volumes, said Mark Duffy, CEO of the American Primary Aluminum Association industry group. American Iron and Steel Institute President Kevin Dempsey said the quota arrangement will help "prevent another steel import surge that would undermine our industry and destroy good-paying American jobs." "We urge the US and EU to take active steps to hold China and other countries that employ trade-distorting policies to account," Dempsey added. "We also believe US-EU cooperation should focus on new trade approaches to address climate change, including through development of effective carbon border adjustment measures." Due to its exit from the EU, Britain's steel exports remain subject to the tariffs, as are those of other US allies including Japan. The US Chamber of Commerce, which opposed the metals tariffs from the start, said the duties and quotas should be dropped from "close allies."

US, EU end Trump-era tariff war over steel and aluminum

US President Joe Biden spoke at the G20 summit in Rome on the concluding day. He talked of supply chain woes at the summit. He said that to build better resilience for the future, nations should work together.

US President Joe Biden speaks at the G20 summit in Rome

American Airlines has had to cancel hundreds of flights this weekend due to staffing shortages triggered by weather-related disruptions, according to Flight Aware data on Saturday.

The website, which tracks delays and cancellations in the US skies, showed that American Airlines cancelled more than 800 flights on Friday and Saturday and expects more than 400 cancellations on Sunday.&nbsp;

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American Airlines CEO David Seymour said in a memo to staff on Saturday that the difficulties began on Thursday with strong wind storms that blocked capacity at the company's Dallas hub and delayed staff positioning for upcoming flights.&nbsp;

The company boss said that with additional weather issues, staffing "begins to run tight as crew members end up out of their regular flight sequences."&nbsp;

He said he hoped that operations will be restored "quickly with the start of a new month."

He also announced the return of 1,800 flight staff who have been on standby since the pandemic and the hiring of another 600 by the end of December, as well as 4,000 airport employees.&nbsp;

Most travellers affected by the cancellations were able to rebook for the same day, said the airline, which operates 6,700 daily flights worldwide to 350 destinations in 50 countries.&nbsp;

American Airlines is not the first airline to suffer a staffing shortage as travel demand picks up with vaccinations and the lifting of restrictions.

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Last week Southwest had to cancel more than 2,000 flights, costing it $75 million.&nbsp;

The problems were triggered on a Friday afternoon by bad weather and a temporary lack of air traffic controllers in one area of Florida. But the situation was quickly exacerbated by limited staffing levels and then snowballed over several days.&nbsp;

American Airlines has had to cancel hundreds of flights this weekend due to staffing shortages triggered by weather-related disruptions, according to Flight Aware data on Saturday.

American Airlines has had to cancel hundreds of flights this weekend due to staffing shortages triggered by weather-related disruptions, according to Flight Aware data on Saturday. The website, which tracks delays and cancellations in the US skies, showed that American Airlines cancelled more than 800 flights on Friday and Saturday and expects more than 400 cancellations on Sunday. Also Read | Former Alitalia flight attendants strip down in protest against ITA airways American Airlines CEO David Seymour said in a memo to staff on Saturday that the difficulties began on Thursday with strong wind storms that blocked capacity at the company's Dallas hub and delayed staff positioning for upcoming flights. The company boss said that with additional weather issues, staffing "begins to run tight as crew members end up out of their regular flight sequences." He said he hoped that operations will be restored "quickly with the start of a new month." He also announced the return of 1,800 flight staff who have been on standby since the pandemic and the hiring of another 600 by the end of December, as well as 4,000 airport employees. Most travellers affected by the cancellations were able to rebook for the same day, said the airline, which operates 6,700 daily flights worldwide to 350 destinations in 50 countries. American Airlines is not the first airline to suffer a staffing shortage as travel demand picks up with vaccinations and the lifting of restrictions. Also Read | Japan airlines' surprise ticket gapachon machine helps boost sales Last week Southwest had to cancel more than 2,000 flights, costing it $75 million. The problems were triggered on a Friday afternoon by bad weather and a temporary lack of air traffic controllers in one area of Florida. But the situation was quickly exacerbated by limited staffing levels and then snowballed over several days.

American Airlines cancels 100s of flights due to staff shortage

At least nine people were injured and one man died&nbsp;at a Halloween party in Texarkana, Texas, as a gunman opened fire at an event centre.&nbsp;

The Texarkana Police Department, in a statement on Facebook, said, "Officers responded to several reports of shots fired at the party venue in the 2300 block of Texas Blvd. at 11:56 on Saturday night. When they got there, they encountered a large number of people running from the building and several inside suffering from gunshot wounds."

