A sterilisation programme that ran in the US state of North Carolina from 1929 to 1974 was explicitly designed to "breed out" black citizens and met the UN definition of genocide, a study said this week.

Almost 7,600 men, women and children as young as 10 were surgically sterilised under the programme that was created to serve the "public good" by preventing people deemed "feebleminded" and others from becoming parents.

Most were coerced but some women who had no other means of birth control sought out sterilization by having themselves declared unfit mothers.

The new paper was published in the American Review of Political Economy.

It examined the years 1958 to 1968, a period in which more than 2,100 authorized sterilizations occurred across the state's 100 counties.

The authors found that, for the period they studied, sterilisation rates increased with the size of the unemployed black population -- but unemployed whites and other races were not similarly targeted.

William Darity Jr, a professor at Duke University and co-author, said the United Nations's definition of genocide cites intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnic, racial or religious group.

This includes, according to the text of the Geneva Convention, "imposing measures intended to prevent births within the group."

"North Carolina's disproportionate use of eugenic sterilisation on its black citizens was an act of genocide," said Darity.

Previous work had shown that the eugenics program had disproportionately targeted black people, but the new paper shed light on the mechanics by which the program worked and its motives.

"Controlling black bodies and their reproductive choices is nothing new," added co-author Rhonda Sharpe of the Women's Institute for Science, Equity, and Race.

"Our study shows that North Carolina restricted reproductive freedom, using eugenics to disenfranchise black residents."

The state set up a foundation in 2010 to compensate living victims of the programme.

A sterilisation programme that ran in the US state of North Carolina from 1929 to 1974 was explicitly designed to "breed out" black citizens and met the UN definition of genocide, a study said this week.

A sterilisation programme that ran in the US state of North Carolina from 1929 to 1974 was explicitly designed to "breed out" black citizens and met the UN definition of genocide, a study said this week. Almost 7,600 men, women and children as young as 10 were surgically sterilised under the programme that was created to serve the "public good" by preventing people deemed "feebleminded" and others from becoming parents. Most were coerced but some women who had no other means of birth control sought out sterilization by having themselves declared unfit mothers. The new paper was published in the American Review of Political Economy. It examined the years 1958 to 1968, a period in which more than 2,100 authorized sterilizations occurred across the state's 100 counties. The authors found that, for the period they studied, sterilisation rates increased with the size of the unemployed black population -- but unemployed whites and other races were not similarly targeted. William Darity Jr, a professor at Duke University and co-author, said the United Nations's definition of genocide cites intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnic, racial or religious group. This includes, according to the text of the Geneva Convention, "imposing measures intended to prevent births within the group." "North Carolina's disproportionate use of eugenic sterilisation on its black citizens was an act of genocide," said Darity. Previous work had shown that the eugenics program had disproportionately targeted black people, but the new paper shed light on the mechanics by which the program worked and its motives. "Controlling black bodies and their reproductive choices is nothing new," added co-author Rhonda Sharpe of the Women's Institute for Science, Equity, and Race. "Our study shows that North Carolina restricted reproductive freedom, using eugenics to disenfranchise black residents." The state set up a foundation in 2010 to compensate living victims of the programme.

US sterilisation programme tried to 'breed out' black people: Study

A man was arrested for aiming a gun at a shopper who asked him to wear a mask at a Walmart store in Florida, United States, officials said.&nbsp;

Florida is among the states in the country that is witnessing a huge rise in coronavirus cases in the recent days.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-off-florida-portion-of-gop-convention-over-coronavirus-outbreak-315602">Trump calls off Florida portion of GOP convention over coronavirus outbreak</a>

Vincent Scavetta was arrested for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and improper exhibition of a firearm, the Palm Beach sheriff's office said, reported news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/teachers-union-sues-to-halt-florida-classroom-restart-during-pandemic-314796">Teachers union sues to halt Florida classroom restart during pandemic</a>

"Welcome to PBC Jail, son. Let this be a lesson. It could have ended badly," the office said on Twitter on Thursday.

The accused put out the gun following a verbal altercation as he refused to don a mask.&nbsp;

Walmart from since July 20 has ordered everyone present in its stores to wear face coverings.

However, there has been mixed opinions over wearing of masks, and for months even President Donald Trump and his allies did not promote their use.&nbsp;

In recent times though, Trump is seen publicly wearing a mask and encouraging others to do so too.&nbsp;

Republican Florida governor Ron DeSantis, a hardcore Trump supporter, is facing severe criticism for not implementing mandatory mask wearing guidelines across the state.&nbsp;

Florida on Friday also witnessed record coronavirus daily death toll.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A man was arrested for aiming a gun at a shopper who asked him to wear a mask at a Walmart store in Florida, United States, officials said. Florida is among the states in the country that is witnessing a huge rise in coronavirus cases in the recent days.

A man was arrested for aiming a gun at a shopper who asked him to wear a mask at a Walmart store in Florida, United States, officials said. Florida is among the states in the country that is witnessing a huge rise in coronavirus cases in the recent days. Also read | Trump calls off Florida portion of GOP convention over coronavirus outbreak Vincent Scavetta was arrested for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and improper exhibition of a firearm, the Palm Beach sheriff's office said, reported news agency AFP. Also read | Teachers union sues to halt Florida classroom restart during pandemic "Welcome to PBC Jail, son. Let this be a lesson. It could have ended badly," the office said on Twitter on Thursday. The accused put out the gun following a verbal altercation as he refused to don a mask. Walmart from since July 20 has ordered everyone present in its stores to wear face coverings. However, there has been mixed opinions over wearing of masks, and for months even President Donald Trump and his allies did not promote their use. In recent times though, Trump is seen publicly wearing a mask and encouraging others to do so too. Republican Florida governor Ron DeSantis, a hardcore Trump supporter, is facing severe criticism for not implementing mandatory mask wearing guidelines across the state. Florida on Friday also witnessed record coronavirus daily death toll.

US: Man arrested in Florida for pointing gun at man who asked him to wear mask

A 23-year-old man in the United States was sentenced to 15 years in prison for planning an attack on the White House with an anti-tank missile and other explosives.

Hasher Taheb of Cumming, Georgia also made plans for attacks on the Statue of Liberty, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial and a Washington-area synagogue, the Department of Justice said in a statement.

He was arrested on January 16, 2019 after a yearlong FBI investigation sparked by a tip from the local community that the then-21-year-old had become "radicalised."

Taheb had tried to recruit an informant and an undercover FBI agent into his plan to attack the White House and other monuments and targets.

Wanting to fulfil that "duty" and expecting to become a "martyr," Taheb originally hoped to travel to Islamic State-held territory in the Middle East. But because he lacked a passport, Taheb told the informant it would be better to launch attacks inside the United States, the indictment said.

On December 7, 2018, he met the undercover agent and revealed a hand-drawn diagram of the White House West Wing, where the president's office is located.

In the subsequent weeks, Taheb detailed what weapons he wanted to acquire for the plot, and assigned the FBI agent to obtain them: semi-automatic weapons, grenades and an AT-4 shoulder-mounted anti-tank weapon.

When Taheb took delivery of the weapons, he was arrested.

A 23-year-old man in the United States was sentenced to 15 years in prison for planning an attack on the White House with an anti-tank missile and other explosives.

