Isaias regained hurricane strength on Monday night just hours before it was due to make landfall in the Carolinas and churn its way up the U.S. East Coast toward Washington, Philadelphia and New York, the National Hurricane Center said.

Isaias strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane, at the bottom of the five-step Saffir-Simpson scale, with maximum sustained winds reaching 85 miles per hour (137 kilometers per hour), the NHC said in its latest bulletin.&nbsp;

Life-threatening winds and storm surges - high waters swept in from shore - were expected along the coast of the Carolinas, while heavy rains inland could unleash flash floods, the Miami-based forecaster said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/isaias-grazes-florida-as-tropical-storm-heads-up-east-coast-317734" hreflang="en">Isaias grazes Florida as tropical storm, heads up East Coast</a>

"Only gradual weakening is anticipated after Isaias makes landfall in the Carolinas and moves across the US&nbsp;mid-Atlantic" region" on Monday night and Tuesday, the NHC said.

Isaias, which had briefly weakened into a tropical storm, posed an immediate threat to a stretch of coastline that includes the South Carolina tourist resort of Myrtle Beach and the North Carolina port city of Wilmington.

In a warning to the Carolinas, the National Hurricane Center said: "Preparations to protect life and property should be rushed to completion."

New York City braced for a potential storm surge in lower Manhattan, mindful of devastation caused by Superstorm Sandy in 2012.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/isaias-weakens-heads-to-coronavirus-hit-florida-as-tropical-storm-317548" hreflang="en">Isaias weakens, heads to coronavirus-hit Florida as tropical storm</a>

While a few local officials on the East Coast ordered evacuations, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper warned of severe inland flooding, as occurred with 2018's Hurricane Florence, which killed 40 people and caused $17 billion in damage in the state.

A storm surge warning was posted for a 180-mile stretch of the coastline from Folly Beach, South Carolina, north to Cape Fear, North Carolina.

Swift-water rescue teams, high-water vehicles and helicopters were standing by in North Carolina, and storm shelters were preparing to accommodate evacuees with at least 115 square feet (10 square meters) per person to assure COVID-19 social distancing.&nbsp;

Coronavirus diagnostic testing sites were being left to decide on a case-by-case basis whether to close, stay open or alter their testing hours, according to the state's health department.

"North Carolinians have had to dig deep in recent months to tap into our strength and resilience during the pandemic ... but we have to dig a little deeper. Let's keep each other safe from the wind and water, as well as from the virus," Cooper said.

Hatteras Island, a barrier island popular with tourists, was nearly deserted on Monday after officials ordered visitors and residents to leave, but some ignored the warnings.

Kevin Rowe, 63, of Indiana, was not about to let the storm cancel his family's first visit to North Carolina's Outer Banks.

"We're a little bit of risk-takers," said Rowe, who has been traveling the world for 11 years with his wife.

Isaias is the ninth named storm of the 2010 Atlantic hurricane season.

Isaias regained hurricane strength on Monday night just hours before it was due to make landfall in the Carolinas and churn its way up the U.S. East Coast toward Washington, Philadelphia and New York, the National Hurricane Center said.

Isaias regained hurricane strength on Monday night just hours before it was due to make landfall in the Carolinas and churn its way up the U.S. East Coast toward Washington, Philadelphia and New York, the National Hurricane Center said. Isaias strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane, at the bottom of the five-step Saffir-Simpson scale, with maximum sustained winds reaching 85 miles per hour (137 kilometers per hour), the NHC said in its latest bulletin. Life-threatening winds and storm surges - high waters swept in from shore - were expected along the coast of the Carolinas, while heavy rains inland could unleash flash floods, the Miami-based forecaster said. Also read: Isaias grazes Florida as tropical storm, heads up East Coast "Only gradual weakening is anticipated after Isaias makes landfall in the Carolinas and moves across the US mid-Atlantic" region" on Monday night and Tuesday, the NHC said. Isaias, which had briefly weakened into a tropical storm, posed an immediate threat to a stretch of coastline that includes the South Carolina tourist resort of Myrtle Beach and the North Carolina port city of Wilmington. In a warning to the Carolinas, the National Hurricane Center said: "Preparations to protect life and property should be rushed to completion." New York City braced for a potential storm surge in lower Manhattan, mindful of devastation caused by Superstorm Sandy in 2012. Also read: Isaias weakens, heads to coronavirus-hit Florida as tropical storm While a few local officials on the East Coast ordered evacuations, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper warned of severe inland flooding, as occurred with 2018's Hurricane Florence, which killed 40 people and caused $17 billion in damage in the state. A storm surge warning was posted for a 180-mile stretch of the coastline from Folly Beach, South Carolina, north to Cape Fear, North Carolina. Swift-water rescue teams, high-water vehicles and helicopters were standing by in North Carolina, and storm shelters were preparing to accommodate evacuees with at least 115 square feet (10 square meters) per person to assure COVID-19 social distancing. Coronavirus diagnostic testing sites were being left to decide on a case-by-case basis whether to close, stay open or alter their testing hours, according to the state's health department. "North Carolinians have had to dig deep in recent months to tap into our strength and resilience during the pandemic ... but we have to dig a little deeper. Let's keep each other safe from the wind and water, as well as from the virus," Cooper said. Hatteras Island, a barrier island popular with tourists, was nearly deserted on Monday after officials ordered visitors and residents to leave, but some ignored the warnings. Kevin Rowe, 63, of Indiana, was not about to let the storm cancel his family's first visit to North Carolina's Outer Banks. "We're a little bit of risk-takers," said Rowe, who has been traveling the world for 11 years with his wife. Isaias is the ninth named storm of the 2010 Atlantic hurricane season.

Isaias strengthens into hurricane ahead of expected landfall in Carolinas

The United States recently witnessed its worst protests in the recent history. Clubbed with the coronavirus pandemic, it put a lot of pressure on people to rethink their safety.

Owing to this, more Americans are buying firearms than ever before. The US’ Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) undertook 3.6 million background checks in just the month of July 2020. This marks the third highest month on record for arms sales since the agency began logging stats in 1998.

Over 2 million checks

In July 2019, the FBI had conducted 2 million background checks.&nbsp;June had broken all records in terms of background checks, with 3.9 million background checks. In March, the number stood at 3.7 million.

The states with the highest number of firearms sales include Illinois, Kentucky, Texas, Florida, and California, where most checks were performed related to selling, transferring, or licensing guns.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-to-sue-nevada-for-mail-in-ballots-317967" hreflang="en">Trump threatens to sue Nevada for mail-in ballots</a>

US law mandates background checks on every buyer, regardless if whether the gun was purchased at a store, or during a gun show.

Upon purchasing a gun, the buyer must present their identification to the seller, and fills out a form made by the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. This form includes the buyer’s address, age, race, criminal history.

Following this, the FBI conducts a database check on whether the buyer had any history of crime.

Factors contributing to this surge

The US has been volatile lately, be it due to the COVID-19 pandemic which has killed more people in the US than elsewhere. People were ordered to stay in during the pandemic. Additionally, the anti-racism protests fuelled by the murder of George Floyd in the hands of the police led to a lot of rioting across the country.

Most of the protests remained peaceful, but owing to sporadic rioting, the National Guard was sent in to many places to contain the violence. In the city of Portland, Oregon, people clashed with federal forces on multiple occasions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-sets-september-15-deadline-for-tiktok-sale-317963" hreflang="en">Donald Trump sets September 15 deadline for TikTok sale</a>

The US has a history of witnessing a spike in the number of firearms sales in the aftermath of a tragedy, IN 2012, a 39 per cent spike in sales was noted by the FBI. This came in the aftermath of a deadly shooting at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut.

An additional 48 per cent checks were also performed by the FBI in 2015 after the terrorist attack in San Bernardino, California.

A concern of safety may be driving such high sales of guns. National Rifle Association’s official told CNN that this happens when people worry about their safety, causing a spike in firearm sales.

The United States recently witnessed its worst protests in the recent history. Clubbed with the coronavirus pandemic, it put a lot of pressure on people to rethink their safety.