A 20-year-old man was declared dead at one of the hospitals. His name has not yet been released.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/documents-trump-wants-to-shield-from-capitol-riots-investigators-revealed-425544">Also read |&nbsp;Documents Trump wants to shield from Capitol riots investigators revealed</a>

The police have said that the injuries of the other nine people did not appear to be life-threatening. As per the police, the suspect left the scene in an unknown vehicle and has not been taken into custody.&nbsp;

"Detectives are investigating and interviewing victims and witnesses. It is estimated that there were at least a couple hundred people in the venue when the shootings occurred," said police.

The motive of the shooting remains unknown. However, the preliminary investigation concludes that the shooting may have been the result of some type of disturbance among some of the partygoers.

(With inputs from Agencies)

At least nine people were injured and one man died at a Halloween party in Texarkana, Texas, as a gunman opened fire at an event centre. The Texarkana Police Department, in a statement on Facebook, said, "Officers responded to several reports of shots fired at the party venue in the 2300 block of Texas Blvd.

At least nine people were injured and one man died at a Halloween party in Texarkana, Texas, as a gunman opened fire at an event centre. The Texarkana Police Department, in a statement on Facebook, said, "Officers responded to several reports of shots fired at the party venue in the 2300 block of Texas Blvd. at 11:56 on Saturday night. When they got there, they encountered a large number of people running from the building and several inside suffering from gunshot wounds." A 20-year-old man was declared dead at one of the hospitals. His name has not yet been released. Also read | Documents Trump wants to shield from Capitol riots investigators revealed The police have said that the injuries of the other nine people did not appear to be life-threatening. As per the police, the suspect left the scene in an unknown vehicle and has not been taken into custody. "Detectives are investigating and interviewing victims and witnesses. It is estimated that there were at least a couple hundred people in the venue when the shootings occurred," said police. The motive of the shooting remains unknown. However, the preliminary investigation concludes that the shooting may have been the result of some type of disturbance among some of the partygoers. (With inputs from Agencies)

One dead, 9 injured as gunman opens fire at Halloween party in Texas

U.S. President Joe Biden and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will meet to discuss the waning relationship on the sidelines of the G20 summit. At a time when tensions are escalating between NATO allies, U.S. and Turkey the meeting is expected to discuss a wide range of issues.

US President Joe Biden meets Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Italy

In what can be called a rare sighting, some parts of northern United States are in for a treat this weekend as solar flare will make the northern lights visible to residents on Saturday night.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Normally seen in only Alaska, the lights will be visible as far south as Pennsylvania, Iowa&nbsp;and Oregon in the US this time. Scientists also expect the lights to become visible in the New England region, Montana and Washington. These lights could be seen on both Saturday and Sunday.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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A solar flare, which erupted on Thursday, is expected to reach the Earth on Saturday. It has caused a large group of solar-charged particles to come towards the Earth, which makes the lights more visible in the US, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

For the solar flare, the NOAA has issued a G3 geomagnetic storm watch this weekend.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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The storm doesn’t seem to be harmful to&nbsp;humans, but the NOAA has listed possible interference with electronics, such as false alarms on protection devices,&nbsp;voltage irregularities&nbsp;and interruptions to navigation and radio signals as possible side-effects.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

However, the NOAA said in its storm watch that "impacts to our technology from G3 storms are usually nominal."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In what can be called a rare sighting, some parts of northern United States are in for a treat this weekend as solar flare will make the northern lights visible to residents on Saturday night.

In what can be called a rare sighting, some parts of northern United States are in for a treat this weekend as solar flare will make the northern lights visible to residents on Saturday night. Normally seen in only Alaska, the lights will be visible as far south as Pennsylvania, Iowa and Oregon in the US this time. Scientists also expect the lights to become visible in the New England region, Montana and Washington. These lights could be seen on both Saturday and Sunday. Also Read | Homo bodoensis: It's official, we have a new ancestor A solar flare, which erupted on Thursday, is expected to reach the Earth on Saturday. It has caused a large group of solar-charged particles to come towards the Earth, which makes the lights more visible in the US, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said. For the solar flare, the NOAA has issued a G3 geomagnetic storm watch this weekend. Also Read | Why is mysterious dark energy leading to expansion of the universe? The storm doesn’t seem to be harmful to humans, but the NOAA has listed possible interference with electronics, such as false alarms on protection devices, voltage irregularities and interruptions to navigation and radio signals as possible side-effects. However, the NOAA said in its storm watch that "impacts to our technology from G3 storms are usually nominal." (With inputs from agencies)

