Russia on Tuesday accused the United States and other NATO countries of turning Ukraine into a “powder keg” after military buildup in the region.

"The United States and other NATO countries are deliberately turning Ukraine into a powder keg," Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov was cited as saying by local media

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Russia recently stationed soldiers along the Ukraine border and also accused Western countries of supplying arms to Ukraine.

A Ukrainian&nbsp;soldier was killed on Sunday and another seriously wounded in artillery fire from Russia-backed separatist rebels, as hostilities rise sharply in the country’s east. As of Monday, Ukraine claimed 27 soldiers had been killed in the east this year, more than half the number who died in all of 2020. Attacks have intensified in recent weeks and Russia has built up troops along the Ukraine border.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/whats-happening-between-russia-and-ukraine-heres-a-cheat-sheet-377164" hreflang="en">What's happening between Russia and Ukraine? Here's a cheat-sheet</a>

The troops' buildup has raised sharp concerns in the West. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned in an interview Sunday of "consequences" if&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;acts "aggressively" towards Ukraine, amid rising alarm over a Russian troop build-up on the border of the former Soviet republic.

"President Biden's been very clear about this. If&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;acts recklessly, or aggressively, there will be costs, there will be consequences," Blinken said.

In recent weeks fighting has intensified between Ukraine's army and pro-Russian separatists in the country's east, with signs of a Russian troop build-up in the region raising concerns of major escalation in the long-running conflict.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/russian-military-spotted-near-ukraine-border-after-us-warning-376922" hreflang="en">Russian military spotted near Ukraine border after US warning</a>

Ukraine has accused&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;of amassing thousands of military personnel on its northern and eastern borders as well as on the annexed Crimean peninsula.

The Kremlin, which has not denied the troop movements, said Sunday it was not moving towards war with Ukraine - but also that it "will not remain indifferent" to the fate of Russian speakers in the conflict-torn region.

The White House this week said the number of Russian troops at the border with Ukraine was now greater than at any time since 2014, when the conflict erupted after&nbsp;Russia's annexation of Crimea from Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Tuesday accused the United States and other NATO countries of turning Ukraine into a “powder keg” after military buildup in the region. "The United States and other NATO countries are deliberately turning Ukraine into a powder keg," Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov was cited as saying by local media Russia recently stationed soldiers along the Ukraine border and also accused Western countries of supplying arms to Ukraine.

Russia on Tuesday accused the United States and other NATO countries of turning Ukraine into a “powder keg” after military buildup in the region. "The United States and other NATO countries are deliberately turning Ukraine into a powder keg," Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov was cited as saying by local media Russia recently stationed soldiers along the Ukraine border and also accused Western countries of supplying arms to Ukraine. A Ukrainian soldier was killed on Sunday and another seriously wounded in artillery fire from Russia-backed separatist rebels, as hostilities rise sharply in the country’s east. As of Monday, Ukraine claimed 27 soldiers had been killed in the east this year, more than half the number who died in all of 2020. Attacks have intensified in recent weeks and Russia has built up troops along the Ukraine border. Also read: What's happening between Russia and Ukraine? Here's a cheat-sheet The troops' buildup has raised sharp concerns in the West. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned in an interview Sunday of "consequences" if Russia acts "aggressively" towards Ukraine, amid rising alarm over a Russian troop build-up on the border of the former Soviet republic. "President Biden's been very clear about this. If Russia acts recklessly, or aggressively, there will be costs, there will be consequences," Blinken said. In recent weeks fighting has intensified between Ukraine's army and pro-Russian separatists in the country's east, with signs of a Russian troop build-up in the region raising concerns of major escalation in the long-running conflict. Also read: Russian military spotted near Ukraine border after US warning Ukraine has accused Russia of amassing thousands of military personnel on its northern and eastern borders as well as on the annexed Crimean peninsula. The Kremlin, which has not denied the troop movements, said Sunday it was not moving towards war with Ukraine - but also that it "will not remain indifferent" to the fate of Russian speakers in the conflict-torn region. The White House this week said the number of Russian troops at the border with Ukraine was now greater than at any time since 2014, when the conflict erupted after Russia's annexation of Crimea from Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia accuses US, other NATO countries of turning Ukraine into 'powder keg'

Iran has warned the United States against sanctions and sabotage attacks as Washington denies any involvement in the latest attack at the Natanz nuclear facilities.

Iran: US should not use sanctions, sabotage as negotiating tool

Racism in United States of America is not an exception. It's the norm. Two incidents have come as a reminder of this grim reality.

The first is from the state of Virginia, where two White cops pointed guns and pepper-sprayed a Black US army officer for a missing license plate.&nbsp;This happened in December, a lawsuit has been filed now, and the second incident is from Minneapolis, where a Black man has been shot and killed by the police.

