The Chinese foreign ministry said today that it had summoned the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-carrie-lam-thanks-residents-for-orderly-voting-after-district-elections-264504">US ambassador Terry Branstad </a>and asked the US administration&nbsp;to scrap the Hong Kong Democracy Act or "bear all the consequences".

Last month the US House of Representatives had passed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-matter-what-happens-hong-kong-is-part-of-china-chinese-foreign-minister-wang-yi-on-local-elections-264287">Hong Kong Human Rights</a> and Democracy Act in a rare example of bipartisan support. Last week, the US Senate had passed the act. The proposed bill&nbsp;has provisions to demand sanctions on Chinese and Hong Kong officials identified by the US government for&nbsp;carrying out alleged human rights abuses.

The bill is now awaiting US President Trump's approval.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-hong-kong-local-body-polls-big-victory-for-pro-democracy-candidates-264492/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

US ambassador Terry Branstad was summoned by Chinese vice foreign minister Zheng Zeguang as he voiced "strong protest" over the Hong Kong Democracy bill, the foreign ministry informed.

"The legislation brazenly interferes in China's internal affairs and indulges and supports the violent criminal behaviour by 'anti-China disrupting Hong Kong' forces," the ministry said, as it urged the US to "immediately correct its mistakes, prevent the above-mentioned Hong Kong-related bill from becoming law, and stop any words and deeds that interfere in Hong Kong affairs and China's internal affairs."

"Otherwise, the US side must bear all the consequences," it said.

Hong Kong has seen months of massive protests turning violent as students have openly rebelled against Chinese officials and called for greater accountability and freedom. China has repeatedly said Hong Kong is a part of China and the protests are its internal matter.

On Monday, after Hong Kong's local elections, China's foreign minister referring to the polls said no matter what happens, Hong Kong is a part of China and a special administrative region of China.

"Any attempt to mess up Hong Kong, or even damage its prosperity and stability, will not succeed," Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi said.

Meanwhile, Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam thanked Hong Kong residents for orderly voting on Sunday, while adding that her government would "seriously reflect" on the result of the community-level elections in which her pro-Beijing establishment took a severe drubbing, and would "improve governance".

The Chinese foreign ministry said today that it had summoned the US ambassador Terry Branstad and asked the US administration to scrap the Hong Kong Democracy Act or "bear all the consequences".

The Chinese foreign ministry said today that it had summoned the US ambassador Terry Branstad and asked the US administration to scrap the Hong Kong Democracy Act or "bear all the consequences". Last month the US House of Representatives had passed the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act in a rare example of bipartisan support. Last week, the US Senate had passed the act. The proposed bill has provisions to demand sanctions on Chinese and Hong Kong officials identified by the US government for carrying out alleged human rights abuses. The bill is now awaiting US President Trump's approval. Watch Video: US ambassador Terry Branstad was summoned by Chinese vice foreign minister Zheng Zeguang as he voiced "strong protest" over the Hong Kong Democracy bill, the foreign ministry informed. "The legislation brazenly interferes in China's internal affairs and indulges and supports the violent criminal behaviour by 'anti-China disrupting Hong Kong' forces," the ministry said, as it urged the US to "immediately correct its mistakes, prevent the above-mentioned Hong Kong-related bill from becoming law, and stop any words and deeds that interfere in Hong Kong affairs and China's internal affairs." "Otherwise, the US side must bear all the consequences," it said. Hong Kong has seen months of massive protests turning violent as students have openly rebelled against Chinese officials and called for greater accountability and freedom. China has repeatedly said Hong Kong is a part of China and the protests are its internal matter. On Monday, after Hong Kong's local elections, China's foreign minister referring to the polls said no matter what happens, Hong Kong is a part of China and a special administrative region of China. "Any attempt to mess up Hong Kong, or even damage its prosperity and stability, will not succeed," Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi said. Meanwhile, Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam thanked Hong Kong residents for orderly voting on Sunday, while adding that her government would "seriously reflect" on the result of the community-level elections in which her pro-Beijing establishment took a severe drubbing, and would "improve governance".

China summons US ambassador over Hong Kong rights bill

In a stern message to Pakistan, the United States asked the country to take demonstrable action against terrorism on home soil instead of focusing on any “retaliatory aggression.”

Pakistan must take action against terrorists, refrain from retaliatory aggression, says US

Britain's opposition&nbsp;Labour&nbsp;Party on Monday called for Prime&nbsp;Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-johnson-offers-new-health-funds-to-meet-brexit-promise-240632&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjjzLa6zuvjAhUGPI8KHZizAe4QFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3kcVTrSrF-bXcZtQUJwl0i">Boris Johnson</a> to investigate his&nbsp;finance&nbsp;minister&nbsp;Sajid&nbsp;Javid's&nbsp;role&nbsp;in financial misconduct during his previous career as a banker before entering politics.

Labour's&nbsp;finance&nbsp;spokesman John McDonnell said he had written to Johnson to reconsider&nbsp;Javid's fitness for the job and should look into three areas of concern relating to the minister's 18-year&nbsp;finance&nbsp;career during which time he worked for&nbsp;Deutsche&nbsp;Bank.

These were&nbsp;Deutsche’s activities in the run-up to the global financial crisis while&nbsp;Javid&nbsp;was working at the bank, with McDonnell citing a US Senate Permanent Subcommittee on investigations conclusions.

He also said there were concerns about&nbsp;Javid’s relationship to the trading of risky collateralised debt obligations while at&nbsp;Deutsche, which were blamed for helping to cause the global financial crisis.

The third issue was&nbsp;Javid's&nbsp;role&nbsp;in&nbsp;Deutsche’s use of the ‘Dark Blue’ scheme which McDonnell said the UK Supreme Court had found to constitute tax avoidance.

Deutsche&nbsp;Bank declined to comment and a spokesman for the Conservative Party said&nbsp;Labour&nbsp;"might want to use the time better thinking&nbsp;about their own credentials for governing".&nbsp;

"Their reckless plans&nbsp;would see debt soaring as they&nbsp;spend one thousand billion pounds, tax raids on hard-working families and upheaval of our economic system by replacing key posts such as the governor of the Bank of England with their hard-left choices. Utter disaster," the spokesman said.

"If any party knows about failure and bogus&nbsp;investigations, it's them," he added.

Britain's opposition Labour Party on Monday called for Prime Minister Boris Johnson to investigate his finance minister Sajid Javid's role in financial misconduct during his previous career as a banker before entering politics.

Britain's opposition Labour Party on Monday called for Prime Minister Boris Johnson to investigate his finance minister Sajid Javid's role in financial misconduct during his previous career as a banker before entering politics. Labour's finance spokesman John McDonnell said he had written to Johnson to reconsider Javid's fitness for the job and should look into three areas of concern relating to the minister's 18-year finance career during which time he worked for Deutsche Bank. These were Deutsche’s activities in the run-up to the global financial crisis while Javid was working at the bank, with McDonnell citing a US Senate Permanent Subcommittee on investigations conclusions. He also said there were concerns about Javid’s relationship to the trading of risky collateralised debt obligations while at Deutsche, which were blamed for helping to cause the global financial crisis. The third issue was Javid's role in Deutsche’s use of the ‘Dark Blue’ scheme which McDonnell said the UK Supreme Court had found to constitute tax avoidance. Deutsche Bank declined to comment and a spokesman for the Conservative Party said Labour "might want to use the time better thinking about their own credentials for governing". "Their reckless plans would see debt soaring as they spend one thousand billion pounds, tax raids on hard-working families and upheaval of our economic system by replacing key posts such as the governor of the Bank of England with their hard-left choices. Utter disaster," the spokesman said. "If any party knows about failure and bogus investigations, it's them," he added.

UK's opposition calls for investigation into finance minister Sajid Javid over Deutsche role

lawmakers introduces new social media addiction reduction technology act. Watch video to know more.

lawmakers introduces new social media addiction reduction technology act

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-brazil-prison-massacre-rises-to-57-several-decapitated-239329">Death toll in Brazil prison massacre rises to 57; several decapitated</a>

A bloody clash between two prison gangs on Monday left at least 57 inmates dead with 16 of them decapitated, authorities in the state of Para said, the latest deadly clash as Brazil's government struggles to control the country's overcrowded jails.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/17-killed-as-pakistani-army-plane-crashes-into-residential-area-239357">Death toll rises to 17 as Pakistani army plane crashes into residential area in Rawalpindi</a>o

Seventeen people were killed when a small military plane crashed into a residential area in the Pakistani city of Rawalpindi early Tuesday, officials told AFP, in the latest disaster to hit the country’s troubled aviation sector.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-fails-to-override-trump-veto-of-bill-stopping-saudi-weapons-sales-239328">US Senate fails to override Trump veto of bill stopping Saudi weapons sales</a>

The US Senate on Monday failed to override President Donald Trump`s veto of legislation passed by Congress that would have blocked the sale of certain weapons to Saudi Arabia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cafe-coffee-day-founder-vg-siddhartha-gone-missing-near-netravati-river-in-mangaluru-239351">Cafe Coffee Day founder VG Siddhartha goes missing near river in Mangaluru</a>

VG Siddhartha, the founder-owner of Cafe Coffee Day(CCD) chain and son-in-law of former Karnataka chief minister SM Krishna has been missing since Monday night, reports said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-be-happy-to-have-ravi-bhai-as-coach-will-tell-cac-virat-kohli-239346">Will be happy to have Ravi bhai as coach, will tell CAC: Virat Kohli</a>

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Monday said that will be very happy if Ravi Shastri continues to be team head coach.

"The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) hasn't contacted me yet. If they want my opinion, I'll go and speak to them. With Ravi Bhai, we share a great camaraderie, and will definitely be very happy if he continues. But I haven't been contacted so far," Kohli told reporters before leaving for West Indies.

Death toll in Brazil prison massacre rises to 57; several decapitated A bloody clash between two prison gangs on Monday left at least 57 inmates dead with 16 of them decapitated, authorities in the state of Para said, the latest deadly clash as Brazil's government struggles to control the country's overcrowded jails.

Death toll in Brazil prison massacre rises to 57; several decapitated A bloody clash between two prison gangs on Monday left at least 57 inmates dead with 16 of them decapitated, authorities in the state of Para said, the latest deadly clash as Brazil's government struggles to control the country's overcrowded jails. Death toll rises to 17 as Pakistani army plane crashes into residential area in Rawalpindio Seventeen people were killed when a small military plane crashed into a residential area in the Pakistani city of Rawalpindi early Tuesday, officials told AFP, in the latest disaster to hit the country’s troubled aviation sector. US Senate fails to override Trump veto of bill stopping Saudi weapons sales The US Senate on Monday failed to override President Donald Trump`s veto of legislation passed by Congress that would have blocked the sale of certain weapons to Saudi Arabia. Cafe Coffee Day founder VG Siddhartha goes missing near river in Mangaluru VG Siddhartha, the founder-owner of Cafe Coffee Day(CCD) chain and son-in-law of former Karnataka chief minister SM Krishna has been missing since Monday night, reports said. Will be happy to have Ravi bhai as coach, will tell CAC: Virat Kohli Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Monday said that will be very happy if Ravi Shastri continues to be team head coach. "The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) hasn't contacted me yet. If they want my opinion, I'll go and speak to them. With Ravi Bhai, we share a great camaraderie, and will definitely be very happy if he continues. But I haven't been contacted so far," Kohli told reporters before leaving for West Indies.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The US House of Representatives on Friday approved legislation to permanently compensate first responders to the September&nbsp;11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Centre who have been suffering from cancers and other illnesses as a result of working at the contaminated site.

The House voted 402-12 to pass the "Never Forget the Heroes Act" that had been championed by Jon Stewart, the popular former host of the late-night comedy programme The Daily Show, and highlighted by recent gripping testimony by a dying 9/11 New York police detective.

"On September 11th and its aftermath, our brave first responders were there for us. We must always be there for them," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said just before the vote on the bill.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said the legislation will be brought to a vote in his chamber soon.

Without prompt action by Congress, victims of the attack would see steeply reduced benefits due to a lack of funding.

Former New York Detective Luis Alvarez died last month shortly after his testimony to the US House Judiciary Committee in which he urged a replenishment of the fund.

At that same hearing, Stewart delivered impassioned testimony in which he chastised some lawmakers for not acting quickly enough to continue helping the police, firefighters and other workers immediately following the Sept. 11 attack.

If passed by the Senate and signed into law by President Donald Trump, the victims' fund would be authorized through 2092 and they could file claims until October 2089.

It would end the string of temporary measures that have required constant lobbying by groups trying to avert an interruption in benefits to help those sickened by toxic materials released into the atmosphere and ground following the impact of commercial jetliners that were hijacked and flown directly into the twin towers.

Government officials told responders at the time that it was safe to work at the site, despite questions by many experts.

The US House of Representatives on Friday approved legislation to permanently compensate first responders to the September 11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Centre who have been suffering from cancers and other illnesses as a result of working at the contaminated site.

The US House of Representatives on Friday approved legislation to permanently compensate first responders to the September 11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Centre who have been suffering from cancers and other illnesses as a result of working at the contaminated site. The House voted 402-12 to pass the "Never Forget the Heroes Act" that had been championed by Jon Stewart, the popular former host of the late-night comedy programme The Daily Show, and highlighted by recent gripping testimony by a dying 9/11 New York police detective. "On September 11th and its aftermath, our brave first responders were there for us. We must always be there for them," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said just before the vote on the bill. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said the legislation will be brought to a vote in his chamber soon. Without prompt action by Congress, victims of the attack would see steeply reduced benefits due to a lack of funding. Former New York Detective Luis Alvarez died last month shortly after his testimony to the US House Judiciary Committee in which he urged a replenishment of the fund. At that same hearing, Stewart delivered impassioned testimony in which he chastised some lawmakers for not acting quickly enough to continue helping the police, firefighters and other workers immediately following the Sept. 11 attack. If passed by the Senate and signed into law by President Donald Trump, the victims' fund would be authorized through 2092 and they could file claims until October 2089. It would end the string of temporary measures that have required constant lobbying by groups trying to avert an interruption in benefits to help those sickened by toxic materials released into the atmosphere and ground following the impact of commercial jetliners that were hijacked and flown directly into the twin towers. Government officials told responders at the time that it was safe to work at the site, despite questions by many experts.

US House approves funding for 9/11 responders, sends to Senate

The US Senate on Thursday passed a $750-billion defence policy bill with provisions that target China on issues from technology transfers to the sale of synthetic opioids, pushing to counter growing Chinese influence around the world.

The 973-page National Defense Authorization Act, or NDAA, passed by an 86-8 vote.

However, in an unusual procedural move, the Senate will have a separate vote on Friday on an amendment that would ban Republican President Donald Trump from attacking Iran without first obtaining congressional approval.

Despite growing tensions with Iran, the amendment is not expected to get the 60 votes needed to pass the Republican-controlled Senate.

Among other provisions, the Senate NDAA requires detailed reporting from the Department of Defense to prevent transfers of sensitive technology to China or Russia, as well as reports on access to the Arctic. It also requires tighter screening of scholars seeking visas to the United States.

