US health regulators said on Friday that use of Johnson &amp; Johnson Covid vaccine could restart. The rollout of the vaccine was paused due to worries over blood clotting. A pause on the use of the vaccine was proposed on April 14.

An expert panel has now recommended lifting the pause because the shots benefits exceeded possible dangers.

"We have concluded that the known and potential benefits of the Janssen Covid-19 vaccine outweigh its known and potential risks in individuals 18 years of age and older," said Janet Woodcock, head of Food and Drug Administration in a joint statement with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

CDC head Rochelle Walensky said "exceptionally rare events" of clotting were identified, adding that regulators will continue to monitor the rollout of the vaccines.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/use-of-single-dose-jj-covid-19-vaccine-begins-in-european-union-379485">Use of single-dose J&amp;J COVID-19 vaccine begins in European Union</a>

According to data presented Friday, of 3.9 million women who got the Johnson &amp; Johnson shot, 15 developed serious blood clots and three died.

The majority of the confirmed cases, 13 of the 15, were aged under 50 years old. There were no reported cases among men.

Europe's medicine regulator has already said on Tuesday that blood clotting should be listed as "very rare side effect of J&amp;J coronavirus vaccine.

(With inputs from agencies)

US health regulators said on Friday that use of Johnson & Johnson Covid vaccine could restart. The rollout of the vaccine was paused due to worries over blood clotting.

US health regulators said on Friday that use of Johnson & Johnson Covid vaccine could restart. The rollout of the vaccine was paused due to worries over blood clotting. A pause on the use of the vaccine was proposed on April 14. An expert panel has now recommended lifting the pause because the shots benefits exceeded possible dangers. "We have concluded that the known and potential benefits of the Janssen Covid-19 vaccine outweigh its known and potential risks in individuals 18 years of age and older," said Janet Woodcock, head of Food and Drug Administration in a joint statement with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). CDC head Rochelle Walensky said "exceptionally rare events" of clotting were identified, adding that regulators will continue to monitor the rollout of the vaccines. Also Read | Use of single-dose J&J COVID-19 vaccine begins in European Union According to data presented Friday, of 3.9 million women who got the Johnson & Johnson shot, 15 developed serious blood clots and three died. The majority of the confirmed cases, 13 of the 15, were aged under 50 years old. There were no reported cases among men. Europe's medicine regulator has already said on Tuesday that blood clotting should be listed as "very rare side effect of J&J coronavirus vaccine. (With inputs from agencies)

US regulators approve restarting use of Johnson & Johnson Covid vaccine

US government led by President Joe Biden is mulling over options it has to decide whether to support waiver of intellectual property protections on Covid vaccines. A group of progressive Democrats met Biden and urged him to support the waiver.

In case the waiver is granted by World Trade Organisation with support from US and other countries, the rules regarding production and export of Covid vaccines and other medical goods to fight the pandemic would be eased. This may have potential to help make Covid vaccines available to all.

The waiver includes patents, copyrights and trade secrets.

The proposal for the waiver has support of India, South Africa and more than 50 other countries. Under former President Donald Trump, the US had opposed the waiver.&nbsp;

The waiver was also opposed by the European Union, UK, Japan, Switzerland, Brazil and Norway. However, it is being seen that if the US supports the waiver, opposition from the other camps would not be as fierce.

There is a growing clamour for the support of the waiver. Medical charity Doctors Without Borders/ Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) has urged all the countries to support the waiver&nbsp;

"In this COVID-19 pandemic, we are once again faced with issues of scarcity, which can be addressed through diversification of manufacturing and supply capacity and ensuring the temporary waiver of relevant intellectual property,” said Dr Maria Guevara, MSF’s International Medical Secretary.

“We urge all countries in opposition to this, including the US and the EU, to stand on the right side of history and join hands with those in support. It is about saving lives at the end, not protecting systems.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

US government led by President Joe Biden is mulling over options it has to decide whether to support waiver of intellectual property protections on Covid vaccines.

US government led by President Joe Biden is mulling over options it has to decide whether to support waiver of intellectual property protections on Covid vaccines. A group of progressive Democrats met Biden and urged him to support the waiver. In case the waiver is granted by World Trade Organisation with support from US and other countries, the rules regarding production and export of Covid vaccines and other medical goods to fight the pandemic would be eased. This may have potential to help make Covid vaccines available to all. The waiver includes patents, copyrights and trade secrets. The proposal for the waiver has support of India, South Africa and more than 50 other countries. Under former President Donald Trump, the US had opposed the waiver. The waiver was also opposed by the European Union, UK, Japan, Switzerland, Brazil and Norway. However, it is being seen that if the US supports the waiver, opposition from the other camps would not be as fierce. There is a growing clamour for the support of the waiver. Medical charity Doctors Without Borders/ Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) has urged all the countries to support the waiver "In this COVID-19 pandemic, we are once again faced with issues of scarcity, which can be addressed through diversification of manufacturing and supply capacity and ensuring the temporary waiver of relevant intellectual property,” said Dr Maria Guevara, MSF’s International Medical Secretary. “We urge all countries in opposition to this, including the US and the EU, to stand on the right side of history and join hands with those in support. It is about saving lives at the end, not protecting systems.” (With inputs from agencies)

US mulls over options on Covid vaccine patent waiver

US President Joe Biden will soon roll out plan to raise taxes for the wealthiest Americans, said Reuters quoting sources familiar with the proposal. This proposal is likely to include largest-ever increase in levies on investment gains. The increased revenue is likely to be used in childcare, universal pre-kindergarten education and paid leave for workers.

These measures are part of White House's push for overhaul of the US tax system that will make rich people and big companies pay more in taxes. The proposal calls for increasing the top marginal income tax rate to 39.6% from 37%, the sources said this week. It would also nearly double taxes on capital gains to 39.6% for people earning more than $1 million.

This would be the highest tax rate on investment gains. The rate has not exceeded 33.8 per cent after Second World War.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/biden-administration-applauds-india-for-stepping-up-its-climate-change-commitment-379363">Biden administration applauds India for stepping up its climate change commitment</a>

Wall Street reacted to the news of the proposal. The news triggered sharp declines with the benchmark S&amp;P 500 index down 1% in early afternoon. This was its steepest drop in more than a month.

The tax hike would need to pass through US Congress. Biden's Democratic Party holds narrow majorities in US Congress. The proposal is expected to face tough resistance from the Republican Party.

Sources said details would be released next week before Biden's address to Congress on Wednesday. Details of the plan may change in coming days. White House officials are debating other possible tax increases that could ultimately be included such as capping deductions for wealthy taxpayers or increasing the estate tax, sources told Reuters.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden will soon roll out plan to raise taxes for the wealthiest Americans, said Reuters quoting sources familiar with the proposal. This proposal is likely to include largest-ever increase in levies on investment gains.

US President Joe Biden will soon roll out plan to raise taxes for the wealthiest Americans, said Reuters quoting sources familiar with the proposal. This proposal is likely to include largest-ever increase in levies on investment gains. The increased revenue is likely to be used in childcare, universal pre-kindergarten education and paid leave for workers. These measures are part of White House's push for overhaul of the US tax system that will make rich people and big companies pay more in taxes. The proposal calls for increasing the top marginal income tax rate to 39.6% from 37%, the sources said this week. It would also nearly double taxes on capital gains to 39.6% for people earning more than $1 million. This would be the highest tax rate on investment gains. The rate has not exceeded 33.8 per cent after Second World War. Also Read | Biden administration applauds India for stepping up its climate change commitment Wall Street reacted to the news of the proposal. The news triggered sharp declines with the benchmark S&P 500 index down 1% in early afternoon. This was its steepest drop in more than a month. The tax hike would need to pass through US Congress. Biden's Democratic Party holds narrow majorities in US Congress. The proposal is expected to face tough resistance from the Republican Party. Sources said details would be released next week before Biden's address to Congress on Wednesday. Details of the plan may change in coming days. White House officials are debating other possible tax increases that could ultimately be included such as capping deductions for wealthy taxpayers or increasing the estate tax, sources told Reuters. (With inputs from agencies)

Joe Biden to unveil historic tax increase for the rich

A deadly blast rocked Pakistani city of Quetta late on Wednesday. The blast took place in a luxury hotel where Chinese ambassador was staying. The ambassador was out when the blast took place. Meanwhile, Sheriff's deputies fatally shot a black man in North Carolina while serving search warrant. Read this and more in our morning news brief.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-deadly-blast-at-luxury-hotel-housing-chinese-ambassador-379141">Pakistan: Deadly blast at luxury hotel housing Chinese ambassador&nbsp;</a>

<img alt="Pakistan blast" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fbdc32a7-4f86-4182-9167-4f29c686e8ca" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Pakistan_3.JPG" />

The blast took place in Quetta, capital of Balochistan province where Pakistan military has been fighting a decade-long low-level insurgency

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-advances-bill-to-aid-ukraine-in-its-struggle-with-russia-pressure-nord-stream-2-379142">US advances bill to aid Ukraine in its struggle with Russia, pressure Nord Stream 2</a>

<img alt="USA" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9c67ec8f-cfa2-4b5e-b2f8-c77365ae4bb1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/US.JPG" />

The Ukraine Security Partnership Act, which was approved by voice vote, authorises $300 million in foreign military financing

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-hits-out-at-provocative-australian-scrapping-of-belt-and-road-initiative-379139">China hits out at 'provocative' Australian scrapping of Belt and Road Initiative</a>

<img alt="China Australia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="185cd2b0-9dd3-4453-976e-c8f424aa22be" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/cHINA.JPG" />

Foreign Minister Marise Payne said Wednesday the federal government would override the Victorian state government's decision to sign up to the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a vast network of investments that critics say is cover for Beijing creating geopolitical and financial leverage

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/black-man-fatally-shot-by-sheriffs-deputies-serving-search-warrant-in-north-carolina-379155">Black man fatally shot by Sheriff's deputies serving search warrant in North Carolina</a>

<img alt="North Carolina" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1d4bcd7f-3bc1-4af3-82fb-29c25b7cf01c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/North%20Carolina.JPG" />

The shooting unfolded on Wednesday morning in Elizabeth City, a riverfront town of about 18,000 residents in Pasquotank County near North Carolina's coastal border with Virginia and small groups of protesters took to the streets by evening

PM Modi to attend US-hosted virtual climate summit

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-to-attend-us-hosted-virtual-climate-summit-379151/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

A deadly blast rocked Pakistani city of Quetta late on Wednesday. The blast took place in a luxury hotel where Chinese ambassador was staying. The ambassador was out when the blast took place.

A deadly blast rocked Pakistani city of Quetta late on Wednesday. The blast took place in a luxury hotel where Chinese ambassador was staying. The ambassador was out when the blast took place. Meanwhile, Sheriff's deputies fatally shot a black man in North Carolina while serving search warrant. Read this and more in our morning news brief. Pakistan: Deadly blast at luxury hotel housing Chinese ambassador The blast took place in Quetta, capital of Balochistan province where Pakistan military has been fighting a decade-long low-level insurgency US advances bill to aid Ukraine in its struggle with Russia, pressure Nord Stream 2 The Ukraine Security Partnership Act, which was approved by voice vote, authorises $300 million in foreign military financing China hits out at 'provocative' Australian scrapping of Belt and Road Initiative Foreign Minister Marise Payne said Wednesday the federal government would override the Victorian state government's decision to sign up to the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a vast network of investments that critics say is cover for Beijing creating geopolitical and financial leverage Black man fatally shot by Sheriff's deputies serving search warrant in North Carolina The shooting unfolded on Wednesday morning in Elizabeth City, a riverfront town of about 18,000 residents in Pasquotank County near North Carolina's coastal border with Virginia and small groups of protesters took to the streets by evening PM Modi to attend US-hosted virtual climate summit ×

Morning news brief: Pakistan blast, another black man shot in US, and more

The US on Wednesday shared with Iran details of sanctions it was prepared to lift, as per a senior official quoted by AFP. The sanctions will be lifted if Iran returns to the nuclear deal. US and Iran have been engaged in indirect talks with each other over revival of 2015 nuclear deal.

"This time, we have gone into more detail," a senior US official said of the latest EU-led talks.

"We have provided Iran with a number of examples of the kind of sanctions that we believe we would need to lift in order to come back into compliance and the sanctions that we believe we would not need to lift," he said.

Nuclear deal with Iran was struck by US under former President Barack Obama. Other world powers were party too. But Donald Trump unilaterally pulled US out of the nuclear deal during his presidency.

Iran has pressed for the United States to lift all sanctions imposed under Trump before it rolls back the steps Tehran took away from the 2015 deal in protest.

The US official said that the United States and Iran have not yet gone into detail on the question of who goes first.

But the official said: "We're open to different kinds of sequencing which meets our interest -- which is to see both sides in full compliance."

He declined to confirm a Wall Street Journal report that the Biden administration has voiced a willingness to ease sanctions on the Iranian finance and oil sectors.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani earlier voiced optimism, saying that negotiations have made "60-70 percent progress."

(With inputs from agencies)

The US on Wednesday shared with Iran details of sanctions it was prepared to lift, as per a senior official quoted by AFP. The sanctions will be lifted if Iran returns to the nuclear deal.

The US on Wednesday shared with Iran details of sanctions it was prepared to lift, as per a senior official quoted by AFP. The sanctions will be lifted if Iran returns to the nuclear deal. US and Iran have been engaged in indirect talks with each other over revival of 2015 nuclear deal. "This time, we have gone into more detail," a senior US official said of the latest EU-led talks. "We have provided Iran with a number of examples of the kind of sanctions that we believe we would need to lift in order to come back into compliance and the sanctions that we believe we would not need to lift," he said. Nuclear deal with Iran was struck by US under former President Barack Obama. Other world powers were party too. But Donald Trump unilaterally pulled US out of the nuclear deal during his presidency. Iran has pressed for the United States to lift all sanctions imposed under Trump before it rolls back the steps Tehran took away from the 2015 deal in protest. The US official said that the United States and Iran have not yet gone into detail on the question of who goes first. But the official said: "We're open to different kinds of sequencing which meets our interest -- which is to see both sides in full compliance." He declined to confirm a Wall Street Journal report that the Biden administration has voiced a willingness to ease sanctions on the Iranian finance and oil sectors. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani earlier voiced optimism, saying that negotiations have made "60-70 percent progress." (With inputs from agencies)

US gives 'examples' of sanctions against Iran it is ready to lift

The Biden administration will set aside 6,000 seasonal guest worker visas for people from Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador in the coming months, the US&nbsp;Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said on Tuesday, a small step toward establishing more legal pathways to the United States from the region.