Why? For a traffic violation in any other country, these violations would lead to a fine but clearly not in the land of the free. &nbsp;

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Where the colour of your skin seems to increasingly determine the severity of your crime and the timing is important here. These incidents are being reported and discussed at a time when Derek Chauvin, a White police officer, is on trial for the murder of a Black man George Floyd.&nbsp;

This is not an encounter. This is a traffic stop. This man is not a wanted criminal. He is a lieutenant in the US Army. What's his crime? A missing license plate. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Caron Nazario, a second lieutenant in the US Army and a Black and Latino American, was driving his new SUV with a temporary paper plate. He was asked to pull over by two cops. What followed was sheer racism camouflaged as obstruction of justice. The footage was shot in December but a lawsuit in the case has been filed now. &nbsp;

Nazario has sued the two cops for their behaviour. More than a thousand miles away from Virginia in the state of Minneapolis, another Black American couldn't even opt for legal recourse. He was shot and killed by police officers for a traffic violation in Minnesota. The incident took place barely 16 kilometres away from where George Floyd was killed. &nbsp;

Minnesota department of public safety commissioner John Harrington said about the police incident that later prompted the protests. "Our early report was that one officer had fired a weapon, striking the driver. The vehicle continued and eventually crashed and medical resources were then deployed to the scene to aid the people in both the vehicle that was crashed into and the original group. The driver of the vehicle was deceased."

The aftermath seems like deja vu. Hundreds of locals have descended on the streets of Minnesota.&nbsp;

There are protests, there's tear-gas and the same rallying call, 'Black lives matter'.&nbsp;

Myah, a protester, said, "Who knows if there’s gonna be a difference in this world, who knows if it’s going to be the last time that we all come together in something like this."&nbsp;

As the protests continue, the trial of Derek Chauvin over George Floyd's death is yet to reach any conclusion. It's been three weeks and jurors are still analysing the testimonies.&nbsp;

Whatever be the final verdict, the chances of it are eradicating America's virus of racism seem abysmally low.&nbsp;

Racism in United States of America is not an exception. It's the norm. Two incidents have come as a reminder of this grim reality. The first is from the state of Virginia, where two White cops pointed guns and pepper-sprayed a Black US army officer for a missing license plate.

Racism in United States of America is not an exception. It's the norm. Two incidents have come as a reminder of this grim reality. The first is from the state of Virginia, where two White cops pointed guns and pepper-sprayed a Black US army officer for a missing license plate. This happened in December, a lawsuit has been filed now, and the second incident is from Minneapolis, where a Black man has been shot and killed by the police. Why? For a traffic violation in any other country, these violations would lead to a fine but clearly not in the land of the free. Where the colour of your skin seems to increasingly determine the severity of your crime and the timing is important here. These incidents are being reported and discussed at a time when Derek Chauvin, a White police officer, is on trial for the murder of a Black man George Floyd. This is not an encounter. This is a traffic stop. This man is not a wanted criminal. He is a lieutenant in the US Army. What's his crime? A missing license plate. Caron Nazario, a second lieutenant in the US Army and a Black and Latino American, was driving his new SUV with a temporary paper plate. He was asked to pull over by two cops. What followed was sheer racism camouflaged as obstruction of justice. The footage was shot in December but a lawsuit in the case has been filed now. Nazario has sued the two cops for their behaviour. More than a thousand miles away from Virginia in the state of Minneapolis, another Black American couldn't even opt for legal recourse. He was shot and killed by police officers for a traffic violation in Minnesota. The incident took place barely 16 kilometres away from where George Floyd was killed. Minnesota department of public safety commissioner John Harrington said about the police incident that later prompted the protests. "Our early report was that one officer had fired a weapon, striking the driver. The vehicle continued and eventually crashed and medical resources were then deployed to the scene to aid the people in both the vehicle that was crashed into and the original group. The driver of the vehicle was deceased." The aftermath seems like deja vu. Hundreds of locals have descended on the streets of Minnesota. There are protests, there's tear-gas and the same rallying call, 'Black lives matter'. Myah, a protester, said, "Who knows if there’s gonna be a difference in this world, who knows if it’s going to be the last time that we all come together in something like this." As the protests continue, the trial of Derek Chauvin over George Floyd's death is yet to reach any conclusion. It's been three weeks and jurors are still analysing the testimonies. Whatever be the final verdict, the chances of it are eradicating America's virus of racism seem abysmally low.

Rising racist attacks in US raise many questions 

Keeping alliances thriving is difficult work. In Second World War, USA, Britain and USSR were allies. But the cold war divided these nations into opposite camps.

The recent incident of US Navy's foray into India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) near Lakshadweep island raises many questions about USA's ability to keep alliances in robust shape.

