Taiwan reacted with an outpouring of thanks to the United States for shipping 2.5 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to the major semiconductor-producing island, more than doubling its arsenal as it deals with a rise in domestic infections.

Washington, competing with Beijing to deepen geopolitical clout through "vaccine diplomacy," initially had promised to donate 750,000 doses but increased that number as President Joe Biden's administration advances its pledge to send 80 million U.S.-made shots around the world.

"What a sight! What a gesture!" Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu tweeted in thanks late on Saturday, linking to pictures of the vaccines being loaded onto a China Airlines Boeing 777 freighter at Memphis airport.

"The Taiwan-U.S. relationship is rock solid, &amp; we'll keep cooperating closely in combating COVID19. Forces for goodwill prevail!"

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen tweeted she was touched by the U.S. move.

"Thank you to the U.S. for this moving gesture of friendship. These vaccines will go a long way toward keeping Taiwan safe &amp; healthy."

The United States, like most countries, has no formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, but is its most important international backer, to China's anger.

The 2.5 million Moderna Inc doses, due to arrive at Taiwan's main international airport late Sunday afternoon, will more than double the number of vaccines that have already arrived on the island, including 1.24 million AstraZeneca Plc shots donated by Japan earlier this month.

China, which claims democratically governed Taiwan as an integral part of its territory, has offered Chinese-made vaccines, but the government in Taipei has repeatedly expressed concerns about their safety and efficacy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-elects-new-president-mixed-reactions-across-world-392652">Also Read |&nbsp;Iran elects new president, mixed reactions across world</a>

Taiwan has accused China of blocking at least one foreign vaccine deal with the island. Beijing denies that.

Despite the pandemic, China has continued to pressure Taiwan militarily.

Last week, 28 Chinese air force aircraft, including fighters and nuclear-capable bombers, entered Taiwan's air defence identification zone, the largest reported incursion to date.

Taiwan is trying to speed up the arrival of the millions of vaccines it has on order as it deals with a rise in domestic cases, although infections remain comparatively low. Only around 6% of Taiwan's 23.5 million people have received at least one of the two-shot coronavirus vaccine regimen.

Tsai has come under pressure domestically to get vaccines faster.

On Friday the government said it would allow Terry Gou, the billionaire founder of major Apple Inc supplier Foxconn, and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd (TSMC) to negotiate on Taipei's behalf for vaccines.

Taiwan reacted with an outpouring of thanks to the United States for shipping 2.5 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to the major semiconductor-producing island, more than doubling its arsenal as it deals with a rise in domestic infections.

Taiwan reacted with an outpouring of thanks to the United States for shipping 2.5 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to the major semiconductor-producing island, more than doubling its arsenal as it deals with a rise in domestic infections. Washington, competing with Beijing to deepen geopolitical clout through "vaccine diplomacy," initially had promised to donate 750,000 doses but increased that number as President Joe Biden's administration advances its pledge to send 80 million U.S.-made shots around the world. "What a sight! What a gesture!" Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu tweeted in thanks late on Saturday, linking to pictures of the vaccines being loaded onto a China Airlines Boeing 777 freighter at Memphis airport. "The Taiwan-U.S. relationship is rock solid, & we'll keep cooperating closely in combating COVID19. Forces for goodwill prevail!" Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen tweeted she was touched by the U.S. move. "Thank you to the U.S. for this moving gesture of friendship. These vaccines will go a long way toward keeping Taiwan safe & healthy." The United States, like most countries, has no formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, but is its most important international backer, to China's anger. The 2.5 million Moderna Inc doses, due to arrive at Taiwan's main international airport late Sunday afternoon, will more than double the number of vaccines that have already arrived on the island, including 1.24 million AstraZeneca Plc shots donated by Japan earlier this month. China, which claims democratically governed Taiwan as an integral part of its territory, has offered Chinese-made vaccines, but the government in Taipei has repeatedly expressed concerns about their safety and efficacy. Also Read | Iran elects new president, mixed reactions across world Taiwan has accused China of blocking at least one foreign vaccine deal with the island. Beijing denies that. Despite the pandemic, China has continued to pressure Taiwan militarily. Last week, 28 Chinese air force aircraft, including fighters and nuclear-capable bombers, entered Taiwan's air defence identification zone, the largest reported incursion to date. Taiwan is trying to speed up the arrival of the millions of vaccines it has on order as it deals with a rise in domestic cases, although infections remain comparatively low. Only around 6% of Taiwan's 23.5 million people have received at least one of the two-shot coronavirus vaccine regimen. Tsai has come under pressure domestically to get vaccines faster. On Friday the government said it would allow Terry Gou, the billionaire founder of major Apple Inc supplier Foxconn, and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd (TSMC) to negotiate on Taipei's behalf for vaccines.

'Forces for good will prevail' - Taiwan welcomes massive US vaccine aid

With marches, music and speeches, Americans on Saturday celebrated "Juneteenth," the newly declared national holiday that marks the end of slavery and which comes a year after George Floyd's murder sparked anti-racism protests.