The United States recently witnessed its worst protests in the recent history. Clubbed with the coronavirus pandemic, it put a lot of pressure on people to rethink their safety. Owing to this, more Americans are buying firearms than ever before. The US’ Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) undertook 3.6 million background checks in just the month of July 2020. This marks the third highest month on record for arms sales since the agency began logging stats in 1998. Over 2 million checks In July 2019, the FBI had conducted 2 million background checks. June had broken all records in terms of background checks, with 3.9 million background checks. In March, the number stood at 3.7 million. The states with the highest number of firearms sales include Illinois, Kentucky, Texas, Florida, and California, where most checks were performed related to selling, transferring, or licensing guns. Also read: Trump threatens to sue Nevada for mail-in ballots US law mandates background checks on every buyer, regardless if whether the gun was purchased at a store, or during a gun show. Upon purchasing a gun, the buyer must present their identification to the seller, and fills out a form made by the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. This form includes the buyer’s address, age, race, criminal history. Following this, the FBI conducts a database check on whether the buyer had any history of crime. Factors contributing to this surge The US has been volatile lately, be it due to the COVID-19 pandemic which has killed more people in the US than elsewhere. People were ordered to stay in during the pandemic. Additionally, the anti-racism protests fuelled by the murder of George Floyd in the hands of the police led to a lot of rioting across the country. Most of the protests remained peaceful, but owing to sporadic rioting, the National Guard was sent in to many places to contain the violence. In the city of Portland, Oregon, people clashed with federal forces on multiple occasions. Also read: Donald Trump sets September 15 deadline for TikTok sale The US has a history of witnessing a spike in the number of firearms sales in the aftermath of a tragedy, IN 2012, a 39 per cent spike in sales was noted by the FBI. This came in the aftermath of a deadly shooting at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut. An additional 48 per cent checks were also performed by the FBI in 2015 after the terrorist attack in San Bernardino, California. A concern of safety may be driving such high sales of guns. National Rifle Association’s official told CNN that this happens when people worry about their safety, causing a spike in firearm sales.

Protests and pandemic cause Americans to buy more firearms, FBI records reveal

The drop in gross domestic product was the fastest the quarterly rate has fallen in modern record-keeping

U.S trade war with China impacts demand | US Economy | US Manufacturing activity

President Donald Trump has said that as compared to big countries, America is doing "very well" in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, while India is having a "tremendous problem" battling the disease and China is witnessing a "massive flare up" in infections.

India's COVID-19 tally increased to 18,55,745 on Tuesday with 52,050 people testing positive for coronavirus infection in a day.

China on Tuesday reported 36 new cases across the country, down from 43 the previous day. The country's COVID-19 cases crossed the 100-mark on July 29, for the first time in over three months, sparking the fear of a rebound.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-covid-19-deaths-rise-for-fourth-week-new-cases-drop-5-318003">Also read|&nbsp;US COVID-19 deaths rise for fourth week, new cases drop 5%</a>

"I think we're doing very well. I think that we have done as well as any nation. If you really look, if you take a look at what's going on, especially now with all these flare ups and nations that they were talking about," Trump told reporters at a news conference here on Monday.

As such, compared to larger countries, the US is doing much better in the fight against the coronavirus, he said.

"Don't forget, we're much bigger than--other than India and China. China is having a massive flare up right now. India has a tremendous problem. Other countries have problems," he said in response to a question.

"And I noticed that in the news, in the evening news, I never read about that. In any news, I don't read about the other countries. You're starting to see that other countries are having very big flare ups, countries that thought they were over it, like we thought we might be over in Florida, and then all of a sudden it comes back. They do come back," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-records-52050-cases-in-a-single-day-death-toll-nears-40000-318001">Also read|&nbsp;COVID 19: India records 52,050 cases in a single day; death toll nears 40,000</a>

The US is the worst-hit country from the pandemic with over 4.7 million cases and more than 155,000 deaths. 
The US, Trump said, has tested over 60 million people for coronavirus.

"No other country is even close to that. We've tested 60 million people -in many cases about 50 percent, now rapid fire, meaning five to 15 to 20-minute tests where you get the results almost immediately. Nobody has anything like that. Nobody. And I think we're just doing very well," he said.

Trump said that the US is beginning to see evidence of significant progress. Nationwide, the number of positive cases has declined by nearly six percent from the week before, and the positive test rate has also dropped from 8.7 per cent to 8 per cent over that same period of time.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-signs-executive-order-against-hiring-h1b-visa-holders-for-federal-contracts-318023">Also read|&nbsp;Trump signs executive order against hiring H1B visa holders for federal contracts</a>

"Hotspots across the South and West; we have seen slow improvements from their recent weekly peaks," he said, adding that Arizona's weekly case counts have dropped 37 per cent that is a tremendous drop and the governor and the state have done a fantastic job down 37 per cent, Texas down 18.7 per cent, and Florida 21.2 per cent drop.

"As we begin to contain the virus in these states, we must focus on new flare ups in the states where the case numbers have risen, including Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Missouri, and I think you will find that they are soon going to be very much under control," he said.

Meanwhile, 18 states continue to have very low case numbers and low test positivity rates under five per cent, including New Jersey, New York, Alaska, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland and Massachusetts. 
Even in these states, however, where the virus is under control and at a very low number, Americans should continue to be vigilant, be careful in order to prevent the new hotspots from opening up, he said.

"To that end, I urge all Americans to continue to socially distance, wash your hands, wear a mask when you cannot avoid crowded places and to protect the elderly very, very important, protect the elderly. It is much different....," Trump said.

It is important for all Americans to recognise that a permanent lockdown is not a viable path towards producing the results that one wants or certainly not a viable path forward and would ultimately inflict more harm than it would prevent, he said.

"As we are seeing in foreign countries around the world where cases are once again surging, you have many places where we thought they were under control doing a great job, and they are doing a great job, but this is a very tough invisible enemy. Lockdowns do not prevent infection in the future. They just don't. It comes back many times...," he said.

The purpose of a lockdown is to buy time to build capacity in hospitals, learn more about the disease and develop effective treatments, he asserted.

"We are doing very well with the vaccines and the therapeutic. Countries, where there have been very significant flare ups over the last short period of time, are Spain, Germany, France, Australia, Japan, and also, as you probably heard in Hong Kong, they have had some very serious flare ups. Japan has gone a lot of--six-fold, six-fold flareup, that's a lot, but they will get it under control," he said.

"In our current phase, we must focus on protecting those at highest risk while allowing younger and healthier Americans to resume work and school with careful precautions. Ideally, we want to open those schools. We want to open them.

"At the same time, we are placing an emphasis on continuing to drive down the mortality rate with improved care, treatment, and medical interventions building a bridge to the introduction of a vaccine. The vaccines are coming along incredibly well," Trump said.

President Donald Trump has said that as compared to big countries, America is doing "very well" in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, while India is having a "tremendous problem" battling the disease and China is witnessing a "massive flare up" in infections.

