U.S. President Donald Trump weighed in on the tensions in Hong Kong releasing a tweet Wednesday (August 14) that said, "I have ZERO doubt that if President Xi wants to quickly and humanely solve the Hong Kong problem, he can do it. Personal meeting?"

President Xi can quickly solve Hong Kong "problem" adding "Personal meeting?" says Donald Trump

The United States is "deeply concerned" about the Chinese paramilitary movement along the Hong Kong border, a US State Department spokeswoman said on Wednesday, while warning that continued erosion of the territory's autonomy put at risk the preferential status it enjoys under US law.

The United States is "deeply concerned" about the Chinese paramilitary movement along the Hong Kong border, a US State Department spokeswoman said on Wednesday, while warning that continued erosion of the territory's autonomy put at risk the preferential status it enjoys under US law. Another US official said Beijing had stationed large numbers of paramilitary People's Armed Police (PAP) "near and further out from Hong Kong," in response to weeks of street protests in the territory, but said there had been no sign they were moving towards the border. The number of personnel was "in the thousands," said the official, who did not want to be identified. "They have amped up training and made it all pretty visible," he said, but added: "There are no recent indicators that they are preparing to deploy." China's state-run Global Times media outlet reported on Monday that People's Armed Police had been assembling in Shenzhen, a city bordering Hong Kong, "in advance of apparent large-scale exercises." It cited video it had obtained showing numerous armoured personnel carriers (APCs), trucks and other vehicles on expressways heading in the direction of Shenzhen over the weekend. It noted that the role of the PAP was "dealing with rebellions, riots, serious violent and illegal incidents, terrorist attacks and other social security incidents." Satellite images made available to Reuters on Wednesday from Maxar Technologies showed dozens of vehicles, including what appeared to be APCs, at the Shenzhen Bay Sports Centre across the harbour from Hong Kong. On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump cited American intelligence as saying that China was moving troops to its border with Hong Kong, and urged calm as clashes continued between protesters and authorities in the former British colony. The State Department's expression of concern came after senior US lawmakers from both the Democratic and Republican parties called on Trump to take a tougher line with China as worries grew over a possible Chinese intervention. The State Department spokeswoman reiterated the US call for all sides to refrain from violence and said it was important for the Hong Kong government to respect "freedoms of speech and peaceful assembly" and for Beijing to adhere to its commitments to allow Hong Kong a high degree of autonomy. Warning on special status She said the protests reflected "broad and legitimate concerns about the erosion of Hong Kong’s autonomy" and added: " The continued erosion of Hong Kong’s autonomy puts at risk its long-established special status in international affairs." A 1992 US law affords Hong Kong preferential treatment in matters of trade and economics compared with China. Areas of special treatment include visas, law enforcement, and investment. A prominent US senator warned China on Tuesday that Hong Kong could lose its special US trade status if Beijing intervened directly to crack down on increasingly violent pro-democracy protests in the city. Trump, who has been seeking a major deal to correct trade imbalances with China, has faced criticism from Congress and elsewhere for not taking a stronger public line on HongKong and for his characterization of the protests earlier this month as "riots" that were a matter for China to deal with. The Republican president said on Tuesday the situation in HongKong was "tricky," but hoped it would work out for everybody, including China, and "for liberty" without anyone getting hurt or killed. The US official said the PAP units seemed to have been stationed at Shenzhen to intimidate the protesters, but the protests had yet to reach a level that would compel Beijing to send them in. "I don’t think they’ve reached any tipping points," he said. While China wanted to maintain control, "nobody on the opposition side has crossed any red lines," the official said. "They haven’t called for independence. They’ve walked up to the line and caused a lot of disorder, but overnight they apologised to everybody. Both sides are carefully calculating how far and how close they come to those lines." On Tuesday, US Senator Cory Gardner, the Republican chair of the Senate's East Asia subcommittee, said the Trump administration "must make clear to Beijing that any crackdown inHong Kong will have profound consequences for China, including the imposition of US sanctions." On Wednesday, the Democratic chairman of the US House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee, Eliot Engel, and the panel's leading Republican, Michael McCaul, said they were concerned that 30 years after the Tiananmen Square massacre, China might again consider brutally putting down peaceful protests. "We urge China to avoid making such a mistake, which would be met with universal condemnation and swift consequences," they said in a statement. Earlier on Wednesday, the State Department issued a travel advisory urging "increased caution in Hong Kong due to civil unrest." Hong Kong has been engulfed in protests since earlier this summer. Flights resumed on Wednesday at the Hong Kong airport, one of the world's busiest, which shut down for two days after demonstrators occupied it.

US 'deeply concerned' by reports of China paramilitary movement near Hong Kong

China's Lenovo Group, the world's largest PC maker, warned it will have to raise product prices if US tariffs increase, sending its shares tumbling 6.5 per cent to two-month lows.

China's Lenovo Group, the world's largest PC maker, warned it will have to raise product prices if US tariffs increase, sending its shares tumbling 6.5 per cent to two-month lows. Lenovo's warning amid mounting business uncertainty due to the US-China trade war cast doubt on its sales outlook and took the shine off forecast-beating quarterly results where robust PC sales helped the company more than double its profit. US President Donald Trump said this week that he would postpone imposing an additional 10 per cent tariff on Chinese-made products including tablets and laptop computers until December, but would still impose the tariffs on desktops from September. "Retail prices for products like PC and smartphones will increase if (US) tariffs increase," Lenovo Chairman Yang Yuanqing told an earnings call on Thursday. He also said shifting manufacturing from China to avoid US tariffs would also lead to product price increases, although Lenovo's global production footprint gives it flexibility in making adjustments, and it remains committed to China. The global PC market grew 1.5 per cent in the June quarter after falling for two consecutive quarters, as threats of increased US tariffs on Chinese goods prompted some manufacturers to frontload shipments, industry analysts said. Lenovo emerged as the biggest winner of the global PC market's surprise rebound in the second quarter. Citing industry data, the company said it had a record 25.1 per cent market share in the quarter. Lenovo said it was the fastest-growing PC maker among the top five manufacturers and its improved product mix also helped the business' pre-tax profit margin rose to 5.4 per cent, the highest margin ever attained in a fiscal first quarter. Revenue from Lenovo's personal computer and smart devices group grew 12 per cent, while its mobile business group recorded a 9 per cent fall in sales. Its PC and smart devices business generate more than three-quarters of the group's total revenue, which rose 5 per cent. Net profit rose to $162 million in the quarter ended June, compared with an average estimate of $154 million by nine analysts, according to Refinitiv data. Revenue rose to $12.51 billion, in line with expectations.

Lenovo warns of price hikes to absorb US tariffs, shares slide

Why Trump Opposes India's 'Developing Country' Tag At The WTO? Watch this video to know more.

Gravitas: Is Trump justified in his stance against India & China?

Trump Says India & China Are Taking Unfair Advantage Of 'Developing Country' Tag.

Gravitas: Trump questions 'developing' nation tag of India & China

China's threat to impose countermeasures in retaliation for the latest US tariffs knocked stocks sprawling on Thursday, checking earlier attempts to recover from a rout sparked by fears of a world recession.