The Senate`s passage of the NDAA comes as Trump prepares for a high-stakes meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Osaka, Japan, on Saturday on the sidelines of the Group of 20 summit. Many hope the meeting will help end a months-long trade war between the world`s top two economies.

In Beijing on Friday, foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang expressed anger at the bill, saying the government had already made a protest to the United States about it.

"Once the bill becomes law, it will harm Sino-US relations, and interfere with, and damage, cooperation in some important areas," Geng said.

China urges the United States to objectively view its development and not allow any of the "negative China-related" content to become law, he added.

The NDAA is still several steps from becoming law. The Senate version must be reconciled with a version expected to come up for a vote next month in the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives. That compromise version, expected later this year, must pass both the Senate and House, and be signed into law by Trump.

The Senate NDAA also includes an amendment to bar federal funds from going to Chinese state-owned companies such as CRRC, the world`s largest maker of passenger trains.

CRRC said in a statement that US lawmakers should "pause and review the facts regarding cybersecurity and competitive pricing in the passenger railcar market before making any decisions that will invariably and significantly impact US transit agencies` ability to modernize their fleets."

One of the few pieces of major legislation passed every year, the NDAA becomes a vehicle for a broad range of policy measures, as well as determining everything from military pay levels to which ships or aircraft will be modernized, purchased or discontinued.

The Senate NDAA also contains an amendment to strengthen sanctions against North Korea, imposing secondary sanctions on financial institutions that do business with Pyongyang in violation of existing sanctions.

The US Senate on Thursday passed a $750-billion defence policy bill with provisions that target China on issues from technology transfers to the sale of synthetic opioids, pushing to counter growing Chinese influence around the world.

The US Senate on Thursday passed a $750-billion defence policy bill with provisions that target China on issues from technology transfers to the sale of synthetic opioids, pushing to counter growing Chinese influence around the world. The 973-page National Defense Authorization Act, or NDAA, passed by an 86-8 vote. However, in an unusual procedural move, the Senate will have a separate vote on Friday on an amendment that would ban Republican President Donald Trump from attacking Iran without first obtaining congressional approval. Despite growing tensions with Iran, the amendment is not expected to get the 60 votes needed to pass the Republican-controlled Senate. Among other provisions, the Senate NDAA requires detailed reporting from the Department of Defense to prevent transfers of sensitive technology to China or Russia, as well as reports on access to the Arctic. It also requires tighter screening of scholars seeking visas to the United States. The Senate`s passage of the NDAA comes as Trump prepares for a high-stakes meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Osaka, Japan, on Saturday on the sidelines of the Group of 20 summit. Many hope the meeting will help end a months-long trade war between the world`s top two economies. In Beijing on Friday, foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang expressed anger at the bill, saying the government had already made a protest to the United States about it. "Once the bill becomes law, it will harm Sino-US relations, and interfere with, and damage, cooperation in some important areas," Geng said. China urges the United States to objectively view its development and not allow any of the "negative China-related" content to become law, he added. The NDAA is still several steps from becoming law. The Senate version must be reconciled with a version expected to come up for a vote next month in the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives. That compromise version, expected later this year, must pass both the Senate and House, and be signed into law by Trump. The Senate NDAA also includes an amendment to bar federal funds from going to Chinese state-owned companies such as CRRC, the world`s largest maker of passenger trains. CRRC said in a statement that US lawmakers should "pause and review the facts regarding cybersecurity and competitive pricing in the passenger railcar market before making any decisions that will invariably and significantly impact US transit agencies` ability to modernize their fleets." One of the few pieces of major legislation passed every year, the NDAA becomes a vehicle for a broad range of policy measures, as well as determining everything from military pay levels to which ships or aircraft will be modernized, purchased or discontinued. The Senate NDAA also contains an amendment to strengthen sanctions against North Korea, imposing secondary sanctions on financial institutions that do business with Pyongyang in violation of existing sanctions.

US Senate backs massive defence bill, targets China, sets Iran vote

Amid gridlock on border funding, the Senate on Wednesday voted 84-8 to pass its bipartisan compromise border funding bill, which would appropriate $4.6 billion in emergency funding for the humanitarian crisis on the southern border.

Amid US migrant crisis, Senate passes Humanitarian Aid Bill

The US Senate on Thursday voted to block the sale of billions of dollars in military sales to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and other countries, rejecting President Donald Trump's decision to sidestep Congress' review of such deals by declaring an emergency over Iran.

Trump has promised to veto the Senate action in order to proceed with the deals, worth some $8.1 billion. Senators would need 67 votes to override his veto, which looked unlikely after Thursday's votes. The first and second resolutions of disapproval passed 53-45 and a third vote covering the remaining 20 resolutions was 51-45.

Backers of the resolutions, led by Democrat Bob Menendez and Republican Lindsey Graham, said they sent a bipartisan message to Saudi Arabia that Washington is not happy about human rights abuses, including the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi at a Saudi consulate in Turkey.

Many also expressed deep concern with Saudi Arabia and the UAE over the war in Yemen, where the two countries are battling Iran-backed Houthi rebels. The United Nations has described the conflict in Yemen, which has killed tens of thousands of people including thousands of civilians, as the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

Tensions with Iran&nbsp;

Hours before the vote, Iran shot down a US military drone, escalating fears of wider military conflict. Washington said the incident was an "unprovoked attack" in international air space while Tehran said the drone was over its territory. Trump later said the attack apparently was a mistake by an Iranian "general or somebody."

Opposing the resolutions, the Senate's Republican majority leader, Mitch McConnell, cited tensions with Tehran. "The timing could not be worse for the Senate to send the wrong signal," he said.

Graham, normally a close Trump ally, underscored the unusual divide between the White House and some Republicans over Saudi Arabia in an emphatic Senate speech before the votes.

"You cannot have a strategic relationship with the United States and behave in a fashion that shows no respect for human dignity, no respect for international norms," Graham said.

Menendez, the top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said the disapproval resolutions also reflected Congress' desire to preserve its powers to declare war and review major foreign weapons sales. Trump also used an emergency declaration strategy to circumvent Congress and try to get funding for a wall on the Mexican border.

Menendez scoffed at the administration's contention that the threat from Iran was an emergency that warranted so many weapons sales to third countries. "This is a power grab, pure and simple, with lasting implications for the role of Congress in the sale of arms around the world," Menendez said.

The resolutions are expected to pass the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives before reaching Trump's desk.

More legislation expected&nbsp;

Despite Trump's veto threat, members of Congress said they expect some Saudi-related legislation would come into effect this year.

Lawmakers are working on a separate measure "to hold Saudi Arabia accountable" for human rights abuses and Khashoggi's murder.

The Senate Foreign Relations Committee also is due to consider as soon as next week legislation that would take away the ability of Trump, or any president, to use emergency authority to sell arms to any country besides NATO members and certain other key partners without congressional review.

Among military equipment in the deals are Raytheon precision-guided munitions, support for Boeing Co F-15 aircraft and Javelin anti-tank missiles, which are made by Raytheon and Lockheed Martin Corp.

Other products involved are General Electric engines for use in F-16 fighter jets operated by the UAE, and a fuzing system for precision-guided bombs from the US unit of French firm Thales SA.

Other companies with products or services in the deals are Britain’s BAE Systems Plc [BAES.L] and Europe’s Airbus [AIR.PA].

In London on Thursday an English court ruled that Britain had broken the law by allowing arms sales to Saudi Arabia that might have been deployed in the war in Yemen, after activists said there was evidence the weapons had been used in violation of human rights statutes.

The US Senate on Thursday voted to block the sale of billions of dollars in military sales to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and other countries, rejecting President Donald Trump's decision to sidestep Congress' review of such deals by declaring an emergency over Iran.

The US Senate on Thursday voted to block the sale of billions of dollars in military sales to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and other countries, rejecting President Donald Trump's decision to sidestep Congress' review of such deals by declaring an emergency over Iran. Trump has promised to veto the Senate action in order to proceed with the deals, worth some $8.1 billion. Senators would need 67 votes to override his veto, which looked unlikely after Thursday's votes. The first and second resolutions of disapproval passed 53-45 and a third vote covering the remaining 20 resolutions was 51-45. Backers of the resolutions, led by Democrat Bob Menendez and Republican Lindsey Graham, said they sent a bipartisan message to Saudi Arabia that Washington is not happy about human rights abuses, including the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi at a Saudi consulate in Turkey. Many also expressed deep concern with Saudi Arabia and the UAE over the war in Yemen, where the two countries are battling Iran-backed Houthi rebels. The United Nations has described the conflict in Yemen, which has killed tens of thousands of people including thousands of civilians, as the world's worst humanitarian crisis. Tensions with Iran Hours before the vote, Iran shot down a US military drone, escalating fears of wider military conflict. Washington said the incident was an "unprovoked attack" in international air space while Tehran said the drone was over its territory. Trump later said the attack apparently was a mistake by an Iranian "general or somebody." Opposing the resolutions, the Senate's Republican majority leader, Mitch McConnell, cited tensions with Tehran. "The timing could not be worse for the Senate to send the wrong signal," he said. Graham, normally a close Trump ally, underscored the unusual divide between the White House and some Republicans over Saudi Arabia in an emphatic Senate speech before the votes. "You cannot have a strategic relationship with the United States and behave in a fashion that shows no respect for human dignity, no respect for international norms," Graham said. Menendez, the top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said the disapproval resolutions also reflected Congress' desire to preserve its powers to declare war and review major foreign weapons sales. Trump also used an emergency declaration strategy to circumvent Congress and try to get funding for a wall on the Mexican border. Menendez scoffed at the administration's contention that the threat from Iran was an emergency that warranted so many weapons sales to third countries. "This is a power grab, pure and simple, with lasting implications for the role of Congress in the sale of arms around the world," Menendez said. The resolutions are expected to pass the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives before reaching Trump's desk. More legislation expected Despite Trump's veto threat, members of Congress said they expect some Saudi-related legislation would come into effect this year. Lawmakers are working on a separate measure "to hold Saudi Arabia accountable" for human rights abuses and Khashoggi's murder. The Senate Foreign Relations Committee also is due to consider as soon as next week legislation that would take away the ability of Trump, or any president, to use emergency authority to sell arms to any country besides NATO members and certain other key partners without congressional review. Among military equipment in the deals are Raytheon precision-guided munitions, support for Boeing Co F-15 aircraft and Javelin anti-tank missiles, which are made by Raytheon and Lockheed Martin Corp. Other products involved are General Electric engines for use in F-16 fighter jets operated by the UAE, and a fuzing system for precision-guided bombs from the US unit of French firm Thales SA. Other companies with products or services in the deals are Britain’s BAE Systems Plc [BAES.L] and Europe’s Airbus [AIR.PA]. In London on Thursday an English court ruled that Britain had broken the law by allowing arms sales to Saudi Arabia that might have been deployed in the war in Yemen, after activists said there was evidence the weapons had been used in violation of human rights statutes.

US Senate rejects Saudi arms sales in rebuke to Trump

Top US lawmakers have introduced a resolution in the Senate, recognising the 30th anniversary of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/post-tiananmen-chinese-citizens-subjected-to-new-wave-of-abuses-us-224032">Tiananmen Square massacre </a>in China and condemning the increasing repression and human rights violations by the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC).

On June 4, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-urges-china-to-repent-for-tiananmen-china-paper-says-event-is-merely-history-224036">1989, Tiananmen Square</a> in Beijing witnessed the brutal massacre of students rebelling against the CPC, demanding democracy. Thousands were believed to have been killed in the protests.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-tiananmen-square-massacre-30-years-on-224387/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

The massive square became famous all over the world with an iconic picture of a young man standing before a row of battle tanks in a bid to stop them.

&nbsp;

Expressing sympathy with the family, friends, colleagues and classmates of the victims of the massacre, the Senate resolution, introduced Tuesday, condemns the use of violence as a means to repress the legitimate aspirations of the Chinese people to speak and associate freely, including to petition the government and challenge the policies and ideology of the CPC.

It calls on the Chinese Government to invite full and independent investigations into the Tiananmen Square massacre by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.

The resolution also calls on China to release all political prisoners, including prisoners held because of their participation in the Tiananmen Square protest or actions pursuing reforms called for by the individuals gathered there.

People around the world stand in solidarity with the victims and survivors of the Tiananmen Square Massacre, who stood for freedom and democracy in China thirty years ago, House Majority Leader Steny H Hoyer said on Tuesday.

"The brutal government crackdown on the Tiananmen Square and the Chinese government's subsequent efforts to hide the history of that episode, remain a powerful reminder that a billion of our fellow men and women who live in the People's Republic of China continue to be denied basic rights and freedoms and a chance to have a voice in shaping their own future," he said.

"As we mark this sombre anniversary, we do so at a time when the Chinese government continues to engage in a systematic repression of Muslims, Tibetans, other ethnic minorities and political dissidents," he added.

Hoyer said that the United States must use its relationship with China to push for the human rights and freedom of its people, "just as we did for those living behind the Iron Curtain during the Cold War. We must never abandon our solidarity with those who yearn for freedom," Hoyer said.

Senator Bob Menendez, who along with several other lawmakers introduced the resolution against the communist nation, said the China that challenges US today is the country that chose its path on those fateful days in June of 1989.

"Beijing's crackdown on civil society and human rights, repression of ethnic and religious minorities, including in Xinjiang, and introduction of an Orwellian system of mass surveillance is deeply concerning. Democracy will not defend itself," he said.

"The challenges of 2019 require Congress to stand up as a separate and co-equal branch of government to defend democracy. We owe those who stood in Tiananmen 30 years ago nothing less," Menendez said.

Senator Marco Rubio said that thirty years after the tragic events of Tiananmen Square, the free world is faced with an increasingly aggressive Chinese Communist government that is more repressive domestically, ignores international norms and is exports its authoritarian model globally.

Senator Ed Markey said,"thirty years ago, the brave voices of democracy were stifled by a horrific Chinese government crackdown."

"Today, we are witnessing the same brutality against religious minorities, journalists, and human rights defenders. As we recognize the importance of the US-China relationship, members of Congress have an obligation to call out the ongoing assault against human rights and liberties in China and to stand with those fighting for their basic rights and dignities," he said.

Senator Jim Inhofe said that in the past 30 years, Chinese regime has moved from slaughtering students in Tiananmen Square to incarcerating Uighurs and other Muslim minorities in concentration camps, persecuting Christians and people of other faiths, and building an invasive surveillance system to export around the world.

"Now, the Chinese Communist Party wants to expand their authoritarian model beyond their periphery. We can and must not accept this. That's why I'm working to implement the National Defense Strategy ? which emphasizes strategic competition with China. June 4 is a painful reminder of what is at stake in this competition for America's interests and values," he said.

Senator Ben Cardin said the violent crackdown on dissidents will forever be a stain on China's history, despite all attempts by the communist government to erase such memories.

"The world remembers a lone man standing in front of a tank, ready to sacrifice himself for freedom. The world will remember the cruelty and the authoritarian response to people who only wanted to have more control over their own livelihoods," he said.&nbsp;

Top US lawmakers have introduced a resolution in the Senate, recognising the 30th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre in China and condemning the increasing repression and human rights violations by the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC).