President Donald Trump has said that as compared to big countries, America is doing "very well" in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, while India is having a "tremendous problem" battling the disease and China is witnessing a "massive flare up" in infections. India's COVID-19 tally increased to 18,55,745 on Tuesday with 52,050 people testing positive for coronavirus infection in a day. China on Tuesday reported 36 new cases across the country, down from 43 the previous day. The country's COVID-19 cases crossed the 100-mark on July 29, for the first time in over three months, sparking the fear of a rebound. Also read| US COVID-19 deaths rise for fourth week, new cases drop 5% "I think we're doing very well. I think that we have done as well as any nation. If you really look, if you take a look at what's going on, especially now with all these flare ups and nations that they were talking about," Trump told reporters at a news conference here on Monday. As such, compared to larger countries, the US is doing much better in the fight against the coronavirus, he said. "Don't forget, we're much bigger than--other than India and China. China is having a massive flare up right now. India has a tremendous problem. Other countries have problems," he said in response to a question. "And I noticed that in the news, in the evening news, I never read about that. In any news, I don't read about the other countries. You're starting to see that other countries are having very big flare ups, countries that thought they were over it, like we thought we might be over in Florida, and then all of a sudden it comes back. They do come back," he said. Also read| COVID 19: India records 52,050 cases in a single day; death toll nears 40,000 The US is the worst-hit country from the pandemic with over 4.7 million cases and more than 155,000 deaths. The US, Trump said, has tested over 60 million people for coronavirus. "No other country is even close to that. We've tested 60 million people -in many cases about 50 percent, now rapid fire, meaning five to 15 to 20-minute tests where you get the results almost immediately. Nobody has anything like that. Nobody. And I think we're just doing very well," he said. Trump said that the US is beginning to see evidence of significant progress. Nationwide, the number of positive cases has declined by nearly six percent from the week before, and the positive test rate has also dropped from 8.7 per cent to 8 per cent over that same period of time. Also read| Trump signs executive order against hiring H1B visa holders for federal contracts "Hotspots across the South and West; we have seen slow improvements from their recent weekly peaks," he said, adding that Arizona's weekly case counts have dropped 37 per cent that is a tremendous drop and the governor and the state have done a fantastic job down 37 per cent, Texas down 18.7 per cent, and Florida 21.2 per cent drop. "As we begin to contain the virus in these states, we must focus on new flare ups in the states where the case numbers have risen, including Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Missouri, and I think you will find that they are soon going to be very much under control," he said. Meanwhile, 18 states continue to have very low case numbers and low test positivity rates under five per cent, including New Jersey, New York, Alaska, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland and Massachusetts. Even in these states, however, where the virus is under control and at a very low number, Americans should continue to be vigilant, be careful in order to prevent the new hotspots from opening up, he said. "To that end, I urge all Americans to continue to socially distance, wash your hands, wear a mask when you cannot avoid crowded places and to protect the elderly very, very important, protect the elderly. It is much different....," Trump said. It is important for all Americans to recognise that a permanent lockdown is not a viable path towards producing the results that one wants or certainly not a viable path forward and would ultimately inflict more harm than it would prevent, he said. "As we are seeing in foreign countries around the world where cases are once again surging, you have many places where we thought they were under control doing a great job, and they are doing a great job, but this is a very tough invisible enemy. Lockdowns do not prevent infection in the future. They just don't. It comes back many times...," he said. The purpose of a lockdown is to buy time to build capacity in hospitals, learn more about the disease and develop effective treatments, he asserted. "We are doing very well with the vaccines and the therapeutic. Countries, where there have been very significant flare ups over the last short period of time, are Spain, Germany, France, Australia, Japan, and also, as you probably heard in Hong Kong, they have had some very serious flare ups. Japan has gone a lot of--six-fold, six-fold flareup, that's a lot, but they will get it under control," he said. "In our current phase, we must focus on protecting those at highest risk while allowing younger and healthier Americans to resume work and school with careful precautions. Ideally, we want to open those schools. We want to open them. "At the same time, we are placing an emphasis on continuing to drive down the mortality rate with improved care, treatment, and medical interventions building a bridge to the introduction of a vaccine. The vaccines are coming along incredibly well," Trump said.

US doing 'very well' against COVID-19, India has a 'tremendous problem': Trump

Ever since the coronavirus pandemic took over the world, scientists and professionals across all fields have been focused on limiting contact among people. However, one activity which requires one’s presence for sure, at least until now, is getting testing for the virus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/us-coronavirus-extraordinarily-widespread-say-white-house-experts-317714" hreflang="en">US coronavirus 'extraordinarily widespread', say White House experts</a>

To get tested, one has to visit the local facility and get swabbed. A US university may have come up with a contact-free mode of testing, which is just as efficient as the conventional mode of testing.

Zero contact

On Friday, Iowa State University announced its engineers have been working on a no-contact, and no-touch quick test for COVID-19. This will a mail-in test, implying nobody will need to make contact with each other.

If it works, it could tremendously decrease the risk for both healthcare workers and patients alike.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/britain-to-roll-out-millions-of-90-minute-coronavirus-tests-317752" hreflang="en">Britain to roll out millions of 90-minute coronavirus tests</a>

According to the university, the kit would cost as less as $1 and would allow people to conduct nasal and cough sampling in the comfort of their homes.

The kit comes with a card on which one must spread the sample from their noses and mouths. After this, the sample would be put it an envelope which has&nbsp;an anti-virus coating.

Easy kit

Then, the kit is required to stay put for one day, and then may be shipped to a centre or delivered directly.

Once they receive the material, the unopened envelope would undergo scanning for coronavirus diagnosis. After this, everything in the envelope - including samples would be rid of in the incinerator.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/us-congress-in-position-to-spend-big-on-coronavirus-relief-federal-reserve-official-317701" hreflang="en">US Congress in position to spend big on coronavirus relief: Federal Reserve official</a>

“The unopened envelope would be scanned by an electronic reader to determine a positive or negative result. Then, that never-opened envelope, samples and all, would be dropped in the incinerator," the university’s statement said.

Once the result is ascertained, the concerned person would receive it as a text message or an email.

According to the university, the basic goal of the test is ensure there is zero contact, and no touching.

The researchers who came up with the concept received $200,000 Rapid Response Research grant from the National Science Foundation for at least a year, meaning it could be taken seriously to conduct large-scale testing in the US, if not in the world.

Ever since the coronavirus pandemic took over the world, scientists and professionals across all fields have been focused on limiting contact among people. However, one activity which requires one’s presence for sure, at least until now, is getting testing for the virus.

Ever since the coronavirus pandemic took over the world, scientists and professionals across all fields have been focused on limiting contact among people. However, one activity which requires one’s presence for sure, at least until now, is getting testing for the virus. Also read: US coronavirus 'extraordinarily widespread', say White House experts To get tested, one has to visit the local facility and get swabbed. A US university may have come up with a contact-free mode of testing, which is just as efficient as the conventional mode of testing. Zero contact On Friday, Iowa State University announced its engineers have been working on a no-contact, and no-touch quick test for COVID-19. This will a mail-in test, implying nobody will need to make contact with each other. If it works, it could tremendously decrease the risk for both healthcare workers and patients alike. Also read: Britain to roll out millions of 90-minute coronavirus tests According to the university, the kit would cost as less as $1 and would allow people to conduct nasal and cough sampling in the comfort of their homes. The kit comes with a card on which one must spread the sample from their noses and mouths. After this, the sample would be put it an envelope which has an anti-virus coating. Easy kit Then, the kit is required to stay put for one day, and then may be shipped to a centre or delivered directly. Once they receive the material, the unopened envelope would undergo scanning for coronavirus diagnosis. After this, everything in the envelope - including samples would be rid of in the incinerator. Also read: US Congress in position to spend big on coronavirus relief: Federal Reserve official “The unopened envelope would be scanned by an electronic reader to determine a positive or negative result. Then, that never-opened envelope, samples and all, would be dropped in the incinerator," the university’s statement said. Once the result is ascertained, the concerned person would receive it as a text message or an email. According to the university, the basic goal of the test is ensure there is zero contact, and no touching. The researchers who came up with the concept received $200,000 Rapid Response Research grant from the National Science Foundation for at least a year, meaning it could be taken seriously to conduct large-scale testing in the US, if not in the world.

Iowa State University in US develops a zero contact, mail-in coronavirus testing kit

President Donald Trump has agreed to give China’s ByteDance 45 days to negotiate a sale of popular short-video app TikTok to Microsoft Corp

Donald Trump to give TikTok owner 45 days to agree sale

A series of packages containing seeds propped up across the United States recently. The packages came from China, and stirred fears of some new kind of warfare being set into motion.

Owing to the coronavirus pandemic, the paranoia around touching foreign objects has been amplified. Earlier, scientists had warned people against planting these seeds, as they may trigger the growth of foreign plant species, which would attack and decimate many local varieties.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has identified many of the mysterious seeds as Solanum Lycopersicum, or in layman terms - tomato seeds!