A 23-year-old man in the United States was sentenced to 15 years in prison for planning an attack on the White House with an anti-tank missile and other explosives. Hasher Taheb of Cumming, Georgia also made plans for attacks on the Statue of Liberty, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial and a Washington-area synagogue, the Department of Justice said in a statement. He was arrested on January 16, 2019 after a yearlong FBI investigation sparked by a tip from the local community that the then-21-year-old had become "radicalised." Taheb had tried to recruit an informant and an undercover FBI agent into his plan to attack the White House and other monuments and targets. Wanting to fulfil that "duty" and expecting to become a "martyr," Taheb originally hoped to travel to Islamic State-held territory in the Middle East. But because he lacked a passport, Taheb told the informant it would be better to launch attacks inside the United States, the indictment said. On December 7, 2018, he met the undercover agent and revealed a hand-drawn diagram of the White House West Wing, where the president's office is located. In the subsequent weeks, Taheb detailed what weapons he wanted to acquire for the plot, and assigned the FBI agent to obtain them: semi-automatic weapons, grenades and an AT-4 shoulder-mounted anti-tank weapon. When Taheb took delivery of the weapons, he was arrested.

US man who tried to attack White House sentenced to 15 years

In the United States, those working with funeral homes are dealing with multiple challenges. Watch this report on a funeral home in Florida.

COVID-19 Pandemic: Florida funeral home dealing with virus deaths

The United States has proposed to help India in addressing its most serious developmental challenges through innovative finance tools, a top Trump Administration official has said.

"We are actually right now proposing at US-India Development Foundation where we would help India mobilise their own resources to address the country's most serious developmental challenges looking to use innovative finance tools," USAID Acting Administrator John Barsa told members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee on Thursday.

Testifying before the Congressional committee during a hearing on the Fiscal 2021 Budget Request for Foreign Assistance, he said the Trump administration is extremely proud of this peer-to-peer relationship that it has with India.

America's relationship with India is a wonderful success story, "we look forward to working with them,"&nbsp;Barsa said. 
Congressman Joe Wilson said he was really encouraged to see America's relationship with India developing.

"I was honoured to be with President Trump and Prime Minister Modi in Houston, the largest welcome program in the history of the United States to welcome a foreign head of state," Wilson said.&nbsp;

The United States has proposed to help India in addressing its most serious developmental challenges through innovative finance tools, a top Trump Administration official has said.

The United States has proposed to help India in addressing its most serious developmental challenges through innovative finance tools, a top Trump Administration official has said. "We are actually right now proposing at US-India Development Foundation where we would help India mobilise their own resources to address the country's most serious developmental challenges looking to use innovative finance tools," USAID Acting Administrator John Barsa told members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee on Thursday. Testifying before the Congressional committee during a hearing on the Fiscal 2021 Budget Request for Foreign Assistance, he said the Trump administration is extremely proud of this peer-to-peer relationship that it has with India. America's relationship with India is a wonderful success story, "we look forward to working with them," Barsa said. Congressman Joe Wilson said he was really encouraged to see America's relationship with India developing. "I was honoured to be with President Trump and Prime Minister Modi in Houston, the largest welcome program in the history of the United States to welcome a foreign head of state," Wilson said.

US to help India in addressing its developmental challenges: Official

Once again, the United States, the land of the free is in turmoil.&nbsp;

Protests have resurfaced in many parts of the country, but the flashpoint is the city of Portland.&nbsp;

In Portland, the protests against police brutality never really died down and the demonstrations are continuing for 56 consecutive nights.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-announces-surge-of-federal-forces-to-crime-plagued-us-cities-315259">Donald Trump announces ‘surge’ of federal forces to crime-plagued US cities</a>

And now the demonstrations are turning violent.&nbsp;Security forces are tear-gassing and clubbing demonstrators.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-trumps-federal-crackdown-in-portland-315555/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Mayor of Portland, Ted Wheeler is standing alongside the protesters.

The mayor, who is also a Democrat and is conducting regular "listening sessions" for the protesters, was tear-gassed too along with the demonstrators.&nbsp;

Wheeler was seen coughing, but still, he couldn't win the support of protesters as they believe he was only there for cameras.&nbsp;

This signals how protesters want to stay away from political support.&nbsp;

The American media is describing the pushback by the security forces, a federal crackdown.&nbsp;

The security officials are housed at the Justice Center in Portland and are showing no signs of retreating.&nbsp;

They are stepping out of the building at regular intervals and tossing smoke bombs and tear gas shells at the protesters.&nbsp;

Their deployment has triggered a national debate over civil liberties, but President Donald Trump is in no mood to concede.

Trump is calling the protests and anti-police crusade, and is justifying his decision by accusing "extreme politicians" of fanning the flames.&nbsp;

The US president has launched a plan, known as "Operation Legend", in which federal agents are sent to tackle violence in any city that sees the slightest of protest in the coming days.&nbsp;

Under this operation, federal law enforcement agents, which includes the FBI and US Marshals Service, will help local police in combat what Trump calls as a surge in violent crime.&nbsp;

Over the recent weeks, the White House is only focussing on incidents of crime and not on the cause of protests.&nbsp;

For Trump, every protester is either a criminal, a political tool, a left-radical or a terrorist. But when it comes to racial discrimination and police brutality, he deflects all questions.&nbsp;

A similar strategy is followed by the US president every time he was asked about his response to the pandemic.&nbsp;

However, now he has had a change of heart, at least as far as the coronavirus outbreak is concerned.&nbsp;

He no longer considers coronavirus as just a flu. He wears a mask wherever he goes,&nbsp;

"Wear it in the hospital. Weat it when you're in a group. Wear it in the elevator. Wear it when there are people around." Trump said.

Trump took six months to say this, however, better late than never.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Once again, the United States, the land of the free is in turmoil. Protests have resurfaced in many parts of the country, but the flashpoint is the city of Portland.

Once again, the United States, the land of the free is in turmoil. Protests have resurfaced in many parts of the country, but the flashpoint is the city of Portland. In Portland, the protests against police brutality never really died down and the demonstrations are continuing for 56 consecutive nights. Also read | Donald Trump announces ‘surge’ of federal forces to crime-plagued US cities And now the demonstrations are turning violent. Security forces are tear-gassing and clubbing demonstrators. The Mayor of Portland, Ted Wheeler is standing alongside the protesters. The mayor, who is also a Democrat and is conducting regular "listening sessions" for the protesters, was tear-gassed too along with the demonstrators. Wheeler was seen coughing, but still, he couldn't win the support of protesters as they believe he was only there for cameras. This signals how protesters want to stay away from political support. The American media is describing the pushback by the security forces, a federal crackdown. The security officials are housed at the Justice Center in Portland and are showing no signs of retreating. They are stepping out of the building at regular intervals and tossing smoke bombs and tear gas shells at the protesters. Their deployment has triggered a national debate over civil liberties, but President Donald Trump is in no mood to concede. Trump is calling the protests and anti-police crusade, and is justifying his decision by accusing "extreme politicians" of fanning the flames. The US president has launched a plan, known as "Operation Legend", in which federal agents are sent to tackle violence in any city that sees the slightest of protest in the coming days. Under this operation, federal law enforcement agents, which includes the FBI and US Marshals Service, will help local police in combat what Trump calls as a surge in violent crime. Over the recent weeks, the White House is only focussing on incidents of crime and not on the cause of protests. For Trump, every protester is either a criminal, a political tool, a left-radical or a terrorist. But when it comes to racial discrimination and police brutality, he deflects all questions. A similar strategy is followed by the US president every time he was asked about his response to the pandemic. However, now he has had a change of heart, at least as far as the coronavirus outbreak is concerned. He no longer considers coronavirus as just a flu. He wears a mask wherever he goes, "Wear it in the hospital. Weat it when you're in a group. Wear it in the elevator. Wear it when there are people around." Trump said. Trump took six months to say this, however, better late than never.

