An earthquake -- the most powerful in more than 100 years -- shook much of hit US' North Carolina early Sunday, rattling homes, businesses and residents.

The National Weather Service in Greenville said the 5.1-magnitude temblor struck at 8:07 am, following a much smaller quake several hours earlier.

There were no reports of injuries, but some minor structural damage as well as cracks in roads were reported.

It was the largest earthquake to hit the state since 1916, when a magnitude 5.5 quake occurred near Skyland, the weather service said.

The US Geological Service said the quake's epicenter was about 2.5 miles (four kilometers) southeast of Sparta, just south of the Virginia-North Carolina border.

The USGS said the population in the affected region resides in structures that are resistant to earthquake shaking, though vulnerable structures exist.

The quake was felt in nearby states including Virginia, South Carolina and Tennessee.

An earthquake -- the most powerful in more than 100 years -- shook much of hit US' North Carolina early Sunday, rattling homes, businesses and residents. The National Weather Service in Greenville said the 5.

An earthquake -- the most powerful in more than 100 years -- shook much of hit US' North Carolina early Sunday, rattling homes, businesses and residents. The National Weather Service in Greenville said the 5.1-magnitude temblor struck at 8:07 am, following a much smaller quake several hours earlier. There were no reports of injuries, but some minor structural damage as well as cracks in roads were reported. It was the largest earthquake to hit the state since 1916, when a magnitude 5.5 quake occurred near Skyland, the weather service said. The US Geological Service said the quake's epicenter was about 2.5 miles (four kilometers) southeast of Sparta, just south of the Virginia-North Carolina border. The USGS said the population in the affected region resides in structures that are resistant to earthquake shaking, though vulnerable structures exist. The quake was felt in nearby states including Virginia, South Carolina and Tennessee.

5.1-magnitude earthquake hits North Carolina, causes minor damage

The United States postal services new postmaster General Louis DeJoy has announced the implementation of cost-saving measures. The sweeping overhaul has now gone down well with the democrats. Watch report.

Democrats demand probe into mail delays | Cost-saving changes required in USPS?

US President Donald Trump has signed executive orders partly restoring enhanced unemployment payments to the tens of millions of Americans who lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic, as the country marked a grim milestone of 5 million cases.

Negotiations between his Republican party and opposition Democrats had earlier failed, and they could not agree on a new stimulus package.

"We've had it and we're going to save American jobs and provide relief to the American workers," Trump said, at a press conference in his golf club in Bedminster, New Jersey on Saturday.

With double digit unemployment, massive disruption to businesses from social distancing rules, and stubbornly high rates of coronavirus infection, many Americans have been relying on relief measures approved earlier by Congress, but which mostly expired in July.

Trump said his decision to circumvent Congress with executive orders would mean relief money getting "rapidly distributed."

Trump said the orders would provide an extra $400 per week in unemployment payments, less than the $600 per week passed earlier in the crisis. Some of the measures were likely to face legal challenges, as the US Constitution gives Congress authority over federal spending.

"This is the money they need, this is the money they want, this gives them an incentive to go back to work," the Republican president said of the lower payments. He said 25% of it would be paid by states, whose budgets have been hard hit by the crisis.

Republicans have argued that higher payments were a disincentive for unemployed Americans to try to return to work, though economists, including Federal Reserve officials, disputed that assertion. 
Trump`s move to take relief measures out of the hands of Congress drew immediate criticism from some Democrats.

Trump also said he was suspending collection of payroll taxes, which pay for Social Security and other federal programs, an idea that he has repeatedly raised but has been rejected by both parties in Congress. He said the suspension would apply to people making less than $100,000 per year.

His orders would also stop evictions from rental housing that has federal financial backing and extend zero percent interest on federally financed student loans.

Democrats pushed for a massive new $3 trillion stimulus package aimed at propping up the economy, repairing the tattered postal system in time for the presidential election, and giving the unemployed an extra $600 a week.

Democrats later announced they could drop the price tag but refused the Republicans' offer of a $1 trillion package.

Trump, who is down in the polls against Democrat Joe Biden, faces broad criticism over his handling of the health and economic responses to the coronavirus pandemic.

He initially played down the disease's threat and has drawn criticism for inconsistent messages on public health steps such as social distancing and masks.

(with inputs from agencies)

US President Donald Trump has signed executive orders partly restoring enhanced unemployment payments to the tens of millions of Americans who lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic, as the country marked a grim milestone of 5 million cases.