<h6><img alt="Unsolicited seeds that arrived in the mail, reported by a U.S. citizen to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service are seen in an undated photo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b6dc696c-dbd9-447c-9cfc-bb9ab13e018b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-6_8.jpg" /> 
Unsolicited&nbsp;seeds&nbsp;that arrived in the mail, reported by a US&nbsp;citizen to the US&nbsp;Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service are seen in an undated photo | Reuters 
&nbsp;</h6>

However, to ensure the safety imbued in the seeds, they are being sent to the National Identification Services lab in Beltsville for more testing.

Many other packages also contained “Rhus”, the USDA has found. Rhus is a common species of shrub found across North America.

This is just precursory information. More testing will determine whether the seeds are laden with any pests or diseases of potential concern to US agriculture.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/gravitas-is-china-sending-mystery-seeds-to-countries-316834/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Warfare or nah?&nbsp;

Conspiracy theories on social media claim that the seeds are a new form warfare from China, which wants to attain global dominance in the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic.

However, the way these seeds made their way into the US is very suspicious. Most packages were marked as jewellery or beads, and started appearing in mailboxes around the country - all very randomly.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/us-canada-citizens-receive-mysterious-packages-of-seeds-from-china-316823" hreflang="en">US, Canada citizens receive mysterious packages of seeds from China</a>

Now, botanists will take their study a step further and analyse the samples for potential harmful substances.

In a statement, the USDA said, “Accurate and timely identifications provide the foundation for quarantine action decisions and are essential in the effort to safeguard the nation's agricultural and natural resources.”

Have you received a suspicious package with seeds? Do not plant it and seal it, officials in the US say. They have also requested people to reach out to local agriculture authorities with the seeds.

A series of packages containing seeds propped up across the United States recently. The packages came from China, and stirred fears of some new kind of warfare being set into motion.

A series of packages containing seeds propped up across the United States recently. The packages came from China, and stirred fears of some new kind of warfare being set into motion. Owing to the coronavirus pandemic, the paranoia around touching foreign objects has been amplified. Earlier, scientists had warned people against planting these seeds, as they may trigger the growth of foreign plant species, which would attack and decimate many local varieties. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has identified many of the mysterious seeds as Solanum Lycopersicum, or in layman terms - tomato seeds! Unsolicited seeds that arrived in the mail, reported by a US citizen to the US Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service are seen in an undated photo | Reuters However, to ensure the safety imbued in the seeds, they are being sent to the National Identification Services lab in Beltsville for more testing. Many other packages also contained “Rhus”, the USDA has found. Rhus is a common species of shrub found across North America. This is just precursory information. More testing will determine whether the seeds are laden with any pests or diseases of potential concern to US agriculture. Warfare or nah? Conspiracy theories on social media claim that the seeds are a new form warfare from China, which wants to attain global dominance in the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic. However, the way these seeds made their way into the US is very suspicious. Most packages were marked as jewellery or beads, and started appearing in mailboxes around the country - all very randomly. Also read: US, Canada citizens receive mysterious packages of seeds from China Now, botanists will take their study a step further and analyse the samples for potential harmful substances. In a statement, the USDA said, “Accurate and timely identifications provide the foundation for quarantine action decisions and are essential in the effort to safeguard the nation's agricultural and natural resources.” Have you received a suspicious package with seeds? Do not plant it and seal it, officials in the US say. They have also requested people to reach out to local agriculture authorities with the seeds.

US identifies 'mystery seeds' from China as tomato pips

As if a health crisis was not enough, China is now exporting a biosecurity crisis. Mysterious seed packets have landed in mailboxes across the globe.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Last week the seeds had landed in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. Today China has attacked at least three more countries with these seeds of doubt including New Zealand and Japan.

In New Zealand, a woman received a parcel claiming to contain a toy. The shipment was from Zambia. In Japan, a man received a bag of seed-like objects. Each measuring about 2 millimetres.

Meanwhile, India is on alert. The mysterious seeds have not yet landed in the country. But experts and the ministry of agriculture have been alerted about the possibility of seeds coming into India through e-commerce.

Authorities have already warned people against China's seed terrorism.

Keshavulu kunosoth, vice president of international seed testing association says that the seeds are a threat to global food security.

So far, experts have been able to identify 14 varieties including seeds of flowering plants like hibiscus, and lavender. The seeds are also being probed in the UK.

What role does Taiwan play in china's seed terrorism?

Last week, the Ontario police had tweeted this photo of a seed packet. The tweet read: 'if you receive an unsolicited shipment of foreign seeds in the mail from china or taiwan do not plant or dispose of them. Call the canadian food inspection agency.'

Several reports claimed that the seeds sent to Canada were from Taiwan. Taiwan's postal service has now issued a clarification. It said that the shipment was via Taiwan and not from Taiwan. The seeds were sent on behalf of a private logistics company.

Taiwan's post-service has slapped a fine of around $ 3500 against the particular company for sending prohibited items through the mail.

The logistics company, however, has reportedly refused to identify the sender.

Why is china sending these seeds?

These are seeds of an invasive species and it is an attempt by China to introduce pathogens or disease. US authorities claim that these packets are a part of China's brushing scam.

People are being sent these seeds by china's online sellers so that they can generate a transaction and justify fake reviews.

As if a health crisis was not enough, China is now exporting a biosecurity crisis. Mysterious seed packets have landed in mailboxes across the globe. Last week the seeds had landed in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada.

As if a health crisis was not enough, China is now exporting a biosecurity crisis. Mysterious seed packets have landed in mailboxes across the globe. Last week the seeds had landed in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. Today China has attacked at least three more countries with these seeds of doubt including New Zealand and Japan. In New Zealand, a woman received a parcel claiming to contain a toy. The shipment was from Zambia. In Japan, a man received a bag of seed-like objects. Each measuring about 2 millimetres. Meanwhile, India is on alert. The mysterious seeds have not yet landed in the country. But experts and the ministry of agriculture have been alerted about the possibility of seeds coming into India through e-commerce. Authorities have already warned people against China's seed terrorism. Keshavulu kunosoth, vice president of international seed testing association says that the seeds are a threat to global food security. So far, experts have been able to identify 14 varieties including seeds of flowering plants like hibiscus, and lavender. The seeds are also being probed in the UK. What role does Taiwan play in china's seed terrorism? Last week, the Ontario police had tweeted this photo of a seed packet. The tweet read: 'if you receive an unsolicited shipment of foreign seeds in the mail from china or taiwan do not plant or dispose of them. Call the canadian food inspection agency.' Several reports claimed that the seeds sent to Canada were from Taiwan. Taiwan's postal service has now issued a clarification. It said that the shipment was via Taiwan and not from Taiwan. The seeds were sent on behalf of a private logistics company. Taiwan's post-service has slapped a fine of around $ 3500 against the particular company for sending prohibited items through the mail. The logistics company, however, has reportedly refused to identify the sender. Why is china sending these seeds? These are seeds of an invasive species and it is an attempt by China to introduce pathogens or disease. US authorities claim that these packets are a part of China's brushing scam. People are being sent these seeds by china's online sellers so that they can generate a transaction and justify fake reviews.

After virus, China exports biosecurity crisis

A wildfire in Southern California quickly spread across 12,000 acres Saturday, destroying at least one home and two structures and forcing 7,800 people to evacuate.

As wildfire ravages South California, temp to hit 41 degree celsius in palm springs

The overall number of global coronavirus cases has surpassed the 18 million mark, while the deaths were nearing 688,000, according to the Johns Hopkins University.

Global COVID-19 cases surpass 18 million mark; Pandemic widespread in U.S

A top Federal Reserve said on Sunday that US Congress is in position to spend a huge amount on coronavirus relief efforts because the nation's budget gap can be financed without relying on foreign borrowing, given how much Americans are saving.