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The US Navy dropped a big statement mid-week. Its warship USS John paul jones sailed in India's EEZ. And it was sailing 241 kilometres west of Lakshadweep islands. The US did not seek permission from India for this.

India protested this adventurism not by sending a warship to Hawaii but through diplomatic channels. India's position on EEZ has been clear. For military exercises involving weapons, consent is required.

It's a position Washington is familiar with but decided to ignore last week.

But if you ask the Pentagon. This operation wasn't targeted at any particular nation-state. It was intended to drive home a principle.

However, there are two issues with Pentagon's statement.

1. US Navy ship was sailing in India's EEZ. Navy's statement talks about checking India's claims. This clearly makes India a target.

2. The issue of principles

The only principle in question here is the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

It guides how states interact on the high seas. The US itself is yet to ratify the convention. Washington is still basking in the glory of a unipolar order.

But the world has moved on. India, Japan, South Korea -- all these countries have their own democratic experiments, cultures and principles. The US must accept this.

Historically the US Has preferred clones over allies. It rebuilt western Europe in its image. But this is unlikely to work in Asia.

To beat back China, the US must let regional states take the lead. It must look at the bigger picture.

India's EEZ is peaceful waters. There is no comparison with the South China Sea. There are no disputes.

The US may be a superpower, but in the Indo-Pacific, it will have to put allies first. Europe may blindly follow Washington to war but Asia will not.

Keeping alliances thriving is difficult work. In Second World War, USA, Britain and USSR were allies. But the cold war divided these nations into opposite camps.

Keeping alliances thriving is difficult work. In Second World War, USA, Britain and USSR were allies. But the cold war divided these nations into opposite camps. The recent incident of US Navy's foray into India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) near Lakshadweep island raises many questions about USA's ability to keep alliances in robust shape. The US Navy dropped a big statement mid-week. Its warship USS John paul jones sailed in India's EEZ. And it was sailing 241 kilometres west of Lakshadweep islands. The US did not seek permission from India for this. India protested this adventurism not by sending a warship to Hawaii but through diplomatic channels. India's position on EEZ has been clear. For military exercises involving weapons, consent is required. It's a position Washington is familiar with but decided to ignore last week. But if you ask the Pentagon. This operation wasn't targeted at any particular nation-state. It was intended to drive home a principle. However, there are two issues with Pentagon's statement. 1. US Navy ship was sailing in India's EEZ. Navy's statement talks about checking India's claims. This clearly makes India a target. 2. The issue of principles The only principle in question here is the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). It guides how states interact on the high seas. The US itself is yet to ratify the convention. Washington is still basking in the glory of a unipolar order. But the world has moved on. India, Japan, South Korea -- all these countries have their own democratic experiments, cultures and principles. The US must accept this. Historically the US Has preferred clones over allies. It rebuilt western Europe in its image. But this is unlikely to work in Asia. To beat back China, the US must let regional states take the lead. It must look at the bigger picture. India's EEZ is peaceful waters. There is no comparison with the South China Sea. There are no disputes. The US may be a superpower, but in the Indo-Pacific, it will have to put allies first. Europe may blindly follow Washington to war but Asia will not.

US must put allies first in the Indo-Pacific

Hawley’s bill tackles some of the same problems as an antitrust bill introduced by Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar in February and contains some similar measures.

Republican senator wants to ban Big Tech from buying anything ever again

The student died at the school, and an officer was wounded and rushed to hospital for surgery, authorities said. No one else was hurt.

One dead and police officer injured at Knoxville high school

Amid rising tensions between China and Philippines, the United States and Philippines will conduct a two-week joint military exercise from today. The announcement came after the two countries' defence secretaries held a phone call to discuss the drills, the situation in the South China Sea, and recent regional security developments.

Philippines, US to begin two-week joint military drill from Monday

A US Army lieutenant filed a lawsuit against two Virginia policemen in federal court over a violent traffic stop, where police officers pointed their guns, knocked him to the ground, pepper-sprayed him, and "threatened to murder him."

US army officer files lawsuit against two Virginia policemen

Issuing a stern warning to China US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said that the United States is concerned about China’s aggressive actions against Taiwan and warned it would be a “serious mistake” for anyone to try to change the status quo in the Western Pacific by force.

Blinken warns China against aggression near Taiwan

Protests have broken out in the US city of Minneapolis after a policeman fatally shot a 20-year-old Black man named Daunte Wright. Hundreds of protesters chanting Daunte Wright's name gathered late on Sunday outside the police headquarters in Brooklyn Center,

Protests near Minneapolis after Police shoot 20-year-old man

US has now issued warning to Russia over its troop build-up. United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken has warned Russia of consequences if it escalates tensions on the Ukrainian border.