US President Donald Trump has signed executive orders partly restoring enhanced unemployment payments to the tens of millions of Americans who lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic, as the country marked a grim milestone of 5 million cases. Negotiations between his Republican party and opposition Democrats had earlier failed, and they could not agree on a new stimulus package. "We've had it and we're going to save American jobs and provide relief to the American workers," Trump said, at a press conference in his golf club in Bedminster, New Jersey on Saturday. With double digit unemployment, massive disruption to businesses from social distancing rules, and stubbornly high rates of coronavirus infection, many Americans have been relying on relief measures approved earlier by Congress, but which mostly expired in July. Trump said his decision to circumvent Congress with executive orders would mean relief money getting "rapidly distributed." Trump said the orders would provide an extra $400 per week in unemployment payments, less than the $600 per week passed earlier in the crisis. Some of the measures were likely to face legal challenges, as the US Constitution gives Congress authority over federal spending. "This is the money they need, this is the money they want, this gives them an incentive to go back to work," the Republican president said of the lower payments. He said 25% of it would be paid by states, whose budgets have been hard hit by the crisis. Republicans have argued that higher payments were a disincentive for unemployed Americans to try to return to work, though economists, including Federal Reserve officials, disputed that assertion. Trump`s move to take relief measures out of the hands of Congress drew immediate criticism from some Democrats. Trump also said he was suspending collection of payroll taxes, which pay for Social Security and other federal programs, an idea that he has repeatedly raised but has been rejected by both parties in Congress. He said the suspension would apply to people making less than $100,000 per year. His orders would also stop evictions from rental housing that has federal financial backing and extend zero percent interest on federally financed student loans. Democrats pushed for a massive new $3 trillion stimulus package aimed at propping up the economy, repairing the tattered postal system in time for the presidential election, and giving the unemployed an extra $600 a week. Democrats later announced they could drop the price tag but refused the Republicans' offer of a $1 trillion package. Trump, who is down in the polls against Democrat Joe Biden, faces broad criticism over his handling of the health and economic responses to the coronavirus pandemic. He initially played down the disease's threat and has drawn criticism for inconsistent messages on public health steps such as social distancing and masks. (with inputs from agencies)

Trump signs orders extending coronavirus relief after talks with Congress break down

The Trump administration has imposed sanctions on Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam over her role in curtailing the political freedom of the people of Hong Kong. Watch report.

US sanctions Carrie Lam | First sanctions against officials by US

With less than 90 days left for the US Presidential Election, both Republicans and Democrats are wooing the Indian American voters. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why Indian Americans are getting special attention in this presidential election.

Gravitas: US Election 2020 | How Republicans & Democrats are wooing Indian Americans

Leading social media websites removed a post by Donald Trump - after the US President shared misinformation about the Wuhan coronavirus outbreak. WION's Palki Sharma tells you what this means for his re-election campaign.

Gravitas: Donald Trump sanctioned on social media

The state of New York has sued the National Rifle Association (NRA) and its leader Wayne LaPierre for financial fraud and misconduct, seeking to dissolve the powerful US conservative lobby.&nbsp;

It is said that LaPierre and three other top NRA officials used the dues and donations of members for years as their "personal piggy bank," spending tens of millions of dollars on themselves and cronies in violation of laws governing non-profit organisations.

The four "basically looted its assets," leaving the once wealthy group that pumped millions into Republican political campaigns close to being insolvent, State Attorney General Letitia James said on Thursday.

In reponse, the NRA accused James of filing the suit "to score political points" with a national election three months away.

The NRA has represented the views of millions of gun owners and enthusiasts across the United States for decades.

LaPierre, who has run the NRA for nearly three decades from his position as executive vice president, became one of Washington's top power brokers.

He claimed a major role in Trump's 2016 election, and Trump's sons Eric and Donald Jr are members and regularly participate in NRA events.

Asked about the lawsuit, Trump said at the White House that it was "a terrible thing."

The lawsuit came as the NRA, though its non-profit side is financially weakened, was expected to pump huge sums into the looming presidential and congressional elections in November through its separate Washington lobbying arm, NRA-ILA.

The state of New York has sued the National Rifle Association (NRA) and its leader Wayne LaPierre for financial fraud and misconduct, seeking to dissolve the powerful US conservative lobby.

The state of New York has sued the National Rifle Association (NRA) and its leader Wayne LaPierre for financial fraud and misconduct, seeking to dissolve the powerful US conservative lobby. It is said that LaPierre and three other top NRA officials used the dues and donations of members for years as their "personal piggy bank," spending tens of millions of dollars on themselves and cronies in violation of laws governing non-profit organisations. The four "basically looted its assets," leaving the once wealthy group that pumped millions into Republican political campaigns close to being insolvent, State Attorney General Letitia James said on Thursday. In reponse, the NRA accused James of filing the suit "to score political points" with a national election three months away. The NRA has represented the views of millions of gun owners and enthusiasts across the United States for decades. LaPierre, who has run the NRA for nearly three decades from his position as executive vice president, became one of Washington's top power brokers. He claimed a major role in Trump's 2016 election, and Trump's sons Eric and Donald Jr are members and regularly participate in NRA events. Asked about the lawsuit, Trump said at the White House that it was "a terrible thing." The lawsuit came as the NRA, though its non-profit side is financially weakened, was expected to pump huge sums into the looming presidential and congressional elections in November through its separate Washington lobbying arm, NRA-ILA.

New York seeks to dissolve NRA over financial mismanagement

US President Donald Trump is at it again -- making a gaffe and being responsible for puns and memes running wild.

Adding to the gaffe list is Trump's version of Thailand.&nbsp;

During a campaign event in Ohio on Thursday, the president mispronounced Thailand as "Thigh-land."&nbsp;

"Shifting production to Thigh-land," Trump said during the speech, before correcting himself. "Thailand and Vietnam, two places that... I like their leaders very much."&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Here it is in all its glory:<a href="https://t.co/PgTRnHpAA8">pic.twitter.com/PgTRnHpAA8</a>
— The Recount (@therecount) <a href="https://twitter.com/therecount/status/1291460271404396545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Ahaa!

