Two men were killed and a woman and a San Antonio police officer were wounded in a shootout on Friday following a routine traffic stop.&nbsp;

Around 11:30 am, an officer stopped a pickup truck containing three occupants for an undetermined reason on a street on the city's West Side, Police Chief William McManus said.&nbsp;

The officer's body camera recorded a few minutes of what appeared to be a casual conversation between the officer and the truck's occupants until the driver flashed a handgun and shot the officer in the hand, McManus said.&nbsp;

The officer returned fire while retreating, killing the male driver and a male passenger and wounding a female passenger, he said.&nbsp;

"The officer is very lucky to be alive, getting shot at that close range," McManus said.&nbsp;

None of the identities of those involved have been released. The woman was taken to a hospital, where her condition was not known.&nbsp;

The incident came one day after a man sought for shooting at busy US 281 from a northern San Antonio flyover overpass was shot and killed hours later by a police officer after the man opened fire outside a San Antonio International Airport terminal. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Two men were killed and a woman and a San Antonio police officer were wounded in a shootout on Friday following a routine traffic stop. Around 11:30 am, an officer stopped a pickup truck containing three occupants for an undetermined reason on a street on the city's West Side, Police Chief William McManus said.

Two men were killed and a woman and a San Antonio police officer were wounded in a shootout on Friday following a routine traffic stop. Around 11:30 am, an officer stopped a pickup truck containing three occupants for an undetermined reason on a street on the city's West Side, Police Chief William McManus said. The officer's body camera recorded a few minutes of what appeared to be a casual conversation between the officer and the truck's occupants until the driver flashed a handgun and shot the officer in the hand, McManus said. The officer returned fire while retreating, killing the male driver and a male passenger and wounding a female passenger, he said. "The officer is very lucky to be alive, getting shot at that close range," McManus said. None of the identities of those involved have been released. The woman was taken to a hospital, where her condition was not known. The incident came one day after a man sought for shooting at busy US 281 from a northern San Antonio flyover overpass was shot and killed hours later by a police officer after the man opened fire outside a San Antonio International Airport terminal. (With inputs from agencies)

Two killed, cop wounded in US shootout 

Before the complete withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan by September 11, there might be an increase in number of soldiers to ensure safe and orderly drawdown, the Pentagon has said.&nbsp;

"It is not out of the realm the possibility that for a short period of time, there will have to be some additional enabling capabilities added to Afghanistan, to help effect a safe, orderly, and deliberately planned drawdown of everybody by the president's deadline, early September," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby told reporters at a news conference on Friday.&nbsp;

However, Kirby did not elaborate on the nature of the increase in US troops. "I can't speak today with exactly what that would look like, how many, when they would be going in. But as we transitioned out of Iraq, of course, it's logical to assume that you may need some logistics help, maybe some engineering help," he said.&nbsp;

"You may have to add some force protection capabilities, temporarily, just to make sure that the drawdown goes in a safe, orderly, and effective way. Again, we'll know more as we get closer, but that would not be out of the realm of possibility," Kirby said.&nbsp;

Responding to a question, Kirby said that the Department of Defence is still working out what the future bilateral security relationship is going to be with Afghanistan.&nbsp;

"We're going to transition to a bilateral relationship, a military relationship that's more akin to the kinds of relationships we have with other countries," he said.&nbsp;

"It will not include a US military footprint on the ground in Afghanistan with the exception of what's going to be required to support the diplomatic mission there. All that's still being worked out. So, I can't speak with specificity today about what contract support the Afghan security forces are going to need going forward," he said.&nbsp;

The United States, he said, will maintain counterterrorism capabilities to continue to prevent Afghanistan from becoming a launching pad for terrorist attacks on the US.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Before the complete withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan by September 11, there might be an increase in number of soldiers to ensure safe and orderly drawdown, the Pentagon has said.

Before the complete withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan by September 11, there might be an increase in number of soldiers to ensure safe and orderly drawdown, the Pentagon has said. "It is not out of the realm the possibility that for a short period of time, there will have to be some additional enabling capabilities added to Afghanistan, to help effect a safe, orderly, and deliberately planned drawdown of everybody by the president's deadline, early September," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby told reporters at a news conference on Friday. However, Kirby did not elaborate on the nature of the increase in US troops. "I can't speak today with exactly what that would look like, how many, when they would be going in. But as we transitioned out of Iraq, of course, it's logical to assume that you may need some logistics help, maybe some engineering help," he said. "You may have to add some force protection capabilities, temporarily, just to make sure that the drawdown goes in a safe, orderly, and effective way. Again, we'll know more as we get closer, but that would not be out of the realm of possibility," Kirby said. Responding to a question, Kirby said that the Department of Defence is still working out what the future bilateral security relationship is going to be with Afghanistan. "We're going to transition to a bilateral relationship, a military relationship that's more akin to the kinds of relationships we have with other countries," he said. "It will not include a US military footprint on the ground in Afghanistan with the exception of what's going to be required to support the diplomatic mission there. All that's still being worked out. So, I can't speak with specificity today about what contract support the Afghan security forces are going to need going forward," he said. The United States, he said, will maintain counterterrorism capabilities to continue to prevent Afghanistan from becoming a launching pad for terrorist attacks on the US. (With inputs from agencies)