A top Federal Reserve said on Sunday that US Congress is in position to spend a huge amount on coronavirus relief efforts because the nation's budget gap can be financed without relying on foreign borrowing, given how much Americans are saving. Also read: President Trump to act on Chinese software companies 'in coming days': Pompeo "Those of us who are fortunate enough to still have our jobs, we're saving a lot more money because we're not going to restaurants or movie theatres or vacations," Neel Kashkari, president of the Minneapolis Federal Reserve Bank, told CBS' "Face the Nation." "That actually means that we have a lot more resources as a country to support those who have been laid off," he said. US House of Representatives, led by the Democrats, has approved a $3 trillion relief bill in May, however, many in Senate Republicans have expressed concerns about mounting debt, countered by proposing a $1 trillion aid package last week. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, in an interview with ABC's "This Week", said that President Trump would spend what was needed, but the deficit was a factor. "There's obviously a need to support workers and support the economy," he said. "On the other hand, we have to be careful about not piling on enormous amount of debts for future generations." (Inputs from Agency)

US Congress in position to spend big on coronavirus relief: Federal Reserve official

South California wildfire burns 12,000 acres of land; Hot condition to continue for next 3 days

Iran said Saturday it has arrested the head of a US-based "terrorist group" accused of being behind a deadly 2008 bombing in the southern city of Shiraz and of other, abortive attacks.

The group's "Jamshid Sharmahd, who was leading armed and sabotage operations inside Iran, is now in the powerful hands" of Iran's security forces, state television said in a report citing a statement from the intelligence ministry.

The statement did not elaborate on where or when the leader of the opposition royalist group known as the Kingdom Assembly of Iran, or Tondar (Farsi for Thunder), was arrested.

Also read-<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-khamenei-rejects-talks-with-us-over-missile-nuclear-programmes-317295">Iran: Khamenei rejects talks with US over missile, nuclear programmes</a>

According to the statement, he had orchestrated the April 12, 2008 bombing in a packed mosque in Shiraz that killed 14 people and wounded 215.

Iran hanged three men convicted of the bombing in 2009, saying they had ties to the monarchist group.

It said they had been taking orders from an Iranian US-backed "CIA agent" to try to assassinate a high-ranking official in Iran.

They were 21-year old Mohsen Eslamian and Ali Asghar Pashtar, 20, both university students, as well as Rouzbeh Yahyazadeh, 32.

The three were found guilty of being "mohareb" (enemies of God) and "corruption on the earth" by a revolutionary court in Tehran.

Iran hanged two other convicted members of the group in 2010, who had "confessed to obtaining explosives and planning to assassinate officials".

The statement issued on Saturday said that Tondar had plotted several other "big operations" which failed.

It said that Tondar had planned to blow up a dam in Shiraz, use "cyanide bombs" at a Tehran book fair, and plant an explosive device at the mausoleum of the Islamic republic's founder, the late Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.

It was not clear how Iran arrested the US-based Sharmahd.

Iran's intelligence ministry announced the arrest of a former opposition figure in similarly mysterious circumstances in October last year.

Ruhollah Zam, described as a "counter-revolutionary" by Iranian authorities, was sentenced to death last month over "corruption on earth".

Zam, who reportedly lived in exile in Paris, ran a channel on the Telegram messaging application called Amadnews and was accused of sparking unrest during anti-government protests last year.

Iran said Saturday it has arrested the head of a US-based "terrorist group" accused of being behind a deadly 2008 bombing in the southern city of Shiraz and of other, abortive attacks.

Iran said Saturday it has arrested the head of a US-based "terrorist group" accused of being behind a deadly 2008 bombing in the southern city of Shiraz and of other, abortive attacks. The group's "Jamshid Sharmahd, who was leading armed and sabotage operations inside Iran, is now in the powerful hands" of Iran's security forces, state television said in a report citing a statement from the intelligence ministry. The statement did not elaborate on where or when the leader of the opposition royalist group known as the Kingdom Assembly of Iran, or Tondar (Farsi for Thunder), was arrested. Also read-Iran: Khamenei rejects talks with US over missile, nuclear programmes According to the statement, he had orchestrated the April 12, 2008 bombing in a packed mosque in Shiraz that killed 14 people and wounded 215. Iran hanged three men convicted of the bombing in 2009, saying they had ties to the monarchist group. It said they had been taking orders from an Iranian US-backed "CIA agent" to try to assassinate a high-ranking official in Iran. They were 21-year old Mohsen Eslamian and Ali Asghar Pashtar, 20, both university students, as well as Rouzbeh Yahyazadeh, 32. The three were found guilty of being "mohareb" (enemies of God) and "corruption on the earth" by a revolutionary court in Tehran. Iran hanged two other convicted members of the group in 2010, who had "confessed to obtaining explosives and planning to assassinate officials". The statement issued on Saturday said that Tondar had plotted several other "big operations" which failed. It said that Tondar had planned to blow up a dam in Shiraz, use "cyanide bombs" at a Tehran book fair, and plant an explosive device at the mausoleum of the Islamic republic's founder, the late Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. It was not clear how Iran arrested the US-based Sharmahd. Iran's intelligence ministry announced the arrest of a former opposition figure in similarly mysterious circumstances in October last year. Ruhollah Zam, described as a "counter-revolutionary" by Iranian authorities, was sentenced to death last month over "corruption on earth". Zam, who reportedly lived in exile in Paris, ran a channel on the Telegram messaging application called Amadnews and was accused of sparking unrest during anti-government protests last year.

Iran says it has arrested head of US-based 'terrorist group'

In recent years, China has cultivated a wide variety of political allies in Sri Lanka.

In a video conference organised by China in June, various representatives of Sri Lanka's major political parties participated&nbsp;such as&nbsp;People's Front, United National Party, Sri Lanka Freedom Party and People's United Front of Sri Lanka.

On the face of it, the&nbsp;meeting was to discuss the coronavirus&nbsp;outbreak and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). However, one report stated that China was using this opportunity to cultivate a "bipartisan bond".

Allegedly, China has commissioned local pollsters to gauge voter sentiment, because China has invested billions of dollars in it.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-using-buddhist-clergy-and-leaders-to-compromise-sri-lanka-elections-317068">Also read|&nbsp;China using Buddhist clergy and leaders to compromise Sri Lanka elections</a>

Sri Lanka has an external debt of $55 billion, and China accounts for 10 per cent of that debt. Until last year, it has invested $11 billion into Sri Lanka, out of which $8&nbsp;billion was just for the BRI. These investments in Sri Lanka are rapidly growing.

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In northern Sri Lanka, China has begun investing in rubber and team coconut cultivation. Both governments are reportedly discussing investment worth $30-40 million in the plantation industry.

Chinese money is now reaching the grassroots of the Sri Lankan economy, and other investing countries are losing their opportunities. The Quad nations such as the US, Japan and India haven't been able to get their projects off the ground.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-tried-to-steal-vaccine-research-from-us-university-investigators-316899">Also read|&nbsp;China tried to steal vaccine research from US university: Investigators</a>

Within months, the Sri Lankan government has sent mixed signals over two multi-billion dollar infrastructure projects.The first being the elevated light railway system which was to be built by Japan. It was supposed to pass through parts of greater Colombo. However, the Sri Lankan government has put this project on hold.

The second project is the Colombo port project under which an expanded container terminal was to be built by Japan and India in partnership&nbsp;with Sri Lanka getting the majority ownership. However, the&nbsp;project has still not received a green light from the local government who&nbsp;apparently&nbsp;are hoping for a better deal.

Around 30 trade unions and employees of the Sri Lankan ports authority had gone on strike over the&nbsp;dea demanding the deal to be scrapped. However, the&nbsp;strike was called off.

Interestingly, the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority is General R. M. Daya Ratnayake, a man appointed by the President and&nbsp;someone who has served as a post-war army chief.

The US, too, is facing something similar. American government&nbsp;offered a $480 million grant to Sri Lanka, which could be refused by the Sri Lankan government. Mahinda Rajapaksa had opposed the grant from America while his party was in opposition.

A committee was set up to look into it, who opposed the agreement, in their report to the President.

The Rajapaksas reportedly left the decision to his cabinet. Now, with the elections soon approaching, the views of the&nbsp;cabinet won't matter.

