LIV Golf CEO&nbsp;Greg&nbsp;Norman&nbsp;will meet with U.S. lawmakers on Capitol Hill this week to discuss the Saudi-backed circuit's ongoing dispute with the U.S.-based PGA Tour, the Washington Post reported on Monday. "LIV Golf is coming to the Hill this week to meet with lawmakers from both parties," a LIV spokesperson told the paper in a statement.

"Given the PGA Tour's attempts to stifle our progress in reimagining the game, we think it's imperative to educate members on LIV's business model and counter the Tour's anti-competitive efforts." LIV did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. It was not clear from the report which lawmakers the golf circuit would meet or whether they would include those from both the House and Senate.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/magnus-carlsen-resigns-from-rematch-with-hans-niemann-after-just-two-moves-517910">Magnus Carlsen resigns from rematch with Hans Niemann after just two moves</a>

Critics say LIV Golf, which is bankrolled by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, amounts to "sportswashing" by a nation trying to improve its reputation in the face of criticism over its human rights record. The PGA Tour has suspended players that have been lured away by the staggering sums of money the circuit has offered. LIV counts 12 major winners among its players and offers $25 million purses in no-cut 54-hole tournaments.

The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating the PGA Tour for potential antitrust violations. LIV has also joined a federal antitrust lawsuit filed by some players over their suspensions.

LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman will meet with U.S. lawmakers on Capitol Hill this week to discuss the Saudi-backed circuit's ongoing dispute with the U.S.-based PGA Tour, the Washington Post reported on Monday.

LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman will meet with U.S. lawmakers on Capitol Hill this week to discuss the Saudi-backed circuit's ongoing dispute with the U.S.-based PGA Tour, the Washington Post reported on Monday. "LIV Golf is coming to the Hill this week to meet with lawmakers from both parties," a LIV spokesperson told the paper in a statement. "Given the PGA Tour's attempts to stifle our progress in reimagining the game, we think it's imperative to educate members on LIV's business model and counter the Tour's anti-competitive efforts." LIV did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. It was not clear from the report which lawmakers the golf circuit would meet or whether they would include those from both the House and Senate. ALSO READ | Magnus Carlsen resigns from rematch with Hans Niemann after just two moves Critics say LIV Golf, which is bankrolled by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, amounts to "sportswashing" by a nation trying to improve its reputation in the face of criticism over its human rights record. The PGA Tour has suspended players that have been lured away by the staggering sums of money the circuit has offered. LIV counts 12 major winners among its players and offers $25 million purses in no-cut 54-hole tournaments. The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating the PGA Tour for potential antitrust violations. LIV has also joined a federal antitrust lawsuit filed by some players over their suspensions.

LIV CEO Greg Norman to meet with lawmakers to discuss dispute with US-backed PGA Tour

Authorities in Washington unveiled a series of indictments which revealed a lucrative human smuggling operation across the US-Mexico border. They have indicated that this operation allegedly entails smuggling migrants in suitcases and water tanks to get them across the border. Officials with the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) told reporters on Tuesday&nbsp;that these smugglers are profit-driven and indifferent to human life.&nbsp;

According to court records and media reports, at least eight people, most of whom&nbsp;are US citizens, were charged in relation to this operation which has smuggled hundreds of people in wooden crates on tractor-trailers with little ventilation. Additionally, six others were cited as co-conspirators, the reports indicated.&nbsp;

This move is in line with US President Joe Biden and his administration’s bid to disrupt and curtail smuggling networks at the US-Mexico border. So far, they have arrested nearly 2 million people this fiscal year, which began last October. “They have become increasingly intertwined with the cartels and there is increasing evidence of the abuse, exploitation and violence they perpetrate on migrants,” &nbsp;said DHS deputy secretary, John Tien, at a press conference.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/2-indians-among-94-people-rescued-in-mexico-after-driver-abandons-vehicle-carrying-illegal-migrants-501859">94 people rescued in Mexico after driver abandons vehicle carrying illegal migrants</a>

US prosecutors also identified Texas resident Erminia Serrano Piedra, a 31-year-old, who also goes by the name “boss lady”, as the leader of the smuggling operation. Serrano Piedra deposited more than $1.3 million in two bank accounts between December 2017 and August 2021.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, in June, 53 migrants being smuggled across the border died after they were trapped in a sweltering tractor trailer in San Antonio, Texas. This was as the temperature in the area had soared as high as 39.4 degree Celsius. Subsequently, four men including the alleged driver were charged by prosecutors. According to a report, half of the 53 victims were from Mexico while others were from Central American countries, Honduras and Guatemala. &nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Authorities in Washington unveiled a series of indictments which revealed a lucrative human smuggling operation across the US-Mexico border. They have indicated that this operation allegedly entails smuggling migrants in suitcases and water tanks to get them across the border.

Authorities in Washington unveiled a series of indictments which revealed a lucrative human smuggling operation across the US-Mexico border. They have indicated that this operation allegedly entails smuggling migrants in suitcases and water tanks to get them across the border. Officials with the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) told reporters on Tuesday that these smugglers are profit-driven and indifferent to human life. According to court records and media reports, at least eight people, most of whom are US citizens, were charged in relation to this operation which has smuggled hundreds of people in wooden crates on tractor-trailers with little ventilation. Additionally, six others were cited as co-conspirators, the reports indicated. This move is in line with US President Joe Biden and his administration’s bid to disrupt and curtail smuggling networks at the US-Mexico border. So far, they have arrested nearly 2 million people this fiscal year, which began last October. “They have become increasingly intertwined with the cartels and there is increasing evidence of the abuse, exploitation and violence they perpetrate on migrants,” said DHS deputy secretary, John Tien, at a press conference. ALSO READ | 94 people rescued in Mexico after driver abandons vehicle carrying illegal migrants US prosecutors also identified Texas resident Erminia Serrano Piedra, a 31-year-old, who also goes by the name “boss lady”, as the leader of the smuggling operation. Serrano Piedra deposited more than $1.3 million in two bank accounts between December 2017 and August 2021. Earlier this year, in June, 53 migrants being smuggled across the border died after they were trapped in a sweltering tractor trailer in San Antonio, Texas. This was as the temperature in the area had soared as high as 39.4 degree Celsius. Subsequently, four men including the alleged driver were charged by prosecutors. According to a report, half of the 53 victims were from Mexico while others were from Central American countries, Honduras and Guatemala. (with inputs from agencies)