'There will be consequences', Antony Blinken warns Russia

Philippine and US soldiers will conduct a two-week joint military exercise from Monday, resuming the annual training event after last year's cancellation due to the pandemic, the Philippine military chief said on Sunday.&nbsp;

The announcement came after the two countries' defence secretaries held a phone call to discuss the drills, the situation in the South China Sea, and recent regional security developments.&nbsp;

Unlike previous exercises, however, this year's 'Balikatan' (Shoulder-to-Shoulder) drills to test the readiness of their militaries to respond to threats such natural disasters and militant extremist attacks, will be scaled down.&nbsp;

Only 1,700 troops, 700 from the United States and 1,000 from the Philippines, will participate, unlike previous exercises, which involved as many as 7,600 soldiers, said Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana.&nbsp;

"There will be physical contact but it is minimal," he said.&nbsp;

The Philippines has protested against the presence of the Chinese boats inside its 200-mile exclusive economic zone at Whitsun Reef in the strategic waterway, repeatedly asking China to move the vessels away. &nbsp;

Chinese diplomats, however, have said the fishing boats were just sheltering from rough seas and no militia were aboard.&nbsp;

Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, China and Vietnam have competing territorial claims in the South China Sea.&nbsp;

In the phone call on Sunday between Philippine Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, Austin also reiterated the importance of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) between the two countries, according to a statement issued by Lorenzana's department.&nbsp;

Lorenzana committed to discussing the matter with President Rodrigo Duterte.&nbsp;

Duterte last year unilaterally cancelled the two-decade-old VFA in an angry response after an ally was denied a US visa. The agreement provides the legal framework under which US troops can operate on a rotational basis in the Philippines.&nbsp;

The VFA withdrawal period, however, has been twice extended, creating what Philippine officials say is a window for better terms to be agreed.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Philippine and US soldiers will conduct a two-week joint military exercise from Monday, resuming the annual training event after last year's cancellation due to the pandemic, the Philippine military chief said on Sunday.

Philippine and US soldiers will conduct a two-week joint military exercise from Monday, resuming the annual training event after last year's cancellation due to the pandemic, the Philippine military chief said on Sunday. The announcement came after the two countries' defence secretaries held a phone call to discuss the drills, the situation in the South China Sea, and recent regional security developments. Unlike previous exercises, however, this year's 'Balikatan' (Shoulder-to-Shoulder) drills to test the readiness of their militaries to respond to threats such natural disasters and militant extremist attacks, will be scaled down. Only 1,700 troops, 700 from the United States and 1,000 from the Philippines, will participate, unlike previous exercises, which involved as many as 7,600 soldiers, said Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana. "There will be physical contact but it is minimal," he said. The Philippines has protested against the presence of the Chinese boats inside its 200-mile exclusive economic zone at Whitsun Reef in the strategic waterway, repeatedly asking China to move the vessels away. Chinese diplomats, however, have said the fishing boats were just sheltering from rough seas and no militia were aboard. Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, China and Vietnam have competing territorial claims in the South China Sea. In the phone call on Sunday between Philippine Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, Austin also reiterated the importance of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) between the two countries, according to a statement issued by Lorenzana's department. Lorenzana committed to discussing the matter with President Rodrigo Duterte. Duterte last year unilaterally cancelled the two-decade-old VFA in an angry response after an ally was denied a US visa. The agreement provides the legal framework under which US troops can operate on a rotational basis in the Philippines. The VFA withdrawal period, however, has been twice extended, creating what Philippine officials say is a window for better terms to be agreed. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines, US to begin two-week joint military drill from Monday 

Fuelling the worsening relationship between the US and China, the US Senate’s new policy will have a “profound effect” on the Chinese entities.

The Strategic Competition Act of 2021, a 283-page bill, will be introduced next week and aims to provide help for American companies to diversify their global supply chain.

“This includes in terms of developing new technologies, global investment strategies, selling into US-allied countries, receiving support from the Chinese government, and how the country's technology market interacts and influences global governance and standards-setting,” said Cameron Johnson, an adjunct faculty instructor at New York University and a partner at Shanghai-based Tidal Wave Solutions told South China Morning Post.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/son-of-a-donald-trump-slams-republican-leaders-during-dinner-at-mar-a-lago-club-376769" hreflang="en">'Son of a...': Donald Trump slams Republican leaders during dinner</a>

The bill’s science and technology section will lay out pointers to provide help for US-based companies in diversifying global supply chain; total or partial acquisition of infrastructure like 5G mobile networks and undersea cables; negotiations for bilateral and plurilateral digital trade agreements; and building up cybersecurity capabilities.

More importantly, the bill is set to call sanctions against Chinese officials who are accused of “forced labour, forced sterilisation and other abuses in Xinjiang”. The region has had numerous reports of human rights violations as the United Nations has also reported that more than one million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities are being subjected to torture.

