Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to US President Joe Biden on the evolving COVID situation in the country. PM Modi conveyed the support and discussed India's requirement and US efforts to meet them amid the ongoing pandemic.

Indian PM Modi speaks with Biden over phone after US lifts unofficial embargo

The United States and the European Union on Monday rejected the idea of redrawing borders in the Western Balkans.

A proposal was reportedly making the rounds among EU&nbsp;officials proposing to break up Bosnia and to merge Kosovo with Albania. According to Reuters, the document also proposed incorporating parts of Bosnia into Serbia as well as Croatia to assist the region's integration into the European Union.

The authenticity of the note has been verified by officials yet and no country has claimed it so far. Bosnia was alarmed by the discussion, for the country had witnessed ethnic conflicts two decades ago.

"We are absolutely not in favour of any changes in borders," European Commission Chief Spokesman Eric Mamer said during a news conference. The US, too warned that changing the borders could cause further tensions in the region.

"Recent unwarranted speculation about changing borders in the Balkans along ethnic lines risks fostering instability in the region and evokes memories of past tensions," US&nbsp;State Department's spokesman Ned Price said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/eu-set-to-let-vaccinated-us-tourists-visit-this-summer-380444" hreflang="en">EU set to let vaccinated US tourists visit this summer</a>

Out of the former Yugoslav republics, two have joined the EU so far - Croatia and Slovenia. Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Albania, Bosnia, and Kosovo also hope to join the bloc eventually.

The EU has urged the countries to settle their conflicts and to foster democracy before thinking of joining the Union. But the EU sees the region's importance, where Russia and China are quickly expanding their influence.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Monday held talks with Serbian President Alexander Vucic in Brussels and said that the bloc wants to see "positive developments in rule of law" in Serbia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/eu-blames-china-for-endangering-peace-in-south-china-sea-380016" hreflang="en">EU blames China for endangering peace in South China Sea</a>

Among other things, both of them discussed Belgrade's interaction with Kosovo, which used to be a part of Serbia. Kosovo's independence is not recognised by multiple EU countries - including Spain.

The representatives of North Macedonia and Kosovo are also set to set foot in Brussels later this week.

Von der Leyen also extended support to the construction of a railway line between Belgrade and North Macedonia, hoping to formally begin membership negotiations with the European Union which were stalled last year after a veto from Bulgaria.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States and the European Union on Monday rejected the idea of redrawing borders in the Western Balkans. A proposal was reportedly making the rounds among EU officials proposing to break up Bosnia and to merge Kosovo with Albania.

The United States and the European Union on Monday rejected the idea of redrawing borders in the Western Balkans. A proposal was reportedly making the rounds among EU officials proposing to break up Bosnia and to merge Kosovo with Albania. According to Reuters, the document also proposed incorporating parts of Bosnia into Serbia as well as Croatia to assist the region's integration into the European Union. The authenticity of the note has been verified by officials yet and no country has claimed it so far. Bosnia was alarmed by the discussion, for the country had witnessed ethnic conflicts two decades ago. "We are absolutely not in favour of any changes in borders," European Commission Chief Spokesman Eric Mamer said during a news conference. The US, too warned that changing the borders could cause further tensions in the region. "Recent unwarranted speculation about changing borders in the Balkans along ethnic lines risks fostering instability in the region and evokes memories of past tensions," US State Department's spokesman Ned Price said. Also read: EU set to let vaccinated US tourists visit this summer Out of the former Yugoslav republics, two have joined the EU so far - Croatia and Slovenia. Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Albania, Bosnia, and Kosovo also hope to join the bloc eventually. The EU has urged the countries to settle their conflicts and to foster democracy before thinking of joining the Union. But the EU sees the region's importance, where Russia and China are quickly expanding their influence. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Monday held talks with Serbian President Alexander Vucic in Brussels and said that the bloc wants to see "positive developments in rule of law" in Serbia. Also read: EU blames China for endangering peace in South China Sea Among other things, both of them discussed Belgrade's interaction with Kosovo, which used to be a part of Serbia. Kosovo's independence is not recognised by multiple EU countries - including Spain. The representatives of North Macedonia and Kosovo are also set to set foot in Brussels later this week. Von der Leyen also extended support to the construction of a railway line between Belgrade and North Macedonia, hoping to formally begin membership negotiations with the European Union which were stalled last year after a veto from Bulgaria. (With inputs from agencies)

US, EU reject proposal to redraw borders in the Western Balkans

With COVID-19 numbers dropping, officials in the nation's capital are relaxing a number of restrictions after more than a year of lockdown.

The changes represent a step toward normality for Washington&nbsp;DC, residents and long-term hope for the city's vital tourism and convention industry, which has been devastated by the pandemic.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="US will 'immediately' send vaccine components, medical supplies to India, says Biden">US will 'immediately' send vaccine components, medical supplies to India, says Biden</a>

Mayor Muriel Bowser announced on Monday that starting on May 1, gyms and fitness centers can operate at 50 per cent capacity, and live music will be permitted in gardens and outdoor spaces. Restaurants will be permitted to seat 10 people per table outdoors, up from the previous limit of six per table. However, the 25 per cent capacity limit for indoor dining will remain unchanged for now.

Retail businesses can increase admittance from 25 per cent to 50 per cent capacity. Houses of worship can increase to 40 per cent capacity, though Bowser said the government was still encouraging residents to attend virtual or outdoor services for now.

Earlier in April, Bowser had announced some other changes that will also take effect in May. These include allowing entertainment venues like concert halls and movie theaters to increase to 25 per cent capacity and allowing public pools to open this summer at 50 per cent capacity.

The Smithsonian network of museums had previously announced that several museums and the National Zoo will reopen on a staggered schedule over several weeks during the month of May. The National Air and Space Museum's Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia, will reopen on May 5.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture, National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian American Art Museum and Renwick Gallery will reopen on May 14.

The National Museum of American History, National Museum of the American Indian and the National Zoo will reopen on May 21.

All Smithsonian facilities will required timed entry passes to limit the crowds; the passes are free and available from the Smithsonian website.

As of Monday, Washington's daily infection rate has dropped to 14 cases per 100,000, the lowest number since last fall.

But Bowser still preached caution, saying residents needed to remain patient as the vaccination programme continued.

The way we get open is to crush the virus and get people vaccinated,&nbsp;she said. So we're trying to do all of those things&nbsp;moderate the restrictions where they're warranted and safe, but really focus on crushing those numbers of infections and getting people vaccinated.

Bowser said that approximately 237,000 residents had received at least one vaccine dose, out of about 500,000 adults in the District of Columbia. The government will also begin offering vaccinations to residents as young as 16, she said.

City Health Director Dr&nbsp;LaQuandra Nesbitt acknowledged that vaccine reluctance remained an issue, but called on residents to encourage skeptical friends and relatives to take the step.

It's time for people to start having talks with their friends and say, Hey, we're not hanging out with you unless you get vaccinated, Nesbitt said.