Mask-clad Donald Trump continues clampdown on protesters

The United States has announced a reward of $5 million for any information that can be used to arrest Venezuela's Supreme Court chief justice, triggering sharp reactions from the Latin American nation.

US Secretary of the State Mike Pompeo on Tuesday said Supreme Court president Maikal Jose Moreno Perez "personally received money or property bribes to influence the outcome of civil and criminal cases in Venezuela" in recent years.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-navy-carries-out-second-freedom-of-navigation-operation-off-venezuela-coast-313554">US Navy carries out second 'freedom of navigation' operation off Venezuela coast</a>

"Moreno Perez received the bribes in exchange for judicial actions" in over 20 cases, Pompeo said, adding the move reaffirms "the US commitment to combating corruption and transnational organized crime in Venezuela."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-migrants-seek-to-return-home-maduro-claims-theyre-being-deliberately-infected-with-coronavirus-313223">Venezuela: Migrants seek to return home, Maduro claims they're being deliberately infected with coronavirus</a>

After the annoucement, Venezuela hit out at the US, saying Washington "disrespects the Supreme Court of Justice, in the person of its president, Maikel Moreno, through false accusations and the offer of rewards in the style of the cowboys and the wild and far west."&nbsp;

Venezuela "rejects once again the illegal and coercive actions of the Donald Trump government against the Venezuelan people and its constitutional institutions," the statement by the foreign ministry said.

Perez has been on the US Treasury's sanctions blacklist since May 2017 and was included on Tuesday in the State Department's separate list along with his wife for "involvement in significant corruption".

Venezuela's Supreme Court has been considered close President Nicolas Maduro's government and in 2017 neutralized the nation's only opposition-controlled branch of government, the National Assembly.&nbsp;

Main opposition leader Juan Guaido, declared himself as the president of the country 18 months ago, a decision backed by the United States and over 50 countries.&nbsp;

The US has imposed a number of sanctions to oust Maduro as it along with a group of nations considers his re-election in 2018 fraudulent.&nbsp;

The United States has announced a reward of $5 million for any information that can be used to arrest Venezuela's Supreme Court chief justice, triggering sharp reactions from the Latin American nation.

The United States has announced a reward of $5 million for any information that can be used to arrest Venezuela's Supreme Court chief justice, triggering sharp reactions from the Latin American nation. US Secretary of the State Mike Pompeo on Tuesday said Supreme Court president Maikal Jose Moreno Perez "personally received money or property bribes to influence the outcome of civil and criminal cases in Venezuela" in recent years. Also read | US Navy carries out second 'freedom of navigation' operation off Venezuela coast "Moreno Perez received the bribes in exchange for judicial actions" in over 20 cases, Pompeo said, adding the move reaffirms "the US commitment to combating corruption and transnational organized crime in Venezuela." Also read | Venezuela: Migrants seek to return home, Maduro claims they're being deliberately infected with coronavirus After the annoucement, Venezuela hit out at the US, saying Washington "disrespects the Supreme Court of Justice, in the person of its president, Maikel Moreno, through false accusations and the offer of rewards in the style of the cowboys and the wild and far west." Venezuela "rejects once again the illegal and coercive actions of the Donald Trump government against the Venezuelan people and its constitutional institutions," the statement by the foreign ministry said. Perez has been on the US Treasury's sanctions blacklist since May 2017 and was included on Tuesday in the State Department's separate list along with his wife for "involvement in significant corruption". Venezuela's Supreme Court has been considered close President Nicolas Maduro's government and in 2017 neutralized the nation's only opposition-controlled branch of government, the National Assembly. Main opposition leader Juan Guaido, declared himself as the president of the country 18 months ago, a decision backed by the United States and over 50 countries. The US has imposed a number of sanctions to oust Maduro as it along with a group of nations considers his re-election in 2018 fraudulent.

US offers $5 million reward for arrest of Venezuelan chief justice

The US has arrested 3 Chinese nationals and have charged them over visa fraud for allegedly lying about their affiliations with the Chinese army. A fourth research association has been declared fugitive by the FBI which is investigating the market. Watch report.

3 Chinese nationals arrested over visa fraud: Fugitive researcher hiding in consulate | World News

In a tit-for-tat escalation between the two countries, China has ordered the closure of the US consulate in the south-western city of Chengdu. Watch report.

China asks US to shut consulate | Chengdu | Retaliation to Houston consulate closure

Former US president Barack Obama and his administration's vice president Joe Biden have come out together in a video, which defended their time in the White House and slammed&nbsp;US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;

The video is their in-person encounter amid the coronavirus pandemic that has affected the United States the most with over 142,000 fatalities and infections nearing 4 million.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-calls-trump-first-racist-president-of-the-united-states-315267">Joe Biden calls Trump 'first' racist president of the United States</a>

The full video will be put out on social media on Thursday, but teasers shared by Biden's campaign showed the duo wearing masks and sitting well away from each other to maintain social distancing.&nbsp;

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Every day I hear from folks who tell me how important health care is to their families — well, it's deeply personal for President <a href="https://twitter.com/BarackObama?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BarackObama</a> and me, too. I'll fight to protect and build on Obamacare and make sure everyone gets the care they need. 
 
Watch our conversation: <a href="https://t.co/ZyrBmLrjCJ">pic.twitter.com/ZyrBmLrjCJ</a>
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1286254983961165826?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-us-president-barack-obama-helps-raise-11-million-for-joe-biden-in-online-fundraiser-308128">Former US President Barack Obama helps raise $11 million for Joe Biden in online fundraiser</a>

In the snippets, Obama and Biden, Democratic nominee for presidential election, discussed the much-talked about health care law and and blamed Trump for creating rifts in the American society and his response to the pandemic.&nbsp;

"Can you imagine standing up when you were president and saying, 'It's not my responsibility, I take no responsibility'", Biden said. &nbsp;

In another excerpt, Biden hit out at Trump launching his 2016 campaign at Trump Tower, saying, "He ran by deliberately dividing people from the moment he came down that escalator, and I think people are now going, 'I don't want my kid growing up that way.'"

The former president responded that he had confidence in Biden's "heart and your character, and the fact that you are going to be able to reassemble the kind of government that cares about people and brings people together."

In another snippet, Biden referred to health insurance issues in the country where he talked about his son Beau's death, adding he was" thinking to myself, what would happen if his insurance company was able to come in, which they could have done before we passed Obamacare and said, 'You have outrun your insurance.'"

"I couldn't be prouder of what we got done... Twenty million people have health insurance that didn't have it because of what we did," Obama responded.&nbsp;

Former US president Barack Obama and his administration's vice president Joe Biden have come out together in a video, which defended their time in the White House and slammed US President Donald Trump.

