Afghanistan's top peace official, Abdullah Abdullah, said on Wednesday he did not expect the result of the upcoming US&nbsp;presidential election to dramatically change the Afghan peace process or troop withdrawal plans.

President Donald Trump's administration this year brokered peace talks between the Afghan government and the insurgent Taliban to end 19 years of war, and the United States is pulling out its troops under a deal with the militant group signed in February.

The withdrawal is expected to be complete in May, subject to certain security guarantees.

Trump is currently lagging behind Democrat challenger Joe Biden in polls ahead of the November&nbsp;3 election.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/after-climbing-afghanistans-highest-peak-fatima-sultani-plans-next-summit-331380" hreflang="en">After climbing Afghanistan's highest peak, Fatima Sultani plans next summit</a>

"Nobody can say with certainty what would be the impact of the outcome of the elections in the United States but based on my experiences and interactions, the policy will not change that much," said Abdullah, who is the senior official overseeing peace talks by the Afghan negotiating team in Doha.

"Neither Democrats nor Republicans would want to see all the gains or all the sacrifices they have made in Afghanistan in vain…(or) be hurt once again from Afghanistan or because of Afghanistan," he told Reuters in an interview at the end of a three-day visit to Pakistan.

Abdullah also said that an upcoming conference in Geneva in November, at which governments will pledge financial support to bolster the peace process, would also be "one of the things in our mind" as they try to build momentum at the negotiating table.

United States special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad on Tuesday flew to Doha to meet negotiators, who two diplomatic sources said have been deadlocked over setting a process for negotiations in part due to the Taliban insistence that the US-Taliban agreement be used as a basis.

During his visit to Islamabad, Abdullah had met with Prime Minister Imran Khan as well as the president and foreign minister.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/pakistan-afghanistan-should-shun-suspicion-to-build-new-relationship-afghan-peace-official-331210" hreflang="en">Pakistan, Afghanistan should shun suspicion to build new relationship: Afghan peace official</a>

Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have long been rocky. Afghanistan officials – including Abdullah - and its international allies have for years accused Pakistan of backing the Taliban insurgents as a way to limit the influence of old rival India in Afghanistan.

But Abdullah said that he believed there had a been a change in recent years in Pakistan's approach, adding that they still had influence over the Taliban leadership, though the degree was at times exaggerated.

"It was communicated to the Taliban that it was important for them, it's important to their relations with Pakistan that they sit around the negotiating table," he said, saying that had helped to break decades of the Taliban refusing to sit down for talks.

"Today that has changed," he said. "I do consider this as an important development."

Afghanistan's top peace official, Abdullah Abdullah, said on Wednesday he did not expect the result of the upcoming US presidential election to dramatically change the Afghan peace process or troop withdrawal plans.

Afghanistan's top peace official, Abdullah Abdullah, said on Wednesday he did not expect the result of the upcoming US presidential election to dramatically change the Afghan peace process or troop withdrawal plans. President Donald Trump's administration this year brokered peace talks between the Afghan government and the insurgent Taliban to end 19 years of war, and the United States is pulling out its troops under a deal with the militant group signed in February. The withdrawal is expected to be complete in May, subject to certain security guarantees. Trump is currently lagging behind Democrat challenger Joe Biden in polls ahead of the November 3 election. Also read: After climbing Afghanistan's highest peak, Fatima Sultani plans next summit "Nobody can say with certainty what would be the impact of the outcome of the elections in the United States but based on my experiences and interactions, the policy will not change that much," said Abdullah, who is the senior official overseeing peace talks by the Afghan negotiating team in Doha. "Neither Democrats nor Republicans would want to see all the gains or all the sacrifices they have made in Afghanistan in vain…(or) be hurt once again from Afghanistan or because of Afghanistan," he told Reuters in an interview at the end of a three-day visit to Pakistan. Abdullah also said that an upcoming conference in Geneva in November, at which governments will pledge financial support to bolster the peace process, would also be "one of the things in our mind" as they try to build momentum at the negotiating table. United States special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad on Tuesday flew to Doha to meet negotiators, who two diplomatic sources said have been deadlocked over setting a process for negotiations in part due to the Taliban insistence that the US-Taliban agreement be used as a basis. During his visit to Islamabad, Abdullah had met with Prime Minister Imran Khan as well as the president and foreign minister. Also read: Pakistan, Afghanistan should shun suspicion to build new relationship: Afghan peace official Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have long been rocky. Afghanistan officials – including Abdullah - and its international allies have for years accused Pakistan of backing the Taliban insurgents as a way to limit the influence of old rival India in Afghanistan. But Abdullah said that he believed there had a been a change in recent years in Pakistan's approach, adding that they still had influence over the Taliban leadership, though the degree was at times exaggerated. "It was communicated to the Taliban that it was important for them, it's important to their relations with Pakistan that they sit around the negotiating table," he said, saying that had helped to break decades of the Taliban refusing to sit down for talks. "Today that has changed," he said. "I do consider this as an important development."

Afghan peace official sees little change in US policy regardless of election result

Gun owners in America are fearing their right to keep and bear arms would be affected, so Texans are scrambling to buy guns. Watch the report to know more.

Your Story: Texans buy guns, ammunition to stay 'prepared'

US presidential debates 2020 - The United States presidential election is inching closer every minute, and the fierce battle between incumbent Republican Donald Trump and the Democrat rival Joe Biden is picking up pace.

Recently, Trump demanded a drug test from “sleepy Joe Biden”, claiming there is no other explanation for Biden to appear the way he does at all events. Naturally, Trump also offered to get himself tested for any drug consumption. But, it looks like none of that is on the cards.&nbsp;

US presidential debates: "No drug tests"

No drug tests have been conducted or will be conducted before the first debate between the two leaders kicks off on Tuesday. Additionally, no handshakes will be permitted, and the candidates will directly dive into the debate.

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On Monday, Trump claimed that Biden has refused to undergo drug testing. “Joe Biden just announced that he will not agree to a drug test,”&nbsp;Trump had tweeted. He topped with a classic Trump remark - “Gee! I wonder why?”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/us-elections-2020-biden-compares-trump-to-nazi-goebbels-ready-for-personal-attacks-330560" hreflang="en">US elections 2020: Biden compares Trump to Nazi Goebbels; ready for personal attacks</a>

A lot of the Trump campaigning has surrounded Joe Biden’s alleged drug consumption. Trump has repeatedly touted Biden as physically and mentally unfit for the presidency.&nbsp; Trump’s allies have also claimed that Biden is performing well because of performance enhancing drugs.

“He’s almost - no. I have no comment,” Biden had said while referring to the viability of a drug test.

In fact, Biden’s official campaign told Politico, “If the president thinks his best case is made in urine, he can have at it.”

The debate is set to be moderated by Fox News’ Chris Wallace.