China's threat to impose countermeasures in retaliation for the latest US tariffs knocked stocks sprawling on Thursday, checking earlier attempts to recover from a rout sparked by fears of a world recession. Wall Street futures signalled another weak open for US stocks, which fell 3 per cent on Wednesday after long-dated bond yields dropped, raising fears the US economy was hurtling towards recession and dragging world stocks with it. Expectations that the US Federal Reserve and other central banks would respond robustly to the recession warning helped world stocks to steady earlier. But that recovery was cut short by the latest rhetoric from Beijing "The only game in town is the central banks, hence the bond markets are rallying," said Peter Schaffrik, global macro strategist at RBC Capital Markets. "We have regional bonfires in Hong Kong, Argentina, Japan against South Korea, and none of these is going away easily; everyone is not necessarily strong enough to cause trouble." Recession fears grew on Wednesday after yields on 10-year Treasury bonds dropped to less than two-year rates for the first time in 12 years when the same yield curve inversion presaged the 2008 recession. The curve has inverted before every recession in the past 50 years and sent a false signal just once. The latest inversion has since reversed, albeit marginally, and yields on 30-year Treasuries rose off the record 1.965 per cent low reached in Asian trade. But they are still down 60 basis points in just 12 sessions. Markets appear to be pinning their hopes, yet again, on central banks, betting that scale of the scare would alarm policymakers, especially at the Fed. Money markets price in a growing chance the Fed will cut rates by half a point at its September meeting. "We have seen stocks trading very poorly as a result of the yield curve inversion, so that will be flashing some additional warning lights for the Fed that they have to do more," said Andrea Iannelli, investment director at Fidelity International. "The only question is, can the Fed out-dove the market? At the very least they will have to match market expectations in the short term." The Chinese comments sent a pan-European equity index down half a per cent and markets in London and Frankfurt lost over 1 per cent. Earlier, Asian shares fell 0.5 per cent. Japan's Nikkei shed 1.2 per cent as the recent yen surge hit the export-heavy market. German 30-year yields are below minus 0.2 per cent for the first time. Ten-year yields touched a record low of minus 0.67 per cent. The growth worries come amid economic stress in Argentina and some other emerging markets, fears of Chinese military intervention in Hong Kong and trade tensions that show no sign of abating. "Hoping for the best on the policy front but positioning for the worst on the economic backdrop seems to be the flavour of the day," said Stephen Innes, a managing partner at Valour Markets. "The Fed, now out of necessity alone, will need to adjust policy much more profoundly than they expected." Not everyone buys the argument that recession is inevitable bond markets have been distorted by a decade of multi-trillion-dollar central bank stimulus. Mark Haefele, chief investment officer at UBS Global Wealth Management, said how long the curve remained inverted, and to what extent, was crucial. "If Fed rate cuts successfully steepen the curve comfortably into positive territory, this brief curve inversion may be a premature recession signal. Neither does a yield curve inversion indicate it is time to sell equities," Haefele said. He noted that since 1975, every curve inversion had been followed by an S&P 500 rally that lasted almost two years and delivered average gains around 40 per cent. Safety plays As the Sino-US trade war escalates, long-dated bond yields have fallen across the developed world, flattening yield curves in what is considered a clear signal of a worsening growth outlook. What sent the US curve over the brink into inversion was German data on Wednesday that showed the economy had contracted in the quarter to June. That came on the heels of dire Chinese data for July. The British yield curve also inverted. The German curve is at its flattest since 2008. Oil prices plunged with Brent crude losing another 2 per cent to $58.4 a barrel, after shedding 3 per cent overnight. Safe-haven gold was up 0.3 per cent at $1,520 per ounce, just off recent six-year highs. The yen was flat at 105.8 to the dollar, having earlier traded at 106.74. The currency has gained against the dollar for eight of the past 10 sessions. Excluding a mini-crash episode in January, it recently hit 17-month highs.

Global Markets: China's trade threats deal a fresh blow to world stock

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/alibaba-ceo-rules-out-layoffs-this-year-198882">China's Alibaba Group Holding Ltd</a> reported better-than-expected quarterly revenue and profit on Thursday, aided by growth in its e-commerce and cloud computing businesses.

US-listed shares in the company, which makes money primarily by selling advertising and promotional services to third-party merchants on its Taobao and Tmall sites, rose 3 per cent to $166.72 in trading before the bell.

Two of the world's biggest e-commerce sites, Taobao and Tmall are booming in tandem with internet adoption and mobile phone penetration in China.

Both Alibaba and smaller rival JD.com, however, are seeking to diversify amid slowing e-commerce revenue growth at home - due in part to markets in China's biggest cities saturating.

JD also reported better-than-expected second-quarter revenue on Tuesday, boosted by stronger sales in its online retail business.

Alibaba's revenue rose 42 per cent to 114.92 billion yuan ($16.32 billion) in its first quarter ended June 30 from 80.92 billion yuan, a year earlier.

Analysts had expected revenue of 111.73 billion yuan, according to IBES data from Refinitiv.

Revenue at its cloud computing business rose 66 per cent to 7.79 billion yuan, while revenue from its core commerce business rose 44 per cent to 99.54 billion yuan.

Net income attributable to ordinary shareholders was 21.25 billion yuan.

Excluding items, the company earned 12.55 yuan per American Depository Share. Analysts were expecting 10.25 yuan per ADS, according to IBES data from Refinitiv. 
&nbsp;

China's Alibaba Group Holding Ltd reported better-than-expected quarterly revenue and profit on Thursday, aided by growth in its e-commerce and cloud computing businesses.

China's Alibaba Group Holding Ltd reported better-than-expected quarterly revenue and profit on Thursday, aided by growth in its e-commerce and cloud computing businesses. US-listed shares in the company, which makes money primarily by selling advertising and promotional services to third-party merchants on its Taobao and Tmall sites, rose 3 per cent to $166.72 in trading before the bell. Two of the world's biggest e-commerce sites, Taobao and Tmall are booming in tandem with internet adoption and mobile phone penetration in China. Both Alibaba and smaller rival JD.com, however, are seeking to diversify amid slowing e-commerce revenue growth at home - due in part to markets in China's biggest cities saturating. JD also reported better-than-expected second-quarter revenue on Tuesday, boosted by stronger sales in its online retail business. Alibaba's revenue rose 42 per cent to 114.92 billion yuan ($16.32 billion) in its first quarter ended June 30 from 80.92 billion yuan, a year earlier. Analysts had expected revenue of 111.73 billion yuan, according to IBES data from Refinitiv. Revenue at its cloud computing business rose 66 per cent to 7.79 billion yuan, while revenue from its core commerce business rose 44 per cent to 99.54 billion yuan. Net income attributable to ordinary shareholders was 21.25 billion yuan. Excluding items, the company earned 12.55 yuan per American Depository Share. Analysts were expecting 10.25 yuan per ADS, according to IBES data from Refinitiv.

Alibaba results beat estimates on the cloud, E-commerce growth

Britain and the United States are discussing a partial trade accord that could take effect on November 1, the day after Britain is due to leave the European Union, a senior Trump administration official said on Tuesday.

During a visit to London, US national security adviser John Bolton discussed with British trade minister Liz Truss the possibility of the two countries` leaders signing a road map declaration towards a trade deal.&nbsp;That could take place at this month`s G7 summit meeting in France, the official said.&nbsp;

Bolton and British finance minister Sajid Javid discussed the possibility of a temporary trade agreement that covered all sectors. Such a deal could last for something like six months, the official told reporters.&nbsp;

Britain is due to leave the European Union on October 31 and Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said he is prepared to take the country out of the bloc without a deal although he hopes to secure an orderly departure with an agreement.&nbsp;

The current impasse with the EU leaves Britain facing an exit without any formal transition period or legal agreement covering issues such as trade, data transfers and border policy, prompting some businesses to warn of damage to their operations.

During a two-day visit, Bolton told British Prime Minister Boris Johnson that President Donald Trump wanted to see a successful British exit from the European Union on October 31 and that Washington would be ready to work fast on a US-UK free trade agreement.

Bolton, who has now left Britain, was seeking an improved US-British relationship with Johnson after sometimes tense ties between Trump and Johnson`s predecessor, Theresa May.