With COVID-19 numbers dropping, officials in the nation's capital are relaxing a number of restrictions after more than a year of lockdown. The changes represent a step toward normality for Washington DC, residents and long-term hope for the city's vital tourism and convention industry, which has been devastated by the pandemic.

With COVID-19 numbers dropping, officials in the nation's capital are relaxing a number of restrictions after more than a year of lockdown. The changes represent a step toward normality for Washington DC, residents and long-term hope for the city's vital tourism and convention industry, which has been devastated by the pandemic. Also Read: US will 'immediately' send vaccine components, medical supplies to India, says Biden Mayor Muriel Bowser announced on Monday that starting on May 1, gyms and fitness centers can operate at 50 per cent capacity, and live music will be permitted in gardens and outdoor spaces. Restaurants will be permitted to seat 10 people per table outdoors, up from the previous limit of six per table. However, the 25 per cent capacity limit for indoor dining will remain unchanged for now. Retail businesses can increase admittance from 25 per cent to 50 per cent capacity. Houses of worship can increase to 40 per cent capacity, though Bowser said the government was still encouraging residents to attend virtual or outdoor services for now. Earlier in April, Bowser had announced some other changes that will also take effect in May. These include allowing entertainment venues like concert halls and movie theaters to increase to 25 per cent capacity and allowing public pools to open this summer at 50 per cent capacity. The Smithsonian network of museums had previously announced that several museums and the National Zoo will reopen on a staggered schedule over several weeks during the month of May. The National Air and Space Museum's Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia, will reopen on May 5. The National Museum of African American History and Culture, National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian American Art Museum and Renwick Gallery will reopen on May 14. The National Museum of American History, National Museum of the American Indian and the National Zoo will reopen on May 21. All Smithsonian facilities will required timed entry passes to limit the crowds; the passes are free and available from the Smithsonian website. As of Monday, Washington's daily infection rate has dropped to 14 cases per 100,000, the lowest number since last fall. But Bowser still preached caution, saying residents needed to remain patient as the vaccination programme continued. The way we get open is to crush the virus and get people vaccinated, she said. So we're trying to do all of those things moderate the restrictions where they're warranted and safe, but really focus on crushing those numbers of infections and getting people vaccinated. Bowser said that approximately 237,000 residents had received at least one vaccine dose, out of about 500,000 adults in the District of Columbia. The government will also begin offering vaccinations to residents as young as 16, she said. City Health Director Dr LaQuandra Nesbitt acknowledged that vaccine reluctance remained an issue, but called on residents to encourage skeptical friends and relatives to take the step. It's time for people to start having talks with their friends and say, Hey, we're not hanging out with you unless you get vaccinated, Nesbitt said.

Washington DC, to loosen virus restrictions this weekend

US Homeland Security Department on Monday announced an internal review focusing on the threat of violent extremism from within the agency. The review will be undertaken by senior officials of the department immediately with the goal to detect and prevent extremism from within the agency.

In addition, it will also assess ways to respond to extremism. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) looks after an array of matters for US including the Coast Guard and is also responsible for enforcing immigration organisations.

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The DHS was formed in response to the 9/11 attacks on the US, and refers to domestic violent extremism as the “most lethal and persistent terrorism-related threat” facing the country, news agency AP said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/heavy-metal-guitarist-becomes-first-suspect-to-plead-guilty-for-us-capitol-riots-378156" hreflang="en">Heavy metal guitarist becomes first suspect to plead guilty for US Capitol riots</a>

“As we work to safeguard our nation, we must be vigilant in our efforts to identify and combat domestic violent extremism within both the broader community and our own organization," Secretary Mayorkas said.

As part of this move, the department will issue new guidelines for reporting internal threats of extremism. The Capitol riots which shook the US in January have awoken the authorities to the threats faced by the country from within.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/probe-of-deadly-jan-6-attack-turns-to-us-capitol-police-inspector-general-377797" hreflang="en">Probe of deadly Jan 6 attack turns to US Capitol police inspector general</a>

In February 2021, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin urged military leaders to speak to their peers about extremism after many former and current members were found to have taken part in the in the January insurrection attempts.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Homeland Security Department on Monday announced an internal review focusing on the threat of violent extremism from within the agency. The review will be undertaken by senior officials of the department immediately with the goal to detect and prevent extremism from within the agency.

US Homeland Security Department on Monday announced an internal review focusing on the threat of violent extremism from within the agency. The review will be undertaken by senior officials of the department immediately with the goal to detect and prevent extremism from within the agency. In addition, it will also assess ways to respond to extremism. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) looks after an array of matters for US including the Coast Guard and is also responsible for enforcing immigration organisations. The DHS was formed in response to the 9/11 attacks on the US, and refers to domestic violent extremism as the “most lethal and persistent terrorism-related threat” facing the country, news agency AP said. Also read: Heavy metal guitarist becomes first suspect to plead guilty for US Capitol riots “As we work to safeguard our nation, we must be vigilant in our efforts to identify and combat domestic violent extremism within both the broader community and our own organization," Secretary Mayorkas said. As part of this move, the department will issue new guidelines for reporting internal threats of extremism. The Capitol riots which shook the US in January have awoken the authorities to the threats faced by the country from within. Also read: Probe of deadly Jan 6 attack turns to US Capitol police inspector general In February 2021, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin urged military leaders to speak to their peers about extremism after many former and current members were found to have taken part in the in the January insurrection attempts. (With inputs from agencies)

US Department of Homeland Security launches internal review to tackle extremism

Los Angeles police officer shot a man who was wearing body Armour after he backed his vehicle into a police car and confronted the officers. The man was then struck by gunfire and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Los Angeles police shot man wearing body Armour after confrontation

According to reports, Russian President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart Joe Biden may meet in June. Putin's top foreign policy adviser, Yuri Ushakov, said a firm decision on the meeting has not been taken yet.

Reports say Putin and Biden may meet in June

US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have assured India of providing all assistance, including life-saving medical supplies and equipment, to help the country combat the deadly COVID-19 crisis.

US assures help to COVID-hit India after facing backlash

Biden, Harris offer India support  in fight against COVID-19 amid criticism

Air India will bring around 600 oxygen concentrators on its two US-India flights in the next two days, aviation industry sources said on Sunday.&nbsp;

These oxygen concentrators have been ordered by private entities, the sources mentioned.&nbsp;

Various hospitals across the country continue to grapple with a severe shortage of medical oxygen on Sunday even after receiving emergency supplies.&nbsp;

Twenty people died at Delhi's Jaipur Golden Hospital on Saturday, amid a shortage of oxygen.&nbsp;

Sources said Air India plans to bring around 10,000 oxygen concentrators for private entities in the coming weeks.&nbsp;

When asked about this matter, Air India spokesperson said the airline is prepared to shoulder the responsibility of carrying oxygen concentrators or any consignment into India.&nbsp;

"Obviously, Air India with its experience of international operations and wide-body fleet is fully capable of carrying a large volume of cargo consignments," the spokesperson mentioned.&nbsp;

"It goes without saying that we will continue to play a major role in transporting oxygen (equipment) and serve our nation in whatever role assigned to us," the spokesperson said.&nbsp;

A record single-day rise of 3,46,786 coronavirus cases pushed India's tally of infection to 1,66,10,481, while active cases crossed the 25-lakh mark, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Saturday.&nbsp;

The death toll rose to 1,89,544 with a record 2,624 more fatalities in a day, the data updated at 8 am showed. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Air India will bring around 600 oxygen concentrators on its two US-India flights in the next two days, aviation industry sources said on Sunday. These oxygen concentrators have been ordered by private entities, the sources mentioned.