US presidential debates: Six major points of contention

According to the Commission on Presidential Debate, six major topics will be touched upon during the first debate - COVID-19, economy, race and violence, the Supreme Court, the track records of both the candidates, and the integrity of the elections.

The debate will begin at 9 PM US Eastern Time Tuesday/6.30 AM IST Wednesday, and will last for approximately 1.5 hours.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/us-elections-2020-trump-mocks-joe-biden-for-staying-indoors-330381" hreflang="en">US elections 2020: Trump mocks Joe Biden for 'staying indoors'</a>

Both the contenders will make their cases at the Case Western Reserve University and Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio.

The 90-minute debate will have no breaks for commercials, and will have six 15-minute segments each. No opening statements will be made, with the first question going to President Trump.

Given the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic, the podiums will be placed farther apart than usual, with no hand-shaking in place. CNN reported that only 60-70 people are expected to be in the live audience.

US presidential debates 2020 - The United States presidential election is inching closer every minute, and the fierce battle between incumbent Republican Donald Trump and the Democrat rival Joe Biden is picking up pace.

US presidential debates 2020 - The United States presidential election is inching closer every minute, and the fierce battle between incumbent Republican Donald Trump and the Democrat rival Joe Biden is picking up pace. Recently, Trump demanded a drug test from “sleepy Joe Biden”, claiming there is no other explanation for Biden to appear the way he does at all events. Naturally, Trump also offered to get himself tested for any drug consumption. But, it looks like none of that is on the cards. US presidential debates: "No drug tests" No drug tests have been conducted or will be conducted before the first debate between the two leaders kicks off on Tuesday. Additionally, no handshakes will be permitted, and the candidates will directly dive into the debate. On Monday, Trump claimed that Biden has refused to undergo drug testing. “Joe Biden just announced that he will not agree to a drug test,” Trump had tweeted. He topped with a classic Trump remark - “Gee! I wonder why?” Also read: US elections 2020: Biden compares Trump to Nazi Goebbels; ready for personal attacks A lot of the Trump campaigning has surrounded Joe Biden’s alleged drug consumption. Trump has repeatedly touted Biden as physically and mentally unfit for the presidency. Trump’s allies have also claimed that Biden is performing well because of performance enhancing drugs. “He’s almost - no. I have no comment,” Biden had said while referring to the viability of a drug test. In fact, Biden’s official campaign told Politico, “If the president thinks his best case is made in urine, he can have at it.” The debate is set to be moderated by Fox News’ Chris Wallace. US presidential debates: Six major points of contention According to the Commission on Presidential Debate, six major topics will be touched upon during the first debate - COVID-19, economy, race and violence, the Supreme Court, the track records of both the candidates, and the integrity of the elections. The debate will begin at 9 PM US Eastern Time Tuesday/6.30 AM IST Wednesday, and will last for approximately 1.5 hours. Also read: US elections 2020: Trump mocks Joe Biden for 'staying indoors' Both the contenders will make their cases at the Case Western Reserve University and Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio. The 90-minute debate will have no breaks for commercials, and will have six 15-minute segments each. No opening statements will be made, with the first question going to President Trump. Given the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic, the podiums will be placed farther apart than usual, with no hand-shaking in place. CNN reported that only 60-70 people are expected to be in the live audience.

Handshakes? Drug tests? What to expect from the first round of US presidential debates

United States is set to withdraw diplomats from Iraq after warning Baghdad it could shut its embassy- a step Iraqis fear could turn their country into a battle zone.

Your Story: US threatens to evacuate diplomats from Iraq

oregon hostage situation - Several people were killed, including a suspect, following a hostage situation in Oregon’s Salem Monday.

According to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, there were multiple fatalities but did not specify and number. Officials also did not indicate a possible motive for the crime. 
 
In a statement, police said: "As the incident unfolded, shots were fired. Ultimately, there were multiple fatalities during this incident, including that of the suspect."

The sheriff’s office declined to provide information regarding how many people were killed, who killed them, or what led up to the deaths, The Statesman Journal reported.

Oregon State Police are investigating the shooting and any deputies involved will be placed on administrative leave during the inquiry, the sheriff's office said. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

oregon hostage situation - Several people were killed, including a suspect, following a hostage situation in Oregon’s Salem Monday. According to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, there were multiple fatalities but did not specify and number.

oregon hostage situation - Several people were killed, including a suspect, following a hostage situation in Oregon’s Salem Monday. According to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, there were multiple fatalities but did not specify and number. Officials also did not indicate a possible motive for the crime. In a statement, police said: "As the incident unfolded, shots were fired. Ultimately, there were multiple fatalities during this incident, including that of the suspect." The sheriff’s office declined to provide information regarding how many people were killed, who killed them, or what led up to the deaths, The Statesman Journal reported. Oregon State Police are investigating the shooting and any deputies involved will be placed on administrative leave during the inquiry, the sheriff's office said. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Multiple people dead following hostage situation in Oregon

President Donald Trump's campaign is spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on lawyers to litigate voting by mail, including in the battleground state of Pennsylvania, Federal Election Commission (FEC) data showed.

The campaign paid more than $250,000 to Porter Wright Morris &amp; Arthur, the law firm representing it in lawsuits over the use of drop boxes and other changes to Pennsylvania's mail-balloting procedures, according to the data.

In the Nov. 3 elections, more voters are expected to cast their ballots by mail instead of in person because of the novel coronavirus pandemic&nbsp;but Republican Trump has repeatedly linked mail-in voting to voter fraud without providing evidence.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/US-elections-USA-Trump-Biden-Donald-Trump-Joe-Biden-handshakes-drug-tests-what-to-expect-from-the-first-round-of-us-presidential-debates-331162" hreflang="en">Handshakes? Drug tests? What to expect from the first round of US presidential debates</a>

More than 200 election-related lawsuits have been filed, many of them focusing on mail-in ballots, which Democrats are more likely to use, according to some opinion polls.

Porter Wright did not respond to requests for comment. Trump campaign spokeswoman Thea McDonald declined to comment.

The Trump campaign in August paid out over $980,000 for legal services that month compared to about $332,000 in July, FEC data showed. It has spent over $3.9 million on legal services between March, when Biden began to emerge as the leading Democratic presidential contender, and August, according to the data.

Democratic candidate Joe Biden's campaign by comparison spent about $660,000 on legal services during that period, the data showed. Nearly $472,000, went to the campaign's outside general counsel firm Covington &amp; Burling, home to former Obama administration Attorney General Eric Holder.

Biden spokesman Michael Gwin said in an email Tuesday that the campaign has "built a top notch legal team to support our campaign in critical ways, including through an unprecedentedly large voter protection effort focused on ensuring access to the ballot box."

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled on Sept. 17 that state officials could accept mail-in ballots up to three days after Nov. 3, as long as they were mailed by Election Day.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-create-china-problem-to-create-drama-warns-china-daily-ahead-of-trump-biden-us-election-debate-331146">Trump-Biden: Don't create China problem to create drama, warns China daily</a>

Pennsylvania Republicans indicated in court filings this week that they would ask the U.S. Supreme Court to review the case.