A wide-ranging trade deal with the United States, seen as Britain`s closest ally, is a much-cherished prize for Brexit supporters, who hope to show the opportunities for Britain outside of the 28-member bloc and could help cushion any disruption to trade with European neighbours.&nbsp;

However, thorny issues remain over differing farming standards between the two countries and many politicians in Britain are opposed to increased involvement of US pharmaceutical firms in the state-run National Health Service.&nbsp;

Despite that, as Britain prepares to leave the European Union, its biggest geopolitical shift since World War Two, many diplomats expect London to become increasingly reliant on the United States.

Britain and the United States are discussing a partial trade accord that could take effect on November 1, the day after Britain is due to leave the European Union, a senior Trump administration official said on Tuesday.

Britain and the United States are discussing a partial trade accord that could take effect on November 1, the day after Britain is due to leave the European Union, a senior Trump administration official said on Tuesday. During a visit to London, US national security adviser John Bolton discussed with British trade minister Liz Truss the possibility of the two countries` leaders signing a road map declaration towards a trade deal. That could take place at this month`s G7 summit meeting in France, the official said. Bolton and British finance minister Sajid Javid discussed the possibility of a temporary trade agreement that covered all sectors. Such a deal could last for something like six months, the official told reporters. Britain is due to leave the European Union on October 31 and Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said he is prepared to take the country out of the bloc without a deal although he hopes to secure an orderly departure with an agreement. The current impasse with the EU leaves Britain facing an exit without any formal transition period or legal agreement covering issues such as trade, data transfers and border policy, prompting some businesses to warn of damage to their operations. During a two-day visit, Bolton told British Prime Minister Boris Johnson that President Donald Trump wanted to see a successful British exit from the European Union on October 31 and that Washington would be ready to work fast on a US-UK free trade agreement. Bolton, who has now left Britain, was seeking an improved US-British relationship with Johnson after sometimes tense ties between Trump and Johnson`s predecessor, Theresa May. A wide-ranging trade deal with the United States, seen as Britain`s closest ally, is a much-cherished prize for Brexit supporters, who hope to show the opportunities for Britain outside of the 28-member bloc and could help cushion any disruption to trade with European neighbours. However, thorny issues remain over differing farming standards between the two countries and many politicians in Britain are opposed to increased involvement of US pharmaceutical firms in the state-run National Health Service. Despite that, as Britain prepares to leave the European Union, its biggest geopolitical shift since World War Two, many diplomats expect London to become increasingly reliant on the United States.

US and Britain discuss trade deal that could take effect on November 1

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - August 14th, 2019

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents in the United States have discovered a cache of some 25 guns and 10,000 bullets after arresting a teenager who made online comments supporting mass shootings.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents in the United States have discovered a cache of some 25 guns and 10,000 bullets after arresting a teenager who made online comments supporting mass shootings. In a complaint filed Monday, the FBI charged Boardman, Ohio resident Justin Olsen with threatening to assault a federal law enforcement officer after he posted on an online forum: "In conclusion, shoot every federal agent on sight". The 18-year-old's account on the iFunny website, a forum where users share memes had approximately 4,400 subscribers. He had previously made posts supporting mass shootings and targeting family planning and reproductive rights group Planned Parenthood, the complaint said. After searching his father's house, agents found around 15 assault rifles and shotguns and 10 semi-automatic pistols inside the bedroom of Olsen's father, along with the ammunition. Agents also found "camouflage clothing and camouflaged backpacks," according to the complaint. Olsen admitted to making the online comments, the complaint said, but insisted they were "only a joke" and were made in regards to the controversial 1993 standoff in Waco, Texas. The Branch Davidians religious sect held off federal authorities attempting to arrest their members on weapons charges until the FBI eventually launched an assault and used tear gas. A fire engulfed the sect's compound and 76 people died Olsen's arrest came a week after back-to-back massacres killed 31 people in El Paso, Texas and Dayton, Ohio, sparking calls for lawmakers to limit the availability of firearms and reduce the carnage from gun violence in the United States.

Online commenter supported mass shootings, stockpiled weapons: Federal Bureau of Investigation

Wall Street stocks bounced early Tuesday after the US government announced it was<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-delay-china-tariff-increase-trump-199444"> delaying tariffs</a> on key consumer electronic goods imported from China.

Major indices rallied more than one per cent after Washington pushed back the imposition of the 10 per cent tariffs until December 15 for products that included cell phones, laptops and video game systems.

About 25 minutes into trading, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 1.6 per cent at 26,305.14.&nbsp;

The broad-based S&amp;P 500 also climbed 1.6 per cent to 2,928.68, while the tech-rich Nasdaq Composite Index jumped 2.1 per cent to 8,030.81.

Stocks have been pressured since US President Donald Trump earlier this month announced plans to impose tariffs on $300 billion in Chinese imports on September 1.

Beijing retaliated by halting purchases of US agricultural goods, spawning talk the economic powers may not resolve the longstanding conflict until after the 2020 US presidential election.&nbsp;

US stocks lost more than one per cent on Monday amid worries over slowing global growth, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/us-china-trade-war-in-10-dates-241155">US-China trade war </a>and turbulence in a number of international hot spots, including Hong Kong.

On Tuesday, protests at the Hong Kong airport forced the cancellation or suspension of hundreds of flights at the busy hub for a second day, while state-run media broadcast videos of security forces gathering across the border.

US economic data showed a jump in inflation in July, while a German investor confidence index sunk to its lowest level in almost eight years in August, bolstering expectations the European Central Bank will soon enact measures to provide more stimulus.

Wall Street stocks bounced early Tuesday after the US government announced it was delaying tariffs on key consumer electronic goods imported from China. Major indices rallied more than one per cent after Washington pushed back the imposition of the 10 per cent tariffs until December 15 for products that included cell phones, laptops and video game systems.

Wall Street stocks bounced early Tuesday after the US government announced it was delaying tariffs on key consumer electronic goods imported from China. Major indices rallied more than one per cent after Washington pushed back the imposition of the 10 per cent tariffs until December 15 for products that included cell phones, laptops and video game systems. About 25 minutes into trading, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 1.6 per cent at 26,305.14. The broad-based S&P 500 also climbed 1.6 per cent to 2,928.68, while the tech-rich Nasdaq Composite Index jumped 2.1 per cent to 8,030.81. Stocks have been pressured since US President Donald Trump earlier this month announced plans to impose tariffs on $300 billion in Chinese imports on September 1. Beijing retaliated by halting purchases of US agricultural goods, spawning talk the economic powers may not resolve the longstanding conflict until after the 2020 US presidential election. US stocks lost more than one per cent on Monday amid worries over slowing global growth, the US-China trade war and turbulence in a number of international hot spots, including Hong Kong. On Tuesday, protests at the Hong Kong airport forced the cancellation or suspension of hundreds of flights at the busy hub for a second day, while state-run media broadcast videos of security forces gathering across the border. US economic data showed a jump in inflation in July, while a German investor confidence index sunk to its lowest level in almost eight years in August, bolstering expectations the European Central Bank will soon enact measures to provide more stimulus.

US stocks jump as Trump delays some key China tariffs

The Kremlin boasted on Tuesday it was winning the race to develop new cutting edge<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russians-killed-in-missile-test-blast-were-working-on-new-weapons-242543"> nuclear weapons</a> despite a mysterious rocket accident last week in northern Russia that caused a temporary spike in radiation levels.

Rosatom, Russia's state nuclear agency, has said that the August 8 accident occurred during a rocket test on a sea platform in the White Sea, killing at least five and injuring three more.

It has pledged to keep developing new weapons regardless, portraying the men who died in the test as heroes.

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump had said on Twitter on Monday that the United States was<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-has-advanced-weapons-than-the-failed-russian-skyfall-missile-donald-trump-242558"> "learning much" from the explosion </a>which he suggested happened during the testing of a nuclear-powered cruise missile vaunted by President Vladimir Putin last year.