Before withdrawal, US soldiers’ number may rise in Afghanistan: Pentagon  

President Joe Biden and Japan Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga showcased the alliance between their two countries as well as their shared resolve in dealing with China as they met at the White House on Friday in Biden's first face-to-face talks with a foreign leader as president.&nbsp;

The talks featured unusually frank warnings from a Japanese leader against any effort by China to dominate the Indo-Pacific region by 'force or coercion’.&nbsp;

Suga said the visit was meant to ‘reaffirm the new and tight bond between us' as the US and Japan deal with challenges in the region.&nbsp;

Suga and Biden, who wore masks for their meeting in a visit modified by precautions against the coronavirus, were seeking to challenge messaging from Chinese President Xi Jinping that America and democracies in general are on the decline following the political turmoil and international withdrawal that marked Donald Trump's presidency.&nbsp;

In a news conference afterward in the Rose Garden, Suga made repeated references to the 'severe security environment' in East Asia, where China under Xi is exerting its economic and military strength, including with military deployments meant to assert its disputed territorial claims in the region.&nbsp;

Suga broke from past Japanese leaders on Friday by not veiling his comments about China, an important economic partner for Japan. &nbsp;

The prime minister said he and Biden held 'serious talks on China's influence over the peace and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific. We oppose any attempt to change the status quo by force or coercion.'&nbsp;

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi had warned his Japanese counterpart in a call ahead of Suga's visit to see to it that China-Japan relations 'do not get involved in the so-called confrontation between major countries,' according to a Chinese government readout.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

President Joe Biden and Japan Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga showcased the alliance between their two countries as well as their shared resolve in dealing with China as they met at the White House on Friday in Biden's first face-to-face talks with a foreign leader as president.

President Joe Biden and Japan Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga showcased the alliance between their two countries as well as their shared resolve in dealing with China as they met at the White House on Friday in Biden's first face-to-face talks with a foreign leader as president. The talks featured unusually frank warnings from a Japanese leader against any effort by China to dominate the Indo-Pacific region by 'force or coercion’. Suga said the visit was meant to ‘reaffirm the new and tight bond between us' as the US and Japan deal with challenges in the region. Suga and Biden, who wore masks for their meeting in a visit modified by precautions against the coronavirus, were seeking to challenge messaging from Chinese President Xi Jinping that America and democracies in general are on the decline following the political turmoil and international withdrawal that marked Donald Trump's presidency. In a news conference afterward in the Rose Garden, Suga made repeated references to the 'severe security environment' in East Asia, where China under Xi is exerting its economic and military strength, including with military deployments meant to assert its disputed territorial claims in the region. Suga broke from past Japanese leaders on Friday by not veiling his comments about China, an important economic partner for Japan. The prime minister said he and Biden held 'serious talks on China's influence over the peace and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific. We oppose any attempt to change the status quo by force or coercion.' Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi had warned his Japanese counterpart in a call ahead of Suga's visit to see to it that China-Japan relations 'do not get involved in the so-called confrontation between major countries,' according to a Chinese government readout. (With inputs from agencies)

US, Japan showcase alliance, resolve in dealing with aggressive China 

A top Chinese diplomat said on Friday that US Policy toward China is 'too negative' and that cooperation could be critically important as the Biden administration focuses on combatting Covid-19 and promoting economic recovery.&nbsp;

The US appears to be highlighting confrontation and playing down cooperation, Vice Foreign Minister Le Yucheng said in an interview.&nbsp;

"Such an approach, I must say, is too negative," he said, adding that it lacks ‘a forward-looking spirit’.&nbsp;

China could be a partner as Biden tackles the coronavirus and the economy, he said.&nbsp;

"To me it is hard to imagine the two priorities can be resolved without a cooperative and healthy China-US Relationship," he said.&nbsp;

Le also signaled that China is unlikely to make any new pledges at a climate change meeting called by President Joe Biden for next week. He spoke as Biden's climate envoy, John Kerry, was discussing the issue on the second day of closed-door meetings with Chinese counterparts in Shanghai.&nbsp;