Let's face it! Twitterati had to catch this. And had to make anatomical puns and memes.

We cannot type some of them&nbsp;out here... Because you know... Family audience! But hey, you can go through them ;)

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thighland and hondurass are nice but I’m more into titaly
— kilgore trout, new tone haver (@KT_So_It_Goes) <a href="https://twitter.com/KT_So_It_Goes/status/1291472937556619267?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Thighland is just off the coast of Crotchatia.
— (((Josh Malina))) (@JoshMalina) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoshMalina/status/1291467490996838400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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A little afternoon trivia: The chief executive of Thighland is the Lord of the Thighs, not the prime minister. <a href="https://t.co/OW9iyfOqDx">https://t.co/OW9iyfOqDx</a>
— Dave Weigel (@daveweigel) <a href="https://twitter.com/daveweigel/status/1291464815614058497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Thighland's motto: 
 
"Thick thighs save lives"
— Angela Belcamino (@AngelaBelcamino) <a href="https://twitter.com/AngelaBelcamino/status/1291472961455771668?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Aah! What a day!

US President Donald Trump is at it again -- making a gaffe and being responsible for puns and memes running wild. Adding to the gaffe list is Trump's version of Thailand.

US President Donald Trump is at it again -- making a gaffe and being responsible for puns and memes running wild. Adding to the gaffe list is Trump's version of Thailand. During a campaign event in Ohio on Thursday, the president mispronounced Thailand as "Thigh-land." "Shifting production to Thigh-land," Trump said during the speech, before correcting himself. "Thailand and Vietnam, two places that... I like their leaders very much." Here it is in all its glory:pic.twitter.com/PgTRnHpAA8 — The Recount (@therecount) August 6, 2020 × Ahaa! Let's face it! Twitterati had to catch this. And had to make anatomical puns and memes. We cannot type some of them out here... Because you know... Family audience! But hey, you can go through them ;) thighland and hondurass are nice but I’m more into titaly — kilgore trout, new tone haver (@KT_So_It_Goes) August 6, 2020 × Thighland is just off the coast of Crotchatia. — (((Josh Malina))) (@JoshMalina) August 6, 2020 × A little afternoon trivia: The chief executive of Thighland is the Lord of the Thighs, not the prime minister. https://t.co/OW9iyfOqDx — Dave Weigel (@daveweigel) August 6, 2020 × Thighland's motto: "Thick thighs save lives" — Angela Belcamino (@AngelaBelcamino) August 6, 2020 × Aah! What a day!

Trump mispronounces Thailand. Puns and memes follow

China targetted US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo over comments on Chinese tech giants and the Communist Party of China. Chinese state councilor Wang Yi rejected what he described as 'American interventionism' in China. Watch report.

China: US waging a diplomatic war, Chinese apps significant threat to US data

Former First Lady Michelle Obama states racial inequality amidst the difficulties of the coronavirus pandemic has left her sense that she has “some form of low-grade depression.” Watch report.

COVID-19, Racial unrest has Michelle Obama feeling low, Suffering from Low-Grade Depression

Ten insurgents were killed in clashes between Afghan forces and the Taliban in eastern Afghanistan, officials said Thursday, the first time authorities have confirmed direct fighting since a recent ceasefire expired.

According to defence ministry spokesman Fawad Aman, two clashes broke out Wednesday in the eastern province of Ghazni.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-grand-assembly-to-decide-fate-of-taliban-prisoners-on-friday-318105">Afghan grand assembly to decide fate of Taliban prisoners on Friday</a>

Aman told AFP that 10 Taliban insurgents had been killed.&nbsp;

"Their attacks were repelled and they suffered casualties," Aman said.

Waheedullah Jumazada, spokesman for the Ghazni provincial governor, confirmed the two clashes.&nbsp;

In one attack near Ghazni city, Afghan forces called in an air strike when Taliban fighters raided an army base housing about 300 government troops.

The Taliban and government forces agreed a three-day truce to mark the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha which started last Friday.

The truce came ahead of expected peace talks between the Taliban and Kabul aimed at ending the 19-year-old conflict that has ravaged the country. 
&nbsp;

Ten insurgents were killed in clashes between Afghan forces and the Taliban in eastern Afghanistan, officials said Thursday, the first time authorities have confirmed direct fighting since a recent ceasefire expired.

Ten insurgents were killed in clashes between Afghan forces and the Taliban in eastern Afghanistan, officials said Thursday, the first time authorities have confirmed direct fighting since a recent ceasefire expired. According to defence ministry spokesman Fawad Aman, two clashes broke out Wednesday in the eastern province of Ghazni. Also read | Afghan grand assembly to decide fate of Taliban prisoners on Friday Aman told AFP that 10 Taliban insurgents had been killed. "Their attacks were repelled and they suffered casualties," Aman said. Waheedullah Jumazada, spokesman for the Ghazni provincial governor, confirmed the two clashes. In one attack near Ghazni city, Afghan forces called in an air strike when Taliban fighters raided an army base housing about 300 government troops. The Taliban and government forces agreed a three-day truce to mark the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha which started last Friday. The truce came ahead of expected peace talks between the Taliban and Kabul aimed at ending the 19-year-old conflict that has ravaged the country.

