US President Donald Trump in an interview refused to publically commit to accepting the results of the upcoming presidential polls if he were to lose. Watch report.

Donald trump on 2020 Presidential elections: May not accept results if defeated

US Navy's USS Nimitz, the world's largest warship, is likely to conduct a drill with Indian Navy's off the coast of Andaman & Nicobar island. Nimitz is already present in the Indian ocean and came into the ocean via Malacca Strait. Watch report

America's largest warship likely to exercise with Indian Navy amid Chinese aggression

The domestic intelligence and security service of the United States FBI is leading an inquiry into the Twitter hacking of major companies and individuals, as more Washington lawmakers raised alarms about the breach of high-profile accounts on the social media platform.

FBI probes mega Twitter hack

The Indian-American community could be "an absolute difference maker" in battleground states in the November 3 presidential elections, a top Democratic leader has said.

As a little over 100 days are left for the elections, both the Republican and the Democratic parties are making huge efforts to reach out to the small but influential Indian-American community in some of the key battleground states such as Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.

Thomas Perez, chair of the Democratic National Committee, on Saturday said that Michigan has 125,000 Indian-American voters.

"We lost Michigan by 10,700 votes in 2016," he said, referring to the loss of Hillary Clinton, the then Democratic presidential nominee at the hands of President Donald Trump.

"In Pennsylvania, (there are) 156,000 (Indian-American voters). We (Democratic party) lost (presidential elections in) Pennsylvania by 42-43,000 (votes). In Wisconsin (there are) 37,000 (Indian-Americans). We lost Wisconsin by 21,000 (votes) in 2016," said the head of the Democratic party.

"The Indian-American vote, the AAPI (Asian-American and Pacific Islanders) vote more broadly, can be an absolute difference maker (in the 2020 presidential elections)," Perez said at a virtual event "An Electorate Coming of Age: Indian Americans for Biden', jointly hosted by the South Asians for Biden along with AAPI Victory Fund and Indian-American Impact Fund.

"We are hustling to the finishing line" 108 days till the weekend. Think about those three states alone that I mentioned. The Indian-American votes alone can be the difference in moving forward," Perez said.

Shekar Narasimhan, chairman of AAPI Victory Fund, said that there are 1.3 million potential Indian-American voters in eight battle ground states of Arizona (66,000), Florida (193,000), Georgia (150,000), Michigan (125,000), North Carolina (111,000), Pennsylvania (156,000), Texas (475,000) and Wisconsin (37,000).

In 2016, Narasimhan said 77 per cent of the Indian-American voters polled in favour of Hillary.

"Today in all the polls and surveys, their favorability for Biden over Trump is 2.3 to one, (which) is very close to what it was then (in 2016: 2.4 to one)," he said, asserting that the party can aspire to get 75-80 per cent of the Indian-American votes, if they do the work.

There are 1.3 million Indian-American adult citizens, by definition, who are eligible to vote in these (eight battleground) states, he said.

"It is our goal to deliver one million to actually vote in by November 3, 2020 and vote for a Democrat candidate namely for Joe Biden," Narasimhan said, adding that the information is based on data and latest research prepared by data guru Karthik Ramakrishnan.

"There are sectors of the Indian-American community throughout our country, throughout our battleground states. And we want to make sure we're engaging and connecting directly with you all," senior advisor of "Biden for President' campaign Julie Chavez Rodriguez said in her address to the event attended by over 800 Indian-Americans from across the country.

Amit Jani, the national AAPI director for the Biden campaign, said that the Indian-American community has grown in size, influence and in political and civic involvement. More Indian-Americans are joining politics and government.

"The election in November for the president is going to be historic, and we really need the help and support from the Indian-American community to really make a difference," Jani added.

The Indian-American community could be "an absolute difference maker" in battleground states in the November 3 presidential elections, a top Democratic leader has said.

The Indian-American community could be "an absolute difference maker" in battleground states in the November 3 presidential elections, a top Democratic leader has said. As a little over 100 days are left for the elections, both the Republican and the Democratic parties are making huge efforts to reach out to the small but influential Indian-American community in some of the key battleground states such as Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. Thomas Perez, chair of the Democratic National Committee, on Saturday said that Michigan has 125,000 Indian-American voters. "We lost Michigan by 10,700 votes in 2016," he said, referring to the loss of Hillary Clinton, the then Democratic presidential nominee at the hands of President Donald Trump. "In Pennsylvania, (there are) 156,000 (Indian-American voters). We (Democratic party) lost (presidential elections in) Pennsylvania by 42-43,000 (votes). In Wisconsin (there are) 37,000 (Indian-Americans). We lost Wisconsin by 21,000 (votes) in 2016," said the head of the Democratic party. "The Indian-American vote, the AAPI (Asian-American and Pacific Islanders) vote more broadly, can be an absolute difference maker (in the 2020 presidential elections)," Perez said at a virtual event "An Electorate Coming of Age: Indian Americans for Biden', jointly hosted by the South Asians for Biden along with AAPI Victory Fund and Indian-American Impact Fund. "We are hustling to the finishing line" 108 days till the weekend. Think about those three states alone that I mentioned. The Indian-American votes alone can be the difference in moving forward," Perez said. Shekar Narasimhan, chairman of AAPI Victory Fund, said that there are 1.3 million potential Indian-American voters in eight battle ground states of Arizona (66,000), Florida (193,000), Georgia (150,000), Michigan (125,000), North Carolina (111,000), Pennsylvania (156,000), Texas (475,000) and Wisconsin (37,000). In 2016, Narasimhan said 77 per cent of the Indian-American voters polled in favour of Hillary. "Today in all the polls and surveys, their favorability for Biden over Trump is 2.3 to one, (which) is very close to what it was then (in 2016: 2.4 to one)," he said, asserting that the party can aspire to get 75-80 per cent of the Indian-American votes, if they do the work. There are 1.3 million Indian-American adult citizens, by definition, who are eligible to vote in these (eight battleground) states, he said. "It is our goal to deliver one million to actually vote in by November 3, 2020 and vote for a Democrat candidate namely for Joe Biden," Narasimhan said, adding that the information is based on data and latest research prepared by data guru Karthik Ramakrishnan. "There are sectors of the Indian-American community throughout our country, throughout our battleground states. And we want to make sure we're engaging and connecting directly with you all," senior advisor of "Biden for President' campaign Julie Chavez Rodriguez said in her address to the event attended by over 800 Indian-Americans from across the country. Amit Jani, the national AAPI director for the Biden campaign, said that the Indian-American community has grown in size, influence and in political and civic involvement. More Indian-Americans are joining politics and government. "The election in November for the president is going to be historic, and we really need the help and support from the Indian-American community to really make a difference," Jani added.

Indian-American voters could make huge difference in battleground states: Top Democratic leader

The assistant of a wealthy young technology entrepreneur who was found decapitated in his luxury New York apartment this week was charged with his murder Friday, police said.

Tyrese Haspil, 21, is accused of killing 33-year-old Fahim Saleh, who was CEO of Nigerian motorcycle ride-hailing and delivery app Gokada.

"Mr Haspil was Mr Saleh's executive assistant and handled his finances and personal matters. It is also believed that he owed the victim a significant amount of money," Rodney Harrison, the NYPD's top detective, told reporters.

Saleh's remains were found in his Manhattan home on Tuesday afternoon.

An electric saw was discovered near his torso, and his head and limbs were found elsewhere in the apartment.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/33-year-old-tech-ceo-found-dismembered-in-new-york-apartment-313592">Also read |&nbsp;33-year-old tech CEO found dismembered in New York apartment</a>

Harrison added that Haspil was believed to have assaulted Saleh with a Taser before murdering him on Monday.

Saleh, the son of Bangladeshi immigrants, was also a founding partner of Adventure Capital, which invests in startups in developing countries.

According to local media reports, Saleh recently purchased the apartment where he was murdered for about $2.2 million.

The assistant of a wealthy young technology entrepreneur who was found decapitated in his luxury New York apartment this week was charged with his murder Friday, police said.

The assistant of a wealthy young technology entrepreneur who was found decapitated in his luxury New York apartment this week was charged with his murder Friday, police said. Tyrese Haspil, 21, is accused of killing 33-year-old Fahim Saleh, who was CEO of Nigerian motorcycle ride-hailing and delivery app Gokada. "Mr Haspil was Mr Saleh's executive assistant and handled his finances and personal matters. It is also believed that he owed the victim a significant amount of money," Rodney Harrison, the NYPD's top detective, told reporters. Saleh's remains were found in his Manhattan home on Tuesday afternoon. An electric saw was discovered near his torso, and his head and limbs were found elsewhere in the apartment. Also read | 33-year-old tech CEO found dismembered in New York apartment Harrison added that Haspil was believed to have assaulted Saleh with a Taser before murdering him on Monday. Saleh, the son of Bangladeshi immigrants, was also a founding partner of Adventure Capital, which invests in startups in developing countries. According to local media reports, Saleh recently purchased the apartment where he was murdered for about $2.2 million.

New York police charge assistant with decapitating tech entrepreneur

United States President Donald Trump is expected to soon issue an executive order that would ban undocumented immigrants from being included in the 2020 census of the country.

Trump's power to limit the counting of immigrants is, however, questionable. Longstanding Supreme Court precedent has interpreted the US Constitution as requiring that the House districts be based on total population. State-level legislative districts don't necessarily have to include non-citizens, but they are drawn by states, not the federal government.

The government's census count helps in determining where taxpayer money is spent for building public facilities like schools, hospitals and fire departments, as well as calculating states' apportionment in the US House of Representatives.

