The highly competitive U.S. automotive market is experiencing significant challenges, including weak pricing, excessive inventory levels, and logistical difficulties. These issues have negatively impacted the profits of major automakers such as Ford Motor, Stellantis, and Nissan, causing their stock prices to decline on Thursday as they urgently seek solutions.

&nbsp;

The global automotive industry is facing a deteriorating sales outlook across key markets, particularly in the United States. Simultaneously, manufacturers are grappling with the costly transition to electric vehicles and intensifying competition from more affordable Chinese competitors.

&nbsp;

Ford, the U.S. automaker, saw its shares plummet by 16 per cent&nbsp;following the release of its second-quarter earnings, which fell short of analysts' expectations. The company's performance was hampered by high warranty expenses and losses in its electric vehicle division. Stellantis, listed on the Milan stock exchange, experienced a nearly 9 per cent&nbsp;drop in share value, reaching its lowest point in almost a year. Nissan's stock price fell by 7 per cent, which in turn affected the shares of its French alliance partner, Renault, despite the latter reporting first-half profits that exceeded estimates.

&nbsp;

The automotive companies have been burdened by excess inventory in the United States, partly due to a June software malfunction that disrupted or halted operations at numerous dealerships. According to Cox Automotive, the supply of new vehicles at the beginning of July was more than twice that of the same period last year. Cox analysts anticipate inventory levels to normalize within a couple of months as the effects of the CDK software outage diminish. Nevertheless, investors remain cautious about elevated inventory levels, especially considering the robust motor vehicle production in the United States.

&nbsp;

Barclays analyst Dan Levy noted in a recent report that most investors have expressed concerns about emerging pricing risks, particularly in light of rising inventory. U.S. federal data indicates that average spending per vehicle has recently decreased.

&nbsp;

Lance Woelfer, Honda's U.S. sales chief, stated that inventory hasn't been a problem for the Japanese automaker in the United States. However, he acknowledged that when any automaker faces difficulties, it affects the entire industry, potentially impacting pricing. Woelfer emphasized that this year has been about balancing inventory and demand, with Honda's U.S. sales expected to increase by 10% in the current year.

&nbsp;

Nissan was severely affected by higher inventory levels, with its fiscal first-quarter profits nearly eliminated. The company was forced to revise its annual outlook downward due to substantial discounting in the U.S. market to clear excess inventory. CEO Makoto Uchida described the task of optimizing inventory buildup in the United States as "tough" and stated that the company would focus on producing better cars that can command higher prices.

&nbsp;

Ford has been struggling with structural inefficiencies and challenges in its electric vehicle business as it strives to gain traction in that market segment. The company's EV and software unit reported an operating loss of USD&nbsp;1.1 billion for the quarter and anticipates losses of up to USD&nbsp;5.5 billion for the year before taxes in that division.

&nbsp;

Stellantis, the world's fourth-largest automaker, announced that it is taking measures to address weak margins and high inventory in the U.S. market after reporting worse-than-expected first-half results. CEO Carlos Tavares stated that he would not hesitate to eliminate underperforming brands from the company's extensive portfolio, asserting, "If they don't make money, we'll shut them down." Since Stellantis was formed in 2021 through the merger of Fiat Chrysler and PSA, Tavares has maintained that all 14 of its brands, including Maserati, Fiat, Peugeot, and Jeep, have a future.

&nbsp;

Although Stellantis has historically achieved higher profit margins than its competitors, Bernstein analysts noted that its margins are now only slightly above those of General Motors, which recently reported solid results and raised its annual profit forecast. The analysts questioned Stellantis' reputation for cost efficiency, as its shares have declined by more than 20&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;this year, the worst performance among major European automakers.

&nbsp;

Hyundai, the world's third-largest automaker by sales, reported strong second-quarter results, boosted by U.S. sales of premium SUV models and hybrid vehicles, which helped offset prolonged weakness in its home market of South Korea.

&nbsp;

Similar to Stellantis, Nissan plans to boost sales through new and refreshed models in the second half of the year, including the Armada and Murano SUVs. However, analyst Seiji Sugiura from Tokai Tokyo Intelligence Laboratory expressed uncertainty about which Nissan vehicles are popular in the United States, stating, "As the competitiveness of the models in their lineup is falling, they have no other choice but to make new vehicles, sell those and hope that they will be popular."

&nbsp;

This situation underscores the complex challenges facing the global automotive industry as it navigates changing consumer preferences, technological transitions, and intense competition in key markets.&nbsp;

The highly competitive U.S. automotive market is experiencing significant challenges, including weak pricing, excessive inventory levels, and logistical difficulties.

The highly competitive U.S. automotive market is experiencing significant challenges, including weak pricing, excessive inventory levels, and logistical difficulties. These issues have negatively impacted the profits of major automakers such as Ford Motor, Stellantis, and Nissan, causing their stock prices to decline on Thursday as they urgently seek solutions. The global automotive industry is facing a deteriorating sales outlook across key markets, particularly in the United States. Simultaneously, manufacturers are grappling with the costly transition to electric vehicles and intensifying competition from more affordable Chinese competitors. Ford, the U.S. automaker, saw its shares plummet by 16 per cent following the release of its second-quarter earnings, which fell short of analysts' expectations. The company's performance was hampered by high warranty expenses and losses in its electric vehicle division. Stellantis, listed on the Milan stock exchange, experienced a nearly 9 per cent drop in share value, reaching its lowest point in almost a year. Nissan's stock price fell by 7 per cent, which in turn affected the shares of its French alliance partner, Renault, despite the latter reporting first-half profits that exceeded estimates. The automotive companies have been burdened by excess inventory in the United States, partly due to a June software malfunction that disrupted or halted operations at numerous dealerships. According to Cox Automotive, the supply of new vehicles at the beginning of July was more than twice that of the same period last year. Cox analysts anticipate inventory levels to normalize within a couple of months as the effects of the CDK software outage diminish. Nevertheless, investors remain cautious about elevated inventory levels, especially considering the robust motor vehicle production in the United States. Barclays analyst Dan Levy noted in a recent report that most investors have expressed concerns about emerging pricing risks, particularly in light of rising inventory. U.S. federal data indicates that average spending per vehicle has recently decreased. Lance Woelfer, Honda's U.S. sales chief, stated that inventory hasn't been a problem for the Japanese automaker in the United States. However, he acknowledged that when any automaker faces difficulties, it affects the entire industry, potentially impacting pricing. Woelfer emphasized that this year has been about balancing inventory and demand, with Honda's U.S. sales expected to increase by 10% in the current year. Nissan was severely affected by higher inventory levels, with its fiscal first-quarter profits nearly eliminated. The company was forced to revise its annual outlook downward due to substantial discounting in the U.S. market to clear excess inventory. CEO Makoto Uchida described the task of optimizing inventory buildup in the United States as "tough" and stated that the company would focus on producing better cars that can command higher prices. Ford has been struggling with structural inefficiencies and challenges in its electric vehicle business as it strives to gain traction in that market segment. The company's EV and software unit reported an operating loss of USD 1.1 billion for the quarter and anticipates losses of up to USD 5.5 billion for the year before taxes in that division. Stellantis, the world's fourth-largest automaker, announced that it is taking measures to address weak margins and high inventory in the U.S. market after reporting worse-than-expected first-half results. CEO Carlos Tavares stated that he would not hesitate to eliminate underperforming brands from the company's extensive portfolio, asserting, "If they don't make money, we'll shut them down." Since Stellantis was formed in 2021 through the merger of Fiat Chrysler and PSA, Tavares has maintained that all 14 of its brands, including Maserati, Fiat, Peugeot, and Jeep, have a future. Although Stellantis has historically achieved higher profit margins than its competitors, Bernstein analysts noted that its margins are now only slightly above those of General Motors, which recently reported solid results and raised its annual profit forecast. The analysts questioned Stellantis' reputation for cost efficiency, as its shares have declined by more than 20 per cent this year, the worst performance among major European automakers. Hyundai, the world's third-largest automaker by sales, reported strong second-quarter results, boosted by U.S. sales of premium SUV models and hybrid vehicles, which helped offset prolonged weakness in its home market of South Korea. Similar to Stellantis, Nissan plans to boost sales through new and refreshed models in the second half of the year, including the Armada and Murano SUVs. However, analyst Seiji Sugiura from Tokai Tokyo Intelligence Laboratory expressed uncertainty about which Nissan vehicles are popular in the United States, stating, "As the competitiveness of the models in their lineup is falling, they have no other choice but to make new vehicles, sell those and hope that they will be popular." This situation underscores the complex challenges facing the global automotive industry as it navigates changing consumer preferences, technological transitions, and intense competition in key markets.

US market proves a headache for global carmakers

The United States has announced sanctions against two indivisuals in South Africa and one from the Democratic Republic of Congo who are allegedly associated with the expanded activities of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).

Islamic state building a network in South Africa?

The United States has announced sanctions against two individuals in South Africa and one from the Democratic Republic of Congo who are allegedly associated with the expanded activities of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).

US sanctions ISIS backers in South Africa, Democratic Republic of Syria

US economic growth blew past expectations in the second quarter, boosted by consumer spending and inventory building despite high interest rates,&nbsp;government data showed Thursday, after a slow start to the year.

The world's biggest economy grew 2.8 per cent in the April to June period, up from 1.4 per cent in the first three months this year, said the Commerce Department.

The figure was markedly above the 1.9 per cent rate economists anticipated -- a reassuring sign that consumption remains resilient.

Watch |&nbsp;US expected to surpass China in economic growth by 2031

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The acceleration "primarily reflected an upturn in private inventory investment and an acceleration in consumer spending," said the Commerce Department.

This was "partly offset by a downturn in residential fixed investment," it added.

While sectors like manufacturing and housing have been struggling after the Federal Reserve rapidly hiked interest rates in 2022 to combat surging inflation, consumption has been stronger than analysts expected.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-economy-slows-amid-import-surge-inflation-accelerates-715182">Also read |&nbsp;US economy slows amid import surge; inflation accelerates</a>

This gave the economy a boost despite rates hovering at their highest levels in more than two decades, making borrowing more expensive for individuals and companies.

A key factor underpinning consumption has been the robust labour market, which saw continued wage growth and businesses reluctant to let go of workers after difficulties in hiring during the pandemic.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US economic growth blew past expectations in the second quarter, boosted by consumer spending and inventory building despite high interest rates, government data showed Thursday, after a slow start to the year.

US economic growth blew past expectations in the second quarter, boosted by consumer spending and inventory building despite high interest rates, government data showed Thursday, after a slow start to the year. The world's biggest economy grew 2.8 per cent in the April to June period, up from 1.4 per cent in the first three months this year, said the Commerce Department. The figure was markedly above the 1.9 per cent rate economists anticipated -- a reassuring sign that consumption remains resilient. Watch | US expected to surpass China in economic growth by 2031 × The acceleration "primarily reflected an upturn in private inventory investment and an acceleration in consumer spending," said the Commerce Department. This was "partly offset by a downturn in residential fixed investment," it added. While sectors like manufacturing and housing have been struggling after the Federal Reserve rapidly hiked interest rates in 2022 to combat surging inflation, consumption has been stronger than analysts expected. Also read | US economy slows amid import surge; inflation accelerates This gave the economy a boost despite rates hovering at their highest levels in more than two decades, making borrowing more expensive for individuals and companies. A key factor underpinning consumption has been the robust labour market, which saw continued wage growth and businesses reluctant to let go of workers after difficulties in hiring during the pandemic. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Beating expectations, US economy grew at 2.8% in latest quarter

Democrat Congressman from Philadelphia, Brendan Boyle has called on US Secret Service (USSS) chief Kimberly Cheatle to "resign immediately" after former president Donald Trump narrowly avoided an assassination attempt.&nbsp;

Boyle has become the first Democrat leader to come out and openly demand Cheatle's resignation, joining a chorus of Republicans who have reiterated a similar demand.&nbsp;

"I am calling on Director Cheatle to resign immediately following last weekend's shooting of a presidential candidate in Western Pennsylvania. The evidence coming to light has shown unacceptable operational failures,"&nbsp;Boyle wrote on X, formerly Twitter.&nbsp;

"I have no confidence in the leadership of the United States Secret Service if Director Cheatle chooses to remain in her position," he added.&nbsp;

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Director Cheatle must resign immediately. 
 
My statement calling for the resignation of United States Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle: <a href="https://t.co/q0ONU8PlAF">pic.twitter.com/q0ONU8PlAF</a>
— Rep. Brendan Boyle (@CongBoyle) <a href="https://twitter.com/CongBoyle/status/1814831914588533104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Cheatle has been under immense pressure from all quarters to tender her resignation but so far, she has refused to step down. She will, however,&nbsp;testify before the House Oversight Committee on Monday (Jul 22) regarding the failures that led to the near-catastrophic assassination attempt.&nbsp;

Thomas Crooks, the shooter who took aim at Trump, was merely 130 metres away from the former president and managed to compose himself on the roof of the building without any fuss.

The Secret Service agents did not spot him till he had fired multiple rounds and only neutralised him after&nbsp;Trump suffered a bullet wound on his right ear while a rallygoer was killed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Division in our society must be healed: Trump in first speech after he survived assassination

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<h2>Secret Service denied security to Trump</h2>

A Democrat leader demanding Cheatle's resignation comes after a report claimed that the Secret Service&nbsp;denied requests for additional resources and manpower to protect Trump.&nbsp;

The premier security agency admitted that in the past two years, several requests were put forth by Trump's security detail that were not granted.&nbsp;The ex-president's team had requested more agents and magnetometers at large public events he attended, as well as extra snipers for outdoor venues.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/secret-service-chief-confronted-by-gop-senators-over-trump-assassination-bid-742056">Also read |&nbsp;US Secret Service chief confronted by GOP senators over Trump assassination bid</a>

Notably, quizzed after the assassination bid on Trump, Anthony Guglielmi, a spokesman for the Secret Service, had outrightly quashed the reports of denying security to the Republican leader.&nbsp;

“The assertion that a member of the former president’s security team requested additional security resources that the US Secret Service or the Department of Homeland Security rebuffed is absolutely false,” he said at the time.

However,&nbsp;Guglielmi has changed the stance now and claims that the Secret Service works in a 'challenging' environment' that may have led to the rejection of requests to beef up Trump's security.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Democrat Congressman from Philadelphia, Brendan Boyle has called on US Secret Service (USSS) chief Kimberly Cheatle to "resign immediately" after former president Donald Trump narrowly avoided an assassination attempt.