Smugglers put migrants in suitcases and empty water tanks, allege US prosecutors

An upcoming book titled ‘The Divider: Trump in the White House 2017-2021’, reveals that former US President Donald Trump was afraid that Iran will assassinate him as revenge for the US drone strike that killed Iranian general Qassem Soleimani. The authors also report that Trump and his advisers considered additional strikes against the country but later backed off.&nbsp;

Although the book is to be published in the US next week, the British daily newspaper, the Guardian was able to procure a copy. Written by a husband-and-wife team, Peter Baker and Susan Glasser, the book reportedly gives a detailed account of how Trump, while bragging about the strike in public and in front of the media, was not so bullish, at least in private, less than a year later.&nbsp;

Baker and Glasser also map out the former president’s policy on Iran, which begins with reluctant talks regarding the nuclear deal signed during Barack Obama’s presidency to the US’s withdrawal in May 2018 and the point in June 2019 when Trump ordered air strikes against the country but called them off at the last minute.&nbsp;

“I thought about it for a second and I said, ‘You know what, they shot down an unmanned drone … and here we are sitting with 150 dead people that would have taken place probably within a half an hour after I said go ahead.’ And I didn’t like it…I didn’t think it was proportionate,” Trump reportedly reasoned at the time. It was later revealed that among the people who advised Trump against ordering the strikes in Iran was Fox News anchor Tucker Carlson.&nbsp;

However, the former president went on to authorise the strike against Soleimani. Subsequently, the Pentagon said that the Iranian general had been actively developing plans to attack American diplomats and service members in Iraq and throughout the region”. Soleimani was the commander of a US-designated terrorist group called the elite Quds (Jerusalem) force of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sanctions-row-us-fears-iran-plotting-assassination-attempt-against-trump-officials-443749">Sanctions row: US fears Iran plotting assassination attempt against Trump officials</a>

The Iranian general was among those killed on 3 January 2020, along with some of the officials from Iran-backed Iraqi militias, as they were leaving the Baghdad airport. Soleimani’s death sent shockwaves across the world, while critics called it a reckless escalation of the tensions between Tehran and Washington, some even fearing a full-fledged war. Meanwhile, the country’s leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei called it a “forceful revenge” and declared three-day national mourning for the Iranian general.&nbsp;

 
This reportedly did not stop the former president from bragging about it in a rally in Ohio, “We stopped him and we stopped him quickly and we stopped him cold,” said Trump. He added, “He was a bad guy. He was a bloodthirsty terrorist, and he’s no longer a terrorist. He’s dead.”&nbsp;

Later that year, Iran’s supreme leader also took to Twitter and said, “Those who ordered the murder of General Soleimani as well as those who carried this out should be punished. This revenge will certainly happen at the right time.” The authors of the book reported that even though Trump and his advisers were planning another strike, they later called it off because it was too close to the end of Trump’s presidency.&nbsp;

“At a cocktail party, Trump told several of his Florida friends he was afraid Iran would try to assassinate him, so he had to go back to Washington where he would be safer,” the authors wrote. This was just before the former president returned to Washington and “turned up the heat on Mike Pence”, the former vice-president who was pressured by Trump to block the electoral college results confirming his defeat to Joe Biden.&nbsp;

An upcoming book titled ‘The Divider: Trump in the White House 2017-2021’, reveals that former US President Donald Trump was afraid that Iran will assassinate him as revenge for the US drone strike that killed Iranian general Qassem Soleimani.

An upcoming book titled ‘The Divider: Trump in the White House 2017-2021’, reveals that former US President Donald Trump was afraid that Iran will assassinate him as revenge for the US drone strike that killed Iranian general Qassem Soleimani. The authors also report that Trump and his advisers considered additional strikes against the country but later backed off. Although the book is to be published in the US next week, the British daily newspaper, the Guardian was able to procure a copy. Written by a husband-and-wife team, Peter Baker and Susan Glasser, the book reportedly gives a detailed account of how Trump, while bragging about the strike in public and in front of the media, was not so bullish, at least in private, less than a year later. Baker and Glasser also map out the former president’s policy on Iran, which begins with reluctant talks regarding the nuclear deal signed during Barack Obama’s presidency to the US’s withdrawal in May 2018 and the point in June 2019 when Trump ordered air strikes against the country but called them off at the last minute. “I thought about it for a second and I said, ‘You know what, they shot down an unmanned drone … and here we are sitting with 150 dead people that would have taken place probably within a half an hour after I said go ahead.’ And I didn’t like it…I didn’t think it was proportionate,” Trump reportedly reasoned at the time. It was later revealed that among the people who advised Trump against ordering the strikes in Iran was Fox News anchor Tucker Carlson. However, the former president went on to authorise the strike against Soleimani. Subsequently, the Pentagon said that the Iranian general had been actively developing plans to attack American diplomats and service members in Iraq and throughout the region”. Soleimani was the commander of a US-designated terrorist group called the elite Quds (Jerusalem) force of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps. ALSO READ | Sanctions row: US fears Iran plotting assassination attempt against Trump officials The Iranian general was among those killed on 3 January 2020, along with some of the officials from Iran-backed Iraqi militias, as they were leaving the Baghdad airport. Soleimani’s death sent shockwaves across the world, while critics called it a reckless escalation of the tensions between Tehran and Washington, some even fearing a full-fledged war. Meanwhile, the country’s leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei called it a “forceful revenge” and declared three-day national mourning for the Iranian general. This reportedly did not stop the former president from bragging about it in a rally in Ohio, “We stopped him and we stopped him quickly and we stopped him cold,” said Trump. He added, “He was a bad guy. He was a bloodthirsty terrorist, and he’s no longer a terrorist. He’s dead.” Later that year, Iran’s supreme leader also took to Twitter and said, “Those who ordered the murder of General Soleimani as well as those who carried this out should be punished. This revenge will certainly happen at the right time.” The authors of the book reported that even though Trump and his advisers were planning another strike, they later called it off because it was too close to the end of Trump’s presidency. “At a cocktail party, Trump told several of his Florida friends he was afraid Iran would try to assassinate him, so he had to go back to Washington where he would be safer,” the authors wrote. This was just before the former president returned to Washington and “turned up the heat on Mike Pence”, the former vice-president who was pressured by Trump to block the electoral college results confirming his defeat to Joe Biden.