Former US president Barack Obama and his administration's vice president Joe Biden have come out together in a video, which defended their time in the White House and slammed US President Donald Trump. The video is their in-person encounter amid the coronavirus pandemic that has affected the United States the most with over 142,000 fatalities and infections nearing 4 million. Also read | Joe Biden calls Trump 'first' racist president of the United States The full video will be put out on social media on Thursday, but teasers shared by Biden's campaign showed the duo wearing masks and sitting well away from each other to maintain social distancing. Every day I hear from folks who tell me how important health care is to their families — well, it's deeply personal for President @BarackObama and me, too. I'll fight to protect and build on Obamacare and make sure everyone gets the care they need. Watch our conversation: pic.twitter.com/ZyrBmLrjCJ — Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) July 23, 2020 × Also read | Former US President Barack Obama helps raise $11 million for Joe Biden in online fundraiser In the snippets, Obama and Biden, Democratic nominee for presidential election, discussed the much-talked about health care law and and blamed Trump for creating rifts in the American society and his response to the pandemic. "Can you imagine standing up when you were president and saying, 'It's not my responsibility, I take no responsibility'", Biden said. In another excerpt, Biden hit out at Trump launching his 2016 campaign at Trump Tower, saying, "He ran by deliberately dividing people from the moment he came down that escalator, and I think people are now going, 'I don't want my kid growing up that way.'" The former president responded that he had confidence in Biden's "heart and your character, and the fact that you are going to be able to reassemble the kind of government that cares about people and brings people together." In another snippet, Biden referred to health insurance issues in the country where he talked about his son Beau's death, adding he was" thinking to myself, what would happen if his insurance company was able to come in, which they could have done before we passed Obamacare and said, 'You have outrun your insurance.'" "I couldn't be prouder of what we got done... Twenty million people have health insurance that didn't have it because of what we did," Obama responded.

Barack Obama, Joe Biden team up for new video to slam Trump, defend their administration

US President Donald Trump has now announced that he will be sending federal troops to more cities amid the black lives matter protest. Watch report.

Trump to send federal troops to Chicago amid BLM protests

China is considering ordering the closure of the US consulate in the central city of Wuhan after Washington told China to shut its consulate in the city of Houston. Watch report.

US orders its Houston mission closure: China may shut US Wuhan consulate

The Taliban on Thursday said they would begin peace talks with the Afghan government after Eid if prisoner swap agreement gets completed.&nbsp;

We are "ready to begin intra-Afghan negotiations immediately after Eid in case the process of the release of the prisoners is completed," Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen said on Twitter.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ready-to-fight-them-again-15-year-old-afghan-girl-who-killed-taliban-terrorists-315451">'Ready to fight them again': 15-year-old Afghan girl who killed Taliban terrorists</a>

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1/2 
The Islamic Emirate is ready to release all remaining prisoners of the other side before the eve of Eid al-Adha provided they release our prisoners as per our list already delivered to them. Likely, IEA is ready to begin intra-Afghan negotiations immediately after Eid
— Suhail Shaheen (@suhailshaheen1) <a href="https://twitter.com/suhailshaheen1/status/1286307090278092800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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in case the process of the release of the prisoners is completed.
— Suhail Shaheen (@suhailshaheen1) <a href="https://twitter.com/suhailshaheen1/status/1286307092136103944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Suhail added that the terrorist group are ready to release the remaining members of Afghan forces if Kabul freed all the members from their group "as per the list already delivered".&nbsp;

Meanwhile, US Special Envoy for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad on Thursday condemned Afghan forces' aistrikes against Taliban, which killed eight civilians, including children in Herat on Wednesday.

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1/4 The last 24 hours have been very violent in Afghanistan with many losing their lives. 
 
In Herat, photos and eyewitness accounts suggest many civilians including children are among the victims of an Afghan airstrike. We condemn the attack and support an investigation.
— U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) <a href="https://twitter.com/US4AfghanPeace/status/1286073851374436352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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3/4 The Afghan people want an immediate start of peace negotiations and a settlement that is in their best interest. More graves will not bring negotiations forward.
— U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) <a href="https://twitter.com/US4AfghanPeace/status/1286073854864044034?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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4/4 Rather than setting the process back, we urge all sides to contain the violence, protect civilians, and show necessary restraint as the start of intra-Afghan negotiations is so close.
— U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) <a href="https://twitter.com/US4AfghanPeace/status/1286073856608935938?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"We urge all sides to contain the violence, protect civilians, and show necessary restraint as the start of intra-Afghan negotiations is so close," he further said on Twitter.

The US is withdrawing its troops from the country to honour its commitments of the agreement it signed with the terror group in February.&nbsp;

As per the agreement signed between US and Taliban, the Afghan government will release 5,000 Taliban members and the terror group will free 1,000 Afghan security personnel.&nbsp;

Afghanistan government and Taliban have signalled peace talks on multiple occasions but escalating violence by both the sides have hampered any development.&nbsp;

The Taliban on Thursday said they would begin peace talks with the Afghan government after Eid if prisoner swap agreement gets completed. We are "ready to begin intra-Afghan negotiations immediately after Eid in case the process of the release of the prisoners is completed," Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen said on Twitter.

The Taliban on Thursday said they would begin peace talks with the Afghan government after Eid if prisoner swap agreement gets completed. We are "ready to begin intra-Afghan negotiations immediately after Eid in case the process of the release of the prisoners is completed," Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen said on Twitter. Also read | 'Ready to fight them again': 15-year-old Afghan girl who killed Taliban terrorists 1/2 The Islamic Emirate is ready to release all remaining prisoners of the other side before the eve of Eid al-Adha provided they release our prisoners as per our list already delivered to them. Likely, IEA is ready to begin intra-Afghan negotiations immediately after Eid — Suhail Shaheen (@suhailshaheen1) July 23, 2020 × 2/2 in case the process of the release of the prisoners is completed. — Suhail Shaheen (@suhailshaheen1) July 23, 2020 × Suhail added that the terrorist group are ready to release the remaining members of Afghan forces if Kabul freed all the members from their group "as per the list already delivered". Meanwhile, US Special Envoy for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad on Thursday condemned Afghan forces' aistrikes against Taliban, which killed eight civilians, including children in Herat on Wednesday. 1/4 The last 24 hours have been very violent in Afghanistan with many losing their lives. In Herat, photos and eyewitness accounts suggest many civilians including children are among the victims of an Afghan airstrike. We condemn the attack and support an investigation. — U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) July 22, 2020 × 3/4 The Afghan people want an immediate start of peace negotiations and a settlement that is in their best interest. More graves will not bring negotiations forward. — U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) July 22, 2020 × 4/4 Rather than setting the process back, we urge all sides to contain the violence, protect civilians, and show necessary restraint as the start of intra-Afghan negotiations is so close. — U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) July 22, 2020 × "We urge all sides to contain the violence, protect civilians, and show necessary restraint as the start of intra-Afghan negotiations is so close," he further said on Twitter. The US is withdrawing its troops from the country to honour its commitments of the agreement it signed with the terror group in February. As per the agreement signed between US and Taliban, the Afghan government will release 5,000 Taliban members and the terror group will free 1,000 Afghan security personnel. Afghanistan government and Taliban have signalled peace talks on multiple occasions but escalating violence by both the sides have hampered any development.

Ready for talks with Afghan government if prisoner swap is completed: Taliban

For the first time, we have names and faces of individuals who are hacking for China. They were trying to steal coronavirus vaccine research. These cyberspies know no borders and have been working on assignments for 10 years.

China's cyber spies: The next global security threat, US accuses China of sponsoring hackers

The US will work with countries like India, Japan, and South Korea to tackle the threat of Chinese surveillance, a top American Senator, who has made a Congressional legislation to make New Delhi a strategic defense partner of Washington on a permanent basis, has said.