Top US lawmakers have introduced a resolution in the Senate, recognising the 30th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre in China and condemning the increasing repression and human rights violations by the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC). On June 4, 1989, Tiananmen Square in Beijing witnessed the brutal massacre of students rebelling against the CPC, demanding democracy. Thousands were believed to have been killed in the protests. The massive square became famous all over the world with an iconic picture of a young man standing before a row of battle tanks in a bid to stop them. Expressing sympathy with the family, friends, colleagues and classmates of the victims of the massacre, the Senate resolution, introduced Tuesday, condemns the use of violence as a means to repress the legitimate aspirations of the Chinese people to speak and associate freely, including to petition the government and challenge the policies and ideology of the CPC. It calls on the Chinese Government to invite full and independent investigations into the Tiananmen Square massacre by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. The resolution also calls on China to release all political prisoners, including prisoners held because of their participation in the Tiananmen Square protest or actions pursuing reforms called for by the individuals gathered there. People around the world stand in solidarity with the victims and survivors of the Tiananmen Square Massacre, who stood for freedom and democracy in China thirty years ago, House Majority Leader Steny H Hoyer said on Tuesday. "The brutal government crackdown on the Tiananmen Square and the Chinese government's subsequent efforts to hide the history of that episode, remain a powerful reminder that a billion of our fellow men and women who live in the People's Republic of China continue to be denied basic rights and freedoms and a chance to have a voice in shaping their own future," he said. "As we mark this sombre anniversary, we do so at a time when the Chinese government continues to engage in a systematic repression of Muslims, Tibetans, other ethnic minorities and political dissidents," he added. Hoyer said that the United States must use its relationship with China to push for the human rights and freedom of its people, "just as we did for those living behind the Iron Curtain during the Cold War. We must never abandon our solidarity with those who yearn for freedom," Hoyer said. Senator Bob Menendez, who along with several other lawmakers introduced the resolution against the communist nation, said the China that challenges US today is the country that chose its path on those fateful days in June of 1989. "Beijing's crackdown on civil society and human rights, repression of ethnic and religious minorities, including in Xinjiang, and introduction of an Orwellian system of mass surveillance is deeply concerning. Democracy will not defend itself," he said. "The challenges of 2019 require Congress to stand up as a separate and co-equal branch of government to defend democracy. We owe those who stood in Tiananmen 30 years ago nothing less," Menendez said. Senator Marco Rubio said that thirty years after the tragic events of Tiananmen Square, the free world is faced with an increasingly aggressive Chinese Communist government that is more repressive domestically, ignores international norms and is exports its authoritarian model globally. Senator Ed Markey said,"thirty years ago, the brave voices of democracy were stifled by a horrific Chinese government crackdown." "Today, we are witnessing the same brutality against religious minorities, journalists, and human rights defenders. As we recognize the importance of the US-China relationship, members of Congress have an obligation to call out the ongoing assault against human rights and liberties in China and to stand with those fighting for their basic rights and dignities," he said. Senator Jim Inhofe said that in the past 30 years, Chinese regime has moved from slaughtering students in Tiananmen Square to incarcerating Uighurs and other Muslim minorities in concentration camps, persecuting Christians and people of other faiths, and building an invasive surveillance system to export around the world. "Now, the Chinese Communist Party wants to expand their authoritarian model beyond their periphery. We can and must not accept this. That's why I'm working to implement the National Defense Strategy ? which emphasizes strategic competition with China. June 4 is a painful reminder of what is at stake in this competition for America's interests and values," he said. Senator Ben Cardin said the violent crackdown on dissidents will forever be a stain on China's history, despite all attempts by the communist government to erase such memories. "The world remembers a lone man standing in front of a tank, ready to sacrifice himself for freedom. The world will remember the cruelty and the authoritarian response to people who only wanted to have more control over their own livelihoods," he said.

US lawmakers introduce resolution recognising Tiananmen Square massacre anniversary, condemn China's human rights violations

A <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-calls-for-inquiry-into-faas-approval-boeing-737-max-8-204411">US&nbsp;Senate panel</a> plans a hearing on March 27 on aviation safety after two fatal Boeing 737 MAX 8 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lion-air-crash-cockpit-voice-recorder-describes-pilots-frantic-search-for-fix-say-sources-204511">aircraft crashed&nbsp;since October</a>, and said it will also schedule a future hearing with Boeing and other manufacturers, officials said on Wednesday.

The hearing on federal oversight on commercial aviation by the Senate Commerce subcommittee on aviation and space will include the US Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) acting administrator Dan Elwell, National Transportation Safety Board chairman Robert Sumwalt and Transportation Department Inspector General Calvin Scovel, the committee confirmed.

Federal prosecutors are investigating the FAA`s certification of the Boeing 737 MAX that was grounded last week by regulators around the world.&nbsp;

The panel chaired by Senator Ted Cruz, a Republican, said that "in light of the recent tragedy in Ethiopia and the subsequent grounding of the Boeing 737 Max aircraft, this hearing will examine challenges to the state of commercial aviation safety, including any specific concerns highlighted by recent accidents."

A second hearing on aviation safety is planned "in the near future to hear from industry stakeholders that would include Boeing, other aviation manufacturers, airline pilots, and other stakeholders," the committee said.

Boeing Co, the world`s biggest planemaker, faces growing obstacles to returning its grounded 737 MAX fleet to the skies, while details emerged of an Indonesian crash last October with potential similarities to the Ethiopian disaster on March 10.

On Tuesday, President Donald Trump said he would nominate Steve Erickson, a former Delta Air Lines executive to head the FAA. Elwell, the deputy administrator, has run the agency on an acting basis for 14 months.

A House panel also is expected to hold hearings in the aftermath of the fatal crashes. Boeing did not immediately comment Wednesday.

Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger, who piloted a flight to land safely on the Hudson River in New York in 2009, said in an op-ed Tuesday the FAA has a "too cozy" relationship with industry.

"In too many cases, FAA employees who rightly called for stricter compliance with safety standards and more rigorous design choices have been overruled by FAA management, often under corporate or political pressure," he wrote.

A US Senate panel plans a hearing on March 27 on aviation safety after two fatal Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft crashed since October, and said it will also schedule a future hearing with Boeing and other manufacturers, officials said on Wednesday.

A US Senate panel plans a hearing on March 27 on aviation safety after two fatal Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft crashed since October, and said it will also schedule a future hearing with Boeing and other manufacturers, officials said on Wednesday. The hearing on federal oversight on commercial aviation by the Senate Commerce subcommittee on aviation and space will include the US Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) acting administrator Dan Elwell, National Transportation Safety Board chairman Robert Sumwalt and Transportation Department Inspector General Calvin Scovel, the committee confirmed. Federal prosecutors are investigating the FAA`s certification of the Boeing 737 MAX that was grounded last week by regulators around the world. The panel chaired by Senator Ted Cruz, a Republican, said that "in light of the recent tragedy in Ethiopia and the subsequent grounding of the Boeing 737 Max aircraft, this hearing will examine challenges to the state of commercial aviation safety, including any specific concerns highlighted by recent accidents." A second hearing on aviation safety is planned "in the near future to hear from industry stakeholders that would include Boeing, other aviation manufacturers, airline pilots, and other stakeholders," the committee said. Boeing Co, the world`s biggest planemaker, faces growing obstacles to returning its grounded 737 MAX fleet to the skies, while details emerged of an Indonesian crash last October with potential similarities to the Ethiopian disaster on March 10. On Tuesday, President Donald Trump said he would nominate Steve Erickson, a former Delta Air Lines executive to head the FAA. Elwell, the deputy administrator, has run the agency on an acting basis for 14 months. A House panel also is expected to hold hearings in the aftermath of the fatal crashes. Boeing did not immediately comment Wednesday. Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger, who piloted a flight to land safely on the Hudson River in New York in 2009, said in an op-ed Tuesday the FAA has a "too cozy" relationship with industry. "In too many cases, FAA employees who rightly called for stricter compliance with safety standards and more rigorous design choices have been overruled by FAA management, often under corporate or political pressure," he wrote.

US Senate panel to first grill FAA, then Boeing after fatal crashes

The US Senate appeared poised to pass a proposal to terminate President Donald Trump`s declaration of an emergency at the southern border, despite his threat to veto the measure and heavy lobbying of his fellow Republicans.&nbsp;

Republican Senator Mike Lee, who had been shopping a second bill that would keep the emergency declaration in effect temporarily, said on Wednesday the White House had said Trump would not support his proposal, so he would be voting on Thursday to end the emergency declaration.

"For decades, Congress has been giving far too much legislative power to the executive branch," Lee said in a statement. "I will be voting to terminate the latest emergency declaration."

The Utah lawmaker was the fifth Republican senator to say they back a measure passed by the Democratic-led House of Representatives to terminate Trump`s declaration. In the 100-seat Senate, votes from at least four Republicans are needed to pass the measure, along with all 45 Democrats and two independents.

Given Trump`s threat to veto the legislation, it is unlikely to become law.

"We`ll see whether or not I have to do the veto. And it will be, I think, all very successful, regardless of how it all works out, but it`s going to be very successful," Trump told reporters on Wednesday.

At stake are billions of dollars in funding for a wall along the US-Mexico border that Trump is demanding but Congress has refused to fully provide. The stalemate led to a 35-day partial government shutdown that ended in January.

Under the emergency declaration Trump signed on Feb. 15, he would take money from other federal programs to build the barrier he says is needed to curb illegal immigration and the flow of illicit drugs. There are also court challenges asserting Congress, not the president, decides how taxpayer money is spent.

Republicans who oppose the national emergency are worried that future Democratic presidents could usurp the power of Congress to fund the government and use the tactic to pass their own pet programs.

Lee had introduced a second measure that would end future emergency declarations after 30 days unless Congress votes to extend them. That 30-day approval window would apply after Trump`s current border declaration expires in one year, meaning it could remain in place for at least a year without congressional approval.

Vice President Mike Pence met with Republican senators this week to push Lee`s plan, saying Trump would support it. Lee said on Wednesday the White House had subsequently made clear his bill did "not have an immediate path forward" and he hoped it could be the "starting point for future work."

The US Senate appeared poised to pass a proposal to terminate President Donald Trump`s declaration of an emergency at the southern border, despite his threat to veto the measure and heavy lobbying of his fellow Republicans.

The US Senate appeared poised to pass a proposal to terminate President Donald Trump`s declaration of an emergency at the southern border, despite his threat to veto the measure and heavy lobbying of his fellow Republicans. Republican Senator Mike Lee, who had been shopping a second bill that would keep the emergency declaration in effect temporarily, said on Wednesday the White House had said Trump would not support his proposal, so he would be voting on Thursday to end the emergency declaration. "For decades, Congress has been giving far too much legislative power to the executive branch," Lee said in a statement. "I will be voting to terminate the latest emergency declaration." The Utah lawmaker was the fifth Republican senator to say they back a measure passed by the Democratic-led House of Representatives to terminate Trump`s declaration. In the 100-seat Senate, votes from at least four Republicans are needed to pass the measure, along with all 45 Democrats and two independents. Given Trump`s threat to veto the legislation, it is unlikely to become law. "We`ll see whether or not I have to do the veto. And it will be, I think, all very successful, regardless of how it all works out, but it`s going to be very successful," Trump told reporters on Wednesday. At stake are billions of dollars in funding for a wall along the US-Mexico border that Trump is demanding but Congress has refused to fully provide. The stalemate led to a 35-day partial government shutdown that ended in January. Under the emergency declaration Trump signed on Feb. 15, he would take money from other federal programs to build the barrier he says is needed to curb illegal immigration and the flow of illicit drugs. There are also court challenges asserting Congress, not the president, decides how taxpayer money is spent. Republicans who oppose the national emergency are worried that future Democratic presidents could usurp the power of Congress to fund the government and use the tactic to pass their own pet programs. Lee had introduced a second measure that would end future emergency declarations after 30 days unless Congress votes to extend them. That 30-day approval window would apply after Trump`s current border declaration expires in one year, meaning it could remain in place for at least a year without congressional approval. Vice President Mike Pence met with Republican senators this week to push Lee`s plan, saying Trump would support it. Lee said on Wednesday the White House had subsequently made clear his bill did "not have an immediate path forward" and he hoped it could be the "starting point for future work."

US Senate Republican delivers blow to Trump border emergency

The US Senate will vote on Wednesday on a resolution to end Washington's support for the Saudi Arabia-led military campaign in Yemen, as lawmakers push President Donald Trump to toughen his policy toward the kingdom.

Announcing the vote on Tuesday, Senator Bernie Sanders called the war "a humanitarian and strategic disaster." Sanders, an independent who is running for president as a Democrat, is a lead co-sponsor of the resolution along with Republican Senator Mike Lee.&nbsp;

The vote on the war powers resolution will be the second within four months in the Senate. The chamber passed the measure by 56-41 in December, a rebuke of Trump amid anger at Saudi Arabia not just over civilian deaths in Yemen, but also the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi at a Saudi consulate in Turkey.

To become effective, however, the resolution must be passed by the new Senate, which was seated in January, as well as the House of Representatives. Then it must garner enough votes to override an expected veto by Trump, who has touted the importance of a strategic alliance with Riyadh.

The House passed its own version of the resolution in February, but a procedural issue kept it from a vote in the Senate.

The US Senate will vote on Wednesday on a resolution to end Washington's support for the Saudi Arabia-led military campaign in Yemen, as lawmakers push President Donald Trump to toughen his policy toward the kingdom.

The US Senate will vote on Wednesday on a resolution to end Washington's support for the Saudi Arabia-led military campaign in Yemen, as lawmakers push President Donald Trump to toughen his policy toward the kingdom. Announcing the vote on Tuesday, Senator Bernie Sanders called the war "a humanitarian and strategic disaster." Sanders, an independent who is running for president as a Democrat, is a lead co-sponsor of the resolution along with Republican Senator Mike Lee. The vote on the war powers resolution will be the second within four months in the Senate. The chamber passed the measure by 56-41 in December, a rebuke of Trump amid anger at Saudi Arabia not just over civilian deaths in Yemen, but also the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi at a Saudi consulate in Turkey. To become effective, however, the resolution must be passed by the new Senate, which was seated in January, as well as the House of Representatives. Then it must garner enough votes to override an expected veto by Trump, who has touted the importance of a strategic alliance with Riyadh. The House passed its own version of the resolution in February, but a procedural issue kept it from a vote in the Senate.

US Senate to vote Wednesday on Saudi Yemen war resolution

Republican US Senator Rand Paul said he would vote in favour of a<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/the-house-will-terminate-the-emergency-declaration-says-us-democrat-nancy-pelosi-199736"> resolution to end President Donald Trump's US-Mexico border emergency declaration</a>, according to a media report, likely giving Democrats the votes to pass the measure in the Senate.

Trump, who has promised to issue his first veto if the Senate approves the resolution, declared an emergency last month in a bid to fund a wall along the border without congressional approval.