Porter Wright represents state Republicans in that lawsuit, which was filed against Pennsylvania by the state Democratic party, and in a separate lawsuit brought by the Trump campaign in Pittsburgh federal court over mail-in voting.

Porter Wright - which has most of its offices in election battleground states Pennsylvania, Florida and Ohio - was in August the Trump campaign's second-highest paid firm. The top paid firm was Jones Day, the campaign's outside general counsel.

Jones Day, which also has attorneys working on the Pennsylvania litigation, court records show, got nearly $350,000 in August - its biggest monthly payment from the Trump campaign this year, according to FEC data.

Jones Day did not respond to request for comment.

Reuters analyzed the campaign's spending on lawyers using reports submitted to the FEC on Sept. 20, which cover spending up to Aug. 31. Those reports do not include spending by political action committees.

The legal services funding data isn't broken down to show what litigation money was spent on, but it can be parsed by which law firm was paid, how much a firm received and when.

Porter Wright began receiving payments from the Trump campaign in June 2020, when it filed the Pittsburgh federal lawsuit. The Trump campaign paid the firm $25,000 in June and about $37,000 in July, FEC data shows.

Trump has declined to commit&nbsp;to a peaceful transfer of power if he loses the election to Biden and has said he expects the election battle&nbsp;to end up before the U.S. Supreme Court.

The Biden campaign has added top lawyers to its staff and established a "special litigation" team as it braces for potential legal fights. Those additions include former Obama administration attorneys and Marc Elias, a top elections lawyer at Perkins Coie, the Democratic Party's go-to law firm.

Covington spokesman David Schaefer confirmed the firm is serving as the Biden campaign's outside counsel but declined further comment.

President Donald Trump's campaign is spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on lawyers to litigate voting by mail, including in the battleground state of Pennsylvania, Federal Election Commission (FEC) data showed.

President Donald Trump's campaign is spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on lawyers to litigate voting by mail, including in the battleground state of Pennsylvania, Federal Election Commission (FEC) data showed. The campaign paid more than $250,000 to Porter Wright Morris & Arthur, the law firm representing it in lawsuits over the use of drop boxes and other changes to Pennsylvania's mail-balloting procedures, according to the data. In the Nov. 3 elections, more voters are expected to cast their ballots by mail instead of in person because of the novel coronavirus pandemic but Republican Trump has repeatedly linked mail-in voting to voter fraud without providing evidence. Also read: Handshakes? Drug tests? What to expect from the first round of US presidential debates More than 200 election-related lawsuits have been filed, many of them focusing on mail-in ballots, which Democrats are more likely to use, according to some opinion polls. Porter Wright did not respond to requests for comment. Trump campaign spokeswoman Thea McDonald declined to comment. The Trump campaign in August paid out over $980,000 for legal services that month compared to about $332,000 in July, FEC data showed. It has spent over $3.9 million on legal services between March, when Biden began to emerge as the leading Democratic presidential contender, and August, according to the data. Democratic candidate Joe Biden's campaign by comparison spent about $660,000 on legal services during that period, the data showed. Nearly $472,000, went to the campaign's outside general counsel firm Covington & Burling, home to former Obama administration Attorney General Eric Holder. Biden spokesman Michael Gwin said in an email Tuesday that the campaign has "built a top notch legal team to support our campaign in critical ways, including through an unprecedentedly large voter protection effort focused on ensuring access to the ballot box." The Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled on Sept. 17 that state officials could accept mail-in ballots up to three days after Nov. 3, as long as they were mailed by Election Day. Also read: Trump-Biden: Don't create China problem to create drama, warns China daily Pennsylvania Republicans indicated in court filings this week that they would ask the U.S. Supreme Court to review the case. Porter Wright represents state Republicans in that lawsuit, which was filed against Pennsylvania by the state Democratic party, and in a separate lawsuit brought by the Trump campaign in Pittsburgh federal court over mail-in voting. Porter Wright - which has most of its offices in election battleground states Pennsylvania, Florida and Ohio - was in August the Trump campaign's second-highest paid firm. The top paid firm was Jones Day, the campaign's outside general counsel. Jones Day, which also has attorneys working on the Pennsylvania litigation, court records show, got nearly $350,000 in August - its biggest monthly payment from the Trump campaign this year, according to FEC data. Jones Day did not respond to request for comment. Reuters analyzed the campaign's spending on lawyers using reports submitted to the FEC on Sept. 20, which cover spending up to Aug. 31. Those reports do not include spending by political action committees. The legal services funding data isn't broken down to show what litigation money was spent on, but it can be parsed by which law firm was paid, how much a firm received and when. Porter Wright began receiving payments from the Trump campaign in June 2020, when it filed the Pittsburgh federal lawsuit. The Trump campaign paid the firm $25,000 in June and about $37,000 in July, FEC data shows. Trump has declined to commit to a peaceful transfer of power if he loses the election to Biden and has said he expects the election battle to end up before the U.S. Supreme Court. The Biden campaign has added top lawyers to its staff and established a "special litigation" team as it braces for potential legal fights. Those additions include former Obama administration attorneys and Marc Elias, a top elections lawyer at Perkins Coie, the Democratic Party's go-to law firm. Covington spokesman David Schaefer confirmed the firm is serving as the Biden campaign's outside counsel but declined further comment.

Trump ups spending on lawyers as US election legal battles heat up

The Black lives matter (BLM) protests sparked removal of federal statues. We bring you one such incident from California's City of Venture, watch the report.

BLM protests sparked removal of federal statues in US

The United States is appealing at the World Trade Organization against a ruling that largely favoured Canada in a long-running dispute over lumber, putting the case into a legal void.

A three-person WTO panel determined in August that U.S. duties, designed to counter Canadian subsidies on softwood lumber, breached global trading rules.

The United States notified the WTO on Monday that it had decided to appeal.

However, Washington has blocked appointment to the WTO`s Appellate Body, leaving it with too few members to hear such appeals. The Canada case will consequently sit in a legal limbo.

The United States said the panel ruling was deeply flawed, adding it was open to discussions with Canada to resolve the dispute.

Canada said that the appeal to a body paralysed by Washington had denied Canada of its rights and compounded the unfair treatment accorded to Canadian softwood lumber producers.

"These duties have caused unjustified harm to Canadian industry and U.S. consumers alike, and are impeding economic recovery on both sides of the border," Canada`s trade minister Mary Ng said in a statement, adding Canada would keep challenging the duties through all available avenues.

The United States is appealing at the World Trade Organization against a ruling that largely favoured Canada in a long-running dispute over lumber, putting the case into a legal void.