The bill will also set aside nearly $10 million “to promote democracy in Hong Kong”. The US State Department will also be asked to make a report on “the extent to which the Government of China uses the status of Hong Kong to circumvent the laws and protections of the United States”.

It "focuses on countering and confronting China's predatory international economic behaviour, and includes measures to track intellectual property violators, Chinese government subsidies, monitor Chinese use of Hong Kong to circumvent US export controls, and track the presence of Chinese companies in US capital markets. Directs the United States to provide technical assistance to countries working to counter foreign corrupt practices, and debt relief to the poorest countries who have requested forbearance due to the Covid-19 pandemic," a statement by the US Senate Committee on Foreign Relations read.

The bill also calls for strengthening military ties with the country’s allies in the Indo-Pacific region.

It "calls for enhanced coordination and cooperation with allies on arms control in the face of China's military modernization and expansion, and requires reporting on Chinese ballistic, hypersonic glide, and cruise missiles, conventional forces, nuclear, space, cyberspace and other strategic domains."

(With inputs from agencies)

Fuelling the worsening relationship between the US and China, the US Senate’s new policy will have a “profound effect” on the Chinese entities. The Strategic Competition Act of 2021, a 283-page bill, will be introduced next week and aims to provide help for American companies to diversify their global supply chain.

Fuelling the worsening relationship between the US and China, the US Senate’s new policy will have a “profound effect” on the Chinese entities. The Strategic Competition Act of 2021, a 283-page bill, will be introduced next week and aims to provide help for American companies to diversify their global supply chain. “This includes in terms of developing new technologies, global investment strategies, selling into US-allied countries, receiving support from the Chinese government, and how the country's technology market interacts and influences global governance and standards-setting,” said Cameron Johnson, an adjunct faculty instructor at New York University and a partner at Shanghai-based Tidal Wave Solutions told South China Morning Post. Also read | 'Son of a...': Donald Trump slams Republican leaders during dinner The bill’s science and technology section will lay out pointers to provide help for US-based companies in diversifying global supply chain; total or partial acquisition of infrastructure like 5G mobile networks and undersea cables; negotiations for bilateral and plurilateral digital trade agreements; and building up cybersecurity capabilities. More importantly, the bill is set to call sanctions against Chinese officials who are accused of “forced labour, forced sterilisation and other abuses in Xinjiang”. The region has had numerous reports of human rights violations as the United Nations has also reported that more than one million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities are being subjected to torture. The bill will also set aside nearly $10 million “to promote democracy in Hong Kong”. The US State Department will also be asked to make a report on “the extent to which the Government of China uses the status of Hong Kong to circumvent the laws and protections of the United States”. It "focuses on countering and confronting China's predatory international economic behaviour, and includes measures to track intellectual property violators, Chinese government subsidies, monitor Chinese use of Hong Kong to circumvent US export controls, and track the presence of Chinese companies in US capital markets. Directs the United States to provide technical assistance to countries working to counter foreign corrupt practices, and debt relief to the poorest countries who have requested forbearance due to the Covid-19 pandemic," a statement by the US Senate Committee on Foreign Relations read. The bill also calls for strengthening military ties with the country’s allies in the Indo-Pacific region. It "calls for enhanced coordination and cooperation with allies on arms control in the face of China's military modernization and expansion, and requires reporting on Chinese ballistic, hypersonic glide, and cruise missiles, conventional forces, nuclear, space, cyberspace and other strategic domains." (With inputs from agencies)

US increases pressure on China through new strategic competition policy

The Senate Foreign Relations Committee will consider sweeping legislation to counter China`s influence on April 21 instead of the planned date of April 14, committee aides said on Friday.

Democratic and Republican leaders of the panel announced the "Strategic Competition Act of 2021" on Thursday. It includes a range of diplomatic and strategic initiatives to counteract Beijing, reflecting hard-line sentiment on dealings with China members of both political parties.

The 280-page bill addresses economic competition with China, but also humanitarian and democratic values, such as imposing sanctions over the treatment of the minority Muslim Uighurs and supporting democracy in Hong Kong.

China is one of the most bipartisan issues in Washington, with both Democrats and Republicans generally backing efforts to do more to compete against Beijing.

However, Democrats had said they hoped the committee would pass the bill on April 14 to clear the way for the full Senate to schedule a vote quickly. Republicans said the week-long delay would give committee members more time to understand the bill and draft amendments.

The Senate Foreign Relations Committee will consider sweeping legislation to counter China`s influence on April 21 instead of the planned date of April 14, committee aides said on Friday.