While the Senate appears unlikely to muster the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-strikes-down-trumps-border-emergency-199924"> two-thirds majority needed to override a veto</a>, a passage in the Republican-controlled chamber would be an embarrassment for the president, who has failed over more than two years in office to persuade Congress to fund his wall, a central promise of his presidential campaign.

"I can’t vote to give the president the power to spend money that hasn’t been appropriated by Congress," Paul said in a speech on Saturday at Western Kentucky University, according to the Bowling Green Daily News.

"We may want more money for border security, but Congress didn't authorise it. If we take away those checks and balances, it's a dangerous thing," he added.

Paul's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the report.

Trump's demand for $5.7 billion in funding for his "great, great wall" triggered the longest-ever partial US government shutdown in December and January. The government reopened but Trump later declared a national emergency in an effort to obtain funds Congress had approved for other purposes.

Rand became the fourth Republican senator to publicly back the resolution. Assuming all Democrats and the two independents who caucus with them vote in favour of the resolution, it would clear the Senate and end up on the president's desk. Republicans hold 53 of the 100 Senate seats.

An identical version of the measure has already been approved in the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives.

Democrats argue there is no border emergency and that Trump is overreaching with his declaration given that the Constitution grants Congress the power of the purse strings.

The declaration is already being challenged in the courts.

Trump has warned Senate Republicans not to vote for the resolution, saying that doing so would put them in "great jeopardy" politically with voters.

Republican US Senator Rand Paul said he would vote in favour of a resolution to end President Donald Trump's US-Mexico border emergency declaration, according to a media report, likely giving Democrats the votes to pass the measure in the Senate.

Republican US Senator Rand Paul said he would vote in favour of a resolution to end President Donald Trump's US-Mexico border emergency declaration, according to a media report, likely giving Democrats the votes to pass the measure in the Senate. Trump, who has promised to issue his first veto if the Senate approves the resolution, declared an emergency last month in a bid to fund a wall along the border without congressional approval. While the Senate appears unlikely to muster the two-thirds majority needed to override a veto, a passage in the Republican-controlled chamber would be an embarrassment for the president, who has failed over more than two years in office to persuade Congress to fund his wall, a central promise of his presidential campaign. "I can’t vote to give the president the power to spend money that hasn’t been appropriated by Congress," Paul said in a speech on Saturday at Western Kentucky University, according to the Bowling Green Daily News. "We may want more money for border security, but Congress didn't authorise it. If we take away those checks and balances, it's a dangerous thing," he added. Paul's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the report. Trump's demand for $5.7 billion in funding for his "great, great wall" triggered the longest-ever partial US government shutdown in December and January. The government reopened but Trump later declared a national emergency in an effort to obtain funds Congress had approved for other purposes. Rand became the fourth Republican senator to publicly back the resolution. Assuming all Democrats and the two independents who caucus with them vote in favour of the resolution, it would clear the Senate and end up on the president's desk. Republicans hold 53 of the 100 Senate seats. An identical version of the measure has already been approved in the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives. Democrats argue there is no border emergency and that Trump is overreaching with his declaration given that the Constitution grants Congress the power of the purse strings. The declaration is already being challenged in the courts. Trump has warned Senate Republicans not to vote for the resolution, saying that doing so would put them in "great jeopardy" politically with voters.

Republican Senator Rand Paul to vote against Trump's emergency order

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-democrats-introduce-resolution-stopping-trump-border-emergency-199038">President Donald Trump</a> said Friday he is nominating Kelly Craft, his envoy to Canada, to be the next US ambassador to the United Nations.

"Kelly has done an outstanding job representing our Nation and I have no doubt that, under her leadership, our country will be represented at the highest level," Trump said in a pair of tweets announcing his pick.

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I am pleased to announce that Kelly Knight Craft, our current Ambassador to Canada, is being nominated to be United States Ambassador to the United Nations....
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If confirmed by the US Senate, she would fill the post that has been vacant since Nikki Haley, a former South Carolina governor and rising star in the Republican Party who stepped down from the UN job late last year.

Craft was nominated one week after Trump's previous choice, former Fox News anchor and State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert, withdrew from consideration amid criticism that she lacked the experience for one of the top diplomatic posts.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo offered quick praise for the nominee.&nbsp;

"Ambassador Craft has been an outstanding advocate for America's national security and economic interests in Canada and she is extremely well-qualified to do the same at the United Nations," he said in a statement.

Craft was a major supporter of George W. Bush, who as president appointed her to serve as a US delegate to the United Nations, representing Washington at UN meetings.

The businesswoman from Kentucky, believed to be 56-years-old, has been a major Republican donor.&nbsp;

She raised eyebrows in 2017 as the new US ambassador in Ottawa -- and the first woman in that post -- when she said she believes "both sides" of climate science.

"I think that both sides have their own results, from their studies, and I appreciate and I respect both sides of the science," Craft told the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation.

She is married to Joe Craft, who is president of Alliance Resource Partners, which describes itself as the second largest coal producer in the eastern United States.

Joe Craft was worth an estimated $1.4 billion in 2012, according to Forbes magazine.

Open Secrets, a non-profit group that tracks money in politics, says Craft donated $1 million to Trump's 2017 inauguration fund.&nbsp;

He also donated $371,100 to candidates, all Republicans, during the 2018 election cycle, the organization said.

President Donald Trump said Friday he is nominating Kelly Craft, his envoy to Canada, to be the next US ambassador to the United Nations. "Kelly has done an outstanding job representing our Nation and I have no doubt that, under her leadership, our country will be represented at the highest level," Trump said in a pair of tweets announcing his pick.

President Donald Trump said Friday he is nominating Kelly Craft, his envoy to Canada, to be the next US ambassador to the United Nations. "Kelly has done an outstanding job representing our Nation and I have no doubt that, under her leadership, our country will be represented at the highest level," Trump said in a pair of tweets announcing his pick. I am pleased to announce that Kelly Knight Craft, our current Ambassador to Canada, is being nominated to be United States Ambassador to the United Nations.... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 22, 2019 × If confirmed by the US Senate, she would fill the post that has been vacant since Nikki Haley, a former South Carolina governor and rising star in the Republican Party who stepped down from the UN job late last year. Craft was nominated one week after Trump's previous choice, former Fox News anchor and State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert, withdrew from consideration amid criticism that she lacked the experience for one of the top diplomatic posts. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo offered quick praise for the nominee. "Ambassador Craft has been an outstanding advocate for America's national security and economic interests in Canada and she is extremely well-qualified to do the same at the United Nations," he said in a statement. Craft was a major supporter of George W. Bush, who as president appointed her to serve as a US delegate to the United Nations, representing Washington at UN meetings. The businesswoman from Kentucky, believed to be 56-years-old, has been a major Republican donor. She raised eyebrows in 2017 as the new US ambassador in Ottawa -- and the first woman in that post -- when she said she believes "both sides" of climate science. "I think that both sides have their own results, from their studies, and I appreciate and I respect both sides of the science," Craft told the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. She is married to Joe Craft, who is president of Alliance Resource Partners, which describes itself as the second largest coal producer in the eastern United States. Joe Craft was worth an estimated $1.4 billion in 2012, according to Forbes magazine. Open Secrets, a non-profit group that tracks money in politics, says Craft donated $1 million to Trump's 2017 inauguration fund. He also donated $371,100 to candidates, all Republicans, during the 2018 election cycle, the organization said.

Trump nominates Canada envoy Kelly Craft as UN ambassador

The US Senate Finance Committee has launched an inquiry into meetings in 2015 between top Obama administration officials, a Russian central banker and Maria Butina, who has pleaded guilty to conspiring to work as a Russian agent to influence American foreign policy.

The bipartisan inquiry, announced jointly by the panel's Chairman Charles Grassley and ranking Democrat Ron Wyden, was sparked by an exclusive Reuters article from July.

That report revealed details about previously unreported meetings in 2015 set up by the Centre for the National Interest, a Washington foreign policy think tank that is supportive of efforts to improve US-Russia relations.

In two separate meetings, Butina, a former graduate student who advocated for gun rights, and Russian Central Bank deputy governor Alexander Torshin together met Stanley Fischer, then Federal Reserve vice chairman, and Nathan Sheets, then Treasury undersecretary for international affairs.

The meetings were documented in a Centre for the National Interest report seen by Reuters which discussed arranging the meetings to bring together "leading figures from the financial institutions of the United States and Russia."

Torshin was sanctioned last April by the Treasury Department, and he is referenced in court records as an unindicted co-conspirator who worked with Butina to infiltrate the National Rifle Association (NRA) and make inroads in conservative political circles to help benefit Russia.

A spokeswoman for the Russian central bank has previously said that Torshin declines to comment on the subject.

The Senate panel earlier this week sent letters to Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin, Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell and the Centre for the National Interest's Russian-born CEO, Dimitri Simes, seeking additional information about meetings with top Russian government officials.

"A critical issue facing the Committee and the country is the extent to which the Russian government engaged in efforts designed to undermine our political system and governmental policy through obfuscation and manipulation," Grassley and Wyden wrote in their letters.

A Federal Reserve spokesman confirmed receiving the letter and said the Fed intends to respond.

Spokespeople for the Treasury Department and the think tank did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Butina's attorney could not be immediately reached.

In July, Fischer told Reuters he recalled having one meeting with Torshin and his interpreter about the Russian economy and said Torshin also mentioned plans to attend an NRA convention.

Sheets previously declined to comment and a spokesman for him did not have any immediate comment on Friday.

Paul Saunders, the Centre for the National Interest's executive director, previously told Reuters it was unaware of any inappropriate conduct or connections to Russian intelligence services involving Butina and Torshin.

In their letters, Grassley and Wyden said they are asking the think tank for records related to meetings it organised.

"It is concerning that Ms Butina and Mr Torshin were able to gain access to high-level administration officials responsible for US economic and monetary policy to reportedly discuss US Russian economic relations," the lawmakers wrote.

Butina, who is cooperating with prosecutors, is slated to appear in court later this month for a status conference.

The US Senate Finance Committee has launched an inquiry into meetings in 2015 between top Obama administration officials, a Russian central banker and Maria Butina, who has pleaded guilty to conspiring to work as a Russian agent to influence American foreign policy.

The US Senate Finance Committee has launched an inquiry into meetings in 2015 between top Obama administration officials, a Russian central banker and Maria Butina, who has pleaded guilty to conspiring to work as a Russian agent to influence American foreign policy. The bipartisan inquiry, announced jointly by the panel's Chairman Charles Grassley and ranking Democrat Ron Wyden, was sparked by an exclusive Reuters article from July. That report revealed details about previously unreported meetings in 2015 set up by the Centre for the National Interest, a Washington foreign policy think tank that is supportive of efforts to improve US-Russia relations. In two separate meetings, Butina, a former graduate student who advocated for gun rights, and Russian Central Bank deputy governor Alexander Torshin together met Stanley Fischer, then Federal Reserve vice chairman, and Nathan Sheets, then Treasury undersecretary for international affairs. The meetings were documented in a Centre for the National Interest report seen by Reuters which discussed arranging the meetings to bring together "leading figures from the financial institutions of the United States and Russia." Torshin was sanctioned last April by the Treasury Department, and he is referenced in court records as an unindicted co-conspirator who worked with Butina to infiltrate the National Rifle Association (NRA) and make inroads in conservative political circles to help benefit Russia. A spokeswoman for the Russian central bank has previously said that Torshin declines to comment on the subject. The Senate panel earlier this week sent letters to Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin, Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell and the Centre for the National Interest's Russian-born CEO, Dimitri Simes, seeking additional information about meetings with top Russian government officials. "A critical issue facing the Committee and the country is the extent to which the Russian government engaged in efforts designed to undermine our political system and governmental policy through obfuscation and manipulation," Grassley and Wyden wrote in their letters. A Federal Reserve spokesman confirmed receiving the letter and said the Fed intends to respond. Spokespeople for the Treasury Department and the think tank did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Butina's attorney could not be immediately reached. In July, Fischer told Reuters he recalled having one meeting with Torshin and his interpreter about the Russian economy and said Torshin also mentioned plans to attend an NRA convention. Sheets previously declined to comment and a spokesman for him did not have any immediate comment on Friday. Paul Saunders, the Centre for the National Interest's executive director, previously told Reuters it was unaware of any inappropriate conduct or connections to Russian intelligence services involving Butina and Torshin. In their letters, Grassley and Wyden said they are asking the think tank for records related to meetings it organised. "It is concerning that Ms Butina and Mr Torshin were able to gain access to high-level administration officials responsible for US economic and monetary policy to reportedly discuss US Russian economic relations," the lawmakers wrote. Butina, who is cooperating with prosecutors, is slated to appear in court later this month for a status conference.

US Senate inquiry to probe Russian agent's meetings with Treasury, Fed

US&nbsp;senators from both parties introduced a resolution on Tuesday requiring that any deal to share US nuclear power technology with Saudi Arabia block the kingdom from making a nuclear weapon.&nbsp;

Under the measure, any US civilian nuclear cooperation agreement, or 123 agreement, with Saudi Arabia would prevent enrichment of uranium or reprocessing of plutonium made in reactors - two routes to making nuclear weapons.

It is unclear whether a majority of the 100-member Senate would support the resolution of Democrats Jeff Merkley and Ed Markey and Republican Rand Paul. The resolution is also non-binding on the US government.

But with significant support, it would signal concern in Congress over Saudi-led bombing campaigns in Yemen and over the killing of US-based Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in October.

US Energy Secretary Rick Perry has been holding quiet talks with officials from Saudi Arabia on sharing US nuclear technology. US President Donald Trump hosted nuclear power executives on Tuesday for talks on keeping the industry competitive on exports with France, China, and Russia.&nbsp;

The Trump administration is trying to advance nuclear energy technology domestically and abroad as the industry suffers from plentiful supplies of cheap natural gas and high safety costs at home. A resolution could pressure the administration to push for a deal with tougher standards.

"If Saudi Arabia is going to get its hands on nuclear technology, it’s absolutely critical that we hold it to the gold standard for non-proliferation," Merkley said in a release. "The last thing America should do is inadvertently help develop nuclear weapons for a bad actor on the world stage.”

Riyadh has said it wants to be self-sufficient in producing nuclear fuel and that it is not interested in diverting nuclear technology to military use. But Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman told CBS last year the kingdom will develop nuclear weapons if arch-rival Iran does.&nbsp;

In previous talks, Saudi Arabia has refused to sign an agreement with Washington that would deprive it of enriching uranium. The Saudi embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment.&nbsp;

Last year Saudi Arabia put the United States on a shortlist with South Korea`s state-run utility KEPCO, along with France, China and Russia to bid for a nuclear power project. The winner will likely be selected in 2019.

US reactor builder Westinghouse, owned by Brookfield Asset Management Inc, would likely sell nuclear technology to Saudi Arabia in any deal. 
Chris Crane, president and chief operating officer of Exelon Corp, the largest US nuclear power operator, told reporters Trump was supportive in Tuesday`s meeting with the executives but wanted them to clarify their expectations.&nbsp;

Crane was joined by Daniel Poneman, head of uranium enrichment company Centrus Energy Corp and deputy energy secretary under former President Barack Obama, and John Hopkins, head of NuScale Power, a company developing small modular reactors.