The United States is appealing at the World Trade Organization against a ruling that largely favoured Canada in a long-running dispute over lumber, putting the case into a legal void. A three-person WTO panel determined in August that U.S. duties, designed to counter Canadian subsidies on softwood lumber, breached global trading rules. The United States notified the WTO on Monday that it had decided to appeal. However, Washington has blocked appointment to the WTO`s Appellate Body, leaving it with too few members to hear such appeals. The Canada case will consequently sit in a legal limbo. The United States said the panel ruling was deeply flawed, adding it was open to discussions with Canada to resolve the dispute. Canada said that the appeal to a body paralysed by Washington had denied Canada of its rights and compounded the unfair treatment accorded to Canadian softwood lumber producers. "These duties have caused unjustified harm to Canadian industry and U.S. consumers alike, and are impeding economic recovery on both sides of the border," Canada`s trade minister Mary Ng said in a statement, adding Canada would keep challenging the duties through all available avenues.

US appeals at WTO to place Canada lumber case in legal void

US President Donald Trump has nominated Judge Amy Coney Barrett for the Supreme Court to fill up the vacancy following the death of Judge Ruth Bader Ginsberg.

Trump's US Supreme Court pick is Judge Amy Coney Barrett

Democratic Party's US presidential nominee Joe Biden made his displeasure clear over Trump administration's haste to appoint Amy Coney Barrett to Supreme Court. In his address to the media, he said that this move by Donald Trump defied "every precedent, every expectation". In his strongly-worded statement, Biden underlined the much talked about 'doubletalk' of the Republican Party.

"Never before in our has a Supreme Court justice been nominated and installed while the presidential election is already underway," said Biden.

In 2016, Republican Party had refused to hold a hearing for a judge former US President Barack Obama wanted to nominate for the Supreme Court. The GOP had argued that such a step could not be taken in an election year.

But now, the Republican Party is rapidly closing its rank to ensure that Senate confirms Amy Coney Barrett's nomination.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/republican-party-races-against-time-to-confirm-amy-coney-barrett-on-us-supreme-court-330701">Republican Party races against time to confirm Amy Coney Barrett on US Supreme Court</a>

"There's no mystery about what is happening here, President Trump is trying to throw out the affordable care act He has been trying to do that for last 4 years," said Joe Biden.

Affordable Care Act or 'Obamacare' is the act brought into effect by Barack Obama administration. The act enabled millions of financially weak Americans to avail affordable healthcare. Republican Party is fiercely against the act. If the act is repealed, millions of Americans will lose access to healthcare.

Biden said that there were "written" records showing how Amy Coney Barrett was against Obamacare.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-wants-drug-test-for-joe-biden-before-us-presidential-debates-2020-330721">Donald Trump wants drug test for Joe Biden before US presidential debates 2020</a>

Democratic Party has very few options left to block confirmation of Barrett. Republicans control the Senate 53-47.

At the end of his media address. Joe Biden urged all Senators to "take off blinders", keep aside the politics and bring USA back from the brink. Biden did not take questions after his address. 
&nbsp;

Democratic Party's US presidential nominee Joe Biden made his displeasure clear over Trump administration's haste to appoint Amy Coney Barrett to Supreme Court. In his address to the media, he said that this move by Donald Trump defied "every precedent, every expectation".

Democratic Party's US presidential nominee Joe Biden made his displeasure clear over Trump administration's haste to appoint Amy Coney Barrett to Supreme Court. In his address to the media, he said that this move by Donald Trump defied "every precedent, every expectation". In his strongly-worded statement, Biden underlined the much talked about 'doubletalk' of the Republican Party. "Never before in our has a Supreme Court justice been nominated and installed while the presidential election is already underway," said Biden. In 2016, Republican Party had refused to hold a hearing for a judge former US President Barack Obama wanted to nominate for the Supreme Court. The GOP had argued that such a step could not be taken in an election year. But now, the Republican Party is rapidly closing its rank to ensure that Senate confirms Amy Coney Barrett's nomination. Also Read | Republican Party races against time to confirm Amy Coney Barrett on US Supreme Court "There's no mystery about what is happening here, President Trump is trying to throw out the affordable care act He has been trying to do that for last 4 years," said Joe Biden. Affordable Care Act or 'Obamacare' is the act brought into effect by Barack Obama administration. The act enabled millions of financially weak Americans to avail affordable healthcare. Republican Party is fiercely against the act. If the act is repealed, millions of Americans will lose access to healthcare. Biden said that there were "written" records showing how Amy Coney Barrett was against Obamacare. Also Read: Donald Trump wants drug test for Joe Biden before US presidential debates 2020 Democratic Party has very few options left to block confirmation of Barrett. Republicans control the Senate 53-47. At the end of his media address. Joe Biden urged all Senators to "take off blinders", keep aside the politics and bring USA back from the brink. Biden did not take questions after his address.

Joe Biden strongly opposes Amy Coney Barrett's nomination to US Supreme Court

Eight cities in Texas have issued a disaster declaration for the locals after a&nbsp;brain-eating amoeba was found in the water being supplied through the taps.

An advisory was issued by the&nbsp;Texas Commission on Environmental Quality that stated that&nbsp;Naegleria fowleri — a brain-eating amoeba — was found in the water supplied to the households by the&nbsp;Brazosport Water Authority.

"The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality at the direction of the Governor's Office is working with Brazosport Water Authority to resolve the issue as quickly as possible," the advisory read.

The affected cities are Lake Jackson, Freeport, Angleton, Brazoria, Richwood, Oyster Creek, Clute and Rosenberg, Texas, along with the Dow Chemical plant in Freeport and the Clemens and Wayne Scott Texas Department of Criminal Justice corrections facilities.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
*UPDATE* Do Not Use Water Advisory LIFTED for most Brazosport Water Authority users 
 
Lake Jackson residents are still urged to heed DO NOT USE Water Advisory. <a href="https://t.co/QEJ0uTNGUi">https://t.co/QEJ0uTNGUi</a> <a href="https://t.co/N8f1wVxnfT">pic.twitter.com/N8f1wVxnfT</a>
— Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (@TCEQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/TCEQ/status/1309888620791238656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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This amoeba is commonly found in&nbsp;unchlorinated,&nbsp;unhygienic and poorly-maintained pools and warm water storage industrial units. It can also come from soil,&nbsp;warm lakes and rivers, as per CDC.

Amobea-filled water was noticed when a six-year-old boy&nbsp;was hospitalised with the amoeba. When the boy was admitted, the local authorities and the CDC started inspecting water samples from&nbsp;a water fountain "splash pad" in front of Lake Jackson Civic Center or through water emitted from a hose at the boy's home, as per the statement.

These infections are rare, but can be fatal. As per the data provided by the CDC, nearly 145 people were infected from 1962 to 2018 and only four survived the infection.

While some areas have been given the green signal now, Lake Jackson residents are still being urged to not use the tap water.

Eight cities in Texas have issued a disaster declaration for the locals after a brain-eating amoeba was found in the water being supplied through the taps. An advisory was issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality that stated that Naegleria fowleri — a brain-eating amoeba — was found in the water supplied to the households by the Brazosport Water Authority.