Democratic Senator Mark Warner, Chairman of Senate Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, in an interaction with members of the US India Security Council said China had emerged as a major problem for the US companies doing businesses in that country and intellectual theft was a big concern.

Warner, who is also co-chair of the Senate India Caucus, said he has sponsored an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) act to make India a strategic defense partner on a permanent basis.

Expressing grave concerns over Chinese surveillance on every aspect of the organisations doing business with Beijing, Warner said the US will work with countries like India, Japan, and South Korea to tackle the threat from China.

Eminent Indian-American Ramesh Kapur, from the US India Security Council, said that in view of the present scenario, it would make better sense to shift all manufacturing back to America.

He said in areas where there were issues of cost due to labour and other issues, it would make sense to shift the manufacturing to India for all US companies which are at present in China.

Bharat Barai, from Chicago, said that many medium and small-scale electronic companies in the US and India have suffered due to unfair trade practices of China. He also offered the Senator his services in arranging a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, according to a statement.

Koty Krishna said he did a lot of business with China earlier and was always worried about getting back his money and is glad that he has moved out of that country.

Krishna Srinivasa said it was time for the US and India to forge a long-lasting defense partnership that will sustain for at least 40-50 years and requested the senator to pursue the defense partnership with his friends in the senate like Senator Robert Menendez and others.

Nar Koppula told Senator Warner that the Indian American Community has always helped him in his elections and will continue to do so and asked him to be favourable to a stronger US-India partnership.

Rajendar Dichpally expressed concerns over the Chinese aggression against India and warned that Beijing's attitude will not be limited to the South Asian and Pacific regions, asserting that it will expand its ambitions and will be a threat to US in the future due to its vast ambitions.

"All the members agreed that it is absolutely necessary to rein in China with partnerships with other friendly countries," said the statement issued by US India Security Council.

The US will work with countries like India, Japan, and South Korea to tackle the threat of Chinese surveillance, a top American Senator, who has made a Congressional legislation to make New Delhi a strategic defense partner of Washington on a permanent basis, has said.

The US will work with countries like India, Japan, and South Korea to tackle the threat of Chinese surveillance, a top American Senator, who has made a Congressional legislation to make New Delhi a strategic defense partner of Washington on a permanent basis, has said. Democratic Senator Mark Warner, Chairman of Senate Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, in an interaction with members of the US India Security Council said China had emerged as a major problem for the US companies doing businesses in that country and intellectual theft was a big concern. Warner, who is also co-chair of the Senate India Caucus, said he has sponsored an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) act to make India a strategic defense partner on a permanent basis. Expressing grave concerns over Chinese surveillance on every aspect of the organisations doing business with Beijing, Warner said the US will work with countries like India, Japan, and South Korea to tackle the threat from China. Eminent Indian-American Ramesh Kapur, from the US India Security Council, said that in view of the present scenario, it would make better sense to shift all manufacturing back to America. He said in areas where there were issues of cost due to labour and other issues, it would make sense to shift the manufacturing to India for all US companies which are at present in China. Bharat Barai, from Chicago, said that many medium and small-scale electronic companies in the US and India have suffered due to unfair trade practices of China. He also offered the Senator his services in arranging a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, according to a statement. Koty Krishna said he did a lot of business with China earlier and was always worried about getting back his money and is glad that he has moved out of that country. Krishna Srinivasa said it was time for the US and India to forge a long-lasting defense partnership that will sustain for at least 40-50 years and requested the senator to pursue the defense partnership with his friends in the senate like Senator Robert Menendez and others. Nar Koppula told Senator Warner that the Indian American Community has always helped him in his elections and will continue to do so and asked him to be favourable to a stronger US-India partnership. Rajendar Dichpally expressed concerns over the Chinese aggression against India and warned that Beijing's attitude will not be limited to the South Asian and Pacific regions, asserting that it will expand its ambitions and will be a threat to US in the future due to its vast ambitions. "All the members agreed that it is absolutely necessary to rein in China with partnerships with other friendly countries," said the statement issued by US India Security Council.

US will work with India, Japan and S Korea to tackle threat from China: Senator Warner 

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has called on India to tamp down its dependence on Chinese goods, amid growing tensions between Washington and Beijing.

Pompeo was addressing a US-India virtual business summit. He added New Delhi had a chance to attract global supply chains away from China and reduce its reliance on Chinese companies

"India has a chance to attract global supply chains away from China and reduce its reliance on Chinese companies in areas like telecommunications, medical supplies, and others," he told the meeting organised by the US-India Business Council, on Wednesday.

"India is in this position because it has earned the trust of many nations around the world, including the United States."

US-China relations -- already strained over the coronavirus pandemic, the situation in Hong Kong and trade -- took a turn for the worse on Wednesday when Washington ordered that Beijing shut its consulate in Houston.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-houston-consulate-closed-to-protect-american-intellectual-property-us-315168">Also read |&nbsp;China's Houston consulate closed to 'protect American intellectual property': US</a>

China and India also have long had a prickly relationship.&nbsp;But ties deteriorated significantly following a border clash on June 15 that left 20 Indian soldiers dead as well as an unknown number of Chinese casualties.

Pompeo said the clashes were "initiated by" China's armed forces and were another example of "unacceptable behaviour" from China's ruling Communist Party.

He praised India for banning 59 Chinese mobile apps, including TikTok, saying the video-sharing app "presents serious security risks for the Indian people".

In the keynote speech to the summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on US companies to invest in his nation of 1.3 billion people, saying trade between the two countries would help the virus-hit world economy to bounce back.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has called on India to tamp down its dependence on Chinese goods, amid growing tensions between Washington and Beijing. Pompeo was addressing a US-India virtual business summit.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has called on India to tamp down its dependence on Chinese goods, amid growing tensions between Washington and Beijing. Pompeo was addressing a US-India virtual business summit. He added New Delhi had a chance to attract global supply chains away from China and reduce its reliance on Chinese companies "India has a chance to attract global supply chains away from China and reduce its reliance on Chinese companies in areas like telecommunications, medical supplies, and others," he told the meeting organised by the US-India Business Council, on Wednesday. "India is in this position because it has earned the trust of many nations around the world, including the United States." US-China relations -- already strained over the coronavirus pandemic, the situation in Hong Kong and trade -- took a turn for the worse on Wednesday when Washington ordered that Beijing shut its consulate in Houston. Also read | China's Houston consulate closed to 'protect American intellectual property': US China and India also have long had a prickly relationship. But ties deteriorated significantly following a border clash on June 15 that left 20 Indian soldiers dead as well as an unknown number of Chinese casualties. Pompeo said the clashes were "initiated by" China's armed forces and were another example of "unacceptable behaviour" from China's ruling Communist Party. He praised India for banning 59 Chinese mobile apps, including TikTok, saying the video-sharing app "presents serious security risks for the Indian people". In the keynote speech to the summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on US companies to invest in his nation of 1.3 billion people, saying trade between the two countries would help the virus-hit world economy to bounce back.

India has a chance to attract global supply away from China, says US

US President Donald Trump has now announced that he will be sending federal troops to more cities amid the black lives matter protest

Trump to deploy hundreds of federal troops to Chicago to quell BLM protests

In the ongoing debate of whether or not American kids should return to schools and colleges, the US President Donald Trump has been a concrete supporter of reopening the schools.&nbsp;

In a recent interview, Trump has assured the nation that he would be comfortable sending his 14-year old son Barron and his 10 grandchildren&nbsp;to school this fall, amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-touts-five-word-memory-test-as-showing-he-is-cognitively-there-315334">Also read:&nbsp;Trump touts five-word memory test as showing he is 'cognitively there'</a>

“I am comfortable with that, and we do have a national strategy, but, as you know, ultimately, it’s up to the governors of the states,” Trump said.