Chinese President Xi Jinping announced last year that China would be carbon-neutral by 2060 and aim to reach a peak in its emissions by 2030.&nbsp;

"For a big country with 1.4 billion people, these goals are not easily delivered," Le said. "Some countries are asking China to do more on climate change. I am afraid this is not very realistic."&nbsp;

Le said he had no details on the Kerry meetings in Shanghai.&nbsp;

Biden has invited 40 world leaders, including Xi, to an April 22-23 virtual climate summit. &nbsp;

The US and other countries are expected to announce more ambitious national targets for cutting emissions and pledge financial help for climate efforts by less wealthy nations.&nbsp;

Le said that China would convey a positive message at the meeting, but added that China is responding to climate change on its own initiative, not because others asked it to. &nbsp;

On whether Xi would join the summit, Le said, "the Chinese side is actively studying the matter."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A top Chinese diplomat said on Friday that US Policy toward China is 'too negative' and that cooperation could be critically important as the Biden administration focuses on combatting Covid-19 and promoting economic recovery.

A top Chinese diplomat said on Friday that US Policy toward China is 'too negative' and that cooperation could be critically important as the Biden administration focuses on combatting Covid-19 and promoting economic recovery. The US appears to be highlighting confrontation and playing down cooperation, Vice Foreign Minister Le Yucheng said in an interview. "Such an approach, I must say, is too negative," he said, adding that it lacks ‘a forward-looking spirit’. China could be a partner as Biden tackles the coronavirus and the economy, he said. "To me it is hard to imagine the two priorities can be resolved without a cooperative and healthy China-US Relationship," he said. Le also signaled that China is unlikely to make any new pledges at a climate change meeting called by President Joe Biden for next week. He spoke as Biden's climate envoy, John Kerry, was discussing the issue on the second day of closed-door meetings with Chinese counterparts in Shanghai. Chinese President Xi Jinping announced last year that China would be carbon-neutral by 2060 and aim to reach a peak in its emissions by 2030. "For a big country with 1.4 billion people, these goals are not easily delivered," Le said. "Some countries are asking China to do more on climate change. I am afraid this is not very realistic." Le said he had no details on the Kerry meetings in Shanghai. Biden has invited 40 world leaders, including Xi, to an April 22-23 virtual climate summit. The US and other countries are expected to announce more ambitious national targets for cutting emissions and pledge financial help for climate efforts by less wealthy nations. Le said that China would convey a positive message at the meeting, but added that China is responding to climate change on its own initiative, not because others asked it to. On whether Xi would join the summit, Le said, "the Chinese side is actively studying the matter." (With inputs from agencies)

US 'too negative' towards China, says top Beijing diplomat 

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga arrived in Washington to meet President Biden. With both leaders battling domestic challenges, can they display a united front against China? WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Conflict shadow over Biden-Suga summit

American troops will leave Afghanistan by September 11. Where does that leave the peace deal? What about the role of Afghanistan's democratically elected government? What does the future hold for the people of Afghanistan? Palki Sharma Upadhyay put these questions to 3 key stakeholders: - India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar - Iran's Minister Of Foreign Affairs Mohammad Javad Zarif - Afghanistan's National Security Adviser Hamdullah Mohib

Gravitas: Is Afghanistan ready for America's exit?

President Joe Biden pledged to “do more” to address gun violence and implored Congress to act after a mass shooting in Indianapolis left eight people dead. But his administration, scrambling to respond to a new cycle of violence, rejected calls to appoint a gun czar to more forcefully confront the crisis.

At a news conference Friday with the Japanese prime minister, Biden called gun violence across the country “a national embarrassment” and urged Senate Republicans to allow a vote on a gun control bill that has already passed the House.

“This has to end,” he said. “Who in God’s name needs a weapon that can hold 100 rounds or 40 rounds or 20 rounds? It’s just wrong.”

In an earlier statement, Biden said he had been briefed on the attack in Indianapolis on Thursday, in which “a lone gunman murdered eight people and wounded several more in the dark of night.” He ordered flags lowered to half-staff just two weeks after he had given a similar directive in response to massacres in Atlanta and Boulder, Colorado.

“Gun violence is an epidemic in America,” he said. “But we should not accept it. We must act. We can, and must, do more to act and to save lives. God bless the eight fellow Americans we lost in Indianapolis and their loved ones, and we pray for the wounded for their recovery.”

His press secretary, Jen Psaki, rejected suggestions that Biden appoint a gun czar, similar to the position he created to address the climate crisis. The White House argued that the main impediment to addressing the crisis was congressional Republicans, not a lack of will in the West Wing.