US senators from both parties introduced a resolution on Tuesday requiring that any deal to share US nuclear power technology with Saudi Arabia block the kingdom from making a nuclear weapon.

US senators from both parties introduced a resolution on Tuesday requiring that any deal to share US nuclear power technology with Saudi Arabia block the kingdom from making a nuclear weapon. Under the measure, any US civilian nuclear cooperation agreement, or 123 agreement, with Saudi Arabia would prevent enrichment of uranium or reprocessing of plutonium made in reactors - two routes to making nuclear weapons. It is unclear whether a majority of the 100-member Senate would support the resolution of Democrats Jeff Merkley and Ed Markey and Republican Rand Paul. The resolution is also non-binding on the US government. But with significant support, it would signal concern in Congress over Saudi-led bombing campaigns in Yemen and over the killing of US-based Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in October. US Energy Secretary Rick Perry has been holding quiet talks with officials from Saudi Arabia on sharing US nuclear technology. US President Donald Trump hosted nuclear power executives on Tuesday for talks on keeping the industry competitive on exports with France, China, and Russia. The Trump administration is trying to advance nuclear energy technology domestically and abroad as the industry suffers from plentiful supplies of cheap natural gas and high safety costs at home. A resolution could pressure the administration to push for a deal with tougher standards. "If Saudi Arabia is going to get its hands on nuclear technology, it’s absolutely critical that we hold it to the gold standard for non-proliferation," Merkley said in a release. "The last thing America should do is inadvertently help develop nuclear weapons for a bad actor on the world stage.” Riyadh has said it wants to be self-sufficient in producing nuclear fuel and that it is not interested in diverting nuclear technology to military use. But Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman told CBS last year the kingdom will develop nuclear weapons if arch-rival Iran does. In previous talks, Saudi Arabia has refused to sign an agreement with Washington that would deprive it of enriching uranium. The Saudi embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Last year Saudi Arabia put the United States on a shortlist with South Korea`s state-run utility KEPCO, along with France, China and Russia to bid for a nuclear power project. The winner will likely be selected in 2019. US reactor builder Westinghouse, owned by Brookfield Asset Management Inc, would likely sell nuclear technology to Saudi Arabia in any deal. Chris Crane, president and chief operating officer of Exelon Corp, the largest US nuclear power operator, told reporters Trump was supportive in Tuesday`s meeting with the executives but wanted them to clarify their expectations. Crane was joined by Daniel Poneman, head of uranium enrichment company Centrus Energy Corp and deputy energy secretary under former President Barack Obama, and John Hopkins, head of NuScale Power, a company developing small modular reactors.

US Senate proposal would block Saudi path to atomic weapon in nuclear deal

The US Senate has approved by a large majority an amendment<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/will-keep-military-forces-in-syria-despite-israeli-threats-says-iran-190763"> critical of President Donald Trump's</a> decision to withdraw troops from Syria and Afghanistan, in a sign of the deep discontent caused by the policies within his own Republican ranks.

The resolution was sponsored by the Republican leader of the Senate Mitch McConnell, who said last week the measure "would acknowledge the plain fact that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/how-trump-slowed-rush-for-syria-exits-after-huddling-in-iraq-190676">Al-Qaeda, ISIS and their affiliates </a>in Syria and Afghanistan continue to pose a serious threat to our nation."

It passed by a majority of 70 to 26 - opposed by only three of the 53 Senate Republicans. The amendment will eventually be incorporated into a broader security law on the Middle East.

According to the text, the "precipitous withdrawal of United States forces" from either country "could put at risk hard-won gains and United States national security."

In December, Trump tweeted plans to remove America's 2,000 troops out of Syria, arguing that the Islamic State group had been defeated, even though his intelligence chiefs testified last week that the jihadists remain a potent threat and are seeking a comeback.

The president has also vowed to pull half of the 14,000-strong American force from Afghanistan, where the US has had a military presence since 2001, citing the high cost in blood and treasure.

Senators, including prominent Republicans, inflicted a resounding rebuke to the president in December, holding the Saudi crown prince responsible for the murder of Jamal Khashoggi after the Trump administration had been largely supportive of Prince Mohammed bin Salman.&nbsp;

The US Senate has approved by a large majority an amendment critical of President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw troops from Syria and Afghanistan, in a sign of the deep discontent caused by the policies within his own Republican ranks.

The US Senate has approved by a large majority an amendment critical of President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw troops from Syria and Afghanistan, in a sign of the deep discontent caused by the policies within his own Republican ranks. The resolution was sponsored by the Republican leader of the Senate Mitch McConnell, who said last week the measure "would acknowledge the plain fact that Al-Qaeda, ISIS and their affiliates in Syria and Afghanistan continue to pose a serious threat to our nation." It passed by a majority of 70 to 26 - opposed by only three of the 53 Senate Republicans. The amendment will eventually be incorporated into a broader security law on the Middle East. According to the text, the "precipitous withdrawal of United States forces" from either country "could put at risk hard-won gains and United States national security." In December, Trump tweeted plans to remove America's 2,000 troops out of Syria, arguing that the Islamic State group had been defeated, even though his intelligence chiefs testified last week that the jihadists remain a potent threat and are seeking a comeback. The president has also vowed to pull half of the 14,000-strong American force from Afghanistan, where the US has had a military presence since 2001, citing the high cost in blood and treasure. Senators, including prominent Republicans, inflicted a resounding rebuke to the president in December, holding the Saudi crown prince responsible for the murder of Jamal Khashoggi after the Trump administration had been largely supportive of Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

'Withdrawal risks hard-won gains & national security': US Senate resolution on Trump's Syria pull out

The Republican chairman of the US Senate judiciary panel on Wednesday requested a briefing from the FBI on the arrest of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/roger-stone-open-to-talk-with-mueller-in-russia-probe-193312">Roger Stone</a>, a longtime associate of President Donald Trump, in an inquiry into Russian interference in the 2016 US election.

Senator Lindsey Graham said he was concerned about the number of agents involved, tactics employed and the timing of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ex-trump-advisor-stone-indicted-in-mueller-probe-192975">Stone's arrest</a> on Friday in Florida. Graham asked for the briefing to take place no later than February 5.

A video of Stone's arrest broadcast on CNN showed an FBI team taking him away from his Fort Lauderdale, Florida, home in the dark just before 6 am and Stone surrendering without any issue.

"Although I am sure these tactics would be standard procedure for the arrest of a violent offender, I have questions regarding their necessity in this case," Graham wrote in the letter to FBI Director Christopher Wray.

The top Republican on the House of Representatives Judiciary Committee, Representative Doug Collins, expressed similar concerns in a letter to Wray.

Collins asked Wray for answers by February 13 to a series of questions, including whether Wray was aware of what Collins called the FBI's "immense show of force" during the raid.

"Given the nature of the charges in Stone's indictment, many believe the FBI used an excessive amount of force during his arrest," Collins wrote.

Some law enforcement experts said in the aftermath that when a person has not agreed to give themselves up to authorities voluntarily, such procedures were standard.

Trump, in an interview with the conservative website Daily Caller on Wednesday, said Stone's arrest was a "very, very disappointing scene" and he would "think about" asking the FBI to review its policies.

"When you have 29 people and you have armoured vehicles, and you had all of the other - you know, many people know Roger, and Roger is not a person that they would have to worry about from that standpoint," Trump said.

The FBI did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Prosecutors accuse Stone, a self-proclaimed "dirty trickster" and longtime Republican operative, of obstruction, witness tampering, and lying to Congress. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Special Counsel Robert Mueller is investigating US allegations that Russia meddled in the election and whether members of the campaign of then-Republican candidate Trump coordinated with Moscow officials. So far, the investigation has ensnared 34 people. Moscow denies interference and Trump dismisses the probe as a political witch hunt.

The Republican chairman of the US Senate judiciary panel on Wednesday requested a briefing from the FBI on the arrest of Roger Stone, a longtime associate of President Donald Trump, in an inquiry into Russian interference in the 2016 US election.

The Republican chairman of the US Senate judiciary panel on Wednesday requested a briefing from the FBI on the arrest of Roger Stone, a longtime associate of President Donald Trump, in an inquiry into Russian interference in the 2016 US election. Senator Lindsey Graham said he was concerned about the number of agents involved, tactics employed and the timing of Stone's arrest on Friday in Florida. Graham asked for the briefing to take place no later than February 5. A video of Stone's arrest broadcast on CNN showed an FBI team taking him away from his Fort Lauderdale, Florida, home in the dark just before 6 am and Stone surrendering without any issue. "Although I am sure these tactics would be standard procedure for the arrest of a violent offender, I have questions regarding their necessity in this case," Graham wrote in the letter to FBI Director Christopher Wray. The top Republican on the House of Representatives Judiciary Committee, Representative Doug Collins, expressed similar concerns in a letter to Wray. Collins asked Wray for answers by February 13 to a series of questions, including whether Wray was aware of what Collins called the FBI's "immense show of force" during the raid. "Given the nature of the charges in Stone's indictment, many believe the FBI used an excessive amount of force during his arrest," Collins wrote. Some law enforcement experts said in the aftermath that when a person has not agreed to give themselves up to authorities voluntarily, such procedures were standard. Trump, in an interview with the conservative website Daily Caller on Wednesday, said Stone's arrest was a "very, very disappointing scene" and he would "think about" asking the FBI to review its policies. "When you have 29 people and you have armoured vehicles, and you had all of the other - you know, many people know Roger, and Roger is not a person that they would have to worry about from that standpoint," Trump said. The FBI did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Prosecutors accuse Stone, a self-proclaimed "dirty trickster" and longtime Republican operative, of obstruction, witness tampering, and lying to Congress. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges. Special Counsel Robert Mueller is investigating US allegations that Russia meddled in the election and whether members of the campaign of then-Republican candidate Trump coordinated with Moscow officials. So far, the investigation has ensnared 34 people. Moscow denies interference and Trump dismisses the probe as a political witch hunt.

US Senate judiciary chair requests FBI briefing on arrest of Trump ally

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/dueling-plans-to-end-us-shutdown-fail-in-senate-talks-resume-192581">Dueling</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/dueling-plans-to-end-us-shutdown-fail-in-senate-talks-resume-192581"> plans to end US shutdown fail in Senate, talks resume</a>

The US Senate on Thursday blocked dueling plans to reopen shuttered federal agencies, a fresh setback in efforts to end a month-long government shutdown, but President Donald Trump signalled he could back a new proposal if it includes border security.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-to-close-us-embassy-consulates-maduro-192578">Venezuela to close US embassy, consulates: Nicolas Maduro</a>

Venezuela will close its embassy and all consulates in the United States, President Nicolas Maduro said on Thursday, one day after he broke off diplomatic relations in response to US recognition of an opposition leader as interim president.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-appoints-new-political-leader-to-join-us-taliban-peace-talks-192600">Taliban appoints </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-appoints-new-political-leader-to-join-us-taliban-peace-talks-192600">new</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-appoints-new-political-leader-to-join-us-taliban-peace-talks-192600"> political leader to join peace talks with </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-appoints-new-political-leader-to-join-us-taliban-peace-talks-192600">US</a>

A co-founder of the Taliban was appointed as the leader of its political office in Qatar on Thursday to strengthen its hand in peace talks with the United States as they try to establish a mechanism to end the 17-year Afghan war.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-miles-and-miles-from-resolving-trade-conflict-official-192584">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-miles-and-miles-from-resolving-trade-conflict-official-192584">, China 'miles and miles' from resolving trade conflict: Official</a>

Washington and Beijing are "miles and miles" from resolving their trade war, US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said Thursday.

A high-level Chinese delegation is due in Washington next week for talks to resolve the dispute by March 1, when US duty rates on Chinese imports are due to rise sharply, but Ross tried to tamp down expectations to those meetings.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pak-envoy-says-dialogue-is-indispensable-to-resolve-tensions-between-india-pakistan-192594">Pak envoy says 'dialogue is indispensable' to resolving tensions between India, Pakistan</a>

Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood on Thursday advocated talks and sustained engagement between the two countries to find common ground for improvement of bilateral relations.

Dueling plans to end US shutdown fail in Senate, talks resume The US Senate on Thursday blocked dueling plans to reopen shuttered federal agencies, a fresh setback in efforts to end a month-long government shutdown, but President Donald Trump signalled he could back a new proposal if it includes border security.

Dueling plans to end US shutdown fail in Senate, talks resume The US Senate on Thursday blocked dueling plans to reopen shuttered federal agencies, a fresh setback in efforts to end a month-long government shutdown, but President Donald Trump signalled he could back a new proposal if it includes border security. Venezuela to close US embassy, consulates: Nicolas Maduro Venezuela will close its embassy and all consulates in the United States, President Nicolas Maduro said on Thursday, one day after he broke off diplomatic relations in response to US recognition of an opposition leader as interim president. Taliban appoints new political leader to join peace talks with US A co-founder of the Taliban was appointed as the leader of its political office in Qatar on Thursday to strengthen its hand in peace talks with the United States as they try to establish a mechanism to end the 17-year Afghan war. US, China 'miles and miles' from resolving trade conflict: Official Washington and Beijing are "miles and miles" from resolving their trade war, US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said Thursday. A high-level Chinese delegation is due in Washington next week for talks to resolve the dispute by March 1, when US duty rates on Chinese imports are due to rise sharply, but Ross tried to tamp down expectations to those meetings. Pak envoy says 'dialogue is indispensable' to resolving tensions between India, Pakistan Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood on Thursday advocated talks and sustained engagement between the two countries to find common ground for improvement of bilateral relations.

US senate rejects bill to end government shutdown

The US Senate on Thursday blocked dueling plans to reopen shuttered federal agencies, a fresh setback in efforts to end a month-long government shutdown, but President Donald Trump signalled he could back a new proposal if it includes border security.

The legislative deadlock left Congress and the president red-faced and adrift as thousands of federal workers, some reliant on food banks to make ends meet, are about to miss a second paycheck.

But shortly after the votes, a possible way out of the deepening crisis began to take shape, when Senate leaders huddled in private to discuss a proposal to fund lapsed federal agencies for three weeks, to allow for negotiations over border security.

Asked if he would support the plan, discussed in private by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and top Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer, Trump was noncommittal, saying he would still want funding for his wall.

"If they come to a reasonable agreement, I would support it," he said, but added: "We have to have a wall in this country."

Trump had backed a Senate measure which would have reopened the government, funded the wall and included some immigration policy changes. It earned 50 votes to 47 against, but it needed 60 to advance.

A competing proposal by Senate Democrats that would open government through February 8 without funding Trump's wall, and leave room for border security negotiations, also failed to move forward by a similar tally.

Trump was already smarting, after being forced into shelving his annual State of the Union address by top Democrat Nancy Pelosi, the speaker of the House of Representatives, until the government is fully operational.

Though politically bruised, Trump stood firm on his demand for billions of dollars in funding for a border wall as part of an overall budget package. 
"We will not Cave!" he tweeted at Pelosi before the Senate votes.

The shutdown is now in its 34th day, with some 800,000 federal workers left unpaid across the country and in US installations abroad -- and the knock-on effects affecting millions more. As acrimony in Washington grew, lawmakers across the political spectrum were left scrambling for an exit strategy for the longest-ever halt to federal operations.