With marches, music and speeches, Americans on Saturday celebrated "Juneteenth," the newly declared national holiday that marks the end of slavery and which comes a year after George Floyd's murder sparked anti-racism protests. Hundreds of events were held across the country, from New York to Los Angeles, and most notably in Galveston, Texas, the symbolic heart of the Juneteenth commemoration. On June 19, 1865, it was in that Texas coastal area that the Union army -- victorious after the bitterly fought Civil War -- announced to African Americans that, even if some in Texas were trying to ignore it, enslaved people were now free. Slavery was formally abolished in December 1865, with the adoption of the 13th amendment to the US Constitution, but Juneteenth has remained the emblematic date marking the freeing of enslaved Americans. This year's Juneteenth celebrations are all the more celebratory, coming just days after President Joe Biden signed legislation making June 19 a national holiday, and at a time when pandemic-imposed restrictions on public gatherings are steadily being erased. "I feel wonderful, I feel proud, I feel a sense of accomplishment for the struggle," Sharonda Newby said at a rally in Galveston, where she grew up. "I feel like they've given us some momentum, some resilience to continue to push forward." "It was a long time coming," said 68-year-old Cheryl Green, who was attending the unveiling in the New York City borough of Brooklyn of a bust of George Floyd, the Black man killed by a white policeman in Minneapolis in May 2020. "It's good that people get to recognize what happened," said Green, an African-American resident of Brooklyn's Flatbush neighbourhood. "Changes are being made slowly, but surely we'll get there." In Washington, hundreds celebrated on Black Lives Matter Plaza, a section of the main road near the White House that was renamed by the city amid the huge anti-racism protests galvanized by Floyd's death. Kevin Blanks, a 29-year-old Black man, said he had come to denounce the racism that is "still very much embedded in the DNA of this country." He wore a T-shirt that paid tribute to Black leaders Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X and Harriet Tubman. Danique McGuire, a 51-year-old Black woman, said that by signing the Juneteenth legislation into law, "President Biden has recognized the importance of Black Americans." She added, however, that "the fight is still long" for equality. Floyd's killing touched off global protests against racism and police violence toward minorities. That movement helped raise the visibility of Juneteenth -- a date that many Americans, including many African Americans, had not heard of even two years ago. An opinion survey published Tuesday by the Gallup institute found that 28 per cent of Americans knew "nothing at all" about the anniversary. "I didn't learn about Juneteenth until I got to high school," said Farah Louis, a Black city official in New York, who was attending the Floyd unveiling in Brooklyn. She said Juneteenth should be used to "educate our young people" about the treatment of Black people through American history. 'While the iron is hot' Celebrating Juneteenth now seems "a bit surreal" at a time many Republican-led states are passing laws that limit voting options in ways that "most acutely affect communities of colour," tweeted Sharif Street, a Black state legislator from Pennsylvania. From January through May, 14 states, notably Georgia and Florida, passed laws limiting opportunities to vote -- measures seen as aimed at reducing the influence of minority voters, particularly African-Americans. To Street, it is "a reminder that our wins are not permanent." Draft legislation to protect voting rights is currently being debated in the US Senate, but with many Republicans opposing it, its fate appears uncertain. Also Read | Iran elects new president, mixed reactions across world To Louis, the Juneteenth proclamation together with the impetus from the George Floyd movement presents an opportunity. "You have to strike while the iron is hot," she said, citing among other issues the idea of government-paid reparations to compensate descendants of enslaved people. On Friday, the mayors of 11 American cities, including Los Angeles and Denver, vowed to pursue the question of how best to carry out reparations. They invited Congress and the US government to follow their example. "We see change" in the country, said Terrence Floyd at the Brooklyn unveiling of the bust honouring his brother George. Terrence Floyd, who lives in New York, recently created a group called "We Are Floyd" to help "keep the change going," he told AFP. "Because right now, it's not a moment. It's a movement.

US marks slavery's end on new 'Juneteenth' national holiday

US&nbsp;President Joe Biden plans to host Israel's new president, Reuven Rivlin, at the White House on June 28, the White House said on Saturday. 
 
"President Rivlin's visit will highlight the enduring partnership between the United States and Israel and the deep ties between our governments and our people," White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki said in a statement. 
 
Rivlin will visit shortly before he is due to end his seven-year term in July. 
 
Isaac Herzog was elected the country's new president this month in elections that marked the end of the era of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Israel. 
 
The role of president is largely ceremonial but also meant to promote unity among ethnic and religious groups. 
 
The government changed after last month's fighting between Israel and Palestinian militants in Gaza also touched off rare mob violence among the Jewish majority and Arab minority within Israeli cities. 
 
"President Rivlin approaches the end of his term, this visit will honour the dedication he has shown to strengthening the friendship between the two countries over the course of many years," Psaki said. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden plans to host Israel's new president, Reuven Rivlin, at the White House on June 28, the White House said on Saturday. "President Rivlin's visit will highlight the enduring partnership between the United States and Israel and the deep ties between our governments and our people," White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki said in a statement.

US President Joe Biden plans to host Israel's new president, Reuven Rivlin, at the White House on June 28, the White House said on Saturday. "President Rivlin's visit will highlight the enduring partnership between the United States and Israel and the deep ties between our governments and our people," White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki said in a statement. Rivlin will visit shortly before he is due to end his seven-year term in July. Isaac Herzog was elected the country's new president this month in elections that marked the end of the era of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Israel. The role of president is largely ceremonial but also meant to promote unity among ethnic and religious groups. The government changed after last month's fighting between Israel and Palestinian militants in Gaza also touched off rare mob violence among the Jewish majority and Arab minority within Israeli cities. "President Rivlin approaches the end of his term, this visit will honour the dedication he has shown to strengthening the friendship between the two countries over the course of many years," Psaki said. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden to host Israeli President Rivlin on June 28: White House

Russia's ambassador to the United States, Anatoly Antonov, was in an optimistic mood ahead of his return to Washington on Sunday, expecting meetings scheduled with US&nbsp;colleagues next week to be constructive, the RIA news agency reported. 
 
President Vladimir Putin and his US&nbsp;counterpart Joe Biden agreed to return their respective ambassadors to Washington and Moscow during talks in Geneva on Wednesday, a first summit between the two that they both described as pragmatic rather than friendly. 
 
Moscow recalled Antonov for consultations after Biden said in March that he believed Putin was 'a killer'. The US&nbsp;ambassador later returned to Washington for consultations too. 
 
"There is a lot of work to be done. We are counting on progress," RIA cited Antonov as saying before he boarded a flight to the United States. 
 
Antonov said he was returning with an optimistic mindset and that meetings would begin on Monday and continue throughout the week. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Russia's ambassador to the United States, Anatoly Antonov, was in an optimistic mood ahead of his return to Washington on Sunday, expecting meetings scheduled with US colleagues next week to be constructive, the RIA news agency reported.

Russia's ambassador to the United States, Anatoly Antonov, was in an optimistic mood ahead of his return to Washington on Sunday, expecting meetings scheduled with US colleagues next week to be constructive, the RIA news agency reported. President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart Joe Biden agreed to return their respective ambassadors to Washington and Moscow during talks in Geneva on Wednesday, a first summit between the two that they both described as pragmatic rather than friendly. Moscow recalled Antonov for consultations after Biden said in March that he believed Putin was 'a killer'. The US ambassador later returned to Washington for consultations too. "There is a lot of work to be done. We are counting on progress," RIA cited Antonov as saying before he boarded a flight to the United States. Antonov said he was returning with an optimistic mindset and that meetings would begin on Monday and continue throughout the week. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian envoy to US returns to Washington with optimistic mindset: RIA

Noting that the world cannot be naive about Beijing`s current ambitions, Thomas Hart Armbruster, a former US Ambassador to the Marshall Islands, said on Saturday that Quad is a powerful bloc that can send a powerful message by harmonising its common position on important issues like human rights in China.

Speaking at the inaugural event of 'Global Policy Insights'&nbsp;QUAD Forum, Armbruster said if Quad is to be successful, there is a need to redouble our commitments to democratic principles.

The event was held in virtual mode. "Today, we are in a time of competition with China. Military competition, competition for influence, and competition for the very way our own people are governed and live. Our major competition might not be ready to play by the established rules.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-installs-billboards-ordering-citizens-to-behave-during-centenary-celebrations-of-communist-party-392296">China installs billboards ordering citizens to 'behave' during centenary celebrations of Communist party</a>

The United States, Japan, India, and Australia&nbsp;are formidable bloc. Bigger in population than China, well versed and rising to global challenges, and a common vision for the most part in the Biden era," Armbruster said.