Trump was 'afraid' that Iran would assassinate him as revenge for Soleimani’s death, reveals book

USA's attempt to kick start the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) may have been dealt an early blow as India walked out of the trade talks. Reportedly, in a statement released after two days of negotiations in Los Angeles, the US side released a statement explaining India's position.

USA's attempt to kick start the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) may have been dealt an early blow as India walked out of the trade talks. Reportedly, in a statement released after two days of negotiations in Los Angeles, the US side released a statement explaining India's position. “India is not now in the ‘trade pillar’. However, minister (Piyush) Goyal and I have been talking and we have our bilateral and trade policy forum. I should be meeting him by the end of this year. We would cover the same issues in that bilateral channel,” said US trade representative Katherine Tai. Stating that doors remained open for New Delhi to join the economic side of the platform, Tai further added, “That question you should pose to minister Goyal. I wouldn’t characterise it as opting out, India is not in the trade pillar right now.” It is pertinent to note that Joe Biden launched the IPEF initiative in May earlier this year. IPEF is an attempt by Washington to bring together Asian countries to counter China's influence in the region. India, Australia, Brunei, Fiji, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and the US are the 14 members of the grouping. Read more: PM Modi to be present at the launch of President Biden's Indo-Pacific Economic framework IPEF features four main focus areas viz. supply chain resiliency, connected economy, clean energy transformation (clean energy, decarbonisation, and infrastructure), and fair economy (anti-corruption, anti-money laundering and tax). While India will be part of three out of the four pillars i.e supply chain, clean economy, and fair economy, it has refrained from joining the connected economy. And this is not the first time that New Delhi has opted out of joining an economic arrangement in a new grouping, In 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government took the rather bold approach of not joining the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) WATCH | India rejects calls to join Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) × (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India pulls out of trade talks with US led Indo-Pacific group

China on Monday accused the US of launching tens of thousands of cyberattacks against the country and stealing vast quantities of private information, including that of private research universities.

China accuses US of 'cyberattack' on university that allegedly does military research

Nick Kyrgios capped off a terrific week at the Washington Open by beating Yoshihito Nishioka 6-4 6-3 in the singles final, before combining with Jack Sock to also win the doubles 7-5 6-4 against the team of Ivan Dodig and Austin Krajicek. 
 
In the singles, Kyrgios` serve was overpowering against his Japanese opponent, winning 76 per cent (38-of-50) of his points on serve, and saving the only break point opportunity he faced, which came early in the opening set. His return game was also sharp, collecting breaks of serve in the first game of each set to snatch all the momentum and keep Nishioka on the back foot and chasing all day. 
 
Kyrgios finished with 12 aces to Nishioka`s three, and finished the match just like he started it with a break of serve, reports DPA. It caps off a tournament where he dropped only one set in his six matches - against Frances Tiafoe in the quarter-final - to win his first singles title since this same event back in 2019.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwg-2022-indian-contingent-shine-end-campaign-at-fourth-slot-with-a-staggering-61-medals-504917">CWG 2022: Indian contingent shines, ends campaign at fourth slot with a staggering 61 medals</a>

Just a few hours later, Kyrgios was back on the court with Sock contesting the doubles final, with the pair saving both break points they faced. After an even start, Kyrgios and Sock broke late in the first set, and then struck again to break in the opening game of the second set, going on to serve things out comfortably, never allowing Dodig and Krajicek to even reach deuce against their serve. 
 
In doing so, Kyrgios became the first player to ever sweep both the singles and doubles in Washington. He only had one doubles title before this season - back at the Lyon Open in 2018, also partnered with Sock - but Kyrgios has now won three in the past eight months, emerging triumphant with fellow Australian Thanasi Kokkinakis at both the Australian Open and last month`s Atlanta Open.

Nick Kyrgios capped off a terrific week at the Washington Open by beating Yoshihito Nishioka 6-4 6-3 in the singles final, before combining with Jack Sock to also win the doubles 7-5 6-4 against the team of Ivan Dodig and Austin Krajicek.

Nick Kyrgios capped off a terrific week at the Washington Open by beating Yoshihito Nishioka 6-4 6-3 in the singles final, before combining with Jack Sock to also win the doubles 7-5 6-4 against the team of Ivan Dodig and Austin Krajicek. In the singles, Kyrgios` serve was overpowering against his Japanese opponent, winning 76 per cent (38-of-50) of his points on serve, and saving the only break point opportunity he faced, which came early in the opening set. His return game was also sharp, collecting breaks of serve in the first game of each set to snatch all the momentum and keep Nishioka on the back foot and chasing all day. Kyrgios finished with 12 aces to Nishioka`s three, and finished the match just like he started it with a break of serve, reports DPA. It caps off a tournament where he dropped only one set in his six matches - against Frances Tiafoe in the quarter-final - to win his first singles title since this same event back in 2019. ALSO READ | CWG 2022: Indian contingent shines, ends campaign at fourth slot with a staggering 61 medals Just a few hours later, Kyrgios was back on the court with Sock contesting the doubles final, with the pair saving both break points they faced. After an even start, Kyrgios and Sock broke late in the first set, and then struck again to break in the opening game of the second set, going on to serve things out comfortably, never allowing Dodig and Krajicek to even reach deuce against their serve. In doing so, Kyrgios became the first player to ever sweep both the singles and doubles in Washington. He only had one doubles title before this season - back at the Lyon Open in 2018, also partnered with Sock - but Kyrgios has now won three in the past eight months, emerging triumphant with fellow Australian Thanasi Kokkinakis at both the Australian Open and last month`s Atlanta Open.

Washington Open: Aussie star Nick Kyrgios wins singles and doubles titles

A new round of talks aimed at reviving the 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and the world powers is currently underway in Vienna. As the high stakes talks continue, Iran's foreign minister has now said that the outcome of the ongoing talks depends entirely on Washington's flexibility.

Iran: Success of nuclear talks depends on Washington's flexibility

Russia says it was ready to discuss a prisoner swap with Washington at the presidential level, a day after the drug conviction of US basketball star Brittney Griner. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

WION Fineprint: Russia is open to talks on Brittney Griner prisoner swap

Pak Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa recently made an SOS call to Washington. He dialed the White House to seek help in loan disbursement from the IMF. Why is Bajwa acting like a diplomat? Palki Sharma reports.