Russia, which has said the missile will have an "unlimited range" and be able to overcome any defences, calls the missile the 9M730 Burevestnik (Storm Petrel). The NATO alliance has designated it the SSC-X-9 Skyfall.

Trump said on Twitter that the United States had "similar, though more advanced, technology" and said Russians were worried about the air quality around the facility and far beyond, a situation he described as "Not good!"

But when asked about his comments on Tuesday, the Kremlin said it, not the United States, was out in front when it came to developing new nuclear weapons.

"Our president has repeatedly said that Russian engineering in this sector significantly outstrips the level that other countries have managed to reach for the moment, and it is fairly unique," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

Putin used his state-of-the-nation speech in 2018 to unveil what he described as a raft of invincible new nuclear weapons, including a nuclear-powered cruise missile, an underwater nuclear-powered drone, and a laser weapon.

Tensions between Moscow and Washington over arms control have been exacerbated by the demise this month of a landmark nuclear treaty.

Russia says it is also concerned that another landmark arms control treaty will soon expire.

In a sign of how serious the situation in the accident area remains, Russian authorities have advised residents of the nearby village of Nyonoksa to leave while clear-up work is being carried out, the Interfax news agency reported on Tuesday, citing local officials.

Russia's state weather service also said on Tuesday that radiation levels in the nearby city of Severodvinsk had spiked by up to 16 times last Thursday, while medics who treated victims of the accident have been sent to Moscow for a medical examination, the TASS news agency reported.

It said the medics had signed non-disclosure agreements about the nature of the accident.

The Kremlin boasted on Tuesday it was winning the race to develop new cutting edge nuclear weapons despite a mysterious rocket accident last week in northern Russia that caused a temporary spike in radiation levels.

The Kremlin boasted on Tuesday it was winning the race to develop new cutting edge nuclear weapons despite a mysterious rocket accident last week in northern Russia that caused a temporary spike in radiation levels. Rosatom, Russia's state nuclear agency, has said that the August 8 accident occurred during a rocket test on a sea platform in the White Sea, killing at least five and injuring three more. It has pledged to keep developing new weapons regardless, portraying the men who died in the test as heroes. US President Donald Trump had said on Twitter on Monday that the United States was "learning much" from the explosion which he suggested happened during the testing of a nuclear-powered cruise missile vaunted by President Vladimir Putin last year. Russia, which has said the missile will have an "unlimited range" and be able to overcome any defences, calls the missile the 9M730 Burevestnik (Storm Petrel). The NATO alliance has designated it the SSC-X-9 Skyfall. Trump said on Twitter that the United States had "similar, though more advanced, technology" and said Russians were worried about the air quality around the facility and far beyond, a situation he described as "Not good!" But when asked about his comments on Tuesday, the Kremlin said it, not the United States, was out in front when it came to developing new nuclear weapons. "Our president has repeatedly said that Russian engineering in this sector significantly outstrips the level that other countries have managed to reach for the moment, and it is fairly unique," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. Putin used his state-of-the-nation speech in 2018 to unveil what he described as a raft of invincible new nuclear weapons, including a nuclear-powered cruise missile, an underwater nuclear-powered drone, and a laser weapon. Tensions between Moscow and Washington over arms control have been exacerbated by the demise this month of a landmark nuclear treaty. Russia says it is also concerned that another landmark arms control treaty will soon expire. In a sign of how serious the situation in the accident area remains, Russian authorities have advised residents of the nearby village of Nyonoksa to leave while clear-up work is being carried out, the Interfax news agency reported on Tuesday, citing local officials. Russia's state weather service also said on Tuesday that radiation levels in the nearby city of Severodvinsk had spiked by up to 16 times last Thursday, while medics who treated victims of the accident have been sent to Moscow for a medical examination, the TASS news agency reported. It said the medics had signed non-disclosure agreements about the nature of the accident.

Winning arms race against US despite rocket accident: Russia

The US has urged all sides in Hong Kong to refrain from violence. Watch this video to know more.

US reacts to Hong Kong protest

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - August 13th, 2019

Swedish teenage climate activist <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/teen-climate-activist-greta-thunberg-gets-amnesty-prize-225552">Greta Thunberg </a>will set sail for New York this week, crossing the Atlantic in a racing yacht to join protests in the United States and take part in a United Nations summit.

To avoid travelling by air, Thunberg is making her trans-Atlantic trip onboard the 60-ft yacht, the Malizia II, fitted with solar panels and underwater turbines that produce electricity on board, with the aim of making the journey zero-carbon.

On Monday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-right-wingers-to-shun-greta-thunberg-at-parliament-237929">Thunberg </a>tweeted a picture of herself on board the boat with the caption: "Test sailing off the English coast today!"

Earlier this month, the boat's skipper told Reuters the 16-year-old activist, who has become a figurehead for young environmental protesters, faced an uncomfortable voyage onboard the yacht which is designed for speed rather than a luxury.

"Greta taking on this challenge of sailing across on a race boat with zero comforts really shows her commitment to the cause and how far she’s willing to push herself," Boris Herrmann said.

Thunberg is due to depart this week from an as-yet-undisclosed location in Britain and will be accompanied by her father, Svante, and a cameraman on the journey.

When she arrives, she will join the UN&nbsp;Climate Action Summit in New York in September and the COP 25 climate change conference in Santiago, Chile in December.

"Me speaking to the UN&nbsp;is not going to change the situation but if that can help to create awareness ... then I think that together we can try to ... make a change," Thunberg said on a visit to a German anti-coal protest camp on Friday.

Swedish teenage climate activist Greta Thunberg will set sail for New York this week, crossing the Atlantic in a racing yacht to join protests in the United States and take part in a United Nations summit.

Swedish teenage climate activist Greta Thunberg will set sail for New York this week, crossing the Atlantic in a racing yacht to join protests in the United States and take part in a United Nations summit. To avoid travelling by air, Thunberg is making her trans-Atlantic trip onboard the 60-ft yacht, the Malizia II, fitted with solar panels and underwater turbines that produce electricity on board, with the aim of making the journey zero-carbon. On Monday, Thunberg tweeted a picture of herself on board the boat with the caption: "Test sailing off the English coast today!" Earlier this month, the boat's skipper told Reuters the 16-year-old activist, who has become a figurehead for young environmental protesters, faced an uncomfortable voyage onboard the yacht which is designed for speed rather than a luxury. "Greta taking on this challenge of sailing across on a race boat with zero comforts really shows her commitment to the cause and how far she’s willing to push herself," Boris Herrmann said. Thunberg is due to depart this week from an as-yet-undisclosed location in Britain and will be accompanied by her father, Svante, and a cameraman on the journey. When she arrives, she will join the UN Climate Action Summit in New York in September and the COP 25 climate change conference in Santiago, Chile in December. "Me speaking to the UN is not going to change the situation but if that can help to create awareness ... then I think that together we can try to ... make a change," Thunberg said on a visit to a German anti-coal protest camp on Friday.

Climate campaigner Greta Thunberg prepares to sail to US to avoid flying

Gold&nbsp;prices scaled their highest in more than&nbsp;six&nbsp;years on Tuesday, as concerns around protests in Hong Kong and an Argentine currency crash amid fears of global economic slowdown, prompted investors to move away from&nbsp;riskier assets.

Spot&nbsp;gold&nbsp;rose 0.7 per cent to $1,521.98 per ounce as of 0715 GMT, its highest since April 2013.

US&nbsp;gold&nbsp;futures rose 1 per cent to $1,533 an ounce.

"It is a pretty straight forward case of&nbsp;risk&nbsp;aversion. Crisis in Argentina and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/hong-kong-protestors-have-made-their-point-to-china-241289">political deterioration in Hong Kong</a>; underlying all of this, global growth is slowing," said Ilya Spivak, senior currency strategist with DailyFx.