The Senate Foreign Relations Committee will consider sweeping legislation to counter China`s influence on April 21 instead of the planned date of April 14, committee aides said on Friday. Democratic and Republican leaders of the panel announced the "Strategic Competition Act of 2021" on Thursday. It includes a range of diplomatic and strategic initiatives to counteract Beijing, reflecting hard-line sentiment on dealings with China members of both political parties. The 280-page bill addresses economic competition with China, but also humanitarian and democratic values, such as imposing sanctions over the treatment of the minority Muslim Uighurs and supporting democracy in Hong Kong. China is one of the most bipartisan issues in Washington, with both Democrats and Republicans generally backing efforts to do more to compete against Beijing. However, Democrats had said they hoped the committee would pass the bill on April 14 to clear the way for the full Senate to schedule a vote quickly. Republicans said the week-long delay would give committee members more time to understand the bill and draft amendments.

US Senate panel's consideration of China bill now set for April 21

US and Iranian officials clashed on Friday over what sanctions the United States should lift to resume compliance with the 2015 nuclear deal, with Washington predicting an impasse if Tehran sticks to a demand that all sanctions since 2017 be removed.&nbsp;

The two nations laid out tough stances as indirect talks in Vienna on how to bring both back into full compliance with the agreement wound up for the week, with some delegates citing progress.&nbsp;

The talks, in which European Union officials are shuttling between the remaining parties to the deal and the United States, aim to restore the bargain at the core of the agreement - restrictions on Iran's nuclear activities in exchange for the lifting of US and other international sanctions.&nbsp;

The United States was the first to renege on that bargain under then-President Donald Trump, who vehemently opposed the deal and sought to wreck it. He pulled out, reimposed the sanctions that were lifted, and brought in many more. Iran responded by breaching many of the nuclear restrictions.&nbsp;

"All Trump sanctions were anti-JCPOA and must be removed—w/o distinction between arbitrary designations," Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif said on Twitter, referring to the deal by its full name, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.&nbsp;

The United States says it is prepared to lift 'sanctions that are inconsistent with the JCPOA'. While it has declined to elaborate, that appears to exclude sanctions formally unrelated to nuclear issues covered by the deal.&nbsp;

A senior US State Department official told reporters the United States had seen some signs of Iranian seriousness about returning to the nuclear pact but 'certainly not enough’.&nbsp;

"If Iran sticks to the position that every sanction that has been imposed since 2017 has to be lifted or there will be no deal, then we are heading towards an impasse," the senior US official told reporters on a conference call.&nbsp;

Whether the statements are opening gambits or more firm positions remains to be seen. European officials said Iran was bargaining hard at the outset.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

US and Iranian officials clashed on Friday over what sanctions the United States should lift to resume compliance with the 2015 nuclear deal, with Washington predicting an impasse if Tehran sticks to a demand that all sanctions since 2017 be removed.

US and Iranian officials clashed on Friday over what sanctions the United States should lift to resume compliance with the 2015 nuclear deal, with Washington predicting an impasse if Tehran sticks to a demand that all sanctions since 2017 be removed. The two nations laid out tough stances as indirect talks in Vienna on how to bring both back into full compliance with the agreement wound up for the week, with some delegates citing progress. The talks, in which European Union officials are shuttling between the remaining parties to the deal and the United States, aim to restore the bargain at the core of the agreement - restrictions on Iran's nuclear activities in exchange for the lifting of US and other international sanctions. The United States was the first to renege on that bargain under then-President Donald Trump, who vehemently opposed the deal and sought to wreck it. He pulled out, reimposed the sanctions that were lifted, and brought in many more. Iran responded by breaching many of the nuclear restrictions. "All Trump sanctions were anti-JCPOA and must be removed—w/o distinction between arbitrary designations," Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif said on Twitter, referring to the deal by its full name, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. The United States says it is prepared to lift 'sanctions that are inconsistent with the JCPOA'. While it has declined to elaborate, that appears to exclude sanctions formally unrelated to nuclear issues covered by the deal. A senior US State Department official told reporters the United States had seen some signs of Iranian seriousness about returning to the nuclear pact but 'certainly not enough’. "If Iran sticks to the position that every sanction that has been imposed since 2017 has to be lifted or there will be no deal, then we are heading towards an impasse," the senior US official told reporters on a conference call. Whether the statements are opening gambits or more firm positions remains to be seen. European officials said Iran was bargaining hard at the outset. (With inputs from agencies)

US, Iran clash over sanctions; US sees possible 'impasse' 

The US State Department on Friday issued new guidelines that will enable US officials to meet more freely with officials from Taiwan, a move that deepens relations with Taipei amid stepped-up Chinese military activity around the island.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"These new guidelines&nbsp;liberalise&nbsp;guidance on contacts with Taiwan, consistent with our unofficial relations," State Department spokesman Ned Price said in a statement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The aim, he said, was "to encourage US government engagement with Taiwan that reflects our deepening unofficial relationship."&nbsp;

Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced days before the end of former President Donald Trump's presidency in January that he was lifting restrictions on contacts between US officials and their Taiwanese counterparts.&nbsp;

Price said the new guidelines had followed a congressionally mandated review and would "provide clarity throughout the Executive Branch on effective implementation of our&nbsp;'one China'&nbsp;policy" - a reference to the long-standing US policy under which Washington officially&nbsp;recognises&nbsp;Beijing rather than Taipei.&nbsp;

Another State Department spokesman said the new guidelines meant, for example, that working-level meetings with Taiwanese officials were now encouraged in federal buildings and could also take place at Taiwan's representative office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Those meetings were prohibited under previous guidance," he said.&nbsp;

A report on the Financial Times website shortly before the release of Price's statement&nbsp;said&nbsp;US officials would also be able to attend events at Twin Oaks, an estate in Washington that served as the residence of Taiwan's ambassador until the United States switched diplomatic recognition to Beijing in 1979.&nbsp;

However, it quoted a US official as saying there would still be some “guard rails,” such as not allowing officials to attend functions at Twin Oaks on major Taiwanese holidays that might complicate the US "One-China" policy.&nbsp;

Taiwan's representative office in Washington welcomed a move "substantively reflecting deepening ties between Taiwan and the United States."&nbsp;

It noted that it came at a time of increasing cooperation in areas such as global health, economics and regional security and enjoyed bipartisan support in the United States.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The State Department announcement comes at a time of raised tensions over Taiwan, which China claims as its own. Taiwan has complained over the last few months of repeated missions by China`s air force near the island.&nbsp;

The White House on Friday said it was keeping a close watch on increased Chinese military activities in the Taiwan Strait, and called Beijing's recent actions potentially destabilizing.&nbsp;

Beijing on Thursday blamed the United States for tensions after a US warship sailed close to Taiwan.&nbsp;

Taiwan is China's most sensitive territorial issue and a major bone of contention with Washington, which is required by US law to provide the island with the means to defend itself.&nbsp;

China believes the United States is colluding with Taiwan to challenge Beijing and giving support to those who want the island to declare formal independence.

The US State Department on Friday issued new guidelines that will enable US officials to meet more freely with officials from Taiwan, a move that deepens relations with Taipei amid stepped-up Chinese military activity around the island.

The US State Department on Friday issued new guidelines that will enable US officials to meet more freely with officials from Taiwan, a move that deepens relations with Taipei amid stepped-up Chinese military activity around the island. "These new guidelines liberalise guidance on contacts with Taiwan, consistent with our unofficial relations," State Department spokesman Ned Price said in a statement. The aim, he said, was "to encourage US government engagement with Taiwan that reflects our deepening unofficial relationship." Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced days before the end of former President Donald Trump's presidency in January that he was lifting restrictions on contacts between US officials and their Taiwanese counterparts. Price said the new guidelines had followed a congressionally mandated review and would "provide clarity throughout the Executive Branch on effective implementation of our 'one China' policy" - a reference to the long-standing US policy under which Washington officially recognises Beijing rather than Taipei. Another State Department spokesman said the new guidelines meant, for example, that working-level meetings with Taiwanese officials were now encouraged in federal buildings and could also take place at Taiwan's representative office. "Those meetings were prohibited under previous guidance," he said. A report on the Financial Times website shortly before the release of Price's statement said US officials would also be able to attend events at Twin Oaks, an estate in Washington that served as the residence of Taiwan's ambassador until the United States switched diplomatic recognition to Beijing in 1979. However, it quoted a US official as saying there would still be some “guard rails,” such as not allowing officials to attend functions at Twin Oaks on major Taiwanese holidays that might complicate the US "One-China" policy. Taiwan's representative office in Washington welcomed a move "substantively reflecting deepening ties between Taiwan and the United States." It noted that it came at a time of increasing cooperation in areas such as global health, economics and regional security and enjoyed bipartisan support in the United States. The State Department announcement comes at a time of raised tensions over Taiwan, which China claims as its own. Taiwan has complained over the last few months of repeated missions by China`s air force near the island. The White House on Friday said it was keeping a close watch on increased Chinese military activities in the Taiwan Strait, and called Beijing's recent actions potentially destabilizing. Beijing on Thursday blamed the United States for tensions after a US warship sailed close to Taiwan. Taiwan is China's most sensitive territorial issue and a major bone of contention with Washington, which is required by US law to provide the island with the means to defend itself. China believes the United States is colluding with Taiwan to challenge Beijing and giving support to those who want the island to declare formal independence.

US issues guidelines to deepen relations with Taiwan 

United States on Friday demanded swift action from United Nations Security Council on Myanmar. There have been increasing calls for Myanmar's military junta o restore democracy. The military toppled civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi in a coup on February 1.