Gravitas: Pak Army Chief seeks US help to avoid 'default'

Pakistan's economy is under tremendous debt. Now, in an attempt to avoid defaulting on debt payments, Pakistan's army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa has sought help from the United States.&nbsp;

Reportedly, Bajwa is attempting to persuade Washington to receive immediate loan funds amounting to $1.2 billion&nbsp;from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Bajwa spoke to US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman and put forth his request.&nbsp;

Why is Bajwa pleading with Washington?

As reported extensively by WION, the cash-strapped country has been going through its worst financial crisis in recent times and needs cash liquidity on an almost urgent basis.&nbsp;

Standing on the verge of bankruptcy, Pakistan, however, was given a glimmer of hope earlier this month when the IMF decided to resume a 2019 signed $6 billion loan programme.&nbsp;

However, IMF kept a few pre-conditions before Islamabad prior to opening its coffers. Reportedly, Pakistan will have to raise $4 billion from friendly countries to receive the next tranche of payment.&nbsp;

However, Pakistan does not have the means and time to generate such an amount. Thus, Bajwa is attempting to work his friends in Washington to get the process expedited.

Pakistan government to sell state assets

It is pertinent to note that the Pakistan government under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently brought an ordinance which grants it the power to&nbsp;sell state assets such as oil and gas companies to foreign nations without any checks.

The move is aimed at quickly raising funds to prevent the country from defaulting on the loans.

Read More: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/pakistan-introduces-an-ordinance-allowing-government-to-sell-state-assets-to-foreign-nations-500200">Pakistan brings ordinance allowing government to sell state assets to foreign nations</a>

The Pakistan rupee has fallen 8.3 per cent this week alone, which is being dubbed the steepest fall since 1998.

According to several estimates, the neighbouring country of India needs at least $41 billion in the next 12 months to fund debt repayments and boost foreign exchange reserves that have fallen by&nbsp;$754 million to $8.57 billion,

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp; 
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Pakistan's economy is under tremendous debt. Now, in an attempt to avoid defaulting on debt payments, Pakistan's army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa has sought help from the United States.

Pakistan's economy is under tremendous debt. Now, in an attempt to avoid defaulting on debt payments, Pakistan's army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa has sought help from the United States. Reportedly, Bajwa is attempting to persuade Washington to receive immediate loan funds amounting to $1.2 billion from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Bajwa spoke to US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman and put forth his request. Why is Bajwa pleading with Washington? As reported extensively by WION, the cash-strapped country has been going through its worst financial crisis in recent times and needs cash liquidity on an almost urgent basis. Standing on the verge of bankruptcy, Pakistan, however, was given a glimmer of hope earlier this month when the IMF decided to resume a 2019 signed $6 billion loan programme. However, IMF kept a few pre-conditions before Islamabad prior to opening its coffers. Reportedly, Pakistan will have to raise $4 billion from friendly countries to receive the next tranche of payment. However, Pakistan does not have the means and time to generate such an amount. Thus, Bajwa is attempting to work his friends in Washington to get the process expedited. Pakistan government to sell state assets It is pertinent to note that the Pakistan government under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently brought an ordinance which grants it the power to sell state assets such as oil and gas companies to foreign nations without any checks. The move is aimed at quickly raising funds to prevent the country from defaulting on the loans. Read More: Pakistan brings ordinance allowing government to sell state assets to foreign nations The Pakistan rupee has fallen 8.3 per cent this week alone, which is being dubbed the steepest fall since 1998. According to several estimates, the neighbouring country of India needs at least $41 billion in the next 12 months to fund debt repayments and boost foreign exchange reserves that have fallen by $754 million to $8.57 billion, (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pakistan army chief pleads Washington for early release of IMF funds

Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser has requested the deployment of military troops to assist with migrants arriving on buses sent by the Texas and Arizona state governments.

Washington mayor requests troops to assist with migrant arrivals from Texas and Arizona

Donald Trump returned to Washington for the first time since January 2021 and once again teased his 2024 Presidential run. But some other Republicans are also flirting with running for the White House. Is Trump's GOP kingmaker status under threat?

WION Fineprint: Donald Trump teases 2024 Presidential run

Former United States President Donald Trump made his first visit to Washington since leaving the White House 18 months ago. With his fiery speech and strong hints of 2024 Presidential election bid, Trump teased his return to the White House.

WION Dispatch: Donald Trump returns to Washington, hints at 2024 re-election bid

One teenager died and three people were injured, including a police officer&nbsp;after a shooting at a music festival in&nbsp;Washington, DC, police said on Sunday (June 19).&nbsp;Local media said that the incident took place on U Steer Northwest.&nbsp;

"MPD (Metropolitan Police Department) is responding to the situation in the area of 14th and U Street, NW, for a shooting incident in which multiple people have been shot, including an MPD officer. Media staging at 15th and U Street, NW. Chief Contee to provide a media briefing," said the DC Police Department in a tweet.

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MPD is responding to the area of 14th and U Street, NW, for a shooting incident in which multiple people have been shot, including an MPD officer. Media staging at 15th and U Street, NW. Chief Contee to provide a media briefing.
— DC Police Department (@DCPoliceDept) <a href="https://twitter.com/DCPoliceDept/status/1538695314667872256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The police department confirmed that an officer was shot.&nbsp;

In a tweet, DC police Union also confirmed that a police officer was shot during the DC shooting. " We can confirm that one of our members working in the area of 14th and U St NW has been shot. The member has been transported to the hospital and is in stable condition."&nbsp;

According to a local media outlet, the shooting took place at or near the site of a Juneteenth music concert called "Moechella" on 14th and U Street. There are unconfirmed reports of more victims being found with one MPD officer being shot in the leg police are asking everyone to avoid the area, said local US media on Monday.&nbsp;

There has been a spate of gun violence in the US in recent times. The incidents, especially the one at a school in Texas, have stirred the public to demand gun control.&nbsp;

Gun rights have been enshrined in the US constitution and any demand for gun control meets stiff political resistance, especially from the Republican Party.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden has underlined the need to ban assault weapons.&nbsp;

"We need to ban assault weapons. ... if we can't, then we should raise the age to purchase them from 18 to 21. Ban high-capacity magazines. Strengthen background checks. Enact safe storage laws and red flag laws. Repeal gun manufacturers' immunity from liability," he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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One teenager died and three people were injured, including a police officer after a shooting at a music festival in Washington, DC, police said on Sunday (June 19).

