As Joe Biden took office as the 46th President of the United States, all eyes are now on West Asia. On this week's West Asia Post, Ghadi Francis tells you what a Biden White House could mean for the region. For more such stories, keep watching the West Asia post with Ghadi Francis every Friday at 8:30 PM IST, only on WION.

The West Asia Post | What will a Biden White House mean for West Asia?

Over 150 National Guard troops deployed to Washington, DC for the inauguration of President Joe Biden have tested positive for coronavirus. Biden was sworn in as US president on January 21.

Over 150 troops deployed for Biden's inauguration test positive for Coronavirus

U.S.: President-elect Joe Biden became emotional during a brief farewell ceremony in Delaware on Tuesday before heading to Washington D.C. for his inauguration

Joe Biden gives emotional farewell in Delaware en route to Washington D.C.

National Guardsmen began arriving at the Capitol last week and eventually around 25,000 are expected to be involved in security efforts.

Why has U.S. become a divided and angry nation?

The announcement of the removals came as the Pentagon was intensifying efforts to identify and combat white supremacy and other far-right extremism in its ranks.

12 National Guardsmen removed from Inauguration security duties over extremist links

According to the reports, Donald Trump has decided to form a new political party called the 'Patriot Party'. He has discussed the same with his supporters, as per The Wall Street Journal.

Speculations about Trump's political endeavours continue

A night before the much-awaited inauguration day US President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris took part in an evening ceremony at the reflecting pool near the Lincoln Memorial to honour the 400,000 American lives lost to COVID-19.

Prez Biden and Vice-Prez Harris's first event after arriving in Washington

On Monday, dozens of armed demonstrators gathered at the Richmond, Virginia putting authorities on high alert at Capitals across the United States.

Heavily armed, rival groups rally in Virginia has cops on high alert

Joe Biden and Kamala Harris inauguration preparations are underway in Washington DC amid tight security. The field of flags display in the National Monument Washington DC was put up by the Biden inaugural committee.

US: Over 191,000 flags put up by Biden inaugural committee

2 days before Joe Biden's inauguration, all 50 states of the US are on alert for armed protests. 25,000 troops have been deployed to guard Washington DC. It's the biggest security presence for any inauguration in US History. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Ahead of Biden's inauguration, Washington turned into a garrison city

Are U.S. troops becoming a threat to American democracy? Defence officials fear that U.S. service members could stage an attack during the Biden's inauguration. They are now vetting 25,000 National Guard Officers. WION's Palki Sharma has the details.

Gravitas: FBI to vet 25,000 National Guard Officers

Joe Biden will enter the White House with a long to-do list. In the first 10 days, the President-elect plans to reverse several controversial decisions of Donald Trump. WION's Palki Sharma tells you what's on Biden's agenda.

Gravitas: Joe Biden's plans for the first 10 days in office

Thousands of security personnel from the National Guard Law & Enforcement Agency is descending upon the US Capital, Washington DC for Joe Biden’s inauguration as president on Wednesday.

Washington on high alert ahead of Biden inauguration

Following the deadly insurrection at the US Capitol by Pro-Trump rioters, serious scrutiny and security concerns have gripped Washington. US defence officials are now worried about an insider attack or other threat from service members securing the Joe Biden's inauguration.

FBI vetting guard troops amid fears of insider attack

Michigan, Virginia, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania and Washington were among more than a dozen states that activated their National Guards to strengthen security.

US state capitals, Washington on alert for possible pro-Donald Trump armed protests

Donald Trump, whose "seditious rhetoric" incited a violent attack on the Capitol, is a "menace" and is unfit to remain in office and must be removed, US media outlets have asserted, as they tore into the American President, demanding that he be held accountable through impeachment proceedings or criminal prosecution.

Thousands of Trump's supporters stormed the US Capitol and clashed with police on Wednesday, resulting in at least the death of four persons and interrupting a constitutional process to affirm President-elect Joe Biden's victory in the election.

In an editorial titled 'Trump is to blame for Capitol attack', The New York Times said, "President Trump and his Republican enablers in Congress incited a violent attack Wednesday against the government they lead and the nation they profess to love. This cannot be allowed to stand."

The NYT editorial said Trump's "seditious rhetoric" prompted a mob of thousands of people to storm the US Capitol building, some breaking onto the House and Senate floors, where the nation's elected representatives had gathered to perform their constitutional duty of counting electoral votes and confirming the election of Joe Biden as president.

"The president needs to be held accountable, through impeachment proceedings or criminal prosecution, and the same goes for his supporters who carried out the violence. In time, there should be an investigation of the failure of the Capitol Police to prepare for an attack that was announced and planned in public," the report said.