"I don't know what's going to happen next. Nobody knows," warned Senate Republican Richard Shelby. But Lindsey Graham, a Republican senator who often has the president's year, said he discussed with Trump the new proposal gaining traction: a continuing resolution that funds government for three weeks.

"All of us believe that if we had three weeks with the government open, with all the discord coming from a shutdown, that we could find a way forward to produce a bill that he would sign," Graham said on the Senate floor. He added in a tweet that Democratic priorities for disaster relief were also included, "showing good faith from both sides".

The White House stressed the need for at least some money for Trump's border plan. "The three-week CR would only work if there is a large down payment on the wall," press secretary Sarah Sanders said.

Trump has repeatedly called for $5.7 billion in border wall funding, a demand consistently rejected by Democrats including Pelosi. Shortly before the Senate vote she urged Republicans to back the Democratic bid to temporarily open lapsed agencies, allowing for a border security negotiation to proceed. 
"Who can say no to that?" she said. But many did say no, it turns out.

Senator Mitt Romney, the 2012 Republican presidential nominee, was one of a handful of Republicans who voted for both bills, and he called on congressional leaders and the White House to thrash out their differences quickly. "We can't just have the lack of communication that prevents us from getting to a deal," Romney told reporters.

The air travel industry issued dire warnings, including one from the National Air Traffic Controllers Association. "In our risk-averse industry, we cannot even calculate the level of risk currently at play, nor predict the point at which the entire system will break," NATCA president Paul Rinaldi said in a statement. "It is unprecedented."

Most Democrats oppose direct funds for wall construction, but some have begun publicly advocating for negotiating a solution that includes boosted border funding, including for border structures.

And Pelosi herself said Thursday that "we will have some of our proposals for what comes next" in upcoming legislation offerings.

The US Senate on Thursday blocked dueling plans to reopen shuttered federal agencies, a fresh setback in efforts to end a month-long government shutdown, but President Donald Trump signalled he could back a new proposal if it includes border security.

The US Senate on Thursday blocked dueling plans to reopen shuttered federal agencies, a fresh setback in efforts to end a month-long government shutdown, but President Donald Trump signalled he could back a new proposal if it includes border security. The legislative deadlock left Congress and the president red-faced and adrift as thousands of federal workers, some reliant on food banks to make ends meet, are about to miss a second paycheck. But shortly after the votes, a possible way out of the deepening crisis began to take shape, when Senate leaders huddled in private to discuss a proposal to fund lapsed federal agencies for three weeks, to allow for negotiations over border security. Asked if he would support the plan, discussed in private by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and top Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer, Trump was noncommittal, saying he would still want funding for his wall. "If they come to a reasonable agreement, I would support it," he said, but added: "We have to have a wall in this country." Trump had backed a Senate measure which would have reopened the government, funded the wall and included some immigration policy changes. It earned 50 votes to 47 against, but it needed 60 to advance. A competing proposal by Senate Democrats that would open government through February 8 without funding Trump's wall, and leave room for border security negotiations, also failed to move forward by a similar tally. Trump was already smarting, after being forced into shelving his annual State of the Union address by top Democrat Nancy Pelosi, the speaker of the House of Representatives, until the government is fully operational. Though politically bruised, Trump stood firm on his demand for billions of dollars in funding for a border wall as part of an overall budget package. "We will not Cave!" he tweeted at Pelosi before the Senate votes. The shutdown is now in its 34th day, with some 800,000 federal workers left unpaid across the country and in US installations abroad -- and the knock-on effects affecting millions more. As acrimony in Washington grew, lawmakers across the political spectrum were left scrambling for an exit strategy for the longest-ever halt to federal operations. "I don't know what's going to happen next. Nobody knows," warned Senate Republican Richard Shelby. But Lindsey Graham, a Republican senator who often has the president's year, said he discussed with Trump the new proposal gaining traction: a continuing resolution that funds government for three weeks. "All of us believe that if we had three weeks with the government open, with all the discord coming from a shutdown, that we could find a way forward to produce a bill that he would sign," Graham said on the Senate floor. He added in a tweet that Democratic priorities for disaster relief were also included, "showing good faith from both sides". The White House stressed the need for at least some money for Trump's border plan. "The three-week CR would only work if there is a large down payment on the wall," press secretary Sarah Sanders said. Trump has repeatedly called for $5.7 billion in border wall funding, a demand consistently rejected by Democrats including Pelosi. Shortly before the Senate vote she urged Republicans to back the Democratic bid to temporarily open lapsed agencies, allowing for a border security negotiation to proceed. "Who can say no to that?" she said. But many did say no, it turns out. Senator Mitt Romney, the 2012 Republican presidential nominee, was one of a handful of Republicans who voted for both bills, and he called on congressional leaders and the White House to thrash out their differences quickly. "We can't just have the lack of communication that prevents us from getting to a deal," Romney told reporters. The air travel industry issued dire warnings, including one from the National Air Traffic Controllers Association. "In our risk-averse industry, we cannot even calculate the level of risk currently at play, nor predict the point at which the entire system will break," NATCA president Paul Rinaldi said in a statement. "It is unprecedented." Most Democrats oppose direct funds for wall construction, but some have begun publicly advocating for negotiating a solution that includes boosted border funding, including for border structures. And Pelosi herself said Thursday that "we will have some of our proposals for what comes next" in upcoming legislation offerings.

Dueling plans to end US shutdown fail in Senate, talks resume

US Senate leaders have agreed to vote Thursday on competing proposals to end a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/without-a-wall-our-country-can-never-have-national-security-says-trump-as-government-shutdown-enters-second-month-192081">government shutdown</a> now in its second month, but the chances are slim that either will reopen federal agencies.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and top Democrat Chuck Schumer announced an agreement on the Senate floor Tuesday for a pair of test votes.

The first would be a procedural step on a measure that funds all shuttered branches of government through September and includes President Donald Trump's demand for border wall funding and his proposal on immigration policy.

A second vote would be on a stop-gap measure that funds government until February 8, to allow for debate over border security and immigration, while also letting Trump's upcoming State of the Union address before Congress proceed.

It also would include disaster relief money already passed in the House.&nbsp;

Each proposal would require 60 votes to advance in the 100-member body, a high threshold, given the current level of partisan rancor over who is to blame for the shutdown.

A senior Republican Senate aide told AFP it was unlikely Republicans would sign on to the short-term funding bill, and that even if they did, the president would not sign it.

But the Democratic leader took to the floor to say the votes "could break us out of the morass we are in," and he specifically encouraged Republicans to sign on to the stop-gap bill to briefly open government.

"It will allow us to then debate, without hostage-taking, without temper tantrum... How we can best do border security," he said.

US Senate leaders have agreed to vote Thursday on competing proposals to end a government shutdown now in its second month, but the chances are slim that either will reopen federal agencies.

US Senate leaders have agreed to vote Thursday on competing proposals to end a government shutdown now in its second month, but the chances are slim that either will reopen federal agencies. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and top Democrat Chuck Schumer announced an agreement on the Senate floor Tuesday for a pair of test votes. The first would be a procedural step on a measure that funds all shuttered branches of government through September and includes President Donald Trump's demand for border wall funding and his proposal on immigration policy. A second vote would be on a stop-gap measure that funds government until February 8, to allow for debate over border security and immigration, while also letting Trump's upcoming State of the Union address before Congress proceed. It also would include disaster relief money already passed in the House. Each proposal would require 60 votes to advance in the 100-member body, a high threshold, given the current level of partisan rancor over who is to blame for the shutdown. A senior Republican Senate aide told AFP it was unlikely Republicans would sign on to the short-term funding bill, and that even if they did, the president would not sign it. But the Democratic leader took to the floor to say the votes "could break us out of the morass we are in," and he specifically encouraged Republicans to sign on to the stop-gap bill to briefly open government. "It will allow us to then debate, without hostage-taking, without temper tantrum... How we can best do border security," he said.

US Senate to vote on opposing bids to end shutdown

Talks aimed at ending a partial US government shutdown which entered its third week on Saturday made little progress but were to continue on Sunday, President Donald Trump said.

An impasse with lawmakers over Trump's demand for billions of dollars to pay for a wall on the border with Mexico has shut 25 per cent of the government since December 22.

Vice President Mike Pence on Saturday met with representatives of Chuck Schumer, the top Democrat in the Republican-controlled Senate, as well as Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the House of Representatives which since last Thursday is under Democratic control.

"VP&nbsp;Mike Pence and team just left the White House. Briefed me on their meeting with the Schumer/Pelosi representatives. Not much headway made today. Second meeting set for tomorrow," Trump said on Twitter.

Under the previous Republican-controlled Congress, the Senate unanimously passed a measure to fully fund the government until February 8, allowing more time for debate on issues including border security.&nbsp;

That measure was also under House consideration but Trump on December 20 reversed course and rejected it under pressure from ultraconservative lawmakers and media personalities.

While the US military and other major agencies are still fully funded, the impasse has left 800,000 government workers from other departments furloughed or working without pay.

Those on the job and not being paid include airline security officers from the Transportation Security Administration, FBI agents, and others.

The shutdown has left the Smithsonian museums, a major tourist draw, shuttered, garbage piling up at national parks, and workers concerned about paying their bills.

The shutdown has also been a factor in stock market volatility.

Building a wall along the 2,000-mile (3,200-kilometer) US-Mexico frontier was a central plank in the 2016 election campaign of Trump, who has sought to equate immigrants with crime, drugs and gangs.

"This is national security we're talking about," he said on Friday. 
&nbsp;

Talks aimed at ending a partial US government shutdown which entered its third week on Saturday made little progress but were to continue on Sunday, President Donald Trump said.

Talks aimed at ending a partial US government shutdown which entered its third week on Saturday made little progress but were to continue on Sunday, President Donald Trump said. An impasse with lawmakers over Trump's demand for billions of dollars to pay for a wall on the border with Mexico has shut 25 per cent of the government since December 22. Vice President Mike Pence on Saturday met with representatives of Chuck Schumer, the top Democrat in the Republican-controlled Senate, as well as Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the House of Representatives which since last Thursday is under Democratic control. "VP Mike Pence and team just left the White House. Briefed me on their meeting with the Schumer/Pelosi representatives. Not much headway made today. Second meeting set for tomorrow," Trump said on Twitter. Under the previous Republican-controlled Congress, the Senate unanimously passed a measure to fully fund the government until February 8, allowing more time for debate on issues including border security. That measure was also under House consideration but Trump on December 20 reversed course and rejected it under pressure from ultraconservative lawmakers and media personalities. While the US military and other major agencies are still fully funded, the impasse has left 800,000 government workers from other departments furloughed or working without pay. Those on the job and not being paid include airline security officers from the Transportation Security Administration, FBI agents, and others. The shutdown has left the Smithsonian museums, a major tourist draw, shuttered, garbage piling up at national parks, and workers concerned about paying their bills. The shutdown has also been a factor in stock market volatility. Building a wall along the 2,000-mile (3,200-kilometer) US-Mexico frontier was a central plank in the 2016 election campaign of Trump, who has sought to equate immigrants with crime, drugs and gangs. "This is national security we're talking about," he said on Friday.

Trump says little progress as govt shutdown in third week

Border wall row leaves US on brink of govt shutdown

A former head of the US&nbsp;Olympic Committee made "materially false statements" to a US Senate subcommittee investigating sexual abuse in gymnastics, the panel said on Friday, and it said it would refer the matter to the FBI.

In a joint statement, Republican Senator Jerry Moran, chairman of the Senate subcommittee on commerce, and Senator Richard Blumenthal, its Democratic ranking member, said they made the referral detailing potential violations of the law against Olympic Committee CEO Scott Blackmun.

Blackmun did not respond to a request for comment.

The move comes after a report released on Monday said the United States Olympics Committee (USOC) failed to protect athletes from the threat of sexual abuse, with some executives taking no actions following allegations of sexual abuse against Larry Nassar, a team doctor for USA Gymnastics.

Nassar was sentenced to up to 300 years in prison in two different trials last winter after more than 350 women testified about abuse at his hands. The witnesses included Olympic champions Aly Raisman and Jordyn Wieber.

"It appears Mr. Blackmun has made false claims and misled our subcommittee – harming the investigation and our ability to develop policy," Moran and Blumenthal said in the statement.

"Survivors of abuse have had to wait longer for the truth and longer for systemic changes to help prevent others from similar injury."

In a June 5 statement to the subcommittee, which oversees the USOC, Blackmun wrote that when he heard of allegations against Nassar through a July 2015 phone call from then-USA Gymnastics CEO Steve Penny, he spoke to the USOC’s "SafeSport staff," the statement said. SafeSport oversees abuse claims in Olympic sports.

But the Monday report by law firm Ropes &amp; Gray found that after hearing about the allegations against Nassar, Blackmun did not inform anyone else at the USOC of the allegations.

The report said dozens of girls and young women were abused during the yearlong period between the allegations surfacing in mid-2015 and September 2016 when the Nassar story broke. Nassar was arrested two months later.

A former head of the US Olympic Committee made "materially false statements" to a US Senate subcommittee investigating sexual abuse in gymnastics, the panel said on Friday, and it said it would refer the matter to the FBI.

A former head of the US Olympic Committee made "materially false statements" to a US Senate subcommittee investigating sexual abuse in gymnastics, the panel said on Friday, and it said it would refer the matter to the FBI. In a joint statement, Republican Senator Jerry Moran, chairman of the Senate subcommittee on commerce, and Senator Richard Blumenthal, its Democratic ranking member, said they made the referral detailing potential violations of the law against Olympic Committee CEO Scott Blackmun. Blackmun did not respond to a request for comment. The move comes after a report released on Monday said the United States Olympics Committee (USOC) failed to protect athletes from the threat of sexual abuse, with some executives taking no actions following allegations of sexual abuse against Larry Nassar, a team doctor for USA Gymnastics. Nassar was sentenced to up to 300 years in prison in two different trials last winter after more than 350 women testified about abuse at his hands. The witnesses included Olympic champions Aly Raisman and Jordyn Wieber. "It appears Mr. Blackmun has made false claims and misled our subcommittee – harming the investigation and our ability to develop policy," Moran and Blumenthal said in the statement. "Survivors of abuse have had to wait longer for the truth and longer for systemic changes to help prevent others from similar injury." In a June 5 statement to the subcommittee, which oversees the USOC, Blackmun wrote that when he heard of allegations against Nassar through a July 2015 phone call from then-USA Gymnastics CEO Steve Penny, he spoke to the USOC’s "SafeSport staff," the statement said. SafeSport oversees abuse claims in Olympic sports. But the Monday report by law firm Ropes & Gray found that after hearing about the allegations against Nassar, Blackmun did not inform anyone else at the USOC of the allegations. The report said dozens of girls and young women were abused during the yearlong period between the allegations surfacing in mid-2015 and September 2016 when the Nassar story broke. Nassar was arrested two months later.