So, while India, Japan and the US are still unsure about their projects, China is the only country that has had all its projects approved in Sri Lanka.

In recent years, China has cultivated a wide variety of political allies in Sri Lanka. In a video conference organised by China in June, various representatives of Sri Lanka's major political parties participated such as People's Front, United National Party, Sri Lanka Freedom Party and People's United Front of Sri Lanka.

In recent years, China has cultivated a wide variety of political allies in Sri Lanka. In a video conference organised by China in June, various representatives of Sri Lanka's major political parties participated such as People's Front, United National Party, Sri Lanka Freedom Party and People's United Front of Sri Lanka. On the face of it, the meeting was to discuss the coronavirus outbreak and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). However, one report stated that China was using this opportunity to cultivate a "bipartisan bond". Allegedly, China has commissioned local pollsters to gauge voter sentiment, because China has invested billions of dollars in it. Also read| China using Buddhist clergy and leaders to compromise Sri Lanka elections Sri Lanka has an external debt of $55 billion, and China accounts for 10 per cent of that debt. Until last year, it has invested $11 billion into Sri Lanka, out of which $8 billion was just for the BRI. These investments in Sri Lanka are rapidly growing. × In northern Sri Lanka, China has begun investing in rubber and team coconut cultivation. Both governments are reportedly discussing investment worth $30-40 million in the plantation industry. Chinese money is now reaching the grassroots of the Sri Lankan economy, and other investing countries are losing their opportunities. The Quad nations such as the US, Japan and India haven't been able to get their projects off the ground. Also read| China tried to steal vaccine research from US university: Investigators Within months, the Sri Lankan government has sent mixed signals over two multi-billion dollar infrastructure projects.The first being the elevated light railway system which was to be built by Japan. It was supposed to pass through parts of greater Colombo. However, the Sri Lankan government has put this project on hold. The second project is the Colombo port project under which an expanded container terminal was to be built by Japan and India in partnership with Sri Lanka getting the majority ownership. However, the project has still not received a green light from the local government who apparently are hoping for a better deal. Around 30 trade unions and employees of the Sri Lankan ports authority had gone on strike over the dea demanding the deal to be scrapped. However, the strike was called off. Interestingly, the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority is General R. M. Daya Ratnayake, a man appointed by the President and someone who has served as a post-war army chief. The US, too, is facing something similar. American government offered a $480 million grant to Sri Lanka, which could be refused by the Sri Lankan government. Mahinda Rajapaksa had opposed the grant from America while his party was in opposition. A committee was set up to look into it, who opposed the agreement, in their report to the President. The Rajapaksas reportedly left the decision to his cabinet. Now, with the elections soon approaching, the views of the cabinet won't matter. So, while India, Japan and the US are still unsure about their projects, China is the only country that has had all its projects approved in Sri Lanka.

How China is safeguarding its interests in Sri Lanka

President Donald Trump on Thursday raised the idea of delaying the Nov. 3 U.S. elections, an idea immediately rejected by both Democrats and his fellow Republicans in Congress - the sole branch of government with the authority to make such a change.

Can United States hold elections on schedule?

Hours after suggesting a possible delay in the 2020 U.S. presidential election, U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday (July 30) said he did not want to postpone the vote, but remained concerned that millions of mail-in ballots would cause problems.

Donald Trump reiterates his worry about mail-in voting

The U.S. economy gained a whopping 4.8 million jobs in the month of June, bringing the unemployment rate to 11.1 percent

U.S economy gains 4.8 million jobs in June

A freight train derailed as it crossed an Arizona lake Wednesday morning, causing a massive fire and partial collapse of a more than 100-year-old rail bridge.

Freight train catches fire and derails in Arizona

The US ambassador in Brasilia warned of "consequences" if Brazil chooses Chinese telecoms company Huawei to develop its 5G network, in an interview published Wednesday.

"I wouldn't say there would be retaliation, but there would be consequences" if Brazil goes against US advice and picks the Chinese firm, Ambassador Todd Chapman told newspaper Globo.

Brazil is due to launch a tender next year for the project to develop the next generation of telecommunications technology in Latin America's most populous country, home to 212 million people.

The United States has been actively lobbying countries worldwide to boycott Huawei, arguing the firm could allow the Chinese government to spy on their data.

"At any time, the Chinese government could ask Huawei to send it information," Chapman said.

"There's no purely American company in the running. I'm not saying this to make a billion dollars. It's a matter of national security."

Other companies that have shown interest in Brazil's 5G tender include Sweden's Ericsson and Finland's Nokia.

Chapman also warned Brazil could scare away foreign investment by contracting a company that the US claims violates intellectual property rights and receives unfair state support that puts its competitors at a disadvantage.

"The US position is to alert our allies and friends, such as Brazil, so they know who they're working with," he said.

Chapman said the United States was prepared to help secure funds through the International Development Finance Corporation, a US government institution, to roll out 5G "for those who buy products from reliable suppliers."

The pressure is putting President Jair Bolsonaro's government in a bind.

Since taking office last year, the far-right leader has cultivated close ties with US President Donald Trump, whom he admires.

But China is Brazil's biggest trading partner.

The row comes amid what many analysts are describing as a "new Cold War" between the US and China.

Britain announced earlier this month it would remove Huawei equipment from its 5G network, bowing to pressure from Washington despite warnings of retaliation from Beijing.

The US ambassador in Brasilia warned of "consequences" if Brazil chooses Chinese telecoms company Huawei to develop its 5G network, in an interview published Wednesday.

The US ambassador in Brasilia warned of "consequences" if Brazil chooses Chinese telecoms company Huawei to develop its 5G network, in an interview published Wednesday. "I wouldn't say there would be retaliation, but there would be consequences" if Brazil goes against US advice and picks the Chinese firm, Ambassador Todd Chapman told newspaper Globo. Brazil is due to launch a tender next year for the project to develop the next generation of telecommunications technology in Latin America's most populous country, home to 212 million people. The United States has been actively lobbying countries worldwide to boycott Huawei, arguing the firm could allow the Chinese government to spy on their data. "At any time, the Chinese government could ask Huawei to send it information," Chapman said. "There's no purely American company in the running. I'm not saying this to make a billion dollars. It's a matter of national security." Other companies that have shown interest in Brazil's 5G tender include Sweden's Ericsson and Finland's Nokia. Chapman also warned Brazil could scare away foreign investment by contracting a company that the US claims violates intellectual property rights and receives unfair state support that puts its competitors at a disadvantage. "The US position is to alert our allies and friends, such as Brazil, so they know who they're working with," he said. Chapman said the United States was prepared to help secure funds through the International Development Finance Corporation, a US government institution, to roll out 5G "for those who buy products from reliable suppliers." The pressure is putting President Jair Bolsonaro's government in a bind. Since taking office last year, the far-right leader has cultivated close ties with US President Donald Trump, whom he admires. But China is Brazil's biggest trading partner. The row comes amid what many analysts are describing as a "new Cold War" between the US and China. Britain announced earlier this month it would remove Huawei equipment from its 5G network, bowing to pressure from Washington despite warnings of retaliation from Beijing.

Brazil may face 'consequences' if it gives Huawei 5G access: US

Donald Trump has suggested November's presidential election be postponed, saying increased postal voting could lead to fraud and inaccurate results. Watch report.

Fineprint: Donald Trump suggests to delay US elections 2020

US President Donald Trump has alleged that India, China and Russia do not take care of their air, while America does. He said this to justify his decision of withdrawing from the "one-sided, energy-destroying" Paris climate accord which would have made it a "non-competitive nation".

Trump, in his address on energy and the Permian Basin in Midland, Texas on Wednesday, said that by imposing punishing restrictions -- and beyond restrictions -- "the Washington radical-left, crazy Democrats" would also send countless American jobs, factories, industries to China and to other foreign polluting states.

"They want us to take care of our air, but China doesn't take care of its air. In all fairness, India doesn't take care of its air. Russia doesn't take care of its air. But we do. Not on my watch, it's not going to happen -- I can tell you that. Because as long as I'm President, we will always put America first. It's very simple," he said.