Air India will bring around 600 oxygen concentrators on its two US-India flights in the next two days, aviation industry sources said on Sunday. These oxygen concentrators have been ordered by private entities, the sources mentioned. Various hospitals across the country continue to grapple with a severe shortage of medical oxygen on Sunday even after receiving emergency supplies. Twenty people died at Delhi's Jaipur Golden Hospital on Saturday, amid a shortage of oxygen. Sources said Air India plans to bring around 10,000 oxygen concentrators for private entities in the coming weeks. When asked about this matter, Air India spokesperson said the airline is prepared to shoulder the responsibility of carrying oxygen concentrators or any consignment into India. "Obviously, Air India with its experience of international operations and wide-body fleet is fully capable of carrying a large volume of cargo consignments," the spokesperson mentioned. "It goes without saying that we will continue to play a major role in transporting oxygen (equipment) and serve our nation in whatever role assigned to us," the spokesperson said. A record single-day rise of 3,46,786 coronavirus cases pushed India's tally of infection to 1,66,10,481, while active cases crossed the 25-lakh mark, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Saturday. The death toll rose to 1,89,544 with a record 2,624 more fatalities in a day, the data updated at 8 am showed.

Air India to bring 600 oxygen concentrators from US in next two days for private entities 

EU, US, Denmark have extended support to India with UK sending more than 600 pieces of vital medical equipment to deal with the surging covid cases. The 600 pieces include ventilators and oxygen concentrator devices sent from the UK today and will be arriving in India early on Tuesday morning.&nbsp;

“We stand side by side with India" UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said, "as a friend and partner during what is a deeply concerning time in the fight against Covid-19", adding, “Vital medical equipment, including hundreds of oxygen concentrators and ventilators, is now on its way from the UK to India to support efforts to prevent the tragic loss of life from this terrible virus."&nbsp;

In all, UK will send nine airline container loads of supplies, including 495 oxygen concentrators, that can extract Oxygen from the air, 120 non-invasive ventilators, and 20 manual ventilators this week.&nbsp;

UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said, “We are supporting our Indian friends with vital medical equipment at a difficult time for them in this pandemic". &nbsp;

India has reported over three lakh Covid cases in the last few days, with cities like Delhi and Mumbai badly impacted. Several hospitals in the national capital have been sending SOS as oxygen supplies deplete putting the lives of patients in danger. &nbsp;

Earlier in the day, the European Union announced that it is activating its 'civil protection mechanism' to provide assistance to India like Oxygen and medicine. "Upon request for assistance by India", Janez Lenarčič European Commissioner for Crisis Management said," We have activated the EU Civil Protection Mechanism (ERCC). The EU will do its utmost to mobilise assistance to support people of India". &nbsp;

President of the European commission Ursula von der Leyen seconded that tweeting, "The EU is pooling resources to respond rapidly to India’s request for assistance via the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. We stand in full solidarity with the Indian people."&nbsp;

Other countries in Europe like Denmark, France, Germany are also extending support. Denmark's envoy to Delhi Freddy Svane tells WION, "We are working closely with MEA to assist India with whatever is required. That’s what friends are about”.&nbsp;

Chancellor Angela Merkel on Sunday announced that her country is preparing urgent support for India to deal with the ongoing Covid pandemic. She said, "To the people of India, I want to express my sympathy on the terrible suffering that COVID-19 has again brought over your communities. Germany stands in solidarity with India and is urgently preparing a mission of support."&nbsp;

Armed Forces Medical Services or AFMS will be importing 23 mobile oxygen generation plants from Germany. These plants will be deployed in AFMS hospitals catering to Covid patients. From Germany, containers are also being imported. &nbsp;

After much criticism over not allowing the import of raw material for manufacturing of covid vaccines in India, top officials of the US Govt also extended support to India. US secretary of state Antony Blinken in a tweet-statement said, "Our hearts go out to the Indian people in the midst of the horrific COVID-19 outbreak. We are working closely with our partners in the Indian government, and we will rapidly deploy additional support to the people of India and India's healthcare heroes." &nbsp;

US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, in a near-simultaneous tweet, said, "The US is deeply concerned by the severe COVID outbreak in India. We are working around the clock to deploy more supplies and support to our friends and partners in India as they bravely battle this pandemic. More very soon."&nbsp;

US is expected to announce its support to India soon, though a big focus remains on when it lifts a ban on the export of covid vaccine raw material. India is the largest producer of vaccines globally, but manufacturing is being hampered due to the lack of raw material. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, India's neighbours, Afghanistan and Iran, have also extended support to New Delhi. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, foreign minister Atmar and envoy to India Farid Mamundzay all tweeted and showed solidarity for India. Afghan President said, "Our hearts go out to the Indian people and government as they fight the horrendous outbreak of Covid. On behalf of the Afghan people and government, we send our condolences to the families who lost their loved ones and wish a quick recovery to those who are suffering from the virus."&nbsp;

Iran's health minister Dr Saeed Namaki in a letter to India's health minister Dr Harsh Vardhan extended support, saying, "The government and people of Iran are ready to spare no technical assistance, expertise and equipment in these difficult days and at the height of the plight of the dear citizens of India with the COVID-19 epidemic."&nbsp;

A whole host of countries have extended solidarity with India. These are China, Pakistan, Bhutan, Solvenia, Australia, Canada, Mexico, Singapore. So far, India has been able to get four tankers from Singapore and liquid Oxygen from Saudi Arabia. More medicines from Singapore will arrive tonight.&nbsp;

EU, US, Denmark have extended support to India with UK sending more than 600 pieces of vital medical equipment to deal with the surging covid cases. The 600 pieces include ventilators and oxygen concentrator devices sent from the UK today and will be arriving in India early on Tuesday morning.