US Senate panel asks FBI to probe US Olympic chief over Nassar scandal

The US Senate delivered a rare double rebuke to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-going-to-open-up-whole-country-they-want-to-please-me-trump-183898">President Donald Trump</a> on Saudi Arabia on Thursday, voting to end US military support for the war in Yemen and blame the Saudi crown prince for the murder of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/must-not-forget-true-message-in-his-work-jamal-khashoggis-editor-183554">journalist Jamal Khashoggi</a>.

The votes were largely symbolic because to become law the resolutions would have to pass the House of Representatives, whose Republican leaders have blocked any legislation intended to rebuke the Saudis.

In a historic move, Senators voted 56-41 to end US military support for the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen's civil war. The conflict has killed tens of thousands of people and spawned what the United Nations calls the world's most dire human crisis, with the country on the brink of famine.

It was the first time either chamber of Congress had backed a resolution to withdraw US forces from a military engagement under the War Powers Act. That law, passed in 1973, limits the president's ability to commit US forces to potential hostilities without congressional approval.

Seven of Trump's fellow Republicans joined Senate Democrats to back the measure.

Immediately after the Yemen vote, the Senate backed a resolution blaming Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for Khashoggi's murder and insisting that Saudi Arabia hold accountable anyone responsible for his death.

Khashoggi, a US&nbsp;resident who was a columnist for the Washington Post, was killed inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in October. The Senate vote, which was unanimous, puts pressure on House leaders to allow a vote on the Khashoggi resolution this month, before Congress adjourns for the year.

"Unanimously, the United States Senate has said that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is responsible for the murder of Jamal Khashoggi. That is a strong statement. I think it speaks to the values that we hold dear," said Republican Senator Bob Corker, chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee and sponsor of the resolution.

Trump has said he wants Washington to stand by the Saudi government and the prince, despite a CIA assessment it was likely he ordered Khashoggi's killing. He promised to veto the war powers resolution.

Opponents of the resolution are reluctant to take any action to disrupt the strategic US relationship with Saudi Arabia, seen as an essential counterweight in the Middle East to Iran, arch-enemy of close US ally Israel.

Administration officials also see Saudi support as a linchpin for an Israeli-Palestinian peace plan yet to be unveiled by the Trump administration. And they have argued that ending US&nbsp;support could complicate Yemen peace talks.

'SHARED STRATEGIC INTERESTS'

Asked to comment on the Khashoggi resolution, a White House spokesperson noted sanctions imposed on 17 Saudis over the killing and said, "Our shared strategic interests with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia remain, and we continue to view as achievable the twin imperatives of protecting America and holding accountable those responsible for the killing."

But backers of the resolutions, including some Republicans, promised to press ahead. On Wednesday, a bipartisan group of senators promised to push in the new Congress legislation for humanitarian sanctions and a ban on weapons sales to Saudi Arabia.

"What's next is to do everything possible to demand that the House of Representatives do what the members of the House want done, an opportunity to vote on this," Senator Bernie Sanders told Reuters.

Sanders, an independent who caucuses with Democrats, said he would bring the resolution up again after the new Congress convenes in January, when Democrats will control the House of Representatives. The measure could pass the Senate again, given the bipartisan support it received on Thursday, even though Trump's Republicans will have a larger majority in the upper chamber next year.

"I think we're going to win in the Senate and I think we are going to do what the American people want, that is to end our participation in this horrific and destructive war," Sanders said.

There was no immediate word from House leadership on whether they would allow a vote on either resolution.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis, who briefed House members on Thursday, urged senators during a briefing last month to keep supporting the Saudi-led coalition.

Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi said her members supported congressional action. "There certainly is an appetite in our caucus for that," Pelosi, who is expected to be the next House Speaker, told reporters.

Yemen's warring parties agreed on Thursday to cease fighting for the Houthi-held port city of Hodeidah and withdraw their troops, the first significant breakthrough for UN-led peace efforts in five years of conflict.

The US Senate delivered a rare double rebuke to President Donald Trump on Saudi Arabia on Thursday, voting to end US military support for the war in Yemen and blame the Saudi crown prince for the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

The US Senate delivered a rare double rebuke to President Donald Trump on Saudi Arabia on Thursday, voting to end US military support for the war in Yemen and blame the Saudi crown prince for the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. The votes were largely symbolic because to become law the resolutions would have to pass the House of Representatives, whose Republican leaders have blocked any legislation intended to rebuke the Saudis. In a historic move, Senators voted 56-41 to end US military support for the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen's civil war. The conflict has killed tens of thousands of people and spawned what the United Nations calls the world's most dire human crisis, with the country on the brink of famine. It was the first time either chamber of Congress had backed a resolution to withdraw US forces from a military engagement under the War Powers Act. That law, passed in 1973, limits the president's ability to commit US forces to potential hostilities without congressional approval. Seven of Trump's fellow Republicans joined Senate Democrats to back the measure. Immediately after the Yemen vote, the Senate backed a resolution blaming Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for Khashoggi's murder and insisting that Saudi Arabia hold accountable anyone responsible for his death. Khashoggi, a US resident who was a columnist for the Washington Post, was killed inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in October. The Senate vote, which was unanimous, puts pressure on House leaders to allow a vote on the Khashoggi resolution this month, before Congress adjourns for the year. "Unanimously, the United States Senate has said that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is responsible for the murder of Jamal Khashoggi. That is a strong statement. I think it speaks to the values that we hold dear," said Republican Senator Bob Corker, chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee and sponsor of the resolution. Trump has said he wants Washington to stand by the Saudi government and the prince, despite a CIA assessment it was likely he ordered Khashoggi's killing. He promised to veto the war powers resolution. Opponents of the resolution are reluctant to take any action to disrupt the strategic US relationship with Saudi Arabia, seen as an essential counterweight in the Middle East to Iran, arch-enemy of close US ally Israel. Administration officials also see Saudi support as a linchpin for an Israeli-Palestinian peace plan yet to be unveiled by the Trump administration. And they have argued that ending US support could complicate Yemen peace talks. 'SHARED STRATEGIC INTERESTS' Asked to comment on the Khashoggi resolution, a White House spokesperson noted sanctions imposed on 17 Saudis over the killing and said, "Our shared strategic interests with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia remain, and we continue to view as achievable the twin imperatives of protecting America and holding accountable those responsible for the killing." But backers of the resolutions, including some Republicans, promised to press ahead. On Wednesday, a bipartisan group of senators promised to push in the new Congress legislation for humanitarian sanctions and a ban on weapons sales to Saudi Arabia. "What's next is to do everything possible to demand that the House of Representatives do what the members of the House want done, an opportunity to vote on this," Senator Bernie Sanders told Reuters. Sanders, an independent who caucuses with Democrats, said he would bring the resolution up again after the new Congress convenes in January, when Democrats will control the House of Representatives. The measure could pass the Senate again, given the bipartisan support it received on Thursday, even though Trump's Republicans will have a larger majority in the upper chamber next year. "I think we're going to win in the Senate and I think we are going to do what the American people want, that is to end our participation in this horrific and destructive war," Sanders said. There was no immediate word from House leadership on whether they would allow a vote on either resolution. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis, who briefed House members on Thursday, urged senators during a briefing last month to keep supporting the Saudi-led coalition. Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi said her members supported congressional action. "There certainly is an appetite in our caucus for that," Pelosi, who is expected to be the next House Speaker, told reporters. Yemen's warring parties agreed on Thursday to cease fighting for the Houthi-held port city of Hodeidah and withdraw their troops, the first significant breakthrough for UN-led peace efforts in five years of conflict.

Senate rebukes Trump on Saudi Arabia, blames prince Salman for Khashoggi murder

US President Donald Trump sees his impeachment as a "real possibility" over finance violations during the 2016 campaign, according to a media report.

Impeachment talks have ratcheted up in recent days following a blockbuster filing from prosecutors in the Southern District of New York in which they directly alleged for the first time that Trump's former attorney Michael Cohen was being directed by the president when he broke the law during the 2016 presidential campaign, CNN said.

Trump has expressed concern that he could be impeached when Democrats take over the House, CNN quoted a source close to the president as saying.

Trump is facing off against a series of accusations put together by a team of investigators.

Special counsel Robert Mueller has launched an 18-month investigation into the legitimacy of Donald Trump's 2016 election win.

A source close to the White House told CNN that aides inside the West Wing believe "the only issue that may stick" in the impeachment process is the campaign finance violations tied to former Cohen's payouts to Trump's alleged mistresses, according to the report.

Prosecutors said Trump's lawyer clearly sought to influence the outcome of the 2016 election from the sidelines through illicit payments.

Under US federal law, any payments made for the "purpose of influencing" an election must be reported in campaign finance disclosures.

Prosecutors said Cohen took great steps to hide the payments, creating shell companies, using fake invoices and sending them in small amounts so they wouldn't arouse suspicion.

He arranged for a US $130,000 payment to adult film star Daniels, which prosecutors concluded violated campaign finance law prohibitions against donations of more than US $2,700 in a general election.

Trump has denied all wrongdoing and compared the investigations to a "witch hunt".

Democrats are suggesting Trump committed an impeachable offense and could be sent to prison when his term in the White House is over.

The incoming chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, Jerry Nadler, said Sunday the allegations, if proven, would constitute "impeachable offenses."

Democratic Senator Chris Coons said on Monday Trump could be indicted after he leaves office.

Cohen first made the allegation in court in September that he was directed by Trump to make the payments to the two women, Stormy Daniels and Karen McDougal. 
Prosecutors endorsed the allegation in a sentencing document for Cohen on Friday, in which they said Cohen should receive a "substantial sentence" for the crimes he committed, which included campaign finance violations for the payments to the two women, tax fraud and lying to Congress.

White House officials, at the moment, still don't believe special counsel Mueller's investigation into possible collusion will result in impeachment. Officials are also comforted by their belief that the campaign finance issue is not seen as enough to galvanize bipartisan support for impeachment, the report said.

Another separate source said Trump remains confident at this point that, while he could be impeached in the House, he doesn't believe he would be convicted in the Senate as the Republicans remains in control there.

The campaign finance issue tied to the alleged mistresses is not viewed as having the firepower to trigger a bipartisan vote for conviction and removal in the Senate, the source said.

These beliefs about the politics at play in impeachment proceedings are based on what White House officials believe Mueller has on Trump right now. It's still unclear exactly where else the special counsel's probe could go, the report said.

US President Donald Trump sees his impeachment as a "real possibility" over finance violations during the 2016 campaign, according to a media report. Impeachment talks have ratcheted up in recent days following a blockbuster filing from prosecutors in the Southern District of New York in which they directly alleged for the first time that Trump's former attorney Michael Cohen was being directed by the president when he broke the law during the 2016 presidential campaign, CNN said.

US President Donald Trump sees his impeachment as a "real possibility" over finance violations during the 2016 campaign, according to a media report. Impeachment talks have ratcheted up in recent days following a blockbuster filing from prosecutors in the Southern District of New York in which they directly alleged for the first time that Trump's former attorney Michael Cohen was being directed by the president when he broke the law during the 2016 presidential campaign, CNN said. Trump has expressed concern that he could be impeached when Democrats take over the House, CNN quoted a source close to the president as saying. Trump is facing off against a series of accusations put together by a team of investigators. Special counsel Robert Mueller has launched an 18-month investigation into the legitimacy of Donald Trump's 2016 election win. A source close to the White House told CNN that aides inside the West Wing believe "the only issue that may stick" in the impeachment process is the campaign finance violations tied to former Cohen's payouts to Trump's alleged mistresses, according to the report. Prosecutors said Trump's lawyer clearly sought to influence the outcome of the 2016 election from the sidelines through illicit payments. Under US federal law, any payments made for the "purpose of influencing" an election must be reported in campaign finance disclosures. Prosecutors said Cohen took great steps to hide the payments, creating shell companies, using fake invoices and sending them in small amounts so they wouldn't arouse suspicion. He arranged for a US $130,000 payment to adult film star Daniels, which prosecutors concluded violated campaign finance law prohibitions against donations of more than US $2,700 in a general election. Trump has denied all wrongdoing and compared the investigations to a "witch hunt". Democrats are suggesting Trump committed an impeachable offense and could be sent to prison when his term in the White House is over. The incoming chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, Jerry Nadler, said Sunday the allegations, if proven, would constitute "impeachable offenses." Democratic Senator Chris Coons said on Monday Trump could be indicted after he leaves office. Cohen first made the allegation in court in September that he was directed by Trump to make the payments to the two women, Stormy Daniels and Karen McDougal. Prosecutors endorsed the allegation in a sentencing document for Cohen on Friday, in which they said Cohen should receive a "substantial sentence" for the crimes he committed, which included campaign finance violations for the payments to the two women, tax fraud and lying to Congress. White House officials, at the moment, still don't believe special counsel Mueller's investigation into possible collusion will result in impeachment. Officials are also comforted by their belief that the campaign finance issue is not seen as enough to galvanize bipartisan support for impeachment, the report said. Another separate source said Trump remains confident at this point that, while he could be impeached in the House, he doesn't believe he would be convicted in the Senate as the Republicans remains in control there. The campaign finance issue tied to the alleged mistresses is not viewed as having the firepower to trigger a bipartisan vote for conviction and removal in the Senate, the source said. These beliefs about the politics at play in impeachment proceedings are based on what White House officials believe Mueller has on Trump right now. It's still unclear exactly where else the special counsel's probe could go, the report said.

Trump concerned about being impeached: Report

Republican Cindy Hyde-Smith won a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-republican-senators-rejects-trumps-embrace-of-saudi-after-murder-of-khashoggi-179406">US Senate special election</a> runoff in conservative Mississippi on Tuesday, defeating a black challenger after a campaign that recalled the history of racist violence in the deep South state.

The white former state lawmaker, who was appointed to the Senate in April, overcame a controversy over her comment on public hangings to defeat Democrat Mike Espy in the last contest of the 2018 election cycle.

Hyde-Smith, 59, is the first woman elected to Congress from Mississippi. If Espy had won, he would have been the first black senator from Mississippi since shortly after the Civil War.

Having been heavily favoured to win the reliably Republican state, Hyde-Smith became engulfed in a political storm over a video showing her praising a supporter at a November 2 event by saying, "If he invited me to a public hanging, I'd be on the front row."

The video sparked a furore in a state with a history of racism and violence against blacks, including lynchings, and fueled Democratic hopes of an upset in a state where 38 per cent of the population is black.

But Hyde-Smith triumphed by depicting Espy as too liberal for Mississippi, which last elected a Democrat to the Senate in 1982, and by touting her support for President Donald Trump, who won the state by 18 percentage points in 2016.

Trump attended two get-out-the-vote rallies in the state on Monday and tweeted his congratulations to Hyde-Smith after the race was called, saying he was "very proud" of her.

"Mr President, thank you so much for all of your help," Hyde-Smith said in a victory speech to supporters, calling her to win a triumph of "conservative values."

"Mississippians know me and they know my heart," she said.

Her victory means Republicans will hold a 53-47 majority in the new US Senate that convenes in January. With almost all precincts tallied, Hyde-Smith led by nearly 8 percentage points.

Espy, 64, campaigned as a moderate who would work with Trump and Republicans to benefit the state. He tried to recreate the coalition that propelled Democrat Doug Jones to a Senate win in neighbouring Alabama last year by energizing black voters, particularly women, and winning support from white swing voters.