"We have established and lived by democratic norms that have been set up for decades, if not for centuries. However, if the Quad is to be successful, we need to redouble our commitments to democratic principles," he added.

Armbruster noted that Quad has to more than just a security arrangement."If all our resources are devoted to military competition, we will certainly lose climate change and environmental challenge. Together we can work with China for a clear future and perhaps shift our competition to who can build the next generation of cleaner power. But we can`t hide our difference on humans rights issues in China, like the treatment of Uyghurs and Tibetans. Harmonizing our common position on these important issues sends a powerful message to Beijing," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/nanning-how-chinas-new-warship-with-anti-stealth-radar-is-set-to-change-balance-in-south-china-sea-392163">Nanning: How China's new warship with anti-stealth radar is set to change balance in South China Sea</a>

"We can't be naive about Chinese current ambitions and we have our own current equities and discrimination to face," he added.

He referred to China trying to expand its global footprint."For the Pacific island countries, it came down to China or Taiwan. The Marshall Islands is for example sticking with the United States. Another compact of free association country Palau went with China over Taiwan, as their diplomatic partner. And now they have thousands of Chinese tourists every year, for better and worse," he said.

He said that anti-Asian hate crimes in the US were not acceptable.

"In the US, we have seen anti-Asian hate crime spike, during the pandemic as people blame China and then by association anyone looking Asian. This is not acceptable.

"He said the Quad countries should emerge as viable models for China and Russia. "Let`s hope China and Russia see countries like Japan, United States, India, and Australia as viable models for their futures, even if they don`t admit it. This won't be a fast process or an immediately successful one.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/if-china-takes-taiwan-its-all-over-haley-urges-us-to-act-strongly-392335/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Answering a query about China trying to project a lovable panda image, he said in diplomacy, every country is acting in their own interest.

"If that image bolsters'&nbsp;China's objective, then that is something that they will adopt. Even in these multilateral groupings, each of our countries is doing it because we see it as a benefit for our own country," he said.

The QUAD Forum is an initiative of Global Policy Insights, a centrist policy institute, aimed at fostering dialogue and understanding around the Quad grouping of nations comprising of the United States, India, Japan and Australia.

The first Leaders` Summit of the Quadrilateral Framework was held virtually in March this year.&nbsp;

Noting that the world cannot be naive about Beijing`s current ambitions, Thomas Hart Armbruster, a former US Ambassador to the Marshall Islands, said on Saturday that Quad is a powerful bloc that can send a powerful message by harmonising its common position on important issues like human rights in China.

Noting that the world cannot be naive about Beijing`s current ambitions, Thomas Hart Armbruster, a former US Ambassador to the Marshall Islands, said on Saturday that Quad is a powerful bloc that can send a powerful message by harmonising its common position on important issues like human rights in China. Speaking at the inaugural event of 'Global Policy Insights' QUAD Forum, Armbruster said if Quad is to be successful, there is a need to redouble our commitments to democratic principles. The event was held in virtual mode. "Today, we are in a time of competition with China. Military competition, competition for influence, and competition for the very way our own people are governed and live. Our major competition might not be ready to play by the established rules. Also read | China installs billboards ordering citizens to 'behave' during centenary celebrations of Communist party The United States, Japan, India, and Australia are formidable bloc. Bigger in population than China, well versed and rising to global challenges, and a common vision for the most part in the Biden era," Armbruster said. "We have established and lived by democratic norms that have been set up for decades, if not for centuries. However, if the Quad is to be successful, we need to redouble our commitments to democratic principles," he added. Armbruster noted that Quad has to more than just a security arrangement."If all our resources are devoted to military competition, we will certainly lose climate change and environmental challenge. Together we can work with China for a clear future and perhaps shift our competition to who can build the next generation of cleaner power. But we can`t hide our difference on humans rights issues in China, like the treatment of Uyghurs and Tibetans. Harmonizing our common position on these important issues sends a powerful message to Beijing," he said. Also read | Nanning: How China's new warship with anti-stealth radar is set to change balance in South China Sea "We can't be naive about Chinese current ambitions and we have our own current equities and discrimination to face," he added. He referred to China trying to expand its global footprint."For the Pacific island countries, it came down to China or Taiwan. The Marshall Islands is for example sticking with the United States. Another compact of free association country Palau went with China over Taiwan, as their diplomatic partner. And now they have thousands of Chinese tourists every year, for better and worse," he said. He said that anti-Asian hate crimes in the US were not acceptable. "In the US, we have seen anti-Asian hate crime spike, during the pandemic as people blame China and then by association anyone looking Asian. This is not acceptable. "He said the Quad countries should emerge as viable models for China and Russia. "Let`s hope China and Russia see countries like Japan, United States, India, and Australia as viable models for their futures, even if they don`t admit it. This won't be a fast process or an immediately successful one. "Answering a query about China trying to project a lovable panda image, he said in diplomacy, every country is acting in their own interest. "If that image bolsters' China's objective, then that is something that they will adopt. Even in these multilateral groupings, each of our countries is doing it because we see it as a benefit for our own country," he said. The QUAD Forum is an initiative of Global Policy Insights, a centrist policy institute, aimed at fostering dialogue and understanding around the Quad grouping of nations comprising of the United States, India, Japan and Australia. The first Leaders` Summit of the Quadrilateral Framework was held virtually in March this year.

We cannot be naive about China's ambitions, Quad can send powerful message, says former US envoy Armbruster

Canada is extending a ban on non-essential travel with the United States and the rest of the world until July 21, officials said on Friday, prompting frustration from businesses and US&nbsp;legislators. 
 
Canada is under pressure from companies and the tourism industry to ease the ban, which was imposed in March 2020 to help contain spread of the coronavirus and has been renewed on a monthly basis ever since. 
 
But Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stood firm, saying the border would stay largely shut until 75% of Canadians had received the first of a two-dose coronavirus vaccine and 20% had been given both shots. 
 
Although Trudeau said Canada had basically achieved the first target, official data released after he spoke showed 73.4% had received their first shot. Only 5.5% of the eligible population has had both shots. 
 
"Even a fully vaccinated individual can pass on COVID-19 to someone, who is not vaccinated," Trudeau told reporters, saying Canada needed to avoid 'any further massive waves'. 
 
The extended border closure comes as the western province of Alberta unveiled plans to fully reopen on July 1, lifting virtually all remaining public health restrictions, after 70% of eligible Albertans received their first vaccination dose. 
 
The travel ban does not affect trade in goods but Statistics Canada said total exports of services in 2020 compared with 2019 fell by 17.7% and imports of services plunged by 24.0%, in part due to the border restrictions. Travel and transportation services were particularly hard hit. 
 
"The inability of the US and Canadian governments to reach an agreement on alleviating border restrictions ... is simply unacceptable," said US&nbsp;Representatives Brian Higgins and Bill Huizenga, co-chairs of the Canada-US&nbsp;Interparliamentary Group. 
 