The 6,000-visa allotment would be part of an additional 22,000 H-2B visas made available to employers in the current fiscal year, which ends on September&nbsp;30, DHS said in a statement.

The increase has been sought by business groups but opposed by labor unions amid high unemployment related to the coronavirus pandemic.

President Joe Biden has grappled in recent months with a rising number of migrants arriving at the US-Mexico border, including families and unaccompanied children. In March, about 85,000 of the 172,000 migrants caught at the border came from Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador.

Biden officials have urged migrants not to travel to the border while systems are established that allow them to seek asylum from their home countries or come to the United States through other legal pathways.

The extra H-2B visas would be in addition to the annual allotment of 66,000 visas for the fiscal year, a tally that was exhausted in February. The visas are used for landscaping, food processing and hotel work, among other seasonal jobs.

If the 6,000 visas are not used by companies seeking to hire people from Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador, they will go back to the general visa pool sometime before September&nbsp;30, a DHS official and a second person familiar with the matter told Reuters.

The visa carve-out for the so-called Northern Triangle countries "demonstrates DHS’s commitment" to creating more legal avenues for migration from the region, Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in a statement.

The Biden administration will set aside 6,000 seasonal guest worker visas for people from Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador in the coming months, the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said on Tuesday, a small step toward establishing more legal pathways to the United States from the region.

The Biden administration will set aside 6,000 seasonal guest worker visas for people from Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador in the coming months, the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said on Tuesday, a small step toward establishing more legal pathways to the United States from the region. The 6,000-visa allotment would be part of an additional 22,000 H-2B visas made available to employers in the current fiscal year, which ends on September 30, DHS said in a statement. The increase has been sought by business groups but opposed by labor unions amid high unemployment related to the coronavirus pandemic. President Joe Biden has grappled in recent months with a rising number of migrants arriving at the US-Mexico border, including families and unaccompanied children. In March, about 85,000 of the 172,000 migrants caught at the border came from Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador. Biden officials have urged migrants not to travel to the border while systems are established that allow them to seek asylum from their home countries or come to the United States through other legal pathways. The extra H-2B visas would be in addition to the annual allotment of 66,000 visas for the fiscal year, a tally that was exhausted in February. The visas are used for landscaping, food processing and hotel work, among other seasonal jobs. If the 6,000 visas are not used by companies seeking to hire people from Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador, they will go back to the general visa pool sometime before September 30, a DHS official and a second person familiar with the matter told Reuters. The visa carve-out for the so-called Northern Triangle countries "demonstrates DHS’s commitment" to creating more legal avenues for migration from the region, Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in a statement.

US to set aside 6,000 guest worker visas for Central Americans

The United States said on Sunday it stood with the Czech Republic after it expelled Russia diplomats and accused Moscow of being behind an explosion at a Czech ammunition dump.

"The U.S. stands with the Czech Republic in its firm response against Russia’s subversive actions on Czech soil," said State Department spokesman Ned Price in a statement on Twitter.

"We must act firmly in response to Russian actions that compromise the territorial integrity, energy security, or critical infrastructure of our allies and partners."

The United States said on Sunday it stood with the Czech Republic after it expelled Russia diplomats and accused Moscow of being behind an explosion at a Czech ammunition dump.

The United States said on Sunday it stood with the Czech Republic after it expelled Russia diplomats and accused Moscow of being behind an explosion at a Czech ammunition dump. "The U.S. stands with the Czech Republic in its firm response against Russia’s subversive actions on Czech soil," said State Department spokesman Ned Price in a statement on Twitter. "We must act firmly in response to Russian actions that compromise the territorial integrity, energy security, or critical infrastructure of our allies and partners."

US stands with Czech Republic's response to 'Russia's subversive actions'

Eleven Russian politicians signed an open letter demanding an independent doctor be immediately allowed to see Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, news channel CNN reported.

These 11 politicians represent several regional parliaments of Russia.

According to CNN, the letter states that "You, the President of the Russian Federation, personally bear responsibility for the life of Navalny on the territory of the Russian Federation, including in prison facilities". 
 
Watch | Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny ‘could die at any moment: Doctors

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kremlin-critic-alexei-navalny-could-die-at-any-moment-doctors-378509/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The US&nbsp;on Sunday warned Russia of consequences if Navalny died in prison. Doctors have said on Saturday that the jailed politician can die "any minute". Aides have called for nationwide protests to ensure there was no harm to Navalny's life. Navalny is currently on a hunger strike inside the jail.

US President Joe Biden's National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said that Washington had warned the Kremlin that it would be "held accountable by the international community" if Navalny died. Sullivan added that Kremlin was told, "that there will be consequences if Mr Navalny dies."

Biden had said on Saturday that Navalny's plight was "totally, totally unfair, totally inappropriate".

(With inputs from agencies)

Eleven Russian politicians signed an open letter demanding an independent doctor be immediately allowed to see Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, news channel CNN reported.

Eleven Russian politicians signed an open letter demanding an independent doctor be immediately allowed to see Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, news channel CNN reported. These 11 politicians represent several regional parliaments of Russia. According to CNN, the letter states that "You, the President of the Russian Federation, personally bear responsibility for the life of Navalny on the territory of the Russian Federation, including in prison facilities". Watch | Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny ‘could die at any moment: Doctors The US on Sunday warned Russia of consequences if Navalny died in prison. Doctors have said on Saturday that the jailed politician can die "any minute". Aides have called for nationwide protests to ensure there was no harm to Navalny's life. Navalny is currently on a hunger strike inside the jail. US President Joe Biden's National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said that Washington had warned the Kremlin that it would be "held accountable by the international community" if Navalny died. Sullivan added that Kremlin was told, "that there will be consequences if Mr Navalny dies." Biden had said on Saturday that Navalny's plight was "totally, totally unfair, totally inappropriate". (With inputs from agencies)

Health of Navalny threatens his life: Russian politicians to President Vladimir Putin

No one can offer guarantees about Afghanistan`s future after U.S. troops leave, a top White House official said on Sunday, even as he stressed the United States would stay focused on terrorist threats emanating from the country.

President Joe Biden announced on Wednesday that the United States will withdraw its remaining 2,500 troops from Afghanistan by Sept. 11, the 20th anniversary of the al Qaeda attacks that triggered America`s longest war.

White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan was asked on the Fox News Sunday program about the risk of a repeat of what happened in Iraq, where Islamic State militants seized territory after U.S. troops withdrew in 2011.

That led then-President Barack Obama to send troops back into Iraq.

Sullivan said Biden had no intention of sending American forces back to Afghanistan, but he added: "I can`t make any guarantees about what will happen inside the country. No one can."

"All the United States could do is provide the Afghan security forces, the Afghan government and the Afghan people resources and capabilities, training and equipping their forces, providing assistance to their government. We have done that and now it is time for American troops to come home and the Afghan people to step up to defend their own country."

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani rejected what he said were "false analogies" with the war in Vietnam as well as any suggestion his government was at risk of folding under Taliban pressure after U.S. troops leave. Afghan security forces were capable of defending the country, he said.

"The Afghan defense and security forces have been carrying over 90% of the operations in the last two years," Ghani said in an interview with CNN.

Former President Donald Trump said in a statement that leaving Afghanistan was "a wonderful and positive thing to do," but called for a more rapid departure. Trump had set a May 1 deadline to withdraw.

CIA Director William Burns told the Senate Intelligence Committee on Wednesday that America`s ability to collect intelligence and act against extremist threats in Afghanistan will diminish after the departure of U.S. troops.

A United Nations report in January said there were as many as 500 al Qaeda fighters in Afghanistan and that the Taliban maintained a close relationship with the Islamist extremist group. The Taliban denies al Qaeda has a presence in Afghanistan.

Announcing his decision to withdraw troops, Biden said the United States would monitor the threat, reorganize counterterrorism capabilities and keep substantial assets in the region to respond to threats to the United States emerging from Afghanistan.

"He has no intention of taking our eye off the ball," Sullivan said of the president.

"We have the capacity, from repositioning our capabilities over the horizon, to continue to suppress the terrorist threat in Afghanistan."

No one can offer guarantees about Afghanistan`s future after U.S. troops leave, a top White House official said on Sunday, even as he stressed the United States would stay focused on terrorist threats emanating from the country.

No one can offer guarantees about Afghanistan`s future after U.S. troops leave, a top White House official said on Sunday, even as he stressed the United States would stay focused on terrorist threats emanating from the country. President Joe Biden announced on Wednesday that the United States will withdraw its remaining 2,500 troops from Afghanistan by Sept. 11, the 20th anniversary of the al Qaeda attacks that triggered America`s longest war. White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan was asked on the Fox News Sunday program about the risk of a repeat of what happened in Iraq, where Islamic State militants seized territory after U.S. troops withdrew in 2011. That led then-President Barack Obama to send troops back into Iraq. Sullivan said Biden had no intention of sending American forces back to Afghanistan, but he added: "I can`t make any guarantees about what will happen inside the country. No one can." "All the United States could do is provide the Afghan security forces, the Afghan government and the Afghan people resources and capabilities, training and equipping their forces, providing assistance to their government. We have done that and now it is time for American troops to come home and the Afghan people to step up to defend their own country." Afghan President Ashraf Ghani rejected what he said were "false analogies" with the war in Vietnam as well as any suggestion his government was at risk of folding under Taliban pressure after U.S. troops leave. Afghan security forces were capable of defending the country, he said. "The Afghan defense and security forces have been carrying over 90% of the operations in the last two years," Ghani said in an interview with CNN. Former President Donald Trump said in a statement that leaving Afghanistan was "a wonderful and positive thing to do," but called for a more rapid departure. Trump had set a May 1 deadline to withdraw. CIA Director William Burns told the Senate Intelligence Committee on Wednesday that America`s ability to collect intelligence and act against extremist threats in Afghanistan will diminish after the departure of U.S. troops. A United Nations report in January said there were as many as 500 al Qaeda fighters in Afghanistan and that the Taliban maintained a close relationship with the Islamist extremist group. The Taliban denies al Qaeda has a presence in Afghanistan. Announcing his decision to withdraw troops, Biden said the United States would monitor the threat, reorganize counterterrorism capabilities and keep substantial assets in the region to respond to threats to the United States emerging from Afghanistan. "He has no intention of taking our eye off the ball," Sullivan said of the president. "We have the capacity, from repositioning our capabilities over the horizon, to continue to suppress the terrorist threat in Afghanistan."

White House: No guarantees about Afghanistan's future post-pullout

The United States on Sunday warned Russia of consequences if Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny died in prison. Doctors have said on Saturday that the jailed politician can die "any minute". Aides of Navalny have called for nationwide protests to ensure there was no harm to Navalny's life. Navalny is currently on a hunger strike inside the jail.

US President Joe Biden's National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said that Washington had warned the Kremlin that it would be "held accountable by the international community" if Navalny died. Sullivan added that Kremlin was told "that there will be consequences if Mr Navalny dies."

Biden had said on Saturday that Navalny's plight was "totally, totally unfair, totally inappropriate".

On Sunday, France, Germany and the European Union (EU) joined growing chorus over Navalny's plight. EU foreign ministers are going to discuss the situation on Monday.

Russia has increasingly found itself cornered on many global issues. It is facing heat for its troop buildup near border with Ukraine. US has expelled Russian diplomats alleging Russian interference in US Election. Condition of Alexei Navalny may prove to be another front for Russia to face the global political heat.

Call for Nationwide protests in Russia

Navalny's team on Sunday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalny-aides-call-for-protests-to-save-his-life-378419">called for massive protests across Russia</a> on Wednesday evening, just hours after Putin is set to deliver his state of nation address.

"It's time to act. We are talking not just about Navalny's freedom but his life," Navalny's right-hand man Leonid Volkov said on Facebook.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalny-aides-call-for-protests-to-save-his-life-378419">Alexei Navalny aides call for protests to save his life</a>

Volkov said Wednesday's rally could become a decisive battle against "absolute evil" or Russia's last opposition rally for years to come.

"Call on all your acquaintances and take to central squares," wrote Volkov, who heads Navalny's regional offices, adding that the protests should be massive.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States on Sunday warned Russia of consequences if Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny died in prison. Doctors have said on Saturday that the jailed politician can die "any minute".

The United States on Sunday warned Russia of consequences if Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny died in prison. Doctors have said on Saturday that the jailed politician can die "any minute". Aides of Navalny have called for nationwide protests to ensure there was no harm to Navalny's life. Navalny is currently on a hunger strike inside the jail. US President Joe Biden's National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said that Washington had warned the Kremlin that it would be "held accountable by the international community" if Navalny died. Sullivan added that Kremlin was told "that there will be consequences if Mr Navalny dies." Biden had said on Saturday that Navalny's plight was "totally, totally unfair, totally inappropriate". On Sunday, France, Germany and the European Union (EU) joined growing chorus over Navalny's plight. EU foreign ministers are going to discuss the situation on Monday. Russia has increasingly found itself cornered on many global issues. It is facing heat for its troop buildup near border with Ukraine. US has expelled Russian diplomats alleging Russian interference in US Election. Condition of Alexei Navalny may prove to be another front for Russia to face the global political heat. Call for Nationwide protests in Russia Navalny's team on Sunday called for massive protests across Russia on Wednesday evening, just hours after Putin is set to deliver his state of nation address. "It's time to act. We are talking not just about Navalny's freedom but his life," Navalny's right-hand man Leonid Volkov said on Facebook. Also Read | Alexei Navalny aides call for protests to save his life Volkov said Wednesday's rally could become a decisive battle against "absolute evil" or Russia's last opposition rally for years to come. "Call on all your acquaintances and take to central squares," wrote Volkov, who heads Navalny's regional offices, adding that the protests should be massive. (With inputs from agencies)

US warns Russia of 'consequences' if Alexei Navalny dies

Two hundred schools, 1000 scholarships, 65000 student exchanges, two dams and one sprawling parliament house. This is what India has given Afghanistan in broad terms. Indian assistance to Afghanistan is spread across sectors like Education, economy, power and most importantly, democracy.

Both countries have had ties since pre-historic times. The ties are as old as the Indus valley civilisation. For the western world, Afghanistan is a strategic goal, but for India, it is about helping an old friend.

For two decades, foreign troops have lumbered in Afghanistan. There was status quo. The civilian government had a godfather.

But once the western troops leave, who takes charge? Who is India betting on? New Delhi has excellent ties with the civilian government. It will be hoping that good situation prevails beyond September 11.