Espy said he called Hyde-Smith to concede the race and wish her well.

"She has my prayers as she goes to Washington to unite a very divided Mississippi," he told supporters.

The runoff to serve the last two years of former Republican Senator Thad Cochran's term was necessary because neither Espy nor Hyde-Smith gained more than 50 per cent of the vote in a November 6 special election with four candidates. Cochran, 80, resigned earlier this year, citing health concerns.

Several businesses, including giant retailer Walmart, had demanded Hyde-Smith return their donations after her public hanging remark.

She sparked further controversy when she was shown on another video joking about suppressing liberal student votes, and photographs surfaced of her posing with Confederate artefacts in 2014.

She initially refused to apologize for the hanging remark, but said in a debate last week that she was sorry "for anyone that was offended." She accused Espy of twisting her words for political gain.

Espy denied the charge and said, "we all know what came out of your mouth." He has said the comment perpetuated negative stereotypes about Mississippi and hurt investment.

Republican Cindy Hyde-Smith won a US Senate special election runoff in conservative Mississippi on Tuesday, defeating a black challenger after a campaign that recalled the history of racist violence in the deep South state.

Republican Cindy Hyde-Smith won a US Senate special election runoff in conservative Mississippi on Tuesday, defeating a black challenger after a campaign that recalled the history of racist violence in the deep South state. The white former state lawmaker, who was appointed to the Senate in April, overcame a controversy over her comment on public hangings to defeat Democrat Mike Espy in the last contest of the 2018 election cycle. Hyde-Smith, 59, is the first woman elected to Congress from Mississippi. If Espy had won, he would have been the first black senator from Mississippi since shortly after the Civil War. Having been heavily favoured to win the reliably Republican state, Hyde-Smith became engulfed in a political storm over a video showing her praising a supporter at a November 2 event by saying, "If he invited me to a public hanging, I'd be on the front row." The video sparked a furore in a state with a history of racism and violence against blacks, including lynchings, and fueled Democratic hopes of an upset in a state where 38 per cent of the population is black. But Hyde-Smith triumphed by depicting Espy as too liberal for Mississippi, which last elected a Democrat to the Senate in 1982, and by touting her support for President Donald Trump, who won the state by 18 percentage points in 2016. Trump attended two get-out-the-vote rallies in the state on Monday and tweeted his congratulations to Hyde-Smith after the race was called, saying he was "very proud" of her. "Mr President, thank you so much for all of your help," Hyde-Smith said in a victory speech to supporters, calling her to win a triumph of "conservative values." "Mississippians know me and they know my heart," she said. Her victory means Republicans will hold a 53-47 majority in the new US Senate that convenes in January. With almost all precincts tallied, Hyde-Smith led by nearly 8 percentage points. Espy, 64, campaigned as a moderate who would work with Trump and Republicans to benefit the state. He tried to recreate the coalition that propelled Democrat Doug Jones to a Senate win in neighbouring Alabama last year by energizing black voters, particularly women, and winning support from white swing voters. Espy said he called Hyde-Smith to concede the race and wish her well. "She has my prayers as she goes to Washington to unite a very divided Mississippi," he told supporters. The runoff to serve the last two years of former Republican Senator Thad Cochran's term was necessary because neither Espy nor Hyde-Smith gained more than 50 per cent of the vote in a November 6 special election with four candidates. Cochran, 80, resigned earlier this year, citing health concerns. Several businesses, including giant retailer Walmart, had demanded Hyde-Smith return their donations after her public hanging remark. She sparked further controversy when she was shown on another video joking about suppressing liberal student votes, and photographs surfaced of her posing with Confederate artefacts in 2014. She initially refused to apologize for the hanging remark, but said in a debate last week that she was sorry "for anyone that was offended." She accused Espy of twisting her words for political gain. Espy denied the charge and said, "we all know what came out of your mouth." He has said the comment perpetuated negative stereotypes about Mississippi and hurt investment.

Republican Hyde-Smith wins racially charged US Senate race in Mississippi

Texas Republican Ted Cruz won re-election to a second term in the Senate, beating off Democratic challenger Beto O'Rourke in one of America's most expensive and closely watched midterm races, US news networks projected on Tuesday.

Cruz - a 47-year-old who battled President Donald Trump for the 2016 Republican presidential nomination - overcame major deficits in fundraising to ultimately defeat his charismatic rival, whose campaign electrified Democrats across the country and was backed by a galaxy of stars from Beyonce to Jim Carrey and LeBron James.

A win for O'Rourke, 46, a three-time congressman and former punk rocker whose given names are Robert Francis but who goes by Beto, would have amounted to a political earthquake in the reliably Republican "Lone Star State," but he ultimately fell short.

Cruz's campaign meanwhile was given a late boost by his former rival Trump, who belatedly stumped for the Cuban American two weeks before the vote.

During the 2016 campaign, Trump infamously insulted the looks of Cruz's wife Heidi, vaguely suggested Cruz's father had played a role in John F Kennedy's assassination and tagged him with the nickname "Lyin' Ted" - an insult used by O'Rourke.

Cruz's victory represented a significant boost for the Republican party as it looked set to retain control of the upper chamber of Congress.

Texas Republican Ted Cruz won re-election to a second term in the Senate, beating off Democratic challenger Beto O'Rourke in one of America's most expensive and closely watched midterm races, US news networks projected on Tuesday.

Texas Republican Ted Cruz won re-election to a second term in the Senate, beating off Democratic challenger Beto O'Rourke in one of America's most expensive and closely watched midterm races, US news networks projected on Tuesday. Cruz - a 47-year-old who battled President Donald Trump for the 2016 Republican presidential nomination - overcame major deficits in fundraising to ultimately defeat his charismatic rival, whose campaign electrified Democrats across the country and was backed by a galaxy of stars from Beyonce to Jim Carrey and LeBron James. A win for O'Rourke, 46, a three-time congressman and former punk rocker whose given names are Robert Francis but who goes by Beto, would have amounted to a political earthquake in the reliably Republican "Lone Star State," but he ultimately fell short. Cruz's campaign meanwhile was given a late boost by his former rival Trump, who belatedly stumped for the Cuban American two weeks before the vote. During the 2016 campaign, Trump infamously insulted the looks of Cruz's wife Heidi, vaguely suggested Cruz's father had played a role in John F Kennedy's assassination and tagged him with the nickname "Lyin' Ted" - an insult used by O'Rourke. Cruz's victory represented a significant boost for the Republican party as it looked set to retain control of the upper chamber of Congress.

Ted Cruz re-elected to Senate in Texas, beats off Beto O'Rourke

Republicans' loss of control of the US&nbsp;House of Representatives will leave the party with a more conservative congressional caucus that is even more bound to President Donald Trump and more united around his provocative rhetoric and hardline agenda.

Although moderate Republicans who remain in the House may view the result as an indictment of Trump's strategy of focusing relentlessly on illegal immigration in the final stretch of the campaign, they will be a small minority.

Major US&nbsp;TV networks projected Democrats would take control of the House while Republicans would retain the majority in the Senate.

Many Republicans who lost their seats were moderating from suburban-heavy districts who tried to keep some distance from Trump and his rhetoric, but lost anyway. That leaves a shrunken core dominated by conservatives from rural areas whose constituents overwhelmingly support Trump.

In short, Trump will stay Trump. Although some Republicans may blame him for Tuesday's losses, they are unlikely to be emboldened to rebel, especially given that the party kept control of the Senate.

Over the past two years, the president has shown little inclination to change his slash-and-burn style or turn conciliatory. He knows that he remains without question the most popular figure in his party.

Now, Trump begins his run for re-election in earnest, where he will make every effort to galvanize his base of passionate supporters.

That means that even in the face of stronger Democratic opposition, Trump is likely to advocate for his "America First" agenda that prioritizes hot-button issues, such as illegal immigration and trade protectionism. This, in turn, will accelerate his dramatic reshaping of a party that for decades was defined by fiscal, social and national security conservatism.

Knowing that House Democrats will not approve funding for a wall along the US&nbsp;border, for example, will not keep Trump from continuing to make it an issue. In fact, he may find it more politically effective to have House Democrats as a foil.

The surviving Republican members in the House, too, will have little interest in cooperating with the new Democratic majority, leaving Republican congressional power focused in the Senate and the government largely gridlocked.

“A Democratic House means that if the president wants to get things done, he’s going to have to work across the aisle," said Jason McGrath, a Democratic pollster in Chicago. "He hasn’t shown any inclination to do that, but it will be interesting to see if this is a moment he will want to govern rather than just make points.”

Suburban shift

The shift has long-term implications for Republicans in districts that flipped Democratic on Tuesday and gives Democrats an opportunity to build on gains in once-reliably Republican suburbs where education levels and incomes are above the national average - and where skepticism of Trump runs deep.

The party already faced challenges in trying to grow beyond its base of middle-class Trump supporters, white men, and evangelicals. It has lost ground among women, suburban voters, voters with college degrees, while showing little ability to win over young and minority voters.

That will almost certainly continue if a shrinking congressional caucus paves the way for greater fealty to Trump.

In the Senate, centrist Democrats from states that Trump won in 2016 such as Joe Donnelly in Indiana and Heidi Heitkamp in North Dakota were replaced by conservative Republicans who may credit their victories to the president.

Moreover, Trump’s fiercest Republican critics in the Senate, Bob Corker and Jeff Flake, are retiring. So is Paul Ryan, the Republican speaker of the House who at times differed with the president’s tone, if not his policies.

All of it leaves Trump a more dominant force in the party than he was even two years ago. And Trump, who campaigned heavily in rural states, can point to those Senate wins as evidence he can still drive his voters to the polls.

Low expectations

All year, Republicans have been clear-eyed about their potential losses in the House, and so likely will not view Tuesday's result as a warning sign the party needs to change its ways.

Historically, the party in power loses several seats during the first midterm election of a new president, particularly if his national job approval ratings are low.

Democrats lost 63 seats in 2010 with Barack Obama in the White House, handing control to the Republicans, who brought Obama’s agenda largely to a halt.

In the closing weeks of the election, Trump stoked fears over a caravan of migrants approaching the United States from Central America and warned of the threat from liberal “mobs” if Democrats won power, trying to stoke his base to the polls.

Several Republican candidates and advocacy groups such as the Congressional Leadership Fund joined in, concluding that the party’s economic message was not resonating. In two years, should economic growth slow, the party may not even have that argument.

With Congress expected to produce little in the way of meaningful legislation in coming months, Republican candidates in the next election cycle are likely to have few accomplishments to point to. A 2017 tax-cut law will be a distant memory.

Those Republican candidates who run for office with Trump at the top of the ticket will have a difficult time establishing their own political identities – and they may not want to, as US&nbsp;presidents by and large win their second terms.

Republicans' loss of control of the US House of Representatives will leave the party with a more conservative congressional caucus that is even more bound to President Donald Trump and more united around his provocative rhetoric and hardline agenda.

Republicans' loss of control of the US House of Representatives will leave the party with a more conservative congressional caucus that is even more bound to President Donald Trump and more united around his provocative rhetoric and hardline agenda. Although moderate Republicans who remain in the House may view the result as an indictment of Trump's strategy of focusing relentlessly on illegal immigration in the final stretch of the campaign, they will be a small minority. Major US TV networks projected Democrats would take control of the House while Republicans would retain the majority in the Senate. Many Republicans who lost their seats were moderating from suburban-heavy districts who tried to keep some distance from Trump and his rhetoric, but lost anyway. That leaves a shrunken core dominated by conservatives from rural areas whose constituents overwhelmingly support Trump. In short, Trump will stay Trump. Although some Republicans may blame him for Tuesday's losses, they are unlikely to be emboldened to rebel, especially given that the party kept control of the Senate. Over the past two years, the president has shown little inclination to change his slash-and-burn style or turn conciliatory. He knows that he remains without question the most popular figure in his party. Now, Trump begins his run for re-election in earnest, where he will make every effort to galvanize his base of passionate supporters. That means that even in the face of stronger Democratic opposition, Trump is likely to advocate for his "America First" agenda that prioritizes hot-button issues, such as illegal immigration and trade protectionism. This, in turn, will accelerate his dramatic reshaping of a party that for decades was defined by fiscal, social and national security conservatism. Knowing that House Democrats will not approve funding for a wall along the US border, for example, will not keep Trump from continuing to make it an issue. In fact, he may find it more politically effective to have House Democrats as a foil. The surviving Republican members in the House, too, will have little interest in cooperating with the new Democratic majority, leaving Republican congressional power focused in the Senate and the government largely gridlocked. “A Democratic House means that if the president wants to get things done, he’s going to have to work across the aisle," said Jason McGrath, a Democratic pollster in Chicago. "He hasn’t shown any inclination to do that, but it will be interesting to see if this is a moment he will want to govern rather than just make points.” Suburban shift The shift has long-term implications for Republicans in districts that flipped Democratic on Tuesday and gives Democrats an opportunity to build on gains in once-reliably Republican suburbs where education levels and incomes are above the national average - and where skepticism of Trump runs deep. The party already faced challenges in trying to grow beyond its base of middle-class Trump supporters, white men, and evangelicals. It has lost ground among women, suburban voters, voters with college degrees, while showing little ability to win over young and minority voters. That will almost certainly continue if a shrinking congressional caucus paves the way for greater fealty to Trump. In the Senate, centrist Democrats from states that Trump won in 2016 such as Joe Donnelly in Indiana and Heidi Heitkamp in North Dakota were replaced by conservative Republicans who may credit their victories to the president. Moreover, Trump’s fiercest Republican critics in the Senate, Bob Corker and Jeff Flake, are retiring. So is Paul Ryan, the Republican speaker of the House who at times differed with the president’s tone, if not his policies. All of it leaves Trump a more dominant force in the party than he was even two years ago. And Trump, who campaigned heavily in rural states, can point to those Senate wins as evidence he can still drive his voters to the polls. Low expectations All year, Republicans have been clear-eyed about their potential losses in the House, and so likely will not view Tuesday's result as a warning sign the party needs to change its ways. Historically, the party in power loses several seats during the first midterm election of a new president, particularly if his national job approval ratings are low. Democrats lost 63 seats in 2010 with Barack Obama in the White House, handing control to the Republicans, who brought Obama’s agenda largely to a halt. In the closing weeks of the election, Trump stoked fears over a caravan of migrants approaching the United States from Central America and warned of the threat from liberal “mobs” if Democrats won power, trying to stoke his base to the polls. Several Republican candidates and advocacy groups such as the Congressional Leadership Fund joined in, concluding that the party’s economic message was not resonating. In two years, should economic growth slow, the party may not even have that argument. With Congress expected to produce little in the way of meaningful legislation in coming months, Republican candidates in the next election cycle are likely to have few accomplishments to point to. A 2017 tax-cut law will be a distant memory. Those Republican candidates who run for office with Trump at the top of the ticket will have a difficult time establishing their own political identities – and they may not want to, as US presidents by and large win their second terms.

Loss of US House leaves Republicans more tied to Trump than ever: Report

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