The United States is Canada's largest trading partner. 
 
Harley Finkelstein, president of Canadian e-commerce company Shopify Inc, tweeted that the extended border closure was the wrong decision. "We need to open the border for fully vaccinated travellers immediately," he wrote. 
 
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce - a national group that advocates for businesses - lamented what it said was Ottawa's excessive caution. 
 
"All of the science would say we should be moving ahead to reopen the border. We don't even have a plan at this point," said Perrin Beatty, the group's president and chief executive. 
 
Ottawa will reveal on Monday how it plans to start easing measures for fully vaccinated Canadians. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Canada is extending a ban on non-essential travel with the United States and the rest of the world until July 21, officials said on Friday, prompting frustration from businesses and US legislators.

Canada is extending a ban on non-essential travel with the United States and the rest of the world until July 21, officials said on Friday, prompting frustration from businesses and US legislators. Canada is under pressure from companies and the tourism industry to ease the ban, which was imposed in March 2020 to help contain spread of the coronavirus and has been renewed on a monthly basis ever since. But Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stood firm, saying the border would stay largely shut until 75% of Canadians had received the first of a two-dose coronavirus vaccine and 20% had been given both shots. Although Trudeau said Canada had basically achieved the first target, official data released after he spoke showed 73.4% had received their first shot. Only 5.5% of the eligible population has had both shots. "Even a fully vaccinated individual can pass on COVID-19 to someone, who is not vaccinated," Trudeau told reporters, saying Canada needed to avoid 'any further massive waves'. The extended border closure comes as the western province of Alberta unveiled plans to fully reopen on July 1, lifting virtually all remaining public health restrictions, after 70% of eligible Albertans received their first vaccination dose. The travel ban does not affect trade in goods but Statistics Canada said total exports of services in 2020 compared with 2019 fell by 17.7% and imports of services plunged by 24.0%, in part due to the border restrictions. Travel and transportation services were particularly hard hit. "The inability of the US and Canadian governments to reach an agreement on alleviating border restrictions ... is simply unacceptable," said US Representatives Brian Higgins and Bill Huizenga, co-chairs of the Canada-US Interparliamentary Group. The United States is Canada's largest trading partner. Harley Finkelstein, president of Canadian e-commerce company Shopify Inc, tweeted that the extended border closure was the wrong decision. "We need to open the border for fully vaccinated travellers immediately," he wrote. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce - a national group that advocates for businesses - lamented what it said was Ottawa's excessive caution. "All of the science would say we should be moving ahead to reopen the border. We don't even have a plan at this point," said Perrin Beatty, the group's president and chief executive. Ottawa will reveal on Monday how it plans to start easing measures for fully vaccinated Canadians. (With inputs from agencies)

Businesses, US legislators fume as Canada extends travel ban; Trudeau stands firm

As demands for transparency from China grow, Beijing is blaming everyone else for the pandemic. A Chinese scientist suggested that the virus could be a bioweapon from US. While the Chinese press is painting Europe as the original epicentre. Palki Sharma has more.

Gravitas: China blames everyone but itself for the pandemic

At least 1,900 American military guns have been stolen from high-security installations in the last decade. Reports say the Pentagon has consistently downplayed and covered up these AWOL guns. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: America's stolen military guns

Boeing Co's 737 MAX 10, the largest member of its best-selling single-aisle airplane family, took off on its maiden flight on Friday, in a further step towards recovering from the safety grounding of a smaller model. 
 
The plane completed a roughly 2-1/2-hour flight over Washington State, returning to Renton Municipal Airport near Seattle at 12:38 pm. 
 
The first flight heralds months of testing and safety certification work before the jet is expected to enter service in 2023. 
 
In an unusual departure from the PR buzz surrounding first flights, the event was kept low-key as Boeing tries to navigate overlapping crisis caused by a 20-month grounding in the wake of two crashes and the COVID-19 pandemic. 
 
Boeing's 230-seat 737-10 is designed to close the gap between its 178-to-220-seat 737-9, and Airbus's 185-to-240-seat A321neo, which dominates the top end of the narrowbody jet market, worth some $3.5 trillion over 20 years. 
 
However, the market opportunity for the 737 MAX 10 is constrained by the jet's range of about 3,300 nautical miles (6,100 km), which falls short of the A321neo's roughly 4,000 nm. 
 
Boeing must also complete safety certification of the plane under a tougher regulatory climate following two fatal crashes of a smaller 737 MAX version grounded the model for nearly two years - with a safety ban still in place in China. 
 
Boeing has carried out design and training changes on the MAX family, which returned to US&nbsp;operations in December. 
 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes CEO Stan Deal said the company is producing about 16 737 MAX jets a month at its Renton factory. 
 
Boeing is working on safety enhancements for the 737 MAX 10, including for its air data indication system and adding a third cockpit indication requested by European regulators of the 'angle of attack',&nbsp;a parameter needed to avoid stalling or losing lift. Deal’s comments were provided to the media via a pool reporter inside a Boeing aircraft delivery center. 
 
"We're going to take our time on this certification," Deal said. 
 
While the smaller MAX 8 is Boeing's fastest-selling jet, slow sales of the MAX 9 and 10 models have put Boeing at a disadvantage to the A321neo. 
 
Boeing has abandoned plans to tinker with the 737 MAX 10 design, but is weighing a bolder plan to replace the single-aisle 757, which overlaps with the top end of the MAX family. 
 
Even so, Boeing says it is confident in the MAX 10, and it is stepping up efforts to sell more of the jet, with key targets, including Ireland's Ryanair. 
 
Customers include United Airlines with 100 on order. Although sources say United is weighing a new order for at least 100 or even up to 200 MAX, its requirement for large single-aisles will be served by Airbus - reinforcing the market split. 
 
The flight, watched by dozens of employees but virtually no visitors as Boeing sought to downplay the event, showcased a revamped landing gear system illustrating an industry battle to squeeze as much mileage as possible out of the current generation of single-aisles. 
 
It raises the landing gear's height during take-off and landing, a design needed to compensate for the MAX 10's extra length and prevent the tail scraping the runway on take-off. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Boeing Co's 737 MAX 10, the largest member of its best-selling single-aisle airplane family, took off on its maiden flight on Friday, in a further step towards recovering from the safety grounding of a smaller model.