During Halloween weekend, solar flare helps northern lights become visible to US

As part of the Group of 20 summit on Sunday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. It was an outreach designed to ensure that the troubled relationship between the world's two large economies doesn’t evolve into an open conflict. &nbsp;

The conversation was described as candid, constructive and productive by the senior state department officials. &nbsp;

During the roughly hour-long meeting, Blinken conveyed US concerns to his counterpart. The officials, shared the information on the condition of anonymity. &nbsp;

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At the meeting, Blinken said China has increased tensions with regard to Taiwan, and US wants to continue its 'one-China policy’, which recognises Beijing but allows informal relations and defence ties with Taipei. &nbsp;

The goal of the US was to maintain an open line of communication with China, and set a virtual meeting between US President Joe Biden and Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping later this year. &nbsp;

Earlier, the United States Air Force General John Hyten has called China a ''pacing threat'' after confirmation of the country's hypersonic weapons test. &nbsp;

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Slamming the ''brutal'' bureaucracy in the US, Hyten said, ''China will surpass Russia and the United States if we don't do something to change it. It will happen. So, I think we have to do something." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

As part of the Group of 20 summit on Sunday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. It was an outreach designed to ensure that the troubled relationship between the world's two large economies doesn’t evolve into an open conflict.

As part of the Group of 20 summit on Sunday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. It was an outreach designed to ensure that the troubled relationship between the world's two large economies doesn’t evolve into an open conflict. The conversation was described as candid, constructive and productive by the senior state department officials. During the roughly hour-long meeting, Blinken conveyed US concerns to his counterpart. The officials, shared the information on the condition of anonymity. Also Read | Watch: Ahead of COP26 summit, Biden's motorcade raises emissions' concerns At the meeting, Blinken said China has increased tensions with regard to Taiwan, and US wants to continue its 'one-China policy’, which recognises Beijing but allows informal relations and defence ties with Taipei. The goal of the US was to maintain an open line of communication with China, and set a virtual meeting between US President Joe Biden and Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping later this year. Earlier, the United States Air Force General John Hyten has called China a ''pacing threat'' after confirmation of the country's hypersonic weapons test. Also Read: En route to Italy for G20 Summit, Indian PM Modi’s flight flew over Pakistani airspace Slamming the ''brutal'' bureaucracy in the US, Hyten said, ''China will surpass Russia and the United States if we don't do something to change it. It will happen. So, I think we have to do something." (With inputs from agencies)

US secretary of state meets Chinese foreign minister, raises Taiwan concern

An Indian-origin top executive of a pharmaceutical company in the US state of New Jersey was shot dead by a gunman who followed him home from a casino for robbery, media reports said on Saturday.

Sree Ranga Aravapalli, 54, a resident of New Jersey's Plainsboro, was killed shortly after arriving home by a gunman who, according to authorities, followed him from a casino outside Philadelphia at around 3:30 AM (local time) on Tuesday, the CBC New York newspaper reported.

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The wealthy pharmaceutical executive&nbsp;was followed for 50 miles (80 kms) from a Pennsylvania casino to his New Jersey home where he was murdered in an attempted robbery while his wife and daughter were sleeping, the New York Post newspaper quoted the police as saying.

Aravapalli cashed out his night's big winnings, about USD 10,000, in the early morning hours of Tuesday at the Parx Casino in Bensalem when he was spotted with the loot by 27-year-old Jekai Reid-John, of Pennsylvania's Norristown, the Post report said.

The police have arrested Jekai Reid-John and charged him with first-degree murder.

Reid-John, who did not know Aravapalli, followed him in his car as he drove back to his quiet, affluent neighbourhood in Plainsboro, according to the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office.

Plainsboro Township Police Department Chief Frederick Tavener offered his condolences to Avarapalli's family, who was reportedly well known in the local community.

I want to offer my sincerest condolences to the Aravapalli family for their tragic loss. This is an unexpected and alarming event for their family, friends and our entire community,&nbsp;he said in a statement on Wednesday. 
Aravapalli is survived by his wife, a son and a daughter.

Since 2014, Aravapalli was the CEO of Aurex Laboratories, which is described online as a pharmaceutical company that develops clinical supplies, tablets and soft gelatin capsules.

In a statement, Parx Casino CEO Eric Hausler condoled Aravapalli's death and said it is cooperating fully with local and state law enforcement agencies in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey and will continue to do so.

We are deeply saddened by the report that earlier this week a customer of Parx Casino was the victim of a homicide at his home after returning from a visit to the casino.