EU, US, Denmark have extended support to India with UK sending more than 600 pieces of vital medical equipment to deal with the surging covid cases. The 600 pieces include ventilators and oxygen concentrator devices sent from the UK today and will be arriving in India early on Tuesday morning. “We stand side by side with India" UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said, "as a friend and partner during what is a deeply concerning time in the fight against Covid-19", adding, “Vital medical equipment, including hundreds of oxygen concentrators and ventilators, is now on its way from the UK to India to support efforts to prevent the tragic loss of life from this terrible virus." In all, UK will send nine airline container loads of supplies, including 495 oxygen concentrators, that can extract Oxygen from the air, 120 non-invasive ventilators, and 20 manual ventilators this week. UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said, “We are supporting our Indian friends with vital medical equipment at a difficult time for them in this pandemic". India has reported over three lakh Covid cases in the last few days, with cities like Delhi and Mumbai badly impacted. Several hospitals in the national capital have been sending SOS as oxygen supplies deplete putting the lives of patients in danger. Earlier in the day, the European Union announced that it is activating its 'civil protection mechanism' to provide assistance to India like Oxygen and medicine. "Upon request for assistance by India", Janez Lenarčič European Commissioner for Crisis Management said," We have activated the EU Civil Protection Mechanism (ERCC). The EU will do its utmost to mobilise assistance to support people of India". President of the European commission Ursula von der Leyen seconded that tweeting, "The EU is pooling resources to respond rapidly to India’s request for assistance via the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. We stand in full solidarity with the Indian people." Other countries in Europe like Denmark, France, Germany are also extending support. Denmark's envoy to Delhi Freddy Svane tells WION, "We are working closely with MEA to assist India with whatever is required. That’s what friends are about”. Chancellor Angela Merkel on Sunday announced that her country is preparing urgent support for India to deal with the ongoing Covid pandemic. She said, "To the people of India, I want to express my sympathy on the terrible suffering that COVID-19 has again brought over your communities. Germany stands in solidarity with India and is urgently preparing a mission of support." Armed Forces Medical Services or AFMS will be importing 23 mobile oxygen generation plants from Germany. These plants will be deployed in AFMS hospitals catering to Covid patients. From Germany, containers are also being imported. After much criticism over not allowing the import of raw material for manufacturing of covid vaccines in India, top officials of the US Govt also extended support to India. US secretary of state Antony Blinken in a tweet-statement said, "Our hearts go out to the Indian people in the midst of the horrific COVID-19 outbreak. We are working closely with our partners in the Indian government, and we will rapidly deploy additional support to the people of India and India's healthcare heroes." US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, in a near-simultaneous tweet, said, "The US is deeply concerned by the severe COVID outbreak in India. We are working around the clock to deploy more supplies and support to our friends and partners in India as they bravely battle this pandemic. More very soon." US is expected to announce its support to India soon, though a big focus remains on when it lifts a ban on the export of covid vaccine raw material. India is the largest producer of vaccines globally, but manufacturing is being hampered due to the lack of raw material. Meanwhile, India's neighbours, Afghanistan and Iran, have also extended support to New Delhi. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, foreign minister Atmar and envoy to India Farid Mamundzay all tweeted and showed solidarity for India. Afghan President said, "Our hearts go out to the Indian people and government as they fight the horrendous outbreak of Covid. On behalf of the Afghan people and government, we send our condolences to the families who lost their loved ones and wish a quick recovery to those who are suffering from the virus." Iran's health minister Dr Saeed Namaki in a letter to India's health minister Dr Harsh Vardhan extended support, saying, "The government and people of Iran are ready to spare no technical assistance, expertise and equipment in these difficult days and at the height of the plight of the dear citizens of India with the COVID-19 epidemic." A whole host of countries have extended solidarity with India. These are China, Pakistan, Bhutan, Solvenia, Australia, Canada, Mexico, Singapore. So far, India has been able to get four tankers from Singapore and liquid Oxygen from Saudi Arabia. More medicines from Singapore will arrive tonight.

Covid Crisis: EU, UK, US, Denmark pitch in to assist India 

Turkey's foreign ministry has summoned the US Ambassador in Ankara to protest the US decision to mark the deportation and killing of Armenians during the Ottoman Empire as 'genocide’. &nbsp;

Deputy Foreign Minister Sedat Onal met with David Satterfield late on Saturday to express Ankara's strong condemnation. &nbsp;

"The statement does not have legal ground in terms of international law and has hurt the Turkish people, opening a wound that's hard to fix in our relations," the ministry said. &nbsp;

On Saturday, US President Joe Biden followed through on a campaign promise to recognise the events that began in 1915 and killed an estimated 1.5 million Ottoman Armenians as genocide. The statement was carefully crafted to say the deportations, massacres and death marches took place in the Ottoman Empire.&nbsp;

"We see that pain. We affirm the history. We do this not to cast blame but to ensure that what happened is never repeated," it said. &nbsp;

The White House proclamation immediately prompted statements of condemnation from Turkish officials, although Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is yet to address the issue. &nbsp;

Turkey rejects the use of the word, saying both Turks and Armenians were killed in the World War I-era fighting, and has called for a joint history commission to investigate. For years, American presidents have avoided using 'genocide' to describe what Armenians call Meds Yeghern, or the Great Crime. &nbsp;

The announcement comes as Turkish-American relations suffer from a host of issues. &nbsp;

The US has sanctioned Turkish defence officials and kicked Turkey out of a fighter jet programme after the NATO member bought Russian-made S400 defence system. &nbsp;

Ankara is frustrated by Washington's support of Syrian Kurdish fighters linked to an insurgency that Turkey has fought for decades. Turkey has also demanded the extradition of Fethullah Gulen, a Turkish cleric accused of orchestrating a bloody coup attempt against Erdogan's government in 2016. Gulen lives in the US and denies involvement. &nbsp;

Erdogan and Biden spoke on the phone on Friday for the first time since the US elections. &nbsp;

Ibrahim Kalin, the spokesman to the president, tweeted Sunday, "President Erdogan opened Turkey's national archives and called for a joint historical committee to investigate the events of 1915, to which Armenia never responded. It is a pity @POTUS has ignored, among others, this simple fact and taken an irresponsible and unprincipled position."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Turkey's foreign ministry has summoned the US Ambassador in Ankara to protest the US decision to mark the deportation and killing of Armenians during the Ottoman Empire as 'genocide’.

Turkey's foreign ministry has summoned the US Ambassador in Ankara to protest the US decision to mark the deportation and killing of Armenians during the Ottoman Empire as 'genocide’. Deputy Foreign Minister Sedat Onal met with David Satterfield late on Saturday to express Ankara's strong condemnation. "The statement does not have legal ground in terms of international law and has hurt the Turkish people, opening a wound that's hard to fix in our relations," the ministry said. On Saturday, US President Joe Biden followed through on a campaign promise to recognise the events that began in 1915 and killed an estimated 1.5 million Ottoman Armenians as genocide. The statement was carefully crafted to say the deportations, massacres and death marches took place in the Ottoman Empire. "We see that pain. We affirm the history. We do this not to cast blame but to ensure that what happened is never repeated," it said. The White House proclamation immediately prompted statements of condemnation from Turkish officials, although Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is yet to address the issue. Turkey rejects the use of the word, saying both Turks and Armenians were killed in the World War I-era fighting, and has called for a joint history commission to investigate. For years, American presidents have avoided using 'genocide' to describe what Armenians call Meds Yeghern, or the Great Crime. The announcement comes as Turkish-American relations suffer from a host of issues. The US has sanctioned Turkish defence officials and kicked Turkey out of a fighter jet programme after the NATO member bought Russian-made S400 defence system. Ankara is frustrated by Washington's support of Syrian Kurdish fighters linked to an insurgency that Turkey has fought for decades. Turkey has also demanded the extradition of Fethullah Gulen, a Turkish cleric accused of orchestrating a bloody coup attempt against Erdogan's government in 2016. Gulen lives in the US and denies involvement. Erdogan and Biden spoke on the phone on Friday for the first time since the US elections. Ibrahim Kalin, the spokesman to the president, tweeted Sunday, "President Erdogan opened Turkey's national archives and called for a joint historical committee to investigate the events of 1915, to which Armenia never responded. It is a pity @POTUS has ignored, among others, this simple fact and taken an irresponsible and unprincipled position." (With inputs from agencies)