"This is not just an attack on the results of the 2020 election. It is a precedent, a permission slip for similar opposition to the outcomes of future elections. It must be clearly rejected, and placed beyond the pale of permissible conduct. The leaders of the Republican Party also bear a measure of responsibility for the attack on the Capitol," it said.

The Washington Post in an editorial titled 'Trump caused the assault on the Capitol.

He must be removed' said the president's "refusal to accept his election defeat and his relentless incitement of his supporters led Wednesday to the unthinkable: an assault on the US Capitol by a violent mob that overwhelmed police and drove Congress from its chambers as it was debating the counting of electoral votes".

"Responsibility for this act of sedition lies squarely with the president, who has shown that his continued tenure in office poses a grave threat to US democracy. He should be removed," the Post editorial said.

Trump is "unfit" to remain in office for the next 14 days, when on January 20 President-elect Joe Biden will be sworn-in as the next leader of America, it said, adding "Every second he retains the vast powers of the presidency is a threat to public order and national security".

Vice President Mike Pence, who had to be whisked off the Senate floor for his own protection, should immediately gather the Cabinet to invoke the 25th Amendment, declaring that Trump is "unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office," it said.

The Congress, which would be required to ratify the action if Trump resisted, should do so and Pence should serve until President-elect Joe Biden is inaugurated on January 20.

"Americans put on their seat belts, follow traffic laws, pay taxes and vote because of faith in a system, and that faith makes it work. The highest voice in the land incited people to break that faith, not just in tweets, but by inciting them to action. Trump is a menace, and as long as he remains in the White House, the country will be in danger," the editorial said.

The NYT editorial said January 6, 2021, will go down as a "dark day".

"The question is whether, even as Trump's time in office ends, America is at the beginning of a descent into an even darker and more divided epoch or the end of one. The danger is real, but the answer is not foreordained," it said.

Donald Trump, whose "seditious rhetoric" incited a violent attack on the Capitol, is a "menace" and is unfit to remain in office and must be removed, US media outlets have asserted, as they tore into the American President, demanding that he be held accountable through impeachment proceedings or criminal prosecution.

Donald Trump, whose "seditious rhetoric" incited a violent attack on the Capitol, is a "menace" and is unfit to remain in office and must be removed, US media outlets have asserted, as they tore into the American President, demanding that he be held accountable through impeachment proceedings or criminal prosecution. Thousands of Trump's supporters stormed the US Capitol and clashed with police on Wednesday, resulting in at least the death of four persons and interrupting a constitutional process to affirm President-elect Joe Biden's victory in the election. In an editorial titled 'Trump is to blame for Capitol attack', The New York Times said, "President Trump and his Republican enablers in Congress incited a violent attack Wednesday against the government they lead and the nation they profess to love. This cannot be allowed to stand." The NYT editorial said Trump's "seditious rhetoric" prompted a mob of thousands of people to storm the US Capitol building, some breaking onto the House and Senate floors, where the nation's elected representatives had gathered to perform their constitutional duty of counting electoral votes and confirming the election of Joe Biden as president. "The president needs to be held accountable, through impeachment proceedings or criminal prosecution, and the same goes for his supporters who carried out the violence. In time, there should be an investigation of the failure of the Capitol Police to prepare for an attack that was announced and planned in public," the report said. "This is not just an attack on the results of the 2020 election. It is a precedent, a permission slip for similar opposition to the outcomes of future elections. It must be clearly rejected, and placed beyond the pale of permissible conduct. The leaders of the Republican Party also bear a measure of responsibility for the attack on the Capitol," it said. The Washington Post in an editorial titled 'Trump caused the assault on the Capitol. He must be removed' said the president's "refusal to accept his election defeat and his relentless incitement of his supporters led Wednesday to the unthinkable: an assault on the US Capitol by a violent mob that overwhelmed police and drove Congress from its chambers as it was debating the counting of electoral votes". "Responsibility for this act of sedition lies squarely with the president, who has shown that his continued tenure in office poses a grave threat to US democracy. He should be removed," the Post editorial said. Trump is "unfit" to remain in office for the next 14 days, when on January 20 President-elect Joe Biden will be sworn-in as the next leader of America, it said, adding "Every second he retains the vast powers of the presidency is a threat to public order and national security". Vice President Mike Pence, who had to be whisked off the Senate floor for his own protection, should immediately gather the Cabinet to invoke the 25th Amendment, declaring that Trump is "unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office," it said. The Congress, which would be required to ratify the action if Trump resisted, should do so and Pence should serve until President-elect Joe Biden is inaugurated on January 20. "Americans put on their seat belts, follow traffic laws, pay taxes and vote because of faith in a system, and that faith makes it work. The highest voice in the land incited people to break that faith, not just in tweets, but by inciting them to action. Trump is a menace, and as long as he remains in the White House, the country will be in danger," the editorial said. The NYT editorial said January 6, 2021, will go down as a "dark day". "The question is whether, even as Trump's time in office ends, America is at the beginning of a descent into an even darker and more divided epoch or the end of one. The danger is real, but the answer is not foreordained," it said.