Afghanistan: 10 Taliban terrorists killed as clashes resume post Eid ceasefire

The United States has now announced its highest-level visit in four decades to Taiwan. This move by Washington can now anger China as tensions between the two nations continue to escalate. Watch report.

US builds on Taiwan ties: US highest-level visit to Taiwan | World News

China is being seen as a growing threat by traditional powers and not just the United States. Now even the European Union has decided to act Chinese intelligence agencies and its assets. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: EU sanctions Chinese hackers, Sanctions include travel ban and asset freeze

The United States President Donald Trump has once again argued in favour of opening nation's schools, saying most parts of the US is "doing well".

"Cases up because of BIG Testing! Much of our Country is doing very well. Open the Schools!," Trump said, in a tweet.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-global-cases-cross-18-million-mark-death-toll-now-at-687930-317756">COVID-19: Global cases cross 18 million mark; death toll now at 687,930&nbsp;</a>

The US president is insisting for long about the reopening of schools and his latest remarks came after the country in the last 24 hours recorded 47,508 new coronavirus cases, taking the overall infections tally to 4,665,002.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-give-tiktoks-chinese-owner-45-days-to-agree-sale-317737">Trump to give TikTok's Chinese owner 45 days to agree sale</a>

The US is the world's hardest-hit country by far, and there has been a huge debate on whether the schools be reopened.&nbsp;

On July 25, the US's top health body has advised the reopening schools and issued a set of guidelines to implement the measure.&nbsp;

"We owe it to our nation's children to take personal responsibility to do everything we can to lower the levels of COVID-19, so they can go back to school safely," &nbsp;Centers for Disease Control and Prevention chief Robert Redfield had said.&nbsp;

Experts are divided when it comes to this issue, with some saying the risk of children contracting COVID-19 is low and insisting going to schools will lead to the betterment of mental health and social development.

However, some children have developed what doctors are describing as multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) after exposure to coronavirus.

The United States President Donald Trump has once again argued in favour of opening nation's schools, saying most parts of the US is "doing well". "Cases up because of BIG Testing!

The United States President Donald Trump has once again argued in favour of opening nation's schools, saying most parts of the US is "doing well". "Cases up because of BIG Testing! Much of our Country is doing very well. Open the Schools!," Trump said, in a tweet. Also read | COVID-19: Global cases cross 18 million mark; death toll now at 687,930 The US president is insisting for long about the reopening of schools and his latest remarks came after the country in the last 24 hours recorded 47,508 new coronavirus cases, taking the overall infections tally to 4,665,002. Also read | Trump to give TikTok's Chinese owner 45 days to agree sale The US is the world's hardest-hit country by far, and there has been a huge debate on whether the schools be reopened. On July 25, the US's top health body has advised the reopening schools and issued a set of guidelines to implement the measure. "We owe it to our nation's children to take personal responsibility to do everything we can to lower the levels of COVID-19, so they can go back to school safely," Centers for Disease Control and Prevention chief Robert Redfield had said. Experts are divided when it comes to this issue, with some saying the risk of children contracting COVID-19 is low and insisting going to schools will lead to the betterment of mental health and social development. However, some children have developed what doctors are describing as multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) after exposure to coronavirus.

Donald Trump once again speaks in favour of reopening schools

There is no doubt that US President Donald Trump is guilty of fanning the ongoing protests. But should he alone be blamed for racism in the US? WION's Palki Sharma tells you how all American Presidents have collectively failed to fix the country's faultlines.

Gravitas: Violent protests in the US, Is Trump the perpetrator or the victim?

US President Donald Trump has suggested that the US presidential election should be delayed - as states plan to use mail-in ballots. A presidential election has not been delayed ever in the 244-year history of the US. Then why is Trump pitching a delay? WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Race to the White House, Can the US election be delayed?

The US has urged Islamabad to immediately reform its "often-abused" blasphemy laws and bring the culprit to justice in the wake of the killing of American citizen Tahir Naseem inside a courtroom in Pakistan.

Naseem, 57, accused of blasphemy, was shot multiple times at close range inside Peshawar's Judicial Complex on Wednesday as he awaited to be shifted to prison. He died on the spot.

The attacker was arrested on the spot and the pistol used in the killing was seized.

The US government has been providing consular assistance to Naseem and his family since his detention in 2018 and has called the attention of senior Pakistani officials to his case.

"We grieve with the family of Mr Naseem. We urge Pakistan to immediately reform its often-abused blasphemy laws and its court system, which allow such abuses to occur, and to ensure that the suspect is prosecuted to the full extent of the law," Cale Brown, Principal Deputy Spokesperson of the US State Department, said on Thursday.

Naseem was first arrested in April 2018 after a local accused him of blasphemy. According to the FIR, the prisoner was charged in February 2019 under sections 153 A, 295 B, and 295 C. The sections pertaining to the country's blasphemy law.

The deceased had denied the charges and decided to stand trial.

"Pakistan's blasphemy laws are indefensible, to begin with, but it is outrageous beyond belief that the Pakistani government was incapable of keeping an individual from being murdered within a court of law for his faith, and a US citizen, nonetheless," said United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) Commissioner Johnnie Moore in a statement.