Eight cities in Texas have issued a disaster declaration for the locals after a brain-eating amoeba was found in the water being supplied through the taps. An advisory was issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality that stated that Naegleria fowleri — a brain-eating amoeba — was found in the water supplied to the households by the Brazosport Water Authority. "The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality at the direction of the Governor's Office is working with Brazosport Water Authority to resolve the issue as quickly as possible," the advisory read. The affected cities are Lake Jackson, Freeport, Angleton, Brazoria, Richwood, Oyster Creek, Clute and Rosenberg, Texas, along with the Dow Chemical plant in Freeport and the Clemens and Wayne Scott Texas Department of Criminal Justice corrections facilities. *UPDATE* Do Not Use Water Advisory LIFTED for most Brazosport Water Authority users Lake Jackson residents are still urged to heed DO NOT USE Water Advisory. https://t.co/QEJ0uTNGUi pic.twitter.com/N8f1wVxnfT — Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (@TCEQ) September 26, 2020 × This amoeba is commonly found in unchlorinated, unhygienic and poorly-maintained pools and warm water storage industrial units. It can also come from soil, warm lakes and rivers, as per CDC. Amobea-filled water was noticed when a six-year-old boy was hospitalised with the amoeba. When the boy was admitted, the local authorities and the CDC started inspecting water samples from a water fountain "splash pad" in front of Lake Jackson Civic Center or through water emitted from a hose at the boy's home, as per the statement. These infections are rare, but can be fatal. As per the data provided by the CDC, nearly 145 people were infected from 1962 to 2018 and only four survived the infection. While some areas have been given the green signal now, Lake Jackson residents are still being urged to not use the tap water.

Do not drink: Eight cities in US find brain-eating amoeba in tap water

Things have gathered pace in Republican Party camps in the US as the GOP closes ranks to hasten the process of confirming Amy Cony Barrett on the Supreme Court. In early hours of Sunday, US President Donald Trump nominated Amy Coney Barrett but a final seal of approval will come from US Senate that will confirm the nomination. Amy Coney Barrett will replace liberal Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg in the Supreme Court. Ginsburg passed away on September 18.

Republican Party has 53-47 majority in the Senate.

Senate Majority leader Mitch McConnell, himself a Republican, has already made confirming Amy Coney Barrett a paramount priority.

"I look forward to meeting with the nominee next week and will carefully study her record and credentials," he said,"As I have stated, this nomination will receive a vote on the Senate floor in the weeks ahead."

Why&nbsp;the hurry

Amy Coney Barrett is known for her conservative views. Republican Party's vote base is conservative Americans. If Amy Coney Barrett gets confirmed on the Supreme Court, the conservative judges will have 6-3 majority over judges who are more liberal.

Moreover, the republican party is trying hard to confirm Amy Coney Barrett before November 3 US Presidential Elections.

In 2000, US Supreme Court had to resolve US Presidential Elections after the votes had been cast and counted. Republican Party's George Bush was declared winner of the election.

It is being said that by confirming Amy Coney Barrett in Supreme Court, Republicans envisage a possible advantage if Supreme Court needs to get involved to resolve US Elections 2020.

Amy Coney Barrett to meet Senators

Barrett is expected to begin meetings with individual senators on Tuesday. Trump said the Senate Judiciary Committee, chaired by his ally Senator Lindsey Graham, would begin confirmation hearings on Oct. 12.

Like Trump's two other appointees, Neil Gorsuch in 2017 and Brett Kavanaugh in 2018, Barrett is young enough that she could serve for decades in the lifetime job, leaving a lasting conservative imprint. Trump's two previous appointments were surrounded by controversy.

'Hypocrite' Republican Party?

Republican Party is drawing criticism for trying to rush through things just to obtain advantage in presidential elections.

In 2016, when then-President Barack Obama wanted to fill Supreme Court vacancy, Mitch McConnell had refused to hold Senate hearing saying that such a step could not be taken during an election year.

Now the Republicans are doing the same thing for their favoured Supreme Court nominee not just in an election year but just weeks before the presidential elections.

What options do Democrats have?

At the moment very few. Although two Republican Senators have said that they will not support Trump's nominee, another defection from the Republican camp would bring the Senate strength during the vote to 50-50. Vice-President Mike Pence can then exercise casting vote in favour of Amy Coney Barrett.

Biden and his vice presidential running mate Kamala Harris, a member of the Judiciary Committee, blasted Trump's choice of Barrett, focusing in particular on the threat they said she would pose to healthcare for millions of Americans.

Biden noted that even as Trump's administration is seeking to strike down Obamacare in a case the Supreme Court is due to hear on Nov. 10, Barrett has a "written track record" criticizing a pivotal 2012 ruling authored by Chief Justice John Roberts preserving the healthcare law formally known as the Affordable Care Act. If quickly confirmed, Barrett could be on the bench to hear that case.

Democrats also fretted that Barrett could help overturn the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade decision that legalized abortion nationwide, a goal of religious conservatives.

"Trump's hand-picked successor to Justice Ginsburg's seat makes it clear: they intend to destroy the Affordable Care Act &amp; overturn Roe. This selection would move the court further right for a generation &amp; harm millions of Americans," Harris wrote on Twitter on Saturday.

An emboldened Supreme Court conservative majority could shift the United States to the right on hot-button issues by, among other things, curbing abortion rights, expanding religious rights, striking down gun control laws, halting the expansion of LGBT rights, and endorsing new restrictions on voting rights.

(With Reuters inputs) 
&nbsp;

Things have gathered pace in Republican Party camps in the US as the GOP closes ranks to hasten the process of confirming Amy Cony Barrett on the Supreme Court. In early hours of Sunday, US President Donald Trump nominated Amy Coney Barrett but a final seal of approval will come from US Senate that will confirm the nomination.