Trump has said that he want to see all schools reopened for the fall session, or he would consider rolling back some of the school funding.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-sees-china-as-a-threat-and-ties-between-us-india-strengthened-says-nikki-haley-315274">Also read: Trump sees China as a threat and ties between US-India strengthened, says Nikki Haley</a>

However, some health experts and parents are not on the same page as Trump as they believe that it would be dangerous to send children back to school, amid surge in number of positive coronavirus cases in the country.

Trump, however, claims that his administration would reopen the schools safely and carefully. “I would like to see the schools open 100 percent. And we’ll do it safely. We’ll do it carefully,” he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-calls-trump-first-racist-president-of-the-united-states-315267">Also read:&nbsp;Joe Biden calls Trump 'first' racist president of the United States</a>

He also claimed that his administration is looking at researches to determine whether or not children transmit the deadly coronavirus as easily as adults, and how vulnerable children are to the deadly virus.

Now, they don't catch it easily. They don't bring it home easily, and if they do catch it, they get better fast. We're looking at that fact. That is a factor, and we're looking at it strongly," Trump told reporters in a press conference.

In the ongoing debate of whether or not American kids should return to schools and colleges, the US President Donald Trump has been a concrete supporter of reopening the schools.

In the ongoing debate of whether or not American kids should return to schools and colleges, the US President Donald Trump has been a concrete supporter of reopening the schools. In a recent interview, Trump has assured the nation that he would be comfortable sending his 14-year old son Barron and his 10 grandchildren to school this fall, amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Also read: Trump touts five-word memory test as showing he is 'cognitively there' “I am comfortable with that, and we do have a national strategy, but, as you know, ultimately, it’s up to the governors of the states,” Trump said. Trump has said that he want to see all schools reopened for the fall session, or he would consider rolling back some of the school funding. Also read: Trump sees China as a threat and ties between US-India strengthened, says Nikki Haley However, some health experts and parents are not on the same page as Trump as they believe that it would be dangerous to send children back to school, amid surge in number of positive coronavirus cases in the country. Trump, however, claims that his administration would reopen the schools safely and carefully. “I would like to see the schools open 100 percent. And we’ll do it safely. We’ll do it carefully,” he said. Also read: Joe Biden calls Trump 'first' racist president of the United States He also claimed that his administration is looking at researches to determine whether or not children transmit the deadly coronavirus as easily as adults, and how vulnerable children are to the deadly virus. Now, they don't catch it easily. They don't bring it home easily, and if they do catch it, they get better fast. We're looking at that fact. That is a factor, and we're looking at it strongly," Trump told reporters in a press conference.

I will be comfortable sending my son to school: Trump backs reopening schools

The hardest-hit country from coronavirus, the United States, on an average sees 2,600 new coronavirus cases every hour, according to a tally.

The tally compiled by Reuters also says that this rate in the US is the highest in the world.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-blames-anti-racism-protests-mexico-travellers-for-surge-in-covid-cases-315388">Trump blames anti-racism protests, Mexico travellers for surge in COVID cases</a>

In the latest figures provided by Johns Hopkins University, the US has reported more than 63,000 new cases in the last 24 hours on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-us-reports-over-63000-cases-as-country-toll-nears-4-million-315265">Coronavirus: US reports over 63,000 cases as country toll nears 4 million</a>

The US is coming close to report 4 million COVID-19 infections and the nationwide death toll stands at 142,942.&nbsp;

The US, which reported its first case on January 21, reached the mark of 1 million cases in 98 days and just 43 days to add another million. In only 27 days, the country went from 2 million cases to 3 million.&nbsp;

The Trump administration has often clashed with state governors over measures to contain the spread of the deadly virus, incluing lockdown and mask-wearing guidelines.&nbsp;

President Donald Trump also shifted his tone over wearing of masks and in recent times he has even started donning it in public, but also urging people to use one.&nbsp;

The US ranks second in the top 20 worst-hit countries with the most number of cases per capita, recording 120 infections per 10,000 people.&nbsp;

The hardest-hit country from coronavirus, the United States, on an average sees 2,600 new coronavirus cases every hour, according to a tally. The tally compiled by Reuters also says that this rate in the US is the highest in the world.

The hardest-hit country from coronavirus, the United States, on an average sees 2,600 new coronavirus cases every hour, according to a tally. The tally compiled by Reuters also says that this rate in the US is the highest in the world. Also read | Trump blames anti-racism protests, Mexico travellers for surge in COVID cases In the latest figures provided by Johns Hopkins University, the US has reported more than 63,000 new cases in the last 24 hours on Wednesday. Also read | Coronavirus: US reports over 63,000 cases as country toll nears 4 million The US is coming close to report 4 million COVID-19 infections and the nationwide death toll stands at 142,942. The US, which reported its first case on January 21, reached the mark of 1 million cases in 98 days and just 43 days to add another million. In only 27 days, the country went from 2 million cases to 3 million. The Trump administration has often clashed with state governors over measures to contain the spread of the deadly virus, incluing lockdown and mask-wearing guidelines. President Donald Trump also shifted his tone over wearing of masks and in recent times he has even started donning it in public, but also urging people to use one. The US ranks second in the top 20 worst-hit countries with the most number of cases per capita, recording 120 infections per 10,000 people.

Worst-hit US sees 2,600 coronavirus cases every hour

The Chinese Ministry of Foreign affairs is holding a press conference on US-China relations. Beijing calls the closure of a 'political provocation'. China will be closing the US consulate in Wuhan.

China's relations with US head South: TikTok banned from US govt devices

US President Donald Trump has blamed anti-racism protests, travellers from Mexico and young bar-goers for a nationwide surge in coronavirus cases.

Trump sought on Wednesday to explain the rise in confirmed cases across the nation's South, Southwest and West as he held his second briefing ahead of the presidential election in as many days after a three-month hiatus.

Trump said cases among young Americans first started to rise "shortly after demonstrations."

"The protests following the death of George Floyd presumably triggered a broader relaxation of mitigation efforts nationwide. A substantial increase in travel around Memorial Day and summer vacations was also a driver of new cases," he said.

Young people closely congregating at bars and probably other places, maybe beaches, likely also led to new cases, he added.

Trump also blamed travellers crossing the US-Mexico border for spikes, as cases in his neighbouring country were increasing.

US President Donald Trump has blamed anti-racism protests, travellers from Mexico and young bar-goers for a nationwide surge in coronavirus cases. Trump sought on Wednesday to explain the rise in confirmed cases across the nation's South, Southwest and West as he held his second briefing ahead of the presidential election in as many days after a three-month hiatus.

US President Donald Trump has blamed anti-racism protests, travellers from Mexico and young bar-goers for a nationwide surge in coronavirus cases. Trump sought on Wednesday to explain the rise in confirmed cases across the nation's South, Southwest and West as he held his second briefing ahead of the presidential election in as many days after a three-month hiatus. Trump said cases among young Americans first started to rise "shortly after demonstrations." "The protests following the death of George Floyd presumably triggered a broader relaxation of mitigation efforts nationwide. A substantial increase in travel around Memorial Day and summer vacations was also a driver of new cases," he said. Young people closely congregating at bars and probably other places, maybe beaches, likely also led to new cases, he added. Trump also blamed travellers crossing the US-Mexico border for spikes, as cases in his neighbouring country were increasing.