Pakistan must protect religious minorities, including individuals accused of blasphemy, in order to prevent such "unimaginable tragedies". The authorities must take immediate action to bring Nassem's killer to justice, he said. 
As USCIRF has noted countless times, Pakistan's blasphemy law inflames inter-religious tensions and too often leads to violence, said USCIRF Vice Chair Anurima Bhargava.

"We urge the State Department to enter into a binding agreement with the Pakistani government that includes the repeal of blasphemy provisions in the Pakistan Penal Code," Bhargava said.

The US has urged Islamabad to immediately reform its "often-abused" blasphemy laws and bring the culprit to justice in the wake of the killing of American citizen Tahir Naseem inside a courtroom in Pakistan.

The US has urged Islamabad to immediately reform its "often-abused" blasphemy laws and bring the culprit to justice in the wake of the killing of American citizen Tahir Naseem inside a courtroom in Pakistan. Naseem, 57, accused of blasphemy, was shot multiple times at close range inside Peshawar's Judicial Complex on Wednesday as he awaited to be shifted to prison. He died on the spot. The attacker was arrested on the spot and the pistol used in the killing was seized. The US government has been providing consular assistance to Naseem and his family since his detention in 2018 and has called the attention of senior Pakistani officials to his case. "We grieve with the family of Mr Naseem. We urge Pakistan to immediately reform its often-abused blasphemy laws and its court system, which allow such abuses to occur, and to ensure that the suspect is prosecuted to the full extent of the law," Cale Brown, Principal Deputy Spokesperson of the US State Department, said on Thursday. Naseem was first arrested in April 2018 after a local accused him of blasphemy. According to the FIR, the prisoner was charged in February 2019 under sections 153 A, 295 B, and 295 C. The sections pertaining to the country's blasphemy law. The deceased had denied the charges and decided to stand trial. "Pakistan's blasphemy laws are indefensible, to begin with, but it is outrageous beyond belief that the Pakistani government was incapable of keeping an individual from being murdered within a court of law for his faith, and a US citizen, nonetheless," said United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) Commissioner Johnnie Moore in a statement. Pakistan must protect religious minorities, including individuals accused of blasphemy, in order to prevent such "unimaginable tragedies". The authorities must take immediate action to bring Nassem's killer to justice, he said. As USCIRF has noted countless times, Pakistan's blasphemy law inflames inter-religious tensions and too often leads to violence, said USCIRF Vice Chair Anurima Bhargava. "We urge the State Department to enter into a binding agreement with the Pakistani government that includes the repeal of blasphemy provisions in the Pakistan Penal Code," Bhargava said.

US urges Pak to take action against killer of American citizen shot dead in courtroom

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

Can United States hold elections on schedule?

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

Donald Trump reiterates his worry about mail-in voting

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

Fineprint: Donald Trump suggests to delay US elections 2020

Republicans and Democrats are debating if Americans should be given any more pandemic relief money. The government has been giving weekly relief cheques of $1,200. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how this money was used to buy cars, costumes & sex toys - among other things.

Gravitas: How Americans spend stimulus money

With just 97 days left, The U.S. Presidential race is heating up. Who is America going to vote for? Joe Biden or Donald Trump? WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report on who stands where.

Gravitas: Biden or Trump, Who will America vote for?

Australia has said that it has no intention of enjoying bilateral relations between China despite repeated efforts by the United States. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: Aus-US meet halfway on South China Sea, Both sides condemn China's action

Is Donald Trump is trying to win the upcoming elections by waging a war against the voters? The US President has sent federal troops to US cities after major protests erupted.

Gravitas: Is Donald Trump waging a war against America?

The United States has recorded 57,039 new cases of coronavirus in last 24 hours on Monday, as per Johns Hopkins University's real-time tally.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worldwide-coronavirus-cases-cross-163-million-death-toll-at-651902-316378" hreflang="en">Worldwide coronavirus cases cross 16.3 million, death toll at 651,902</a>

The US, which is a worst-hit country in terms of coronavirus pandemic, now has a total of 4,286,663 virus cases, the Baltimore-based university showed at 8:30 pm (0030 GMT Monday).

The country witnessed 679 deaths on Monday, bringing the death toll to 147,588.&nbsp;

Despite witnessing a decline in the rate of infections during the late springs, the US witnessed a surge in cases, particularly in southern and western states like California, Texas, Alabama and Florida.&nbsp;

The United States, until Sunday, was reporting over 60,000 cases for 12 days in a row and last week the daily death toll crossed 1,000.

The last time daily tolls were so high was in May. The slight dip on Sunday and Monday could be due to local health authorities' slower response over the weekend.

According to Johns Hopkins University, there are at least 16.3 million infected worldwide, while the global death toll has surpassed 650,000.

(Inputs from agency)

The United States has recorded 57,039 new cases of coronavirus in last 24 hours on Monday, as per Johns Hopkins University's real-time tally. Also read: Worldwide coronavirus cases cross 16.