Things have gathered pace in Republican Party camps in the US as the GOP closes ranks to hasten the process of confirming Amy Cony Barrett on the Supreme Court. In early hours of Sunday, US President Donald Trump nominated Amy Coney Barrett but a final seal of approval will come from US Senate that will confirm the nomination. Amy Coney Barrett will replace liberal Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg in the Supreme Court. Ginsburg passed away on September 18. Republican Party has 53-47 majority in the Senate. Senate Majority leader Mitch McConnell, himself a Republican, has already made confirming Amy Coney Barrett a paramount priority. "I look forward to meeting with the nominee next week and will carefully study her record and credentials," he said,"As I have stated, this nomination will receive a vote on the Senate floor in the weeks ahead." Why the hurry Amy Coney Barrett is known for her conservative views. Republican Party's vote base is conservative Americans. If Amy Coney Barrett gets confirmed on the Supreme Court, the conservative judges will have 6-3 majority over judges who are more liberal. Moreover, the republican party is trying hard to confirm Amy Coney Barrett before November 3 US Presidential Elections. In 2000, US Supreme Court had to resolve US Presidential Elections after the votes had been cast and counted. Republican Party's George Bush was declared winner of the election. It is being said that by confirming Amy Coney Barrett in Supreme Court, Republicans envisage a possible advantage if Supreme Court needs to get involved to resolve US Elections 2020. Amy Coney Barrett to meet Senators Barrett is expected to begin meetings with individual senators on Tuesday. Trump said the Senate Judiciary Committee, chaired by his ally Senator Lindsey Graham, would begin confirmation hearings on Oct. 12. Like Trump's two other appointees, Neil Gorsuch in 2017 and Brett Kavanaugh in 2018, Barrett is young enough that she could serve for decades in the lifetime job, leaving a lasting conservative imprint. Trump's two previous appointments were surrounded by controversy. 'Hypocrite' Republican Party? Republican Party is drawing criticism for trying to rush through things just to obtain advantage in presidential elections. In 2016, when then-President Barack Obama wanted to fill Supreme Court vacancy, Mitch McConnell had refused to hold Senate hearing saying that such a step could not be taken during an election year. Now the Republicans are doing the same thing for their favoured Supreme Court nominee not just in an election year but just weeks before the presidential elections. What options do Democrats have? At the moment very few. Although two Republican Senators have said that they will not support Trump's nominee, another defection from the Republican camp would bring the Senate strength during the vote to 50-50. Vice-President Mike Pence can then exercise casting vote in favour of Amy Coney Barrett. Biden and his vice presidential running mate Kamala Harris, a member of the Judiciary Committee, blasted Trump's choice of Barrett, focusing in particular on the threat they said she would pose to healthcare for millions of Americans. Biden noted that even as Trump's administration is seeking to strike down Obamacare in a case the Supreme Court is due to hear on Nov. 10, Barrett has a "written track record" criticizing a pivotal 2012 ruling authored by Chief Justice John Roberts preserving the healthcare law formally known as the Affordable Care Act. If quickly confirmed, Barrett could be on the bench to hear that case. Democrats also fretted that Barrett could help overturn the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade decision that legalized abortion nationwide, a goal of religious conservatives. "Trump's hand-picked successor to Justice Ginsburg's seat makes it clear: they intend to destroy the Affordable Care Act & overturn Roe. This selection would move the court further right for a generation & harm millions of Americans," Harris wrote on Twitter on Saturday. An emboldened Supreme Court conservative majority could shift the United States to the right on hot-button issues by, among other things, curbing abortion rights, expanding religious rights, striking down gun control laws, halting the expansion of LGBT rights, and endorsing new restrictions on voting rights. (With Reuters inputs)

Republican Party races against time to confirm Amy Coney Barrett on US Supreme Court

Putin called for a reset between Russia and the United States and said he wanted an agreement between the two countries to prevent incidents in cyberspace.

Putin says Russia and US should not meddle in each other's polls

The US President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;on Thursday said he hopes India and China will be able to work out their border dispute peacefully.

"I know that China now, and India, are having difficulty, and very very substantial difficulty. And hopefully, they will be able to work that out," he told reporters.

The two Asian countries have been facing diplomatic and border disputes for the past few months now, especially since the Galwan Valley face-off between the soldiers of the two Asian countries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/enough-is-enough-china-lashes-out-at-us-during-un-meeting-330064">Also read|&nbsp;'Enough is enough': China lashes out at US during UN meeting</a>

Trump, who has been an open critic of China, especially since the beginning of this year, offered to help the two countries maintain peace — yet again. Trump&nbsp;has time and again offered to be the peacemaker — an offer that both the countries have politely declined.&nbsp;"If we can help, we would love to help."

The statement came after the&nbsp;senior Indian and Chinese military commanders held days-long talks to resolve the&nbsp;standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh.

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While&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;is offering help to both the countries, experts believe he has been very transparent about being India's ally. Ashley Tellis, an&nbsp;American expert on India and South Asia, said in a podcast "it is motivated in part by the opportunities to confront China on a grander scale, which sort of makes it part and parcel of the US’s own bilateral problems with China. But I think there is something more going on here. And the more is that I do not think the United States had the alternative of doing otherwise."

"That is, Chinese aggression in this instance has been so blatant that the United States could not stand by and either ignore it or not come to India’s defence,” said Tellis, the Tata Chair for Strategic Affairs.&nbsp;

The US President Donald Trump on Thursday said he hopes India and China will be able to work out their border dispute peacefully. "I know that China now, and India, are having difficulty, and very very substantial difficulty.

The US President Donald Trump on Thursday said he hopes India and China will be able to work out their border dispute peacefully. "I know that China now, and India, are having difficulty, and very very substantial difficulty. And hopefully, they will be able to work that out," he told reporters. The two Asian countries have been facing diplomatic and border disputes for the past few months now, especially since the Galwan Valley face-off between the soldiers of the two Asian countries. Also read| 'Enough is enough': China lashes out at US during UN meeting Trump, who has been an open critic of China, especially since the beginning of this year, offered to help the two countries maintain peace — yet again. Trump has time and again offered to be the peacemaker — an offer that both the countries have politely declined. "If we can help, we would love to help." The statement came after the senior Indian and Chinese military commanders held days-long talks to resolve the standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh. × While Trump is offering help to both the countries, experts believe he has been very transparent about being India's ally. Ashley Tellis, an American expert on India and South Asia, said in a podcast "it is motivated in part by the opportunities to confront China on a grander scale, which sort of makes it part and parcel of the US’s own bilateral problems with China. But I think there is something more going on here. And the more is that I do not think the United States had the alternative of doing otherwise." "That is, Chinese aggression in this instance has been so blatant that the United States could not stand by and either ignore it or not come to India’s defence,” said Tellis, the Tata Chair for Strategic Affairs.

Trump hopes India-China resolve border issues; offers help again

Republicans are expecting US President Donald Trump to announce Amy Coney Barret as his nominee to the Supreme Court.

Donald Trump may select Amy Barrett as new Supreme Court judge

The US President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;has decided who will be replacing Ruth Bade&nbsp;Ginsburg, and as expected it can help him bring a conservative majority in the high court.

Judge Amy Coney Barrett may be the next one to replace Ginsburg after the latter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/supreme-court-judge-ruth-bader-ginsburg-dies-at-87-wanted-to-see-trump-lose-in-us-elections-328526">passed away</a> few days ago due to cancer.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rest-in-power-americans-mourn-the-death-of-ruth-bader-ginsburg-328786">Have a look| 'Rest in power': Americans mourn the death of Ruth Bader Ginsburg</a>

The reports have only surfaced in the local media and have not been confirmed yet by the White House or&nbsp;Trump.

A confirmed name will be announced by Saturday evening, and local media houses have cited close sources to establish that Barrett would be the next in line.