Trump is 'menace', must be removed and held accountable for Capitol attack: US media

Four people died as supporters of President Donald Trump violently occupied the US Capitol.

Washington, DC, Police Chief Robert Contee said the dead on Wednesday included a woman who was shot by the US Capitol Police, as well as three others who died in “medical emergencies.”

DC Fire and Emergency Medical services transported people to area hospitals with injuries ranging from cardiac arrest to multiple fractures after falling from scaffolding on the West front of the Capitol building. However, city officials did not say whether any of these people are the ones now deceased.

DC Mayor Muriel Bowser announced she is extending the public emergency to 15 days, as a result of rioters overtaking the US Capitol building earlier today. This will take the emergency declaration until the day after President-elect Joe Biden's inauguration.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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I have issued Mayor’s Order 2021-003, extending the public emergency declared earlier today for a total of 15 days, until and unless provided for by further Mayoral Order.
— Mayor Muriel Bowser (@MayorBowser) <a href="https://twitter.com/MayorBowser/status/1347026775134662658?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The mayor says that the people who stormed the Capitol, “sought to disrupt the Congressional proceedings relating to the acceptance of Electoral College votes.” “Persons are dissatisfied with judicial rulings and the findings of State Boards of Elections, and some persons can be expected to continue their violent protests through the inauguration.” 
 
The riot started when Congress that was holding a joint session to ratify the electoral the Electoral College votes electing Democrats Joe Biden as President and Kamala Harris as Vice President.

Thousands of the rioters shouting "Trump" and "USA, USA" overwhelmed the police and pushed the barriers around the Capitol and rushed after the joint session adjourned for the Senate and the House of Representatives met separately to consider objections to the Electoral College votes from Arizona.

The woman was shot earlier Wednesday as the mob tried to break through a barricaded door in the Capitol where police were armed on the other side. She was hospitalized with a gunshot wound and later died.

Police Chief Robert Contee says officials have declared the scene a riot. Thirteen arrests were made of people from out of the area.

Mayor Muriel Bowser says the behaviour of the Trump supporters was “shameful, unpatriotic and above all is unlawful.”

She says, “There will be law and order and this behaviour will not be tolerated.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Four people died as supporters of President Donald Trump violently occupied the US Capitol. Washington, DC, Police Chief Robert Contee said the dead on Wednesday included a woman who was shot by the US Capitol Police, as well as three others who died in “medical emergencies.

Four people died as supporters of President Donald Trump violently occupied the US Capitol. Washington, DC, Police Chief Robert Contee said the dead on Wednesday included a woman who was shot by the US Capitol Police, as well as three others who died in “medical emergencies.” DC Fire and Emergency Medical services transported people to area hospitals with injuries ranging from cardiac arrest to multiple fractures after falling from scaffolding on the West front of the Capitol building. However, city officials did not say whether any of these people are the ones now deceased. DC Mayor Muriel Bowser announced she is extending the public emergency to 15 days, as a result of rioters overtaking the US Capitol building earlier today. This will take the emergency declaration until the day after President-elect Joe Biden's inauguration. I have issued Mayor’s Order 2021-003, extending the public emergency declared earlier today for a total of 15 days, until and unless provided for by further Mayoral Order. — Mayor Muriel Bowser (@MayorBowser) January 7, 2021 × The mayor says that the people who stormed the Capitol, “sought to disrupt the Congressional proceedings relating to the acceptance of Electoral College votes.” “Persons are dissatisfied with judicial rulings and the findings of State Boards of Elections, and some persons can be expected to continue their violent protests through the inauguration.” The riot started when Congress that was holding a joint session to ratify the electoral the Electoral College votes electing Democrats Joe Biden as President and Kamala Harris as Vice President. Thousands of the rioters shouting "Trump" and "USA, USA" overwhelmed the police and pushed the barriers around the Capitol and rushed after the joint session adjourned for the Senate and the House of Representatives met separately to consider objections to the Electoral College votes from Arizona. The woman was shot earlier Wednesday as the mob tried to break through a barricaded door in the Capitol where police were armed on the other side. She was hospitalized with a gunshot wound and later died. Police Chief Robert Contee says officials have declared the scene a riot. Thirteen arrests were made of people from out of the area. Mayor Muriel Bowser says the behaviour of the Trump supporters was “shameful, unpatriotic and above all is unlawful.” She says, “There will be law and order and this behaviour will not be tolerated.” (With inputs from agencies)

US Capitol violence: Death toll rises to 4, public emergency in Washington DC

Ahead of electoral college vote, thousands of supporters of U.S President Donald Trump gathered in Washington DC to denounced the results of November 3rd election. Trumps supporters take to streets and chanted 'Four more years' and waving flags &chanting Trumps name.