But the Taliban has other plans. They don't see themselves as stakeholders in Afghanistan. They believe that they are government-in-waiting.

This definitely isn't good news for India or for the world. India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar talked about this on Friday. He said Afghanistan's future should not be a return to the past.

He was talking about the time when the Taliban ruled the country.

Here's what that Afghanistan looked like,

<ul>
	<li>No school for girls</li>
	<li>Ruthless punishment for blasphemy.</li>
	<li>Zero room for dissent.</li>
	<li>Zero tolerance for cultural diversity.</li>
</ul>

And a rejection of modern Science and Engineering.

It was basically a throwback to the dark ages. Dealing with such a regime would be impossible.

We say this because ofo three specific reasons

1. Taliban's not-so-covert links with terrorism.

India does not need another terror launchpad in the region. This was the case before 9/11. The Taliban have promised to not fund terror groups but looking at recent uptick in violence, that's hard to believe.

2. A growing Pakistani shadow

It is no secret that Islamabad funds and trains Taliban fighters. They were more than happy to walk terrorists over to Pakistan in 1999.

This was after the hijacking of Indian Airlines flight IC-814. We all know the story.

The bottom line is this. India cannot afford to have a Pak proxy in Kabul.

3. Risk to India's economic interests

New Delhi has way too much to lose. It has invested more than 3 billion dollars in Afghanistan.

That's 400 projects, in all 34 provinces. These projects include dams, schools, hospitals, clinics and more. Some of these installations have been attacked by Taliban proxies. The US presence was like insurance for Indian interests. With that gone, these mega-projects are vulnerable to attacks.

So what are India's options here?

History has some clues. Before 9/11, Afghanistan was the Wild West. The US never bothered to check the Taliban's rise. It was India, Iran and Russia that kept the resistance alive.

Now is the time to revive that axis. Russia is keen on a larger role. So is Iran. Both countries have warned Taliban against cosying up to terrorists.

India should try and revive the great game. The game, not of competition, but co-operation India has enough diplomatic leverage with both Russia and Iran. It must exercise this leverage. If India cannot be the sole player in Afghanistan, it must aim to be&nbsp;the most influential one.

But this might put New Delhi at odds with Washington. Both Iran and Russia are sworn enemies of the US. Moreover, Washington has a history of dumping regional allies. Just look at the Kurds in Syria.

Joe Biden says he will hold the Taliban to their word. But without his troops in Afghanistan, how powerful is Biden? India cannot bank on a power thousands of miles away.

It can be sure of one thing though. If the Taliban takes over after America withdraws, Joe Biden will not have the high ground to criticise a Russia-Iran-India axis.

In addition to all this, there is a new player on the block in the form of China. India can keep China at bay by disarming Beijing's biggest weapon. Its chequebook. India must keep investing in Afghanistan. If the Afghan economy tanks, China will swoop in. Only self-reliance can lead to stability. It's the same for security.

India should deploy military contractors to train Afghan security forces. Make them capable of defending the civilian government. So aid must continue. So must intelligence sharing and training exercises.

This means India can check the three boxes of a perfect partnership. Shared history, economic ties and military support.

India is Afghanistan's best bet. New Delhi has always called for an Afghan-led and Afghan-controlled peace. It has never put a caveat on investments. But this isn't a one-way show. Afghanistan is India's key to Central Asia.

Unlike other stakeholders. New Delhi does not want to play the great game. It wants to play it on Afghanistan's behalf.

(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

Two hundred schools, 1000 scholarships, 65000 student exchanges, two dams and one sprawling parliament house. This is what India has given Afghanistan in broad terms.

Two hundred schools, 1000 scholarships, 65000 student exchanges, two dams and one sprawling parliament house. This is what India has given Afghanistan in broad terms. Indian assistance to Afghanistan is spread across sectors like Education, economy, power and most importantly, democracy. Both countries have had ties since pre-historic times. The ties are as old as the Indus valley civilisation. For the western world, Afghanistan is a strategic goal, but for India, it is about helping an old friend. For two decades, foreign troops have lumbered in Afghanistan. There was status quo. The civilian government had a godfather. But once the western troops leave, who takes charge? Who is India betting on? New Delhi has excellent ties with the civilian government. It will be hoping that good situation prevails beyond September 11. But the Taliban has other plans. They don't see themselves as stakeholders in Afghanistan. They believe that they are government-in-waiting. This definitely isn't good news for India or for the world. India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar talked about this on Friday. He said Afghanistan's future should not be a return to the past. He was talking about the time when the Taliban ruled the country. Here's what that Afghanistan looked like, No school for girls Ruthless punishment for blasphemy. Zero room for dissent. Zero tolerance for cultural diversity. And a rejection of modern Science and Engineering. It was basically a throwback to the dark ages. Dealing with such a regime would be impossible. We say this because ofo three specific reasons 1. Taliban's not-so-covert links with terrorism. India does not need another terror launchpad in the region. This was the case before 9/11. The Taliban have promised to not fund terror groups but looking at recent uptick in violence, that's hard to believe. 2. A growing Pakistani shadow It is no secret that Islamabad funds and trains Taliban fighters. They were more than happy to walk terrorists over to Pakistan in 1999. This was after the hijacking of Indian Airlines flight IC-814. We all know the story. The bottom line is this. India cannot afford to have a Pak proxy in Kabul. 3. Risk to India's economic interests New Delhi has way too much to lose. It has invested more than 3 billion dollars in Afghanistan. That's 400 projects, in all 34 provinces. These projects include dams, schools, hospitals, clinics and more. Some of these installations have been attacked by Taliban proxies. The US presence was like insurance for Indian interests. With that gone, these mega-projects are vulnerable to attacks. So what are India's options here? History has some clues. Before 9/11, Afghanistan was the Wild West. The US never bothered to check the Taliban's rise. It was India, Iran and Russia that kept the resistance alive. Now is the time to revive that axis. Russia is keen on a larger role. So is Iran. Both countries have warned Taliban against cosying up to terrorists. India should try and revive the great game. The game, not of competition, but co-operation India has enough diplomatic leverage with both Russia and Iran. It must exercise this leverage. If India cannot be the sole player in Afghanistan, it must aim to be the most influential one. But this might put New Delhi at odds with Washington. Both Iran and Russia are sworn enemies of the US. Moreover, Washington has a history of dumping regional allies. Just look at the Kurds in Syria. Joe Biden says he will hold the Taliban to their word. But without his troops in Afghanistan, how powerful is Biden? India cannot bank on a power thousands of miles away. It can be sure of one thing though. If the Taliban takes over after America withdraws, Joe Biden will not have the high ground to criticise a Russia-Iran-India axis. In addition to all this, there is a new player on the block in the form of China. India can keep China at bay by disarming Beijing's biggest weapon. Its chequebook. India must keep investing in Afghanistan. If the Afghan economy tanks, China will swoop in. Only self-reliance can lead to stability. It's the same for security. India should deploy military contractors to train Afghan security forces. Make them capable of defending the civilian government. So aid must continue. So must intelligence sharing and training exercises. This means India can check the three boxes of a perfect partnership. Shared history, economic ties and military support. India is Afghanistan's best bet. New Delhi has always called for an Afghan-led and Afghan-controlled peace. It has never put a caveat on investments. But this isn't a one-way show. Afghanistan is India's key to Central Asia. Unlike other stakeholders. New Delhi does not want to play the great game. It wants to play it on Afghanistan's behalf. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: India is Afghanistan's best bet

Among eight people who were killed at a shooting in FedEx facility in Indianapolis on Thursday included four people belonging to the Sikh community. The three women and one men were identified by a community leader&nbsp;on Friday.

"Out of eight, four are Sikh community members," Gurinder Singh Khalsa said. He claims to be the leader of the local Sikh community and told Reuters that he had spoken to the families of those who had died.

Additionally, Khalsa said that the FedEx facility in question, situated near the city’s international airport provided employment to older members of the Sikh community who did not speak English very well. Even then, Indianapolis police have not confirmed the identities of the victims so far.

Komal Chohan, a law student told Reuters on Twitter that her grandmother Amarjeet Kaur Johal was among the eight victims. She added how many of her relatives who worked at the facility were traumatised.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/indianapolis-shooting-8-people-killed-at-fedex-facility-suspect-also-dead-377933" hreflang="en">Indianapolis shooting: 8 people killed at FedEx facility, suspect also dead</a>

Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department spokesperson Genae Cook said that when officers arrived at the FedEx facility, they found an "active shooter incident”.

"This is a tragedy, but we will come through it with flying colours," Cook said through tears during a news conference early Friday.

Police believe the shooter has died by suicide. Cook said officials do not believe there is an active threat to the community. FedEx released a statement early Friday saying it is cooperating with authorities and working to get more information.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/multiple-people-shot-at-indianapolis-fedex-facility-shooter-takes-own-life-377916" hreflang="en">Multiple people shot at Indianapolis FedEx facility; shooter takes own life</a>

“We are aware of the tragic shooting at our FedEx Ground facility near the Indianapolis airport. Safety is our top priority, and our thoughts are with all those who are affected,” the statement said.

A Reuters estimate claims that over 500,00 Sikhs live in the United States.

(With inputs from agencies)

Among eight people who were killed at a shooting in FedEx facility in Indianapolis on Thursday included four people belonging to the Sikh community. The three women and one men were identified by a community leader on Friday.

Among eight people who were killed at a shooting in FedEx facility in Indianapolis on Thursday included four people belonging to the Sikh community. The three women and one men were identified by a community leader on Friday. "Out of eight, four are Sikh community members," Gurinder Singh Khalsa said. He claims to be the leader of the local Sikh community and told Reuters that he had spoken to the families of those who had died. Additionally, Khalsa said that the FedEx facility in question, situated near the city’s international airport provided employment to older members of the Sikh community who did not speak English very well. Even then, Indianapolis police have not confirmed the identities of the victims so far. Komal Chohan, a law student told Reuters on Twitter that her grandmother Amarjeet Kaur Johal was among the eight victims. She added how many of her relatives who worked at the facility were traumatised. Also read: Indianapolis shooting: 8 people killed at FedEx facility, suspect also dead Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department spokesperson Genae Cook said that when officers arrived at the FedEx facility, they found an "active shooter incident”. "This is a tragedy, but we will come through it with flying colours," Cook said through tears during a news conference early Friday. Police believe the shooter has died by suicide. Cook said officials do not believe there is an active threat to the community. FedEx released a statement early Friday saying it is cooperating with authorities and working to get more information. Also read: Multiple people shot at Indianapolis FedEx facility; shooter takes own life “We are aware of the tragic shooting at our FedEx Ground facility near the Indianapolis airport. Safety is our top priority, and our thoughts are with all those who are affected,” the statement said. A Reuters estimate claims that over 500,00 Sikhs live in the United States. (With inputs from agencies)

Four Sikhs among eight victims of FedEx facility shooting in Indianapolis: Report

Facing swift blowback from allies and aid groups, the White House said President Joe Biden plans to lift his predecessor's historically low cap on refugees by next month, after initially moving only to expand the eligibility criteria for resettlements. 
 
In an emergency determination signed by Biden earlier Friday, he stated the admission of up to 15,000 refugees set by former President Donald Trump this year remains justified by humanitarian concerns and is otherwise in the national interest. But if the cap is reached before the end of the current budget year and the emergency refugee situation persists, then a presidential determination may be issued to raise the ceiling. 
 
That set off a deluge of criticism from top allies on Capitol Hill such as the second-ranking Senate Democrat, Dick Durbin of Illinois, who called that initial limit unacceptable.&nbsp;White House press secretary Jen Psaki said later that Biden is expected to increase the refugee cap by May 15, though she didn't say by how much. 
 
Biden has been consulting with his advisers to determine what number of refugees could realistically be admitted to the United States between now and October 1, the end of the fiscal year, Psaki said. Given the decimated refugee admissions program we inherited,&nbsp;she said it's now unlikely&nbsp;Biden will be able to boost that number to 62,500, as he had proposed in his plan to Congress two months ago. 
 
But Biden, she said, was urged by advisers to "take immediate action to reverse the Trump policy that banned refugees from many key regions, to enable flights from those regions to begin within days; today's order did that." The new allocations provide more slots for refugees from Africa, the Middle East and Central America and lift Trump's restrictions on resettlements from Somalia, Syria and Yemen. 
 
Critics from both sides of the political spectrum had accused the president of bowing to political pressure that has been mounting over the record pace of unaccompanied migrants crossing the US-Mexico border. 
Stephen Miller, a key architect of Trump's immigration policies, tweeted that keeping Trump's cap "reflects Team Biden's awareness that the border flood will cause record midterm losses."&nbsp;The White House indicated the border situation was partly why Biden had not acted before now, even though migrants at the border do not go through the same vetting process as refugees. 
 
"It is a factor",&nbsp;said Psaki, noting that the Office of Refugee Resettlement ?has personnel working on both issues and so we have to ensure that there is capacity and ability to manage both.? Connecticut Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal said he didn't buy that. 
 
"This cruel policy is no more acceptable now than it was during the Trump Administration,"&nbsp;Blumenthal said. "To be clear: the asylum process at the southern border and the refugee process are completely separate immigration systems. Conflating the two constitutes caving to the politics of fear".&nbsp;Since the fiscal year began last October 1, just over 2,000 refugees have been resettled in the US. 
 
Secretary of State Antony Blinken notified Congress on February 12 of a plan to raise the ceiling on admissions to 62,500, but no presidential determination followed. The law does not require congressional approval and past presidents have issued such presidential determinations that set the cap on refugee admissions shortly after the notification to Congress. 
 
New Jersey Democratic Sen. Bob Menendez, the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, told Biden in a letter Friday that his inaction "undermines your declared purpose to reverse your predecessor's refugee policies."&nbsp;Menendez said it also makes it unlikely that the program can hit its target next budget year of 125,000, which Biden has pledged to do. 
 
Refugee resettlement agencies said it was important that admissions go higher even if it's not possible to meet the target to send a message that America will be a leader again in offering safe haven to the world's oppressed. 
 
Some 35,000 refugees have been cleared to go to the United States, and 100,000 remain in the pipeline and their lives remain in limbo, said David Miliband, president and CEO of the International Rescue Committee. 
"This leadership is sorely needed,"&nbsp;he said. 
 
Under Biden's new allocation, 7,000 slots are reserved for refugees from Africa, 1,000 from East Asia, 1,500 from Europe and Central Asia, 3,000 from Latin America and the Caribbean and 1,500 from the Near East and South Asia. A reserve of about 1,000 slots can be used as needed. 
 