Democrat Congressman from Philadelphia, Brendan Boyle has called on US Secret Service (USSS) chief Kimberly Cheatle to "resign immediately" after former president Donald Trump narrowly avoided an assassination attempt. Boyle has become the first Democrat leader to come out and openly demand Cheatle's resignation, joining a chorus of Republicans who have reiterated a similar demand. "I am calling on Director Cheatle to resign immediately following last weekend's shooting of a presidential candidate in Western Pennsylvania. The evidence coming to light has shown unacceptable operational failures," Boyle wrote on X, formerly Twitter. "I have no confidence in the leadership of the United States Secret Service if Director Cheatle chooses to remain in her position," he added. Director Cheatle must resign immediately. My statement calling for the resignation of United States Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle: pic.twitter.com/q0ONU8PlAF — Rep. Brendan Boyle (@CongBoyle) July 21, 2024 × Cheatle has been under immense pressure from all quarters to tender her resignation but so far, she has refused to step down. She will, however, testify before the House Oversight Committee on Monday (Jul 22) regarding the failures that led to the near-catastrophic assassination attempt. Thomas Crooks, the shooter who took aim at Trump, was merely 130 metres away from the former president and managed to compose himself on the roof of the building without any fuss. The Secret Service agents did not spot him till he had fired multiple rounds and only neutralised him after Trump suffered a bullet wound on his right ear while a rallygoer was killed. Also watch | Division in our society must be healed: Trump in first speech after he survived assassination Secret Service denied security to Trump A Democrat leader demanding Cheatle's resignation comes after a report claimed that the Secret Service denied requests for additional resources and manpower to protect Trump. The premier security agency admitted that in the past two years, several requests were put forth by Trump's security detail that were not granted. The ex-president's team had requested more agents and magnetometers at large public events he attended, as well as extra snipers for outdoor venues. Also read | US Secret Service chief confronted by GOP senators over Trump assassination bid Notably, quizzed after the assassination bid on Trump, Anthony Guglielmi, a spokesman for the Secret Service, had outrightly quashed the reports of denying security to the Republican leader. “The assertion that a member of the former president’s security team requested additional security resources that the US Secret Service or the Department of Homeland Security rebuffed is absolutely false,” he said at the time. However, Guglielmi has changed the stance now and claims that the Secret Service works in a 'challenging' environment' that may have led to the rejection of requests to beef up Trump's security. (With inputs from agencies)

First Democrat leader calls for Secret Service chief to resign over Trump assassination bid

A civil war-like situation is brewing within the Democrat ranks where voters as well as leaders are no longer in favour of incumbent United States President&nbsp;Joe Biden continuing his re-election bid. According to a new Suffolk University/Boston Globe poll, nearly two-thirds of&nbsp;Massachusetts Democrats and left-leaning voters want a nominee other than Biden to take on his Republican rival Donald Trump in November's election.&nbsp;

While GOP lawmakers have uniformly embraced Trump with MAGA voters more united than ever after the failed assassination bid against the former president, the Democrats continue to wait anxiously about the future of their presidential nominee.&nbsp;

Nearly 69&nbsp;per cent of Republican-leaning voters said they are satisfied with Trump as the party’s nominee.&nbsp;On the other hand, only 29 per cent of Democrat and Democratic-leaning voters are in favour of Biden. 64 per cent said they would prefer if the party put forward someone else.

<h2>What is Biden saying?</h2>

Biden said he would only consider dropping out of the race if a doctor told him directly that he had a medical condition that made that necessary.

“If I had some medical condition that emerged, if somebody, if doctors came to me and said, you got this problem and that problem,” Biden said in a recent&nbsp;interview.&nbsp;

The US president&nbsp;conceded that he “made a serious mistake in the whole debate” and would re-evaluate his decision if one of his doctors changed their assessment of him.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-elections-rnc-2024-speech-will-close-border-for-illegal-immigrants-trump-742315">Watch |&nbsp;US Elections | RNC 2024 speech: Will close border for illegal immigrants: Trump</a>

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<h2>What are Biden's&nbsp;peers saying?</h2>

Former president Barack Obama, who steadfastly supported Biden&nbsp;during his term, has&nbsp;also now told allies that his once running mate&nbsp;needed to reconsider his re-election bid, according to news agency&nbsp;AFP.&nbsp;

Obama is of the view that there was no path to victory for the 81-year-old who&nbsp;should "seriously consider the viability of his candidacy".&nbsp;

Meanwhile, former House Speaker, Nancy Pelosi, earlier this week held a private conversation with Biden where she told the president that he could not beat Trump, come the November elections.&nbsp;

Similarly, Representative Adam Schiff, a key ally from California, urged the incumbent president&nbsp;to “pass the torch”. Schiff became the first Democrat leader to publically urge Biden to step aside since the failed assassination attempt against Trump.&nbsp;

“A second Trump presidency will undermine the very foundation of our democracy, and I have serious concerns about whether the President can defeat Donald Trump in November,” Schiff said.

If Biden does step down, Democrats are pinning their hopes on Vice President Kamala Harris to take the fight to Trump.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A civil war-like situation is brewing within the Democrat ranks where voters as well as leaders are no longer in favour of incumbent United States President Joe Biden continuing his re-election bid.

A civil war-like situation is brewing within the Democrat ranks where voters as well as leaders are no longer in favour of incumbent United States President Joe Biden continuing his re-election bid. According to a new Suffolk University/Boston Globe poll, nearly two-thirds of Massachusetts Democrats and left-leaning voters want a nominee other than Biden to take on his Republican rival Donald Trump in November's election. While GOP lawmakers have uniformly embraced Trump with MAGA voters more united than ever after the failed assassination bid against the former president, the Democrats continue to wait anxiously about the future of their presidential nominee. Nearly 69 per cent of Republican-leaning voters said they are satisfied with Trump as the party’s nominee. On the other hand, only 29 per cent of Democrat and Democratic-leaning voters are in favour of Biden. 64 per cent said they would prefer if the party put forward someone else. What is Biden saying? Biden said he would only consider dropping out of the race if a doctor told him directly that he had a medical condition that made that necessary. “If I had some medical condition that emerged, if somebody, if doctors came to me and said, you got this problem and that problem,” Biden said in a recent interview. The US president conceded that he “made a serious mistake in the whole debate” and would re-evaluate his decision if one of his doctors changed their assessment of him. Watch | US Elections | RNC 2024 speech: Will close border for illegal immigrants: Trump × What are Biden's peers saying? Former president Barack Obama, who steadfastly supported Biden during his term, has also now told allies that his once running mate needed to reconsider his re-election bid, according to news agency AFP. Obama is of the view that there was no path to victory for the 81-year-old who should "seriously consider the viability of his candidacy". Meanwhile, former House Speaker, Nancy Pelosi, earlier this week held a private conversation with Biden where she told the president that he could not beat Trump, come the November elections. Similarly, Representative Adam Schiff, a key ally from California, urged the incumbent president to “pass the torch”. Schiff became the first Democrat leader to publically urge Biden to step aside since the failed assassination attempt against Trump. “A second Trump presidency will undermine the very foundation of our democracy, and I have serious concerns about whether the President can defeat Donald Trump in November,” Schiff said. If Biden does step down, Democrats are pinning their hopes on Vice President Kamala Harris to take the fight to Trump. (With inputs from agencies)

Will Biden quit US presidential race? What are Democrats saying and what do the polls suggest?

US President Joe Biden doubled down on his insistence that he will stay in the White House race, despite a growing Democrat revolt that raised speculation he could bow out as soon as this weekend.

“The stakes are high, and the choice is clear. Together, we will win," the 81-year-old said in a written statement from the Delaware beach home where he is recovering from Covid.

Biden vowed to return to the campaign trail next week, and took aim at Donald Trump's "dark" speech accepting his nomination at the Republican National Convention on Thursday.

But his defiance came as six more House Democrats and another senator joined those publicly calling on him to quit November's election out of concerns over slipping polls and worries about his health.

Four of them did so jointly in a letter urging Biden to "pass the torch." Significantly, they included members of the crucial Black and Hispanic caucuses that had so far stayed loyal to him.

Around 25 House Democrats and three senators have now called on Biden to drop out since a disastrous debate performance against Trump and a series of polls showing the Republican on course to win back the White House.

Reports sourced to anonymous sources swirled in US media that Biden was making a plan for a dignified exit in the coming days, accepting warnings from senior Democrats that his time was up.

But his campaign also pushed back, saying that while there had been some "slippage" in support, he was still the best candidate.

"Absolutely the president's in this race," campaign chairwoman Jen O'Malley Dillon told MSNBC's Morning Joe program. "Joe Biden is more committed than ever to beat Donald Trump."

Watch:&nbsp;US Presidential Elections: Biden 'soul-searching' about dropping out of race?

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<h2>'Fight on our hands'</h2>

The pressure had mounted dramatically on Thursday with reports that former president Barack Obama, former House speaker Nancy Pelosi and the party's current leaders in the Senate and House had all expressed concerns behind the scenes.

The current House Democratic minority leader, Hakeem Jeffries, was evasive on Friday, saying "it's his decision to make".

"The ticket that exists right now is a ticket we can win on," he told WNYC radio station, adding however that "we have a fight on our hands."

Biden beat Trump in 2020, becoming the oldest president in US history in the process. But as concerns mount over his health, a series of recent polls have shown him trailing Trump in the 2024 race, including in all battleground states that are essential to winning the US electoral college system.

Amid party defections, media speculation is mounting that Biden is using his weekend in Delaware to consult family members and mull over the path ahead.

NBC News reported that some of Biden's family had "discussed what an exit from his campaign might look like" although there was no final decision to do so.

It would involve a "carefully calculated plan" based on his own timing, to give some dignity to what would be a historically late decision by a sitting US president not to run.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-absolutely-staying-in-race-despite-dipping-support-asserts-campaign-chair-742456">Also read |&nbsp;Biden 'absolutely' staying in race despite dipping support, asserts campaign chair</a>

Any decision by Biden to step aside less than four months from the November 5 election would also have to try to avoid chaos in the Democratic party over his successor as nominee.

The frontrunner would be Vice President Kamala Harris, whose prospects in a match-up with Trump have been quietly gamed by campaign officials as the crisis around Biden grew.

The split-screen has been particularly stark as Trump gave a triumphant speech at the Republican convention in Milwaukee on Thursday, just days after surviving an assassination bid.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US President Joe Biden doubled down on his insistence that he will stay in the White House race, despite a growing Democrat revolt that raised speculation he could bow out as soon as this weekend.

US President Joe Biden doubled down on his insistence that he will stay in the White House race, despite a growing Democrat revolt that raised speculation he could bow out as soon as this weekend. “The stakes are high, and the choice is clear. Together, we will win," the 81-year-old said in a written statement from the Delaware beach home where he is recovering from Covid. Biden vowed to return to the campaign trail next week, and took aim at Donald Trump's "dark" speech accepting his nomination at the Republican National Convention on Thursday. But his defiance came as six more House Democrats and another senator joined those publicly calling on him to quit November's election out of concerns over slipping polls and worries about his health. Four of them did so jointly in a letter urging Biden to "pass the torch." Significantly, they included members of the crucial Black and Hispanic caucuses that had so far stayed loyal to him. Around 25 House Democrats and three senators have now called on Biden to drop out since a disastrous debate performance against Trump and a series of polls showing the Republican on course to win back the White House. Reports sourced to anonymous sources swirled in US media that Biden was making a plan for a dignified exit in the coming days, accepting warnings from senior Democrats that his time was up. But his campaign also pushed back, saying that while there had been some "slippage" in support, he was still the best candidate. "Absolutely the president's in this race," campaign chairwoman Jen O'Malley Dillon told MSNBC's Morning Joe program. "Joe Biden is more committed than ever to beat Donald Trump." Watch: US Presidential Elections: Biden 'soul-searching' about dropping out of race? 'Fight on our hands' The pressure had mounted dramatically on Thursday with reports that former president Barack Obama, former House speaker Nancy Pelosi and the party's current leaders in the Senate and House had all expressed concerns behind the scenes. The current House Democratic minority leader, Hakeem Jeffries, was evasive on Friday, saying "it's his decision to make". "The ticket that exists right now is a ticket we can win on," he told WNYC radio station, adding however that "we have a fight on our hands." Biden beat Trump in 2020, becoming the oldest president in US history in the process. But as concerns mount over his health, a series of recent polls have shown him trailing Trump in the 2024 race, including in all battleground states that are essential to winning the US electoral college system. Amid party defections, media speculation is mounting that Biden is using his weekend in Delaware to consult family members and mull over the path ahead. NBC News reported that some of Biden's family had "discussed what an exit from his campaign might look like" although there was no final decision to do so. It would involve a "carefully calculated plan" based on his own timing, to give some dignity to what would be a historically late decision by a sitting US president not to run. Also read | Biden 'absolutely' staying in race despite dipping support, asserts campaign chair Any decision by Biden to step aside less than four months from the November 5 election would also have to try to avoid chaos in the Democratic party over his successor as nominee. The frontrunner would be Vice President Kamala Harris, whose prospects in a match-up with Trump have been quietly gamed by campaign officials as the crisis around Biden grew. The split-screen has been particularly stark as Trump gave a triumphant speech at the Republican convention in Milwaukee on Thursday, just days after surviving an assassination bid. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

'Stakes are high': Biden vows to win the presidential race despite dark clouds over campaign

Former US President Donald Trump has credited an immigration chart for saving his life after an assassination attempt was made against him on Saturday (Jul&nbsp;13) in Butler County, Pennsylvania. Trump moved his head 'quarter of an inch' to look at border patrol statistics on the chart during his rally speech which eventually proved to be the difference between life and death for him.&nbsp;

Representative Ronny Jackson of Texas who was Trump's&nbsp;White House physician stated he held a telephone conversation with the Republican leader who told him about the chart.&nbsp;

“He [Trump] goes, ‘The border patrol saved my life,’” Jackson told The New York Times.&nbsp;

“‘I was going over that border patrol chart. If I hadn’t pointed at that chart and turned my head to look at it, that bullet would have hit me right in the head.’”

Jackson, who flew from New Jersey to Texas to meet his former patient, added that Trump "wasn't the least bit flustered" by the events of July 13.&nbsp;

Trump also held a phone interview with Fox News'&nbsp;Brett Baier who reiterated&nbsp;that the ex-president looked at the chart "early" and was then shot in the ear.&nbsp;

Trump referenced one of the pictures that showed the bullet missing him and said the doctor he spoke to stated, “if that bullet was a quarter of an inch different position, he would not be talking to that doctor today,” Baier added.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Donald Trump rally shooting: What we know so far

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-17="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-rally-shooting-what-we-know-so-far-740770/embed" width="560"></iframe>

<h2>'It was God alone'</h2>

After the incident, Trump took to his Truth Social handle and said 'God alone' prevented the unthinkable from happening.&nbsp;

"It was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening. We will fear not, but instead remain resilient in our faith and defiant in the face of wickedness. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families," Trump wrote.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-assassination-attempt-gunman-who-opened-fire-had-explosives-in-his-car-740823">Also read |&nbsp;Trump assassination attempt: Gunman who opened fire had explosives in his car</a>

"We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed," he added.

Earlier on Sunday, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) identified the shooter as 20-year-old&nbsp;Thomas Matthew Crooks.&nbsp;He was a registered Republican, according to state voter records but also donated to the Democrats after Biden came to power.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former US President Donald Trump has credited an immigration chart for saving his life after an assassination attempt was made against him on Saturday (Jul 13) in Butler County, Pennsylvania.

Former US President Donald Trump has credited an immigration chart for saving his life after an assassination attempt was made against him on Saturday (Jul 13) in Butler County, Pennsylvania. Trump moved his head 'quarter of an inch' to look at border patrol statistics on the chart during his rally speech which eventually proved to be the difference between life and death for him. Representative Ronny Jackson of Texas who was Trump's White House physician stated he held a telephone conversation with the Republican leader who told him about the chart. “He [Trump] goes, ‘The border patrol saved my life,’” Jackson told The New York Times. “‘I was going over that border patrol chart. If I hadn’t pointed at that chart and turned my head to look at it, that bullet would have hit me right in the head.’” Jackson, who flew from New Jersey to Texas to meet his former patient, added that Trump "wasn't the least bit flustered" by the events of July 13. Trump also held a phone interview with Fox News' Brett Baier who reiterated that the ex-president looked at the chart "early" and was then shot in the ear. Trump referenced one of the pictures that showed the bullet missing him and said the doctor he spoke to stated, “if that bullet was a quarter of an inch different position, he would not be talking to that doctor today,” Baier added. Also watch | Donald Trump rally shooting: What we know so far 'It was God alone' After the incident, Trump took to his Truth Social handle and said 'God alone' prevented the unthinkable from happening. "It was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening. We will fear not, but instead remain resilient in our faith and defiant in the face of wickedness. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families," Trump wrote. Also read | Trump assassination attempt: Gunman who opened fire had explosives in his car "We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed," he added. Earlier on Sunday, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) identified the shooter as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks. He was a registered Republican, according to state voter records but also donated to the Democrats after Biden came to power. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump credits 'border patrol chart' for saving his life from assassination attempt

Donald Trump Rally Shooting:&nbsp;The political bigwigs in the United States and the world came together to condemn the attack on former president Donald Trump at a rally on Saturday (Jul 13). President Joe Biden led the pack by posting a message that stated he was 'grateful' that Trump was safe.&nbsp;

“I’m grateful to hear that he’s safe and doing well. I’m praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety," wrote Biden.&nbsp;

“There’s no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.”