"For years and years, we put other countries first, and we now put America first. As we have seen in cities and towns across our nation, it's not just Texas oil that the radical Democrats want to destroy; they want to destroy our country," he said.

Such radical Democrats, he alleged, do not love the country in any way, shape or form.

Observing that he withdrew from the one-sided, energy-destroying Paris climate accord, he said this was a disaster and cost the US billions of dollars.

Trump said that under the last administration, America's energy industry was under relentless and unceasing attack.

"But the day I took the oath of office, we ended the war on American energy and we stopped the far-left assault on American energy workers," he said.

The US in November last year formally notified the UN of its withdrawal from the Paris climate accord, a global agreement in which President Trump's predecessor Barack Obama had played a key role.

Although Trump announced his decision to withdraw from the historic pact on June 1, 2017, the process began last year with the formal notification and the US will be out of the pact on November 4, 2020.

"It (Paris climate accord) would have made us a non-competitive nation. We cancelled the Obama administration's job-crushing clean power plan," he said as he listed some of the steps being taken by his administration.

"For the first time in nearly 70 years, we have become a net energy exporter. And the United States is now the number one producer of oil and natural gas on the face of the Earth. To ensure we maintain this dominant position long into the future, my administration is announcing today that export authorisations for American liquefied natural gas can now be extended through the year 2050," Trump added.

India is the fourth highest emitter of carbon dioxide in the world, accounting for 7 per cent of global emissions in 2017, according to the projection by the Global Carbon Project published in December, 2018.

The top four emitters in 2017, which covered 58 per cent of global emissions, were China (27 per cent), the US (15 per cent), the European Union (10 per cent) and India (7 per cent).

(with inputs from agencies)

US President Donald Trump has alleged that India, China and Russia do not take care of their air, while America does. He said this to justify his decision of withdrawing from the "one-sided, energy-destroying" Paris climate accord which would have made it a "non-competitive nation".

US President Donald Trump has alleged that India, China and Russia do not take care of their air, while America does. He said this to justify his decision of withdrawing from the "one-sided, energy-destroying" Paris climate accord which would have made it a "non-competitive nation". Trump, in his address on energy and the Permian Basin in Midland, Texas on Wednesday, said that by imposing punishing restrictions -- and beyond restrictions -- "the Washington radical-left, crazy Democrats" would also send countless American jobs, factories, industries to China and to other foreign polluting states. "They want us to take care of our air, but China doesn't take care of its air. In all fairness, India doesn't take care of its air. Russia doesn't take care of its air. But we do. Not on my watch, it's not going to happen -- I can tell you that. Because as long as I'm President, we will always put America first. It's very simple," he said. "For years and years, we put other countries first, and we now put America first. As we have seen in cities and towns across our nation, it's not just Texas oil that the radical Democrats want to destroy; they want to destroy our country," he said. Such radical Democrats, he alleged, do not love the country in any way, shape or form. Observing that he withdrew from the one-sided, energy-destroying Paris climate accord, he said this was a disaster and cost the US billions of dollars. Trump said that under the last administration, America's energy industry was under relentless and unceasing attack. "But the day I took the oath of office, we ended the war on American energy and we stopped the far-left assault on American energy workers," he said. The US in November last year formally notified the UN of its withdrawal from the Paris climate accord, a global agreement in which President Trump's predecessor Barack Obama had played a key role. Although Trump announced his decision to withdraw from the historic pact on June 1, 2017, the process began last year with the formal notification and the US will be out of the pact on November 4, 2020. "It (Paris climate accord) would have made us a non-competitive nation. We cancelled the Obama administration's job-crushing clean power plan," he said as he listed some of the steps being taken by his administration. "For the first time in nearly 70 years, we have become a net energy exporter. And the United States is now the number one producer of oil and natural gas on the face of the Earth. To ensure we maintain this dominant position long into the future, my administration is announcing today that export authorisations for American liquefied natural gas can now be extended through the year 2050," Trump added. India is the fourth highest emitter of carbon dioxide in the world, accounting for 7 per cent of global emissions in 2017, according to the projection by the Global Carbon Project published in December, 2018. The top four emitters in 2017, which covered 58 per cent of global emissions, were China (27 per cent), the US (15 per cent), the European Union (10 per cent) and India (7 per cent). (with inputs from agencies)

Trump takes a dig at India and China's air quality

The US on Thursday provided Pakistan 100 ventilators to help it fight the coronavirus pandemic that has claimed nearly 6,000 lives and infected over 277,000 people in the country.

The US embassy in Islamabad said in a statement that the shipment was handed over to Pakistan's National Disaster Management Authority as a symbol of "working together to fight COVID-19".

The ventilators, provided through the US Agency for International Development, arrived in Islamabad on July 28 and will be deployed in hospitals across Pakistan, it said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/as-pakistan-gears-up-to-celebrate-eid-car-wash-becomes-cleaning-centre-for-animals-317038">Also read:&nbsp;As Pakistan gears up to celebrate Eid, car wash becomes cleaning centre for animals</a>

"The arrival of these ventilators delivers on President Donald Trump's promise to Prime Minister Imran Khan to stand with the people of Pakistan and bring additional critically needed supplies and support to Pakistan's urgent response to the pandemic," the embassy said.

The first batch of 100 ventilators had arrived on July 3 and have already been delivered to hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout Pakistan.

"The United States is a proud partner with the Government of Pakistan to help stem the tide of this deadly pandemic and these ventilators will help with that fight," US Ambassador to Pakistan Paul W Jones said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-govt-gets-two-fatf-related-bills-passed-through-national-assembly-amid-opposition-protest-316981">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan govt gets two FATF-related bills passed through National Assembly amid opposition protest</a>

The ventilators can also be used to provide non-invasive respiratory therapy for patients before they become critically ill and help avoid the need for more extreme care. They can help treat a number of other respiratory ailments outside of the COVID-19 virus, including pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Through a specialised training programme developed with the National Disaster Management Authority and the Federal and Provincial Ministries of Health, and with funding from USAID, Pakistan will have a stronger arsenal with which to fight COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses, said the embassy.

It said that the US-Pakistan partnership in the health sector was strengthening the country's ability to fight coronavirus by improving and expanding laboratory testing, disease monitoring, case tracking, infection prevention and control, and patient care.

The United States is contributing more than USD 28 million in new funding so far for COVID-19 response to this vital partnership that is growing every day, the embassy said.

A ventilator takes over the body's breathing process when disease has caused the lungs to fail. This gives the patient time to fight off the infection and recover.

Pakistan's coronavirus tally reached 277,402 with the detection of 1,114 new cases, with the nationwide death toll standing at 5,924, the Ministry of National Health Services said on Thursday.&nbsp;

The US on Thursday provided Pakistan 100 ventilators to help it fight the coronavirus pandemic that has claimed nearly 6,000 lives and infected over 277,000 people in the country.

The US on Thursday provided Pakistan 100 ventilators to help it fight the coronavirus pandemic that has claimed nearly 6,000 lives and infected over 277,000 people in the country. The US embassy in Islamabad said in a statement that the shipment was handed over to Pakistan's National Disaster Management Authority as a symbol of "working together to fight COVID-19". The ventilators, provided through the US Agency for International Development, arrived in Islamabad on July 28 and will be deployed in hospitals across Pakistan, it said. Also read: As Pakistan gears up to celebrate Eid, car wash becomes cleaning centre for animals "The arrival of these ventilators delivers on President Donald Trump's promise to Prime Minister Imran Khan to stand with the people of Pakistan and bring additional critically needed supplies and support to Pakistan's urgent response to the pandemic," the embassy said. The first batch of 100 ventilators had arrived on July 3 and have already been delivered to hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout Pakistan. "The United States is a proud partner with the Government of Pakistan to help stem the tide of this deadly pandemic and these ventilators will help with that fight," US Ambassador to Pakistan Paul W Jones said. Also read: Pakistan govt gets two FATF-related bills passed through National Assembly amid opposition protest The ventilators can also be used to provide non-invasive respiratory therapy for patients before they become critically ill and help avoid the need for more extreme care. They can help treat a number of other respiratory ailments outside of the COVID-19 virus, including pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Through a specialised training programme developed with the National Disaster Management Authority and the Federal and Provincial Ministries of Health, and with funding from USAID, Pakistan will have a stronger arsenal with which to fight COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses, said the embassy. It said that the US-Pakistan partnership in the health sector was strengthening the country's ability to fight coronavirus by improving and expanding laboratory testing, disease monitoring, case tracking, infection prevention and control, and patient care. The United States is contributing more than USD 28 million in new funding so far for COVID-19 response to this vital partnership that is growing every day, the embassy said. A ventilator takes over the body's breathing process when disease has caused the lungs to fail. This gives the patient time to fight off the infection and recover. Pakistan's coronavirus tally reached 277,402 with the detection of 1,114 new cases, with the nationwide death toll standing at 5,924, the Ministry of National Health Services said on Thursday.