The Trump administration has long sought to use the census as a vehicle to identify, and possibly limit the political power of, undocumented immigrants. In 2018, the administration said it would ask respondents to the 2020 census whether they were citizens, a move ultimately nixed by the US Supreme Court.

Immigration advocates had then argued the question would frighten Hispanics and immigrants into abstaining from the census, potentially costing their communities political representation and federal aid dollars that are doled out based on population.

Republicans close to Trump also wanted citizenship data so that conservative US states could more easily exclude non-citizens when they redraw voting maps in the next round of redistricting.

(with inputs from agencies)

United States President Donald Trump is expected to soon issue an executive order that would ban undocumented immigrants from being included in the 2020 census of the country.

United States President Donald Trump is expected to soon issue an executive order that would ban undocumented immigrants from being included in the 2020 census of the country. Trump's power to limit the counting of immigrants is, however, questionable. Longstanding Supreme Court precedent has interpreted the US Constitution as requiring that the House districts be based on total population. State-level legislative districts don't necessarily have to include non-citizens, but they are drawn by states, not the federal government. The government's census count helps in determining where taxpayer money is spent for building public facilities like schools, hospitals and fire departments, as well as calculating states' apportionment in the US House of Representatives. The Trump administration has long sought to use the census as a vehicle to identify, and possibly limit the political power of, undocumented immigrants. In 2018, the administration said it would ask respondents to the 2020 census whether they were citizens, a move ultimately nixed by the US Supreme Court. Immigration advocates had then argued the question would frighten Hispanics and immigrants into abstaining from the census, potentially costing their communities political representation and federal aid dollars that are doled out based on population. Republicans close to Trump also wanted citizenship data so that conservative US states could more easily exclude non-citizens when they redraw voting maps in the next round of redistricting. (with inputs from agencies)

Trump expected to exclude undocumented migrants from US census

India and the US are working together on combating the coronavirus and collaboration is underway for co-development of a COVID-19 vaccine and a partnership between the two countries in health, life sciences and technology sectors can bring benefits to the entire world, the Indian envoy here has said.

During a virtual interaction with the eminent members of the Indian-American community from the Mid-Western parts of the US, India's Ambassador to the US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu said, "During the pandemic, India and the United States have been collaborating closely. Our network of scientific institutions, in India and the United States, are in touch with each other, on a real-time basis."

The deadly coronavirus that first emerged in China's Wuhan city has drastically spread around the world, infecting 13,767,548 people and causing 589,192 deaths, according to the Johns Hopkins coronavirus tracker.

"Our pharmaceutical companies are working closely together, for co-development of a vaccine. There are at least three, such collaborations. Gilead has entered into an agreement, with seven Indian pharmaceutical companies, to manufacture and distribute Remdesivir, which has been authorised for treating COVID-19," he said.

India has been a reliable partner, during the crisis, and stepped up to supply medicines, and equipment, to over 150 countries including the United States, he said.

Closer cooperation in health, life sciences, technology, will be the way forward, he said, adding that the partnership between India and the United States can bring benefits to the entire world.

Noting that the pandemic has created a new normal, he said an early lockdown helped India delay the spread of the virus. Restrictions have now largely been lifted in the country. Except for containment zones, where the number of active cases are still high. Economic activity is coming back to normal in other parts.

The recovery rate in the country which is over 65 per cent is high and a low death rate.

"We have put in a system to face the pandemic and are well-prepared to deal with the situation," he told the members of the Indian American community.

During the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the Indian Ambassador has been regularly having virtual meetings with different sections of the Indian American community. This was his sixth such interaction.

Last week, he had virtual interaction with members of the Sikh Americans. These interactions are in addition to the various virtual meetings he had with various business and professional groups and think tanks during this pandemic.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government has taken historic decisions, to address the long-standing issues, he said.

"As a democracy, our commitment to the welfare of our people, "sabka saath sabka vikas sabka vishwas' remains central to our governance. Prime Minister Modi has given the call for, Aatma Nirbhar Bharat," he said.

"We want to build a self-reliant India and one that is integrated to the global economy. We want to seize opportunities to become part of the global value chain," Sandhu said.

As the oldest and largest democracies in the world, India and US are natural allies, he said asserting the relationship has enjoyed bipartisan support over the years.

"President of the United States' visit to India in February this year, elevated our relationship to a global comprehensive strategic partnership. This reflects the desire of both countries to work closely together, on a range of areas," Sandhu said.

"The relations between India and the United States are underpinned by the shared values of democracy, freedom of speech, and rule of law. The India-US relationship has also enjoyed bipartisan support over the years. The Indian diaspora has played an important role, of projecting a positive image of India, as a vibrant, democratic, and pluralistic society and a valuable partner, for the United States," said the Indian Ambassador.

India and the US are working together on combating the coronavirus and collaboration is underway for co-development of a COVID-19 vaccine and a partnership between the two countries in health, life sciences and technology sectors can bring benefits to the entire world, the Indian envoy here has said.

India and the US are working together on combating the coronavirus and collaboration is underway for co-development of a COVID-19 vaccine and a partnership between the two countries in health, life sciences and technology sectors can bring benefits to the entire world, the Indian envoy here has said. During a virtual interaction with the eminent members of the Indian-American community from the Mid-Western parts of the US, India's Ambassador to the US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu said, "During the pandemic, India and the United States have been collaborating closely. Our network of scientific institutions, in India and the United States, are in touch with each other, on a real-time basis." The deadly coronavirus that first emerged in China's Wuhan city has drastically spread around the world, infecting 13,767,548 people and causing 589,192 deaths, according to the Johns Hopkins coronavirus tracker. "Our pharmaceutical companies are working closely together, for co-development of a vaccine. There are at least three, such collaborations. Gilead has entered into an agreement, with seven Indian pharmaceutical companies, to manufacture and distribute Remdesivir, which has been authorised for treating COVID-19," he said. India has been a reliable partner, during the crisis, and stepped up to supply medicines, and equipment, to over 150 countries including the United States, he said. Closer cooperation in health, life sciences, technology, will be the way forward, he said, adding that the partnership between India and the United States can bring benefits to the entire world. Noting that the pandemic has created a new normal, he said an early lockdown helped India delay the spread of the virus. Restrictions have now largely been lifted in the country. Except for containment zones, where the number of active cases are still high. Economic activity is coming back to normal in other parts. The recovery rate in the country which is over 65 per cent is high and a low death rate. "We have put in a system to face the pandemic and are well-prepared to deal with the situation," he told the members of the Indian American community. During the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the Indian Ambassador has been regularly having virtual meetings with different sections of the Indian American community. This was his sixth such interaction. Last week, he had virtual interaction with members of the Sikh Americans. These interactions are in addition to the various virtual meetings he had with various business and professional groups and think tanks during this pandemic. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government has taken historic decisions, to address the long-standing issues, he said. "As a democracy, our commitment to the welfare of our people, "sabka saath sabka vikas sabka vishwas' remains central to our governance. Prime Minister Modi has given the call for, Aatma Nirbhar Bharat," he said. "We want to build a self-reliant India and one that is integrated to the global economy. We want to seize opportunities to become part of the global value chain," Sandhu said. As the oldest and largest democracies in the world, India and US are natural allies, he said asserting the relationship has enjoyed bipartisan support over the years. "President of the United States' visit to India in February this year, elevated our relationship to a global comprehensive strategic partnership. This reflects the desire of both countries to work closely together, on a range of areas," Sandhu said. "The relations between India and the United States are underpinned by the shared values of democracy, freedom of speech, and rule of law. The India-US relationship has also enjoyed bipartisan support over the years. The Indian diaspora has played an important role, of projecting a positive image of India, as a vibrant, democratic, and pluralistic society and a valuable partner, for the United States," said the Indian Ambassador.

India, US collaborating closely during COVID-19 pandemic: Ambassador Sandhu

China's top businessmen and entrepreneurs, including Alibaba (BABA) founder Jack Ma, could face serious consequences if the Trump administration decides to ban all members of Chinese Communist&nbsp;Party (CCP) from entering their nation.

Earlier a report said US could impose a travel ban that could potentially affect more than 90 million people from China.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-is-the-biggest-human-rights-abuser-says-china-on-trump-administrations-visa-sanction-on-huawei-employees-313692">US is the biggest human rights abuser, says China on Trump administration's visa sanction on Huawei employees</a>

Several wealthy businessmen from China, like Dalian Wanda Group founder Wang Jianlin and BYD founder Wang Chuanfu could be impacted from this ban as they all are members of the Communist Party. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-mulls-travel-ban-on-92-million-members-of-communist-party-of-china-report-313607">US mulls travel ban on 92 million members of Communist Party of China : Report</a>

While Wanda, owns the world's biggest movie theater chain, AMC, Chuanfu-founded BYD is China's leading e-car company.&nbsp;

"China's rich and powerful are almost all party members," Willy Lam, adjunct professor at the Center for China Studies at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, said, reported CNN.&nbsp;

A study published last year revealed more than half of 8,000 entrepreneurs surveyed said they were the members of the CCP.&nbsp;

Also, a ban like this this could create serious hurdles for Chinese businesses as many trade on the stock exchanges in the US.&nbsp;

Chinese foreign ministry on Thursday said such ban if implemented would be "pathetic".&nbsp;

The relations between Beijing and Washington hit rock-bottom after they ended a long trade tussle, when US President Donald Trump blamed China for the coronavirus outbreak.

Hong Kong security law and issue of Chinese telecom giant Huawei also severely affected the ties of the US and China.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

China's top businessmen and entrepreneurs, including Alibaba (BABA) founder Jack Ma, could face serious consequences if the Trump administration decides to ban all members of Chinese Communist Party (CCP) from entering their nation.