Biden said he had tried to get in touch withTrump who was busy with the doctors but added that his Republican rival was "doing well".&nbsp;

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I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trump’s rally in Pennsylvania. 
 
I’m grateful to hear that he’s safe and doing well. I’m praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information. 
 
Jill and I are grateful to the Secret…
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1812275407044940079?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, Vice President Kamala Harris said,&nbsp;“Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured."

“We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.”

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro also criticised the shooting and said security agencies were probing the case.&nbsp;

“Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable.&nbsp;It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States.I have been briefed on the situation. Police are on the scene in Butler County and working with our federal and local partners," Shapiro posted on X.&nbsp;

Among international leaders, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was 'deeply concerned' by the attack on his friend.&nbsp;

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Deeply concerned by the attack on my friend, former President Donald Trump. Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him speedy recovery. 
 
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1812315611940176344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed shock at the attack on Trump.&nbsp;

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Sara and I were shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump. We pray for his safety and speedy recovery.
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1812260355718201659?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Newly-crowned UK Prime Minister, Keir Starmer said he was appalled by the shooting.&nbsp;

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I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trump's rally and we send him and his family our best wishes. 
 
Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack.
— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) <a href="https://twitter.com/Keir_Starmer/status/1812279718621716489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Billionaire Elon Musk called for the chief of the US Security Service to resign.&nbsp;

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The head of the Secret Service and the leader of this security detail should resign <a href="https://t.co/ihlEC5NP1w">https://t.co/ihlEC5NP1w</a>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1812278791105913068?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

<h2>Trump issues statement</h2>

The incident transpired in&nbsp;Butler, Pennsylvania where Trump was addressing a packed crowd gathered to cheer him on the presidential trail. Footage showed the bullet piercing his ear as the former president grimaced and later ducked under the podium. A series of shots fired could be heard.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-dodges-death-as-gunman-shoots-at-him-during-campaign-rally-in-pennsylvania-740605">Also read |&nbsp;Donald Trump dodges death as gunman shoots at him during Campaign Rally in Pennsylvania</a>

The US Secret Service Agents quickly swarmed Trump and rushed him off stage to a waiting vehicle. Trump walked off with his fist raised.&nbsp;

"I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured," Trump said post the incident.&nbsp;

"It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear," he added.&nbsp;

Trump signed off saying that he immediately knew he was shot and felt the bullet ripping through the skin.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump Rally Shooting: The political bigwigs in the United States and the world came together to condemn the attack on former president Donald Trump at a rally on Saturday (Jul 13).

Donald Trump Rally Shooting: The political bigwigs in the United States and the world came together to condemn the attack on former president Donald Trump at a rally on Saturday (Jul 13). President Joe Biden led the pack by posting a message that stated he was 'grateful' that Trump was safe. “I’m grateful to hear that he’s safe and doing well. I’m praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety," wrote Biden. “There’s no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.” Biden said he had tried to get in touch withTrump who was busy with the doctors but added that his Republican rival was "doing well". I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trump’s rally in Pennsylvania. I’m grateful to hear that he’s safe and doing well. I’m praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret… — President Biden (@POTUS) July 13, 2024 × Meanwhile, Vice President Kamala Harris said, “Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured." “We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.” Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro also criticised the shooting and said security agencies were probing the case. “Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States.I have been briefed on the situation. Police are on the scene in Butler County and working with our federal and local partners," Shapiro posted on X. Among international leaders, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was 'deeply concerned' by the attack on his friend. Deeply concerned by the attack on my friend, former President Donald Trump. Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him speedy recovery. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 14, 2024 × Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed shock at the attack on Trump. Sara and I were shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump. We pray for his safety and speedy recovery. — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) July 13, 2024 × Newly-crowned UK Prime Minister, Keir Starmer said he was appalled by the shooting. I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trump's rally and we send him and his family our best wishes. Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack. — Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) July 14, 2024 × Billionaire Elon Musk called for the chief of the US Security Service to resign. The head of the Secret Service and the leader of this security detail should resign https://t.co/ihlEC5NP1w — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 14, 2024 × Trump issues statement The incident transpired in Butler, Pennsylvania where Trump was addressing a packed crowd gathered to cheer him on the presidential trail. Footage showed the bullet piercing his ear as the former president grimaced and later ducked under the podium. A series of shots fired could be heard. Also read | Donald Trump dodges death as gunman shoots at him during Campaign Rally in Pennsylvania The US Secret Service Agents quickly swarmed Trump and rushed him off stage to a waiting vehicle. Trump walked off with his fist raised. "I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured," Trump said post the incident. "It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear," he added. Trump signed off saying that he immediately knew he was shot and felt the bullet ripping through the skin. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump rally shooting: Biden, Modi and other political bigwigs 'grateful' former prez safe after attack

A video&nbsp;going viral on social media shows the alleged shooter who attempted to assassinate former US President&nbsp;Donald Trump&nbsp;lying motionless on the roof of a building.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The man could be seen sporting a grey&nbsp;camouflage and was found on the building of AGR International Inc., a manufacturing plant just north of the Butler Farm Show grounds where Trump’s rally was held.

According to a report in The Associated Press,&nbsp;an AR-style rifle was recovered at the scene.&nbsp;Videos and photos from the scene of the Trump rally, as well as satellite imagery, showed that&nbsp;the shooter was able to get astonishingly close to the stage where the former president was speaking.&nbsp;

The shooter fired multiple rounds and managed to graze Trump's right ear.&nbsp;The 78-year-old former president was rushed off stage with blood smeared across his face after the shooting.

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of the below media.&nbsp;

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The Shooter at the Trump Rally in Pennsylvania can be seen Dead on the Roof of a nearby Building, after being Killed by U.S. Secret Service Agents. <a href="https://t.co/6eUpiqfCeL">pic.twitter.com/6eUpiqfCeL</a>
— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) <a href="https://twitter.com/sentdefender/status/1812268165209928124?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Footage of Donald Trump’s shooter Thomas Matthew Crooks opening fire and then getting killed seconds later surfaces <a href="https://t.co/2ctMtIkwUs">pic.twitter.com/2ctMtIkwUs</a>
— Kollege Kidd Media (@KKMediaTingz) <a href="https://twitter.com/KKMediaTingz/status/1812334959866347578?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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BBC&nbsp;interviewed a Trump supporter immediately after the attack who stated that he saw a man&nbsp;carrying a rifle climb onto the roof of a building.

The man said he pointed out the building in question to police and remarked,&nbsp;“There’s a guy on the roof with a rifle.” But none of the police reacted, and about two minutes later, the man fired five or so shots toward Trump.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-rally-shooting-biden-condemns-shooting-at-donald-trump-rally-in-pennsylvania-740625">Watch |&nbsp;Trump rally shooting: Biden condemns shooting at Donald Trump rally in Pennsylvania</a>

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-safe-but-injured-who-shot-at-the-republican-ex-president-all-we-know-740629">Also read |&nbsp;Donald Trump safe, but injured. Who shot at the Republican ex-President? All we know</a>

<h2>US Secret Service statement</h2>

According to the US Secret Service,&nbsp;"multiple shots" were fired towards the Republican leader from an elevated position outside the rally venue, which matches the description of the viral video. The shooter was later 'neutralised' by the security outfit.&nbsp;

"During former President Trump's campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on the evening of July 13th at approximately 6:15 p.m., a suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue," said the Secret Service.&nbsp;

"US Secret Service quickly responded with protective measures and the former president is safe and being evaluated."

While Trump escaped relatively unscathed, one spectator was killed and two others were&nbsp;critically wounded. The shooter's identity was later revealed as Thomas Mathew Crooks.

(With inputs from agencies)

A video going viral on social media shows the alleged shooter who attempted to assassinate former US President Donald Trump lying motionless on the roof of a building.

A video going viral on social media shows the alleged shooter who attempted to assassinate former US President Donald Trump lying motionless on the roof of a building. The man could be seen sporting a grey camouflage and was found on the building of AGR International Inc., a manufacturing plant just north of the Butler Farm Show grounds where Trump’s rally was held. According to a report in The Associated Press, an AR-style rifle was recovered at the scene. Videos and photos from the scene of the Trump rally, as well as satellite imagery, showed that the shooter was able to get astonishingly close to the stage where the former president was speaking. The shooter fired multiple rounds and managed to graze Trump's right ear. The 78-year-old former president was rushed off stage with blood smeared across his face after the shooting. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of the below media. The Shooter at the Trump Rally in Pennsylvania can be seen Dead on the Roof of a nearby Building, after being Killed by U.S. Secret Service Agents. pic.twitter.com/6eUpiqfCeL — OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) July 13, 2024 × Footage of Donald Trump’s shooter Thomas Matthew Crooks opening fire and then getting killed seconds later surfaces pic.twitter.com/2ctMtIkwUs — Kollege Kidd Media (@KKMediaTingz) July 14, 2024 × BBC interviewed a Trump supporter immediately after the attack who stated that he saw a man carrying a rifle climb onto the roof of a building. The man said he pointed out the building in question to police and remarked, “There’s a guy on the roof with a rifle.” But none of the police reacted, and about two minutes later, the man fired five or so shots toward Trump. Watch | Trump rally shooting: Biden condemns shooting at Donald Trump rally in Pennsylvania × Also read | Donald Trump safe, but injured. Who shot at the Republican ex-President? All we know US Secret Service statement According to the US Secret Service, "multiple shots" were fired towards the Republican leader from an elevated position outside the rally venue, which matches the description of the viral video. The shooter was later 'neutralised' by the security outfit. "During former President Trump's campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on the evening of July 13th at approximately 6:15 p.m., a suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue," said the Secret Service. "US Secret Service quickly responded with protective measures and the former president is safe and being evaluated." While Trump escaped relatively unscathed, one spectator was killed and two others were critically wounded. The shooter's identity was later revealed as Thomas Mathew Crooks. (With inputs from agencies)

VIDEO: Footage shows alleged Donald Trump shooter lying dead on roof

Several ICC board members are seemingly unhappy with the mismanagement of the budget and the hosting of the recently concluded 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas and will take up the matter in the next annual meet in Colombo starting July 19. Per the latest reports, some members have written to the apex body about huge expenses incurred during the 20-team tournament.

The report, published in Times of India (TOI), reads that members have also questioned why New York, where a stadium was built from scratch and later dismantled, was allocated to host some of the marquee matches, including the big game between India and Pakistan.

Although the tournament was staged in the USA and the Caribbean, with West Indies hosting the Super 8 and knockout games, three venues in North America (in NY, Floria and Dallas) hosted 16 group stage games, including eight in New York.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/two-senior-icc-officials-quit-amid-controversy-around-hosting-t20-world-cup-in-americas-740419">Two senior ICC officials quit amid controversy around hosting T20 World Cup in Americas</a>

“The auditing is still on. There are assumptions that ICC may have incurred losses in ticketing as well in the USA leg. The tournament looked mismanaged. The performance of the New York stadium wasn’t up to the mark,” a source said, as quoted by TOI.

“The board will discuss how the organising committee may have overshot the allocated budget. It was always going to be a herculean task to take mainstream cricket to the USA. The ICC team has worked hard to conduct the tournament, but expenses need to be checked at the same time,” he continued.

<h2>ICC to ask resigned officials to stay</h2>

Meanwhile, two senior ICC officials - Chris Tetley, the ICC Head of Events, and Claire Furlong, the General Manager of Marketing and Communications, have decided to tender their resignations but will be part of the annual meet in Colombo later this week.

Per the sources close to the information, both have been asked to stick around till the Women’s T20 World Cup in October later this year and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan; however, the ball is in the ICC’s court to take a call on this.

“There are back-to-back ICC events, which started with the ODI World Cup last year. Tetley and another executive were asked to stay on for a while to oversee a smooth transition. They may be asked to stay on till the Women’s T20 World Cup in Oct or the Champions Trophy in Feb. That call will be taken in ICC’s board meeting,” the source said.

Besides, the agenda of the top-tier meet will also be to finalise the venue for the Champions Trophy next year, with the Indian Govt. and the BCCI denying sending the team across the border for the eight-team tournament.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Several ICC board members are seemingly unhappy with the mismanagement of the budget and the hosting of the recently concluded 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas and will take up the matter in the next annual meet in Colombo starting July 19.

Several ICC board members are seemingly unhappy with the mismanagement of the budget and the hosting of the recently concluded 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas and will take up the matter in the next annual meet in Colombo starting July 19. Per the latest reports, some members have written to the apex body about huge expenses incurred during the 20-team tournament. The report, published in Times of India (TOI), reads that members have also questioned why New York, where a stadium was built from scratch and later dismantled, was allocated to host some of the marquee matches, including the big game between India and Pakistan. Although the tournament was staged in the USA and the Caribbean, with West Indies hosting the Super 8 and knockout games, three venues in North America (in NY, Floria and Dallas) hosted 16 group stage games, including eight in New York. ALSO READ: Two senior ICC officials quit amid controversy around hosting T20 World Cup in Americas “The auditing is still on. There are assumptions that ICC may have incurred losses in ticketing as well in the USA leg. The tournament looked mismanaged. The performance of the New York stadium wasn’t up to the mark,” a source said, as quoted by TOI. “The board will discuss how the organising committee may have overshot the allocated budget. It was always going to be a herculean task to take mainstream cricket to the USA. The ICC team has worked hard to conduct the tournament, but expenses need to be checked at the same time,” he continued. ICC to ask resigned officials to stay Meanwhile, two senior ICC officials - Chris Tetley, the ICC Head of Events, and Claire Furlong, the General Manager of Marketing and Communications, have decided to tender their resignations but will be part of the annual meet in Colombo later this week. Per the sources close to the information, both have been asked to stick around till the Women’s T20 World Cup in October later this year and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan; however, the ball is in the ICC’s court to take a call on this. “There are back-to-back ICC events, which started with the ODI World Cup last year. Tetley and another executive were asked to stay on for a while to oversee a smooth transition. They may be asked to stay on till the Women’s T20 World Cup in Oct or the Champions Trophy in Feb. That call will be taken in ICC’s board meeting,” the source said. Besides, the agenda of the top-tier meet will also be to finalise the venue for the Champions Trophy next year, with the Indian Govt. and the BCCI denying sending the team across the border for the eight-team tournament. (With inputs from agencies)

Upset ICC members to discuss ‘mismanaged’ budget, hosting of T20 World Cup in Americas in annual meet

Almost a fortnight after the conclusion of the 2024 T20 World Cup in the USA and the Caribbean, two senior ICC officials – closely involved in organising the marquee event in the Americas, have tendered their resignations. Chris Tetley, the ICC Head of Events, and Claire Furlong, the General Manager of Marketing and Communications, announced their departures ahead of ICC’s annual conference in Colombo next week.

With the top-tier meet set to take place from July 19-22, more so to discuss the hosting of the 20-team tournament and the reactions to it, their resignations raise a few questions.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vvs-laxman-has-special-message-for-retired-t20i-trio-of-virat-rohit-and-jadeja-740301">VVS Laxman has special message for retired T20I trio of Virat, Rohit and Jadeja</a>

However, per the inside sources within the ICC, the duo had resigned long back but hung around to ensure a smooth transition, considering the heavy cricket schedule. The latest reports suggest that both will be part of the ICC annual conference meeting.