The State Department, which coordinates flights with resettlement agencies, booked 715 refugees to come to the United States with the anticipation that Biden would have acted by March, but those flights were canceled since the refugees were not eligible under Trump's rules, according to resettlement agencies. 
 
Most of the refugees are from Africa and fleeing armed conflict or political persecution. Trump limited most spots to people fleeing religious persecution, Iraqis who have assisted US forces there, and people from Central America's Northern Triangle.

Facing swift blowback from allies and aid groups, the White House said President Joe Biden plans to lift his predecessor's historically low cap on refugees by next month, after initially moving only to expand the eligibility criteria for resettlements.

Facing swift blowback from allies and aid groups, the White House said President Joe Biden plans to lift his predecessor's historically low cap on refugees by next month, after initially moving only to expand the eligibility criteria for resettlements. In an emergency determination signed by Biden earlier Friday, he stated the admission of up to 15,000 refugees set by former President Donald Trump this year remains justified by humanitarian concerns and is otherwise in the national interest. But if the cap is reached before the end of the current budget year and the emergency refugee situation persists, then a presidential determination may be issued to raise the ceiling. That set off a deluge of criticism from top allies on Capitol Hill such as the second-ranking Senate Democrat, Dick Durbin of Illinois, who called that initial limit unacceptable. White House press secretary Jen Psaki said later that Biden is expected to increase the refugee cap by May 15, though she didn't say by how much. Biden has been consulting with his advisers to determine what number of refugees could realistically be admitted to the United States between now and October 1, the end of the fiscal year, Psaki said. Given the decimated refugee admissions program we inherited, she said it's now unlikely Biden will be able to boost that number to 62,500, as he had proposed in his plan to Congress two months ago. But Biden, she said, was urged by advisers to "take immediate action to reverse the Trump policy that banned refugees from many key regions, to enable flights from those regions to begin within days; today's order did that." The new allocations provide more slots for refugees from Africa, the Middle East and Central America and lift Trump's restrictions on resettlements from Somalia, Syria and Yemen. Critics from both sides of the political spectrum had accused the president of bowing to political pressure that has been mounting over the record pace of unaccompanied migrants crossing the US-Mexico border. Stephen Miller, a key architect of Trump's immigration policies, tweeted that keeping Trump's cap "reflects Team Biden's awareness that the border flood will cause record midterm losses." The White House indicated the border situation was partly why Biden had not acted before now, even though migrants at the border do not go through the same vetting process as refugees. "It is a factor", said Psaki, noting that the Office of Refugee Resettlement ?has personnel working on both issues and so we have to ensure that there is capacity and ability to manage both.? Connecticut Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal said he didn't buy that. "This cruel policy is no more acceptable now than it was during the Trump Administration," Blumenthal said. "To be clear: the asylum process at the southern border and the refugee process are completely separate immigration systems. Conflating the two constitutes caving to the politics of fear". Since the fiscal year began last October 1, just over 2,000 refugees have been resettled in the US. Secretary of State Antony Blinken notified Congress on February 12 of a plan to raise the ceiling on admissions to 62,500, but no presidential determination followed. The law does not require congressional approval and past presidents have issued such presidential determinations that set the cap on refugee admissions shortly after the notification to Congress. New Jersey Democratic Sen. Bob Menendez, the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, told Biden in a letter Friday that his inaction "undermines your declared purpose to reverse your predecessor's refugee policies." Menendez said it also makes it unlikely that the program can hit its target next budget year of 125,000, which Biden has pledged to do. Refugee resettlement agencies said it was important that admissions go higher even if it's not possible to meet the target to send a message that America will be a leader again in offering safe haven to the world's oppressed. Some 35,000 refugees have been cleared to go to the United States, and 100,000 remain in the pipeline and their lives remain in limbo, said David Miliband, president and CEO of the International Rescue Committee. "This leadership is sorely needed," he said. Under Biden's new allocation, 7,000 slots are reserved for refugees from Africa, 1,000 from East Asia, 1,500 from Europe and Central Asia, 3,000 from Latin America and the Caribbean and 1,500 from the Near East and South Asia. A reserve of about 1,000 slots can be used as needed. The State Department, which coordinates flights with resettlement agencies, booked 715 refugees to come to the United States with the anticipation that Biden would have acted by March, but those flights were canceled since the refugees were not eligible under Trump's rules, according to resettlement agencies. Most of the refugees are from Africa and fleeing armed conflict or political persecution. Trump limited most spots to people fleeing religious persecution, Iraqis who have assisted US forces there, and people from Central America's Northern Triangle.

After outcry, White House says Biden will lift refugee cap in May

China said on Friday that the US needed to take more responsibility on climate change. The comments came during former US Secretary of State John Kerry's visit to the country. However, China welcomed greater co-operation on the issue with China.

The former secretary of state turned US climate emissary was the first official from President Joe Biden's administration to visit China, signalling hopes the two sides could work together on the global challenge despite sky-high tensions on multiple other fronts.

"China attaches importance to carrying out dialogue and cooperation on climate change with the US side," said Vice Premier Han Zheng, according to state news agency Xinhua.

"China welcomes the US return to the Paris agreement, and expects the US side to uphold the agreement, shoulder its due responsibilities and make due contributions," Han said after virtual talks with Kerry, who visited Shanghai where he met his Chinese counterpart.

Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying was more blunt on Twitter as she highlighted the US withdrawal from the Paris accord under former president Donald Trump.

"Its return is by no means a glorious comeback but rather a truant getting back to class," Hua said of the United States.

Chunying pressed the UN to ""offer how it will make up for the lost four years" including payments to the UN-backed Green Climate Fund, which provides support to developing countries worst hit by climate change

Joe Biden is expected to announce new US targets on reducing carbon emissions.

(With inputs from agencies)

China said on Friday that the US needed to take more responsibility on climate change. The comments came during former US Secretary of State John Kerry's visit to the country.

China said on Friday that the US needed to take more responsibility on climate change. The comments came during former US Secretary of State John Kerry's visit to the country. However, China welcomed greater co-operation on the issue with China. The former secretary of state turned US climate emissary was the first official from President Joe Biden's administration to visit China, signalling hopes the two sides could work together on the global challenge despite sky-high tensions on multiple other fronts. "China attaches importance to carrying out dialogue and cooperation on climate change with the US side," said Vice Premier Han Zheng, according to state news agency Xinhua. "China welcomes the US return to the Paris agreement, and expects the US side to uphold the agreement, shoulder its due responsibilities and make due contributions," Han said after virtual talks with Kerry, who visited Shanghai where he met his Chinese counterpart. Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying was more blunt on Twitter as she highlighted the US withdrawal from the Paris accord under former president Donald Trump. "Its return is by no means a glorious comeback but rather a truant getting back to class," Hua said of the United States. Chunying pressed the UN to ""offer how it will make up for the lost four years" including payments to the UN-backed Green Climate Fund, which provides support to developing countries worst hit by climate change Joe Biden is expected to announce new US targets on reducing carbon emissions. (With inputs from agencies)

China puts climate change onus on US during Kerry's visit

What China has unleashed in Xinjiang has all the makings of a 21st-century holocaust. China has unleashed a war on Uighur culture. At least 1 million people are in detention. But if you ask China, the world has got it all wrong. China claims to be running 're-education camps', not labour camps. China's methods are brutal. They involve illegal detention, forced labour, torture, state-sponsored rape and even medical experiments.

Every time the world moves against Beijing, it unleashes a propaganda drive. This time, the target is the United States of America.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-china-accuses-us-of-funding-terror-in-xinjiang-377843/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Two videos featuring disgraced American officials have been published. The officials are Lawrence Wilkerson (former aide to US Secretary of State Colin Powell) and Sibel Edmonds (A former FBI translator).

In the video, both of them appear to say that Xinjiang is America's best bet to destabilise China. Now. Beijing is accusing Washington of funding terrorists in Xinjiang.

As usual, context is missing from China's claim.

Lawrence Wilkerson's speech is from 2018. This is a man who helped sell the Iraq war to George Bush. But after all the death and destruction, he retracted his support.

Sibel Edmonds' speech is from 2015, and 13 years after she was fired from the FBI. As per records, Ms Edmonds lasted 6 months in the organisation.&nbsp;She is a known conspiracy theorist.

These two are China's top sources. Conspiracy theorists and disgraced military officers. Both Edmonds and Wilkerson said that the US could possibly leverage Xinjiang.

Possibly, they did not admit to any such US operation. In fact, looking back at American actions, overreach has not been the issue. Our complaint is the lack of concrete measures.

Today, America loves to call itself the defender of Uighurs.

But that wasn't always the case. In the 2000s the US was an active accomplice. They detained 22 Uighur Muslims in Guantanamo Bay.

So the Uighurs aren't just victims of China's war on terror. They also suffered under America's war.

Then came the presidency of Barack Obama.&nbsp;Would the multi-cultural president stand up for China's diversity?&nbsp;As it turned out, he chose the policy of silence. Obama did not raise the Uighur genocide during his visit to China. Back then no one knew where the relationship was headed. So Obama decided to not rock the boat.

Like it or not, it was Donald Trump who put the spotlight on Uighurs. Not out of love for the community. But because it was a convenient issue to tackle Beijing on.

Nonetheless, it worked. In 2020, Trump signed the Uighur Human Rights Policy Act.

What did it say?&nbsp;All US government bodies would have to report on Communist abuses in Xinjiang. These reports would define American sanctions in the future.

Another law is in the pipeline:&nbsp;The Uighur Forced Labour Prevention Act. The House of Representatives has already cleared it. It is now up to the Senate to send it to Joe Biden.

This law would keep American firms away from the forced labour camps in Xinjiang. But Trump's biggest move was declaring the Uighur crackdown a genocide.

This was an indictment of the Chinese state. The Communist regime was placed on the same level as Nazi Germany.

The problem is, Trump's actions were punctuated by flip-flops. There were reports that privately he supported President Xi's crackdown.

And this is American policy in a nutshell. The right goals for the wrong reasons.

Last month, American and Chinese officials met in Alaska. It was more like a classroom squabble than a diplomatic meeting. China kept calling Xinjiang a domestic issue.

However, genocide cannot be a domestic matter. It appears that in near future, we could be looking at more of what happened in Alaska. Diplomatic meetings that descend into chaos.

Talks are successful, when there is a basic understanding between the two sides. But China does not understand the concept of human rights. It is a headstrong bully living in a world of denial.

What China has unleashed in Xinjiang has all the makings of a 21st-century holocaust. China has unleashed a war on Uighur culture. At least 1 million people are in detention.

What China has unleashed in Xinjiang has all the makings of a 21st-century holocaust. China has unleashed a war on Uighur culture. At least 1 million people are in detention. But if you ask China, the world has got it all wrong. China claims to be running 're-education camps', not labour camps. China's methods are brutal. They involve illegal detention, forced labour, torture, state-sponsored rape and even medical experiments. Every time the world moves against Beijing, it unleashes a propaganda drive. This time, the target is the United States of America. Two videos featuring disgraced American officials have been published. The officials are Lawrence Wilkerson (former aide to US Secretary of State Colin Powell) and Sibel Edmonds (A former FBI translator). In the video, both of them appear to say that Xinjiang is America's best bet to destabilise China. Now. Beijing is accusing Washington of funding terrorists in Xinjiang. As usual, context is missing from China's claim. Lawrence Wilkerson's speech is from 2018. This is a man who helped sell the Iraq war to George Bush. But after all the death and destruction, he retracted his support. Sibel Edmonds' speech is from 2015, and 13 years after she was fired from the FBI. As per records, Ms Edmonds lasted 6 months in the organisation. She is a known conspiracy theorist. These two are China's top sources. Conspiracy theorists and disgraced military officers. Both Edmonds and Wilkerson said that the US could possibly leverage Xinjiang. Possibly, they did not admit to any such US operation. In fact, looking back at American actions, overreach has not been the issue. Our complaint is the lack of concrete measures. Today, America loves to call itself the defender of Uighurs. But that wasn't always the case. In the 2000s the US was an active accomplice. They detained 22 Uighur Muslims in Guantanamo Bay. So the Uighurs aren't just victims of China's war on terror. They also suffered under America's war. Then came the presidency of Barack Obama. Would the multi-cultural president stand up for China's diversity? As it turned out, he chose the policy of silence. Obama did not raise the Uighur genocide during his visit to China. Back then no one knew where the relationship was headed. So Obama decided to not rock the boat. Like it or not, it was Donald Trump who put the spotlight on Uighurs. Not out of love for the community. But because it was a convenient issue to tackle Beijing on. Nonetheless, it worked. In 2020, Trump signed the Uighur Human Rights Policy Act. What did it say? All US government bodies would have to report on Communist abuses in Xinjiang. These reports would define American sanctions in the future. Another law is in the pipeline: The Uighur Forced Labour Prevention Act. The House of Representatives has already cleared it. It is now up to the Senate to send it to Joe Biden. This law would keep American firms away from the forced labour camps in Xinjiang. But Trump's biggest move was declaring the Uighur crackdown a genocide. This was an indictment of the Chinese state. The Communist regime was placed on the same level as Nazi Germany. The problem is, Trump's actions were punctuated by flip-flops. There were reports that privately he supported President Xi's crackdown. And this is American policy in a nutshell. The right goals for the wrong reasons. Last month, American and Chinese officials met in Alaska. It was more like a classroom squabble than a diplomatic meeting. China kept calling Xinjiang a domestic issue. However, genocide cannot be a domestic matter. It appears that in near future, we could be looking at more of what happened in Alaska. Diplomatic meetings that descend into chaos. Talks are successful, when there is a basic understanding between the two sides. But China does not understand the concept of human rights. It is a headstrong bully living in a world of denial.

In new propaganda, China claims US is funding terrorism in Xinjiang

Russia said on Friday that it would ban FBI chief Christopher Wray from entering the country. The list of US officials who would be banned from entering Russia includes top officials from US President Joe Biden's administration.&nbsp;

Attorney General Merrick Garland, Biden's chief domestic policy advisor Susan Rice and FBI chief Christopher Wray would be barred, the Russian foreign ministry said.

Also on the list were Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines, Director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons Michael Carvajal, Donald Trump's National Security Advisor John Bolton and ex-head of the CIA James Woolsey.

Russian foreign ministry said that the officials had "participated in the anti-Russian push" of US politics.

The Russian move has come as a 'tit-for-tat' after US expelled 10 Russian diplomats from the country on Thursday.

"We will respond to this measure in a tit-for-tat manner. We will ask ten US diplomats in Russia to leave the country," Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told the reporters earlier on Friday.