China's top businessmen and entrepreneurs, including Alibaba (BABA) founder Jack Ma, could face serious consequences if the Trump administration decides to ban all members of Chinese Communist Party (CCP) from entering their nation. Earlier a report said US could impose a travel ban that could potentially affect more than 90 million people from China. Also read | US is the biggest human rights abuser, says China on Trump administration's visa sanction on Huawei employees Several wealthy businessmen from China, like Dalian Wanda Group founder Wang Jianlin and BYD founder Wang Chuanfu could be impacted from this ban as they all are members of the Communist Party. Also read | US mulls travel ban on 92 million members of Communist Party of China : Report While Wanda, owns the world's biggest movie theater chain, AMC, Chuanfu-founded BYD is China's leading e-car company. "China's rich and powerful are almost all party members," Willy Lam, adjunct professor at the Center for China Studies at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, said, reported CNN. A study published last year revealed more than half of 8,000 entrepreneurs surveyed said they were the members of the CCP. Also, a ban like this this could create serious hurdles for Chinese businesses as many trade on the stock exchanges in the US. Chinese foreign ministry on Thursday said such ban if implemented would be "pathetic". The relations between Beijing and Washington hit rock-bottom after they ended a long trade tussle, when US President Donald Trump blamed China for the coronavirus outbreak. Hong Kong security law and issue of Chinese telecom giant Huawei also severely affected the ties of the US and China.

Chinese billionaires, including Jack Ma could be barred from US with travel ban

A 33-year-old tech CEO was found dismembered in a luxury New York apartment.

According to CNN, the man was identified as a tech entrepreneur Fahim Saleh, a venture capitalist and CEO of Gokada, Nigeria's motorcycle ride-hail company. He was found dead on Tuesday in an apartment in Manhattan's Lower East Side.

Saleh was last seen in surveillance footage on Monday evening, getting into the elevator in his apartment building.

A man dressed in all black is seen in the video entering the elevator with him. The elevator in Saleh's building goes straight into the apartment units there.

This black clad man is said to be Saleh's assistant.

When the CEO's sister went to check in on him, she discovered his torso in an area next to the living room. Other parts of his body were stuffed into individual bags in the apartment.

Police haven't yet determined a motive behind the attack.

Saleh had founded PrankDial.com, a website for prerecorded prank phone calls that, he wrote in 2018, had generated over $10 million since its start. He continued to found and sell sites throughout his teens and his time at Bentley University.

Most recently, he founded the venture capital firm Adventure Capital, which invested in ride-sharing start-ups in countries like Bangladesh and Colombia.

A 33-year-old tech CEO was found dismembered in a luxury New York apartment. According to CNN, the man was identified as a tech entrepreneur Fahim Saleh, a venture capitalist and CEO of Gokada, Nigeria's motorcycle ride-hail company.

A 33-year-old tech CEO was found dismembered in a luxury New York apartment. According to CNN, the man was identified as a tech entrepreneur Fahim Saleh, a venture capitalist and CEO of Gokada, Nigeria's motorcycle ride-hail company. He was found dead on Tuesday in an apartment in Manhattan's Lower East Side. Saleh was last seen in surveillance footage on Monday evening, getting into the elevator in his apartment building. A man dressed in all black is seen in the video entering the elevator with him. The elevator in Saleh's building goes straight into the apartment units there. This black clad man is said to be Saleh's assistant. When the CEO's sister went to check in on him, she discovered his torso in an area next to the living room. Other parts of his body were stuffed into individual bags in the apartment. Police haven't yet determined a motive behind the attack. Saleh had founded PrankDial.com, a website for prerecorded prank phone calls that, he wrote in 2018, had generated over $10 million since its start. He continued to found and sell sites throughout his teens and his time at Bentley University. Most recently, he founded the venture capital firm Adventure Capital, which invested in ride-sharing start-ups in countries like Bangladesh and Colombia.

33-year-old tech CEO found dismembered in New York apartment

A US judge in Washington has blocked what would have been the second federal execution in 17 years, hours before it was to take place. Her orders, however, may yet be reversed as the Department of Justice challenges them in higher courts.

The Justice Department had planned to execute Wesley Purkey, convicted of raping and murdering a 16-year-old girl, at 4 pm EDT, despite objections by lawyers that he has dementia and no longer understands his punishment.

Purkey's lawyers complained in a court filing late Wednesday that the Justice Department had revealed at the last minute it held "scientific confirmation" of "significant structural abnormalities in Mr. Purkey’s brain that are consistent with cognitive impairment such as vascular dementia or other conditions."

Early on Wednesday, US District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan in Washington issued two injunctions to allow various legal challenges by some of the 61 inmates on federal death row to continue.

One of the injunctions also prevents the federal government from carrying out all scheduled executions, including Purkey's.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-carries-out-first-federal-execution-in-17-years-313316">Also read |&nbsp;US carries out first federal execution in 17 years</a>

The Justice Department has set execution dates for two other men convicted of murdering children: Dustin Honken on Friday and Keith Nelson on August 28.

The Supreme Court has previously ruled it is "abhorrent" and unconstitutional to execute someone whose mental illness prevents them from comprehending their punishment.

The Justice Department is appealing the injunctions in both the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit and the Supreme Court.

Purkey, 68, was convicted in 2003 in Missouri. He dumped his victim's dismembered and burned remains in a septic pond.

(with inputs from Reuters)

A US judge in Washington has blocked what would have been the second federal execution in 17 years, hours before it was to take place. Her orders, however, may yet be reversed as the Department of Justice challenges them in higher courts.

A US judge in Washington has blocked what would have been the second federal execution in 17 years, hours before it was to take place. Her orders, however, may yet be reversed as the Department of Justice challenges them in higher courts. The Justice Department had planned to execute Wesley Purkey, convicted of raping and murdering a 16-year-old girl, at 4 pm EDT, despite objections by lawyers that he has dementia and no longer understands his punishment. Purkey's lawyers complained in a court filing late Wednesday that the Justice Department had revealed at the last minute it held "scientific confirmation" of "significant structural abnormalities in Mr. Purkey’s brain that are consistent with cognitive impairment such as vascular dementia or other conditions." Early on Wednesday, US District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan in Washington issued two injunctions to allow various legal challenges by some of the 61 inmates on federal death row to continue. One of the injunctions also prevents the federal government from carrying out all scheduled executions, including Purkey's. Also read | US carries out first federal execution in 17 years The Justice Department has set execution dates for two other men convicted of murdering children: Dustin Honken on Friday and Keith Nelson on August 28. The Supreme Court has previously ruled it is "abhorrent" and unconstitutional to execute someone whose mental illness prevents them from comprehending their punishment. The Justice Department is appealing the injunctions in both the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit and the Supreme Court. Purkey, 68, was convicted in 2003 in Missouri. He dumped his victim's dismembered and burned remains in a septic pond. (with inputs from Reuters)

US judge blocks second federal execution in 17 years

A new survey published on Thursday has shown that nearly 42 per cent Germans believe China would replace US as the leading global superpower in the next few decades.&nbsp;

According to the survey conducted by the UK-based YouGov polling institute, only 14 per cent feel that US would retain its position as the superior superpower.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-is-the-biggest-human-rights-abuser-says-china-on-trump-administrations-visa-sanction-on-huawei-employees-313692">US is the biggest human rights abuser, says China on Trump administration's visa sanction on Huawei employees</a>

As many as 4,054 people, who were of 18 years of age and above were participated in the survey, in which they were asked: "Which country, the US or China, will be more powerful in the course of the next 50 years, in your opinion?"

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-mulls-travel-ban-on-92-million-members-of-communist-party-of-china-report-313607">US mulls travel ban on 92 million members of Communist Party of China : Report</a>

Nearly 23 per cent people were unsure and 22 per cent did not give any response to the question.&nbsp;

Interestingly, opinions differed on the basis of party loyalty, for example, supporters of the Left Party predicted China's dominance (54 per cent), while business-friendly Free Democrats and environmentalist Greens believed US will retain its supremacy (54 per cent).&nbsp;

The supporters of far-right Alternative for Germany surprisingly did not favour the US and only 17 per cent predicted US's supremeacy.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A new survey published on Thursday has shown that nearly 42 per cent Germans believe China would replace US as the leading global superpower in the next few decades.

A new survey published on Thursday has shown that nearly 42 per cent Germans believe China would replace US as the leading global superpower in the next few decades. According to the survey conducted by the UK-based YouGov polling institute, only 14 per cent feel that US would retain its position as the superior superpower. Also read | US is the biggest human rights abuser, says China on Trump administration's visa sanction on Huawei employees As many as 4,054 people, who were of 18 years of age and above were participated in the survey, in which they were asked: "Which country, the US or China, will be more powerful in the course of the next 50 years, in your opinion?" Also read | US mulls travel ban on 92 million members of Communist Party of China : Report Nearly 23 per cent people were unsure and 22 per cent did not give any response to the question. Interestingly, opinions differed on the basis of party loyalty, for example, supporters of the Left Party predicted China's dominance (54 per cent), while business-friendly Free Democrats and environmentalist Greens believed US will retain its supremacy (54 per cent). The supporters of far-right Alternative for Germany surprisingly did not favour the US and only 17 per cent predicted US's supremeacy.

Many Germans predict China to replace US as next superpower: Survey

US presidential advisor Ivanka Trump took to Twitter on Tuesday to support Goya Foods after the largest Hispanic-owned US food company became the target of a social media boycott campaign sparked by its CEO's effusive praise for President Donald Trump.