"The military needs to feel the cost associated with its horrific actions. The stability and prosperity of the region depends on swift action," US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield told a Security Council meeting.

"The military has ignored our condemnations, posing a test for the Security Council," she said.

"Will the Council quibble over language in yet another statement or will we act to save the lives of the Burmese people?" she said, using Myanmar's former name of Burma.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-military-sentences-19-to-death-says-anti-coup-protests-dwindling-376559">Myanmar military sentences 19 to death, says anti-coup protests dwindling</a>

People of Myanmar have fiercely opposed military rule and have held demonstrations and protests across the country almost everyday since the military coup. The military has resorted to strong-handed tactics. Armed forces have opened fire on number of occasions and this had the death toll rise to hundreds.

Estonia, a non-permanent member of the Security Council, said that the 15-nation body needed to start drafting a resolution that could include sanctions on Myanmar including an international arms embargo.

"The United Nations Security Council is the only entity in the world, which has the legitimate power to protect nations at risk and must explore every tool in its toolbox to end this horrible situation," said Estonia's ambassador, Sven Jurgenson.

Russia and China both hold veto power and have historically opposed international sanctions, although Beijing -- the military's primary ally -- has voiced increasing concern about the instability in its neighbor.

The military on February 1 toppled democratic leader Aung San Suu Kyi and has since violently suppressed pro-democracy protests, with the United Nations saying that more than 600 people have died.

(With AFP inputs)

United States on Friday demanded swift action from United Nations Security Council on Myanmar. There have been increasing calls for Myanmar's military junta o restore democracy.

United States on Friday demanded swift action from United Nations Security Council on Myanmar. There have been increasing calls for Myanmar's military junta o restore democracy. The military toppled civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi in a coup on February 1. "The military needs to feel the cost associated with its horrific actions. The stability and prosperity of the region depends on swift action," US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield told a Security Council meeting. "The military has ignored our condemnations, posing a test for the Security Council," she said. "Will the Council quibble over language in yet another statement or will we act to save the lives of the Burmese people?" she said, using Myanmar's former name of Burma. Also Read | Myanmar military sentences 19 to death, says anti-coup protests dwindling People of Myanmar have fiercely opposed military rule and have held demonstrations and protests across the country almost everyday since the military coup. The military has resorted to strong-handed tactics. Armed forces have opened fire on number of occasions and this had the death toll rise to hundreds. Estonia, a non-permanent member of the Security Council, said that the 15-nation body needed to start drafting a resolution that could include sanctions on Myanmar including an international arms embargo. "The United Nations Security Council is the only entity in the world, which has the legitimate power to protect nations at risk and must explore every tool in its toolbox to end this horrible situation," said Estonia's ambassador, Sven Jurgenson. Russia and China both hold veto power and have historically opposed international sanctions, although Beijing -- the military's primary ally -- has voiced increasing concern about the instability in its neighbor. The military on February 1 toppled democratic leader Aung San Suu Kyi and has since violently suppressed pro-democracy protests, with the United Nations saying that more than 600 people have died. (With AFP inputs)

US urges UNSC for action on Myanmar

US' Southwest Airlines is recalling over 2,700 flight attendants from leave to support its summer schedule, ending a voluntary furlough program introduced during the Coronavirus pandemic as travel demand waned.

World Business Watch: Southwest Airlines recalls over 2,700 flight attendants for summer

The US Navy conducted an operation within Indian waters, without India's permission. The US Navy's 7th fleet says this was intended as a challenge to India's "excessive maritime claims". New Delhi has expressed concern.

Gravitas: Why did the US Navy conduct an operation near Lakshadweep

The U.S. conducted patrols in Indian waters without New Delhi's consent. The U.S. navy said its operation was aimed at upholding International law. Turns out, Washington never ratified that particular law.

Gravitas: U.S. patrol off Lakshadweep: What International law says

US President Joe Biden has moved up the COVID-19 vaccine eligibility target for all American to April 19. All states within United States have been directed to widen the vaccine eligibility to people who are 18 and above.

All adults in US to eligible for Covid-19 vaccine jab

US President Joe Biden's administration has unveiled initial actions to address the increasing gun violence within the nation. The US government has come up with six initial actions to curb gun violence and Biden announced moves that are designed to revamp the federal gun policy.

US President Joe Biden introduces limited gun control measures

Dr. Martin Tobin, a pulmonary expert testified George Floyd died from a lack of oxygen. He listed up four reasons as to why Floyd was unable to get enough oxygen.

Pulmonary expert: Floyd died of low oxygen level, prone position contributed

The crisis on the Russia-Ukraine border has Europe on high alert, with a defence analyst warning the situation could descend into a “world war” within weeks if tensions aren’t stemmed.

US: Increasingly concerned by Russian troops Build-up at border

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