Turkey summons US Ambassador over genocide announcement 

Even as the Derek Chauvin case was fresh in memory, the reading of the verdict in a Minneapolis courtroom, the shackling of the former police officer, the jubilation at what many saw as justice in the death of George Floyd, even then, blood flowed on America's streets.&nbsp;

And even then, some of that blood was shed at the hands of law enforcement.&nbsp;

At least six people were fatally shot by officers across the United States in the 24 hours after jurors reached a verdict in the murder case against Chauvin on Tuesday. The roll call of the dead is distressing: A 16-year-old girl in Columbus, Ohio. An oft-arrested man in Escondido, California. And a 42-year-old man in eastern North Carolina.&nbsp;

The deaths, in some cases, sparked new cries for justice. Some said they reflect an urgent need for radical changes to American policing, a need that the Chauvin verdict cannot bring over. For others, the shootings are a tragic reminder of the difficult and dangerous decisions law enforcement face daily.&nbsp;

An unidentified man in San Antonio. Another man, killed in the same city within hours of the first. And a 31-year-old man in central Massachusetts.&nbsp;

The circumstances surrounding each death differ widely. Some happened while officers investigated serious crimes. Police say some of the people were armed with a gun, knife or a metal pole. One man claimed to have a bomb that he threatened to detonate. In several cases, little is known about the lives of those killed and what happened in their final moments.&nbsp;

The deadly encounters are only a small snapshot of the thousands of interactions between American police officers and civilians every day, most of which end safely. Uneventful encounters between the police and the populace, however, are not an issue.&nbsp;

It's a very different story when a weapon is drawn and a life is ended.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Even as the Derek Chauvin case was fresh in memory, the reading of the verdict in a Minneapolis courtroom, the shackling of the former police officer, the jubilation at what many saw as justice in the death of George Floyd, even then, blood flowed on America's streets.

Even as the Derek Chauvin case was fresh in memory, the reading of the verdict in a Minneapolis courtroom, the shackling of the former police officer, the jubilation at what many saw as justice in the death of George Floyd, even then, blood flowed on America's streets. And even then, some of that blood was shed at the hands of law enforcement. At least six people were fatally shot by officers across the United States in the 24 hours after jurors reached a verdict in the murder case against Chauvin on Tuesday. The roll call of the dead is distressing: A 16-year-old girl in Columbus, Ohio. An oft-arrested man in Escondido, California. And a 42-year-old man in eastern North Carolina. The deaths, in some cases, sparked new cries for justice. Some said they reflect an urgent need for radical changes to American policing, a need that the Chauvin verdict cannot bring over. For others, the shootings are a tragic reminder of the difficult and dangerous decisions law enforcement face daily. An unidentified man in San Antonio. Another man, killed in the same city within hours of the first. And a 31-year-old man in central Massachusetts. The circumstances surrounding each death differ widely. Some happened while officers investigated serious crimes. Police say some of the people were armed with a gun, knife or a metal pole. One man claimed to have a bomb that he threatened to detonate. In several cases, little is known about the lives of those killed and what happened in their final moments. The deadly encounters are only a small snapshot of the thousands of interactions between American police officers and civilians every day, most of which end safely. Uneventful encounters between the police and the populace, however, are not an issue. It's a very different story when a weapon is drawn and a life is ended. (With inputs from agencies)

One verdict, then six police killings across America in 24 hours 

India is suffering a critical shortage of raw materials & accessories to make COVID-19 vaccines. But at the time of crisis US has refused to comment on lifting the on going ban on the export of vaccine raw materials to India.

US silent on lifting ban on vaccine raw materials export to India

US has approved to restart of Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine roll out after scientific advisers decided its benefits outweigh a rare risk of blood clot.

Johnson & Johnson vaccines to be restarted in US despite rare clot risk

US President Joe Biden called his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan, a day before Biden becomes the first US leader to recognise the mass atrocities perpetrated against Armenians by the Ottoman Empire as genocide.

US President Biden holds phone call with Turkey’s Erdogan

The United States House of Representatives has narrowly voted to make Washington DC the 51st state. House voted 216-208 in favor of the bill. The democratic-controlled house has approved it without republicans support so far.

US lower house votes on making Washington DC the 51st state

20-year-old Daunte Wright who died in a police shooting on 21 April, has been laid to rest. Hundreds of mourners including relatives of George Floyd and top politicians of Minnesota attended the young black man's funeral.

Daunte Wright laid to rest after Minnesota police shooting

Precious artefacts from Afghanistan’s ancient past were seized from a New York-based art dealer recently, and have now been returned to the government of Afghanistan.

A collection of 33 artefacts, the relics were seized from an art dealer who has been described as one of the most prolific smugglers of antiquities in the world.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-pakistan-turkish-ministers-to-discuss-afghan-peace-prospects-379246" hreflang="en">Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkish ministers to discuss Afghan peace prospects</a>

"The significance of the material is huge," said Roya Rahmani, Afghanistan's ambassador to the US. "Each one of these pieces are priceless depictions of our history."

These relics were handed over to Rahmani in a formal ceremony on Monday in New York in presence of the Manhattan District Attorney's office and Homeland Security Investigations.

<img alt="Afghan relics" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0828ff1e-9b4b-4f00-9d77-4ad0591c8068" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Afghan%20relics.jpg" />

The artefacts were discovered as a part of a larger investigation of antiquities trafficking from a number of countries.

After being displayed at the embassy in Washington, the artefacts are being carefully transported to Kabul. The relics, which include sculptures, masks and other precious items, will be put on display at the National Museum in Kabul.

While the Taliban has already attacked the museum once, destroying precious antiquities, this ti,e the authorities are hoping to have tight security for the precious relics.

"However, what I know is that our security forces are determined to defend our people," she told Associated Press. "The government is committed to do its part for peace and stability in a way that would bring durable peace."

Precious artefacts from Afghanistan’s ancient past were seized from a New York-based art dealer recently, and have now been returned to the government of Afghanistan.