The United States has recorded 57,039 new cases of coronavirus in last 24 hours on Monday, as per Johns Hopkins University's real-time tally. Also read: Worldwide coronavirus cases cross 16.3 million, death toll at 651,902 The US, which is a worst-hit country in terms of coronavirus pandemic, now has a total of 4,286,663 virus cases, the Baltimore-based university showed at 8:30 pm (0030 GMT Monday). The country witnessed 679 deaths on Monday, bringing the death toll to 147,588. Despite witnessing a decline in the rate of infections during the late springs, the US witnessed a surge in cases, particularly in southern and western states like California, Texas, Alabama and Florida. The United States, until Sunday, was reporting over 60,000 cases for 12 days in a row and last week the daily death toll crossed 1,000. The last time daily tolls were so high was in May. The slight dip on Sunday and Monday could be due to local health authorities' slower response over the weekend. According to Johns Hopkins University, there are at least 16.3 million infected worldwide, while the global death toll has surpassed 650,000. (Inputs from agency)

Coronavirus: US reports over 57,000 cases; death toll crosses 147,000

Hurricane Hanna lashed the Texas gulf coast and northern Mexico with high winds and drenching rains. Destroying boats, flooding streets and knocking out power across residential areas. Watch report.

Hurricane Hanna lashes Texas gulf coast: Residential areas flooded in Mexico

According to the latest satellite images, Iran has moved a mock US aircraft carrier to the strategic state of Hormuz. Watch report.

Iran's target practice amid tensions? Iran moves mock US carrier at sea

In a tit-for-tat diplomacy, China has asked the United States to close its consulate in Chengdu after Washington shut down Beijing's consulate in Houston.&nbsp;

The US has accused China of snooping through the Houston consulate and now China is retaliating on similar grounds.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/people-in-us-consulate-in-chengdu-interfered-in-our-internal-affairs-china-315732">People in US consulate in Chengdu interfered in our internal affairs: China</a>

Chengdu, which lies in Sichuan province, is a hub for China's commercial expansion into Central Asia.&nbsp;

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-houston-consulate-was-hub-of-spying-us-secretary-of-state-mike-pompeo-315582">'China's Houston consulate was hub of spying': US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-houston-consulate-was-hub-of-spying-us-secretary-of-state-mike-pompeo-315582">&nbsp;</a>

The region has been a valuable outpost for the US too as reports suggest it is from this consulate that Washington used to gather information about Xinjiang and Tibet.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-china-consulate-war-why-china-shut-down-the-chengdu-consulate-315816/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Xinjiang and Tibet have been in international focus after China began crackdowns in these regions.&nbsp;

Chinese celebrated the decision to shut down Chengdu consulate and it was the&nbsp;top trending topic on Weibo, Chinese version of a social-media website similar to Twitter.&nbsp;

Chinese state media CCTV posted an image with the text: "retaliation".

Hot pots are a popular food in Chengdu and now some users on social media are suggesting that the American consulate could be turned into a hotspot restaurant.&nbsp;

Several people were seen outside the consulate, who apparently wanted to see if the US will burn any documents.&nbsp;

Earlier, Chinese diplomats had burnt some documents in Houston following the announcment by the US.&nbsp;

The Americans didn't burn any documents, but some crackers were set off.&nbsp;

The US has been given 72 hours to shut down the consulate and the country is not looking to buckle, in fact, it seems, US is willing to take on China. &nbsp;

In recent weeks, the US has sanctioned Chinese officials, cut off access to the American technology and challenged Beijing on the South China Sea.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State, who has constantly ramped up pressure on China, today described the Asian giant a "frankenstein" and declared that Washington will lead the fight against the Communist Party.&nbsp;

Washington and Beijing are battling on several fronts, be it defence, trade, technology and human rights and the closure of the American consulate suggests that the tussle is all set to intensify.&nbsp;

In a tit-for-tat diplomacy, China has asked the United States to close its consulate in Chengdu after Washington shut down Beijing's consulate in Houston. The US has accused China of snooping through the Houston consulate and now China is retaliating on similar grounds.

In a tit-for-tat diplomacy, China has asked the United States to close its consulate in Chengdu after Washington shut down Beijing's consulate in Houston. The US has accused China of snooping through the Houston consulate and now China is retaliating on similar grounds. Also read | People in US consulate in Chengdu interfered in our internal affairs: China Chengdu, which lies in Sichuan province, is a hub for China's commercial expansion into Central Asia. Also read | 'China's Houston consulate was hub of spying': US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo The region has been a valuable outpost for the US too as reports suggest it is from this consulate that Washington used to gather information about Xinjiang and Tibet. Watch | Xinjiang and Tibet have been in international focus after China began crackdowns in these regions. Chinese celebrated the decision to shut down Chengdu consulate and it was the top trending topic on Weibo, Chinese version of a social-media website similar to Twitter. Chinese state media CCTV posted an image with the text: "retaliation". Hot pots are a popular food in Chengdu and now some users on social media are suggesting that the American consulate could be turned into a hotspot restaurant. Several people were seen outside the consulate, who apparently wanted to see if the US will burn any documents. Earlier, Chinese diplomats had burnt some documents in Houston following the announcment by the US. The Americans didn't burn any documents, but some crackers were set off. The US has been given 72 hours to shut down the consulate and the country is not looking to buckle, in fact, it seems, US is willing to take on China. In recent weeks, the US has sanctioned Chinese officials, cut off access to the American technology and challenged Beijing on the South China Sea. US Secretary of State, who has constantly ramped up pressure on China, today described the Asian giant a "frankenstein" and declared that Washington will lead the fight against the Communist Party. Washington and Beijing are battling on several fronts, be it defence, trade, technology and human rights and the closure of the American consulate suggests that the tussle is all set to intensify.