Boeing Co's 737 MAX 10, the largest member of its best-selling single-aisle airplane family, took off on its maiden flight on Friday, in a further step towards recovering from the safety grounding of a smaller model. The plane completed a roughly 2-1/2-hour flight over Washington State, returning to Renton Municipal Airport near Seattle at 12:38 pm. The first flight heralds months of testing and safety certification work before the jet is expected to enter service in 2023. In an unusual departure from the PR buzz surrounding first flights, the event was kept low-key as Boeing tries to navigate overlapping crisis caused by a 20-month grounding in the wake of two crashes and the COVID-19 pandemic. Boeing's 230-seat 737-10 is designed to close the gap between its 178-to-220-seat 737-9, and Airbus's 185-to-240-seat A321neo, which dominates the top end of the narrowbody jet market, worth some $3.5 trillion over 20 years. However, the market opportunity for the 737 MAX 10 is constrained by the jet's range of about 3,300 nautical miles (6,100 km), which falls short of the A321neo's roughly 4,000 nm. Boeing must also complete safety certification of the plane under a tougher regulatory climate following two fatal crashes of a smaller 737 MAX version grounded the model for nearly two years - with a safety ban still in place in China. Boeing has carried out design and training changes on the MAX family, which returned to US operations in December. Boeing Commercial Airplanes CEO Stan Deal said the company is producing about 16 737 MAX jets a month at its Renton factory. Boeing is working on safety enhancements for the 737 MAX 10, including for its air data indication system and adding a third cockpit indication requested by European regulators of the 'angle of attack', a parameter needed to avoid stalling or losing lift. Deal’s comments were provided to the media via a pool reporter inside a Boeing aircraft delivery center. "We're going to take our time on this certification," Deal said. While the smaller MAX 8 is Boeing's fastest-selling jet, slow sales of the MAX 9 and 10 models have put Boeing at a disadvantage to the A321neo. Boeing has abandoned plans to tinker with the 737 MAX 10 design, but is weighing a bolder plan to replace the single-aisle 757, which overlaps with the top end of the MAX family. Even so, Boeing says it is confident in the MAX 10, and it is stepping up efforts to sell more of the jet, with key targets, including Ireland's Ryanair. Customers include United Airlines with 100 on order. Although sources say United is weighing a new order for at least 100 or even up to 200 MAX, its requirement for large single-aisles will be served by Airbus - reinforcing the market split. The flight, watched by dozens of employees but virtually no visitors as Boeing sought to downplay the event, showcased a revamped landing gear system illustrating an industry battle to squeeze as much mileage as possible out of the current generation of single-aisles. It raises the landing gear's height during take-off and landing, a design needed to compensate for the MAX 10's extra length and prevent the tail scraping the runway on take-off. (With inputs from agencies)

Largest Boeing 737 MAX model takes off on maiden flight

Millions of Iranians voted on Friday in a contest set to hand the presidency to a hardline judge, who is subject to US&nbsp;sanctions, though anger over economic hardship and curbs on freedoms mean many will heed calls for a boycott. 
 
Senior officials appealed for a large turnout in an election widely seen as a referendum on their handling of the economy, including rising prices and unemployment and a collapse in the value of its currency. 
 
"I urge everyone with any political view to vote," judiciary head Ebrahim Raisi, the front-runner in the contest, said after casting his ballot. 
 
"Our people's grievances over shortcomings are real, but if it is the reason for not participating, then it is wrong." 
 
While state television showed long queues at polling stations in several cities, the semi-official Fars news agency reported 22 million or 37% of voters had cast ballots by 7:30 pm&nbsp;(1500 GMT), citing its own reporter. The interior ministry said it could not confirm turnout figures. 
 
State television said voting officially ended at 1930 GMT. However, the interior ministry said voting had been extended for two hours in some polling stations across the country to allow latecomers to cast ballots. 
 
The final results are expected to be announced by mid-day on Saturday. 
 
After voting in the capital Tehran, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei urged Iranians follow suit, saying 'each vote counts ... come and vote and choose your president'. 
 
Raisi, 60, is backed by security hawks in his bid to succeed Hassan Rouhani, a pragmatist prevented under the constitution from serving a third four-year term in the post, which runs the government day-to-day and reports to Khamenei. 
 
Supported by the powerful Revolutionary Guards Corps, Raisi, a close Khamenei ally, who vows to fight corruption, is under US&nbsp;sanctions for alleged involvement in executions of political prisoners decades ago. 
 
Voters expressed mixed views. 
 
Maryam, 52, a hairdresser in Karaj near Tehran, said she would not vote because "I have lost confidence in the system." 
 
"Every time I voted in the past, I had hope that my living standard would improve. But I lost hope when I saw the highest official in the country wasn't brave enough to resign when he couldn't make things better," she said, referring to Rouhani. 
 
Asked which candidate he preferred, Mohammad, 32, at a polling station in a hamlet in southern Iran, replied: "To be honest none of them, but our representative in parliament says we should vote for Raisi so that everything will improve."

(With inputs from agencies)

Millions of Iranians voted on Friday in a contest set to hand the presidency to a hardline judge, who is subject to US sanctions, though anger over economic hardship and curbs on freedoms mean many will heed calls for a boycott.

Millions of Iranians voted on Friday in a contest set to hand the presidency to a hardline judge, who is subject to US sanctions, though anger over economic hardship and curbs on freedoms mean many will heed calls for a boycott. Senior officials appealed for a large turnout in an election widely seen as a referendum on their handling of the economy, including rising prices and unemployment and a collapse in the value of its currency. "I urge everyone with any political view to vote," judiciary head Ebrahim Raisi, the front-runner in the contest, said after casting his ballot. "Our people's grievances over shortcomings are real, but if it is the reason for not participating, then it is wrong." While state television showed long queues at polling stations in several cities, the semi-official Fars news agency reported 22 million or 37% of voters had cast ballots by 7:30 pm (1500 GMT), citing its own reporter. The interior ministry said it could not confirm turnout figures. State television said voting officially ended at 1930 GMT. However, the interior ministry said voting had been extended for two hours in some polling stations across the country to allow latecomers to cast ballots. The final results are expected to be announced by mid-day on Saturday. After voting in the capital Tehran, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei urged Iranians follow suit, saying 'each vote counts ... come and vote and choose your president'. Raisi, 60, is backed by security hawks in his bid to succeed Hassan Rouhani, a pragmatist prevented under the constitution from serving a third four-year term in the post, which runs the government day-to-day and reports to Khamenei. Supported by the powerful Revolutionary Guards Corps, Raisi, a close Khamenei ally, who vows to fight corruption, is under US sanctions for alleged involvement in executions of political prisoners decades ago. Voters expressed mixed views. Maryam, 52, a hairdresser in Karaj near Tehran, said she would not vote because "I have lost confidence in the system." "Every time I voted in the past, I had hope that my living standard would improve. But I lost hope when I saw the highest official in the country wasn't brave enough to resign when he couldn't make things better," she said, referring to Rouhani. Asked which candidate he preferred, Mohammad, 32, at a polling station in a hamlet in southern Iran, replied: "To be honest none of them, but our representative in parliament says we should vote for Raisi so that everything will improve." (With inputs from agencies)

Judge under US sanctions set to take over Iran presidency

The United States will ship 2.5 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to Taiwan on Saturday, a senior administration official told Reuters, more than tripling Washington's previous allocation of shots for the island, which has faced increasing political and military pressure from China.