"Central banks can only do so much because a lot of them are at near record-low interest rates. There is not a lot of ammunition to deploy as countermeasures to the slowdown in global growth."

Protesters managed to shut down Hong Kong's airport, the world's busiest cargo airport, on Monday.&nbsp;

The protests, which started as an opposition to an extradition bill to mainland China, have expanded into wider calls for democracy.

On the other side of the globe, fears of a possible return to interventionist policies gripped the Argentine market after market-friendly President Mauricio Macri lost by a much bigger-than-expected margin in presidential primaries.

These uncertainties alongside fears of a drawn-out Sino-US trade war rattled financial markets, spurring investors to safe-haven assets.

Bullion, along with the Japanese yen and US Treasuries, is seen as a relatively safe investment in times of political and financial uncertainty.&nbsp;

The yen stood near a seven-month high against the dollar.

Investors are focused on the Federal Reserve's annual symposium next week.&nbsp;

Traders see a 74 per cent chance of a 25 basis-point rate cut by the Fed this September.

Lower interest rates decrease the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding bullion and weigh on the dollar, making&nbsp;gold&nbsp;cheaper for investors holding other currencies.

"Heightened geopolitical&nbsp;risks from Hong Kong protests along with global growth concerns remain largely supportive towards safe-haven flows," brokerage Phillip Futures said in a note.

"Gold&nbsp;prices must hold above $1,500 for an extension of the bullish wave in the current term."

Reflecting increased investor interest in&nbsp;gold, holdings of SPDR&nbsp;Gold&nbsp;Trust, the world's largest&nbsp;gold-backed exchange-traded fund, jumped 0.9 per cent to 847.77 tonnes on Monday from Friday.

Spot&nbsp;gold&nbsp;may test a resistance at $1,524 per ounce, a break above which could lead to a gain to $1,546, said Reuters technical analyst Wang Tao.

Among other precious metals, silver climbed 1.8 per cent to $17.36 per ounce. During the session, it hit its highest since January 2018 at $17.42. Platinum rose 1.3 per cent to $863.83 and palladium gained 0.7 per cent to $1,437.98 an ounce.

Gold prices scaled their highest in more than six years on Tuesday, as concerns around protests in Hong Kong and an Argentine currency crash amid fears of global economic slowdown, prompted investors to move away from riskier assets.

Gold prices scaled their highest in more than six years on Tuesday, as concerns around protests in Hong Kong and an Argentine currency crash amid fears of global economic slowdown, prompted investors to move away from riskier assets. Spot gold rose 0.7 per cent to $1,521.98 per ounce as of 0715 GMT, its highest since April 2013. US gold futures rose 1 per cent to $1,533 an ounce. "It is a pretty straight forward case of risk aversion. Crisis in Argentina and political deterioration in Hong Kong; underlying all of this, global growth is slowing," said Ilya Spivak, senior currency strategist with DailyFx. "Central banks can only do so much because a lot of them are at near record-low interest rates. There is not a lot of ammunition to deploy as countermeasures to the slowdown in global growth." Protesters managed to shut down Hong Kong's airport, the world's busiest cargo airport, on Monday. The protests, which started as an opposition to an extradition bill to mainland China, have expanded into wider calls for democracy. On the other side of the globe, fears of a possible return to interventionist policies gripped the Argentine market after market-friendly President Mauricio Macri lost by a much bigger-than-expected margin in presidential primaries. These uncertainties alongside fears of a drawn-out Sino-US trade war rattled financial markets, spurring investors to safe-haven assets. Bullion, along with the Japanese yen and US Treasuries, is seen as a relatively safe investment in times of political and financial uncertainty. The yen stood near a seven-month high against the dollar. Investors are focused on the Federal Reserve's annual symposium next week. Traders see a 74 per cent chance of a 25 basis-point rate cut by the Fed this September. Lower interest rates decrease the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding bullion and weigh on the dollar, making gold cheaper for investors holding other currencies. "Heightened geopolitical risks from Hong Kong protests along with global growth concerns remain largely supportive towards safe-haven flows," brokerage Phillip Futures said in a note. "Gold prices must hold above $1,500 for an extension of the bullish wave in the current term." Reflecting increased investor interest in gold, holdings of SPDR Gold Trust, the world's largest gold-backed exchange-traded fund, jumped 0.9 per cent to 847.77 tonnes on Monday from Friday. Spot gold may test a resistance at $1,524 per ounce, a break above which could lead to a gain to $1,546, said Reuters technical analyst Wang Tao. Among other precious metals, silver climbed 1.8 per cent to $17.36 per ounce. During the session, it hit its highest since January 2018 at $17.42. Platinum rose 1.3 per cent to $863.83 and palladium gained 0.7 per cent to $1,437.98 an ounce.

Gold hits over the six-year peak on risk-off sentiment

Oil prices fell on Tuesday on lingering concerns over global demand and rising US production, though expectations for major producers to further curtail output offered support.

Oil prices fell on Tuesday on lingering concerns over global demand and rising US production, though expectations for major producers to further curtail output offered support. Brent crude futures were down 20 cents or 0.3 per cent from the previous settlement at $58.29 a barrel by 0643 GMT. The international benchmark has lost over 20 per cent since hitting its 2019 high in April. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) futures were at $54.69 per barrel, down 24 cents or 0.4 per cent. A deepening trade war between the United States and China, the world's two largest economies and energy consumers, has weighed heavily on oil prices in recent months. China's central bank lowered its official yuan midpoint for the ninth straight day to a fresh 11-year low on Tuesday. A weaker yuan raises the cost of dollar-denominated oil imports into China, the world's biggest crude oil importer. Saudi Arabia, the de-facto leader of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), said last week it plans to keep its crude exports below 7 million barrels a day in August and September to help drain global oil inventories. The kingdom's plans to float its national oil company Saudi Aramco in what could be the world's largest initial public offering (IPO) give it further impetus to boost prices. "With Saudi Aramco reportedly eyeing an IPO once again, there is some support to the idea that Saudi Arabia has a heightened interest in strong crude prices and will cut its output accordingly," Vienna-based consultancy JBC Energy said. OPEC and its allies, known as OPEC+, have agreed to cut 1.2 million barrels per day (BPD) of production since January 1. But booming US shale oil output continues to chip away at efforts to limit the global supply overhang, weighing on prices. US oil output from seven major shale formations is expected to rise by 85,000 barrels per day (BPD) in September to a record 8.77 million BPD, the Energy Information Administration forecast in a report. The start-up of a major pipeline between the Permian shale basin and the Gulf Coast means that more crude can be exported, adding to global supplies. "The swift reaction from Saudi Arabia will likely stabilise oil prices, but the oil price probably won't move much above $60 per barrel until there is evidence of progress in US-China trade negotiations," Stephen Innes, managing partner at VM Markets Pte Ltd, said in a note.

Oil prices fall on demand concerns, rising US output

Share markets fell for a third straight day on Tuesday as fears about a drawn-out global trade war, protests in Hong Kong and a crash in Argentina's peso currency kept investors huddled in bonds, gold, and the Japanese yen for safety.