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We have learned that law enforcement officials have arrested a suspect who followed the victim home from the casino that night. Our sincere condolences go out to the family and friends of the victim at this incredibly difficult time,&nbsp;Hausler said.

Neighbours said that Aravapalli and his family called their secluded community home for just a few years.

It's crazy, I mean, unbelievable. How can somebody follow him all the way and come here and kill him in the night&nbsp;It's so shocking,&nbsp;said neighbour Sheeza Khan.

It was very shocking for the whole community. It is scary, Khan said.

Just a nice family man, always home and there with his wife and kids, and celebrating all the festivals.

What we want to remember about him is that he gave everything. In his 54 years, I think, he probably gave more than most people would in a full 85-year lifespan,&nbsp;said Abhi Kanitkar.

Aravapalli's family laid him to rest on Thursday, the report added.

An Indian-origin top executive of a pharmaceutical company in the US state of New Jersey was shot dead by a gunman who followed him home from a casino for robbery, media reports said on Saturday.

An Indian-origin top executive of a pharmaceutical company in the US state of New Jersey was shot dead by a gunman who followed him home from a casino for robbery, media reports said on Saturday. Sree Ranga Aravapalli, 54, a resident of New Jersey's Plainsboro, was killed shortly after arriving home by a gunman who, according to authorities, followed him from a casino outside Philadelphia at around 3:30 AM (local time) on Tuesday, the CBC New York newspaper reported. Also Read | Gunmen kill 18 worshippers in Nigeria mosque attack The wealthy pharmaceutical executive was followed for 50 miles (80 kms) from a Pennsylvania casino to his New Jersey home where he was murdered in an attempted robbery while his wife and daughter were sleeping, the New York Post newspaper quoted the police as saying. Aravapalli cashed out his night's big winnings, about USD 10,000, in the early morning hours of Tuesday at the Parx Casino in Bensalem when he was spotted with the loot by 27-year-old Jekai Reid-John, of Pennsylvania's Norristown, the Post report said. The police have arrested Jekai Reid-John and charged him with first-degree murder. Reid-John, who did not know Aravapalli, followed him in his car as he drove back to his quiet, affluent neighbourhood in Plainsboro, according to the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office. Plainsboro Township Police Department Chief Frederick Tavener offered his condolences to Avarapalli's family, who was reportedly well known in the local community. I want to offer my sincerest condolences to the Aravapalli family for their tragic loss. This is an unexpected and alarming event for their family, friends and our entire community, he said in a statement on Wednesday. Aravapalli is survived by his wife, a son and a daughter. Since 2014, Aravapalli was the CEO of Aurex Laboratories, which is described online as a pharmaceutical company that develops clinical supplies, tablets and soft gelatin capsules. In a statement, Parx Casino CEO Eric Hausler condoled Aravapalli's death and said it is cooperating fully with local and state law enforcement agencies in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey and will continue to do so. We are deeply saddened by the report that earlier this week a customer of Parx Casino was the victim of a homicide at his home after returning from a visit to the casino. Also Read | Gunmen kill eight and injure 18 in Rwanda We have learned that law enforcement officials have arrested a suspect who followed the victim home from the casino that night. Our sincere condolences go out to the family and friends of the victim at this incredibly difficult time, Hausler said. Neighbours said that Aravapalli and his family called their secluded community home for just a few years. It's crazy, I mean, unbelievable. How can somebody follow him all the way and come here and kill him in the night It's so shocking, said neighbour Sheeza Khan. It was very shocking for the whole community. It is scary, Khan said. Just a nice family man, always home and there with his wife and kids, and celebrating all the festivals. What we want to remember about him is that he gave everything. In his 54 years, I think, he probably gave more than most people would in a full 85-year lifespan, said Abhi Kanitkar. Aravapalli's family laid him to rest on Thursday, the report added.

Indian-origin pharma CEO shot dead by gunman in US for robbery

Russian billionaire Oleg Tinkov has paid tax dues and fines of around $509 million. On October 1, he had pleaded guilty to felony charges of concealing over $1 billion in assets to avoid paying taxes on them as the tycoon gave up his US citizenship in 2013. &nbsp;

To settle US charges of tax evasion, the banking and investment tycoon was required to pay fine, the US Justice Department said on Friday. &nbsp;

Russian-born Tinkov is&nbsp;the founder of Tinkoff Credit Services or popular online Tinkoff Bank and&nbsp;the owner of the professional Tinkoff Cycling Team. &nbsp;

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The 53-year-old Tinkov became a US citizen in 1996, said the Justice Department. &nbsp;

In 2013, he took Tinkoff Credit public on the London Stock Exchange. His holding in it was valued over $1.1 billion. &nbsp;

Just three days after the IPO, Tinkov sought to renounce US citizenship at the US embassy in Moscow.