"If it's Goya, it has to be good," Ivanka, daughter of Donald Trump, tweeted the company's slogan in English and then repeated it in Spanish on Tuesday night.

Ivanka's tweet, in which she is seen holding a can of Goya's black beans, garnered over 35,000 retweets and 62,000 likes in little over 4 hours.

However, her comments could violate government ethics rules prohibiting the use of public office to endorse products or advance personal business gains. The US Office of Government Ethics did not immediately respond to Reuters' request for comment.

White House adviser Kellyanne Conway was criticised in 2017 after she appeared to break similar federal ethics rules when she said on television that Americans should "go buy Ivanka's stuff."

The White House did not take any disciplinary action against Conway even after calls from the ethics watchdog.

In an interview with Fox News last week, Conway decried the Goya Foods controversy. "It's just a shame that people make everything so politicized, including food," she said.

The hashtags #Goyaway and #BoycottGoya trended on Twitter after Robert Unanue, chief executive officer of the New Jersey-based company, appeared with Trump at the White House on Thursday for the signing of an executive order creating an advisory panel aimed at spurring Hispanic prosperity.

"We're all truly blessed at the same time to have a leader like President Trump who is a builder, and that’s what my grandfather did,” Unanue, who is the third generation of his family to run the business, had said.

Trump himself weighed in on the dispute late on Friday, writing on Twitter simply: "I LOVE @GoyaFoods!"

US presidential advisor Ivanka Trump took to Twitter on Tuesday to support Goya Foods after the largest Hispanic-owned US food company became the target of a social media boycott campaign sparked by its CEO's effusive praise for President Donald Trump.

US presidential advisor Ivanka Trump took to Twitter on Tuesday to support Goya Foods after the largest Hispanic-owned US food company became the target of a social media boycott campaign sparked by its CEO's effusive praise for President Donald Trump. "If it's Goya, it has to be good," Ivanka, daughter of Donald Trump, tweeted the company's slogan in English and then repeated it in Spanish on Tuesday night. Ivanka's tweet, in which she is seen holding a can of Goya's black beans, garnered over 35,000 retweets and 62,000 likes in little over 4 hours. However, her comments could violate government ethics rules prohibiting the use of public office to endorse products or advance personal business gains. The US Office of Government Ethics did not immediately respond to Reuters' request for comment. White House adviser Kellyanne Conway was criticised in 2017 after she appeared to break similar federal ethics rules when she said on television that Americans should "go buy Ivanka's stuff." The White House did not take any disciplinary action against Conway even after calls from the ethics watchdog. In an interview with Fox News last week, Conway decried the Goya Foods controversy. "It's just a shame that people make everything so politicized, including food," she said. The hashtags #Goyaway and #BoycottGoya trended on Twitter after Robert Unanue, chief executive officer of the New Jersey-based company, appeared with Trump at the White House on Thursday for the signing of an executive order creating an advisory panel aimed at spurring Hispanic prosperity. "We're all truly blessed at the same time to have a leader like President Trump who is a builder, and that’s what my grandfather did,” Unanue, who is the third generation of his family to run the business, had said. Trump himself weighed in on the dispute late on Friday, writing on Twitter simply: "I LOVE @GoyaFoods!"

Ivanka Trump tweets support for Goya Foods amid boycott campaign

United States President Donald Trump has downplayed police violence against Black people, citing “more white people” are killed by police officers.

“And so are white people, so are white people. What a terrible question to ask. So are white people. More white people, by the way. More white people,” Trump said in response to a question during an interview with CBS News. The question was apparently about the number of Black people killed at the hands of US police.

Police violence against African Americans has been at the centre of attention in the United States since May 25 when a Minneapolis police officer knelt on George Floyd's, a Black man, neck for nearly nine minutes. Floyd’s death sparked protests across the United States and the world.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-black-lives-matter-is-a-symbol-of-hate-310187">Also read |&nbsp;Trump says Black Lives Matter is a 'symbol of hate'</a>

According to a Washington Post analysis updated on Monday, half of the people shot and killed by US police are white, but Black Americans are shot at a disproportionate rate. They account for less than 13 per cent of the US population but are killed by police at more than twice the rate of white Americans, the newspaper analysis found.

The recent social unrest also raised new questions about the continued flying of the Confederate battle flag in some areas of the country and whether statues honouring Confederate leaders during the US Civil War should be removed from high-profile public places.

To this end, Trump responded: “I know people that like the Confederate flag and they’re not thinking about slavery.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-lashes-out-at-new-york-mayor-black-lives-matter-leader-308850">Also read |&nbsp;Trump lashes out at New York mayor, Black Lives Matter leader</a>

United States President Donald Trump has downplayed police violence against Black people, citing “more white people” are killed by police officers. “And so are white people, so are white people.

United States President Donald Trump has downplayed police violence against Black people, citing “more white people” are killed by police officers. “And so are white people, so are white people. What a terrible question to ask. So are white people. More white people, by the way. More white people,” Trump said in response to a question during an interview with CBS News. The question was apparently about the number of Black people killed at the hands of US police. Police violence against African Americans has been at the centre of attention in the United States since May 25 when a Minneapolis police officer knelt on George Floyd's, a Black man, neck for nearly nine minutes. Floyd’s death sparked protests across the United States and the world. Also read | Trump says Black Lives Matter is a 'symbol of hate' According to a Washington Post analysis updated on Monday, half of the people shot and killed by US police are white, but Black Americans are shot at a disproportionate rate. They account for less than 13 per cent of the US population but are killed by police at more than twice the rate of white Americans, the newspaper analysis found. The recent social unrest also raised new questions about the continued flying of the Confederate battle flag in some areas of the country and whether statues honouring Confederate leaders during the US Civil War should be removed from high-profile public places. To this end, Trump responded: “I know people that like the Confederate flag and they’re not thinking about slavery.” Also read | Trump lashes out at New York mayor, Black Lives Matter leader

Trump says 'more white people' than Blacks are killed by US police

The US Navy has welcomed its first Black female Tactical Aircraft pilot.

The Naval Air Training Command tweeted that Lt JG Madeline Swegle is the Navy's "first known Black female TACAIR pilot."

"MAKING HISTORY!" the US Navy tweeted in response to a post that Lt. J.G. Madeline Swegle had completed naval flight school and would later this month receive the flight officer insignia known as the "Wings of Gold."

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MAKING HISTORY! <a href="https://t.co/jKJONHvL7S">https://t.co/jKJONHvL7S</a>
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She is assigned to the Redhawks of Training Squadron 21 in Kingsville, Texas.

Swegle's milestone comes more than 45 years after Rosemary Mariner in 1974 became the first woman to fly a tactical fighter jet, according to news outlets.&nbsp;

The US Navy has welcomed its first Black female Tactical Aircraft pilot. The Naval Air Training Command tweeted that Lt JG Madeline Swegle is the Navy's "first known Black female TACAIR pilot.

The US Navy has welcomed its first Black female Tactical Aircraft pilot. The Naval Air Training Command tweeted that Lt JG Madeline Swegle is the Navy's "first known Black female TACAIR pilot." "MAKING HISTORY!" the US Navy tweeted in response to a post that Lt. J.G. Madeline Swegle had completed naval flight school and would later this month receive the flight officer insignia known as the "Wings of Gold." MAKING HISTORY! https://t.co/jKJONHvL7S — U.S. Navy (@USNavy) July 9, 2020 × She is assigned to the Redhawks of Training Squadron 21 in Kingsville, Texas. Swegle's milestone comes more than 45 years after Rosemary Mariner in 1974 became the first woman to fly a tactical fighter jet, according to news outlets.

US Navy welcomes first Black female Tactical Aircraft pilot

At least 26 lawmakers from the Mississippi legislature have been diagnosed with the coronavirus in the biggest known outbreak in any state legislature in the United States. That works out to about 1 in 7 Mississippi legislators.

None of the lawmakers has been hospitalised, according to state officials.

US President Donald Trump has resisted wearing a mask, and many other Republicans around the country have cast face coverings and social distancing as an infringement on their freedom. But around the Mississippi Capitol, wearing a mask was compulsory.

In addition to the legislators, at least 10 people who work in the Capitol have been diagnosed with the virus.

Mississippi has seen a rapid rise in confirmed cases in the past two weeks, with the total hitting nearly 33,600 by Wednesday, including at least 1,200 deaths.

Mississippi legislators were supposed to meet from January through April but went home in mid-March because of the outbreak. They returned briefly in May during a feud with the governor over spending coronavirus relief money from the federal government.

At least 73 lawmakers in 27 states have tested positive for the coronavirus since the outbreak began. Three lawmakers have died, in Louisiana, Michigan and South Dakota.

At least 26 lawmakers from the Mississippi legislature have been diagnosed with the coronavirus in the biggest known outbreak in any state legislature in the United States.

At least 26 lawmakers from the Mississippi legislature have been diagnosed with the coronavirus in the biggest known outbreak in any state legislature in the United States. That works out to about 1 in 7 Mississippi legislators. None of the lawmakers has been hospitalised, according to state officials. US President Donald Trump has resisted wearing a mask, and many other Republicans around the country have cast face coverings and social distancing as an infringement on their freedom. But around the Mississippi Capitol, wearing a mask was compulsory. In addition to the legislators, at least 10 people who work in the Capitol have been diagnosed with the virus. Mississippi has seen a rapid rise in confirmed cases in the past two weeks, with the total hitting nearly 33,600 by Wednesday, including at least 1,200 deaths. Mississippi legislators were supposed to meet from January through April but went home in mid-March because of the outbreak. They returned briefly in May during a feud with the governor over spending coronavirus relief money from the federal government. At least 73 lawmakers in 27 states have tested positive for the coronavirus since the outbreak began. Three lawmakers have died, in Louisiana, Michigan and South Dakota.