With announcement on Chengdu consulate closure, US, China battle set to intensify

Australia has rejected Beijing's territorial and maritime claims in the South China Sea in a formal declaration to the United Nations. And in doing so, it has aligned itself more closely with Washington in the escalating row.

Australia on Thursday said there was "no legal basis" to several disputed Chinese claims in the sea including those related to the construction of artificial islands on small shoals and reefs.

"Australia rejects China's claim to 'historic rights' or 'maritime rights and interests' as established in the 'long course of historical practice' in the South China Sea," the declaration read.

"There is no legal basis for China to draw straight baselines connecting the outermost points of maritime features or 'island groups' in the South China Sea, including around the 'Four Sha' or 'continental' or 'outlying' archipelagos."

Australia has rejected Beijing's territorial and maritime claims in the South China Sea in a formal declaration to the United Nations. And in doing so, it has aligned itself more closely with Washington in the escalating row.

Australia has rejected Beijing's territorial and maritime claims in the South China Sea in a formal declaration to the United Nations. And in doing so, it has aligned itself more closely with Washington in the escalating row. Australia on Thursday said there was "no legal basis" to several disputed Chinese claims in the sea including those related to the construction of artificial islands on small shoals and reefs. "Australia rejects China's claim to 'historic rights' or 'maritime rights and interests' as established in the 'long course of historical practice' in the South China Sea," the declaration read. "There is no legal basis for China to draw straight baselines connecting the outermost points of maritime features or 'island groups' in the South China Sea, including around the 'Four Sha' or 'continental' or 'outlying' archipelagos."

Australia backs US, rejects Beijing's South China Sea claims

US federal agents&nbsp;entered the Chinese consulate compound in Houston on Friday following the order to close the diplomatic facility.

The US officials had alleged the Houston consulate was a hub of a spying network run by the Chinese, and was part of a larger&nbsp;espionage effort using diplomatic facilities around the country.

To this end, a group of men accompanied by a US State Department official were seen forcing open a door at the Chinese consulate in Houston on Friday, shortly after a US government closure order for the mission took effect.

The group included a man who appeared to be a State Department top official. After the men pried open a rear door and went inside, two uniformed members of the US State Department's Bureau of Diplomatic Security arrived to guard the door.

According to CNN, a series of black SUVs, trucks, two white vans and a locksmith's van entered the property on Friday afternoon.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;staff at the US consulate in the Chinese city of Chengdu were busy packing belongings and removing the American insignia from the building on Saturday, a day after Beijing ordered its closure in a tit-for-tat diplomatic battle with Washington.

At least ten sacks were removed from the building in the early hours of the morning.

A worker on a small crane removed a circular US insignia from the front of the consulate, leaving just an American flag flying on the now unmarked site.

Other staff were seen moving trolleys around inside, one carrying a large empty metal bin, while some wheeled suitcases.

US officials said the consulate had been implicated in a fraud investigation at a Texas research institution and that Chinese consulate officials "were directly involved in communications with researchers and guided them on what information to collect."

The US had given China roughly 72 hours to "cease all operations and events" at the Houston facility on Tuesday, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, which called the move an "unprecedented escalation" amid ongoing tension between the two countries.

RTensions have soared between the two powers on a range of fronts, including&nbsp;an ongoing trade war, the coronavirus pandemic, and US criticism of China's human rights abuses in Hong Kong and Xinjiang.

Washington's demand for the Houston consulate to close also triggered a Chinese demand earlier Friday that the US close its consulate in Chengdu.&nbsp;Beijing says closing the Chengdu consulate was a "legitimate and necessary response to the unreasonable measures by the United States", and has alleged that staff at the diplomatic mission endangered China's security and interests.

(with inputs from agencies)

US federal agents entered the Chinese consulate compound in Houston on Friday following the order to close the diplomatic facility. The US officials had alleged the Houston consulate was a hub of a spying network run by the Chinese, and was part of a larger espionage effort using diplomatic facilities around the country.

US federal agents entered the Chinese consulate compound in Houston on Friday following the order to close the diplomatic facility. The US officials had alleged the Houston consulate was a hub of a spying network run by the Chinese, and was part of a larger espionage effort using diplomatic facilities around the country. To this end, a group of men accompanied by a US State Department official were seen forcing open a door at the Chinese consulate in Houston on Friday, shortly after a US government closure order for the mission took effect. The group included a man who appeared to be a State Department top official. After the men pried open a rear door and went inside, two uniformed members of the US State Department's Bureau of Diplomatic Security arrived to guard the door. According to CNN, a series of black SUVs, trucks, two white vans and a locksmith's van entered the property on Friday afternoon. Meanwhile, staff at the US consulate in the Chinese city of Chengdu were busy packing belongings and removing the American insignia from the building on Saturday, a day after Beijing ordered its closure in a tit-for-tat diplomatic battle with Washington. At least ten sacks were removed from the building in the early hours of the morning. A worker on a small crane removed a circular US insignia from the front of the consulate, leaving just an American flag flying on the now unmarked site. Other staff were seen moving trolleys around inside, one carrying a large empty metal bin, while some wheeled suitcases. US officials said the consulate had been implicated in a fraud investigation at a Texas research institution and that Chinese consulate officials "were directly involved in communications with researchers and guided them on what information to collect." The US had given China roughly 72 hours to "cease all operations and events" at the Houston facility on Tuesday, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, which called the move an "unprecedented escalation" amid ongoing tension between the two countries. RTensions have soared between the two powers on a range of fronts, including an ongoing trade war, the coronavirus pandemic, and US criticism of China's human rights abuses in Hong Kong and Xinjiang. Washington's demand for the Houston consulate to close also triggered a Chinese demand earlier Friday that the US close its consulate in Chengdu. Beijing says closing the Chengdu consulate was a "legitimate and necessary response to the unreasonable measures by the United States", and has alleged that staff at the diplomatic mission endangered China's security and interests. (with inputs from agencies)