Nationwide march in support of Donald Trump's Poll claims

Thousands of President Donald Trump's supporters were out in Washington, DC, on Saturday for a day of rallying that echoed the false assertion that the presidential election was marked by fraud.

Thousands of Trump supporters rally, blaming election fraud for defeat

Four people associated with the Proud Boys have reportedly been ‘stabbed and slashed’ while cheering on Donald Trump in the US election.

US Breaking News:1 woman, 3 men injured in stabbing incident in Washington D.C

Doctors at the Children's National Hospital in Washington, DC have found that infected children can spread the COVID-19 virus for weeks even though they themselves show no symptoms.

Study finds asymptomatic children can carry Coronavirus for weeks

US House lawmakers made history Friday by voting for Washington to become the nation's 51st state, but the move, a push for equal voting rights for the capital's residents, is doomed in the Senate.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baseless-russia-denies-accusation-of-giving-bounties-to-taliban-to-attack-us-forces-308996" hreflang="en">Russia denies accusation of giving bounties to Taliban to attack US forces</a>

A small chorus of cheers went up as the measure passed along party lines, with all but one Democrat in support and every voting Republican opposed.

"For more than two&nbsp;centuries, the residents of&nbsp;Washington, DC have been&nbsp;denied their full right to fully&nbsp;participate in our democracy" despite paying taxes, serving in the military and operating businesses, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said before the vote.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-to-give-trump-options-to-reduce-troops-in-germany-309059" hreflang="en">Pentagon to give Trump options to reduce troops in Germany</a>

"Today, we will bring&nbsp;our nation closer to the&nbsp;founding ideals that all are&nbsp;created equal and all deserve a&nbsp;say in our democracy."

More than 705,000 Americans live in the District of Columbia, a Democratic stronghold with a population greater than two states, Wyoming and Vermont, and comparable to two others.

Democratic lawmakers frame the DC statehood bill as an overdue remedy to disenfranchisement perpetuated since Congress made Washington the nation's permanent capital in 1790, and a longstanding civil rights issue for a city that's nearly 50 percent black.

The statehood vote is the first in Congress since 1993. Never has such a bill -- appropriately titled HR-51 -- cleared the House or Senate.

"Congress has two choices: it can continue to exercise undemocratic autocratic authority over" Washington, "or Congress can live up to this nation's promise and ideals and pass HR51," said Washington's House delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, who does not have floor vote privileges and therefore was unable to cast a vote for DC statehood.

Under the Democratic proposal, Norton said, a small federal district would remain, encompassing government buildings, Congress, monuments, the National Mall area and the White House.

Republicans who oppose the effort say it runs counter to the intent of the framers of the US Constitution who sought to create a unique federal district not influenced by any state.

"Washington DC was set apart as a seat of government, not as a part of the federation of states that the constitution grants us," Republican Jody Hice said.

Washington officials have long bristled at Congress's role in the capital's affairs, as the US Constitution grants Congress the right to exercise control over the city's business "in all cases whatsoever."&nbsp;

Maryland and Virginia ceded land in the 1780s for the creation of a federal capital along the Potomac River.&nbsp;

But unlike other American citizens, Washington residents have never had voting representatives in Congress, leading the city to print the famous, colonial-era battle cry, "Taxation without representation," on its vehicle license plates.

In an example of unwelcome federal intervention, the president this month sent federal forces to clear out protesters near the White House without coordinating with Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser.

The new state would be known as Washington, Douglass Commonwealth, taking the names of the nation's first president George Washington and prominent black abolitionist Frederick Douglass.

The movement has some high-profile backers. "DC should be a state. Pass it on," tweeted Democrat Joe Biden, who is challenging Donald Trump in November's presidential election.

But House Republican Mo Brooks likened the statehood effort to a power grab by Democrats seeking "two more guaranteed leftwing senators."

Republicans float a concept known as "retrocession," in which Washington would return its residential land to Maryland, which would allow city residents to vote for senators and have a voice in Congress.

Statehood is highly unlikely to succeed for now. Trump is opposed, and Republicans who control the Senate have said they have no intention to bring it to a vote.

The last time the nation expanded was 1959, when Alaska was admitted as the 49th state on January 3 and Hawaii became the 50th state seven months later.

US House lawmakers made history Friday by voting for Washington to become the nation's 51st state, but the move, a push for equal voting rights for the capital's residents, is doomed in the Senate.