One teenager died and three people were injured, including a police officer after a shooting at a music festival in Washington, DC, police said on Sunday (June 19). Local media said that the incident took place on U Steer Northwest. "MPD (Metropolitan Police Department) is responding to the situation in the area of 14th and U Street, NW, for a shooting incident in which multiple people have been shot, including an MPD officer. Media staging at 15th and U Street, NW. Chief Contee to provide a media briefing," said the DC Police Department in a tweet. MPD is responding to the area of 14th and U Street, NW, for a shooting incident in which multiple people have been shot, including an MPD officer. Media staging at 15th and U Street, NW. Chief Contee to provide a media briefing. — DC Police Department (@DCPoliceDept) June 20, 2022 × The police department confirmed that an officer was shot. In a tweet, DC police Union also confirmed that a police officer was shot during the DC shooting. " We can confirm that one of our members working in the area of 14th and U St NW has been shot. The member has been transported to the hospital and is in stable condition." According to a local media outlet, the shooting took place at or near the site of a Juneteenth music concert called "Moechella" on 14th and U Street. There are unconfirmed reports of more victims being found with one MPD officer being shot in the leg police are asking everyone to avoid the area, said local US media on Monday. There has been a spate of gun violence in the US in recent times. The incidents, especially the one at a school in Texas, have stirred the public to demand gun control. Gun rights have been enshrined in the US constitution and any demand for gun control meets stiff political resistance, especially from the Republican Party. US President Joe Biden has underlined the need to ban assault weapons. "We need to ban assault weapons. ... if we can't, then we should raise the age to purchase them from 18 to 21. Ban high-capacity magazines. Strengthen background checks. Enact safe storage laws and red flag laws. Repeal gun manufacturers' immunity from liability," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE × You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Washington: Multiple people including police officer shot at

Israel's national security adviser Eyal Hulata will be going to Washington next week. He will be meeting his White House counterpart Jake Sullivan. Talks are expected to focus on Israel's ties with Saudi Arabia.

Israeli national security advisor to visit Washington next week

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu is about to meet US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington on Wednesday, the latest step in the process of repairing ties between the two NATO allies.

Turkish foreign minister to meet US Secretary of State in Washington

According to DC Metropolitan Police Department Chief Robert Contee, the suspect in the&nbsp;shooting in northwest Washington, DC died on Friday afternoon, AFP reported.

Contee stated that the police is not looking at any other&nbsp;suspect. He further added that the officers discovered six firearms inside the residential apartment of the suspect, including various long guns, many rounds of ammunition and handguns as well.

After a day-long manhunt, the suspect was caught and charged with terror-related offences.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-court-hands-us-citizen-death-sentence-for-murder-472842">Chinese court hands US citizen death sentence for murder</a>

Contee at a news conference on Friday night said,"The suspect that we believe is responsible for this is now deceased."

Watch |&nbsp;US Capitol Riots: Kevin McCarthy's audio clip in aftermath of riots puts him in a tough spot

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One of the four members wounded was a retired member of the DC department. As per the assistant chief Emerman who later gave an update on the story from police source indicated that two individuals had been shot, saying a man and woman are&nbsp;stable but yet critical conditions. A slight gunshot has also wounded a minor&nbsp;girl who is also being treated.

Emerman added at a press conference that the&nbsp;fourth victim who is a woman in her mid-60s was grazed by a bullet but did not go to a hospital.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-state-department-says-ilhan-omar-is-not-visiting-pakistan-on-government-sponsored-travel-473008">US State Department says Ilhan Omar is not visiting Pakistan on government sponsored travel</a>

A kid who lives near the shooting site, Samuel Nicolido in conversation with CNN said that he approximately heard 20 rounds.

Nicolo recounted, “"It was like five shots and then stopped for like, one minute, and then four more, five more, and then again," Nicolido said. "I saw cops with shields everywhere and then they were saying -- they were telling us to stay at home. Don't leave. So yeah, it was scary." 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
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According to DC Metropolitan Police Department Chief Robert Contee, the suspect in the shooting in northwest Washington, DC died on Friday afternoon, AFP reported.

According to DC Metropolitan Police Department Chief Robert Contee, the suspect in the shooting in northwest Washington, DC died on Friday afternoon, AFP reported. Contee stated that the police is not looking at any other suspect. He further added that the officers discovered six firearms inside the residential apartment of the suspect, including various long guns, many rounds of ammunition and handguns as well. After a day-long manhunt, the suspect was caught and charged with terror-related offences. Also read | Chinese court hands US citizen death sentence for murder Contee at a news conference on Friday night said,"The suspect that we believe is responsible for this is now deceased." Watch | US Capitol Riots: Kevin McCarthy's audio clip in aftermath of riots puts him in a tough spot One of the four members wounded was a retired member of the DC department. As per the assistant chief Emerman who later gave an update on the story from police source indicated that two individuals had been shot, saying a man and woman are stable but yet critical conditions. A slight gunshot has also wounded a minor girl who is also being treated. Emerman added at a press conference that the fourth victim who is a woman in her mid-60s was grazed by a bullet but did not go to a hospital. Also read | US State Department says Ilhan Omar is not visiting Pakistan on government sponsored travel A kid who lives near the shooting site, Samuel Nicolido in conversation with CNN said that he approximately heard 20 rounds. Nicolo recounted, “"It was like five shots and then stopped for like, one minute, and then four more, five more, and then again," Nicolido said. "I saw cops with shields everywhere and then they were saying -- they were telling us to stay at home. Don't leave. So yeah, it was scary." (With inputs from agencies)

Police confirms death of suspect involved in Washington DC shooting

The Indonesian government is facing severe criticism for appointing a pop star as its Group of 20 (G-20) spokesperson.

Ayunda Faza Maudya —a 27-year-old singer and actress also known as Maudy Ayunda —was chosen by President Joko Widodo on March 31 to speak on global issues on the country's behalf at the G-20 summit in Washington this week.

According to critics, Ayunda was chosen as the country’s representative despite lacking economic and diplomatic experience.

In response to Bloomberg questions on her role in the G-20 meet, Ayunda said her job is to report the&nbsp;meeting results that are relevant to Indonesia, while sensitive issues will be handled by other representatives.

At her first briefing, the singer ignored questions on Putin's attendance at the G20 meet as the journalists were told to ask about her personality instead.

Widodo, popularly known as Jokowi, has been accused of making vanity appointments to politically significant roles that include celebrities, start-up founders and children of tycoons.