“I would say that advocates should pressure Republicans in the Senate, that all of you should pressure Republicans in the Senate and ask them why they are opposing universal background checks,” Psaki said after a reporter suggested that Biden was “passing the buck” by blaming Republicans.

Despite the apparent gridlock, there are signs that things might be changing.

Biden is moving ahead with several narrow executive actions, and there are new negotiations on Capitol Hill for an expansion of background checks — aided by the financial collapse of the National Rifle Association.

Among the most consequential actions so far is a personnel move: Biden has chosen David Chipman, a former federal law enforcement official, to be the new head of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, a battered agency tasked with enforcing existing federal gun laws and executive actions.

Over the years, NRA-allied lawmakers have handcuffed the ATF with the tightest restrictions imposed on any federal law enforcement agency, even banning the bureau from making gun tracing records searchable by computer.

The agency has been without a full-time director for much of the past 25 years because NRA-allied senators have quashed nominations by both Republican and Democratic administrations, arguing that a strong agency leader threatens the Second Amendment.

Chipman is an unapologetic proponent of expanding background checks, banning assault weapons again and unshackling ATF inspectors.

White House officials are hopeful he can garner as many as 52 votes for confirmation given the disgust over the recent shootings. Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia, the most conservative Democrat on guns, has expressed tentative support, and two Republicans, Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Patrick Toomey of Pennsylvania, are open to the pick, according to Senate Republican aides with knowledge of their thinking.

On a parallel track, a dozen senators in both parties have quietly begun to negotiate a deal to expand background checks for gun purchases — a proposal that enjoys nearly 90% approval nationally in recent polls.

Sens. Chris Murphy and Richard Blumenthal, both D-Conn., have been reaching out to Republicans in hopes of passing a narrower background check bill than the universal-checks measure passed by House Democrats earlier this year.

Biden, adopting a tone of disgust and frustration, unveiled two relatively modest executive actions last week: a 60-day review of homemade, unregistered “ghost guns” that is likely to lead to a ban, and a measure eliminating arm braces used to turn pistols into short-barreled rifles, a proposal rejected by the Trump administration.

Gun violence in America, he said at the time, was “an international embarrassment.”

President Joe Biden pledged to “do more” to address gun violence and implored Congress to act after a mass shooting in Indianapolis left eight people dead. But his administration, scrambling to respond to a new cycle of violence, rejected calls to appoint a gun czar to more forcefully confront the crisis.

President Joe Biden pledged to “do more” to address gun violence and implored Congress to act after a mass shooting in Indianapolis left eight people dead. But his administration, scrambling to respond to a new cycle of violence, rejected calls to appoint a gun czar to more forcefully confront the crisis. At a news conference Friday with the Japanese prime minister, Biden called gun violence across the country “a national embarrassment” and urged Senate Republicans to allow a vote on a gun control bill that has already passed the House. “This has to end,” he said. “Who in God’s name needs a weapon that can hold 100 rounds or 40 rounds or 20 rounds? It’s just wrong.” In an earlier statement, Biden said he had been briefed on the attack in Indianapolis on Thursday, in which “a lone gunman murdered eight people and wounded several more in the dark of night.” He ordered flags lowered to half-staff just two weeks after he had given a similar directive in response to massacres in Atlanta and Boulder, Colorado. “Gun violence is an epidemic in America,” he said. “But we should not accept it. We must act. We can, and must, do more to act and to save lives. God bless the eight fellow Americans we lost in Indianapolis and their loved ones, and we pray for the wounded for their recovery.” His press secretary, Jen Psaki, rejected suggestions that Biden appoint a gun czar, similar to the position he created to address the climate crisis. The White House argued that the main impediment to addressing the crisis was congressional Republicans, not a lack of will in the West Wing. “I would say that advocates should pressure Republicans in the Senate, that all of you should pressure Republicans in the Senate and ask them why they are opposing universal background checks,” Psaki said after a reporter suggested that Biden was “passing the buck” by blaming Republicans. Despite the apparent gridlock, there are signs that things might be changing. Biden is moving ahead with several narrow executive actions, and there are new negotiations on Capitol Hill for an expansion of background checks — aided by the financial collapse of the National Rifle Association. Among the most consequential actions so far is a personnel move: Biden has chosen David Chipman, a former federal law enforcement official, to be the new head of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, a battered agency tasked with enforcing existing federal gun laws and executive actions. Over the years, NRA-allied lawmakers have handcuffed the ATF with the tightest restrictions imposed on any federal law enforcement agency, even banning the bureau from making gun tracing records searchable by computer. The agency has been without a full-time director for much of the past 25 years because NRA-allied senators have quashed nominations by both Republican and Democratic administrations, arguing that a strong agency leader threatens the Second Amendment. Chipman is an unapologetic proponent of expanding background checks, banning assault weapons again and unshackling ATF inspectors. White House officials are hopeful he can garner as many as 52 votes for confirmation given the disgust over the recent shootings. Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia, the most conservative Democrat on guns, has expressed tentative support, and two Republicans, Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Patrick Toomey of Pennsylvania, are open to the pick, according to Senate Republican aides with knowledge of their thinking. On a parallel track, a dozen senators in both parties have quietly begun to negotiate a deal to expand background checks for gun purchases — a proposal that enjoys nearly 90% approval nationally in recent polls. Sens. Chris Murphy and Richard Blumenthal, both D-Conn., have been reaching out to Republicans in hopes of passing a narrower background check bill than the universal-checks measure passed by House Democrats earlier this year. Biden, adopting a tone of disgust and frustration, unveiled two relatively modest executive actions last week: a 60-day review of homemade, unregistered “ghost guns” that is likely to lead to a ban, and a measure eliminating arm braces used to turn pistols into short-barreled rifles, a proposal rejected by the Trump administration. Gun violence in America, he said at the time, was “an international embarrassment.”