Precious artefacts from Afghanistan’s ancient past were seized from a New York-based art dealer recently, and have now been returned to the government of Afghanistan. A collection of 33 artefacts, the relics were seized from an art dealer who has been described as one of the most prolific smugglers of antiquities in the world. Also read | Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkish ministers to discuss Afghan peace prospects "The significance of the material is huge," said Roya Rahmani, Afghanistan's ambassador to the US. "Each one of these pieces are priceless depictions of our history." These relics were handed over to Rahmani in a formal ceremony on Monday in New York in presence of the Manhattan District Attorney's office and Homeland Security Investigations. The artefacts were discovered as a part of a larger investigation of antiquities trafficking from a number of countries. After being displayed at the embassy in Washington, the artefacts are being carefully transported to Kabul. The relics, which include sculptures, masks and other precious items, will be put on display at the National Museum in Kabul. While the Taliban has already attacked the museum once, destroying precious antiquities, this ti,e the authorities are hoping to have tight security for the precious relics. "However, what I know is that our security forces are determined to defend our people," she told Associated Press. "The government is committed to do its part for peace and stability in a way that would bring durable peace."

US returns precious relics to Afghanistan after seizing from New York-based smuggler

The Russian military sent a fighter jet to escort a US reconnaissance aircraft over the Pacific Ocean as the aircraft approached the Russian border.

Interfax news reported that the Russian military sent a MiG-31 fighter jet after identifying the US Air Force craft.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-begins-withdrawing-troops-from-ukraine-borders-379476">Russia begins withdrawing troops from Ukraine border</a>

"The Russian fighter crew identified the aerial target as a US Air Force RC-135 strategic reconnaissance aircraft and escorted it over the waters of the Pacific Ocean," Interfax reported, citing the Russian Pacific Fleet.

After intercepting the aircraft, the Russian jet returned home as the US plane turned away from the Russian border.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-declares-10-day-non-working-period-in-russia-amid-coronavirus-surge-379511" hreflang="en">Putin declares 10-day 'non-working period' in Russia amid coronavirus surge</a>

The US and Russia have not been on been on best terms for the past few weeks, especially as the Presidents of the two countries have been involved in a verbal spat after Joe Biden labelled Vladimir Putin as a "killer".

Russia has, since then, reacted to the comments made by Biden and has also urged the US President to hold a discussion with Putin.

The Russian military sent a fighter jet to escort a US reconnaissance aircraft over the Pacific Ocean as the aircraft approached the Russian border. Interfax news reported that the Russian military sent a MiG-31 fighter jet after identifying the US Air Force craft.

The Russian military sent a fighter jet to escort a US reconnaissance aircraft over the Pacific Ocean as the aircraft approached the Russian border. Interfax news reported that the Russian military sent a MiG-31 fighter jet after identifying the US Air Force craft. Also read | Russia begins withdrawing troops from Ukraine border "The Russian fighter crew identified the aerial target as a US Air Force RC-135 strategic reconnaissance aircraft and escorted it over the waters of the Pacific Ocean," Interfax reported, citing the Russian Pacific Fleet. After intercepting the aircraft, the Russian jet returned home as the US plane turned away from the Russian border. Also read | Putin declares 10-day 'non-working period' in Russia amid coronavirus surge The US and Russia have not been on been on best terms for the past few weeks, especially as the Presidents of the two countries have been involved in a verbal spat after Joe Biden labelled Vladimir Putin as a "killer". Russia has, since then, reacted to the comments made by Biden and has also urged the US President to hold a discussion with Putin.

Russia sends fighter jet after identifying US 'spy plane'

US government led by President Joe Biden is mulling over options it has to decide whether to support waiver of intellectual property protections on Covid vaccines. A group of progressive Democrats met Biden and urged him to support the waiver.

In case the waiver is granted by World Trade Organisation with support from US and other countries, the rules regarding production and export of Covid vaccines and other medical goods to fight the pandemic would be eased. This may have potential to help make Covid vaccines available to all.

The waiver includes patents, copyrights and trade secrets.

The proposal for the waiver has support of India, South Africa and more than 50 other countries. Under former President Donald Trump, the US had opposed the waiver.&nbsp;

The waiver was also opposed by the European Union, UK, Japan, Switzerland, Brazil and Norway. However, it is being seen that if the US supports the waiver, opposition from the other camps would not be as fierce.

There is a growing clamour for the support of the waiver. Medical charity Doctors Without Borders/ Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) has urged all the countries to support the waiver&nbsp;

"In this COVID-19 pandemic, we are once again faced with issues of scarcity, which can be addressed through diversification of manufacturing and supply capacity and ensuring the temporary waiver of relevant intellectual property,” said Dr Maria Guevara, MSF’s International Medical Secretary.

“We urge all countries in opposition to this, including the US and the EU, to stand on the right side of history and join hands with those in support. It is about saving lives at the end, not protecting systems.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

US government led by President Joe Biden is mulling over options it has to decide whether to support waiver of intellectual property protections on Covid vaccines.

US government led by President Joe Biden is mulling over options it has to decide whether to support waiver of intellectual property protections on Covid vaccines. A group of progressive Democrats met Biden and urged him to support the waiver. In case the waiver is granted by World Trade Organisation with support from US and other countries, the rules regarding production and export of Covid vaccines and other medical goods to fight the pandemic would be eased. This may have potential to help make Covid vaccines available to all. The waiver includes patents, copyrights and trade secrets. The proposal for the waiver has support of India, South Africa and more than 50 other countries. Under former President Donald Trump, the US had opposed the waiver. The waiver was also opposed by the European Union, UK, Japan, Switzerland, Brazil and Norway. However, it is being seen that if the US supports the waiver, opposition from the other camps would not be as fierce. There is a growing clamour for the support of the waiver. Medical charity Doctors Without Borders/ Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) has urged all the countries to support the waiver "In this COVID-19 pandemic, we are once again faced with issues of scarcity, which can be addressed through diversification of manufacturing and supply capacity and ensuring the temporary waiver of relevant intellectual property,” said Dr Maria Guevara, MSF’s International Medical Secretary. “We urge all countries in opposition to this, including the US and the EU, to stand on the right side of history and join hands with those in support. It is about saving lives at the end, not protecting systems.” (With inputs from agencies)

US mulls over options on Covid vaccine patent waiver

A panel of&nbsp;US&nbsp;senators&nbsp;questioned officials from&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;Inc and Alphabet Inc's&nbsp;Google&nbsp;on Wednesday about the&nbsp;dominance&nbsp;of their mobile&nbsp;app&nbsp;stores and whether the companies abuse their power at the expense of smaller competitors.

Amy Klobuchar, the top Senate Democrat on antitrust issues, said&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;and&nbsp;Google&nbsp;can use their power to "exclude or suppress&nbsp;apps that compete with their own products" and "charge excessive fees that affect competition."