It is being claimed that Widodo, with the appointment of such millennials, aims to connect with the youths who are battling high unemployment.

Over half of the country's 273 million people are younger than 35 and the unemployment rate for those aged 16 to 30 was hovering at 14 per cent last year, Bloomberg reported.

Experts point out that the government is solely focusing on privileged urban youth,&nbsp;who fit into the establishment’s line of thinking, as role models while leaving out the majority who are middle-to lower-income and live in rural areas.

The critics argue that such cosmetic appointments are part of the government’s efforts to temper criticism from the youth on critical issues, like jobs and public services.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indonesian government is facing severe criticism for appointing a pop star as its Group of 20 (G-20) spokesperson. Ayunda Faza Maudya —a 27-year-old singer and actress also known as Maudy Ayunda —was chosen by President Joko Widodo on March 31 to speak on global issues on the country's behalf at the G-20 summit in Washington this week.

The Indonesian government is facing severe criticism for appointing a pop star as its Group of 20 (G-20) spokesperson. Ayunda Faza Maudya —a 27-year-old singer and actress also known as Maudy Ayunda —was chosen by President Joko Widodo on March 31 to speak on global issues on the country's behalf at the G-20 summit in Washington this week. According to critics, Ayunda was chosen as the country’s representative despite lacking economic and diplomatic experience. In response to Bloomberg questions on her role in the G-20 meet, Ayunda said her job is to report the meeting results that are relevant to Indonesia, while sensitive issues will be handled by other representatives. At her first briefing, the singer ignored questions on Putin's attendance at the G20 meet as the journalists were told to ask about her personality instead. Widodo, popularly known as Jokowi, has been accused of making vanity appointments to politically significant roles that include celebrities, start-up founders and children of tycoons. It is being claimed that Widodo, with the appointment of such millennials, aims to connect with the youths who are battling high unemployment. Over half of the country's 273 million people are younger than 35 and the unemployment rate for those aged 16 to 30 was hovering at 14 per cent last year, Bloomberg reported. Experts point out that the government is solely focusing on privileged urban youth, who fit into the establishment’s line of thinking, as role models while leaving out the majority who are middle-to lower-income and live in rural areas. The critics argue that such cosmetic appointments are part of the government’s efforts to temper criticism from the youth on critical issues, like jobs and public services. (With inputs from agencies)

Indonesian President Widodo slammed for appointing pop star for G-20 role

Top officials from the world's two largest democracies held ministerial-level talks in Washington after their leaders discussed their differences over the Ukraine war, watch this report for more.

S Jaishankar, Blinken discuss Ukraine war, Afghanistan; friction over Russian energy imports

Russia says that it has received written guarantee from Washington that western sanctions on Russia over Ukraine will not affect cooperation with Iran.

US says no sanctions on Russian nuclear participation

In Pics | Several cars displayed in Washington DC Auto show, electric vehicles also included

Authorities in the United States have held a Kansas man who was travelling to Washington with charges of allegedly threatening to harm President Joe Biden, CNN reported. The man has been identified as Scott Ryan Merryman.&nbsp;

The report mentioned that the man was allegedly telling US Secret Service agents that "he had been told by God to travel to Washington, DC to 'lop off the head of the serpent in the heart of the nation.'"

Joe Biden has completed one year in office as President after taking oath in 2021 to become 46th President of the United States.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/growth-is-surging-in-bidens-economy-why-dont-voters-feel-better-448733">Growth is surging in Biden’s economy, why don’t voters feel better?</a>

As per a court filing cited by US media outlets, Merryman had called police in Independence, Kansas, on Tuesday. He had told them that he was going to the nation's capital to see the President.&nbsp;

During the telephonic conversation with the US Secret Service agent on Wednesday, Scott has mentioned that 'God told him to go to Washington...'

He was found in the parking lot of a Cracker Barrel restaurant by the agents in Hagerstown, Maryland, on Wednesday, according to a criminal complaint.&nbsp;

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Secret Service agents said in the complaint that they had searched Merryman and found a magazine loaded with three rounds of .45 ammunition and spotting scope in his backpack. There were&nbsp;no weapons.&nbsp;

They said Merryman had told them that God told him to bring the ammo and that the spotting scope was for "doing recon," reported CNN.

He also called the White House switchboard, according to court records, and made threats against Biden. In the call to the White House, Merryman allegedly said he was "coming to the White House, and was going to cut off the head of the snake/anti-Christ."

As per reports, Merryman was in the Washington County Detention Center in Hagerstown, Maryland. A detention centre official was quoted as saying that a court appearance is set for Monday.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Authorities in the United States have held a Kansas man who was travelling to Washington with charges of allegedly threatening to harm President Joe Biden, CNN reported.

Authorities in the United States have held a Kansas man who was travelling to Washington with charges of allegedly threatening to harm President Joe Biden, CNN reported. The man has been identified as Scott Ryan Merryman. The report mentioned that the man was allegedly telling US Secret Service agents that "he had been told by God to travel to Washington, DC to 'lop off the head of the serpent in the heart of the nation.'" Joe Biden has completed one year in office as President after taking oath in 2021 to become 46th President of the United States. ALSO READ | Growth is surging in Biden’s economy, why don’t voters feel better? As per a court filing cited by US media outlets, Merryman had called police in Independence, Kansas, on Tuesday. He had told them that he was going to the nation's capital to see the President. During the telephonic conversation with the US Secret Service agent on Wednesday, Scott has mentioned that 'God told him to go to Washington...' He was found in the parking lot of a Cracker Barrel restaurant by the agents in Hagerstown, Maryland, on Wednesday, according to a criminal complaint. ALSO READ | War possible only if Belarus or Russia get attacked, says Lukashenko Secret Service agents said in the complaint that they had searched Merryman and found a magazine loaded with three rounds of .45 ammunition and spotting scope in his backpack. There were no weapons. They said Merryman had told them that God told him to bring the ammo and that the spotting scope was for "doing recon," reported CNN. He also called the White House switchboard, according to court records, and made threats against Biden. In the call to the White House, Merryman allegedly said he was "coming to the White House, and was going to cut off the head of the snake/anti-Christ." As per reports, Merryman was in the Washington County Detention Center in Hagerstown, Maryland. A detention centre official was quoted as saying that a court appearance is set for Monday. (With inputs from agencies)

'God told me to go...': US man charged with threatening to harm President Joe Biden

The world awaits Lunar News Year, with Washington, D.C. is ready to welcome Lunar New Year the year of the tiger.