Biden vows to ‘do more’ to end gun violence but rejects calls to appoint a czar

China said on Friday that the US needed to take more responsibility on climate change. The comments came during former US Secretary of State John Kerry's visit to the country. However, China welcomed greater co-operation on the issue with China.

The former secretary of state turned US climate emissary was the first official from President Joe Biden's administration to visit China, signalling hopes the two sides could work together on the global challenge despite sky-high tensions on multiple other fronts.

"China attaches importance to carrying out dialogue and cooperation on climate change with the US side," said Vice Premier Han Zheng, according to state news agency Xinhua.

"China welcomes the US return to the Paris agreement, and expects the US side to uphold the agreement, shoulder its due responsibilities and make due contributions," Han said after virtual talks with Kerry, who visited Shanghai where he met his Chinese counterpart.

Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying was more blunt on Twitter as she highlighted the US withdrawal from the Paris accord under former president Donald Trump.

"Its return is by no means a glorious comeback but rather a truant getting back to class," Hua said of the United States.

Chunying pressed the UN to ""offer how it will make up for the lost four years" including payments to the UN-backed Green Climate Fund, which provides support to developing countries worst hit by climate change

Joe Biden is expected to announce new US targets on reducing carbon emissions.

(With inputs from agencies)

China said on Friday that the US needed to take more responsibility on climate change. The comments came during former US Secretary of State John Kerry's visit to the country.

China said on Friday that the US needed to take more responsibility on climate change. The comments came during former US Secretary of State John Kerry's visit to the country. However, China welcomed greater co-operation on the issue with China. The former secretary of state turned US climate emissary was the first official from President Joe Biden's administration to visit China, signalling hopes the two sides could work together on the global challenge despite sky-high tensions on multiple other fronts. "China attaches importance to carrying out dialogue and cooperation on climate change with the US side," said Vice Premier Han Zheng, according to state news agency Xinhua. "China welcomes the US return to the Paris agreement, and expects the US side to uphold the agreement, shoulder its due responsibilities and make due contributions," Han said after virtual talks with Kerry, who visited Shanghai where he met his Chinese counterpart. Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying was more blunt on Twitter as she highlighted the US withdrawal from the Paris accord under former president Donald Trump. "Its return is by no means a glorious comeback but rather a truant getting back to class," Hua said of the United States. Chunying pressed the UN to ""offer how it will make up for the lost four years" including payments to the UN-backed Green Climate Fund, which provides support to developing countries worst hit by climate change Joe Biden is expected to announce new US targets on reducing carbon emissions. (With inputs from agencies)

China puts climate change onus on US during Kerry's visit

According to a White House official, the US has administered 200 million doses of Covid-19 vaccine. Cyrus Shahpar, White House Covid-19 Data Director, announced the news on Twitter on Friday.&nbsp;

Around 40 per cent of US citizens have had at least one dose, and about a quarter have completed the one- and two-dose vaccinations.&nbsp;

In the US, the vaccine rollout has been accelerating as supply increases. The US seems to have been giving shots to about 1% of the population every day. The country took 89 days to administer the first 100 million doses. The milestone was reached on March 12 while the second 100 million came in just 36 days.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden had earlier said the coronavirus vaccination program he inherited from Donald Trump was in 'much worse shape' than he expected, while urging patience and also announcing the government has bought 200 million more doses.&nbsp;