He also said that President Vladimir Putin's top foreign policy aide, Yury Ushakov, had recommended that US envoy John Sullivan leave for Washington to conduct "serious consultations."

On Thursday, US President Joe Biden <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-slaps-sanctions-on-russia-expels-10-diplomats-377760">expelled 10 Russian diplomats</a> from the country and also slapped economic sanctions on Russia. The US said that this action was taken as a retaliation for&nbsp;Kremlin's interference in US elections and other hostile activities including a massive cyber attack.

The White House on Thursday had said that US President Joe Biden's executive order on sanctions "sends a signal that the United States will impose costs in a strategic and economically impactful manner on Russia if it continues or escalates its destabilising international action".

Russia under pressure

Russia saw itself under increasing international pressure as France, Germany and Ukraine called on it to pull back troops from the Ukrainian border to reduce tension.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-slaps-sanctions-on-russia-expels-10-diplomats-377760">US slaps sanctions on Russia, expels 10 diplomats over poll meddlling, cyber attack</a>

Chancellor Angela Merkel, President Emmanuel Macron and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky "shared concerns about the build-up of Russian troops on the border with Ukraine and in the illegally annexed Crimea. They called for the reduction of these troop reinforcements in order to bring about a deescalation of the situation," said the German leader's spokesman in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia said on Friday that it would ban FBI chief Christopher Wray from entering the country. The list of US officials who would be banned from entering Russia includes top officials from US President Joe Biden's administration.

Russia said on Friday that it would ban FBI chief Christopher Wray from entering the country. The list of US officials who would be banned from entering Russia includes top officials from US President Joe Biden's administration. Attorney General Merrick Garland, Biden's chief domestic policy advisor Susan Rice and FBI chief Christopher Wray would be barred, the Russian foreign ministry said. Also on the list were Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines, Director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons Michael Carvajal, Donald Trump's National Security Advisor John Bolton and ex-head of the CIA James Woolsey. Russian foreign ministry said that the officials had "participated in the anti-Russian push" of US politics. The Russian move has come as a 'tit-for-tat' after US expelled 10 Russian diplomats from the country on Thursday. "We will respond to this measure in a tit-for-tat manner. We will ask ten US diplomats in Russia to leave the country," Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told the reporters earlier on Friday. He also said that President Vladimir Putin's top foreign policy aide, Yury Ushakov, had recommended that US envoy John Sullivan leave for Washington to conduct "serious consultations." On Thursday, US President Joe Biden expelled 10 Russian diplomats from the country and also slapped economic sanctions on Russia. The US said that this action was taken as a retaliation for Kremlin's interference in US elections and other hostile activities including a massive cyber attack. The White House on Thursday had said that US President Joe Biden's executive order on sanctions "sends a signal that the United States will impose costs in a strategic and economically impactful manner on Russia if it continues or escalates its destabilising international action". Russia under pressure Russia saw itself under increasing international pressure as France, Germany and Ukraine called on it to pull back troops from the Ukrainian border to reduce tension. Also Read | US slaps sanctions on Russia, expels 10 diplomats over poll meddlling, cyber attack Chancellor Angela Merkel, President Emmanuel Macron and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky "shared concerns about the build-up of Russian troops on the border with Ukraine and in the illegally annexed Crimea. They called for the reduction of these troop reinforcements in order to bring about a deescalation of the situation," said the German leader's spokesman in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

'Tit-for-tat': Russia bans FBI chief, threatens to expel US diplomats

US is talking with China and its regional adversaries at the same time. US President Joe Biden's special envoy for climate John Kerry is in Shanghai to talk to Chinese officials. Biden's top emissaries are in Taiwan to discuss military situation vis-a-vis China. And tomorrow, Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga will be at the White House. On the agenda, once again, is China.

US appears to be doing a balancing act. Will this approach work or is&nbsp;confrontation inevitable?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-joe-bidens-new-rules-of-engagement-for-china-377834/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Timing of John Kerry's Shanghai visit is crucial. Biden is due to hold a climate summit of 40 countries next week. Kerry's mission is hence very important. The US Wants China to control its emissions, give-up coal-fired power stations and stop financing coal ventures abroad.

It's ironic, because the US and China are the world's worst polluters. A global summit would not be needed if these two nations cut their emissions.

America, quite hypocritically, will pollute and also preach. So Kerry is in China to convince it to cut emissions. It won't be easy and the reasons are as much political as financial.

Financial because switching to green energy will need investments. Political, because why should China listen to America, when America doesn't listen to China on Taiwan?

Moreover, Kerry's visit is coinciding with another American mission. A delegation has touched down in Taipei.

This is Joe Biden's first unofficial delegation to Taiwan. A former lawmaker and two former senior state department officials are part of it.

Over the next three days, they will meet senior Taiwanese officials. Reports say, Taiwan will brief the American side about China's recent provocations. They will also demand more support from Washington.

On Thursday, Biden's emissaries met with Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen.

Tsai told the delegation that China's military activities are threatening regional peace and stability.

"I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the Biden administration for reiterating on numerous occasions the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan strait. Recently we have seen that China has frequently dispatched military vessels and aircraft to carry out manoeuvres in the sea and airspace surrounding Taiwan. These actions alter the status quo in the indo-pacific and threaten regional peace and stability," said Tsai Ing-wen.

This couldn't go unnoticed in Beijing. Earlier today, the Chinese foreign ministry issued a response.

It told the US to 'Take caution' and adhere to the One China principle.

The same old line. But accompanied by new provocations.

This month, &nbsp;25 Chinese warplanes breached Taiwan's air defence zone. This was the largest incursion in months. And it wasn't the only provocation. The Chinese Navy conducted drills in the Taiwan strait.

The threat is serious. The US Intelligence community has come up with a report. It decodes China's military assertiveness in several regional disputes. The American assessment says there could be two reasons behind China's aggression.

One, Beijing wants to use military actions to demonstrate strength. Two, Beijing wants to compel neighbours to accept its claims over disputed territory.

"China is employing a comprehensive approach to demonstrate its growing strength and compel regional neighbors to acquiesce to beijing's preferences, including its claims over disputed territory and assertions of sovereignty over Taiwan," said Avril Haines, Director of National Intelligence.

These aggressive actions against Taiwan are expected to come up on Friday as well.&nbsp;

That's when the third big meeting will take place. Joe Biden will sit down with Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga in Washington. Reports say China is expected to dominate the talks. The US wants Japan to back Taiwan.

Biden wants Suga to issue a joint statement of support to Taiwan.

This is tricky, because Japan has its own territorial dispute with China over Senkaku Islands. And a joint statement on Taiwan will only further aggravate the situation with China.

So three meetings, one agenda. Getting china to come to heel. This could prove to be biden's biggest test so far.

US is talking with China and its regional adversaries at the same time. US President Joe Biden's special envoy for climate John Kerry is in Shanghai to talk to Chinese officials.

US is talking with China and its regional adversaries at the same time. US President Joe Biden's special envoy for climate John Kerry is in Shanghai to talk to Chinese officials. Biden's top emissaries are in Taiwan to discuss military situation vis-a-vis China. And tomorrow, Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga will be at the White House. On the agenda, once again, is China. US appears to be doing a balancing act. Will this approach work or is confrontation inevitable? Timing of John Kerry's Shanghai visit is crucial. Biden is due to hold a climate summit of 40 countries next week. Kerry's mission is hence very important. The US Wants China to control its emissions, give-up coal-fired power stations and stop financing coal ventures abroad. It's ironic, because the US and China are the world's worst polluters. A global summit would not be needed if these two nations cut their emissions. America, quite hypocritically, will pollute and also preach. So Kerry is in China to convince it to cut emissions. It won't be easy and the reasons are as much political as financial. Financial because switching to green energy will need investments. Political, because why should China listen to America, when America doesn't listen to China on Taiwan? Moreover, Kerry's visit is coinciding with another American mission. A delegation has touched down in Taipei. This is Joe Biden's first unofficial delegation to Taiwan. A former lawmaker and two former senior state department officials are part of it. Over the next three days, they will meet senior Taiwanese officials. Reports say, Taiwan will brief the American side about China's recent provocations. They will also demand more support from Washington. On Thursday, Biden's emissaries met with Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen. Tsai told the delegation that China's military activities are threatening regional peace and stability. "I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the Biden administration for reiterating on numerous occasions the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan strait. Recently we have seen that China has frequently dispatched military vessels and aircraft to carry out manoeuvres in the sea and airspace surrounding Taiwan. These actions alter the status quo in the indo-pacific and threaten regional peace and stability," said Tsai Ing-wen. This couldn't go unnoticed in Beijing. Earlier today, the Chinese foreign ministry issued a response. It told the US to 'Take caution' and adhere to the One China principle. The same old line. But accompanied by new provocations. This month, 25 Chinese warplanes breached Taiwan's air defence zone. This was the largest incursion in months. And it wasn't the only provocation. The Chinese Navy conducted drills in the Taiwan strait. The threat is serious. The US Intelligence community has come up with a report. It decodes China's military assertiveness in several regional disputes. The American assessment says there could be two reasons behind China's aggression. One, Beijing wants to use military actions to demonstrate strength. Two, Beijing wants to compel neighbours to accept its claims over disputed territory. "China is employing a comprehensive approach to demonstrate its growing strength and compel regional neighbors to acquiesce to beijing's preferences, including its claims over disputed territory and assertions of sovereignty over Taiwan," said Avril Haines, Director of National Intelligence. These aggressive actions against Taiwan are expected to come up on Friday as well. That's when the third big meeting will take place. Joe Biden will sit down with Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga in Washington. Reports say China is expected to dominate the talks. The US wants Japan to back Taiwan. Biden wants Suga to issue a joint statement of support to Taiwan. This is tricky, because Japan has its own territorial dispute with China over Senkaku Islands. And a joint statement on Taiwan will only further aggravate the situation with China. So three meetings, one agenda. Getting china to come to heel. This could prove to be biden's biggest test so far.

US tries a balancing act vis-a-vis China

Taliban on Thursday accused the US of breaching Doha peace agreement by skipping May 1 as the deadline for full withdrawal of American troops from the country, said Tolo News.

In a statement cited by Tolo News, Taliban warned the US of "consequences" and said that US would be "responsible" for all "countermeasures" taken by "Mujahideen of Islamic Emirate".

USA had earlier announced that all troops would be withdrawn by May 1 this year but high-level officials within the US government have been quoted to suggest that the withdrawal will be complete by September 11, the 20th anniversary of 9/11 attacks this year.

The Taliban has reportedly used very strong words in their statement.&nbsp;

“As this agreement was signed in the presence of United Nations and representatives of numerous world countries and organisations, and is currently being breached by America, it is imperative that all countries and organisations that were witnesses to the signing of this agreement exert pressure on America to implement its commitments and withdraw all forces from Afghanistan by the specified date,” said Taliban.

“Now as the agreement is being breached by America, it in principle opens the way for the Mujahideen of Islamic Emirate to take every necessary countermeasure, hence the American side will be held responsible for all future consequences, and not the Islamic Emirate,” read Taliban's statement.

Blinken in Afghanistan

On Thursday, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken made an unannounced visit to Afghanistan.

Blinken met Afghan President Ashraf Ghani as well as senior US officials in Kabul and brief them on President Joe Biden’s Wednesday announcement he was ending "the forever war", which began in response to the 2001 September 11 attacks.

"I wanted to demonstrate with my visit the ongoing commitment of the United States to the Islamic Republic and the people of Afghanistan," Blinken said after meeting Ghani.

"The partnership is changing, but the partnership is enduring."

(With inputs from agencies)

Taliban on Thursday accused the US of breaching Doha peace agreement by skipping May 1 as the deadline for full withdrawal of American troops from the country, said Tolo News.

Taliban on Thursday accused the US of breaching Doha peace agreement by skipping May 1 as the deadline for full withdrawal of American troops from the country, said Tolo News. In a statement cited by Tolo News, Taliban warned the US of "consequences" and said that US would be "responsible" for all "countermeasures" taken by "Mujahideen of Islamic Emirate". USA had earlier announced that all troops would be withdrawn by May 1 this year but high-level officials within the US government have been quoted to suggest that the withdrawal will be complete by September 11, the 20th anniversary of 9/11 attacks this year. The Taliban has reportedly used very strong words in their statement. “As this agreement was signed in the presence of United Nations and representatives of numerous world countries and organisations, and is currently being breached by America, it is imperative that all countries and organisations that were witnesses to the signing of this agreement exert pressure on America to implement its commitments and withdraw all forces from Afghanistan by the specified date,” said Taliban. “Now as the agreement is being breached by America, it in principle opens the way for the Mujahideen of Islamic Emirate to take every necessary countermeasure, hence the American side will be held responsible for all future consequences, and not the Islamic Emirate,” read Taliban's statement. Blinken in Afghanistan On Thursday, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken made an unannounced visit to Afghanistan. Blinken met Afghan President Ashraf Ghani as well as senior US officials in Kabul and brief them on President Joe Biden’s Wednesday announcement he was ending "the forever war", which began in response to the 2001 September 11 attacks. "I wanted to demonstrate with my visit the ongoing commitment of the United States to the Islamic Republic and the people of Afghanistan," Blinken said after meeting Ghani. "The partnership is changing, but the partnership is enduring." (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban warns US of 'countermeasures': Report

The White House on Thursday said that the United States has the ability to keep an eye on any resurgence of al Qaeda in Afghanistan without keeping a military footprint there a day after US&nbsp;President Joe Biden said that he was pulling out U.S. forces after nearly 20 years of war.

"We believe we have the means to keep our eye on any terrorist threats or any sign of al Qaeda's resurgence without having a persistent footprint on the ground," White House press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters. 
&nbsp;

The White House on Thursday said that the United States has the ability to keep an eye on any resurgence of al Qaeda in Afghanistan without keeping a military footprint there a day after US President Joe Biden said that he was pulling out U.

The White House on Thursday said that the United States has the ability to keep an eye on any resurgence of al Qaeda in Afghanistan without keeping a military footprint there a day after US President Joe Biden said that he was pulling out U.S. forces after nearly 20 years of war. "We believe we have the means to keep our eye on any terrorist threats or any sign of al Qaeda's resurgence without having a persistent footprint on the ground," White House press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters.

US has ability to keep eye on any resurgence of al Qaeda in Afghanistan: White House

Derek Chauvin, former Minneapolis police officer said on Thursday that he would not testify at George Floyd death trial. He invoked Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination and told judge Peter Cahill that he would not take the witness stand.