Washington, D.C. is ready to welcome Lunar New Year

One person was killed and four were injured after a shooting at a hotel in Northwest Washington. The incident took place during a party in a room.&nbsp;

Shots were fired around 3:30 am at Days Inn hotel, which is located on 4400 Connecticut Avenue NW, in the Van Ness neighbourhood.&nbsp;

DC police department, on their Twitter handle, wrote, "MPD has located four adult female shooting victims related to this incident at the Days Inn."&nbsp;

The department further added that another female victim "in grave condition has been pronounced deceased."

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/breaking?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#breaking</a> Multiple people shot 4400 Connecticut Ave NW DC. We are live with the latest. <a href="https://t.co/Kmk55t6i5g">pic.twitter.com/Kmk55t6i5g</a>
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DC Police Chief Robert Contee said that it was not immediately clear what led up to the shooting, but the police are working quickly to resolve the case.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-to-reduce-quarantine-period-for-arrivals-to-14-days-448155">Also read |&nbsp;Hong Kong to reduce quarantine period for arrivals to 14 days</a>

The officers believe that they have identified most of the people involved.

“They came into the District of Columbia, possibly from Maryland, they rented a room, it may have been just some kind of social interaction going on and one thing led to another that resulted in this shooting,” Contee said in a report by local news channel NBC.&nbsp;

Police commander Duncan Bedlion while speaking to a local news channel said that they had received "complaints from the community" about the hotel in the past.

"We receive complaints related to drug activity and that's something we actively work to address with the community," he said.

The area was sealed for police investigation and it opened at 7 am.&nbsp;

No suspect has been identified so far.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

One person was killed and four were injured after a shooting at a hotel in Northwest Washington. The incident took place during a party in a room. Shots were fired around 3:30 am at Days Inn hotel, which is located on 4400 Connecticut Avenue NW, in the Van Ness neighbourhood.

One person was killed and four were injured after a shooting at a hotel in Northwest Washington. The incident took place during a party in a room. Shots were fired around 3:30 am at Days Inn hotel, which is located on 4400 Connecticut Avenue NW, in the Van Ness neighbourhood. DC police department, on their Twitter handle, wrote, "MPD has located four adult female shooting victims related to this incident at the Days Inn." The department further added that another female victim "in grave condition has been pronounced deceased." #breaking Multiple people shot 4400 Connecticut Ave NW DC. We are live with the latest. pic.twitter.com/Kmk55t6i5g — Darcy Spencer (@darcyspencer) January 27, 2022 × DC Police Chief Robert Contee said that it was not immediately clear what led up to the shooting, but the police are working quickly to resolve the case. Also read | Hong Kong to reduce quarantine period for arrivals to 14 days The officers believe that they have identified most of the people involved. “They came into the District of Columbia, possibly from Maryland, they rented a room, it may have been just some kind of social interaction going on and one thing led to another that resulted in this shooting,” Contee said in a report by local news channel NBC. Police commander Duncan Bedlion while speaking to a local news channel said that they had received "complaints from the community" about the hotel in the past. "We receive complaints related to drug activity and that's something we actively work to address with the community," he said. The area was sealed for police investigation and it opened at 7 am. No suspect has been identified so far. (With inputs from agencies)

At least one dead, 4 injured after shooting in Washington hotel

Thousands in Washington protest against 'tyranny' of COVID-19 vaccine mandates

Mayor Eric Adams, in his first trip to Washington since taking office in New York City, encouraged mayors from across the country to be honest about the immense challenges facing cities as they recover from the pandemic, and to address them by being “radically practical.”

Adams outlined a “national urban agenda” — and perhaps a blueprint for Democrats in the years ahead — that focuses on public safety, child care and infrastructure and called for more federal funding for programs like violence interrupters.

“This is how we create safer, more prosperous cities as we recover — this is how we bring our country back,” Adams said Thursday in a featured speaking slot at the United States Conference of Mayors. “That’s being radically practical.”

Adams, a former police captain who has called himself the “future of the Democratic Party,” has captured national attention in his first weeks in office, even becoming the subject of a “Saturday Night Live” skit about his pledge to bring “swagger” to City Hall.

Since he was sworn in Jan. 1, Adams has sought to become the city’s cheerleader during an alarming wave of coronavirus cases, and he is facing other major challenges. Several incidents have proved how difficult it will be to improve public safety: On Saturday, a woman was pushed to her death at the Times Square subway station by a homeless man; four days later, a baby girl was hit by a stray bullet in the Bronx; and early Thursday, a police detective was shot in the leg.

Adams has mentioned the idea of being “radically practical” before, arguing that he wants to focus on the nuts and bolts of running an efficient city government and delivering services.

Part of that philosophy, the mayor said, involved being honest about the challenges cities are facing in the wake of the pandemic, and he encouraged his mayoral counterparts to not sugarcoat things.

“We can’t pretend that our streets and subways are safe,” he said, “when people can see that guns and violence are killing people every day.”

Adams was one of several mayors who spoke at the four-day gathering in Washington, including Lori Lightfoot of Chicago and Eric Garcetti of Los Angeles, with whom Adams, wearing his signature “Get Stuff Done” face mask, posed for a photo on Twitter. President Joe Biden was expected to close the event with a speech Friday.

Other New York City mayors have used the conference to raise their profile. In his first days in office in 2014, Bill de Blasio was welcomed as a left-wing rock star and called for a “national urban consensus” on issues like transportation and affordable housing. When Michael Bloomberg was weighing a third-party presidential campaign in 2008, he used his speech at the conference to attack partisan politics and Congress’ failure to fix immigration policy.

Adams also took aim at the federal government in his speech, even though Democrats control it.

“With so much dysfunction in Washington and division in our nation, now is the time for mayors to lead America,” he said.

Adams was introduced by Francis X. Suarez, the mayor of Miami and the president of the U.S. Conference of Mayors, who noted that he, like Adams, received his paycheck in Bitcoin — part of a campaign to promote cryptocurrencies. Suarez called Adams a “dear friend, a genuine person and incredibly humble.”

Adams called for more federal funding for infrastructure, beyond the enormous federal bill approved last year, to pay for housing, transportation and environmental programs. And he called for better coordination with federal and state law enforcement officials and more funding for violence interrupters and job training.