Per Cricbuzz, a source close to the information further revealed that both Tetley and Furlong decided to say goodbye to ICC sometime during the end of the last commercial cycle but stayed on in the view of the T20 WC in the West.&nbsp;

<h2>'Resignations raise&nbsp;questions'&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

Meanwhile, the T20 WC took place for the first time in the USA, and the response to playing on ‘unknown pitches’ wasn’t the best. Considering the runs flow, the pitches and the outfields expected to play during this tournament, nothing seemed to fall in place during the US leg – where three venues (New York, Florida and Texas) hosted 16 Group Stage games.

The reports also reveal that several board members are keen on discussing the failed attempt to grow cricket in the USA to engage the audience for the LA28 Summer Games, where cricket returns to the program after over a century.&nbsp;

Going by the drop-in pitches used, mainly in New York, which hosted some of the top games, including the marquee India-Pakistan match, saw low-scoring affairs. Besides, the crowd turnout in those games wasn't even convincing.

However, the pitches were prepared in Adelaide and later transported to New York for the marquee event, with the 34,000-capacity Nassau Cricket County Stadium in Long Island - now dismantled, hosted games. &nbsp;

Although several agendas will be discussed during the next ICC meet, including the Presidential Elections (to be held in November) and talks about hosting the Champions Trophy in Pakistan in February-March next year, two senior members resigning with investigation on the line raises eyebrows.

(With inputs from agencies)

Almost a fortnight after the conclusion of the 2024 T20 World Cup in the USA and the Caribbean, two senior ICC officials – closely involved in organising the marquee event in the Americas, have tendered their resignations.

Almost a fortnight after the conclusion of the 2024 T20 World Cup in the USA and the Caribbean, two senior ICC officials – closely involved in organising the marquee event in the Americas, have tendered their resignations. Chris Tetley, the ICC Head of Events, and Claire Furlong, the General Manager of Marketing and Communications, announced their departures ahead of ICC’s annual conference in Colombo next week. With the top-tier meet set to take place from July 19-22, more so to discuss the hosting of the 20-team tournament and the reactions to it, their resignations raise a few questions. ALSO READ: VVS Laxman has special message for retired T20I trio of Virat, Rohit and Jadeja However, per the inside sources within the ICC, the duo had resigned long back but hung around to ensure a smooth transition, considering the heavy cricket schedule. The latest reports suggest that both will be part of the ICC annual conference meeting. Per Cricbuzz, a source close to the information further revealed that both Tetley and Furlong decided to say goodbye to ICC sometime during the end of the last commercial cycle but stayed on in the view of the T20 WC in the West. 'Resignations raise questions' Meanwhile, the T20 WC took place for the first time in the USA, and the response to playing on ‘unknown pitches’ wasn’t the best. Considering the runs flow, the pitches and the outfields expected to play during this tournament, nothing seemed to fall in place during the US leg – where three venues (New York, Florida and Texas) hosted 16 Group Stage games. The reports also reveal that several board members are keen on discussing the failed attempt to grow cricket in the USA to engage the audience for the LA28 Summer Games, where cricket returns to the program after over a century. Going by the drop-in pitches used, mainly in New York, which hosted some of the top games, including the marquee India-Pakistan match, saw low-scoring affairs. Besides, the crowd turnout in those games wasn't even convincing. However, the pitches were prepared in Adelaide and later transported to New York for the marquee event, with the 34,000-capacity Nassau Cricket County Stadium in Long Island - now dismantled, hosted games. Although several agendas will be discussed during the next ICC meet, including the Presidential Elections (to be held in November) and talks about hosting the Champions Trophy in Pakistan in February-March next year, two senior members resigning with investigation on the line raises eyebrows. (With inputs from agencies)

Two senior ICC officials quit amid controversy around hosting T20 World Cup in Americas

Russia has threatened to take military&nbsp;measures to counter NATO after it was announced that the United States will be deploying long-range fire missiles in Germany for the first time since the 1980s.&nbsp;

Moscow accused Washington of escalating the already volatile equations while issuing a stark warning to Berlin.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Beyond any doubt, our military has already taken note of this statement,” Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov told reporters in St. Petersburg.&nbsp;

“I think that it is just a component of the escalation policy, one of the elements of intimidation, which today is almost the main part of the Russia policy pursued by NATO and the US," he added.&nbsp;

The Kremlin added on Thursday (Jul 11) that it had "taken note" of decisions made by the Western leaders at this week's NATO Summit in Washington, including plans to "create&nbsp;separate logistics hubs in Black Sea cities” and establish “additional facilities in Europe".&nbsp;

“This poses a very serious threat to our national security. All of this will necessitate thoughtful, coordinated and effective responses from us to counter-deter NATO,” presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in a conference call with reporters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-nato-tensions-moscow-warns-of-retaliation-over-nato-missile-deployment-740010">Watch |&nbsp;Russia-NATO tensions: Moscow warns of retaliation over NATO missile deployment</a>

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<h2>US downplays Russia's threats</h2>

Quizzed about the statement by Moscow, US national security adviser Jake Sullivan appeared to play&nbsp;down the threat.

“What we are deploying to Germany is a defence capability like many other defensive capabilities we’ve deployed across the alliance across the decades,” Sullivan said.

“So more Russian sabre-rattling obviously is not going to deter us from doing what we think is necessary to keep the alliance as strong as possible.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-summit-us-to-deploy-weapons-in-germany-concerns-raised-over-russia-north-korea-ties-739754">Also read |&nbsp;NATO Summit: US to deploy weapons in Germany; concerns raised over Russia-North Korea ties</a>

<h2>What did the US announce?</h2>

For the first time since the Cold War, the US announced its plans to station long-range missiles in Germany on Wednesday (Jul 10). The plan includes the deployment of&nbsp;non-nuclear Tomahawk cruise, SM-6 and hypersonic missiles in Germany, starting in 2026.&nbsp;

The decision was welcomed by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz who said it&nbsp;“fitted exactly” into his government’s security strategy. He added that the decision had been long in the making and would come as “no surprise” to anyone who was knowledgeable about security and peace policies.

Notably, it was in 2019 that the US withdrew from the Intermediate-Range&nbsp;Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty signed by&nbsp;Soviet Union's Mikhail Gorbachev and former US President Ronald Reagan in 1987. The treaty banned placing nuclear and conventional missiles with ranges from 500 to 5,500 kilometres&nbsp;and removed more than 2,600 weapons from the continent.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia has threatened to take military measures to counter NATO after it was announced that the United States will be deploying long-range fire missiles in Germany for the first time since the 1980s.

Russia has threatened to take military measures to counter NATO after it was announced that the United States will be deploying long-range fire missiles in Germany for the first time since the 1980s. Moscow accused Washington of escalating the already volatile equations while issuing a stark warning to Berlin. “Beyond any doubt, our military has already taken note of this statement,” Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov told reporters in St. Petersburg. “I think that it is just a component of the escalation policy, one of the elements of intimidation, which today is almost the main part of the Russia policy pursued by NATO and the US," he added. The Kremlin added on Thursday (Jul 11) that it had "taken note" of decisions made by the Western leaders at this week's NATO Summit in Washington, including plans to "create separate logistics hubs in Black Sea cities” and establish “additional facilities in Europe". “This poses a very serious threat to our national security. All of this will necessitate thoughtful, coordinated and effective responses from us to counter-deter NATO,” presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in a conference call with reporters. Watch | Russia-NATO tensions: Moscow warns of retaliation over NATO missile deployment × US downplays Russia's threats Quizzed about the statement by Moscow, US national security adviser Jake Sullivan appeared to play down the threat. “What we are deploying to Germany is a defence capability like many other defensive capabilities we’ve deployed across the alliance across the decades,” Sullivan said. “So more Russian sabre-rattling obviously is not going to deter us from doing what we think is necessary to keep the alliance as strong as possible.” Also read | NATO Summit: US to deploy weapons in Germany; concerns raised over Russia-North Korea ties What did the US announce? For the first time since the Cold War, the US announced its plans to station long-range missiles in Germany on Wednesday (Jul 10). The plan includes the deployment of non-nuclear Tomahawk cruise, SM-6 and hypersonic missiles in Germany, starting in 2026. The decision was welcomed by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz who said it “fitted exactly” into his government’s security strategy. He added that the decision had been long in the making and would come as “no surprise” to anyone who was knowledgeable about security and peace policies. Notably, it was in 2019 that the US withdrew from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty signed by Soviet Union's Mikhail Gorbachev and former US President Ronald Reagan in 1987. The treaty banned placing nuclear and conventional missiles with ranges from 500 to 5,500 kilometres and removed more than 2,600 weapons from the continent. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia vows of response, angered by US plan to deploy long-range missiles in Germany

Wildfire season in the US state of California has already burned through five times the average amount of land for this time of year. Mid-July is usually considered fairly early in the state's wildfire season but according to data wildfires have scorched nearly 220,000 acres already.

Wildfire season in the US state of California has already burned through five times the average amount of land for this time of year. Mid-July is usually considered fairly early in the state's wildfire season but according to data wildfires have scorched nearly 220,000 acres already. In the last two weeks, the Golden State has endured a record heat wave with temperatures nearing 51 degrees Celsius in Palm Springs and 43 degrees Celsius or upward in the Central Valley, Southern California, and parts of the Bay Area. Meanwhile, the entertainment hub of Las Vegas recorded its fifth straight day of temperatures sizzling at 46.1 degrees Celsius or greater. The authorities have had to evacuate parts of Santa Barbara County in southern California as the Lake Fire engulfed more than 34,000 acres over the last few days. California Governor Gavin Newsom has already warned the public to be alert as the state heads into what could be a worse-than-expected fire season. “Hots are getting a lot hotter; we’re experiencing unprecedented record heat. These heat domes over the entire western United States, over and over and over and over and over again. Record-breaking temperatures, record-breaking experiences. Not just in California, across this country and around the rest of the world," said Newsom. Watch | California wildfires: Thousands of acres of land consumed × Also read | Biker roasted to death in California’s Death Valley as mercury soars over 53ºC 'Difficult year ahead' Meanwhile, California Fire Director, Joe Tyler, predicted a difficult year ahead due to 'exacerbated' conditions. “We are not just in a fire season, but we are in a fire year. Our winds and the recent heat wave have exacerbated the issue, consuming thousands of acres. So we need to be extra cautious," said Tyler. Notably, an unprecedented wet winter has coated the Californian landscape with grasses that have quickly dried as the weather turned warmer - creating the perfect and abundant fuel for the brush fires. The wildfires started in early June and might increase in intensity as thunderstorms return to the region later this week, according to the forecasters. The United States has been reeling under an intense heatwave for the last few weeks now, with about 36 million people or 10 per cent of the country's population, living under excessive heat, as per the National Weather Service (NWS). (With inputs from agencies)

California wildfires scorch five time the average area with peak season yet to come

US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti has once again lectured New Delhi saying there is no such thing as strategic autonomy in times of conflict.&nbsp;Garcetti was speaking at the Defence News Conclave organised by CUTS International.&nbsp;

Garcetti's comment comes in the backdrop of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting Russia and meeting President Vladimir Putin at the same time as the NATO Summit was underway in Washington.&nbsp;

“I know...and I respect that India likes its strategic autonomy. But in times of conflict, there is no such thing as strategic autonomy. We will, in crisis moments, need to know each other," said Garcetti.&nbsp;

"I don’t care what title we put to it, but we will need to know that we are trusted friends, brothers and sisters, colleagues,” he added.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/american-vlogger-amazed-by-indian-healthcare-says-its-incredible-737598">Watch |&nbsp;American vlogger amazed by Indian healthcare, says 'it's incredible'</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>'War machines'</h2>

Without taking Russia's name, Garcetti urged New Delhi to take action against 'war machines' and side with the US.&nbsp;

“No war is distant anymore, and we must not just stand for peace. We must take concrete actions to make sure those who don’t play by peaceful rules that their war machines cannot continue unabated. That’s something the US needs to know and that India needs to know together.”

Garcetti chalked a comparison between&nbsp;the India-Russia Summit,&nbsp;which resulted in two joint statements and nine agreements, and the Indian prime minister’s visit to Washington last June.

“We can read leaders’ agreements, as we might have done this week...look through the ones that are kind of dressed up versus the ones that have to be edited down. I was told when we had the prime minister’s visit, that a state visit that has five to 10 deliverables is a very strong visit. At our peak, we had 173 separate deliverables, that the US and India were working on together,” he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-gaza-protests-us-ambassador-garcetti-skips-jnu-meet-720118">Also read |&nbsp;Amid Gaza protests, US ambassador to India Garcetti skips JNU meet</a>

There was no immediate reaction from the Indian officials to the US envoy's comments but experts suggest that it may not have gone down well.

Indian government under PM Modi, throughout its 10-year regime, has maintained the ethos of keeping the nation first, which means strategic manoeuvring in diplomatic spaces.

While India maintains good yet circumspect&nbsp;ties with the Joe Biden administration, New Delhi is equally receptive to its traditional ally in Russia, as was evident during PM Modi's first bilateral visit to Moscow after being sworn in for his third stint.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti has once again lectured New Delhi saying there is no such thing as strategic autonomy in times of conflict. Garcetti was speaking at the Defence News Conclave organised by CUTS International.

US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti has once again lectured New Delhi saying there is no such thing as strategic autonomy in times of conflict. Garcetti was speaking at the Defence News Conclave organised by CUTS International. Garcetti's comment comes in the backdrop of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting Russia and meeting President Vladimir Putin at the same time as the NATO Summit was underway in Washington. “I know...and I respect that India likes its strategic autonomy. But in times of conflict, there is no such thing as strategic autonomy. We will, in crisis moments, need to know each other," said Garcetti. "I don’t care what title we put to it, but we will need to know that we are trusted friends, brothers and sisters, colleagues,” he added. Watch | American vlogger amazed by Indian healthcare, says 'it's incredible' × 'War machines' Without taking Russia's name, Garcetti urged New Delhi to take action against 'war machines' and side with the US. “No war is distant anymore, and we must not just stand for peace. We must take concrete actions to make sure those who don’t play by peaceful rules that their war machines cannot continue unabated. That’s something the US needs to know and that India needs to know together.” Garcetti chalked a comparison between the India-Russia Summit, which resulted in two joint statements and nine agreements, and the Indian prime minister’s visit to Washington last June. “We can read leaders’ agreements, as we might have done this week...look through the ones that are kind of dressed up versus the ones that have to be edited down. I was told when we had the prime minister’s visit, that a state visit that has five to 10 deliverables is a very strong visit. At our peak, we had 173 separate deliverables, that the US and India were working on together,” he said. Also read | Amid Gaza protests, US ambassador to India Garcetti skips JNU meet There was no immediate reaction from the Indian officials to the US envoy's comments but experts suggest that it may not have gone down well. Indian government under PM Modi, throughout its 10-year regime, has maintained the ethos of keeping the nation first, which means strategic manoeuvring in diplomatic spaces. While India maintains good yet circumspect ties with the Joe Biden administration, New Delhi is equally receptive to its traditional ally in Russia, as was evident during PM Modi's first bilateral visit to Moscow after being sworn in for his third stint. (With inputs from agencies)

US envoy Garcetti miffed by India's 'strategic autonomy' after PM Modi's Russia visit

The United States will&nbsp;start&nbsp;deploying&nbsp;long-range&nbsp;fire capabilities in&nbsp;Germany&nbsp;in&nbsp;2026&nbsp;in an effort to demonstrate its commitment to NATO and European defence, the United States and&nbsp;Germany&nbsp;said in a joint statement on Wednesday.

The United States' "episodic deployments" are in preparation for&nbsp;longer-term stationing of such capabilities that will include SM-6, Tomahawk cruise missiles and developmental hypersonic&nbsp;weapons&nbsp;that have a&nbsp;longer&nbsp;range&nbsp;than current capabilities in Europe, the two countries said.