Washington, competing with Beijing to deepen geopolitical clout through so-called "vaccine diplomacy", initially had promised to donate 750,000 doses to Taiwan, but is increasing that number as President Joe Biden's administration advances its pledge to send 80 million US-made shots around the world.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-to-get-750000-covid-19-vaccine-shots-from-us-389683">Taiwan to get 750,000 COVID-19 vaccine shots from US</a>

China, which considers Taiwan an integral part of its territory, has repeatedly offered to send coronavirus vaccines to the island, which has been battling a spike in domestic infections. Taipei has expressed concern about the safety of Chinese shots.

The 2.5 million donated doses of the Moderna Inc vaccine will leave Memphis, Tennessee, on a flight belonging to Taiwan's China Airlines early on Saturday and arrive in Taipei on Sunday evening, the senior US administration official said, adding that the prompt delivery was due to experts from both sides being able to work out regulatory issues.

"We are not allocating these doses, or delivering these doses, based on political or economic conditions. We are donating these vaccines with the singular objective of saving lives," the official said.

"Our vaccines do not come with strings attached," the official said, adding Taiwan had "faced unfair challenges in its efforts to acquire vaccines on the global marketplace."

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/if-china-takes-taiwan-its-all-over-haley-urges-us-to-act-strongly-392335/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A deal for Taiwan to purchase vaccines from Germany's BioNTech SE fell through this year, with Taiwan's government blaming pressure from Beijing.

China has denied the accusation, saying Taiwan is free to obtain the vaccines through Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Group Co Ltd, which has a contract to sell BioNTech's vaccine in China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan.

"We believe that these attempts by China to block purchases, for political purposes, are reprehensible," the senior Biden administration official said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-wants-german-vaccines-china-may-be-standing-in-its-way-392037">Taiwan wants German vaccines. China may be standing in its way.</a>

Taiwan is trying to speed up the arrival of the millions of vaccines it has on order, although infections remain comparatively low despite a rise in domestic cases. Only around 6 per cent&nbsp;of Taiwan's 23.5 million people have received at least one shot of a vaccine regimen.

The US shipment comes when Washington has been working with Taipei to create secure supply chains for strategic items such as computer chips, of which Taiwan is a key producer vital for US automobile manufacturers and other industries.

It also comes after Taiwan announced on Friday that it will allow Terry Gou, the billionaire founder of Taiwan's Foxconn and semiconductor giant TSMC, to negotiate on its behalf for COVID-19 vaccines.

On Thursday, Jonathan Fritz, a senior State Department official, said that China had been "very aggressively using vaccine donations as a lever to induce more of Taiwan's diplomatic partners to switch recognition."

Beijing has steadily whittled down the number of Taiwan's diplomatic allies, which now stands at just 15 countries.

The United States, which like most countries has no formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, has watched with alarm the stepped-up tensions with Beijing and Biden's administration has vowed to boost ties with the island, which it is required under US law to supply with the means of defence.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-massed-plane-incursion-near-taiwan-china-says-must-respond-to-collusion-391791">After massed plane incursion near Taiwan, China says must respond to 'collusion'</a>

This week, Taiwan reported the largest incursion yet by China's air force, including fighters and nuclear-capable bombers, into its air defence identification zone.

The United States will ship 2.5 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to Taiwan on Saturday, a senior administration official told Reuters, more than tripling Washington's previous allocation of shots for the island, which has faced increasing political and military pressure from China.

The United States will ship 2.5 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to Taiwan on Saturday, a senior administration official told Reuters, more than tripling Washington's previous allocation of shots for the island, which has faced increasing political and military pressure from China. Washington, competing with Beijing to deepen geopolitical clout through so-called "vaccine diplomacy", initially had promised to donate 750,000 doses to Taiwan, but is increasing that number as President Joe Biden's administration advances its pledge to send 80 million US-made shots around the world. Also read | Taiwan to get 750,000 COVID-19 vaccine shots from US China, which considers Taiwan an integral part of its territory, has repeatedly offered to send coronavirus vaccines to the island, which has been battling a spike in domestic infections. Taipei has expressed concern about the safety of Chinese shots. The 2.5 million donated doses of the Moderna Inc vaccine will leave Memphis, Tennessee, on a flight belonging to Taiwan's China Airlines early on Saturday and arrive in Taipei on Sunday evening, the senior US administration official said, adding that the prompt delivery was due to experts from both sides being able to work out regulatory issues. "We are not allocating these doses, or delivering these doses, based on political or economic conditions. We are donating these vaccines with the singular objective of saving lives," the official said. "Our vaccines do not come with strings attached," the official said, adding Taiwan had "faced unfair challenges in its efforts to acquire vaccines on the global marketplace." A deal for Taiwan to purchase vaccines from Germany's BioNTech SE fell through this year, with Taiwan's government blaming pressure from Beijing. China has denied the accusation, saying Taiwan is free to obtain the vaccines through Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Group Co Ltd, which has a contract to sell BioNTech's vaccine in China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan. "We believe that these attempts by China to block purchases, for political purposes, are reprehensible," the senior Biden administration official said. Also read | Taiwan wants German vaccines. China may be standing in its way. Taiwan is trying to speed up the arrival of the millions of vaccines it has on order, although infections remain comparatively low despite a rise in domestic cases. Only around 6 per cent of Taiwan's 23.5 million people have received at least one shot of a vaccine regimen. The US shipment comes when Washington has been working with Taipei to create secure supply chains for strategic items such as computer chips, of which Taiwan is a key producer vital for US automobile manufacturers and other industries. It also comes after Taiwan announced on Friday that it will allow Terry Gou, the billionaire founder of Taiwan's Foxconn and semiconductor giant TSMC, to negotiate on its behalf for COVID-19 vaccines. On Thursday, Jonathan Fritz, a senior State Department official, said that China had been "very aggressively using vaccine donations as a lever to induce more of Taiwan's diplomatic partners to switch recognition." Beijing has steadily whittled down the number of Taiwan's diplomatic allies, which now stands at just 15 countries. The United States, which like most countries has no formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, has watched with alarm the stepped-up tensions with Beijing and Biden's administration has vowed to boost ties with the island, which it is required under US law to supply with the means of defence. Also read | After massed plane incursion near Taiwan, China says must respond to 'collusion' This week, Taiwan reported the largest incursion yet by China's air force, including fighters and nuclear-capable bombers, into its air defence identification zone.

Exclusive: US triples vaccines for Taiwan with 2.5 million-dose shipment

The&nbsp;Pentagon&nbsp;said Friday it was cutting the number of troops and air defence units deployed to the Middle East, confirming a Wall Street Journal report that eight Patriot batteries were being moved out from the region.

The move comes as President Joe Biden's administration seeks to ease tensions with Iran after they heated up in 2019 and saw a strong escalation in the US military presence across the region.