Share markets fell for a third straight day on Tuesday as fears about a drawn-out global trade war, protests in Hong Kong and a crash in Argentina's peso currency kept investors huddled in bonds, gold, and the Japanese yen for safety. Early 0.3 per cent - 0.6 per cent drops from Europe's main indexes after some heavy falls in China, Hong Kong, Japan and other parts of Asia left MSCI's main 47-country world index down nearly 4 per cent for August so far. Hong Kong's airport, the world's busiest cargo hub, had reopened after protests closed it the previous day, but the mood remained febrile after weeks of increasingly violent demonstrations in the Chinese-ruled territory. Investors were also still assessing the wider damage caused by Monday's crash in Argentina after its President Mauricio Macri became the latest pro-free market, pro-reform leader to be given a beating at the polls by a populist rival. The response was brutal. The peso collapsed 15 per cent, equities crumbled 48 per cent in dollar terms the second-biggest one-day slump anywhere since 1950 and the bond market crashed, with a 100-year bond that investors had recently gobbled up tumbling 20 per cent as fears of yet another government default spiked. "Yes, Argentina is a small economy. However, the last thing global markets want to see is another market-friendly government fall to populism and/or geopolitics," said Rabobank strategist Michael Every. He added the 'wall of worry' also now includes the trade war, Brexit, China, Hong Kong, Iran, Italy, Kashmir, North Korea, South China Sea, Turkey, and Venezuela. "Did I miss anything with tired eyes?" With so much uncertainty around, Europe's traditional safety play, the 10-year German government bond, saw yields hit a new record low. Equivalent US Treasury yields were straining for their lowest in almost three years, gold was pinned close to six-year highs and the yen was within a whisker of a seven-month peak versus the dollar. ING analysts said the yen was benefiting 'from the best of both worlds', pointing to general risk aversion and a rush to the price in more interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve. They think the yen, at 105.32 in Europe, will rally to 102 or 103 per dollar later this year. There was also the danger that moves could be amplified as many traders and investors are off for European and US summer holidays. Yet, there was no shortage of gloomy news for investors looking to catch their breath from several months of market ructions. Panic and chaos The weeks-long protests in Hong Kong began in opposition to a bill allowing extraditions to mainland China but have quickly morphed into the biggest challenge to China's authority over the city since it took Hong Kong back from Britain in 1997. A state of 'panic and chaos' now exists, the city's embattled leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday, defying fresh calls to quit. As she spoke, the benchmark Hang Seng index hit a seven-month low. By the close, it had dropped 2.1 per cent, dragging down markets across Asia and taking its losses past 6 per cent since the protests began in June. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares skidded 1.2 per cent as Chinese stocks and the Nikkei in Tokyo both fell around 1 per cent too. The dive for safety pushed gold up another 0.5 per cent to $1.523 per ounce and its latest six-year high. Oil prices meanwhile held their ground as expectations that major producers will continue to reduce supplies balanced out worries about sluggish economic growth. Brent crude inched up to $58.74 while US West Texas Intermediate futures were flat at $54.81 a barrel. It comes too with Saudi Arabia pushing plans to float its national oil company Saudi Aramco in what could be the world's largest initial public offering (IPO). "With Saudi Aramco reportedly eyeing an IPO once again, there is some support to the idea that Saudi Arabia has a heightened interest in strong crude prices and will cut its output accordingly," Vienna-based consultancy JBC Energy said.

Shares shunted after Argentina crash, safe-havens shine

Donald Trump has made it clear that his offer of mediation on Kashmir is not on the table anymore, the Indian ambassador has said. Ambassador Harsh Vardhan Shringla has said that America’s decades-old policy on Kashmir has been no mediation but to encourage India and Pakistan to resolve their differences bilaterally. Watch this video to know more.

Kashmir issue: India's Envoy to US clears the air

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - August 12th, 2019

5 children lost their lives when a fire broke out at a residential building housing a daycare centre in Pennsylvania on Sunday, US authorities said. Watch this video to know more.

Deadly fire at a daycare centre in US, 5 children lost their lives

Two US gold medal winners could face sanctions after staging dramatic podium protests against US President Donald Trump at the Pan American Games in Lima.

Gwen Berry stunned the crowd when she raised a clenched right fist and bowed her head as the US national anthem closed her gold medal ceremony for the women's hammer.

The 30-year-old's protest on Saturday -- which she told US media was aimed at "extreme injustice" - echoed the iconic raised fist protest of US sprinters Tommie Smith and John Carlos at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico.

On Friday, two-time Olympian fencer Race Imboden, 26, set the tone after 'taking a knee' as his team celebrated gold in the team foil event.

He was the latest US sports star to follow NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick,&nbsp;whose kneeling protest during the US national anthem before NFL games in 2016 became a national issue.

"We must call for change. This week I am honored to represent Team USA at the Pan Am Games, taking home Gold and Bronze," tweeted Imboden.

"My pride however has been cut short by the multiple shortcomings of the country I hold so dear to my heart. Racism, Gun Control, mistreatment of immigrants and a president who spreads hate are at the top of a long list.&nbsp;

"I chose to sacrifice my moment today at the top of the podium to call attention to issues that I believe need to be addressed. I encourage others to please use your platforms for empowerment and change."

Imboden had already staged a similar kneeling protest at the 2017 Fencing World Cup in Egypt.

Mark Jones, vice president of communications for the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC), told ESPN that the governing body was considering what sanctions it might impose.

"Every athlete competing at the 2019 Pan American Games commits to terms of eligibility, including to refrain from demonstrations that are political in nature," Jones said in a statement to the US sports network.&nbsp;

"In these cases, the athletes didn't adhere to the commitment they made to the organizing committee and the USOPC.

"We respect their rights to express their viewpoints, but we are disappointed that they chose not to honor their commitment. Our leadership are reviewing what consequences may result."

Current athletes aren't the only ones who have used the Pan Am Games to call out Trump, with Olympic athletics legend Carl Lewis -- attending at the invitation of Lima Organizers -- also weighing in.

"We have a president who is racist and a misogynist, who doesn't value anybody but himself," said Lewis, who was asked to weigh in on the issue of gender equality in sport.

"My mother was a pioneer. My parents were teachers and they taught us that everyone deserves the same opportunities," said Lewis, who counts nine Olympic gold medals among his 10 total.

"Of course I'm for (equal pay) in athletics. We shouldn't even be talking about it."

Two US gold medal winners could face sanctions after staging dramatic podium protests against US President Donald Trump at the Pan American Games in Lima. Gwen Berry stunned the crowd when she raised a clenched right fist and bowed her head as the US national anthem closed her gold medal ceremony for the women's hammer.

Two US gold medal winners could face sanctions after staging dramatic podium protests against US President Donald Trump at the Pan American Games in Lima. Gwen Berry stunned the crowd when she raised a clenched right fist and bowed her head as the US national anthem closed her gold medal ceremony for the women's hammer. The 30-year-old's protest on Saturday -- which she told US media was aimed at "extreme injustice" - echoed the iconic raised fist protest of US sprinters Tommie Smith and John Carlos at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico. On Friday, two-time Olympian fencer Race Imboden, 26, set the tone after 'taking a knee' as his team celebrated gold in the team foil event. He was the latest US sports star to follow NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick, whose kneeling protest during the US national anthem before NFL games in 2016 became a national issue. "We must call for change. This week I am honored to represent Team USA at the Pan Am Games, taking home Gold and Bronze," tweeted Imboden. "My pride however has been cut short by the multiple shortcomings of the country I hold so dear to my heart. Racism, Gun Control, mistreatment of immigrants and a president who spreads hate are at the top of a long list. "I chose to sacrifice my moment today at the top of the podium to call attention to issues that I believe need to be addressed. I encourage others to please use your platforms for empowerment and change." Imboden had already staged a similar kneeling protest at the 2017 Fencing World Cup in Egypt. Mark Jones, vice president of communications for the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC), told ESPN that the governing body was considering what sanctions it might impose. "Every athlete competing at the 2019 Pan American Games commits to terms of eligibility, including to refrain from demonstrations that are political in nature," Jones said in a statement to the US sports network. "In these cases, the athletes didn't adhere to the commitment they made to the organizing committee and the USOPC. "We respect their rights to express their viewpoints, but we are disappointed that they chose not to honor their commitment. Our leadership are reviewing what consequences may result." Current athletes aren't the only ones who have used the Pan Am Games to call out Trump, with Olympic athletics legend Carl Lewis -- attending at the invitation of Lima Organizers -- also weighing in. "We have a president who is racist and a misogynist, who doesn't value anybody but himself," said Lewis, who was asked to weigh in on the issue of gender equality in sport. "My mother was a pioneer. My parents were teachers and they taught us that everyone deserves the same opportunities," said Lewis, who counts nine Olympic gold medals among his 10 total. "Of course I'm for (equal pay) in athletics. We shouldn't even be talking about it."