If selected, the 48-year-old will shift the court to a&nbsp;6-3 conservative majority. Calling Barrett "outstanding",&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;said he has already made a decision in his mind, but did not confirm Barrett's nomination and told the reporters,&nbsp;"I haven't said that."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2020-trump-jeered-and-heckled-as-he-visits-ginsburgs-casket-330009">Also read|&nbsp;US election 2020: Trump jeered and heckled as he visits Ginsburg's casket</a>

He had already clarified that he would <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-nominate-a-woman-to-replace-ginsburg-stating-he-likes-women-more-328748">nominate a woman to replace RBG</a>.&nbsp;"I think it should be a woman because I actually like women much more than men."

The decision to replace RBG is directly against her wishes as her last wish, as recorded with her granddaughter, was "My most fervent wish is that I will not be replaced until a new president is installed."

Trump's&nbsp;rival <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>,&nbsp;along with several others, have objected to&nbsp;Trump's&nbsp;run to replace the Supreme Court Judge.

This move is being seen as a calculated move to ensure a conservative majority in the court before the upcoming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/us-election">US elections</a>&nbsp;that are scheduled for November 03.

Having a conservative majority in the court will help&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;if the history repeats itself and the decision on who will be the next President of the United States comes to the court.

The US President Donald Trump has decided who will be replacing Ruth Bade Ginsburg, and as expected it can help him bring a conservative majority in the high court.

The US President Donald Trump has decided who will be replacing Ruth Bade Ginsburg, and as expected it can help him bring a conservative majority in the high court. Judge Amy Coney Barrett may be the next one to replace Ginsburg after the latter passed away few days ago due to cancer. Have a look| 'Rest in power': Americans mourn the death of Ruth Bader Ginsburg The reports have only surfaced in the local media and have not been confirmed yet by the White House or Trump. A confirmed name will be announced by Saturday evening, and local media houses have cited close sources to establish that Barrett would be the next in line. If selected, the 48-year-old will shift the court to a 6-3 conservative majority. Calling Barrett "outstanding", Trump said he has already made a decision in his mind, but did not confirm Barrett's nomination and told the reporters, "I haven't said that." Also read| US election 2020: Trump jeered and heckled as he visits Ginsburg's casket He had already clarified that he would nominate a woman to replace RBG. "I think it should be a woman because I actually like women much more than men." The decision to replace RBG is directly against her wishes as her last wish, as recorded with her granddaughter, was "My most fervent wish is that I will not be replaced until a new president is installed." Trump's rival Joe Biden, along with several others, have objected to Trump's run to replace the Supreme Court Judge. This move is being seen as a calculated move to ensure a conservative majority in the court before the upcoming US elections that are scheduled for November 03. Having a conservative majority in the court will help Trump if the history repeats itself and the decision on who will be the next President of the United States comes to the court.

Trump to nominate Amy Coney Barrett to replace Ginsburg before US elections: Reports

USA is seeking to limit stay of Chinese journalists on its soil to 90 days. The proposal of the Departement of Homeland Security is part of fixed time limit on visas of students, researchers and foreign journalists in the US. The administration's move has been mentioned in a federal notification.

This may open a new front of tussle between USA and China as bilateral relations worsen. Both the countries are locked in a tit-for-tat battle over coronavirus, trade, diplomatic presence on each other's soil.

As per the new proposal, Chinese journalists in the US can apply for an extension of 90 days. Journalists from Macau have been given exception.

Although a provision of extension of 90 days has been proposed, the period is much less than that granted to other foreign journalists.

Journalists from countries other than China can spend 240 days in the US and ask for an extension for same period ahead.

In March, the State Department asked Chinese media outlets to reduce their number of staff in the US.

Four Chinese State-run media outlets -- Xinhua News Agency, China Global Television Network, China Radio International and China Daily- were asked to reduce their total staff of 160 Chinese nationals to 100.

In June, the US designated four top state-run Chinese media houses as "foreign missions," terming them as "propaganda" outlets "controlled" by the ruling Communist Party of China.

It will be interesting two see how China responds to the fresh proposal that is set to come into effect in 30 days.

In past China has retaliated US moves.

When US asked China to shut it embassy in Houston, China had retaliated by asking US to do the same with its embassy in Chengdu province.

After this, both countries have increasingly chosen to restrict movements of each other's diplomats on their own soil.

USA is seeking to limit stay of Chinese journalists on its soil to 90 days. The proposal of the Departement of Homeland Security is part of fixed time limit on visas of students, researchers and foreign journalists in the US.

USA is seeking to limit stay of Chinese journalists on its soil to 90 days. The proposal of the Departement of Homeland Security is part of fixed time limit on visas of students, researchers and foreign journalists in the US. The administration's move has been mentioned in a federal notification. This may open a new front of tussle between USA and China as bilateral relations worsen. Both the countries are locked in a tit-for-tat battle over coronavirus, trade, diplomatic presence on each other's soil. As per the new proposal, Chinese journalists in the US can apply for an extension of 90 days. Journalists from Macau have been given exception. Although a provision of extension of 90 days has been proposed, the period is much less than that granted to other foreign journalists. Journalists from countries other than China can spend 240 days in the US and ask for an extension for same period ahead. In March, the State Department asked Chinese media outlets to reduce their number of staff in the US. Four Chinese State-run media outlets -- Xinhua News Agency, China Global Television Network, China Radio International and China Daily- were asked to reduce their total staff of 160 Chinese nationals to 100. In June, the US designated four top state-run Chinese media houses as "foreign missions," terming them as "propaganda" outlets "controlled" by the ruling Communist Party of China. It will be interesting two see how China responds to the fresh proposal that is set to come into effect in 30 days. In past China has retaliated US moves. When US asked China to shut it embassy in Houston, China had retaliated by asking US to do the same with its embassy in Chengdu province. After this, both countries have increasingly chosen to restrict movements of each other's diplomats on their own soil.

US seeks to restrict stay of Chinese journalists to 90 days

President Trump’s refusal to commit to a peaceful transition of power is tied to his criticism and false statements about voting by mail

US Election 2020: Trump says mail-in ballots ‘big scam’

With multiple reports and claims about China releasing the novel&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> into the whole world and with almost every country turning into an enemy, China has had enough.

The Chinese envoy&nbsp;Zhang Jun used the&nbsp;Security Council meeting on global governance to express the country's frustration. The conference was&nbsp;attended by several heads of state through videoconference.

"I must say, enough is enough! You have created enough troubles for the world already," Jun said.

Pointing out the rising number of coronavirus cases and deaths in the US, he asked the US why has the country not been able to contain the spread of the virus like China. "The US has nearly seven million confirmed cases and over 200,000 deaths by now. With the most advanced medical technologies and system in the world, why has the US turned out to have the most confirmed cases and fatalities?" he asked.

"If someone should be held accountable, it should be a few US politicians themselves," he said hinting towards the US President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-2020-trump-applauds-selfs-approach-towards-covid-calls-bidens-approach-anti-science-329852">Also read| US elections 2020: Trump applauds self's approach towards COVID; calls Biden's approach 'anti-science'</a>

The envoy taunted the US about it being "major power" — a phrase often used by&nbsp;Donald Trump&nbsp;— and said, "The US should understand that a major power should behave like a major power."