Earlier, Brian Morgenstern, a former White House official involved with the coronavirus effort, said the Trump administration’s Operation Warp Speed programme had prepared plans well in advance, aided by many career officials still serving in government.&nbsp;

“That is why the new Administration’s goals were being surpassed before they even came into office. Enough with the lies, excuses &amp; political pot shots. Time to lead,” he said.&nbsp;

Trump had expressed pride in the speed of the vaccine development on his watch. “We’ve now purchased enough vaccine to vaccinate all Americans,” Biden said.&nbsp;

He said the US government has signed contracts for 100 million doses of the Moderna vaccine and 100 million more from Pfizer to help reach the target.&nbsp;

“We appreciate the confidence that the US government has demonstrated in our COVID-19 Vaccine,” Moderna CEO Stéphane Bancel said in a press release.&nbsp;

Pfizer spokeswoman Sharon Castillo confirmed that it and BioNTech had reached a deal with the US government.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

According to a White House official, the US has administered 200 million doses of Covid-19 vaccine. Cyrus Shahpar, White House Covid-19 Data Director, announced the news on Twitter on Friday.

According to a White House official, the US has administered 200 million doses of Covid-19 vaccine. Cyrus Shahpar, White House Covid-19 Data Director, announced the news on Twitter on Friday. Around 40 per cent of US citizens have had at least one dose, and about a quarter have completed the one- and two-dose vaccinations. In the US, the vaccine rollout has been accelerating as supply increases. The US seems to have been giving shots to about 1% of the population every day. The country took 89 days to administer the first 100 million doses. The milestone was reached on March 12 while the second 100 million came in just 36 days. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden had earlier said the coronavirus vaccination program he inherited from Donald Trump was in 'much worse shape' than he expected, while urging patience and also announcing the government has bought 200 million more doses. Earlier, Brian Morgenstern, a former White House official involved with the coronavirus effort, said the Trump administration’s Operation Warp Speed programme had prepared plans well in advance, aided by many career officials still serving in government. “That is why the new Administration’s goals were being surpassed before they even came into office. Enough with the lies, excuses & political pot shots. Time to lead,” he said. Trump had expressed pride in the speed of the vaccine development on his watch. “We’ve now purchased enough vaccine to vaccinate all Americans,” Biden said. He said the US government has signed contracts for 100 million doses of the Moderna vaccine and 100 million more from Pfizer to help reach the target. “We appreciate the confidence that the US government has demonstrated in our COVID-19 Vaccine,” Moderna CEO Stéphane Bancel said in a press release. Pfizer spokeswoman Sharon Castillo confirmed that it and BioNTech had reached a deal with the US government. (With inputs from agencies)

US vaccinations reach 200 million as campaign efforts pick up pace 

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken flew to Kabul on Thursday, a day after attending a NATO meeting in Brussels, to show support following Joe Biden's announcement of the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan.

Blinken flies to Afghanistan in show of support after Biden announces troops withdrawal

Chinese diplomats used old videos of disgraced US officials to accuse Washington of funding terrorists in Xinjiang. What is the truth behind this propaganda, and what role has the US played in tackling the Uighur crackdown? WION's Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: China accuses US of funding terror in Xinjiang

It's a busy week for the Biden Administration. The US President is attempting a balancing act by talking to China and its regional adversaries - Japan and Taiwan at the same time. Will the approach work? WION's Palki Sharma has the answers.

Gravitas: Joe Biden's new rules of engagement for China

As Joe Biden nears his 100 days is office as the US President, his approval ratings stands strong at 59% despite the tenuous state of the economy and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Biden nears 100-day mark with 59% approval rating

Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin declined to testify in his murder trial over the killing of George Floyd as the defence wrapped up its case after just two days of testimony.

Prosecution, Defence rests case in Floyd's murder trial

In the video, less than one second passes between when Adam raises his hands and when the officer shoots him in the chest. It is still unclear that whether the boy had gun in his hand at the time of shooting.

Unidentified police officer ran after toledo, fired shot; Watch this clip

US President Joe Biden has decided to withdraw all the remaining American troops from Afghanistan by the September 11. The United States will not be meeting the original deadline of May 1 which was set by the Trump administration.

Biden announces to withdraw troops from Afghanistan by September 11

NATO has warned Russia against military build up near the Ukrainian border as the alliance's Chief Jens Stoltenberg and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Ukrainian delegations in Brussels.