Consulates in Houston, Chengdu being readied for closure as US, China clash

US prosecutors have unveiled charges against 18 Portland, Oregon protesters -- ranging from assaulting police to arson and trespassing, a day after the Trump administration expanded the deployment of tactical police to Seattle.

The arrests came this week during clashes with federal police agents sent to Portland, where 56 straight days of antiracism demonstrations have captured national attention.

The Justice Department said all 18 of those charged had made a first appearance in federal court and were released pending trial or other proceedings.

Five people were charged with suspicion of assaulting a federal officer, trespassing and creating a disturbance during protests on the night of July 20-21, said Billy Williams, the US Attorney for the District of Oregon.

Seven people have been charged in connection with criminal conduct during a July 21-22 night protest, including one person charged with arson. Another six were charged over events from the night of July 22-23.

The federal forces have drawn criticism from Democrats and civil liberties groups who allege excessive force and federal overreach by President Donald Trump.

The deployment of federal officers has also drawn the scrutiny of the Justice Department inspector general, who announced an investigation of their use of force, and prompted a federal judge to issue a temporary order limiting their use of force and blocking them from arresting journalists and legal observers of street protests.

The Trump administration sent a tactical team to Seattle on Thursday in anticipation of protests this weekend despite the objections of the Seattle mayor and Washington state governor, who warned of a Portland-like escalation of tensions.

US Attorney for the Western District of Washington Brian Moran said in a statement that federal agents are stationed in Seattle to protect federal properties and the work done in those buildings.

The Trump administration has also sent federal police to Chicago, Kansas City and Albuquerque over the objections of those mayors.

Trump, who is running for re-election on November 3 in part on a campaign of law and order, has threatened to deploy federal forces in more cities run by Democratic mayors, who he accuses of being soft on crime.

The Portland team of tactically equipped, camouflaged officers fired tear gas canisters at Black Lives Matter demonstrators in central Portland early on Friday, taking on a policing role typically reserved for local law enforcement.

Portland has been rocked by nearly two months of demonstrations for racial equality and against police brutality, part of a movement that has swept the United States since the May 25 death of George Floyd, an African American, in the custody of Minneapolis police.

US prosecutors have unveiled charges against 18 Portland, Oregon protesters -- ranging from assaulting police to arson and trespassing, a day after the Trump administration expanded the deployment of tactical police to Seattle.

US prosecutors have unveiled charges against 18 Portland, Oregon protesters -- ranging from assaulting police to arson and trespassing, a day after the Trump administration expanded the deployment of tactical police to Seattle. The arrests came this week during clashes with federal police agents sent to Portland, where 56 straight days of antiracism demonstrations have captured national attention. The Justice Department said all 18 of those charged had made a first appearance in federal court and were released pending trial or other proceedings. Five people were charged with suspicion of assaulting a federal officer, trespassing and creating a disturbance during protests on the night of July 20-21, said Billy Williams, the US Attorney for the District of Oregon. Seven people have been charged in connection with criminal conduct during a July 21-22 night protest, including one person charged with arson. Another six were charged over events from the night of July 22-23. The federal forces have drawn criticism from Democrats and civil liberties groups who allege excessive force and federal overreach by President Donald Trump. The deployment of federal officers has also drawn the scrutiny of the Justice Department inspector general, who announced an investigation of their use of force, and prompted a federal judge to issue a temporary order limiting their use of force and blocking them from arresting journalists and legal observers of street protests. The Trump administration sent a tactical team to Seattle on Thursday in anticipation of protests this weekend despite the objections of the Seattle mayor and Washington state governor, who warned of a Portland-like escalation of tensions. US Attorney for the Western District of Washington Brian Moran said in a statement that federal agents are stationed in Seattle to protect federal properties and the work done in those buildings. The Trump administration has also sent federal police to Chicago, Kansas City and Albuquerque over the objections of those mayors. Trump, who is running for re-election on November 3 in part on a campaign of law and order, has threatened to deploy federal forces in more cities run by Democratic mayors, who he accuses of being soft on crime. The Portland team of tactically equipped, camouflaged officers fired tear gas canisters at Black Lives Matter demonstrators in central Portland early on Friday, taking on a policing role typically reserved for local law enforcement. Portland has been rocked by nearly two months of demonstrations for racial equality and against police brutality, part of a movement that has swept the United States since the May 25 death of George Floyd, an African American, in the custody of Minneapolis police.

US administration arrests 18 during week of chaotic Portland protests

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