"I will invoke my Fifth Amendment privilege today," Chauvin said. He is facing murder and manslaughter charges.

Derek Chauvin was seen in a video pinning 46-year-old black man George Floyd down on the ground with his knee on his neck for more than nine minutes. Floyd could be seen saying "I can't breathe" in the video. He died soon afterward. The horrific incident took place on May 25, 2020.

George Floyd's death led to massive protests across US that sought to highlight police brutality targetted at African-Americans in the country. It was said that had George Floyd been a white man, he would not have received the unimaginable treatment resulting into his death.

(With inputs from agencies)

Derek Chauvin, former Minneapolis police officer said on Thursday that he would not testify at George Floyd death trial. He invoked Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination and told judge Peter Cahill that he would not take the witness stand.

Derek Chauvin, former Minneapolis police officer said on Thursday that he would not testify at George Floyd death trial. He invoked Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination and told judge Peter Cahill that he would not take the witness stand. "I will invoke my Fifth Amendment privilege today," Chauvin said. He is facing murder and manslaughter charges. Derek Chauvin was seen in a video pinning 46-year-old black man George Floyd down on the ground with his knee on his neck for more than nine minutes. Floyd could be seen saying "I can't breathe" in the video. He died soon afterward. The horrific incident took place on May 25, 2020. George Floyd's death led to massive protests across US that sought to highlight police brutality targetted at African-Americans in the country. It was said that had George Floyd been a white man, he would not have received the unimaginable treatment resulting into his death. (With inputs from agencies)

George Floyd trial: Derek Chauvin chooses not to testify

Iran and other world powers resumed talk in Vienna on Thursday to revive the 2015 nuclear deal. The talks to revive the troubled deal have been complicated by Iran's decision to ramp up Uranium enrichment and what it calls Israeli sabotage at Natanz nuclear facility last week.

The 2015 nuclear deal was struck with Iran by USA, Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia. Iran's refusal to hold direct talks with the US has had European intermediaries shuttling between separate hotels in Vienna last week.

Senior diplomats, excluding the United States, initially met to set the tone on Thursday in what diplomats anticipated would be a tougher round of talks to salvage the pact.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-nuclear-programme-peaceful-mistake-for-us-to-express-concerns-rouhani-377735">Iran nuclear programme peaceful, 'mistake' for US to express concerns: Rouhani</a>

Two expert-level groups, seeking to marry lists of sanctions that the United States could lift with nuclear obligations Iran should meet, have now resumed their discussions.

"Currently I think the nuclear working group is more advanced, much more advanced, than (the) sanctions-lifting working group," Wang Qun, China`s ambassador to the U.N. atomic watchdog, told reporters after the Joint Commission meeting of senior officials.

"So currently we should do away with all disruptive factors, moving forward as swiftly as we can on the work of negotiation, especially by zeroing in on sanctions-lifting."

Iran`s foreign ministry said its negotiators had defended their decisions and expressed their disappointment at "the weak reaction" from European powers to the attack on Natanz.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran and other world powers resumed talk in Vienna on Thursday to revive the 2015 nuclear deal. The talks to revive the troubled deal have been complicated by Iran's decision to ramp up Uranium enrichment and what it calls Israeli sabotage at Natanz nuclear facility last week.

Iran and other world powers resumed talk in Vienna on Thursday to revive the 2015 nuclear deal. The talks to revive the troubled deal have been complicated by Iran's decision to ramp up Uranium enrichment and what it calls Israeli sabotage at Natanz nuclear facility last week. The 2015 nuclear deal was struck with Iran by USA, Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia. Iran's refusal to hold direct talks with the US has had European intermediaries shuttling between separate hotels in Vienna last week. Senior diplomats, excluding the United States, initially met to set the tone on Thursday in what diplomats anticipated would be a tougher round of talks to salvage the pact. Also Read | Iran nuclear programme peaceful, 'mistake' for US to express concerns: Rouhani Two expert-level groups, seeking to marry lists of sanctions that the United States could lift with nuclear obligations Iran should meet, have now resumed their discussions. "Currently I think the nuclear working group is more advanced, much more advanced, than (the) sanctions-lifting working group," Wang Qun, China`s ambassador to the U.N. atomic watchdog, told reporters after the Joint Commission meeting of senior officials. "So currently we should do away with all disruptive factors, moving forward as swiftly as we can on the work of negotiation, especially by zeroing in on sanctions-lifting." Iran`s foreign ministry said its negotiators had defended their decisions and expressed their disappointment at "the weak reaction" from European powers to the attack on Natanz. (With inputs from agencies)

Talks resume in Vienna on Iran nuclear deal revival

The United States on Thursday announced economic sanctions on Russia and expelled 10 diplomats. This has come in retaliation for what the US says is Kremlin's interference in US elections and other hostile activities including a massive cyber attack.

The White House said that US President Joe Biden's executive order on sanctions " "sends a signal that the United States will impose costs in a strategic and economically impactful manner on Russia if it continues or escalates its destabilising international action".

US found support from its NATO allies as it slapped sanctions on Russia. The bloc supported the move taken in response to Moscow's&nbsp;"destabilising activities", an alliance statement said.

"NATO Allies support and stand in solidarity with the United States, following its 15 April announcement of actions to respond to Russia's destabilising activities," the statement said.&nbsp;

Russia talks tough

Russian reaction on US sanctions has expectedly been tough. Russian foreign ministry on Thursday said that it was "unavoidable" that Moscow would respond to sanctions. It also said that it had called Washington`s ambassador in Moscow for 'tough talks'.

Russian foreign ministry also said that Biden's decision to slap sanctions on Russia contradicted his stated desire to normalise ties.

Foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that the United States` hostile steps had dangerously raised the temperature of a confrontation between Moscow and Washington and that it would have to pay for damaging bilateral ties.

Earlier, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-on-russia-wont-help-biden-putin-summit-kremlin-377759">Kremlin expressed its displeasure</a> as news of potential US sanctions did rounds in US media. Russia said at that time that going ahead with sanctions&nbsp;would&nbsp;"not help" a possible summit between Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"What is currently being discussed -- likely sanctions -- will in no way help such a meeting. That is unambiguous," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists, as reported by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-on-russia-wont-help-biden-putin-summit-kremlin-377759">US sanctions on Russia won't 'help' Biden-Putin summit: Kremlin</a>

Tensions between Russia and the West have been rising in recent weeks amid Russia's troop buildup near Russia-Ukraine border. The separatists in Ukraine's Donbass region have caused violence. Ukraine alleges that the separatists enjoy support from Moscow, a claim Russian denies. The US has assured Ukraine of help in the the current situation.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States on Thursday announced economic sanctions on Russia and expelled 10 diplomats. This has come in retaliation for what the US says is Kremlin's interference in US elections and other hostile activities including a massive cyber attack.

The United States on Thursday announced economic sanctions on Russia and expelled 10 diplomats. This has come in retaliation for what the US says is Kremlin's interference in US elections and other hostile activities including a massive cyber attack. The White House said that US President Joe Biden's executive order on sanctions " "sends a signal that the United States will impose costs in a strategic and economically impactful manner on Russia if it continues or escalates its destabilising international action". US found support from its NATO allies as it slapped sanctions on Russia. The bloc supported the move taken in response to Moscow's "destabilising activities", an alliance statement said. "NATO Allies support and stand in solidarity with the United States, following its 15 April announcement of actions to respond to Russia's destabilising activities," the statement said. Russia talks tough Russian reaction on US sanctions has expectedly been tough. Russian foreign ministry on Thursday said that it was "unavoidable" that Moscow would respond to sanctions. It also said that it had called Washington`s ambassador in Moscow for 'tough talks'. Russian foreign ministry also said that Biden's decision to slap sanctions on Russia contradicted his stated desire to normalise ties. Foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that the United States` hostile steps had dangerously raised the temperature of a confrontation between Moscow and Washington and that it would have to pay for damaging bilateral ties. Earlier, Kremlin expressed its displeasure as news of potential US sanctions did rounds in US media. Russia said at that time that going ahead with sanctions would "not help" a possible summit between Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin. "What is currently being discussed -- likely sanctions -- will in no way help such a meeting. That is unambiguous," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists, as reported by news agency AFP. Also Read | US sanctions on Russia won't 'help' Biden-Putin summit: Kremlin Tensions between Russia and the West have been rising in recent weeks amid Russia's troop buildup near Russia-Ukraine border. The separatists in Ukraine's Donbass region have caused violence. Ukraine alleges that the separatists enjoy support from Moscow, a claim Russian denies. The US has assured Ukraine of help in the the current situation. (With inputs from agencies)

US slaps sanctions on Russia, expels 10 diplomats over poll meddlling, cyber attack

India is concerned about the vacuum that will be created after withdrawal of the US and NATO troops from war-torn Afghanistan, Chief of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat said on Thursday.

He said that the main concern should not create "space for other disruptors" and therefore, see violence continue in Afghanistan.

India wants to see peace and tranquility returning to the region, he added.

"We would be very happy to provide whatever support we can in the development of Afghanistan and making sure peace returns to that nation. People have got tired and are looking at peace," General Rawat said speaking in a virtual discussion at the ongoing Raisina Dialogue 2021.

Asked whether it was Iran and Pakistan that could exploit the situation, the Chief of Defence Staff said there are many nations that would like to step into Afghanistan.

"Many people are looking at the opportunity to exploit the vacuum that is being created. Afghanistan is a nation which is rich in resources," he said.

Noting there are nations "that tend to exploit resources for their own benefit without the benefit going to the community of that nation", he said: "The international community must step in to ensure Afghanistan is for the Afghans."

President Joe Biden announced in Washington on Wednesday that he will withdraw remaining US troops from the "forever war" in Afghanistan. His plan is to pull out all US forces -- numbering 2,500 now -- by this September 11, the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.

The UN, together with Turkey, and Qatar, announced on Tuesday that a high-level conference aimed at ending decades of conflict in Afghanistan will go ahead beginning on April 24. There would be representatives from both the Afghan government and the Taliban.

India is concerned about the vacuum that will be created after withdrawal of the US and NATO troops from war-torn Afghanistan, Chief of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat said on Thursday.

India is concerned about the vacuum that will be created after withdrawal of the US and NATO troops from war-torn Afghanistan, Chief of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat said on Thursday. He said that the main concern should not create "space for other disruptors" and therefore, see violence continue in Afghanistan. India wants to see peace and tranquility returning to the region, he added. "We would be very happy to provide whatever support we can in the development of Afghanistan and making sure peace returns to that nation. People have got tired and are looking at peace," General Rawat said speaking in a virtual discussion at the ongoing Raisina Dialogue 2021. Asked whether it was Iran and Pakistan that could exploit the situation, the Chief of Defence Staff said there are many nations that would like to step into Afghanistan. "Many people are looking at the opportunity to exploit the vacuum that is being created. Afghanistan is a nation which is rich in resources," he said. Noting there are nations "that tend to exploit resources for their own benefit without the benefit going to the community of that nation", he said: "The international community must step in to ensure Afghanistan is for the Afghans." President Joe Biden announced in Washington on Wednesday that he will withdraw remaining US troops from the "forever war" in Afghanistan. His plan is to pull out all US forces -- numbering 2,500 now -- by this September 11, the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. The UN, together with Turkey, and Qatar, announced on Tuesday that a high-level conference aimed at ending decades of conflict in Afghanistan will go ahead beginning on April 24. There would be representatives from both the Afghan government and the Taliban.

India concerned over US troops' forthcoming exit from Afghanistan

Bernard Lawrence Madoff aka 'Bernie Madoff', the mastermind behind the worst financial scam in history, &nbsp;died on Wednesday. He was 82.

His death at the Federal Medical Center in Butner, North Carolina, was confirmed by the federal Bureau of Prisons. His death was believed to be from natural causes. Madoff had suffered from terminal kidney disease and several other medical ailments.

The 82-year-old was sentenced to 150 years in prison in 2009 for running the pyramid-style scheme, which was estimated to be worth between $25 billion and $63 billion, depending on whether interest is included in the calculation.

New Yorker Madoff never invested a single cent of the money the scheme's clients trusted him with, instead using money from new investors to pay older ones.&nbsp;

He was serving his sentence in a federal medical prison in North Carolina.&nbsp;

Madoff for decades presented himself as a successful and trusted Wall Street kingpin while secretly engaging in investment fraud, prompting his sentencing judge to condemn his crimes as “extraordinarily evil.”

His clients included Holocaust survivor and Nobel laureate Elie Wiesel, filmmaker Steven Spielberg, actors Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick, U.S. Senator&nbsp;Frank R. Lautenberg, and scores of retirees and other private individuals.

His Ponzi scheme made him a poster child for Wall Street greed, shining a harsh light on both his accomplices and on regulators who seemed on the cusp of exposing him but failed.

(With inputs from agencies)

Bernard Lawrence Madoff aka 'Bernie Madoff', the mastermind behind the worst financial scam in history, died on Wednesday. He was 82. His death at the Federal Medical Center in Butner, North Carolina, was confirmed by the federal Bureau of Prisons.

Bernard Lawrence Madoff aka 'Bernie Madoff', the mastermind behind the worst financial scam in history, died on Wednesday. He was 82. His death at the Federal Medical Center in Butner, North Carolina, was confirmed by the federal Bureau of Prisons. His death was believed to be from natural causes. Madoff had suffered from terminal kidney disease and several other medical ailments. The 82-year-old was sentenced to 150 years in prison in 2009 for running the pyramid-style scheme, which was estimated to be worth between $25 billion and $63 billion, depending on whether interest is included in the calculation. New Yorker Madoff never invested a single cent of the money the scheme's clients trusted him with, instead using money from new investors to pay older ones. He was serving his sentence in a federal medical prison in North Carolina. Madoff for decades presented himself as a successful and trusted Wall Street kingpin while secretly engaging in investment fraud, prompting his sentencing judge to condemn his crimes as “extraordinarily evil.” His clients included Holocaust survivor and Nobel laureate Elie Wiesel, filmmaker Steven Spielberg, actors Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick, U.S. Senator Frank R. Lautenberg, and scores of retirees and other private individuals. His Ponzi scheme made him a poster child for Wall Street greed, shining a harsh light on both his accomplices and on regulators who seemed on the cusp of exposing him but failed. (With inputs from agencies)

Bernie Madoff, mastermind of largest Ponzi scheme in history, dies at 82

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani sought to calm western powers over the country's latest move of uranium enrichment. He insisted that Iran's nuclear programme was "peaceful".&nbsp;

Rouhani said in televised remarks that it was a "mistake" for Europe and the United States to express concerns that the move "means we can enrich to 90 per cent in one go".