App&nbsp;makers like music streaming service Spotify Technology SA and dating services giant Match Group, which owns the Tinder&nbsp;app, have long complained that mandatory revenue sharing for sales of digital goods and strict inclusion rules set by&nbsp;Apple's&nbsp;App&nbsp;Store&nbsp;for iPhones and iPads, along with&nbsp;Google's Play&nbsp;store&nbsp;for Android devices, amount to anticompetitive behavior.

Representatives for&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;and&nbsp;Google&nbsp;told&nbsp;senators&nbsp;the companies' tight control over their&nbsp;stores and the associated revenue-sharing requirements are needed to enforce and pay for security measures to protect consumers from harmful&nbsp;apps and practices.

But when asked by Senator Josh Hawley,&nbsp;Apple's Chief Compliance Officer Kyle Andeer would not commit to spending all of the mandatory fees on security.

Explanations from Andeer and&nbsp;Google's Wilson White, senior director for government affairs, about why the companies' fees do not&nbsp;apply to Uber Technologies Inc and&nbsp;apps that sell physical goods also failed to satisfy&nbsp;senators.

"I feel like unfrozen caveman lawyer," Senator Mike Lee said. "I'm not grasping it."

Senator Richard Blumenthal expressed concern about a call Match said it received late on Tuesday from its business counterpart at&nbsp;Google.

Match's Chief Legal Officer Jared Sine said&nbsp;Google&nbsp;wanted to know why Sine's planned testimony, which had just been released, deviated from previous comments the dating company had made.

"It looks like a threat, it talks like a threat, it's a threat," Blumenthal said of the call, vowing to investigate&nbsp;Google's action further.

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Google's White said the call reflected an effort to ask an honest question and the company would never threaten partners.

In his testimony, Match's Sine argued that&nbsp;Google&nbsp;and&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;both exact an onerous 30 per cent&nbsp;of any digital transaction, raising prices for consumers.

Match pays nearly $500 million in fees to the&nbsp;app&nbsp;stores annually, the company's single largest expense, Sine said.

Spotify and Match said&nbsp;Apple's&nbsp;app&nbsp;review process was opaque. Sine said&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;blocked a safety update to the Tinder&nbsp;app&nbsp;meant to warn LGBTQ+ users if they were traveling to a country where it might be dangerous to expose their identity because&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;said the update violated the "spirit" of a new rule.

But&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;would not explain how to fix the issue, Sine said. He said that&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;approved the update two months later only after senior leaders at Match's parent company at the time, IAC/Interactivecorp, raised the issue with&nbsp;Apple's senior leaders.

The hearing came a day after&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;said it would begin selling AirTags - which can be attached to items like car keys to help users find them when they are lost - in direct competition with Tile, which has sold a similar tracking device for more than a decade.

Apple&nbsp;said its AirTags were an outgrowth of its "FindMy"&nbsp;app, which is used for locating lost&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;devices and to share user locations and was introduced in 2010, before Tile's founding.&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;last month opened its operating system up to alternative item trackers and said that Chipolo, a startup competing with Tile and AirTags, is using the system.

Tile General Counsel Kirsten Daru testified&nbsp;Apple's FindMy program is installed by default on&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;phones and cannot be deleted.

"Apple&nbsp;has once again exploited its market power and&nbsp;dominance&nbsp;to condition our customers’ access to data on effectively breaking our user experience and directing our users to FindMy," she said.

A panel of US senators questioned officials from Apple Inc and Alphabet Inc's Google on Wednesday about the dominance of their mobile app stores and whether the companies abuse their power at the expense of smaller competitors.

A panel of US senators questioned officials from Apple Inc and Alphabet Inc's Google on Wednesday about the dominance of their mobile app stores and whether the companies abuse their power at the expense of smaller competitors. Amy Klobuchar, the top Senate Democrat on antitrust issues, said Apple and Google can use their power to "exclude or suppress apps that compete with their own products" and "charge excessive fees that affect competition." App makers like music streaming service Spotify Technology SA and dating services giant Match Group, which owns the Tinder app, have long complained that mandatory revenue sharing for sales of digital goods and strict inclusion rules set by Apple's App Store for iPhones and iPads, along with Google's Play store for Android devices, amount to anticompetitive behavior. Representatives for Apple and Google told senators the companies' tight control over their stores and the associated revenue-sharing requirements are needed to enforce and pay for security measures to protect consumers from harmful apps and practices. But when asked by Senator Josh Hawley, Apple's Chief Compliance Officer Kyle Andeer would not commit to spending all of the mandatory fees on security. Explanations from Andeer and Google's Wilson White, senior director for government affairs, about why the companies' fees do not apply to Uber Technologies Inc and apps that sell physical goods also failed to satisfy senators. "I feel like unfrozen caveman lawyer," Senator Mike Lee said. "I'm not grasping it." Senator Richard Blumenthal expressed concern about a call Match said it received late on Tuesday from its business counterpart at Google. Match's Chief Legal Officer Jared Sine said Google wanted to know why Sine's planned testimony, which had just been released, deviated from previous comments the dating company had made. "It looks like a threat, it talks like a threat, it's a threat," Blumenthal said of the call, vowing to investigate Google's action further. Google's White said the call reflected an effort to ask an honest question and the company would never threaten partners. In his testimony, Match's Sine argued that Google and Apple both exact an onerous 30 per cent of any digital transaction, raising prices for consumers. Match pays nearly $500 million in fees to the app stores annually, the company's single largest expense, Sine said. Spotify and Match said Apple's app review process was opaque. Sine said Apple blocked a safety update to the Tinder app meant to warn LGBTQ+ users if they were traveling to a country where it might be dangerous to expose their identity because Apple said the update violated the "spirit" of a new rule. But Apple would not explain how to fix the issue, Sine said. He said that Apple approved the update two months later only after senior leaders at Match's parent company at the time, IAC/Interactivecorp, raised the issue with Apple's senior leaders. The hearing came a day after Apple said it would begin selling AirTags - which can be attached to items like car keys to help users find them when they are lost - in direct competition with Tile, which has sold a similar tracking device for more than a decade. Apple said its AirTags were an outgrowth of its "FindMy" app, which is used for locating lost Apple devices and to share user locations and was introduced in 2010, before Tile's founding. Apple last month opened its operating system up to alternative item trackers and said that Chipolo, a startup competing with Tile and AirTags, is using the system. Tile General Counsel Kirsten Daru testified Apple's FindMy program is installed by default on Apple phones and cannot be deleted. "Apple has once again exploited its market power and dominance to condition our customers’ access to data on effectively breaking our user experience and directing our users to FindMy," she said.

US senators question Apple and Google on app store dominance

Biden said the country is entering a new phase in its vaccination efforts as it starts to shift the focus from getting the vaccine to those most at risk to the general population.

Over 200 million Covid-19 shots administered in US: Joe Biden

US&nbsp;President Joe&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;is&nbsp;expected&nbsp;to formally&nbsp;recognise&nbsp;the&nbsp;massacre&nbsp;of&nbsp;Armenians&nbsp;by the Ottoman Empire during World War One as an act of&nbsp;genocide,&nbsp;sources&nbsp;said on Wednesday, a move likely to infuriate Turkey and further strain already frayed ties between the two NATO allies.