US House lawmakers made history Friday by voting for Washington to become the nation's 51st state, but the move, a push for equal voting rights for the capital's residents, is doomed in the Senate. Also read: Russia denies accusation of giving bounties to Taliban to attack US forces A small chorus of cheers went up as the measure passed along party lines, with all but one Democrat in support and every voting Republican opposed. "For more than two centuries, the residents of Washington, DC have been denied their full right to fully participate in our democracy" despite paying taxes, serving in the military and operating businesses, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said before the vote. Also read: Pentagon to give Trump options to reduce troops in Germany "Today, we will bring our nation closer to the founding ideals that all are created equal and all deserve a say in our democracy." More than 705,000 Americans live in the District of Columbia, a Democratic stronghold with a population greater than two states, Wyoming and Vermont, and comparable to two others. Democratic lawmakers frame the DC statehood bill as an overdue remedy to disenfranchisement perpetuated since Congress made Washington the nation's permanent capital in 1790, and a longstanding civil rights issue for a city that's nearly 50 percent black. The statehood vote is the first in Congress since 1993. Never has such a bill -- appropriately titled HR-51 -- cleared the House or Senate. "Congress has two choices: it can continue to exercise undemocratic autocratic authority over" Washington, "or Congress can live up to this nation's promise and ideals and pass HR51," said Washington's House delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, who does not have floor vote privileges and therefore was unable to cast a vote for DC statehood. Under the Democratic proposal, Norton said, a small federal district would remain, encompassing government buildings, Congress, monuments, the National Mall area and the White House. Republicans who oppose the effort say it runs counter to the intent of the framers of the US Constitution who sought to create a unique federal district not influenced by any state. "Washington DC was set apart as a seat of government, not as a part of the federation of states that the constitution grants us," Republican Jody Hice said. Washington officials have long bristled at Congress's role in the capital's affairs, as the US Constitution grants Congress the right to exercise control over the city's business "in all cases whatsoever." Maryland and Virginia ceded land in the 1780s for the creation of a federal capital along the Potomac River. But unlike other American citizens, Washington residents have never had voting representatives in Congress, leading the city to print the famous, colonial-era battle cry, "Taxation without representation," on its vehicle license plates. In an example of unwelcome federal intervention, the president this month sent federal forces to clear out protesters near the White House without coordinating with Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser. The new state would be known as Washington, Douglass Commonwealth, taking the names of the nation's first president George Washington and prominent black abolitionist Frederick Douglass. The movement has some high-profile backers. "DC should be a state. Pass it on," tweeted Democrat Joe Biden, who is challenging Donald Trump in November's presidential election. But House Republican Mo Brooks likened the statehood effort to a power grab by Democrats seeking "two more guaranteed leftwing senators." Republicans float a concept known as "retrocession," in which Washington would return its residential land to Maryland, which would allow city residents to vote for senators and have a voice in Congress. Statehood is highly unlikely to succeed for now. Trump is opposed, and Republicans who control the Senate have said they have no intention to bring it to a vote. The last time the nation expanded was 1959, when Alaska was admitted as the 49th state on January 3 and Hawaii became the 50th state seven months later.

US House passes Washington DC statehood measure in historic vote

US President Donald Trump told his advisors at one point this past week he wanted 10,000 troops to deploy to the Washington D.C. area to halt civil unrest over the killing of a black man by Minneapolis police, according to a senior U.

US President Donald Trump told his advisors at one point this past week he wanted 10,000 troops to deploy to the Washington D.C. area to halt civil unrest over the killing of a black man by Minneapolis police, according to a senior U.S. official. The account of Trump's demand during a heated Oval Office conversation on Monday shows how close the president may have come to fulfilling his threat to deploy active duty troops, despite opposition from Pentagon leadership. At the meeting, Defense Secretary Mark Esper, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Mark Milley, and Attorney General William Barr recommended against such a deployment, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. The meeting was "contentious," the official added. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Trump has since appeared satisfied with deployments by the National Guard, the option recommended by the Pentagon and a more traditional tool for dealing with domestic crises. Pentagon leaders scrambled to call governors with requests to send Guard forces to Washington. Additional federal law enforcement were mobilized too. But also key for Trump appears to have been Esper's move to preposition -- but not deploy -- active duty soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division and other units in the Washington D.C. area in case they were needed. Those troops have since departed. "Having active duty forces available but not in the city was enough for the president for the time," the official said. Trump's bid to militarize the U.S. response to the protests has triggered a rare outpouring of condemnation from former U.S. military officials, including Trump's first defense secretary, Jim Mattis, and retired four-star generals who normally try to steer clear of politics. Those comments reflect deep unease inside and outside the Pentagon with Trump's willingness to inject the U.S. military into a domestic race relations crisis following the killing of George Floyd, 46, who died on May 25 after a Minneapolis policeman knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes. Floyd's death has led to a wave of protests and national soul-searching over the country's legacy of violence and mistreatment of African Americans and other minorities. It has also led some Pentagon leaders of color to issue unprecedented statements https://bit.ly/30mxTlD about their experiences dealing with issues of race in the U.S. military.