NATO warned Russia against military build up near Ukrainian border

US to withdraw all troops from Afghanistan by September 11, extending May 1 deadline

Politics is all about possibilities. Nothing is forever, neither friendships, nor rivalries. More than 70 years back, the United States dropped two nuclear bombs on Japan. It was carnage. At least 200,000 Japanese were wiped out. Despite that, the US and Japan are not sworn enemies. Instead, they have cultivated excellent ties. Today, Tokyo is America's most trusted Asian ally. &nbsp;

What's the point we're trying to make? Political relationships are always changing and this change is not natural. It is the product of hard work, compromises, understandings behind the scenes and a lot of haggling. &nbsp;

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The question is, are Russia and US ready for this diplomatic dance? For decades, Moscow was Washington's public enemy number one. Every Hollywood movie had a Russian villain. Every US President saw Russia as the final frontier, but the rivalry has diluted in recent years. &nbsp;

There are two reasons for this. One that the US has pulled ahead of Russia as the two countries are not equal anymore, and number two is the rise of China. The new Washington consensus is clear. Beijing is the bigger threat to the United States. So, where does this leave Russia? Is it an old foe? Is it a bystander to the emerging cold war? Is it a power that can be co-opted against a bigger adversary?&nbsp;

These questions are important as Joe Biden wants to meet Vladimir Putin. He wants to settle differences with Russia. It's easier said than done. &nbsp;

That's because we are talking about an endless list of differences and disputes. Russia supports every single American rival. It trades with Iran, it buys oil from Venezuela, it backs the Assad regime in Syria, and don't forget, Russian hackers tried to meddle in America's presidential elections. First in 2016 and then again last year. &nbsp;

A sit-down between Biden and Putin will not solve these issues because at the centre of it is a trust deficit. And Biden's reputation doesn't help. He's a known Russia hawk. He is from the cold war generation. A generation that was taught to live in fear of a Soviet missile. Which is why he talks about a tough competition with China but doesn't flinch before calling Putin "a killer".

So, is there no scope for cooperation?&nbsp;

Russia and the US recently renewed a missile treaty. They do see eye-to-eye on nuclear weapons. What brings them on the same page? The idea of mutual survival, more than anything else. Nonetheless, it counts as cooperation. So going forward, Moscow and Washington have a lot to discuss. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Climate change is a key issue, so is the Arctic. Russia has major energy goals in the Arctic but how will the world carve up this region? It's the next frontier. US-Russia talks will be vital to peace in the Arctic. What about China? Where does China fit in?&nbsp;

Moscow and Beijing are in a state of undeclared alliance. They support the same regimes. They are both sanctioned by the Americans, and their leaders have a great personal equation. They gift each other ice cream and flip pancakes together. Xi Jinping once called Putin his best friend. The Chinese President could probably count all his friends in a single hand but beyond the praises, is there substance to this relationship?&nbsp;

Trade between the two has grown but political and military integration is missing. In the West, there is NATO and&nbsp;Five Eyes alliance, but there is no&nbsp;Sino-Russian equivalent. At least, not yet. So, Putin's aggression in eastern Ukraine is largely a solo mission. NATO is closing ranks against him. US warships are heading to the Black Sea. If this is an attempt at war, it is not a good one.&nbsp;

To the south of eastern Ukraine is Turkey, a NATO ally, albiet a difficult one. To the south-west, Bulgaria and Romania, again Nato allies. Move further west, and you reach Nato heartland, France, Germany and the UK. So, the doomsday predictions may be a bit far-fetched. Russia isn't even trying to hide its deployments and that's not a good strategy but is this a prelude to war? Or is this just Putin trying to test Joe Biden's resolve?&nbsp;

How far is Joe Biden willing to go to protect Ukraine? Will he bring Ukraine into the NATO? As vice president, Biden witnessed the annexation of Crimea. Today, the Russian buildup is almost at the same level. Moscow may not pull the trigger this time, but Biden is not taking that chance. At 78, he has the appetite for one cold war, not two.

For a change, Washington is choosing its battles.&nbsp;

Politics is all about possibilities. Nothing is forever, neither friendships, nor rivalries. More than 70 years back, the United States dropped two nuclear bombs on Japan.