Tinkov submitted documents saying the tycoon only had $300,000 in assets when he reported his full wealth which was required in the citizenship renunciation process and paid taxes on it. &nbsp;

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In a 2019 indictment, the US Treasury said Tinkov owed around $249 million on his earnings. &nbsp;

On Friday, in the settlement announced, he had to pay more than double to cover accrued interest and penalties. &nbsp;

Last year, the US Justice Department had sought his extradition from Britain to face the charges. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Russian billionaire Oleg Tinkov has paid tax dues and fines of around $509 million. On October 1, he had pleaded guilty to felony charges of concealing over $1 billion in assets to avoid paying taxes on them as the tycoon gave up his US citizenship in 2013.

Russian billionaire Oleg Tinkov has paid tax dues and fines of around $509 million. On October 1, he had pleaded guilty to felony charges of concealing over $1 billion in assets to avoid paying taxes on them as the tycoon gave up his US citizenship in 2013. To settle US charges of tax evasion, the banking and investment tycoon was required to pay fine, the US Justice Department said on Friday. Russian-born Tinkov is the founder of Tinkoff Credit Services or popular online Tinkoff Bank and the owner of the professional Tinkoff Cycling Team. Also Read: US woman who assisted Bali 'suitcase' murder released from jail The 53-year-old Tinkov became a US citizen in 1996, said the Justice Department. In 2013, he took Tinkoff Credit public on the London Stock Exchange. His holding in it was valued over $1.1 billion. Just three days after the IPO, Tinkov sought to renounce US citizenship at the US embassy in Moscow. Tinkov submitted documents saying the tycoon only had $300,000 in assets when he reported his full wealth which was required in the citizenship renunciation process and paid taxes on it. Also Read: UK decries France's seizure of fishing boat as post-Brexit row deepens In a 2019 indictment, the US Treasury said Tinkov owed around $249 million on his earnings. On Friday, in the settlement announced, he had to pay more than double to cover accrued interest and penalties. Last year, the US Justice Department had sought his extradition from Britain to face the charges. (With inputs from agencies)

To settle US charges of tax evasion, Russian billionaire pays $500 million

US Vice President Kamala Harris on Saturday received a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot. Harris received her third dose of the Moderna vaccine at the White House and encouraged everyone to get the booster "when you are eligible."

"What we have said from the beginning: It's safe and free," she said.&nbsp;Harris highlighted that over 90 per cent of Americans in intensive care units or who have died of COVID-19 are unvaccinated.

"So let’s get vaccinated and we will get through the pandemic," she said.

Harris got vaccinated against the deadly virus on live television in December 2020. She got vaccinated a week after US President Joe Biden took a shot of the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine on December 21, 2020.&nbsp;

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He was administered the vaccine at Christiana Care Hospital in Newark, Delaware. After saying "I'm ready", he rolled up the sleeve on his left arm and later assured Americans that "there's nothing to worry about".

The US Food and Drug Administration has approved Moderna booster shots to be administered six months after the second dose to people aged 65 or older.&nbsp;

The shot can also be administered to people aged 18-64 who are either at high risk of severe COVID-19 or with frequent exposure to the virus because of their job.&nbsp;

US Vice President Kamala Harris on Saturday received a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot. Harris received her third dose of the Moderna vaccine at the White House and encouraged everyone to get the booster "when you are eligible.

US Vice President Kamala Harris on Saturday received a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot. Harris received her third dose of the Moderna vaccine at the White House and encouraged everyone to get the booster "when you are eligible." "What we have said from the beginning: It's safe and free," she said. Harris highlighted that over 90 per cent of Americans in intensive care units or who have died of COVID-19 are unvaccinated. "So let’s get vaccinated and we will get through the pandemic," she said. Harris got vaccinated against the deadly virus on live television in December 2020. She got vaccinated a week after US President Joe Biden took a shot of the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine on December 21, 2020. Also read | G20 leaders agree on historic corporate tax deal He was administered the vaccine at Christiana Care Hospital in Newark, Delaware. After saying "I'm ready", he rolled up the sleeve on his left arm and later assured Americans that "there's nothing to worry about". The US Food and Drug Administration has approved Moderna booster shots to be administered six months after the second dose to people aged 65 or older. The shot can also be administered to people aged 18-64 who are either at high risk of severe COVID-19 or with frequent exposure to the virus because of their job.

'When you are eligible': Kamala Harris gets COVID-19 booster shot urging people to do the same

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