The remarks came two days after&nbsp;Donald Trump attacked China during his annual address in the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), which gained support from the UN, and angered the Asian country.

All the heads of the states were asked to send pre-recorded speeches to the UN, which did not give the Chinese leader Xi Jinping an opportunity to reply to&nbsp;Trump's&nbsp;accusations in the UNGA address. However, China will be, as per reports, taking a slot on Tuesday to be able to reply to Trump's accusations about COVID-19.

Xi Jinping, in his address, focused on climate change and how to tackle it.&nbsp;Trump, on the other hand, demanded actions against China for spreading the "plague" which he terms as "China virus" — that helps him in the&nbsp;upcoming&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/us-election">US elections</a>, scheduled for November 03.

With multiple reports and claims about China releasing the novel coronavirus into the whole world and with almost every country turning into an enemy, China has had enough.

With multiple reports and claims about China releasing the novel coronavirus into the whole world and with almost every country turning into an enemy, China has had enough. The Chinese envoy Zhang Jun used the Security Council meeting on global governance to express the country's frustration. The conference was attended by several heads of state through videoconference. "I must say, enough is enough! You have created enough troubles for the world already," Jun said. Pointing out the rising number of coronavirus cases and deaths in the US, he asked the US why has the country not been able to contain the spread of the virus like China. "The US has nearly seven million confirmed cases and over 200,000 deaths by now. With the most advanced medical technologies and system in the world, why has the US turned out to have the most confirmed cases and fatalities?" he asked. "If someone should be held accountable, it should be a few US politicians themselves," he said hinting towards the US President Donald Trump. Also read| US elections 2020: Trump applauds self's approach towards COVID; calls Biden's approach 'anti-science' The envoy taunted the US about it being "major power" — a phrase often used by Donald Trump — and said, "The US should understand that a major power should behave like a major power." The remarks came two days after Donald Trump attacked China during his annual address in the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), which gained support from the UN, and angered the Asian country. All the heads of the states were asked to send pre-recorded speeches to the UN, which did not give the Chinese leader Xi Jinping an opportunity to reply to Trump's accusations in the UNGA address. However, China will be, as per reports, taking a slot on Tuesday to be able to reply to Trump's accusations about COVID-19. Xi Jinping, in his address, focused on climate change and how to tackle it. Trump, on the other hand, demanded actions against China for spreading the "plague" which he terms as "China virus" — that helps him in the upcoming US elections, scheduled for November 03.

'Enough is enough': China lashes out at US during UN meeting

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit Greece next week in a show of support following high tensions in the Mediterranean with Turkey, the State Department announced Thursday.

Pompeo will also travel to Italy, with a stop in Vatican City, to discuss religious freedom, and Croatia on the September 27-October 2 trip.

In his second trip to Greece in less than a year, Pompeo will go both to the northern city of Thessaloniki and the southern island of Crete, where he will meet with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greece-says-its-close-to-resuming-maritime-talks-with-turkey-329270">Also read:&nbsp;Greece says it's close to resuming maritime talks with Turkey</a>

Pompeo will "renew our shared commitment to advance security, peace and prosperity in the Eastern Mediterranean and celebrate the strongest US-Greek relationship in decades," the State Department said.

In Crete, he will visit the NATO base at Souda Bay "to underscore the strong US security partnership with NATO ally Greece," it said.

Historic tensions flared last month when Turkey sent a vessel backed by military frigates to hunt for oil and gas reserves in waters also claimed by Greece.

Greece responded with naval exercises as a warning and has enjoyed especially vocal backing from France.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-sanctions-against-iran-venezuelas-maduro-329294">Also read:&nbsp;US imposes sanctions against Iran, Venezuela's Maduro</a>

But the tone has recently softened between Greece and Turkey, also a NATO member, with the two agreeing Tuesday to begin exploratory talks on their dispute.

Pompeo earlier this month also discussed the row on a visit to Cyprus, the majority-Greek island whose northern third is occupied by Turkey.

The United States recently lifted a decades-long arms embargo on Cyprus, outraging Turkey.

But President Donald Trump has maintained warm relations with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who controversially helped persuade the US leader to pull troops from Syria.

Relations have been growing for several years between Washington and Athens, which has been building energy ties with US ally Israel.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit Greece next week in a show of support following high tensions in the Mediterranean with Turkey, the State Department announced Thursday.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit Greece next week in a show of support following high tensions in the Mediterranean with Turkey, the State Department announced Thursday. Pompeo will also travel to Italy, with a stop in Vatican City, to discuss religious freedom, and Croatia on the September 27-October 2 trip. In his second trip to Greece in less than a year, Pompeo will go both to the northern city of Thessaloniki and the southern island of Crete, where he will meet with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. Also read: Greece says it's close to resuming maritime talks with Turkey Pompeo will "renew our shared commitment to advance security, peace and prosperity in the Eastern Mediterranean and celebrate the strongest US-Greek relationship in decades," the State Department said. In Crete, he will visit the NATO base at Souda Bay "to underscore the strong US security partnership with NATO ally Greece," it said. Historic tensions flared last month when Turkey sent a vessel backed by military frigates to hunt for oil and gas reserves in waters also claimed by Greece. Greece responded with naval exercises as a warning and has enjoyed especially vocal backing from France. Also read: US imposes sanctions against Iran, Venezuela's Maduro But the tone has recently softened between Greece and Turkey, also a NATO member, with the two agreeing Tuesday to begin exploratory talks on their dispute. Pompeo earlier this month also discussed the row on a visit to Cyprus, the majority-Greek island whose northern third is occupied by Turkey. The United States recently lifted a decades-long arms embargo on Cyprus, outraging Turkey. But President Donald Trump has maintained warm relations with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who controversially helped persuade the US leader to pull troops from Syria. Relations have been growing for several years between Washington and Athens, which has been building energy ties with US ally Israel.

Pompeo to show support for Greece amid Turkey tensions

The United States, United Kingdom and Canada plan to impose sanctions on Belarusian individuals following what they view as a rigged election and violence against peaceful protesters.

UK, US, Canada to impose sanctions on Belarusians

US Senate majority Leader McConnell assured that the results of the presidential elections would be implemented in an orderly way. The statement came after just a day President Donald Trump refused to guarantee smooth transfer of power if he loses the election.

US Election 2020: Republicans split with Trump on peaceful transfer of power

Elon Musk’s Tesla has decided to sue the US government over the Trump administration's tariffs on items the electric car manufacturer imports from China.

Tesla sues US govt over tariffs on Chinese imports

US major airlines have launched a last-ditch pit to persuade Congress to grant them new $25 BN bailouts to help avert thousands of employees.

US airlines seek $25 BN to help avert jobs

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