The move would be largely symbolic but would mean breaking away from decades of carefully calibrated language from the White House and come at a time when Ankara and Washington are already at loggerheads over a string of issues.

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Biden&nbsp;is likely going to use the word "genocide" as part of a statement on April 24 when annual commemorations for the victims are held around the world, three&nbsp;sources&nbsp;familiar with the matter said.

"My understanding is that he took the decision and will use the word&nbsp;genocide&nbsp;in his statement on Saturday," said a source familiar with the matter.&nbsp;Sources&nbsp;cautioned that given the importance of bilateral ties with Turkey,&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;may still choose not to use the term at the last minute.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki on Wednesday told reporters the White House would likely have "more to say" about the issue on Saturday, but declined to elaborate.

The State Department referred queries on the issue to the White House and National Security Council had no comment beyond what Psaki said.

A year ago, while still a presidential candidate,&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;commemorated the 1.5 million Armenian men, women, and children who lost their lives in the final years of the Ottoman Empire and said he would back efforts to&nbsp;recognize&nbsp;those killings as a&nbsp;genocide.

"Today, we remember the atrocities faced by the Armenian people in the Metz Yeghern — the Armenian&nbsp;Genocide. If elected, I pledge to support a resolution recognizing the Armenian&nbsp;Genocide&nbsp;and will make universal human rights a top priority," he said on Twitter at the time.

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Today, we remember the atrocities faced by the Armenian people in the Metz Yeghern — the Armenian Genocide. If elected, I pledge to support a resolution recognizing the Armenian Genocide and will make universal human rights a top priority. <a href="https://t.co/Afl5lMLPR3">https://t.co/Afl5lMLPR3</a>
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1253722368041607168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Turkey accepts that many&nbsp;Armenians&nbsp;living in the Ottoman Empire were killed in clashes with Ottoman forces during World War One, but contests the figures and denies the killings were systematically orchestrated and constitute a&nbsp;genocide.

For decades, measures recognizing the Armenian&nbsp;genocide&nbsp;stalled in the US&nbsp;Congress and US&nbsp;presidents have refrained from calling it that, stymied by concerns about relations with Turkey and intense lobbying by Ankara.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan had established a close bond with former US&nbsp;President Donald Trump, but he has yet to speak to&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;since he became president on Jan. 20.

While Turkish and American officials have held talks since then, the&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;administration has stepped up pressure on Turkey by frequently expressing its discontent over Ankara's human rights track record, and the gap between the two sides over a host of issues including Turkey's purchase of Russian weapons systems and policy differences in Syria remains.

Any move by&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;to&nbsp;recognize&nbsp;the mass killings as a&nbsp;genocide&nbsp;will further harm already strained ties between the NATO allies, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Tuesday.

Ian Bremmer, founder of the Eurasia Group research and consulting firm, said&nbsp;Biden's&nbsp;expected&nbsp;move reflected the deteriorating relationship between the NATO allies, but Erdogan's response would be likely limited.

"Erdogan is ... unlikely to provoke the US&nbsp;with actions that could further undermine Turkey’s weak economy," he said.

In 2019, the US&nbsp;Senate passed a non-binding resolution recognizing the killings as a&nbsp;genocide, in a historic move that deeply angered Turkey.

Representative Adam Schiff and a group of 100 bipartisan lawmakers sent a letter to&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;this week urging him to follow through on his campaign pledge and "right decades of wrongs."

US President Joe Biden is expected to formally recognise the massacre of Armenians by the Ottoman Empire during World War One as an act of genocide, sources said on Wednesday, a move likely to infuriate Turkey and further strain already frayed ties between the two NATO allies.

US President Joe Biden is expected to formally recognise the massacre of Armenians by the Ottoman Empire during World War One as an act of genocide, sources said on Wednesday, a move likely to infuriate Turkey and further strain already frayed ties between the two NATO allies. The move would be largely symbolic but would mean breaking away from decades of carefully calibrated language from the White House and come at a time when Ankara and Washington are already at loggerheads over a string of issues. Biden is likely going to use the word "genocide" as part of a statement on April 24 when annual commemorations for the victims are held around the world, three sources familiar with the matter said. "My understanding is that he took the decision and will use the word genocide in his statement on Saturday," said a source familiar with the matter. Sources cautioned that given the importance of bilateral ties with Turkey, Biden may still choose not to use the term at the last minute. White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki on Wednesday told reporters the White House would likely have "more to say" about the issue on Saturday, but declined to elaborate. The State Department referred queries on the issue to the White House and National Security Council had no comment beyond what Psaki said. A year ago, while still a presidential candidate, Biden commemorated the 1.5 million Armenian men, women, and children who lost their lives in the final years of the Ottoman Empire and said he would back efforts to recognize those killings as a genocide. "Today, we remember the atrocities faced by the Armenian people in the Metz Yeghern — the Armenian Genocide. If elected, I pledge to support a resolution recognizing the Armenian Genocide and will make universal human rights a top priority," he said on Twitter at the time. Today, we remember the atrocities faced by the Armenian people in the Metz Yeghern — the Armenian Genocide. If elected, I pledge to support a resolution recognizing the Armenian Genocide and will make universal human rights a top priority. https://t.co/Afl5lMLPR3 — Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) April 24, 2020 × Turkey accepts that many Armenians living in the Ottoman Empire were killed in clashes with Ottoman forces during World War One, but contests the figures and denies the killings were systematically orchestrated and constitute a genocide. For decades, measures recognizing the Armenian genocide stalled in the US Congress and US presidents have refrained from calling it that, stymied by concerns about relations with Turkey and intense lobbying by Ankara. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan had established a close bond with former US President Donald Trump, but he has yet to speak to Biden since he became president on Jan. 20. While Turkish and American officials have held talks since then, the Biden administration has stepped up pressure on Turkey by frequently expressing its discontent over Ankara's human rights track record, and the gap between the two sides over a host of issues including Turkey's purchase of Russian weapons systems and policy differences in Syria remains. Any move by Biden to recognize the mass killings as a genocide will further harm already strained ties between the NATO allies, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Tuesday. Ian Bremmer, founder of the Eurasia Group research and consulting firm, said Biden's expected move reflected the deteriorating relationship between the NATO allies, but Erdogan's response would be likely limited. "Erdogan is ... unlikely to provoke the US with actions that could further undermine Turkey’s weak economy," he said. In 2019, the US Senate passed a non-binding resolution recognizing the killings as a genocide, in a historic move that deeply angered Turkey. Representative Adam Schiff and a group of 100 bipartisan lawmakers sent a letter to Biden this week urging him to follow through on his campaign pledge and "right decades of wrongs."

Biden expected to recognise massacre of Armenians as genocide: Sources

The victim was taken to the hospital in critical condition and pronounced dead just before 5:30 p.m.

15-year-old girl fatally shot by police in Ohio

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