"Today, we can enrich to 90 per cent if we want to. But we have declared it from day one and we're keeping our word: our nuclear activities are peaceful; we are not seeking to obtain the atomic bomb."

His comments came hours before Vienna talks. The dialogue is aimed at reviving the 2015 Iran nuclear deal.

The nuclear deal with Iran was struck by US under Barack Obama in 2015. But his successor Donald Trump unilaterally took the US out of the deal, opening a new chapter of acrimony between US and Iran.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani sought to calm western powers over the country's latest move of uranium enrichment. He insisted that Iran's nuclear programme was "peaceful".

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani sought to calm western powers over the country's latest move of uranium enrichment. He insisted that Iran's nuclear programme was "peaceful". Rouhani said in televised remarks that it was a "mistake" for Europe and the United States to express concerns that the move "means we can enrich to 90 per cent in one go". "Today, we can enrich to 90 per cent if we want to. But we have declared it from day one and we're keeping our word: our nuclear activities are peaceful; we are not seeking to obtain the atomic bomb." His comments came hours before Vienna talks. The dialogue is aimed at reviving the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. The nuclear deal with Iran was struck by US under Barack Obama in 2015. But his successor Donald Trump unilaterally took the US out of the deal, opening a new chapter of acrimony between US and Iran. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran nuclear programme peaceful, 'mistake' for US to express concerns: Rouhani

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday began an unannounced visit to Afghanistan. His visit comes amid US plans to withdraw all American troops from the country before the 20th anniversary this year of September 11 terror attacks.

The withdrawal plans are going ahead in spite of a deadlock in peace talks with Taliban. This threatens to leave a power vacuum in Afghanistan. Initially aimed at May 1, the withdrawal plans have been postponed by four months.

Blinken met Afghan President Ashraf Ghani as well as senior US officials in Kabul and brief them on President Joe Biden’s Wednesday announcement he was ending "the forever war", which began in response to the 2001 September 11 attacks.

"I wanted to demonstrate with my visit the ongoing commitment of the United States to the Islamic Republic and the people of Afghanistan," Blinken said after meeting Ghani.

"The partnership is changing, but the partnership is enduring."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-says-time-to-end-us-war-in-afghanistan-with-total-pullout-377585">Biden says 'time to end' US war in Afghanistan with total pullout</a>

The Pentagon has around 2,500 troops in Afghanistan from a high of over 100,000. Thousands more serve as part of a 9,600-strong NATO force, which will withdraw at the same time.

Ever since the US indicated that it wanted to pull out from Afghanistan, there has been marked increase in violence with emboldened Taliban carrying out bombings and assassinations.

"It could cost us losing everything we worked and fought together for in the past 20 years and could risk overall security in Afghanistan," said Metra Mehran, a Kabul-based women's rights activist.

For the US, however, after 20 years and more than 2,400 deaths, enough is enough.

"We cannot continue the cycle of extending or expanding our military presence in Afghanistan hoping to create the ideal conditions for our withdrawal, expecting a different result," Biden said.

The delayed withdrawal -- even by just over four months -- has angered the Taliban, who have threatened to resume hostilities against US forces.

"If the agreement is breached and foreign forces fail to exit our country on the specified date, problems will certainly be compounded and those who failed to comply with the agreement will be held liable," spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said on Twitter on Wednesday.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday began an unannounced visit to Afghanistan. His visit comes amid US plans to withdraw all American troops from the country before the 20th anniversary this year of September 11 terror attacks.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday began an unannounced visit to Afghanistan. His visit comes amid US plans to withdraw all American troops from the country before the 20th anniversary this year of September 11 terror attacks. The withdrawal plans are going ahead in spite of a deadlock in peace talks with Taliban. This threatens to leave a power vacuum in Afghanistan. Initially aimed at May 1, the withdrawal plans have been postponed by four months. Blinken met Afghan President Ashraf Ghani as well as senior US officials in Kabul and brief them on President Joe Biden’s Wednesday announcement he was ending "the forever war", which began in response to the 2001 September 11 attacks. "I wanted to demonstrate with my visit the ongoing commitment of the United States to the Islamic Republic and the people of Afghanistan," Blinken said after meeting Ghani. "The partnership is changing, but the partnership is enduring." Also Read | Biden says 'time to end' US war in Afghanistan with total pullout The Pentagon has around 2,500 troops in Afghanistan from a high of over 100,000. Thousands more serve as part of a 9,600-strong NATO force, which will withdraw at the same time. Ever since the US indicated that it wanted to pull out from Afghanistan, there has been marked increase in violence with emboldened Taliban carrying out bombings and assassinations. "It could cost us losing everything we worked and fought together for in the past 20 years and could risk overall security in Afghanistan," said Metra Mehran, a Kabul-based women's rights activist. For the US, however, after 20 years and more than 2,400 deaths, enough is enough. "We cannot continue the cycle of extending or expanding our military presence in Afghanistan hoping to create the ideal conditions for our withdrawal, expecting a different result," Biden said. The delayed withdrawal -- even by just over four months -- has angered the Taliban, who have threatened to resume hostilities against US forces. "If the agreement is breached and foreign forces fail to exit our country on the specified date, problems will certainly be compounded and those who failed to comply with the agreement will be held liable," spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said on Twitter on Wednesday. (With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Afghanistan on a surprise visit

China’s effort to expand its growing influence represents one of the largest threats to the United States, according to a major annual intelligence report released Tuesday, which also warned of the broad national security challenges posed by Moscow and Beijing.

The report does not predict a military confrontation with either Russia or China, but it suggests that so-called gray-zone battles for power, which are meant to fall short of inciting all-out war, will intensify with intelligence operations, cyberattacks and global drives for influence.

The assessment highlights the opportunities and challenges for the Biden administration. Iran, for instance, has not advanced its work on a nuclear weapon, potentially giving President Joe Biden some room to maneuver. But it paints a grim prognosis for a peace deal in Afghanistan, a day before Biden is set to announce that he will withdraw US&nbsp;forces by September. Critics could use the report to suggest that the president is ignoring intelligence agencies’ predictions as he pushes forward with the drawdown.

While much of the report describes traditional national security challenges, it also gives far more attention to climate change and global health than previous threat assessments have done. That shift reflects a pledge by the Biden administration’s top intelligence officials to focus more on such nontraditional challenges.

The report puts China’s push for “global power” first on the list of threats, followed by Russia, Iran and North Korea. There are typically few broad revelations in the annual reports, which are a collection of declassified assessments, although the intelligence agencies’ ranking of threats and how they change over time can be telling.

“Beijing, Moscow, Tehran and Pyongyang have demonstrated the capability and intent to advance their interests at the expense of the United States and its allies, despite the pandemic,” the report said. “China increasingly is a near-peer competitor, challenging the United States in multiple arenas — especially economically, militarily and technologically — and is pushing to change global norms.”

China’s strategy, according to the report, is to drive wedges between the United States and its allies. Beijing has also used its success in combating the coronavirus pandemic to promote the “superiority of its system.”

The report predicts more tensions in the South China Sea, as Beijing continues to intimidate rivals in the region. It also predicts that China will press the government of Taiwan to move forward with unification and criticize efforts by the United States to bolster engagement with Taipei. But the report stopped short of predicting any kind of direct military conflict.

“We expect that friction will grow as Beijing steps up attempts to portray Taipei as internationally isolated and dependent on the mainland for economic prosperity, and as China continues to increase military activity around the island,” the report said.

It also foresees China at least doubling its nuclear stockpile over the next decade. “Beijing is not interested in arms-control agreements that restrict its modernization plans and will not agree to substantive negotiations that lock in US&nbsp;or Russian nuclear advantage,” the report said.

China uses its electronic surveillance and hacking abilities to not only repress dissent domestically but also to conduct intrusions that affect people beyond its borders, the report said. The country also represents a growing threat of cyberattacks against the United States, and the intelligence agencies assess that Beijing “at a minimum, can cause localized, temporary disruptions to critical infrastructure within the United States.”

There are few surprises in the report’s assessment of Russia. It makes clear that although many view Moscow as a declining power, American spy agencies still consider it a pre-eminent threat, pointing to a Russian supply chain hacking that created vulnerabilities in some 18,000 computer networks worldwide. The assessment said that while Russia would avoid direct conflict with the United States, it would use influence campaigns, mercenary operations and military exercises to advance its interests and undermine those of its rival.

Biden spoke to President Vladimir Putin of Russia on Tuesday. While Biden raised the prospect of a summit with Putin, he pressed him on the recent buildup of Russian troops on Ukraine’s border and in Crimea. The report said that Russia would seek opportunities for pragmatic cooperation but that it would also press the United States not to interfere in the domestic concerns of Ukraine and other countries of the former Soviet Union.

While cyberthreats have traditionally been a separate section of the report, this year’s assessment made more of an effort to weave such attacks into the broader threat picture, examining both China’s and Russia’s record of intrusions against the United States.

The intelligence agencies are right to refocus the threat assessment on Russia and China, said Rep. Adam B. Schiff, D-Calif., the chairman of the House Intelligence Committee.

“China’s a rising power and a rising challenge,” said Schiff, whose committee drafted a report last year calling for more resources to be devoted to China. “Russia is a dying power. It poses the threat of a kind of wounded animal that is dangerous because it’s wounded and backed into a corner.”

This year’s report offers a far more robust discussion of the national security implications of climate change, whose threats, for the most part, are long term, but can also have short-term consequences, the report said.

Typically, the director of national intelligence delivers the threat assessment to Congress and releases a written report alongside it. But no declassified assessment was issued last year, as the Trump administration’s intelligence agencies sought to avoid angering the White House.

In 2019, Dan Coats, then the director of national intelligence, delivered an analysis of threats from Iran, North Korea and the Islamic State that was at odds with President Donald Trump’s views. The testimony prompted Trump to lash out on Twitter, admonishing his intelligence chiefs to “go back to school.”

Avril Haines, the director of national intelligence; William Burns, the CIA director; and other top intelligence officials will testify about the report Wednesday and Thursday.

“The American people should know as much as possible about the threats facing our nation and what their intelligence agencies are doing to protect them,” said Haines, whose office released the report.

China’s effort to expand its growing influence represents one of the largest threats to the United States, according to a major annual intelligence report released Tuesday, which also warned of the broad national security challenges posed by Moscow and Beijing.

China’s effort to expand its growing influence represents one of the largest threats to the United States, according to a major annual intelligence report released Tuesday, which also warned of the broad national security challenges posed by Moscow and Beijing. The report does not predict a military confrontation with either Russia or China, but it suggests that so-called gray-zone battles for power, which are meant to fall short of inciting all-out war, will intensify with intelligence operations, cyberattacks and global drives for influence. The assessment highlights the opportunities and challenges for the Biden administration. Iran, for instance, has not advanced its work on a nuclear weapon, potentially giving President Joe Biden some room to maneuver. But it paints a grim prognosis for a peace deal in Afghanistan, a day before Biden is set to announce that he will withdraw US forces by September. Critics could use the report to suggest that the president is ignoring intelligence agencies’ predictions as he pushes forward with the drawdown. While much of the report describes traditional national security challenges, it also gives far more attention to climate change and global health than previous threat assessments have done. That shift reflects a pledge by the Biden administration’s top intelligence officials to focus more on such nontraditional challenges. The report puts China’s push for “global power” first on the list of threats, followed by Russia, Iran and North Korea. There are typically few broad revelations in the annual reports, which are a collection of declassified assessments, although the intelligence agencies’ ranking of threats and how they change over time can be telling. “Beijing, Moscow, Tehran and Pyongyang have demonstrated the capability and intent to advance their interests at the expense of the United States and its allies, despite the pandemic,” the report said. “China increasingly is a near-peer competitor, challenging the United States in multiple arenas — especially economically, militarily and technologically — and is pushing to change global norms.” China’s strategy, according to the report, is to drive wedges between the United States and its allies. Beijing has also used its success in combating the coronavirus pandemic to promote the “superiority of its system.” The report predicts more tensions in the South China Sea, as Beijing continues to intimidate rivals in the region. It also predicts that China will press the government of Taiwan to move forward with unification and criticize efforts by the United States to bolster engagement with Taipei. But the report stopped short of predicting any kind of direct military conflict. “We expect that friction will grow as Beijing steps up attempts to portray Taipei as internationally isolated and dependent on the mainland for economic prosperity, and as China continues to increase military activity around the island,” the report said. It also foresees China at least doubling its nuclear stockpile over the next decade. “Beijing is not interested in arms-control agreements that restrict its modernization plans and will not agree to substantive negotiations that lock in US or Russian nuclear advantage,” the report said. China uses its electronic surveillance and hacking abilities to not only repress dissent domestically but also to conduct intrusions that affect people beyond its borders, the report said. The country also represents a growing threat of cyberattacks against the United States, and the intelligence agencies assess that Beijing “at a minimum, can cause localized, temporary disruptions to critical infrastructure within the United States.” There are few surprises in the report’s assessment of Russia. It makes clear that although many view Moscow as a declining power, American spy agencies still consider it a pre-eminent threat, pointing to a Russian supply chain hacking that created vulnerabilities in some 18,000 computer networks worldwide. The assessment said that while Russia would avoid direct conflict with the United States, it would use influence campaigns, mercenary operations and military exercises to advance its interests and undermine those of its rival. Biden spoke to President Vladimir Putin of Russia on Tuesday. While Biden raised the prospect of a summit with Putin, he pressed him on the recent buildup of Russian troops on Ukraine’s border and in Crimea. The report said that Russia would seek opportunities for pragmatic cooperation but that it would also press the United States not to interfere in the domestic concerns of Ukraine and other countries of the former Soviet Union. While cyberthreats have traditionally been a separate section of the report, this year’s assessment made more of an effort to weave such attacks into the broader threat picture, examining both China’s and Russia’s record of intrusions against the United States. The intelligence agencies are right to refocus the threat assessment on Russia and China, said Rep. Adam B. Schiff, D-Calif., the chairman of the House Intelligence Committee. “China’s a rising power and a rising challenge,” said Schiff, whose committee drafted a report last year calling for more resources to be devoted to China. “Russia is a dying power. It poses the threat of a kind of wounded animal that is dangerous because it’s wounded and backed into a corner.” This year’s report offers a far more robust discussion of the national security implications of climate change, whose threats, for the most part, are long term, but can also have short-term consequences, the report said. Typically, the director of national intelligence delivers the threat assessment to Congress and releases a written report alongside it. But no declassified assessment was issued last year, as the Trump administration’s intelligence agencies sought to avoid angering the White House. In 2019, Dan Coats, then the director of national intelligence, delivered an analysis of threats from Iran, North Korea and the Islamic State that was at odds with President Donald Trump’s views. The testimony prompted Trump to lash out on Twitter, admonishing his intelligence chiefs to “go back to school.” Avril Haines, the director of national intelligence; William Burns, the CIA director; and other top intelligence officials will testify about the report Wednesday and Thursday. “The American people should know as much as possible about the threats facing our nation and what their intelligence agencies are doing to protect them,” said Haines, whose office released the report.