The Wall Street Journal said the Patriot anti-missile batteries were being removed from Iraq, Kuwait, Jordan and Saudi Arabia, and that a separate anti-missile system, called THAAD, was being transferred from Saudi Arabia as well.

Each battery requires hundreds of troops and civilians to operate and support them.

Pentagon&nbsp;spokesperson Commander Jessica McNulty said that some of the units were being redeployed to other countries and some were returning to the United States for maintenance.

She would not say where the redeployed units were being moved to.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judge-under-us-sanctions-set-to-take-over-iran-presidency-392512">Also Read |&nbsp;Judge under US sanctions set to take over Iran presidency</a>

"This decision was made in close coordination with host nations and with a clear eye on preserving our ability to meet our security commitments," she said in an email.

"We maintain a robust force posture in the region appropriate to the threat and are comfortable that these changes do not negatively impact our national security interests," McNulty said.

"We also retain the flexibility to rapidly flow forces back into the Middle East as conditions warrant."

The US military is rapidly adjusting its global footprint as it pulls out of Afghanistan entirely and sees a greater threat from China in the Asia-Pacific region.

The&nbsp;Pentagon&nbsp;also slashed its troop presence in Iraq last year to 2,500, supporting Iraqi forces in their fight against the Islamic State group.

Iran is still viewed as a major threat across the Middle East, but the Biden administration is in negotiations to restore the agreement on Tehran halting its nuclear development program, which would also see some sanctions on the country lifted.

"The Defense Department maintains tens of thousands of forces in the Middle East, representing some of our most advanced air power and maritime capabilities, in support of US national interests and our regional partnerships," McNulty said.

The Pentagon said Friday it was cutting the number of troops and air defence units deployed to the Middle East, confirming a Wall Street Journal report that eight Patriot batteries were being moved out from the region.

The Pentagon said Friday it was cutting the number of troops and air defence units deployed to the Middle East, confirming a Wall Street Journal report that eight Patriot batteries were being moved out from the region. The move comes as President Joe Biden's administration seeks to ease tensions with Iran after they heated up in 2019 and saw a strong escalation in the US military presence across the region. The Wall Street Journal said the Patriot anti-missile batteries were being removed from Iraq, Kuwait, Jordan and Saudi Arabia, and that a separate anti-missile system, called THAAD, was being transferred from Saudi Arabia as well. Each battery requires hundreds of troops and civilians to operate and support them. Pentagon spokesperson Commander Jessica McNulty said that some of the units were being redeployed to other countries and some were returning to the United States for maintenance. She would not say where the redeployed units were being moved to. Also Read | Judge under US sanctions set to take over Iran presidency "This decision was made in close coordination with host nations and with a clear eye on preserving our ability to meet our security commitments," she said in an email. "We maintain a robust force posture in the region appropriate to the threat and are comfortable that these changes do not negatively impact our national security interests," McNulty said. "We also retain the flexibility to rapidly flow forces back into the Middle East as conditions warrant." The US military is rapidly adjusting its global footprint as it pulls out of Afghanistan entirely and sees a greater threat from China in the Asia-Pacific region. The Pentagon also slashed its troop presence in Iraq last year to 2,500, supporting Iraqi forces in their fight against the Islamic State group. Iran is still viewed as a major threat across the Middle East, but the Biden administration is in negotiations to restore the agreement on Tehran halting its nuclear development program, which would also see some sanctions on the country lifted. "The Defense Department maintains tens of thousands of forces in the Middle East, representing some of our most advanced air power and maritime capabilities, in support of US national interests and our regional partnerships," McNulty said.

US cutting forces, missile batteries in Middle East

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has said his country needs to prepare for "both dialogue and confrontation" with the United States under President Joe Biden, state media reported Friday.

At a plenary meeting of the central committee of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea on Thursday, Kim outlined his strategy for relations with Washington, and the "policy tendency of the newly emerged US administration", the Korean Central News Agency said.

Kim "stressed the need to get prepared for both dialogue and confrontation, especially to get fully prepared for confrontation to protect the dignity of our state" and reliably guarantee a "peaceful environment", KCNA reported. 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/denuclearisation-is-the-goal-biden-moon-express-willingness-for-dialogue-with-north-korea-386632">'Denuclearisation is the goal': Biden, Moon express willingness for dialogue with North Korea</a>

The North Korean leader "called for sharply and promptly reacting to and coping with the fast-changing situation and concentrating efforts on taking stable control of the situation on the Korean peninsula", the agency said.

Pyongyang had already accused Biden of pursuing a "hostile policy" and saying it was a "big blunder" for the veteran Democrat to say he would deal with the threat posed by the North's nuclear programme "through diplomacy as well as stern deterrence". 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-accuses-the-us-of-using-spurious-diplomacy-to-cover-up-hostile-acts-382073">North Korea accuses the US of using 'spurious' diplomacy to 'cover up hostile acts'</a>

In 2019, the North said Biden should be "beaten to death with a stick".

"Calibrated" approach

Biden's predecessor Donald Trump made headlines -- but little diplomatic progress -- with a series of face-to-face meetings with Kim, a policy that Biden says he will not pursue unless the terms change dramatically.

During a visit to Washington last month by South Korean President Moon Jae-in, Biden said he "would not meet" Kim unless there was a concrete plan for negotiating on Pyongyang's nuclear arsenal.

And he made a clear criticism of Trump's chummy relationship with Kim, saying he "would not do what had been done in the recent past. I would not give him all he's looking for — international recognition".

The White House says it is now pursuing "a calibrated practical approach" -- diplomatic jargon, it seems, for being realistically low-key, while open-minded.

"We understand where previous efforts in the past had difficulties and we've tried to learn from those," a senior White House official said.

North Korea has carried out six atomic bomb tests since 2006. It is under multiple sets of international sanctions for its banned weapons programmes.

A report from US intelligence experts released in April said North Korea could resume nuclear tests this year as a way to force Biden's administration to return to the negotiating table.