Trump wanted to deploy 10,000 troops in Washington DC, official says

Mahatma Gandhi’s statue outside the Indian Embassy in Washington DC desecrated by unruly elements involved in the ongoing protests in the US.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/four-cops-charged-in-floyd-death-one-faces-2nd-degree-murder-count-homicide-303080">Also read: Four cops charged in Floyd death, one faces 2nd-degree murder count homicide</a>

The United States Park police have launched an investigation into the desecration of the statue.

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Mahatma Gandhi’s statue outside the Indian Embassy in Washington DC desecrated by unruly elements of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BlackLivesMatter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BlackLivesMatter</a> protesters. Sources tell ANI that United States Park Police have launched an investigation, more details awaited. <a href="https://t.co/jxRpIhqd2W">pic.twitter.com/jxRpIhqd2W</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1268352866919444480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Protests have erupted across the US over the death of an African-American man, George Floyd, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Floyd died on 25 May after a white cop pressed his knee on the African-American man’s neck.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/george-floyds-final-words-seen-across-skies-in-the-us-cities-302975">In Pics: George Floyd's final words seen across skies in the US cities</a>

Following the incident, protesters have taken to the streets across the country to protest against police brutality and racial injustice. Some of the protesters have also resorted to violence and looting.

Mahatma Gandhi’s statue outside the Indian Embassy in Washington DC desecrated by unruly elements involved in the ongoing protests in the US. Also read: Four cops charged in Floyd death, one faces 2nd-degree murder count homicide The United States Park police have launched an investigation into the desecration of the statue.

Mahatma Gandhi’s statue outside the Indian Embassy in Washington DC desecrated by unruly elements involved in the ongoing protests in the US. Also read: Four cops charged in Floyd death, one faces 2nd-degree murder count homicide The United States Park police have launched an investigation into the desecration of the statue. Mahatma Gandhi’s statue outside the Indian Embassy in Washington DC desecrated by unruly elements of #BlackLivesMatter protesters. Sources tell ANI that United States Park Police have launched an investigation, more details awaited. pic.twitter.com/jxRpIhqd2W — ANI (@ANI) June 4, 2020 × Protests have erupted across the US over the death of an African-American man, George Floyd, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Floyd died on 25 May after a white cop pressed his knee on the African-American man’s neck. In Pics: George Floyd's final words seen across skies in the US cities Following the incident, protesters have taken to the streets across the country to protest against police brutality and racial injustice. Some of the protesters have also resorted to violence and looting.

Mahatma Gandhi statue outside Indian Embassy in Washington DC desecrated

United States' Ambassador to India Kenneth Juster on Thursday tendered an apology for the incident of desecration of the statue of Mahatma Gandhi outside the Indian Embassy in Washington DC.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahatma-gandhi-statue-outside-indian-embassy-in-washington-dc-desecrated-303104">Also read: Mahatma Gandhi statue outside Indian Embassy in Washington DC desecrated</a> 
 
"So sorry to see the desecration of the Gandhi statue in Wash, DC. Please accept our sincere apologies. Appalled as well by the horrific death of George Floyd &amp; the awful violence &amp; vandalism. We stand against prejudice &amp; discrimination of any type. We will recover &amp; be better," Juster said in a tweet.

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So sorry to see the desecration of the Gandhi statue in Wash, DC. Please accept our sincere apologies. Appalled as well by the horrific death of George Floyd &amp; the awful violence &amp; vandalism. We stand against prejudice &amp; discrimination of any type. We will recover &amp; be better.
— Ken Juster (@USAmbIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAmbIndia/status/1268400085429186561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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According to the reports, the incident is reported to have taken place on the intervening night of June 2 and 3 in Washington DC.

Vandalism of the statue of the apostle of peace comes during the week of nationwide protests against the custodial killing of African-American George Floyd in Minneapolis on May 25.

Several of these protests have turned violent which many times has resulted in damage of some of the most prestigious and sacred American monuments.

In Washington DC, protestors this week burnt a historic church and damaged some of the prime properties and historic places like the national monument and Lincoln Memorial.

(With inputs from agencies)

United States' Ambassador to India Kenneth Juster on Thursday tendered an apology for the incident of desecration of the statue of Mahatma Gandhi outside the Indian Embassy in Washington DC.