Big coronavirus outbreak in US' Mississippi legislature; 26 lawmakers test positive

Prominent Indian-American scientist Dr Parag Chitnis has been appointed as the Acting Director of the prestigious National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), which drives all federally funded agricultural research in the US.

Chitnis was named Associate Director for Programmes earlier this year and leads implementation of NIFA's approximately USD 1.7 billion research projects.

"Dr Chitnis brings more than 31 years of scientific research and experience to the Director's office," US Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue said while announcing the name of Chitnis as NIFA's Acting Director.

Chitnis replaces Dr Scott Angle who accepted a position as Vice President of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Florida in Gainesville.

"He (Chitnis) has been instrumental in providing steady leadership and support to NIFA during its transition to Kansas City last fall, in addition to playing a lead role on NIFA's Project CAF? (Collaboratively Achieving Functional Excellence) initiative which aims to help NIFA maximize business operations to better serve its customers," Perdue said.

Chitnis did his BSc in botany/plant breeding from the Konkan Agricultural University in Maharashtra and an MSc in genetics/biochemistry from New Delhi-based Indian Agricultural Research Institute. He did his PhD in biology from the University of California in Los Angeles.

Prominent Indian-American scientist Dr Parag Chitnis has been appointed as the Acting Director of the prestigious National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), which drives all federally funded agricultural research in the US.

Prominent Indian-American scientist Dr Parag Chitnis has been appointed as the Acting Director of the prestigious National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), which drives all federally funded agricultural research in the US. Chitnis was named Associate Director for Programmes earlier this year and leads implementation of NIFA's approximately USD 1.7 billion research projects. "Dr Chitnis brings more than 31 years of scientific research and experience to the Director's office," US Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue said while announcing the name of Chitnis as NIFA's Acting Director. Chitnis replaces Dr Scott Angle who accepted a position as Vice President of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Florida in Gainesville. "He (Chitnis) has been instrumental in providing steady leadership and support to NIFA during its transition to Kansas City last fall, in addition to playing a lead role on NIFA's Project CAF? (Collaboratively Achieving Functional Excellence) initiative which aims to help NIFA maximize business operations to better serve its customers," Perdue said. Chitnis did his BSc in botany/plant breeding from the Konkan Agricultural University in Maharashtra and an MSc in genetics/biochemistry from New Delhi-based Indian Agricultural Research Institute. He did his PhD in biology from the University of California in Los Angeles.

Indian-American scientist appointed acting head of top US agriculture research organisation

The United States has approved a possible $620 million upgrade package for Patriot surface-to-air missiles to Taiwan, the State Department said, the latest purchase from the United States to deal with a rising threat from China.

The United States, like most countries, has no official diplomatic ties with Taiwan, but is bound by law to provide the democratic island with the means to defend itself.

China, which claims the democratically-ruled island as its own territory, routinely denounces US arms sales to Taiwan.

Taiwan has requested to buy components to upgrade its Patriot missiles "in order to support an operational life of 30 years", the State Department said on Thursday.

Lockheed Martin will be the main contractor and the total estimated cost will be $620 million, it added.

"This proposed sale serves US national, economic, and security interests by supporting the recipient's continuing efforts to modernise its armed forces and to maintain a credible defensive capability," it said.

"The recipient will use this capability as a deterrent to regional threats and to strengthen homeland defence. The recipient will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment into its armed forces."

Taiwan's Defence Ministry said it expected the sale to take effect within the next month.

"This arms sale is the 7th by the Trump administration to Taiwan so far, fully demonstrating the importance attached to our national defence security, consolidating our security partnership with the United States, and jointly maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and the region," the ministry said.

Taiwan has been bolstering its defences in the face of what it sees as increasingly threatening moves by Beijing, such as regular Chinese air force and naval exercises near Taiwan.

While Taiwan's military is well-trained and well-equipped with mostly US-made hardware, China has huge numerical superiority and is adding advanced equipment of its own such as stealth fighters.

The United States has approved a possible $620 million upgrade package for Patriot surface-to-air missiles to Taiwan, the State Department said, the latest purchase from the United States to deal with a rising threat from China.

The United States has approved a possible $620 million upgrade package for Patriot surface-to-air missiles to Taiwan, the State Department said, the latest purchase from the United States to deal with a rising threat from China. The United States, like most countries, has no official diplomatic ties with Taiwan, but is bound by law to provide the democratic island with the means to defend itself. China, which claims the democratically-ruled island as its own territory, routinely denounces US arms sales to Taiwan. Taiwan has requested to buy components to upgrade its Patriot missiles "in order to support an operational life of 30 years", the State Department said on Thursday. Lockheed Martin will be the main contractor and the total estimated cost will be $620 million, it added. "This proposed sale serves US national, economic, and security interests by supporting the recipient's continuing efforts to modernise its armed forces and to maintain a credible defensive capability," it said. "The recipient will use this capability as a deterrent to regional threats and to strengthen homeland defence. The recipient will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment into its armed forces." Taiwan's Defence Ministry said it expected the sale to take effect within the next month. "This arms sale is the 7th by the Trump administration to Taiwan so far, fully demonstrating the importance attached to our national defence security, consolidating our security partnership with the United States, and jointly maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and the region," the ministry said. Taiwan has been bolstering its defences in the face of what it sees as increasingly threatening moves by Beijing, such as regular Chinese air force and naval exercises near Taiwan. While Taiwan's military is well-trained and well-equipped with mostly US-made hardware, China has huge numerical superiority and is adding advanced equipment of its own such as stealth fighters.

US approves $620 million missile upgrade package for Taiwan

The United States has approved the sale of 105 F-35 stealth aircraft to Japan for an estimated $23.11 billion.&nbsp;

Japan had asked to buy 63 F-35A, the traditional version of the electronics-laden fighter aircraft, and 42 F-35B, the short-takeoff and vertical-landing version for aircraft carriers.

Washington approved the transaction, which will improve "the security of a major ally" in the Asia-Pacific region, the statement noted.&nbsp;

"It is vital to US national interest to assist Japan in developing and maintaining a strong and effective self-defense capability," the State Department added.&nbsp;

Japan's 2020/2021 defense budget is a record $50.3 billion, aimed at funding purchases of fighter jets and missile defense as the country eyes the threat from North Korea and China.

Japan has decided to acquire a total of 105 F-35A aircraft over the next decade, in addition to 42 F-35B aircraft.&nbsp;

At the end of 2018, the Japanese government approved a five-year defense plan that includes the entry of two aircraft carriers into its arsenal -- a first since the end of World War II.&nbsp;

The United States has approved the sale of 105 F-35 stealth aircraft to Japan for an estimated $23.11 billion. Japan had asked to buy 63 F-35A, the traditional version of the electronics-laden fighter aircraft, and 42 F-35B, the short-takeoff and vertical-landing version for aircraft carriers.

The United States has approved the sale of 105 F-35 stealth aircraft to Japan for an estimated $23.11 billion. Japan had asked to buy 63 F-35A, the traditional version of the electronics-laden fighter aircraft, and 42 F-35B, the short-takeoff and vertical-landing version for aircraft carriers. Washington approved the transaction, which will improve "the security of a major ally" in the Asia-Pacific region, the statement noted. "It is vital to US national interest to assist Japan in developing and maintaining a strong and effective self-defense capability," the State Department added. Japan's 2020/2021 defense budget is a record $50.3 billion, aimed at funding purchases of fighter jets and missile defense as the country eyes the threat from North Korea and China. Japan has decided to acquire a total of 105 F-35A aircraft over the next decade, in addition to 42 F-35B aircraft. At the end of 2018, the Japanese government approved a five-year defense plan that includes the entry of two aircraft carriers into its arsenal -- a first since the end of World War II.

US to sell 105 F-35 stealth fighters to Japan

In a major verdict, the US Supreme Court ruled that President Donald Trump must hand over his tax returns.

US Supreme Court rules on Donald Trump's tax records

China said Friday it will impose tit-for-tat measures on US institutions and individuals who "behave badly" on Xinjiang-related issues after Washington slapped sanctions on Chinese officials over a crackdown on Uighurs and other Turkic Muslims in the region.

The Chinese response came after the US announced visa bans and an assets freeze on three officials, including Chen Quanquo, the Chinese Communist Party chief in Xinjiang and architect of Beijing's hardline policies against restive minorities.

"The US actions seriously interfere in China's internal affairs, seriously violate the basic norms of international relations, and seriously damage China-US relations," foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said in a briefing.

"In response to the wrong actions of the US, China has decided to impose reciprocal measures against the relevant US institutions and individuals who behave badly on Xinjiang-related issues," Zhao said without providing details about the sanctions.

Witnesses and human rights groups say that China has rounded up more than one million Uighurs and other Turkic Muslims in Xinjiang in a vast brainwashing campaign aimed at forcibly homogenising minorities into the country's Han majority.

China counters that the facilities are benign vocational education centres where "students" learn Mandarin and job skills in an effort to eradicate extremism following a spate of deadly violence.

China said Friday it will impose tit-for-tat measures on US institutions and individuals who "behave badly" on Xinjiang-related issues after Washington slapped sanctions on Chinese officials over a crackdown on Uighurs and other Turkic Muslims in the region.