Both the Tomahawk and the Standard Missile-6 (SM-6) are made by RTX's Raytheon division.

Ground-based missiles with a&nbsp;range&nbsp;exceeding 500 kilometres were banned until 2019 under the Intermediate-Range&nbsp;Nuclear Forces Treaty signed by the Soviet Union's Mikhail Gorbachev and former US President Ronald Reagan in 1987.

It marked the first time the two superpowers had agreed to reduce their nuclear arsenals and eliminated a whole category of&nbsp;weapons.

Falling in line with the signatories,&nbsp;Germany, Hungary, Poland and the Czech Republic destroyed their missiles in the 1990s, to be followed later by Slovakia and Bulgaria.

The United States withdrew from the INF Treaty in 2019 saying that Moscow was violating the accord, citing Russia's development of the 9M729 ground-launched cruise missile, known in NATO as the SSC-8.

The Kremlin repeatedly denied the accusation and then imposed a moratorium on its own development of missiles previously banned by the INF treaty - ground-based ballistic and cruise missiles with&nbsp;ranges of 500 km to 5,500 km.

At the end of June, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Moscow should resume production of intermediate and shorter-range&nbsp;nuclear-capable missiles after the United States brought similar missiles to Europe and Asia.

Putin said Russia had pledged not to deploy such missiles but that the United States had resumed their production, brought them to Denmark for exercises and also taken them to the Philippines.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nato-summit-2024-can-the-veteran-president-unite-nato-against-a-rising-russia-739712">Watch |&nbsp;NATO summit 2024: Can the veteran President unite NATO against a rising Russia?</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>Leaders of South Korea, Japan share concerns</h2>

South&nbsp;Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida shared concerns over growing ties between Russia and North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;and agreed to continue their security cooperation, a statement from Yoon's office said on Thursday.

The two&nbsp;leaders, who are attending the NATO summit for the third consecutive year, met on the sidelines of the event in Washington on Wednesday.

Military and economic cooperation between Russia and North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;is a security concern for East Asia but also globally, Yoon was quoted as saying by his office.

Yoon also added Pyongyang and Moscow's growing ties underscore the significance of a trilateral summit at Camp David with US President Joe Biden and Japan's Kishida last year where they agreeed to deepen military and economic cooperation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-summit-ukraine-gets-f-16-jets-irreversible-path-to-bloc-membership-739654">Also read |&nbsp;NATO Summit: Ukraine gets F-16 jets, 'irreversible' path to bloc membership</a>

Since taking office in 2022, Yoon has sought to mend ties with Tokyo which have been challenged by historical disputes stemming from Japan's 1910-1945 occupation of&nbsp;Korea.

In a recent interview with Reuters, Yoon warned Russia over its deepening military ties with North&nbsp;Korea.

Seoul and Washington have accused North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;of supplying artillery and ballistic missiles to Russia for use in Ukraine, which both Moscow and Pyongyang deny.

This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

The United States will start deploying long-range fire capabilities in Germany in 2026 in an effort to demonstrate its commitment to NATO and European defence, the United States and Germany said in a joint statement on Wednesday.

The United States will start deploying long-range fire capabilities in Germany in 2026 in an effort to demonstrate its commitment to NATO and European defence, the United States and Germany said in a joint statement on Wednesday. The United States' "episodic deployments" are in preparation for longer-term stationing of such capabilities that will include SM-6, Tomahawk cruise missiles and developmental hypersonic weapons that have a longer range than current capabilities in Europe, the two countries said. Both the Tomahawk and the Standard Missile-6 (SM-6) are made by RTX's Raytheon division. Ground-based missiles with a range exceeding 500 kilometres were banned until 2019 under the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty signed by the Soviet Union's Mikhail Gorbachev and former US President Ronald Reagan in 1987. It marked the first time the two superpowers had agreed to reduce their nuclear arsenals and eliminated a whole category of weapons. Falling in line with the signatories, Germany, Hungary, Poland and the Czech Republic destroyed their missiles in the 1990s, to be followed later by Slovakia and Bulgaria. The United States withdrew from the INF Treaty in 2019 saying that Moscow was violating the accord, citing Russia's development of the 9M729 ground-launched cruise missile, known in NATO as the SSC-8. The Kremlin repeatedly denied the accusation and then imposed a moratorium on its own development of missiles previously banned by the INF treaty - ground-based ballistic and cruise missiles with ranges of 500 km to 5,500 km. At the end of June, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Moscow should resume production of intermediate and shorter-range nuclear-capable missiles after the United States brought similar missiles to Europe and Asia. Putin said Russia had pledged not to deploy such missiles but that the United States had resumed their production, brought them to Denmark for exercises and also taken them to the Philippines. Watch | NATO summit 2024: Can the veteran President unite NATO against a rising Russia? × Leaders of South Korea, Japan share concerns South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida shared concerns over growing ties between Russia and North Korea and agreed to continue their security cooperation, a statement from Yoon's office said on Thursday. The two leaders, who are attending the NATO summit for the third consecutive year, met on the sidelines of the event in Washington on Wednesday. Military and economic cooperation between Russia and North Korea is a security concern for East Asia but also globally, Yoon was quoted as saying by his office. Yoon also added Pyongyang and Moscow's growing ties underscore the significance of a trilateral summit at Camp David with US President Joe Biden and Japan's Kishida last year where they agreeed to deepen military and economic cooperation. Also read | NATO Summit: Ukraine gets F-16 jets, 'irreversible' path to bloc membership Since taking office in 2022, Yoon has sought to mend ties with Tokyo which have been challenged by historical disputes stemming from Japan's 1910-1945 occupation of Korea. In a recent interview with Reuters, Yoon warned Russia over its deepening military ties with North Korea. Seoul and Washington have accused North Korea of supplying artillery and ballistic missiles to Russia for use in Ukraine, which both Moscow and Pyongyang deny. This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

NATO Summit: US to deploy weapons in Germany; concerns raised over Russia-North Korea ties

A new poll conducted by ABC News/Washington Post/Ipsos has revealed that two-thirds of Americans want United States President Joe Biden to step aside as Democrat nominee for the upcoming presidential race.

A new poll conducted by ABC News/Washington Post/Ipsos has revealed that two-thirds of Americans want United States President Joe Biden to step aside as Democrat nominee for the upcoming presidential race. The majority of Biden's own supporters carry the same belief and want him to spare the party blushes as his rival Donald Trump goes for the kill in the coming days. As many as 67 per cent of the respondents want the incumbent president to drop from the race, while 85 per cent believe that the Democrat leader is too old for a second term. The only silver lining for Biden, 81, is that if elections were held today, 46 per cent prefer him, compared to 47 per cent who want Trump. Questions have been raised on Biden's mental and physical capability to stay at the job for a long time. However, it all unravelled for the Democrat when he rambled, mumbled, stuttered and appeared to zone out during several segments of the presidential debate last month. Since the debate, worrying Democrats have cast aspersions over Biden's ability to go toe-to-toe with Trump. The usually favourable liberal media outlets have also furnished numerous op-eds, suggesting the US president should call it quits and pass the baton to another candidate. Also read | Go Biden, go: Who all are clamouring for US president to exit White House race? Will it happen? Clooney bats against Biden The biggest blow to Biden's reelection campaign came on Wednesday (Jul 10) when Hollywood star George Clooney, wrote an op-ed stating he was convinced that the 81-year-old incumbent 'cannot win' the presidential election in November. Clooney has been one of the biggest donors to the Democratic Party, having played a pivotal part in the election campaigns of Barack Obama, Hilary Clinton and even Biden in 2020. “This is about age. Nothing more. But also nothing that can be reversed. We are not going to win in November with this president," wrote Clooney. “On top of that, we won’t win the House, and we’re going to lose the Senate. This isn’t only my opinion; this is the opinion of every senator and congress member and governor that I’ve spoken with in private. Every single one, irrespective of what he or she is saying publicly,” Clooney added. Watch | Team Biden releases new post debate campaign While Biden fails to get his party in order, Trump has seized the opportunity to double down to expose the president's lack of ability to carry on as the leader. The former US president recently took to his Truth Social handle to post a sarcastic message wherein he urged Biden to 'ignore' the critics and march on in the presidential race. He later shared a video compilation of his successor looking lost and aloof during various public arrangements. (With inputs from agencies)

Two-thirds of Americans want Joe Biden to drop out of presidential race, shows damning new poll

An American Airlines flight at the Tampa International Airport, narrowly averted a major accident on Wednesday (Jul 10) when one of its tyres suffered a blowout during takeoff. Smoke and flame could be seen billowing out of the plane, prompting emergency services to circle the plane as the pilot aborted the takeoff attempt.&nbsp;

According to the airline company, flight 590, a Boeing 737-900 aircraft,&nbsp;bound for Phoenix developed a 'mechanical problem' prior to leaving the ground and immediately after it had taxied onto the runway tarmac.&nbsp;The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating after the pilots mentioned experiencing "multiple blown tyres".&nbsp;

"The flight was headed to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. The FAA will investigate. Please contact the airline for additional information," read the statement.&nbsp;

At the time of the incident, there were 174 passengers and six crew members on the plane but thankfully none of them suffered any injuries. They all disembarked safely and were transported back to the terminal, per reports.&nbsp;

Captain Steven Markovich captured the video showing the incident. He could be heard saying that the plane blew an engine before clearing that it had blown a tyre.&nbsp;

Watch the video of the incident below:&nbsp;

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JUST IN: American Airlines flight 590 out of Tampa, Florida narrowly avoids disaster after multiple tires blow out during takeoff. 
 
As the plane was picking up speed and seconds away from liftoff, the tires blew out. 
 
The pilot slammed on the brakes as the plane barreled towards… <a href="https://t.co/P5kZ3N6pUO">pic.twitter.com/P5kZ3N6pUO</a>
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) <a href="https://twitter.com/CollinRugg/status/1811182823220576527?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Recorded by Captain Steven Markovich, an American Airlines Boeing 737-823 aircraft (N908AN) operating Flight 590 to Phoenix (PHX) aborted its takeoff on runway 19R of Tampa International Airport (TPA) around 7:50 a.m. local time on Wednesday, July 10 due to a blown tire. 
 
The… <a href="https://t.co/wXNPpAdnZl">pic.twitter.com/wXNPpAdnZl</a>
— FL360aero (@fl360aero) <a href="https://twitter.com/fl360aero/status/1811134780915990718?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/american-airlines-flight-attendants-reject-latest-contract-proposal-729329">Also read |&nbsp;American Airlines flight attendants reject latest contract proposal</a>

American Airlines issued a statement in the aftermath, informing that the passengers were safely rerouted to their destinations.

"Customers safely deplaned and were bussed to the terminal. We never want to disrupt our customers' travel plans and apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-three-black-passengers-sue-american-airlines-for-racial-discrimination-727233">Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Three black passengers sue American airlines for racial discrimination</a>

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"Just before 8 am&nbsp;on Wednesday, Tampa International Airport dispatched first responders to American Airlines Flight 590, which required an emergency response on the airfield at Taxiway W. The aircraft’s passengers and crew exited the plane and were transported by bus to Airside F. Other flight operations at TPA are not impacted," Tampa Airport was quoted as saying by FOX 13.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

An American Airlines flight at the Tampa International Airport, narrowly averted a major accident on Wednesday (Jul 10) when one of its tyres suffered a blowout during takeoff.

An American Airlines flight at the Tampa International Airport, narrowly averted a major accident on Wednesday (Jul 10) when one of its tyres suffered a blowout during takeoff. Smoke and flame could be seen billowing out of the plane, prompting emergency services to circle the plane as the pilot aborted the takeoff attempt. According to the airline company, flight 590, a Boeing 737-900 aircraft, bound for Phoenix developed a 'mechanical problem' prior to leaving the ground and immediately after it had taxied onto the runway tarmac. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating after the pilots mentioned experiencing "multiple blown tyres". "The flight was headed to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. The FAA will investigate. Please contact the airline for additional information," read the statement. At the time of the incident, there were 174 passengers and six crew members on the plane but thankfully none of them suffered any injuries. They all disembarked safely and were transported back to the terminal, per reports. Captain Steven Markovich captured the video showing the incident. He could be heard saying that the plane blew an engine before clearing that it had blown a tyre. Watch the video of the incident below: JUST IN: American Airlines flight 590 out of Tampa, Florida narrowly avoids disaster after multiple tires blow out during takeoff. As the plane was picking up speed and seconds away from liftoff, the tires blew out. The pilot slammed on the brakes as the plane barreled towards… pic.twitter.com/P5kZ3N6pUO — Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) July 10, 2024 × Recorded by Captain Steven Markovich, an American Airlines Boeing 737-823 aircraft (N908AN) operating Flight 590 to Phoenix (PHX) aborted its takeoff on runway 19R of Tampa International Airport (TPA) around 7:50 a.m. local time on Wednesday, July 10 due to a blown tire. The… pic.twitter.com/wXNPpAdnZl — FL360aero (@fl360aero) July 10, 2024 × Also read | American Airlines flight attendants reject latest contract proposal American Airlines issued a statement in the aftermath, informing that the passengers were safely rerouted to their destinations. "Customers safely deplaned and were bussed to the terminal. We never want to disrupt our customers' travel plans and apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused." Watch | Gravitas: Three black passengers sue American airlines for racial discrimination × "Just before 8 am on Wednesday, Tampa International Airport dispatched first responders to American Airlines Flight 590, which required an emergency response on the airfield at Taxiway W. The aircraft’s passengers and crew exited the plane and were transported by bus to Airside F. Other flight operations at TPA are not impacted," Tampa Airport was quoted as saying by FOX 13. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH | American Airlines plane suffers tyre blowout on runway, pilot does this next...

At the NATO Summit in Washington, it has been decided that the US will deploy its missiles in Germany, starting 2026.&nbsp;SM-6, Tomahawk cruise missiles and developmental hypersonic weapons that have a longer range than current capabilities in Europe will be deployed. In other news,&nbsp;wife of slain Islamic State leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, has been sentenced to death by an Iraqi criminal court. She has identified as Asma Mohammed aka Asma Fawzi Mohammed Al-Qubaysi, the first wife of a polygamous Baghdadi.

<h2>Click headlines to read more:&nbsp;</h2>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-summit-us-to-deploy-weapons-in-germany-concerns-raised-over-russia-north-korea-ties-739754">NATO Summit: US to deploy weapons in Germany; concerns raised over Russia-North Korea ties</a>

The United States will start deploying long-range fire capabilities in Germany in 2026 in an effort to demonstrate its commitment to NATO and European defence, the United States and Germany said in a joint statement on Wednesday (Jul 11).

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/isis-leader-al-baghdadis-wife-asma-mohammed-sentenced-to-death-in-iraq-for-crimes-against-humanity-739748">ISIS leader al-Baghdadi's wife, Asma Mohammed, sentenced to death for 'crimes against humanity'</a>

An Iraqi criminal court on Wednesday (July 10) sentenced to death the wife of slain Islamic State leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. She has been accused of working with the ISIS group and detaining Yazidi women, said the country's judiciary, without naming the woman.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-warns-nato-against-provoking-confrontation-after-alliance-labels-it-a-decisive-enabler-of-russias-war-739731">China warns NATO against provoking confrontation after alliance labels it 'decisive enabler' of Russia's war</a>

NATO leaders on Wednesday (Jul 10) labelled China a "decisive enabler" of Russia's war against Ukraine, accusing it of playing a key role in helping Moscow's assault. Beijing in response warned the alliance against "provoking confrontation" over China's ties with Russia.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-lands-in-delhi-after-russia-austria-visit-739737">PM Modi lands in Delhi after concluding Russia, Austria visit</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has returned to India on Thursday (July 11), after completing his two-nation visit&nbsp;to Russia and Austria. The&nbsp;diplomatic trips were intended to enhance bilateral relations and address major international issues with the leaders of both nations.