United States' Ambassador to India Kenneth Juster on Thursday tendered an apology for the incident of desecration of the statue of Mahatma Gandhi outside the Indian Embassy in Washington DC. Also read: Mahatma Gandhi statue outside Indian Embassy in Washington DC desecrated "So sorry to see the desecration of the Gandhi statue in Wash, DC. Please accept our sincere apologies. Appalled as well by the horrific death of George Floyd & the awful violence & vandalism. We stand against prejudice & discrimination of any type. We will recover & be better," Juster said in a tweet. So sorry to see the desecration of the Gandhi statue in Wash, DC. Please accept our sincere apologies. Appalled as well by the horrific death of George Floyd & the awful violence & vandalism. We stand against prejudice & discrimination of any type. We will recover & be better. — Ken Juster (@USAmbIndia) June 4, 2020 × According to the reports, the incident is reported to have taken place on the intervening night of June 2 and 3 in Washington DC. Vandalism of the statue of the apostle of peace comes during the week of nationwide protests against the custodial killing of African-American George Floyd in Minneapolis on May 25. Several of these protests have turned violent which many times has resulted in damage of some of the most prestigious and sacred American monuments. In Washington DC, protestors this week burnt a historic church and damaged some of the prime properties and historic places like the national monument and Lincoln Memorial. (With inputs from agencies)

US apologizes for the desecration of Mahatma Gandhi's statue in Washington DC

At least 40 cities in the US including Washington DC have imposed curfews on Sunday in response to the continuing protests against the death of African-American man George Floyd.

According to CNN, 40 cities have <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/george-floyd-protests-spread-far-and-wide-at-least-25-us-cities-impose-curfew-302194">imposed curfews </a>and approximately 5,000 National Guard members have been activated in 15 states and Washington, DC with another 2,000 prepared to activate if needed.

"Today, about 5,000 National Guard soldiers and airmen are supporting our local and state partners responding to civil unrest in 15 states and DC [District of Columbia]. Thousands more stand ready if needed," Chief of the National Guard Bureau Gen. Joseph Lengyel said on Sunday.

Earlier, US National security adviser Robert O'Brien denied that systemic racism is present across the American police forces.

O'Brien told CNN that "a few bad apples" give the impression of racism among law enforcement officers in the country.

"No, I don't think there's systemic racism. I think 99.9 per cent of our law enforcement officers are great Americans. Many of them are African American, Hispanic, Asian, they're working the toughest neighbourhood, they've got the hardest jobs to do in this country and I think they're amazing great Americans," O'Brien told CNN on "State of the Union" when asked if systemic racism was a problem for police agencies.

Meanwhile, Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden visited the anti-racism protest in the state of Delaware on Sunday, saying that the United States was "in pain"

"We are a nation in pain right now, but we must not allow this pain to destroy us. As President, I will help lead this conversation -- and more importantly, I will listen, just as I did today visiting the site of last night's protests in Wilmington," Biden said.

The Governor of the US state of Minnesota has extended the curfew until Monday. The curfew was imposed on Friday in response to violent protests in Minneapolis and its nearby cities, following the death of George Floyd in police custody.

"We have reason to believe that bad actors continue to infiltrate the rightful protests of George Floyd's murder, which is why we are extending the curfew by one day," Tim Walz tweeted.

The United States will be designating the far-left anti-fascist movement Antifa as a terrorist organization, President Donald Trump said on Sunday.

"The United States of America will be designating ANTIFA as a Terrorist Organization," Trump wrote on Twitter.

Demonstrators across the United States have been protesting since May 25, when George Floyd, a 46-years-old African American man, died under the police custody in the city of Minneapolis.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

At least 40 cities in the US including Washington DC have imposed curfews on Sunday in response to the continuing protests against the death of African-American man George Floyd.

At least 40 cities in the US including Washington DC have imposed curfews on Sunday in response to the continuing protests against the death of African-American man George Floyd. According to CNN, 40 cities have imposed curfews and approximately 5,000 National Guard members have been activated in 15 states and Washington, DC with another 2,000 prepared to activate if needed. "Today, about 5,000 National Guard soldiers and airmen are supporting our local and state partners responding to civil unrest in 15 states and DC [District of Columbia]. Thousands more stand ready if needed," Chief of the National Guard Bureau Gen. Joseph Lengyel said on Sunday. Earlier, US National security adviser Robert O'Brien denied that systemic racism is present across the American police forces. O'Brien told CNN that "a few bad apples" give the impression of racism among law enforcement officers in the country. "No, I don't think there's systemic racism. I think 99.9 per cent of our law enforcement officers are great Americans. Many of them are African American, Hispanic, Asian, they're working the toughest neighbourhood, they've got the hardest jobs to do in this country and I think they're amazing great Americans," O'Brien told CNN on "State of the Union" when asked if systemic racism was a problem for police agencies. Meanwhile, Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden visited the anti-racism protest in the state of Delaware on Sunday, saying that the United States was "in pain" "We are a nation in pain right now, but we must not allow this pain to destroy us. As President, I will help lead this conversation -- and more importantly, I will listen, just as I did today visiting the site of last night's protests in Wilmington," Biden said. The Governor of the US state of Minnesota has extended the curfew until Monday. The curfew was imposed on Friday in response to violent protests in Minneapolis and its nearby cities, following the death of George Floyd in police custody. "We have reason to believe that bad actors continue to infiltrate the rightful protests of George Floyd's murder, which is why we are extending the curfew by one day," Tim Walz tweeted. The United States will be designating the far-left anti-fascist movement Antifa as a terrorist organization, President Donald Trump said on Sunday. "The United States of America will be designating ANTIFA as a Terrorist Organization," Trump wrote on Twitter. Demonstrators across the United States have been protesting since May 25, when George Floyd, a 46-years-old African American man, died under the police custody in the city of Minneapolis. (With inputs from agencies)