US donates 100 ventilators to Pak to combat COVID-19 pandemic

Russia has been spreading misinformation about the coronavirus pandemic in the United States as election season nears, reports claim.

First reported by the New York Times, the report refers to declassified intelligence which claims that the Russian military intelligence, or the GRU, may have tied up with this resource centres like InfoRos to peddle misinformation regarding the pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/joe-biden-warns-of-russian-election-meddling-after-receiving-intelligence-briefings-314175" hreflang="en">Joe Biden warns of Russian election meddling after receiving intelligence briefings</a>

Virus made in the USA?

The narrative pushed out by such agencies includes speculations of the virus being created by the US military, and claiming that Russia’s medical prowess could help the US.

Similar efforts were allegedly made by Russia in 2016, employing social media accounts and “bots” of the Internet Research Agency to pitch false information.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/putin-says-russian-navy-to-get-hypersonic-nuclear-strike-weapons-316099" hreflang="en">Putin says Russian Navy to get hypersonic nuclear strike weapons</a>

Just last week, US intelligence rang alarm bells by claiming that Russia, China, and Iran intend to interfere with the upcoming elections. To this, Democrats said there were no specifics, but that more information would be shared soon.

The pandemic is not the only swaying factor for misinformation.&nbsp; Allegedly, Russia is conducting an influence campaign in Eastern Europe to discredit the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Mandiant Threat Intelligence found that such campaigns were “aligned with Russian security interests”.

Recently, social media giant Facebook began labelling stories that emerge from state news outlets like RT and Sputnik.

Scattered across the web

InfoRos is where most of these reports were published. The site is currently controlled by the Russian government. Another web portal - OneWorld.Press was found to be pushing propaganda, and had ties to the GRU, the Russian equivalent of the CIA.

Besides false information on the pandemic, a think tank has been amplifying Russian narratives in the US, and is also currently under investigation by the FBI.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/uk-says-there-is-no-evidence-of-russian-meddling-in-brexit-vote-315165" hreflang="en">UK says there is no evidence of Russian meddling in Brexit vote</a>

Called The Strategic Culture Foundation, it depends largely on the SVR, another Russian intelligence agency.

OneWorld.Press responded to NYT and claimed that this information was “categorically false” in a statement. It further claimed how people from the “deep state” were trying to make Trump lose in the upcoming elections.

Many officials told the publication that GRU’s psychological warfare anti - Unit 54777, may be behind the propaganda.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/russian-envoy-denies-moscow-helped-hackers-target-virus-vaccine-314353" hreflang="en">Russian envoy denies Moscow helped hackers target virus vaccine</a>

NYT found that between May to early June, 150 such articles with misleading information were published on websites like InfoRos, OneWorld, and Tass.

One of these claimed that the COVID-19 pandemic is an experiment to taint the world, while another claimed how the US was using the pandemic to impose its worldview. After Beijing claimed that COVID-19 was a biological weapon from the US, a publication ran this piece as well.

The EU DisinfoLab, a nonprofit organisation had earlier claimed that OneWorld and InfoRos have links to Russia.

Russia has been spreading misinformation about the coronavirus pandemic in the United States as election season nears, reports claim. First reported by the New York Times, the report refers to declassified intelligence which claims that the Russian military intelligence, or the GRU, may have tied up with this resource centres like InfoRos to peddle misinformation regarding the pandemic.

Russia has been spreading misinformation about the coronavirus pandemic in the United States as election season nears, reports claim. First reported by the New York Times, the report refers to declassified intelligence which claims that the Russian military intelligence, or the GRU, may have tied up with this resource centres like InfoRos to peddle misinformation regarding the pandemic. Also read: Joe Biden warns of Russian election meddling after receiving intelligence briefings Virus made in the USA? The narrative pushed out by such agencies includes speculations of the virus being created by the US military, and claiming that Russia’s medical prowess could help the US. Similar efforts were allegedly made by Russia in 2016, employing social media accounts and “bots” of the Internet Research Agency to pitch false information. Also read: Putin says Russian Navy to get hypersonic nuclear strike weapons Just last week, US intelligence rang alarm bells by claiming that Russia, China, and Iran intend to interfere with the upcoming elections. To this, Democrats said there were no specifics, but that more information would be shared soon. The pandemic is not the only swaying factor for misinformation. Allegedly, Russia is conducting an influence campaign in Eastern Europe to discredit the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Mandiant Threat Intelligence found that such campaigns were “aligned with Russian security interests”. Recently, social media giant Facebook began labelling stories that emerge from state news outlets like RT and Sputnik. Scattered across the web InfoRos is where most of these reports were published. The site is currently controlled by the Russian government. Another web portal - OneWorld.Press was found to be pushing propaganda, and had ties to the GRU, the Russian equivalent of the CIA. Besides false information on the pandemic, a think tank has been amplifying Russian narratives in the US, and is also currently under investigation by the FBI. Also read: UK says there is no evidence of Russian meddling in Brexit vote Called The Strategic Culture Foundation, it depends largely on the SVR, another Russian intelligence agency. OneWorld.Press responded to NYT and claimed that this information was “categorically false” in a statement. It further claimed how people from the “deep state” were trying to make Trump lose in the upcoming elections. Many officials told the publication that GRU’s psychological warfare anti - Unit 54777, may be behind the propaganda. Also read: Russian envoy denies Moscow helped hackers target virus vaccine NYT found that between May to early June, 150 such articles with misleading information were published on websites like InfoRos, OneWorld, and Tass. One of these claimed that the COVID-19 pandemic is an experiment to taint the world, while another claimed how the US was using the pandemic to impose its worldview. After Beijing claimed that COVID-19 was a biological weapon from the US, a publication ran this piece as well. The EU DisinfoLab, a nonprofit organisation had earlier claimed that OneWorld and InfoRos have links to Russia.

Are Russian intelligence agencies running a disinformation campaign to influence US voters?

The United States has recorded over 1,200 deaths due to coronavirus in the last 24 hours. The is the highest daily toll reported by the country since May, according to a Reuters tally.

The United States has recorded over 1,200 deaths due to coronavirus in the last 24 hours. The is the highest daily toll reported by the country since May, according to a Reuters tally. Also read: Four US states see record COVID-19 deaths, Latinos hit hard in California The US also reported over 64,000 new cases in one day. With the surge in cases on Tuesday, the total cases in the country stand at 4.38 million. Despite witnessing a decline in the rate of infections during the late springs, the US witnessed a surge in cases, particularly in southern and western states like California, Texas, Alabama and Florida. California and Florida account for 362 of the 1,227 new deaths. Arkansas, Montana and Oregon also had one-day record increases in COVID-19 fatalities. The US remains the worst-hit nation in terms of coronavirus pandemic and the country has witnessed almost 150,000 deaths due to the virus. Of the 20 countries with the biggest outbreak, the United States ranks sixth for deaths per capita, at 4.5 fatalities per 10,000 people. It is exceeded by the United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, Peru and Chile. (Inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus: US records over 1,200 deaths as death toll nears 150,000

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