China said Friday it will impose tit-for-tat measures on US institutions and individuals who "behave badly" on Xinjiang-related issues after Washington slapped sanctions on Chinese officials over a crackdown on Uighurs and other Turkic Muslims in the region. The Chinese response came after the US announced visa bans and an assets freeze on three officials, including Chen Quanquo, the Chinese Communist Party chief in Xinjiang and architect of Beijing's hardline policies against restive minorities. "The US actions seriously interfere in China's internal affairs, seriously violate the basic norms of international relations, and seriously damage China-US relations," foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said in a briefing. "In response to the wrong actions of the US, China has decided to impose reciprocal measures against the relevant US institutions and individuals who behave badly on Xinjiang-related issues," Zhao said without providing details about the sanctions. Witnesses and human rights groups say that China has rounded up more than one million Uighurs and other Turkic Muslims in Xinjiang in a vast brainwashing campaign aimed at forcibly homogenising minorities into the country's Han majority. China counters that the facilities are benign vocational education centres where "students" learn Mandarin and job skills in an effort to eradicate extremism following a spate of deadly violence.

China to hit US with 'reciprocal measures' over Xinjiang sanctions

Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Vindman, who provided damning impeachment evidence against United States President Donald Trump, retired from the army on Wednesday. His attorney said he was subjected to a campaign of "bullying, intimidation and retaliation."

Vindman was up for promotion to full colonel. He was fired from his position on the National Security Council at the White House in February, two days after Trump was acquitted by the Republican-majority Senate.

LTC Vindman's patriotism has cost him his career, the attorney said.

"Through a campaign of bullying, intimidation, and retaliation, the president of the United States attempted to force LTC Vindman to choose: Between adhering to the law or pleasing a President. Between honoring his oath or protecting his career. These are choices that no one in the United States should confront, especially one who has dedicated his life to serving it," he added.

Vindman was present during the July 25, 2019 phone call during which Trump asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to open an investigation into Biden.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-to-cut-off-funding-to-us-schools-if-they-dont-reopen-by-november-311787">Also read |&nbsp;Trump threatens to cut off funding to US schools if they don't reopen by November</a>

Subpoenaed by Congress to testify at the House impeachment hearings, the Ukrainian-born Vindman, who received a Purple Heart for wounds suffered in Iraq, said Trump's actions were "improper."

That testimony helped build the case leading to Trump becoming only the third president ever impeached by Congress.

John Bolton, who served as Trump's National Security Advisor when Vindman was at the White House, told MSNBC television that his performance had been "exceptional."

Vindman's twin brother, a lawyer on the National Security Council, was not called to publically testify but was also forced out of his White House position in February.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-fires-intelligence-official-who-had-key-impeachment-role-290551">Also read |&nbsp;Trump fires intelligence official who had key impeachment role</a>

Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Vindman, who provided damning impeachment evidence against United States President Donald Trump, retired from the army on Wednesday.

Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Vindman, who provided damning impeachment evidence against United States President Donald Trump, retired from the army on Wednesday. His attorney said he was subjected to a campaign of "bullying, intimidation and retaliation." Vindman was up for promotion to full colonel. He was fired from his position on the National Security Council at the White House in February, two days after Trump was acquitted by the Republican-majority Senate. LTC Vindman's patriotism has cost him his career, the attorney said. "Through a campaign of bullying, intimidation, and retaliation, the president of the United States attempted to force LTC Vindman to choose: Between adhering to the law or pleasing a President. Between honoring his oath or protecting his career. These are choices that no one in the United States should confront, especially one who has dedicated his life to serving it," he added. Vindman was present during the July 25, 2019 phone call during which Trump asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to open an investigation into Biden. Also read | Trump threatens to cut off funding to US schools if they don't reopen by November Subpoenaed by Congress to testify at the House impeachment hearings, the Ukrainian-born Vindman, who received a Purple Heart for wounds suffered in Iraq, said Trump's actions were "improper." That testimony helped build the case leading to Trump becoming only the third president ever impeached by Congress. John Bolton, who served as Trump's National Security Advisor when Vindman was at the White House, told MSNBC television that his performance had been "exceptional." Vindman's twin brother, a lawyer on the National Security Council, was not called to publically testify but was also forced out of his White House position in February. Also read | Trump fires intelligence official who had key impeachment role

Key impeachment witness quits army. Is Trump's bullying the reason?

The United States has stressed the importance of resuming talks with North Korea, South Korea said on Thursday, even though North Korea has said it has no intention of returning to the negotiating table.

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun, who wound up three days of talks in Seoul, earlier rejected speculation he was seeking to meet North Korean officials during his visit, but said the United States was open to talks.

“Biegun emphasised the importance of reopening dialogue with North Korea,” the office of South Korean President Moon Jae-in said in a statement.

Biegun, the top U.S. envoy on efforts to press North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons, met South Korea’s national security adviser, Suh Hoon.

Biegun is due to arrive in Japan later on Thursday.

South Korea has been trying to promote peace efforts and Suh was instrumental in arranging summits between U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Trump and Kim met for the first time in 2018 in Singapore, raising hopes for a negotiated end to North Korea’s nuclear programme. But their second summit, in 2019 in Vietnam, and later working-level talks, fell apart.

Trump said on Tuesday he was open to another meeting with Kim and thought it might be helpful, Voice of America said, citing a transcript of Trump interview with Gray Television, due to be aired on Sunday.

But North Korea, apparently frustrated that there’s been no sign of any easing of punishing sanctions against it, has said in recent weeks it had no intention of sitting down again with the United States.

Tension flared last month when North Korea blew up a joint North-South liaison office on its side of the border, before just as suddenly dropping a threat of military action against the South.

Biegun has led working-level talks with North Korea but the negotiations have been stalled since the two sides last met in Sweden in October.

The United States has stressed the importance of resuming talks with North Korea, South Korea said on Thursday, even though North Korea has said it has no intention of returning to the negotiating table.

The United States has stressed the importance of resuming talks with North Korea, South Korea said on Thursday, even though North Korea has said it has no intention of returning to the negotiating table. U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun, who wound up three days of talks in Seoul, earlier rejected speculation he was seeking to meet North Korean officials during his visit, but said the United States was open to talks. “Biegun emphasised the importance of reopening dialogue with North Korea,” the office of South Korean President Moon Jae-in said in a statement. Biegun, the top U.S. envoy on efforts to press North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons, met South Korea’s national security adviser, Suh Hoon. Biegun is due to arrive in Japan later on Thursday. South Korea has been trying to promote peace efforts and Suh was instrumental in arranging summits between U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Trump and Kim met for the first time in 2018 in Singapore, raising hopes for a negotiated end to North Korea’s nuclear programme. But their second summit, in 2019 in Vietnam, and later working-level talks, fell apart. Trump said on Tuesday he was open to another meeting with Kim and thought it might be helpful, Voice of America said, citing a transcript of Trump interview with Gray Television, due to be aired on Sunday. But North Korea, apparently frustrated that there’s been no sign of any easing of punishing sanctions against it, has said in recent weeks it had no intention of sitting down again with the United States. Tension flared last month when North Korea blew up a joint North-South liaison office on its side of the border, before just as suddenly dropping a threat of military action against the South. Biegun has led working-level talks with North Korea but the negotiations have been stalled since the two sides last met in Sweden in October.

US sees importance of North Korea talks despite tension, South says

China would "be happy to" participate in trilateral arms control negotiations with the United States and Russia, but only if the US were willing to reduce its nuclear arsenal to its level.

New START is a flagship nuclear arms treaty between the United States and Russia that is due to expire in February next year. Washington has repeatedly called for China to join in trilateral negotiations.

Fu Cong, head of the arms control department of Chinese foreign ministry, reiterated to reporters in Beijing on Wednesday that China has no interest in joining the negotiation with former Cold War-era superpowers, given that the US nuclear arsenal is about 20 times the size of China's.

"I can assure you, if the U.S. says that they are ready to come down to the Chinese level, China would be happy to participate the next day," he said. "But actually, we know that's not going to happen."

"The real purpose is to get rid of all restrictions and have a free hand in seeking military superiority over any adversary, real or imagined," said Fu.

Fu maintained China was prepared to discuss within the framework of the United Nations Security Council's five permanent members all issues related to the reduction of nuclear risks.

(with inputs from Reuters)

China would "be happy to" participate in trilateral arms control negotiations with the United States and Russia, but only if the US were willing to reduce its nuclear arsenal to its level.

China would "be happy to" participate in trilateral arms control negotiations with the United States and Russia, but only if the US were willing to reduce its nuclear arsenal to its level. New START is a flagship nuclear arms treaty between the United States and Russia that is due to expire in February next year. Washington has repeatedly called for China to join in trilateral negotiations. Fu Cong, head of the arms control department of Chinese foreign ministry, reiterated to reporters in Beijing on Wednesday that China has no interest in joining the negotiation with former Cold War-era superpowers, given that the US nuclear arsenal is about 20 times the size of China's. "I can assure you, if the U.S. says that they are ready to come down to the Chinese level, China would be happy to participate the next day," he said. "But actually, we know that's not going to happen." "The real purpose is to get rid of all restrictions and have a free hand in seeking military superiority over any adversary, real or imagined," said Fu. Fu maintained China was prepared to discuss within the framework of the United Nations Security Council's five permanent members all issues related to the reduction of nuclear risks. (with inputs from Reuters)

China challenges US to cut nuclear arsenal to its level

US President Donald Trump's niece paints him as a lying narcissist who was shaped by his domineering father in her memoir.

The memoir is due out on July 14 amid a legal battle to stop its publication and is already a best-seller on Amazon.