Kim "may take several aggressive and potentially destabilising actions to reshape the regional security environment and drive wedges between the United States and its allies -- up to and including the resumption of nuclear weapons and intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) testing," said the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has said his country needs to prepare for "both dialogue and confrontation" with the United States under President Joe Biden, state media reported Friday.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has said his country needs to prepare for "both dialogue and confrontation" with the United States under President Joe Biden, state media reported Friday. At a plenary meeting of the central committee of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea on Thursday, Kim outlined his strategy for relations with Washington, and the "policy tendency of the newly emerged US administration", the Korean Central News Agency said. Kim "stressed the need to get prepared for both dialogue and confrontation, especially to get fully prepared for confrontation to protect the dignity of our state" and reliably guarantee a "peaceful environment", KCNA reported. Also read | 'Denuclearisation is the goal': Biden, Moon express willingness for dialogue with North Korea The North Korean leader "called for sharply and promptly reacting to and coping with the fast-changing situation and concentrating efforts on taking stable control of the situation on the Korean peninsula", the agency said. Pyongyang had already accused Biden of pursuing a "hostile policy" and saying it was a "big blunder" for the veteran Democrat to say he would deal with the threat posed by the North's nuclear programme "through diplomacy as well as stern deterrence". Also read | North Korea accuses the US of using 'spurious' diplomacy to 'cover up hostile acts' In 2019, the North said Biden should be "beaten to death with a stick". "Calibrated" approach Biden's predecessor Donald Trump made headlines -- but little diplomatic progress -- with a series of face-to-face meetings with Kim, a policy that Biden says he will not pursue unless the terms change dramatically. During a visit to Washington last month by South Korean President Moon Jae-in, Biden said he "would not meet" Kim unless there was a concrete plan for negotiating on Pyongyang's nuclear arsenal. And he made a clear criticism of Trump's chummy relationship with Kim, saying he "would not do what had been done in the recent past. I would not give him all he's looking for — international recognition". The White House says it is now pursuing "a calibrated practical approach" -- diplomatic jargon, it seems, for being realistically low-key, while open-minded. "We understand where previous efforts in the past had difficulties and we've tried to learn from those," a senior White House official said. North Korea has carried out six atomic bomb tests since 2006. It is under multiple sets of international sanctions for its banned weapons programmes. A report from US intelligence experts released in April said North Korea could resume nuclear tests this year as a way to force Biden's administration to return to the negotiating table. Kim "may take several aggressive and potentially destabilising actions to reshape the regional security environment and drive wedges between the United States and its allies -- up to and including the resumption of nuclear weapons and intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) testing," said the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.

North Korea must prepare for 'dialogue and confrontation' with the US: Kim Jong Un

This week saw US President Joe Biden engaging with world leaders on a wide range of issues. He also sat with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin for a historic summit that was closely watched across the world.

Biden and Putin hold first in-person meeting in Geneva

What are India's stakes in US-Russia relations? Will a détente between the two powers benefit India? Palki Sharma tells you 5 reasons why India will be cheering for a thaw.

Gravitas | US-Russia thaw: What does it mean for India?

Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed a controversial permit free carry gun bill into law. Residents in the US state of Texas can now carry handguns without license or training starting from September 1 this year.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott signs permit free gun carrying law

Top Pentagon leaders said that international terrorist groups like Al-Qaeda could pose a threat to the US homeland from Afghanistan within two years.

Pentagon: Terrorists could pose a threat to US in two years from Afghanistan

The US Embassy in Kabul was placed on lockdown as COVID-19 cases surge in Afghanistan. At least 114 employees have been tested positive for the coronavirus and are currently in isolation.

COVID-19 outbreak hits US Embassy in Afghanistan, 114 staffers tested positive

President Joe Biden's executive order aimed at safeguarding Americans' sensitive data would force some Chinese apps to take tougher measures to protect private information if they want to remain in the US market.

Chinese apps could face subpoenas or bans under Biden's new order

At least 1,900 U.S. military firearms were lost or stolen during the 2010s, with some resurfacing in violent crimes.

Stolen US military firearms used in violent street crimes

The United States is devoting $3.2 billion to advance development of antiviral pills for COVID-19 and other dangerous viruses that could turn into pandemics

US to spend USD 3.2 billion for antiviral pills for COVID-19

The Obamacare has survived yet another challenge after the US supreme court upheld the Affordable Care act. The decision left the entire law intact, saving healthcare coverage for millions of Americans. By a vote of 7-2, the justices ended up turning down the challenge.

US: Obamacare survives third Supreme Court challenge

The Financial Times has accused India of being the Quad's weakest link, pointing to the breakdown of vaccine supplies. With Japan labouring to the Olympics and US hitting 600,000 Covid deaths, why has India been singled out? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Western press calls India Quad's weakest link

Many multinationals' websites have been experiencing online outages around the world, according to the monitoring&nbsp;site Downdetector.

They include the websites of major US Airlines companies like Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, American Airlines and Delta Air Lines.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/several-global-media-websites-go-down-white-house-uk-govt-sites-go-dark-too-390160">Also read: Several global media websites go down; White House, UK govt sites go dark too</a> 
 
According to Downdetector, over a thousand user complaints showed problems with Southwest Airlines, with over 400 user complaints indicating the same for Delta Air Lines. For the other two airlines, the figure was roughly 300.&nbsp;

Major Australian banks have also reported problems with their websites and mobile apps. The companies stated that they were looking into the situation right now.&nbsp; 
 
The Commonwealth Bank, Westpac, and ANZ and Virgin Australia all tweeted about the disruptions.

A range of banks was scrambling to determine the source of an outage that was impacting internet banking and access to online apps across the country.

"We understand that some of our customers are currently experiencing issues accessing our services," the country's largest financial firm Commonwealth Bank told AFP. "This issue is affecting multiple organizations, including many of the major banks."

The outages in Australia began around 2:10 p.m. local time (0510 GMT), according to Downdetector. 
 
Earlier on June 8, the websites of global media organisations including The Guardian newspaper, Financial Times of London and CNN international went down. All the pages showed 'error 503' for several minutes. The UK government's website gov. The UK had also gone down. Reports said the BBC website had also gone down but returned later.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Many multinationals' websites have been experiencing online outages around the world, according to the monitoring site Downdetector. They include the websites of major US Airlines companies like Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, American Airlines and Delta Air Lines.

Many multinationals' websites have been experiencing online outages around the world, according to the monitoring site Downdetector. They include the websites of major US Airlines companies like Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, American Airlines and Delta Air Lines. Also read: Several global media websites go down; White House, UK govt sites go dark too According to Downdetector, over a thousand user complaints showed problems with Southwest Airlines, with over 400 user complaints indicating the same for Delta Air Lines. For the other two airlines, the figure was roughly 300. Major Australian banks have also reported problems with their websites and mobile apps. The companies stated that they were looking into the situation right now. The Commonwealth Bank, Westpac, and ANZ and Virgin Australia all tweeted about the disruptions. A range of banks was scrambling to determine the source of an outage that was impacting internet banking and access to online apps across the country. "We understand that some of our customers are currently experiencing issues accessing our services," the country's largest financial firm Commonwealth Bank told AFP. "This issue is affecting multiple organizations, including many of the major banks." The outages in Australia began around 2:10 p.m. local time (0510 GMT), according to Downdetector. Earlier on June 8, the websites of global media organisations including The Guardian newspaper, Financial Times of London and CNN international went down. All the pages showed 'error 503' for several minutes. The UK government's website gov. The UK had also gone down. Reports said the BBC website had also gone down but returned later. (With inputs from agencies)

Many US airlines and Australian banks hit by online outage

us-1

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

us 1