US gold medallists at Pan American Games face sanctions over anti-Trump podium protests

Sri Lankans, angered by the government's inability to prevent <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/attackers-of-sri-lanka-easter-sunday-bombings-were-inspire-by-isis-238342">the Easter Sunday terror attacks that killed more than 250 people</a>, want a strongman back in power who can guarantee their safety and bring back economic growth.

Many are rooting for Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who despite fighting allegations of war crimes, is expected to be announced as the presidential candidate of the opposition nationalist Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) party, as early as Sunday.

The Rajapaksa brothers, Gotabaya and Mahinda, were credited with bringing peace to Sri Lanka in 2009 by defeating the Tamil Tigers in a brutal end to the 26-year-long civil war between the Sinhalese Buddhist majority and minority Tamil groups. Gotabaya was the defence secretary at the time and Mahinda the nation's president.

'The people have requested a leader who can ensure their security,' Basil Rajapaksa, founder of the SLPP and youngest brother of Gotabaya and Mahinda told reporters on Thursday.

Gotabaya is facing lawsuits in the United States for instigating and authorising the extrajudicial killing of a journalist and of war crimes against the Tamils during his time as defence secretary.

He has denied the allegations and said the lawsuits, brought by torture survivors and the daughter of the slain journalist, were timed to thwart his possible presidential run. The final date for the presidential elections has not been decided but must be held before Dec 9.

Ignored warnings

Sri Lanka's constitution is modelled on the French system of government where the president has executive powers while the prime minister heads the parliament.

The current government is headed by President Maithripala Sirisena, the leader of centre-left Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) while Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe is from the centre-right United National Party (UNP), which has a majority in the parliament.

Sirisena and Wickremesinghe, who have been at loggerheads since last October, have blamed one another for ignoring warnings from India and failing to stop the attacks.

Calls for a nationalist leader like Gotabaya, who has strong support from within Sri Lanka's majority Sinhalese Buddhist community, echo similar choices made by voters in other Asian nations including India and Bangladesh.

In India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was elected for a second term in May in a landslide victory, rallied his Hindu nationalist base and turned the campaign into a fight for national security and an aggressive stance against Pakistan.

Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who won a third straight term in an election last December, has been criticised for suppressing dissent and jailing critics.

Echoes of Duterte

Reuters spoke to about 60 people, many of whom were victims of the terror attacks or affected by communal violence over the past year, and while some plan to abstain from voting, many of those who will vote to say they want a more authoritarian figure.

Many Sri Lankan Catholics will not vote for Sirisena if he stands, said a senior Sri Lankan priest.

He is looking at Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs as an example of the kind of behaviour that is required despite evidence that it involved extrajudicial killings by police.

"A third world country like us needs a tough leader like Duterte - he is doing whatever is needed to rid his country of evils," said the priest who did not want to be named because of the sensitivity of the subject.

"Gotabaya is accused of crimes but he is tough and that is what we need right now to bring back some order," he said.

Father Jude Chrysantha Fernando, director of social communication at the Archdiocese of Colombo, said the church did not take political sides and would not ask people to vote for one candidate over another.

“What the cardinal said was that the political leaders and some security officials had prior information about attacks, but they have not taken any action," he said. "That’s why the cardinal expressed his displeasure. But he did not take any political side. What he is asking is justice for the victims.”

Minorities divided&nbsp;

A country of 21 million, Sri Lanka has been a tinder box of sectarian and ethnic tensions, first between the majority Sinhalese Buddhist population and Tamil groups, and in recent years between the Sinhalese Buddhists and the Muslim minority.

While most Tamils are unlikely to vote for Gotabaya, the Muslim community may be divided.

SHM Thameem, a government employee who is a Muslim, said he will vote for Gotabaya because the current government has failed to deliver.

"When there were anti-Muslim riots when he was the defence secretary, they were controlled within a day or two but Sirisena and Wickremesinghe have failed to control it. That adversely impacted the Muslim businesses and overall economy," said Thameem who lives in the north-central district of Anuradhapura.

JM Faleel, a Muslim autorickshaw driver in Colombo feels differently.

"We need a dictator, but I will not vote for Gotabaya as he is partially responsible for most of the suffering we see today," said Faleel, referring to anti-Muslim riots and alleged abuses against the Tamils.

Keheliya Rambukwella, a spokesman for SLPP, said Gotabaya was out of the country when the worst violence against Muslims took place.

"But still he was able to prevent it within a day. This government could not control the spreading of anti-Muslim riots for a week last," he told Reuters.

The lawsuit allegations in the United States may not hurt Gotabaya's chances of winning because he has the overwhelming support of the Sinhalese Buddhist majority, said Kusal Perera, a political columnist in Sri Lanka.

"This election will be decided by the large majority of Sinhalese Buddhists who believe they need a hardline president to put things right. The Tamils and Muslims will be left out in deciding the president," said Perera.

Sri Lankans, angered by the government's inability to prevent the Easter Sunday terror attacks that killed more than 250 people, want a strongman back in power who can guarantee their safety and bring back economic growth.

Sri Lankans, angered by the government's inability to prevent the Easter Sunday terror attacks that killed more than 250 people, want a strongman back in power who can guarantee their safety and bring back economic growth. Many are rooting for Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who despite fighting allegations of war crimes, is expected to be announced as the presidential candidate of the opposition nationalist Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) party, as early as Sunday. The Rajapaksa brothers, Gotabaya and Mahinda, were credited with bringing peace to Sri Lanka in 2009 by defeating the Tamil Tigers in a brutal end to the 26-year-long civil war between the Sinhalese Buddhist majority and minority Tamil groups. Gotabaya was the defence secretary at the time and Mahinda the nation's president. 'The people have requested a leader who can ensure their security,' Basil Rajapaksa, founder of the SLPP and youngest brother of Gotabaya and Mahinda told reporters on Thursday. Gotabaya is facing lawsuits in the United States for instigating and authorising the extrajudicial killing of a journalist and of war crimes against the Tamils during his time as defence secretary. He has denied the allegations and said the lawsuits, brought by torture survivors and the daughter of the slain journalist, were timed to thwart his possible presidential run. The final date for the presidential elections has not been decided but must be held before Dec 9. Ignored warnings Sri Lanka's constitution is modelled on the French system of government where the president has executive powers while the prime minister heads the parliament. The current government is headed by President Maithripala Sirisena, the leader of centre-left Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) while Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe is from the centre-right United National Party (UNP), which has a majority in the parliament. Sirisena and Wickremesinghe, who have been at loggerheads since last October, have blamed one another for ignoring warnings from India and failing to stop the attacks. Calls for a nationalist leader like Gotabaya, who has strong support from within Sri Lanka's majority Sinhalese Buddhist community, echo similar choices made by voters in other Asian nations including India and Bangladesh. In India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was elected for a second term in May in a landslide victory, rallied his Hindu nationalist base and turned the campaign into a fight for national security and an aggressive stance against Pakistan. Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who won a third straight term in an election last December, has been criticised for suppressing dissent and jailing critics. Echoes of Duterte Reuters spoke to about 60 people, many of whom were victims of the terror attacks or affected by communal violence over the past year, and while some plan to abstain from voting, many of those who will vote to say they want a more authoritarian figure. Many Sri Lankan Catholics will not vote for Sirisena if he stands, said a senior Sri Lankan priest. He is looking at Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs as an example of the kind of behaviour that is required despite evidence that it involved extrajudicial killings by police. "A third world country like us needs a tough leader like Duterte - he is doing whatever is needed to rid his country of evils," said the priest who did not want to be named because of the sensitivity of the subject. "Gotabaya is accused of crimes but he is tough and that is what we need right now to bring back some order," he said. Father Jude Chrysantha Fernando, director of social communication at the Archdiocese of Colombo, said the church did not take political sides and would not ask people to vote for one candidate over another. “What the cardinal said was that the political leaders and some security officials had prior information about attacks, but they have not taken any action," he said. "That’s why the cardinal expressed his displeasure. But he did not take any political side. What he is asking is justice for the victims.” Minorities divided A country of 21 million, Sri Lanka has been a tinder box of sectarian and ethnic tensions, first between the majority Sinhalese Buddhist population and Tamil groups, and in recent years between the Sinhalese Buddhists and the Muslim minority. While most Tamils are unlikely to vote for Gotabaya, the Muslim community may be divided. SHM Thameem, a government employee who is a Muslim, said he will vote for Gotabaya because the current government has failed to deliver. "When there were anti-Muslim riots when he was the defence secretary, they were controlled within a day or two but Sirisena and Wickremesinghe have failed to control it. That adversely impacted the Muslim businesses and overall economy," said Thameem who lives in the north-central district of Anuradhapura. JM Faleel, a Muslim autorickshaw driver in Colombo feels differently. "We need a dictator, but I will not vote for Gotabaya as he is partially responsible for most of the suffering we see today," said Faleel, referring to anti-Muslim riots and alleged abuses against the Tamils. Keheliya Rambukwella, a spokesman for SLPP, said Gotabaya was out of the country when the worst violence against Muslims took place. "But still he was able to prevent it within a day. This government could not control the spreading of anti-Muslim riots for a week last," he told Reuters. The lawsuit allegations in the United States may not hurt Gotabaya's chances of winning because he has the overwhelming support of the Sinhalese Buddhist majority, said Kusal Perera, a political columnist in Sri Lanka. "This election will be decided by the large majority of Sinhalese Buddhists who believe they need a hardline president to put things right. The Tamils and Muslims will be left out in deciding the president," said Perera.