The 240-page book says Trump is a product of his "sociopath" father Fred Trump who created an abusive and traumatic home life, The Washington Post reported.

The memoir is billed as the first unflattering portrayal of Trump by a family insider.

She writes that her uncle meets all the clinical criteria for being a narcissist, according to The New York Times.

Mary, a clinical psychologist, also writes that Trump saw "cheating as a way of life," according to The New York Times. She alleges that the future US leader paid someone else to take the SAT pre-collegiate exam, helping him get into the University of Pennsylvania's prestigious Wharton business school.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-paid-proxy-to-take-college-entrance-exam-for-him-claims-nieces-new-book-311508">Also read |&nbsp;Trump paid proxy to take college entrance exam for him, claims niece's new book</a>

Mary is the daughter of Fred Trump Jr, Trump's older brother, who died in 1981 from complications related to alcoholism.

The president's younger brother Robert Trump tried to block publication, arguing that Mary was violating a non-disclosure agreement signed in 2001 after the settlement of her grandfather's estate.

The book is set to be the latest bombshell book to dish dirt on Trump after former aide John Bolton's tome, which describes the Republican leader as corrupt and incompetent, hit shelves last month.

The White House immediately hit back, describing Mary Trump's "Too Much and Never Enough: How My Family Created the World's Most Dangerous Man" as "a book of falsehoods."

"(The president) said his father was loving and not at all hard on him as a child," deputy White House press secretary Sarah Matthews said in response.

"Mary Trump and her book's publisher may claim to be acting in the public interest, but this book is clearly in the author's own financial self-interest," she added.

Trump has also described that book as "fiction."

US President Donald Trump's niece paints him as a lying narcissist who was shaped by his domineering father in her memoir. The memoir is due out on July 14 amid a legal battle to stop its publication and is already a best-seller on Amazon.

US President Donald Trump's niece paints him as a lying narcissist who was shaped by his domineering father in her memoir. The memoir is due out on July 14 amid a legal battle to stop its publication and is already a best-seller on Amazon. The 240-page book says Trump is a product of his "sociopath" father Fred Trump who created an abusive and traumatic home life, The Washington Post reported. The memoir is billed as the first unflattering portrayal of Trump by a family insider. She writes that her uncle meets all the clinical criteria for being a narcissist, according to The New York Times. Mary, a clinical psychologist, also writes that Trump saw "cheating as a way of life," according to The New York Times. She alleges that the future US leader paid someone else to take the SAT pre-collegiate exam, helping him get into the University of Pennsylvania's prestigious Wharton business school. Also read | Trump paid proxy to take college entrance exam for him, claims niece's new book Mary is the daughter of Fred Trump Jr, Trump's older brother, who died in 1981 from complications related to alcoholism. The president's younger brother Robert Trump tried to block publication, arguing that Mary was violating a non-disclosure agreement signed in 2001 after the settlement of her grandfather's estate. The book is set to be the latest bombshell book to dish dirt on Trump after former aide John Bolton's tome, which describes the Republican leader as corrupt and incompetent, hit shelves last month. The White House immediately hit back, describing Mary Trump's "Too Much and Never Enough: How My Family Created the World's Most Dangerous Man" as "a book of falsehoods." "(The president) said his father was loving and not at all hard on him as a child," deputy White House press secretary Sarah Matthews said in response. "Mary Trump and her book's publisher may claim to be acting in the public interest, but this book is clearly in the author's own financial self-interest," she added. Trump has also described that book as "fiction."

Trump a 'lying narcissist shaped by his bullying father', niece says, as White House cries foul

The world had been enjoying great freedom of movement, allowing people to travel from one country to another with little formalities to be done. And then came the travel bans amid the coronavirus pandemic.

A new ranking of passports has hence found that US citizens have had their freedoms severely curtailed by the coronavirus pandemic.

According to the latest Henley Passport Index, US passports have access to 158 countries, 27 less than before coronavirus and largely due to the EU's decision to temporarily ban travellers from the US.

Japan is top of the leaderboard, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 191 destinations around the world.

Singapore is in second place (with a score of 190) and South Korea ties with Germany in third place (with a score of 189).

The United States is currently placed seventh in official index, but under the current EU ban, Americans have around the same level of travel freedom as citizens of Mexico (No. 25 on Henley Passport Index, with a score of 159) and Uruguay (No. 28, with a score of 153).

India, with access to 58 countries, stands at the 85th spot.

<img alt="India ranking" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3e02ade5-4a9b-4623-b24d-2a8f0d328a10" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/india%20rankking.jpg" />

The best passports to hold in 2020 are:

1. Japan (191 destinations) 
2. Singapore (190) 
3. South Korea, Germany (189) 
4. Italy, Finland, Spain, Luxembourg (188) 
5. Denmark, Austria (187) 
6. Sweden, France, Portugal, Netherlands, Ireland (186) 
7. Switzerland, United States, United Kingdom, Norway, Belgium (185) 
8. Greece, New Zealand, Malta, Czech Republic (184) 
9. Canada, Australia (183) 
10. Hungary (181)

Pakistan is one of the last four in the list of 109.

106. Pakistan (32) 
107. Syria (29) 
108. Iraq (28) 
109. Afghanistan (26)

The Henley Passport Index is based on data provided by the International Air Transport Authority (IATA) and covers 199 passports and 227 travel destinations. It is updated in real time throughout the year, as and when visa policy changes come into effect.

The world had been enjoying great freedom of movement, allowing people to travel from one country to another with little formalities to be done. And then came the travel bans amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The world had been enjoying great freedom of movement, allowing people to travel from one country to another with little formalities to be done. And then came the travel bans amid the coronavirus pandemic. A new ranking of passports has hence found that US citizens have had their freedoms severely curtailed by the coronavirus pandemic. According to the latest Henley Passport Index, US passports have access to 158 countries, 27 less than before coronavirus and largely due to the EU's decision to temporarily ban travellers from the US. Japan is top of the leaderboard, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 191 destinations around the world. Singapore is in second place (with a score of 190) and South Korea ties with Germany in third place (with a score of 189). The United States is currently placed seventh in official index, but under the current EU ban, Americans have around the same level of travel freedom as citizens of Mexico (No. 25 on Henley Passport Index, with a score of 159) and Uruguay (No. 28, with a score of 153). India, with access to 58 countries, stands at the 85th spot. The best passports to hold in 2020 are: 1. Japan (191 destinations) 2. Singapore (190) 3. South Korea, Germany (189) 4. Italy, Finland, Spain, Luxembourg (188) 5. Denmark, Austria (187) 6. Sweden, France, Portugal, Netherlands, Ireland (186) 7. Switzerland, United States, United Kingdom, Norway, Belgium (185) 8. Greece, New Zealand, Malta, Czech Republic (184) 9. Canada, Australia (183) 10. Hungary (181) Pakistan is one of the last four in the list of 109. 106. Pakistan (32) 107. Syria (29) 108. Iraq (28) 109. Afghanistan (26) The Henley Passport Index is based on data provided by the International Air Transport Authority (IATA) and covers 199 passports and 227 travel destinations. It is updated in real time throughout the year, as and when visa policy changes come into effect.

US passport is now on par with Mexico

Moscow has angrily told the US embassy to "mind your own business" after Washington's diplomatic mission raised concern about curbs on media freedom in Russia.

Rebecca Ross, the spokeswoman for the US embassy, on Tuesday expressed concern about a clampdown on journalists in Russia.

"Watching arrest after arrest of Russian journalists – it's starting to look like a concerted campaign against #MediaFreedom," she tweeted.

"Mind your own business," the Russian foreign ministry tweeted late Tuesday.

Earlier that day the FSB security agency, the successor to the Soviet-era KGB, arrested a respected former journalist, Ivan Safronov, 30, on suspicion of state treason.&nbsp;

His detention sparked an uproar among supporters and journalists who say his arrest is punishment for his coverage of Russia's defence sector.

A member of Safronov's defence team, Yevgeny Smirnov, has said the former journalist, who used to work for Kommersant and Vedomosti newspapers, is suspected of cooperating with Czech intelligence since 2012.&nbsp;

The FSB investigators believe that the Czech intelligence acts under the guidance of the United States, Smirnov told AFP.

The FSB says that Safronov has collected&nbsp;confidential data about the Russian military, defence, and security and handed it over to the intelligence of a NATO member country.

On Monday, a reporter from the northwestern city of Pskov was fined nearly $7,000 for "justifying terrorism", in a case that sparked an outcry.

Prosecutors had requested that Svetlana Prokopyeva be sentenced to six years in prison for a commentary about a bomb attack.

All major TV stations are under state control in Russia.&nbsp;

Journalists working for print and online outlets have recently complained about increasing curbs on press freedoms and pressure from the Kremlin.

Moscow has angrily told the US embassy to "mind your own business" after Washington's diplomatic mission raised concern about curbs on media freedom in Russia. Rebecca Ross, the spokeswoman for the US embassy, on Tuesday expressed concern about a clampdown on journalists in Russia.