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Watch | France Parliament faces real test: 2025 budget; Citizens ask 'is France governable?'

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&nbsp;

At the NATO Summit in Washington, it has been decided that the US will deploy its missiles in Germany, starting 2026. SM-6, Tomahawk cruise missiles and developmental hypersonic weapons that have a longer range than current capabilities in Europe will be deployed.

At the NATO Summit in Washington, it has been decided that the US will deploy its missiles in Germany, starting 2026. SM-6, Tomahawk cruise missiles and developmental hypersonic weapons that have a longer range than current capabilities in Europe will be deployed. In other news, wife of slain Islamic State leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, has been sentenced to death by an Iraqi criminal court. She has identified as Asma Mohammed aka Asma Fawzi Mohammed Al-Qubaysi, the first wife of a polygamous Baghdadi. Click headlines to read more: NATO Summit: US to deploy weapons in Germany; concerns raised over Russia-North Korea ties The United States will start deploying long-range fire capabilities in Germany in 2026 in an effort to demonstrate its commitment to NATO and European defence, the United States and Germany said in a joint statement on Wednesday (Jul 11). ISIS leader al-Baghdadi's wife, Asma Mohammed, sentenced to death for 'crimes against humanity' An Iraqi criminal court on Wednesday (July 10) sentenced to death the wife of slain Islamic State leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. She has been accused of working with the ISIS group and detaining Yazidi women, said the country's judiciary, without naming the woman. China warns NATO against provoking confrontation after alliance labels it 'decisive enabler' of Russia's war NATO leaders on Wednesday (Jul 10) labelled China a "decisive enabler" of Russia's war against Ukraine, accusing it of playing a key role in helping Moscow's assault. Beijing in response warned the alliance against "provoking confrontation" over China's ties with Russia. PM Modi lands in Delhi after concluding Russia, Austria visit Prime Minister Narendra Modi has returned to India on Thursday (July 11), after completing his two-nation visit to Russia and Austria. The diplomatic trips were intended to enhance bilateral relations and address major international issues with the leaders of both nations. Watch | France Parliament faces real test: 2025 budget; Citizens ask 'is France governable?' ×

Morning news brief: US to deploy weapons in Germany, Al-Baghdadi's wife sentenced to death, and more

Firearm mania in the US has reached another peak with gun owners in three states now having&nbsp;the 'convenience' to buy bullets from vending machines in grocery shops.

Shops in the southern states of Alabama, Oklahoma and Texas allow customers to scan their ID on the ammo dispenser similar to a drink vending machine. After going through the plethora of options, the customer can walk away with rounds for their weapon.&nbsp;

American Rounds, the company which devised the ammo dispenser said its device uses Artificial Technology (AI) and that it is as easy to use as an ATM.

"Our smart retail automated ammo dispensers have built-in AI technology, card scanning capability and facial recognition software," the company said.

"Each piece of software works together to verify the buyer’s age and that the person using the machine matches the identification scanned."

The federal law in the US requires&nbsp;a customer to be at least&nbsp;18 years old to purchase ammunition for long guns such as rifles and shotguns, and at least 21 for handgun bullets. American Rounds claims that its&nbsp;identity verification mechanism in the bullet vending machines is able to ensure that only eligible individuals are making the purchase.&nbsp;

The company says it will continue the rollout of the devices in states where hunting is popular, including Louisiana and Colorado.

A store in&nbsp;Tuscaloosa, Alabama, however, removed the machine after its legality was questioned at a city council meeting. The legal department of the city confirmed that the machines were legal if they met proper zoning requirements.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-gun-violence-crisis-how-easy-is-it-to-buy-guns-wion-wideangle-582644">Watch |&nbsp;US gun violence crisis: How easy is it to buy guns? | WION Wideangle</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>Rampant gun culture in the US</h2>

The US has long been associated with gun violence as mass shootings, especially in schools and colleges, have become a routine phenomenon, owing to the freedom to buy firearms.&nbsp;

According to a report by the&nbsp;National Institute for Health Care Management (NIHCM), over 42,000 people died as a result of gun injuries in the US&nbsp;in 2023. The report added that the number of people killed by firearm violence, a leading cause of premature death, grew by nearly 43 per cent&nbsp;between 2010 and 2020.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/data-lab-alarming-stats-in-charts-us-has-more-gun-dealers-than-mcdonalds-starbucks-outlets-put-together-617139" target="_blank">Also read |&nbsp;Data Lab | Alarming stats, in charts: US has more gun dealers than McDonald's, Starbucks outlets put together</a>

"In 2023, 35 per cent of gun deaths were homicides, 56 per cent&nbsp;were suicides, nearly four per cent&nbsp;were unintentional shootings, three per cent were police shootings and less than two per cent were mass shootings," the report noted.&nbsp;

Recent months have seen a flurry of cases where young kids and adults have died by the use of firearms but the issue remains contentious at a higher level with both Democrats and Republicans taking a binary position.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Firearm mania in the US has reached another peak with gun owners in three states now having the 'convenience' to buy bullets from vending machines in grocery shops.

Firearm mania in the US has reached another peak with gun owners in three states now having the 'convenience' to buy bullets from vending machines in grocery shops. Shops in the southern states of Alabama, Oklahoma and Texas allow customers to scan their ID on the ammo dispenser similar to a drink vending machine. After going through the plethora of options, the customer can walk away with rounds for their weapon. American Rounds, the company which devised the ammo dispenser said its device uses Artificial Technology (AI) and that it is as easy to use as an ATM. "Our smart retail automated ammo dispensers have built-in AI technology, card scanning capability and facial recognition software," the company said. "Each piece of software works together to verify the buyer’s age and that the person using the machine matches the identification scanned." The federal law in the US requires a customer to be at least 18 years old to purchase ammunition for long guns such as rifles and shotguns, and at least 21 for handgun bullets. American Rounds claims that its identity verification mechanism in the bullet vending machines is able to ensure that only eligible individuals are making the purchase. The company says it will continue the rollout of the devices in states where hunting is popular, including Louisiana and Colorado. A store in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, however, removed the machine after its legality was questioned at a city council meeting. The legal department of the city confirmed that the machines were legal if they met proper zoning requirements. Watch | US gun violence crisis: How easy is it to buy guns? | WION Wideangle × Rampant gun culture in the US The US has long been associated with gun violence as mass shootings, especially in schools and colleges, have become a routine phenomenon, owing to the freedom to buy firearms. According to a report by the National Institute for Health Care Management (NIHCM), over 42,000 people died as a result of gun injuries in the US in 2023. The report added that the number of people killed by firearm violence, a leading cause of premature death, grew by nearly 43 per cent between 2010 and 2020. Also read | Data Lab | Alarming stats, in charts: US has more gun dealers than McDonald's, Starbucks outlets put together "In 2023, 35 per cent of gun deaths were homicides, 56 per cent were suicides, nearly four per cent were unintentional shootings, three per cent were police shootings and less than two per cent were mass shootings," the report noted. Recent months have seen a flurry of cases where young kids and adults have died by the use of firearms but the issue remains contentious at a higher level with both Democrats and Republicans taking a binary position. (With inputs from agencies)

Firearm mania in US! Vending machines akin to ATMs allow customers to buy bullets

The Chinese military has claimed that it has the capability to impose and maintain a blockade on an island, solely using drones. The claim has been made in a peer-reviewed paper in the&nbsp;Chinese academic journal Command Control &amp; Simulation, published last month.&nbsp;

According to Chen Huijie, an engineer with the&nbsp;92116 unit of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and the project lead of the research, a simulation was run over an unnamed island with a narrow shape similar to Taiwan's terrain.

The objective of the mission was to form a blockade and control the island which had been&nbsp;fortified with a large number of air defence missile launchers, while hostile warships and submarines prowled the surrounding waters.

For the blockade, the PLA used four types of drones. The first batch of large and medium-sized drones with&nbsp;reconnaissance-and-attack capabilities were launched from mainland Chinese military bases. Their objective was to operate in all-weathers, detect and identify the mobile threats while eliminating them.&nbsp;

The second batch of small composite-wing&nbsp;reconnaissance drones and&nbsp;anti-radiation patrol drones were deployed by the PLA naval vessels. Their duty was to conduct close observation of concealed targets and eliminate enemy radars.&nbsp;

Citing the benefit of using the drones, Chen's team wrote,&nbsp;"Unmanned equipment offers advantages including expendability, low cost and minimal casualties. Integrating unmanned clusters into a systematic war is anticipated to speed up the reconnaissance, identification, decision-making and attack cycles, consequently boosting overall combat efficacy.”

The report added that once the "scale and diversity of drone formations" reached a certain threshold, the military could effectively control the island and its surrounding waters by suppressing the island's armed forces whilst simultaneously thwarting external aid.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;US-China war over Taiwan? Xi Jinping demands 'modern system for military governance' | Details

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwans-carrier-killers-look-all-set-to-give-pla-vessels-a-bloody-nose-736842">Also read |&nbsp;Taiwan’s ‘carrier killers’ look all set to give PLA vessels a bloody nose</a>

The release of the paper comes in the backdrop of the US military last month revealing its modus operandi of using swarms of drones in the Taiwan Strait in the case of a potential conflict. The strategy dubbed "Hellscape" is intended to stop the PLA troops from landing on Taiwanese land without having to put US soldiers on the forward line.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I want to turn the Taiwan Strait into an unmanned hellscape,” Admiral Samuel Paparo, head of US Indo-Pacific Command, told The Washington Post in an interview published on June 10.

China claims self-ruled democratic Taiwan as part of its territory and under its top leader Xi Jinping, it has not renounced the use of force to bring the island under control.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Chinese military has claimed that it has the capability to impose and maintain a blockade on an island, solely using drones. The claim has been made in a peer-reviewed paper in the Chinese academic journal Command Control & Simulation, published last month.

The Chinese military has claimed that it has the capability to impose and maintain a blockade on an island, solely using drones. The claim has been made in a peer-reviewed paper in the Chinese academic journal Command Control & Simulation, published last month. According to Chen Huijie, an engineer with the 92116 unit of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and the project lead of the research, a simulation was run over an unnamed island with a narrow shape similar to Taiwan's terrain. The objective of the mission was to form a blockade and control the island which had been fortified with a large number of air defence missile launchers, while hostile warships and submarines prowled the surrounding waters. For the blockade, the PLA used four types of drones. The first batch of large and medium-sized drones with reconnaissance-and-attack capabilities were launched from mainland Chinese military bases. Their objective was to operate in all-weathers, detect and identify the mobile threats while eliminating them. The second batch of small composite-wing reconnaissance drones and anti-radiation patrol drones were deployed by the PLA naval vessels. Their duty was to conduct close observation of concealed targets and eliminate enemy radars. Citing the benefit of using the drones, Chen's team wrote, "Unmanned equipment offers advantages including expendability, low cost and minimal casualties. Integrating unmanned clusters into a systematic war is anticipated to speed up the reconnaissance, identification, decision-making and attack cycles, consequently boosting overall combat efficacy.” The report added that once the "scale and diversity of drone formations" reached a certain threshold, the military could effectively control the island and its surrounding waters by suppressing the island's armed forces whilst simultaneously thwarting external aid. Also watch | US-China war over Taiwan? Xi Jinping demands 'modern system for military governance' | Details Also read | Taiwan’s ‘carrier killers’ look all set to give PLA vessels a bloody nose The release of the paper comes in the backdrop of the US military last month revealing its modus operandi of using swarms of drones in the Taiwan Strait in the case of a potential conflict. The strategy dubbed "Hellscape" is intended to stop the PLA troops from landing on Taiwanese land without having to put US soldiers on the forward line. “I want to turn the Taiwan Strait into an unmanned hellscape,” Admiral Samuel Paparo, head of US Indo-Pacific Command, told The Washington Post in an interview published on June 10. China claims self-ruled democratic Taiwan as part of its territory and under its top leader Xi Jinping, it has not renounced the use of force to bring the island under control. (With inputs from agencies)

China plans to use drones to blockade Taiwan after US unveils 'Hellscape' strategy

United States men's national team bowed out of the ongoing Copa America 2024 after 0-1 loss against Uruguay on Monday (Jul 1). The US players, however, blasted match official Kevin Ortega for some very dubious calls made during the game.

The frustration in US players, particularly captain Christian Pulisic, who was almost taunting Ortega to join Uruguay celebrations after the match.

Among the various decisions gone haywire during the match, one was the reason USMNT lost the game. It was in the 73rd minute of the game where two Uruguay players were offside after checking with the VAR but the goal was still allowed.

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A look at the VAR angle of the Uruguay goal vs the USMNT 🧐🤔 <a href="https://t.co/VnOEe3jQvn">pic.twitter.com/VnOEe3jQvn</a>
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) <a href="https://twitter.com/FOXSoccer/status/1807966638219972875?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-portugal-striker-cristiano-ronaldo-confirms-its-his-last-tournament-737185">Euro 2024: Portugal striker Cristiano Ronaldo confirms it's 'his last' tournament</a>

After the match, Pulisic said: "Honestly, I mean, I saw things that I've never seen before, right in front of my eyes today, that truly I can't believe.."&nbsp;

"It's not why we lost. We're not out of this tournament because of officiation. But really, I've just seen things that — really, I mean ... I don't know what I'm looking at, I don't know what they're calling, he gives no explanation, he's doing things that I just can't — I can't accept."

Ortega also clearly wasn't pleased with the criticism and refused to shake hands with Pulisic after the match.

Pulisic's teammate Antonee Robinson also slammed the official&nbsp;and said: It was draining. The referee clearly doesn't have a clue what he's doing, doesn't know how to control the game ... This referee was awful. Never seen a referee let a quick free kick go while he's got a yellow card in hand. It's literally embarrassing. And [I] hope something happens to him from that."

Both the players, however, agreed that it wasn't officiating that they are now out of the tournament. The USA had lost against Panama 2-1 last week. The loss meant that the match against Uruguay became a do-or-die situation.

United States men's national team bowed out of the ongoing Copa America 2024 after 0-1 loss against Uruguay on Monday (Jul 1). The US players, however, blasted match official Kevin Ortega for some very dubious calls made during the game.

United States men's national team bowed out of the ongoing Copa America 2024 after 0-1 loss against Uruguay on Monday (Jul 1). The US players, however, blasted match official Kevin Ortega for some very dubious calls made during the game. The frustration in US players, particularly captain Christian Pulisic, who was almost taunting Ortega to join Uruguay celebrations after the match. Among the various decisions gone haywire during the match, one was the reason USMNT lost the game. It was in the 73rd minute of the game where two Uruguay players were offside after checking with the VAR but the goal was still allowed. A look at the VAR angle of the Uruguay goal vs the USMNT 🧐🤔 pic.twitter.com/VnOEe3jQvn — FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 2, 2024 × Also Read: Euro 2024: Portugal striker Cristiano Ronaldo confirms it's 'his last' tournament After the match, Pulisic said: "Honestly, I mean, I saw things that I've never seen before, right in front of my eyes today, that truly I can't believe.." "It's not why we lost. We're not out of this tournament because of officiation. But really, I've just seen things that — really, I mean ... I don't know what I'm looking at, I don't know what they're calling, he gives no explanation, he's doing things that I just can't — I can't accept." Ortega also clearly wasn't pleased with the criticism and refused to shake hands with Pulisic after the match. Pulisic's teammate Antonee Robinson also slammed the official and said: It was draining. The referee clearly doesn't have a clue what he's doing, doesn't know how to control the game ... This referee was awful. Never seen a referee let a quick free kick go while he's got a yellow card in hand. It's literally embarrassing. And [I] hope something happens to him from that." Both the players, however, agreed that it wasn't officiating that they are now out of the tournament. The USA had lost against Panama 2-1 last week. The loss meant that the match against Uruguay became a do-or-die situation.