Many Sri Lankans want a strongman leader, and that favours Gotabaya Rajapaksa

Guatemalans on Sunday elect a new president who will face a major challenge after the country agreed with Washington to act as a buffer against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/guatemalan-presidential-candidates-question-us-migration-deal-238957">illegal immigration under pressure from US President Donald Trump.</a>

Threatened with economic sanctions if it said no, the outgoing government signed an agreement in July to make Guatemala a so-called safe third country for migrants despite the endemic poverty and violence plaguing the Central American nation.

Voters must choose between conservative Alejandro Giammattei and his centre-left rival, former first lady Sandra Torres. Both veteran political campaigners have criticized the deal, but will probably be unable to do much to stop it.

Risa Grais-Targow, Latin America director at consultancy Eurasia Group, said while the agreement is facing a backlash in Guatemala, not honouring it would expose the country to the risk of taxes on remittances or tariffs on its goods.

"The next president faces a lose-lose situation when it comes to managing the deal with the United States," she said. "That is the biggest challenge the incoming president faces."

A CID-Gallup opinion poll of 1,216 voters conducted between July 29 and Aug. 5 gave Giammattei the advantage going into the run-off vote, with 39.5 per cent support, versus 32.4 per cent for Torres. The poll had a margin of error of 2.8 points.

Whoever takes office in January will inherit a country with a 60&nbsp;per cent poverty rate, widespread crime, and unemployment, which have led hundreds of thousands of Guatemalans to migrate north.

Between them, the two candidates have failed to win the presidency five times. Polling suggests that although Torres came out on top in a first found of voting in June, her unpopularity may prove her undoing.

"I wasn't going to vote, but ... seeing the circumstances I better vote so that Sandra doesn't win," said Ricardo Son, an 84-year-old retiree in Guatemala City.

Many Guatemalans are fed up with the political class after corruption scandals led to the arrest of former President Otto Perez in 2015 and then threatened to unseat his successor, incumbent President Jimmy Morales, a former TV comedian.

Both candidates have vowed to fight corruption without "foreign interference," an apparent allusion to the International Commission Against Impunity in Guatemala (CICIG), the United Nations mission that brought down Perez and went after Morales.

Morales, who terminated the commission's mandate effective as of September, is barred by law from standing again. But his legacy could prove lasting if the migration deal he authorized becomes a defining feature of the next administration.

The accord will require migrants from Honduras and El Salvador to seek asylum in Guatemala rather than the United States. Critics question whether Guatemala has the resources to handle a potential surge in asylum applications.

Giammattei, a surgeon, has proposed the death penalty for some criminals and promised to erect an 'investment wall' on the border between Guatemala and Mexico to curb migration.

Torres wants to put troops on the streets to fight gangs, and use welfare schemes to alleviate poverty, a strategy she supported as the first lady between 2008 and 2011.

Guatemalans on Sunday elect a new president who will face a major challenge after the country agreed with Washington to act as a buffer against illegal immigration under pressure from US President Donald Trump.

Guatemalans on Sunday elect a new president who will face a major challenge after the country agreed with Washington to act as a buffer against illegal immigration under pressure from US President Donald Trump. Threatened with economic sanctions if it said no, the outgoing government signed an agreement in July to make Guatemala a so-called safe third country for migrants despite the endemic poverty and violence plaguing the Central American nation. Voters must choose between conservative Alejandro Giammattei and his centre-left rival, former first lady Sandra Torres. Both veteran political campaigners have criticized the deal, but will probably be unable to do much to stop it. Risa Grais-Targow, Latin America director at consultancy Eurasia Group, said while the agreement is facing a backlash in Guatemala, not honouring it would expose the country to the risk of taxes on remittances or tariffs on its goods. "The next president faces a lose-lose situation when it comes to managing the deal with the United States," she said. "That is the biggest challenge the incoming president faces." A CID-Gallup opinion poll of 1,216 voters conducted between July 29 and Aug. 5 gave Giammattei the advantage going into the run-off vote, with 39.5 per cent support, versus 32.4 per cent for Torres. The poll had a margin of error of 2.8 points. Whoever takes office in January will inherit a country with a 60 per cent poverty rate, widespread crime, and unemployment, which have led hundreds of thousands of Guatemalans to migrate north. Between them, the two candidates have failed to win the presidency five times. Polling suggests that although Torres came out on top in a first found of voting in June, her unpopularity may prove her undoing. "I wasn't going to vote, but ... seeing the circumstances I better vote so that Sandra doesn't win," said Ricardo Son, an 84-year-old retiree in Guatemala City. Many Guatemalans are fed up with the political class after corruption scandals led to the arrest of former President Otto Perez in 2015 and then threatened to unseat his successor, incumbent President Jimmy Morales, a former TV comedian. Both candidates have vowed to fight corruption without "foreign interference," an apparent allusion to the International Commission Against Impunity in Guatemala (CICIG), the United Nations mission that brought down Perez and went after Morales. Morales, who terminated the commission's mandate effective as of September, is barred by law from standing again. But his legacy could prove lasting if the migration deal he authorized becomes a defining feature of the next administration. The accord will require migrants from Honduras and El Salvador to seek asylum in Guatemala rather than the United States. Critics question whether Guatemala has the resources to handle a potential surge in asylum applications. Giammattei, a surgeon, has proposed the death penalty for some criminals and promised to erect an 'investment wall' on the border between Guatemala and Mexico to curb migration. Torres wants to put troops on the streets to fight gangs, and use welfare schemes to alleviate poverty, a strategy she supported as the first lady between 2008 and 2011.

Guatemala elects a new president to inherit Donald Trump migration bind

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