Politics is all about possibilities. Nothing is forever, neither friendships, nor rivalries. More than 70 years back, the United States dropped two nuclear bombs on Japan. It was carnage. At least 200,000 Japanese were wiped out. Despite that, the US and Japan are not sworn enemies. Instead, they have cultivated excellent ties. Today, Tokyo is America's most trusted Asian ally. What's the point we're trying to make? Political relationships are always changing and this change is not natural. It is the product of hard work, compromises, understandings behind the scenes and a lot of haggling. The question is, are Russia and US ready for this diplomatic dance? For decades, Moscow was Washington's public enemy number one. Every Hollywood movie had a Russian villain. Every US President saw Russia as the final frontier, but the rivalry has diluted in recent years. There are two reasons for this. One that the US has pulled ahead of Russia as the two countries are not equal anymore, and number two is the rise of China. The new Washington consensus is clear. Beijing is the bigger threat to the United States. So, where does this leave Russia? Is it an old foe? Is it a bystander to the emerging cold war? Is it a power that can be co-opted against a bigger adversary? These questions are important as Joe Biden wants to meet Vladimir Putin. He wants to settle differences with Russia. It's easier said than done. That's because we are talking about an endless list of differences and disputes. Russia supports every single American rival. It trades with Iran, it buys oil from Venezuela, it backs the Assad regime in Syria, and don't forget, Russian hackers tried to meddle in America's presidential elections. First in 2016 and then again last year. A sit-down between Biden and Putin will not solve these issues because at the centre of it is a trust deficit. And Biden's reputation doesn't help. He's a known Russia hawk. He is from the cold war generation. A generation that was taught to live in fear of a Soviet missile. Which is why he talks about a tough competition with China but doesn't flinch before calling Putin "a killer". So, is there no scope for cooperation? Russia and the US recently renewed a missile treaty. They do see eye-to-eye on nuclear weapons. What brings them on the same page? The idea of mutual survival, more than anything else. Nonetheless, it counts as cooperation. So going forward, Moscow and Washington have a lot to discuss. Climate change is a key issue, so is the Arctic. Russia has major energy goals in the Arctic but how will the world carve up this region? It's the next frontier. US-Russia talks will be vital to peace in the Arctic. What about China? Where does China fit in? Moscow and Beijing are in a state of undeclared alliance. They support the same regimes. They are both sanctioned by the Americans, and their leaders have a great personal equation. They gift each other ice cream and flip pancakes together. Xi Jinping once called Putin his best friend. The Chinese President could probably count all his friends in a single hand but beyond the praises, is there substance to this relationship? Trade between the two has grown but political and military integration is missing. In the West, there is NATO and Five Eyes alliance, but there is no Sino-Russian equivalent. At least, not yet. So, Putin's aggression in eastern Ukraine is largely a solo mission. NATO is closing ranks against him. US warships are heading to the Black Sea. If this is an attempt at war, it is not a good one. To the south of eastern Ukraine is Turkey, a NATO ally, albiet a difficult one. To the south-west, Bulgaria and Romania, again Nato allies. Move further west, and you reach Nato heartland, France, Germany and the UK. So, the doomsday predictions may be a bit far-fetched. Russia isn't even trying to hide its deployments and that's not a good strategy but is this a prelude to war? Or is this just Putin trying to test Joe Biden's resolve? How far is Joe Biden willing to go to protect Ukraine? Will he bring Ukraine into the NATO? As vice president, Biden witnessed the annexation of Crimea. Today, the Russian buildup is almost at the same level. Moscow may not pull the trigger this time, but Biden is not taking that chance. At 78, he has the appetite for one cold war, not two. For a change, Washington is choosing its battles.

Will US, Russia fight it out or resolve issues? 

As tensions around the Ukraine border spike, Joe Biden has proposed a face to face meeting with Vladimir Putin to settle all differences. Can two leaders work together after having called each other killers? WION's Palki Sharma tells you what's at stake.

Gravitas: US vs Russia: Are we heading towards Cold War 2.0?

On September 11, US will withdraw all of its remaining troops from Afghanistan. But with the Taliban still on the offensive, does this withdrawal amount to surrender? Is US handing over Afghanistan to Islamabad on a platter? WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: US to withdraw from Afghanistan on Sept 11

For decades, Russia was America's enemy number 1. But with the rise of China, the U.S-Russia rivalry has entered a new phase - with China in Moscow's corner as an undeclared ally. WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Can Russia & US bury the hatchet?

Amid growing tensions around the Ukraine border, Joe Biden dispatched his top ministers to Europe. NATO has reaffirmed its support to Ukraine. 500 more US soldiers will be sent to Germany. Will this be enough to ensure a de-escalation from Russia? WION's Palki Sharma has more.

Gravitas: Amid Ukraine tensions, US to deploy 500 more soldiers in Germany

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US to withdraw all troops from Afghanistan by September 11, extending May 1 deadline

Will US, Russia fight it out or resolve issues?

Gravitas: US vs Russia: Are we heading towards Cold War 2.0?

Gravitas: US to withdraw from Afghanistan on Sept 11

Gravitas: Can Russia & US bury the hatchet?

Gravitas: Amid Ukraine tensions, US to deploy 500 more soldiers in Germany