China poses biggest threat to US, intelligence report says

Police fired tear gas and rubber bullets as angry protests erupted in a Minneapolis suburb after a 20-year-old Black man was shot dead during a traffic stop.

Outside of the Brooklyn Center Police Department on Sunday night, (April 11) smoke billowed as a line of police officers fired rubber bullets and chemical agents at protesters, some of whom lobbed rocks, bags of garbage and water bottles at the police.

One of the eyewitnesses, photographer Jonathan Stengenga said it was "surreal" as he wiped tears off his face after running away from cloud of chemical irritants.

"They just shot another round of flash bangs, tear gas and pepper (spray) and bullets. Even with this mask it got it into my lungs and eyes. I had one flash bang hit right by my feet," Stengenga said in a video published on his Facebook page.

The man killed by police was identified by relatives and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as Daunte Wright, 20. Walz said in a statement that he was monitoring the unrest as "our state mourns another life of a Black man taken by law enforcement."

Commissioner John Harrington of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety said in a live-streamed news briefing that late on Sunday a group of about 100 to 200 protesters gathered around the Brooklyn Center police headquarters and threw projectiles at the police department. The group was later dispersed.

Police fired tear gas and rubber bullets as angry protests erupted in a Minneapolis suburb after a 20-year-old Black man was shot dead during a traffic stop. Outside of the Brooklyn Center Police Department on Sunday night, (April 11) smoke billowed as a line of police officers fired rubber bullets and chemical agents at protesters, some of whom lobbed rocks, bags of garbage and water bottles at the police.

Police fired tear gas and rubber bullets as angry protests erupted in a Minneapolis suburb after a 20-year-old Black man was shot dead during a traffic stop. Outside of the Brooklyn Center Police Department on Sunday night, (April 11) smoke billowed as a line of police officers fired rubber bullets and chemical agents at protesters, some of whom lobbed rocks, bags of garbage and water bottles at the police. One of the eyewitnesses, photographer Jonathan Stengenga said it was "surreal" as he wiped tears off his face after running away from cloud of chemical irritants. "They just shot another round of flash bangs, tear gas and pepper (spray) and bullets. Even with this mask it got it into my lungs and eyes. I had one flash bang hit right by my feet," Stengenga said in a video published on his Facebook page. The man killed by police was identified by relatives and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as Daunte Wright, 20. Walz said in a statement that he was monitoring the unrest as "our state mourns another life of a Black man taken by law enforcement." Commissioner John Harrington of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety said in a live-streamed news briefing that late on Sunday a group of about 100 to 200 protesters gathered around the Brooklyn Center police headquarters and threw projectiles at the police department. The group was later dispersed.

Tear gas and flash bangs fired in Minnesota protest after police shoot Black man

The White House on Monday (April 12) said it was not involved in a power outage incident at an Iranian nuclear site and declined comment on Tehran's accusing Israel of sabotaging the Natanz facility.

"The U.S. was not involved in any manner," White House press secretary Jen Psaki said in response to questions. "We have nothing to add on speculation about the causes or the impacts."

Iran vowed revenge for what it described as an act of "nuclear terrorism" that caused an electricity outage in one of the production halls at the uranium enrichment plant.

Israel fiercely opposes Tehran's 2015 nuclear deal with major powers, an accord that Iran and the new administration of President Joe Biden are engaged in trying to revive after then-U.S. President Donald Trump abandoned it three years ago.

Iran and the global powers described as "constructive" talks last week to salvage the nuclear deal, which has unraveled as Iran has breached its limits on sensitive uranium enrichment since Trump reimposed harsh sanctions on Tehran.

The White House on Monday (April 12) said it was not involved in a power outage incident at an Iranian nuclear site and declined comment on Tehran's accusing Israel of sabotaging the Natanz facility.

The White House on Monday (April 12) said it was not involved in a power outage incident at an Iranian nuclear site and declined comment on Tehran's accusing Israel of sabotaging the Natanz facility. "The U.S. was not involved in any manner," White House press secretary Jen Psaki said in response to questions. "We have nothing to add on speculation about the causes or the impacts." Iran vowed revenge for what it described as an act of "nuclear terrorism" that caused an electricity outage in one of the production halls at the uranium enrichment plant. Israel fiercely opposes Tehran's 2015 nuclear deal with major powers, an accord that Iran and the new administration of President Joe Biden are engaged in trying to revive after then-U.S. President Donald Trump abandoned it three years ago. Iran and the global powers described as "constructive" talks last week to salvage the nuclear deal, which has unraveled as Iran has breached its limits on sensitive uranium enrichment since Trump reimposed harsh sanctions on Tehran.

US was not involved in Iran nuclear site incident: White House

The Chinese government has warned the United States to refrain from playing with fire, immediately stop official contact with Taiwan in any form.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said that the so-called guidelines for US government interaction with Taiwan counterparts blatantly encourages US government engagement with Taiwan, which severely violates the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiqués and runs counter to the serious political commitment the US has made to China on the Taiwan question.

"The Taiwan question concerns China’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and core interests. There is zero room for compromise and not an inch to give. We urge the U.S. side to grasp the situation, earnestly abide by the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiqués, refrain from playing with fire, immediately stop official contact with Taiwan in any form, prudently and properly handle Taiwan-related issues, and avoid sending any wrong signals to the "Taiwan independence" forces, lest it should shake the foundation of China-US relations and peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait," he added. 
&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-south-china-sea-china-and-us-send-warships-into-disputed-waters-375776/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The U.S. State Department’s Friday decision to deepen relations with self-ruled Taiwan came amid stepped-up Chinese military activity around the island, including almost daily air force incursions into Taiwan’s air defence zone.

Taiwan is China’s most sensitive territorial and diplomatic issue and a regular source of Sino-U.S. friction. China has never renounced the use of force to bring the democratically ruled island under its control.

Former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced days before the end of former President Donald Trump’s presidency in January that he was lifting restrictions on contacts between U.S. officials and their Taiwanese counterparts.

While Washington officially recognises Beijing rather than

Taipei, like most countries, the United States is Taiwan’s most important international supporter and arms seller.

The United States is required by law to provide the island with the means to defend itself.

China believes the United States is colluding with Taiwan to challenge Beijing and giving support to those who want the island to declare formal independence.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen says the island is an independent country called the Republic of China, its formal name, and that she will defend its freedom and security.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Chinese government has warned the United States to refrain from playing with fire, immediately stop official contact with Taiwan in any form. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said that the so-called guidelines for US government interaction with Taiwan counterparts blatantly encourages US government engagement with Taiwan, which severely violates the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiqués and runs counter to the serious political commitment the US has made to China on the Taiwan question.

The Chinese government has warned the United States to refrain from playing with fire, immediately stop official contact with Taiwan in any form. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said that the so-called guidelines for US government interaction with Taiwan counterparts blatantly encourages US government engagement with Taiwan, which severely violates the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiqués and runs counter to the serious political commitment the US has made to China on the Taiwan question. "The Taiwan question concerns China’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and core interests. There is zero room for compromise and not an inch to give. We urge the U.S. side to grasp the situation, earnestly abide by the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiqués, refrain from playing with fire, immediately stop official contact with Taiwan in any form, prudently and properly handle Taiwan-related issues, and avoid sending any wrong signals to the "Taiwan independence" forces, lest it should shake the foundation of China-US relations and peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait," he added. The U.S. State Department’s Friday decision to deepen relations with self-ruled Taiwan came amid stepped-up Chinese military activity around the island, including almost daily air force incursions into Taiwan’s air defence zone. Taiwan is China’s most sensitive territorial and diplomatic issue and a regular source of Sino-U.S. friction. China has never renounced the use of force to bring the democratically ruled island under its control. Former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced days before the end of former President Donald Trump’s presidency in January that he was lifting restrictions on contacts between U.S. officials and their Taiwanese counterparts. While Washington officially recognises Beijing rather than Taipei, like most countries, the United States is Taiwan’s most important international supporter and arms seller. The United States is required by law to provide the island with the means to defend itself. China believes the United States is colluding with Taiwan to challenge Beijing and giving support to those who want the island to declare formal independence. Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen says the island is an independent country called the Republic of China, its formal name, and that she will defend its freedom and security. (With inputs from agencies)

Stop any form of US-Taiwan official contacts: China warns America

US State Department has issued its report on human rights condition in different countries across the world. It has also discussed Pakistan, in terms of different issues including human rights violation, freedom of expression, the plight of minorities, militancy and other issues.

In the chapter on Pakistan, the report has mentioned "threats of violence, or unjustified arrests or prosecutions against journalists, use of criminal libel laws to prosecute social media speech and censorship, and site blocking."

A prominent feature of the rights report is the plight of women in Pakistan. The US State Department underlined a wide array of reasons for the plummeting women`s rights in Pakistan and the increase in female marginalisation in the country.

The report said that the reasons include bureaucratic corruption, a dearth of accountability and investigation, especially when it comes to violence against women, reported Pakistan Today.The report also highlighted human trafficking as a crime that directly impacted women in the country. As per Pakistan Today, this was considered a major contributor to the marginalisation of racial and ethnic minorities. Furthermore, violence and threats of violence, in addition to women, also impact other gender and sexual minorities including LGBTQ.

Talking about the rights of minorities, the report mentioned that there are incidents of attack on them in different parts of Pakistan."There were occasionally reports of mob violence against religious minorities, including Christians, Ahmadi Muslims, and Hindus. Shia Muslim activists reported continuing instances of targeted killings and enforced disappearances in limited parts of the country," the report mentioned.Linked to this, the report also talked about the state misbehaviour with different ethnic leaders and activities.

As per the report, "human rights organizations reported some authorities disappeared or arrested Pashtun, Sindhi, and Baloch human rights activists, as well as Sindhi and Baloch nationalists without cause or warrant."The situation on the freedom of expression, attitude with journalists and media, Pakistan Today reported citing the report, was not so encouraging. As per US State Department, unknown actors abducted journalists including the likes of Matiullah Jan, Bilal Farooq and Ali Imran.

Furthermore, the department mentioned the attack on journalists by terrorists."In addition, threats, harassment, abductions, violence, and killings led journalists and editors to practice self-censorship. Government failure to investigate and prosecute attacks on human rights defenders and peaceful protesters led to de facto restrictions on freedom of assembly and association," the report stated.The major concern was especially with freedom of expression and the plight of ethnicities and minorities.

Quoting Balochistan National Party-Mengal (BNP-M), the report said: "Only 450 of 5,128 missing persons had been found since 2018, and a further 1,800 disappeared during this period."The issue of missing persons has been there in Pakistan for the last two decades, as relatives of these people have been demanding justice from the government to Supreme Court, but the issue has remained unresolved.Also, the censorship on media has increased in the last few years, the latest bill about "intentional disrespect of Pakistan Army" is a fresh example.Under this new bill, "anyone who shall be guilty of said offence could face up to two years imprisonment or fine that may extend to Rs 500,000, or both."

US State Department has issued its report on human rights condition in different countries across the world. It has also discussed Pakistan, in terms of different issues including human rights violation, freedom of expression, the plight of minorities, militancy and other issues.

US State Department has issued its report on human rights condition in different countries across the world. It has also discussed Pakistan, in terms of different issues including human rights violation, freedom of expression, the plight of minorities, militancy and other issues. In the chapter on Pakistan, the report has mentioned "threats of violence, or unjustified arrests or prosecutions against journalists, use of criminal libel laws to prosecute social media speech and censorship, and site blocking." A prominent feature of the rights report is the plight of women in Pakistan. The US State Department underlined a wide array of reasons for the plummeting women`s rights in Pakistan and the increase in female marginalisation in the country. The report said that the reasons include bureaucratic corruption, a dearth of accountability and investigation, especially when it comes to violence against women, reported Pakistan Today.The report also highlighted human trafficking as a crime that directly impacted women in the country. As per Pakistan Today, this was considered a major contributor to the marginalisation of racial and ethnic minorities. Furthermore, violence and threats of violence, in addition to women, also impact other gender and sexual minorities including LGBTQ. Talking about the rights of minorities, the report mentioned that there are incidents of attack on them in different parts of Pakistan."There were occasionally reports of mob violence against religious minorities, including Christians, Ahmadi Muslims, and Hindus. Shia Muslim activists reported continuing instances of targeted killings and enforced disappearances in limited parts of the country," the report mentioned.Linked to this, the report also talked about the state misbehaviour with different ethnic leaders and activities. As per the report, "human rights organizations reported some authorities disappeared or arrested Pashtun, Sindhi, and Baloch human rights activists, as well as Sindhi and Baloch nationalists without cause or warrant."The situation on the freedom of expression, attitude with journalists and media, Pakistan Today reported citing the report, was not so encouraging. As per US State Department, unknown actors abducted journalists including the likes of Matiullah Jan, Bilal Farooq and Ali Imran. Furthermore, the department mentioned the attack on journalists by terrorists."In addition, threats, harassment, abductions, violence, and killings led journalists and editors to practice self-censorship. Government failure to investigate and prosecute attacks on human rights defenders and peaceful protesters led to de facto restrictions on freedom of assembly and association," the report stated.The major concern was especially with freedom of expression and the plight of ethnicities and minorities. Quoting Balochistan National Party-Mengal (BNP-M), the report said: "Only 450 of 5,128 missing persons had been found since 2018, and a further 1,800 disappeared during this period."The issue of missing persons has been there in Pakistan for the last two decades, as relatives of these people have been demanding justice from the government to Supreme Court, but the issue has remained unresolved.Also, the censorship on media has increased in the last few years, the latest bill about "intentional disrespect of Pakistan Army" is a fresh example.Under this new bill, "anyone who shall be guilty of said offence could face up to two years imprisonment or fine that may extend to Rs 500,000, or both."

US report reveals troubling human rights abuses in Pakistan

Usa, News on Usa, stories on Usa, articles on Usa, Usa stories at Wion, Usa news, Usa latest news