Moscow has angrily told the US embassy to "mind your own business" after Washington's diplomatic mission raised concern about curbs on media freedom in Russia. Rebecca Ross, the spokeswoman for the US embassy, on Tuesday expressed concern about a clampdown on journalists in Russia. "Watching arrest after arrest of Russian journalists – it's starting to look like a concerted campaign against #MediaFreedom," she tweeted. "Mind your own business," the Russian foreign ministry tweeted late Tuesday. Earlier that day the FSB security agency, the successor to the Soviet-era KGB, arrested a respected former journalist, Ivan Safronov, 30, on suspicion of state treason. His detention sparked an uproar among supporters and journalists who say his arrest is punishment for his coverage of Russia's defence sector. A member of Safronov's defence team, Yevgeny Smirnov, has said the former journalist, who used to work for Kommersant and Vedomosti newspapers, is suspected of cooperating with Czech intelligence since 2012. The FSB investigators believe that the Czech intelligence acts under the guidance of the United States, Smirnov told AFP. The FSB says that Safronov has collected confidential data about the Russian military, defence, and security and handed it over to the intelligence of a NATO member country. On Monday, a reporter from the northwestern city of Pskov was fined nearly $7,000 for "justifying terrorism", in a case that sparked an outcry. Prosecutors had requested that Svetlana Prokopyeva be sentenced to six years in prison for a commentary about a bomb attack. All major TV stations are under state control in Russia. Journalists working for print and online outlets have recently complained about increasing curbs on press freedoms and pressure from the Kremlin.

Russia tells US to 'mind own business' over media freedom

China on Wednesday said it would impose visa restrictions on US citizens who have engaged in what it called egregious behaviour over Tibet. This move has come in an apparent retaliation against US restrictions on some Chinese officials.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian told reporters that Beijing would allow no foreign interference in Tibetan affairs.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, citing what he called human rights abuses by the Chinese government in Tibetan areas, said on Tuesday the United States would restrict visas for some Chinese officials because Beijing obstructs travel to the region by US diplomats, journalists and tourists.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-restrict-visas-for-chinese-officials-over-tibet-pompeo-says-311478">Also read | US will restrict visas for Chinese officials over Tibet, Pompeo says</a>

The United States has increasingly been issuing such visa sanctions, including over China's recent clampdown on rights in Hong Kong and its ongoing incarceration of some one million Uighurs and other Turkic Muslims.

The Tibet action comes after a 2018 law passed by Congress that aims to pressure China over its tight restrictions in the region.

Beijing has largely barred foreign journalists from visiting Tibet since 2008, when the region saw a wave of self-immolations as protests to conditions and has not responded to US requests to set up a consulate in Lhasa.

By contrast, the law notes that Chinese nationals face no restrictions on visiting any part of the United States. 
&nbsp;

China on Wednesday said it would impose visa restrictions on US citizens who have engaged in what it called egregious behaviour over Tibet. This move has come in an apparent retaliation against US restrictions on some Chinese officials.

China on Wednesday said it would impose visa restrictions on US citizens who have engaged in what it called egregious behaviour over Tibet. This move has come in an apparent retaliation against US restrictions on some Chinese officials. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian told reporters that Beijing would allow no foreign interference in Tibetan affairs. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, citing what he called human rights abuses by the Chinese government in Tibetan areas, said on Tuesday the United States would restrict visas for some Chinese officials because Beijing obstructs travel to the region by US diplomats, journalists and tourists. Also read | US will restrict visas for Chinese officials over Tibet, Pompeo says The United States has increasingly been issuing such visa sanctions, including over China's recent clampdown on rights in Hong Kong and its ongoing incarceration of some one million Uighurs and other Turkic Muslims. The Tibet action comes after a 2018 law passed by Congress that aims to pressure China over its tight restrictions in the region. Beijing has largely barred foreign journalists from visiting Tibet since 2008, when the region saw a wave of self-immolations as protests to conditions and has not responded to US requests to set up a consulate in Lhasa. By contrast, the law notes that Chinese nationals face no restrictions on visiting any part of the United States.

China to impose visa restrictions on US citizens over Tibet

7 killer viruses that emerged in China and ravaged the world

The United States continues to struggle with a fresh spike in coronavirus cases as the country recorded 39,379 new cases in the last 24 hours, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University on Sunday.&nbsp;

The US also saw 234 new fatalities, taking the total toll to 129,891 as overall cases stand at 2,876,143.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-fda-commissioner-declines-to-defend-trumps-claim-that-99-of-covid-19-cases-are-harmless-310915">US FDA commissioner declines to defend Trump's claim that 99% of COVID-19 cases are 'harmless'</a>

The latest figures are a part of a new surge in infections and include a high of 57,683 on Friday.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-6-million-people-have-recovered-from-covid-19-globally-johns-hopkins-university-310952">Over 6 million people have recovered from COVID-19 globally: Johns Hopkins University</a>

The drop witnessed on Sunday could be because of less reporting on the July 4th national holiday weekend.

By a massive margin, the US has suffered the most from the coronavirus pandemic and struggled to contain the infections and deaths.&nbsp;

In recent days, 15 states have confirmed a record increase in COVID-19 infections, which forced many towns and cities to cancel traditional Independence Day fireworks.&nbsp;

In three out of the last four days, Florida recorded over 10,000 cases, including a jump of 10,059 on Sunday, which is more than the highest daily tally witnessed by any European country when they witnessed the peak of the outbreak.&nbsp;

California, Texas, and Arizona are also witnessing a surge in cases, and Midwest states that once had low infections tally are seeing an uptick, such as Ohio, Michigan, and Iowa, according to a Reuters analysis.&nbsp;

(With inputs from AFP and Reuters)

The United States continues to struggle with a fresh spike in coronavirus cases as the country recorded 39,379 new cases in the last 24 hours, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University on Sunday.

The United States continues to struggle with a fresh spike in coronavirus cases as the country recorded 39,379 new cases in the last 24 hours, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University on Sunday. The US also saw 234 new fatalities, taking the total toll to 129,891 as overall cases stand at 2,876,143. Also read | US FDA commissioner declines to defend Trump's claim that 99% of COVID-19 cases are 'harmless' The latest figures are a part of a new surge in infections and include a high of 57,683 on Friday. Also read | Over 6 million people have recovered from COVID-19 globally: Johns Hopkins University The drop witnessed on Sunday could be because of less reporting on the July 4th national holiday weekend. By a massive margin, the US has suffered the most from the coronavirus pandemic and struggled to contain the infections and deaths. In recent days, 15 states have confirmed a record increase in COVID-19 infections, which forced many towns and cities to cancel traditional Independence Day fireworks. In three out of the last four days, Florida recorded over 10,000 cases, including a jump of 10,059 on Sunday, which is more than the highest daily tally witnessed by any European country when they witnessed the peak of the outbreak. California, Texas, and Arizona are also witnessing a surge in cases, and Midwest states that once had low infections tally are seeing an uptick, such as Ohio, Michigan, and Iowa, according to a Reuters analysis. (With inputs from AFP and Reuters)

Coronavirus US update: Nearly 40,000 new cases bring tally close to 3 million

Watch the story of an Indian H-1B visa holder unable to reunite with family in the US.

Indian H-1B visa holder unable to reunite with family in US

The home ministry has blacklisted Houston based Pakistani event manager Rehan Siddiqui associated with organising Bollywood events in the US. The issue surfaced earlier this year when the link between Rehan Siddiqui's organising of Bollywood events and his funding of anti-India propaganda especially related Kashmir had surfaced. He has been associated with organising Bollywood events in the US, something that had been highlighted by the diaspora.

The matter was raised by Shiv Sena MP Rahul Shewale from Mumbai South-Central constituency. The MP from Mumbai had written a letter on February 15th to the home minister highlighting the issue requesting him, "to desist Indian artists to collude with anti-India elements in the US".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-global-image-continues-to-worsen-pia-suspension-in-eu-latest-fallout-310309">Pakistan's global image continues to worsen, PIA suspension in EU latest fallout</a>

In a letter tweeted by the MP from MoS Home G Krishna Reddy said, "I have got the issue examined. The MEA has apprised that Rehan Siddiqui... has&nbsp;been blacklisted on the recommendation of the consulate general of India, Houston".&nbsp;

The MHA, via the MEA, has requested Indian mission in Washington DC and consulate general in India in Houston to engage with cultural bodies "bona fide Bollywood affiliates local entities to ensure that appropriate message is conveyed to Indian actors and artists so that they disassociate themselves from such anti-national elements".

The Rehan Siddiqui incident had caused a lot of social media backlash with calls to boycott the event organised by him for Bollywood.

The home ministry has blacklisted Houston based Pakistani event manager Rehan Siddiqui associated with organising Bollywood events in the US. The issue surfaced earlier this year when the link between Rehan Siddiqui's organising of Bollywood events and his funding of anti-India propaganda especially related Kashmir had surfaced.

The home ministry has blacklisted Houston based Pakistani event manager Rehan Siddiqui associated with organising Bollywood events in the US. The issue surfaced earlier this year when the link between Rehan Siddiqui's organising of Bollywood events and his funding of anti-India propaganda especially related Kashmir had surfaced. He has been associated with organising Bollywood events in the US, something that had been highlighted by the diaspora. The matter was raised by Shiv Sena MP Rahul Shewale from Mumbai South-Central constituency. The MP from Mumbai had written a letter on February 15th to the home minister highlighting the issue requesting him, "to desist Indian artists to collude with anti-India elements in the US". Also read | Pakistan's global image continues to worsen, PIA suspension in EU latest fallout In a letter tweeted by the MP from MoS Home G Krishna Reddy said, "I have got the issue examined. The MEA has apprised that Rehan Siddiqui... has been blacklisted on the recommendation of the consulate general of India, Houston". The MHA, via the MEA, has requested Indian mission in Washington DC and consulate general in India in Houston to engage with cultural bodies "bona fide Bollywood affiliates local entities to ensure that appropriate message is conveyed to Indian actors and artists so that they disassociate themselves from such anti-national elements". The Rehan Siddiqui incident had caused a lot of social media backlash with calls to boycott the event organised by him for Bollywood.

India blacklists Pakistani organiser of Bollywood events in Houston

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