Copa America 2024: USMNT players blast official after tournament ending loss against Uruguay

The United States crashed out of the Copa America on Monday after a 1-0 defeat to Uruguay, as Panama sealed their place in the quarter-finals with a 3-1 win over Bolivia.

Team USA, who suffered an upset 2-1 defeat to Panama last Thursday, went into Monday's final Group C game at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City needing to match or better Panama's result against Bolivia to advance.

But US coach Gregg Berhalter's side never looked like doing enough to seriously threaten a well-drilled Uruguay outfit who advance to the last eight as group winners.

"It's difficult to say right now, obviously the emotions are running high," disappointed US captain Christian Pulisic said.

"We had a good start and brought a lot of energy, but just didn't have enough quality. We just couldn't find a solution."

Hopes of a great escape for the tournament hosts faded inside the first 30 minutes, as news filtered through that Panama had taken a 1-0 lead against Bolivia in Orlando.

Those hopes were revived early in the second half after Bolivia equalised to make it 1-1, leaving the US on course for qualification provided they continued to hold Uruguay.

Yet the US optimism was punctured just moments later when Uruguay took the lead in controversial circumstances through Mathias Olivera on 66 minutes.

Ronald Araujo's powerful header from Nicolas de la Cruz's free-kick was parried away by US goalkeeper Matt Turner, but only into the path of Olivera, who tucked away the rebound.

Replays appeared to show that Olivera was offside when Araujo first made contact with the ball, but despite a lengthy VAR review, Peruvian referee Kevin Ortega ruled that the goal should stand.&nbsp;

The mathematics of qualification looked even more bleak for the US after news that Panama had scored again through Eduardo Guerrero to regain the lead at 2-1, and the final nail in the coffin came when Cesar Yanis added a third for Panama in stoppage time.

The USA's first-round exit raises fresh questions about the future of US coach Berhalter, who remains deeply unpopular amongst swathes of American fans.

Berhalter was only reappointed to the US job in June last year following a hiatus after leading the team to the 2022 World Cup.

Yet the nature of Monday's early exit is certain to reignite debate about whether he is the best man to lead the United States into the 2026 World Cup on home soil.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-france-edge-past-belgium-in-tight-round-of-16-match-to-ender-quarterfinals-736902">Euro 2024: France edge past Belgium in tight Round of 16 match to enter quarterfinals</a>

Failure to defeat Uruguay, 14th in the latest FIFA rankings, extends Berhalter's poor record against top 20 teams.&nbsp;

Berhalter has just five wins in 20 matches against top-20 teams during his reign, and four of those victories came against regional rivals Mexico -- who were also been eliminated from the Copa in the first round.

That dismal sequence continued after a toothless attacking performance from Berhalter's side against Uruguay, where they registered only three shots on goal in a misfiring offensive display.

US defender Antonee Robinson described the officiating as "amateur hour" but stressed responsibility for the defeat lay with the American players. "Just not enough quality in the final third," Robinson said.

"At the end of the day we weren't good enough to get the result today. This is on us."

The United States crashed out of the Copa America on Monday after a 1-0 defeat to Uruguay, as Panama sealed their place in the quarter-finals with a 3-1 win over Bolivia.

The United States crashed out of the Copa America on Monday after a 1-0 defeat to Uruguay, as Panama sealed their place in the quarter-finals with a 3-1 win over Bolivia. Team USA, who suffered an upset 2-1 defeat to Panama last Thursday, went into Monday's final Group C game at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City needing to match or better Panama's result against Bolivia to advance. But US coach Gregg Berhalter's side never looked like doing enough to seriously threaten a well-drilled Uruguay outfit who advance to the last eight as group winners. "It's difficult to say right now, obviously the emotions are running high," disappointed US captain Christian Pulisic said. "We had a good start and brought a lot of energy, but just didn't have enough quality. We just couldn't find a solution." Hopes of a great escape for the tournament hosts faded inside the first 30 minutes, as news filtered through that Panama had taken a 1-0 lead against Bolivia in Orlando. Those hopes were revived early in the second half after Bolivia equalised to make it 1-1, leaving the US on course for qualification provided they continued to hold Uruguay. Yet the US optimism was punctured just moments later when Uruguay took the lead in controversial circumstances through Mathias Olivera on 66 minutes. Ronald Araujo's powerful header from Nicolas de la Cruz's free-kick was parried away by US goalkeeper Matt Turner, but only into the path of Olivera, who tucked away the rebound. Replays appeared to show that Olivera was offside when Araujo first made contact with the ball, but despite a lengthy VAR review, Peruvian referee Kevin Ortega ruled that the goal should stand. The mathematics of qualification looked even more bleak for the US after news that Panama had scored again through Eduardo Guerrero to regain the lead at 2-1, and the final nail in the coffin came when Cesar Yanis added a third for Panama in stoppage time. The USA's first-round exit raises fresh questions about the future of US coach Berhalter, who remains deeply unpopular amongst swathes of American fans. Berhalter was only reappointed to the US job in June last year following a hiatus after leading the team to the 2022 World Cup. Yet the nature of Monday's early exit is certain to reignite debate about whether he is the best man to lead the United States into the 2026 World Cup on home soil. ALSO READ | Euro 2024: France edge past Belgium in tight Round of 16 match to enter quarterfinals Failure to defeat Uruguay, 14th in the latest FIFA rankings, extends Berhalter's poor record against top 20 teams. Berhalter has just five wins in 20 matches against top-20 teams during his reign, and four of those victories came against regional rivals Mexico -- who were also been eliminated from the Copa in the first round. That dismal sequence continued after a toothless attacking performance from Berhalter's side against Uruguay, where they registered only three shots on goal in a misfiring offensive display. US defender Antonee Robinson described the officiating as "amateur hour" but stressed responsibility for the defeat lay with the American players. "Just not enough quality in the final third," Robinson said. "At the end of the day we weren't good enough to get the result today. This is on us."

Copa America 2024: USA crash out of as Uruguay, Panama advance

Seth Waugh is stepping down as chief executive officer of the PGA of America, the organisation announced Wednesday (Jun 26).

Waugh, who had been in the position since August 2018, plans to fill an advisory role.

"On behalf of the more than 30,000 PGA of America Golf Professionals, we are grateful for Seth's leadership and for all that he accomplished for our Members, our game, the business and our people," PGA of America President John Lindert said in a statement.&nbsp;

"He skillfully led us through incredibly challenging times and was always a great partner.

"We are fortunate to be able to call on him going forward for his always helpful advice and counsel."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/golf-watch-climate-protestors-disrupt-play-before-scottie-scheffler-wins-travelers-championship-734674">Golf: WATCH | Climate protestors disrupt play before Scottie Scheffler wins Travelers Championship</a>

The PGA Tour of America started its search for a new CEO with internal and external candidates part of process. Chief championships officer Kerry Haigh is acting as interim CEO but isn't in the candidate pool for the full-time position.

Before serving as CEO, Waugh was an independent director on the PGA of America Board of Directors for three years.

"I recently informed the board that I would not be renewing my contract that is set to expire on June 30, but am honored to continue to serve the Association as a Senior Advisor," Waugh said in a statement.

"It has been an absolute privilege and honour to serve as the CEO of the PGA of America for the past six years.

"I am proud of all that we have accomplished for our more than 30,000 PGA of America Golf Professionals and the game. I have enjoyed every moment serving alongside all of my colleagues, all the various Officers and Board Members and getting to know so many of our dedicated Members who are on the front line of the game that we love every day of the year."

Seth Waugh is stepping down as chief executive officer of the PGA of America, the organisation announced Wednesday (Jun 26). Waugh, who had been in the position since August 2018, plans to fill an advisory role.

Seth Waugh is stepping down as chief executive officer of the PGA of America, the organisation announced Wednesday (Jun 26). Waugh, who had been in the position since August 2018, plans to fill an advisory role. "On behalf of the more than 30,000 PGA of America Golf Professionals, we are grateful for Seth's leadership and for all that he accomplished for our Members, our game, the business and our people," PGA of America President John Lindert said in a statement. "He skillfully led us through incredibly challenging times and was always a great partner. "We are fortunate to be able to call on him going forward for his always helpful advice and counsel." Golf: WATCH | Climate protestors disrupt play before Scottie Scheffler wins Travelers Championship The PGA Tour of America started its search for a new CEO with internal and external candidates part of process. Chief championships officer Kerry Haigh is acting as interim CEO but isn't in the candidate pool for the full-time position. Before serving as CEO, Waugh was an independent director on the PGA of America Board of Directors for three years. "I recently informed the board that I would not be renewing my contract that is set to expire on June 30, but am honored to continue to serve the Association as a Senior Advisor," Waugh said in a statement. "It has been an absolute privilege and honour to serve as the CEO of the PGA of America for the past six years. "I am proud of all that we have accomplished for our more than 30,000 PGA of America Golf Professionals and the game. I have enjoyed every moment serving alongside all of my colleagues, all the various Officers and Board Members and getting to know so many of our dedicated Members who are on the front line of the game that we love every day of the year."

Golf: Steve Waugh resigns as CEO of PGA of America; to take up advisory role

Pacer Chris Jordan became the first England bowler to take a hattrick in T20 Internationals as he destroyed the USA lower order during the Super 8 clash in Barbados on Sunday (Jun 23).&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

The right-arm speedster was shoehorned into the playing XI due to the indifferent form of Mark Wood but showed his class by ripping through the inexperienced yet dogged US batting lineup. The milestone was all the more special for Jordan as it came at Jordan's birthplace.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Unbelievable feeling (to take the hattrick), was good to restrict them. Getting it (hattrick) at a special place is always nice. Glad I was able to hit on the target. Just finished it off towards the end," said Jordan.

"We summed up the conditions pretty well, we knew they will came hard at us in the powerplay, USA have been playing well in the tournament. Rashid set up the game for us," he added.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-can-india-be-knocked-out-after-afghanistans-surprise-win-over-australia-734377">Also read |&nbsp;T20 World Cup: Can India be knocked out after Afghanistan's surprise win over Australia?</a>

The pacer, who has been in and out of the England squad for the last few years, achieved the feat in the penultimate over of the innings. With the USA scoreboard reading 115/6, Jordan first dismissed well-set Corey Anderson (29) as the southpaw heaved one down the throat of Harry Brook at long on.&nbsp;

All-rounder Ali Khan was the next to perish after surviving a delivery. Khan's offstump was rattled before&nbsp;Nosthush Kenjige was caught plumb on the crease in successive deliveries.&nbsp;

Jordan's third victim was&nbsp;Saurabh Netravalkar whose middle stump was sent cartwheeling as England players swarmed their paceman.&nbsp;

In the end, Jordan finished with four wickets in the over which was only the second time a bowler had achieved such a feat in T20 World Cups. Ireland's Curtis Campher had achieved the record against the Netherlands in 2021.&nbsp;

Hat-tricks in Men’s T20 World Cups 
 
Brett Lee (AUS) vs BAN, Cape Town, 2007 
 
Curtis Campher (IRE) vs NED, Abu Dhabi, 2021 
 
Wanindu Hasaranga (SL) vs SA, Sharjah, 2021 
 
Kagiso Rabada (SA) vs ENG, Sharjah, 2021 
 
Karthik Meiyappan (UAE) vs SL, Geelong, 2022 
 
Joshua Little (IRE) vs NZ, Adelaide, 2022 
 
Pat Cummins (AUS) vs BAN, North Sound, 2024 
 
Pat Cummins (AUS) vs AFG, Kingstown, 2024 
 
Chris Jordan (ENG) vs USA, Bridgetown, 2024

Pacer Chris Jordan became the first England bowler to take a hattrick in T20 Internationals as he destroyed the USA lower order during the Super 8 clash in Barbados on Sunday (Jun 23).

Pacer Chris Jordan became the first England bowler to take a hattrick in T20 Internationals as he destroyed the USA lower order during the Super 8 clash in Barbados on Sunday (Jun 23). The right-arm speedster was shoehorned into the playing XI due to the indifferent form of Mark Wood but showed his class by ripping through the inexperienced yet dogged US batting lineup. The milestone was all the more special for Jordan as it came at Jordan's birthplace. "Unbelievable feeling (to take the hattrick), was good to restrict them. Getting it (hattrick) at a special place is always nice. Glad I was able to hit on the target. Just finished it off towards the end," said Jordan. "We summed up the conditions pretty well, we knew they will came hard at us in the powerplay, USA have been playing well in the tournament. Rashid set up the game for us," he added. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × Also read | T20 World Cup: Can India be knocked out after Afghanistan's surprise win over Australia? The pacer, who has been in and out of the England squad for the last few years, achieved the feat in the penultimate over of the innings. With the USA scoreboard reading 115/6, Jordan first dismissed well-set Corey Anderson (29) as the southpaw heaved one down the throat of Harry Brook at long on. All-rounder Ali Khan was the next to perish after surviving a delivery. Khan's offstump was rattled before Nosthush Kenjige was caught plumb on the crease in successive deliveries. Jordan's third victim was Saurabh Netravalkar whose middle stump was sent cartwheeling as England players swarmed their paceman. In the end, Jordan finished with four wickets in the over which was only the second time a bowler had achieved such a feat in T20 World Cups. Ireland's Curtis Campher had achieved the record against the Netherlands in 2021. Hat-tricks in Men’s T20 World Cups Brett Lee (AUS) vs BAN, Cape Town, 2007 Curtis Campher (IRE) vs NED, Abu Dhabi, 2021 Wanindu Hasaranga (SL) vs SA, Sharjah, 2021 Kagiso Rabada (SA) vs ENG, Sharjah, 2021 Karthik Meiyappan (UAE) vs SL, Geelong, 2022 Joshua Little (IRE) vs NZ, Adelaide, 2022 Pat Cummins (AUS) vs BAN, North Sound, 2024 Pat Cummins (AUS) vs AFG, Kingstown, 2024 Chris Jordan (ENG) vs USA, Bridgetown, 2024

T20 World Cup, ENG vs USA: Chris Jordan becomes first English player to take T20I hattrick - Watch

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South Africa made a winning start in Super Eight stage of the ongoing T20 World Cup with an 18-run victory against USA on Wednesday (June 19). Chasing 195, USA came close thanks to Andries Gous' unbeaten 47-ball 80 but could eventually manage 176/6 in 20 overs.

South Africa's Kagiso Rabada bowled a brilliant 19th over, giving away just two runs and taking a wicket, as USA threatened to make another upset after taking 22 runs in the 18th over.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-w-vs-sa-w-smriti-mandhana-equals-virat-kohli-harmanpreet-hits-fastest-ton-for-india-women-in-2nd-odi-733303">IND W vs SA W: Smriti Mandhana equals Virat Kohli, Harmanpreet hits fastest ton for India women in 2nd ODI</a>

USA, however, started poorly in chase as they lost two wickets inside the powerplay but managed to score 53 runs at nearly nine runs per over. Protea bowlers then came back strongly as USA crawled to 76 runs in 11.1 overs but lost three more wickets.

Opener Gous then added 91 runs with Harmeet Singh (38 off 22) in just seven overs as SA stared at an upset. The SA bowlers, however, kept their nerve to close out the game.

Earlier, USA won the toss and elected to bowl first. South Africa lost the first wicket early for just 16 runs in Rezza Hendricks but Quinton de Kock and Aiden Markram then stabilised the innings.&nbsp;

The duo added 110 runs for the second wicket before Harmeet Singh removed de Kock (74 off 40) and David Miller (0) off consecutive balls in the 13th over.

Markram also departed soon thanks to USA's breakout star Saurabh Netravalkar, who took 2/21 in four overs, as USA bowlers brought SA's run-rate in check.&nbsp;

Heinrich Klaasen (36 not out off 22) and Tristan Stubbs (unbeaten 20 off 16) then added 53 runs in the last five overs as SA finished with an above-par total of 194/4 in their 20 overs.