Adams has embraced “Get Stuff Done” as the theme of his first 100 days, but he has not detailed what specifically he wants to prioritize beyond addressing violent crime. Instead of pushing one major policy idea like de Blasio, who focused on universal prekindergarten during his first months as mayor, Adams has pledged to work on the basics.

Indeed, on his first day in office, Adams said in his first televised speech: “Now is the time to be radically practical.”

“That doesn’t just mean grand plans and proposals,” he said. “It means weeding out the waste and eliminating the inefficiencies.”

Asked about his one big idea during the competitive Democratic primary last year, Adams pointed to his proposal called the “People’s Plan.” It included tax credits for poor New Yorkers, free and low-cost child care for children under 3, and an online portal called MyCity to apply for benefits like food stamps.

His first campaign ad during the general election also focused on “universal child care,” and he returned to that theme in his speech Thursday, urging the White House and Congress to approve a plan to pay for it.

“Any working-class or low-income parent who cannot work because they cannot find affordable child care will be trapped in a negative economic cycle forever,” he said.

Mayor Eric Adams, in his first trip to Washington since taking office in New York City, encouraged mayors from across the country to be honest about the immense challenges facing cities as they recover from the pandemic, and to address them by being “radically practical.

Mayor Eric Adams, in his first trip to Washington since taking office in New York City, encouraged mayors from across the country to be honest about the immense challenges facing cities as they recover from the pandemic, and to address them by being “radically practical.” Adams outlined a “national urban agenda” — and perhaps a blueprint for Democrats in the years ahead — that focuses on public safety, child care and infrastructure and called for more federal funding for programs like violence interrupters. “This is how we create safer, more prosperous cities as we recover — this is how we bring our country back,” Adams said Thursday in a featured speaking slot at the United States Conference of Mayors. “That’s being radically practical.” Adams, a former police captain who has called himself the “future of the Democratic Party,” has captured national attention in his first weeks in office, even becoming the subject of a “Saturday Night Live” skit about his pledge to bring “swagger” to City Hall. Since he was sworn in Jan. 1, Adams has sought to become the city’s cheerleader during an alarming wave of coronavirus cases, and he is facing other major challenges. Several incidents have proved how difficult it will be to improve public safety: On Saturday, a woman was pushed to her death at the Times Square subway station by a homeless man; four days later, a baby girl was hit by a stray bullet in the Bronx; and early Thursday, a police detective was shot in the leg. Adams has mentioned the idea of being “radically practical” before, arguing that he wants to focus on the nuts and bolts of running an efficient city government and delivering services. Part of that philosophy, the mayor said, involved being honest about the challenges cities are facing in the wake of the pandemic, and he encouraged his mayoral counterparts to not sugarcoat things. “We can’t pretend that our streets and subways are safe,” he said, “when people can see that guns and violence are killing people every day.” Adams was one of several mayors who spoke at the four-day gathering in Washington, including Lori Lightfoot of Chicago and Eric Garcetti of Los Angeles, with whom Adams, wearing his signature “Get Stuff Done” face mask, posed for a photo on Twitter. President Joe Biden was expected to close the event with a speech Friday. Other New York City mayors have used the conference to raise their profile. In his first days in office in 2014, Bill de Blasio was welcomed as a left-wing rock star and called for a “national urban consensus” on issues like transportation and affordable housing. When Michael Bloomberg was weighing a third-party presidential campaign in 2008, he used his speech at the conference to attack partisan politics and Congress’ failure to fix immigration policy. Adams also took aim at the federal government in his speech, even though Democrats control it. “With so much dysfunction in Washington and division in our nation, now is the time for mayors to lead America,” he said. Adams was introduced by Francis X. Suarez, the mayor of Miami and the president of the U.S. Conference of Mayors, who noted that he, like Adams, received his paycheck in Bitcoin — part of a campaign to promote cryptocurrencies. Suarez called Adams a “dear friend, a genuine person and incredibly humble.” Adams called for more federal funding for infrastructure, beyond the enormous federal bill approved last year, to pay for housing, transportation and environmental programs. And he called for better coordination with federal and state law enforcement officials and more funding for violence interrupters and job training. Adams has embraced “Get Stuff Done” as the theme of his first 100 days, but he has not detailed what specifically he wants to prioritize beyond addressing violent crime. Instead of pushing one major policy idea like de Blasio, who focused on universal prekindergarten during his first months as mayor, Adams has pledged to work on the basics. Indeed, on his first day in office, Adams said in his first televised speech: “Now is the time to be radically practical.” “That doesn’t just mean grand plans and proposals,” he said. “It means weeding out the waste and eliminating the inefficiencies.” Asked about his one big idea during the competitive Democratic primary last year, Adams pointed to his proposal called the “People’s Plan.” It included tax credits for poor New Yorkers, free and low-cost child care for children under 3, and an online portal called MyCity to apply for benefits like food stamps. His first campaign ad during the general election also focused on “universal child care,” and he returned to that theme in his speech Thursday, urging the White House and Congress to approve a plan to pay for it. “Any working-class or low-income parent who cannot work because they cannot find affordable child care will be trapped in a negative economic cycle forever,” he said.

Mayor Adams promotes ‘radically practical’ agenda in Washington

In the aftermath of the devastating storms in the United States, several parts of the country are struggling to get back on feet. The state of Washington saw its worst flooding in a decade with rivers overflowing at more than 18 feet, this has resulted in flooded streets.

United States: Washington witnessed worst flooding in a decade

Opposing armies of snowball fighters pummeled each other on Washington D.C.'s National Mall after a storm unleashed heavy snow on the nation's capital.

D.C. snowball fighters engage in 'Battle of Snomicron'

A winter storm packing heavy snow and strong winds engulfed parts of the U.S. Southeast and mid-Atlantic states, forcing federal offices and schools to close as it threatened to make travel dangerous and knock out power.

Winter storm pounds Washington as it moves across U.S. East Coast

Winter has arrived in Washington DC full-throttle packing heavy snow and strong winds. As the thick winter snowstorm in gulf parts of the southeast and mid-Atlantic American states, residents of Washington were forced to hit pause as, was the president and other government officials.

Snow engulfs South-East and Mid-Atlantic US States

The Omicron variant was first reported in South Africa in November. The covid variant Omicron has been identified in dozens of countries and now is the most dominant strain in the United States.

Rapid spread of Omicron variant raises concerns for Washington

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