Trump blames anti-racism protests, Mexico travellers for surge in COVID cases

The United States has called on Turkey to halt its plans to conduct seismic research in Greece's territorial waters and avoid steps that escalate tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean, a US Department of State spokesperson told Sputnik.

"The United States is aware that Turkey has issued a NAVTEX for research in disputed waters in the Eastern Mediterranean," the spokesperson said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"We urge Turkish authorities to halt any plans for operations and to avoid steps that raise tensions in the region."

NAVTEX is the acronym for navigational telex (navigational text messages). It is a device used on-board vessels to provide short range Maritime Safety Information in coastal waters. The Turkish Oruc Reis vessel is expected to conduct a seismic survey south and east of the Greek island of Kastellorizo from July 21 to August 2.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Greek military said they have observed increased activity at Turkey's southern Aksaz naval base as 15 vessels have reportedly left the facility. The Greek military officials said the armed forces have been placed on alert.

Earlier in the day, the Greek Foreign Ministry had expressed protest over Turkey's actions in Greek waters, having appealed to the European Union, NATO and the United Nations.

The United States has called on Turkey to halt its plans to conduct seismic research in Greece's territorial waters and avoid steps that escalate tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean, a US Department of State spokesperson told Sputnik.

The United States has called on Turkey to halt its plans to conduct seismic research in Greece's territorial waters and avoid steps that escalate tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean, a US Department of State spokesperson told Sputnik. "The United States is aware that Turkey has issued a NAVTEX for research in disputed waters in the Eastern Mediterranean," the spokesperson said on Tuesday. "We urge Turkish authorities to halt any plans for operations and to avoid steps that raise tensions in the region." NAVTEX is the acronym for navigational telex (navigational text messages). It is a device used on-board vessels to provide short range Maritime Safety Information in coastal waters. The Turkish Oruc Reis vessel is expected to conduct a seismic survey south and east of the Greek island of Kastellorizo from July 21 to August 2. Meanwhile, the Greek military said they have observed increased activity at Turkey's southern Aksaz naval base as 15 vessels have reportedly left the facility. The Greek military officials said the armed forces have been placed on alert. Earlier in the day, the Greek Foreign Ministry had expressed protest over Turkey's actions in Greek waters, having appealed to the European Union, NATO and the United Nations.

US asks Turkey to not conduct research in Greece's waters

Trump's decision to have federal law enforcement troops intervene in local anti-racism protests has sparked anger and legal questions. Some of these agents don't even wear identification badges.

New York would go to court to stop US President Donald Trump sending federal agents to the city, as he puts law and order at the forefront of his re-election bid.

Last week, the Department of Homeland Security deployed Border Patrol police and federal marshals at Portland, Oregon, to tackle anti-racism protests.

Trump said they had done "a fantastic job" locking up "anarchists," and threatened to deploy the military-garbed law enforcement agents to other Democrat-led cities.

He called the move necessary, even claiming Chicago was "worse than Afghanistan," but critics labelled it an election year political stunt.&nbsp;

To this end, New York Mayor Bill de Blasio said the city was mulling court action.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-portland-trump-will-send-unknown-forces-to-liberal-democrat-cities-to-muzzle-protests-314802">Also read | After Portland, Trump will send 'unknown' forces to 'liberal Democrat' cities to muzzle protests</a>

Also, the mayors of six major cities -- Atlanta, Washington, Seattle, Chicago, Portland and Kansas City -- said in a letter to Homeland Security Acting Secretary Chad Wolf and Attorney General Bill Barr that the uninvited paramilitary deployments violate the Constitution.

Oregon has sued DHS for rights violations, while the state's governor, Kate Brown, demanded that the officers be withdrawn, calling the deployment a political "photo op."

The White House has, however, denied accusations of abuse of power, insisting the agents are needed to protect federal buildings targeted by anti-racism demonstrators.

Since African-American man George Floyd was killed by a Minneapolis police officer on May 25, sparking nationwide protests against police brutality, Trump has sought to paint the demonstrators as radical leftists intent on destroying the country.

WHAT HE ACTUALLY SAID

Trump is using the protests -- and upticks in crime following them -- to rally support from his conservative base, Democrats say.

"We're looking at Chicago, too. We're looking at New York," Trump told reporters on Monday, also singling out Philadelphia, Detroit, Baltimore and Oakland.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-virus-crisis-to-get-worse-before-it-gets-better-warns-donald-trump-315005">Also read |&nbsp;US virus crisis to ‘get worse before it gets better’, warns Donald Trump</a>

"Look at what's going on. All run by Democrats, all run by very liberal Democrats, all run really by radical left. We can't let this happen to the city."

According to reports, the DHS was preparing to send 150 paramilitary personnel to Chicago, which has high levels of violent crime, after police there clashed with demonstrators seeking to tear down a statue of Christopher Columbus.

White House spokeswoman Kayleigh McEnany said no decision had been made but added that the city's Democratic mayor is "clearly unable to control her streets.

Trump's decision to have federal law enforcement troops intervene in local anti-racism protests has sparked anger and legal questions. Some of these agents don't even wear identification badges.

Trump's decision to have federal law enforcement troops intervene in local anti-racism protests has sparked anger and legal questions. Some of these agents don't even wear identification badges. New York would go to court to stop US President Donald Trump sending federal agents to the city, as he puts law and order at the forefront of his re-election bid. Last week, the Department of Homeland Security deployed Border Patrol police and federal marshals at Portland, Oregon, to tackle anti-racism protests. Trump said they had done "a fantastic job" locking up "anarchists," and threatened to deploy the military-garbed law enforcement agents to other Democrat-led cities. He called the move necessary, even claiming Chicago was "worse than Afghanistan," but critics labelled it an election year political stunt. To this end, New York Mayor Bill de Blasio said the city was mulling court action. Also read | After Portland, Trump will send 'unknown' forces to 'liberal Democrat' cities to muzzle protests Also, the mayors of six major cities -- Atlanta, Washington, Seattle, Chicago, Portland and Kansas City -- said in a letter to Homeland Security Acting Secretary Chad Wolf and Attorney General Bill Barr that the uninvited paramilitary deployments violate the Constitution. Oregon has sued DHS for rights violations, while the state's governor, Kate Brown, demanded that the officers be withdrawn, calling the deployment a political "photo op." The White House has, however, denied accusations of abuse of power, insisting the agents are needed to protect federal buildings targeted by anti-racism demonstrators. Since African-American man George Floyd was killed by a Minneapolis police officer on May 25, sparking nationwide protests against police brutality, Trump has sought to paint the demonstrators as radical leftists intent on destroying the country. WHAT HE ACTUALLY SAID Trump is using the protests -- and upticks in crime following them -- to rally support from his conservative base, Democrats say. "We're looking at Chicago, too. We're looking at New York," Trump told reporters on Monday, also singling out Philadelphia, Detroit, Baltimore and Oakland. Also read | US virus crisis to ‘get worse before it gets better’, warns Donald Trump "Look at what's going on. All run by Democrats, all run by very liberal Democrats, all run really by radical left. We can't let this happen to the city." According to reports, the DHS was preparing to send 150 paramilitary personnel to Chicago, which has high levels of violent crime, after police there clashed with demonstrators seeking to tear down a statue of Christopher Columbus. White House spokeswoman Kayleigh McEnany said no decision had been made but added that the city's Democratic mayor is "clearly unable to control her streets.