USA next play against West Indies on June 22 while South Africa's next match is on June 21 against defending champions England.

South Africa made a winning start in Super Eight stage of the ongoing T20 World Cup with an 18-run victory against USA on Wednesday (June 19). Chasing 195, USA came close thanks to Andries Gous' unbeaten 47-ball 80 but could eventually manage 176/6 in 20 overs.

South Africa made a winning start in Super Eight stage of the ongoing T20 World Cup with an 18-run victory against USA on Wednesday (June 19). Chasing 195, USA came close thanks to Andries Gous' unbeaten 47-ball 80 but could eventually manage 176/6 in 20 overs. South Africa's Kagiso Rabada bowled a brilliant 19th over, giving away just two runs and taking a wicket, as USA threatened to make another upset after taking 22 runs in the 18th over. Also Read: IND W vs SA W: Smriti Mandhana equals Virat Kohli, Harmanpreet hits fastest ton for India women in 2nd ODI USA, however, started poorly in chase as they lost two wickets inside the powerplay but managed to score 53 runs at nearly nine runs per over. Protea bowlers then came back strongly as USA crawled to 76 runs in 11.1 overs but lost three more wickets. Opener Gous then added 91 runs with Harmeet Singh (38 off 22) in just seven overs as SA stared at an upset. The SA bowlers, however, kept their nerve to close out the game. Earlier, USA won the toss and elected to bowl first. South Africa lost the first wicket early for just 16 runs in Rezza Hendricks but Quinton de Kock and Aiden Markram then stabilised the innings. The duo added 110 runs for the second wicket before Harmeet Singh removed de Kock (74 off 40) and David Miller (0) off consecutive balls in the 13th over. Markram also departed soon thanks to USA's breakout star Saurabh Netravalkar, who took 2/21 in four overs, as USA bowlers brought SA's run-rate in check. Heinrich Klaasen (36 not out off 22) and Tristan Stubbs (unbeaten 20 off 16) then added 53 runs in the last five overs as SA finished with an above-par total of 194/4 in their 20 overs. USA next play against West Indies on June 22 while South Africa's next match is on June 21 against defending champions England.

T20 World Cup 2024: Quinton de Kock, Kagiso Rabada star as South Africa beat USA in opening Super 8 game

A notion that relentlessly echoes in diplomatic circles is that India punches below its weight. While countries having lesser potential don’t hold back in the exhibition of their overtures aimed at hogging the limelight, India, contradictorily, has confined itself to its own affairs and avoids raising its voice over issues that can ‘potentially raise its standing’ in the world order. Interestingly, this notion has huge scope for introspection. The watchers of geopolitics reiterate the fact that India’s foreign policy has got an unprecedented tinge of autonomy with a sense of self-belief and respect for the idea of universal citizenship, mutual trust, and non-interference in internal affairs, among others. In the dynamic geopolitics post Cold War, Indian diplomacy has borne fruits&nbsp;and yielded&nbsp;results, which get referred to as special treatments or exceptionalism.&nbsp;

<h2>The genesis of ‘India-specific waivers’ in Indo-US relations</h2>

After the 1998 nuclear test in Pokhran, India acknowledged two things. First, tests were successful and the second pertained to the inevitability of sanctions. The Clinton Administration imposed sanctions on India which eased only with George W Bush replacing the incumbent at the White House. The Bush administration can be considered the first in the US to have laid a strong foundation for a partnership that the US and India share today.

To put things in perspective, in December 2006, the US Atomic Energy Act was amended by Henry J Hyde Act and it marked the saga of exceptions extended to India. The US-India Civil Nuclear Agreement, also known as the 123 Agreement, became a reality marking an end to India’s nuclear isolation. Nevertheless, Indo-France Civil Nuclear Agreement was signed earlier in the same year but the USA’s acknowledgement of India as a nuclear partner brought greater acceptance for the South Block. India, a non-signatory to Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), was given a bypass route and it led to the coinage of ‘India-specific exemption’ at the Nuclear Suppliers Group in 2008.&nbsp;

The Indo-US Convention on Taxation was also signed, which in the words of then&nbsp;US President George W Bush was, “The first tax treaty between the US and India. It includes special provisions that take into account India's status as a developing nation and that reflect changes in US tax treaty policy resulting from the Tax Reform Act of 1986.” This succinctly summarises India’s foreign policy that has galvanised support across the world without much hullabaloo and trumpeting.&nbsp;

The recent slew of exemptions that India has received relates to Countering American Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) and International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA). With sanctions imposed over China and Turkey under CAATSA, and Saudi Arabia, Russia, Pakistan, Myanmar, China, Turkey facing sanctions under IRFA, New Delhi’s exclusion shows India’s ascent in the USA’s scheme of things.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, these exceptions have come amidst New Delhi opting for Russia-manufactured S-400 systems and the US Commission on International Religious Freedom’s recommendations to put India on the list of ‘countries of particular concern’.&nbsp;

<h2>Exceptionalism in Indo-France relations</h2>

This diplomatic phenomenon of exceptionalism is not only confined to the United States. Another major power, France has made some extraordinary exceptions for India in the last few years. The genesis of this treatment lies in the fact that India is looking to diversify its defence purchases before actually phasing out its over-reliance on imports aimed at Aatma&nbsp;Nirbharta. In the meantime, France senses a great opportunity to keep its defence manufacturing buoyed majorly by Indian imports.&nbsp;

With the Russia-Ukraine crisis testing the alliances and ties between nations, Indo-French relations have&nbsp;withstood the test of time and continue to tread their respective paths to national interest without being intrusive in each other’s affairs. As reported by The Hindu, the Indo-France relations are based on philosophies and are much more than defence purchases, military exercises, the Republic and Bastille Day celebrations, and these are mere manifestations of those philosophies.&nbsp;

India and France respect each other’s position and refrain from dragging each other into the alliances they belong to. France has openly expressed its apprehensions over NATO Plus which potentially would include India, among other countries, while India too has not been very keen on the prospects of becoming a member of an extended NATO. Both countries are highly categorical about their internal issues and acknowledge the adherence to their respective strategic autonomies.&nbsp;

In March 2022, France brought a resolution in UN General Assembly&nbsp;regarding ‘unhindered humanitarian aid be allowed inside the conflict zone’ concerning the Russia-Ukraine war. India abstained and France’s effort failed consequently. Despite this development, Paris maintained composure, and as The Hindu reported, ‘no word of disappointment was raised’. The India-centric diplomacy in France also got bolstered when Paris did choose to keep at bay the European Parliament’s criticism of India over the Manipur issue during the recent France visit by PM Modi.&nbsp;

<h2>Has India toed the Russian line?</h2>

India’s special treatment goes a long way. In the context of Moscow-New Delhi relations, in its recent Foreign Policy Document, Russia clubbed India along with China as ‘friendly sovereign global centres of power’. The foreign policy document has a special section dedicated to Russia’s partnership with both India and China, outside of its relationship with the rest of the countries in the Asia-Pacific region.&nbsp;

Interestingly, India has not toed the Russian line either. India voted against Russia in August 2022 allowing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;to virtually address the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Later in the same year, New Delhi took a stand against Russian demand for the vote through a secret ballot in the General Assembly on a draft resolution over Moscow’s “illegal” annexation of Ukrainian regions.&nbsp;

In what can be seen as its pursuit of strategic autonomy, India’s actions like opting to join QUAD which Kremlin has obvious apprehensions for, lowering defence purchases from Russia, signing foundational defence agreements like LEMOA, BECA, etc., with the US do not seem to be deterring Kremlin’s trust and support for New Delhi.&nbsp;

<h2>India’s foreign policy motto - Results, not rhetoric</h2>

Attaching the highest importance to its national interest, India has maintained amicable and robust relations with countries, varying in the degrees of power and clout. India’s relations with the USA, the sole super-power for at least the next five years, is at an all-time high. USA’s Cold War rival, Russia, too finds India a reasonable ally in its fight against ‘Washington’s arm-twisting’ of nations aimed at galvanising support against Moscow. France, a major defence manufacturer and a country seeking to pursue strategic autonomy in the background of deals getting aborted with the formation of groups like AUKUS, craves reinvigorated relations with India.&nbsp;

Concisely, noteworthy is the fact that India and its diplomats have never been loudmouths. Indian diplomacy means business and the instances mentioned above are just the tip of the iceberg. The foreign policy of a country that maintains cordial relations with Russia for continental stability in Asia and does not shy away from siding with the US to ensure tranquillity in the Indo-Pacific is to be seriously reckoned with.&nbsp;

With both Moscow and Washington balanced, the diplomacy that India has pursued by virtue of its unbudgeable autonomy, glitters as a case study for watchers of geopolitics. These diplomatic feats epitomise India’s proactive foreign policy that believes in results rather than rhetoric.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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A notion that relentlessly echoes in diplomatic circles is that India punches below its weight. While countries having lesser potential don’t hold back in the exhibition of their overtures aimed at hogging the limelight, India, contradictorily, has confined itself to its own affairs and avoids raising its voice over issues that can ‘potentially raise its standing’ in the world order.

A notion that relentlessly echoes in diplomatic circles is that India punches below its weight. While countries having lesser potential don’t hold back in the exhibition of their overtures aimed at hogging the limelight, India, contradictorily, has confined itself to its own affairs and avoids raising its voice over issues that can ‘potentially raise its standing’ in the world order. Interestingly, this notion has huge scope for introspection. The watchers of geopolitics reiterate the fact that India’s foreign policy has got an unprecedented tinge of autonomy with a sense of self-belief and respect for the idea of universal citizenship, mutual trust, and non-interference in internal affairs, among others. In the dynamic geopolitics post Cold War, Indian diplomacy has borne fruits and yielded results, which get referred to as special treatments or exceptionalism. The genesis of ‘India-specific waivers’ in Indo-US relations After the 1998 nuclear test in Pokhran, India acknowledged two things. First, tests were successful and the second pertained to the inevitability of sanctions. The Clinton Administration imposed sanctions on India which eased only with George W Bush replacing the incumbent at the White House. The Bush administration can be considered the first in the US to have laid a strong foundation for a partnership that the US and India share today. To put things in perspective, in December 2006, the US Atomic Energy Act was amended by Henry J Hyde Act and it marked the saga of exceptions extended to India. The US-India Civil Nuclear Agreement, also known as the 123 Agreement, became a reality marking an end to India’s nuclear isolation. Nevertheless, Indo-France Civil Nuclear Agreement was signed earlier in the same year but the USA’s acknowledgement of India as a nuclear partner brought greater acceptance for the South Block. India, a non-signatory to Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), was given a bypass route and it led to the coinage of ‘India-specific exemption’ at the Nuclear Suppliers Group in 2008. The Indo-US Convention on Taxation was also signed, which in the words of then US President George W Bush was, “The first tax treaty between the US and India. It includes special provisions that take into account India's status as a developing nation and that reflect changes in US tax treaty policy resulting from the Tax Reform Act of 1986.” This succinctly summarises India’s foreign policy that has galvanised support across the world without much hullabaloo and trumpeting. The recent slew of exemptions that India has received relates to Countering American Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) and International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA). With sanctions imposed over China and Turkey under CAATSA, and Saudi Arabia, Russia, Pakistan, Myanmar, China, Turkey facing sanctions under IRFA, New Delhi’s exclusion shows India’s ascent in the USA’s scheme of things. Nonetheless, these exceptions have come amidst New Delhi opting for Russia-manufactured S-400 systems and the US Commission on International Religious Freedom’s recommendations to put India on the list of ‘countries of particular concern’. Exceptionalism in Indo-France relations This diplomatic phenomenon of exceptionalism is not only confined to the United States. Another major power, France has made some extraordinary exceptions for India in the last few years. The genesis of this treatment lies in the fact that India is looking to diversify its defence purchases before actually phasing out its over-reliance on imports aimed at Aatma Nirbharta. In the meantime, France senses a great opportunity to keep its defence manufacturing buoyed majorly by Indian imports. With the Russia-Ukraine crisis testing the alliances and ties between nations, Indo-French relations have withstood the test of time and continue to tread their respective paths to national interest without being intrusive in each other’s affairs. As reported by The Hindu, the Indo-France relations are based on philosophies and are much more than defence purchases, military exercises, the Republic and Bastille Day celebrations, and these are mere manifestations of those philosophies. India and France respect each other’s position and refrain from dragging each other into the alliances they belong to. France has openly expressed its apprehensions over NATO Plus which potentially would include India, among other countries, while India too has not been very keen on the prospects of becoming a member of an extended NATO. Both countries are highly categorical about their internal issues and acknowledge the adherence to their respective strategic autonomies. In March 2022, France brought a resolution in UN General Assembly regarding ‘unhindered humanitarian aid be allowed inside the conflict zone’ concerning the Russia-Ukraine war. India abstained and France’s effort failed consequently. Despite this development, Paris maintained composure, and as The Hindu reported, ‘no word of disappointment was raised’. The India-centric diplomacy in France also got bolstered when Paris did choose to keep at bay the European Parliament’s criticism of India over the Manipur issue during the recent France visit by PM Modi. Has India toed the Russian line? India’s special treatment goes a long way. In the context of Moscow-New Delhi relations, in its recent Foreign Policy Document, Russia clubbed India along with China as ‘friendly sovereign global centres of power’. The foreign policy document has a special section dedicated to Russia’s partnership with both India and China, outside of its relationship with the rest of the countries in the Asia-Pacific region. Interestingly, India has not toed the Russian line either. India voted against Russia in August 2022 allowing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to virtually address the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Later in the same year, New Delhi took a stand against Russian demand for the vote through a secret ballot in the General Assembly on a draft resolution over Moscow’s “illegal” annexation of Ukrainian regions. In what can be seen as its pursuit of strategic autonomy, India’s actions like opting to join QUAD which Kremlin has obvious apprehensions for, lowering defence purchases from Russia, signing foundational defence agreements like LEMOA, BECA, etc., with the US do not seem to be deterring Kremlin’s trust and support for New Delhi. India’s foreign policy motto - Results, not rhetoric Attaching the highest importance to its national interest, India has maintained amicable and robust relations with countries, varying in the degrees of power and clout. India’s relations with the USA, the sole super-power for at least the next five years, is at an all-time high. USA’s Cold War rival, Russia, too finds India a reasonable ally in its fight against ‘Washington’s arm-twisting’ of nations aimed at galvanising support against Moscow. France, a major defence manufacturer and a country seeking to pursue strategic autonomy in the background of deals getting aborted with the formation of groups like AUKUS, craves reinvigorated relations with India. Concisely, noteworthy is the fact that India and its diplomats have never been loudmouths. Indian diplomacy means business and the instances mentioned above are just the tip of the iceberg. The foreign policy of a country that maintains cordial relations with Russia for continental stability in Asia and does not shy away from siding with the US to ensure tranquillity in the Indo-Pacific is to be seriously reckoned with. With both Moscow and Washington balanced, the diplomacy that India has pursued by virtue of its unbudgeable autonomy, glitters as a case study for watchers of geopolitics. These diplomatic feats epitomise India’s proactive foreign policy that believes in results rather than rhetoric. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Giving Indian foreign policy its due

In the first trip to India by a senior American official after the Modi government came to power for the third term, US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan is in New Delhi on Monday for the second meeting of the initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET). His visit marks the second meeting of the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies. He has also met his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval and external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar. Watch in for more details!

NSA Ajit Doval, Jake Sullivan hold India-US iCET meeting in New Delhi, discuss tech collaborations

Now, we turn our attention to market moves this morning. Asian stocks tracked US peers higher as the federal reserve's cautious outlook on interest rates did little to alter wall street bulls. Cooling US inflation also swayed traders' sentiment.

Asian stocks rise as traders shrug off hawkish FED

The USA became the latest associate nation to beat Pakistan in the Cricket World Cup, this time in their home in Dallas, Texas.

Pakistan’s mighty fall at T20 World Cup

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