Curfew imposed in 40 cities including Washington DC as protests spread across US

Two opera singers whose shows were cancelled due to coronavirus, find a different audience in the park.

Arias in open air as opera singers surprise Washington D.C. area park goers

President Trump's eldest daughter Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner reportedly traveled from Washington DC to New Jersey earlier this month to celebrate the first night of Passover, despite federal guidelines advising against nonessential travel due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Ivanka Trump defies US govt's advisory: Travelled to New Jersey amid coronavirus pandemic

Washington, D.C.-area restaurants and pubs were unusually empty the weekend before St. Patrick's day, the same day Mayor Muriel Bowser instituted more rules to limit the spread of coronavirus.

Celebrating St. Patrick's in the time of coronavirus

Rescue kittens got dressed up in festive holiday sweaters on Christmas Eve (December 24) as adoring fans took turns playing and cuddling with them at a Washington cat cafe.

Kittens in festive sweaters bring holiday cheer to Washington cat cafe

India and the United States on Wednesday initiated the second session of the 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in Washington DC that would reflect the rapid growth of the vital strategic partnership between the sides.&nbsp;

The meeting, hosted by the Department of State in DC, will focus on deepening bilateral strategic and defence cooperation, exchanging perspectives on global developments, and the shared leadership between the two countries in the Indo-Pacific region.

Building on the success of the inaugural US-India 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in 2018, the talk will serve as an important platform for discussing critical diplomatic and security issues and expand cooperation in defence and counter-terrorism measures between the two sides.

Secretary of State Michael Pompeo and Secretary of Defense Mark Esper will host Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar and Minister of Defence Rajnath Singh for the Dialogue.

The US and India, last month, had held the Tiger Triumph, the first-of-its-kind, tri-service military exercise, which strengthened cooperation between the two armed forces in the areas of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

A senior State Department official said that 2+2 will address ways to further accelerate and deepen the cooperation and the two sides will discuss and coordinate on the pressing regional and global challenges of the day.

The official recalled that Pompeo emphasised on his visit to India last summer, the US-India relationship has evolved dramatically from a relationship of great potential to one of great achievement.

"This upcoming meeting underscores the high priority the Trump Administration places on a strong US-India relationship," he said.

The inaugural India-US 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue was held in New Delhi in September 2018 in the presence of Pompeo and former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

The Dialogue was launched as a reflection of the shared commitment by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump to provide a positive, forward-looking vision for the India-US strategic partnership and to promote synergy in their diplomatic and security efforts.&nbsp;

India and the United States on Wednesday initiated the second session of the 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in Washington DC that would reflect the rapid growth of the vital strategic partnership between the sides.

India and the United States on Wednesday initiated the second session of the 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in Washington DC that would reflect the rapid growth of the vital strategic partnership between the sides. The meeting, hosted by the Department of State in DC, will focus on deepening bilateral strategic and defence cooperation, exchanging perspectives on global developments, and the shared leadership between the two countries in the Indo-Pacific region. Building on the success of the inaugural US-India 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in 2018, the talk will serve as an important platform for discussing critical diplomatic and security issues and expand cooperation in defence and counter-terrorism measures between the two sides. Secretary of State Michael Pompeo and Secretary of Defense Mark Esper will host Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar and Minister of Defence Rajnath Singh for the Dialogue. The US and India, last month, had held the Tiger Triumph, the first-of-its-kind, tri-service military exercise, which strengthened cooperation between the two armed forces in the areas of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. A senior State Department official said that 2+2 will address ways to further accelerate and deepen the cooperation and the two sides will discuss and coordinate on the pressing regional and global challenges of the day. The official recalled that Pompeo emphasised on his visit to India last summer, the US-India relationship has evolved dramatically from a relationship of great potential to one of great achievement. "This upcoming meeting underscores the high priority the Trump Administration places on a strong US-India relationship," he said. The inaugural India-US 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue was held in New Delhi in September 2018 in the presence of Pompeo and former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. The Dialogue was launched as a reflection of the shared commitment by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump to provide a positive, forward-looking vision for the India-US strategic partnership and to promote synergy in their diplomatic and security efforts.

India, US commence 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in Washington DC

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