New York vows court action as Trump mulls sending federal troops

Slamming China's aggression over India, the US House of Representatives has unanimously passed an amendment to the National Defence Authorization Act. The amendment states that India and China should work against de-escalating the situation along the LAC. Watch report.

US lower house stands against China: Anti-US amendment passed against China

The US State Department has said the recent closing of China's consulate in Houston was to ordered to protect Americans' intellectual property and private information.

Spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said that under the Vienna Convention states "have a duty not to interfere in the internal affairs" of the receiving country.

Earlier in the day, Beijing said the United States had ordered China to close its Houston consulate, terming it a "political provocation" that would further harm diplomatic relations.

The Chinese Consulate in Houston, opened in 1979, covers eight southern US states -- including Texas and Florida -- and has nearly one million people in the area registered at the consulate.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-us-ordered-closure-of-houston-consulate-315137">Also read | China says US ordered closure of Houston consulate</a>

Furthermore, Ortagus said the US would not tolerate Chinese violations of their "sovereignty and intimidation of our people, just as we have not tolerated the PRC's unfair trade practices, theft of American jobs, and other egregious behavior."

"We have directed the closure of PRC Consulate General Houston, in order to protect American intellectual property and Americans' private information," she said, without giving any more details.

The move comes as tensions soar between the world's two biggest economies on a number of fronts.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump's administration has ramped up pressure on China on a wide range of issues, imposing sanctions on Chinese officials over policies in Tibet and Xinjiang.

(with inputs from agencies)

The US State Department has said the recent closing of China's consulate in Houston was to ordered to protect Americans' intellectual property and private information.

The US State Department has said the recent closing of China's consulate in Houston was to ordered to protect Americans' intellectual property and private information. Spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said that under the Vienna Convention states "have a duty not to interfere in the internal affairs" of the receiving country. Earlier in the day, Beijing said the United States had ordered China to close its Houston consulate, terming it a "political provocation" that would further harm diplomatic relations. The Chinese Consulate in Houston, opened in 1979, covers eight southern US states -- including Texas and Florida -- and has nearly one million people in the area registered at the consulate. Also read | China says US ordered closure of Houston consulate Furthermore, Ortagus said the US would not tolerate Chinese violations of their "sovereignty and intimidation of our people, just as we have not tolerated the PRC's unfair trade practices, theft of American jobs, and other egregious behavior." "We have directed the closure of PRC Consulate General Houston, in order to protect American intellectual property and Americans' private information," she said, without giving any more details. The move comes as tensions soar between the world's two biggest economies on a number of fronts. US President Donald Trump's administration has ramped up pressure on China on a wide range of issues, imposing sanctions on Chinese officials over policies in Tibet and Xinjiang. (with inputs from agencies)

China's Houston consulate closed to 'protect American intellectual property': US

US President Donald Trump has now warned that he will now send Federal troops to some major US cities amid the 'Black Lives Matter' protests. Watch report.

Donald Trump: Federal troops charge at Portland protests

United States President Donald Trump on Monday claimed that he would send more law enforcement agents to multiple US cities in an attempt to shut down protests that have been raging in the country for more than a month now.

Calling for an end to racism and police brutality, the protests initially began after a black man, George Floyd was murdered in the hands of a policeman, Chauvin in the city of Minneapolis.

"Unknown forces"

He recently dispatched “unknown” forces to Portland, Oregon, where the protests are currently on. These civilian-looking officers arrested people and unleashed violence, according to reports. None of them were wearing a uniform, which has caused a furore among activists.

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While referring to Chicago, Philadelphia, New York, Baltimore, Oakland, Detroit, and Oakland, the Republican president promised to send in more forces, solely because the cities’ mayors are “Liberal Democrats”.

"We're sending law enforcement… We can’t let this happen to the cities”, he said at the White House.

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After footage showed police forces from the Department of Homeland Security rounding up people and taking them away in black minivans, leaders in Oregon along with activists and members of US Congress have called on Trump to take back the forces.

State and local leaders in Oregon, as well as members of Congress, have called for Trump to remove the secret police.

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"Breaking the law"

"Not only do I believe he is breaking the law, but he is also endangering the lives of Portlanders," the city's mayor, Ted Wheeler, tweeted. Wheeler had earlier to referred to federal forces in the city as “political theater” given the upcoming election.

In June, Trump had referred to himself as a president of “law and order” and had threatened to send in US military to stop violence in many US cities.

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Since last week, under Trump’s orders, federal agents have used tear gas against protesters in Portland, and have arrested many without explanation.

"They grab a lot of people and jail the leaders. These are anarchists," Trump said while talking about the federal agents.

Department of Homeland Security on Monday said that they don’t intend to back down, and they will not apologise.

The state of Oregon has responded by suing the Trump administration for unlawful detention of its residents, with many Republican leaders like Rand Paul also lending support to the sentiment.

(With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

United States President Donald Trump on Monday claimed that he would send more law enforcement agents to multiple US cities in an attempt to shut down protests that have been raging in the country for more than a month now.

United States President Donald Trump on Monday claimed that he would send more law enforcement agents to multiple US cities in an attempt to shut down protests that have been raging in the country for more than a month now. Calling for an end to racism and police brutality, the protests initially began after a black man, George Floyd was murdered in the hands of a policeman, Chauvin in the city of Minneapolis. "Unknown forces" He recently dispatched “unknown” forces to Portland, Oregon, where the protests are currently on. These civilian-looking officers arrested people and unleashed violence, according to reports. None of them were wearing a uniform, which has caused a furore among activists. Also read: The 'very hard' test Trump keeps bragging about 'acing' is actually very simple While referring to Chicago, Philadelphia, New York, Baltimore, Oakland, Detroit, and Oakland, the Republican president promised to send in more forces, solely because the cities’ mayors are “Liberal Democrats”. "We're sending law enforcement… We can’t let this happen to the cities”, he said at the White House. Also read: Confederate flags not about 'racism', but about 'freedom of speech': Donald Trump After footage showed police forces from the Department of Homeland Security rounding up people and taking them away in black minivans, leaders in Oregon along with activists and members of US Congress have called on Trump to take back the forces. State and local leaders in Oregon, as well as members of Congress, have called for Trump to remove the secret police. "Breaking the law" "Not only do I believe he is breaking the law, but he is also endangering the lives of Portlanders," the city's mayor, Ted Wheeler, tweeted. Wheeler had earlier to referred to federal forces in the city as “political theater” given the upcoming election. In June, Trump had referred to himself as a president of “law and order” and had threatened to send in US military to stop violence in many US cities. Also read: After months of resisting wearing one, Trump says wearing mask 'patriotic' in tweet Since last week, under Trump’s orders, federal agents have used tear gas against protesters in Portland, and have arrested many without explanation. "They grab a lot of people and jail the leaders. These are anarchists," Trump said while talking about the federal agents. Department of Homeland Security on Monday said that they don’t intend to back down, and they will not apologise. The state of Oregon has responded by suing the Trump administration for unlawful detention of its residents, with many Republican leaders like Rand Paul also lending support to the sentiment. (With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

After Portland, Trump will send 'unknown' forces to 'liberal Democrat' cities to muzzle protests

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